Western Weekender May 24 2024

UNI DATA BREACH

More than 7,000 people have been impacted by a major cyber breach at Western Sydney University.

The University (WSU) has notified individuals impacted by unauthorised access to its IT network earlier this year.

The intrusion was identified in January 2024 and quickly shut down, while an investigation commenced and remediation measures were implemented.

“Since January 2024, the University undertook its due diligence to understand the nature, scope and scale of the incident, the number of individuals impacted, and to protect against further harm. This was also done in accordance with the University’s legal obligations,” WSU said in a statement issued on Tuesday afternoon.

“The investigation has indicated that the earliest known unauthorised access to the University’s Microsoft Office 365 environment was on 17 May 2023 and included access to some email accounts and SharePoint files.”

Investigations also indicate that the University’s Solar Car Laboratory infrastructure may have been used as part of the incident.

• 7,500 impacted by cyber security breach

• Unauthorised access dates back to May 2023

• Authorities called in to investigate

• No threats or demands issued

“Monitoring and scanning indicates that the preventative measures taken as a part of the incident response have successfully prevented any further unauthorised access,” the statement said.

“The University is working with a range of authorities, including NSW Police whose investigation is ongoing. The University has also been in ongoing contact and working closely with the NSW Information and Privacy Commission.

“We are now in a position to notify impacted individuals. Overall, approximately 7,500 individuals have received notifications from today. If you are among those affected being contacted today, you will have received an official notification from the University either by telephone call, email, or both.

“The University is continuing to investigate the incident and if further persons are affected by the unauthorised access to the University IT network, they will be notified.”

WSU has received no threats or demands in relation to private information that was accessed.

“In order to protect University staff, students and stakeholders, the University has sought and been granted an injunction from the NSW Supreme Court to prevent access, use, transmission and publication of any data that was the subject of the incident,” the statement said.

Interim Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clare Pollock, said: “On behalf of the University, I unreservedly apologise for this incident and its impact on our community. It is deeply regrettable, and we are committed to transparently rectifying the matter and fulfilling our obligations. We appreciate that this may be upsetting, and we are here to support you as we work through this together. We have established a dedicated phone line and website to answer any questions you might have.”

Information for those impacted

• Phone: 9174 6942 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm AEST)

• Website: www.westernsydney.edu. au/cyberincident.

Friday, May 24, 2024

Nepean Avenue residents fire fresh shot in fight against new shared pathway Path plan referred to ICAC

Residents on Penrith’s Nepean Avenue have filed a formal complaint to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in relation to Penrith City Council and their street’s controversial new pathway.

It’s no secret a series of residents have been vehemently opposing Council’s plan to implement a pathway along Nepean Avenue, but now they have escalated their concerns.

John Mulders, Ann Parer and Siegfried Kunze have raised their concerns about the implementation of the pathway and saw no other option but to escalate the matter.

“We’ve had many meetings with Council, [and] they’ve just refused to accept our view of what’s happening,” Mulders said.

“So, basically how that can be resolved is to send it to ICAC.”

Mulders discovered a Council commissioned safety audit that he believes reveals that the safety of the pedestrians using the bridge-to-bridge walk will not improve once a pathway is installed.

“Because I discovered there was an audit on safety and it actually, it says that itself... that the objection of this audit is to check the safety on Nepean Avenue [and] the pathway concept,” Mulders said.

“When I got letters back from Council they said, ‘Oh no, that wasn’t really what it was about – it’s about informing tenders and looking at the design’.

“They didn’t mention the safety factor, when in fact the safety factor was the dominant thing of that audit.”

Kunze believes that Council has not consid-

ered alternative options for the completion of the bridge-to-bridge walk.

“They haven’t looked at any alternative in a real fashion,” Kunze said.

Parer said the implementation of the pathway will do nothing to increase safety on the street.

“I walk every day on the street and people will not stay in the 2.6 metre zone because they like to walk four abreast,” she said.

“Particularly mothers with prams, dogs, kids on little scooters, joggers at night – four across the road.”

In response, Council acknowledged a complaint has been filed with ICAC.

“Penrith City Council commissioned a Road Safety Audit of Nepean Avenue in February 2023 to determine the feasibility or need for a pathway, and a second Road Safety Audit was commissioned in September 2023 to guide

the detailed design stage, inform any future tender processes, and ensure any compliance requirements were met,” a spokesperson for Council said.

“This practice is in line with Transport for NSW guidelines and Austroads Guide to Road Safety Part 6: Road Safety Audit and RTA guidelines for Road Safety Audit Practices.

“The contents and recommendations of the second Road Safety Audit was not considered to be material to the resolution to implement the pathway and therefore was not included in the Ordinary Meeting Business Paper for the 25 September 2023 meeting.

“Council acknowledges that Nepean Avenue residents have lodged a complaint regarding this matter to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). If contacted by ICAC, Council will fully cooperate and respond to any requests or inquiries.”

Panthers centre on DV charges

NRL star Taylan May remains sidelined after being charged with domestic violence offences last weekend.

22-year-old May was arrested by police just hours before he was due to fly to Brisbane with his Penrith teammates for a clash with the New Zealand Warriors.

He was subsequently dropped from Penrith’s team for the match, and hasn’t been

named to face Cronulla at PointsBet Stadium this Saturday night.

“Penrith Panthers are aware of an alleged incident regarding player Taylan May, which has resulted in police charges,” the Panthers said in a statement.

“Panthers has informed the NRL Integrity Unit and will cooperate throughout the process.

“As this is a legal matter, the club will make no further comment at this stage.” May is due to front court next Tuesday.

Police allege the incident involving May’s wife happened on Monday, April 8 at their home in Werrington.

“It is alleged he punched her in the face and leg,” a police spokesperson said.

“The man was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV), and two counts of stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (DV).”

May was granted conditional bail ahead of his court appearance.

Nepean Avenue residents Siegfried Kunze, John Mulders, Ann Parer. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

Charged: Taylan May. Photo: NRL Photos.

TROY DODDS

CBD parking solution remains in limbo, years after ramps axed

EMILY CHATE

A‘ghost’ car park with more than 100 spaces that could help solve parking dilemmas in the Penrith CBD remains in limbo.

The car park above TK Maxx and Skipton’s Arcade in the middle of Penrith has been left to rot, with no access for vehicles since access ramps from Allen Place were closed almost a decade ago.

A recent video posted by a TikTok user who had gained access to the car park shows just what Penrith is missing out on – dozens and dozens of empty spaces while drivers fight for limited spots just a floor below.

The story of the car park is a complicated one, and the subject of a blame game.

The land the car park sits on was originally owned by the Skipton family before they gifted it to Penrith City Council in the 1970’s.

The car park was subsequently built, and it was accessible via ramps that crossed Station Street for the next 40-odd years.

In 2014, Council hired a consulting

firm to complete an inspection of the car park. That inspection revealed concrete cancer in the ramps, which were subsequently closed for safety reasons.

The building was sold in 2016, and the Welsh Place car park was then transferred to the new owner.

A spokesperson for Skipton Investments says that this sale included a covenant, or an agreement, that the new owner was required to reinstate access to the car park.

Access was likely to be from the ground level car park, not via new ramps from Allen Place.

“They [Council] entered a contract with [the new owner], it must have been about 2017,” the spokesperson for Skipton Investments said.

“... What it [the covenant] says is you are obliged to use this land as a public car park, and you’ve got to build a ramp.”

A DA for new ramps to be built was applied for and has lapsed, meaning that no work has been done to provide access to the car park.

“If he [the new owner] puts this ramp in, [over 100 car parks] will become available and that is what he was supposed to have done,” the spokesperson said.

“For some unknown reason they [Council] do not push this guy.”

A breach of covenant was issued in 2018 but still no action has been taken.

“Because I pushed them [Council]

and pushed them, they finally, in 2018, issued what is called a notice of breach of a positive covenant,”

the spokesperson said.

The Weekender made numerous attempts to contact the current owner, but he did not respond.

Council had no comment on the matter.

In the meantime, locals can still see the blocked off car park from Station Street – where the ramps once stood.

If only they could park up there.

The ghost car park sits empty. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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Troy Dodds

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Nine thoughts from the past week

Social media reform needed

As State Premiers grapple with potential new laws to restrict social media use among minors, a reality sets in: kids will always find a way.

But it’s hard to deny that something needs to be done to protect kids on social media from bullying, predators and unsafe content.

The social media companies themselves are either too ignorant to stamp such things out or don’t know how to.

There’s some challenges around governments implementing such protections.

To be done effectively, age verification is really the only way. That essentially regulates the adult public in an attempt to protect minors.

A small price to pay, perhaps, but it might be a difficult sell.

Another AVO that meant nothing

We now know that James Harrison, who killed his two-year-old son Rowan in a murder-suicide at Lismore, had an AVO taken out against him by his ex-partner.

It’s been revealed that Harrison had a history of domestic violence.

Now, he’s left a two-year-old’s mother with the ultimate lifelong pain.

AVOs mean absolutely nothing. We need a better way to protect women and children from monsters.

A piece of paper isn’t cutting it. Perhaps a jail cell would.

Means test not needed

Plenty have argued that a means test is needed on the Federal Government’s electricity bill rebate.

Newsflash: Even people considered ‘well off’ are potentially doing it tough, and are experiencing huge spikes in power bills.

I get the desire to push the “help the battlers” line, but in times like we’re in, it’s those with a little bit of extra money in their pocket that are keeping people employed, shopping in local businesses and utilising local services.

They may not be on the poverty line, but it doesn’t mean things aren’t tight.

Lauren remains in our thoughts

The reaction to our front page story last week, written by veteran journalist Terry Gallaway, has been extraordinary.

Many remember the May day that turned out to be Lauren Hickson’s last 35 years ago like it was yesterday.

For others, it was their first time reading the story and hearing of Lauren’s tragic end; and they were shocked by it.

Last Friday, Terry accompanied Lauren’s mother Jurina to little Lauren’s grave site. He’s produced an extraordinary video report on that visit, which is a must-watch.

You can see it on our Facebook and X accounts.

Flight fears grow

As a nervous flyer, the scenes on that Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore earlier this week were enough to have me reaching for a sick bag.

You can talk as much sense into me as you like, I won’t be rushing to book a flight any time soon.

Cyber breach a sign of the times

The cyber breach at Western Sydney University, which is reported on our front page this week, is pretty much par for the course in our modern world.

If you haven’t been caught up in some sort of breach of your data, you’re either very lucky or you just don’t know about it.

This is an ongoing problem though as we transition to a more digital world.

When a company has your data, you’re trusting that they have the best possible IT systems and security. Even then, a hacker is often a step or two ahead.

Often, it’s easy to blame the business or organisation that is the subject of the attack.

But you wouldn’t say the company was at fault if armed robbers stormed their building and stole data files.

Security is critical, no doubt.

But we cannot look at those responsible for data breaches as committing victimless crimes. In many cases, they’re just as bad as that armed robber, if not worse.

How good is Magic Round?

I’m a little late to the party but I finally ventured up to Brisbane last weekend for the NRL’s Magic Round.

What an absolutely incredible experience. The NRL has got this event so right. It is a true festival of footy where rivalries are put to one side and camaraderie shines through.

It simply wouldn’t work in any other city.

Sydney wouldn’t embrace it enough, and a non-NRL city wouldn’t get behind it as much as Brisbane does.

A tremendous experience.

And what about Women’s Origin?

I was out and missed last Thursday night’s Women’s Origin match between NSW and QLD, but the hype was so strong the next day that I just had to go back and watch it.

What an incredible game of footy.

The growth of the women’s game on the back of improved quality is sensational, and last Thursday’s match drew a record crowd and monster TV ratings.

The upcoming NRLW season will surely be the best on record, both in terms of quality as well as viewership.

NFL must choose Sydney, not Melbourne

It appears the MCG is in the box seat to host an NFL match in either 2025 or 2026. Despite its enormous popularity in the United States, the NFL has been taking regular season matches overseas in recent years.

Australia is set to be next on the list with an NFL match potentially headed down under in the next couple of years.

But please, the MCG would be a terrible choice.

Imagine the small NFL field dropped into the middle of the enormous MCG.

It would look stupid and wouldn’t do the game justice.

It needs to be at a rectangular stadium, and Sydney boasts the two best options in either Accor Stadium or Allianz Stadium.

Or perhaps the new Penrith Stadium. Imagine that in it’s opening year.

Time for NSW to ensure it doesn’t let Victoria get a win here.

“An insult”: McIntosh scathing in response to Federal Budget

The Opposition has labelled elements of last week’s Federal Budget an “insult” as it gears up for a likely election inside the next 12 months.

Federal Member for Lindsay and Shadow Minister for Western Sydney Melissa McIntosh was joined by Deputy Leader of the Opposition Sussan Ley at Mascot Steel in Penrith last week where they discussed what more should have been provided for western Sydney.

McIntosh was critical of the Government’s $325 electricity credit that will be supplied to small businesses.

“I can say that if it is $325 for a manufacturer in western Sydney that relies on a lot of energy to make Aussie-made [materials], that doesn’t even scrape the surface,” McIntosh said.

“It is an insult. This is where the true Aussie-made is, this is what it is about and the importance of keeping Australian industry.”

Households will also receive a subsidy, valued at $300.

Ley said that while the subsidy is important, more needs to be done to reduce energy prices.

“While we won’t stand in the way of one-off subsidies, $325 to a business like this is pathetic,” Ley said.

“You can’t subsidise your way out of the current inflation crisis.

“Prices are rising, electricity prices are rising. Instead of giving people a small payment to offset a portion of that rise, what we said, what Peter Dutton said... is we would make energy cheaper.

“So, the cost of electricity would go down, the cost of energy would go down.”

Dutton is his Budget reply last Thursday slammed Labor’s rebate.

“Electricity bills haven’t gone down by $275 as was pledged on 97 occasions – they’ve skyrocketed,” he said.

“The Treasurer will give you a $300 rebate but he knows full well that your annual electricity bills have increased by up to $1,000 since Labor formed government.”

McIntosh said that manufacturers like Mascot Steel are seeing their energy prices continue to rise.

“Like all manufacturers in western Sydney, Mascot Steel has seen their energy costs go up to unacceptable levels,” she said.

“Mascot Steel are paying 30 to 40 per cent more for their energy bills.

“$325 is not going to make any real difference to western Sydney manufacturers who are facing extraordinarily high energy costs.”

Ley said the Labor Government’s

Budget doesn’t deliver for Australian manufacturers.

“We all love the tagline ‘Made in Australia’, but when you actually look at what we are seeing made in Australia – amazing small businesses like this one – I’m not seeing anything in the Budget to support it,” Ley said.

“I’m seeing wonderful manufacturing enterprises that have been flexible, innovative, and invested a lot of money not getting support through anything in this Budget.”

Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley with Shadow Minister for Energy Affordability and Western Sydney Melissa McIntosh in Penrith.

Sussan Ley and Melissa McIntosh toured Mascot Steel in Penrith last week, following the release of the Federal Budget.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

St Marys: Undies, drugs and a sling shot found in police search

A man has been arrested after police executed a search warrant and located a range of stolen and illegal items.

At about 9.00am on Tuesday, May 14 police executed a search warrant at an address on Kungala Street, St Marys.

Police have had a conversation with the occupant, a 61-year-old man.

Police began the search in the sheds where they have located several expensive electric bikes which were suspected of being stolen. Police also located a number of bicycles in other sheds which were also suspected of being stolen.

Police searched the house and located a number of re-usable shopping bags containing sealed toiletries including razors and toothbrushes.

Police also located men’s shirts and 17 pairs of men’s underwear with the tags still attached.

Police continued to search and located a number of small resealable bags containing methamphetamine and cannabis. Police also found a sling shot and a flick knife.

The man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged.

The man will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, July 4.

Jamisontown: Man charged after driving with disqualified licence

A man has been charged after driving with a disqualified licence.

At about 12.30pm on Tuesday, May 14 police were patrolling Jamison Road, Penrith.

Police stopped a vehicle for a random breath test.

Police had a conversation with the driver, a 37-year-old Jamisontown man. The breath test returned negative.

The man was asked to produce his licence and he informed police that he did not have a driver’s licence because it was disqualified. Checks were conducted which confirmed that the man was a disqualified driver.

Police checked the vehicle and found that the plates did not match the vehicle they were on. It is alleged the man admitted that the vehicle was unregistered.

The man was charged, and he will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, June 28.

Colyton: Woman arrested after failing to stop, sparking chase

A woman has been arrested after leading

police on a high speed chase through Colyton and St Marys.

At about 10.00am on Wednesday, May 15 police were conducting stationary breath testing on Bennett Road, Colyton.

Police sighted a vehicle on Bennett Road on the M4 overpass where it stopped in the middle of the road, blocked traffic, and the driver then commenced a three point turn over double unbroken centre lines.

Police entered their vehicle and activated all lights and sirens.

The driver accelerated harshly, and police initiated a pursuit. The driver was driving at about 100km per hour in a 50km per hour zone.

Police pursued the vehicle onto Marsden Road, Desborough Road and Carpenter Street in St Marys. The driver failed to negotiate a left-hand turn into White Parade, mounted the gutter and collided with a fence. The vehicle has then come to a stop.

Police removed the driver, a 24-year-old St Marys woman from the driver’s seat. Also in the car were two very young children.

The woman was spoken to, and she informed police that she was a suspended driver. The children were placed into the care of a relative.

The woman was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where she was charged. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, June 6.

St Marys: Man charged after stealing from elderly man

A man has been busted after stealing cash from an elderly gentleman at an ATM earlier this week.

At about 1.00pm on Monday, May 21 a 24-year-old man from Bidwell was at St Marys Village Centre.

It is alleged he watched a 70-year-old man withdraw cash from an ATM and then followed him. The 24-year-old approached the 70-year-old within a close distance and was able to unclip the man’s bum bag and run off.

Police were contacted and attended the area promptly where they began patrolling for the 24-year-old man. Police sighted the man a short distance away and the 24-yearold ran. Police pursued and apprehended the man.

The bum bag and the cash were recovered and returned to the 70-year-old man. The 24-year-old was charged and appeared in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, May 22.

with Daniel McKinnon

EXPLAINER: REMEDIES IN LITIGATION

Courts can do lots of things to remedy aggrievance suffered by one person or entity at the hands of another.

The kind of remedies available to a party to litigation depend on the kind of legal action that is being pursued.

The most common remedy in civil disputes is known as “damages”. Damages seek to put a person or entity in the position they would have been in but for the offending conduct of the other party to the litigation. For example, in the context of a breach of contract, the Court will seek to place the person who has suffered from the breach of contract in the position they would have been in if the contract was never breached. It is not a compensatory regime in the sense that the Court will not intervene to put the plaintiff in a better position than they would have been in had the breach never occurred. Damages normally come in the form of a sum of money that the Court determines reflects the loss that the aggrieved party has suffered.

It is critically important before you consider any litigation that you consider what your loss is. In some cases, a person or entity may have breached a legal duty to you but if you have suffered no loss, you may not recover anything at the conclusion of your legal proceedings. The most common context in which this occurs is negligence. For example, let’s say a lawyer gives a client incorrect and negligent legal advice. The Court will only intervene if that incorrect or negligent legal advice has actually resulted in loss to their client. If the client has suffered no loss, then essentially the Court has nothing to remedy even if the lawyer has been sinfully negligent at every turn.

While damages might be compensatory, there are types of legal action where the Court will intervene to compensate a person

for aggrievance they have suffered. The most common example of this is the personal injury space where a person may not have necessarily suffered a direct economic loss but the Court will intervene to compensate them for things like physical or mental injuries they have suffered. Courts in this jurisdiction can also award money to claimants for things like loss of earning capacity or income and in that way the remedy can be akin to damages.

Courts can also make orders in certain matters to compel a person or entity to do something or prohibit them from doing it.

For example an “injunction” is a type of Court order that stops a person or entity from undertaking a certain action or activity. For example, if an accountant resigns their employment and are subject to an employment contract that prevents them from soliciting clients of their former employer but they start contacting clients to move them to their new practice, the employer might make an application to the Court for an injunction preventing the former employee from soliciting any further clients.

An injunction is usually a smaller part of a broader case and is designed to “stem the bleeding” so to speak while the parties litigate more broadly.

In some disputes, an “account of profits” is an available remedy. To use the employee soliciting clients example, following the granting of an injunction the employer might take action against the former employee seeking an account of profits, that is that the former employee pay to the employer any profits it has made from the clients the former employee has solicited.

The list of remedies in this article are not exhaustive and are provided for demonstrative purposes only.

LOCALS URGED TO SPEAK UP

Shoppers and retail workers are being urged to speak up and report retail crime, in the next phase of a partnership between Crime Stoppers NSW and the Australian Retailers Association.

“These crimes don’t only affect Australian

retailers but the frontline workers and ultimately the community, that means families,” Crime Stoppers CEO Peter Price said.

“Retail workers face threats and abuse, both verbal and physical, when confronting shoplifters.”

Contact Us News

Administration

Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

Contact Centre Open 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

council@penrith.city

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Services

Waste Services 4732 7777

Illegal Dumping

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

Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

27 May 2024 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via penrith.city

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One community

Many abilities

Let’s make Penrith a place where those of all abilities feel at home. Find out more at penrith.city/manyabilities

Council Briefs

● St Marys Lights Up is back! Queen Street will be transformed into a winter playground on Saturday, 15 June from 4–9pm. There’s so much for everyone to see and do – amusement rides, creative workshops, roving performers, live music, food trucks, and much more.

Find out more at penrith.city/events

● Penrith City Council is inviting feedback its Draft Operational Plan and Draft Fees and Charges 2024–2025. These documents link the community’s long-term goals with Council’s plans, policies, services and resources, and will guide Council’s daily activities, budget, and fees and charges until 30 June 2025. Community input on these Plans is important because it will help us ensure we are doing the best we can to make Penrith a better place to live in, work in and visit. Copies of the Plans are available to view at the Penrith Civic branch, or you can view and comment online at yoursaypenrith.com.au/draftoperationalplan2024-25

● Council will be conducting minor works at Soper Place car park on Saturday, 25 and Sunday, 26 May 2024, to remove the wooden hoarding along Belmore Street and the corner of Lawson Street. To complete this work Council will be temporarily closing a small section of the car park at Soper Place on the 25 and 26 May 2024.

The majority of the car parking spaces at Soper Place will remain open and alternative nearby 9-hour parking is also available at North Street car park, located on the corner of from Soper Place.

● Penrith City Council is upgrading two more playspaces! The playspaces in Eileen Cammack Reserve, South Penrith, and Londonderry Park, will be renewed with new play equipment, shade, seating, landscaping, pathways, and more.

We would like the community to share their feedback and ideas for these playspaces, to help guide the design and ensure we are creating spaces that can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Tell us what you’d like to see included in these upgrades at yoursaypenrith.com.au/playspaceupgrades

Development Application

The following Development Applications has been received by Council:

• Es.Au Pty Ltd

194 Bennett Road, St Clair

DA24/0315

Demolition of existing structures and construction of a single storey child care facility for 37 x children with basement car parking and associated works

Contact: Robert Walker on 4732 7409

Closing Date: Sunday, 9 June 2024

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

• GPT Platform Pty Ltd

DA23/0067

Lot 23 DP 258414 and Lot 24 DP 258414, 771–781 Mamre Road, Kemps Creek

Construction of 2 warehouse and distribution facilities with 24-hour operations including earthworks, creek realignment, road construction, signage, landscaping, stormwater works, services and ancillary works. and 3-lot Torrens title subdivision

• Samuel Cauchi

Lot 3 DP 24272, Lot 3 Ninth Avenue, Llandilo

Single storey dwelling and OSSM

• Santolo Designs Pty Ltd

DA23/1107

DA23/0624

Lot 442 DP 1268480, Lot 442 Gunyah Drive, Glenmore Park Torrens title subdivision x 7 lots and construction of terrace dwellings x 3 and semi-detached dwellings x 4

• James A & Kerrie L Wilson

Lot 1152 DP 1159139, 224 Kerrs Road, Mount Vernon

• Vijay Trehan

Lot 807 DP 1279915, 60 O’Connell Lane, Caddens

Two-storey dwelling

• Mark Hanna

DA24/0037

DA24/0205

DA24/0202

Lot 22 DP 1166440, 387–395 The Northern Road, Londonderry

Existing earthworks and proposed shed

• Knight Frank Town Planning Sydney

Lot 10 DP 1046110, 13–23 Pattys Place Jamisontown

DA23/0447

Construction of inter-tenancy wall in tenancy T240 to form new tenancy (tenancy T245) and use of tenancies T245, T255, T260 & T270 as business premises (tenancy T245 - hair & beauty salon; tenancy T255 - nail salon; tenancy T260 - barber’s premises; tenancy T270 - professional services premises)

• Fernleigh Drafting

DA24/0019

Lot 135 DP 803478, 135–141 Capitol Hill Drive, Mount Vernon

Detached steel framed shed

• Form By Design Pty Ltd

Lot 48 DP 846098, 10 Bordeaux Place, Orchard Hills

DA23/0812

Construction of a shed on an existing slab and OSSM System

Viewing of Development Applications

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker

Council’s Development Services Department 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

Locals look to Gold Coast as indicator of how village could thrive next to airport Luddenham still stalling

The future of Luddenham Village remains uncertain as residents demand answers.

Longtime resident of Luddenham Wayne Willmington is fed up with the delay in the construction of Luddenham Village, saying the residents just want what they were promised.

“We want what the State Planning people proposed for Luddenham,” Willmington said.

“Before the last State Election, it was promised that if the current government won the election that they would immediately endorse it and go forward but still we sit and we wait.”

The main issue Willmington sees is that on the Gold Coast houses are being built close to the airport runway, but the same thing is delaying production in Luddenham.

“I think what’s really got me angry at the moment... what I saw on the Gold Coast,” Willmington said.

“There is all these houses being built less than 500 metres from the airport runway.

“In a similar system to Luddenham and yet what’s planned for Luddenham is three times further away than what’s happening at the Gold Coast.”

Willmington has labelled the lack of delivery for Luddenham Village as “un-Australian”.

“It’s sort of un-Australian the way they

(Government) are treating the residents of Luddenham,” Willmington said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car responded to the claims by asserting that work is continually being done to deliver the area.

“Flight paths at the new airport are being finalised by the Federal Government,” Car said.

“Planning for Luddenham Village is a matter for the Department of Planning, and I’m advised it is still ongoing with regular engagement with the local community.

“We need to strike the right balance between

Program supports DV victims

EMILY CHATE

Women who have left domestic violence situations are encouraged to partake in the ‘A Stronger Me’ program.

Co-facilitator of the ‘A Stronger Me’ program by Survivor Vision Australia, Christine Strachan, runs a free six-week course available to women who have left an abusive relationship.

Women utilising the program are required to be separated from the perpetrator for a minimum of three months, to ensure the safety of all attendees.

The program is about re-empowering women after leaving abuse.

“We have this program that gives them back that power they had and help to remember that person that they were,” Strachan said.

“...It’s so beautiful for us to see these women go ‘oh my god, I’ve never thought like this’.”

The program covers a range of different topics including financial and personal safety and encourages women to take back control of their lives.

“It’s nice to hear from a professional person, and we tell

them that they are professional, to hear that it’s not your fault,” Strachan said.

“The whole program is about ‘it’s not your fault’.

“And we talk about perpetrators and how because of personality disorders they have or whatever it is, so they have an understanding of [why] a loved one or the person they married or the person they’ve been with for 10 years, they have an understanding of why they are like that and it’s not their fault.”

The program also has systems that help women to receive support from other

agencies like Centrelink.

“Part of the program is that we actually support women as they are going through these problems that they have,” Strachan said.

“We actually have ways that we can approach Centrelink or housing or whatever it is.”

Strachan commented that the women in the program are given a safe space to relate to each other.

“All these women have been in the same situation,” Strachan said.

“He has said the same thing, or he’s done the same thing or treated the kids the

“They can’t believe it.

“...You see it happening on their faces... to know that this is a safe place is really [important].”

Strachan is proud that the program is a space where all women can tell their story.

“We believe everything that they tell us,” Strachan said.

“That’s what we work with, what they tell us.”

The location of the program is kept confidential for safety reasons but for anyone wanting to reach out or get more information, text or call 0422 876 700.

the concerns of residents over noise, and the need to operate a new airport that has the potential to bring thousands of jobs to western Sydney.”

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) also assured that community engagement is at the forefront of their work.

“The Commonwealth Government and the Western Sydney Airport Corporation are still currently reviewing the proposed flight paths for Western Sydney International Airport,” a DPHI spokesperson said.

“The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

confirms changes to the flight paths were released on 24 October 2023, and then placed on public exhibition until 31 January 2024.

“The Commonwealth Government is responsible for the finalisation of flight paths which is expected in late 2024.

“The DPHI will next look to determining whether changes are required to the Luddenham planning controls.

“The Department is also working with Professor Roberta Ryan, Independent Community Commissioner for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, who is regularly engaging the community.”

Integrated Development

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

• Danny Kataieh

DA24/0294

Lot 1 DP 1293805, Coolamon Park 211–227 Luddenham Road and Lot 2 DP 1293805, 289–317 Luddenham Road, Orchard Hills

Proposed bulk earthworks and subdivision into nine lots, including dam dewatering, vegetation removal, new roads, landscaping, utilities, and basins. site includes 221–227 and 289–317 Luddenham Road

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service, and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

In accordance with Section 2.12 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the development application will be referred to the Sydney Western City Planning Panel (SWCPP) for determination.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected

the period from Monday, 27 May 2024 to Tuesday, 25 June 2024.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of include Council’s reference number DA24/0294.

For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jake Bentley on 4732 8087.

Viewing of Development Applications

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker Services Department 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

Distance from the high rise buildings to the runway in Coolangatta.

Distance from WSIA runway to Luddenham Village.

Christine Strachan, Co-facilitator of the ‘A stronger me’ program. Photo: Melinda Jane.

PAGE TEN

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LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The giant Guinness logo is located on the exterior wall of the Penrith Gaels Irish Club on Phillip Street in Kingswood. Have you had a drink here?

Streaming services are continuing to raise their prices, and/or continue to increase ads on their platforms. How long before the bottom falls out of the entire industry?

The atmosphere at Magic Round last weekend was sensational, and those watching at home got a real feeling for it too. Well done to the NRL, it’s a tremendous concept.

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WESTERN SYDNEY TOURISM AWARDS

The Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2024, scheduled for October 24th, celebrate achievements in Southwest and Western Sydney’s tourism industry. The event aims to set industry benchmarks for growth and participation, coinciding with the upcoming WSI opening.

Work placements provide path to careers in digital technology

Nearly 100 local students gathered at Penrith RSL last week to complete a block of required work placement.

87 students undertaking a Vocational Educational & Training (VET) course completed a five-day program delivered by the Schools Industry Partnership (SIP) in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

SIP assist students across western Sydney, Hawkesbury and the Blue Mountains to coordinate work placements on courses that work towards their HSC.

Program Manager Kerrie-Lynne Tindall and Work Placement

Coordinator Damian Jackson said the students completed 35 hours towards a Information Digital Technology (IDT) course.

“It is often the students’ first qualification so whatever VET course they’re studying sits under the Australian Qualifications Framework, and they have to obtain 70 hours in industry to obtain that qualification,” Jackson said.

“So, in this case they are doing IDT and there is multiple streams within that, so in the room there is some TAFE students who are specialising in game design, cyber security plus the generic program that is delivered at school level directly.

“So, this is counted towards their

helps guide students through the field of IDT and allows students to asses if they want to work in the field.

“For the students that do want a career in technology, the program is opening up their opportunities to see that there is multiple pathways to see different things,” he told the Weekender.

“We’ve had numerous guest speakers this week and from AWS online and TAFE this morning reiterating that there is more than one pathway for these students.”

Students are each day given information on different streams of IDT including cyber security, web development and serverless technology, big data and data analysis, machine learning and artificial intelligence.

first placement, so 35 hours and we are fortunate enough to have AWS to help us deliver it.”

Tindall explained that the students are presented two different project statements that they can then design their project from.

“They then selected what they want to study and how they want to present their particular project they’re working on, and they add to it each day.”

Jackson shared that the program

“On day one they were given a workbook online with AWS,” she said.

Jackson and Tindall hope the students feel satisfied in the work they produced over the five days.

“With the work placement we don’t want them to walk away and go ‘I didn’t like that’, we want them to walk away going, ‘this is where I’m going’,” Tindall said.

“I think that’s where we’re directing them.”

SIP Work Placement team – Damian Jackson, Kimberly Lee, Aaron Tanti, Laura Ramos, Kerrie-Lynne Tindall, Cheryl Kitto, Rick Paine-Bell – and Brendan Gembitsky, Work Placement Program lead at NSW Department of Education.

An oasis in Erskine Park

New sculpture highlights Council’s impressive revitalisation of Capella Reserve

The natural beauty of Capella Reserve in Erskine Park has been revitalised by Penrith City Council.

The project, which was carried out in consultation with feedback from Erskine Park residents, has enhanced the reserve’s functionality as a space for residents to enjoy a picnic, rest or walk.

The Capella Reserve upgrade features new spaces designed for socialising with additional seating areas installed as well as a shelter with an accessible picnic table, new bins and a water drinking fountain for convenience. To improve mobility and connectivity within the reserve, new pathways have been constructed. To complement the existing natural environment, new trees, shrubs and native grass have been planted alongside a unique sculpture, adding to the tranquility of the space.

The sculpture, “Crown Shyness”, is named after the natural phenomenon that sometimes occurs in

forests where tree canopies do not touch. The sculpture represents the endangered Cumberland Plain Forest in the reserve and is a reminder to discover what is in the canopy and beyond.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the upgrades at Capella Reserve are an example of embracing the simplicity of open space to make improvements that boost usability for residents.

“We listened to the residents’ feedback and incorporated their ideas into this project. Capella Reserve is an oasis right on the doorstep for residents to enjoy for a picnic or as a resting point on a stroll around the neighbourhood,” he said.

“The upgrades not only beautify the reserve but also make it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the community.’”

The revitalisation of Capella Reserve is one of several open space projects funded by Council through the Erskine Park Urban Reinvestment Project (EKURP). As

part of this project Council identified underutilised open space sites that needed an upgrade to meet residents’ expectations. As a result, six sites were rezoned for residential development with the sale proceeds directly funding improvements to targeted open space and public domain areas within Erskine Park.

Council has already forward funded $2.65 million of open space and public domain improvements including four kilometres of footpaths along Swallow and Peppertree loop Road, the redevelopment of Phoenix, Spica and Skylark Reserves, an amenity building and $300,000 in tree planting at Chameleon Reserve, and now the revitalisation of Capella Reserve.

The next step for Council’s EKURP project is to commence civil construction on the six residential sites to connect essential services and prepare them for sale. Council has appointed a contractor for the civil construction, with works expected to commence this year.

Warning: Buckle up or get busted

Transport for NSW has launched a new advertising campaign to remind motorists mobile phone detection cameras will begin enforcing seatbelt rules from July 1.

Josh Murray, Secretary of Transport for NSW, said the campaign, which will appear on radio, television, print media and on regional and metro social media, will remind drivers they will be caught if they break the law.

“The campaign is taken from the birdseye view of a detection camera and shows motorists how cameras will detect drivers and passengers who don’t wear a seatbelt or wear one incorrectly,” Murray said.

“Despite the fact that it’s been a legal requirement to wear a seatbelt in NSW for more than 50 years data shows that, between 2019 and 2023, 150 people who died in road crashes were not properly restrained.

“While the majority of drivers do the right thing and wear a belt, around one per cent of

people still continue to ignore the rule and the consequences will be extremely serious or fatal in the event of a crash.”

The seatbelt must be worn so that the lap portion lies across the hips and the sash falls across the chest and mid shoulder. It should not be under both armpits or behind your back.

“Buckling up is a simple but vital step to help keep you and your passengers safe,” Murray said.

“Drivers must remember they are responsible for their passengers – and they will be fined if their passenger is caught on camera not wearing a seatbelt.

“We know that across NSW the main factors in road trauma are speeding, fatigue, drink and drug driving and not wearing proper restraints.

“Let’s take seatbelts off that list by always belting-up every trip.”

Fines will be enforced from July 1.

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The new sculpture at Capella Reserve in Erskine Park.

This camera can detect mobile phone and seatbelt offences.

Talk was great, now it’s time for action on hospitality challenges

Under-pressure restaurant and bar owners have shared their experiences and concerns at a hospitality forum in Penrith.

The forum was hosted at Mr Watkin’s on May 7 and saw over 40 local business owners attend as well as representatives from Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, Penrith CBD Corporation and St Marys Town Centre Corporation.

Mr Watkin’s owner and forum attendee Jessica Jenkins said the forum was a good opportunity to connect with others in the industry.

“I think it was just good to bring all the hospitality people together,” Jenkins said.

“I think that was a really good thing and even myself, I got to meet people I hadn’t met before and connect with other business owners which is always a good thing.”

Those attending the forum brought up a range of different issues the hospitality sector in Penrith deals with.

“A lot of people were talking about

the parking situation on High Street – the short parking spots,” Jenkins said.

“The fact that the rangers are quite aggressive in there, in how quickly

they fine people, that was a big one.

“Always lighting for the nighttime economy – that the lighting’s an issue.

“The fluidity of transport is also

a bit of an issue. Connecting all the different precincts and areas is a big one as well because there are many areas and precincts around Penrith that you just can’t get to easily unless

you are in a car.”

Jenkins said the next steps after the forum will be the most important.

“I think the success of the forum will come down to what happens next,” Jenkins said.

“It is all well and good to sit there and talk about everything but there needs to be actionable things that happen and take place, so I think that’s how we will measure the success of it.”

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney attended the forum and said that Council and industry can work together.

“Council hosted the forum to provide a platform for our local bars, cafés, and restaurants to share their experiences and insights, and to facilitate discussions on how Council and the industry can support each other,” Carney said.

“Discussion points included potential solutions and case studies focusing on what is working well, and what is impacting businesses.

“Marketing and promotion, events and activations within the area, grant programs and parking were all key themes discussed at the forum.”

Mr Watkin’s owner Jessica Jenkins speaks with journalist Emily Chate. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY CHATE

InSPIRE LEARN Create

2 0 2 4 CAMP EXHIBITION

Last week,24VisualArtsstudentsembarkedonour first ArtCamp to Bundanon.The threeday andtwo nightmasterclasswas an incredible opportunity forstudentstolearn aboutand work within an environmentthatissorichinAustralianArt History. The Bundanon EducationCentre, whichwas thehome of thelegendary Australian painterArthurBoydand hiswife Yvonne,was designed by thePritker Prizewinner, GlennMurcutt.

Students engagedina rangeofworkshops to hone theirskillsand communicatea rangeofideas in intuitive andintentionalways. Art making activities focusedonthe historical,cultural, and contemporary nature of theuniquepropertyand Australian landscape. In betweenthe Bundanon staffworkshops,our Penrith Anglican CollegeVisualArtsteachersalsoran workshops, exploring Light PaintingPhotography andGelli Printing.

Student artworks will be on display in our B Block Gallery. Join us for the opening of this wonderful exhibition Thursday6 June 2024 3:30-5:00pm

Donate your shoes: How simple gesture could make big difference

When you think of the things that those in need require to lead comfortable and healthy lives, the first to come to mind might be food or clothing. But, according to local podiatrists, there’s another thing that’s just as impor tant, and they need your help to get it.

Local charity, The Footcare Project, was initially started by two podiatrists back in 2019, recognising the dire need for proper footwear among the less fortunate and homeless.

Though the initiative was momentarily interrupted by the pandemic, it was relaunched at the end of 2023, with high hopes to provide access to properly fitting footwear to everyone who needs it.

“Access to properly fitting footwear is crucial for those in need because it goes beyond mere practicality – it impacts self-esteem, health outcomes, comfort, and dignity,” said Alicia Whiticker from OnePointHealth Penrith.

“By addressing this basic yet essential need, we aim to uplift individuals and empower them to lead healthier, more dignified lives.”

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

As Mayor of Penrith, I am constantly inspired by the resilience, creativity, and determination of our community members. Today, I am thrilled to share with you the launch of our new campaign, “One Community, Many Abilities”, which celebrates the diverse talents and achievements of individuals with disabilities within our city.

Throughout Penrith, there are remarkable people who exemplify the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment. Take Julian for example, dominating the field in powerchair football to showcasing his artistic talents through captivating light installations at Vivid Sydney. Julian’s drive knows no bounds. Julian lives with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia and his story reminds us that determination can overcome any obstacle.

Then there’s Lauren’s story – one of strength and advocacy. Lauren, a mother of three boys, gracefully balances two part-time roles: deaf sports and working as a support worker. Lauren emphasises the significance of attitudes towards individuals with disabilities, highlighting her commitment to fostering a more inclusive society.

A normal day for Madeleine involves juggling numerous roles: a general manager, radio show host, homeschooling parent, celebrant, board member, theatre maker,

How The Footcare Project does this is by working with a local charity every three months to host a footcare drive and fit shoes to those in need properly.

“Since launching The Footcare Project in 2023 we have done two footcare fittings in Penrith,” Whiticker said.

“They have been very successful fittings with over 200 recipients from kids to adults who we have been able to fit with new great footwear.”

And this has only been possible with the help of the local community, who has donated their gently used footwear for the cause.

The OnePointHealth team works closely with their podiatrists to ensure footwear is clean and in good condition, but there are a few things you can make a note of in advance if you’d like to donate.

“We collect footwear of all sizes from kids to adults,” Whiticker said.

“We look for enclosed footwear preferably sneakers and walking shoes. These shoes must be in good quality, laces, and inner soles. We also collect brand new socks.”

The Footcare Project’s Penrith drop off locations are The Footwear Store and OnePointHealth Penrith.

For more details about The Footcare Project, visit thefootcareproject.com.au.

and the visionary founder of a theatre company tailored specifically for neurodivergent individuals. As an autistic ADHD adult, she hopes for broader recognition that appearances can be deceiving, especially when living with a hidden disability. Jesse, a wheelchair rugby league player, showcases his athleticism on the field. His message that individuals with disabilities can do anything reinforces the need for recognition and support of their capabilities.

Lastly, Marley is a rising star in our community and on YouTube and TikTok and proudly serves as a valued employee at Kelly’s Kitchen in Penrith Panthers. Marley’s work and social media presence enriches our community with his energy and contributions, reminding us of the value of diversity.

This campaign is a way for us to shine the spotlight on the diverse abilities and achievements of individuals within our community and raise awareness about the valuable contributions people living with disability can make, when given the opportunity.

Join me in watching more on their inspiring stories here penrith.city/manyabilities.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Lucy Shaw, Zak Lloyd, Dean Gresser, Alicia Whiticker, Chris Farrugia, and Tori McLean from OnePointHealth Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Celebrating abilities

Most holy of experiences

43 parishioners from Penrith travel around Europe in once-in-a-lifetime

pilgrimage

3 pilgrims from St Nicholas of Myra parish in Penrith have just returned from the trip of a lifetime, a Marian pilgrimage which saw them spend over a month travelling around Europe to visit holy sites.

Though he said he’s been on similar trips previously, acolyte at St Nicholas of Myra, Jose Relunia, said that after missing the parish’s last pilgrimage, this was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

“I’ve been on pilgrimages before to the Holy Land, but this is the first time that we’ve had a pilgrimage with the St Nicholas of Myra parishioners,” he said.

Relunia said that with locations including Fatima in Portugal, and Lourdes and La Salette in France, there was plenty to look forward to.

“We were looking forward to a successful pilgrimage, so that we can pray to our blessed mother,” he said.

“It is our mission to go to these sites where our blessed mother appeared before the children.”

After leaving Sydney on Tuesday, April 16, the pilgrims, lead by Fr Joe Manjaly, parish priest of St Nicholas of Myra parish Penrith, jetted off to Europe to meet their tour guide Barbara and pilgrimage coor-

dinator Rose, who took them to visit, pray and attend mass at various important sites across the continent.

They also visited other sacred religious sites like the Cathedral at Santiago de Compostela in Spain, Cathedral of San Salvador and its Holy Chamber in Oviedo, Spain, Palais des Papes in Avignon, France, and the medieval town of Carcassone.

Despite some hiccups which, at one

Karen’s Comment

The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

Penrith rewarded for safe driving

Penrith motorists are greatly benefiting from the first year of the NSW Government’s demerit point return trial that rewards safe driving.

As many Penrith residents rely heavily on their vehicles, the reward for safe driving could be the difference between ongoing employment and losing their livelihood. So far, 30,874 Penrith residents have benefitted with the demerit return trial being extended for a second year, a clear indication of the NSW Government’s commitment to road safety in 2024. Other measures to be introduced include:

1. Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months.

2. The introduction of seatbelt enforcement by existing mobile phone detection cameras starting on July 1.

3. Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the same.

4. Hosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local

experts.

While residents continue to use our roads, remember that every demerit point wiped from a licence under this trial results from a full 12 months of safe driving by motorists on NSW roads. Stay safe and drive respectfully!

Premier’s Volunteer Awards

Congratulations to Penrith local Kristine Gauci on being a recipient of this year’s Premier’s Volunteer Awards. Kristine has left a lasting impact on the residents of Penrith with her not-for-profit organisations, Our Community Cares and participation at Penrith Community Kitchen. In recognition of National Volunteer Week, I would like to thank all the volunteers who so generously donate their time and skills for the people of Penrith.

point left them stranded in Dubai due to bad weather, Relunia said the pilgrimage was a wonderful and blessed experience that they will never forget.

“It was a very successful trip,” he said.

“Though it was tiring, because we needed to walk almost all day, we were able to join the procession. We also drove 1600 feet above in the mountains and it was snowy, but the experience was good, and everyone enjoyed the pilgrimage.”

Pilgrims at Oviedo Cathedral in Spain.

Jun and Betty at Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral.

Pilgrims inside the Cathedral at Our Lady of Fatima.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Three fires in 24 hours: Crews kept busy by multiple blazes

Local emergency crews have been kept busy with three house fires in the space of 24 hours earlier this week.

The first was a garage fire on Bangaroo Avenue in Glenmore Park on Tuesday afternoon.

A 000 call was made just before 2pm, with crews rushing to the fire.

“Upon arrival crews observed smoke issuing

from a domestic garage and two crews attacked the fire with hose lines in breathing apparatus,” a Fire & Rescue NSW spokesperson said. Police also attended the scene.

It’s understood a charging station inside the garage may have caused the fire, but investigations are continuing.

On Tuesday night, crews attended a blaze at a block of units on Troy Street in Emu Plains, with extensive damage to the property.

And on Wednesday morning, a house on Marsden Road at St Marys was left extensively damaged by a fire.

“A call was received just before 4.50am after reports the house on Marsden Road was well alight,” a police spokesperson said.

“Fire and Rescue NSW attended and extinguished the blaze; however, the house was seriously damaged.

“The home was unoccupied at the time and there has been no reports of any injuries.

“Officers from Nepean Police Area Command have established a crime scene as inquiries continue into the cause of the fire.”

While it is not confirmed, it is understood the home owner may currently be in prison, resulting in the house being unoccupied at the time.

With the colder weather arriving, fire fighters are urging everyone to be extra vigilant when it comes to their homes.

TROY DODDS

A house was all but destroyed by fire on Marsden Road on Wednesday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The damaged units on Troy Street. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Fire crews in Glenmore Park on Tuesday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

2024 MAYORAL CHARITY FUNDRAISER

History of Community Kitchen

Penrith Community Kitchen is set to mark its 30-year anniversary this July. Ahead of this milestone, the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser will be held on Friday, June 21 which will bring the community together to support the Kitchen and reflect on its evolution.

Lifeline established the Penrith Soup Kitchen on July 11, 1994. Food was delivered from the Parramatta Lifeline Kitchen, sourced from donated damaged stock from Franklins and fruit supplied by the Duffy Brothers.

Cathy Craig and June Woolard, the founding coordinators, cooked between 40-50 lunches every weekday, at times, serving up to 90 meals. The Kitchen was a place for the elderly, unemployed, lonely, and low-income earners to seek the friendly company of the volunteers.

The need for consistent financial support became evident as the Kitchen became known in the community. A committee was formed a few years after its opening comprising of community members and local business owners together with guidance from State, Federal, and Local Government members.

This ensured that the Penrith Community Kitchen could continue its work in serving those in need.

Cathy Craig, after 30 years, remains an integral person of the Kitchen’s day-to-day activities.

“I’ve met many volunteers here who found the Penrith Community Kitchen to be a fantastic place to connect with the community and give back. Volunteers come

for different reasons – some are empty-nesters, others are finding their way after a personal loss, and some are retirees with more time to give back.”

The Kitchen has remained consistent in its hours, serving lunch between 11.30am-1.30pm

with a menu featuring spaghetti bolognese, roast dinners, and sausages with mashed potatoes and vegetables. Each meal also includes bread, butter, jam, and dessert, depending on the donations received.

“We offer support through a

nutritious meal, and everyone is welcome, no questions asked,” Cathy said.

“The Kitchen is also a resource for referral information for emergency food hampers.

“When called upon for emergency disaster assistance, we join with other local charities to help our community.

“This year, we expanded our outreach, partnering with 11 local schools to provide food for students’ breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Good nutrition is key to helping students focus and learn.”

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney is inviting the community to the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser on Friday, June 21 to support the Penrith Community Kitchen’s ongoing work.

“By attending this year’s fundraiser, you’ll be helping to ensure that no one goes hungry in Penrith,” Carney said.

A Galabid page is now live for monetary donations and where guests can bid on various items ahead of the silent auction on the night.

For more information on how to purchase tickets to this year’s fundraiser, visit penrith.city/ mayoralcharity.

This photograph shows the official party opening the new Penrith Ambulance Station on High Street on November 28, 1936.

The original station included a garage, first aid room, and staff facilities on the ground floor, with a four-bedroom residence on the first floor.

A new Ambulance wagon was also handed over at the official opening.

The station would remain in the same location for many, many decades – serving Penrith well through generations.

Alderman Jenkins was charged with officially opening the Ambulance Station.

(Photo thanks to State Library NSW)

Δ Worlds are colliding: Macca’s is launching exclusive Yu-Gi-Oh! x Hello Kitty and Friends Happy Meal toys available nationwide for a limited time. Yu-Gi-Oh!, best known for the in-universe card game and ‘Dual Monsters’ television series, and Sanrio’s ‘Hello Kitty and Friends’ are being brought together for the first time for Happy Meal customers. The ultimate collaboration, the Happy Meal toys are set to fly out of local Macca’s restaurants and into the homes of ultimate anime fans. Macca’s fans can collect 10 limited edition plush Happy Meal toys of their favourite Yu-Gi-Oh! x Hello Kitty and Friends characters including Hello Kitty x Dark Magician, Keroppi x Kuriboh, and Pompompurin x Exodia The Forbidden One to name a few.

Δ Burgers are back: Burger Head is back in Penrith. They’ve found a permanent location at Penrith Paceway and will be open Thursday to Sunday 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

Δ Café returns: Clementine’s Cafe will be re-opening in Caddens in June. The favourite has been closed for some time, but is finally returning – much to the happiness of locals.

Δ Breakfast treat: Macca’s has launched a new breakfast offer. For just $5.95, you can get a choice of McMuffin and a small hot coffee.

Δ Sweet treats: Brooklyn Donut & Coffee Co will be opening soon in Westfield Penrith, on the ground floor next to Woolworths. Get ready for delicious donuts, frappes and more.

Δ Red Rooster does pies: Red Rooster has announced a new partnership with Four ‘N Twenty. You can now get a Chicken & Gravy pie at Red Rooster stores, for a limited time. The fast food chain has also just released a bunch of new merchandise, available through its website.

Δ New capsule flavour: Nespresso has launched a brand new coffee blend, Maple Pecan, available now from usual retailers for a limited time only. It’s the perfect capsule for the colder months.

Δ Got some source? We want to hear about store openings, new products and more! Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Δ RBNSURF opens: The much-anticipated surf park has now officially opened in Sydney Olympic Park. Along with some perfect waves and a leisure swimming pool at URBNSURF, visitors will also find Sandy’s, the state’s first-ever inland surf-side eatery, offering a delightful blend of coastal cuisine and laid-back vibes. Following Sandy’s, the highly anticipated RAFI URBNSURF is slated to open its doors this winter, promising an elevated dining experience with panoramic views of the lagoon and park.

What’s coming to shake up retail BUSINESS

As we approach the middle of 2024, the retail industry is starting to see some significant changes. Here are the four retail predictions that businesses can expect in the coming years:

Live Shopping

Live Shopping is a new trend that is quickly gaining popularity, with TikTok and Instagram investing in it. The TikTok shop is set to launch in Australia, with around 30 stores already testing it out. TikTok Shop will allow customers to interact with the brand owner or ‘influencers’ on the plat-

technology is becoming more sophisticated each day, and it can help business owners focus on data and inventory planning, automate tasks, analyse data, and provide insights that can help them make better decisions.

Creator-led brands

AI is taking over several aspects of businesses that are algorithm-driven. AI

Partnership marketing is on the rise in the retail industry. We are likely to see more and more businesses partnering with creators or influencers to create unique products and content. This trend is known as ‘creator-led brands,’ where creators collaborate with brands to come up with new products or services. By doing this, brands can leverage the creators’ following to reach a wider audience.

Omnichannel

Customers today want to physically interact with brands, not just see them on social media and websites. As such, businesses are exploring various omnichannel strategies such as pop-up shops, meet-ups, and experience centers to provide a more immersive customer experience. This will enable customers to experience the brand in a more tangible way, which can help them make more informed purchasing decisions. With the rise of the popularity of Temu and Shein, business owners need to think about their value proposition, rather than comparing on price alone. It is also crucial for businesses to be aware of the trends, stay ahead of the curve and continue to thrive in an ever-changing retail landscape.

SHOWDOWN IN THE SHIRE

the final word

For the first time in probably three years, Penrith go into a game this weekend that I have real doubts they can win.

On top of that, the Panthers are outsiders for Saturday’s clash against Cronulla according to the betting markets – another unfamiliar position for Ivan Cleary’s men.

But such a position is justified when you consider the last couple of weeks for both of these sides.

After being labelled soft competition leaders thanks to an easy draw to kick off the year, Cronulla have now beaten heavyweights Melbourne and the Roosters in successive weeks, and it would be hard now not to declare them the real deal.

Penrith meantime were far from impressive against Canterbury a fortnight ago and then fell to an under-strength Warriors team at Magic Round.

So what’s the problem at Penrith? Is it all

related to Nathan Cleary being out with that hamstring drama?

That’s certainly part of the problem, especially considering the ‘next man up’ in Brad Schneider is also missing through injury.

But in reality it all comes down to discipline, or lack of it.

Discipline has been a real mainstay of this Penrith team in the past three or four years. Commitment to defence, and to each other, and an almost steel-like approach to games that just completely shut out opposition sides.

But let’s look at the Panthers of 2024.

Hooker Mitch Kenny leads the competition in missed tackles. Izack Tago has conceded more penalties than any other player in the competition. The Panthers themselves have conceded the third most. The Panthers have the most ineffective tackles in the competition.

The list goes on.

In short, Penrith just aren’t themselves.

Even in the games they’ve won this season, something hasn’t been quite right.

But here’s the good news: this is an experienced footy side, and I have no doubt that when the whips get cracking at the back end of the season, the Panthers will rise to their best again.

It’s hard to be ‘up’ for a whole season let alone three or four. Let’s be real – this is the fifth season we’re expecting the Panthers to deliver consistently good performances, and it’s quite an ask.

Something was always going to give.

Not all hope is lost, and when Cleary does return, Penrith surely would have banked enough points to have a legitimate shot at the top four, and then that experience will mean plenty come Finals time.

As for the here and now, Ivan Cleary can only ask for a more committed performance than the one he got against the Warriors on Sunday.

Back to that dedication to each other, and to the values that hold the footy side together.

Silly errors cost his side against the Warriors and he’ll surely be working on discipline with the ball as much as without it.

Possession wins footy games and the Panthers were determined to starve themselves of it last weekend.

The one serious vulnerability Cronulla has is that they do have a tendency to leak points – even last week against the Roosters they conceded 30 despite winning.

But they’ve managed to only concede 158 points in total so far this season – a decent record, and the second best in the competition. The best defensive team in the comp though? That’s the Panthers. That does swing the pendulum in Penrith’s favour a little.

Regardless, I’m expecting a tight tussle on Saturday – a bounce of the ball could decide it.

Tip: Panthers by 1.

CLEARY UP FOR “BIG TASK”

What a difference 48 hours makes.

After a short, tense press conference following Penrith’s loss to the Warriors on Sunday, coach Ivan Cleary fronted up to speak to journalists on Tuesday in a much happier mood.

He even joked about his post-match demeanour to Nine’s Danny Weidler.

“That was pretty bad... I was pretty disappointed,” he said.

where we are.”

been super consistent for three years really and they look like this year they’ve really found their groove,” he said.

“It will be a big task

“He’s been there and done

“He’s played on the big stage. I don’t think he’d

“On reflection, credit to the Warriors. They had a good plan, they turned up very desperate and they deserved to win.”

Cleary said this week’s challenge against Cronulla was “really big”.

“The Sharks are the form team of the comp. They’re on top for good reason,” he said.

“It’s a great challenge for us. It’s about time we were underdogs. I’m looking forward to that challenge.”

Cleary said he’s been impressed with what the Sharks are building.

“They’ve

Cleary also backed Jarome Luai for the hotly contested New South Wales five-eighth spot

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary was all smiles this week. Photo: Melinda Jane.

panther rumblings

ARREST LEFT CLUB IN SHOCK

! Panthers in dark over May: There’s certainly some confusion over the timeline related to Taylan May’s current woes, which will likely be cleared up through the court process. The 22-year-old played against the Sea Eagles at Brookvale Oval on Saturday, April 6. The alleged domestic violence incidents, for which he has now been charged, happened two days later on April 8. Penrith then had the bye, but May was still named on Tuesday, April 16 to play the Tigers the following Saturday. It was just 24 hours out from the game that the Panthers confirmed May would not play on the Saturday in Bathurst. Speculation at the time focused on a separate incident involving May being the passenger in a speeding car, but the Panthers were adamant May was missing the game for “personal reasons” and not as any punishment following that incident – to the extent that they even contacted journalists to clarify. It is my understanding that Penrith had no context around the “personal reasons” and were certainly in the dark over what allegedly took place on April 8. May then returned to the Penrith side against the Cowboys on April 27, before playing against Souths on May 2 and Canterbury on May 10. He was arrested last Saturday, May 18, more than a month after the alleged crimes took place. There’s plenty of gaps and unanswered questions here – and the first answers may come when May fronts court on Tuesday.

! May’s social concern: Some concerned eyes are monitoring Taylan May’s social media accounts at the moment. May’s behaviour on Instagram is erratic to say the least. In the hours after his arrest was revealed last Saturday, May seemingly disappeared from the platform – removing all posts on his account. Soon after, he was back online – this time with an updated profile picture, and a cryptic post on Monday captioned “gods timing” alongside music from 2PAC. He’s also not laying low – spotted at The Shack café on Tuesday morning and posting an Instagram Story from the eatery. He’s continued to post cryptic posts in the days since.

! Spotted: Australian professional golfer and two-time PGA Tour winner Brett Ogle at Magic Round – cheering on his beloved Roosters in the company of a major Panthers sponsor.

! Bad day for Panthers: Not only did Penrith fall to the Warriors in a major upset last Sunday, but Claws put in a poor performance in the mascot race later in the day. Claws missed the start and was never in it – finishing in the back end of the field.

! Spotted: Which Panthers sponsor was seen on the dance floor at popular Brisbane country music bar Johnny Ringo’s on Saturday night?

! Fish escapes ban: James Fisher-Harris was hit with a Grade One Dangerous Contact charge by the NRL’s Match Review Committee for a hip drop on Dylan Walker late in the game against the Warriors. Fish took the early plea, and was hit with a monetary fine only.

! Yarning circle: The Panthers were due to hold a media opportunity yesterday with Daine Laurie, Tyrone Peachey, Scott Sorensen and Liam Martin, where an Indigenous Yarning Circle will be officially opened at the Panthers Rugby League Academy. The opening was timed alongside the NRL Indigenous Round this weekend.

! Shadowy figure: Poor old Peter Wallace. The bloke played 91 first grade games for the Panthers and has been involved with the club’s coaching staff for years, but he must be camera shy. The club hasn’t been able to find a photo of him for its website.

! Dallin’s milestone celebration: Dallin Watene-Zelezniak had his family at Magic Round for his 200th NRL game last Sunday, a journey that started with the Panthers. And he celebrated in style, with the Warriors getting the win against his former club.

! Got some gossip? I don’t keep secrets, but I do protect my sources. If you’ve got some Panthers news, you’ve spotted a player out and about or you’ve heard a rumour, I want to know about it. Email maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

! Spotted: A Warriors fan at magic round very excited to have James Fisher-Harris joining the club next season – and letting him know about it.

Photo: NRL Images.

THEY CLIMBED EVEREST, AND STAYED

It’s a feat unlikely to be seen again in our lifetime, an NRL team in the modern era celebrating 1,000 days as reigning Premiers.

But on Saturday, June 29, the Penrith Panthers will do just that.

Since clinching the Provan-Summons Trophy at the 2021 Grand Final in Brisbane, the Panthers will become the first club in the NRL era to notch up 1,000 days at the top.

To celebrate the momentous occasion, the Panthers Foundation, in partnership with principal partner MyPlace, has launched a special end-of-financial-year appeal – ‘1,000 Days as Premiers’.

Over the next month, leading up to the momentous 1,000th day, the Panthers are inviting the community to join in by contributing $10 to $50 to the Panthers Foundation. All funds raised will be dedicated to supporting the Foundation’s initiatives under the education pillar and Panthers on the Prowl program.

In addition, MyPlace has pledged to match the first 1,000 donations up to $50 made by each donor, effectively doubling the impact of every contribution.

Speaking with Extra Time, Panthers Head of Foundation and Community, Alex Reilly explained how the ‘1,000 Days as Premiers’ initiative came about.

“Being Premiers for 1,000 days is something we, as a club, are incredibly proud of and excited about. It speaks to close to a decade’s worth of

work from everybody at the club and everyone that’s part of the Panthers Group,” he said.

“If you’ve ever heard our coach Ivan Cleary speak about the club and the community, he’s always very big on the fact that we are a community club and the impact we have in the community goes beyond the results on the field.

“So, what we wanted to do was leverage the success on the pitch to result in success in the

community as well.” Under its education pillar, the Panthers Foundation aims to use sport to support and inspire students, increasing their educational achievement, life skills and access to qualifications and work.

“One of the biggest incentives for people to donate is that for every donation up to $50, our principal partner MyPlace will match it,” Reilly said.

“This is an opportunity for members of the community to give back to their community but also see that impact doubled in a very real way.

“All funds raised will go to the new Panthers Foundation, supporting our work in the education space with a focus on the programs delivered by Panthers on the Prowl.”

To coincide with the campaign, fans will get to relive and hear behind-the-scenes details on Panthers players and coaches’ favourite memories over the past 1,000 days, as well as get to see and learn more about the vital work being carried out across the Penrith community, which the donations will go directly towards.

To contribute to the ‘1,000 Days as Premiers’ initiative, scan the QR code above or visit https://shorturl.at/wfCVs.

Penrith’s most recent premiership was in 2023. Photo: NRL Images. Day one of Penrith’s journey to 1,000 days. Photo: NRL Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

CELEBRATING HIS CULTURE

Panthers utility Daine Laurie will look to channel his favourite Indigenous player, Matty Bowen, when he returns to Penrith’s line-up for tomorrow night’s top four blockbuster against the Cronulla Sharks.

The 24-year-old will make just his fifth appearance for Penrith this season, in a round that recognises the role Indigenous players and communities play on and off the field.

To celebrate the occasion, the Panthers will wear an Indigenous jersey designed by Natasha Fordham in collaboration with Panthers Indigenous Wellbeing Officer Glen Liddiard.

Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday, Laurie said he couldn’t wait to run out onto the PoinstBet Stadium pitch and represent his people.

“You get to represent your culture and the elders that are gone – it’s an unreal time of the year,” he declared.

“The jersey looks deadly, I can’t wait to wear it on Saturday. It’s got some mad little animals and Indigenous artwork on it.

“I can’t wait to celebrate our culture on the big stage and represent our people.”

The jersey features Laurie’s handprint on the front as well as that of female Panthers staff member Taylah Murray, recognising the role both genders play across the rugby league landscape. The colours from both the Australian Aboriginal flag and Torres Straight Islander flag are featured on the sleeves.

Male and female totems of the Darug Nation, the fruit bat and the ring-tail possum represent gender equality and the role males and females play in the game.

Two black cockatoos overlook the land in which we unite, three kangaroos as well as a platypus and eastern long neck turtle are depicted swimming in the Darug Nation river systems, highlighting the vast array of fauna which occupy the land we are on.

Emblazoned on the top back of the jersey is the word ‘Warami’ meaning Welcome.

Cronulla fans will welcome the Panthers back to the Shire tomorrow evening for the first time since the 2019 season.

With the competition-leading Sharks coming off an important win to the Roosters and the Panthers coming off a disappointing Magic Round loss to the Warriors, there’s no better game for Ivan Cleary’s men to bounce back in.

“They are going good, the Sharkies! They are a deadly team this year. They’ve been a deadly team the last three years,” Laurie said.

“They’ve started this season well and it’s going to be a tough one at Shark Park. I don’t think the club has played there for about five years.

“It’s going to be a good, tough game, and hopefully we come away with the two points.”

In his four games in the NRL this season, Laurie has played a total of 44 minutes off Penrith’s interchange bench. Competent at fullback, wing and five-eighth, Laurie said he’s comfortable with his current role as a utility.

“It’s just about being patient,” he said.

“Obviously I have world-class players in front

Indigenous Round was launched on Wednesday.

Daine Laurie wearing this year’s Panthers Indigenous jersey.

NATHAN TAYLOR

It’s time to bring former Panther Dallin Watene-Zelezniak home. This is something I never thought I’d suggest in a million years but the loss of Sunia Turuva and the shadow that hangs over the future of Taylan May has caused me to re-think matters.

It’s true Dallin is 28 years-old but he is playing outstanding football and has already scored 56 tries since joining the Warriors in 2021. His kamikaze running style would suit the way Penrith play their back three as he makes plenty of metres every time he carries the ball.

He’s also turned into somewhat of a try scoring wizard and his acrobatic displays have made him a human highlights reel. Most importantly he brings toughness and experience to a Panthers backline which will be much needed in 2025.

There are some promising juniors coming through the system, two players in particular, brothers Casey and Jesse McLean who can play wing and centre and certainly that is one way to go.

Another alternative is Paul Alamoti and I’m certainly not discounting him either but Dallin would be a perfect fit and definitely worth considering.

Now I know he has a contract with the Warriors next season but I’m sure if Penrith were to offer him a

good three-year deal the Warriors could be convinced to release him.

Especially after the goodwill the Panthers showed when they agreed to let Fish join them in 2025 – no strings attached.

Of course, at the end of the day DWZ would have to want to come back home to Penrith, so there’s no doubt my suggestion is a little out of leftfield but sometimes you’ve

got to think outside the box to get the best result when assembling a team.

There’s also been a lot of emphasis lately on replacing James Fisher-Harris for next year and I give Panthers management credit for throwing their hat in the ring for David Fifita, even though it looks like Penrith dodged a bullet there. However it doesn’t take a genius

to work out that five-eighth is also a potential problem spot moving forward as well. As promising as youngster Jack Cole is and as good as Brad Schnieder has shown, both players are largely unproven in the position.

Penrith could do worse than look at both Kodi Nikorima and Sean O’Sullivan for next season.

Both could play outside Nathan Cleary comfortably and both would bring invaluable skill sets to the five-eighth position.

I know the Panthers have some handy options already at the club but having a three-way battle for such an important position couldn’t hurt either.

Nikorima is currently un-signed for next season while O’Sullivan has one more year to go on his Dolphins contract.

WHY I WANT TO BRING DWZ HOME lang on

However, we all know that doesn’t mean he couldn’t be released early. Finally, I’d like to throw a dark horse into the five-eighth mix for this year as well as next.

I am a huge fan of Trent Toelau and it’s a testimony to this player’s hard work and determination to see him named on the extended interchange bench this week. If he gets a chance in the top grade this year and shines, then the race for the five-eighth position for 2025 will really get interesting. All food for thought.

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.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has been outstanding for the Warriors. with Peter Lang

panther memories

The Penrith Panthers were rocked by tragedy in the aftermath of their second season in first grade, when George Piper was killed outside a Balmain nightclub.

Piper, who played 65 games for Balmain before joining Penrith for the inaugural 1967 season, played a key role in the club’s 1968 pre-season cup victory.

He’d played 25 games for Penrith over two seasons by the time he went out to Kodocks nightclub on Friday, September 22, 1968.

Piper got into an altercation outside the club, fell and struck his head on the gutter. He died from his injuries. He was just 27-years-old.

He left behind a wife and two daughters – Jane and Ann – who were seven and five at the time.

Despite moving to the Panthers, Piper had remained living at Rozelle and was a huge part of the Balmain community.

His funeral at St Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Balmain was well-attended.

In the wake of his passing, Panthers players agreed to cancel their planned end-ofyear trip to the Snowy River and give the estimated $2000 cost to the George Piper Benefit Fund. Both the Panthers and the Tigers also took part in other fundraising efforts.

PATIOMAN PATIOMAN

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS

SHARKS RABBITOHS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS PANTHERS RABBITOHS

DRAGONS COWBOYS

COWBOYS

DRAGONS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS TIGERS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

DRAGONS COWBOYS

SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS

SHARKS RABBITOHS

RABBITOHS

STORM RAIDERS

STORM ROOSTERS

SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS

SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS

STORM ROOSTERS

SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS

STORM ROOSTERS

STORM ROOSTERS

PANTHERS EELS

PANTHERS RABBITOHS

PANTHERS RABBITOHS

DOLPHINS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

WARRIORS

BRONCOS DOLPHINS

WARRIORS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

BRONCOS DOLPHINS

SHARKS RABBITOHS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

SHARKS EELS BRISBANE DOLPHINS

PANTHERS RABBITOHS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

SHARKS EELS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

SHARKS RABBITOHS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

STORM ROOSTERS PANTHERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS WARRIORS

STORM ROOSTERS

SHARKS RABBITOHS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

STORM RAIDERS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

DRAGONS COWBOYS STORM ROOSTERS SHARKS EELS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

DRAGONS COWBOYS

DRAGONS TIGERS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

STORM ROOSTERS

STORM RAIDERS

PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

STORM ROOSTERS PANTHERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS WARRIORS

DRAGONS TIGERS STORM ROOSTERS

DRAGONS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

PANTHERS EELS TITANS DOLPHINS

STORM ROOSTERS SHARKS RABBITOHS

BRONCOS DOLPHINS

STORM RAIDERS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS WARRIORS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

DRAGONS TIGERS

DRAGONS COWBOYS

COWBOYS

SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS SHARKS RABBITOHS BRONCOS WARRIORS

STORM ROOSTERS

PANTHERS EELS TITANS DOLPHINS

STORM ROOSTERS PANTHERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS SEA EAGLES ROOSTERS

DRAGONS TIGERS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

BULLDOGS COWBOYS

DRAGONS TIGERS

EELS BRONCOS WARRIORS

STORM ROOSTERS PANTHERS EELS TITANS DOLPHINS

STORM ROOSTERS PANTHERS EELS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

STORM PANTHERS ROOSTERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS DOLPHINS

STORM RAIDERS PANTHERS EELS

BRONCOS WARRIORS

WARRIORS

STORM ROOSTERS PANTHERS EELS TITANS DOLPHINS

VIVID for Couples: breakfast for 2, bottle of wine, parking, late 12pm checkout, glow sticks. bottle

ENTERTAINMENT

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

ICONIC VOICE

In 1960s Australia, there were few corners you could turn without seeing the influence of Dinah Lee.

Famous for her singing, fashion, and even being the face of a cosmetics line, Lee was no doubt one of the most iconic female entertainers of the time –though she said it was no easy feat.

“It was a little difficult for female singers in that era, because the male singers were so dominant,” she said.

“Because I had hit records, I was put on the same level as them, and I didn’t take any crap from them.”

It’s for this reason that for Lee, seeing female singers well and truly topping the charts in 2024 is so incredibly special.

“It’s fantastic, with Taylor Swift and P!NK and Lady Gaga,” she said.

“I love today’s music, I really do, because I’m a Mod so I keep up with all the latest fashion and music. I think the girl singers today are absolutely fabulous, and of course the Aussie girls are just as worldclass as well.”

And these changes in the times are not only being reflected on the world stage, but also right here at home, being displayed in her newest show, ‘The Good Old Days of Rock ‘N’ Roll’.

Though once upon a time women seldom performed together up on stage, Lee will be joined not only by Little Pattie, but also Jade Hurley, Lucky Starr and Digger Revell for the special show, which will be coming to Penrith next month.

“We all grew up together, and we did shows together, especially TV shows like

‘The Tonight Show’ and ‘Band stand’, so we would meet up with each other everywhere,” she said.

“In those days, girls didn’t perform with girls, but today we do, and it’s fab ulous! I can perform with Little Pattie, and we can perform with the guys.”

The group will each take turns perform ing their most iconic hits from the time, reliving their favourite memories from the ‘60s, and encouraging audience members to do the same.

“When you do sing the songs, you can see the audiences faces – they sort of go back to that era and they all look like teenagers again, because they’re just loving it,” she said.

“We want people to just come and have a great time, enjoy the show, enjoy the music, and just bring back wonderful memories that they have of their youth.”

The tour will also mark Lee’s re turn to Australia, where, despite being born in New Zealand, she has spent the vast majority of her life until moving home just recently.

“I love coming back to Aussie, because that’s where I did all my major work from 1965 to 2022,” she said.

“I’m more of an Aussie than a Kiwi – but we won’t tell the New Zealanders that!”

‘The Good Old Days of Rock ‘N’ Roll’ will be on at Penrith Panthers on Sunday, June 2 at 2pm. For more information or to book, visit penrith.panthers. com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

23 - 29 MAY

WesternSydney GigGuid e

If you have a gig or event you would like to promote please contact Megan on 0433 241 737

trivia with gaz

thu 23

last stand- chisel barnes show

8pm- $12.50

royal family dance crew 7pm

Albion fridays

Free before 9pm

albion hotel

munitions with acts of insanity, gulge & old goat smoke

verdicts with holiday curfew

7pm- $18+ BF elton chong

old school band Live at penrith rsl

sydney coliseum theatre

collector hotel parramatta sat 25 undercover soul

7:30pm $10 + BF online or $15 @ door elton chong sat 25 sat 25

8pm-11pm squires terrace bar sat 25

brown sugar

6pm-11pm - Free entry

7pm mr watkins Fri 24 Fri 24 FRI 24 SUN 26

emu hall

penrith rsl

national sorry day

old government house, parramatta 10am-2pm sat 25

can me to check out these events! o 9pm

THINGS TO DO

Muscle Car Show this Sunday

After it was postponed earlier this month, the HSV Owners Club NSW Muscle Car Show will go ahead this weekend. Featuring more than 60 original and modified cars, the free event will be held for the first time at Club Paceway Penrith on Sunday, May 26 from 9am to 3.30pm. Along with these rare vehicles on display, raffles, food, beverages and more will also be on offer!

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

Jordan Springs Probus Club

Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763.

Nepean Riverlands Probus Club

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

Tonight (Friday, May 24), The Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase will be tearing up the freeways of Australia to bring the best of the 2024 Festival to Penrith! Expertly curated and lovingly presented, the Showcase will feature some of the Festival’s hottest acts live on stage at Panthers for an incredible two hours of hard-hitting laughter. Laugh out loud at Panthers

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.

Dance the night away at Club Paceway

and early 90s. This is a great live show you won’t want to miss, and it’s free for members and guests of Club Paceway. Visit www.clubpacewaypenrith.com.

Penrith NASHOS

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

Nepean Evening VIEW Club

Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

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.

Arms of Australia Inn

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

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

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

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

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

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.

This Saturday, May 25, head to Club Paceway for Beatworx. Beatworx plays all the hit songs that everyone knows and loves, with a set packed full of classic hard rock hits from the late 70s, 80s

‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’ is a post-apocalyptic action adventure film co-produced and directed by George Miller. It is the fifth installment in the Mad Max franchise, serving as both a spin-off and prequel to ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’. The film stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Alyla Browne as younger versions of the titular character Imperator Furiosa, originally portrayed by Charlize Theron. As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dom-

inance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she puts together the means to find her way

www.hoyts.com.au

TV Guide: May 24 – 30

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America (PG) 10:30 That Pacific Sports Show 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Silent Witness (M v) 2:00 The Cry (M l) 3:00 Back In Time For Dinner (PG) 3:55 Long Lost Family (PG) 4:45 Grand Designs (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:30 Silent Witness (M l) 9:30 Gruen (PG) 10:10 Hard Quiz (PG) 10:40 QI (M s) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Hidden Family Secrets” (PG) (’18) Stars: Chika Nnaemeka 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Movie: “The Ugly Truth” (MA15+) (’09) Stars: Katherine Heigl 10:30 The Good Doctor (M) 11:30 Ambulance: Code Red (M) 5:30 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Buckley’s Chance” (PG) (’21) Stars: Bill Nighy 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: Sea Eagles v Storm *Live* From 4 Pines Park 9:55 NRL: Golden Point 10:40 Movie: “Survivor” (M l,v) (’15) Stars: Paddy Wallace 12:40 Tipping Point (PG) 1:35 Pointless (PG) 10:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 10:30 Judge Judy (PG) 11:00 Dr Phil

(PG) 5:30

6:30 Pawn

(PG) 7:30 AFL: Friday Night Countdown 8:00 AFL: Round 11: Fremantle v Collingwood *Live*

3:00 Black-ish (PG) 3:50 Modern Family (PG) 4:15 Builders Make You Laugh Out Loud (PG) 5:10 Starstruck (PG) 6:25 Movie: “Storm Boy” (PG) (’19) Stars: Finn Little 8:30 Movie: “The Bone Collector” (M l,v) (’99) Stars: Denzel Washington

3:40 Bushwhacked 4:05 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Volcanic Odysseys 7:30 Movie: “Storm Boy” (PG) (’76) Stars: Greg Rowe

Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Andy And The Band 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Movie: “A Time To Kill” (M l,v) (’96) Stars:

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG)

Midwife (PG) 1:30

(PG) 2:15 Gruen (PG) 3:00

Zemiro’s

10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 NCIS (M v) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 4:30 Football: Newcastle United v A-League All Stars Men *Live* 7:15 Football: Arsenal W.F.C. v A-League All Stars Women *Live* 2:30 Rules Of Engagement (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) 6:30

River Cottage Australia

3:55 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:20 PBS Newshour 5:20 Tattoo Age (PG) 5:45 The Curse Of Oak Island: On The Road (PG) 6:35 Jeopardy! 7:25 NITV News Update 7:30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

3:30 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:45 Movie: “Madagascar” (PG) (’05) Stars: Tom McGrath 7:30 Movie: “Finding Nemo” (G) (’03) Stars: Andrew Stanton 2:00 Dr Quinn Medicine Woman (PG) 3:00 Antiques Roadshow 3:30 Movie: “Seven Nights In Japan” (PG) (’76) Stars: Hidemi Aoki 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30

(PG) 3:30 Tony Armstrong’s Extra-Ordinary Things (PG) 4:30 Restoration Australia 5:30 Landline 6:00 Australian Story (PG) 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Father Brown (M v) 8:15 Midsomer Murders (M v) 9:50 After The Party (M l,n,s) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Doomben/ Randwick/ Sandown/ Morphettville *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Jumanji: The Next Level” (PG) (’19) Stars: Dwayne Johnson 10:00 Movie: “Bad Boys II” (MA15+) (’03) Stars: Will Smith 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 My Way 12:45 The Summit (PG) 3:30 The Lap 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 Jeopardy! Australia 8:30 Movie: “John Wick” (MA15+) (’14) Stars: Keanu Reeves 10:30 Movie: “Mad Max: Fury Road” (MA15+) (’15) Stars: Tom Hardy 12:45 The Lap (PG) 10:00 Ready Steady Cook (PG) 11:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 1:20 My Market Kitchen 1:30 All 4 Adventure 2:30 The Yes Experiment 3:00 What’s Up Down Under 3:30 Good Chef Bad

1:00 Escape To The Country 3:00 The Yorkshire Steam Railway (PG) 4:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Heathrow (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 Australian Pickers (PG) 4:00 Hustle & Tow (PG) 4:30 AFL: Round 11: Geelong v GWS *Live* 7:15 AFL: Pre Game 7:20 AFL: Round 11: Richmond v Essendon *Live* 10:30 AFL: Post Game 12:50 Take Me Out (PG) 2:10 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings (PG) 3:10 Frogger (PG) 4:10 Starstruck (PG) 5:25 Movie: “Storm Boy” (PG) (’19) Stars: Finn Little 7:30 Movie: “The Butler” (M l,v) (’13) Stars: Alan Rickman

4:55 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir (PG) 5:20 Total Drama Island (PG) 6:05 Home Sweet Rome! 6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00 Mythbusters (PG) 7:30 Built To Survive 8:00 Hotel Transylvania: The Series 8:20 Almost Naked Animals 2:30 The Breakfast

3:00 ABC News 3:30 Close Of Business 4:00 ABC News 4:15 Planet

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 The Pacific 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Do, Re & Mi 6:05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 6:55 Supertato 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 QI (PG)

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Monty Don’s Paradise Gardens 3:30 Forever Summer With Nigella 3:55 George Clarke s Amazing Spaces 4:40

4:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:00 Volcanic Odysseys 5:50 Going Native 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Strait To The Plate 7:00 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Friday The 13th” (MA15+) (’80)

5:30 Luca’s Key Ingredient 6:00 The Creators: Chefs Uncut 6:30 Raymond Blanc’s Royal Kitchen 7:30 Hairy Bikers Go Local 8:35 Rick Stein’s Food Heroes 9:35 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 The Wine Show

Coast Mariners v Melbourne Victory *Live* 9:30 Football: Post Game 10:30 The Cheap Seats (PG)

9:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 11:30 Snap Happy 12:00 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 1:00 On The Fly 2:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 Tough Tested 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (PG) 10:20 NCIS: Los Angeles (M) 12:15 FBI (M v)

3:50 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:20 PBS Newshour 5:20 Tattoo Age (PG) 5:50 The Food That Built The World (PG) 7:30 Cycling: Giro d’Italia: Stage 20 *Live* From Turin, Italy 1:35 The X-Files (M h,v)

8:30

“Red” (M l,v) (’10)

Bruce

12:30 Around The World With Manu (PG) 1:30 Home And Away (PG) 3:30 Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 5:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 6:30 A Year On Planet Earth 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 3:10 The Other Side 3:40 Going Native 4:10 Joan Armatrading - Live 6:10 NITV News Update 6:20 Wild Mexico (PG) 7:30 Everything’s Gonna Be All White (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Ferguson Rises” (M) (’21) Stars: Jeffrey Amado Ahrens 11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 Exploring Off The Grid 2:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 3:10 Buy To Build 3:35 On The

12:30 Frasier (PG) 1:30 Becker (PG) 2:25 MasterChef Australia (PG) 5:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping 1:30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 1:00 Rock Solid Builds 2:00 Holmes Family Rescue 3:00 Restored 4:00 Scott’s Vacation House Rules 5:00 Open Homes Australia 5:30 Australia’s Best House 6:30 Holiday Homes In The Sun 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

2:00 Formula E 2024 Highlights 4:20 The Bradshaw Bunch (PG) 5:50 Movie: “Space Jam” (G) (’96) Stars: Bill Murray 7:30 Movie: “Bruce Almighty” (M l,s) (’03) Stars: Jim Carrey 9:30 Movie: “Get Smart” (PG) (’08) Stars: Steve Carell

1:15 Movie: “The Amazing Howard Hughes” (PG) (’77) Stars: Tommy Lee Jones 3:45 Movie: “The Alamo” (PG) (’60) Stars: John Wayne 7:00 Rugby Union: Super Rugby Pacific: The Reds v Force *Live* From Suncorp Stadium

Story 3” (G) (’10) Stars: Tom Hanks 7:30 Movie: “The Great Wall” (M v) (’16) 9:30 Movie: “Conan The Barbarian” (MA15+) (’11) 4:15 Movie: “Follow That Dream” (G) (’62) Stars: Elvis Presley 6:30 Tennis: Roland Garros: Pre Show *Live* From Paris 7:00 Tennis: Roland Garros: Day 1 *Live* From Paris 4:30 Surfing Australia TV 5:00 Explore WA Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

Get Macca’s® delivered.

6:00 Ted’s Top Ten 6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00 Horrible Histories (PG) 7:35 Kung Fu Panda:

4:30 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00

l,n,s) 9:40 Lloyd Langford: Current Mood (MA15+) 11:05 10’s Late News

6:00 Ted’s Top Ten (PG) 6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00 Horrible Histories (PG) 7:35 Kung Fu Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness (PG)

6:00 Ted’s Top Ten 6:30 Operation Ouch! (PG) 7:00

(PG)

(M v) 9:25

(M) 8:30

(M)

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)

And A Half Men (PG)

NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 Everybody Loves Raymond (PG) 7:00 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 3:30 Movie: “Warlords Of Atlantis” (PG) (’78) Stars: Doug McClure 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Tennis: Roland Garros: Day 4 *Live* From Paris 12:00

Ê Channel Seven’s shiny new renovation series ‘Dream Home’ kicks off this Sunday, May 26 at 7pm. Hosted by Dr Chris Brown, the series sees six pairs of everyday Aussies battle it out room by room, transforming suburban family homes into new ‘dream homes’. Judging the series is stylist Lana Taylor, buyer’s agent Simon Cohen and interior designer Rosie Morley. The teams will design and rebuild each other’s homes in three states, while the top three placed couples will have their backyards completely made over with stunning gardens and outdoor living spaces. The winning couple will also receive a cash prize of $100,000.

Ê The cast for the new season of ‘The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition’ has been confirmed. Joining the race are: childhood mates Ian Thorpe and Christian Miranda; sisters Natalie Bassingthwaighte and Melinda Sheldrick; Matildas teammates Chloe Logarzo and Emily Gielnik; married couple Pete Helliar and Bridget Helliar; couple Jett Kenny and Lily Brown; son and mother Luke McGregor and Julie McGregor; father and son Billy Brownless and Oscar

Brownless; couple Cyrell Paule and Eden Dally; best friends Havana Brown and Stephanie Wood; married country singers Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley; and brothers Tai ‘Bam Bam’ Tuivasa and Logan Tuivasa. Beau Ryan again hosts the series, which is due to screen on 10 later this year.

Ê Highly anticipated period department store drama ‘Ladies in Black’ will premiere on the ABC on Sunday, June 16 at 8.30pm. Following on from the 2018 film of the same name and drawing inspiration from the 1993 novel, the six-part series takes place six months after the events of the original story, where amidst this backdrop of major societal shifts, the women embracing more freedom and independence are forced to confront personal choices and challenges which cast shadows over their once cherished dreams.

Ê Season three of award-winning series

‘The Bear’, starring Jeremy Allen White, drops on Disney+ on Thursday, June 27. Season three follows Carmy, Sydney and Richie

as they do what it takes to elevate The Bear, their beef stand turned fine dining establishment, to the highest level, all while doing their best just to stay in business. This show can be stressful at times, but is a must watch!

Ê One of the funniest comedies of the year, ‘Ted’, has been renewed for a second season. If you never saw season one, fire up Binge and Foxtel and watch it immediately – it’s so good!

Ê Season four of Disney+ mega hit ‘Only Murders in the Building’ will premiere on Tuesday, August 27. This season, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, and Michael Cyril Creighton, are joined by special guest stars Meryl Streep, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Eugene Levy, Eva Longoria, Zach Galifianakis, Molly Shannon, Kumail Nanjiani, Melissa McCarthy, Richard Kind and more.

Ê The seventh and final season of ‘The Good Doctor’ will screen at 8.35pm next Tuesday, May 28 on Channel Seven.

TRAVEL +

THE SUPER WAY THAT WALLPAPER IS BOOMING

With the cooler months approaching, the desire to create cosy sanctuaries within our home grows stronger.

Superfresco Easy understands this sentiment and offers a diverse array of wallpaper designs capturing the essence of these cooler seasons, enabling homeowners to infuse their home with warmth, comfort, and a fresh new ambience for the winter season.

“The patterns and colours of wallpaper play a crucial role in shaping the ambiance of a room, infusing walls with interest and setting the mood. This autumn and winter we anticipate a fusion of diverse trends in wallpaper design. We’ll see inspiration from

the rich warm hues of autumn tones as well as the serene tranquillity of a more neutral colour palette emerging. Vibrant hues that evoke joy will also dominate, filling spaces with warmth and vitality,” noted Paula Taylor, Trends and Design Expert for Superfresco Easy.

Here’s some of the latest wallpaper designs that reflect the upcoming trends.

Inspired by nature

To create a stylish autumn atmosphere, explore realistic wallpapers that replicate the warmth of wood or the rugged charm of bricks.

“Anything with natural elements – wood, marble, and

rattan will give a great tactile feel,” Taylor said.

The Superfresco Easy Natural Wood Clad Wallpaper (RRP $84.95) effortlessly brings

“WE ANTICIPATE A FUSION OF DIVERSE TRENDS IN WALLPAPER DESIGN”

the texture of natural timber panelling into your living space. Its down-to-earth tones and raw inspiration from the great outdoors combine with caramel,

cream and variations of brown to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Embrace texture

“Winter is the perfect time to indulge your senses with tactile textures, and your walls are no exception,” she said.

“Earthy tones like terracotta and soft brown are increasingly sought after, mirroring the natural hues of autumn and winter. With 2024 seeing the return of the feature wall, the Superfresco Easy Rouge Industry wallpaper (RRP $85.75) emerges as a smart choice. With its industrial-inspired red brick design lending a striking visual, it effortlessly becomes the focal point of any room. Add softness by introducing layers of textures such as a shag pile rug, cushions or a gorgeous throw.

Winter bliss in white

With all the bold design and colourful trends dominating 2024, the timeless appeal of white has made a remarkable comeback, offering an effortless fusion of complementary styles that resonate particularly well during the winter season.

Classic sophistication

Natural woven fibres infuse warmth, character, and a sense of craftsmanship into your living space that transcends the season. They complement other popular natural materials like marble, timber, and terracotta beautifully.

“The Superfresco Easy Calico Grey wallpaper (RRP $94.05) boasts soothing hues and subtle texture, fostering a serene atmosphere and offering versatility for homeowners to effortlessly style furnishings to suit,” Taylor said. Superfresco Easy is available at Bunnings Warehouse. for more information, visit www.superfrescoeasy.com.au.

$1,950,000

BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOME

What’s so great about this property?

Quality steel frame home situated in a high position with wrap around verandahs. Upon entry you will be captivated by the commanding bespoke entrance, leading into a welcoming foyer with formal lounge and dining rooms fitted with regal timber archways, soaring high ceilings, decorative cornices and ceiling roses, spotted gum timber floors and period piece open gas fireplace. Spacious main open plan living and dining with downlights and large bay windows, and a rustic inspired country kitchen housing quality timber cabinetry,

upscale appliances and island bench with extra storage. Four generous sized bedrooms which capture beautiful garden views and the master has his and hers walk-in robe with lavish ensuite.

Who does this property suit? Families looking to expand in the beautiful rolling hills of Kurrajong.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

The property is only eight minutes (approx.) from Kurrajong Village and Kurrajong Primary School, perfect for a growing family.

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

BREAKDOWN

The Experts

TIME FOR A MID-YEAR REVIEW

an you believe we’re at the end of May? In a few short weeks we’ll be officially half way through the year, and at the conclusion of the financial year. I always believe this is the perfect time to take a moment and reflect on your financial situation, and potential savings you could make.

It’s often the time of year things go up as well – so it’s always good to take those potential increases in, budget for them – or decide to drop whatever it is, if that’s possible.

It probably sounds daunting to do a full financial review, but it can actually be a bit of fun – and while a clear head is encouraged, it’s the type of thing you can do over a glass of wine one night once the kids are tucked away in bed.

Go through your credit card or

bank statement for the past few months, and have a look at what is costing you money on a regular basis.

Did you forget about that Paramount subscription you bought for one single show? How many times did you actually go to the gym?

Then have a look at your necessities and see if you can get a better deal.

Run your info through a few health insurance providers – could you be getting a better deal, or is there an option to switch for a reward and waive the waiting periods?

Could you switch phone or Internet providers?

And of course, the big one is your home loan. How long has it been since you reviewed your interest rate?

When was the last time you asked your bank for a better deal?

Or spoke to a broker, to see what opportunities may be there?

Reserve some time in your diary and book yourself in for a mid-year financial review. You will come out of it with savings – there’s no doubt!

See you next week.

PHOTOS ON A NEW LEVEL

Google Photos is a cloud-based service allowing users to store, share, and edit photos and videos. It’s a versatile platform pre-installed on most Android phones and works across other platforms, including Apple. From May 15, all the advanced editing tools previously exclusive to Google Pixel phones were made available to all Google Photos users, regardless of the platform they use. These tools include.

Magic Editor – This tool is fantastic. It allows you to reposition objects in a photo. You can lift one person in a photo and reposition them next to another. Likewise, you can remove any photo bombers. Photos automatically using AI generate the background behind where the person initially was. Magic Editor can also change the background or enhance the sky in pictures. It can change a grey cloudy day to a bright blue sky.

Photo Unblur – You no longer need to discard

blurred photos. Unblur using AI will sharpen the photos. So next time you have the perfect photo, if it wasn’t blurred. Give this tool a shot. You will be surprised by the results.

Magic Eraser – This tool has been available for a while and continues to improve. If you want to remove people from the background of your photo, Magic Eraser will do this for you. So now, that perfect shot at a tourist attraction can be tourist-free.

Colour Pop – This tool allows users to convert a photo to black and white while keeping a specific area in colour. In a portrait, the people will be in colour, and the background will be black and white.

Google Photos Portrait Light – Is a feature specifically designed to enhance the lighting in portrait photos, particularly those featuring people. It uses machine learning to achieve studio-like lighting effects, adding depth and dimension to your images.

Photo Stacks – Google Photos automatically identifies and groups similar photos taken closely into Photo Stacks. It is designed to help you declutter your photo library. Screenshots and Documents Organisation – Google Photos uses AI to identify better and automatically categorise screenshots and documents in your gallery.

The Experts

CHILBLAINS EXPLAINED: WHAT ARE THEY?

With the cooler weather coming it’s important to keep our feet nice and warm. Chilblains are very common during winter and are often easily prevented. So what are chilblains? Chilblains are a painful skin condition triggered by exposure to the cold. It typically affects the extremities such as the toes, fingers, nose or ears and manifests as red, itchy painful patches of skin. It occurs when the capillaries which are small blood vessels constrict then suddenly expand when re-warmed.

Prevention is key. Keeping extremities warm and dry is the best defence against chilblains. Ensuring that you have warm socks and gloves on when going out in the cooler mornings or evenings will help to maintain an adequate temperature Avoid temperature extreme changes. Sudden shifts in temperature can trigger chilblains. Think putting your feet directly in-front of a heater to

warm them up or letting a very hot shower sit on your feet for too long. Allow your feet to gradually warm up by slowly increasing the temperature of a shower and make sure not to keep them in front of a heater!

Moisturise! Whilst we try and maintain a good facial skincare routine most people forget about their feet! It is important to apply

a moisturiser to the feet daily to maintain good skin integrity and avoid any cracks or openings in the skin. Dryness and cracking exacerbate the risk of chilblains. So when do I see someone? If you notice you are developing chilblains on your toes it is important to see a podiatrist or medical professional.

Chilblains, while often easily

managed, can sometimes show us more about a person’s health. They may indicate underlying health conditions which can be prone to complications and is important to recognise early. Understanding chilblains and taking proactive steps to prevent them is essential for enjoying the winter season comfortably! See you next week.

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

The Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb Straightener + Smoother

The 2020’s have brought back voluminous curls in a huge way, drawing inspiration from ‘70s blowouts and Victoria’s Secret ‘Angel Waves’ and perfecting them with modern techniques and products to create a brand new 2024-esque style.

If you, like myself, shudder just looking at a round brush, there are thankfully now plenty of tools to make this look happen, from traditional rollers, to newer heatless methods, and even heated round brushes that do it all for you in one fell swoop.

Shark has just thrown their own hat in the ring with the newest addition to their armoury of tools – and it may just be my favourite yet.

Introducing the Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb Straightener + Smoother – an all-in-one tool which is said to dry, style and smooth, by simply brushing your hair.

What makes this tool different than others on the market is that rather than having different attachments like the FlexStyle or the SpeedStyle, the

SmoothStyle is truly a one-stop-shop, instead utilising different modes on the one brush.

The wider sides of the brush are intended to help you go from wet to dry on wash day using Wet Hair Mode. The brush face includes a combination of nylon bristles and boar bristles for grabbing, smoothing, and shining. There are also three heat settings, so you can truly customise the experience to your hair type, and prioritise the health of your hair.

Once dry, the narrower sides can then be used on Dry Hair Mode. In this mode, the air turns off and the heat turns up, ensuring you can get a sleek, perfected result.

I will admit, before I tried out this tool for the first time, I had some doubts about using it on my curly hair. Back in the mid-2010’s there was a straightening hair brush phase that I remember never quite getting anyone’s roots. But, spoiler alert, I was wrong.

Right off the bat, I found the SmoothStyle’s packaging to be really helpful in

getting started, complete with images, directions and even links to videos you can watch so you know exactly what you should be doing with the tool before you even get it out of the box.

I find the tool to be best used on about 50 per cent dried hair – so it’s not sopping wet, but not completely dry either.

From here, I split my hair into three or four sections, spraying them with heat protectant and drying them using Wet Hair Mode separately. I like to use the medium heat setting on my hair, though of course you can customise this based on what your hair needs.

I do find that I can get my hair pretty smooth with just Wet Hair Mode, however Dry Hair Mode is really the cherry on top. Using the brush, you can straighten your hair, or add your own flair to create a bouncy blowout. It’s also great for touch-ups in the days following!

With my curly hair, it takes about an hour to go from wet to the finished product, however I do think this will lessen

when I have even more experience with the tool. Given that the SmoothStyle uses less heat than typical hair tools, it also feels much less damaging.

Overall, at $150, I think the Shark SmoothStyle is a great addition to anyone’s kit, and would be the perfect travel companion.

Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Cranebrook

Emu Height s

Emu Plains

Erskine Park

Glenmore Park

Jamisontown

Jordan Springs

Kemps Creek

Kingswood

Leonay

Llandilo

Londonderry

Luddenham

Minchinbur y

Mulgoa

North St Mar ys

Orchard Hills

Oxley Park

Penrith

Regentville

Silverdale

South Penrith

St Clair

St Mar ys

Thornton

Ropes Crossing

KEEPING YOUR PETS WARM AND COSY

As temperatures plummet and frost starts to decorate our windows, it’s essential to remember that our furry companions feel the cold just like we do. While we layer up in warm jackets and cosy blankets, our pets rely on us to ensure their comfort during the chilly winter months. Here are some simple yet effective tips to keep your beloved pets warm and healthy this winter season.

Warm and comfy bedding: Consider elevating your pet’s bed off the floor to shield them from the cold ground. This simple adjustment can make a world of difference, providing them with a cosy spot to rest. If your pet sleeps outside, make sure their shelter is insulated and contains soft, warm bedding to keep them snug throughout the night.

Dress to impress: Just like us, pets can benefit from an extra layer of warmth. Invest in a dog coat or vest to provide your furry friend with added protection against the winter chill. Not only

do these garments keep them warm, but they also make a fashion statement while ensuring their comfort during outdoor excursions.

Maintain grooming regime: While it may be tempting to let your pet’s fur grow out for added warmth, excessive hair can lead to skin problems and matting. Regular grooming sessions are essential to keep their coat in optimal condition. Schedule grooming appointments to trim their fur to a manageable length, ensuring they stay clean, comfortable, an d free from tangles.

Monitor diet: Avoid overfeeding your pets during the winter months, as reduced activity levels may lead to weight gain. Excess weight can put strain on their joints and affect mobility. Stick to a balanced diet and monitor their food intake to keep them healthy and active throughout the season.

Exercise and play: Despite the cold weather, it’s crucial to keep

your pets active and engaged. Regular exercise not only helps them stay warm but also prevents weight gain and promotes overall wellbeing. Schedule daily walks or indoor play sessions to keep them entertained and maintain their fitness levels.

Regular health checks: Schedule a winter health check-up with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is in optimal health. Older pets, in particular, may be more susceptible to the cold, so it’s essential to monitor them closely

for any signs of discomfort or illness.

Provide fresh water: Ensure your pets have access to fresh water at all times, especially when they’re spending more time indoors. Heating systems can dehydrate them quickly, so regularly check their water bowls for ice and refill as needed to keep them hydrated and healthy. Shower them with love and care: Last but certainly not least, shower your pets with love and affection. A warm cuddle or belly rub can go a long way in keeping them happy and content during the winter months. Remember, our pets give us unconditional love, so let’s return the favour by ensuring their comfort and well-being all year round. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your furry companions stay warm, healthy, and happy throughout the winter season. For further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

bohoastro.com

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Prepare for a hectic week when you overdo just about everything. Under the influence of the Mercury/Uranus hookup, you’re inclined to be enthusiastic and exhausting, restless and rebellious, questioning and quirky. You’ll certainly be hard to ignore as you ruffle a few feathers with your impulsive ideas and spontaneous comments. But jumping to conclusions could land you in hot water – especially when it comes to a family member or a close friend.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

This week curious Mercury and innovative Uranus link up in your sign. So it’s time to speed up your thinking, explore innovative ideas, discuss alternative points of view, and try new approaches. Keep what’s working in your life – but throw out things that aren’t working and don’t be afraid to break a few stodgy old rules. Inspiration for the week is from movie icon (and birthday great) Marilyn Monroe, “If I’d observed all the rules, I’d never have got anywhere.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Fiery Mars activates your travel zone, so a heavenly holiday is likely sometime soon. But it won’t happen if you’re a lackadaisical Leo! Take action ASAP via a spontaneous booking (if you’ve got the money) or a smart savings plan (if you’re currently cash-strapped). The Sun, Venus and Jupiter also urge you to take a good long look at your hopes and wishes for the future. Do they need a shake-up? Make sure your dreams are creative, flexible and fun.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

You currently have four planets (Mercury, Uranus, Saturn and Neptune) transiting through your relationship zones. So other people could perplex you with their confusing behaviour. Avoid being a cynical Scorpio who sabotages partnerships. Nurture and cherish your close connections. If you’re unhappily single, keep pursuing your dream of finding your soul mate. Be inspired by Kylie Minogue, “I’m sure that love exists. Even infinite, eternal love.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

You won’t feel particularly energetic or motivated, as Saturn drains the gas out of your tank. Avoid the temptation to get carried away and make unrealistic promises. It will be very easy to over-extend yourself and find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! Use the prevailing astro-winds wisely as you re-calibrate your expectations, especially when it comes to domestic matters and family members. Creative collaboration will take you far.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

As the Sun makes its annual transit through doppelganger Gemini (sign of the double-trouble Twins) prepare for a stop-start kind of week! Frantically go-go-go one day (Mercury/Uranus) and frustratingly slow the next (Mercury/ Saturn). So you need to be nimble, adaptable and stoical. Plus – with Mercury and Uranus sometimes snoozing in your solitude zone – take the time to slow down and reassess where you are going … and where you’ve been.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

This week Mercury (your power planet) connects with Saturn and Uranus, so concentration and curiosity will take you far. The focus is also on work as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter all jump through your professional zone. But don’t overdo it Virgo … and don’t make the mistake of neglecting family and close friends. As movie star (and birthday great) Marilyn Monroe observed, “A career is wonderful, but you can’t curl up with it on a cold night.”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Avoid jumping to conclusions, making hasty assumptions and passing on unsubstantiated information. Slow down Sagittarius! The Sun, Venus and Jupiter are jumping through your partnership zone. So creative, diplomatic communication (and a spirit of generosity) will help improve relations with family and friends, as you get your message out loud and clear. Friday is fabulous for lightbulb moments as you discuss innovative ideas and think outside the box.

HOROSCOPES ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

When it comes to managing a complicated financial matter, Uranus encourages you to be creative and have a flexible plan. And Mercury urges you to look at a current problem in a less judgmental and more rational way. The situation is in the process of transforming in an organic fashion. Your ruler Mars is currently in Aries (until June 9) so avoid rushing things and trying to force change. Do your best to be proactive and patient; dynamic and diplomatic.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

You’re keen to retreat into your cosy Crab cave as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter all transit through your contemplation zone. So solo activities like yoga, meditation, reading and journal writing are favoured this week. But – if you stumble and make a mistake – don’t let negative self-talk drag you down. Keep going! Be inspired by birthday great Kylie Minogue (who turns 56 on Tuesday), “I didn’t want to fizzle out. I had to keep going, like a little Shetland pony.”

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Saturn (in your job zone) links up with Mercury so it’s a good time to study, learn, apply yourself and work hard. Motto for the week comes from Kylie Minogue (who turns 56 on Tuesday), “There’s no shortcut to learning a craft; you just have to put the years in.” International adventures and interstate escapades are calling as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter activate your travel zone. Be patient and make it a priority to plan (and save for) a dream holiday later in the year.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The week starts well with the positive link between mind planet Mercury and your ruler Saturn. Which encourages clear thinking, disciplined work, strategic planning, goal-setting and problem-solving for clever Capricorns. And then Friday’s stars favour innovative ideas, unusual points of view and longterm friendships. As movie star Marlene Dietrich (a fellow Capricorn) observed, “It’s the friends you can call up at four am that matter.”

hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

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

Word Search

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

THEME: GENEALOGY

ADOPTION

ANCESTORS

CERTIFICATES

CHURCH RECORDS

COURT

DATES

DEATH

FAMILIES

FAMILY BIBLE

FATHER

GENEALOGIST

GENERATIONS

GIVEN NAMES

MOTHER

OBITUARIES

OFFSPRING

ORAL TRADITION

PASSENGER LISTS

PATERNAL

STUDY

SURNAME

TOMBSTONES

TOWN TRACE

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about country legend Johnny Cash in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. In what American state was Johnny Cash born?

2. Johnny Cash and June Carter were one of country music’s great love stories, but what was the name of Cash’s first wife?

3. In the late 1950s, Cash started performing concerts in what unique location?

4. Who played Cash in the 2005

film ‘Walk The Line’, which also starred Reese Witherspoon?

5. Cash’s first number one song was what?

6. In the 1990s, Cash guest starred in which popular American series?

7. True or false? Cash and June Carter died in the same year.

Arkansas

Vivian Liberto

Prisons

Joaquin Phoenix

‘I Walk The Line’

‘Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman’ 7. True

Toyota’s huge start to ’24

Records tumble as Toyota looks to slash wait times for car-hungry customers

NATHAN TAYLOR

Toyota’s RAV4 was Australia’s best-selling vehicle last month, enabling the market leader to achieve two industry firsts with more than half the brand’s total sales being Hybrid Electric vehicles (HEVs) and surpassing 10,000 HEV deliveries in a single month.

Official figures released last week show RAV4 deliveries to Australian customers hit a new monthly high of 5,857 vehicles in April.

Of these RAV4s, HEVs accounted for 94 per cent or 5,504 vehicles – another record for the popular engine variant.

The previous records for RAV4 total sales (5,070) and HEV deliveries (4,728) were set just one month earlier, in March this year, as Toyota continues to ramp up its moves to slash customer wait times.

On the back of the RAV4’s surging popularity, Toyota dealers retailed the highest number of Hybrid Electric models for any month since the company introduced the first Prius in October 2001.

The new record of 10,972 HEVs represented 52.8 per cent of the brand’s 20,771 sales for the month – the highest share on record.

Toyota’s HEVs, on their own, have outsold every other brand in the market for the past three months in a row – and for the year so far

(35,383 vehicles).

It was the first time Toyota has sold more than 10,000 hybrids in any month and the first time its Hybrid Electric tally has accounted for more than half its total monthly sales.

In fact, Toyota sold more Hybrid Electric vehicles last month alone than it did in any calendar year before as recently as 2018.

Including sales of the fully electric bZ4X, Toyota’s electrified share of total sales – HEV

and BEV – was 53.2 per cent.

April was only the third time RAV4 has led the entire market. It first achieved the feat in July 2020 and repeated it the following month when RAV4 Hybrid Electric sales alone would have been enough to top the industry sales charts.

Toyota’s Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the company’s global production teams, local organisation and nationwide dealer network were focused on delivering the maximum number of vehicles to customers as quickly as possible.

“Record deliveries are not a goal in themselves,” he said.

“They highlight the pent-up demand for hybrids and the success being achieved in substantially reducing customer wait times.

“While it would be easy to assume this result is simply driven by historic demand, it is not the full picture. Customer orders in April remained high, demonstrating a growing number of Australians are seeking fuel-efficient hybrids that are practical, capable and affordable.

“We remain focused on meeting this demand. Based on our delivery plan, average wait times for Hybrid Electric variants of RAV4, Corolla hatch and C-HR will be back to normal by the end of next month – just three to four months, if not even better.”

Toyota RAV4 is Australia’s best-selling SUV and best-selling hybrid vehicle.

REGISTER TO TRY NETBALL

Story continued from » p.72

As the sport becomes more and more inclusive, next weekend’s All Abilities Come and Try Netball Day is expected to be the first of many for the local association.

“This is the first one we’ve ever held and word is getting out there,” Ellul said.

“We do hope to hold more sessions later on in the year and build from there.

“Right now it’s these Come and Try Days, but in the future, we hope to have teams and competitions dedicated to all abilities players.”

PDNA’s All Abilities Come and Try Netball Day will be held on Saturday, June 1 from 10-11.30am at Jamison Park Netball Complex (Court 41). Cost is free. For more information or to register, visit https://shorturl.at/5LqYj.

Marko Rudan ends time with Western Sydney Wanderers Coach takes exit

The Western Sydney Wanderers are on the hunt for yet another head coach after the club parted ways with Marko Rudan last week.

The Thursday 5.30pm press release stated that the Wanderers club and the 48-year-old former player mutually agreed to call it quits effective immediately due to “personal reasons”.

“I would like to thank Chairman Mr Paul Lederer, CEO Scott Hudson and the Board for giving me the opportunity to lead this great club. Unfortunately, due to personal circumstances, I need to end my association with the club,” Rudan said.

“The club is in a healthy position, although we fell short of playing in the Finals this season, I am proud of all the hard work by the players, support staff and executive of the club.

“A special mention should go to the NPL space with both our senior and Under 20’s currently in first place. The young players have stepped up this season and

the future is looking extremely exciting.”

Rudan, who was Western Sydney’s seventh coach since forming in 2012, further elaborated on the reasoning behind

the decision for him to move on from his tenure.

“I will be spending my time in the near future being close to my family as we are going through a difficult time as my mother’s

brain cancer has come back,” he said.

“I wish to bring awareness to the Brain Cancer Foundation – www.curebraincancer.org. au. This illness had affected our family deeply.

“Thank you to all the players, staff, executive and fans of Western Sydney Wanderers.”

Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson thanked Rudan for his service to the club since joining in January 2022.

“Marko has demonstrated complete dedication to the role in his time here, culminating in him leading us to a Finals campaign last season after many years in the wilderness,” he said.

“We thank Marko for his efforts and wish him, and his family, all the best in the future.”

In January this year, Rudan signed a three-year extension at the club, which was set to keep him at the Wanderers until the end of the 2026-27 season.

Western Sydney said it will now commence its search for a new head coach in preparation for the 2024-25 A-League Men’s season.

Marko Rudan and the Wanderers have parted ways.

All Abilities Netball is coming to Penrith.

NATHAN TAYLOR

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Luke Lewis Cup to be played in June

RUGBY LEAGUE: Panthers Juniors in conjunction with Cronulla Junior Rugby League have announced the addition of the Luke Lewis Cup in 2024. The Luke Lewis Cup will be played annually beginning in 2024 and feature a rep team comprised of the best Open Men’s players from each district. This groundbreaking initiative not only pays homage to an NRL legend who won premierships with Penrith and Cronulla, but also signifies a thrilling new chapter in community rugby league. Cronulla Chairman John Mannah expressed his excitement at the announcement. “It’s exciting to have open age representative rugby league back on our calendar, and partnering with Penrith Junior Rugby League looks like being a great move,” he said. “We are very aligned in our thinking regarding promoting rugby league in our districts, and being able to test ourselves against the largest rugby league nursery in the state provides a great opportunity for our local players.”

Panthers Juniors Chairman Jarrad Whitby was equally ecstatic with the proposition of the match. “The day no doubt promises to showcase the talent, dedication and passion for the sport that is palpable in both districts and hopefully a healthy rivalry can be fostered for years to come,” he said. “It was a no-brainer for us to link with Cronulla Junior Rugby League and their team, with their healthy Open Men’s competition they host each year. I have no doubt the game will be a competitive occasion.” The battle for the Luke Lewis Cup will take place at Sutherland Oval on Saturday, June 8 at 3pm. Entry is free of charge.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have been blown away 110-73 by the Maitland Mustangs in Round 7 of the NBL1 East Men’s competition. Penrith were down by 13 points at the end of the first quarter and were unable to recover. Coming off the bench, Jaedyn Fetui-Fa’amoe scored a team-high 17 points and seven rebounds. Meanwhile, Penrith are celebrating a rare win after beating Maitland 69-68 in Round 7 of the NBL1 East Women’s competition. Despite a shocking third quarter, the Panthers managed to get the job done in a thriller. Mia Heide led the way for Penrith with 20 points, 15 rebounds, four blocks, three assists and two steals. Both teams will hit the road again this Saturday to battle the red-hot Albury-Wodonga Bandits at the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre.

BASKETBALL: Penrith Basketball junior Josh Green is one step closer to an NBA Championship after his Dallas Mavericks

advanced to the Western Conference Finals last Sunday. Dallas defeated the number one seeded Oklahoma City Thunder 117-116 to advance to the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2022. Game one of Dallas’ match-up with the Minnesota Timberwolves was due to tip-off on Thursday morning in the US. Green was solid in Dallas’ nail-biting Game 6 win over the Thunder, recording six points, two rebounds, one assist and one steal off the bench. Dallas will go into the best of

seven game series against the Timberwolves as underdogs after the Anthony Edwards-led team defeated the reigning NBA Champions, Denver, in Game 7 on Monday.

AFL: The GWS Giants are in a deep hole after extending their losing streak last weekend. Their latest defeat came last Saturday night against the Western Bulldogs 70-43 at ENGIE Stadium. After winning their first five matches of the season, GWS have now lost four of their past five to slump to a 6-4 record. The Giants, who sit in sixth, will travel to Geelong on Saturday to play the third-placed Cats.

AFL: After enjoying last weekend off, the Penrith Rams will return to the pitch in Round 7 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. The in-form Rams will take on the Manly Warringah Wolves this Saturday afternoon at Greygums Oval in Cranebrook. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes will also play their first game in a fortnight when they go up against the Randwick City Saints this Saturday. A win for the Ramettes will see them continue their ascent up the Women’s Division 2 ladder.

NETBALL: Panthers Netball have failed to win back-to-back games, smashed by the Manly Warringah Sapphires 64-38 in Round 8 of the Netball NSW Premier League Opens competition. Meanwhile, the Panthers U23s team went down in a thriller to the Sapphires 46-45. Both teams will aim to bounce back when they take on the ERNA Hawks in Round 9.

SUPER NETBALL: Giants Netball have lost their first local derby of the season, belted by the NSW Swifts by 24 goals at Ken Rosewall Arena last Sunday afternoon. The 76-52 loss was the Giants’ fifth this season as they sit anchored to the bottom of the Super Netball ladder. The Giants were still within striking distance at half-time, but the experience and class of the Swifts ultimately prevailed in the end. The Giants will look to regroup when they take on competition newcomers the Melbourne Mavericks this Sunday afternoon at John Cain Arena.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Following last weekend’s NSWRL representative fixtures between City and Country, Round 10 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield will finally get underway tomorrow. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys will battle Mounties at HE Laybutt Field, while Brothers Penrith will play the Wenty Magpies at Parker Street Reserve. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys will go up against Cabramatta at New Era Stadium, while Brothers Penrith will face off against the Moorebank Rams at Hammondville Oval in Sydney.

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X (formerly Twitter)

Players will compete for the Luke Lewis Cup next month. Photo: NRL Images.

Mavs stars Luka Doncic and Josh Green.

The Giants were crushed by the NSW Swifts.

Netball should be a sport that everybody can enjoy, that’s why the team at Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) will be holding a free All Abilities Come and Try Netball Day next weekend at Jamison Park. Happening on Saturday, June 1 from 10am to 11.30am, the All Abilities Come and Try Netball Day is aimed at people with physical, intellectual and sensory disabilities.

Open to males and females aged seven years and above, avid netballers will learn new skills, create friendships and improve

NETBALL IS FOR ALL

their fitness throughout the morning.

PDNA Junior Registrar Meighan Ellul said the idea was hatched thanks to the current President of Warragamba Netball Club.

“Last year, she approached the Executive at a meeting and suggested it. We thought it was a fantastic idea and I started looking into it,” Ellul told the Weekender “I reached out to Netball NSW, and they passed me on to other associations in the state that do it.

“I gathered all the information I could as to what worked and what didn’t work for them. I visited Ku-ring-gai Netball Association a few times to see how they run theirs and it was amazing, so we decided

to go ahead with it.”

Since PDNA started promoting next weekend’s Come and Try Netball event, the interest has been strong.

On the day, participants will be grouped together based on their abilities and experienced personnel will be on hand to make sure everything runs smoothly.

“We’ve got volunteers that are players and coaches that work in the industry,” Ellul said.

“They will run fun skills and drills with them and, hopefully towards the end of the session, everyone can have a game along with their family members and carers.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Meighan Ellul and Rebecca Weston from PDNA.