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the western Thursday, October 8, 2026

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Celebrating 35 years!

Western Sydney International Airport Ready for take-off

Your usual Western Weekender is waiting inside!

Western Sydney Opens to The World A message from WSI CEO Simon Hickey After decades of discussion, planning, construction, community engagement, successive bipartisan government decisions, thousands of jobs created, and an enormous amount of dedication and resilience, Sydney’s new global gateway – Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) – will take passengers to the skies on 25 October. This achievement is the culmination of tens of thousands of people and their collective determination and innovation. In fact, more than 10,000 people have helped bring WSI to life since the first sod was turned in 2018, half of whom came from Western Sydney. This truly is your airport, and all of Western Sydney should be immensely proud of that enduring legacy.

I think WSI will mean so much to the people in the Penrith district.” It doesn’t get much better for me or my team than hearing feedback like that from locals like Kevin.

“This truly is your airport, and all of Western Sydney should be immensely proud of that enduring legacy.”

I encourage you to come and experience your new, local airport for yourself. I think you’ll enjoy the modern, open, light-filled design, complemented by the latest technology that creates a seamless stress-free journey through the terminal. We are also offering three hours free parking to support people to come, visit, and get a feel for your new airport – a hub that will grow alongside our global city, serving you for the next century.

WSI will change the way people travel, work and play, and it’s the airport’s 24-hour operating capacity that will drive increased connectivity for travellers, especially. This new capability for Sydney will mean passengers can arrive at their global destination with a full day ahead of them – a great, unparalleled opportunity for both airlines and their customers, extending holidays and boosting productivity. More than anything, WSI will deliver more services for Sydney’s growing population and that equals more choice and greater flexibility on when, where and how you choose to fly. Greater choice also creates greater competition, which is always welcome news for consumers.

The more people who come and use WSI, the more airlines will respond positively to that demand through their services and destinations. Demand will drive growth, and growth will create greater choice and opportunity for you and your loved ones over the years ahead.

I want to thank every member of the local community who has played a part in WSI’s journey. One of my favourite things is to hear stories about how the history of the airport is interwoven into their lives or family lore. Just recently, a St Marys gentleman by the name of Kevin Appleby told us he’s been waiting 70 years for this airport – since he was a young lad growing up in Western Sydney. Kevin has attended the majority of our passenger trial days in recent months as we’ve been busily readying WSI for launch and he has become a well-known and highly regarded face around the WSI terminal. Kevin said, “Western Sydney has been long overdue an airport like this, and the opportunity to be serviced directly by such a major and modern global gateway.

One thing’s for certain – I can’t wait to welcome you to WSI.

6 airlines

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

WSI has been the catalyst for major state and federal government investments around its precinct too – across road and rail in particular – all of which will collectively connect the west to the west and the west to the rest like we’ve never seen before. Ultimately new infrastructure and increased connectivity create opportunity and here in Western Sydney, this will change the way people live and work across the region, for communities today and for many years to come.

When our inaugural passenger jet takes off at 11am on Sunday 25 October, I hope people take a moment to reflect and appreciate the journey taken by so many to deliver this airport for the people of Western Sydney and how it will continue to shape our evolving city for the next generation.

Simon Hickey Chief Executive Officer

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the western Thursday, October 8, 2026

www.westernweekender.com.au

Celebrating 35 years!

Don’t miss this week’s Home & Lifestyle Page 47

NAME GAME Furious locals are planning to protest a plan to re-name some of the most historic parts of Penrith’s fringes. Troy Dodds reports on Page 8.

Wayne Willmington. Photo: Melinda Jane.

RALLYING FOR ROMAN

BARBIE GIVEAWAY

LET US SWIM!

Little fighter: Page 5

Your chance to win: Page 10

Temps soar, beach closed: Page 16

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Wait times raise alarm at Nepean TROY DODDS

atients have spoken of their distress and concerns over wait times at Nepean Hospital’s Emergency Department over the long weekend, leading to an apology from the Health Minister. On a weekend in which upgraded facilities at the hospital were being paraded on the nightly news and celebrated by politicians, locals like Angela (surname withheld) were left rattled after their experience seeking medical help. She was taken by ambulance to Nepean Hospital about 7am Friday morning after suffering acute abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhoea through the night. “At the hospital I was triaged and then seated in the Emergency waiting area. I was given pain medi-

cation and told not to eat or drink anything pending tests,” Angela told the Weekender. “About 10am I was transferred to a Sub-Acute ward, where I was examined by medical staff and catheterized and bloods were drawn. Initially it was presumed I was suffering severe acute pancreatitis, which requires bed rest and possible surgical intervention. Approximately 40 minutes later I was removed from the bed and seated, again, in the Sub-Acute ward waiting room. “This were I stayed seated for the next 27 hours along with 20-30 other patients in varying degrees of pain and discomfort.” Angela was eventually sent home on Saturday afternoon with the original diagnosis downgraded to a severe stomach bug.

Another patient, Robyn, spoke of a similar experience to Radio 2GB’s Ben Fordham on Tuesday. She required surgery and was sent to Nepean Hospital at 3pm on Friday. She says she was finally given a bed 24 hours later on Saturday afternoon and then underwent the operation on Sunday. “It was like I was in some dystopian experience. I was so scared to be honest. I’m nearly 69 and I’ve never experienced anything like that before,” Robyn told 2GB. She said the mood was “frustrating” and “angry” within the patients left to wait and attempt to sleep. “In the end we just all made friends and tried to make the best of what we had,” she said. Health Minister Ryan Park said NSW Health was investigating the delays over the long weekend.

Patients sleep on the floor of Nepean Hospital over the weekend.

“We apologise to the patients that their experience did not meet expectation,” he said. “NSW Health is looking into the circumstances of their cases and we cannot comment individually on their treatment at this time.” The Minister noted that the number of “stranded” patients waiting for Commonwealth aged care and NDIS placements was continuing to put pressure on hospitals. “As of September 30 2026, there

were 38 patients at Nepean Hospital who were ready for discharge but awaiting a residential aged care home or NDIS placement – meaning almost one in 10 ED accessible beds cannot be used,” he said. A Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District spokesperson confirmed they had spoken with Angela, and passed on their apologies. The spokesperson said people are prioritised for care in line with their clinical urgency.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

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Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor Journalist: Emily Chate Journalist: Keely Marsh Journalist: Madeline Dantier Photographer: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622 Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Maria Van Den Broek, Callum Gilbert, Rebecca Vella To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Kacey Wilson, Madeline Dantier, Ian Beard

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

My Mars bar is 30 cents dearer, and I blame Albo T

he sign went up on the vending machine that is often home to my 3pm sugar hit almost as soon as the clock struck midnight on October 1. As a result of new legislation banning card fees being passed on to customers, prices would be rising across the board; regardless of if you paid by card or scrambled around to find some loose change. My Mars bar has gone up 30 cents. The service provider says this covers the card fee, and a general price increase. But hang on, I was sure Anthony Albanese told me this whole card surcharge thing would make things cheaper, not more expensive. “Pay by card? From tomorrow, your morning coffee could be cheaper,” he posted on Facebook on September 30. Oh, that word... could. And if it is cheaper, it means the business you bought the coffee from has worn the cost. Because you know, businesses aren’t struggling or anything like that. The removal of the card surcharge this month is nothing but smoke and mirrors from a government that appears to be losing its way significantly. It is doing what governments in this position often do: search for PR wins. But how has Albanese just pushed ahead with the spin that this is all great news for you on your morning coffee run? It stands to reason that most businesses will just increase the cost of their products, if not immediately then at least in the near future. Albanese claims those card surcharges are costing Australians about $1.6 billion every year. But those surcharges still exist. So the $1.6 billion is still costing Australians, right? Maybe the person wearing that cost has shifted, but the cost remains. Albanese would know that most businesses will increase costs to cover the fee it can no longer pass on to customers directly.

INDEX

If he somehow didn’t anticipate that, then we have a much bigger problem we need to address. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has been selling the message as well. “From today, card surcharges are banned, saving Australians $1.6bn.” Again, that $1.6bn has not disappeared. It is not saving Australians at all. That is a wild interpretation being sold as fact.

“That is a wild interpretation being sold as fact”

There are tens of thousands of comments on both Albanese and Chalmers’ social media posts, largely saying the same thing. They continue to push on anyway. But the greatest laugh out of all this? The Australian Taxation Office said it would stop taking credit card payments as a result of the surcharge change. If one of the biggest government agencies in the country can’t absorb the cost of the credit card fee, the government surely doesn’t expect the butcher down the road to? “The vast majority of taxpayers are not paying their tax with a credit card,” the ATO said in its justification. “Approximately 2.3 per cent of tax payments were made with credit cards in 2024–25, with more than 60 per cent of card payments

News..........................................................1-26 Businesss...........................................27-28 Small Business Month............29-31

being made by privately owned and wealthy groups and public and multinational businesses.” So privately owned, wealthy groups and businesses that employ people in their hundreds of thousands and play a crucial role in the economy? Evil, the lot of them. Imagine only 2.3 per cent of payments being made on credit cards, and the ATO still refusing to absorb the impact. And yet, we can only assume Albanese and Chalmers expect businesses that may take 80 to 90 per cent of their payments by card to absorb the fees; especially if they want Aussies to save that $1.6 billion. By all means, make the change. As someone who buys everything using a card, I get the fees that have now become commonplace are somewhat annoying; especially when businesses seem so against the concept of taking cash. But please, don’t try to sell this as a cost-ofliving saviour. It’s anything but; in fact for those who do pay by cash, you’ve likely just made their cost-of-living crunch worse. It’s all about spin. Just like those “right to disconnect” laws the government touted about a year or two ago. The vast majority of people know it’s a complete crock. Yet the government will sell it as if it’s just given everyone back hours with their family, as if bosses across the country were ringing their employees at all hours prior to the laws being put into place. Those punished most by those laws if people did actually pay attention to them? Businesses. There seems to be a common thread here. The government appears to have convinced itself that business is the bad guy. The results of that are starting to become clear to all.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

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LOCAL NEWS

Rallying for Roman: How you can help KEELY MARSH

or local mother Lauren Zammit, navigating the past few weeks has been a challenge she would never want a family to endure. Zammit is a mother to three young boys, with her three-year-old Roman living with Level 3 Autism, significant developmental needs and severe epilepsy requiring lifelong medication. The last month, the family’s lives have revolved around the hospital. “Roman stopped being able to safely maintain adequate nutrition, hydration and his essential seizure medication,” Zammit explained. “He has endured blood tests, X-rays, EEGs, repeated NG tube insertions, sedation and proce-

dures, all while struggling to understand what is happening to him.” Little Roman underwent surgery and an endoscopy, where lesions were found inside his stomach. Unfortunately, doctors do not believe what they found explains why he stopped eating meaning further investigation is still required. The Penrith family have now been faced with a life changing reality – Roman will require a permanent gastrostomy feeding tube. “This isn’t simply a matter of having a tube placed and then returning to normal life,” Zammit said. “We have to learn an entirely new way of caring for our son – safely feeding and hydrating him through his tube, administering his lifelong epilepsy medication through it,

learning how to manage the equipment and recognise complications, attend training, keep him home while he heals, and continuing to juggle the needs of our other two young boys.” Throughout this journey, either Zammit’s partner or herself needed to remain beside Roman in hospital while the other keeps life going for their children at home. “The emotional and financial impact has been enormous,” Zammit admitted. “My best friend has created a GoFundMe to help our family navigate Roman’s hospitalisation and the significant transition that awaits us when he eventually comes home.” Not expecting anything, Zammit hopes her family’s story can bring awareness to children living with

Roman is facing a number of health challenges.

complex disabilities, epilepsy and tube feeding. Zammit expressed her gratitude for her mother Bronwyn Rushton, who through Roman’s journey has been part of their strong support system. “My brother was tube fed from when he was a baby until he was almost 15-years-old after being

born with a Cleft Palate and a very rare syndrome called ‘Kabuki’,” Zammit said. “Having her knowledge, reassurance and support while we learn to navigate this new chapter with Roman has been something I am incredibly grateful for.” Support the local family here: https://gofund.me/eafda13e7.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

LAWandORDER Police Snapshot

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St Marys: Man arrested after attempting to assault police At 1pm on Monday, October 5 two men were seen attempting to gain entry into a premises on Station Street in St Marys. The men were unsuccessful and were found a short time later by police at a nearby bus terminal. One of the men, a 33-year-old St Marys man became immediately hostile towards police before fleeing on foot. Police arrested the 33-year-old after a short foot pursuit. During his arrest, the 33-yearold allegedly attempted to strike police. The 33-year-old was issued a Court Attendance Notice and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, November 11.

Penrith: Woman charged after found driving stolen car On Saturday, September 19 a car was allegedly stolen from a premises in Kemps Creek. On Monday, September 28 the car was seen by its owner in Heckenberg. The car’s owner also identified the driver as a 22-year-old Heckenberg woman who was known to him. The 22-year-old sped off in the stolen car when the owner attempted to stop her. At 7.10am on Monday, October 5 the stolen car was detected by police in Penrith with the same 22-year-old woman driving it. The 22-year-old was arrested and charged. She was conditionally bailed and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, October 30.

Kingswood: Man arrested after assaulting frontline workers On the morning of Saturday, October 3 a 61-year-old Glenmore Park man was being taken to hospital by NSW Ambulance officers. During the journey, the 61-year-old allegedly became verbally abusive towards the Ambulance officers. When arriving at hospital and while waiting in the waiting bay, the 61-year-old continued to be highly abusive, specifically targeting the female Ambulance officer. At one point, the 61-year-old allegedly threw at water bottle at the female officer. The 61-year-old was then arrested by nearby police and was later taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged.

St Marys: Man found carrying sword in public At 6.50pm on Friday, October 2 a 21-year-old Colyton man was seen riding a bike along Debrincat Avenue in North St Marys. When police attempted to stop the 21-year-old, he fled on foot. After a short foot pursuit, police arrested the 21-year-old.

Police then searched the 21-year-old and found him to be carrying a small katana style sword. The 21-year-old was arrested and issued a Court Attendance Notice. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, November 16.

St Marys: Police appeal to locate woman missing from St Marys Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from St Marys. 33-year-old Sarah Jackson was last seen at St Marys Train Station at about 6.20pm on Saturday, October 3. When she was unable to be located or contacted, officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts. Sarah is described as being of Aboriginal/ Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 140cm tall, of medium build, with brown shoulder-length hair. Sarah was last seen wearing a green Everlast cap, blue Tommy jumper, black Champion long pants and pink Nike TN’s with no laces. She is known to frequent the Penrith and Kings Cross areas. Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Penrith: Police urge community to be fraud aware Nepean Police Area Command have noted a fraud method being used to target older residents in the community. Known as courier fraud, criminals will often called elderly residents and pretend to be from the bank, government, or other trusted companies. This fraud method works by criminals contacting people unexpectedly and claiming there is an urgent problem like a fraudulent payment or a compromised card. The criminals may also use personal details and pressure to make the request seem genuine. Once they have the trust of the person they will arrange for a courier to collect persons cards, cash or other valuables from the home. Residents may also be asked to put items into an envelope, write down their PIN, or withdraw cash. Nepean Police Area Command are asking the community not to be pressured into making decisions, be suspicious for any request for money, independently verify numbers, never share your PIN or passwords, talk to bank staff, and report the incident immediately.

Generations of Trust.

EXPLAINER: WHAT IS A GUARANTEE? What does “going guarantor” mean? When a company, especially a new or small one, needs money or services, like a loan from a bank, a place to rent, or supplies from a vendor, the people providing these things (the “creditors”) often want extra assurance that they’ll be paid. Even though a company is its own legal entity, separate from its owners, creditors sometimes ask for a “personal guarantee”. The other most common context in which a guarantee arises is when a person or people are applying for a home loan and someone else (usually a parent) “goes guarantor” as it is colloquially known.

What is a Personal Guarantee? Imagine a personal guarantee as a promise you make to a creditor. You’re saying, “If the borrower can’t pay its bills or keep its promises, I will personally step in and pay them using my own money and assets.” Normally, if a company goes out of business or can’t pay its debts, its shareholders are protected, and only the company’s assets are at risk. A personal guarantee removes this protection. It means that if the company fails, the creditor can come after your personal belongings – like your house, savings, or other valuable possessions – to get their money back. The same applies if you provide a personal guarantee in relation to a home loan. If the borrower doesn’t make their home loan repayments, the lender can come after the guarantors and their personal assets.

Unlimited versus Limited Guarantee An unlimited guarantee means that the guarantor agrees to be responsible for 100 per cent of the borrower’s debt if the borrower doesn’t pay or can’t pay. For example if you guarantee a company loan or a home loan and the borrower goes broke and has no assets that can be used to satisfy the debt – the guarantor could be on the hook for the

whole debt. A limited guarantee is personal guarantee where the guarantor agrees to be responsible for a borrower’s debt or obligation, but only up to a specific, pre-agreed maximum amount. Limited guarantees are quite common when it comes to home loan guarantees because the lender knows there is the underlying security of an asset that can be sold (the property being purchased) which should recoup most of the debt. Usually, a bank or lender providing a home loan will want a limited guarantee if the borrower/s loan-to-value ratio (LVR) is too high. Most lenders will only lend a certain percentage of the value of the property to make sure that if they need to sell it because the borrower isn’t repaying the debt they are protected from fluctuations in the property’s value. For example, if a lender leant a borrower 100 per cent of the value of a property worth $1,000,000 today, but the property market declined 20 per cent in the next year reducing the value of the property to $800,000 and the lender had to foreclose they would be at risk of selling the property for less than the amount of the loan and losing money. This is where a guarantor can step in and provide additional security if the borrower needs to borrow more than the lender’s acceptable LVR. Most lenders will only lend on a LVR of 80 per cent or less (that is, you can borrow up to 80 per cent of the value of the property). Federal and state schemes are making it easier for first home buyers in particular to get into the market without needing a 20 per cent deposit or a guarantor. Being a guarantor is serious business. You are putting your personal assets, like your house, savings, or other valuable possessions, on the line if the borrower can’t meet their obligations. Guarantees are also very common however. The key is to get proper advice from an expert so you understand your obligations.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Pushback over plan to re-name suburbs TROY DODDS

he Luddenham Progress Association is calling on the Geographical Names Board (GNB) to reject a proposal to create a new suburb named Wianamatta over the Western Sydney International Airport precinct, citing duplication, poor consultation, and unnecessary disruption to long–standing local communities. Under the proposal, the new suburb would absorb large

portions of Luddenham, Badgerys Creek, Bringelly and Greendale, even though most of the area is Commonwealth Land associated with the airport. The proposed name Wianamatta is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘Mother Place’. ‘Wiana’ meaning mother and ‘Matta’ meaning place. Progress Association President Wayne Willmington said the proposal “makes no practical sense and has no historical connection to the land”.

The black border shows the proposed new suburb.

“The airport precinct sits on land that has been known as Luddenham for over 200 years,” Willmington said. “If the State Government insists on naming the airport precinct, that name should apply only to Commonwealth Land, not to the remaining private land in Luddenham that has already been heavily impacted by acquisitions and infrastructure.” The Association has also raised concerns that the name “Wianamatta” is already in use for the Wianamatta Regional Park at St Marys / Ropes Crossing 15km away. “Using the same name for a new suburb around the airport will create confusion for emergency services, deliveries, navigation systems and visitors,” Willmington said. “The GNB’s own naming principles emphasise clarity and uniqueness. This proposal does the opposite.” The GNB listed the proposal on

Wayne Willmington at the historic St James’ Anglican Church.

its website on September 11. But there has been no local consultation process or widespread information campaign that the Weekender is aware of. Willmington says the proposal has not been properly communicated to residents. “There has been no public information session, and no proactive communication,” Willmington said. “Most locals only found out because a single MP posted about it on Facebook. That is not genuine consultation.” The airport precinct sits on land with deep European–settler heritage, including James Badgery’s 1806 Exeter Farm, John Blaxland’s 1813 Luddenham Estate and Bringelly’s orchard and vineyard history with Greendale’s pastoral farming legacy. “These names are woven into our community’s identity,” Willmington said. “Renaming long–standing

suburbs is unnecessary and erases the heritage of the families who built this region.” The GNB contends establishing the new suburb allows the airport site to be located within a single suburb, improving service delivery and public wayfinding. The proposed suburb is bounded by Elizabeth Drive, The Northern Road and the Badgerys Creek Environmental Conservation Zone, with the recently created suburb of Bradfield to its south. “Well defined suburb boundaries help strengthen community identity and improve everyday navigation,” said NSW Surveyor-General, Thomas Grinter. “Every name encapsulates a suburb’s identity, and we hope this name will capture exactly that. “Community consultation on the proposed name ensures that all perspectives are considered when making decisions and provides an opportunity to the public to share their feedback.” Willmington said that if the Government insists on naming the airport precinct, the name should be Badgerys, not Wianamatta. “Everyone has called it ‘Badgerys Creek Airport’ for decades,” Willmington said. “It’s familiar, practical, and historically accurate. It respects both our European–settler heritage and the Aboriginal recognition already incorporated into the airport through art, road names and language signage.” Willmington is urging locals to lodge submissions to the GNB before the deadline on October 10. “This proposal is unnecessary, confusing, and poorly aligned with future planning,” Willmington said. “We ask the GNB to reject the creation of ‘Wianamatta’ and retain the existing suburb boundaries.” The proposal can be viewed and submissions lodged at https:// proposals.gnb.nsw.gov.au/currentproposals.

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

Council Briefs Construction begins at Coachmans Park Construction is set to commence at Coachmans Park as part of the next stage of the St Marys central park project. Fencing has been erected around Coachmans Park and will remain until early 2028, to facilitatethe safe deliveryof a transformational new green space in the heart of the Town Centre. Footpath access around Coachmans Parkremains open. This project is funded by the NSW Government and Penrith City Council. ˇˢ Ѓˡ˗ ˢ˨˧ ˠˢ˥˘ʟ ˩˜˦˜˧ʭ ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢ˦˧ˠ˔˥ˬ˦˖˘ˡ˧˥˔˟ˣ˔˥˞

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

The event is only open to cats and dogs and Penrith LGA residents.

Council will now build on this strategic framework by creating a Master Plan for the Kingswood and Werrington centres that will deliver a detailed roadmap for the future. ˇˢ ˥˘˔˗ ˧˛˘ ˣ˟˔ˡ˦ʟ ˢ˥ Ѓˡ˗ ˢ˨˧ ˠˢ˥˘ ˜ˡ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˜ˢˡʟ ˩˜˦˜˧ ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢ˞˪˖ˣ˟˔ˡ

Free workshops to rest and recharge Penrith City Centre will be energised every Wednesday in October as Recharge Penrith transforms public spaces into hubs for wellbeing. With a rotating program of free activities—ranging ˙˥ˢˠ Ѓ˧ˡ˘˦˦ ˧ˢ ˖˥˘˔˧˜˩˜˧ˬϞ˧˛˜˦ ˜˦ ˧˛˘ ˣ˘˥˙˘˖˧ ˠ˜˗˪˘˘˞ ˜ˡ˩˜˧˔˧˜ˢˡ to rest, recharge and reconnect in the heart of Penrith. Learn måore at ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˥˘˖˛˔˥˚˘ʠˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛

Help shape Penrith’s 2026 Census resources

Penrith City Council has endorsed a 20-year vision for Kingswood and Werrington to create vibrant, welcoming and connected centres that support the future growth of the community.

Penrith City Council is inviting feedback from community members, businesses, researchers and organisations who use demographic information. Whether you access Census data regularly or occasionally, we want to hear which topics ˔ˡ˗ ˥˘˦ˢ˨˥˖˘ ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˦ ˬˢ˨ Ѓˡ˗ ˠˢ˦˧ ˩˔˟˨˔˕˟˘ʡ

ˇ˛˘ ʸ˔˦˧ʠˊ˘˦˧ ʶˢ˥˥˜˗ˢ˥ʭ ʾ˜ˡ˚˦˪ˢˢ˗ʠˊ˘˥˥˜ˡ˚˧ˢˡ ˆ˧˥˨˖˧˨˥˘ ˃˟˔ˡʟ sets a long-term vision for the area, while the KingswoodWerrington Place Plan focuses on practical actions over the next Ѓ˩˘ ˬ˘˔˥˦ʡ

Your feedback will help focus available resources to develop useful and accessible 2026 Census resources that meet community needs. Complete the survey and have your say via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬˣ˥ˢЃ˟˘

20-year vision for Kingswood and Werrington

Services

Please ensure all dogs are on a lead, and all cats are in a carrier. No appointment necessary.

ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates Monday 12 October – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting) Monday 26 October – 7pm (Ordinary Council Meeting) Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil penrithcitycouncil

Recharge Penrith penrith.city/recharge-penrith

Penrith City Centre Free Activities

REST, PAUSE and RECHARGE on WEDNESDAYS in October!

penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ WW59646

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

Joke of the Week

prize cupboard

ashion illustrator and bestselling author Megan Hess has collaborated with Mattel, a leading global play and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world, to release a capsule collection of vibrant Barbie books. With her signature style and eye for elegance, Hess brings the most iconic looks of Barbie and moments to life on the page like never before The series includes marquee titles Barbie: A Fashion Icon and The World of Barbie. Barbie. A Fashion Icon follows Barbie from the doll’s original 1959 debut as a teenage fashion model, to the swinging sixties and seventies designs, eighties and nineties street style, and

Q: What do you call a fly without wings? A: A walk Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

incredible Barbiecore outfits from today – each look has been selected by Megan Hess and brought to life in her signature, sophisticated style. The World of Barbie is inspired by Barbie dolls and accessories – from the beloved DreamHouse to the sugarplum sweetness of the Nutcracker. Megan Hess has been a fan of Barbie since childhood. “It’s been such an honour to work with Mattel on bringing a lifetime of inspiration into a collection of bespoke Barbie books,” she said. “I grew up playing with Barbie and imagining fashion shows on my bedroom floor, and she made me feel like I could conquer the world. I hope adults and children around the world find joy and inspiration in this collection, just as Barbie inspired the five-year-

old me to follow my dreams and believe anything was possible.” Featuring archival imagery, fascinating fashion insights and plenty of pink, this capsule is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Barbie as a cultural icon and global symbol of ever-evolving fashion. Available now through Hardie Grant Publishing. The Weekender has two Barbie book prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Barbie’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, October 30 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

PET

iSPY

OF THE WEEK

my name: Sonic my proud owner: Elizabeth, Steven, Logan and Hunter i live in: North St Marys a bit about me: I love sleeping on the lounge and going in the car. I follow everyone everywhere – and I mean EVERYWHERE!

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

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

Dose of Dorin

Zone Bowling Batt Street.

Foxtel’s upgraded app is causing plenty of complaints, and they appear to be justified. Why do so many companies ‘upgrade’ only to offer a far poorer service that customers hate?

Congratulations to Noemie Fox who married her longtime partner Titouan Dupras in France. The Olympic Gold Medal winner looked absolutely stunning!

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

Write Out West

Western Sydney Libraries and Literature Festival

Stories From The West

Wednesday 25 November 6:30-7:30pm The Joan

A Rural Romance

Join best-selling authors Penelope Janu, Stella Quinn and Fiona McArthur, in conversation with Sandie Docker, for a lively discussion ˢ˙ ˥˨˥˔˟ ˥ˢˠ˔ˡ˖˘ʡ ʸ˫ˣ˟ˢ˥˘ evocative country settings, unforgettable characters and the enduring charm of a well-earned happily ˘˩˘˥ ˔˙˧˘˥ʡ

Stories from the West brings together Kirsty Jagger, Shirley Le, Michael Mohammed Ahmad in conversation with Sarah Ayoub for a rich and thought-provoking conversation about writing from—and about— ˊ˘˦˧˘˥ˡ ˆˬ˗ˡ˘ˬʡ

27 November Crime Stories Friday 6:30-7:30pm Author Panel The Joan

Thursday 26 November 6:30-7:30pm Penrith City Library

Belinda Alexandra

Saturday 28 November 6:30-7:30pm The Joan

Join us for an evening of intrigue, glamour and hidden histories as internationally bestselling author Belinda Alexandra sits down with ʽ˔ˡ˘ ˇ˔˥˔ʡ ʸ˫ˣ˘˖˧ ˜ˡ˦˜˚˛˧˦ ˜ˡ˧ˢ Belinda’s writing life, her love of history and travel, and the inspirations behind her latest ˪ˢ˥˞ Ϟ ˣ˟˨˦ ˔˨˗˜˘ˡ˖˘ ˄ʙʴʡ

Join Ashley Kalagian Blunt, Tim Ayliffe and Natalie Conyer in conversation with Hayley Scrivenor for an engaging panel discussion on crime Ѓ˖˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ˗˔ˬʡ Together they’ll explore why crime stories are so compelling, the themes and questions that sit at the heart of the genre and ˛ˢ˪ ʴ˨˦˧˥˔˟˜˔ˡ ˖˥˜ˠ˘ Ѓ˖˧˜ˢˡ continues to resonate ˪˜˧˛ ˥˘˔˗˘˥˦ʡ

Bookings required. Scan the QR code for bookings and more information, or call the Library on 4732 7891.

penrith.city/library WW59645

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

Guest Columnist

Monica Khoury

When your HSC student says “I’m going to fail”

t usually happens late. The door opens, your teenager says they’re going to fail, and you say the sensible things. You’ve worked hard. You know this. You’ll be fine. They argue back, harder. 20 minutes later you’re both wrecked and nothing’s changed. The HSC exams start on Tuesday, October 13, and that conversation is about to go on repeat in homes everywhere, Penrith included.

“The kid who looks like they don’t care is often the one who cares the most”

It looks like laziness. It usually isn’t. The scrolling, the sudden room-cleaning, the notes reorganised instead of used. It reads as not caring. It’s usually avoidance, which is how anxiety looks from the outside. It buys an hour of relief and makes the fear bigger by tomorrow, because the brain learns the thing was worth avoiding. The kid who looks like they don’t care is often the one who cares most. It changes what you say at the door.

An early night won’t fix it this week In the couple of hours before our usual bedtime, the body clock actively holds us alert. Since Sunday’s clock change, your teenager’s normal bedtime sits an hour earlier on their body clock, inside that window, and teenagers’ clocks already run late. The kid still awake at 1am isn’t

“I knew it, and it just went” Anxiety narrows attention onto the fear itself, and worry runs in the same mental workspace we use to read a question and hold the pieces of an answer. Under stress it can briefly go missing. It hasn’t been lost. It’s been crowded out. So when they come home saying it just went, they’re not making excuses. That’s exactly what happened.

defying you. The lever isn’t bedtime but the wake-up time and morning light, which pull the clock earlier, and sleepiness with it. The car, there and back Skip talk of what’s riding on the result. When students hear warnings about failing as threats, motivation and marks tend to drop.

On the way home, skip the replay. Going over it keeps the anxiety running after the exam ends, and makes them sit it twice. “Do you want to talk about it, or a break first?” is enough. When to get help None of this is about telling anyone to relax. Anxiety runs in loops, and every loop has a place to interrupt it. If the stress has stopped them eating, sleeping, seeing friends or starting work, or it’s about everything, not one paper, talk to the school counsellor or a GP. Don’t wait for the exams to end. If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, day or night. Monica Khoury is a registered psychologist, Chief Clinical Officer and co-founder of Unbound Minds Psychology, a 37-person practice with clinics in Kingswood and Gledswood Hills. She leads clinical standards across the practice, is a Psychology Board of Australia approved supervisor, and works with children, teenagers and adults.

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Here’s what’s going on. You can’t out-argue anxiety When you reassure a frightened teenager, the relief lasts about as long as it takes them to think of the next “but”. The question keeps

coming back because answering it keeps it alive. A better argument won’t help. Answer the person, not the fear. “I know. It’s a horrible feeling. What’s the next small bit?”

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

The right support can make all the difference in a young person’s life. That’s why registered clubs across Penrith have provided almost $150,000 in ClubGrants funding to organisations that help young people access opportunities and support when they need it most. Together, they’re helping the next generation to build ˖ˢˡЃ˗˘ˡ˖˘ʟ ˗˘˩˘˟ˢˣ ˟˜˙˘ ˦˞˜˟˟˦ ˔ˡ˗ make positive choices through mentoring, wellbeing programs, recreation and early intervention. Local clubs are helping to ensure a bright future for everyone growing up in the Penrith community.

Visit clubgrants.com.au to learn more.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

How to prepare for storm season EMILY CHATE

torm season is officially here, and Endeavour Energy is encouraging Penrith customers to prepare for the return of windy weather and the summer storm season by taking simple steps now to keep safe in the future. September typically marks the start of storm season across NSW, with NSW SES data showing that in September 2025 SES volunteers responded to 1,037 storm related incidents across the state. Endeavour Energy Chief Customer and Strategy Officer Leanne Pickering said the Endeavour Energy website is a vital resource for communities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from severe weather events. “Severe weather can cause significant disruption for customers, particularly when power outages occur,” Pickering said. “While our crews will always

LOCAL CHARTER

KEY TIPS BEFORE A STORM – Tidy loose items – Clean gutters and check the roof for broken tiles and leaks – Keep a battery-operated torch and radio on hand as well as spare batteries – Turn off all outdoor electrical appliances and stored where they will not get wet – K now the location of your fuse box and main switch – Have a power outage plan ready – Stay informed of what’s happening on the network

KEY TIPS DURING A STORM – Treat all powerlines as ‘live’ and keep at least eight metres clear – never drive across fallen powerlines – Avoid all contact with wires that are hanging low, on the ground, or tangled in the trees Crews are expected to be kept busy through spring and summer.

be working to restore power as quickly as it is safe to, we know that having access to timely, reliable information helps customers make informed decisions, stay connected, and better manage the impacts of an outage. “We also encourage customers to prepare their homes ahead of severe weather by securing loose outdoor items, trimming vegeta-

DAY AT THE RACES

tion around their property where it’s safe to do so, charging mobile devices and batteries, and having torches and emergency contacts ready.” NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sonya Oyston said preparing ahead of severe weather could help reduce the impact of storms on households and communities. “September through April is

typically our busiest period for storm activity, but damaging weather can occur at any time of the year,” Oyston said. “Strong winds, thunderstorms, and low-pressure systems can develop quickly and cause significant damage to homes, property, and essential infrastructure. “The best time to prepare is before severe weather is forecast.”

– When using portable generators ensure they are outside and well away from open windows to avoid deadly exhaust fumes entering your home – Generators should never be connected to switchboards unless there is an isolation switch installed by a licenced electrician Residents can access a range of storm preparedness resources at www.endeavourenergy.com.au.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

BEACH REMAINS SHUT It’ll be 35 degrees in Penrith on Monday. Pondi will remain locked up. KEELY MARSH

here’s already been nine days over 30 degrees in Penrith since the start of spring, and it’s expected to hit 35 on Monday. But the much-hyped Penrith Beach will remain locked up, unlikely to open before the end of November. One Penrith local, Suzanne Allen, is particularly unhappy with the uncertainty of the opening of Penrith Beach, with no opening date for the upcoming season announced. She reached out to State Penrith MP Karen McKeown out of frustration. “I would like to know the reason why Penrith Beach is not opening until December,” Allen enquired. “Last year it extended its opening to April 25, the residents need to be able to go the beach in spring.” The day Allen reached out to the local MP, temperatures had risen to the mid-30s and it was the first day of school holidays. “At all other beaches in Sydney and beyond it is the start of the season – lifeguards are on duty as of now,” Allen said. McKeown confirmed to the Weekender that Penrith Beach would be back this summer, as previously announced by the State Government, with a November opening possible. “I’m delighted the NSW Government is bringing Penrith Beach back again this

Locals will have to wait for the opening of Penrith Beach as warmer weather approaches. Photo: Melinda Jane.

summer, with an opening anticipated in late November,” she said. “The site has been secured for another season, giving western Sydney families free access to a fantastic place to swim, relax and enjoy a program of summer activities. Planning and procurement are now being finalised ahead of the swimming season.” A spokesperson for the Department of

Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) said: “Penrith Beach will return for its fourth season this summer as part of the NSW Government’s continuing investments in creating great places to swim in western Sydney. Since its opening in December 2023, there have been about 450,000 visits to Penrith Beach.” There has also been a push for a shuttle bus

from the Penrith CBD to be reinstated for the upcoming season. As it stands, driving is the only realistic option to get to the beach. There is also a call for Penrith Beach and other recreational developments to be permanent as part of the wider plans for Western Sydney Lakes. Visit www.nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/penrith-beach for beach updates.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

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While his Bathurst victories alone secured his place in Australian sporting history, it is the complete journey - its highs, setbacks and unforgettable moments - that makes his story so compelling. More than simply a champion, Peter Brock became the face of Australian performance motoring and an enduring symbol of Holden’s golden era. Today, Brock’s influence extends far beyond the race track. His name continues to unite generations of Holden enthusiasts, motorsport fans and collectors, ensuring that the legacy of Australia’s greatest touring car driver continues to inspire. Which is why The Bradford Mint is proud to present this ‘King

Mountaiin’’ Pure Silver, Half-ounce Commemorative Comm memorative to all of the Mountain’ passionate Brock, Holden and general automotive collectors. Struck to proof quality - and issued in a strictly limited edition of just 499 worldwide - it features a finely etched, raisedrelief portrait of Peter Brock with his racing helmet, alongside the iconic Holden LX Torana SS A9X that powered him to his unforgettable 1979 Bathurst victory.

SPECIFICATIONS TITLE Brock First, Daylight Second WEIGHT 1/2oz DIAMETER 32mm ALLOY .999 Silver QUALITY Proof - the highest quality possible Features a finely etched, raised-relief portrait of King OBVERSE of the Mountain Peter Brock, accompanied by the year of issue, 2026 Depicts a finely etched, raised-relief portrait of Peter Brock with his racing helmet, alongside the iconic REVERSE Holden LX Torana SS A9X that powered him to his unforgettable 1979 Bathurst victory, elevating his legendary status as the “King of the Mountain”.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

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Universally known as the “King of the Mountain,” Peter er Brock k was a national sporting icon whose extraordinary talent, determination and charisma defined an era of Australian touring car racing. Possessing a rare combination of speed, mechanical understanding and racing instinct, his ability to extract the very best from both machine and circumstance set him apart from his rivals. Whether competing on Mount Panorama or circuits across the country, Brock’s smooth driving style, remarkable consistency and calmness under pressure made him one of the most respected competitors in the sport.

LOCAL NEWS

Get walking! River walk goes pink for annual charity event

Inaugural fundraiser brings the community together KEELY MARSH

KEELY MARSH

urn the River Pink is back for another year of fundraising for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The event, presented by Tanti Financial Services, invites the Penrith community to rally together for a charity walk around the Nepean River, wearing their best pink outfits. What originally started as a small morning tea for the National Breast Cancer Foundation, grew into a mini fete with the idea of walking the river coming soon after. “We did our first walk in 2017, with all funds raised going to the National Breast Cancer Foundation,” Tony Tanti, owner of Tanti Financial Services said. The purpose of the walk, apart from raising funds, is to create awareness, with partici-

pants highly encouraged to wear pink outfits in support. “We encourage everyone to wear crazy pink outfits, the brighter the better,” Tanti said. “We even have pets dressed up in their own pink outfits.” Tanti expressed the importance of the event to the local community. “At the end of the day, we’re there to raise funds, but Turn the River Pink is something specifically for Penrith,” Tanti said. “Everyone’s been touched by breast cancer in one form or another. Whether it’s family, close friends, distant family, everyone’s been touched by the disease.” The charity walk will take place on Saturday, October 17 with the walk to commence at 8am. For more information and to register, visit https://ttrp.com.au.

The four Breasties members meeting to finalise details for the event.

treatment as I will be for the next five to 10 years because I was hormone receptor positive,” Williams said. “We’re hoping that our very first one will be successful leading into more successful events after.” The idea of the event sparked after conversations between Williams and a dear friend of hers, Mandy, who sadly lost her mum after a 10-year battle with breast cancer. “She always wanted to do an event while her mum was alive and unfortunately, she didn’t get the chance,” Williams said. Through fear, uncertainty, tears and challenges, the

two friends found strength in each other and decided on a whim to initiate the fundraising event. What originally started as a small gathering of around 20 to 30 friends and family has bloomed into a major luncheon at the St Marys Diggers and Band Club, with over 100 people attending. The luncheon will see Deputy Premier Prue Car in attendance with the honour of cutting the ribbon at the opening ceremony along with a variety of exciting activities on the day. The group hopes to make the event an annual occasion, and expand to other events too.

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Previous attendees dressed in pink in support of the community fundraiser.

edicated to fundraising and raising awareness, Everything Pink is bringing the community together on October 11 for a day of fun, support and friendship. With a simple mission to support, inspire and give back, The Breasties are four women passionate about raising awareness, helping others affected by breast cancer and creating a community where no one feels they must face their journey alone. Bronwyn Williams, Mandy Rovacchi, Christine Spiteri and Leonie Petersen are the magical four behind The Breasties who wanted to give back over years of friendship. Each of them has faced their own journey with breast cancer. Williams, one of the magical four, is currently on her own journey battling breast cancer but is determined to see success come from the inaugural Breasties luncheon event. “I was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year, and I’m still undergoing

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Council to honour Crameri’s contribution to Penrith

Specialist cancer care faces axe: “Cannot afford to lose” LOUISE ARMSTRONG

Former Councillor Kevin Crameri will have a reserve named after him. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

ormer Independent Penrith Councillor and Mayor Kevin Crameri will have a local reserve named in his honour. Crameri was first elected to Penrith City Council in 1974 and served as Mayor from 1996 to 1997 and then again from 2009 to 2011. Crameri was also Deputy Mayor from 1988 to 1989. Crameri left Council at the end of 2024 and sadly passed away in October 2025 after a struggle with cancer. Fellow Independent Councillor Glenn Gardiner brought a motion to Council Chambers in August asking for a report to be brought back about naming a reserve in Crameri’s honour. At the most recent meeting, Council moved to submit an application to the Geographical Names Board of NSW to name the reserve at Bethany Circuit and Nagle Street in Jordan Springs after the veteran Councillor. The reserve also has a boundary on Ninth Avenue in Llandilo, something Gardiner said made the location perfect.

Kevin Crameri. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“The reserve that has been suggested to be named Kevin Crameri Reserve, one boundary rests on Ninth Avenue,” he said. “Kevin lived on the corner of Ninth Avenue for, I believe, the majority of his life, possibly all of his life. There couldn’t be a more suitable location.” Crameri also spent six decades serving the community with the NSW Rural Fire Service. “In recognition of his outstanding contribution to local government and the community as a longtime firefighter with the NSW Rural Fire Service – Llandilo Brigade, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 1999,” the Council report said. “He also received the prestigious Centenary Medal.” Councillor Sue Day said naming the reserve is a great way to honour Crameri’s contribution to the city. “Kevin was a dear friend, but he was also one of my mentors, and he deserves to be remembered by the residents of North Ward,” she said. “Naming a reserve in his honour is a meaningful and fitting tribute to his many years of dedicated advocacy for the residents of North Ward. This recognition will ensure Kevin’s contribution to our community is remembered for generations to come.” Labor Councillor John Thain spent many years with Crameri on Council and said while they didn’t always agree on things, Crameri had a big heart. “I have fond memories and some not so fond memories of Councillor Crameri,” Thain said with a laugh. “He was an enigma in himself. [We were] comrades and combatants at times but we did respect each other greatly… He always stood up for the underdog.” Councillor Ross Fowler also shared some memories he had of Crameri in Chambers. Council will now seek community feedback.

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pecialist care for prostate cancer in the Nepean Blue Mountains community is set to end in June next year due to Federal Government funding cuts. In the Nepean Blue Mountains region, men are supported by a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse at Nepean Blue Mountains Health Service, with prostate cancer accounting for about one in three cancer diagnoses among local men. Blue Mountains prostate cancer survivor David Wilkinson described the budget cuts as disastrous, especially given that he knows what cancer care was like before specialist nurses were available locally. After his diagnosis in 2011, Wilkinson endured surgery, 58 rounds of radiation, hormone therapy and recurrent disease. When specialist prostate cancer nursing became available in Penrith, Wilkinson had targeted support with a nurse following his journey, answering questions after oncology appointments and providing ongoing specialist care. That nurse also became closely involved with Wilkinson’s local prostate cancer support group, helping other men and families across the region. Wilkinson said access to a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse is invaluable, giving men and their families expert guidance to help them make informed decisions about their care. “I regularly hear from men and their families about how important that specialist support has been,” Wilkinson said. “This is expertise we cannot afford to lose.” However, the Government will end Commonwealth

funding for 96 Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia (PCFA) Specialist Nurse roles from June 30 2027, redirecting it to another provider under an all-cancer model. The PCFA CEO Anne Savage emphasises that regional men have particularly relied on the specialist expertise and continuity of care. “We have built this specialist service over nearly 15 years,” Savage said. “Decisions about its future should be based on evidence and on consultation with the nurses, men and families it serves. Neither has happened under the decision taken by the Federal Health Minister.”

The funding cut comes ahead of the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s ‘Big Aussie Day of Action’, which is a campaign that unites those affected by prostate cancer to advocate for reversing funding cuts, preserving specialist care and enhancing collaboration between specialist and general cancer nursing services. The campaign event will be held on Thursday, October 15 at the Parliamentary Courtyards in Canberra, bringing together Parliamentarians, PCFA Specialist Nurses, survivors and the community. The Weekender contacted Minister Butler but didn’t receive a response in time for publication.

David Wilkinson and his Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse Jorge.

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LOCAL NEWS

Bright minds and big futures: Students shine KEELY MARSH

ver 70 Year 11 students from western Sydney gathered at University of Sydney to present their responses to challenges set by academics across disciplines including quantum computing, robotics, geosciences and data science. These students were among the first cohort of the Khuda Women in STEM Academy, a program that supports young women in Years 11 and 12 from partner schools in western Sydney as they explore future study and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Ria Joshi, 2027 School Captain at Penrith Selective High School, was part of the winning team in the pitch competition. Working alongside three other young women from schools across western Sydney, Ria tackled a challenge set by Dr Shila Ghazanfar from the university’s Faculty of Science. Ria said the experience pushed

Ria Joshi, 2027 School Captain of Penrith Selective High School. Photo: University of Sydney / Laura Grassby.

her outside her comfort zone and helped build confidence in pursuing STEM opportunities. “We’ve been given so many opportunities to network and connect

with new people, and that’s really helped build my confidence,” Ria said. The team explored real-world applications of data science using

Sydney’s public transport data, identifying accessibility gaps across the station networks. Their analysis found that Redfern Station had some of the highest passenger usage despite lacking an accessible entrance, helping secure first place in the competition. These young women would meet before and after school, on weekends and were supported by dedicated University Student Ambassadors. Alongside their challenge projects, they were encouraged to inspire the next generation of STEM learners. At Penrith Selective High School, students responded by designing and delivering hands-on STEM activities for younger students at Penrith Public School, introducing them to STEM in a fun, accessible and inspiring way. “As part of the Khuda Academy, we were encouraged to inspire other students to explore STEM, and we wanted to visit a primary school and create a hands-on experience where we could help remove some of the stigmas younger students might

have, like thinking STEM is purely technological or just mathematics-based,” Ria said. “It really increased their exposure to different real-world applications of STEM. They were so happy, they loved every activity, and they were sad when it was time to leave.” AirTrunk founder and CEO, and Khuda Family Foundation founder Robin Khuda said the showcase highlighted the value of giving young students in western Sydney opportunities to apply their learning to real-world challenges. “Hands-on experiences like this can help young women recognise the possibilities open to them and see the study and career pathways they could pursue in STEM,” Khuda said Entry to the Academy is by competitive application and supports students to explore their interest in STEM with dedicated financial and academic support, mentoring and opportunities to apply STEM knowledge through industry-inspired and researchbased challenges.

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

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As the weather warms up, Penrith’s parks and open spaces come alive with residents and their beloved pets out walking, playing and enjoying our community. Did you know that Council has a team dedicated to keeping our community and pets safe? It’s an important part of our work as we have more than 150,000 cats and dogs across the City. I know many of you love to get active along the Great River Walk, and at popular spots like Gipps Street Recreation Precinct and Jamison Oval. To reduce the risk of losing furry friends, Council is hosting a free Microchipping and Pet Education Day on Saturday 17 October at Andromeda Community Centre in Cranebrook, where residents can get their cats and dogs microchipped. There will also be free pet health checks and engraved ID tags available. Learn more at penrith.city/events. Over the past year, Council has strengthened our Animal Registration Program to help reunite lost pets with their owners faster and reduce the need for impoundment, saving stress for pets and their families and costs for Council. We now send SMS and email reminders to pet owners, along with letters, making

it easier to keep registration and contact details up to date on the NSW Companion Animals Register. Educating residents on responsible pet ownership is one of Council’s ongoing priorities. From October and during daylight savings, officers patrol Penrith for our ‘Tag, Wag and Bag’ initiative. This gives officers an opportunity to connect with residents and ensure everyone follows the simple rules that keep people and pets safe — making sure dogs have ID tags on their collars, are on secure leads, and owners pick up after them. You might see officers patrolling our dog parks, which are a great asset to our community - safely fenced with separate areas for small and large dogs, agility equipment, water bubblers and bins for dog bags. Use the map at penrith.city/ dogparks to find one near you. We look forward to holding more helpful conversations about responsible pet ownership at our childcare centres, community events, schools and at our Penrith City Libraries. Visit penrith.city/animalservices for more information.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Comedy that won’t cost a cent

Former Penrith top cop retires Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden last week concluded an extraordinary policing career, taking an extended period of leave prior to retiring from the NSW Police Force after four decades of dedicated service. Joining the NSW Police Force in 1987, Assistant Commissioner McFadden began his career as a Probationary Constable at Castle Hill Police Station.

He would go on to a number of roles, including at Penrith Local Area Command. In 2017, then Superintendent McFadden led the formation of the Nepean Police Area Command. “I look forward to exploring a freedom phase of life with friends and family, knowing police will continue the work that was important to me,” McFadden said upon his exit last week.

KEELY MARSH

ou’re invited to a night of laughs and connection on Friday, October 9 for Comedy for a Cause. Hosted at the Henry Sports Club in Werrington County, Comedy for a Cause is a free community stand-up showcase focusing on connection and mental health awareness. Director of Comedy for a Cause, Mat Wakefield, said there is a sense of vulnerability that comes

with comedy and mental health, being a less intimidating topic when acknowledged through laughs. “There’s something in sharing these personal things and being vulnerable that actually draws an audience in, rather than pushing them away,” Wakefield said. “It shows people it’s okay to talk about these experiences and even laugh about them.” With the night to be free entry, removing the

financial barrier was done purposefully, with hopes of helping people and provide them with information that may make their load feel a little lighter. “We’re in a cost-of-living crisis, and so much of people’s mental distress is either caused by or magnified by financial strain,” Wakefield said. “Free entry means nobody has to choose between paying a bill and looking after their mental health that night.”

Every dollar raised on the night is going to the Black Dog Institute. “It felt like the right partner for a show built entirely on around getting people to open up about mental health,” Wakefield said. On the night you can expect a great laugh with a line-up of comedians, a mental health speaker and information on local support services. Secure your FREE ticket here https://comedyforacause.net/shows.

Aboriginal Heritage Townson Road and Burdekin Road Upgrades Transport for NSW invites Aboriginal people and Aboriginal groups who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the ŔċĂħċƎ áÅħáì Įā àĮōċĂċħÅĠ ĮàĚìáŜŔ Åħç ŊĠÅáìŔ āĮō Ŝćì ĮŹħŔĮħ ĮÅç Åħç Ţōçìĝċħ ĮÅç ŢŊĂōÅçìŔ ĠĮáÅŜìç ħìÅō áćĮƎ ìĠçŔǨ ŜĮ register to be consulted. Į ōìĂċŔŜìō ſĮŢō ċħŜìōìŔŜǨ ŊĠìÅŔì áĮħŜÅáŜǩ aĮħċ ĮŔŔǨ àĮōċĂċħÅĠ ŢĠŜŢōÅĠ DìōċŜÅĂì hāƎ áìōǨ ħĮħċǧōĮŔŔȒŜōÅħŔŊĮōŜǧħŔŹǧĂĮŸǧÅŢǨ Ɣƕ %Åōáſ ŜōììŜǨ ÅōōÅĦÅŜŜÅ a ² ƕƔƘƓ Registrations must be received by phone or in writing by 21 October 2026 A proposal has been developed for a four-lane divided road ÅĠĮħĂ ĮŹħŔĮħ ĮÅç Åħç Ţōçìĝċħ ĮÅç ĠċħĝċħĂ ċáćĦĮħç ĮÅçǨ `ÅōŔçìħ Åōĝ ċħ Ŝćì ŹìŔŜ Åħç Ţōçìĝċħ ĮÅçǨ áćĮƎ ìĠçŔ ċħ Ŝćì ìÅŔŜǧ ćì ĠìħĂŜć Įā Ŝćì ŊōĮĚìáŜ ċŔ ÅàĮŢŜ Ɩǧƙ ĝċĠĮĦìŜōìŔǧ

The poster for a free comedy night at The Henry Sports Club on Friday.

Move to ensure gas is protected LOUISE ARMSTRONG

The proposal may result in Transport:

• ŊŊĠſċħĂ āĮō Åħ àĮōċĂċħÅĠ DìōċŜÅĂì HĦŊÅáŜ ìōĦċŜ Ǿ DH ǿ Ţħçìō ÅōŜ ƙ Įā Ŝćì National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974Ǩ and/or practice for archaeological investigations in NSW 2010Ǩ ÅħçǴĮō • Undertaking an environmental impact assessment under the

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

he NSW Government has released its new Gas Statement to outline the critical role that gas will play in the state’s manufacturing sector. Bega Dairy and Drinks in Penrith is one of many commercial factories that relies on NSW gas to produce its products, and the factory currently generates 135 jobs. Alongside Penrith MP Karen McKeown, the Minister for Natural

Resources and Domestic Manufacturing Courtney Houssos visited the Bega Factory in Penrith on Wednesday

morning to announce the Government’s new strategy. “Gas will have a critical and a defined role in

Courtney Houssos and Karen McKeown tour Bega.

our energy future, and we know that’s particularly important for manufacturing and for industry and to our commercial businesses,” Houssos said. The State Government plans to safeguard against supply disruptions by investigating new gas exploration sites in far west NSW, as well as investing in import terminals, gas pipeline and storage, renewable fuels, electrification and energy efficiency. Full story: www.westernweekender.com.au.

Δ Breakfast collab: What happens when one iconic cinnamon scroll brand meets one of Australia’s most loved cereals? Introducing Nutri-Grain Cinnabon: a new limited-edition collaboration inspired by the delicious cinnamon flavour that has made Cinnabon an Aussie fan favourite. Combining Nutri-Grain’s

ers, a wrap, McWings and seasoned McShaker Fries to restaurants. The limited-time Nashville range will run until November 10, with the new products built around spicy Nashville Hot sauce, slaw and pickles. Macca’s has also made a big change to its frozen drinks line-up, launching Frozen Fanta Mango as a new permanent flavour, replacing Frozen Orange.

Δ Loaded cookie: The Weekender team, including Deputy Editor Nathan Taylor (pictured), tried the new McDonald’s Loaded Cookies last week – and we can’t stop talking about them. This could be one of the most delicious desserts Macca’s has dropped in years. They’re available in your local store until the end of the year. Δ Nashville comes to Macca’s: McDonald’s has launched a major new Nashville Chicken range, bringing Nashville Hot-inspired burg-

Δ Colonel’s new dessert: KFC is adding a new dessert to its menu with the launch of the Caramel Biscuit Bliss Cup. The new dessert combines a creamy KFC dessert cup with caramel and crushed biscuit pieces, giving customers another sweet option alongside the chain’s regular desserts.

Δ Red’s burger refresh: Red Rooster has rolled out a major refresh of its burger range, replacing the chicken tenders previously used in many of its burgers with new double-breaded chicken fillets. At the same time, the chain has introduced pulled roast chicken versions of the same burgers, giving customers a choice between crispy fried chicken or Red Rooster’s signature roast chicken across the new line-up. The refreshed range includes the Chicken Mayo Burger, Reds Burger, Spicy Burger, Cheesy Bacon Burger and Chicken BLT Burger, with matching Box meals also available. Dusk re-opens: Dusk Δ has reopened its Penrith store after a refurbishment. It’s located in Westfield Penrith near Myer.

Δ Schnitz coming to Penrith: We know plenty of people will enjoy this news! Schnitz will soon be opening in Penrith. It’s been confirmed it’ll open a Westfield Penrith location in the coming months. It’s the first time they’ll have a Penrith store.

signature crunch with the indulgent flavour of Cinnabon’s famous cinnamon scrolls, the new release delivers a bakery-inspired twist that’s set to tempt cereal lovers beyond breakfast. It’s available in supermarkets now.

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Ph: 4728 5226 Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

TURNING BACK TIME

This photo from the 1980s is looking east across the Allen Place Car Park in the Penrith CBD.

In this photo Macy’s discount furniture can be seen as well as Coles New World Supermarket. Norman Ross Discounts signage can also

be seen, which actually remains (albeit faded) visible today. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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BRELL HOUSE • CNR HALL STREET & MAMRE ROAD, ST MARYS • WWW.BRELLHOUSE.COM.AU

Brell House celebrates one year of making memories in St Marys welcomed thousands of locals through its doors. The venue’s combination of contemporary dining, expansive outdoor spaces, children’s playground facilities and relaxed atmosphere has helped create a space that caters to all generations. For St Marys Diggers and Band Club CEO Marlene Shipley, the first year has been about seeing the original vision come to life. “We wanted to create somewhere our local community could feel proud of, somewhere families could come together, enjoy great food and make memories,” Shipley said. “Seeing people celebrating birthdays, catching up with friends, enjoying family days and simply making Brell House part of their regular routine has been incredibly rewarding.” The venue has embraced its connection to the area’s history. Brell House takes its name from the site’s former tannery, which operated from 1907 to 1934 under Martin Brell, creating a link

between St Marys’ past and its future. The first year has seen Brell House become a destination for entertainment and community events, continuing to evolve its offering and provide new reasons for locals to visit. As Brell House celebrates its first birthday this October, the focus is firmly on the future. With new events, dining experiences and celebrations planned, the team hopes the next 12 months will build on what has already been achieved. “One year is a wonderful milestone, but we see this as just the beginning,” Shipley said. “Brell House was created for the community, and we look forward to continuing to grow with St Marys and creating many more memories together.” Brell House will host Country on the Green on Sunday, October 18, inviting the community to come together for a free day of country music, line dancing entertainment, and family fun.

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ne year ago, Brell House opened its doors with a promise to give the St Marys community something it had never experienced before. Today, that vision has become a reality. This October marks the first anniversary of Brell House, the $20 million development from St Marys Diggers and Band Club that transformed a historic site on the corner of Hall Street and Mamre Road into one of western Sydney’s newest destinations. When Brell House opened in October 2025, it was designed to be more than just a place to eat. It was created as a destination where families could enjoy quality food, children could play, friends could catch up and locals could celebrate life’s special moments without having to travel outside the area. 12 months on, Brell House has firmly established itself as part of the St Marys community. From family lunches and casual dinners to birthdays, celebrations, functions and special events, the venue has

FOOD • DRINKS • LIVE MUSIC • GOOD TIMES

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

BUSINESS MATTERS

FI N A N CI A L LY U NS H A KE A BL E

IMPLICATIONS OF BIG CHANGES

WHO APPROVED THAT EXPENSE?

hanges to negative gearing and capital gains tax are being discussed largely as a property investor issue. But for western Sydney, the implications extend well beyond landlords. From 1 July 2027, negative gearing for residential property will be limited to eligible new builds. Investors purchasing established properties after the 2026 Budget announcement will no longer be able to offset property losses against salary or other non-property income, while existing investments are protected under transitional arrangements. Capital gains tax arrangements are also changing, altering the after-tax equation for some property investors. Importantly, the reforms

Practical strategies. More profit. Stronger businesses.

create a stronger incentive to invest in new housing – potentially directing more private capital towards increasing housing supply. And that matters to business. New housing generates activity across a substantial local supply chain: developers, builders, trades, engineers, planners, suppliers, conveyancers, accountants, mortgage brokers and property managers all benefit when housing moves from planning to construction. For a rapidly developing region like Western Sydney, the bigger question is whether we can turn that investment appetite into actual housing. If policy is encouraging private capital towards new residential development, we also need the planning pathways, infrastructure and development capacity

ou’re chasing more sales. But when was the last time you chased the money quietly leaking out the back door? Overheads are dangerous because they become invisible. The software subscription nobody uses. The insurance policy automatically renewed. The phone plan untouched for four years. Finance costs, excessive travel, expensive premises, wasted energy and supplier increases nobody questioned. Individually, they don’t look terrifying. Together, they can devour your profit. Here’s my challenge: find 5–10% savings across your overheads. Not through one dramatic slash-and-burn exercise. Find lots of small savings. Print your Profit & Loss for the last 12 months and go

ADAM BUCKLEY Mortgage Broker, Infinity Finance Solutions Penrith Chamber Platinum Member

to deliver it. For business owners who also invest in property, the changes are another reason to look closely at where capital is working hardest. Money invested in property is capital that cannot simultaneously be invested in a business, equipment or other opportunities. The fundamentals remain the same: understand the numbers, borrowing capacity, cash flow and risk before committing.

The Penrith Valley Chamber — where good business meets great people. We connect, support and celebrate the businesses driving Penrith’s growth, shaping a thriving, future-focused economy for the west.

through every overhead line. Then put someone’s name beside each one. Their job? Challenge it. Can suppliers offer a better deal? Can contracts be renegotiated? Call your insurer and ask them to sharpen their pencil. Review finance costs. Book travel smarter. Modernise outdated processes that are costing unnecessary labour. Think beyond the obvious. Could better workplace health and safety help reduce injuries and ultimately workers compensation costs? Are you paying ATO interest or penalties because bills aren’t being managed on time? Are rising electricity costs making solar worth investigating for longer-term savings? Are your premises still appropriate? But don’t become so obsessed with cutting costs that you stop investing.

Great businesses spend money. They invest in people, technology, marketing, training and systems that make them stronger. The question isn’t, “Can we cut this?” It’s, “What return are we getting from it?” If an expense improves productivity, capacity, customer experience or profit, fantastic. If it doesn’t? Kill it. Finding another $50,000 in sales can be hard. Finding $5,000 sitting unnoticed across 10 unnecessary expenses might be considerably easier. And unlike extra revenue, every dollar you permanently remove from overheads drops straight to your bottom line. Go find it!

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

small business month SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

Now’s the time to support small businesses in Penrith

ctober is Small Business Month, an opportunity to recognise the enormous contribution small businesses make to communities across New South Wales. Here in Penrith, small businesses are at the heart of our local economy. They always have been. From retailers and hospitality venues to professional services, trades and family-run operations, local businesses create jobs, support community organisations

and help give our region its unique identity. Small Business Month is also an important reminder of the role we can all play in supporting the businesses operating in our own backyard. Choosing to shop locally, booking a local service or recommending a Penrith business to friends and family can make a genuine difference, particularly as businesses continue to navigate rising costs and challenging economic conditions.

The recent Small Business Month Breakfast in Penrith.

Supporting local businesses also helps keep money within the local economy, creating opportunities for further investment and employment across the Penrith region. The month is also about bringing business owners together, sharing ideas and celebrating the people who have taken the risk of starting and growing their own business. That spirit was on display last week when Penrith CBD Corporation hosted a Small Business Breakfast, bringing together members of the local business community to connect, network and mark Small Business Month. Events like the breakfast highlight the strong business community that exists in Penrith and the importance of collaboration as the region continues to grow. With Small Business Month continuing throughout October, there has never been a better time to discover a new local business, revisit an old favourite and make a conscious decision to support local.

Weddings are expensive, but your wedding dress doesn’t have to be

or Lisa Jay, bridal isn’t simply a business. It’s an industry she has grown up in. Having been immersed in the bridal world since the age of 17, Lisa recognised a gap early on. Brides wanted beautiful, brand-new wedding dresses and the excitement of finding “the one”, without necessarily spending thousands to get it. That belief became the philosophy behind The Bridal Outlet: “Weddings are expensive, but your wedding dress doesn’t have to be.” Lisa established one of the first Bridal Outlets in 2012, followed by Lisa Jay Bridal Couture. After operating the concept for several years, she returned to it with the opening of the new Penrith Bridal Outlet in April 2026. The response exceeded expectations. More than 80 brides arrived on grand opening day, with lines stretching out the door and brides waiting for fitting rooms. “It showed me that all these

The team behind the Penrith Bridal Outlet.

years later, the demand is still there,” Lisa said. The Bridal Outlet offers brand-new, off-the-rack wedding dresses at outlet prices, allowing brides to find their dress and take it home that very day. Lay-by and Afterpay options are also available. The store has also recently welcomed Blue Bow Collection by Lisa Jay, Lisa’s own new bridal label, giving brides even more styles to discover exclusively within

THE BRIDAL OUTLET

The Bridal Outlet. But value is only part of the experience. Lisa and her team have created a fun, relaxed and pressure-free environment built around honest advice and making every bride feel at home. “When you walk through our doors, you’re walking into our home,” Lisa said. “We’ll guide you, but ultimately, when a bride looks in the mirror and it’s the one, she knows.”

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CONNECTION to country

A special supplement focused on local Indigenous affairs and services

Indigenous inspiration part of new netball uniform S

ports performance brand, ASICS and Netball Australia have announced an extension of their more than two-decade-long partnership, celebrated with the reveal of the Australian Diamonds’ new match dress. Developed in close collaboration with Diamonds players including ASICS athlete Jamie-Lee Price, and featuring artwork by Yorta Yorta woman Alkina Edwards, the dress will be worn for the first time later this month at the upcoming Constellation Cup. “Being involved in the dress design is a dream come true,” said Price. “As an elite athlete, performance starts from the moment you put on your uniform and tie up your laces. Being

able to provide feedback throughout the design process, then see this brought to life is a reflection of true partnership and collaboration. One which I’m proud to have been a part of.” The new dress carries forward artwork by Alkina Edwards titled “Ganurra” (meaning “blaze” in Yorta Yorta language), first introduced on the Diamonds’ Netball World Cup Cape Town 2023 uniform. It appears in tonal green across the side panels and upper back, with placement and integration refreshed for this iteration. “’Blaze’ being a very large burning fire, translates onto the netball court when the Diamonds are playing. They are fierce, like a fire,” Edwards said. The gathering circle at the centre of

the design represents the unity and strength of the team. The symbols of women represent the playing group, while the surrounding lines signify the Diamonds’ staff. “The background is the land we walk and come from, which is home to the oldest living culture in the world, and it was essential I acknowledged this,” Edwards said. The design is accompanied by a trio of flags and a formal acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of

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the land on which the Diamonds play. This announcement builds on more than two decades of ASICS as Netball Australia’s footwear partner, extending the relationship to cover apparel for the first time in several years, including the Diamonds’ match dress, training range and replica range. The new dress will debut when the Diamonds face New Zealand at the Constellation Cup on October 18, ahead of the Diamonds’ campaign toward the Netball World Cup Sydney 2027.

Need a Justice of the Peace? We’re here to help! For document witnessing and other JP services, come in during business hours: 📞📞📞📞 4761 3210 🕒🕒🕒🕒 Monday- Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm � 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown We’re happy to assist you!

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

Services and community organisations: Your local guide Health Services

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service www.gwahs.net.au One of Western Sydney’s leading Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations. Provides GP services, chronic disease management, mental health support, child and family health services, men’s and women’s health programs, drug and alcohol support, and community wellbeing initiatives.

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service Penrith www.gwahs.net.au Provides culturally safe healthcare and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the Penrith and Nepean region.

Aboriginal Health Unit www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ Aboriginal-Health Part of Western Sydney Local Health District, delivering culturally appropriate health programs, community engagement and support services across Western Sydney.

Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation www.tacams.com.au Provides comprehensive medical, allied health and preventative health services for Aboriginal communities across South Western Sydney.

Mental Health, Counselling & Wellbeing

Marrin Weejali Aboriginal Corporation www.marrinweejali.org.au Offers counselling, drug and alcohol support, mental health assistance, referrals and culturally safe wellbeing programs for Aboriginal individuals and families.

Aboriginal Counselling Service www.wentwest.com.au Provides counselling, therapeutic support and mental health services for Aboriginal people experiencing personal, family or emotional challenges.

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service – Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program Social & Emotional Wellbeing Program Provides culturally appropriate support for mental health concerns, emotional wellbeing, grief and trauma support, and alcohol and drug issues.

Sydney Aboriginal Family Support Service www.safss.com.au Supports Aboriginal families through parenting assistance, advocacy, family support programs, case management and community development initiatives.

Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation www.baabayn.com.au A highly respected Western Sydney organisation delivering cultural, educational, youth and family support programs while strengthening Aboriginal identity and community connection.

AbSec www.absec.org.au NSW’s peak Aboriginal child and family organisation, advocating for Aboriginal children and families while supporting culturally appropriate child protection and community services.

Legal Services

Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT www.alsnswact.org.au Provides free legal advice, court representation, advocacy and support for Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander people across Western Sydney and NSW.

Western Sydney Community Legal Centre www.wsclc.org.au Provides free legal and social support services for vulnerable residents, including Aboriginal clients seeking legal assistance.

Education & Youth Services Kimberwalli www.kimberwalli.com.au

Australia’s first Aboriginal-owned and Aboriginalgoverned independent school, supporting Aboriginal students through education, culture and leadership development.

National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy www.nasca.org.au Provides mentoring, education, employment pathways and leadership opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

National Centre of Indigenous Excellence www.ncie.org.au Delivers education, health, leadership, employment and community programs designed to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Community & Cultural Organisations

Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation www.srac.org.au Supports Aboriginal communities through cultural programs, advocacy, community engagement and local initiatives across the Penrith region.

4721 1444

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

Koori Kulcha Aboriginal Corporation www.koorikulcha.com.au Promotes Aboriginal culture, education, arts and community engagement through cultural programs and events.

Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation www.kinchela.org.au Provides healing, advocacy and support programs for survivors and descendants affected by the Stolen Generations

Gunawirra www.gunawirra.org.au Works with Aboriginal families and children through early intervention, health, education and family support programs.

Emergency & Crisis Support

13YARN 13 92 76 | www.13yarn.org.au Australia’s first national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line, available 24 hours a day.

Lifeline 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention service available nationwide.

Aboriginal Health Services & Local Health District Aboriginal Health Teams Available throughout Western Sydney to provide urgent healthcare support, referrals, mental health assistance and family wellbeing services. This list highlights some of the key Indigenousled and Indigenous-focused organisations supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Penrith, Blacktown, Mount Druitt, Parramatta, Liverpool, Campbelltown and the broader Western Sydney region.

CONNECTION to country

Students aim for the stars

ight First Nations tertiary students will travel to the United States for a 10-week placement at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The program is part of the pioneering National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA), which aims to build Indigenous participation in Australia’s growing space sector. Founded in 2019, the NISA program is now in its eighth year and boasts an alumnus of 29 program participants. In 2026, NISA received national recognition at the Australian Space Awards, acknowledged with two Group Category honours: Indigenous Space Initiative of the Year and Diversity Initiative Program of the Year. Of the eight students selected, Jordan Roulstone, a third-year student completing a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) (Honours) and Bachelor of Information Technology (Computer Science) at QUT, has been awarded an inaugural Boeing NISA Scholarship. A proud Warumungu man with connections to Tennant Creek and Alice Springs who grew up in north Brisbane and Caboolture, he said: “I’m fascinated by how AI can be used to improve current meteorology tools and solve some of the biggest challenges in space exploration. NISA will give me the opportunity to learn from people working at the forefront of these fields.” “I want to build a career that

contributes to Australia’s future in space and advanced engineering, but I also want to help create a future where more Indigenous young people can see themselves in STEM. QUT has supported me on that journey, and this scholarship is another step towards making that vision a reality,” he added. Jordan will be joined at NASA JPL by Jamal Woods – also a student at QUT – who has been selected to participate in this year’s NISA Program. Completing a Bachelor of Engineering

(Honours) (Mechanical), Woods is a proud Dunghutti man who grew up on Bundjalung country at Tweed Heads and says studying engineering at QUT had opened up opportunities and given him the confidence to pursue them. “NISA is an incredible opportunity to take that next step, explore a career in the space industry and learn from leading experts at JPL,” he said. Each NISA student will be paired with a scientist or engineer mentor at NASA JPL.This year’s NISA cohort includes:

Tash Lee, Monash University; Jamal Woods, QUT; Jordan Roulstone, QUT; Jaimie Duffy, University of New England; Noah Davis, University of Sydney; Alaxandrea O’Brien, University of Western Australia; Claire Weis, UNSW and Alexander Cramp, UNSW. While at NASA, students will work on projects developed by their mentors and contribute to current missions, including work involving ocean exploration vehicles and research into microorganisms aboard the International Space Station.

(02) 4722 2998 info@wspublishing.com.au 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown NSW 2750 Follow us

A group of students is headed to the United States.

Sharing his important story A Stolen Generations Survivor who discovered his liver cancer by chance has launched a new community campaign, marking the start of Liver Cancer Awareness Month. Uncle Kerry thought the weight falling off him meant the gym was finally paying off. He had lost half his body weight in five months. A scan for something else found liver cancer. His story, now on film, carries one simple message for community: “Don’t feel embarrassed. Just give us a call.” The video launches directly after the weekly smoking ceremony at Dardi Munwurro, an Aboriginal community organisation supporting men, women and families on their healing journeys. Community guidance shaped the whole campaign, including the decision to bring the health conversation to where people already gather rather than asking people to attend a health event. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are 2.4 times as likely to be diagnosed with liver cancer as non-Indigenous Australians, and 2.4 times as likely to die from it. Fewer than one in ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people diagnosed with liver cancer survive five years. Late diagnosis is one of the main reasons. New analysis released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare in September,

commissioned by The Healing Foundation, estimates around 23,300 Stolen Generations Survivors aged 50 and over are alive today. That is one in seven Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of that age. All are now in the years when a liver that has carried too much for too long can start to fail. The campaign promotes a free, confidential phone line staffed by expert liver nurses on 1800 841 118. Community feedback led the Liver Foundation to avoid the word helpline, because asking for help can carry its own stigma. The invitation is simply: contact us. Sally Castle, Chief Executive Officer, Liver Foundation said: “The liver does around five hundred jobs and complains about none of them. It is also the only organ in the body that can repair itself, if damage is found early enough. That is why we want people to get a liver check before symptoms appear. By the time symptoms arrive, it can be too late.” Associate Profession, Dr Summer May Finlay, Yorta Yorta woman, public health practitioner said: “Liver cancer does not reach Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at higher rates by chance. When we talk about liver health, we are talking about removal, grief, shame and survival long before we are talking about anything on a blood test. This campaign starts from that truth, and from community wisdom about what actually helps.”

Uncle Kerry shares history.

Leonie Williamson, Acting CEO, The Healing Foundation said: “Stolen Generations survivors make up around one in ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over. The evidence is clear that forced removal has left a lasting legacy of poor health and chronic conditions, and that many of these impacts continue to be felt by descendants. While these findings are confronting, they also remind us why standing up and speaking out about our health and wellbeing is so important.” Uncle Kerry, Stolen Generations Survivor’s final message: “Don’t feel embarrassed. Just give us a call.” View the video on YouTube.

Connection To Country runs across The Western Weekender and Parra News.

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

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Jordan Springs

Castlereagh

Brooks Tavern Jordan Springs Newsagency Woolworths

Ampol Service Station

Claremont Meadows IGA Claremont Meadows

Kemps Creek

Colyton

Caltex Service Station Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Colyton Centre Pharmacy Colyton Friendly Grocer Colyton Hotel Colyton Newsagency Dan Murphy's Hewitt Street Takeaway

Kingswood Barista Bar Coffee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital)

Cranebrook Aldi Cranebrook Cranebrook Community Health Cranebrook Village McDonald's Plus Pharmacy Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Country Brewer Hallani’s Kingswood Hotel Kingswood Newsagency Kingswood Sports Club Penrith Gaels Club Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital 7/11 Kingswood

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

Penrith

St Clair i

7/11 Henry Street Aldi Astina Atmosphere Gym Australian Arms Borec Road Takeaway (Valley Café) Café Fred Coles Penrith (Nepean Village) Coles (Westfield Penrith) Crescent Mini Mart High Street Pies Hog's Breath Café Hoyts Westfield Joan Sutherland Arts Centre Lemongrove Community Health Centre Liquor Stax Peachtree McDonald's High Street McDonald's Panthers Leagues McDonald's Peachtree Mercure Hotel Museum Of Fire Nepean Aquatic Centre Nepean Motor Group Café Nepean Rowing Club Nepean Village Coffee Club Nepean Village Newsagency Nextra Westfield Office of Karen McKeown MP One Point Health Panthers Leagues Club Peachtree Hotel Penrith Bowling Club Penrith CBD Corporation Penrith City Council Penrith City Library Penrith Hotel Penrith Markets (Thursdays) Penrith Paceway Penrith RSL Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre Pioneer Tavern RE/MAX Sittano’s Restaurant Stafford Street Takeaway Tattersalls Hotel The Heritage Terrace Café The Log Cabin Westfield Wingstop World Gym

Blue Cattle Dog Hotel Foodworks St Clair Library St Clair Shopping Centre 7/11 St Clair

Chambers Cellars Lennox Centre Newsagency McDonald's Penrith Regional Gallery Woolworths Lennox Village 7/11 Emu Plains (Great Western Highway) 7/11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Llandilo

Emu Heights Super Save Compounding Chemist

Australia Post IGA Luddenham

Erskine Park

Minchinbury

Ashcroft’s IGA Erskine Park CTC

McDonald's Minchinbury Fruit Market

Glenbrook

Mulgoa

7/11 Regentville

Glenbrook Newsagency

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club Mulgoa Newsagency Mulgoa Pharmacy

Ropes Crossing

North St Marys

Silverdale

Boronia House (Retirement Community) Little Bottler MFC Food Stores

Choice Pharmacy Mobil Service Station

Old Mt Druitt

Budget Service Station Fish Fish Friendly Grocer Grose’s Pharmacy Southlands Newsagency South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre Woolworths

Glenmore Park Coles Mags News McDonald's Glenmore Park McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise Priceline Pharmacy Woolworths

Jamisontown

IGA

Londonderry Londonderry Liquor Store Shell X Roads

Luddenham

RM Newsagency

Abcoe Abel Street Café Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym Batt Street Takeaway Bean Redeemed Café

Orchard Hills Flower Power

Oxley Park Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

St Marys All Good Newsagency Andrew’s Corner Store Ampol Foodary Astley Pharmacy Cassandra’s On Queen Crystal Café Gloria Jean’s (St Marys Village) Guido’s Hair Care Jayam Supermarket McDonald's St Marys South Monfarville Corner Store Queen Street Newsagency St Marys Band Club St Marys Diggers St Marys Fish Market St Marys Leagues Club St Marys Library St Marys Pharmacy Queen Street St Marys Pizza Hut St Marys Village

Thornton Petramart Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia Wallacia Golf Club Wallacia Hotel Wallacia Post Office Wallacia Takeaway

Warragamba Warragamba Sports Club

Werrington Colonial Hotel Crossroads Convenience Store Dirani’s MFC George’s Charcoal Chicken Henry Sports Club McDonald's Supa IGA The Foodary Werrington Newsagency

Regentville

Coles Ropes Crossing Newsagency

South Penrith

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

WW57779

Blaxland

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

COLLINS CLASSICS COME ALIVE MADELINE DANTIER

ne of Australia’s most beloved and respected performers, Phil Burton brings the legendary music of Phil Collins to the Evan Theatre in Penrith this October, with a show that promises to blow you away. Being a child of the 80s, much of Burton’s youth was spent listening to the rhythmic tones of Collins. “Phil Collins was the absolute king of that time, he was Eddie Everywhere,” Burton shared. Selling over 100 million records as a solo artist and as part of the band Genesis, Collins’ influence was hard to get away from, and made a lasting impact on Burton. “The songs are really well crafted and really well written pop songs that have a great sense of musicianship about them,” Burton said. Now, to pay homage to Collins’ influence and charisma, Burton is taking his PHIL x PHIL tour to four exclusive locations around New South Wales. Burton ensures the show will be a spectacular display of music and stage presence. “We’re making sure we do them [the songs] in a way that’s honouring the originals... it’s not broken down, it’s not an impersonator’s show,” he said. “We’re paying tribute to these incredible songs and doing them in the way that Phil Collins intended.” Including a big band, backing vocals and larger than life production, this show is sure to delight and excite Phil Collins fans

everywhere. With his early career in Human Nature covering everything from pop and doo-wop to soul and Motown, Burton calls on his early musical loves to determine where to go next. “Being a child of the 80s, it couldn’t help but be something that I would gravitate towards... I went back to what I listened to as a kid and it was very much 80s music, and so Phil Collins was at the top of that list,” Burton said. For Burton, the appeal also lies in bringing together his own musical experience, with a catalogue that has resonated with audiences, and himself, for decades. Having spent years performing to huge crowds as part of Human Nature, he knows what it takes to turn a collection of songs into a thrilling live experience, and is looking forward to giving Collins’ music the grand treatment it deserves. Coming to the Evan theatre on Friday, October 23, audiences can expect to hear Collins’ chart toppers, including ‘One More Night’, ‘Sussudio’, ‘In the Air Tonight’, and many, more. “It’s going to be big and grand and big sounding, just the way Phil Collins would expect you to do his songs,” Burton said. “If you want the music to blow you backwards against the back wall of the theatre, come and see the show.” Tickets are available online via Ticketek or https://penrith.panthers.com.au.

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• Cheese-Making Supplies • Smoking Accessories •B Beer & Cider-Making Kits • Bacon Kits • Yoghurt Cultures • Jerky-Making Kits • Spirit & Liqueur Essences

POPULAR BRANDS

more than just homebrew Country Brewer Epicurean Sunbeam Hark Fowlers Vacola A Taste of the Bush Andale Coopers Weyermann Joe White

Ph: 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Highway, Kingswood Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

WW58525

CAFÉ SCENE SCREAMING BEANS 369 High St, Penrith Open Monday - Saturday “Come by and taste the difference”

We didn’t get into hospitality, we were born into it. 146 Station St, Penrith Mon-Sun: 7am - 2:30pm

FROM 7AM-11AM MON-SAT | 8AM-11AM SUN Located inside The Royce Retirement Village. *Members only offer.

Snap a pic at one of these local cafés and tag @westernweekender for your chance to win a $100 Rusty Penny Brewery voucher!

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

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BACON & EGG ROLL + SMALL COFFEE FOR $12

THINGS TO DO The music of The Eagles

Mental Health Fundraiser @ Jamison Hotel

Build-A-Bear Workshop @ Panthers

Experience the timeless hits and harmonies of The Eagles live on stage on Friday, October 9 at Panthers Leagues Club. This spectacular tribute show faithfully recreates the iconic sound, soaring harmonies and unforgettable songs that made The Eagles one of the world’s greatest bands. Tickets are available online via https://penrith.panthers.com.au.

On Saturday, October 10 the Jamison Hotel is hosting the Corpus Christi Netball Club in their efforts to raise money for Beyond Blue. With games, activities, face painting, live entertainment, a BBQ and so much more, all kicking off from 10am, this family fun day is one not to be missed. Support the cause and raise awareness!

Get ready for an unforgettable day where your child can create their very own cuddly companion at the Build-A-Bear Workshop, hosted by Panthers Leagues Club. This hands on experience will see your child create and take home their own furry friend, with tickets priced at only $26 per child. Held on Friday, October 9 at 11am, spots are limited!

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

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

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

Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of the month. 9.45am for 10am at Jordan Springs Hub. Call Keith on 9713 9038 for details.

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Seniors Dance Club (Over 55s) Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Call Glenda for details on 0421 322 846.

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

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

Probus Club of Nepean Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club. New members welcome. Call 0417 267 866. Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club Meets on the fourth Monday of the

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

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

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway.

0408 412 708 for more information. Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700. Arms of Australia Inn Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

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

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BARGAIN BUYS

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

At the movies... PREVIEW

PREVIEW

Other Mommy

The Social Reckoning

1 hour, 33 minutes Eight-year-old Bela forms an unsettling bond with a sinister entity hiding in her home, one that looks and sounds exactly like her mother. As the mysterious presence grows increasingly threatening, Be-

1 hour, 52 minutes la’s family faces a terrifying fight to protect their home and each other. Starring Jessica Chastain in a dual role, this supernatural horror film promises chilling suspense and psychological terror.

Young Facebook engineer Frances Haugen risks everything when she decides to expose the social media giant’s most closely guarded secrets. Enlisting Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz, she embarks

See these movies at...

on a dangerous journey that could change the future of social media. Written and directed by Aaron Sorkin, this gripping true-story drama stars Mikey Madison and Jeremy Allen White.

PENRITH

Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 Shaun the Sheep: Hadestown: The Beast Of The Musical (G)

The Social Reckoning (M)

Verity

8 to 21 Oct

Now Showing to 14 Oct

13 & 18 Oct

Coyote vs. Acme (PG)

Forgotten Island (PG)

Now Showing to 12 Oct

Paw Patrol – The Dino Movie (G)

(MA)

11 & 12 Oct

Mossy Bottom (G) Now Showing to 12 Oct

Sense and Sensibility (CTC) 15 to 28 Oct

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

www.glenbrookcinema.com.au

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Available after 10.30am for a limited time. Serving suggestion.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

www.hoyts.com.au

Ê Chef Rick Stein is back on our screens, this time narrating new observational series ‘Inside Sydney Fish Market’ on SBS. Premiering at 8.25pm tonight, Thursday, October 8, the six-part series goes inside the largest seafood market in the Southern Hemisphere. It follows the retailers, seafood buyers, fishers and generational families who make up the market’s tight-knit community, capturing their stories as the market navigates its biggest transformation yet: the move to the new Sydney Fish Market. The series also travels far beyond the market floor, following the relentless search for premium seafood to some of the most remote and spectacular corners of Australasia.

Nathan Taylor

Ê Nine observational series ‘Paramedics’ returns tonight, Thursday, October 8 at 8.40pm. In season seven, the series heads to Western Australia for the first time looking at the life and death realities faced by St John WA crews on the Perth frontline.

TV NEWS

Ê New Hulu Original series ‘Phony’ is coming to Disney+ on Tuesday, October 20.

OCTOBER 8

8.25PM

INSIDE SYDNEY FISH MARKET, SBS

‘Phony’ is a coming-of-age mystery about a teenager who wakes up in the hospital after a car accident to discover his mother – his only parent and his best friend – appears to have been replaced by an imposter. The series stars the amazing Connie Britton of ‘Nashville’ and ‘The White Lotus’ fame.

Ê The new season of ‘Tulsa King’ starring Sylvester Stallone will drop on Paramount+ on Friday, October 16.

OCTOBER 9 OASIS: DON’T LOOK BACK IN ANGER, DISNEY+

Ê Highly anticipated music doco ‘Oasis: Don’t Look Back in Anger’ will stream on Disney+ this Friday, October 9. The doco charts Liam and Noel Gallagher’s triumphant reunion tour, Oasis Live ‘25, one of the most anticipated rock ‘n’ roll comebacks of our time. The film is an unapologetically uplifting account of the biggest musical event of 2025, capturing the experience and emotions of the band and their fans across the world.

The unique perspective includes rehearsal, backstage, and onstage access as well as the first joint interviews with Noel and Liam in over 20 years. Alongside the band’s soldout world tour, the film also explores the profound emotional impact of this phenomenal global cultural moment and what their music means to audiences and generations worldwide.

Ê New Christmas movie ‘The Man with the Bag’, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, is coming to Prime Video on Wednesday, December 2. When Santa’s (Schwarzenegger) iconic red bag is stolen by a rogue elf with a grudge, Christmas is suddenly at risk. With his biggest night of the year fast-approaching, Santa recruits a thief from his ‘Naughty List’ who quickly assembles a crew of criminally skilled misfits – with a little help from elves and reindeer – to pull off the most unexpected heist of their lives.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

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TV Guide: October 9 - 15

Sunday 11 October

Saturday 10 October

Friday 9 October

Your guide to the week’s television viewing 6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 10:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 11:00 Austin (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year 1:50 The Cage (M l) 2:35 Poh’s Kitchen 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:20 Death Valley (M) 9:05 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 10:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Practice: Day 1 *Live* From Mount Panorama 12:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Practice, Supports & Qualifying: Day 1 *Live* 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “The Dressmaker” (M) (’15) Stars: Kate Winslet 10:50 GetOn Extra 11:20 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 12:55 Jamestown (MA15+) 2:30 Home Shopping

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 TopKnotz - Wild On Water (M l) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Chateau DIY Australia 8:30 Movie: “The Intern” (PG) (’15) Stars: Robert De Niro 11:00 See No Evil (MA15+) 11:50 Tipping Point (PG) 12:40 Pointless (PG)

10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Entertainment Tonight 11:00 Taskmaster Australia (PG) 12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Love It Or List It Australia 8:30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M) 9:30 10’s Late News

5:00 Worldwatch 9:10 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:10 Prince’s Master Crafters Next Generation (PG) 11:05 Canal Boat Diaries (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 The Jury - Skeleton In The Garden (M) 3:00 NITV News - Nula 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Julia Bradbury’s Irish Journey (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Hotel Portofino

12:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 1:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 Sydney Weekender 2:30 Cricket: Women’s One Day International: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* From Allan Border Field 10:00 Escape To The Country

3:30 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFLW: Round 9: Western Bulldogs v Essendon Bombers *Live*

2:00 My Ireland With Colin 3:00 The Food Dude (PG) 4:00 First Dates UK (M l) 5:00 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 6:30 Movie: “Penguins Of Madagascar” (G) (’14) Stars: Tom McGrath 8:30 Movie: “About A Boy” (M l,s) (’02) Stars: Hugh Grant

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:30 Thalu 5:00 Ocean Warriors (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Guardians Of The Wild (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Witches” (PG) (’90) Stars: Anjelica Huston

10:30 Building The Dream Home 11:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

11:30 Shaun Micallef’s Parents’ Evening 12:30 Becker (PG) 1:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG)

1:00 Fixer To Fabulous 2:00 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Good Bones (PG) 5:00 No Demo Reno 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Barnwood Builders 8:30 House Hunters: Cabin Dreams

3:00 Play School 3:40 Fizzy And Suds 4:05 Gardening Australia Junior 4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior 7:35 TBA

12:00 ABC News At Noon 1:00 ABC News Day 3:00 ABC News Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 The Pacific 8:00 ABC News Tonight

3:05 QI (PG) 3:35 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:05 MythBusters (PG) 4:55 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:40 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:30 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG)

6:00 Rick Stein’s Food Heroes 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Beyond Bali With Lara Lee 8:30 Beyond The Logo: The Story Behind Brands 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: The Layover

11:55 DW The Day 12:25 Hudson & Rex (M v) 2:15 Gymnastics: World Rhythmic World Cup Highlights 3:45 Worldwatch 5:50 The Mega-Brands That Built The World (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update

12:30 Movie: “The Mask” (PG) (’94) Stars: Jim Carrey 2:30 Baywatch (M v) 3:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Seinfeld (PG) 6:30 Baywatch (M v) 7:30 Movie: “Night At The Museum” (PG) (’06) Stars: Ben Stiller

3:15 Antiques Roadshow 3:45 Movie: “The Scarlet Blade” (PG) (’63) Stars: Oliver Reed 5:30 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Taronga - Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Rob Roy” (M s,v) (’95)

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Beyond Paradise (PG) 1:30 Father Brown (M) 2:15 Death Valley (M) 3:00 Bee Cause 3:15 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip 4:05 The Tony Blair Story: The Loss Of Power (PG) 4:55 Australian Story 5:30 Landline 6:00 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Beyond Paradise (PG) 8:30 Lynley (M v) 10:00 Darby And Joan (M)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Practice: Day 2 *Live* 1:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Practice & Supports: Day 2 *Live* 4:30 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Top 10 Shootout: Day 2 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Ports To Paradise (PG) 8:00 Movie: “Gran Turismo: Based On A True Story” (PG) (’23) Stars: David Harbour 10:50 Movie: “Ford v Holden” (PG) (’23)

7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday (PG) 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 Drive Review 1:00 Let’s Eat With George 1:30 TBA 2:30 My Way - Winton Special 3:00 Inside KOOZA By Cirque Du Soleil (PG) 3:30 Scar Tissue (PG) 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Basketball: NBL: South East Melbourne Phoenix v Melbourne United *Live*

9:30 The Finish Line 10:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 11:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 12:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 12:30 Shaun Micallef’s Parents’ Evening (PG) 1:30 Sydney Harbour Cops 2:30 Love It Or List It - Brilliant Builds (PG) 3:30 Food Trail South Africa 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Football: PreGame 7:50 Football: Australia Cup Final: Teams TBA *Live* 10:30 Love It Or List It Brilliant Builds (PG)

11:30 Get On Extra 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Caulfield/ Rosehill *Live* 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 10:30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG)

1:30 Dipper’s Rigs (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under 3:00 Night Thunder 4:00 Frozen Gold (PG) 5:00 AFLW: Round 9: Geelong Cats v GWS Giants *Live* 7:00 AFLW: Round 9: Richmond Tigers v Adelaide Crows *Live* From IKON Park

1:30 Bringing Sexy Back (PG) 2:30 Wife Swap Australia (PG) 3:55 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2” (G) (’13) Stars: Anna Faris 7:30 Movie: “Mr Deeds” (M l,v) (’02) Stars: Adam Sandler

7:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 Home Shopping 2:30 Lakota Nation Vs. 8:30 The Bold & The 9:00 Reel Action 9:30 United States (PG) 4:30 Beautiful (PG) 11:00 Building The Dream Stompem Ground 5:00 Murder In Big Horn (PG) 6:00 Home 12:30 The Living Room Everyday Gourmet With (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Reel Justine Schofield 11:30 Becker Bamay 6:30 NITV News Action 5:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Update 6:40 The Other Side Becker (PG) 1:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (PG) 7:30 Pro Bull Riding 2:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Two Teams USA 8:30 Movie: “The (M v) 8:30 FBI: Most Wanted And A Half Men (PG) Cabin In The Woods” (M) (’11) (M v) 10:20 JAG (PG)

1:30 No Demo Reno 2:30 Renovation Aloha (PG) 3:30 New Neighbourhoods 4:00 House Hunters: Cabin Dreams 4:30 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 5:30 Dream Homes Revealed 6:30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses 7:30 Bargain Mansions

3:00 Play School 3:30 Peter Rabbit 3:55 Talking Tom Heroes 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6:10 Shaun The Sheep 6:25 Zog 7:05 Do Not Watch This Show 7:30 Hard Quiz Kids

3:00 ABC News 3:30 That Pacific Sports Show 4:00 ABC News 4:30 BTN Specials 4:45 BTN Specials 4:55 Heywire 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News

2:50 Penn And Teller: Fool Us (PG) 3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You (PG) 4:35 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:20 MythBusters (PG) 6:10 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG)

1:20 Great Australian 6:00 Global Soul Concerts (M l) 2:20 If Kitchen 6:30 Jeremy You Are The One (PG) Pang’s Hong Kong Kitchen 7:30 Inside Sydney Fish (In Mandarin) 3:25 Worldwatch 5:30 Beautiful Game Changers Market 8:30 Rick Stein: From Venice To Istanbul 9:40 Gordon 5:35 Mastermind 6:05 Shenzong Tunnel Bridge (In Ramsay: Uncharted 10:35 English/ French/ Mandarin) James Martin’s Spanish 7:05 Travel Man (PG) Adventure 11:30 Yes, Chef!

1:40 NBL Overtime (PG) 2:50 My Way 3:00 Movie: “A Royal Proposal: A Royal In Paradise II” (PG) (’24) Stars: Rhiannon Fish 4:45 The Dog House UK (PG) 5:45 Movie: “ScoobyDoo” (PG) (’02) Stars: Freddie Prinze Jr 7:30 TBA 9:30 TBA

12:00 Movie: “Pool Of London” (PG) (’51) Stars: Earl Cameron 1:50 Movie: “Piccadilly Incident” (G) (’46) Stars: Anna Neagle 4:00 Rugby Union: All Blacks v Wallabies *Live* From Eden Park 7:00 Rugby Union: Post Match

9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 Afghanistan 25 Year Commemoration 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:15 Portrait Artist Of The Year 3:10 Grand Designs: House Of The Year (PG) 4:00 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli (PG) 4:30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 5:00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 5:30 Back Roads (PG) 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Recipe Of The Year 8:20 Dustfall (M)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Supports & Warm Up: Day 3 *Live* 10:00 Repco Supercars Championship: Bathurst: Race Build Up & Race: Day 3 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Glenn & Mick’s Celebrity Intervention: Andy Lee (PG) 8:00 70 Years Of 7 (PG) 10:00 The Girl Who Caught A Killer (MA15+) 11:15 24 Hours In Police Custody: Frequent Flyers II (M l,v) 12:15 Pure Genius (M) 1:15 Harry’s Practice 2:00 Home Shopping

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 One Tank Holiday 12:00 GolfBarons 12:30 Drive TV 1:00 Tasman Trails 2:00 Conquering Breast Cancer (PG) 4:00 Journey To The Southern Great Barrier Reef 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 RBT (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The Block (PG) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 Scrublands (MA15+) 10:40 NINE News Late

10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Well Traveller (PG) 11:00 Intrepid Adventures 11:30 Building The Dream Home 12:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 1:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:30 Exploring Off The Grid 2:00 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 10 News Plus 7:00 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 8:00 The Graham Norton Show (M) 9:00 Shaun Micallef’s Parents’ Evening (PG) 10:00 FBI International (M v) 12:00 10 News Plus

9:30 Navigating The World 10:30 Building The Dream Home 12:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 1:30 Buy To Build 2:00 The Living Room (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Fire Country (M v)

2:30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates (PG) 3:00 AFLW: Round 9: Sydney Swans v Carlton Blues *Live* 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Border Security International (PG) 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG)

3:30 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures (PG) 4:00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 5:00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 6:00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M v)

3:00 First Nations Netball Tournament *Replay* 3:45 Stompem Ground 4:40 Boxing For Palm Island (PG) 5:50 Bamay 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Guardians Of The Wild (PG) 7:20 Our Medicine (PG)

2:00 ABC News 2:30 3:50 Talking Tom Australian Story 3:00 Heroes 4:25 Little J And ABC News 3:30 Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 6:10 Shaun The Sheep 6:25 ABC News With Auslan A5:30 Zog 7:05 Do Not Watch This The Regions 6:00 ABC Show 7:30 Little Lunch 8:25 Evening News 6:30 Foreign Are You Afraid Of The Dark? Correspondent 7:00 ABC 9:10 Dolphins Up Close With National News 7:30 Insiders Bertie Gregor

2:45 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (PG) 3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:20 MythBusters (PG) 6:15 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG)

1:15 Movie: 5:30 River Cottage “Groundhog Day” (PG) Vegetables 6:30 Paula (’93) Stars: Bill Murray McIntyre’s Hamely Kitchen 7:00 Frugal Foodie 7:30 3:05 Jeopardy! 4:20 Worldwatch 5:45 Icons Luke Nguyen’s Memories Of Street Food 8:30 Jamie Cooks Unearthed: The Lord Of The Italy 9:30 Prue Leith’s Cotswold Rings (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 The Kitchen 10:30 James Martin’s Dropout (M l) Spanish Adventure

12:00 House Calls To The Rescue 1:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 South Aussie With Cosi (PG) 2:30 Cricket: Women’s One Day International: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 10:00 Movie: “Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris” (PG) (’22)

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Beautiful Game Changers 9:05 Puppy Secrets - The First Six Months 10:05 Ageless Gardens 11:05 Icons Of Auto (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Beautiful Game Changers 1:00 Cycling: Men’s Elite: UCI Gravel World Championships *Live* 6:00 Guillaume’s Paris 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Roman Empire By Train With Alice Roberts (PG) 8:25 Ancient Superstructures (PG) (In Various) 9:25 Cleopatra - Cracking The Enigma (PG)

12:30 Good Bones 6:00 Home Shopping (PG) 1:30 New 7:30 Deal Or No Deal Neighbourhoods (PG) 9:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 11:30 Becker (PG) 2:00 Mexico Life 2:30 Chateau 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Becker DIY 3:30 House Hunters: Cabin Dreams 4:30 Barnwood (PG) 1:30 Frasier (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Two And A Builders 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters Half Men (PG) 10:30 Becker International 7:30 Home Town (PG) 11:00 Frasier (PG) 3:45 Movie: “Mr Mom” (PG) (’83) Stars: Michael Keaton 5:35 Movie: “Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed” (PG) (’04) Stars: Matthew Lillard 7:30 Movie: “The Matrix” (M l,v) (’99) Stars: Keanu Reeves 10:15 TBA

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

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Beautiful Game Changers 9:05 Puppy Secrets - The First Six Months 10:05 Icons Of Auto (PG) 11:00 Worldwatch 1:00 Cycling: Elite Women: UCI Gravel World Championships *Live* 6:00 Guillaume’s Paris 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Holyroodhouse - A Royal Residence (PG) 8:25 The Langham - Britain’s First Grand Hotel 9:20 The Jury - Skeleton In The Garden (M) 10:20 Cumbria - The Lakes & The Coast (M l) 11:15 The Silence (MA15+)

1:40 Movie: “Derby Day” (G) (’52) Stars: Anna Neagle 3:25 Movie: “The Getting Of Wisdom” (PG) (’77) Stars: Barry Humphries 5:30 Midsomer Murders (PG) 7:30 Clarkson’s Farm (M l) 8:40 Fawlty Towers (PG)

Thursday 15 October

Wednesday 14 October

Tuesday 13 October

Monday 12 October

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Landline 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:25 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story 8:30 Four Corners 9:20 Media Watch (M) 9:35 Planet America (PG) 4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Beat The Chasers UK 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 9:10 The Rookie (M v) 10:10 The Agenda Setters

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:30 Inside KOOZA By Cirque Du Soleil (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:45 Australian Crime Stories - The Investigators (M v) 9:55 NINE News Late

5:00 Ocean Warriors 4:30 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 The 77 (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet Percent 6:00 Bamay (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M s,v) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Ocean Parks (PG) 7:30 Who 8:30 Law & Order: Criminal Do You Think You Are? (PG) Intent (M v)

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 The Agenda Setters

12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Shaun Micallef’s Parents’ Evening (PG) 8:40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M)

4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 12:45 The Young And Frasier (PG) 6:00 The Restless (PG) 1:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull And A Half Men (PG) 9:30 (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Becker (PG) 10:00 Frasier Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 5:00 Christina On The Coast 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Masters Of Flip

3:30 Baywatch (M v) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Seinfeld (PG) 6:30 NBL Overtime (PG) 7:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Seinfeld (PG)

5:30 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Death In Paradise (M v) 8:40 The Brokenwood Mysteries (M s,v)

3:40 Worldwatch 5:40 5:30 My Market Kitchen 4:55 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:40 Living Next Door To 6:00 Rick Stein’s Food Amazing Spaces 5:40 5:00 ABC News With Kangaroo Beach 6:05 Putin (PG) 6:40 Heroes 6:30 Everyday Portrait Artist Of The Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower News Hour 7:00 ABC National Year UK 6:30 Richard Osman’s Gourmet With Justine Schofield Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News House Of Games 7:00 Spicks 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats And Flour 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC Does Countdown (M l,s) And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Liaw 7:30 Nigella Kitchen News Tonight Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Beyond Paradise (PG) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:25 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 The State Of Man (M l) 8:50 Believe In Magic (PG) 9:50 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 9:10 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu (M l) 10:10 The Amazing Race (PG)

3:10 Language Of Light (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 The Welsh Valley That Won The Lottery (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Jury - Skeleton In The Garden (M) 8:35 24 Hours In Emergency (M) 9:30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:15 Getaway (PG) 1:45 My Way 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:40 1 Euro Houses (PG) 9:40 TopKnotz Wild On Water (M l) 10:40 NINE News Late

12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Sydney Harbour Cops (PG) 8:30 The Cheap Seats (M l) 9:30 10’s Late News

3:00 Language Of Light (PG) 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 The Scottish Island That Won The Lottery (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Jury Skeleton In The Garden (M) 8:35 Titanic The Digital Resurrection (PG)

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

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Truckers (PG)

4:00 Everyday 12:45 The Young And 5:00 Ocean Warriors 3:00 My Kitchen Rules Gourmet With Justine The Restless (PG) 1:30 (PG) 5:20 Indian 4:30 The Goldbergs Schofield 4:30 Becker JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull Country Today News (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 5:50 Bamay 6:35 Ocean Parks (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A 7:30 CSI: New York (M v) 8:30 (PG) 7:30 Cold Justice - Mark Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Half Men (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Haines (M)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 5:00 Masters Of Flip 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Chateau DIY

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

3:30 The Big Bang 2:45 Going Places With 5:30 My Market Kitchen 4:55 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Theory (PG) 4:30 The Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:45 6:00 Rick Stein’s Food Amazing Spaces 5:45 5:00 ABC News With Addams Family 5:30 Worldwatch 5:50 The Heroes 6:30 Everyday Portrait Artist Of The Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC Seinfeld (PG) 6:30 Baywatch News Hour 7:00 ABC National Year UK 6:30 Richard Osman’s Gourmet With Justine Schofield Mega-Brands That Built The (M v) 7:30 The Big Bang House Of Games 7:00 Spicks 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam World (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC Theory (PG) 8:30 Seinfeld (M) 7:30 NITV News Update And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Liaw News Tonight

3:30 Movie: “Saraband For Dead Lovers” (G) (’48) Stars: Stewart Granger 5:30 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (M)

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Class Clowns (PG) 9:00 Crime Night! (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 The 1% Club UK (PG) 8:30 A Taste For Murder (PG) 9:30 House Of Wellness (PG) 10:30 The Agenda Setters

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 Journey To The Southern Great Barrier Reef 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:45 Chefs Ahoy 9:45 NINE News Late 10:15 Airport Security - USA (PG)

12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 The Celebrity Traitors UK 8:55 Boston Blue (M) 9:55 10’s Late News 10:55 The Cheap Seats (M l)

3:00 Language Of Light (PG) 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Bill Bailey’s Korea 8:30 70 Up (PG) 9:55 Apollo Has Fallen (M) 10:45 SBS World News Late 11:15 The Old Man (M l,v)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 4:00 Everyday 12:45 The Young And 3:25 Mysterious Cities 3:00 The Food Dude 5:00 Escape To The Gourmet With Justine The Restless (PG) 1:30 Of Gold (PG) 4:30 (PG) 3:30 My Greek Chateau 6:00 House Schofield 4:30 Becker JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull Thalu 5:00 Amplify 5:30 Odyssey (PG) 4:30 The Hunters International 6:30 (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet APTN National News 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A House Hunters USA 7:30 Bamay 6:40 Ocean Parks (PG) Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) Half Men (PG) 9:30 Becker (M) Home Town 7:30 Friday Night Thunder (M) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 The Rookie (M v)

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

2:30 Cricket: Women’s One Day International: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 10:00 The Force Behind The Line (PG) 10:30 World’s Wildest Police Videos

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 The Forsytes 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Frankie Drake Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Grand Designs New Zealand 8:45 Joanna Lumley’s Danube (PG) 9:35 Dustfall (M l,s,v)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Time Is Money 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 Rugby League: Pre-Game 7:30 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: Australia v New Zealand *Live* From Allianz Stadium

12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 The Celebrity Traitors UK 8:55 NCIS - Sydney (M) 9:50 10’s Late News

2:55 Language Of Light (PG) 3:25 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 3:55 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Tucci In Italy (In English/ Italian) 8:25 Inside Sydney Fish Market (PG) 9:25 Blue Lights 10:30 SBS World News Late

4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 5:00 Help! I Wrecked My House 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Bargain Block (PG)

3:30 The Big Bang 5:40 The Mega-Brands 5:30 My Market Kitchen 4:55 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Theory (PG) 4:30 The That Built The World 6:00 Rick Stein’s Food Amazing Spaces 5:45 5:00 ABC News With Addams Family 5:30 (PG) 6:30 Football: Heroes 6:30 Everyday Portrait Artist Of The Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC Seinfeld (PG) 6:30 Baywatch News Hour 7:00 ABC National Year UK 6:30 Richard Osman’s Gourmet With Justine Schofield Australian Championship: (M v) 7:30 The Big Bang House Of Games 7:00 Spicks 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Preston Lions FC v News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC Wollongong Wolves FC *Live* Theory (PG) 8:30 Seinfeld (M) And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Liaw 7:30 Outback Gourmet News Tonight

3:35 Movie: “Mandy” (PG) (’52) Stars: Mandy Miller 5:30 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Shakespeare & Hathaway (PG)

4:30 American 4:00 Better Homes And Restoration (PG) 5:00 Gardens 5:00 Escape Storage Wars (PG) To The Country 6:00 Bargain Hunt 7:00 Home And 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Away 8:30 Shetland (M v) American Pickers (PG) 11:00 Father Brown (M) 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels 7:35 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu (PG)

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:15 Find My Beach House Australia 1:45 My Way 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 RB (PG) 8:30 Paramedics (M l) 9:30 RPA (PG) 10:30 NINE News Late 11:00 Chicago Med (M)

3:40 Movie: “Don’t Bother To Knock” (PG) (’52) Stars: Marilyn Monroe 5:30 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow

12:00 Days Of Our 4:30 Thalu 5:00 Amplify 3:30 My Greek Lives (PG) 12:45 The 5:30 Te Ao With Moana Odyssey (PG) 4:30 The Young And The (In English/ Maori) 6:00 Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Bamay 6:40 Ocean Parks (PG) Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (M) Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge 7:30 Going Places With Ernie 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG Judy (PG) 7:30 Ramsay’s (M s,v) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) Dingo (PG) Kitchen Nightmares (M l)

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

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

COUNTRY CORNER Road’, ‘My Maria’, ‘Believe’ and the evericonic ‘Neon Moon’. Details of the tour are available at www. frontiertouring.com.

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Legends return down under

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

Huge news this week with confirmation that country music icons Brooks & Dunn will bring their Neon Moon Tour to Australia next year. It’s their first visit in 18 years. Last visiting Australia in 2009, Brooks & Dunn will return next March playing two headline dates at Sydney’s Afterpay Arena on Wednesday, March 24 and Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on Saturday, March 27. With a Grammy-winning, course-of-history-shifting catalogue written mostly by themselves, Brooks & Dunn have without a doubt left a permanent mark on the American songbook, with a global scale like no other. More than 30 years into their career, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn long ago dialled in their generation-defining sound and style. As the best-selling duo of all time, their yin-and-yang country-rock blend has earned them two Grammy Awards and 20 CMA Awards as well as 20 number ones with the likes of ‘Boot Scootin’ Boogie’, ‘Red Dirt

New Aussie music Following ‘Whiskey Talkin’’ and ‘You’ll Never Hear From Me’, Australian country artist Piper Rodrigues has announced her debut EP, ‘Lucky You!’, arriving Friday, November 6. ‘Lucky You!’ marks the most personal chapter of her music to date. Recorded in Nashville, the EP captures the emotional honesty and self-reflection that have become the hallmarks of her songwriting, pairing contemporary country production with lyrics that feel lived-in and unguarded. “I’m so excited for this next chapter in my music! It has been such a long time coming, and I’ve spent all of that time figuring out exactly what I want to say,” she said. “I have truly never felt more myself in my music. You’re literally listening to my journal entries.”

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A BETTER WAY TO WIN WITH BETTER BUILT HOMES 1

5 years ago, Better Built Homes began with a simple idea: there had to be a better way to build a home and with that became the foundation of Better Built Homes. What started in 2010 with Aaron Gampe and Jayden Saundercock has grown into a team of more than 50 employees, 250+ trusted tradespeople and six display homes across NSW. But despite that growth, Better Built Homes has never lost its connection to where it all began. Western Sydney still remains at the heart of the business, with its head office based in Cranebrook and a strong focus on the community that have supported Better Built for the past 15 years.

As Better Built Homes prepares to celebrate 15 years in business, 2026 has been one of the company’s most significant years yet. Earlier this year, Better Built Homes was recognised for the second consecutive year as Australia’s Most Professional Medium Builder 2026 by the Housing Industry Association. The company has also continued to expand its display home net work, opening five new display h o m e s across four NSW locations this year. Including two at Watagan

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

Homes is inviting the community to celebrate with them. To mark this special milestone for the business, Better Built Homes is giving one lucky visitor $15,000 to spend their way either on a family holiday or towards their new home. To enter, simply visit one of Better Built Homes’ six display homes across NSW during October, meet the team and experience the Better Way to Build for yourself. It’s a small way for Better Built Homes to say thank you to the families and communities who have supported the business since it began in Cranebrook 15 years ago. Learn more about Better Built Homes $15K for 15 Years at https:// betterbuilthomes.com. a u /15 k-f o r15-years. Good luck!

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Families are invited to come along, enjoy gelato and face painting, and be among the first to step inside one of Sydney’s few split-level display homes. Spanning three levels, the Stonegate 47 showcases how thoughtful design can make the most of a challenging or sloping block, while giving visitors the chance to explore the home’s features and explore how Better Built Homes has evolved over the past 15 years. 15 years of building homes is something worth celebrating and Better Built

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CHARM OF GLENBROOK What is so great about this property? It stands out for its exceptional attention to detail, generous living spaces and beautiful outdoor setting, offering a homethatfeelsbothluxuriousand practical for family living. Who does this property suit? Ideal for families seeking a forever home that combines luxury, space

and privacy with an exceptional indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Glenbrook offers a beautiful balance of village charm andnaturalsurroundings,featuring a strong family-friendly community, leafy streets, local cafés and shops, and easy access to the Blue Mountains and Sydney.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

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30/09/2026 4:21:24 PM

PET HEALTH The Experts

IT’S TIME TO SHED THAT WINTER COAT I

f your home has suddenly developed a new layer of fur, you’re not alone! As spring arrives and the days become warmer, many dogs begin shedding their winter coats in preparation for the hotter months ahead. For owners of German Shep-

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

herds, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Corgis and other doublecoated breeds, this seasonal change can sometimes feel less like shedding and more like a full-blown fur explosion! Shedding is a completely natural part of the hair growth cycle. Dogs lose old, damaged or dead hair to make way for a new coat, with increased daylight and changing temperatures contributing to seasonal shedding. For double-coated breeds, this can result in a ‘blow out’, where large amounts of the dense winter undercoat are released. Regular grooming during this period can help remove that loose hair before it ends up throughout your home. But grooming is about much more than keeping your furniture fur-free. Regular brushing helps prevent the coat from becoming

tangled or matted and allows you to check your pet’s skin for anything unusual. As you brush, look for redness, lumps, bumps, parasites, flaky skin or areas of irritation that might otherwise be hidden beneath a thick coat. It is also important to remember that shaving your dog is not necessarily the answer to keeping them cool. A dog’s coat provides protection from the sun and plays an important role in temperature regulation. Double-coated breeds have a protective outer coat and an insulating undercoat, so removing or excessively thinning this coat can interfere with its natural function. Instead, spring grooming should focus on removing loose and dead undercoat through appropriate brushing and de-shedding. The best tools and techniques will depend on your pet’s individual coat, and some dogs may benefit from professional grooming to safely remove the excess undercoat.

While increased shedding is normal, excessive hair loss is not something to simply put down to the change of season. Bald patches, significant thinning, persistent scratching, redness, sores or changes to the skin should be checked by your veterinarian. Allergies, parasites, skin infections and some hormonal conditions can all contribute to abnormal hair loss. For pet owners, now is the perfect time to establish a regular grooming routine before our hot summer weather arrives. So, while you’re spring-cleaning your house, don’t forget your four-legged family member. A good brush, a little extra grooming and a professional de-shed when needed can help keep their coat healthy, their skin comfortable and your home just a little less furry! For more information about keeping your pet comfortable during the spring – summer seasons, contact the team at Orchard Hills vet on 4736 2027.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

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m a 7

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

SHOULD YOU FIX YOUR HOME LOAN RIGHT NOW? W

STEVEN KORNER The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

here rates stand The Reserve Bank lifted the cash rate to 4.60 per cent on September 29 2026. It was the fourth rise this year, taking rates a full percentage point above where they started in January. The RBA has said further increases remain possible, and its next decision is due on 3 November. With repayments climbing, many borrowers are asking whether now is the time to lock in. For context, each 0.25 per cent rise adds roughly $100 a month to repayments on a $600,000, 30-year principal-and-interest loan.

The case against fixing • You may pay a premium. Lenders price fixed rates on where they expect rates to head. When markets expect more hikes, fixed rates often sit above variable rates from day one. • You miss out if rates fall. CBA expects cuts could begin as early as August 2027. Variable borrowers would benefit straight away; fixed borrowers wait out their term. • Break costs. Selling, refinancing or paying the loan out early can trigger break fees, sometimes running into thousands

of dollars. • Less flexibility. Fixed loans often cap extra repayments and may not offer an offset account. • Revert risk. When the term ends, the loan rolls to the lender’s standard variable rate, which may not be competitive. A middle path: split your loan A split loan fixes part of the balance and leaves the rest variable. You gain some certainty, keep an offset or extra repayments on the variable portion, and limit the damage if rates move against you either way. A 50/50 split is common, but the ratio can be tailored to your budget and plans. Who fixing suits Fixing tends to suit borrowers who value certainty, have little buffer for higher repayments and plan to keep the loan for the full term. Variable tends to suit those who make extra repayments, rely on an offset account, or may sell or refinance soon.

Questions to ask before you fix • Is there a fee to lock in the advertised rate until settlement? • How are break costs calculated if I sell or refinance early? • How much can I repay each year without penalty? • Is an offset account available on the fixed portion? • W hat rate will the loan revert to when the term ends, and how does it compare with the market?

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The case for fixing • Repayment certainty. Your rate and repayments stay the same for the fixed term, typically one to five years, whatever the RBA does next. • Protection if rates keep rising. The RBA has kept the door open to more hikes, and CBA economists see the risks tilted towards further rises.

A fixed rate shields you from that. • Easier budgeting. Households and small business owners with tight cash flow can plan with confidence while living costs stay high. • Peace of mind. After four rises in one year, removing one moving part from the budget has real value.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

THOSE MEALTIME STRUGGLES Instead of focusing on every bite, focus on the overall mealtime experience. Aim to eat together as a family whenever possible, keep the television and other screens switched off, and enjoy conversation that isn’t centred on food. When children see parents and siblings eating a variety of foods in a relaxed setting, they’re more likely to become curious and willing to try new things themselves. It’s also important to take the pressure off. Avoid encouraging “just one more bite” or using dessert as a reward for eating vegetables. These strategies can make children feel anxious around food and may reduce their willingness to listen to their own hunger and fullness cues. Remember, trying a new food is a learning process. Your child may need to see the same food many times before they’re ready to taste it. That’s perfectly normal. Keep offering a variety of

TALKING TECH

The Experts

L SARAH BONNICI One Point Health 4732 5188 foods without pressure, and celebrate small steps, whether it’s touching, smelling, licking, or eventually tasting something new. One of my favourite reminders for parents is this: “You decide what, when, and where food is offered. Your child decides whether to eat and how much.” When everyone understands their role, mealtimes become calmer and less stressful.

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ast week I introduced you to Microsoft PC Manager. We looked at several features, including PC Boost, Startup Management, and process, file, and network management. This week, we’ll continue exploring the features in this fantastic free tool. Health Check – Of all the features in PC Manager, Health Check is often one of the most useful because it consolidates several Windows maintenance tasks into a single scan. It opens a separate Health Check box. Instead of manually checking Disk Cleanup, Startup Apps, Storage Sense, and other settings, Health Check gives you a simple list of recommendations. It checks for space you can free up, reviews startup apps, and recommends security improvements and apps you can uninstall. Clicking Optimise now automatically performs all the recommendations. One task you must do manually is clean up usage traces; these tracking codes

let websites monitor what you do and show relevant ads. Scrolling down through the health check shows information about your PC, your network performance, your space utilisation, and the results of the application and security checks. Disk Cleanup, which scans and removes temporary files, junk data, and outdated system logs, freeing up valuable storage space. This is also performed as part of the health check AI Toolbox – Microsoft have collated and centralised the following useful tools, all available from the menu • Circles to Act – This is a very powerful tool that lets you draw around anything on your screen. It then extracts data from images, PDFs, websites, tables, videos and apps. It can trigger additional actions such as translations. This is activated by Ctrl-Shift-A. • OCR Text and Table Recognition – Reads text from screenshots

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and images. Converts text into editable text you can copy and paste. Supports printed and, in some cases, handwritten content. It basically turns a picture into editable text. • Translate - Translates text captured from the screen. It works directly on extracted OCR content. Avoids opening a browser translator. • Captions – converts any audio into text in real time. • Quick Launcher Tools – Launch buttons for Notepad, Calculator, Screen recorder, Currency Conversion, weather and image search.

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Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

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oes this sound familiar? You’ve cooked dinner, everyone sits down at the table, and within minutes your child is refusing to eat, asking for something different, or declaring they’re “not hungry.” What was meant to be family time quickly turns into a battle. As a dietitian, I want you to know you’re not alone. Mealtime struggles are incredibly common, especially in toddlers and young children. The good news is that mealtimes don’t have to be stressful. Small changes can help create a positive environment where your child feels comfortable learning about food. Children are born knowing how much food their bodies need. Their appetite naturally changes from day to day depending on growth, activity levels, and even how much they ate the day before. While it’s natural to worry when they eat very little, pressuring them to eat often has the opposite effect.

HEALTH

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AMANDA JANE Clairvoyant Medium amandajane-xo.com revivalretreats.com.au

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

You’re craving something different this week – new scenery, new ideas or simply a break from routine. Follow your curiosity. A conversation or piece of information could shift your perspective in an important way. This is also a powerful time for learning, planning travel or exploring something you’ve been drawn to spiritually or creatively.

Trust yourself. You don’t need external confirmation for every intuitive feeling you have. Relationships may move into deeper territory, encouraging honesty about vulnerability, intimacy or shared expectations. Financial matters may also require attention. By the weekend, you’ll feel lighter after releasing something you were never meant to keep carrying.

This week invites you to slow down just enough to hear what your intuition has been trying to tell you. You may feel pulled between pushing forward and allowing things to unfold naturally. Trust that not everything needs an immediate answer. Relationships benefit from honest conversations, particularly where expectations have been unclear.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

There is a beautiful opportunity this week to reassess what truly makes you feel secure, fulfilled and grounded. You may realise you’ve been holding onto something simply because it’s familiar rather than because it still feels right. Give yourself permission to change direction. Financial or work matters begin to feel clearer, while your personal life asks for more softness.

Your mind is busy this week, but not every thought requires your attention. Be selective about where you place your energy. Conversations could bring an unexpected revelation, particularly around a relationship or situation you’ve been questioning. Instead of overanalysing what someone means, listen to what they’re actually showing you. Creatively, this is a strong week.

Your emotional world takes centre stage this week, Cancer, and you’re being encouraged to honour what you need rather than continually accommodating everyone else. Something you’ve been carrying emotionally may finally begin to lift. Home, family or relationships could require an important conversation, but speaking from the heart brings relief.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

You’re stepping back into your confidence this week after a period of questioning yourself or your direction. Something that previously felt uncertain may suddenly make much more sense. This is a powerful time to speak up, share an idea or put yourself forward for an opportunity. In relationships, remember that vulnerability doesn’t diminish your strength.

You may feel an urge to organise, fix and make sense of everything this week, but some situations need space rather than solutions. Focus on what is actually within your control. Work or financial matters may require practical attention, and your natural eye for detail will serve you well. Emotionally, you’re learning that boundaries don’t have to come with explanations.

You’re being reminded that your desires matter too. A decision you’ve been avoiding could become easier once you stop considering what will keep everyone else happy. Relationships may feel particularly significant, with opportunities for greater honesty and emotional closeness. It’s also a wonderful week for refreshing your appearance, environment or goals.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

There is a quieter, more reflective energy surrounding you this week. You may feel called to withdraw slightly from noise, drama or people who drain you. Pay attention to dreams, intuitive nudges and repeating signs, your subconscious has something to say. An old emotional pattern could resurface, not to pull you backwards but to show you how differently you respond now.

Connection and community are highlighted this week. A conversation, introduction or spontaneous invitation could open a door you weren’t expecting. Say yes to opportunities that genuinely excite you, even if they’re outside your usual plans. Friendships may also shift, helping you recognise who truly supports the person you are becoming.

Career, purpose and your longer-term direction come into focus this week. You may receive recognition, feedback or an opportunity that reminds you how far you’ve come. However, success doesn’t require you to carry everything alone. Delegate where possible and be mindful of overcommitting. In your personal life, someone may need more of your emotional presence.

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Amanda Jane is an internationally recognised Clairvoyant Medium, spiritual teacher, retreat facilitator, and founder of Revival Retreats Australia. With a gift for connecting to the spirit world and over a decade of experience supporting people through healing, transformation, and personal growth, Amanda has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt, accurate, and compassionate guidance.

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

Have a story to share? Send us your news, community stories and photos from across Western Sydney.

Crossword

Easy

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

r8ts.com

6 8 7 9 3

8 7 5 6 4

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

SUDOKU No. 814

Tough

5 9 4 8 9 6 4 6 2 6 9 7 9 1 8 5 7 9 3 2 4 2 6 8

Previous solution - Medium

1 2 4 6 8 7 3 5 9

1 2 9 3

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

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

ACROSS DOWN 1. Be aware of or understand 1. Retained or continued to possess 4. Community of people living together 2. Female reproductive organ 8. Solemn promise 3. Past tense of ‘is’ 11. Worth or importance 4. Prefix meaning half or partly 13. Narcotic historically derived from poppies 5. Artificial waterways 15. Distinct stage in a process 6. One or the other of two 17. Word used to make a 7. Belonging to you statement negative 8. Belonging to us 18. Percussion instruments 9. Entertain or make struck with sticks someone laugh 20. Dark substance used in 10. Person who receives road surfacing guests 21. French exclamation 12.Degree, height or stage meaning ‘there it is’ 14. Thoughts or concepts 24. Large animal commonly 16. Strongly disliked ridden 19. Lesser in importance or 27. Take a seat size 28. Common male given name 22. Point or place where 30. More advanced in age something begins 31. Carried away; or accepted 23. Greater in length 33. Beings from another world 25. US state south of 34. Rest or state of calm Washington 35. US spelling of a smell 26. Shops; or keeps for future use 36. Outdoor area beside a house 29. For the most part 39. Moved smoothly and 32. Device used to open a lock quietly 35. Run or control machinery 42. Fighter who competes with 37. Raised structure used in gloves worship 44. Average; or intend 38. Grow or cause to progress 45. Got up or increased 40. Devices that produce light 46. Religious group with 41. Ate an evening meal distinctive beliefs 42. Started or commenced 48. Kingdom or sphere of 43. Drive back or cause activity disgust 49. Particular location 44. Plural surname associated 50. Kind or category with several public figures 52. Happen again 47. Male given name and 54. Large mammal; or tolerate surname 55. Rescued or kept from 51. Without difficulty harm 52. Go or come back 56. Almost, but not quite 53. Treatment that corrects a 57. Compass direction of problem sunrise 54. Skin discolouration after 60. Device or situation an impact designed to catch 58. Fruit that may be Granny 62. Extremely unpleasant or Smith repulsive 61. Concerning or 65. Country south of the approximately United States 63. Capital territory of India 67. Flat section or group of 64. Breathed out audibly experts 65. Reflective surface 69. Stiff and not flexible 66. Small wheeled vehicles for 70. Italian and Spanish word carrying goods meaning ‘saint’ 68. Surname of US presidents 72. Not young John and John Quincy 73. Not telling the truth; or 71. Plural of ‘this’ reclining 72. Russian city near the Ural 75. Common surname; also a region transport company name 74. To the inside of 77. Small simple shelter 76. Responsibility or obligation 79. Extend as far as; or arrive 78. Word used to identify a at specific thing 81. Belonging to a female 80. Small portable bed person Previous solution83. - Abbreviation Mediummeaning ‘and 82. Hard structures used for so on’ biting 8 9 6 7 5 1 2 84. Slightly wet 6 7 or8trials5 3 2 4 85. Examinations 86. Final;9or continue 8 7 3 4 1 2 87. Neat, organised and well 7 6 2 1 4 5 3 arranged 88. One hundredth of a dollar

6 8 9 5 3 2 7 4 1

3 5 7 4 9 1 2 8 6

9 4 3 7 6 5 1 2 8

8 1 5 3 2 4 6 9 7

7 6 2 9 1 8 4 3 5

5 3 8 1 4 6 9 7 2

2 9 1 8 7 3 5 6 4

4 7 6 2 5 9 8 1 3

NEVER MISS AN EDITION

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number 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.

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

THEME: AIRPORTS & FLYING AIRPORT AEROPLANE RUNWAY TERMINAL BOARDING PASSPORT LUGGAGE DEPARTURE ARRIVAL PILOT CABIN CREW COCKPIT TAKEOFF LANDING TURBULENCE BOARDING PASS BAGGAGE CLAIM CONTROL TOWER SECURITY FLIGHT Last week’s solution

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

1. What is the Duat? 2. Who was the youngest pharaoh to rule Egypt? 3. What ancient Egyptian writing called? 4. What organ did Egyptians believe was the centre of intelligence and emotion? 5. Which of these is not an Egyptian god: Osiris, Zeus,

Horus, and Ra? 6. How many pyramids make up the Great Pyramids of Giza? 7. Egyptian god Anubis is depicted is depicted with the head of which animal? 8. Who governs the Duat? 9. Who is the god of the sun? 10. What is the capital of Egypt?

ANSWERS 1. The underworld 2. Tutankhamun 3. Hieroglyphics 4. Heart 5. Zeus 6. Three 7. A jackal 8. Osiris 9. Ra 10. Cairo

Trivia Quiz

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TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU Easy

8 6 9 7

9 7 8 6 4 2 3 1 2 5 1

8 3 2 1 4 9 6 3 2 1 8 1 4 8 3 5 6 4 2 7 5 4 6 7

No. 814

Previous solution - Medium

Str8ts

No. 814

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

6 7 8 5 7 3 2 1 5 1 2 4 5 3 4 3 4 2 7 8

5 1 2 3 2 4 4 1 2 4 5 3 7 3 6 8 6 9 8 7 6 7 5 8 7 9 6 9 3 4

1 2 9 3 6

8 9 3 2 6

Name the Movie

Hexwords

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

RLYESDA 2 8

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge

200

www.30secondchallenge.com

50% of IT 2/7 of IT

ansWeR

½ % 66 /3% 800% Plus 2½% -900 62 of ThIs of ThIs of ThIs

ansWeR

of IT

douBle IT 5/6 of ThIs Plus 10%

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of ThIs

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TIMes By ITself 2

Last week’s answer: MERYL STREEP

Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 171 - BEGINNER - 49, INTERMEDIATE - 70, ADVANCED - 18. 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 172- BEGINNER -10 , INTERMEDIATE - 28, ADVANCED - 8200.

Plus 15% ThIs +240 -110 of87½% -40 Plus 12½% 20% of ThIs ÷11

2000 9/10 of IT +1600 50% of IT -900 /5 of ThIs 25% of ThIs x5 2

InTeRMedIaTe

+15 ¼ of ThIs ÷6

douBle IT

7/10 of IT

¼ of ThIs

+6 ÷7 x9 -5

ansWeR ansWeR

the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

www.30secondchallenge.com

adVanced

TIMes By ITself

-1 ÷5 x8 ¼

adVanced

-8

douBle IT

1. I’m a clumsy alien who doesn’t always think before I act. 2. I have very long, floppy ears and a long neck. 3. I became involved in some pretty important events across the galaxy. 4. I come from an underwater city on Naboo. 5. “Meesa always getting into trouble!”

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

12½% of ThIs

x2 +9 ÷3 -25 5/12 x7 5%

HINTS

6000

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge,

InTeRMedIaTe

Previous solution: CITY OF GOD

Previous solution:

BegInneR

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Every week, we encourage your kids to give some colour to an iconic Penrith landmark. Let their creativity shine with The Western Weekender!

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Olive & Cream Cheese Buns The decadence of the Cream Cheese and the saltiness of the Olives combines to make a perfect treat! What You’ll Need:

Filling:

– 2 x large bowls – Large baking tray

– 250g Cream Cheese – Mixed Olives – Grated Cheese – 1 egg (for egg wash)

Ingredients: Dough: – 2, 3/4 cups Plain Flour – 3 Tbsp Caster Sugar – 1 packet Instant Yeast – 2 tsp salt – 3 Tbsp butter, melted then cooled – 1 egg – 1/2 cup milk (warm) – Roughly 100g grated Cheddar Cheese – Roughly 100g grated Cheese (whatever you like, Parmesan, Red Leicester - up to you!)

Method: 1. Add the flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and grated cheeses to a bowl. Mix everything together. 2. Next, add the link, egg and melted butter. Knead the dough with your hands until it becomes a smooth ball. 3. Transfer the dough to a clean, oiled bowl. Cover and let rise for 2 hours. 4. After 2 hours, punch

down the dough and divide into 8 equal balls. Place them on a large baking tray and cover, rising for another hour. 5. Preheat oven to 180° and create a small well in the centre of each bun. Brush each bun with the egg wash and fill the wells with cream cheese. Top with olives and sprinkle with more grated cheese if desired. 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes. When done, top with flaky salt and fresh cracked pepper, serve.

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK EVERY EVER EV ERY ER Y WE WEDN WEDNESDAY DNES DN ESDA ES DAY DA Y Quizmasters Trivia from 7pm EVER EV EVERY ERY ER Y TH THUR THURSDAY UR RSD SDAY AY

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SPORT

Panthers set to star on World Cup stage NATHAN TAYLOR

espite finishing short of another premiership, the Penrith Panthers will be well represented at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Earlier this week teams were named for the upcoming World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea from October 15 to November 15. The men’s competition will feature 10 teams split across three pools – Pool A: Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji and New Zealand; Pool B: England, Lebanon and Samoa; Pool C: France, Papua New Guinea and Tonga. Australia, who are favourites to take out this year’s Rugby League World Cup, will comprise of four Panthers players including captain Isaah Yeo, backrower Liam Martin, forward Lindsay Smith and winger Tom Jenkins (shadow player). Yeo, Martin and Smith have played in more than 30 games for the Kangaroos between them, while the NRL’s top try scorer for 2026 in Jenkins is yet to debut for

Brian To’o.

Casey McLean.

his country. After leading Australia to the Pacific Cup in 2024 and The Ashes in 2025, Yeo will captain the Kangaroos on the World Cup stage for the first time. Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters said he was extremely happy with the squad which will

be assembled for the World Cup. “A number of players have come into contention with brilliant Finals Series,” he said. “I’m really happy with the balance of the squad. We have some real strike power and a significant amount of experience, along with size, power and speed. “This will be a huge Test. I have never before seen the amount of talent spread across the top nations. We are going to need to be at our best to take out the World Cup.” The New Zealand Kiwis will also feature four Panthers players, with young gun Casey McLean, stalwart Moses Leota, backrower Isaiah Papali’i and Perth-bound Scott Sorensen selected in the side. The Kiwis, coached by Warriors great Stacey Jones, are second favourites to take out the tournament. Two more Panthers players were selected in the 23-man Toa Samoa squad for the upcoming World Cup. Penrith winger Brian To’o has been named by coach Ben Gardiner alongside Panthers

Penrith thumped in final match of the 2026 season NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith’s NRL State Championship campaign ended in brutal fashion last Sunday afternoon, with the Panthers suffering a record-breaking 68-14 defeat to the Redcliffe Dolphins at Accor Stadium. The Panthers entered the clash as NSW Cup Premiers after a dominant 36-6 victory over Newtown the previous week, but were unable to reproduce that form. The Dolphins took control from the opening exchanges and raced to a remarkable 40-4 lead at half-time. Penrith’s only first-half try came through fullback Jaxen Edgar, who produced a determined individual effort, but it proved little consolation as Redcliffe repeatedly exposed gaps in the Panthers’ defence. Jake Averillo was the architect of the Dolphins’ attacking display, scoring a hat-trick and playing a hand in several other tries. His performance earned him Man of the Match honours in what was his final appearance for Redcliffe before joining the Wests Tigers in 2027.

PANTHERS NAME YEAR’S BEST Story continued from » p.68

Isaah Yeo.

Paul Alamoti.

centre Izack Tago. Both players featured in the 2022 Samoan World Cup team, which finished runners-up to Australia. Panthers centre Paul Alamoti is also set to feature in his first World Cup campaign, returning from injury to be named in a strong Tonga squad.

“Thank you, Jake, this means the absolute world. I’m very, very honoured to receive this,” Henry said. “I was lucky enough to meet John and sat down and had plenty of yarns with him. “He’s an incredible man and I’m extremely grateful to receive this.” Popular Panthers winger Brian To’o also secured himself two awards – the first for Try of the Year (Round 3 vs Sydney Roosters) and the second for Club Person of the Year for his positive attitude and dedication to fans young and old. “It’s always a blessing in disguise to put a smile on other people’s faces, the fans, the families and especially the kids who come out and support the boys. It’s always a great honour to do what I love,” To’o said on stage. Promising backrower Billy Phillips was rewarded for his sensational year off the bench, named the Ben Alexander Rookie of the Year. Try-scoring machine Tom Jenkins was voted by the fans as Members Player of the Year for the second consecutive season. Haami Loza was awarded the Jersey Flegg Player of the Year, while Jaxen Edgar was NSW Cup Player of the Year and Chloe Pallisier won the NSW Women’s Premiership Player of the Year. Women’s Panthers player Julie Tauafao took home the Junior Education Award.

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The Panthers hold a prayer circle after the game. Photo: NRL Images.

Redcliffe continued their onslaught after the break, with tries to Averillo, Trai Fuller, Kyle Coghill, Joven Gyemore and others extending the margin beyond 50. Penrith did manage two second-half tries, through Zakauri Clarke and Jirah Liddiard, but they were unable to halt the Dolphins’ momentum. The final score represented the biggest winning margin and highest score in State Championship history. Redcliffe crossed for 12 tries to Penrith’s three, while also producing 10 line breaks and more than 1,600 metres in attack. The Panthers’ defensive struggles were reflected in

the statistics, with Penrith missing 59 tackles and making 14 errors compared with Redcliffe’s 32 missed tackles and six errors. For Redcliffe, the victory capped a remarkable fortnight. The Dolphins claimed the Queensland Cup premiership the previous weekend and followed it by becoming State Championship winners. There were still positives for Penrith amid a difficult afternoon. Edgar, who had been named Man of the Match in the NSW Cup Grand Final, again showed flashes of the talent that has made him one of the Panthers’ promising young players.

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SPORT

Cats ready to claw back as new season begins NATHAN TAYLOR

fter a less than impressive season last summer, the Penrith Cricket Club are hopeful of a better year ahead for their young but talented Belvidere Cup side. Last season, Penrith’s once mighty first grade team finished the NSW Premier Cricket season in 17th position with just four wins to their name. It was their lowest finish on the Belvidere Cup ladder since the 2012/13 season where they landed 18th. But after a season of tough defeats and harsh lessons, the Cats are back and ready to rumble with some familiar and fresh new faces. Penrith Cricket Club head coach Warren Buttigieg said he’s “quietly confident” the club can have a much-improved season under the captaincy of opener Ryan Gibson. “We spent a lot of time on our fitness in the off-season and we spent a lot of time ensuring that our young guys have experienced play-

Penrith’s 2026/27 Belvidere Cup side. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ers around them as well to learn and develop, so I’m quietly confident,” he told the Weekender. “I think we came 10th in the Club Championship last year – which is points from all grades tallied together – and we’re really confident we can push inside the top 10 this year. That’s what we really focus on as a club – the entirety of the club.”

After a few rounds of T20 cricket over the past month, Penrith kicked off their Belvidere Cup campaign last Saturday when they battled last year’s first grade Premiers Manly Warringah in a One-Day match at Howell Oval. Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. With the bat, Manly-Warringah weren’t at their premier-

ship-winning best, dismissed for just 159. Liam Doddrell took 3/33, while Alexander Kerkham took an impressive 3/21. When Penrith hit the crease, they also struggled to fire before a stunning partnership between Doddrell (55*) and fellow young gun Ryan Freeman (17*) ensued. With a win seemingly in their

sights and 20 overs left to play, Mother Nature decided to intervene with the remainder of the match abandoned due to a severe afternoon thunderstorm. The Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method was activated, declaring Manly Warringah the winners. “Last Saturday was unfortunate because we bowled really well but lost a clump of wickets that set us back a bit,” Buttigieg said. “It was frustrating because Liam Doddrell and Ryan Freeman had a really good partnership as well. If we batted for another 10 overs, we probably get the runs.” This weekend, the Cats will travel to Waverley Oval in Bondi to take on Eastern Suburbs in another One-Day match. Buttigieg said it should be another mouthwatering clash between two eager sides. “Manly and then Easts in the first two rounds is pretty tough,” he admitted. “But, as a club, we took more wins than losses over Manly last week and we’re hoping to do the same against Easts this weekend.”

The right support can make all the difference in a young person’s life. That’s why registered clubs across Penrith have provided almost $150,000 in ClubGrants funding to organisations that help young people develop life skills and reach their potential. Together, they’re building brighter futures for the next generation.

Visit clubgrants.com.au to learn more.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 8, 2026

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

October shuffle: Giants shake-up AFL: The GWS Giants have confirmed the departures of ruckman Kieren Briggs and key forward Jesse Hogan. Briggs will join Richmond as an unrestricted free agent, while Hogan was traded to Collingwood on the opening day of the AFL Trade Period. In return for Briggs and Hogan, the Giants received pick 46 from the Tigers and pick 75 from the Magpies in the upcoming 2026 AFL Draft. Hogan joined the Giants in 2022 and went on to re-establish himself as one of the competition’s premier key forwards, including winning the Coleman Medal in 2024. Across his six seasons in orange and charcoal, Hogan played 100 games and kicked 239 goals. A Giants Academy product, Briggs became the club’s second-ever western Sydney selection when he was picked up at number 34 in the 2018 AFL Draft. The 26-yearold went on to play 88 games and kick 16 goals across eight seasons in orange and charcoal. AFL: GWS Giants legend Toby Greene is officially Geelong-bound, joining the Cats as an unrestricted free agent. The Giants will receive a second round selection, currently pick 26, in the upcoming 2026 AFL Draft as compensation following Greene’s departure. Greene leaves behind an almost unmatched legacy at the Giants, with the star forward to go down as one of the greatest players in club history. Giants Executive General Manager of Football, Jason McCartney, thanked Greene for his contribution to the club. “Toby has been an incredible part of this football club for 15 years and we’ll never lose sight of what he’s given to the Giants,” McCartney said. “While we’re disappointed that his journey with us has come to an end, we’re also incredibly proud of what he achieved and the role he played in helping build this club.” AFL: Jake Riccardi has turned his back on rival club offers to commit to the GWS Giants for a further four years. After strong speculation surrounding his future this off-season, the 198cm key forward has put the speculation to rest, reaffirming his faith in the direction of the club by putting pen to paper on a long-term extension. Riccardi’s decision comes following a limited but promising 2026 campaign, in which he not only continued to display his impact as a key forward but his versatility as an alternative ruck option. AFLW: The GWS Giants are now on a seven-

game losing streak, handing Essendon their first win of the season last Saturday afternoon at Henson Park. With both sides languishing near the bottom of the ladder, the high-stakes

main values are trust, honesty, respect and loyalty. I think coming over to the Thunder I want to be able to gain that respect from my teammates, the support staff and the Thunder Nation,” Barsby said. “There’s going to be a good mix of young and experienced players. Me being one of those experienced players, I’m hoping I can come over and be able to bowl well and contribute with the bat.” The Thunder also confirmed the signing of experienced all-rounder Nicola Hancock, who joins the lime green from the Brisbane Heat.

Jesse Hogan and Kieren Briggs depart GWS. Photo: AFL Photos. The Sydney Sirens will debut in 2027.

Australia WNCL skipper, Barsby brings a wealth of experience and leadership, having played 143 matches across the Brisbane Heat, Perth Scorchers and Adelaide Strikers. Along with being a proven all-rounder, the 30-year-old also possesses one of the game’s rarest skills, a unique ambidextrous ability to bowl spin with either arm. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at just 19, she has gone on to lead at national level, while using her own platform to raise awareness about MS, through the ‘Jemma Barsby Foundation’ and ‘WhackMsFor6’, inspiring the next generation of athletes. “My

Jake Riccardi will remain a Giant. AFL Photos.

clash was all about survival, and it was the Bombers who ultimately seized their moment, claiming a 43-35 victory. This Saturday, the Giants will travel to Geelong to face the Cats at GMHBA Stadium. The first bounce is 5.05pm. CRICKET: Three-time WBBL champion and South Australian Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL) captain Jemma Barsby will don lime green for WBBL|12, after signing a one-year deal with the Sydney Thunder. A foundation WBBL player and current South

Jemma Barsby has joined the Thunder.

NETBALL: Sports Entertainment Group (SEG) has officially taken ownership of the Sydney Sirens, following the transfer of the Super Netball licence from Netball NSW. CEO of SEN Teams, Richard Simkiss, said members and fans would be central to the club’s next chapter. “To everyone who has supported this club over the past decade, thank you. You have helped create something special, and we want you to feel proud of the part you will play in the Sydney Sirens story,” he said. “We know a club means much more to its supporters than a name or a logo. It’s the players you cheer for, the people you sit beside and the memories you share. We have enormous respect for those connections and look forward to building on them together. Our focus is on supporting the team to succeed and creating a club that members and fans feel part of, on match day and throughout the year.” The full Sirens squad for 2027 is: Sophie Dwyer, Molly Jovic, Matisse Letherbarrow, Grace Nweke, Claire O’Brien, Erin O’Brien, Teigan O’Shannassy, Amy Sligar, Jodi-Ann Ward and Hope White. They will be joined by Training Partners Eva Carneiro, Matilda Fanning, Audrey Little, Skye Thompson and Monika ‘Otai, with head coach Nerida Stewart and assistant coach Jen Wright leading the team into the new season. 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.

THREE WIDE NO COVER: YOUR NEXT BET The boys have scoured the form guide and come up with their best tips for Saturday racing… @threewide_nocover

Rosehill R6 #1 PARADOXIUM

Caulfield R8#2 WARWOVEN

Caulfield R6 #1 JIGSAW

Sent down the Flemington straight first up and couldn’t have been more impressive. Forgive it’s Golden Slipper run where it drew the carpark and raced 3 wide the trip on speed. Draws the perfect gate here and gets the gun run. Will be hard to run down.

Hit a recent purple patch of form and was absolutely dominant last start winning the Golden Rose. 1600 should pose no issue after clocking the best last 400m. Can sit off the speed or lead from the barrier and be too strong again.

This horses record speaks for itself. Resumes here and is shooting for 7 in a row with one the G1 William Reid and two the Quokka last preparation, all with Logan Bates on board. While age is now a factor, his recent trial proved he is fit as ever. Too strong for this field.

1. Paradoxium (2) J: Jason Collett T: Bjorn Baker W: 56.50kg

2. Warwoven (6) J: Rachel King T: Bjorn Baker W: 57.00kg

1. Jigsaw (1) J: Logan Bates T: Ms C Alderson W: 58.50kg

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Dylan Edwards. Photo: Penrith Panthers.

hampion fullback Dylan Edwards has been crowned Penrith’s best player for season 2026, winning the prestigious Merv Cartwright Medal for the second time in his career. The 30-year-old was named Penrith’s Player of the Year on Tuesday night at a glittering ceremony held at the Western Sydney Convention Centre in Penrith. In a shock to most in the audience, Edwards beat out recent Dally M winner and injured teammate Nathan Cleary for the club’s highest honour, which was presented by former Panthers great and Merv’s son John Cartwright. “I love this sport, I love the game of rugby league, and I love being here at Penrith, I’d do it forever if I could, if the body was willing to hold up,” Edwards said on stage. “First and foremost I’d like to thank my beautiful wife, Nadine. She holds the fort

down, she’s a shoulder to lean on, an ear to cry to. She creates the environment I can go home to and just be myself and be happy and be free with our two beautiful daughters. “Winning an individual award in a team sport is a funny one, I definitely give thanks to my teammates, everyone in this squad… I’m very grateful to be in the position that I am.” Edwards played in 23 games for the Panthers this season, scoring 12 tries and kicking two goals. He tallied 10 try assists, 117 tackle breaks and nine line breaks to become Penrith’s best. Other big winners during the evening included departing prop Liam Henry, who picked up two awards before he heads to Perth next year. Henry collected the Senior Education Award for his off-field studies and the John Farragher Award for Courage and Determination, which was presented by John’s son Jake for the first time.

All roads lead to WSI There are many ways of travelling to and from your new airport, Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), supported by the billions of dollars state and federal governments have invested in upgrading local road networks for maximum connectivity. More than half of Greater Sydney now live west of Parramatta, and with that number only growing, and at pace, seamless connectivity for local residents is an essential part of the convenience, efficiency and choice that WSI will deliver to the community and its customers over the months and years ahead. These options include driving, car hire, rideshare, taxi, direct shuttle buses, and public bus services. The vast majority of travellers get to and from airports by car, and it’s anticipated WSI will be no different. For those driving themselves, they will be able to make the most of the airport’s 6,000 car spaces with launch drive-up prices including parking from around $15 a day in Long-stay, $29 a day in Saver, and $49 a day in Premium parking (head online to get the most affordable prices). Not only that, but WSI is also offering three hours free parking to encourage all community members to come and experience their new airport, free of charge. Whether you might be driving yourself, or being driven via rideshare, taxi, family, friend or loved one, travellers will benefit from the efficiency and convenience of the upgraded road network leading to WSI – the centrepiece of which is the new toll-free M12. The M12, alongside its newly widened M7 interchange, enables 65 per cent of the city’s population to drive to the airport in just 45 minutes with seamless connections to Sydney’s

Hello Singapore

broader motorway network. There are no traffic lights from when you leave the airport precinct to the edge of the Sydney CBD or the Parramatta CBD.

“There are no traffic lights from when you leave the airport precinct to the edge of the Sydney CBD or the Parramatta CBD.” The 16-kilometre section of the M12 connecting Elizabeth Drive in the east to The Northern Road in the west, will also give drivers an intersection-free, 100km/h run straight into WSI. Travellers to and from WSI can make the most of the convenience and efficiency of this road connectivity by utilising one of the six leading car hire providers on offer at WSI, including SIXT, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar and Redspot. These collectively give travellers easy access to a range of hire cars suited to business trips, family holidays, and everything in between. For those who would prefer a direct bus service, WSI has announced Super Shuttle WSI – an express, electric shuttle service – offering buses for passengers travelling between WSI and key locations including Parramatta CBD, Sydney CBD and Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. Tickets are available online or at kiosks in and around the WSI airport terminal, offering a convenient timetable and a great onboard experience including luggage racks.

Hello Fiji

Hello Vietnam

WSI is already serviced by new electric, public bus links too – again, fitted out with luggage racks – that connect WSI with Penrith, Oran Park, Liverpool, Campbelltown, Mount Druitt and Leppington. The buses operate seven days a week, departing every 30 minutes between 5am and 10pm. The NSW Government has also announced free half hourly bus services to run between St Marys and WSI from when passenger services commence, which will be known as ‘WSI Link’. These services are an interim measure that will be phased out when the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport begins operations. While the Metro may not be operational on day one, for an airport that will boost Sydney’s aviation market for the next 100 years, the Metro will be up and running early in the life of the airport’s operations and make WSI one of only four airports in Australia that have a direct rail connection. The Metro will connect WSI to St Marys, Orchard Hills, Luddenham, WSI Business Precinct and Bradfield. WSI is built for long-term growth and is here to service Sydney for the next century – meaning as demand for the airport grows, so too will its connectivity and associated services.

Hello New Zealand

Thursday, October 8, 2026 « the western weekender

Connecting Western Sydney to the world Visit wsiairport.com.au