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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

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LOCAL NEWS

Simple question can have powerful impact EMILY CHATE

U OK? Day is a National Day of Action where everyone is encouraged to check in with one another, but the organisation behind the message is urging people to keep those conversations going every day. R U OK? first began in 2009 when Gavin Larkin decided to honour his father and protect other families form the pain he endured by asking ‘Are you OK?’. Larkin’s father Barry had passed away from suicide in 1995. R U OK? Community Ambassador and Penrith local Sarah Taylor said the R U OK? message is so important. “Unfortunately, Gavin is no longer with us, he passed away from brain cancer, but he believed that in the time that it takes to have a cup of tea you could start a conversation with someone that could change a life,” she explained. “I kind of always go back to that when I speak to people about R U OK?

Sarah Taylor is encouraging locals to talk about mental health all year round.

“It can be a scary conversation, but I have, through my own journey with mental illness, had these R U OK? conversations that have helped me connect with other people and that have helped me access the help that I need.

“I’m a really big believer in the power of lived experience and I get to go out to workplaces, schools, and community groups and share such an important message.” The most important message to remember from R U OK? is the

acronym ALEC. “The R U OK? model is called ALEC,” Taylor said. “A – asking are you OK?, L – listening to that person, E – encouraging action, and C – check in. “I always say to people if you

remember nothing else from my presentation today you have to remember ALEC! The four steps really help people understand how they can check in with those around them.” Having the conversation can be hard but Taylor explained it can be as simple as giving someone a little bit of support. “That’s why the R U OK? message is so great because you don’t have to be the expert, you don’t have to be the psychologist or the doctor, it’s helping that person find the support they need and encouraging them to talk to a friend, family member or their doctor.” Taylor said. Thursday, September 10 is the National R U OK? Day but Taylor said these conversations are important to every day of the year. “R U OK? still exists, it’s our National Day of Action, but we want to turn that one day into a national conversation movement and we want people to ask R U OK? any day,” she said. R U OK resources can be found at https://www.ruok.org.au.

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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

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@troydodds

Sport versus entertainment T he NRL Finals will begin this weekend, and for rugby league boss Peter V’landys, the last stretch of episodes leading up to the season finale are here. V’landys, largely credited with taking rugby league to unprecedented heights over the last six or seven years, has been at pains to point out for some time that rugby league is an “entertainment” product. It is this mantra that resulted in set restarts replacing penalties, and other suggested rule tweaks – some of which play with the very foundations of the game. V’landys’ insistence that rugby league is an entertainment product above all else was one of the driving forces behind the recently achieved record TV deal. He has been all about providing a better entertainment product for fans and broadcasters, which in turn results in bigger crowds, more memberships and higher ratings. More teams will enter the competition, starting with Perth next year followed by Papua New Guinea and then a 20th team likely to be in either New Zealand or Brisbane. The NRL can do a lot more when it gets to 20 teams. Wildcard rounds, conferences and other initiatives will all be on the agenda. In fact, we may see a wildcard round before that. It’s almost like a spin-off to the main show. It is all but impossible to argue with the approach of V’landys. He has put rugby league into a position of greatness; elevating its spot in the pecking order of Australian sport to the top of the mountain. But that is something we cannot forget: rugby league is a sport. At its heart it is tribal, it is competition, it is tactical and tough. And while entertainment can sometimes align with those ingredients, it can often work in stark contrast to them. Which is where I do have some concerns about the NRL’s obsession with rugby league’s “entertainment” factor and the all-too-regular steps away from tradition. Because there is one fundamental differ-

INDEX

ence between sport and entertainment that must be firmly in mind as we consider the future of the game. Entertainment gets your attention. Sport gets your loyalty. A television series eventually ends. A band stops producing hits. A top singer goes from selling out stadiums to smaller venues, or even the local RSL. The movie franchise runs out of road. But a rugby league supporter can spend 70 years following the same club – through premierships, wooden spoons, great players, terrible coaches and freezing Friday nights in July. That is something far more valuable than entertainment. It is tribalism.

“At its core rugby league still needs to be about becoming so passionate about your team that you’d miss your best mate’s wedding to watch them play in Round 6” There is nothing wrong with making rugby league more entertaining. Nobody wants the game to get stale. But you cannot forget your core fans in the mission to attract new ones. If you build a fan base that will brush rugby league aside like a series they once binged but could now take or leave, you could be opening yourself up for huge vulnerabilities in the future. At its core rugby league still needs to be about becoming so passionate about your team that you’d miss your best mate’s wedding to watch them play in Round 6. It needs to be about buying jerseys, about the quest for selfies and autographs, and the club you support being part of your DNA.

News..........................................................1-22 Business..............................................23-27 Women’s Health Week.........28-32

If you build a fan base that will call it quits when their team starts losing, the equivalent of when a TV show is losing its shine after season four or five, you risk losing newfound supporters as quickly as you got them. Which is why V’landys needs to be careful about his approach, especially now that the more reserved and cautious Andrew Abdo is not there as a handbrake of sorts. As much as many fans seemed to be behind the NRL’s call to move this weekend’s final between Cronulla and North Queensland from Shark Park to Allianz Stadium, I felt for Sharks fans. I’m comfortable with the first week of Finals being a reward for those fans who toil through the winter, spending chilly nights at suburban venues cheering their team through the highs and lows. Let weeks two and three head to the big venues, where those with bigger budgets and the willingness to travel can take over. As for rule changes, play with the foundations of the game at your peril. The idea of the scoring team potentially being forced to kick-off is an example of taking things too far. And the irony is it’s being considered to solve a problem the NRL itself created with set restarts, that being the potential for blowouts and rushes of momentum. The best sporting competitions in the world are built on tradition, where loyal fans can tell you play-by-play moments that happened years before they were born. This is years of dedication to a sport an individual loves. A tradition and a passion often handed down from generation to the next. Daring to trade that with the sugar hit of fans in it for the “entertainment” factor is risky, and I only hope the NRL knows it. Peter V’landys is a shrewd operator. His experience with racing means he knows how to mix a sport’s traditions with entertainment, and both grow and retain your audience in the process. I just hope we don’t play with the fabric of rugby league too much in the years to come in search of a holy grail we may have already found.

Extra Time......................................33-48 Entertainment.............................49-56 Home & Lifestyle........................57-70

Connection to Country...........71-74 Motoring.............................................75-76 Sport.....................................................77-80

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LOCAL NEWS

OPENING NEW DOORS State Government says social housing rebuild is delivering more homes in the west EMILY CHATE

he State Government’s investment in housing is delivering results for western Sydney with more than 200 new social homes built in Penrith and Blacktown. The milestone is the latest under the Building Homes for NSW program which is delivering 8,400 new public housing units, 21,000 affordable and market homes, and upgrades to 30,000 existing social housing properties across the state. A total of 226 new social homes have been delivered across the Penrith and Blacktown Local Government Areas since April 2023. That includes a project in North St Marys where 22 new homes for seniors have replaced five ageing cottages and another in Blacktown where Homes NSW tripled the number of homes on an ageing site. Since April 2023 Penrith has had 115 homes delivered and will have an additional 28 delivered in the next 12 months. Deputy Premier, Member for Londonderry and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said the delivery of more affordable homes

A Homes NSW project in St Marys.

directly benefits western Sydney communities. “This is what rebuilding public housing looks like. For too long,

successive governments chose not to deal with the housing crisis,” Car said. “Poorly designed public housing

has led to poor social and community outcomes. “The Minns Labor Government is delivering a record investment to

build better quality public housing in the right places, close to jobs, transport, and essential services. “Increasing the social housing supply means more families in western Sydney will have access to a safe and secure place to call home.” Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said more social housing is on the way. “The momentum we’re seeing in western Sydney shows what’s possible when we stop neglecting public housing and start investing in it again,” she said. “Reaching 226 new social homes is a significant achievement, but we’re not stopping there. Another 63 homes are already on the way and we’re pushing ahead toward the next milestone. “We’re confronting the housing and homelessness crisis head-on by building more homes and ensuring more people have access to secure and affordable housing. What we’re achieving here in western Sydney is a prime example of that commitment, and it’s part of a much bigger picture.” 63 additional new homes are scheduled for completion in the 2026/27 financial year.

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

LAWandORDER Police Snapshot

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Legal Matters

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

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Bateman Battersby Complete Legal | 4704 9991 | 19 Lawson St, Penrith

Penrith: Woman found carrying drugs at train station At 5pm on Monday, August 31 police were patrolling at Penrith Train Station when they saw a woman who was trying to push through the ticket barrier without tapping her card. Police stopped and spoke with the woman, a 46-year-old from Warwick Farm. The 46-year-old was searched and found in her handbag was a small clear resealable plastic bag containing methylamphetamines. The woman was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, October 19.

North St Marys: Resident at care facility hiding weapons At 11am on Wednesday, September 2 police were called to a care home on Oleander Road in North St Marys. Police spoke with carers at the care home as well as a 46-year-old resident. The 46-year-old’s room was searched, and police found a taser and a bottle of pepper spray. The 46-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, October 19.

Penrith: Two men arrested after carrying weapons and drugs in car At 11.25am on Thursday, September 3 police were patrolling on Tindale Street in Penrith and stopped a Mercedes for a random breath test. Police had a conversation with the driver, a 34-year-old North Turramurra man, who returned a negative breath test. The 34-year-old was then drug tested which returned a positive sample. He was arrested in order to provide a secondary sample. There was a passenger in the car who was identified as a 36-year-old Blacktown man. Both men appeared to police to be nervous. Checks revealed the 34-year-old was subject to a weapons prohibition order. The men admitted to police there were knuckle dusters in the car and handed them over to police. Police removed the men from the car and searched both them and the car. The 36-year-old did not supply police with the correct name which police realised when trying to make checks on him. When police received the correct information about the 36-year-old checks showed he was wanted on an outstanding warrant. When told this by police the 36-year-old attempted to run but was quickly grabbed by an officer and taken to the ground. The 36-year-old resisted being handcuffed but eventually complied.

During the search of the car another set of knuckle dusters was found in a duffle bag as well as multi-tools with blades attached, a knife, five resealable bags containing methylamphetamines, and a tube containing cannabis. Both men were taken to Penrith Police Station. The 34-year-old was charged with three offences, and the 36-year-old was charged with five offences. Both men will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

Penrith: Man arrested after assaulting ambulance officer At 11.10am on Monday, September 7 ambulance officers were attending to a job when they were flagged down on Jane Street in Penrith for a man lying in the commuter car park. Ambulance officers attended to the man who was able to give them his details and medical history. The female ambulance officer recalled she had treated the 69-year-old Bowen Mountain man previously. The 69-year-old was able to climb onto the stretcher unaided and was strapped into the bed and placed into the ambulance. As the female ambulance officer climbed into the back of the ambulance the 69-yearold grabbed her by the shoulders, spun her to face him, pulled her close to his face, and told her he needed pain relief. The officer pulled herself from the 69-yearold’s grip but as she did this the 69-year-old grabbed her again, pulled her close, and yelled at her. The officer grabbed the man’s hands, moved them to his side, and informed him he was not to touch her again. The officer offered pain relief, but the 69-year-old said he needed stronger medication. The officer put the 69-year-old’s arm on a towel near her leg, and the 69-year-old turned his hand over, touching the inner thigh of the officer. The officer moved his hand and attempted to insert a cannula. The officer missed the veins and placed a piece of gauze over the site. The 69-year-old again rolled his hand higher, touching the inner thigh of the officer. Again, the officer shoved the 69-year-old’s hand away, but he did it several more times. On arrival at the hospital the officer told her senior officer what had happened and police were called. Police arrived and arrested the 69-year-old. The man was bail refused and appeared in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, September 8.

Generations of Trust.

EXPLAINER: WHAT IS A “SECTION 14” IN THE LOCAL COURT? There are lots of legal terms that become colloquialisms that you might have heard if you have ever come into contact with the Local Court. A “Section 10” is a common one. Section 14 applications are another topic we often get questions about. A “section 14 application” is an application made under section 14 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020 (NSW). Previously known as a “section 32 application”, it allows a judge to deal with an accused person through appropriate treatment, support or supervision instead of the ordinary criminal process. The application may be available where the accused has a mental health impairment or cognitive impairment. This may include certain psychiatric conditions, intellectual disability, autism or dementia for example. However, the existence of an impairment does not automatically mean that an application will succeed. The judge must decide whether making an order is more appropriate than dealing with the charge in the usual way. If the application is granted, the judge may dismiss the charge and discharge the accused into the care of a responsible person, require the accused to undergo assessment, treatment or support, or discharge the accused without conditions. The order is not

a finding of guilt. If a condition is breached within 12 months, however, the accused may be brought back before the court and the criminal proceedings may resume. The court will usually require a report from a suitably qualified professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. The report should explain the person’s diagnosis and symptoms, whether the condition satisfies the legal definition of a mental health or cognitive impairment, how it may relate to the alleged offending and what treatment or support is recommended. A practical treatment plan is particularly important. Medical records, disability support plans, information from carers or family members and confirmation from proposed treatment providers may also assist. The usual process involves obtaining the accused’s medical history, arranging an assessment and preparing a workable treatment or support plan. The clinical report and supporting documents are then provided to the prosecution and the court before the application is heard. At the hearing, submissions are made about why diversion under section 14 is appropriate. The judge may consider the seriousness of the alleged offence, the person’s criminal history, public safety, prospects of treatment and any connection between the impairment and the alleged conduct.

TEEN ACCUSED OF STABBING AT SHOPS A 13-year-old boy is accused of stabbing another teenager in a Penrith shopping centre last week. At 3.55pm on Thursday, September 3 police were called to a major shopping centre in Penrith after a 14-year-old had sustained a laceration and bruising after an assault. It is understood that the 14-year-old was grabbed from behind in an unprovoked attack by another teenager who was wielding a knife. The 14-year-old had a minor stab wound to the abdomen. Additional male teenagers were involved in the assault. Police arrived and rendered aid to the 14-year-old. Police then obtained CCTV footage of the incident and got a description of the offender.

At 4pm on Friday, September 4 police were patrolling the major shopping centre in Penrith and saw the teenager who was involved in the assault the day before. When the teenager saw police, he ran. Police pursued the teenager and chased him through the shopping centre into a toy store where police successfully arrested the 13-year-old from Colyton. The 13-year-old was still wearing the same clothes as he was when he committed the alleged assault. The 13-year-old was taken to St Marys Police Station where he was charged. He will appear in a Children’s Court at a later date. Police returned to were they first saw the 13-year-old and found a knife in a garden bed.

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

ROW OVER COLLAR BAN EMILY CHATE

dispute has erupted over whether the State Government properly consulted dog trainers before introducing legislation that will dramatically impact how the industry operates. Under the legislation, the NSW Government is set to ban prong collars for dogs, leaving the Professional Dog Trainers of Australia (PDTA) stunned after the group said it was not consulted on the move. In May, Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty announced that the State Government would reform the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Enforcement and Operational Powers) Bill 2026 including prohibiting the possession and use of dog prong collars. Prong collars are a training tool with rounded points that distribute leash pressure evenly around a dog’s neck rather than crushing the trachea. The PDTA claims it was not consulted until after the Bill had already been introduced to Parliament. But in a formal response to an e-petition in June, Moriarty listed the PDTA as among the organisations that had been spoken with. Londonderry-based President

Steve Courtney. Photo: Melinda Jane.

of the PDTA Steve Courtney said under the changes, dog trainers would not be able to use the collar but someone in the Police, Australian Defence Force, and Corrections facilities can. “A prong collar is a specialist dog training tool that we use in circumstances for behaviour modification or sometimes for disabled handlers that don’t have the strength in their hand that they may need to manage their dogs,” Courtney explained. “In the private sector, dog trainers like me who has three decades of experience… I wouldn’t be allowed

to use one but a 19-year-old soldier who has done a 12-week course would be able to use one.” Courtney said the collars have a place in society and highlighted an example of someone who lives with a spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. “This girl is in a wheelchair, she has cerebral palsy and she uses this particular collar,” he explained. “When she uses this collar, she feels confident enough to go out with her dog. The dog is trained and doesn’t need it but for her this is part of the security plan to make

her feel safe.” Courtney understands the argument that people who cannot control their dogs should not own them, but believes it is better to provide support and practical ways to help owners manage their dogs. “You can either give them this tool, and they can control their dog, or you can take it off them, they’ll still keep their dog, but they can’t control it,” he stated. Courtney wants to introduce a system where the collars could be used under supervision and with the specific permission and authorisation of a trainer. “Whatever reason you would authorise police to use them, those exact reasons and more exist in the private sector,” he said. The question of Moriarty’s consultation with the PDTA was raised in Budget Estimates last week, with Upper House MP Mark Banasiak pressing Peter Day, the Executive Director of Strategy & Regulatory Policy at the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, on the matter. The Department played a key role in consultation regarding the legislation. “With the PDTA... we were trying to arrange a meeting with that organisation before [the Bill was introduced] but never got there,”

Day said. “We met with them on the 26th of May and we’ve had a number of discussions with them.” A spokesperson for Moriarty said the Bill was developed “following extensive consideration of animal welfare issues, including feedback from parliamentary inquiries, enforcement agencies, stakeholder groups, and the community”. “Consultation has included engagement with companion animal groups, various dog training organisations and veterinary organisations on the proposed reforms,” the spokesperson said. “Both the Minister and Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development have met directly with the Professional Dog Trainers of Australia and other dog training organisations in relation to the Government’s POCTA reforms. “The Government’s position reflects contemporary animal welfare standards and the view that prong collars are aversive devices that can cause pain, distress or injury.” “Effective and humane alternatives are available and widely used by qualified trainers and behaviourists, including reward-based training tools and other types of equipment.”

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Elevate your practice with our free workshop series! penrith.city/events

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

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

Council Briefs Take Flight at REAL Festival 2026 REAL Festival returns to the Nepean River from 11-13 September, transforming Tench Reserve into a vibrant celebration of Flight, inspired by the opening of Western Sydney International Airport.

• ʻ˔˩˘ ˦˨˙Ѓ˖˜˘ˡ˧ ˕˜ˡ˦ ˪˛˘˥˘ ˙ˢˢ˗ ˪˔˦˧˘ ˚˘ˡ˘˥˔˧˘˗

Visitors can enjoy LEGO workshops, glow in the dark painting, mural art, paper plane challenges and sensory experiences. Sunday's program includes free kayaking, on-water activities and rides aboard the iconic Nepean Belle.

• Large supermarkets are required to record food donations across six categories including meat, dairy, fruit and vegetables, frozen food and baked goods Council would like to help with your transition to food waste recycling and support your business in every step of the way through:

For details, visit ˥˘˔˟˙˘˦˧˜˩˔˟ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨

• In-person and online workshops

Spring into the new issue of Our Place

• On-site waste assessments

ˇ˛˘ ˪˔˜˧ ˜˦ ˢ˩˘˥Ϟ˂˨˥ ˃˟˔˖˘ ˆˣ˥˜ˡ˚ ˜˦˦˨˘ ˛˔˦ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˜˔˟˟ˬ ˟˔ˡ˗˘˗ ˜ˡ your mailbox! Flip open a fresh season of stories, local happenings and your complete guide to Real Festival. Grab your copy and discover what’s blooming in Our Place this spring!

penrithcitycouncil

Brought to you by the NSW Government through the NSW Environment Protection Authority.

EAT

EXPLORE

Monday 14 September – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting)

penrithcouncil

ˇˢ ˥˘˚˜˦˧˘˥ ˬˢ˨˥ ˜ˡ˧˘˥˘˦˧ ˢ˥ Ѓˡ˗ ˢ˨˧ ˠˢ˥˘ ˜ˡ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˜ˢˡ ˩˜˦˜˧ ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢʹ˂ʺ˂˜ˡ˕˨˦˜ˡ˘˦˦˘˦

PLAY

Meeting Dates

penrith.city.council

• Weekly collected food waste is transported separately from non-organic waste to a lawful compost processing facility

With live music, food trucks, a riverside bar, market stalls and a spectacular laser show, REAL Festival is free to attend.

Freecall 1800 022 182

Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

From 1 July 2026, relevant businesses are now required to:

A highlight of the 2026 program is Monsters Can't Fly by The Beautiful & Useful Studio, an immersive installation featuring colourful, larger-than-life winged creatures.

ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘

Monday 21 September – 7pm (Ordinary Council Meeting)

FOGO in Businesses Program Penrith City Council, with funding support from the NSW EPA, is supporting local businesses through the 'FOGO in Business' program, a free initiative designed to prepare businesses for ˧˛˘˦˘ ˖˛˔ˡ˚˘˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˛˘˟ˣ ˗˜˩˘˥˧ ˩˔˟˨˔˕˟˘ ˥˘˦ˢ˨˥˖˘˦ ˙˥ˢˠ ˟˔ˡ˗Ѓ˟˟ʟ ˜ˠˣ˥ˢ˩˘ ˘˙Ѓ˖˜˘ˡ˖ˬ ˔ˡ˗ ˟ˢ˪˘˥ ˢˣ˘˥˔˧˜ˡ˚ ˖ˢ˦˧˦ʡ

11-13 SEPTEMBER TENCH RESERVE

LEARN DANCE

SHOP SPLASH

REALFESTIVAL.COM.AU

penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ WW59457

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

Joke of the Week

prize cupboard

upert Murdoch is Australia’s most successful media businessman. He has created a global empire in print, publishing, film and television. Sometimes his media outlets produce important journalism, but all too often his companies operate like an international bullying factory. Getting Murdoched is unlike any other book about Rupert Murdoch. It begins and ends with the people from all walks of life, and from across the globe, who have been targeted by News Corp publications. In Getting Murdoched, Murdoched, former reporters-turned journalism academics Andrew Dodd and Matthew Ricketson provide a thorough analysis on the way Murdoch’s media operates. They reveal the tactics the company uses to bully people and twist the truth. Dodd and Ricketson are both former employees of the Murdoch-owned The

Q: What type of insect eats brains? A: Zom-bees Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

Australian, with first-hand experience Australian, of how the business operates. They are also experienced media writers who have worked for other outlets including the ABC, The Age and Crikey Crikey.. Getting Murdoched reveals what it’s like to be in the firing line of Murdoch’s outlets, such as Fox News, The Australian and The Sun newspaper. It assesses the damage done by seven decades of demonising people and debasing public discourse. It asks what motivated Rupert Murdoch to be so destructive, for so long and across so much of the English-speaking world. And it profiles people who were compelled to fight back; how they did it and what they achieved. The chapters are based on case studies drawn from the company’s major markets, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. Each case demonstrates different ways of bullying and the types of people targeted, including climate scientists,

women’s rights advocates, Muslims, LGBTQIA+ communities, celebrities, innocent bystanders and politicians deemed too progressive or ‘not rightwing enough’. Getting Murdoched is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how a global media company wields power and punishment, and how this form of journalism damages people, as well as the issues they care about. It’s out now. The Weekender has five copies of Getting Murdoched to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Murdoch’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, September 27 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: Goku my proud owner: Madelaine, Brenndan, Corbyn and Kayleb i live in: Cranebrook

a bit about me: I came from a rescue and became the heart of my home. I’m a petite gentleman who is equal parts loving and playful. I like to fill my family’s days with gentle purrs, hallway sprints, and endless affection.

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

Pioneer Tavern.

The price of Finals tickets in the NRL. We know they’re the premium matches of the year, but loyal fans who spend all year supporting their team shouldn’t be slugged massive amounts for tickets.

Fiji Airways will fly in and out of Western Sydney International Airport from next year, connecting the popular destination with locals. It’s a great piece of news.

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Glenmore Park tops snake calls “Glenmore Park has all three in abundance.” As the weather continues to heat up, snake behaviour is expected to shift. Rather than remaining active throughout the hottest parts of the day, snakes will pivot to being active early in the morning and into the cooler parts of the evening. The Sydney Snake Catcher network anticipates a significant increase in after-hours jobs as snakes seek food during these cooler periods. Residents need to remain vigilant for snake activity even when the sun has gone down. If venturing outside at night, take the same precautions as during the day: wear closed shoes, watch where you step, and keep an eye on your surroundings. Penrith follows closely as the second most active area, with multiple suburbs generating steady demand

for professional snake relocation. Suburbs including Emu Plains, St Clair, and Castlereagh account for a significant portion of Sydney Snake Catcher’s regular operations. The pattern reflects what experts understand about urban snake behaviour. Brown snakes and black snakes are not aggressive by nature, but they do venture into residential areas in search of food and shelter, particularly during warmer months. A snake in someone’s backyard is usually just passing through or has found a temporary refuge. “Most people panic when they see a snake,” Ambrose explained. “But the reality is the snake is far more concerned about you than you are about it. Our job is to locate it safely, capture it without harm, and relocate it to suitable bush-

land away from residential areas.” Penrith region residents should understand that encountering a snake is not a sign of a problem that needs fixing – it’s a reminder that urban areas sit on the boundary of wild bushland. Snakes will occasionally cross that boundary. The key is knowing how to respond. Sydney Snake Catcher recommends keeping grass short, securing sheds, removing potential food sources like rodents, and maintaining clear sight lines around the home. If a snake is spotted, keep distance, keep children and pets indoors, and call a professional. “We’re here to bridge that gap between people and wildlife,” Ambrose said. “The Penrith region is a rapidly growing area with plenty of families. Getting the balance right between safety

Rob Ambrose is warning it’s going to be a busy snake season.

for residents and respect for the animals is what we aim to do.” For western Sydney residents, snake season is not something to fear. It’s simply part of living in this region. And when a snake shows

up, Sydney Snake Catcher is ready to respond. Sydney Snake Catcher operates throughout western Sydney and beyond. For professional snake removal and relocation, contact Sydney Snake Catcher 1300 599 938

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lenmore Park and Penrith are among western Sydney’s busiest snake hotspots, according to Sydney Snake Catcher, the region’s largest reptile relocation service. Unseasonably warm weather for spring has already pushed snake activity to higher levels than historically seen in the first week of September, with local residents encountering snakes at an accelerated rate. “Glenmore Park is our number one suburb for callouts,” said Rob Ambrose, senior catcher for Sydney Snake Catcher. “We have been attending jobs for years. Typically we’re seeing a pretty even split between brown snakes and black snakes. “Both species are attracted to the same conditions… shelter, water, and rodent populations.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

WW58906

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

Swipe your valid Panthers Penrith Leagues Club Membership card at the Membership Rewards Kiosks for your chance to win. Terms and Conditions available from the Members Centre. Must be in club to win. Visit website for more information. Cruises subject to availability.

penrith.panthers.com.au |

@pantherspenrithleaguesclub ub

WW57749

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

The jewel in Penrith’s retail crown KEELY MARSH

rom what started as humble beginnings in the ’70s, York Jewellers has been built from the ground up with a new standalone flagship store officially open in the heart of Penrith. York Jewellers held their official store opening on Saturday, September 5, with an afternoon of celebrations. For York Jewellers owner Doug Ely, the official opening recognises more than a jewellery store but

instead a place that the Penrith community would be proud of, backing the western Sydney area. “I really wanted to create something Penrith would be proud of,” Ely said. “We’re backing this area because we believe in western Sydney and where it’s heading.” The move from its Westfield Penrith location to Riley Street, sees the store as a fully immersive and welcoming space for everyone. Ely’s store design offers people to see the behind the scenes of their

jewellery being made and cared for, giving them full transparency. “Jewellery is often tied to some of those biggest moments in people’s lives and buying jewellery shouldn’t feel like a transaction, it really should feel like an experience,” Ely said. “I wanted that full immersive experience but also full transparency, so people could see their pieces being made.” Despite the extravagant leap and significant investment, Ely reassures that “craftsmanship is

The cake is cut and the store is open for the Ely family.

It was a special moment last weekend when the ribbon was cut on the new York Jewellers flagship store on Riley Street in Penrith.

still the heart of York Jewellers”, and while the store is completely new, the principles behind York haven’t changed. “It’s still the craftsmanship, the service and the relationships of looking after people long after they’ve made their purchase as well,” Ely said. The new flagship store is a representation of bringing that luxury lifestyle, something that is promised in Sydney’s CBD to the Penrith and surrounding communities. “I wanted people to realise that world-class luxury retail experience shouldn’t only exist in Sydney, we should have that exceptional experience out here in western Sydney,” Ely said. A space created with customer comfort at the forefront, Ely invites the community to experience the space where you can sit, have a drink and talk about what you’re celebrating and enjoy the process. There’s even a space for kids. “I want people to come in, experience the store and I want their first reaction to be ‘wow’,” Ely said. York Jewellers is located at 22 Riley Street, Penrith, and is open seven days a week. “Luxury doesn’t have to feel intimidating,” Ely said.

Preserver of history dies EMILY CHATE

orna Parr, who worked tirelessly to preserve Penrith’s history for decades, has passed away. Parr and her husband Malcolm settled in Cranebrook in the 1970s and Parr began work at Cranebrook Public School. Parr was awarded a medal for 40 years of service to children by the Department of Education. She began her involvement in the history of the area in 1983 when Cranebrook Public School celebrated its 100th anniversary. Parr

wrote a history of the school and the wider Cranebrook district. Parr then joined the Nepean District Historical Society and went on to be a long serving committee member, archivist and president. In 1981, she was a founding member of the Nepean Family History Society, and in 2006 was made a Life Member. ln 2003, she was informed that a Woodriff family heirloom owned by Captain Woodriff was for sale in an antique shop in Richmond at the price of $2,500. Despite the price, Parr secured it for the Nepean District Historical Society for everyone to appreciate.

Parr received a Wall of Achievement award from Penrith City Council in 1997. For many years, she was involved in protecting the historic homes, buildings, and cemeteries in the Castlereagh area as a member of the Advisory Group to the Penrith Lakes Management. ln 2001, she received the Centenary Medal ‘For Outstanding Service to the Community Through Mapping the Penrith Region’s History’. Parr passed away on Friday, August 14, aged 91. A memorial service was held for her on Monday, August 24.

Lorna Parr has passed away aged 91.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

WINNING COMBINATION KEELY MARSH

enola Catholic College and St Marys Rugby League Club have strengthened their connection with a new partnership providing students with more opportunities to develop their sporting talents and connect with the local club. The partnership has seen St Marys Rugby League Club provide new jerseys, shorts and socks for Penola’s boys and girls rugby league teams, giving students the chance to represent their school in new playing gear while strengthening the relationship between the school and local footy club. Penola Catholic College’s sporting community has welcomed the support, with John McKnight saying the new uniforms help build a sense of pride among the students. McKnight has a rich history with the St Marys Rugby League Club, and was a driving force in the establishment of the partnership. “I saw a need for us for new jerseys, so I reached out to Geoff Daniela, and once I got approval for the jerseys to go ahead, they supplied us jerseys, shorts and the socks,” McKnight said. “The uniforms, I think they’re schmick and I would say it builds a sense of pride.” Penola Principal Peta Sparkes said the school’s sporting culture was also about challenging students to reach their full potential.

Penola students and the new St Marys Rugby League Club sponsored jerseys. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“He (McKnight) challenges and stretches kids to be better than they think they can be,” Sparkes said. McKnight explained that maintaining high standards was an important part of the school’s approach to not only sport but the curriculum itself. “It’s about holding that high standard, you know there’s the bar and you’ve got to meet that,” he said. “It’s part of our identity.” The relationship also creates a pathway for students interested

in continuing their rugby league beyond school, connecting them with one of western Sydney’s prominent grassroot clubs. “Being involved with St Marys, that association just creates a link for the kids to be involved and trial for the club,” McKnight said. Sparkes said the partnership aligned with school’s broader focus on helping students identify and develop their individual strengths. “That’s fundamental to Catholic education – we see ourselves as teachers that spot gifts and talents

in children and give them the opportunities to develop them,” Sparkes said. While sport is an important part of the Penola community, Sparkes said the benefits extend beyond success on the field. “That’s something I support, the sporting performance, because it all comes back to, if the kids are thriving and those skills that are coming from their sport, they absolutely translate into life skills, into feeling success,” she said. “It’s the holistic approach – some

are geared for sport, some learning, creative arts, even agriculture,” McKnight added. For Penola, the partnership is also about creating a strong sense of belonging among students and families. “That’s what being part of a school is all about, feeling that strong sense of belonging that people have cared for you,” Sparkes said. The school has experienced significant growth in recent years, with Sparkes revealing enrolments have increased by 27 per cent over the past three years, one of the biggest growths nationally. “For this community we absolutely have to do sport well, it’s a big attraction for families, but bigger than that is, the learning and the discipline and the care is really strong at our school,” Sparkes said. The connection with St Marys Rugby League Club is expected to continue providing students with opportunities to pursue the sport through established pathways. “We’re really appreciative of the support of St Marys and that branding enables kids to say I want to play with that club and go through its pathways, so we’re very grateful for their generosity and the partnership,” Sparkes said. For Sparkes and McKnight, the ultimate goal is seeing students thrive both during their school years and beyond. “To see that kids can be successful in their life, well that’s everything to us,” Sparkes said.

Give your old clothes a new life KEELY MARSH

enrith City Council is inviting residents to attend the Clothing and Textile Recycling Drop-off event on Saturday, September 19. Held at the Kingsway Playing fields in Werrington, the free event gives residents a practical way to throw away clothing and household textiles that are past their glory days.

The event allows for items to be recycled that would otherwise take hundreds of years to break down in landfill. Last year was the largest event to date, with 330 vehicles collectively dropping of more than seven tonnes of clothing and textiles. This is a 94.6 per cent increase in attendance from the event in 2023. Statistics show that 21 per cent of participants said their items would’ve been put in the red bin,

headed for landfill. The event is for a good cause, with an opportunity of unwanted clothing and textile items being recycled for Textile Recyclers Australia (TRA) for free, helping to divert valuable resources from landfill. Items such as clothing, shoes, accessories (belts, bags and hats), and linens (sheets and towels) are welcomed to be recycled. Brand new items (with tags included) are to be donated to

local charities, such as The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter and WestCare Community Services. Personal items such as swimwear, underwear, bras or tights will not be accepted. Anything wet, mouldy or heavily stained will also be rejected. On the day enter the car park off the Kingsway fields, follow signage to the drop-off point and remain in you vehicle as those working will do all the hard work for you.

Where to go on September 19.

Looking to add value to your home? Let us create your future Granny Flat or Studio Free measure and quote from your trusted local builder

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

24/7 Reptile Removal

LOCAL NEWS

Todd laps up new challenge for charity EMILY CHATE

local man will attempt to swim 100 kilometres in 35 hours, all to raise funds for Ocean Heroes. Todd Barlow is no stranger to long distance swimming, in fact last year he managed to swim 67 kilometres over a period of 24 hours. “I did 24 hours last year and when I sat back and reflected on how I went and what I did in training I thought that I could be better than I did last time,” Barlow reflected. “I’ve stretched the goal out to be 100 kilometres. I looked it up and I can only find one or two people in the whole world that have done a pool swim of 100 kilometres. “A lot of people do 100+ kilometres in open water but in a pool, I can only find one or two and I thought

that would put me in a real select group of people if I could actually achieve that.” Throughout the 35 hours, Barlow will only stop for minimal bathroom and nutrition breaks. Barlow has been training since May which gives him a total of six months to prepare for the mammoth swim. “When I did the 24-hour swim I learnt a lot,” he said. “One thing I did learn was that I needed to make sure I did a lot of land exercises, particularly for my arms. “This time around I’ve gone back to an old strength and conditioning coach that I used to work with, and another thing is more kilometres in the pool. For September, I’m trying to swim 200 kilometres.” Barlow is doing the swim to

raise money for Ocean Heroes, an organisation that provides free surf programs to neurodivergent children. “They take kids out and teach them to surf and catch their first wave. It’s a good cause,” Barlow said. Barlow’s swim will take place across Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15 at the Des Renford Leisure Centre in Maroubra. “Although it is just me, I feel like I’m representing Penrith and western Sydney and I’m going over to the eastern suburbs and swimming in their pool,” he laughed. To donate to the cause, visit ht t ps://w w w.g ivenow.com.au/ todd-barlow-100km. To keep up to date with Barlow’s effort or to sponsorship him, visit @ barlowtodd on Instagram.

Todd Barlow getting his reps in.

See you at the

Clothing and Textile Recycling Free Drop-off Event* Saturday ʤʬ ˆ˘ˣ˧˘ˠ˕˘˥, 9am-3.30pm The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington ʻ˘˟ˣ ˞˘˘ˣ ˩˔˟˨˔˕˟˘ ˥˘˦ˢ˨˥˖˘˦ ˢ˨˧ ˢ˙ ˟˔ˡ˗˙˜˟˟ ˕ˬ ˕˥˜ˡ˚˜ˡ˚ ˬˢ˨˥ ˨ˡ˪˔ˡ˧˘˗ ˖˟ˢ˧˛˜ˡ˚ʟ ˔˖˖˘˦˦ˢ˥˜˘˦ ʛ˕˘˟˧˦ʟ ˦˖˔˥˩˘˦ʟ ˛˔ˡ˗˕˔˚˦ʜ ˔ˡ˗ ˟˜ˡ˘ˡ ˧ˢ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ˙˥˘˘ ˧˘˫˧˜˟˘ ˥˘˖ˬ˖˟˜ˡ˚ ˗˥ˢˣʠˢ˙˙ ˘˩˘ˡ˧ʔ ʼ˧˘ˠ˦ ˗˥ˢˣˣ˘˗ʠˢ˙˙ ˢˡ ˧˛˘ ˗˔ˬ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˥˘˖ˬ˖˟˘˗ ˪˜˧˛ ˇ˘˫˧˜˟˘ ˅˘˖ˬ˖˟˘˥˦ ʴ˨˦˧˥˔˟˜˔ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˠ˔˗˘ ˜ˡ˧ˢ ˡ˘˪ ˜˧˘ˠ˦ ˦˨˖˛ ˔˦ ˕˟˔ˡ˞˘˧˦ʟ ˙˟ˢˢ˥ ˥˨˚˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˧ˢ˧˘ ˕˔˚˦ʡ ʝ˂ˡ˟ˬ ˖˟˘˔ˡʟ ˗˥ˬ ˜˧˘ˠ˦ ˔˖˖˘ˣ˧˘˗ʡ ʹ˜ˡ˗ ˧˛˘ ˙˨˟˟ ˟˜˦˧ ˢ˙ ˔˖˖˘ˣ˧˘˗ ˜˧˘ˠ˦ ˢˡ ˧˛˘ ˪˘˕˦˜˧˘ ˕˘˟ˢ˪ʡ

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

STAGE SET FOR FUTURE KEELY MARSH

selection of lucky local high school students have attended a production of ‘The Lion King’ at the Capitol Theatre, and given an opportunity to get up close and personal with the team behind it. Post-show students took part in an exclusive Q&A with cast and crew, exploring pathways within the arts industry. The opportunity came as part of The Smith Family’s SmArts program, one of the charity’s career education-focused programs for students experiencing disadvantage. The experience gave student Alyssa a look at the community involved in performing and she said she enjoyed her time there. “I thought the show was so good, the culture was very alive – I learned a lot,” Alyssa said. “It definitely made me feel like I want a career in theatre. It felt like a community working there and it’s very inspiring, seeing the costumes and the make-up. Everyone was working together – it was just like a family.” The SmArts program provides students in Years 8 to 12 interested in creative arts with opportunities to partake in creative arts workshops, and career/educational advice from industry professionals. This program delivered by The Smith Family aims to increase students’ professional network, career and tertiary studies as well as their career aspirations. The program runs in partnership with Disney, which has been supporting The Smith Family since 2017. They have provided nearly

The Q&A panel after ‘The Lion King’.

1900 theatre tickets, donated laptops and facilitated multiple educational opportunities for students. Disney’s contribution to The Smith Family has impacted around 4300 students. Local student Pesi expressed having an interest in creative arts and performing and thanks to the experience takes this as motivation to be a star on the stage. “Before today I had an interest in creative arts and performing. Today motivated me because I pictured myself on the stage,” Pesi said. “Every student should experience this once in their lifetime – it’s motivating.” Programs like this are important to schools

and students as research shows students from disadvantaged backgrounds are leaving school before Year 12 with fewer early school leavers staying connected to work or study. For another student Allysa, the day showed her what other areas of work there is in the creative arts industry, inspiring her to want to play and produce more music. “I was interested in playing in a band and being part of the crew. I saw that music was an important part of the production, and it made me want to do it more,” she said. “[Careers education] is really good because it shows us the different opportunities we have in the future.” Resident director of ‘The Lion King’ and

facilitator of the Q&A Dean Drieberg, spoke to the students about knowledge building within the industry, explaining how much content is out there for students to discover. “We have so much access through the Internet to learn about the industry and learn about the roles and the craft,” Drieberg said. “There is a lot you can do to build your knowledge [of the industry] before you can even step into the room.” The program is designed for students interested in creative arts and increases their self-confidence and provides students with opportunities like attending a performance, talks with industry experts and allows them to expand their connections.

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

Building community resilience and keeping residents safe is a responsibility that Penrith City Council takes seriously. Ahead of EmergencyRedi Week (September 14-20), Council is supporting this national campaign that urges everyone to plan for disasters before they strike. Led by the Australian Red Cross, this campaign brings together organisations and services to help communities prepare for any emergency. By understanding local risks, connecting with one another, and taking practical steps to prepare, we can strengthen our shared knowledge and keep our community safe. The Penrith community has experienced serious floods and fires, and we know how disruptive and damaging emergencies can be. Whether it’s extreme weather or an unexpected house fire, being prepared looks different for every household. Council has a dedicated web page that offers simple advice, a range of helpful resources, and links to other trusted sites. Visit www.penrith.city/emergency-ready to access this information. This page also links to the Penrith Emergency Dashboard, another valuable

tool that provides real-time updates on emergencies, roadwork, and fire and weather warnings. It also includes a digital map and key agency contacts. You can access it directly at disasterdashboard. penrith.city. Council’s work delivers on the goals and actions of our Resilient Penrith Action Plan 2021-30, by helping to reduce risks and ensuring our community feels informed, supported and ready to respond when challenges arise. One of Council’s latest initiatives engaged more than 60 residents from flood-prone caravan park communities along the Nepean River. With funding from the Australian and NSW Governments, we partnered with NSW SES, Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network and other local services to deliver targeted emergency preparedness sessions between October 2025 and June 2026. We are always exploring new ways to support our community to prepare. As we move into the warmer months, Council is launching a new Emergency Ready video series, with short and practical videos rolling out on Council’s social media channels from next week.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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LOCAL NEWS

HSC conquered, now teen set to release first book

Rail tales on the right track for passionate local writer

EMILY CHATE

KEELY MARSH

recent local HSC graduate has put pen to paper and written a novel. 19-year-old Giorgio Avgerinos graduated from St Paul’s Grammar School at the end of last year with more than a HSC mark, he was working on his first book. Avgerinos’ debut novel is called Helpless Howard. “The book is about this guy named Howard, and once a year, every year, he gets abducted by a mysterious being,” Avgerinos said. “His life unravels as he tries and tries to stop it from happening. He has a job, but he leaves his job, he goes to the desert and tries to escape but gets indoctrinated by a cult because they promise him that they have something that’s going to save him. Whatever he tries doesn’t work. “Eventually he decides that if he can’t fix it, he is just going to let it happen. Once he does that, he’s able to turn his life around and he starts to become a better person.” Like many good ideas, the premise came to Avgerinos when he was sleeping. “I had a really weird dream and that’s where the idea came from. The dream was pretty much the premise of the book,” Avgerinos laughed. “Eventually, in the dream, it was happening because he did something wrong to this person who wanted revenge, so they kidnapped him every year. I didn’t really like that, so I’ve changed it around to give it a different ending.” Recently, Avgerinos returned to St Paul’s to donate a copy of his book to the library.

Giorgio Avgerinos. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“That was cool!” he said. Now, Avgerinos is working on his second novel, which has a plot just as out there as his first one. “There is a guy who is down on his luck, and he has put all of his eggs into one basket because he made this machine that is super life like,” Avgerinos began. “He tries to sell it, and no one wants it unless they can make a modification to it that he’s not happy with. His life deteriorates and he loses his jobs and he decides to let them make the alteration. “He becomes rich and famous but he’s not happy and feels the guilt of changing it and things start to go down again.” Helpless Howard will be available to purchase on Amazon.

or Thornton Park Retirement Village resident Neville Pollard, his lifelong passion for railways remains on track. At an age where many people are beginning to put their feet up and take life a little easier, the spirited 80-year-old has recently released his latest book, Corowa to Kywong 18921929. It’s the third of a series, charting the development of railways across New South Wales’ Riverina region and the communities that grew alongside them. Pollard was a former history and geography teacher, spending 17 years in Riverina schools, making his latest release about far more than tracks and trains. He wants to ensure that the stories of regional towns, farming families and the industries that shaped the Riverina are not forgotten. “Much of that history is disappearing,” Pollard said. “I wanted to record how the railways helped build communities and supported generations of people living

and working across the region.” Pollard wrote the majority of his book from his Penrith lounge room, with decades of research, travel and lived experience, the book repre-

transformed into a lifelong passion and in retirement a renewed sense of purpose. In his latest book, Pollard explores the so-called “railways to nowhere” built across the Riverina in the late

Neville trainspotting.

Neville’s latest release.

sents more than 15 years of work dedicated to preserving an important chapter of Australian history. He became captivated with railways when he was just four-years-old, growing up in Sydney’s Regents Park, where he spent hours watching steam trains pass behind the family home and quizzing his mother about where they were headed. The early curiosity

19th and early 20th centuries. Extensive research showed Pollard that these lines were not constructed to serve isolated towns, but instead ensure wheat farmers could transport their grain to market and sustain their livelihoods. Pollard’s book Corowa to Kywong 1892-1929 is available to purchase online by going to https://arhsnsw. com.au.

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choc coconut craze with the launch of Choc Coconut Hydraglow. Combining the smooth, indulgent taste of chocolate and coconut with all four key electrolytes, Collagen Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, the newest Hydraglow flavour takes the trend beyond refreshment alone, supporting hydration, recovery and glowing skin from within. Choc Coconut joins Strawberry Watermelon, Berry Frost and Lemon Lime in The Collagen Co’s growing Hydraglow range, available at www. thecollagen.co. Sherbet Fizz (Smooth milk choc with sherbet fizzy chips and waffle cone) and Allen’s Strawberries & Cream (Creamy white choc with fudge and sherbet fizzy chips). Available now in supermarkets.

Δ New doughnuts: Krispy Kreme has launched a new Classic Desserts Collection, turning three familiar desserts into limited-edition doughnuts for September. The range includes Tiramisu, Chocolate Mud Cake and Raspberry Lamington doughnuts, with individual doughnuts priced from $4.80 and a four-pack available for $15.95. The collection is available now through September 29 or while stocks last.

Δ Fun hits the block: Allen’s is shaking up the confectionery aisle with the launch of three new Choc Blocks packed with a chew, a fizz and a crunch. Allen’s is bringing its signature fun and playfulness to an exciting new format, introducing three Choc Blocks designed to bring a little extra joy to everyday moments. The range includes: Allen’s Block Party (Smooth milk choc with fudge pieces, sherbet fizzy chips and Mini Smarties), Allen’s

Δ Starbucks drops new menu: Starbucks

has revealed a new spring menu, with pistachio becoming one of the biggest flavours across its drinks and food range (pictured right). The line-up includes new Pistachio Flavoured Lattes, Pistachio Matcha drinks, Pistachio Hot Chocolate, an Apple Camellia Iced Garden Tea and a Pistachio Donut.

Δ Coconut goes chocolate: Chocolate coconut water has become one of Australia’s most talked-about hydration trends, with the nostalgic flavour combination finding a new audience looking for a more delicious way to hydrate. Now, The Collagen Co is putting its signature beauty-first spin on the

Δ Berry delicious: Penrith brewery Rusty Penny has recently dropped a Strawberry Guava Sour beer. What a fruity delight! Try it now at the brewery on Coreen Avenue. Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about new products, menu changes, store openings and more! Email news@westernweekender. com.au.

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TURNING BACK TIME Taken in around 1914, this photo shows Sidney Wallace Egbert Williams outside his butcher’s shop in St Marys. He was born in 1872 to Joseph and Amelia Williams. He grew up on the family farm at South Creek. He married Ann Holden in 1903. Following the death of his first wife around 1909, he married Annie Colless in July 1910. The family moved to Lithgow before 1920 and he died there in 1946. It is presumed that the family may have been living at Tottenham Park as indicated by the sign in the photograph. The young boy may possibly be Sidney J Williams, Sidney’s son. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

Penrith and St Marys venues experience regular drug dog sweeps, one mistake can become a criminal record

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BUSINESS MATTERS

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

IS YOUR BUSINESS READY FOR EV?

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tially much larger electrical demand. The electrical supply should be assessed before chargers are installed. Adding several chargers without load management can create unnecessary peak demand or require costly electrical upgrades. NSW Government guidance recommends assessing a commercial building’s available electrical capacity and likely charging requirements before deciding on infrastructure. Smart charging systems can help by sharing available capacity between vehicles and controlling when charging occurs. Businesses with rooftop solar have another opportunity. Employee, customer or fleet vehicles parked during the day can absorb surplus solar that might otherwise

LORENZO TASSONE Director of Good Earth Group Pty Ltd Penrith Chamber Board Member

be exported to the grid. Batteries and time-of-use electricity contracts can provide flexibility. Public charging should also be considered as a customer experience. Reliability, payment systems, parking time and pricing are just as important as speed. For most businesses, the starting point should be the use case: who will charge, how long will they stay and how much energy will they need?

orget doubling your business. What if you just made it 1% better? One of my favourite business strategies is the Power of One. The idea is simple: small improvements across a handful of financial levers can create a surprisingly big result. There are seven places to look: Price. Volume. Cost of Sales. Overheads. Debtor Days. Creditor Days. WIP or Stock Days. Take a business turning over $1 million. Increase prices by just 1%, without losing customers, and that’s potentially another $10,000 in revenue. With little additional cost, much of it can drop straight to profit. Reduce your cost of sales by 1%. Negotiate harder, reduce waste, improve purchasing or tighten job management.

Cut overheads by 1%. Find the subscriptions, inefficiencies and expenses that have quietly crept in. Then there’s volume. Sell 1% more. But be careful here. More sales only help if your margins are right. Selling more of something that barely makes money simply creates more work. And selling more at a loss? Congratulations, you’ve just found a faster way to go broke. The final three are cashflow gold. Reduce debtor days by 1 day. Get customers paying faster. Increase creditor days by 1 day, where appropriate. Keep your cash longer without damaging supplier relationships. Reduce WIP or stock days by 1 day. Turn work and inventory into invoices and cash sooner.

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.

None of these changes sounds revolutionary. That’s precisely the point. Your challenge: Take these seven areas and calculate what a 1% or 1 day improvement in each could mean for your business. Then pick one. Improve it. Measure it. Then move to the next. Hint: Start with price. It’s usually the easiest and most powerful profit lever. If that’s not right for you, tackle cost of sales next. Financially unshakeable businesses aren’t necessarily built through massive breakthroughs. Sometimes, they’re built 1% at a time. Don’t underestimate the power of this strategy.

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s electric vehicles become commonplace, EV charging is becoming a business infrastructure question, not simply a household one. For businesses, there are several reasons to consider installing chargers. They can support employees who drive electric vehicles, provide a service for customers, help electrify company fleets and, in some locations, create another source of revenue. The right charger depends on how the site is used. A 7kW or 22kW AC charger can be suitable where a vehicle will remain parked for several hours, such as an office, workshop, hotel or club. Faster DC charging may make more sense where vehicles need to turn around quickly, but it brings higher equipment costs and poten-

Practical strategies. More profit. Stronger businesses.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

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FUNERALS

ANDERSON, Robert Bruce “Bob” Passed away 30th August,2026, aged 97 years. Loving husband of Thelma for 69 years. Wonderful father of Bruce & Craig. Fond father-in-law of Kathy. Much loved Grandpa of Blake, Jarod & Shianne. Great Grandpa to Archer & Macey.

The Funeral Service celebrating Bob’s life will be held at The North Chapel, Pinegrove Memorial Park, Minchinbury, on Monday, 21st September, 2026, commencing at 11am & afterwards at Penrith RSL Club for refreshments.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

Women’s Health Week SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

Make yourself a top priority

omen’s Health Week is an important reminder for women of all ages to take time out from busy schedules and put their own health and wellbeing first. From preventative health checks and reproductive health to fitness, mobility, dental care and mental wellbeing, look-

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ing after your health is about more than responding when something goes wrong. Small, proactive steps can make a significant difference to long-term health. Women are encouraged to stay up to date with regular health checks and seek professional advice when they notice changes in their body. Organisations such as Family Planning NSW and Penrith Women’s Health Centre provide valuable services, information and support to help women make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. Staying active is another important part of maintaining good health at every stage of life. Whether recovering from an injury, managing aches and pains or simply wanting to move better, Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre can help women remain active and confident. Building strength, flexibility and mobility can also support everyday wellbeing. Local options including StretchLab Penrith and Jem Pilates offer different approaches to movement, helping women prioritise their physical health in ways that suit their individual lifestyle and goals. Good health also includes looking after your smile. Regular dental check-ups and preventative care are an important part of overall wellbeing, with Omega Dental helping local women stay on top of their oral health. This Women’s Health Week, make yourself a priority. Book the appointment you’ve been putting off, get moving, schedule a check-up or simply take some time to focus on feeling your best.

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

Women’s Health Week SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

Women’s muscle health: The missing piece in your movement routine

ou can be strong and still be tight. You can be fit and still lack mobility. And you can exercise regularly while your muscles are not recovering as well as they should. For women, muscle health is not simply about strength. It is about the ability of muscles and joints to move, lengthen, contract, recover and perform efficiently throughout every stage of life. Exercise, prolonged sitting, repetitive movement, stress, inadequate recovery and age-related changes can all contribute to muscular tightness and reduced range of movement. Over time, this can influence how comfortably we walk, exercise and perform everyday activities. “Women are often very good at looking after everyone else, but their own physical wellbeing can become an afterthought. Muscle health deserves attention before restricted movement becomes a limitation. Strength, mobility and recovery should all have a place in a woman’s

health routine,” owner of StretchLab Penrith Charu Kotera said. Stretching is not one-sizefits-all Static stretching involves taking a muscle to a comfortable length and holding the position. Consistent stretch-

ing can help maintain and improve flexibility. PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) combines a controlled muscular contraction with assisted stretching. When appropriately applied, it can be used to work on range of movement through a structured neuromuscular

approach. Why assisted stretching? Stretching alone can be difficult. Positioning, balance, stabilisation and relaxation all have to happen simultaneously. With assisted stretching, a trained Flexologist supports and positions the body while guiding it through controlled movement. This provides a level of external assistance that is difficult to reproduce on your own and allows you to focus on relaxing and moving through the stretch. At StretchLab Penrith, static and PNF-based techniques can form part of an individualised approach to mobility and recovery, complementing strength training, regular movement, nutrition, hydration and rest. Because the goal isn’t simply to become stronger. It is to build a body that is strong enough to perform, mobile enough to move, and well cared for enough to keep doing what you love. Your muscles work for you every day. It’s time to work on them.

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

Women’s Health Week SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

Supporting women’s health and wellbeing in Penrith

or nearly 40 years, Penrith Women’s Health Centre has been part of the local community, supporting women with accessible, women-centred health and wellbeing services. Women’s Health Week is an opportunity to highlight the importance of looking after both physical and mental health, and to remind women that support is available within their local community. Women’s health needs can change throughout life, from reproductive and sexual health, pregnancy and menopause to mental health, relationships and healthy ageing. Looking after our health also means recognising when we need support and knowing where to find it. Penrith Women’s Health Centre provides a range of services including women’s health nursing, contraception advice, cervical screening, diabetes education, counselling

massage. Support and referrals are also available for women experiencing domestic and family violence, which can have a significant impact on both physical and emotional wellbeing. Staying connected and having opportunities to meet other women can also play an important role in maintaining good mental health. The centre offers activities such as yoga and massage, as well as the Wonderful Wise Women group, which provides older women with an opportunity to connect, socialise and help reduce isolation. This Women’s Health Week, women across Penrith are encouraged to make their health a priority, whether that means booking a health check, taking time for wellbeing, connecting with others or reaching out for support. Every woman deserves access to the care, connection and support she needs to live well.

SEE ALL EVENTS HERE Penrith Women’s Health Centre offers groups, seminars and workshops for ALL women across the Penrith region. Check out the different events offered below:

EMPOWER HOUR

MINDFULNESS FOR RESILIENCE

CHAIR YOGA

Discover diversity in movement Mondays 10am $10 per session Melrose Hall, Emu Plains

Reduce stress and enhance wellbeing Mondays 11:30am Free Online

Move, stretch and thrive Mondays 11am $10 per session Melrose Hall, Emu Plains

MIND & BODY WELLNESS

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Yoga, meditation & self-care Thursdays 10:30am Free Penrith Women’s Health Centre

Social group for culturally diverse older women Thursdays in term time 10am Thornton Community Centre

Designed for healthcare & community workers Mondays 10am Free Penrith Women’s Health Centre

Penrith Women’s Health Centre welcomes women of all demographics, and strives to provide an inclusive, supportive space for all women in our service area.

Please get in touch via 4721 0849 or hello@pwhc.org.au 30

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

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Women’s Health Week SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

Support for every stage

omen’s Health Week runs from September 7-11 under the theme ‘do it anyway’, and Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre is reminding local women pelvic health belongs on the to-do list. For many women, a leaky bladder, pelvic pain or the aches of pregnancy get filed under “just something you put up with”. At the practice – treating western Sydney backs, knees and shoulders since 1989 – the message is simple: you don’t have to. “Most women who come to us have been managing something quietly for years before they mention it to anyone,” said practice partner and pelvic health physiotherapist Emily Standen. “It’s rarely as complicated to treat as they’ve feared.” Alongside sports, musculoskeletal, vestibular and paediatric work, the practice runs a dedicated pelvic health service. Sessions run a full hour in private rooms, using specialised assessment tools to show women how their pelvic floor is working. Conditions treated are broader than many realise: bladder and bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, endometriosis and persistent pelvic pain, alongside pregnancy-related concerns such as pelvic girdle pain. Postnatal

care covers abdominal separation and pelvic floor rehabilitation, plus symptoms resurfacing during menopause. Leading the service is Emily Standen, an APA-Titled Pelvic Health Physiotherapist with 14 years’ experience and a Master’s degree in Pelvic Health, joined by Sarah Brown, who has postgraduate pelvic health training. No GP referral needed. Book the appointment, ask the questions, and don’t just put up with it. Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre is located at 119–121 Lethbridge Street, Penrith. Call 4721 5567.

Emily Standen.

Support For Every Stage of Women’s Health Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre provides specialised Women’s Health and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy, from pain management, pregnancy and post-natal recovery through to menopause and beyond. Experienced Physiotherapists Emily Standen and Sarah Brown offer personalised, evidence-based care for pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, endometriosis, pregnancy-related discomfort and pelvic floor dysfunction, in a private and supportive environment. With thorough personalised assessments and practical treatment plans, you’ll receive the knowledge and support to feel more confident in your body.

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119 - 121 Lethbridge Street, Penrith | (02) 4703 7213

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

Women’s Health Week SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

Ready to grow your business? Let’s have a conversation.

Scan the QR code to find the best Weekender representative to help your business.

Family Planning Australia Penrith’s 30-year milestone

amily Planning Australia, a leading provider of sexual and reproductive healthcare in NSW, has been providing care in Penrith for nearly 30 years. The current clinic at 13 Reserve Street Penrith opened in 1997 to meet local demand for these services. “We’re a place for people of all ages, genders, cultures

and backgrounds to receive evidence-based information, support and clinical care. We offer a wide range of services including contraception, cervical screening, STI checks, menopause care and medical abortion,” Family Planning Australia Medical Lead Dr Lucy Cho said. Once known as The Warehouse, the clinic started as

a youth health centre and was a popular spot for young people. If you’re under 29, you can still drop into the Penrith clinic on Thursdays from 1pm without an appointment. “We pride ourselves on being a safe space and welcome everyone to drop in and have a chat. We’ve been around so long that we feel like part of the community and would love to keep providing care to anyone who needs help in this area,” Dr Cho said. Visit the Family Planning Australia website at www. fpnsw.org.au to find the full list of services the Penrith clinic offers. Appointments can be made by calling 1300 372 372. For free, confidential advice and information on sexual and reproductive health issues, Family Planning Australia encourages people to reach out to its Talkline on 1300 658 886 or through the online chat on their website. Visit www.fpnsw.org.au or scan the QR code below.

PENRITH Family Planning Australia in Penrith is a leading provider in reproductive and sexual health services offering:

SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES

Opening hours

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:00pm YOUTH DROP-IN CLINIC:

No Appointment Needed! Every Thursday: 1:00pm-5:00pm Open to all young people aged 29 and under.

1300 372 372 13 Reserve Street Penrith NSW 2750

fpnsw.org.au

Got a question? Ask us! Call Talkline 1300 658 886

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• Contraception including IUDs and implants • Cervical screening • Sexually transmissible infections (STI) testing and treatment • Medical abortion • Common gynaecological and vaginal problems • Pregnancy tests BOOK AN • Puberty APPOINTMENT • Period problems • Menopause • Breast health awareness

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1300 372 372 Have a free confidential chat with a nurse on Talkline, our web chat line at fpnsw.org.au/talkline

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

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enrith and Eastern Suburbs have met five times at the pointy end of the season, and the record is telling. Four wins for the Panthers, just one for the Roosters. They’d never met in a Finals game before the 2003 Grand Final, and we know how that turned out. And while the Roosters got the chocolates in the 2010 Finals, the Panthers have won the three games since then – in 2014, 2020 and 2024. It’s why the Roosters got so much out of beating Penrith 12-6 back in mid-August. Proof, perhaps, that despite Penrith’s dominance of these east versus west rivalries in recent times, Ivan Cleary’s side is beatable. That win at CommBank Stadium in Round 24 must feel like an age ago for Trent Robinson. The side has lost three straight games since

Broadcast

then – including to the lowly Wests Tigers – and halfback Sam Walker suffered a serious injury that will see Robinson’s side relying on veteran halfback Dally Cherry-Evans to guide the team through the Finals in his farewell year in the NRL. Penrith meanwhile has kicked since then. Wins over Melbourne, Canterbury and the Tigers saw the Panthers claim the Minor Premiership and hit winning form at the right time of the season. As I suggested at the time, losing that game against the Roosters was a godsend. Penrith will have learned the lessons required in the defeats to both the Roosters and the Warriors during that period and will be better for it during the Finals. Sometimes things just land in your favour and I think that’s certainly the case for Penrith this weekend. Last weekend saw Mitch Kenny and Isaah Yeo return, both with managed workloads, and it means Penrith goes into this Finals showdown

with a few cobwebs cleared and their best side on the park. The 4pm timeslot in warmer conditions would have also helped last week. It’ll be a rinse and repeat scenario for this Sunday’s game and Penrith will be well prepared for the conditions. The Roosters of course rested a huge chunk of their top players against Souths, so there’s very little to take out of the lop-sided scoreline. Robinson was clearly aiming for a reset once the Minor Premiership was out of reach and he’d be very much leaning into the mantra of the Finals being an all-new competition. I’m expecting a high quality game on Sunday. You don’t finish in the top four without ticking a lot of boxes and both these sides have been consistent enough this season to comfortably finish inside the four. For me, the biggest weakness in the Roosters is their error rate. They actually topped the competition in errors this year with 300 – more than the likes of the Eels and Titans.

And their average completion rate sits at 78 per cent, the ninth best in the competition. On paper, Penrith will therefore be given more than enough chances to turn opportunities into points at CommBank Stadium on Sunday afternoon. It’ll just be a matter of converting those moments. And moments is indeed what games like this often come down to. I have no idea what Ivan Cleary and his coaching staff have settled on as their theme for this year’s Finals (something they’ve done during this era of success). But I suspect it has a lot to do with reclaiming what is theirs, after the run of Premierships was broken last year. With that mindset, and with the strong form leading into this one, I can’t see the Panthers getting beaten on Sunday. The Roosters will give a fair show, but the class and big game DNA of the Panthers should be enough to book them a Preliminary Final spot. Tip: Panthers by 8.

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

FE ATURE

What a difference a year makes NATHAN TAYLOR

2 months ago, Tom Jenkins had to lie to reporters. On the eve of the NRL Finals last year, the winger was delivered the disappointing news by Panthers coach Ivan Cleary that he would not be selected in Penrith’s team for their Elimination Final against the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland. Paul Alamoti would get the gig for the do-or-die clash and for Penrith’s next two Finals matches, with Cleary declaring Jenkins not ready to play on the big stage. Moments after Jenkins was told the news by coach Cleary, he had to front reporters at the Panthers Academy to talk about the upcoming Finals Series. Only Jenkins and a small group of people knew he wouldn’t be named in the team that afternoon, but the man everyone calls “Milky”

had to lie to journalists and pretend he was suiting up on the weekend as the team hadn’t been officially announced to the public yet. Speaking to the media on Tuesday morning, Jenkins said it’s incredible to think how much his fortunes have changed in the space of a year. “Looking back to this time last year, it was naturally tough but it’s just part of footy and everyone understands that,” he said. “As players, you understand tough conversations are things you have to have. It was more what’s best for the team at the time. “Obviously, it takes some time to understand that but, after two days, I understood why Ivan made that decision and even more now I can reflect and know that I wasn’t at my best and Pauly [Alamoti] was so deserving to be there over me.” Since last year’s Finals setback, Jenkins has been one of Penrith’s best this season. Not only did the talented winger top

Penrith’s try scoring tally for 2026 but he topped the NRL’s too with a whopping 30 tries for the season. Heading into last Sunday’s game against the Tigers, Jenkins needed two tries in that game to tie Alex Johnston on 30 tries for the year. Fortunately for Jenkins he scored a spectacular double in the first half and will now share the Ken Irvine Medal for most tries scored in the regular season with the legendary Rabbitohs flyer. “At half-

Tom Jenkins chatting with Nathan Taylor this week. Photo: Melinda Jane.

time most people would be thinking I was going to get another try and get the record outright, but it’s so cool to be able to share it with AJ. He’s such a quality player, I enjoy watching him,” Jenkins told Extra Time. “The record wasn’t massively on my mind heading into the game. I more just wanted to put out a good performance.” It’s understood the NRL will produce two Ken Irvine Medals to hand out to both players on Dally M Medal night, however Jenkins wouldn’t be opposed to Johnston keeping it if only one is made. “He’s played less games than me this season, so he’s probably more deserving,” Jenkins admitted. “If it comes down to that then he can have it, if that’s what needs to happen. He’s such a quality player.” Most of Jenkins’ 30 tries this season were pure brilliance. While many wingers score by just falling over the tryline, Jenkins produced some scintillating tries that will be remembered for many years to come. Jenkins said he was never a fan of scoring “cheap tries” and was glad none of his teammates put him over for any easy ones to get him the record last Sunday.

Tom Jenkins scoring a spectacular try last Sunday. Photo: NRL Images.

“I didn’t want anyone to run away and pass it to me in the in-goal. I just wanted tries that I earned and if I got them, I got them, if I didn’t, I didn’t,” he said. Jenkins will be looking to add to his try scoring tally this Sunday afternoon when he lines up for the Panthers in their Qualifying Final against the Sydney Roosters at CommBank Stadium.

“It’s a big occasion and a really exciting time” In some exciting and relieving news, the 25-year-old has been named by Cleary to make his Finals debut, and he couldn’t be more pumped for the occasion. “It’s a big occasion and a really exciting time!” Jenkins said. “I guess this time of year is one that you look forward to the most and it’s going to be a really exciting challenge, a good challenge and I’m just happy to be a part of it.”

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FE ATURE

Garner’s late Father’s Day present NATHAN TAYLOR

the field after games or at training – it seems like a really cool moment to share with them,” Garner said. “To be able to do that

Soon to be Dad, Luke Garner. Photo: NRL Photos.

over the next couple of years will be special.” Season 2026 has been a rollercoaster one for Garner. While he’ll enjoy the highest

of highs in the coming days, he’s also experienced the lowest of lows through injury. In late June, Garner suffered a concussion at training that kept him sidelined for eight weeks. While the concussion wasn’t overly bad according to him, repeated head knocks over his career along with a pesky ankle issue saw him miss considerable playing time. “It wasn’t just the concussion… that wasn’t that bad. I had some other ankle stuff going on but everything’s sweet now and I’m back,” said Garner, who’s now wearing a headgear in games. “I didn’t want to miss any games, but I missed a few weeks. It’s always nice being back amongst it and playing in a good team.” There’s no better time to be back playing again than during the NRL Finals. Over the coming weeks, the former Tiger will be chasing his third premiership in four years – a huge feat for someone who played no Finals footy before arriving at Penrith. “I obviously wanted to be back for this end of the year stuff – it’s the best time of the year and it’s the Finals,” Garner said. “To be there in the big games, competing in the do-or-die games is what you want to play in.”

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remiership-winning Panthers star Luke Garner is gearing up for the biggest week of his life. Not only will the back-rower turned centre line-up in Penrith’s Qualifying Final against the Sydney Roosters this Sunday afternoon, but his wife Ash is due to deliver the couple’s first baby very soon. Speaking with the media on Tuesday morning, the 31-year-old said he’s got a lot on his mind right now. “My baby is due at any moment – it’s super exciting!” Garner revealed. “Obviously I’ve got a lot going on at the moment with football, Finals, baby, so I’m very occupied at football and away from football. It’s keeping me busy but it’s all good things.” Garner’s wife is officially due to give birth on Friday, with the soon-to-be dad confident he’ll be available to tackle the Roosters on Sunday at CommBank Stadium. “We’ve got some contingencies in place, so the baby will be coming before the game… I’m playing,” Garner declared. When Garner’s new bundle of joy is eventually born, he says his life will finally feel complete. After watching many of his Panthers

teammates parent kids over the years, he’s also desperately wanted a piece of the action. “I’ve been so envious of the players getting their babies and children on

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 10, 2026

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with The Masked Panther

Western Sydney in the cold NRL ignoring the west? The Panthers may have finished on top of the competition, but the NRL still looks set to leave western Sydney out in the cold during the Finals. It held its Finals media launch in the city on Monday morning, and its Grand Final Lunch has also been locked in for the ICC Theatre in Sydney. Every indication is that the traditional Fan Fest will return, and will again be in the city. Given so much of rugby league’s fan base is in the west of Sydney, and with the Panthers and Warriors flying high, it’s time head office spread the love.

The Finals media launch in the city. Photo: NRL Photos.

of Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo were not available for interviews at Tuesday’s media session. Kayo on the rise: Foxtel and Kayo are reporting huge growth this year as the regular season reaches its conclusion. It comes as confirmation was received last week that Fox League will be re-branded as Kayo League next year. Panthers captain Isaah Yeo was among those attending Foxtel Media’s upfronts last week – pictured here with Yvonne Sampson.

Extra Time set for re-brand: The Western Weekender’s rugby league coverage will have an all-new look and feel next season. And it’s also got a new name, with the Extra Time brand to be retired at the end of the season. Panthers News will launch in 2027, and will remain a pull-out in the centre of the paper along with a stand-alone Digital Edition. To complement the new concept, a new website has also launched – www.panthersnews.com. au. The site is already up and running in Beta mode and draws on the Weekender’s Panthers content, plus will feature exclusive new content like a tipping competition. Get ready for Panthers News! Spotted: Daily Telegraph journalist Brent Read making a rare appearance at a Panthers media session this week.

Panthers honour Old Boys: It was great to see so many former Panthers players turn out for Sunday afternoon’s clash against the Wests Tigers. The club gifted them all a replica of the heritage jumper the side wore on the day, in tribute to the late John Farragher. Plenty of Old Boys turned up – reliving the glory days with a few beers, good conversation and a huge reception from the crowd. Lease your seat: The Panthers are set to allow ticketed members to re-sell their seat if they can’t make a game at Helloworld Stadium next year. It’s a good concept commonly employed around the world. But here’s a twist – I’m told the seller will not get the money for the ticket. Instead, they’ll get a merchandise voucher.

Standing room only: Here’s something interesting in regards to seating at Helloworld Stadium next year. The first seating map I’ve seen shows the hills as “North Standing” and “South Standing”. I’ve confirmed that Venues NSW is set to ban camp chairs from the hills. Picnic blankets are set to survive. Meantime, it appears all seats next year will be ticketed – there will be no General Admission area in either grandstand. But here’s a big win for General Admission members: season tickets will be cheaper per game in 2027 than the last two seasons. Accessible seating memberships are being increased in number. Lindsay the tradie: Could Lindsay Smith have already sorted his career after football? I’m told he’s quite handy on the tools and has taken the lead in his recent house renovation. Sorensen gets early wake-up call: Penrith sent departing

forward Scott Sorensen to Monday morning’s Finals launch, giving Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo a sleep-in after the side’s win over the Tigers on Sunday afternoon. I’m told the NRL was a little unhappy. Perhaps they should have held the media call in Penrith. Tradition remains: I’m told that John Farragher’s son Jake will present the John Farragher Award for Courage and Determination at this year’s Merv Cartwright Medal in October. John always took great pride in selecting the player to win the award each year.

Discounts gone: Members discounts at Penrith Stadium are officially a thing of the past. With Venues NSW now in charge of the venue, there is no sign of the long-standing food and beverage discounts returning. Table topper: Congratulations to Kane Towns from Towns Cranes, who topped the Western Weekender Celebrity Tipsters this year. Towns dominated the competition throughout, finishing six points clear of his nearest rival. Kane is off to the NRL Grand Final but has something even better – Penrith bragging rights.

Accor for Prelim: The Panthers will be headed to Accor Stadium for their Preliminary Final should they make it that far. The club has already indicated to the NRL they want to play at Sydney Olympic Park for a Grand Final Qualifier, regardless of the opposition. Big names out: The Panthers kept some of their biggest stars out of the media spotlight this week. The likes

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Forget the Logies, it’s the Langs! W ith the regular season now over and the Panthers finishing as Minor Premiers after 27 rounds, it’s time for the remaining eight teams to fight it out to determine who will ultimately win the 2026 NRL Premiership. Panthers will hold its 2026 Merv Cartwright Medal on Tuesday, October 6, but I thought I’d get in early with who I think will win the major categories this year.

Lang on

League with Peter Lang

Merv Cartwright Medal: Nathan Cleary – There really is no other player you can give this accolade to. He already has one hand on the Dally M Player of the Year and after orchestrating many victories for Penrith this season during his 20 appearances, he finished the season with an impressive points 203 points tally made up of six tries, 89 goals and a solitary field goal. Cleary really is simply the best.

Jersey Flagg Player of the Year: Kye Raven – The lock forward was an important part of the Panthers Jersey Flegg side’s success this season as it storms its way towards a Grand Final qualifier. Raven played in 18 games and scored 122 points which includes six tries and 57 goals. A player with a bright future ahead of him.

Nathan Cleary is favourite to win the Merv Cartwright Medal.

Members Player of the Year: Thomas Jenkins – the man nicknamed ‘Milky’ has become a fan favourite. Not only did he tie for the highest number of tries scored with 30 but his aerial acrobatics, solid defence and unassuming nature has made him a household name. Ben Alexander Rookie of the Year: Billy Phillips – After playing only one first grade game in 2025, Phillips added 20 more first grade

matches in a break-out 2026 season. The talented 22 year-old second-rower showed that he wasn’t scared of the tough stuff often tearing into the opposition while adding some fine passing and off-loading skills to his game. NSW Cup Player of the Year: Jaxen Edgar – After being named the official NSW Cup Player of the Year, you could make no other choice really. The dynamic young

Peter Lang Player to watch in 2027: Zakauri Clarke – The second-rower has got first grade written all over him and he can kick goals. Personally I can’t wait to see him in the top-grade next year. The final word: While winning the Minor Premiership is a wonderful achievement, the job is not yet done because winning the 2026 NRL Premiership is the end goal. There’s no doubt Penrith has the players and experience to win its fifth title in six years but no one is going to just hand it to them. To be the best you’ve got to beat the best. It’s a challenge I think the team will rise to.

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John Farragher Award for Courage and Determination: Moses Leota – Leota was a mainstay in the engine room all season playing 23 matches and raking up an average 100 metres a game. Leota is the epitome of a tough, courageous and determined prop forward. Enough said.

fullback with speed to burn played 18 NSW Cup matches scoring 16 tries, 68 tackle breaks, six try assists and 11 line breaks. What a player.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 10, 2026

BEHIND THE GAME

Tago shows leadership qualities

Izack Tago. Photo: Melinda Jane.

fter suffering a knee injury in Round 26 against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Izack Tago remains sidelined but is determined to play his part in Penrith’s push to the big dance. Tago’s knee collided with winger Brian To’o and it is understood he is suffering a medial collateral ligament issue. Tago said this week he was healing well. “It’s been good to be honest,” he said. “I feel like it’s recovering way faster than I expected. I saw what happened, but it just feels way better.” Being in the Finals is no surprise to Tago but since being sidelined he has taken on a new role in the team. “I think it’s just about embracing it and enjoying the occasion,” Tago said. “It’s obviously special and having been there before you know what comes with it, so I think it is just about enjoying it and feeling it out with the boys who haven’t experienced it before and helping them enjoy it too.” Tago holds himself to a high standard

both on and off the field and said he tries to make sure he holds others to that standard as well. “My brothers both play footy too so I grew up within that culture of my house,” Tago said. “I grew up with a lot of boys that play NRL now and so training together and holding each other accountable as we were coming up. “I feel like you look around today and sometimes in some environments it feels like it is not as relevant. But in such a cutthroat environment where there is such a high standard you have to be accountable for what you do and I also hold others accountable which is a tough thing.” To get his mind away from the footy field while he mends his knee, Tago has been spending a lot of time with his nephews. “I live with a few of my nephews. Some of them are a bit older now so it’s nice to take them out,” Tago told Behind the Game. “They do like trains and stuff, so I take them to watch some trains near the tracks. There are some cool spots in the mountains.”

with

Emily Chate Quick Questions Go to coffee order: Doesn’t drink coffee

Cheat meal: T8ste Deez food truck

Favourite movie: ‘V for Vendetta’

Favourite musician: Lucky Dube

Who did you support growing up? Gold Coast Titans

Pet peeve: Messiness

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.

WW59408

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

THE Y S AID IT. . . “I don’t want to put too much thought into it right now. I don’t want to drain that mental energy. I want to put it all into this Finals Series and hopefully make it a special one.” Nathan Cleary on his future, on ‘100% Footy’

“Nobody remembers who wins Minor Premierships, but it’s a hell of an achievement.” Rugby League Insider’s James Hooper

“Unless she was walking by Penrith Park, how did you find the time to meet her?” “It’s so cool to get a trophy and after a long season to be sitting at the top feels pretty good. It just confirms you’ve done a lot of things right.”

Phil Gould asking Nathan Cleary about Mary Fowler

“I’d love to be involved with Origin... I’m trying to chase that up.”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary

Former Panther James Maloney on future coaching opportunities

“When this place is full it’s a great stadium. Hopefully we can fill it right up and put on a pretty good show.”

“It (rugby league) has never been more popular and our fans will be rewarded with a Finals Series filled with highlights from the best athletes on the planet.”

“Credit to Penrith’s medical team. They seem to get players back on the park so quickly. Whatever they are doing it’s working.”

ARLC Chair, Peter V’landys

Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary

footy club

Darcie McDonald

SCOREBOARD Missed last week’s results? Here’s a rundown of what happened in key Penrith Panthers games...

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NRL L ADDER & FIX TURES CLUB

+/-

PTS

Panthers

24 18

683

347

+336

Warriors

24 18

728

418

+310

Dolphins

662

506

+156

Roosters

24 16

619

501

+118

Sharks

672

523

+149

Rabbitohs

694

581

+113

Knights

633

591

+42

Cowboys

568

652

-84

Sea Eagles

623

524

+99

Storm

594

576

+18

Raiders

581

626

-45

Bulldogs

476

536

-60

Eels

497

678

-181

Broncos

471

677

-206

W. Tigers

445

699

-254

Titans

477

663

-186

Dragons

392

717

-325

Face in the C r

Finals Week 1 V

Friday, September 11 7.50pm Allianz Stadium

Saturday, September 12 4.05pm Go Media Stadium

Saturday, September 12 7.50pm Allianz Stadium

Sunday, September 13 4.05pm CommBank Stadium

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IS THIS YOU? Is this you at a recent Panthers game? If it is, you’ve won a $100 Rusty Penny voucher thanks to Rusty Penny Brewing. To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

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

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

FINAL S PRE VIE W S

Can you smell September footy? TROY DODDS

abbitohs v Knights – Friday 7.50pm @ Allianz Stadium South Sydney appear to be hitting form at the right time of the season, and will gain plenty of confidence out of last week’s thrashing of the Roosters, even though the opposition was under-strength. The Rabbitohs’ best chance of going deep into the Finals is if Latrell Mitchell catches fire and produces a series to remember. There is also plenty to be said for the Jai Arrow factor – his incredible fight has

inspired Souths at the back end of the season. Newcastle has produced a stunning turnaround after a disastrous 2025 campaign and coach Justin Holbrook should be commended for the way he’s got the side firing this year. Unfortunately, a horror injury run coupled with suspensions is likely going to prove too much for the Knights here. They’ll be brave, but it’s hard to see them toppling the in-form Rabbitohs. Troy’s Tip: Rabbitohs by 14. Warriors v Dolphins – Saturday 4.05pm @ Go Media Stadium

Cam Murray and Kalyn Ponga. Photo: NRL Photos.

Go Media Stadium will be absolutely pumping on Saturday with Warriors fans daring to dream that this is the year they win their first title. While the Warriors finished within a whisker of claiming the Minor Premiership, coach Andrew Webster would be concerned with the side’s defensive deficiencies this season. There’s definitely a path to an upset here for the Dolphins, who are playing in their first Finals series. Expect the Dolphins to target the Warriors’ shaky left-side defence. That likely means points for the likes of Jamayne Isaako and Jack Bostock.

I think this could end up being one of the highest scoring games of the weekend, but it’ll be the team that gets their defence in order and plays consistent football throughout the 80 minutes that will get the job done. Troy’s Tip: Dolphins by 2 Sharks v Cowboys – Saturday 7.50pm @ Allianz Stadium Cronulla fans are tasked with providing a Shark Park like atmosphere at Allianz Stadium, as the side moves from its traditional home ground for this one. You would expect the Sharks would win this game easily, but their form

Blayke Brailey and Tom Deardon. Photo: NRL Photos.

over the past month has been really concerning. They were flying at one point there and Nicho Hynes was in rare form, but things have fallen away. Both sides would be using the ‘R’ word this week: reset. Forget what’s happened at the back end of the season, the Finals are a new ball game. For me the Cowboys are just conceding too many points, but Cronulla’s form is a real concern – which makes this one hard to pick. I’m siding with the Sharks – they just seem the most likely side to get it together when it matters. Tip: Sharks by 10.

Tom Gilbert and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck. Photo: NRL Photos.

KOALA MOWERS IS COMING TO KINGSWOOD Koala Mowers is opening a brand-new store at 22 Copeland St, Kingswood this month, bringing even more affordable lawn and garden equipment to the Penrith community. As a stand-alone Victa dealership, the new store will stock Victa, Bushranger and Navimow products, giving locals more choice without the hefty price tag. After years of looking after local customers, Koala Mowers is expanding to make quality outdoor power equipment more accessible to the local community they cherish.

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the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, September 10, 2026

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

THE POWER OF ONE MADELINE DANTIER

oni Hazlehurst, a beloved Australian icon of stage and screen, takes the stage once more in ‘The Lark’, an original show written by Daniel Keene and directed by Matt Scholten. The one woman show centres on Rose as she says goodbye to The Lark, a small inner-city pub in Melbourne. Raised there by her father, Rose struggles with the imminent demolition of the building that’s housed her whole life, the walls filled with memories both bitter and sweet. Now in her 70s, she feels bound to The Lark and trapped in her past, desperate to break free. As Rose prepares to farewell the home that shaped her, audiences are invited into

an intimate, deeply personal story about memory, loss and the difficulty of letting go. Through Rose’s memories and reflections, ‘The Lark’ explores the people and places that stay with us long after they’re gone, and asks what happens when the foundations of our past begin to disappear. “Daniel always writes about people who slip through the cracks, people that don’t necessarily get a spotlight shone on them,” Hazlehurst shared. “What appeals to me is that his characters are ordinary and vulnerable, and all of us are ordinary and vulnerable, but a lot of us spend a lot of time and energy pretending that we’re not.” After a 10 year stint touring the critically acclaimed show ‘Mother’, Hazlehurst’s legacy on the stage is far from over.

“We were commissioned to do another production because ‘Mother’ went so well,” Hazlehurst said, “so Daniel went away and came up with a completely new concept, ‘The Lark’.” This being the second one woman show written for her, Hazlehurst’s love for the stage was home grown, as her family performed exclusively on the stage, with her a fourth generation performer. “I just love the human to human interaction. It’s the last art form that is direct from one human being to another that doesn’t come filtered through someone else’s interpretation,” she said. The direct connection between performer and artists is at the heart of ‘The Lark’. With Hazlehurst alone on stage, the show relies on the power of storytelling, and Ha-

zlehurst’s ability to bring Rose’s world to life. The role allows audiences to sit beside a woman confronting grief, the passage of time, and her complicated relationship with the place she calls home. Hazlehurst’s talents stretch far beyond the days of ‘Play School’ and ‘Better Homes and Gardens’. She excels in providing intimate stage performances, drawing the audience into a deeply human and emotional world, with themes that unite us all. With ‘The Lark’, one of Australia’s most enduring performers once again showcases the power of simple storytelling, told from one person to another. ‘The Lark’ is set to come to Riverside Theatre in Parramatta from September 16-27. Tickets are available online.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

S D R O C RE

R E V I R E BY TH Vinyl & CD Collectable Fair at the Orchard 50 TENCH AVENUE, PENRITH

WANTING TO BUY YOUR UNWANTED VINYL RECORDS AND COLLECTIONS Coins, Watches, Cameras, Nintendo, LP Records

A GREAT TIME TO DECLUTTER

PHONE MIKE 0400 675 315 WW59451

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

THINGS TO DO Record Break Attempt @ Elton Chong

Tosca @ The Joan

Four Seasons tribute @ Panthers

Join Pop-Synth band Fathom on Saturday, September 12 as they attempt to break the Guinness World Record for The Most Concerts in 12 Hours. Aiming to beat a record of eight shows last set in 2019, the duo will be performing at Elton Chong at 4.25pm as part of their tour. 50 per cent of all ticket sales are donated to Beyond Blue.

Penrith Symphony Orchestra takes the stage to present the beloved stage opera ‘Tosca’. Set in Rome against the background of the Napoleonic wars, Tosca is offered a terrible bargain, but what will she choose and who will survive? Find out on Saturday, September 12. Tickets are available via www.thejoan.com. au/whats-on/tosca.

The thrilling musical revue, ‘Oh What A Night!’ is coming to Panthers this Friday, September 11. After over 100 sold out shows in Australia, this dynamic performance brings you all the iconic hits from Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Tickets are available at https://penrith.panthers.com.au/event/ohwhat-a-night.

BARGAIN BUYS

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au. Penrith CBD Corporation Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

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.

LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

KASEY, CASEY AND COUNTRY AT PANTHERS MADELINE DANTIER

he EVAN Theatre welcomes country music legend Kasey Chambers, alongside one of Australia’s biggest contemporary country stars Casey Barnes on Saturday, September 19, for a night of energy, storytelling and of course, country music. Coming off the back of a recent album release, and hitting number one on the ARIA charts, Barnes is no stranger to performing live. “Look, we’re pretty high energy... my favourite part of what we do actually is performing live,” Barnes said. Beginning his music journey in the early 2000s, Barnes has made great strides since his youth in Tasmania. Since performing on ‘Australian Idol’ in 2009, Barnes

has released numerous EPs and albums, leading to both national and international success. Now with the release of his newest album ‘Made For This’, Barnes is back touring down under and eager to hit the EVAN Theatre stage. “We actually came out to the EVAN Theatre and shot some of the music video [for ‘Made For This’] inside the theatre... I remember talking to the guys and going ‘This is such a great venue to play at’ and what do you know, we’re actually going to come down and play at the same venue,” Barnes said. When asked about a turning point in his career, Barnes reflected on his experience playing one of biggest country music festivals in the world. While playing a set at Queensland’s CMC Rocks festival, an American

promoter took a liking to Barnes’ sound which resulted in his performance at Stagecoach, held in California’s Coachella Valley. “It had been on my vision board for I guess 10 years, wanting to play that festival. Finally getting to do that was huge,” he said. Keen to share the stage with Chambers again, Barnes looks

back fondly at their working relationship and namesake. “We’ve played on many festival line-ups together. She’s salt of the earth you know, lovely person, huge respect. We always have a good laugh when we play on the same lineup together,” he said. “Anyone that wants to grab tickets and come along to the show,

they’re in for a special night... they’re going to experience all facets of country music.” Whether you’re a lifelong country fan, or just love exhilarating performances, you won’t want to miss this unforgettable evening of country music. Tickets are available at https:// penrith.panthers.com.au.

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

Weekly Meat Raffle from 6pm Cornhole Comp from 7:30pm FRIDAY FRID FR IDAY AY - SUNDAY SUN NDA AY Live & Local Music

4/137 COREEN AVE, PENRITH NSW 2750

WW58821

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

At the movies... PREVIEW

PREVIEW

Coyote vs ACME

Resident Evil

1 hour, 43 minutes

1 hour, 35 minutes

After years of disastrous ACME products thwarting his pursuit of the Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote finally fights back. Teaming up with down-on-his-luck lawyer Kevin Avery, he takes ACME Corporation to court,

facing off against slick attorney Buddy Crane. Starring Will Forte, John Cena and Lana Condor, this hilarious live-action/ animation hybrid brings classic Looney Tunes chaos to the courtroom.

See these movies at...

A terrifying new chapter begins as medical courier Bryan finds himself caught in the middle of a deadly outbreak in Raccoon City. With chaos erupting around him, Bryan must fight his way through

a nightmare of infected monsters and unimaginable danger. Directed by Zach Cregger and starring Austin Abrams, this reinvention of the iconic survival-horror franchise promises relentless scares.

PENRITH

www.hoyts.com.au

COUNTRY CORNER

Multi-platinum singer-songwriter Megan Moroney is bringing her The Cloud 9 Tour to Australia for highly anticipated headline dates across May 2027, joined by special guest Laci Kaye Booth. Tickets went on sale this week to the Sydney concert at Afterpay Arena on Tuesday, May 11. The country star truly made her mark on her last Australian visit. Solidified as one of the genre’s hottest stars, Moroney took centre stage at the 2025 instalment of Ridin’ Hearts Festival and delivered a standout Brisbane headline performance which sold out in minutes. Moroney continues to cement herself as a towering force in country music. Just a few short years after making her debut, it was five-times platinum number

Rising together

stars

explores the vulnerability of falling deeply for someone without knowing whether those feelings are returned. Anchored by steady acoustic guitar, the duo’s distinct, textured vocals bring an intimate rawness to the track. At its core, the song is a candid confession – capturing the hesitation, longing, and fear of heartbreak that come with crossing the line from falling for someone to admitting it. ‘I’m Sorry But I Love You’ is out now on all streaming services.

Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 Practical Magic 2

Holy Days

(M)

(PG)

(MA)

10 to 23 Sep

Now Showing to 16 Sep

10 to 16 Sep

Steel Magnolias

The Weight

Shaun the Sheep: The Beast Of Mossy Bottom (G)

come

Rising country artists Waylon Wyatt and Carter Faith have joined forces on the heartfelt country folk duet, ‘I’m Sorry But I Love You’. Co-written by Waylon Wyatt, Carter Faith, and Tofer Brown, the song

Track of the Week Have a listen to Carly Pearce’s ‘Dream Come True’ off her new album. It’s a heartfelt retrospective on the sacrifices that come with chasing, and ultimately achieving, your dreams.

Tony

(M)

(MA)

CLASSIC 12 & 15 Sep

17 to 23 Sep

ADVANCE SCREENINGS 19 & 20 Sep

Join Our Mailing List Direct to your email inbox: Weekly Session Times & Coming Attractions

www.glenbrookcinema.com.au

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

WW57783

We’re on Cloud 9

one hit ‘Tennessee Orange’, from her acclaimed 2023 debut ‘Lucky’ that set the tone for a highly celebrated career. She has then delivered hit after hit and built a huge fan base, with sellout shows across the world. With countless milestones and accolades including Variety’s Hitmakers Storyteller of the Year, Billboard’s Rulebreaker Award, and Country Artist Songwriter of the Year honours from both Billboard and the National Music Publishers Association, Moroney is now stepping into the next phase of her meteoric career, revealing a generational talent in full command of her story, her sound, and her unstoppable staying power. Tickets are available from Ticketek.

TV Guide: September 11 - 17

Sunday 13 September

Saturday 12 September

Friday 11 September

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 (PG) 2:40 You Can’t Ask That (PG) 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (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 9:00 NFL: Pre-Game 10:00 NFL: 49ers v Rams *Live* From The MCG 2:30 Border Security - International (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 7:30 AFL: Semi Final: Fremantle Dockers v Geelong Cats *Live* From Optus Stadium 10:30 AFL: Post Game 11:15 NFL: Melbourne Game Highlights 12:15 GetOn Extra 12:45 Eyewitness (MA15+)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Mr. Pawsitively Perfect” (PG) (’23) Stars: Christine L. Nguyen 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 NRL: Elimination Final: South Sydney Rabbitohs v Newcastle Knights *Live* 9:45 NRL: PostMatch 10:45 Movie: “Lethal Weapon” (M d,l,v) (’87) Stars: Clayne Crawford

10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Entertainment Tonight 10:50 Gogglebox 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

8:00 Worldwatch 10:00 SBS50 (PG) 10:10 Vintage Voltage (PG) 11:05 Kew Gardens Season By Season 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Bettany Hughes - Treasures Of Bulgaria (PG) 3:00 NITV News - Nula 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy! 4:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 Cycling: La Vuelta Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 The Good Ship Murder (M) 8:30 WWII With Tom Hanks (M) 10:10 SBS World News Late

1:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 The Great Australian Doorstep (PG) 2:30 Sydney Weekender 3:00 Malaysia Kitchen 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Escape To The Country 6:00 Bargain Hunt

2:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Deadliest Roads (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown *Live*

3:00 New Idea Test Kitchen 3:30 Malaysia Kitchen 4:00 The Big Adventure (PG) 5:00 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 6:30 Movie: “Puss In Boots: The Last Wish” (PG) (’22) Stars: Antonio Banderas 8:30 Movie: “The Tourist” (M l,v) (’10)

3:30 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:30 Dreaming Big 5:00 Ocean Warriors: Mission Ready (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Great Blue Wild 7:30 Movie: “Scrapper” (PG) (’23) Stars: Lola Campbell

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 s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

11:30 Lingo 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) 9:30 Becker (PG)

2:00 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Dream Kitchens And Bathrooms 5:00 No Demo Reno 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Barnwood Builders

3:40 Fizzy And Suds 4:05 Andy’s Global Adventures 4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior

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 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 5:40 George Clarke’s Old House New Home 6:30 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG)

5:30 Poh & Co. 6:00 Rick Stein’s Fruits Of The Sea 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Beyond Bali With Lara Lee 8:30 Battle Of The Brands 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK

12:00 DW The Day 12:30 Patriot Brains (M l,s) 2:20 Forged In Fire (PG) 3:05 Stories From The Cities (PG) 3:35 Worldwatch 5:35 Inside The Huddle 6:05 Over The Black Dot 6:35 Jeopardy! 7:25 NITV News Update

2:30 Baywatch (M v) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 Baywatch (M v) 7:30 Movie: “The Legend Of Tarzan” (M v) (’16) Stars: Alexander Skarsgård 9:45 Movie: “Hercules” (M l,v) (’14) Stars: Dwayne Johnson

2:00 NRL: Elimination Fina|: CronullaBankstown Sharks v South Sydney Roosters *Replay* 3:45 NRL: Elimination Final: Canberra Raiders v Brisbane Broncos *Replay* 5:30 NRLW: Wests Tigers v Canberra Raiders *Live*

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Grantchester (M v) 1:15 Father Brown (M) 2:00 Death Valley (M) 2:50 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip (PG) 3:40 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG) 4:10 Tampa (PG) 5:00 Australian Story 5:30 Landline 6:00 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Grantchester (M v) 8:20 Father Brown (M) 9:05 Murdoch Mysteries (PG)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Flemington/ Rosehill *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 AFL: Semi Final: Brisbane Lions v Adelaide Crows *Live* From The Gabba 10:30 AFL: Post Game 11:00 The Voice (PG) 12:45 The Midwich Cuckoos: Bad Things (MA15+) 2:00 Home Shopping 4:00 It’s Academic 5:00 Million Dollar Minute

6:30 GolfBarons (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday (PG) 11:30 NRLW Wrap (PG) 12:00 NRLW: Parramatta Eels v North Queensland Cowboys *Live* 1:45 NRLW: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks v St George Illawarra Dragons *Live* 3:30 NRL: Qualifying Final: New Zealand Warriors v Redcliffe Dolphins *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 NRL: Elimination Final: Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys *Live* 9:50 NRL: Post-Match

10:00 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey 10:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 11:30 The Traitors Australia (PG) 1:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 1:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 2:00 Deal Or No Deal Celebrity Jackpot (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 7:30 Selling Houses Australia 9:30 Love It Or List It UK Brilliant Builds 10:30 Watson (M) 11:30 FBI (M) 12:30 Home Shopping

1:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 Better Homes And Gardens 4:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Flemington/ Rosehill *Live* 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG)

1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 The Car Club (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under 3:00 Night Thunder 4:00 Deep Water Salvage (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 AFL: Pre-Game 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG)

1:00 New Idea Test Kitchen 1:30 Behave Yourself (PG) 2:30 Zumbo’s Just Desserts (PG) 3:45 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Smurfs: The Lost Village” (G) (’17) Stars: Demi Lovato 7:30 Movie: “Erin Brockovich” (M l) (’00)

2:50 Movie: “Kindred” (PG) (’23) Stars: Gillian Moody 4:30 Anthem Sessions 5:00 Movie: “Exile And The Kingdom” (PG) (’93) Stars: Mike Innes 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l)

9:30 The Traitors Australia (PG) 11:00 Roads Less Travelled 11:30 Building The Dream Home 12:30 The Living Room 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Reel Action 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 JAG (PG)

7:30 Deal Or No Deal 8:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Becker (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Becker (PG) 1:30 Frasier (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

2:30 Renovation Aloha (PG) 3:30 Barnwood Builders 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 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 3:25 Guess How Much I Love You 3:55 Talking Tom Heroes 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 Guess How Much I Love You 6:10 Shaun The Sheep 6:25 Zog 7:05 Do Not Watch This Show

2:00 ABC News 2:30 The Breakfast Couch 3:00 ABC News 3:30 That Pacific Sports Show 4:00 ABC News 4:30 BTN 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

3:10 Not Going Out (M) 3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Old House New Home 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG)

5:40 David Rocco’s Eating Dirty 6:05 Searching For Soul Food 6:35 What Not To Eat 7:30 Jamie’s Kitchen 8:30 Rick Stein: From Venice To Istanbul 9:40 Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted 10:30 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure

12:00 Love In Bright Landscapes (M l) 1:55 Stories From The Cities (PG) 2:25 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 3:30 Worldwatch 5:35 Mastermind 6:35 Engineering By Catastrophe (PG) 7:30 History’s Greatest Machines

2:30 Football: Premier League: Everton v Manchester United *Replay* 4:30 The Dog House UK (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Flight Of The Navigator” (G) (’86) Stars: Joey Cramer 7:30 Movie: “Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom” (M v) (’23)

6:00 Tennis: US Open: Day 13: Men’s Semi Final *Live* 1:00 Customs (PG) 1:30 The Avengers (PG) 2:30 Take Me Home (PG) 3:30 Movie: “Doctor Zhivago” (PG) (’65) Stars: Omar Sharif 7:00 Getaway (PG)

9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:15 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG) 3:05 End Game With Tony Armstrong 3:55 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 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG) 1:00 Harry’s Practice 1:30 Better Homes And Gardens 2:40 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 3:40 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:40 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:40 Escape To The Country 6:40 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (M)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Obesity Is A Disease (PG) 12:30 The Voice (PG) 2:15 Surveillance Oz (PG) 2:30 AFLW: Round 5: Sydney Swans v GWS Giants *Live* From Henson Park 4:30 Border Security - International (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 The Voice (PG) 8:40 Seven News Spotlight (PG) 9:40 Poisoned (M) 10:50 24 Hours In Police Custody (M)

1:00 AFLW: Round 5: Richmond Tigers v St Kilda Saints *Live* 3:00 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 4:00 Deep Water Salvage (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Border Security USA (PG) 6:30 Border Security - International (PG)

2:00 ABC News 2:30 3:00 Play School 3:25 Australian Story 3:00 The Smeds And The ABC News 3:30 Smoos 4:15 Stan And Gran 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 Tiddler The Regions 6:00 ABC 6:10 Shaun The Sheep 6:25 Zog 6:55 Rocket Club 7:30 The Evening News 6:30 Foreign Inbestigators 8:10 Jaguar Vs. Correspondent 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders Croc 8:55 Animal Park

6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 The Garden Gurus 9:00 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of 9:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 10:00 Good Food Everyday With Gary Mehigan (PG) 10:30 Sports (PG) 11:00 NRL: Sunday Footy Frugal Foodie 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Show *Live* 12:00 NRLW: Brisbane Broncos v New Zealand Warriors *Live* 1:45 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 12:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 12:30 Gogglebox Australia (PG) NRLW: Newcastle Knights v Gold Coast 1:30 The Traitors Australia (PG) 3:00 The Titans *Live* 3:30 NRL: Qualifying Final: Penrith Panthers v Sydney Roosters *Live* Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 10 News Plus 7:00 Gogglebox 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The Block (PG) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Australia (PG) 8:00 Watson (M) 9:00 FBI (M) 12:00 10 News Plus Late 10:10 The First 48 (M l,v)

8:00 Worldwatch 10:00 SBS50 (PG) 10:05 UAE From Above (PG) 11:05 Wonders Of The World I Can’t See (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Living Black Shorts 1:00 Motorsport: Speedweek 3:00 Cycling: Tour Of Britain Women Highlights 4:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 4:30 Cycling: La Vuelta Highlights 5:30 Plat Du Tour 5:35 War Trains (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 9/11 - The Unseen Tapes (M l) 9:15 Castle Secrets (M v) 10:10 Kennedy (PG)

1:00 Home And Away 4:00 The Voice (PG) 5:30 A Moveable Feast (PG) 6:00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 9:30 Law & Order: SVU

3:15 Johnny Warren’s Football Mission (PG) 4:15 Gurrumul (PG) 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Great Blue Wild 7:30 Extraordinary Animals 8:30 Movie: “Like My Brother” (PG) (’24) Stars: Julianna Kerinaiua

6:00 Home Shopping 11:30 Building The 7:30 Deal Or No Deal Dream Home 12:30 9:30 Lingo 11:30 What’s Up Down Under Becker (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:30 Buy To Build 2:00 (PG) 1:00 Becker (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 4:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 4:30 Bondi Rescue Frasier (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 10:30 The Traitors (PG) 12:00 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Fire Country (M v) 11:15 JAG (PG) Becker (PG) 12:30 Frasier (M)

1:30 Mexico Life 2:30 Chateau DIY 3:30 Farmhouse Fixer (PG) 4:30 Barnwood Builders 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters International 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Fixer To Fabulous (PG) 9:30 Christina In The Country (PG)

3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Old House New Home 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (M s)

5:30 River Cottage Vegetables 6:30 Matt Preston’s Plating Locally 7:00 Frugal Foodie 7:30 Neven’s Portuguese Food Trails 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:30 Prue Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen 10:30 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure

1:00 Movie: “Memphis Belle” (PG) (’90) Stars: Matthew Modine 3:00 Movie: “Watandar, My Countryman” (PG) (’22) Stars: Muzafar Ali 4:25 Worldwatch 5:40 The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (M)

2:20 Lego Masters Australia (PG) 4:00 The Toys That Built The World (PG) 5:00 Cards And Collectables Australia 5:30 Movie: “National Lampoon’s European Vacation” (PG) (’85) Stars: Dana Hill 7:30 Movie: “Godzilla” (M v) (’14)

12:00 Movie: “Two Way Stretch” (G) (’60) Stars: Peter Sellers 1:50 Movie: “The Third Man” (PG) (’49) Stars: Orson Welles 4:00 Keeping Up Appearances (PG) 4:30 Poirot (PG) 5:30 Agatha Christie’s Marple (PG) 7:30 TBA 8:30 Paramedics (M)

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

8:00 Worldwatch 10:00 SBS50 (PG) 10:05 Japanese Islands From Above (PG) 11:05 Wonders Of The World I Can’t See (M l,s) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Yacht Racing: Sail GP Highlights 3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 4:30 Cycling: La Vuelta Highlights 5:30 Plat Du Tour 5:35 War Trains 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Queen And The Traitor (PG) 8:45 The Airport Chaplain (M l) 9:50 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey (M s)

the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

Thursday 17 September

Wednesday 16 September

Tuesday 15 September

Monday 14 September

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Landline 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story 8:30 ABC National Forum 9:50 Media Watch (M) 10:10 Planet America (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 The Voice (PG) 9:10 The Rookie (M v) 10:10 The Agenda Setters (M)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:30 Getaway (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) 8:40 100% Footy (M l) 9:40 NINE News Late

5:00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M s,v) 8:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v)

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 Deal Or No Deal - Celebrity Jackpot (PG)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And 5:30 The 77 Percent Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV With Justine Schofield JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull News Update 6:40 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier Great Blue Wild 7:30 Who Do (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 You Think You Are? (PG) 8:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Two And A Half Men (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) Living Black

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)

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

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:40 Kangaroo Beach 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels

3:00 Over The Black 5:30 Poh & Co. 6:00 5:40 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Dot 3:30 Worldwatch Rick Stein’s Fruits Of Old House New Home 5:00 ABC News With 5:30 Alone Denmark The Sea 6:30 Everyday 6:30 Richard Osman’s Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Gourmet With Justine Schofield (PG) (In Danish) 6:40 And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC Update 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Liaw 7:30 Nigella Kitchen News Tonight

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Grantchester (M v) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Foreign Correspondent (PG) 8:30 Tampa (PG) 9:20 I Was Actually There (M l) 9:50 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 12:00 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven 1:00 Ski Rescue Down Under (M l) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 First Dates Australia (M l,s) 8:30 Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (MA15+) News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:40 Travel Guides (PG) 9:30 House Of Wellness (PG) 4:30 First Dates UK (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 CSI: New York (MA15+) 8:30 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (M s,v)

12:10 Worldwatch 2:00 DNA Family Secrets (PG) 3:05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Jeopardy! 4:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 Cycling: La Vuelta Highlights 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Bill Bailey’s Vietnam (PG) 8:30 24 Hours In Emergency (M l)

5:00 Christina In The Country (PG) 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Masters Of Flip

5:30 The Travelling 4:30 The Addams Auctioneers 6:30 Family 5:30 Bewitched Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Baywatch (M v) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: 7:30 Death In Paradise (M v) 8:40 The Brokenwood “Vacation” (M) (’15) Stars: Mysteries (M s,v) Chris Hemsworth

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 DNA Family Secrets (PG) 3:05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Pharaohs Of The Two Lands (In French/ English) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey (M s)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Great Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 Blue Wild 7:30 The With Justine Schofield JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M) Point 8:00 The First 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M Inventors (PG) 8:55 Movie: “Waiting To Exhale” (PG) (’95) s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Bull (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) (M s,v) 11:15 JAG (PG) Stars: Whitney Houston

5:00 Masters Of Flip 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Chateau DIY 8:30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses

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)

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels

5:30 The Travelling 4:30 The Addams 3:15 Inside The Huddle 5:30 Poh & Co. 6:00 5:40 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Auctioneers 6:30 Family 5:30 Bewitched 3:45 Worldwatch 5:45 Rick Stein’s Fruits Of Old House New Home 5:00 ABC News With Antiques Roadshow 6:30 NBL Overtime 7:30 Alone Belgium (PG) (In The Sea 6:30 Everyday 6:30 Richard Osman’s Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:30 New Tricks (PG) 8:40 News Hour 7:00 ABC National House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Gourmet With Justine Schofield Flemish) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out “Rush Hour” (M v) (’98) Stars: Agatha Christie’s Marple (M v) News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC 10:40 Rizzoli & Isles (M v) Chris Tucker Of 10 Cats Does Countdown 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Liaw News Tonight

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 9:00 Small Town Scandal (M)

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 The Front Bar (M l) 9:30 Unfiltered (PG) 10:00 The Agenda Setters (M)

4:30 American 4:00 Medical Restoration (PG) 5:00 Emergency (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The 5:30 American Pickers (PG) Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG) Heartbeat (PG) 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels

12:00 NRL: National Schoolgirl Cup Final: Teams TBA *Live* 1:50 NRL: National Schoolboy Cup Final: Teams TBA *Live* 3:30 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 70 Years Of Television (Part 2) (PG)

4:30 First Dates UK (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 The Rookie (M v) 10:30 NCIS (MA15+) 11:30 NCIS: Los Angeles (M v)

12:00 Everyday Gourmet 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 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 8:30 Boston Blue (M) 9:30 10’s Late News

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And 5:30 APTN National Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 With Justine Schofield JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M) Great Blue Wild 7:30 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier Friday Night Thunder 8:30 Pro 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M Bull Riding Australia 9:30 Over s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Bull (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) (M s,v) 11:15 JAG (PG) The Black Dot

5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Good Bones (PG)

4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 Baywatch (M v) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 TBA 10:30 Seinfeld (PG) 11:30 Jane The Virgin (MA15+)

3:30 Movie: “The Lady Killers” (PG) (’55) Stars: Alec Guinness 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By

3:05 Big Zuu’s 12 5:30 Poh & Co. 6:00 5:40 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Dishes In 12 Hours Rick Stein’s Fruits Of Old House New Home 5:00 ABC News With 3:40 Worldwatch 5:45 The Sea 6:30 Everyday 6:30 Richard Osman’s Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Gourmet With Justine Schofield Alone Belgium (PG) (In And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Flemish) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC NITV News Update 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Liaw News Tonight

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Falling (M l) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Grand Designs Transformations 4:00 Frankie Drake Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe (PG)

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 Home And Away (PG) 8:30 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 9:30 Hear The Mighty Roar: Brisbane Lions (M l) 10:50 Kick Ons

12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Dateline (M) 2:30 Insight (M) 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Dirty Dancing The Phenomenon 8:30 The Airport Chaplain (M l) 9:35 Apollo Has Fallen (M)

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 Getaway (PG) 1:30 Destination WA 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 Tipping Point - 70 Years Of TV (PG) 8:50 John Farnham Celebrating 60 Years (M l)

12:00 Worldwatch 1:55 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey (M s) 3:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 3:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 4:35 Matt Preston’s Plating Locally 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Hollywood Crime Story (PG)

3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 12:45 The Young And 5:30 Te Ao With Moana 4:30 First Dates UK Everyday Gourmet The Restless (PG) 1:30 (In English/ Maori) 6:00 (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet With Justine Schofield JAG (M s,v) 3:30 Bull Bamay 6:40 Great Blue (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (M s,v) 6:30 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 7:30 Ramsay’s Hotel Hell Wild 7:30 Going Places With (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30 The End Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) (M l) 8:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) Two And A Half Men (PG) Of The Valley Nightmares USA (MA15+)

5:00 Help! I Wrecked My House 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Bargain Block (PG) 8:30 No Demo Reno

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

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

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels

5:30 The Travelling 4:30 The Addams 2:45 Insight 3:45 5:30 Poh & Co. 6:00 5:40 George Clarke’s 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Auctioneers 6:30 Family 5:30 Bewitched Worldwatch 5:45 Alone Rick Stein’s Fruits Of Old House New Home 5:00 ABC News With Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Baywatch (M v) Belgium (PG) (In The Sea 6:30 Everyday 6:30 Richard Osman’s Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Gourmet With Justine Schofield Flemish) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: 7:30 The Dog House UK (PG) 8:30 Poirot (PG) 10:30 Rizzoli And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out “Den Of Thieves” (MA15+) News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC & Isles (M v) 11:30 Poirot (PG) (’18) Stars: Gerard Butler 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Liaw 7:30 River Cottage Spring Of 10 Cats Does Countdown News Tonight Programming information correct at time of going to press, changes are at the network’s discretion Prepared by National Typesetting Services

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

TV NEWS

Ê Julia Morris is back with a new comedy series for the ABC titled ‘Class Clowns’. Under the watchful eye of Principal Morris, comedians Bron Lewis, Luke McGregor,

COMING NEXT YEAR

HOMELESS 300, SBS

Becky Lucas, Matt Okine, Nina Oyama and Dave Hughes are divided into three houses, Redbacks, Cane Toads and Bin Chickens, to battle it out for house points and the coveted Class Clowns Cup. From Biology and Drama to Mathematics, Geography, Gymnastics, Physics and more, every assignment offers the chance to earn praise and points. But impressing Principal Morris won’t come easy. As she reminds her students, house points are a privilege, not a right. ‘Class Clowns’ premieres on Wednesday, September 30 at 8.30pm.

Ê Binge and Foxtel have confirmed actress Rachel Griffiths will join the cast of new ‘Wentworth’ spin-off series ‘Wentworth: Halfway Home’. The bold new chapter in the ‘Wentworth’ universe will premiere later this year.

SEPTEMBER 30 8.30PM CLASS CLOWNS, ABC

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

Ê New heist drama ‘12 12 12’ will drop on Apple TV on Friday, November 13. Each episode of unfolds across three timelines of a heist: the 12 months of planning, the 12

Phone:

hours of the heist, and the 12 days following the heist. The series follows a disgraced FBI agent (Anthony Mackie) and an American career criminal (Jamie Dornan) who play a zero-sum game of cat and mouse across Europe. At the centre of it all is the daring, epic raid on a bank vault deep beneath the streets of Zurich.

Ê The fourth and final season of ‘Yellowjackets’ will premiere on Paramount+ on Friday, November 20. As the survivors race to bury their sins before rescue arrives and an old flame roars back into town with plans of her own, turns out not every homecoming is a joyous one, and this one’s going to sting. Ê The fifth season of ‘The Secret Life of Mormon Wives’ will land on Disney+ today, September 10. One of the key storylines this season centres on controversial cast member Taylor Frankie Paul, who returns from filming ‘The Bachelorette’ with unfinished business, an old temptation and the pressure of life in the public eye.

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Ê SBS has announced its slate of programming for 2027, with several new shows catching my eye. ‘Homeless 300’, hosted by actor Samuel Johnson, challenges perceptions of homelessness by putting people and their stories at the centre. ‘Ray Martin is Misinformed’ explores artificial intelligence, misinformation, fake news and conspiracy theories, asking why is becoming harder than ever to know what’s true. ‘Meeting a Murderer: The Hilton Bomber’ sees Marc Fennel sit down with the man who says he was responsible for what is considered Australia’s first major terrorist attack. ‘Inside Sydney Fish Market’, narrated by Rick Stein, goes behind the scenes of one of Australia’s most iconic institutions, revealing the fascinating people, untold stories and organised chaos behind a place millions of Australians think they already know. SBS also confirmed the return of hit series’ ‘Alone Australia’, ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ and ‘The Secret DNA of Us’. Plus, SBS will continue to be the home of the Tour de France and the FIFA World Cup in 2030.

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

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The Experts

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A FRESH APPROACH TO RETIREMENT LIVING T

he Saxon is bringing a fresh approach to retirement living in the heart of Oran Park. Located next to Oran Park Town Centre, the new community combines independence, connection and choice with the convenience of having shops, services and everyday needs close by. “The Saxon reflects the way retirement living is evolving,” says Tim Grover, National Sales Director. “People want to remain active

and connected to their local community, while enjoying the comfort, convenience and sense of belonging that comes with a thoughtfully designed retirement community.” Community is at the heart of The Saxon. Residents are welcomed into the grand entrance hall by a dedicated concierge, while the club lounge provides an inviting space to catch up with neighbours over coffee, enjoy a game of billiards or relax with at the bar. An elegant wine room, boutique

cinema and rooftop garden provide even more opportunities to socialise. The Saxon’s sense of community extends beyond its residents, with the ground-floor spaces open to the wider public. Friends and family can meet for brunch, while The Exchange offers a bar, lounge and library. A hair and beauty salon, fully equipped gym and health and wellness amenities add further convenience and there are landscaped gardens and plazas too.

Buyers can choose from contemporary one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a collection of luxurious Signature Collection residences. Each home is thoughtfully designed around comfort, style and functionality, giving residents the freedom to select a residence that suits their lifestyle. For those who want to be among the first to secure their preferred home, the Foundation Release Club offers early access to available floor plans and pricing ahead of the general public release. It provides an opportunity for registered buyers to explore the collection before wider sales commence.

“THE SAXON REFLECTS THE WAY RETIREMENT LIVING IS EVOLVING”

“With The Saxon now selling, this exciting new community is becoming a reality,” Grover said. “We’re encouraging prospective residents to come and discover the residences available, explore the choices and see what makes The Saxon such a unique place to call home.” It’s not too late to RSVP for the official launch event of The Saxon! It’s on Thursday, September 24 from 2pm, at the Oran Park Hotel, 81 Central Avenue. Writer, performer and comedian Jean Kittson will be the guest speaker. To RSVP, call 0460 862 012 or email live@thesaxon.com.au. To discover more about The Saxon and register your interest, visit thesaxon.com.au.

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BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

AN ENTERTAINER’S DREAM What is so great about this property? The outdoor entertaining area is the standout! With the huge alfresco area overlooking the sparkling inground pool, you’ll feel you’re in a resort!

Who does this property suit? Families. The vendors brought their young family up in the property and are only moving because the kids have all grown up and flown the nest. It’s time for the next young family to enjoy it!

Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Jamisontown is awesome! Minutes from everything Greater Penrith has to offer. CBD, Nepean

River, Panthers Entertainment precinct, the M4, the Blue Mountains, and the new International Airport. It’s perfect!

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

OPEN FOR INSPECTION: Saturday, September 12 1.00pm – 1.30pm CONTACT: Property Central Penrith Lee Waterhouse • 0410 338 040 lee.waterhouse@propertycentral.com.au

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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!

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

EQUITY TO BUY AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY F

STEVEN KORNER The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

or many Australian homeowners, the biggest asset sitting on their balance sheet isn’t in a savings account. It’s the equity built up in their own home. As property values rise and mortgages are paid down, that equity can become a powerful stepping stone into the investment property market, without needing to save an entirely separate deposit from scratch. What is equity, and how can you use it? Equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and what you still owe on your mortgage. If your home is worth $900,000 and you owe $500,000, you have $400,000 in equity. Lenders generally allow you to borrow up to 80% of your home’s value without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), which means a portion of that equity, often called “usable equity”, can potentially be released and used as a deposit on an investment property.

This is typically done by refinancing your existing loan or setting up a separate equity loan or line of credit secured against your home. The funds are then used as a deposit (and sometimes to cover purchase costs like stamp duty) on the new property,

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with the investment property itself securing the remaining loan amount. Why it appeals to property investors Using equity means you can enter the investment market sooner, potentially while continuing to save cash for other purposes such as renovations, buffers, or future opportunities. It can also allow investors to leverage capital growth already achieved on their home into a second income-producing asset, rather than that value sitting idle. Key considerations • Serviceability matters. Lenders will assess whether you can comfortably service both loans, factoring in rental income, existing debts, and living expenses. • Cross-securitisation risk. Using your home as security for an investment loan can link the two properties together; structuring loans separately can sometimes offer more flexibility if you later sell one

property. • Market movements cut both ways. Property values can fall as well as rise, which affects both usable equity and overall risk exposure. • Interest rates and loan structure. Comparing fixed, variable, interest-only, and principal-and-interest options is important, as each affects cash flow differently. Getting the structure right Every borrower’s situation is different, and the right approach depends on your goals, risk appetite, and existing financial position. Speaking with a broker before making a move can help you understand your borrowing capacity, compare lender options, and structure the loans in a way that protects your existing home while supporting your investment goals. This article is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. Speak to a licensed broker or financial adviser about your individual circumstances.

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PET HEALTH The Experts

TICK PREVENTION: A SPRING ESSENTIAL A

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

s spring arrives, bringing warmer weather and longer days, it is time to check that your pet’s tick prevention is up to date. While ticks can be found year-round, warmer conditions can increase activity, making spring an important time to be vigilant. For pet owners across western Sydney, paralysis ticks may not always be front of mind. However, areas including Winmalee, Yellow Rock and Castlereagh have tick activity. Pets can be exposed when exploring bushland, long grass, walking tracks or even their backyard. It is also important to remember that your pet can bring ticks home from other locations. Families holidaying, particularly in coastal areas, should be mindful. Dogs and cats can pick up ticks while exploring holiday properties, beachside reserves, bush tracks or campsites and return home with them. Even pets living in areas with lower tick activity can therefore be exposed. Australia is home to around 75 species of ticks, but the paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) is one of the most dangerous to pets. It is predominantly found along Australia’s eastern coast, from North Queensland to Victoria. The paralysis tick releases a potent neurotoxin as it feeds. This toxin affects the

nervous system and can cause progressive weakness, paralysis and difficulty breathing. Without rapid treatment, tick paralysis can be fatal.

Finding a tick can be difficult, particularly in long-haired pets. If you find a tick on your pet, seek veterinary advice promptly. Even after removal, the toxin may continue to affect your pet. Early signs include weakness or wobbliness, particularly in the back legs, vomiting or retching, changes to your pet’s bark or meow,

difficulty swallowing and breathing changes. Symptoms can progress quickly, so these signs should always be treated as an emergency. The best defence against tick paralysis is prevention. Importantly, use reputable veterinary-approved products and always follow dosing instructions carefully. The correct product and dose depend on your pet’s species, age, weight and lifestyle. No tick prevention product provides 100 per cent protection, so regular tick searches are essential. Run your hands through your pet’s coat, checking around the head, ears, neck, under the collar, between the toes, legs, stomach and tail. If you have been away with your pet, make a thorough tick search part of your return-home routine, particularly after visiting coastal or bushland areas. Spring is the perfect time to check your pet’s parasite protection and ensure treatments are given at the correct dose and frequency. If you are unsure whether your current product provides appropriate protection, speak with your veterinarian. A few minutes spent checking your pet’s prevention today could help protect them from a potentially life-threatening problem tomorrow. For more information, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

HEALTH

ome worry is normal and even helpful. It’s a biological drive that keeps us safe, helps children prepare for tests and change, and teaches them the boundaries of society. But for a growing number of kids, worry has started to feel bigger than they can manage. Tummy aches before school, tears over small mistakes, not wanting to join in, avoiding leaving home, and trouble going to sleep are all signs something isn’t feeling right. Anxiety in children rarely sounds like “I feel anxious.” It shows up in the body (headaches, nausea, sore stomach), in behaviour (avoiding school, clinging, withdrawing, easy tears), or in repeated reassurance-seeking (“what if...” on a loop). Our instinct is often to reassure and say it’ll be fine, but what if we could equip them with tools instead? What can we do: Validate first, problem-solve later. “I can see

this feels scary” lands better than “there’s nothing to worry about.” Naming the feeling helps children build their emotional awareness and develop their independent skills.

Don’t rescue, don’t dismiss. Avoiding everything that scares them shrinks their world and feeds anxiety. Pushing too hard overwhelms them. Aim for the middle: gentle encouragement, small steps, and praise for giving things a go. Calm the body. Teach slow breathing and calming strategies when they’re calm enough to learn. Practice together regularly, so the tools are ready when worry arrives. Model calm. We are the calm in a child’s storm. If we

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL! AMANDA DUGGAN OnePointHealth 4732 5188 panic with them, we signal there is something to worry about. Take your own deep breaths; they’ll eventually meet you at your calm. Connection with your child is always the best medicine. Be curious. Open questions like “what is your brain telling you?” helps you both understand the worry and gives you the steps to conquer it together. If anxiety is affecting school, friendships, sleep, family life, or your child’s self-esteem, it’s worth talking to a professional. Early support empowers children and parents to navigate anxiety throughout life. Your GP is a great starting point on your journey to improving childhood anxiety.

At Orchard Hills ills Veterinary Hospital, we understand d that your pet is a cherished family ily member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pett care services to animals acrosss the Penrith district.

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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

Emotional honesty is important. Something you’ve pushed aside may return because it needs acknowledgement rather than avoidance. Give yourself permission to feel without immediately trying to fix everything. Financial matters involving shared responsibilities could also require attention. The more openly you communicate, the easier things become.

Pay attention to who consistently makes an effort rather than becoming caught up in what someone promises. A heartfelt conversation could deepen an important connection, but don’t be afraid to express what you need too. Love, friendship and connection should feel like somewhere you can exhale, not something you constantly have to earn.

You may feel ready to clear the clutter. Something that has been taking up far too much of your energy needs either action or release. A conversation could bring the clarity you’ve been waiting for. Trust what feels peaceful rather than what feels familiar. Sometimes moving forward begins with finally deciding what you’re no longer willing to carry.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Life is encouraging you to make room for enjoyment. You’ve been responsible for long enough, and now it’s time to reconnect with what makes you feel alive. Relationships feel warmer when you stop overthinking and enjoy the moment. A creative idea or unexpected opportunity could spark excitement. Don’t dismiss something just because it wasn’t part of your original plan.

Attention turns towards home, family and the people who make you feel safe. An emotional conversation may bring understanding around something that has felt unsettled. Remember you can be compassionate without taking responsibility for everyone else’s feelings. Boundaries don’t create distance; sometimes they allows relationships to become healthier.

Your intuition is speaking loudly this week, particularly through conversations, dreams and those little moments of knowing you can’t quite explain. Pay attention. Something you’ve been questioning may become clearer when you stop searching outside yourself for reassurance. Communication is also highlighted, making this an ideal time to say what you genuinely feel.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Money and self-worth remain important themes, but this week asks you to look beyond the numbers. Where are you undervaluing your time, energy or contribution? An opportunity could arise that reminds you of what you bring to the table. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for more. The way others value you often begins with the standards you’re willing to set for yourself.

You’re entering a powerful period of personal clarity. Your season is encouraging you to look honestly at what’s working and what needs to change. You don’t need to completely reinvent your life; one intentional decision can begin shifting everything. Put yourself back on your own priority list. The next chapter requires less perfection and considerably more trust in yourself.

You may feel called to retreat slightly and reassess where your energy has been going. Not everyone deserves unlimited access to you. Rest, reflection and stronger boundaries will help you feel more centred. Something from the past could also resurface, offering an opportunity for closure. Remember, closure doesn’t always require another person’s participation.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Your future feels increasingly important, and you may find yourself questioning whether your current choices are taking you where you genuinely want to go. A friend or unexpected connection could offer a new perspective. Don’t underestimate the power of the people around you. The right conversation may become the beginning of something much bigger.

Your career, purpose or long-term direction may demand more of your attention this week. You’re capable of taking the next step, even if part of you still wonders whether you’re ready. Let your experience speak louder than your doubts. Recognition may come from an unexpected source. This is not the week to shrink yourself to make other people comfortable.

A change in perspective could completely alter how you see a situation this week. Something you once believed was impossible may suddenly feel within reach. Travel, learning or exploring a different direction could provide fresh inspiration. Sometimes expanding your world simply begins by allowing yourself to consider another possibility.

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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, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

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Easy

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

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5 1 8 7 9

7 6 9 8

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SUDOKU No. 810

7 1 3

Tough

3 5 1

Previous solution - Medium

2 7 6 4 1 5 3 8 9

6 4

8 1 7 9 1

3 4 2

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, September 10, 2026

8 9 5 2 8 6

ACROSS DOWN 1. Brad who starred in 1. Succeed in an exam Moneyball 2. Two times 4. Armed conflict 3. Definite article 8. Molten rock at Earth’s 4. At what time surface 5. Stay behind 11. What one, of several 6. Historical records 13. Promised solemnly 7. At any time 15. Secret agents 8. Zodiac sign represented 17. Adult male by a lion 18. Admiral Sir George ___, 9. Love deeply victor at Vigo Bay 10.Region or district 20. Pouch or bag-like structure 12. Topic for discussion 21. Christmas gift-giver, 14. Initialism-style crossword informally entry 24. First name of Elvis 16.Adhesive substance Presley’s twin brother 19.Two-masted sailing vessel 27. River running through 22.Quantity Birmingham, England 23.Proposed explanation 28. Clear fluid separated from 25.Making a request clotted blood 26.Beginning 30. Elevated areas of land 29. Rare proper-name 31. Disturb or overturn crossword entry 33. Historically, attendants or 32. Female pronoun minor landholders 35.Connected system 34. Quick drawing 37. Upper front part of the 35. Joins head to torso torso 36. Repeated sound 38.Public speakers 39. People who possess 40.More sensible something 41.Female given name 42. Beneath 42.Join together 44. Make fabric with needles 43. Flowing natural 45.Not old watercourse 46.Rise and fall of the sea 44.Leg joints 48.Desires 47.Illness 49.Call on socially 51. Appropriate or well 50.Organs of sight matched 52.Fluid-filled sacs 52. Round shape 54.Sleeveless garment 53. Even and free of 55. Historic spelling related to roughness an Asian currency 54. Capital of Austria 56. Large group of territories 58. Situated inside under one ruler 59. Took a seat 57. Touch with the lips 61. French word meaning 60. Broadcasts or ventilates Russian, in some names 62.Assault 63. Exchange of goods and 65.Tallies services 67. French for ‘our’, as in a 64.Organ that filters blood famous cathedral name 65.Christian place of worship 69. Visible electromagnetic 66.Is inclined to radiation 68. Compound containing 70.Requirements oxygen 72. Biological classification as 71.Rare crossword-form entry male or female 72.Crust over a healing 73.Put in more wound 75. European cavalryman of a 74. Italian word seen in titles historic lancer regiment and names 77. Name or abbreviation used 76. Name-form found in in crossword fill several languages 79.Shed tears 78. Surname associated with 81.Neither ... ___ writer Sholem ___ 82.Calendar appointments 80.Make a mistake 84. Series of thoughts during 83.Consumed food Previous solution - Medium sleep 85. Sense associated with the 6 5 7 8 9 3 4 tongue 86.Stand5for carrying a coffin 7 6 8 9 1 2 3 87. Inflammation around a 4 6 5 3 2 fingernail or toenail 88. Surname-form used 7 3 4in 1 2 6 5 names

5 1 8 6 3 9 7 2 4

4 3 9 8 2 7 5 1 6

9 5 3 1 7 2 4 6 8

6 4 2 3 9 8 1 5 7

1 8 7 5 4 6 2 9 3

8 9 4 7 5 1 6 3 2

7 2 1 9 6 3 8 4 5

3 6 5 2 8 4 9 7 1

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: AUSTRALIAN WILDLIFE GOLDEN BANDICOOT GREAT DESERT SKINK GREATER BILBY LACE GOANNA NORTHERN QUOLL NUMBAT ECHIDNA SUGAR GLIDER KANGAROO KOALA PLATYPUS WOMBAT EMU KOOKABURRA SALTWATER CROCODILE THORNY DEVIL BLACK COCKATOO Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about 1984 by George Orwell in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. What is the name of the book’s main character? 2. What are the four core ministries in the government? 3. What phrase did 1984 term that means the government or authority is always watching? 4. What is the term used in the book that means people can believe two contradictory things at once?

5. What is used to torture Winston in Room 101? 6. What does Winston trace in the dust on the table at the end of the book? 7. What is the name of the daily mass rally? 8. What three countries make up the world in 1984? 9. What is the name of the secret police force in Oceania?

ANSWERS 1. Winston Smith 2. Truth, Peace, Love, and Plenty 3. Big Brother 4. Doublethink 5. Rats 6. 2 + 2 = 5 7. The Two Minutes Hate 8. Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia 9. The Thought Police

Trivia Quiz

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TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 810

Easy

5 7 9

8 1 3

2 9 5 7

6 5 7 8

3 2

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

Str8ts

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

4 3 9

No. 810

Previous solution - Medium

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

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

4 3

7 1 3

5 7 6

8 1

9 8

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.

ROADEDNIO N Previous solution:

Previous solution: ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge 45

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Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 167 - BEGINNER - 121, INTERMEDIATE - 3.5, ADVANCED - 192.

1. I began my career on stage before becoming one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedy actors. 2. I frequently collaborated with filmmaker Mel Brooks on several classic comedies. 3. I’ve played everything from a nervous accountant to a mad scientist’s grandson. 4. One of my most famous roles involved a magical chocolate factory and a purple coat. 5. I famously sang ‘Pure Imagination,’ while introducing visitors to a room filled with edible wonders. Last week’s answer: FORREST GUMP

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 168 - BEGINNER - 69, INTERMEDIATE - 192, ADVANCED - 216.

87 +13 ÷10 x6 -4 ÷8 x4 +5 ÷3 +4 +6 x4 10% x7 5% 51 ÷3 8 +19 /11 x22/3 +22 40% 5% +39 200% Plus 17½%

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

www.30secondchallenge.com

of IT

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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.

adVanced

douBle IT

HINTS

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, BegInneR

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

One Pan Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi This one pan meal is a weeknight savour! What You’ll Need: – Large pot or Dutch Oven

Ingredients: – 1 packet Gnocchi – 1 Brown Onion – Approx 150g Bacon – Approx 300g Chicken Breast or Thigh – 300mL Vegetable or Chicken stock dissolved in hot water – 300mL Thickened Cream – 3 big handfuls of Cheddar Cheese – Spices (I use Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Garlic Paste, Paprika, Italian Seasoning and Parsley)

Method: 1. Place pot on medium heat

with oil. Dice the bacon and add to pot, allowing to get crispy. While this is cooking, dice your onion. 2. Once bacon is cooked, remove from the pot and set aside. Add onion and garlic paste to the same pot, slightly reducing the heat. Add more oil if necessary. 3. While this is cooking, slice chicken into small pieces and add to pot. Add spices and stir. 4. Add in stock water, cream and gnocchi, stirring, and cover for 10 minutes. Once thick, add cheese, bacon and parsley, stirring through until mixture is creamy and everything is fully cooked. 5. Enjoy!

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CONNECTION to country

A special supplement focused on local Indigenous affairs and services

Festival full of music, culture and more

he much-loved COOEE Festival will return in 2026, bringing a vibrant day of culture, music and community to western Sydney. The event will be held at the Blacktown Showground on Saturday, September 12 from 10am until 6pm. The festival welcomes families, community members and visitors from across the region to come together and celebrate Aboriginal culture, talent and creativity.

Link-Up [NSW] Aboriginal Corporation, the organisers of COOEE Festival, are proud to continue delivering this important community event. As an organisation dedicated to supporting Aboriginal people impacted by the Stolen Generations and their families, Link-Up [NSW] Aboriginal Corporation recognises the importance of creating spaces where culture, connection and community can be celebrated. “After unfortunately having the cancel COOEE Festival 2025 due to extreme weather conditions, we are so excited to bring the COOEE Festival back in 2026 for our Western Sydney community,” said Sheraya Brown-Leslie, COOEE Festival Event Manager & Coordinator.

“Our annual festival brings Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together to celebrate and share culture through traditional corroborees, dances, and ceremonies. Events like COOEE Festival play an important role in the western Sydney community. COOEE offers a space for people of all backgrounds to connect, learn and celebrate the richness of Indigenous culture. Western Sydney is one of the most culturally diverse areas, and festivals like ours create opportunities for cultural sharing, community pride and meaningful engagement with Aboriginal art, music, food and traditions.” COOEE Festival 2026 will showcase a range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and performers,

highlighting both emerging and established talent. Artists already confirmed for the 2026 festival include Olivia Coe Fox, Jaymon Bob and Microwave Jenny, with many more exciting performers and artists set to be announced in the coming months. In addition to live music, festival attendees can expect cultural performances, market stalls, food vendors, family-friendly activities and opportunities to engage with local Aboriginal businesses and community groups through workshops and information sessions. COOEE Festival continues to grow each year, strengthening its place as an important cultural event in western Sydney and a celebration of community, culture and connection.

Images from a previous COOEE Festival.

Thursday, September 10, 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.

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 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

Health cadetships available E ligible students are encouraged to get their applications in for the 2027 NSW Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship program for an opportunity to enter the allied health workforce. The NSW Government program enjoyed its most successful year ever in 2026, with 25 cadetships offered to candidates across a range of the 23 allied health professions including occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech pathology and pharmacy. Successful candidates participate in a paid work placement at a NSW Health facility while they continue studying to provide them with real-world experience. This year, a pharmacist and two neuro psychologists joined the program for the first time, while it was also the first year rural cadets outnumbered their metropolitan colleagues. The NSW Government developed the program to both increase the number of Aboriginal allied health professionals working in the NSW Health system and boost career development opportunities. One graduate of the Cadetship program is occupational therapy student Anna Westcott, who is now completing a placement with the Mid North Coast Local Health District as part of her course. She said the Cadetship program

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

Health Minister Ryan Park.

gave her the chance to learn functional skills and techniques in a real-life environment, not just in a university setting. “These cadetships are an important way to support more Aboriginal allied health professionals to join the health workforce,” said NSW Health Minister Ryan Park.

“This program provides real world healthcare experience to Aboriginal people studying one of the allied health disciplines, and we know in many cases it starts a long and successful career in the public health sector. “It’s wonderful to see the program continue to grow,

following its most successful year ever in 2026.” Applications close on September 30 2026, for more information and to apply visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/ work force/aborig ina l/Pages/ a llied-hea lt h-cadetship-program.aspx.

New careers unlocked

5 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates have graduated from an Indigenous pathway program, opening up a potential career with Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW). The Indigenous Fire and Rescue Employment Strategy (IFARES) program blends faceto-face education with weekly online learning over seven months. The participants also complete a nationally-recognised Certificate III in fitness with partner, TAFE NSW, and take part in simulated emergency scenarios, career read-

iness workshops and firefighter familiarity sessions. Among this year’s graduates is 22-year-old Tyler Moodie, who is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his father, Jason, a firefighter based at Charlestown and a former NSW State of Origin rugby league player. Senior Firefighter Moodie graduated from the annual IFARES program in 2017 and says his son shares his desire to help the community. “Tyler’s been saying for a long time that he wants to be a ‘firey’ and that’s his passion, to

Recent graduates from the Indigenous pathway program.

engage with the community,” Senior Firefighter Jason Moodie said. “It’s very achievable for anybody, you just have to show the program respect and put in the required focus.” More than 80 Indigenous people have previously completed the program, progressing to firefighting careers in NSW and the A.C.T. Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services Charishma Kaliyanda, said IFARES gives participants the basics so that once they reach the recruitment stage, they can apply competitively. “Each student is paired with a FRNSW Indigenous mentor who provides guidance and support,” Kaliyanda said. “These particular graduates, aged from their mid-20’s to late 30’s, could become firefighters by early next year.” FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said: “The program is helping build a firefighting capability with strong local connections and knowledge, while supporting the commitments of FRNSW’s ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). “Seeing an Indigenous firefighter behind the wheel of a fire truck bearing the name of their local mob is a powerful source of pride for communities. “These graduates often bring valuable local knowledge of fire behaviour, passed down through generations.” Applications for the 2027 IFARES course open in mid-late September – https://careers. fire.nsw.gov.au/ifares.

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

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MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Chery picking down under market.... with success! W

ith numerous Chinese brands targeting Australian buyers, Chery is one of the longer serving brands here, first launching in 2011. Those cars, including the J1 and J3, were imported by ATECO, with the J1 holding the distinction of being the cheapest new car in the market at that time. An asbestos-related recall in 2012 contributed to ATECO ending the distribution agreement in 2015, with the brand disappearing from local roads. In 2023, Chery returned to Australia under its own control, and has worked hard to boost its market share with an ever-increasing model range. Jump ahead to 2025 and Chery took the wraps off the all-new Tiggo 4 Hybrid, available in two trim levels, the Urban, and our test car, the Ultimate.

‘clean’ look. The window line angles upwards to the rear, with a solid C-Pillar panel, rather than a third side window. There are a number of style lines pressed into the panels, including an elongated, inverted, ‘U’ at the base of the doors with plastic panelling protecting against car park dings and stone chips. Similarly, the black plastic rear bumper sits high, giving an impressive departure angle, but more realistically allowing contact-free reverse parks over kerbs or bollards.

The tailgate is wide, maximising access for bulky items into the cargo area, although the relocated battery makes a bump in the otherwise flat floor. Overall, the Tiggo is a nice ‘safe’ looking design, doing its best to be inoffensive, not trying to carve out its own profile, blending in with surrounding cars in a crowded shopping centre. Inside, that feeling of ‘sameness’, not wanting to set a distinct, unique, stamp on the cabin continues, it is pleasant without being a standout

“CHERY IS BACK, AND IS CHASING A BIGGER SLICE OF THE MARKET WITH THE TIGGO 4”

For all the criticisms levelled at Chinese cars, one area they have absolutely nailed is manufacturing, the fit and finish on the Tiggo 4 is outstanding. Our car was painted the premium Lunar Silver, an interesting colour varying from silver to a blue shade, depending on the light angle. The Tiggo’s vertical front grille is very much in the mould of Mazda’s CX SUV range, with a wide mouth air intake framed by fang-like vertical daytime running lights. Wedge shape LED headlights are the focal point for the sloping bonnet, bumper and front guards, pulling the front end together. The Tiggo has an upright stance, with good ground clearance, despite its compact dimensions, while owners are unlikely to travel off the beaten track, it gives the car a

Inside the impressive Tiggo 4 Ultimate.

The Tiggo 4 Ultimate pleases on many levels.

compared to the competition. Although best described as a small-medium SUV, I didn’t find the Tiggo 4 cramped, despite my extra large body! Headroom was good, a product of the ‘upright’ design, with reasonable shoulder and leg room, but I didn’t have anyone sitting behind me for reference. The seats were a bit of a challenge, although broad enough, they didn’t feel as welcoming as they looked, as though the lumbar support was pushing my lower back forward,

while the upper section reclined away from me. That said, the synthetic leather – no, not vinyl – was pliable, not hard or slippery, and the heated and power adjustable fronts were welcome as winter took hold. I found the seating position, relative to the steering wheel and pedals, was good, and the height adjustable seatbelts were a definite plus. The centre console is flat, finished in a gloss black, nice to look at, and popular with many manufacturers, although I wonder how hard they are to keep looking good. Controls are unobtrusive, either electric touch buttons or silver rocker controls for the temperature and fan speed. Dual zone climate control allow driver and front passenger to customise their settings, the rear seaters get what they are given. I liked the stubby gear selector, it was easy to move between gears, with an electronic park brake ahead of the two cupholders and storage box. While it works well, the wireless phone charger sits under the console, great for reducing driver distraction, but without a reminder message on exit, easy to forget where it was. Other likes included the small diameter, thick rimmed and flat bottomed steering wheel, it felt good in my hands, although I would have liked some more reach adjustment to bring it closer. Thumb switches on the face provide good control of the main functions, including cruise, telephone and audio. The widescreen display panel was easily read, I found it a bit overbright at night, but not as bad as some of its competition. Menus were easily accessed, my complaint here is the number of them, and the need to reset many of my choices every time I started the car, turning it off returned them to the default settings. With the hybrid drive prioritising EV mode as much as possible, it highlighted how quiet the cabin is, with minimal external noise.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

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SPORT

Youngster packs a punch NATHAN TAYLOR

axson Storek has always loved playing sport. Whether it’s rugby league, basketball, netball, athletics or soccer, this talented 11-year-old gives everything a go. But there’s one sport that Jaxson can’t get enough of – Muay Thai. The Year 6 Orchard Hills Public School student has been training in the full-contact combat sport of Muay Thai since he was five, following in the footsteps of his father, Kris. “Dad showed me all the photos and videos of him fighting and I said I want to be like that,” Jaxson told the Weekender. “I started kickboxing with him when I was two and have been going to MSP Muay Thai Gym in Jamisontown since I was five.” Jaxson currently trains at the York Road-based gym six days a week, and is continuously improving his technique and fight game under his experienced coach. “I definitely wasn’t this good when I started but over time I’ve gotten a lot better,” Jaxson admitted. “Muay Thai teaches me discipline

and respect. It also keeps me busy and fit. If you’re angry at something, you can just take your anger out at Muay Thai.” In March of this year, Jaxson travelled to Bangkok in Thailand to represent Australia at the 2026 World Muay Thai Federation World Championship. There, he went toe-to-toe with Great Britain’s best 11-year-old fighter and was victorious. “My U11 World Title is my best achievement so far,” Jaxson declared. “I was fighting the Champion of Great Britain. I won the first round, he won the second round, and I won the third round and took it out. “I was excited and shocked to win at the same time, but it was very, very good!” Jaxson said representing his country on the world stage for the first time is something he’ll never forget, and he hopes to continue wearing the green and gold for a long time to come. “It was the first time I’ve ever represented Australia. It was very exciting to get selected,” the World Champion said. “I felt both happy and surprised

because I didn’t think anyone knew who I was.” Following his tremendous feats in the Thai capital, Jaxson is the latest Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star recipient. The keen fisherman hopes his most recent 12 months in Muay Thai is just the start of a fruitful career in the popular martial art. “I’ve already been selected to go to Worlds next year in Bangkok,” Jaxson revealed. “This Saturday I’ve got a fight against a 14-year-old at my gym. I’m a little bit nervous about it but it’s all just fun. “All up, I’ve had 32 fights, so I’m getting up there. I just need more fights under my belt to prepare for Thailand next year.” Jaxson’s PVSF Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club. PVSF Junior Sports Star of the Month winners take home a cool $250 each for their efforts. If you or someone you know has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Jaxson Storek. Photo: Melinda Jane.

HARD WORK PAYS OFF Sports Star: Injury no barrier for talented netballer NATHAN TAYLOR

ocal netballer Isabella Hall is the epitome of hard work, determination and resil-

ience. Not only was the now 22-year-old a late comer to the sport, but four years ago she suffered an ACL injury that saw her miss the next 12 months. But despite her many challenges, Hall was able to rise above it all to become a key member of the Panthers Netball Premier League franchise. Speaking with the Weekender, the latest Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Senior Sports Star winner explained why she switched from tennis to playing netball a decade ago. “I started playing netball when I was 12, so I was actually quite late compared to most girls,” Hall said. “I played tennis for four years before netball, but fell out of love with that and joined a netball team with my friends.” Hall joined a team at the Corpus Christi Netball Club and forged many friendships as well as a huge passion for the game. “I found an individual sport like tennis quite hard, so I tried netball

with my friends and fell in love with it,” Hall said. “I think I just love the team environment. I’ve made so many friendships over the years in all my different teams.” Hall, who predominantly plays centre, has bounced around the local netball associations. From Penrith to Blacktown and even Campbelltown, Hall has friends just about everywhere. “I didn’t trial for reps until I was 15, which is the last age for juniors. I never made any State teams when I was younger but ended up making the U15 reps team for Penrith,” Hall said. “After that, I played for Blacktown in Metro League Division 4 for two years before moving to Campbelltown for two years to play in their Division 1 Metro League side.” Improving each and every year and rising up the ranks, Hall suffered a major setback in 2022 when she injured her ACL and was out of the game for a whole year. After 12 months of rehab, Hall returned to the court via the Premier League competition after she successfully trialled and won a spot in the Panthers Netball U23s team. “I made Premier League straight

after coming off an ACL, which was great!” she said. “I didn’t expect to make a Premier League team after being off for a year but I did the rehab, I did the hard work, and hard work pays off as they say.” Hall has been a mainstay at Panthers Netball for the past three seasons. Next year she’s hopeful of playing in the Opens team after aging out of U23s. “Next year I’ll hopefully get re-signed at Panthers for Opens,” Hall said. “Then the next step after that is making one of the Academies, whether that be Swifts or Sirens. I want to step up the ranks, put in the hard work and hopefully make one of those teams one day – that’s my plan!” Isabella Hall’s PVSF Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Penrith Panthers Leagues Club. PVSF Senior Sports Star winners take home a cool $500 each for their efforts. If you or someone you know has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. The 2025/26 Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Awards will be held tomorrow evening at Panthers.

Silverdale’s Isabella Hall.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

SPORT CHAMPIONS TWICE IN ONE DAY Story continued from » p.80

IT’S GOLD AGAIN

There’s no stopping Jessica Fox in return to Paris NATHAN TAYLOR

St Marys win the Sydney Shield. Photo: NSWRL.

St Marys were unbeaten throughout the regular season of the Sydney Shield – their worst result was a 22-all draw against the Hills Bulls in Round 1 – and they went on to win their next 17 matches to claim the club’s third premiership. Saints five-eighth Fred Peters was named Player of the Match after helping to spark a comeback in the first half when they trailed 16-6, while they also had to survive a late scare from Mounties who scored two tries in the final 10 minutes to reduce the margin. “It wasn’t easy today, it could have gone either way,” St Marys Sydney Shield coach Brad Drew said. “We’re obviously happy with the win. We train hard all year like every team, and I think the best two sides were in the game today and it could have gone either way. It was a great Grand Final. It was a nailbiter and everyone was on the edge of their seats.”

enrith’s Jessica Fox has continued her dream comeback season, winning her second K1 gold medal of the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup series at the same venue she won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Following her outstanding 2026 World Championships results in Oklahoma City in July, where she won three gold medals including her fifth K1 World Championship title, Fox continued to show her dominance in this event. After winning the women’s K1 heats, the 32-year-old kept cool under pressure as the last paddler to go down the rapids in the Final. Despite a two-second penalty, Fox finished 0.73 seconds ahead of Slovakia’s Eliska Mintalova and on top of the podium once again. “I have great memories here in Paris. It’s always a pleasure to race here with the amazing crowd,” Fox said after the race. “The course was hard. It was

Jessica wins gold in Paris. Photo: Romain Bruneau.

very challenging, very physical – I’m still out of breath. I gave it everything and I’m so happy to take the win today.” Fox’s sister Noemie was close to joining her on the podium in the women’s K1 Final, however a

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two-second penalty to her time saw her finish fifth overall. Fellow Penrith local, Aussie Lucien Delfour paddled back into form in the men’s K1 event and finished 10th overall in the Final, while in the women’s

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 10, 2026

C1 Final, Jessica Fox failed to podium after finishing a disappointing 11th. The ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup Final – the last event on the European calendar – will begin tonight in La Seu, Spain.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Ash takes Giants’ top honour AFL: GWS Giants defender Lachie Ash has made it a season to remember, awarded the 2026 Kevin Sheedy Medal. The 25-year-old etched his name into the club’s history with a career-best season earning him a maiden club champion. Ash finished last Thursday night’s count on 71 votes, just two votes clear of fellow defender Connor Idun and midfield bull Clayton Oliver (67 votes), who led the count for most of the evening. Following on from a strong 2025 campaign, the former top five draft pick continued his emergence this season with an eye-catching campaign. Playing in all 23 of the club’s games, Ash finished the season ranked elite for disposals, kicks, handballs, marks and metres gained, averaging 28.7 disposals, 19 kicks, 9.7 handballs, 7.2 marks and 626 metres gained per game. The award has capped off a brilliant individual season for the star defender who was selected and named Best on Ground for Victoria in February’s State of Origin, as well as rewarded with his first All-Australian blazer last month at the AFL awards. Giants Executive General Manager of Football, Jason McCartney, congratulated Ash on taking out the club’s most prestigious honour. “Lachie has had a fantastic season, and to see him recognised with the Kevin Sheedy Medal is a great reward for the consistency and impact he has had across the year,” he said. “He has established himself as one of the competition’s premier defenders, and this award is a reflection of the work he has put in to reach these levels of performance and influence.” Alongside a podium finish in his debut season in orange and charcoal, star recruit Clayton Oliver was awarded the Members’ Choice Award. Young gun Harvey Thomas’ 2026 performance was acknowledged, with the emerging winger receiving both the Rising Star and Coaches Award. Aaron Cadman was awarded Mark of the Year for his pack mark in Round 24, while Jake Stringer took out Goal of the Year, as well as Leading Goal Kicker. Former captain Stephen Coniglio received his third club Community Award. Harvey Hooper was awarded the VFL Player of the Year in his first season with the club, while exciting draft prospect Ethan Matthews was awarded the Academy Player of the Year. The 2026 Kevin Sheedy Medal was held at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. AFLW: The GWS Giants have extended their losing streak, going down to the Brisbane Lions 55-24 in Round 4 of the AFLW. Alyce Parker was prominent for the Giants with 31 disposals, five clearances and 501 metres gained, while Bec Beeson was also busy with 25 disposals and seven clearances. Teenage ruck Yasmeen

1.30pm in the Grand Final. Meanwhile, the season is over for the Penrith Ramettes in the Women’s Division 2 competition after they were eliminated by the Wollondilly Knights 13-7 in last Saturday’s Semi-Final at Rosedale Oval. The Ramettes scored their only points of the match in the third quarter.

Emus coach John Wickenden.

Lachie Ash wins the Kevin Sheedy Medal. Photo: GWS Giants.

Janschek battled admirably in the ruck, while cameos from Brodee Mowbray, Tilly LucasRodd and Poppy Boltz against her former side helped the Giants put up a fight. But ultimately, the Lions were a class above. GWS will hope to turn things around when they go up against the Sydney Swans this Sunday afternoon at Henson Park. AFL: The Penrith Rams are through to the Grand Final of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 5 competition. The Rams qualified for the decider after defeating the Wollondilly Knights 76-34 in last Sunday afternoon’s Preliminary Final at Bruce Purser Reserve. The Rams led 28-16 at half-time before going on the with the job in the second half. This Sunday, the Rams will travel to Blacktown International Sportspark to battle the Balmain Tigers at

RUGBY UNION: A week after guiding the club to their first premiership in more than 30 years, Penrith Emus coach John Wickenden has called it quits. After two seasons at the helm, Wickenden will step away from the busy role, with the Emus now on the hunt for a new head coach. Penrith Emus President Adam Fletcher said: “John’s greatest legacy is that he leaves the Penrith Emus in a better place than he found them. That is an ideal we want for everyone who walks through the gates at Nepean Rugby Park, whether they are a player, coach, volunteer, administrator or supporter. Come to the Emus, contribute, grow, make a difference, and leave the club better than you found it. John has certainly done that… along with some silverware!” The Emus will now spend the off-season recruiting for a new coach and some more players.

midfielder Rhianna Pollicina for the upcoming two A-League Women seasons, marking her return to the club where her professional journey began. A western Sydney product, Pollicina first represented the Wanderers during the 2014/15 season before continuing her development in the NSW NPL Women’s competition before returning to the A-League with the Newcastle Jets in 2020/21, where she was named the club’s A-League Women Player of the Year following an impressive campaign. Pollicina then joined Melbourne City ahead of the 2021/22 season and established herself as one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking midfielders. Across four seasons with City, Pollicina made 85 appearances in all competitions and scored 29 goals, departing as the third-highest goalscorer in the history of the club’s women’s team. Her time in Melbourne also saw her play an integral role in consecutive Premiership-winning campaigns, while her individual performances earned her selection in the PFA Team of the Season on three occasions. Pollicina spent the 2025/26 season with Melbourne Victory, continuing her goalscoring form with seven goals before making the move back to Western Sydney.

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers have gone down to the South Sydney Rabbitohs 32-16 in the first week of Finals in the NSW Women’s Premiership. Played at Leichhardt Oval last Sunday, the Rabbitohs led 16-4 at half-time before the Panthers made a mini comeback in the second half. Fortunately, despite the loss, the Panthers live to fight another day and will battle Mounties in an Elimination Final this Sunday morning at Leichhardt. The Knights take on the Bunnies in the other game. FOOTBALL: Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the signing of attacking

Rhianna Pollicina.

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

Flemington R8- SHEZA ALIBI

Rosehill R9- SKYHOOK

Rosehill R8- ST GOTTHARD

It’s hard to go past this horse even in a Group 1. One of the best horses in the country right now, and ran a great 2nd behind the other one in Autumn Glow last start. 1600m suits perfectly and should round them up down the outside of the long Flemington straight.

Big fan of this horse. Found winning from last prep and won its most recent of two trials in convincing fashion. Will have to overcome the wide barrier here, but if he can get up on the speed, he’ll relish it.

Hard not to include this horse if you go back and watch its last win, albeit 18 weeks ago. Unbeaten in its two starts so far and its latest trial suggests it’s ready to go.

12. Sheza Alibi (7) J: Luke Nolen T: P G Moody & Katherine Coleman W: 56.50kg

6. Skyhook (15) J: Kerrin Mc Evoy T: G Ryan & S Alexiou W: 56.00kg

7. St Gotthard (4) J: James Mc Donald T: C J Waller W: 57.00kg

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 « the western weekender

SPORT

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SAINTS GO MARCHING IN

St Marys are Ron Massey Cup Champions. Photo: NSWRL.

he St Marys Saints have become only the second club in rugby league history to win premierships for the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield in the same season. Played at Campbelltown Sports Stadium last Saturday, the Saints started the day with a hard-fought 32-26 win over a spirited Mounties in the Sydney Shield Grand Final before having to dig deep again to beat Minor Premiers Ryde-Eastwood 18-16 in the Ron Massey Cup decider. The last club to claim both titles in the

same year was Wentworthville in 2012, which was also the inaugural season of the Sydney Shield. “It is just really rewarding for all the people behind the scenes,” St Marys Ron Massey Cup coach Glenn Jones said. “From the Board, Adam Przybyla (Saints Rugby League Manager), all the staff and all the players, we did it for everyone. It takes an extraordinary effort from everyone to get this achievement. “There were some moments there where my heart was racing, but all I could do is sit there and squeeze my pen. It was up to the boys and they hung on.”

Ryde-Eastwood and St Marys had finished first and second respectively in the regular season and turned on a performance that was worthy of a Grand Final. The two sides couldn’t be split at halftime after heading to the break locked up at 12-all and continued to scrap for every moment in the second half. Saints took the lead on the back of a clever piece of play from halfback Zac Greene, who was later named Player of the Match. He kicked from a scrum on the halfway line for winger Samuel Curtain who won the race to the ball. Five-eighth Brad Keighran faced a diffi-

cult conversion from the sideline, but it glanced the upright before landing over to give Saints a narrow 18-16 lead. The Hawks had a chance to level the scores through a penalty goal to fullback Ben Stevanovic with less than five minutes remaining, but the attempt was waved away. “It doesn’t get any better,” halfback Zac Greene said of winning back-to-back titles. “If you thought one was good, let me tell you, that feels even better.” Story continues on » p. 78

WW59472

NATHAN TAYLOR