Western Weekender March 15 2024

• Chechos

hospitality gloom • More expected to close in More restaurants fall as

becomes latest

victim

of

As Penrith deals with a string of restaurant closures, perhaps the most surprising came last week when Mexican favourite Chechos announced it was suddenly shutting its doors.

If nothing else, it proves nobody is immune from an apparent hospitality crisis in the city.

The list of recent restaurant closures is long and alongside Chechos includes community favourites Burger Head, P’nut, The Bavarian, Taj of the Valley, Duck Duck Goose and The Savoury Dining, among others.

The Brew Lab Café has announced it will soon close while Japanese restaurant Okami is in administration.

A recent analysis of small businesses from Xero indicated that a range of factors are behind businesses struggling. A combination of interest rate hikes, inflation, and a slowdown of sales have made their impact known in the hospitality sector.

Part owner and operator of Chechos, Aaron Carrasco, shared how these indicators played a part in the closing down of his business.

“Generally, when something closes it’s a by-product of not being relevant, or popular, or your product has deteriorated, all those things contribute, but the funny thing about Chechos is it really isn’t any of those things,” Carrasco said.

“What the problem was, everyone due to the conditions is spending about 30 per cent less. So, you invariably have to run your operation at 100 per cent and costs have gone up 30 per cent, but the revenue that comes through is 30 per cent less.

“So, you’re always going to be running at a deficit.”

Carrasco shared that while running a busi-

ness can inherently be hard, the rise in costs for all utilities and produce has made the process harder.

“It’s all the cumulative factors, I think produce is a big one that has increased, as well as wages and running utilities,” he said.

“Every overhead that you have has increased... the people are there but spending less.”

A restaurant owner who has chosen to remain anonymous echoes these thoughts, fearing the worst is yet to come.

“I feel like it has been a mix of things like cost-of-living, interest rates, food costs have gone up ridiculously, and all the other things that keep going up like our rent,” they said.

“With cost-of-living people aren’t going out as much, or they might be going out but just cutting it back.”

Carrasco expressed how both the government and local councils could be doing more to help small businesses during this time.

“The government is effectively putting us into this position, but I think you could argue that Council could do a little bit more at the same time,” Carrasco said.

“They’ve [Council] got no problem leveraging these places to come into the area and highlight how good these things are for the area.

“I think it is really time that Council takes a check on all these great hospitality venues.”

The Weekender understands that a number of other restaurants in the Penrith area are also close to closing their doors.

“I think in the next 12 months you’ll see a lot of businesses closing, restructuring and things like that,” the anonymous restaurant owner said.

“There has to be some initiatives for hospitality because there is going to be a lot more carnage before it gets better.”

P’nut closed down last week, blaming economic conditions. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

Carrasco urged locals to continue supporting local restaurants where they could, to ensure they survive and the carnage does not continue.

Shadow Minister for Energy Affordability and Lindsay MP, Melissa McIntosh, said rising energy costs were playing a huge role in the long list of businesses closing their doors in western Sydney.

“Cost-of-living, [and] energy costs are the number one issue for people in my community and right across western Sydney,” McIntosh said.

“I’m also hearing daily that we have major closures of small businesses, people just trying to have a go, to get ahead in western Sydney, because of

energy costs specifically they’re now having to close their doors.”

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton spoke at a press conference this week where he said how increasing energy prices are affecting small businesses.

“We know that we’ve got a record number of small businesses closing across the country,” Dutton said while in Jamisontown.

“We know that we are in a per capita

GDP recession at the moment for individuals who are really doing it hard.

“... At the moment there is so much uncertainty in the economy, and businesses ... continue to have significant growth in their – not just their energy costs – but their input costs otherwise.”

What are your thoughts on Penrith’s restaurant scene? What can be done to stop the bleeding? Email news@ westernweekender.com.au.

Aaron Carrasco, part owner of Chechos, which closed on Sunday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The Bavarian closed down earlier this year. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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The Editor’s

It’s ironic really that the Spencer Leniu and Sam Kerr sagas landed in the news cycle in the same week.

One called an Indigenous player from the opposition a monkey. The other allegedly called a police officer a white bastard.

According to many, one is far worse than the other.

Not surprisingly, Leniu has been hanged, drawn and quartered this past week or two, with calls for huge bans and the questioning of his integrity.

The Panther turned Rooster was suspended for eight weeks by the NRL judiciary on Monday night. Too harsh, some say. Too light, say others. That probably means they got it right.

The stain on a career littered with Premierships will last much longer than the eight weeks, of course.

The judiciary would have been relieved that Leniu eventually submitted a guilty plea, given there was no audio of the incident and it could have turned much uglier if it became a stoush over what was or wasn’t said.

There were very few defending Leniu this past week. Even the reality that it happened in the heat of battle has not been accepted as anything resembling an excuse (nor should it). Leniu’s own background has not come into the conversation either.

Leniu is not obstreperous by nature, so we’ll never really know why he said what he did.

His offer to fly to Brisbane and apologise man to man to Mam was rejected, which is of course the Broncos five-eighth’s right.

But it’s been interesting that the response to the Sam Kerr incident has been very different in the general public and the media.

There’s plenty of excuses for her, as her huge band of supporters build a defence on her behalf.

The Sydney Morning Herald even published a piece by columnist and senior writer Jacqueline Maley that called Kerr “our girl” and suggested we all breathed a sigh of relief when it was revealed that her alleged harassment was against a white police officer.

According to Maley, just a shocker of a night

and some poor behaviour, but certainly not racism and nothing we should really concern ourselves with. Just a little “unbecoming”, apparently.

I certainly agree that this isn’t the crime of the century. Why it is taking up time in the UK courts is beyond me and I’m not convinced it couldn’t have been resolved in a more sensible manner.

But I also wasn’t there on the night, so unlike Kerr’s crew of supporters, I won’t entirely declare the charges should be dropped until the full context is clearer.

It should be noted that Kerr will, according to The Australian , dispute the phrase she used. She has plead not guilty to ‘racially aggravated harassment’ and deserves the assumption of innocence.

“The claim that you can’t be racist to a white person is, of course, just preposterous”

Holding Kerr up as a hero scorned here though is concerning.

With reports all of this started because she threw up in the back of a cab, presumably after drinking, and resulted in a police altercation, this should not just be discarded as a fun night out that took a messy turn.

After all, we know the media and those who have a newfound love for Kerr would not accept that line from an NRL player. ‘Boys will be boys’ would be scoffed at.

What’s interesting in all of this is that it’s not calling a police officer a ‘bastard’ that’s created all the debate this week, it’s the word ‘white’ that came before it.

It’s silly, but not surprising.

After all, for years the left has been convincing us that words or terms that may be considered mildly offensive (if that) by most are in fact serious slurs that should have the speaker of such vile cancelled.

There’s almost a little of ‘your own medicine’ here, given many of Kerr’s many supporters are arguing that it’s impossible to be racist to a white person and that the term she used is no big deal.

Do I think Sam Kerr is racist?

Of course not.

Do I think the comment she allegedly made is racist?

Well that depends on your perspective and your threshold.

There’s been plenty of things over the last decade or so that I’ve been told were racist and offensive that on I think most normal people’s radar, would not be.

But as years go by and we’re scolded more and more about what we said or did in the past, and what is or isn’t offensive, it’s hard to know.

The claim that you can’t be racist to a white person is, of course, preposterous.

It’s like saying a woman can’t be sexist.

A million ‘experts’ can say whatever they like, but the moment you bring the colour of somebody’s skin into a slur or offensive remark, you’re potentially being racist.

Of course, a racist comment to an individual or group that is a minority or marginalised is going to hit harder. Nobody is going to deny that.

But we shouldn’t be breathing a “sigh of relief” that all Sam Kerr allegedly said was “stupid white bastard” (which, again, is not proven in court and will be denied).

We should be disappointed that skin colour was brought into such an argument at all.

I have no doubt that Sam Kerr will continue to be the poster girl for football in Australia.

But I also have no doubt that Spencer Leniu will eventually let his football do the talking and should be able to move forward with his career, without an asterisk.

People make mistakes and when you have a profile, your poorest moments are often public.

Sam Kerr is 30-years-old. Spencer Leniu is just 23.

Both appear to have had moments of serious regret. Neither deserve to be ‘cancelled’ but neither deserve a free ride either.

St Marys Leagues Club President announces retirement Smith calls it a day

TROY DODDS

St Marys Leagues Club

President Warren Smith

will end his 38-year tenure at the end of the month, after announcing his retirement.

Smith, who has been President for 35 of those years, confirmed the news at the club’s season launch over the weekend.

“What the Board and those that came before us have collectively created, on and off the field at Saints is truly something special, it’s something I’m immensely proud of,” Smith said.

“I strongly believe that you should always try and end on a high note and looking at the club now, I could not think of a more fitting time for me to step aside and hand the reigns over to the next generation of Saints.”

David Cartwright will take over as President.

Under Smith’s stewardship, the club has witnessed remarkable growth including the impressive $25 million Western Foyer Development, Saints Sports Bar and Saints Event Centre, and the

four-star Holiday Inn St Marys. Smith highlighted the evolution of the club’s rugby league operations and facilities over its impressive 116-year history, attributing its success to the collective efforts of the Board,

staff, sponsors, volunteers, and members.

Rod Desborough, CEO of St Marys Leagues Club, paid tribute to Smith’s remarkable tenure and credited his leadership for the club’s unprecedented growth

and success.

“I know Warren considers it an honour and privilege to be President of the club, but I consider it an honour and privilege to have had Warren as my President,” Desborough said.

It caused more social media buzz and ‘did you feel that’ text messages than actual damage, but the earthquake that struck Penrith last Friday night has certainly sparked plenty of intrigue.

The 3.6 magnitude quake struck at 8.53pm on Friday, March 8 with Geoscience Australia confirming the event took place at a depth of eight kilometres.

Almost 6,000 people have lodged ‘felt reports’ with Geoscience Australia, confirming they felt the quake.

The Weekender understands assessments were undertaken on a home in Glenmore Park and a unit block in Kingswood, which both suffered minor damage.

However, there were no significant reports of damage or injuries from the incident.

– Troy Dodds

BOXING EVENT CANCELLED

The Luke Priddis Foundation has been forced to cancel its Boxing Fundraiser scheduled for next week.

The event was to take place at Manufactor on Castlereagh Road on March 22.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, we’ve been notified the venue is unable to host the Luke Priddis Boxing Fundraiser,” the Foundation said on social media.

“With such short notice to find a new venue, we’ve made the very difficult decision to cancel the event.”

A new date is being sought.

Outgoing St Marys Leagues Club President Warren Smith.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Penrith: Man and woman charged with break and enter offences

A man and woman have been charged with multiple break and enter offences and will face court.

Over a series of weeks, Nepean Police Area Command received multiple reports of a male and female tricking their way into residential premises by requesting a glass of water or to use their bathroom.

Once inside, the offenders have stolen small items such as wallets, phones, jewellery and keys before leaving.

Several stolen cards were used fraudulently to purchase items locally.

On Tuesday, March 5 at 12.00pm a 27-yearold Penrith man and a 29-year-old Penrith woman were located at a residential premises in Penrith were they were arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where they were both charged with 17 offences.

Further enquiries revealed the pair were both wanted for a robbery in company in Pendle Hill and an aggravated break and enter in company in Parramatta. They both had outstanding warrants.

They were both bail refused and will appear at Penrith Local Court on Friday, May 3.

Colyton: Serious assault leaves man with bad injuries

Police have commenced investigations after a serious assault in Colyton.

At 11.15pm on Saturday, March 9 police responded to reports of a male having suffering serious injuries following an assault in Carpenter Street, Colyton.

This male was transported to Westmead Hospital for treatment. A short time later, two males presented at Mt Druitt Hospital having also suffered head wounds.

Police have established numerous crime scenes and Nepean Detectives have commenced investigations into the incident.

Kingswood: Man charged with stabbing offences

A man has been stabbed in Kingswood after an argument.

At 5.00pm on Wednesday, March 6 a male attended a unit block on Anthony Crescent in Kingswood after being conatacted by witnesses reporting a heated argument involving knives. The male entered the unit block where an argument between him and the male resident occurred, during which the resident suffered stab wounds to his leg, arm and stomach. This male was conveyed

to Westmead Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery.

Nepean detectives established a crime scene and commenced investigations.

At 9.00pm that night, a 24-year-old South Penrith man presented himself at Nepean Hospital with wounds to his shoulder and stomach. He received treatment for his injuries before he was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged.

The man was granted conditional bail and will appear at Penrith Local Court on Friday, May 3.

North St Marys: Man and woman charged with armed robbery

A man and woman have been charged with robbery whilst armed and will face court.

At 3.00pm Saturday, March 9 a male and female confronted a male on a bus in Station Street, St Marys.

They requested to use the victim’s phone and when he declined they grabbed and pushed him into the bus windows.

They produced a knife and threatened to stab the male while demanding he hand over all his property. They ripped the chain from his neck and stole his phone, watch, and bum bag before exiting the bus.

The victim contacted Police and a 31-yearold Mt Druitt male and a 35-year-old Bowenfels female were arrested shortly after where they were still possession of the victim’s property and the knife used in the offence.

The male and female were both charged and bail refused, and will appear at Penrith Local Court on Friday, April 5.

St Clair: Police probe how guns ended up at local hotel

Police are appealing for information after two firearms were seized in St Clair last week.

In December 2023, officers attached to the Rural Crime Prevention Team (RCPT) and Orana Mid-Western Police District established Strike Uji, to investigate rural breakins in the Running Stream and Aarons Pass area in regional New South Wales.

A large amount of property, firearms, cash, an Order of Australia Medal and a hatchback were allegedly stolen, and a farmhouse destroyed by fire at Running Stream.

About 10.30am on Saturday, March 9, officers seized two firearms from a hotel in St Clair. Investigators are now seeking information from the public to establish how the firearms – that are linked to the theft from Running Stream – came to be in St Clair.

with Daniel 51579

McKinnon

We often get calls, particularly from first home buyers, in a bit of fluster about what steps need to be taken after they have made an offer to purchase a property that has been accepted.

The usual cause for concern is that once an offer is made and accepted, it most cases in NSW the Real Estate Agent will request the buyer to pay a 0.25 per cent deposit and sign a Contract.

Most of the time a buyer will not have had an opportunity to discuss the Contract with their lawyer prior, so it can cause some stress or concern.

The reality is that the vast majority of property purchases in NSW occur this way. This is because in relation to the purchase of residential property, buyers are entitled to an automatic five day cooling off period during which they can withdraw from a purchase after Contracts are exchanged.

Exchanging Contracts is the process of paying the 0.25 per cent deposit, each party signing the Contract and the Contracts being dated, at which time the Contracts become binding.

In other words, buyers have the protection of a cooling off period during which they can withdraw from the purchase if they want to, so in most cases buyers will sign the Contract with the Real Estate Agent, pay the deposit, and then set about their due diligence, including reviewing the Contract with their lawyer during the cooling off period.

It is important to remember however that if you purchase property this way you will lose your 0.25 per cent deposit if you decide not to proceed with the purchase. The reason for this is that during your cooling off period the seller is not at liberty to sell the property to anybody else, even if someone offers a higher price. You can however withdraw from the purchase for any reason. The quid quo pro is that if you decide to pull out, meaning that the seller has potentially lost the opportunity to sell the property to somebody else, the seller gets to keep your 0.25 per cent deposit.

In most cases, the statutory five day cooling off period gets extended to 10 days. These are working days and do not include weekends, so if you have a five day cooling off period, this is actually one week. If you have a 10 day

cooling off period, this is actually two weeks. If there are any public holidays during that period then the cooling off period is extended by the number of public holidays that occur during the period. At the end of your cooling off period you will be required to make a decision as to whether or not you wish to proceed with the purchase. If you want to proceed you need to pay the balance of the 10 per cent deposit (being 10 per cent of the purchase price less the 0.25 per cent deposit you have already paid) by close of business on the last day of the cooling off period.

At this point you will be locked in to the Contract and you will no longer be able to withdraw.

It is critically important that you complete your due diligence during your cooling off period so that you are fully informed once it comes time to lock you into the deal.

There are three main tasks that need to be completed during your cooling off period:

1. Review of the Sale Contract the negotiation of terms. We take care of this for you and meet with you to discuss the Contract.

2. Completion of a Pest & Building Report and/or Strata Report. We can arrange this for you if you do not have your own inspectors in mind.

3. If you are borrowing money to fund the purchase, obtaining final unconditional loan approval (pre-approval is usually not enough and we can explain this to you in greater detail if you contact us).

The above is not applicable with respect to the purchase of commercial property.

The above is also not applicable with respect to the purchase of property at an auction. At an auction there is no cooling off period and you are locked into the deal immediately if you are the highest bidder.

There is also another way you can purchase residential property in NSW, which is often referred to as a “solicitor exchange” or a “Section 66W exchange”. This involves reviewing the Contract and completing your due diligence before you sign a Contract and pay your deposit.

The upside to this kind of exchange is that there is no risk of you losing your 0.25 per cent deposit.

Council Briefs

● Do you have old, broken, unwanted electronic items in your home? Pack them into the boot of your car or trailer and bring them to Council’s free E-Waste Drop-Off event on Werrington, between 9am and 3.30pm.

This is your chance to dispose of your e-waste correctly, impact on our environment and wildlife.

Find out what items will be accepted and all the event details at penrith.city/e-wasteday

● Do you know someone who could be Penrith’s 2024 Young Citizen of the Year? The Local Celebration Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people in our community who dedicate their time to making Penrith a great place to live.

Our next Young Citizen of the Year will be aged 24 or younger and achieved in academics, sport, the arts, charity or community service work.

Give and outstanding young person the recognition they deserve! Find out more about the Awards and how to nominate at penrith.city/local-celebration-awards

● Come along to Culture Fusion, a vibrant multicultural event on Saturday, 23 March 2024 to celebrate Harmony Week!

Enjoy the best beats, bites and performances from all over the world from 4–9pm at Lang Park, 9 Carinya Avenue, St Marys. Immerse yourself in rhythm at a drumming workshop, or sample cuisine from the Middle East, Hawaii, Mexico, Italy and more! And best of all, it’s free to attend!

Funding for this project has been provided by the NSW Government through Multicultural NSW in partnership with St Marys Town Centre and Penrith City Council.

Find out more at penrith.city/culturefusion

Public Notices

Section 17 of the Roads Act 1993 –Proposed Roads Dedication

Under Section 17 of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to dedicate the roads described below, in accordance with Section 16 of the Roads Act 1993 This means the roads will become public roads.

• Studley Street, Londonderry

The road to be dedicated includes part of the public road created by Deposited Plan 976412 ‘Clifton Park Estate’ and remaining within Conveyancing Book 246 No. 241 dated 18 May 1882 and Conveyance Book 258 No. 386 dated 2 November 1882 held by George Hubbard Cooper and Josiah Brereton.

The land comprises Studley Street and is shown outlined on the diagram below. There is no intention to modify the existing road formation at this location and this process will not change the current use of the site.

Council intends to dedicate Studley Street, Londonderry in its entirety.

Within 28 days of this notice, the owner of the land may, apply to the Land and Environment Court should the land not be dedicated as a public road in accordance with Section 17(2) of the Roads Act. For all enquiries: Please contact Laura Gray, Development Manager on 4732 7777 or laura.gray@penrith.city

• Berkshire Park

The road to be dedicated includes part of the public road created by Deposited Plan 975322 and remaining within Conveyancing Book 247 No. 11 held by William Edgar Harold Philips dated 19 October 1885. The land comprises St Marys Road (previously known as Eighth Road) and is shown outlined on the diagram below. There is no intention to modify the existing road formation at this location and this process will not change the current use of the site.

Council intends to dedicate St Marys Road (previously Eighth Road) from the intersection of Fourth Road, heading south to the intersection of Sirius Place, Berkshire Park.

Within 28 days of this notice, the owner of the land may, apply to the Land and Environment Court should the land not be dedicated as a public road in accordance with Section 17(2) of the Roads Act. For all enquiries: Please contact Laura Gray, Development Manager on 4732 7777 or laura.gray@penrith.city

Dutton backs McIntosh

No questions over who Opposition Leader wants to be Lindsay candidate at poll

EMILY CHATE

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has whole heartedly backed Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh in the upcoming Liberal pre-selection battle.

McIntosh is set to face Penrith’s Deputy Mayor Mark Davies in a pre-selection fight ahead of the next Federal Election.

Dutton last week appointed McIntosh to the Shadow Ministry, giving her the roles of Western Sydney and Energy Affordability.

The Opposition Leader spoke at a press conference in Penrith on Tuesday where he said he backed McIntosh for pre-selection.

“Not only do I back her [McIntosh] in the pre-selection but I would say to all people, in what’s a democratic process, I urge them strongly to back and vote for Melissa,” Dutton said.

“In our party, pre-selections can be contested anywhere... But there is not an outcome that I will accept where Melissa is not the candidate in the next election.

“I want to be very clear about that, she’s a great candidate, she’s an integral part of our team.”

Dutton expressed his excitement at having McIntosh in Shadow Ministry discussions.

“I am absolutely thrilled and

excited to have Melissa in her new role,” Dutton said.

“[She is] a great communicator, that’s meant she is not only a

State Government to deliver safe staffing levels in stages

EMILY CHATE

The State Government has confirmed its commitment to implement safe staffing levels, which will boost the number of frontline healthcare workers in NSW public hospitals.

The new minimum staffing requirements will be rolled out in stages between now and July 2027, starting at hospitals with emergency departments.

These requirements are a product of the Safe Staffing Levels Taskforce, which includes leaders from the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association and New South Wales Health.

NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park expressed how important these staffing changes are.

“When we boost and support our health workforce, we will see improved health outcomes,” he said.

“It’s as simple as that.

“We listened to nurses, midwives, patients and other stakeholders who have told us of the need for these changes and have acted to

ensure we have a health system that delivers the best care possible for all of NSW, now and into the future.”

The State Government plans to utilise different strategies to implement these changes including abolishing wage gaps, delivering pay increases, introducing 500 additional paramedics in regional and remote communities, and doubling the health worker study subsidies.

“This Government continues to deliver on its commitment to ensuring our hospitals have the frontline healthcare workers they need to continue to deliver safe, high-quality care to patients. This reform will mean more nurses providing frontline care to the people of NSW,” Park said.

“This important reform will deliver improved experiences and outcomes of care for patients while backing essential frontline workers in all corners of the state.”

The reforms will first be implemented at Liverpool Hospital and Royal North Shore Hospital emergency departments.

These initial sites will inform the later rollout of the reforms in other hospitals across the state.

“SCARE CAMPAIGN” ON CAR PRICES

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says claims that Labor’s fuel efficiency policy will “jack up prices on cars” are nothing but a “scare campaign” from the Opposition.

“The truth is that there are only two countries in the industrialised world that do not have fuel standards. They’re Australia and Russia,” Albanese said.

“Now, Vladimir Putin isn’t my role model for any policy, let alone the standards of

vehicles, and I don’t know if people are conscious of the level of Russian presence in our motor vehicle fleet, but I haven’t seen too many driving around.”

Albanese said it was important for Australia to develop fuel standards.

“I’ll stand up for Australia’s national interest, I make no apologies for that,” he said.

He said fuel standards were “common sense”.

wonderful local member but also a very significant contributor to our Shadow Ministry discussions.

“She has a good read on and a good

connection with what people are thinking and that’s why she is an integral part of our success.”

Of her new role as Shadow Minister for Western Sydney and Energy Affordability, McIntosh said she has heard alarming stories of energy costs.

“Cost-of-living and energy costs are the number one issue for people living in my community right across western Sydney,” McIntosh said.

“Really worryingly, I heard from a food bank this morning who are feeding more people than ever, people who have never walked through the doors, and now they’ve said they have started to pay people’s electricity bills.”

McIntosh took aim at her Labor counterparts, saying they have forgotten about western Sydney.

“Labor has forgotten about the people of western Sydney, or worst still they just don’t care,” McIntosh said.

“Small businesses are struggling, families are struggling, major infrastructure cuts of billions of dollars when we have an international airport just a couple of years away.

“People deserve better in western Sydney.”

Development Consent/s Determined

Pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council.

Approved Development Applications

• Tim Harrington DA23/1120

Lot 1154 DP 259017, 120 Greenbank Drive, Werrington Downs Alterations and additions to the existing dwelling

• Andrea Chalice CD23/0009

Lot 110 DP 1044260, 9 Seine Court, St Clair Alterations to the existing dwelling including the installation of noise attenuation windows and doors

• Stimson Urban & Regional DA23/0330 Planning

Lot 2 DP 1276741, 33 Ladbury Avenue, Penrith Two-storey dwelling

• William Koro DA23/0588

Lot 2157 DP 255370, 33 The Grandstand, St Clair

Demolition of existing dwelling and associated structures, construction of detached dual occupancy and Strata title subdivision x 2 lots

• BLC Consulting CD23/0007

Lot 73 DP 1010881, 116 Forbes Street, Emu Plains

Alterations to the existing dwelling including the installation of noise attenuation windows

• Andrea Chalice CD23/0008

Lot 74 DP 1010881, 114a Forbes Street, Emu Plains

Alterations to the existing dwelling including the installation of noise attenuation windows and doors

Viewing of Development Applications

• Platinum Group Construct DA23/0193

Pty Ltd

Lot 7 SP 71778, 7/2–10 Gallipoli Street, St Marys Alterations to an existing swim school

• The Trustee for Rev24/0001

Stimson & Baker Unit Trust

Lot 2 DP 787827, 2115–2131 Castlereagh Road, Penrith

Review of Determination (Refusal) of DA23/0043 for free-standing internally illuminated pylon sign with 2 faces for Castlereagh Road

• Beaini Projects Pty Ltd DA23/0668

Lot 1700 DP 1166371, 90–98 Glenmore Ridge Drive, Glenmore Park

Use of Tenancy AR11 as 24 hour gymnasium

• William Chavez Lope Mod24/0012

Lot 2 DP 412508, 117 Parker Street, Penrith dwelling including internal alterations, relocation of entry door and pergola and removal of Condition 7

• The Trustee for Gpv23 Trust DA24/0011

Lot 1700 DP 1166371, 90–98 Glenmore Ridge Drive, Glenmore Park

Refused Development Application

• Sydney Drafting Concepts DA23/1005 & Design Pty Ltd

Lot 23 DP 206707, 57 Ladbury Avenue, Penrith

Alterations and additions to existing 2-storey dwelling

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker will be able to assist with your enquiries.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

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

penrith.city

Peter Dutton and Melissa McIntosh tour GPC Electronics in Jamisontown on Tuesday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

PAGE TEN

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Service NSW opens new centre in win for Glenmore Park locals

Anew Service NSW Centre has finally opened in Glenmore Park.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib officially opened the centre this week at HomeCo. Glenmore Park Town Centre.

The new centre will look to service communities in Glenmore Park, Jamisontown, Emu Plains, Glenbrook, and surrounding areas.

Dib expressed how important it is to have these services available.

“Service NSW is that one-stop-shop for all government services. We expect about 50,000 people will come into this particular service centre at Glenmore Park this year alone,” he said.

“I think the key element here is the fact that pretty much every service that you want to do with government, and anything that is available through the government can be found here in this centre.

“The goal that we set ourselves is that everybody who walks in the door, walks out knowing we have done everything we can to help them, and to support them, and to make sure we have resolved any issues that they may have.”

The centre is officially the 117th Service NSW operating in the state.

A range of services will be available at the centre including licence renewal, working with children check renewals, and ownerbuilder permits.

There are two other Service NSW centres nearby, one in Penrith and one in Springwood.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said how important the new centre is.

“I am pleased to see the people of Glenmore Park and the surrounding communities,

including Emu Plains and Glenbrook, will now have a Service NSW Centre right on their doorstop,” she said.

“Western Sydney is home to many busy, hardworking families, and it is so important that our mums and dads have the services they need where they live. Opening facilities like this in growing communities means families are not spending unnecessary time away from one another while doing things like getting their licence renewed.”

Dib said how exciting it is to have a new service centre available in the Penrith area.

“It is a beautiful centre, it is really spacious, and easy to find, and I think [it’s] at the heart of the community,” he said.

“This is at the foot of the Mountains and so it is really important and really exciting, you can see from the team members here they are really excited to be here.”

Service NSW Glenmore Park is now officially open.

There are four categories to choose from: Citizen of the Year

Young Citizen of the Year Mayor’s Local Heroes Award Community Service Award

Minister Jihad Dib shakes hands with Service NSW Glenmore Park Manager Jacqui. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Minister Jihad Dib with Marley Moran who just passed his P’s test.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

The women building our

• The workers axing gender stereotypes to help build Bradfield • How new city

TROY DODDS

These are the incredible women turning gender stereotypes on their heads and helping build Australia’s newest city – just a stone’s throw from Penrith.

Inspirational women are working across all areas of delivery at Bradfield City Centre, including project management, contracts administration, building design and construction, and site security.

WPCA Chair, Jennifer Westacott, said the women involved bring expertise, talent, and passion to their roles.

“The women helping to shape Bradfield City Centre are realising the once-in-a-generation opportunities this city presents,” Westacott said.

Bradfield City Centre will generate new opportunities for women to work in advanced industries like aerospace and defence, advanced manufacturing, medtech, and circular economy.

“Economic empowerment for women is key. When women are given parallel chances to earn,

learn and lead – whole populations succeed,” Westacott said.

“This vibrant, 24/7 global city will unlock new economic opportunities, create 10,000 more homes, and support 20,000 new jobs for the people of west- ern Sydney.”

Manager at Bradfield City Centre, Jodie Vo’s day is never boring.

“Every day there is something new that brings a real sense of achievement,” she said.

A self-confessed ‘life-long westie’, she enjoys managing the progress on site and seeing the First Building rise from the ground.

“Watching CGI renders, concepts and plans become a reality gives a real sense of achievement and satisfaction,” she said.

“I’ve always had a passion for the empowerment of Greater Western Sydney as a region and its residents. My work at the WPCA and on the First Building is a great opportunity to step into an interesting industry.”

With a background in civil engineering and 12 years in the construction industry, Azin Danesh joined Taylor in 2022 and is working on the First Building at Bradfield City Centre.

“Being a part of the team constructing the First Building at Bradfield is an exciting achievement which will never be forgotten,” she said.

“I am proud my work will be seen for many years to come.”

She is motivated by being a part of construction works that understands and values women’s abilities and provides equitable workspaces for all.

“Working as part of Taylor Construction Group, I’ve always been provided with support and opportunities to expand my skills

and capabilities in the industry,” she said.

As a Construction Cadet working on the First Building at Bradfield City Centre, Amanda Bruhn loves experiencing every facet of construction from the builder’s perspective.

“Since starting in the industry at

Amanda Bruhn works on Bradfield as part of Taylor Construction Group.

Photo: Quentin Jones.

Azin Danesh says building the new airport city at Bradfield is something she will be proud of for many years to come. Photo: Quentin Jones.

newest city

18, I’ve been a part of many incredible projects like this, working with some inspiring people,” she said.

“Women have a lot to offer. Being a part of the construction team brings the opportunity to encourage other women to join construction. Inspiration starts by encouraging younger generations.”

She believes ‘investing in women’ helps accelerate progress at Bradfield City Centre.

“A new city, new generation, new thinking and new opportunities brings new perspectives and project experiences,” she said.

“Bringing fresh perspectives and experiences to the project has helped accelerate progress in various ways at Bradfield.”

Recently joining the NSW Public Works team as a Student Project Manager working on the First Building project at Bradfield City Centre, Yerin Lee is excited to see how her work contributes to the progress of the city.

She is in her third and final year studying a Bachelor of Project Management with a major in construction at the University of Sydney, and although she has not worked on the project long, she says it is a safe, inviting space for women.

“I love that everyone is willing to help and teach you about anything you don’t understand. Everyone knows I am new and still a student. They always check up on me and my mentor always reassures me it’s OK to not know everything and I will learn,” she said.

“It’s a supportive environment and I feel blessed I have been given this opportunity to learn in this ground-break ing city.”

Yerin Lee is one of the newest workers helping to build Bradfield City Centre, the new airport city just a stone’s throw from Penrith. Photo: Quentin Jones.

Jodie Vo is one of many women working at the Bradfield construction site. Photo: Quentin Jones.

Hawkesbury

Walk and Talk’s milestone

For five years, local mental health initiative has had a huge impact on local men

Astaple in the local community, the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk is celebrating its fifth birthday this week after supporting thousands of men to talk about mental health.

According to Andrew Paech, the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk began after a group of friends became aware of the importance of having the community connection that they felt had dropped out of their lives after wrapping up with community sports and other hobbies.

In an effort to create something to give people a forum to unload and share, the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk was created, and exploded almost immediately.

Having started in 2019, Paech said the group’s first hurdle was the COVID break, which saw the men take to an online platform when they weren’t able to walk in person. Contrary to what they anticipated, this only helped the group to expand.

“We just grew stronger through that time,” he told the Weekender

Currently, the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk sees upwards of 30 men head down to the river each Thursday night to enjoy a drink at The Coffee Club before doing a lap, with up to 100 joining in for special events.

“Every Thursday night, our local men know that rain, hail or shine, there’s a group of blokes down there ready for a chat, a coffee, and a walk,” Paech said.

Though he says he’s met thousands of men through the walk over the years, Paech noted that the flexibility of the group is what makes it special, allowing them to come down just when they need to.

“We see some engage just for a short season,

it’s almost like they require what they really needed at that time and then they’re alright, then others come in cycles as they’re able to and that works for them,” he said.

“Some come and they just never leave. They become a very important part of the fabric of our walk.”

Some regulars have even been trained in mental health.

“Whether it’s basic mental health courses we’ve done, or the certified mental health first aid, they themselves have become skilled to engage with people who rock up there, and that’s pretty unique. That’s groundbreaking,” Paech said.

For Paech, a standout aspect of the group has been seeing people kick their goals, whether they be social, mental or physical, and receiving this positive feedback from their loved ones.

“One young lady ran into me at the river one day, and she said, ‘This walk has saved my

father’s life’. It’s those kinds of comments that make you think, ‘Wow’,” he said.

The Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk has also kickstarted the beginning of other groups across the state.

“We do whatever we can to help across the Blue Mountains, various other places in Sydney, the Central Coast and more,” Paech said.

“They’ve come to our walk and that’s inspired them to do something in their own area, and we think that’s a great outcome and a real highlight.”

The Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk celebrated their fifth birthday yesterday (Thursday, March 14) by ending the walk with free drinks and pizza at The Coffee Club with guest speaker Gus Worland from Gotcha4Life and Triple M.

But, Paech promised this won’t be their last major milestone celebrated, with plenty more to be done in the community.

“We anticipate that in another five years, we will be having a 10-year birthday celebration saying very similar things,” he said.

“We know that this whole area of mental health and men’s suicide is a hot button issue in our community, and to think that just a simple, grassroots thing like this could actually make a difference into that, that’s very meaningful, and we just want to see that continue into the future, being that light that it is.”

The Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk gets underway every Thursday from 5pm from The Coffee Club. All men are welcome to join in.

Guest speakers often feature as part of the events.

The walk allows local men to open up about their mental health.

The walks take place in Penrith every Thursday.

“Never walk alone” is the theme of the Men’s Walk and Talk.

Hundreds of locals take part in the Men’s Walk and Talk on a regular basis.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Premier opens first warehouse at thriving new industrial estate

The first warehouse at the Aspect Industrial Estate in Kemps Creek was opened this week.

NSW Premier Chris Minns alongside Minster for Roads John Graham officially opened the warehouse, which is part of the $660 million Mamre Road precinct.

The Aspect Industrial Estate in Kemps Creek is a joint operation between Mirvac, Australian Retirement Trust, CEVA, and the NSW Government.

Minns said how important this industrial estate is for the area.

“As you can see these are brand new facilities, cutting edge, and really will form the backbone of an expanding growth in the economy out here in western Sydney as we complete the intermodal,” Minns said.

The estate is estimated to have an end value of $660 million and will boast 247,000 square metres of warehouse and office space.

Mirvac CEO of investments Richard Seddon said the estate is set

to boost the job market in western Sydney.

“We know how important it is that people have jobs near where they live,” Seddon said.

“This Aspect industrial Estate alone will have an end value of around $700 million and will provide over 500 construction and 1200 operational jobs once it is complete.”

Graham shared his excitement at the job prospects this industrial precinct will bring.

“It’s a delight to be here in this precinct, the jobs and the economic potential really have to be seen to be believed,” Graham said.

Minns said the industrial estate will work as the centre for economic growth in western Sydney.

“This is an exciting part of NSW,

it will be the centre, the epicentre of major growth for the western Sydney economy for the years ahead,” Minns said.

“It’s a great opportunity for jobs.”

Seddon said how important it is for industry and government to continue to work together on these projects.

“We know this partnership of industry and government enables economic growth in Australia, and we believe it’s critical that all levels of government continue to

invest and enable infrastructure to support the growth of western Sydney,” Seddon said.

The estate is a part of the Mamre Road precinct which was rezoned for employment uses in 2020 by the previous State Government under Gladys Berejiklian.

The industrial precinct is located close to the new Western Sydney Airport at Badgery’s Creek, is less than 10 minutes from the M7 motorway, and is 20 kilometres to Penrith.

NSW Premier Chris Minns opens a warehouse on Monday in Kemps Creek.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

The warehouse at Kemps Creek. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

Man charged after local drug bust

A man has been charged and a Glenmore Park house raided as part of an investigation into the supply of prohibited drugs.

In November 2023, detectives attached to Nepean Police Area Command established Strike Force Tong to investigate the supply of prohibited drugs.

After the arrest of a 34-year-old man at Drummoyne at about 7pm on Tuesday night in connection with the investigation, police moved on to Glenmore Ridge Drive in Glenmore Park, where they executed a search warrant at about 10.40pm.

A 32-year-old man was arrested at the premises and during a search, officers located items consistent with the manufacture of prohibited drugs.

The seized items will be forensically examined.

The man was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with ‘possess drug manufacture apparatus make prohibited drug’.

He was granted conditional bail to appear at Penrith Local Court on Thursday, April 18.

SCHOOL ENTERS BRIEF LOCKDOWN

Glenmore Park High School went into a 15 minute lockdown on Wednesday morning due to a medical episode involving a student.

Emergency services were called to the school with paramedics assisting the student.

The school resumed normal operations mid-morning and parents were notified by email.

No surprises please

Council to review parking fine policy after Minister’s letter

TROY DODDS

Drivers issued with parking fines by local Councils should be immediately notified, the State Government says.

Finance Minister Courtney Houssos has written to 128 Councils – including Penrith – urging that those using ticketless systems find a way to alert drivers to infringements immediately.

Penrith Council joined a growing list of Councils moving away from traditional paper parking fines last year, transferring to Revenue NSW’s Print and Post system.

“Prior to transferring to the Print and Post system, parking infringements were mostly issued by receipt-style notices placed on car windshields, which could be impacted by passers-by or the weather,” Council said at the time.

Houssos’ letter formally requests Councils to provide an on the spot, written notification to drivers – for example, a small pre-printed card on their windscreen – when they issue a fine.

“While there are some benefits to the ticketless system, I am aware of community concerns around the issuing of ticketless parking fines, particularly the timeliness of fine notifications,” the letter said.

“I believe these concerns can be addressed

Old-school parking fines are a thing of the past.

by implementing some simple administrative measures. “

Penrith Council issued 17,578 ticketless parking fines last year, generating almost $3 million in revenue.

“The current implementation of the ticketless parking system has eroded trust in [the] parking fine system,” Houssos said.

“Providing immediate notification to drivers is the right thing to do and is an important first step to restoring community trust in the

administration of the fines system.”

A spokesperson for Penrith City Council confirmed that Council is in receipt of the letter sent by Houssos.

“Council will review its process of notifying fine infringements as requested by the Minister,” the spokesperson said.

The Weekender understands Council would be unlikely to return to paper fines, but could consider the pre-printed card to notify drivers.

Tricia Hitchen confirms she won’t contest Council election

EMILY CHATE

Former Penrith Mayor and longtime Councillor Tricia Hitchen has confirmed she won’t be recontesting her spot on Council at the upcoming election.

Hitchen spent two years as Penrith’s Mayor and has been a Councillor for the past 12 years.

“I had three years as Deputy Mayor and two years as Mayor, that was beyond my expectations from when I joined 12 years ago,” Hitchen said.

“I met so many wonderful people and organisations that are all working together to build our city and that was so rewarding.”

The Liberal Councillor has been a longtime advocate for the disability sector and said that work was some of her greatest achievements.

“When I joined Council 12 years ago we didn’t have an adult changing space,” Hitchen said.

“So, there was nowhere in Penrith that my son or people like my son could use public toilet facilities. I asked Council to bring that forward and start doing some planning.

“We have 10 at the moment... Personally,

I think that is a great achievement for people with disabilities.”

Hitchen believes that Council is in a good position to support its community as she leaves her post.

“We’ve got an exciting future coming up with the airport in two years, and the growth that is planned for Penrith,” Hitchen said.

“We’ve got a really forward-thinking Council. I think Council is in a really good place to leave.”

Hitchen reflects on her time on Council fondly, saying she is grateful to have had a chance.

“I’m grateful to have had that time to help my city and I think Penrith has some really exciting times ahead,” she said.

Hitchen shared that the decision to retire from Council happened at the last election.

“I made the decision at the last election, I decided that was going to be my last one,” Hitchen said.

“I think 12 years is long enough. I achieved a lot.

“I’m happy with what I’ve done and it’s time to look for something new and exciting.”

The Local Government Election will be held in September, when a new Council will be elected.

Former Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen will not contest the Local Government Election in September.

Promise becomes reality

State Government makes good on commitment to Women’s Health Centres

CASSIDY

Just over a year after Premier Chris Minns visited Penrith to make the election promise of investing into Women’s Health Centres across the state, a funding increase of $34.3 million has been allocated to 19 of them – including Penrith Women’s Health Centre.

According to CEO of Penrith Women’s Health Centre Kirsty Fleming, Women’s Health NSW, the peak body for Women’s Health Centres, has been advocating for increased funding for Women’s Health Centres persistently for decades.

A number of years ago, these centres came together to work out what they needed as a sector to continue providing support to women in New South Wales, ultimately prompting the NSW Government to commit during the last State Election to boosting funding for Women’s Health Centres to $100 million over five years.

Last week’s investment ensures that over the next four years, $81 million in funding is secured for these vital services.

For Fleming, this was welcome news, thanking Women’s Health NSW, as well as Karen McKeown and Prue Car for their continual support of the service.

“I think all the Women’s Health Centres and all the managers are just ecstatic, and

so proud of the women who put this work together to get it across the line,” she said. Of these funds, Penrith Women’s Health Centre will be receiving $1,239,000 in additional funding over four years.

“We’re so happy to be able to say that we have got this additional funding, and really excited to see what we can do with that money, and what difference it will make,” she said. Though she said she’s not sure where

exactly the funds will go, with decisions still to be made by a steering committee of health representatives and Women’s Health NSW representatives around what direction they want each centre to go in, Fleming said she has a few ideas in mind.

“I would love to have increased funding for counsellors, for a massage therapist, or if we could have a GP, that would just be amazing for our women,” she said.

“We’d also love to be able to use the funding for our DV team, to try and get some support around DV funding or brokerage for women who are experiencing DV.

“We’re continually trying to find different ways of accessing brokerage and support for those women.”

With this funding to cease after four years under the current circumstances, Fleming said she hopes this is the beginning of longerterm positive change, particularly in the Penrith area where support in this sector is so desperately needed.

“At the moment, the funding is only there for four years, and we don’t know what will happen after those four years, but we hope that in that time we will be able to prove that the funding is worthwhile and worthwhile continuing, and also to try and get some self-sustaining programs happening would be my goal – to try and get things that we can continue even if the funding doesn’t continue,” she said.

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Prices keep rising

I’m sick of the price gouging at Coles and Woolworths, it’s hurting many low income earners and pensioners.

It’s not fair on many people like me. They should not doing it in the first place. Like my favourite Pepsi Max 2lt went up from $3.30 to $3.60. I really think it’s a joke.

DAVE BA, VIA EMAIL

Have your say with Salvos

As the cost-of-living crisis deepens on the back of a global pandemic and natural disasters, many people are feeling overwhelmed with how to address the issues facing their community. The Salvation Army is committed to identifying the most pressing challenges and providing targeted, local solutions. If you can spare a few minutes of your time, you can help us by sharing your experience. This independent, nationwide pulse check on social justice issues will capture the most pertinent concerns in your community right now. The findings will allow us to direct services and advocate for positive change where it’s needed most.

First released in 2022, The Salvation Army’s National Social Justice Stocktake provided an overview of what mattered most to people across Australia. It uncovered mental health and housing affordability as the top two concerns nationally, with alcohol and drug misuse, family violence and homelessness rounding out the top five.

We were inspired to see genuine interest from community leaders to understand the findings and as a result, we have welcomed some great initiatives, such as progress towards a National Housing and

Homelessness Plan and a modest increase to the JobSeeker allowance, but there is still so much to do. This latest survey will allow us to gauge where progress has been made and where help is desperately needed. It has become a crucial part of our advocacy, changing leaders’ perspectives on social justice. Please help us by having your say at https://salvationarmy.org.au/socialjustice-survey.

JENNIFER KIRKALDY, THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA

Accor roof not a vote winner

Why would anyone care? (Editor’s Desk, Weekender March 8). There are more important things to worry about. I doubt you’ll get many votes with this one!

CLAIRE CARTER, VIA FACEBOOK

Vegas nothing but a joke

Let’s not pretend anyone in Las Vegas or the United States more broadly actually knew the NRL games were on earlier this month. I bet if you walked in to 10 businesses in a five minute vicinity of the stadium, nobody would have known the games were on. Tickets were extremely cheap, and so many of the journalists had their travel costs covered. An incredible PR exercise, no doubt, but let’s not pretend rugby league is taking on America.

CINDY MOORE, VIA EMAIL

Farewell to Chechos

What a shame so many unique restaurants that came to Penrith in recent years, like Chechos, are closing. We really need to support these investments.

STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

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

Shanise, Kirsty Fleming, Deb and Louise from Penrith Women’s Health Centre.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

PEARCE

Eather Group’s massive honour

Local construction business Eather Group is continuing to make waves after taking home a major gong at the 2024 Telstra Best of Business Awards.

Eather was crowned the national winner in the category of Indigenous Excellence.

Eather Group is an Indigenous family business founded by husband-and-wife duo Peter and Sally-ann Eather.

For 14 years, the company has created sustainable solutions to traditional issues in the construction industry; caring for Country through cost-saving sustainability initiatives, caring for community through diverse employment opportunities and pathways, and caring for culture through strong business values.

“In 14 years, I've been able to save nine million tonnes of material and diverted that back into the building industry," Peter said.

“It's not a waste material. These are products that need to be respected. For perspective, four million tonnes of that has gone back into the brickworks which has the potential to build 250,000 homes.”

The business also facilitates ‘local jobs for local people’, sourcing staff and sub-contractors from the areas in which they operate, creating career pathways, and employing candidates with a wide range of skills and backgrounds.

Within their team of more than 40 staff as of February 2024, 38 per cent identify as First Nations, 38 per cent are women in a non-traditional industry, and 45 per cent are in learning roles.

“This award means so much to us,” Peter said.

“I’m honoured with the opportunity. Here we come, Eather Group… let it rip.”

Bridge helps build connections

Nepean Hospital Social Worker and proud Wiradjuri woman, Madeleine Bridge, has been named a finalist in the category of Aboriginal Allied Health Professional of the Year at the NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards.

Bridge has worked in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) throughout her entire career, starting out as an Aboriginal Social Work cadet, then participating in the Social Work New Graduate Program before progressing to her current role.

Working as part of the Acute Care Team at Nepean Hospital and the Social Work After Hours Service, Bridge aims to advocate for Aboriginal patients in their most important time of need, providing cultural safety in all her interactions with patients and their families.

“I love working with First Nations patients and their families during some of the most difficult periods of their life,” she said.

“As a Wiradjuri woman

providing cultural safety, advocacy and therapeutic support for patients and their families in an acute setting is incredibly important and rewarding work.”

Though she didn’t take out the win at last Thursday’s ceremony, Bridge has a big future ahead of her, already providing cultural support, mentoring to cadets, and supporting students with placements.

“I deeply care about my community and it is the reason I chose to go into social work,” she said.

“Bettering the health outcomes for First Nations people will always be my priority. Through my years in health, I've also had the honour of working alongside other Aboriginal staff which has been extremely motivating and inspiring to continue to work in this space.”

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor City Park’s big party

Join us this weekend to celebrate the opening of City Park!

On Saturday, March 16, Council is hosting a free garden party in the park from 10am until 3pm, for the whole community to enjoy.

We’re very excited about this opportunity to showcase everything on offer in Penrith’s new green space on the corner of Henry and Station Streets in the City Centre.

There will be plenty of family-friendly activities like mini golf, face painting, and a scavenger hunt the kids will love.

Budding artists can enjoy a drop-in art workshop with local artists Christine Huynh and Tammy Porter.

like the public artwork by Sydney artist Leesa Knights, special plaques designed by our Sister Cities across the world, and the trees and plants throughout the park which will continue to grow over the coming years to provide shade and green canopy.

It’s also a great chance to check out some of the other features throughout the park including a large, circular water fountain, cascading pools, the 78-metre sunken rain garden, and shady pergola areas.

The end of the garden party doesn’t have to be the end of your day either.

You’ll be in the perfect spot to head to any of the nearby restaurants, café and bars, or squeeze in a few hours of shopping.

I hope to see you there with your family and friends!

Plus, there will be entertainment, food trucks, live music, and the chance to win a $25 gift voucher by spinning a prize wheel, thanks to our participating CBD businesses.

While you’re enjoying the festivities, you’ll notice signage telling the stories of City Park’s history and some of its features

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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Head to www.westernweekender.com.au/ getapaper to find out how you can make sure you never miss out.

Divinia Eather (Marketing Manager), Sally-ann Eather (Executive Manager), and Peter Eather (Managing Director) receive the award.

Nepean Hospital’s Madeleine Bridge.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Homegrown talent: Penrith girl has her sights set on Hollywood

Originally from Penrith, Charli Arkle has made her move to the States to pursue a career in Hollywood.

Arkle’s passion for the arts began when she was a little girl when she began dancing at just three-years-old.

“My parents put me into dance lessons when I was about three-years-old, and I just never stopped,” Arkle said.

“I vividly remember watching ‘Wicked’ when I was eight-years-old and seeing myself in those characters, and knew I wanted to be on stage.”

In 2019 Arkle was performing in a production with the Blackout Theatre Company when she was informed she had received a scholarship to the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in Los Angeles. AMDA boasts alumni of two ‘Hamilton’ stars and a ‘Modern Family’ cast member.

“There’s a lot of amazing alumni who have come out of AMDA and knowing I’m starting in somewhat of a similar place to them has been super encouraging,” Arkle said.

Arkle had just started her program at AMDA when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Not wanting to set her passion aside, Arkle went as far as to do her online AMDA classes from Australia at 3am.

“I would Zoom into classes from 3am to 11am five days a week, and then I would go and work one of my part time jobs,” Arkle said.

“I remember there were some nights where I would clock out of work at Midnight and then be on Zoom at 3am, with a face full of makeup on, ready to perform to the little boxes in my computer screen.”

After returning to Los Angles in 2021 Arkle graduated from AMDA with a Bachelor of

Fine Arts in Musical Theatre (with Honours) in June of 2023.

Not satisfied to just learn, Arkle performed in multiple musicals during her time at AMDA including ‘Sister Act’ in the role of Mary Patrick, ‘The Great American Trailer Park Musical’ in the role of Pickles, and ‘The Wild Party’ as Nadine.

In the last six months since graduating, she has been auditioning, performing in a restau-

rant, and has even tried her hand at directing children’s theatre.

“I love watching them [children] grow and fall in love with theatre the same way I did when I was their age,” Arkle said.

Broad Talent Agency has recently signed Arkle, who is excited to announce she recently acted in a short film, titled ‘Matinee’, which is set to premiere later this year.

Arkle is one to watch.

Charli Arkle (middle) performing in ‘Sister Act’. Photo: Dana Pleasant.

Charli Arkle is originally from Penrith. Photo: Caroline Rose Photography.

Keeping tradition alive

At 88, Terry Rae is more determined than ever to guide the next generation

CASSIDY PEARCE

Terry Rae played his first professional gig at just 15-years-old, going on to play with music legends like Frank Sinatra, teach future experts, and start a world-class youth orchestra.

Now, at 88, he’s ready to do it all again.

According to Rae, the idea for his original Penrith City Young Big Band came about in his teaching days in the early ‘80s, when he was asked to put something together for a local jazz festival.

“They asked me, ‘Are there any kids in the area who can play jazz?’, and I said, ‘Yeah, I can put a band together’,” he said.

The group now has engineers, school teachers and solicitors among them, with Rae gushing not only about his 10 years spent teaching them, but also his time with them since, still continuing to catch up with many to this day.

“I was so proud of those kids,” he said.

“They were just brilliant!”

Though he thought his youth orchestra days were over, Rae said

he’s ready to take on the next generation, prompted by his realisation of a lack of opportunities in Penrith. “They had a big band competition out here earlier on in the year, and I went down to the Joan Sutherland

to see it, and the nearest band to us was a band from Camden. There was nothing in this area, anywhere – all from the northern suburbs,” he said.

“I thought to myself, ‘There’s no

a brand-new community youth orchestra.

According to him, his ultimate goal is to teach kids the classics, and songs they’ll use in the ‘real world’.

“I want to do it again because there’s really nothing for the kids here,” he said.

“I’m still doing a bit of teaching, and I’m hearing so many good kids out there, and they’re not getting a chance to play real music. That’s what I want to do.”

The group will run on Monday afternoons at PCYC Penrith. Rae is promising plenty of time spent learning, as well as plenty of performance opportunities, including with professional musicians in his Big Band.

“Anyone who wants to play any instrument can join!” he said.

kids bands here, no school bands, nothing!’, so I got very disappointed to see that we weren’t represented when the kids that I had came second in a worlds competition.”

For Rae, this was a sign to start

Karen’s Comment

The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

Local women honoured for contributions to Penrith community

“For anyone who wants to play orchestra music, there’s an outlet for them. I don’t care how many come down, I don’t care how big it gets, there’s plenty of room down there!”

For more information, call Terry Rae on 0468 317 558 or pop down to PCYC Penrith on Mondays from 4pm.

Penrith. Additionally, Julia proudly shares her Indigenous heritage and culture, enriching the fabric of our community.

With a resounding call to “Inspire Inclusion”, International Women’s Day recognises the enormous contribution that women make to the prosperity of Penrith. This includes women in public life to small business owners to volunteers, our city thrives from the efforts of our local women. It is a pleasure to support the Local Penrith Woman of the Year Awards to celebrate and acknowledge all those fabulous women in our community.

This International Women’s Day (IWD) served as a rally cry to amplify women’s voices, challenge stereotypes, and foster a culture of respect and empowerment for all. At the annual IWD Breakfast we had a panel of female local business owners who engaged in discussions on fostering inclusivity in the workforce. The event also recognised the remarkable achievements of women and girls who have made significant contributions to the Penrith community.

Among those honoured was Julia Parashko, recognised as the Local Woman of the Year. As a vocal coach, she guides students towards their aspirations while actively participating in local charity work, including Relay for Life and Pink Up

Lucinda Harvey was awarded Local Young Woman of the Year for her community engagement. Lucinda’s organisation operates a state-wide clothing business aimed at raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, with 10 per cent of all proceeds directly supporting Lifeline. I want to thank all those who nominated all the women for awards. Your inclusivity, entrepreneurship, and community engagement serve as an inspiration to all, embodying the spirit of International Women’s Day.

As we reflect on their achievements, let us continue to support and empower women in all spheres of life, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for Penrith and beyond.

Lana Borg, Jennifer Crowley, Aida Dadios, Megan Dunn, Gina Field, Kris Gauci, Marlene Harris, Gai Hawthorn, Yasmin Kennedy, Belinda Leonard, Rebecca Liu-Brennan, Kyra Quinlivan.

‘Authorised

Terry Rae is ready to guide the next generation of big band talent. Photo: Melinda Jane.

SES needs new recruits

Push

for more locals to join volunteer organisation and enjoy ‘family feel’

CASSIDY PEARCE

With Penrith residents no strangers to extreme weather events, it’s no surprise that the Penrith SES branch is always busy.

Despite a break from floods in the last few months, local members have been busy responding to thousands of incidents during storm season, among other events including calls off the back of the weekend’s earthquake, and being involved in the search for 12-yearold Auburn boy Hussein Al Mansoory.

Fortunately, the unit has a good number of volunteers compared to regional units, for which there has recently been a large volunteer recruitment campaign launched, with incidents like these encouraging the community to come together.

“Particularly after heavy storms and floods, we see a big influx of people wanting to come and join,” Deputy Unit Commander John Vickers said.

However, outside of these periods, Deputy Unit Commander and Member Engagement Coordinator Amanda Owens noted there is a lull which has prevented numbers from getting back to pre-COVID levels.

“We did lose a lot of people after COVID dropped off,” she said.

“I think they got used to being away from the Unit, not seeing a lot of people, and they had

a lot of commitments with work and family.”

Owens noted there are plenty of reasons to be a part of the SES in Penrith.

“It is a big commitment, but it is awesome, and it’s very rewarding helping your community and learning those new things,” she said.

Within their group of almost 100 members, Owens said there are volunteers of all ages, with those as young as 16 able to join with parent permission.

Charity program helps close the generation gap

CASSIDY PEARCE

After the initial trial which took place in 2019, Our Community Cares has officially launched their new Connect program, bringing together the young and the young at heart, and rewarding local students with scholarships.

According to Kris Gauci, the idea for the program came about five years ago, seeing Our Community Cares bring together students from Erskine Park High School and residents at SummitCare St Marys in a trial with the hope of enabling them to share stories and experiences.

“Any aged student in that high school could come and participate in the Connect program, and we would take them to a pre-arranged aged care facility, so they could talk to the residents and do things like cupcake decorating for them and a sing-along with them, and just chat with them and get to know them, just so that they had someone to talk to,” she said.

“We found that the kids that participated in the program grew in confidence so much, and it worked just a treat.”

Following the trial, they had hoped to expand the program to as many local schools as possible. However, with aged care facilities quickly closing down when the pandemic hit

just a few months later, their goals were put on hold – until last year.

Gauci said that the staff and students from Jamison High School were the first ones to put their hands up to do the program when it was able to kick off again last year, seeing the students visit elderly residents at Newmarch House. But, with scholarship money now in play, there was a new twist.

“The other years don’t have to do anything on top of participating in the program, but the Year 10’s will choose someone that they think that they will get on with, and they will write their story throughout the year,” she said.

After immense deliberation with the help of teachers and other representatives, scholarship recipients were chosen and awarded at a special ceremony last week attended by Member for Penrith Karen McKeown, with Jemma Dixon taking out first place and winning a $1000 scholarship, and Annabelle Dowling winning $750 for second place.

“It’s for school supplies and educational expenses, whether that be a pair of shoes, or maybe for their excursions – whatever they need!” she said.

Aside from the scholarship money, Gauci said that all of the participants benefited greatly from the program.

“A lot of the kids don’t have grandparents, or just have no idea what the older generations

“In the last group, we got our first 16-yearold, and she joined a day after she turned 16. Her dad is our Training Coordinator, so she’s been so excited to join and follow in his footsteps,” she said.

“I find that a lot of intakes now are those younger ones, whereas at the start of it there were a lot that were over 40, retired people who just wanted to do something now that they’re not working.”

Vickers noted that his granddaughter also plans to join the SES one day, having spent plenty of time at the unit throughout her childhood.

It’s because of this that the unit has a great community feel internally.

“You get to meet this whole range of people that are amazing people,” Owens said.

“They’re all like my family – I know more about them and they know more about me than my workmates.”

The Penrith SES also has a bond with the rest of the local community, regularly visiting schools, and attending events and festivals.

“Last year, we interacted with over 1000 people with just the boat!” she said.

“It’s good, because it’s brought us closer with the other agencies like the RFS, so we’ve got that relationship now.”

The Penrith SES branch is currently doing an intake of new members.

Though she said it is a significant commitment, with signing up involving a few months of training before you’re able to go out into the field, Owens is hoping to see everyone get involved, no matter how, or how long, and fall in love with it just as she has.

“I didn’t think I’d still be here, but here I am, eight years later, running everything. My life revolves around here, not the other way around!” she said.

“I really encourage everyone to give it a go, even if it is just for a year. It is worth it.”

Scholarship recipients for the Connect program were awarded last week.

went through growing up, and how different and similar they are,” she said.

“It was a great experience when it was in trial, and now it’s just beautiful. The kids are loving it.”

Labelling the initiatives as one of her favourites of the charity, Gauci said she has big dreams for the Connect program.

“We’ve got a few other schools participating this year, so we’re hoping eventually that all of the schools will participate, so that all of the nursing homes will have access to people who they can sit around and talk to other than just their normal visitors, or no visitors at all,” she said.

Gladis Mahfoud, Amanda Owens, John Vickers and John Prendergast. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Girl power! Women of the Year revealed

Julia Parashko has been named the Penrith Local Woman of the Year for 2024.

A local teacher at Penrith Selective High School, Parashko works as a singing tutor after hours and volunteers her skills at various charity events by acting as event MC and singer.

She is also involved with the committee for Relay for Life, as well as volunteering for various Pink Up Penrith events, the Emu Plains Christmas Carols, and Penrith Christmas Tree Lighting. She also undertakes fundraising for the Cancer Council, and has offered years of service to the RSL, singing the National Anthem.

There were 15 nominations received for local Penrith women this year as part of the Local Woman of the Year initiative, which is facilitated by the State Government.

State Penrith MP Karen McKeown presented Parashko with her award at a morning tea on International Women’s Day, where it was also announced that Lucinda Harvey was the Penrith Local Young Woman of the Year for 2024. Harvey founded the organisation Saving True Blues at the age of 19 after the tragic loss of a close friend to suicide. Saving True Blues is a state-wide initiative, that through programs such as the ‘4WD and Camp 4 Mental Health’, provides people a platform to have those important and difficult conversations about mental health. Saving True Blues also sells clothes, and every month, 10 per cent of the profit is donated directly to Lifeline Australia.

“It was an honour to present Penrith Woman of the Year to Julia while acknowledging Lucinda as the Penrith Young Woman of the Year at our Annual International Women’s Day event at Penrith RSL,” McKeown said. Young Woman

of the Year Lucinda Harvey with Karen McKeown.

Penrith Local Woman of the Year Julia Parashko with Karen McKeown.

Nepean Rescue Squad’s link to Granville and place in history

TERRY GALLAWAY

The interview and article by Ellie Busby in our January 18 edition in which former Police Rescue Squad officer, then Constable, later Superintendent Gary Raymond detailed his experiences on Tuesday, January 18, 1977, at Granville sparked many memories for many old timers in Penrith and the Lower Mountains, including veteran journalist Terry Gallaway, whose children were caught up in the chaos, as they travelled from Penrith on the first train to follow the ill-fated 6.09am Mt Victoria commuter service, departing at 8.10am. They spent an hour on the “red rattler”, before railway staff walked them to safety along the tracks.

Penrith lawyer and Panthers Board member Mark Mulock also caused concern for his family that day. As a young law student he travelled on the first carriage of the ill-fated train, avoiding by a matter of metres being crushed by the falling Bold Street road bridge, but suffering some injuries.

For his parents Ron, then the State Member for Penrith, later Deputy Premier, and his mother Desley, frantic hours followed until they established Mark was safe and sound.

Gallaway also recalls being surprised after being brusquely brushed away by the usually friendly, charming and media savvy MP when he sought photo and comment from Ron Mulock.

He also recalls the emotional stress of interviewing three young women whose husbands died that day. He says they, like many others in the community, just could not believe what had happened.

The almost unbelievable tragedy of the Granville Train Disaster on January 18, 1977 left a trail of scars and family trauma across the city of Penrith and the Lower Mountains.

The Granville story is well recorded. The deaths of 84 people when the Bold Street Bridge collapsed at 8.10am, crushing the second and third carriages of the 6.09am Blue Mountains commuter train from Mount Victoria.

What is seldom mentioned in reports is that the last passenger to be released from under the 670 tonnes of rubble, Emu Plains man Bryan Gordon spent his last hours of confinement being comforted and spoken to by two

of his schoolmates, twin brothers John and Gerard Buchtmann, part of the rescue team working to free him.

They eased his shattered body from under the rubble, transferred Bryan to a stretcher and saw him airlifted to hospital.

But Bryan succumbed to his massive injuries two days later. The news shattered the Buchtmann brothers.

“I really thought he would make it,” a despondent Gerard told reporters when the news broke.

Despite the passage of years the tragedy remains very fresh in the minds of those who lived in Penrith at the time, and suffered the

loss of husbands, wives, girlfriends, mates and children.

It also brought forward a new breed of heroes, local men and women willing to respond when the need arises to any emergency, giving their unpaid time and energy to helping the community, and to raising donations to maintain their equipment and training.

Penrith’s part in the rescue operation also included its people serving in the Police Rescue Squad, the NSW Ambulance paramedics, NSW Fire Brigade and Bushfire Brigade fire fighters.

The Nepean Rescue Squad had a rocky

start to life.

In 1975, firefighter Gerard Buchtmann, twin brother John, an ambulance officer, and local lawyer Paul Reinberger, floated the idea of a Volunteer Rescue Squad to service Penrith and the Nepean district.

And while many members of the local community supported the idea, and some local aldermen offered their backing, it drew severe criticism from the local State Emergency Services members.

Despite a “no” vote at a public meeting called to launch the squad, and attended by a large contingent of SES members in uniform, lawyer Reinberger urged the Buchtmann boys to go ahead with their plan.

The squad formed on July 7, 1975, and five days later formed up with Gerard Buchtmann as captain, John as deputy and about 20 other men signing up and undergoing specialist training with the NSW Police Rescue Squad then based at Marrickville.

The Squad sought donations, and some local funding, eventually purchasing its rescue truck, fitted out with equipment compatible with that used by the Police, Fire and Ambulance rescue teams.

The 18 hour plus rescue operation at Granville took its toll on the men involved.

It took some weeks before some were able to resume their jobs and enjoy their home life. In this day and age it would have been classified as Post Traumatic Disorder. In 1977 it was put down to overwrought emotion.

It also proved costly with the squad reporting it had lost $500 worth of its equipment during the rescue mission. Given local publicity Penrith Council and the State Government offered some compensation, and in a decision important to the future of the squad, Penrith Council agreed to meet the cost of its annual insurance premium.

In the wake of the Granville disaster, the squad and its members received well-earned accolades from Penrith Council and local political figures including later State Minister Peter Anderson and Member for Nepean Ron Rofe.

It also became a family organisation when John’s son, Mark Buchtmann, followed his father into the ambulance service and joined the Rescue Squad in September 1990.

Nepean Rescue continues to serve today and continues to be manned by volunteers, still on call and ready to react to any emergency.

The Nepean Rescue Squad featured on the front page of the Penrith Star

Gough Whitlam meets members of the squad in 1975.

The scene of the Granville Train Disaster.

Horace Edward Finlay’s store was located at 2 Queen Street, which is towards the station end of the street.

The business sold fish and chips, and pies.

The woman is Greta, his wife, with Greta’s son Everard Dunn on the right. He would later opened Dunn's Hardware.

Penrith City Library holds an archived collection of material relating to Horace Edward Finlay, including material relating to his family home at 32 Chapel Street and plans for his shops and businesses.

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the finalword

For many years, this whole Penrith v Parramatta rivalry was nothing more than a bit of manufactured hype.

After all, there had been no legitimate competition between the two sides for decades.

The Panthers were struggling in the early 1980s when the Eels won three straight Premierships, and by the time Penrith’s rise would come a few years later, the golden era of Parramatta was coming to an end.

When Penrith won the comp in 2003, the Eels finished ninth in the regular season. A year later, when Penrith made the Preliminary Final, Parramatta were nowhere near the eight.

When the Eels made their Grand Final run in 2009, the Panthers finished 11th.

You get the picture.

It is only now that this is a legitimate rivalry.

A nail-biting Semi Final a couple of years ago, the Grand Final in 2022. And some of the most pulsating regular season games you could imagine.

Now we find ourselves heading to BlueBet Stadium on Friday night for a battle of the west that has been building all week; and will almost certainly be played in front of a sellout crowd.

I would take little out of the Round 1 form of either club, except to say that Penrith’s stoic Premiership-winning defence held well against Melbourne and I have little concerns that the Panthers will get things right as the season progresses.

The Eels were too good for Canterbury but the Bulldogs aren’t expected to do much this year, so it’s hard to get a gauge on exactly how Brad Arthur’s men are travelling.

What cannot be denied is Parramatta’s excellent regular season record against Penrith in recent times. The Eels got the job done twice last year, and twice in 2022.

But we all know that when it has mattered most – in the 2021 Finals and the 2022 Grand Final – Penrith has got the job done.

There’s a lot of factors coming into this game, including the battle of the halfbacks in Nathan Cleary and Mitch Moses. Moses, who has shrugged off a groin injury and will play on Friday, is keen to stamp his authority on the competition this year. To do so, he must beat the best – enter Cleary.

With the New South Wales Origin jumper also up for grabs this year under new coach Michael Maguire, both will be keen to impress in what will be a high class battle.

A significant factor in this game is the return of Mitch Kenny. The man in the number nine jumper has a big say in the speed of a set and the flow of the game, and things looked a little clumsy around the ruck without Kenny last weekend.

Penrith has also been bolstered by Scott Sorensen’s return in the second row.

There’s no question the Eels have plenty to offer this season and would be buoyed by their win last weekend, but the Panthers are a professional outfit who would be keen to respond to a last-start loss.

I’m expecting a close game, and an exciting chapter in what is now a legitimate local derby, but the Panthers should be able to do enough to pull away in the second half.

Tip: Panthers by 10.

McCrispy

McCrispy

TAGO’S NEW DEAL LOCKED IN

! Tago’s monster contract: This is the moment Penrith centre Izack Tago re-signed with the club until the end of 2028. He signed his new NRL contract with General Manager of Rugby League Shane Elford. The 21-year-old – who celebrates a birthday next month – was already signed until the end of next year, but has been considered a priority signing for the club. Media reports last weekend suggested that the new deal was worth around $750,000 a season.

! Cleary’s Tago confusion: Coaches often say they don’t read the papers, and in Ivan Cleary’s case he may just be telling the truth. Cleary was asked at a press conference on Monday about Tago’s new deal, and appeared surprised by the question. “How do you know that,” he asked the journalist. “Was there?” was his response when told the story was in the media the previous day. “Well if he has, that’s great,” Cleary bemused.

! New match day raffle: Panthers will introduce a 50/50 raffle this year on game days, with the winner to score 50 per cent of the cash raised by the initiative and the other 50 per cent going to Panthers community projects, such as Panthers on the Prowl. You may have seen the concept in action at other grounds. You’ll be able to grab an entry from this Friday night or online at www.5050charityraffle.com. au.

! Footy Doubles back: The addition of the new raffle doesn’t mean the end of Footy Doubles – which will still be available on game days. The great folks at Rotary will be selling them as you walk into the ground.

! Cooper’s Panther talk: Cooper Johns has revealed that he spoke with Penrith about joining the club for the 2023 season, in the role eventually taken by Jack Cogger. He’s told the light-hearted story of his interview process with Ivan Cleary on the latest episode of the ‘Backstage’ podcast, on which Nathan Cleary is a guest.

! Hadley returns to airwaves:

Radio legend Ray Hadley built his reputation on working seven days a week, presenting both his morning program and working on the Continuous Call Team. He has only made the odd appearance on the Continuous Call Team in recent years, but is now back calling games following the terrible news that David Morrow is battling brain cancer. Morrow had been 2GB’s chief caller for some time. His absence will mean

is also stepping up to call matches.

Hadley will be on deck at BlueBet Stadium on Friday night for the clash between Penrith and Parramatta.

! Rule change not needed: Panthers coach Ivan Cleary (pictured right) has questioned the NRL’s rule change that sees a tap rather then a penalty awarded when a short drop-out goes wrong. It essen tially encourages more short drop-outs. “I don’t know if we needed to do it to be honest. I thought there was enough of it already,” he said on Monday. “There needs to be a risk attached to it, it’s just my personal opinion... but I think we’ve got bigger problems than that.”

! New podcast: The Western Weekender has launched an all new podcast.

‘10 Minute Match Day’

is released every single Penrith Panthers game day, with Troy Dodds and Nathan Taylor providing a last minute preview of that weekend’s game. As the name suggests, it only goes for 10 minutes – making it a quick but worthwhile Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts, or visit www.westernweekender.com.

Useless fact: Here’s a useless fact for you – the Panthers and Eels have never played on March 15 before. But they have played in Round 2 a total of three times – and Penrith has won all of them. ! Got some goss? Email me. I want to know what you know!

Hadley calling more NRL games, while Mark Levy

! Spotted: Nathan Cleary showing plenty of flexibility in the warm-up at AAMI Park last Friday. I’m pretty sure if I did this, I’d be in hospital for a week.

Izack Tago with Shane Elford.

MOSES REFLECTS ON 150 NRL GAMES

He may have played his 150th NRL game last weekend, but Moses Leota still remembers the toughest pre-season of his life.

He was just a young bloke coming through the grades, working a parttime job on the side while trying to make it in the NRL at the same time.

Leota would go from laying bricks to tackling players the size of brick walls during an awfully hot Penrith summer.

“It was hard hey,” he told Extra Time on Wednesday.

“Going from brickies labouring to come here, doing pre-season was the worst time of my life – working and then coming here doing that.”

The club could see Leota’s struggle and thankfully came to the rescue by finding him a new part-time job that was close to Panthers training and that wouldn’t give him calluses on his hands.

“The club have been a massive part of my journey. I went from brickies labourer to washing cars. They helped me get the car washing job at Volvo to make it easier for me,” Leota said.

It’s because of this that Leota is

grateful for the Panthers for his incredible career to date, which includes 150 NRL games, six Tests for New Zealand, four Grand Finals and

three premierships. The 28-year-old father of three did a lot of reflecting leading into his 150th first grade match against the Storm last week.

“It was always a dream to play one game, I never thought I’d play 150,” Leota said.

“I did reflect last week, and it was

cool because I don’t often reflect. Because I knew my 150th was coming up, I thought back to when I first started through to Under 20s and SG Ball. It was good to look back and it was pretty emotional also.”

While the milestone game didn’t end in a victory for Leota and his teammates, it was still special nonetheless – memories that will last a lifetime he reckons.

“It was cool having my family down in Melbourne with me, it was special for my kids too,” he said.

“When I debuted, I didn’t have any kids, now I have three. They absolutely loved walking out on the field with dad, they were happy.”

With Penrith unable to kick off the new year with a win, they’ll be hoping to secure their first of the season this Friday night against arch-rivals Parramatta.

The battles between the Eels and the Panthers are always top class, and this week’s will be no different.

“I’ve been here since I was young, and we’ve always had that rivalry between us and Parra. It’s a game that we love to play and I’m sure they do too,” Leota said.

“Parra just love getting up for games against us and they always want to have their best performance against us. We have to be on our game this week.”

Moses Leota with his family at AAMI Park last Friday night.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Izack Tago has won two premierships, played for his country and, as of Wednes day, signed the biggest deal of his career so far, but as he runs out for game 50 on Friday night, the 21-year-old says he still has plenty more to achieve.

The Panthers centre was all smiles this week after inking a three-year contract extension with his junior club. Tago was already contracted with Penrith for the 2025 season, but he will now remain at the five-time Premiers until at least the end of 2028.

While some of his teammates have decided to jump ship for various reasons, Tago said there was nowhere else he wanted to be.

“To be honest, I already knew this is where I wanted to be. I think anything they (the club) offered me I would’ve been keen to stay,” Tago told Extra Time

News of his impending re-signing came out of the blue last weekend. With Penrith bosses still in negotiations with Taylan May, Sunia Turuva and Mitch Kenny, it came as a surprise to fans that Tago – who isn’t off contract until next year – was being prioritised.

Tago said the club showing faith in him longterm was huge for him.

“I think that’s probably another reason why the club is so special to me,” he said.

“It’s always been home for me and to invest in me like that, I want to repay them.”

Panthers supporters will get their first chance to celebrate Tago’s new deal on Friday night when Penrith tackle the Eels in the first Battle of the West of the season.

It’ll be a special occasion for the St Marys junior, who will also play his 50th NRL game on the night. Tago said he’s proud at how far he has come since debuting against the Tigers in 2021.

important thing to me, I think it is for all the boys at the club. That’s why we’ve had such good success because everyone is focused on that, and success comes off the back of that.”

The Panthers will be looking for a touch of that success on Friday night as they look to secure their first victory since the 2023 Grand

After losing the World Club Challenge to Wigan in February and the season opener to the Storm last week, there will be no better comeback story than beating Parramatta Stadium.

Eels come to

play whenever it’s a local derby, and Penrith will be looking to do the same.

“Parra always pick it up against us and that’s something we enjoy too,” he said.

“Being the Battle of the West, we want that crown and they’re going to come try and take it.”

Playing junior footy in the Penrith District growing up, Tago knows the rivalry with the Eels all to well.

“We weren’t trained to hate Parra growing up but, if we won our comp in the juniors, we’d always verse the winner in the Parra comp –like a mini Battle of the West,” Tago said.

“It’s funny because they are probably the most similar team to us in terms of how they are raised culturally, but that’s probably why it’s a bit more of a war.”

Izack Tago has re-signed with Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Izack Tago in action last weekend.

Izack Tago speaks to the media on Wednesday.

NATHAN TAYLOR

ELGNUJHTIRNEPEHTFOGNIK !

panthers poster

analysis

MISSION TO KEEP MAY AT PENRITH

lang on league

Panthers Chief Executive Officer Matt Cameron is confident a deal can be done to keep the in-form Taylan May at the Panthers for many years to come.

Cameron told Lang on League that: “Conversations are progress ing well with Taylan’s management representatives. He is a valued member of our playing group and the club is confident we can get something sorted out sooner rather than later.”

Music to the ears of Panthers supporters who have seen more than their fair share of players leave the club due to salary cap constraints over the last three years.

Taylan May’s agent from Black Money Enterprises also told me that he was positive about how talks were progressing.

“Negotiations with the Panthers are ongoing but positive,” he said.

“Given Taylan’s strong showing in the World Club Challenge and against the Storm last week, obviously there’s heavy interest from numerous clubs.

“Taylan’s a very intelligent young man with great guidance from his family, so I’m sure he will make the right decision in due time.”

Despite the Panthers’ tough start to the season, May’s form has been a major positive which has cast a

nice light over the shadow of two close defeats.

May has had a dream start to his career as Penrith’s newest centre and been the best player on the field after a serious ACL injury saw him miss the entire 2023 NRL season.

There is no doubt that following the reported re-signing of centre partner Izack Tago until the end of

2027, that the man they call ‘Tiny’ must be the next priority signing for the club.

Yes, even ahead of hooker Mitch Kenny and 2023 Dally M Rookie of the Year winner Sunia Turuva.

Of course, both Kenny and Turuva must also be retained however in my opinion, they need to wait in line behind May who has shown he will be in hot demand if

he keeps his current purplepatch of form up.

Against the Storm in Round 1, May ran for 157 metres, made seven tackle breaks and ran for 25 post contact metres, which simply put, means he was one hard son-of-a-gun to bring down.

The step, the swerve, the turn of speed were all there against a team which was not giving an inch of ground without a fight.

His performance against Wigan a few weeks earlier was equally as impressive.

Remember this is a man who had not played a competitive game of football since his season-ending injury against St Helens on February 18 last year.

The last word goes to Penrith coach Ivan Cleary, who had this to say in a press conference on Monday about May’s great start to the season and his game against the Storm.

“I’m very pleased (for Taylan),” said Cleary.

“It was only his second game back after a big injury and he showed some very promising signs and he certainly deserves some luck. “I’m looking forward to him having a big season.”

We all are Ivan.

player of the year

Taylan May is in solid form. Photo: NRL Photos.

with Peter Lang

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.

panther memories

These days there’s t-shirts made available for the Finals, Grand Finals, Premierships enough to fill an entire wardrobe with Panthers gear, especially with the team doing so well in recent seasons.

And it wasn’t so different back in the early 1990s either.

Pictured are the shirts produced prior to the 1990 and 1991 Grand Finals.

In 1990, a simple ‘Panthers To Win 1990’ slogan with no reference of the Raiders appeared on the shirt, along with a leaping Panther.

And in 1991, a more typical Grand Final hype shirt with a ferocious looking Panther ready to pounce.

With no Raiders reference on the 1991 shirt either, we can only presume turnaround times were a little slower back then and the shirts were actually produced before the teams were confirmed.

Do you happen to still have these shirts in your wardrobe?

BRONCOS BULLDOGS PANTHERS TIGERS COWBOYS WARRIORS ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS WARRIORS ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS TIGERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DOLPHINS

BRONCOS BULLDOGS EELS RAIDERS KNIGHTS STORM SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS PANTHERS TIGERS KNIGHTS WARRIORS ROOSTERS DRAGONS

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DOLPHINS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

RABBITOHS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS KNIGHTS WARRIORS SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS BULLDOGS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DRAGONS

BRONCOS

EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS

EAGLES DRAGONS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM SEA EAGLES DOLPHINS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM MANLY DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM

SEA EAGLES DOLPHINS

BRONCOS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM

SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS

BRONCOS SHARKS EELS RAIDERS COWBOYS WARRIORS ROOSTERS DOLPHINS

BRONCOS SHARKS PANTHERS RAIDERS COWBOYS STORM

BRONCOS

004

004

SEA EAGLES DRAGONS

RABBITOHS BULLDOGS PANTHERS TIGERS KNIGHTS WARRIORS ROOSTERS DRAGONS

ENTERTAINMENT

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

PETE RETURNS TO PENRITH

CASSIDY PEARCE

Over the course of his career, singer-songwriter Pete Murray said some of his happiest moments have been when listeners have told him how they’ve connected with his music, with lyrics in hit songs like ‘Better Days’ and ‘Opportunity’ sharing relatable and encouraging stories about getting through hard times.

But, he admits a few of these sentimental moments may have been misplaced.

“‘So Beautiful’ is one that a lot of people connect to. It’s a love song, but it’s a love song about someone that’s changed, and maybe you don’t like them so much anymore because of how they’ve changed,” he said.

“A lot of people play that at their weddings, and I remember doing shows and going, ‘Guys, this is not a wedding song! I don’t think you get it!’.”

Murray has been singing and playing guitar since the age of 22, encouraged by his late friend and first child’s namesake, Charlie.

“He came into my room one day and he was really excited, and he said, ‘I’ve always wanted to learn the guitar, and I’m going to go and do it’, and I thought ‘That’s fantastic, maybe I’ll do the same’... I went and had a couple of lessons, and he never did,” he said.

“He didn’t know that I was learning, so years later when he was teaching on the Gold Coast and I was in Brisbane, I got in touch with him and said, ‘We’ve got to catch up, I’ve got a surprise for you’. He came over to my place and I got the guitar out and played some Neil Young songs, because we were big Neil Young fans, and he was blown away.

“Sadly, about 12 months later, he

passed away, had an aneurysm. I’m a big believer in fate, so if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Murray has earned himself 17 ARIA nominations and sold over 1.2 million albums in Australia, remaining a constant in the local music scene for over 20 years. Despite touring consistently through all of this, he hasn’t made a stop in Penrith in more than a decade. All of that is about to change with his upcoming show at Panthers – and Murray can’t wait.

“I’m well overdue to come back and play there,” he said.

“It wasn’t on purpose that we went away from Penrith, because there was such a good following out there and a really hardcore fanbase.

“Every time I would go out there, it would sell out.

“It’s actually hard to believe now that we haven’t been back there for 10 years. I’m really excited to head back just to see what fans are still interested in coming back again!”

Despite this show being a part of Great Southern Nights, Murray said that the setlist is similar to the tour that’s accompanied his greatest hits album, ‘Best of Pete Murray’, meaning fans are guaranteed to hear all the songs they know and love.

“One thing’s for sure, it’s going to be a great show,” he said.

“My shows with the band now are very exciting, playing all the songs people want to hear. There’s also lots of sing-a-longs now, and they’re just incredible, because everyone knows the songs so well.”

Pete Murray will be on at Penrith Panthers on Sunday, March 24 at 6.30pm. Tickets are $65. For more information or to book, visit penrith. panthers.com.au.

THINGS TO DO

Live music in the Penrith CBD

Kick back on your Wednesday lunch break and enjoy free live music at Lunchtime Tunes in the Penrith CBD. Every Wednesday between 11am and 2pm, Penrith City Council will be showcasing amazing local talent while you enjoy lunch at City Park. Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au for more information about the program.

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.

Penrith Markets

Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

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

CLASSES AND FUN

Free weekly Tai Chi classes

Saturdays 4.30pm, WSU Kingswood Campus. Guan 0422 120 738. Tai chi and qiqong exercise.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

NASHOS

Meeting March 17 at 10am, Penrith RSL. Morning tea provided.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Wind down at Lewers

Welcome the weekend with art, music and tapas at Penrith Regional Gallery, with Twilight at Lewers back on next Friday, March 22. Explore the galleries brought to life with drop-in workshops for all ages and live performances from exhibiting artists, before enjoying live music and a pop-up artisan market in the picturesque garden. Visit penrithregionalgallery.com.au.

Probus Club of Nepean

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

Penrith Lions Club

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

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club

Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542.

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244.

Blue Mountains Amateur Radio Club Club meets at 7pm on the first Friday of the month at the old scout hall at 4 Moore St, Glenbrook. Call Ron on 0408 483 269 for more information.

Red Cross Penrith

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

Wednesday markets in Penrith

Head down to Penrith Paceway next Wednesday for their weekly markets, a Wednesday tradition in Penrith for decades. This large market sells a variety of products, ranging from plants, fruit and vegetables, clothing, tools, craft supplies, auto supplies and more, rain, hail or shine. Visit clubpacewaypenrith.com.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service

Tuesday and Thursday 9am-5pm. 7/458-470 High Street, Penrith.

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.

MUSEUMS

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

Nepean Naval Museum

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

The Nepean Naval Museum opened in 2014 and is the area’s first museum dedicated to the naval forces. The Museum houses a collection of Naval forces memorabilia.

Arms of Australia Inn

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

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

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

Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details.

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.

PPSO IS READY FOR NEW YEAR

enrith Symphony Orchestra is kicking off the year with a blockbuster concert this month, combining classic favourites and a world premiere to create a stellar program for the beginning of the 2024 Symphonic Series.

To begin the night, PSO Concertmaster Anna Smith will shine in Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestral masterpiece ‘Scheherazade’. ‘Scheherazade’ casts the spotlight on the talented wind and brass players of the orchestra, and will thrill audiences with its colour, brilliance, and masterful orchestration.

This will then be followed by Dvorak’s ‘Cello Concerto’, performed by accomplished young chamber musician Maylyn Zongas. Zongas’ accolades include being a member of the Arts Unit Ensembles for eight years, touring with the Symphony Orchestra as its youngest member in 2017 and collaborating with the Australian World Orchestra in 2022.

To conclude the night, the orchestra will present the premiere of ‘DoomScroll’, by Ben Robinson. The piece was awarded the 2024 Jenny Bounds Composer Prize.

Penrith Symphony Orchestra will be on at The Joan on Saturday, March 23 at 7.30pm. For more information or to book, visit thejoan.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

WW53427

At the movies...

‘The Great Escaper’ marks the end of Michael Caine’s extraordinary career as an actor. But is it a fitting ending?

Absolutely.

At 90-years-old, Caine delivers one of his most poignant performances yet as Bernard Jordan, a man whose real-life story made global headlines when he staged a “great escape” from his care home to join fellow war veterans at the D-Day Landings 70th anniversary in 2014.

It’s a touching story that was always bound to be brought to the big screen. But it was also one at risk of excessive sentimentality.

‘The Great Escaper’ avoids this by

focusing largely on Bernard’s relationship with his wife, and their interactions with care staff and fellow veterans, both young and old.

The result is a film that is as much about coming to terms with the trauma of war as it is a love story.

It would have only been half as good, of course, if it weren’t for the talented Glenda Jackson, who plays Bernard’s wife of 60-years, Rene.

Jackson, who sadly died last year, delivers her final performance exceptionally well. Her conversations with the staff at the care home are full of wit and wisdom, garnering some of the biggest laughs throughout the whole film,

while her moments of reminiscing tug on the heartstrings of even the toughest of movie-goers.

Naturally, a film about paying tribute to the lives that were lost in World War II and growing old with the person you love was always go-

ing to pack an emotional punch. For myself, it was impossible to ignore the muffled sobs and sniffles that took place in the cinema at some particularly moving scenes. It may not be for the people who prefer their movies jam-packed full

of car chases and action, but for those after a heartfelt story about forgiveness and enduring love,

‘The Great Escaper’ is a must-see.

Just make sure to bring your tissues.

– Ellie Busby

COUNTRY CORNER

Star on the rise

Elyse Saunders (pictured above) is an award-winning country artist who is making huge waves in Canada, and is about to explode on the Australian scene. With over 3.5 million streams to date, she has carved a path in country music with powerhouse vocals, memorable live shows, undeniable drive, and impressive songwriting abilities.

Now, her 2024 breakout song ‘Never Have I Ever’ has been released to Australian radio and was co-written by Saunders and Jason Blaine.

Catching industry buzz ahead of its release, ‘Never Have I Ever’ was selected as a top 10 Country finalist for Nashville’s 2023 Unsigned Only competition and now marks her first hit as a top 40 Canadian chart topping single and still climbing. The track is out now on all streaming services.

Janson drops new track

It’s great to have new Chris Janson (pictured below) music to listen to, and his new track is an absolute hit. ‘Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get’ is out now on all the streaming services.

“There is no better way to describe me on a daily basis,” he said of the song.

“This song is 100 per cent authentic, every word. It’s fun, it’s rowdy and it’s the truth. Roll your window down and crank it up!”

Tori on tour

Tori Forsyth has announced a short tour following the upcoming release of new music.

She’ll appear in Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast in May.

She will drop the album ‘All We Have Is Who We Are’ on May 3.

Zambi Wildlife Retreat is an exclusive and unique Not for Profit Animal Sanctuary, set in beautifully landscaped grounds.

A tour of the retreat allows you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals and learn about their history and species. Zambi only allows limited visitors each week and you will need to book your spot on our website booking page here: www.zambi.org/bookings

The bookings are only available for a total of 7 guests and includes a tour of the retreat with an experienced guide where you will get to hand feed the macaw parrots and baboon monkeys. Complimentary hot and cold drinks and light snacks are included in the cost.

There is also the opportunity to add on animal encounters such as hand feeding the big cats and meeting the meerkats and little marmoset monkeys. This can be booked at the same time as your tour or added during your visit.

Entry is 9 years of age and older and a further age restriction of 12 years and older will apply to hand feeding the

Nathan Taylor

TV NEWS

Ê Channel Seven has announced its three judges for its new Chris Brown-hosted reality series ‘Dream Home’. Joining the highly anticipated series are ‘Luxe Listings Sydney’ buyers agent Simon Cohen, interior designer Rose Morely, and renovator Lana Taylor. The series, which is expected after Easter, sees six pairs of Aussies renovate dilapidated suburban family homes into astonishing new dream homes.

Ê With ‘Eurovision’ around the corner, SBS has announced relatively unknown duo Electric Fields as Australia’s entry into the mega contest. Electric Fields vocalist Zaachariaha Fielding and producer / keyboardist Michael Ross merge traditional with electronica through the song ‘One Milkali (One Blood)’. The song incorporates Yankunytjatjara; an Aboriginal language of the Anangu peoples, one of the oldest living cultures on earth. You can listen to the song on YouTube. ‘Eurovision’ kicks off on Wednesday, May 8 on SBS.

Ê A special version of ‘America’s Got Talent’ premiered on 7flix on Thursday night – ‘America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League’.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 EUROVISION, SBS

Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel and Mel B each build a roster of their favourite acts and guide them throughout the competition as they hope to be crowned the champion. Aussie acts Hans and Sheldon Riley feature. New episodes of ‘AGT’ air every Thursday at 7.30pm on 7flix. You can also catch up via 7plus.

Ê The new season of ‘Selling Houses Australia’ premieres next Wednesday, March 20 at 8.30pm on LifeStyle. Host and real estate expert Andrew Winter is back as well as interior design expert Wendy Moore, and landscaper Dennis Scott. Andrew, Wendy, and Dennis not only deliver advice and makeovers that could change these homeowner’s lives, but they also provide a wealth of real estate knowledge, design tips and money-smart style ideas that anyone can achieve in their own homes – whether they’re selling or not.

Ê One of my favourite shows is returning to Stan very soon. ‘Hacks’, starring the legendary Jean Smart and fellow actress Hannah Einbinder, will drop on Friday, May 3. ‘Hacks’ explores a dark mentorship between Deborah Vance (Smart), a legendary Las Vegas comedian, and Ava (Einbinder), an entitled, outcast 25-year-old aspiring to be a writer. Season three picks up one year on from the finale of season two, which saw Deborah Vance cut the cord with her longtime mentee, Ava, to encourage her to pursue her own dreams. Joining the cast this season will be Helen Hunt, Christina Hendricks and Christopher Lloyd.

Ê The second season of ‘House of the Dragon’, the prequel to ‘Game of Thrones’, will premiere in June on Binge and Foxtel. An exact airdate is yet to be confirmed, but all signs point to a winter (wink, wink) premiere.

DREAM HOME, CHANNEL SEVEN

Friday 15 March

3:00 Room For Improvement 3:30

Harry’s Practice 4:00

RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30

Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country

6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Escape To The Country

5:00 Hardball 5:25

Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir (PG) 5:55 Still So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00

Horrible Histories 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00

Transformers: EarthSpark (PG) 8:25 Dragon Ball Super (PG)

Saturday 16 March

3:30 Cities Of The Underworld (PG) 4:30

Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Round 1: Collingwood v Sydney *Live* 9:45 Movie: “Green Zone” (M) (’10)

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 ABC

Evening News 8:00 Planet America: Fireside Chat 8:45 ABC News Tonight

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast

9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30

Death In Paradise (PG) 1:30 Life After Life (M l) 2:40 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) 3:10 Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 4:00

Universe With Brian Cox 5:00 Better Date

Than Never (PG) 5:30 Landline 6:00

Australian Story (PG) 6:30 Back Roads (PG)

7:00 ABC News 7:30 Life After Life (M) 8:25

Endeavour (M) 10:00 House Of Gods (M)

10:00 Miles In Front 12:00 Escape To The Country 1:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 2:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s

Horse Racing *Live* 6:00

Heathrow (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

5:15 Total Drama Island (PG) 5:40 School Of Rock (PG) 6:05 The Next Step 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Mythbusters 7:30

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 7:45 Kung Fu

Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness

Sunday 17 March

TV Guide: March 15 – 21

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

(’22) Stars: Erin Agostino 2:00

Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00

NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point

Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A

Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Panthers v Eels *Live* From BlueBet Stadium 9:55

NRL: Golden Point (M) 10:45 NRL: Penrith

Panthers ‘Undisputed’ (PG) 12:20 Tipping Point (PG) 1:20 Pointless (PG)

9:00 Home Shopping 10:30 Zumbo’s Just Desserts (PG) 12:00

9-1-1 (PG) 3:00 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 5:50 Movie: “The Karate Kid” (PG) (’84) Stars: Elisabeth Shue 8:30 Movie: “Total Recall” (MA15+) (’12) Stars: Colin Farrell

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City 5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30

Movie: “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” (M) (’10) Stars: Robert Pattinson

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 5:00

Seven News At 5 5:30 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Ford v Ferrari” (M) (’19) Stars: Matt Damon 10:35 Movie: “Baby Driver” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Ansel Elgort 12:00 The Arrangement (M v) 1:00 Travel Oz (PG) 2:00 Home Shopping

4:00 Supercar Customiser 4:30 AFL: Round 1: GWS v North Melbourne *Live* From Giants Stadium 5:30 Storage Wars (M) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00

Storage Wars (PG) 7:15 AFL: Round 1: Geelong v St Kilda *Live* From GMHBA Stadium

3:00 ABC News 3:30 The Breakfast Couch 4:00 ABC News 4:30 Close Of Business 5:00 ABC News 5:30 The World This Week 6:00 ABC Evening News

6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Back Roads 8:00 ABC News Tonight

4:00 Toi Time 4:30 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Kenya

Wildlife Diaries 7:30 Eddies Lil’ Homies 7:45 Movie: “Beasts Of The Southern Wild” (M) (’12) Stars: Dwight Henry

5:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 5:30 Pati’s Mexican Table 6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Food Trail 6:30 Mary Makes It Easy 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein: From Venice To Istanbul 8:40 Jamie’s Great Britain

Fire Country (M v) 11:30 The Project (PG)

8:30 Ready Steady Cook (PG) 9:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 In The Dark (PG) 1:30 NCIS (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M)

4:05 PBS Newshour 5:05 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross 5:35 TVNZ 1News At Six 6:15 Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Game Of Boyles (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

10:00 Today Extra Saturday 12:00 Great Australian Detour 12:30 My Way 1:00 The Pet Rescuers (PG) 1:30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 2:30 David

Attenborough’s Dynasties II (PG) 3:30 Renovate Or Rebuild 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30

Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A

Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Space Invaders (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Jason Bourne” (M v) (’16)

Stars: Matt Damon

11:00 Behave Yourself (PG) 12:00 The Proposal (PG) 1:30 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 4:10 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:10

4:50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:50 True North Calling (PG) 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30

Movie: “The Emoji Movie” (PG) (’17) Stars: TJ Miller 7:00

Movie: “Babe” (G) (’95) Stars: James Cromwell

4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Pop Paper City

5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Karma’s World

7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00

QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (M l,s) 9:30 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (PG)

Tradition On A Plate 7:00 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Idris

Elba’s Fight School (M l) 8:35

Movie: “Constantine” (M l,v) (’05) Stars: Keanu Reeves

5:30 Khanh Ong’s Wild Food 6:30 Evolving Vegan 7:30 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours 8:30 Rick

Stein’s Food Heroes 9:30

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 The Wine Show 11:30 The Cook And The Chef

5:00 Worldwatch 9:20 Make Me A Dealer (PG) 10:10 Kew Gardens 11:00 Food Markets - In The Belly Of (PG) (In English/ Italian) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Mastermind 3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Worlds Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Good Ship Murder (PG) 8:25 Endurance - Race The Pole (PG)

12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00

The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

5:00 Bewitched 5:30

Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:45

Movie: “Maya The Bee 3: The Golden Orb” (G) (’21) Stars: Coco Jack Gillies 7:30 Movie: “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” (PG) (’12) Stars: Martin Freeman

1:00 Unsellable Houses 2:00 My Lottery Dream Home 2:30 The Block (PG) 4:00 Barnwood Builders 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Rehab Addict Lake House Rescue

10:00 TBA 11:00 Everyday Gourmet 11:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 12:30 Silvia’s

Italian Masterclass 1:00 All 4 Adventure (PG) 2:00 Wildlife Rescue Australia 3:00 What’s Up Down Under 3:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30

Taste Of Australia 5:00 10 News First 6:00

Deal Or No Deal 6:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 7:40 The Dog House UK (PG) 8:40 Ambulance Australia (PG) 9:40 Ambulance UK (M l)

1:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures (PG) 2:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 JAG (PG)

7:00 Football: Isuzu Ute ALeague: Round 21: Perth Glory v Western Sydney Wanderers *Live* 10:15 NCIS: Los Angeles

4:10 PBS Newshour 5:10 TVNZ 1News At Six 5:50 The Food That Built The World (PG) 7:35 Impossible Engineering (PG) 8:30 Who Is The Zodiac Killer? (M v) 9:20 Women And The Power Of Activism (PG) 10:25 Better Things (M s)

9:00 Neighbours (PG)

11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 12:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:10 Becker (PG) 4:10 Frasier (PG) 5:00

Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:00

The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Friends (PG)

5:00 Kenan (PG) 5:30

Movie: “Sonic The Hedgehog” (G) (’20)

Stars: Ben Schwartz 7:30

Movie: “Legally Blonde 2: Red, White And Blonde” (PG) (’03)

Stars: Reese Witherspoon 9:30

Movie: “Bad Moms 2” (M d,l) (’17) Stars: Mila Kunis

3:30 Movie: “West Of Zanzibar” (G) (’54) Stars: Anthony Steel 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II (PG) 8:40 Movie: “The Vow” (PG) (’12) Stars: Rachel McAdams

5:00 Worldwatch 9:15 Love Your Garden (PG) 10:10 Vintage Voltage 11:00 Urban Conversion (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Gymnastics 4:00 France - A Journey Through Time 5:00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers (PG) 5:35 WWII Women On The Frontline (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road (PG) 8:30 Royal Crisis: Countdown To Abdication (PG) 9:30 The Wonders Of Europe (PG) (In French/ English/ Spanish)

1:30 Houses With History 2:30 Renovation Impossible 3:30 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 4:30 Rehab Addict Lake House Rescue 5:30 Dream Homes Revealed 6:30 Holiday Homes In The Sun 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

3:00

Movie: “Lawman” (PG) (’71) Stars: Burt Lancaster 5:00 Rugby Union: Super W: Waratahs v Brumbies *Live* From Allianz Stadium 7:00 Rugby Union: Rugby Pacific: Waratahs v Blues *Live* 9:30 Rugby Union: Post Match 9:00

3:00 Feel Good Road

Trips (PG) 3:30 RSPCA

Animal Rescue 4:00

The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 5:00 I

Escaped To The Country 6:00

Imagine Rail Journeys (PG)

6:30 Greatest Escapes To The Country 7:15 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (PG)

Mythbusters

4:00 Disasters At Sea (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars New York (PG)

6:00 Border Security: International (PG) 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” (PG) (’21)

Stars: Carrie Coon

10:30 Yummy Mummies (PG) 12:00

Holey Moley Australia (PG) 1:30 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 3:00 The Amazing Race (PG) 4:00 Australian Idol (PG) 5:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M)

4:35

4:00 On Country Kitchen (PG) 4:40

Johnny Cash - The Man In Black Britain (PG) 5:40 Talking Language 6:10 NITV News Update 6:20 Wild West (PG) 7:30 Murder In Big Horn (M l) 8:30 The Song Keepers (PG)

11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 2:00 Exploring Off The Grid (PG) 2:30 Taste Of Australia: BBQ Special 3:30 All 4 Adventure 4:30 What’s Up Down Under 5:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

Washington Week With The Atlantic 6:00 TVNZ 1News At

Abandoned Engineering 8:30

Coronado: The New Evidence

11:00

Urban Conversion 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Starblasters Cricket 1:00 Speedweek 2:30 Volleyball: Australian Beach Tour *Live* 4:30 Cycling: Paris-Nice 2024 Highlights 5:30 Lisbon & WWII (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Emerald Isles With Ardal O’Hanlon (PG) 10:30 Pompeii - The Origins (PG) (In English/ French/ Italian) 11:30 Egypt’s Lost City Of Canopus (PG)

10:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 12:30 Ready Steady Cook (PG)

3:00 Abby’s (PG) 5:30 Movie: “Dolittle” (PG) (’20) Stars: Robert Downey Jr. 7:30 Movie: “Ocean’s Eleven” (M l) (’01) Stars: Brad Pitt 10:00 Movie: “Looper” (MA15+) (’12) Stars: Joseph Gordon-Levitt 12:20

“Apache” (G) (’54)

Burt Lancaster 3:45

“Red River” (G) (’48) Stars: John Wayne 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Sudden Impact” (MA15+) (’93) Stars: Clint Eastwood 11:00 Chicago Med (M)

Monday 18 March

4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 8:30 Foyle’s War (M v) 10:45 Railroad Australia (PG)

6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 Hotel Transylvania 8:25 Almost Naked Animals

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Opal Hunters (PG) 8:30 Adventure Gold Diggers

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 ABC Evening News 8:00 ABC News Tonight

4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v)

5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Mythbusters (PG)

Tuesday 19 March

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Call The Midwife (PG) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00

The Cook And The Chef 3:25 Tenable 4:15

Antiques Roadshow 5:10 Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG)

7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 Better Date Than Never (PG) 9:05 Whale With Steve Backshall

4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Call The Midwife (PG) 8:40 A Touch Of Frost (M l,v)

6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 Hotel Transylvania (PG) 8:25 Almost Naked Animals

5:30 APTN National News 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update

6:40 Kenya Wildlife Diaries

7:35 Asking For It (M l,v) 8:30 Karla Grant Presents (PG)

6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Street Food Asia 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Malaysia Gourmet With Justine Schofield

12:00 Australian Idol (PG) 1:10 Surveillance Oz (PG) 1:30 Motorbike Cops (PG) 2:00 Lockerbie (M) 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 Highway Patrol (PG) 8:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (MA15+) 9:30 First

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

3:00 Modern Family (PG) 3:30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 First Dates Australia (PG) 7:35 First Dates UK (M s)

5:30 Indian Country 6:00 Bamay 6:40 NITV News Update 6:50 Kenya Wildlife Diaries 7:45 Wellington Paranormal (PG) 8:40 Ice Cowboys (M)

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 ABC Evening News 8:00 ABC News Tonight

5:55 Fireman Sam 6:30 Peter Rabbit 7:05 Riley Rocket 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg (M)

6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Street Food Asia 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Mary Berry’s Love To Cook 8:00 Selena + Chef

Wednesday 20 March

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club

Address 1:35 Media Watch 2:00 Parliament

Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef

3:25 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:10

Grand Designs (PG) 6:00 Back Roads 6:30

Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30

8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering (PG)

4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat (PG) 8:45 Lewis (M v) 10:45 Air Crash Investigations (PG)

12:00 Movie: “My Life As A Dead Girl” (M) (’15) Stars: Cassandra Scerbo 2:00 Psych: Who Ya Gonna Call? (M l,v) 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 (PG) 8:35 The Front Bar (M) 9:35 Crime Investigation Australia (MA15+)

4:30 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 5:30

American Pickers (PG) 6:30

Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG)

Bondi

3:00 Modern Family (PG) 3:30 First Dates Australia (PG) 4:30

2:00

9:20 24 Hours In Emergency (PG)

12:30 In The Dark (M)

1:30 NCIS (M v) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M)

5:10 TVNZ 1News At Six 5:50 Brooklyn NineNine (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30

Becker (PG) 5:30

Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

6:00 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 7:00

The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Yes Man” (M l,s) (’08) Stars: Jim Carrey 10:35 Seinfeld (M)

3:00 The Block (PG) 4:00 Barnwood Builders

5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International

7:00 House Hunters USA 8:30 Help! I Wrecked My House

5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Death In Paradise (M) 8:40 The Madame Blanc Mysteries (M v) 9:40 Whitstable Pearl (M v)

12:00

10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 In The Dark (M) 1:30 NCIS (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG)

5:10 TVNZ 1News At Six 5:50 Alone - The Beast (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Abby’s (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News

Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:00 Under Investigation (PG) 10:00 NINE News

12:00

4:15 Worlds Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8:30 Insight (M) 9:30 Dateline (M)

4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men (PG)

6:00 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 7:00

The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past” (M) (’09)

1:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 3:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 8:40 Ambulance Australia (PG) 9:40 FBI: International (M) 12:30 The Project (M)

10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 In The Dark (M s) 1:30 NCIS (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30

12:00

4:00 Barnwood Builders 5:00 Flip Or Flop 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Beyond The Farm: Men At Work

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

Worldwatch 2:00 Dateline (M) 2:30

Insight (M) 3:45 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 Worlds Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30

Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Australia’s Sleep Revolution (M l) 8:30 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You (M)

American Restoration (PG) 5:30

American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00

AFL: Round 2: St Kilda v Collingwood *Live*

3:30 First Dates Australia (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 10 Years Younger In 10 Days (PG) 7:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares UK (PG)

5:30 The 77 Percent 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40

Kenya Wildlife Diaries 7:30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30

2024 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

OVER 6000 STUDENTS

22 & 23 MAY

PENRITH VALLEY REGIONAL SPORTS CENTRE

Offering Exhibitors the opportunity to speak with thousands of GWS High School students and Careers Advisers as students explore career and further education options available to them through Universities, Registered Training Organisations, Apprenticeship Centres, Group Training Organisations, Private Colleges, Professional Associations and Employers.

brettcarterevents.com.au

9 AM - 2 PM

9AM - 2PM

BOTH DAYS

BOTH DAYS

30 HERBERT ST

30 HERBERT ST

CAMBRIDGE PARK

CAMBRIDGE PARK NSW

Offering Exhibitors the opportunity to speak with thousands of GWS High School students and Careers Advisers as students explore career and further education options available to them through Universities, Registered Training Organisations, Apprenticeship Centre’s, Group Training Organisations, Private Colleges, Professional Associations and Employers.

western sydney publishing group

www.brettcarterevents.com.au

risk-averse partners, which is more prevalent than most people know,” Lacheta-Pell said.

“There are also still far more individual

“MY GOAL IS TO HELP AS MANY WOMEN AS POSSIBLE”

male property investors than female in this country and my aim is to try to remedy that imbalance to improve the financial positions of women.”

Lacheta-Pell said while it was heartening to see younger women – and especially those aged between 30 and 40 – determined to secure their financial futures independently, many don’t take the next vital step to make it a reality.

“Many of the women I have previously spoken with had the finan-

cial ability to become property investors, but often would not proceed for a variety of reasons. That’s a situation I want to change,” she said.

Lacheta-Pell said even though more women understood the long-term financial potential of becoming a property investor than in years gone by, they usually still had to overcome more hurdles than men.

“Saving a deposit and servicing a mortgage while potentially earning lower wages to simply having the confidence to invest in property are some of the unique hurdles that females still have to overcome,” she said.

“Many divorced or separated women, aged from their early 40s to mid-50s, are often in the position to invest, but sometimes they falsely believe that cash is queen when they would be much better off financially over the long-term investing in property.”

What is so great about this property?

This property is an architectural masterpiece, a one of a kind home with luxury. The perfect family

home with just enough wow factor to impress.

Who does this property suit?

The professional family, some-

one who

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

At the foothills of the Moun-

tains,

•

Property Launch : Sat 16th March 11:30-12pm

Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE P OWELL

M: 0428 934 618

E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

GIZZELLE P OWELL

M: 0428 934 618

Three bedroom home situated on a 727 square metre block.

Zoned R2 with Granny Flat, Swimming Pool and Granny Flat Potential (STCA)

M:

This is your last oppor tunit y to secure a luxur y apar tment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the hear t of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apar tment features ample floor space, sophisticated styl e and the finest finishes

Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction , the residence is completed to a high standard with:

• Miele oven, gas cook top, rangehood, buil t-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedroom s

• Ground floor entr y, two levels of secure parking and a communal roof top with barbeque faciliti es

ORAN P ARK

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

Penrith Regional Galler y

Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Height s Super Save Compounding Chemis t

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen (Penrith Homemaker)

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Smash Repairs

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (Formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo IGA

Londonderr y

Londonderr y Liquor Store S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t

IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y

McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

The Bunker

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

MFC Food Stores

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Au stralian Arms

Brisket Boys

Ca fé Fre d

C altex Coreen Avenue

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Golf Club

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Tattersalls Hotel

The Chicken Run

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Mobil Ser vice Station

The Chemist Shop

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair

Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys

Andrew ’s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y

Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Monfar ville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Mar ys Band Club

St Mar ys Fish Market

St Mar ys Le agues Club

St Mar ys Librar y

St Mar ys Pizza Hut

St Mar ys RSL

St Mar ys Village

Walter s Newsagency

T hornton

Petramar t

McDonald's St Mar ys South

St Mar ys Pharmacy Queen St

Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia

Wallacia Golf Club

Wallacia Hotel

Wallacia Pos t Office

Wallacia Takeaway

Warragamba

Wa rragamba Sport s Club

Werrington

Colonial Hotel

Crossroads Convenience Store

Dirani’s MFC

George’s Charcoal Chicken

Henr y Sports Club

McDonald's

Supa IGA

The Foodar y We rrington

13 REASONS WHY YOU

Nepean Aquatic Centre was conceived by Alan and Karen Bentley 13 years ago after recognising the need for a first class aquatic facility in Penrith. Since 2011 we have taught thousands of local children to swim, a skill that is not just recreational but life-saving! Whether you’re a child or an adult, mastering the art of swimming offers numerous benefits that extend far beyond the water’s edge. Here are 13 compelling reasons why learning to swim should be on everyone’s to-do list:

Water safety: Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in Australia, especially in the 0-5 age group. Learning to swim significantly reduces the risk of drowning, equipping individuals with the skills needed to navigate water safely.

Confidence boost: Mastering swimming strokes and techniques instils confidence in individuals, both in the water and in daily life.

Physical fitness: Swimming is an excellent full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and enhances flexibility, all while being low-impact on the joints.

Stress relief: Being in the water has a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Social opportunities: Swimming opens doors to social activities such as water sports, swim clubs, and group fitness classes, providing opportunities to meet new people and make friends.

Life-long skill: Once learned, swimming is a skill that can be enjoyed throughout one’s lifetime, from childhood into old age. Safety around water: Knowing how to swim enables individuals to enjoy water-based activities such as boating, snorkelling, and kayaking safely.

Improved coordination and balance: Swimming requires coordination between various muscle groups and helps improve balance and spatial awareness.

Burns calories: Swimming is an

efficient calorie-burning exercise that aids in weight management and contributes to a healthy lifestyle.

Therapeutic benefits: Water therapy, including swimming, is used to rehabilitate injuries, alleviate chronic pain, and improve overall well-being.

Rescue skills: Learning to swim not only protects oneself but also enables individuals to potentially save others in water-related emergencies.

Boosts mental health: Swimming releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators, which can help combat depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Summer enjoyment: Being proficient in all aquatic environments ensures enjoyment during our hot summer months, whether at the beach, pool, or water park. So, whether you’re dipping your toes into the water for the first time or refining your technique, come say happy birthday at Nepean Aquatic Centre soon!

Getting the best deal on your home loan is not always about paying it off quicker or saving on interest. I mean, us brokers probably think it is – but we also accept that’s not always the real world.

26 restaurants you could try in Penrith and across Sydney throughout the course of a year, without increasing your budget as it stands today.

It’s enough to pay for every single streaming service available in Australia plus the premium package of Foxtel. Imagine you got all of that ‘for free’?

Let me paint you this picture: A client makes contact with us, and tells us they want to get a better deal on their home loan.

A check into their current home loan, interest rate and structure showed that despite what they thought was a pretty good deal, I could get them an interest rate a full percentage point better than they were currently on.

So let’s say, for instance, I took that client from a rate of 6.75 per cent to 5.75 per cent, on a $500,000 mortgage.

What do you think that looks like?

Well, the answer is $325 per month.

Imagine what you could do with $325 extra per month? It’s a nice dinner out once a fortnight. That’s

In two months you could buy a PS5 with the savings. You get the

picture by now, surely. Insert yourself in it!

Sometimes people ignore changing home loan providers or seeking a better deal because they just think the default answer with the savings will be to pay more off the loan, or maintain your current budget but build a buffer in the loan.

And yes, that is the ideal financial solution – but everyone is different.

If you’re struggling to make ends meet right now, or if you just want a bit more freedom in your budget, the answer could actually be right in front of you.

Contact Bell Partners today – I’m sure we can help.

CHIROPRACTOR’S GUIDE TO SCIATICA DIAGNOSIS

Sciatica – a term often thrown around, but do people truly understand what it entails?

As a chiropractor, I frequently encounter individuals who believe they are grappling with sciatica. However, distinguishing true sciatica from other forms of pain is crucial in providing effective care.

Sciatica stems from the irritation of the sciatic nerve, originating in the low back and extending down the buttock, back of the thigh, and into the calf and feet. Despite its prevalence, sciatica is frequently misdiagnosed, with individuals attributing any pain in the back of the leg to this condition.

Typical sciatica symptoms include a sharp or electric pain, sometimes accompanied by numbness, pins and needles, or muscle weakness in the path of the nerve. It’s important to note that a mere dull ache may not necessarily indicate sciatica; often, this type of pain is associated with referral from muscles or joints in the low back.

How can a chiropractor play a role in managing sciatica?

The first step is distinguishing whether your symptoms align with true sciatica, a process initiated through a comprehensive history-taking session. This allows us to gain insight into the nature of your pain and poten-

tial contributing factors. A thorough physical examination further refines the diagnosis and guides the approach to management. A common cause of sciatica is a disc bulge, where the disc between spinal segments compresses the sciatic nerve. As a chiropractor, I work to identify the root cause of your symptoms, whether it be a disc bulge or another issue. Once determined, a tailored treatment plan is devised to alleviate pain and

address the underlying problem.

In essence, a chiropractor’s role in managing sciatica extends beyond mere symptom relief; it involves a meticulous assessment to pinpoint the source of the issue and a personalised approach to enhance overall wellbeing. If you suspect you are dealing with sciatica or similar symptoms, seeking the expertise of a chiropractor can provide valuable insights and targeted care.

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy

Pearce

With so many lip products, how do you find what’s perfect for you?

If you’ve noticed more lip products coming onto the market than ever, you’re not alone. Though much of this has to do with changing trends around just what products people are using on their lips, from glosses to oils and stains, there may be another reason for the oversaturation – and it all comes down to ‘girl math’.

During the 2001 recession, Leonard Lauder, the chairman of cosmetics firm Estée Lauder, coined the term ‘lipstick index’. Despite the gloomy economic state in the aftermath of 9/11, lipstick sales in the US had risen by 11 per cent, leading Lauder to conclude that lipstick sales were a good way to gauge the state of the economy – the thought process for consumers being that though that ‘Euro Summer’ holiday or fancy dinner might be out of reach,

what’s the harm in splurging on a new lip gloss?

In the years that followed, this has proven itself to be true, being replicated in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic, and again currently, as Sephora rides the lipstick index wave to a whopping €20 billion in annual global sales in the coming years.

Whilst the lipstick index doesn’t apply just to lipstick, and rather to any small luxury people can purchase to get a boost while times are tough, it is one of the easiest to ‘girl math’ –a term not necessarily specific to gender, but referring to the mental gymnastics that can sometimes be done to justify a purchase. In my opinion, it’s really just rational economic decision making – why spend $20 on shipping, when you can just buy another $20 item to get it to the free threshold?

In saying all of this, if you are in the market for a new lip product, there has never been a better time to do so, with endless options available right at your fingertips. And, what would an installment of ‘In The Mirror’ be without a few recommendations?

Laneige Lip Products

When it comes to products that are guaranteed to look good, whilst also ensuring your lips stay hydrated throughout the day, you can’t go past Laneige.

I regularly use their Lip Sleeping Mask at night, and carry the Glowy Balm version with me in

my handbag – I use the shade ‘Gummy Bear’ and can attest to the fact that it’s not as scary as it looks. However, I recently picked up the Lip Treatment Balm and I am obsessed. It has a pretty, pearlescent finish, piña colada scent, and a handy applicator that fits right into the lid for convenience.

Fenty Beauty Pro Kiss’R

Luscious Lip Balm

The Fenty Beauty Pro Kiss’R Luscious Lip Balm has recently become one of my favourites for every day. It has just the right amount of colour payoff for me, without looking like a full coverage lipstick, and maintains a glossy finish.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balms are trendy for a reason. They smell delicious, look beautiful on the lips, and come in plenty of shades to ensure there’s something for everyone.

I use the shade ‘Vanilla Beige’ and find that it works really well for day-to-day wear, but I do find that this one tends to run out the quickest, so just be wary of this when choosing what to spend your money on!

It has been calculated that, in just seven years, one female cat and her offspring can produce as many as 420,000 kittens. This is a major problem and highlights the importance

of desexing male and female cats at an early age to reduce the number of unwanted animals in our community. In addition to preventing unwanted litters, desexing may result in a posi-

tive behavioural change in your cat. Desexing may also minimise the chance of your cat developing reproductive organ-related health issues that threaten your cat’s life.

A desexed cat (male or female) is less likely to:

• Wander or run away. Desexed cats generally have a reduced inclination to roam, which means they are less likely to roam off your property and reduces the risk of traffic accidents. It also increases the likelihood that your desexed cat will adapt better to a live indoors.

• Become involved in fights over territory or mating partners. This reduces the likelihood of injuries such as abscesses and infected wounds, which may be fatal.

• Contract Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Also known as Feline AIDS, this can be contracted through fighting with other infected cats.

• Develop tumours such as uterine, ovarian and mammary (breast) cancer in females and possibly testicular cancer in males.

• Display anti-social behaviour towards people or other animals. This makes pet ownership less enjoyable and disrupts the human-pet bond.

• Spray or mark its territory, which is usually the house.

A cat can have an average of four to six kittens per litter.

Each kitten must be fed, wormed, and treated for fleas. It is also a legal requirement that each

kitten be vaccinated and microchipped before they are sold or given away. These costs can add up, making desexing a much easier and less expensive option.

The appropriate age for desexing can vary depending on the breed and size of your cat.

Generally, it is best done before puberty (approximately six months of age) although the operation can be done at a later age.

Local Council regulations require cats to be desexed by four months of age unless a letter of exemption is supplied by the treating veterinarian.

If you would like more information about desexing, microchipping or registration of your male or female cat, phone Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

At

Our inclusive team consists of

Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.

Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384

cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.

Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.

We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.

Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith

Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384

Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

Relax & Unwind

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

Money matters should start to improve, as Venus moves through your finance zone (until April 5). The Sun and Pluto send a confidence boost your way (especially involving a personal project or social media) and a local community connection could prove fortuitous. So be on the look-out for a lucky opportunity when it appears. It’s time to turn an abstract dream into a rock-solid reality! If you hesitate or procrastinate, then you’ll miss the boat.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The buzz word this week is confidence! Confidence to learn, to dream, to grow. With no less than six planets activating your career and aspirations zones, your motto is from birthday great, actress/ producer Reese Witherspoon, “With the right kind of coaching and determination, you can accomplish anything.” Venus (your boss planet) links up with Saturn on Thursday/Friday which means your hard work, patience and persistence will pay off … in the end.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

On Wednesday the Sun (your ruling planet) transits into fellow fire sign Aries, and then links up with powerful Pluto. From mid-week onwards you’ll be at your feisty, fabulous best – and your belligerent, bossy worst! It’s Equinox week, so try to find an outlet for your fiery energy, and a way to bring more balance and harmony into your busy world. Thursday and Friday boost personal magnetism and favour taking an ambitious project a step further.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Sensitive Scorpio – you’re a capricious creature, constantly buffeted by intense emotions and deep desires. This week we celebrate the Equinox (when day and night are of equal length) which will help to stabilise your temperamental moods and balance your brooding nature. Attached Scorpio – remember there’s a fine line between ardent affection and clingy obsession. Unhappily single? You could find yourself drawn to someone with a powerful personality.

PISCES

On Wednesday it’s the Equinox (when day and night are of equal length), which favours meditation and contemplation, as you aim for more equilibrium and perspective. Pluto is powering through your solitude and spirituality zone, which further highlights peace-of-mind and strong self-esteem. Then mighty Mars moves into Pisces (until April 30), so strive to be more proactive about pursuing your creative and spiritual goals. No procrastination allowed Pisces!

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Are you being too subjective and short-sighted about a current issue? It’s the Equinox on Wednesday when day and night are of equal length. So take a step back, adjust your focus, and view things from a much broader and wiser perspective. Balance is the key. Saturn hooks up with Venus in your career zone, so it’s also time to get serious about your professional ambitions. Roll up your sleeves and get to work, as you power through projects and tie up loose ends.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

You’re impatient about making things happen according to your strict timetable but the planets caution you about taking shortcuts and relying on others. Don’t expect family, friends or colleagues to drop everything and hand you your dream. There is just no substitute for hard work and thorough preparation. It’s also Equinox week so stop overcommitting! Smart Virgos will calm down and recalibrate to a slower, steadier and more sustainable pace.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Sagittarians can be selfish, self-indulgent souls. This week, with the Sun and Mercury spotlighting your leisure and pleasure zone, you’ll be preoccupied with your immediate entertainment wants and personal pampering needs. However, over the next few years, you’ll gradually shift your focus further afield as Pluto teaches you that family matters, local community connections and social responsibilities are just as important as individual priorities.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

This week it’s the Equinox on Wednesday and the Sun shifts into Aries and then links up with Pluto. Plus Mars (your ruling planet) moves into Pisces. So the current astrology is all about maintaining your equilibrium, celebrating your individuality, and pursuing your dreams within a climate of transformation and reflection. Draw inspiration from birthday great Reese Witherspoon, “I believe ambition is not a dirty word. It’s just believing in yourself and your abilities.”

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Have you been avoiding a tricky person or a difficult situation? Crabs tend to side-step problems (or just put your head in the sand). With Mercury and the Sun moving through dynamic Aries (in your work zone), try a more direct approach as you face challenges head on. Aim to communicate your ideas in positive and proactive ways. As birthday belle Reese Witherspoon observes, “Confidence is everything.” Travel and adventure are also on the menu.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Is a close relationship stuck in a stultifying rut? This week the Sun and Mercury encourage you to blast away the cobwebs and look at things from a fresh angle. But how well do you really know your nearest and dearest? Powerful Pluto is in your romance, children and friendship zone, plus Venus (your patron planet) links up with Saturn. So it’s time to dig deeper and gain valuable insights into the inner motivations of a lover, friend or family member.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Venus and Saturn highlight long-term relationships and local community connections. And the Sun visits your domestic zone, so it’s a good week to support a family member, get stuck into a DIY project or clean and de-clutter your living space. But how will you decide what to keep and what to discard? Draw inspiration from designer and birthday great William Morris, “Have nothing in your house which you know not to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

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

Crossword brought to you by OnePointHealth onepointhealth.com.au | 4732 5188 510/536 High Street, Penrith

Sudoku brought to you by Nepean Aquatic Centre nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au

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. The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

4730 8900

This wordsearch is brought to you by CPAP Direct, would you finish it faster with a better night sleep? - cpap.com.au

Word Search

FISH

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about Australian Prime Ministers in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. In what month and year did Anthony Albanese become Prime Minister?

2. Who was Australia’s second Prime Minister?

3. Who was Labor’s first Prime Minister?

4. Australia has had one Prime Minister from the Free Trade Party. Who was it?

5. Who was Australia’s first female Prime Minister?

6. How many Australian Prime Ministers have died while in office?

7. How many Australian Prime Ministers are still living?

8. Kevin Rudd was elected at the 2007 election. Who did he replace as Prime Minister?

Katarina lands goals in world of netball

While she dabbled in a few sports growing up, Katarina Sincek always had a soft spot for netball.

“I did play basketball when I was younger and I also did athletics, but I decided to stick with netball because I loved the team aspect of it,” she told the Weekender

The Theresa Park resident began playing netball when she was three along with her slightly older sister, who was five at the time.

“My mum wanted my sister and I to start netball together,” the now 19-year-old said.

“We started playing FunNet, which is now called NetSetGo. I basically ran around on the grass jumping over hurdles and running relay races.

“My mum loved netball and she played it too, so I guess she wanted the legacy to continue.”

And continue it did.

After rising up the ranks as a junior in the Camden & District Netball Association, Sincek went on to play in Penrith District’s Metro League Division 1 team

in 2020 and 2021 and she also became a training partner for the Panthers Netball Premier League side.

In 2022, she was selected to play in the U23 Panthers Netball team, where she spent the past two seasons.

Last year was her best to date –voted the MVP by her coach and her peers. This season she will finally make her Opens debut for Panthers Netball.

Sincek said she’s grateful for the support Panthers have given her since joining the franchise.

“I love how they gave me a chance to move into the Premier League space a few years ago and how they have helped me to develop into the player I am today,” she said.

“The support that we have from our coaches, physios and the sponsors is incredible. I feel very grateful, and I also think the uniforms are pretty cool.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge of playing in the Premier League Opens competition this year. I’ll be playing against some girls who are training partners for the Swifts and Giants, so I think that’ll push me more.”

2023 was certainly a year to remember for the talented goalkeeper after she was also selected to play in the U19 Australian Indoor Netball team and U23 NSW Indoor Netball team.

Along with her Opens debut for Panthers in the coming weeks, Sincek will also play in Netball NSW U19’s team for the upcoming National Championships.

The latest Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Senior Sports Star Award recipient said playing for her state in outdoor netball will be her proudest achievement so far.

“I’ve been working for this for the past four years, so it makes it that more special,” Sincek said.

“I’ve been so close every year and, to finally make the team, it is just amazing!”

Nominated by Penrith Netball

President Joy Gillett, Sincek’s Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Penrith Panthers Leagues Club.

If you or you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Katarina Sineck is the latest Senior Sports Star Award recipient.

NATHAN TAYLOR

AFL PUSHES FOR RELEVANCE

Story continued from » p.80

To help assist in promoting the sport in Penrith and western Sydney, the GWS Giants sent three players to Greygums Oval on Tuesday evening to mingle and kick a ball with new junior recruits.

Giants star Connor Idun understands it’s his responsibility as an AFL player to help promote the sport at the grassroots.

“We know getting out into the community is very important for the game and we want to help grow the game from the ground up,” he told the Weekender

“We’ve seen the last couple of years when we’ve been playing well, that there’s a lot more kids that want to be involved. I guess that’s part of our responsibility.

“Face to face consults like today are most important. When kids meet with us face to face, they might decide to put the rugby ball down and have a kick with us… it goes a long way, I think.”

As for the Penrith Giants, they’ll continue to do whatever they can to get players excited about playing AFL again. And while rugby league is bigger than ever in Penrith due to the recent success of the Panthers, they know that AFL deserves a place in this town too.

“I know the NRL is big at the moment as well as basketball and soccer, but we have a great community here at the Penrith Giants,” Ross said.

“All the coaches are great, the kids are great, and we’re very diverse. Just come give us a go.”

On a mission in WA

NATHAN TAYLOR

The Easter long weekend will look a little different for a big group of local basketballers.

Instead of participating in an Easter egg hunt or enjoying a Good Friday meal with their families, 31 junior basketballers from Bigtime Basketball Academy will be in Western Australia for the 2024 3x3 Hustle Junior National Championships.

To be held at Perth’s famous Scarborough Beach, the 3x3 Hustle Junior National Championships will see teams from across the country battle it out in one of the most exciting and fast-paced formats of the game.

Local business Bigtime Basketball Academy will have eight teams competing at the tournament – five female teams and three male teams.

“It’s exciting because all of our teams are made up of local Penrith players,” Bigtime Basketball Academy’s Asma Johansson said.

The teams qualified for the National Championships after a lighting up the court at the 3x3 State Championships, which were held at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre last month.

“We had 11 teams qualify for the State Championships, with six qualifying for Nationals,” Johansson said.

“We then had two development teams

that were also invited to attend as wildcard teams. So overall we have eight teams flying over to Perth in the coming weeks – that’s 31 athletes and 79 in total travelling.”

Bigtime Basketball Academy was established in 2016 by experienced basketball coach Melvin Gapido. The aim of the academy is for athletes to develop their fundamental skills in the game of basketball.

“Melvin’s dream was to help impact, influence and support young athletes to grow in the game of basketball,” Johansson said.

“Bigtime Basketball grew from being an outdoor academy to hiring our own courts at WSU in Kingswood. We now have around 60 students that attend once or twice a week.”

3x3 basketball is a variation of basketball played three-a-side, with one backboard and a half-court set up. According to a study commissioned by the International Olympic Committee, 3x3 is the largest urban team sport in the world.

In 2021, it made its Summer Olympics debut in Tokyo, and will return to the Olympics in Paris later this year.

Johansson believes Bigtime Basketball are a chance to return with some silverware.

“Our strongest age group is our U14 girls,” she said.

“All three of our U14 girls’ teams qualified for Nationals, placing first, second and third in the state.”

Bigtime Basketball Academy will send more than 30 players to Perth later this month.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Giants start new AFL season in style

AFL: The GWS Giants have lived up to the pre-season hype, belting reigning premiers Collingwood by 32 points in Round 1 of the AFL. The ‘Orange Tsunami’ was flowing as the Giants surged away with nine of 11 goals either side of half-time to blow away the Magpies for a 114-82 triumph in front of 21,235 fans at ENGIE Stadium. Emerging forward Callum Brown sparked GWS early with three goals in the first term and finished with a five-goal haul in a breakout performance. The Giants, who sit in second place after last weekend’s heroics, will face the North Melbourne Kangaroos at ENGIE Stadium this Saturday afternoon.

AFL: Before Saturday’s game, the GWS Giants, alongside the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS), announced a ground-breaking partnership agreement that will see the club’s Sydney Olympic Park home ground re-named ENGIE Stadium. The landmark three-year deal sees world-leading energy company, ENGIE, secure the stadium naming rights for the venue formerly known as Giants Stadium. ENGIE Stadium will be the naming rights designation throughout the three-year deal, with everything from Giants home games, Sydney Thunder games in the Big Bash, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and high-profile concerts to be held at the newly named ENGIE Stadium.

CRICKET: Penrith have lost their final match of the season, going down to Manly Warringah in Round 16 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Manly Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. The home side were dismissed for 105 in their first innings. In reply, Penrith were even worse with the bat, dismissed for 101. With plenty of playing time still left, the two sides returned for a second innings last Saturday. Manly put up a better score and declared on 5/259. When Penrith hit the crease, they started well before things started taking a turn when Charlie Griffith and Adam Bayliss were bowled out for ducks. In the end, the visitors were dismissed for 161,

Finals hopes alive. A long ball forward found Sophie Harding on the half-way line and the striker produced a moment of absolute class, beautifully controlling the ball before releasing a first time pass into the path of Morris who raced beyond the last defender and slotted the ball home to seal a crucial point for the away side. The two sides were due to play again on Wednesday night in a catch-up match at Wanderers Football Park.

FOOTBALL: Unfortunately, the Wanderers A-League Men’s team is imploding. On Tuesday night, they were diabolical in a 7-0 loss to Melbourne City at AAMI Park. Before that, they suffered a disappointing 3-1 loss to the worst team in the league, Western United, last Friday night at CommBank Stadium. The Wanderers opened the scoring in the 52nd minute through Nicolas Milanovic before United scored three unanswered goals in 12 minutes to win their

canoe sprint paddlers were selected for the Australian Olympic Team for Paris last Saturday at Penrith’s Sydney Interna tional Regatta Centre, with returning Olympic champions, three three-time Olympians, six Olympic debutants and a brother duo. Aly Bull, Alyce Wood and Riley Fitzsimmons will contest their third Games, with Bull and Wood equal ling the most Australian Olympic appearances

Giants star Toby Bedford celebrates with fans after the game.

SPORT

A CALL FOR HELP

The GWS Giants may have everyone talking in the AFL after their stunning opening round victory over the Premiers last weekend but, in reality, the game is at a crisis point in Penrith.

While the AFL is promising to spend $1 billion nationally over the next decade as they aim to have one million registered participants by 2033, the game locally is at its lowest point in years.

One junior club, the Emu Plains/Glenmore Park Lions, which were established in 2000, folded last month due to lack of

numbers, while the Penrith Giants – who held a clinic for new players on Tuesday – are struggling to fill their teams for the upcoming Junior AFL season.

“Our numbers are lower this season than in previous years,” Penrith Giants Vice President, Gia Ross told the Weekender

“We’re trying to promote the club as much as we can but I am concerned about the club’s future.

“I’m not sure that in the next couple of weeks we are going to get the numbers that we want.

“We just have to see how we go.”

In order for the Penrith Giants to survive this season, they’ve been forced to form

alliance teams with other western Sydney clubs to help fill positions.

“In the 13-18 age group, all across western Sydney and some other areas of Sydney, a lot of clubs like ours are forming alliances with other clubs,” Penrith Giants Coaching Coordinator, Mick Pearson said. “We are aligned with the Hawkesbury Saints and the Mountain Lions from Faulconbridge this season for age groups 13 and up. This is new for us due to the decline in this area.”

According to the AFL, NSW is a key focus for the game and western Sydney is a key area. They are developing more ways to play than ever before with opportunities

beyond weekend footy and Auskick including a contact-free version of the sport called AFL Superkick and AFL Nines.

But despite all their efforts, clubs like the Giants are seriously concerned for their future especially after what happened to the Emu Plains/Glenmore Park Lions.

“The Lions just didn’t have enough numbers… they tried to start back up again but unfortunately it just didn’t work for them,” Ross said.

“Of course we don’t want that to happen here, that’s why we have aligned with these other clubs.”

Story continues on » p. 78

NATHAN TAYLOR