Western Weekender May 26 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

weekender the western Friday, May 26, 2017 • FREE

PAGE 2 Shock local link to Cassie Sainsbury drug case

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MUM’S THE WORD At 34, single mum Monica Miruzzi has landed her dream job as an apprentice mechanic, proving plenty of people wrong in the process. Emily Newton reports on page 20.

Photo: Melinda Jane

He brutally murdered a little girl, now Neville Towner wants his freedom

KEEP HIM N LOCKED UP

EMILY NEWTON

eville Raymond Towner brutally murdered fouryear-old Lauren Hickson at Emu Plains nearly 30 years ago. Now, he wants to be released. And there’s genuine fears from Lauren’s family that the State Parole Authority will grant him his wish next month. Towner has served 28 years in prison for the murder that rocked the Penrith region in 1989. He was originally sentenced to life imprisonment but later appealed and was granted eligibility for parole. He’s been seeking release since 2009. Lauren’s family say they fear for their safety if he’s released. Full coverage: See pages 4 and 7.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Crime

Cocaine Cassie’s secret double life as a sex worker in a Kingswood brothel Explosive new claims add mystery to 22-year-old’s story as she faces 25 years in a Colombian prison EMILY NEWTON

ccused drug smuggler Cassandra Sainsbury was living a secret double life as a sex worker at a Kingswood brothel in the months leading up to her arrest, it has been revealed. The stunning development linking the Sainsbury case to Penrith was revealed by Channel Nine last weekend and raises more questions about the 22-year-old’s background. Ms Sainsbury, who is from Adelaide, has made international headlines since her arrest after she was found in possession of 5.8 kilograms of cocaine at El Dorado International Airport in Bogota on April 12. A woman claiming to be a former colleague of Ms Sainsbury at Kingswood’s Club 220, who wished to remain anonymous, spoke out about the alleged drug mule’s manipulative nature. “I just feel Cassandra is not the naive sweet little blonde girl that everybody thinks she is. She’s a very good liar,” the woman told Channel Nine. “I think she is manipulative, I think she’s a compulsive liar, and I think she’s conniving.” It is understood Ms Sainsbury was a ‘fly in, fly out’ worker at Club 220, working at the brothel in the latter half of 2016. There are also allegations that Ms Sainsbury manipulated her colleagues at Club 220 into offering financial assistance following stories of her mother’s death, despite her mother being very much alive. A number of employees from another brothel in Sydney contacted Nine News following the revelations, saying she also worked with them and used similar stories for financial gain. A combined 2.7 million Australians watched competing reports about Ms Sainsbury on ‘60 Minutes’ and Channel Seven’s ‘Sunday Night’, with many viewers expressing their disgust with the programs, suggesting that she has undergone a ‘trial by media’.

Cassandra Sainsbury allegedly worked at Club 220 last year. Inset: Cassandra Sainsbury. Main Photo: Melinda Jane But since Ms Sainsbury’s arrest last month, there have been mounting inconsistencies in her story. Her fiancé, Scott Broadbridge, claims Ms Sainsbury was working for a cleaning company set up by her uncle, Neil Sainsbury, who later sold it to Karen and June Dolshok. The story goes that Ms Sainsbury was travelling to Sydney regularly for eight months, working for clients of the Dolshoks. The mysterious couple also paid for her trip to Colombia, but not only do they appear not to exist, Neil Sainsbury claims he’s never owned a cleaning business or employed his niece. It now appears Ms Sainsbury was working at Club 220 during this time. Adding to suspicion, Ms Sainsbury’s

“She was a complete mess, you could tell she did not want to be there but she had big money problems”

lawyers now claim that she fell victim to an international drugs syndicate, which forced her to act as a drug mule by threatening the safety of her family, a sharp change from her initial claims of innocence. Pamela Feranchi, who employed Ms Sainsbury at Club 220, confirmed allegations about her deceit, describing Ms Sainsbury as “deeply depressed.” “She was a complete mess, you could tell she did not want to be there but she had big money problems,” Ms Feranchi told The Daily Telegraph. “She told some of the other girls her mother was no longer alive and me that she had been diagnosed with cancer.” Ms Sainsbury faces up to 25 years in a Colombian prison if convicted.

Crime

When Cassie was ‘Claudia’ TROY DODDS

uring her time at Kingswood’s Club 220, it’s alleged that Cassandra Sainsbury went under the name ‘Claudia’. An online profile, showing her in seductive red and black lingerie, describes her as “19 years old, classy, fun and ready to please”. Her face is not visible in the photograph, but at least one co-worker confirmed

D 2

The photo reportedly depicting ‘Claudia’, Cassandra Sainsbury’s name at Club 220

to the Nine Network that it was indeed Cassandra Sainsbury. Pamela Feranchi, who employed Ms Sainsbury at Club 220, recalls that the 22-year-old from Adelaide had turned to sex work because she was drowning in debt. Ms Feranchi said she never saw Ms Sainsbury using drugs. “She never took drugs or drank, the most I ever saw her drink was a beer here and there,” she told The Daily Telegraph. “I felt for her, sometimes she would cry

in the corner eating pizza, chips and gravy. She wasn’t the most popular girl, God love her, she was a bit tubby, even though she was a personal trainer.” Club 220 sits behind a long, black wall on the Great Western Highway in Kingswood, awkwardly fitting in alongside a typical shopping strip that includes takeaway shops, a bottle shop and pawn brokers. It is open well into the night, usually closing around 5am. Despite its high profile location, Club 220 keeps a low profile online, rarely updating its social media pages.

Young mum’s death “suspicious”

‘Bubbly’ Hayley will be missed

Boyfriend charged with breaching AVO as police investigation continues TROY DODDS

er Facebook page shows that Hayley McClenahan-Ernst’s two children were the lights of her life, and it’s understood she was expecting her third baby later this year. But the 21-year-old’s life was cut tragically short last weekend when she died in what police say are suspicious circumstances in the Kingswood home she was residing at with family. Ms McClenahan-Ernst couldn’t be revived despite the best efforts of neighbours and paramedics who were called to the Derby Street house just after midnight on Sunday. Her boyfriend Max Spencer watched on as the desperate attempts to save Ms McClenahan-Ernst failed. On Sunday afternoon, he was charged with breaching an AVO and was represented by his lawyer at Penrith Local Court on Monday. He pleaded not guilty to the charge, and will return to court in July. It is believed Mr Spencer is continuing to assist police with their investigations, having told them that Ms McClenahanErnst passed out and hit her head on a coffee table. Neighbour Kevin Keys, who desperately

Hayley McClenahan-Ernst EMILY NEWTON

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

Crime

aitlin Snowden remembers her friend Hayley McClenahan-Ernst as “bubbly” and “creative”. “She was really outgoing, she had nothing but nice things to say about everyone,” Ms Snowden told the Weekender. Ms Snowden attended high school with Ms McClenahan-Ernst, and the pair formed a close bond. “She was an amazing mother to her daughters. She would never let anything get in the way of her kids,” she said. “When I saw her name, I was hoping it wasn’t her. “We spoke recently about catching up again. It hurts knowing I won’t ever get to see her smiling face again. She always cherished everything, everything you ever did for her she would remember.” Ms Snowden said that the loving memory of her friend will live on through her daughters, Chelsea and Elizabeth.

Sad passing: Hayley McClenahan-Ernst. Photo: Facebook tried to revive Ms McClenahan-Ernst, said it was a frightening situation. “She was out cold,” he said. “She was in a bad way.” On April 7, Ms McClenahan-Ernst changed her relationship status on Facebook to confirm she was in a relationship with Mr Spencer. Since her passing last weekend, friends have taken to social media to pay tribute

to the young mother, who attended Colyton High School and previously worked at McDonald’s. “I feel so empty I wish it wasn’t true. You have always been a true friend to me, I miss your smile your (sic) such an amazing girl,” one friend wrote. Ms McClenahan-Ernst’s children, Chelsea and Elizabeth, are aged two and one. The investigation is ongoing.

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Lauren’s killer must stay behind bars

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Editor’s Desk

obody was there to protect four-year-old Lauren Hickson when she was sexually assaulted and murdered near the Nepean River at Emu Plains in 1989. But 28 years later, we can do our best to protect her memory and ensure Lauren’s family does not have to endure any more pain. The putrid man who committed this vile crime is Neville Raymond Towner, a then 23-year-old family friend of the Hickson family who broke their trust and ended the life of a little girl so soon after it had begun. They say time heals all wounds but for Lauren’s family, nothing could fix this. There’s no pleasure to be taken from recounting the details of that awful day back in 1989 but it’s important we consider them when we ponder the revelations this week that Towner could be a free man by the end of the year. In a police interview given by Towner the morning Lauren’s body was found, he spoke of how a trusting little girl ended up in the hands of a monster. “I walked up to her and she gave me a cuddle, then we went for a walk down the creek,” Towner allegedly told the detective. However, Lauren had begun screaming after he pulled her pants down and unsuccessfully attempted to have sex with her. “She started screaming and to shut her up I shoved her head in the water, and, umm, when she came up she looked to me as if she had already gone,” Towner allegedly said. “She started breathing so I grabbed a rock and hit her on the head.”

Index

Over 50?

“There is every chance that pretty soon, he could be walking down the street next to you”

It wouldn’t be until 1992 that Towner was handed his life sentence. Outside of the court, Lauren’s mother Jurina told the media: “I would like to have had stamped on his file, ‘Never to be released’.” And it should have been. Fast forward to October 18, 2002. Justice Greg James redetermines Towner’s his life sentence, setting a minimum 20-year term, making him eligible for parole in 2009. “Although this crime was horrible, its seriousness, having regard to the views of the trial judges, was not such as to require [Towner] never be released,” he said. The justice system, folks, where trying to rape and then murdering a four-yearold girl is not considered serious enough to be in jail until you die. How utterly ridiculous and offensive to Lauren Hickson’s family and how bitterly out of touch.

News..............................................1-23 Education Week.............24-25 Altitude Awards...............26-28

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• Make new friends in our busy, active group • Hear informative guest speakers each month • Join us on day/evening/weekend trips to places & events of interest • Enjoy a monthly luncheon & dinner outing • Meet like-minded members – join in a book swap FOR MORE INFO CONTACT: • Expand your horizons with us as much as you like! National Seniors Australia Penrith Evening Branch Come along to our Branch meetings held on the 0439 926 423 or go to 1st Tuesday of each month at 7.00pm (for a 7.30 nsapenrith.com start) at Penrith Seniors Centre, 86 Station St, We are members of Penrith. You would be most welcome – coffee & a national, non-profit bikkies provided! WW28236 organisation for Over-50s

And another thing... The release of the findings at the Sydney Siege inquest on Wednesday has again started the conversation about the police response on that day in 2014. Of course there are lessons to be learned, and of course certain things should have been done differently. But to suggest anyone but the deranged madman Man Haron Monis was to blame for this tragedy is simply ludicrous. It has been extraordinary watching the level of anger levelled at police over the past few years. What happened that day was terribly sad, but pointing the finger at police has always made me uncomfortable.

Business................................29-30 Extra Time............................31-42 Entertainment .................43-54

the western weekender Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255 www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith Issue 1304

Since 2009, this child killer has been trying to get out of jail. Now, it would appear the NSW Parole Authority are set to grant his wish. Neville Raymond Towner is in his early 50’s. There is every chance that pretty soon, he could be walking down the street next to you. Next to your child. Next to your grandchild. He does not deserve such freedom. Lauren’s mother still lives with the haunting memories of what happened on that May day 28 years ago. She missed every milestone a proud mother gets to experience. First day at school, first boyfriend, first job, 18th and 21st birthdays, a wedding – the list goes on. When you take that from somebody, you don’t deserve to walk the same streets as them ever again. We can only hope that the State Parole Authority sees sense on June 13. We’ll be watching.

Your Life................................55-62 Business Directory.......63-65 Sport .........................................67-72

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Journalists: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87; Kate Reid | @kate_reid6 Emily Newton | @emmerleener Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Photographers: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Daniel Vella, Katie Grasso, Jess Gilarte, Chantelle Lang To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production Manager: Irene Adams | irene.adams@westernweekender.com.au Production: Maddy Searle, Ian Beard Administration: Karlee Hansen

Council claims double-dipping at play Angry Councillors demand answers from State Government over Fire and Emergency Services Levy ALENA HIGGINS

enrith Councillors are furious at the State Governmentâ€™s handling of the new Fire and Emergency Services Levy (FESL), saying reducing its contribution by 50 per cent but keeping Local Governmentâ€™s contribution the same equates to a â€œdisgraceful cash grabâ€? and â€œdouble-dippingâ€?. Prior to the current reforms that take effect from July 1, the Emergency Services were being funded through State contributions (14 per cent), Local Government contributions (11.7 per cent) and levies attached to privately held insurance, mainly for building and contents insurance policies (74.3 per cent). But once the FESL is introduced, State Government contributions will decline to seven per cent and the FESL will fund 81 per cent, according to a Council report. Although ratepayers will directly pay the levy with their FESL contribution, which will be collected by Council quarterly, they will also pay indirectly through the General Revenue-funded contribution of 11.7 per cent that will continue to be paid by Council. â€œTo me itâ€™s double dipping,â€? an angry

Councillor Karen McKeown said during Monday nightâ€™s Ordinary Meeting. â€œRatepayers are paying twice and itâ€™s not fair.â€? Councillor Greg Davies, who requested Council write to local MPs and the State Government voicing their anger on behalf of local ratepayers, was not focused on diplomacy when it was suggested he tone back the language in his recommendation. â€œIf Council wants to pussyfoot around and butter them up the backside...â€? he said. â€œIt means the same thing, theyâ€™ve screwed us.â€? But Penrith MP Stuart Ayres hit back. Refuting the claims, he said the NSW Governmentâ€™s contribution to the Fire and Emergency Services agencies remains unchanged â€œThis policy is revenue neutral for the NSW Government,â€? Mr Ayres said. â€œTo claim it is a cost shift to Council is simply wrong.â€? Mr Ayres said allegations the new system was not fairer, as it claims to be, were also incorrect. â€œThe levy is based on property value. The more valuable your land the higher the contribution to the levy,â€? Mr Ayres said.

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 26, 2017

Council

Councillor Karen McKeown is demanding answers. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Image crackdown

Accident

People who record or share intimate images without consent could be jailed for up to three years and fined as much as $11,000 under tough new laws to be introduced by the NSW Government. The Crimes Amendment (Intimate Images) Bill 2017 will make it an offence to intentionally record or distribute an intimate image of a person without their consent. These images are known colloquially as ‘revenge porn’. “This activity is a form of abuse that can cause significant distress to victims,” said NSW Attorney General, Mark Speakman. “This Bill will empower victims and provide them with the legal right to ensure that perpetrators can no longer get away with such disgraceful behaviour. Behaviour between consenting parties will not be criminalised.”

Tributes flow for beloved teenager 19-year-old Nathan Balzano killed in tragic car accident at Llandilo TROY DODDS

riends have paid tribute to their “genuine” mate Nathan Balzano after he was killed in a car crash at Llandilo earlier this week. The 19-year-old was killed when his gold Holden ute left the roadway on Ninth Avenue and crashed just before 8pm on Monday night. Ambulance Paramedics desperately tried to save Mr Balzano, but he died at the scene of the crash. Friends took to social media on Tuesday to pay tribute to the former Xavier College student. “Waking up to hear the horrible news that your life was taken too early,” said Courtney Luxford. “Will always cherish our memories in class and how happy you always were. You were infectious and will be missed by everyone.” Trent Hunter despaired at losing Mr Balzano at such a young age. “Such a young and genuine person taken away too soon,” he posted. “My deepest condolences go to the Balzano Family.” Skylar Wallace posted: “Such an awful tragedy, there are way too many young lives being taken too soon.”

Oh, what a job! About 200 new jobs are set for the area through a newly approved Toyota spare parts warehouse and distribution facility at Kemps Creek. Minister for Planning and Housing Anthony Roberts said the approval by the Department of Planning and Environment meant construction of the facility could get underway. “This facility will generate $57.6 million and create 56 construction jobs and 138 ongoing jobs once complete,” Mr Roberts said. “The facility will be in the Western Sydney Employment Area, the largest and fastest growing employment area in Sydney.”

Nathan Balzano was killed in a car crash on Monday. Main Photo: Dean Asher / TNV Police are continuing their investigations into Monday night’s crash and will prepare a report for the Coroner. The impact of the crash was so significant that car parts were spread across the road, while neighbours heard the impact and raised the alarm with emergency services. Ninth Avenue was closed for some time on Monday night while investigations were carried out. While there have been significant safety concerns about Ninth Avenue for some time, and calls for improvements, it

is understood that the safety of the road itself was not a contributing factor in Monday night’s accident. Branded with his personalised number plates, Mr Balzano clearly adored his Holden ute, posting numerous pictures of the vehicle on social media in recent years. Ms Balzano graduated from Xavier College in 2015, and was awarded an Academic Excellence Award for his efforts in mathematics. Anyone who may have information about the crash is urged to contact police.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

Crime

Lauren’s killer may be released later this year EMILY NEWTON

he family of murdered Emu Plains girl Lauren Hickson are pleading with the State Parole Authority to keep her killer behind bars. On May 17, 1989, four-year-old Lauren woke up as a sweet, innocent child who loved her parents dearly. But shortly afterwards, her life, and the local community, was forever changed as she was brutally killed in what remains the most horrific murder case Penrith has ever seen. Lauren’s body was found in the Nepean River just 300 metres from her home, at Emu Plains, after she had been hit over the head with a rock, raped and drowned. Then 23-year-old Neville Raymond Towner, a family friend, was originally sentenced to life imprisonment but could be free as early as next month having served 28 years of his sentence. Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, Lauren’s mother Jurina Hickson recounted the shock and torment she felt after receiving a letter this month notifying her of the State Parole Authority’s intention to release Towner. “I will never forgive him while I’ve still got breath in my body,” she said.

“The murder was so horrific. He sexually assaulted and tortured her.” The years have passed, but Lauren’s memory has never faded. “A day doesn’t go by that I’m not thinking of Lauren,” Mrs Hickson said. “I’m a mother who has lost a child through the most devastating and heinous crime that this country has seen, and I can’t understand why he is going to get out of jail. “If they let him out, I’m going to be too frightened to go anywhere.” Speaking to the Weekender back in 2013, Mrs Hickson described a broken justice system, as the family is forced to relive the heartache at each of Towner’s parole hearings. He first started seeking release in 2009. “The system does not work, it is broken and it favours the offenders and disregards the victims,” she said. “Lauren would have had a family by now, and I may have had grandchildren, but she was robbed of her life in a horrific murder by Towner.” Towner’s public parole hearing is scheduled for June 13. Howard Brown of the Victims of Crime Assistance League will make a formal submission to the hearing on behalf of the Hickson family.

Lauren Hickson was murdered at Emu Plains in 1989

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Council

Council raises concerns over Mulgoa Rd upgrade ALENA HIGGINS

enrith Councillors have expressed concern over the proposed 6.5 kilometre upgrade and widening of the Mulgoa Road/Castlereagh Road corridor, saying compulsory property acquisitions and timing of The Northern Road upgrade, if done concurrently, could pose problems. The Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) has selected a preferred option for the strategic stretch from Glenmore Parkway to Andrews Road, which will see three lanes in each direction, 4.5 metres of separated footpath for pedestrian and cyclists and bus priority lanes. However, while Council supports the upgrade in principle, a number of Councillors want further scrutiny. Councillor Todd Carney said he was worried existing property owners along the corridor could be kept in “limbo” for years and have property prices driven down by the development. Concerns the Mulgoa Road/M4 interchange construction works could be carried out concurrently with the M4/The Northern Road interchange, potentially compounding traffic congestion and disruptions, were also raised. Councillor Marcus Cornish described

The RMS’s plan for the Mulgoa Road upgrade

St Nicholas of Myra

the proposal as “woefully inadequate” for future growth, but Councillor Bernard Bratusa tried to put things into perspective. “Whilst we can always pick fault... I think it’s a win,” he said during discussion at Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting. “Are we going to throw $100 million back at the State Government? I hope not.” Traffic volumes between Glenmore Parkway and Andrews Road have consistently increased by 1.2 per cent annually between 1993 and 2015, with up to 44,000 vehicles now using the stretch during a typical weekday. And despite already featuring 17 traffic lights, the Glenmore Parkway/Mulgoa Road and Castlereagh Road/Coreen Avenue roundabouts are tipped to be replaced with lights, taking the total number along the corridor to 19. An RMS spokesperson told the Weekender that all property owners affected by potential property acquisition have already been contacted. “Property acquisitions for the first stage of the project are expected to start in 2018. Acquisition of the remaining properties will only start once funding has been confirmed,” the spokesperson said. The spokesperson said work would be done to minimise disruption to motorists.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION The following development application has been received by Council: s Pinpoint Interiors (NSW) Pty Limited DA17/0403 96 & 100 Princess Street, Werrington Demolition of existing structures and construction of 13 x town houses with associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works Contact: Belinda Borg on 4732 7505 Closing Date: June 2017

K-6 Catholic Education

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council. Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free of charge during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Approved Development Applications s La Land Pty Ltd DA16/0487 Lot 16 DP 1195110 (Nos. 76–94) Lakeside Parade, Jordan Springs Construction of 2 x residential ﬂat buildings (total of 84 x units) and associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works s Zac Homes Pty Ltd Lot 25 DP 229268 (No. 18) Martin Street, Emu Plains Attached dual occupancy and strata title subdivision x 2 lots

DA16/0817

Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker. Alternatively the applications can be viewed during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Ofﬁcers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

TRUTH THROUGH LEARNING www.stnicholaspenrith.catholic.edu.au 8

WW28308

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. 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

visitpenrith.com.au WW28287

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the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

PENRITH

HELP US SHAPE THE FUTURE OF PENRITH

Community input is important and we want you to have your say on a range of issues that will shape the future of our City. Register online at yoursaypenrith.com.au to stay connected with Council.

ADMINISTRATION Penrith Ofﬁce Civic Centre, 601 High Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Ofﬁce Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri.

PUBLIC NOTICES

COUNCIL BRIEFS ● Penrith Council is hosting a free family arts and comedy festival at the Joan on Sunday, 4 June to celebrate World Environment Day.

Applications are now being called for the use of the

Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri.

World Environment Sun-Day will be a fun and action-packed

P: 4732 7777

outside the Joan.

F: 4732 7958 Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751. E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

SERVICES Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735 Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). Grafﬁti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

Community Access Bus and Wheelchair Access Bus

family afternoon from 12–4pm at the Mondo greenspace

Community access buses in Penrith City for the period 1 July–30 September 2017.

In the evening, Tripod will headline the adults-only Talking

Applications must be received no later than Friday, 2 June 2017.

Rubbish Comedy Gala from 7pm.

These applications will be assessed by Council and applicants

Tickets for the Comedy Gala are free and limited to two per

will be notiﬁed of the outcome.

person. Preference will be given to residents of the Penrith,

For further information regarding fees, application forms and

Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains areas.

conditions of hire, please call 4732 7837.

Get your Gala tickets now at thejoan.com.au ● Council is offering a helping hand for repairs and maintenance to owners, tenants and not-for-proﬁt organisations responsible for heritage listed properties and locations across the City.

Proposed ‘Left Only’ Trafﬁc Restriction in Wattlebird Crescent at Ridgetop Drive, Glenmore Park A permanent ‘Left Only’ trafﬁc restriction is proposed in

Applications are open until Monday, 5 June for Heritage Assistance Fund Grants, which Council provides to help

Wattlebird Crescent at its intersection with Ridgetop Drive, Glenmore Park. The ‘Left Only’ trafﬁc restriction relates to

MEETING DATES

protect and boost Penrith’s valuable and unique cultural

Council Meetings

heritage.

26 June 2017 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting)

Funding is offered on a dollar for dollar basis where Council

The ‘Left Only’ restriction is proposed to redirect through trafﬁc

contributes half of the cost of the restoration works. Works

in the precinct, via the more appropriate wider, collector type

10 July 2017 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)

can range from $10 to $5,000.

roads of Ridgetop Drive and Shearwater Drive while still

For funding criteria and to apply please visit

allowing suitable access to Wattlebird Crescent for residents,

penrith.smartygrants.com.au/heritage17

waste collection vehicles and other service vehicles.

For more information contact Council on 4732 7777.

Council invites comments on the proposed ‘Left Only’ trafﬁc

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au visitpenrith.com.au

● New West identiﬁes Penrith in terms of its physical location

vehicle trafﬁc with full pedestrian access retained.

restriction. Submissions close on Friday, 30 June 2017.

as well as its attitude. We are proactive, progressive, bold,

Please submit your comments in writing to Mr Graham Green,

innovative, fresh and evolving. Penrith is growing fast and

Penrith City Council, PO Box 60, Penrith 2751 or email

Council has been working hard to build Penrith’s future vision.

council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

We know Penrith will play a leading role as Western Sydney transforms during an exciting time of growth and investment. To learn more about how Council is working with residents,

All submissions will be conveyed by Council to the Roads and Maritime Services.

partners and all levels of government to deliver Penrith New

If you would like more information, please feel free to contact

West, subscribe to our eNews at PenrithNewWest.com.au

Mr Graham Green on 4732 8218.

facebook.com/penrith.city.council

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

visitpenrith.com.au WW28286

Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN my Penrith

Turning back time

Tragedy struck the area back in May 1950, when a 20-year-old man from Sydney died when a canoe he was in capsized in the Nepean River. It would take eight days for the body of Robert William Keep to be recovered.

prize cupboard

J Greg Taylor

anis Joplin is one of history’s greatest rock icons, bringing us hits like ‘Me and Bobby McGee’ and ‘Piece of my Heart’. This June audiences will take a closer look at her short but extraordinary life in ‘Pearl – The Janis Joplin Show’ at the Blue Mountains Theatre in Springwood. Acclaimed performer Liza Ohlback will pay homage to Janis’ legacy in this show that tells the story of how the singer/songwriter became the first lady of rock ‘n’ roll. With a mix of words and music – including 20 hit songs – this is a show no Janis Joplin fan will want to miss. Grab your tickets now! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. bluemountainstheatre.com or call 4723 5050. The Weekender has a double pass to give away to ‘Pearl – The Janis Joplin Show’ at Blue Mountains Theatre on Saturday, June 24 at 8pm. For your chance to win, email the code word ‘JANIS’ to competitions@westernweekender. com.au with your name and contact details. Entries close Thursday, June 1. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/17/01416. Terms and conditions available online at www.westernweekender.com.au or Western Weekender reception.

Mulgoa FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Como in Blaxland. The food is spectacular! FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Lavish on Castlereagh Street FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Penrith Golf Club after 18 holes FAVOURITE PLACE TO RELAX IN PENRITH? Penrith Golf Club. I grew up across the road from there and it’s my home away from home WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? It’s a growing, vibrant city and everything we need can be found right here in Penrith. We rarely need to go to Sydney for anything WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? There is a relatively new market on the first weekend of every month in the park on Littlefields Road in Mulgoa. Worth a visit!

Congratulations to Penrith local Jennifer Najdek, who took home part of a $52,000 cash prize on ‘The Chase’ this week. The final chase went down to the wire, but Jennifer’s team got the win!

The terrorism tragedy in Manchester this week is a reminder of what a horrible world we live in sometimes. Our thoughts are with everybody affected by this awful event.

Dose of Dorin

TAKE A NUMBER

110 Good news for drivers who regularly use the M4 Motorway, with the 80km/h zone between The Northern Road and Mamre Road now removed. The speed limit has returned to 110km/h, with roadworks for the Werrington Arterial now complete.

Connect with us online... facebook.com/westernweekender

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the western weekender Âť Friday, May 26, 2017

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Development

Work begins on fire training centre 150 jobs will relocate to Erskine Park once Fire and Rescue NSW academy opens next year EMILY NEWTON

onstruction work has commenced on Sydney’s landmark Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) education and training academy at Erskine Park. Heavy machines got to work last Friday on the centre, a high tech facility promoting and developing a highly skilled emergency service workforce for western Sydney. FRNSW Deputy Commissioner Graeme Finney said the centre is a massive upgrade from the current academy in Alexandria, founded in 1972. “As we’ve moved on and seen the urban encroachment around Green Square, it’s no longer fit for our purposes and it makes training extremely difficult,” Deputy Commissioner Finney said. “This offers a lot of opportunity for us. This is a journey that we’ve been taking for a number of years now. “What this estate is going to offer for us is an opportunity over the next 30 years to partner with the community, to be able to engage out here and to produce people that keep the community of NSW safe, protecting property and protecting the environment.”

FRNSW Deputy Commissioner Graeme Finney, Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies, Penrith Mayor John Thain, Emmanuel Varipatis, Jerry Fanos and Shaun Hannah. Photo: Emily Newton

State Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies praised Penrith City Council for their hard work to create a holistic city, saying beginning construction felt “like Christmas morning”. “The city had the vision for this coming to the region... to ensure that Penrith residents not only had the opportunity to live in what is the best region in Sydney but had the opportunity to work in the best region in Sydney,” she said. The sentiment was echoed by Penrith Mayor John Thain, who dreamed of becoming a firefighter back in 1984. “At that time, there were about 4,000 young people that actually applied, and what that said to me was that there were a great number of young people that not only thought it was a great job, but it was a great career as well,” he recounted. “This is where people will be trained and I think it’s fantastic that it’s coming to our city.” Developed by Altis Property Partners and funded through the principal investor First State Super, the site is expected to be operational in the first half of next year. About 150 permanent roles will relocate from Alexandria to the new academy at Erskine Park, with up to 350 people at the campus on any given day.

HELP US SHAPE THE FUTURE OF PENRITH Community input is important and we want you to have your say on a range of issues that will shape the future of our City. Register online at yoursaypenrith.com.au to stay connected with Council.

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au 12

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TRIN WU TRIN’S ASIAN MARKET WESTFIELD PENRITH Age: 37 Suburb: Live in Penrith Occupation: Business owner What do you like about your occupation? I love to deliver people quality Asian food whilst saving them time How did you get into this line of work? We are proud to be the first Asian grocery store in Penrith Westfield. As a local Penrith family who loves this suburb we wanted to give it a go Qualities someone would need for your job: Always being nice and friendly, have good customer service and also love Asian food How long have you been in this job? Only since this year but I really enjoy it although it is hard. Hobbies: Piano and cooking

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Man and woman conspired to change statement

A Kingswood man who conspired with his girlfriend to recant her domestic violence statement to get him out of prison has been ordered to perform 400 hours of community service work. Police obtained 11 lawfully intercepted telephone calls between the man, 31, and the woman where they “hatched an agreement” to get the victim to change her evidence, Penrith Local Court heard. According to the agreed facts, the couple discussed the allegations in depth and determined a possible scenario they could use to have the victim retract her statement, but not be prosecuted herself. While Magistrate John Favretto found the victim to be “more than a willing participant” and acknowledged there were no threats of violence, court documents reveal an underlying level of manipulation so common with domestic violence abuse. “You need to get me out of here,” the offender says during one of their conversations. The woman replies: “This is not what I wanted.” He says: “How many times have I told you, you can’t just ring the police. You can’t trust them. I’ve tried to tell you that, look what’s happened. I’ve told you a thousand times. You won’t get in too much trouble, just do what you’ve got to do.” The man, who shares two children with the woman, was charged with ‘act with intent to influence a witness’, while his partner was convicted of tampering with evidence and handed a good behaviour bond earlier this year. The court heard the man wound up in jail after being charged with ‘stalk’, ‘intimidate’ and ‘contravene AVO’ when he used a hammer to try to break the mesh off a screen door when his partner refused to let him in. The Crown urged Magistrate Favretto to consider general deterrence when hand-

ing down his sentence, saying it was often the case that victims do retract from their versions, which was difficult to prove. Magistrate Favretto determined it would be detrimental to the offender’s drug rehabilitation to send him to jail, deciding to hand down a Community Service Order in lieu of full-time custody.

A heavily intoxicated driver who almost ran into the back of a police car on his way to get an early morning “feed” has been barred from driving for eight months. Michael Phillip Murphy, 41, fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with high-range drink driving. The court heard the mature-aged Pplater came under notice after almost coming a cropper with a police vehicle about 4.35am. He subsequently blew 0.242 and admitted to officers he was just popping out to get a bite to eat. He was convicted, fined $1,000, disqualified from driving for eight months and ordered to fit an interlock device to his car for three years.

national immediately approached the victim, slapping her to the face while she was seated in the waiting room. She then pushed her to the ground and held her against the floor, dragging the victim across the carpet before numerous members of the public prised her off. Magistrate John McIntosh warned her to rein in her anger, noting the offence was aggravated by the fact she was on a Section 9 good behaviour bond at the time for biting her son. “You have to control your temper otherwise you’ll find you’ll receive a custodial sentence,” he said. Her lawyer painted a picture of a tough and underprivileged upbringing, saying his client was not afforded the opportunity to read or write and entered into an arranged marriage at 16. “I’m told she is angry with her husband for not assisting her with the children,” he said. “Her English is slight… her outlets are minimal.” Magistrate McIntosh took no action on the breach and imposed a fresh two-year Section 9 good behaviour bond with a condition that she accept supervision for anger management counselling.

Dramatic scenes as women fight in medical centre

Magistrate doesn’t buy man’s excuse for skipping meetings

Driver was desperate for food when he got behind the wheel

An Oxley Park woman who assaulted an acquaintance in front of stunned onlookers has been hit with a two-year good behaviour bond. Teraza Widom, 35, appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with ‘common assault’ and ‘breach bond’ after she lashed out at the woman in what her lawyer submitted was an “opportunistic” and “unplanned” attack. The court heard the mother-of-seven attended a St Marys medical centre for treatment following an alleged altercation the night before with the woman – who she knew from the local Sudanese community – and stumbled upon the victim. Court papers reveal the Sudanese

A magistrate has refused to delete a non-compliant offender’s supervision, saying it would be “tantamount” to rewarding bad behaviour. “Why would I delete his supervision,” Magistrate Ian McIntosh demanded to know when David Shane Harvey’s lawyer posed the application. “Well his attendance is poor,” he replied. Mr Harvey’s lawyer told Penrith Local Court his client had attempted to get in contact with his corrections officer, but after playing “phone tag” for some time, simply gave up. He submitted this could be due to frontal lobe damage Mr Harvey sustained when he was 23.

But Magistrate McIntosh wasn’t buying it, saying if he was fit enough to ride a motorcycle he was well enough to attend his appointment, pointing out one of the reasons he didn’t attend was due to a motorcycle accident. He said he could either engage or re-engage or he would have no qualms re-sentencing him to a stiffer penalty. His matter was adjourned to July 20.

Man sent to prison after police find weapons, cash and drugs

A man caught with two shotguns in the boot of his car plus drugs and cash has been sentenced to four years in prison. Patrick James Barde, 26, will be eligible for release on parole in late 2018 following the bust, which saw police uncover a loaded pump-action shotgun and shortened shotgun concealed in a duffle bag. He was also found with ammunition, MDMA and cannabis leaf as well as $4,085 in cash. Penrith District Court Judge Stephen Hanley found Barde failed to tell the truth during portions of his sworn evidence. He said he had come to the view that he was unable to ascertain Barde’s true purpose for possessing the firearms, noting they could have been for criminal purposes, armed robberies or for protection for drugs. Barde pleaded guilty on the second day of his trial in February this year after his DNA was found on the pump-action shotgun.

Delay for man who hit cops

A man who assaulted two police officers has been forced to wait another week to be sentenced after police failed to correctly lay a third charge. Grant Mills, who is currently serving the balance of his parole, faced Penrith Local Court via video link last Thursday to be sentenced on resist and assault charges. But the proceedings were halted when it was noticed one of the charges was incorrect.

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Penrith: Hero dog hurt trying to protect baby

A dog has been labelled a hero as it dove in front of a pram to protect a baby from two other dogs. On Sunday, May 21 a 27-year-old man from Penrith was walking along Evan Street with his wife, who was pushing a pram with their baby in it, and their pet staffy on a leash. As they were walking, two dogs ran out of a yard towards the family. The family dog on the leash then placed itself between the pram and the running dogs, protecting the young child. As a result, the dog suffered lacerations to its ear, leg and shoulder. The two dogs then ran back into the house they came from. Police were called and a 62-year-old man from Penrith was issued an infringement for ‘owner of an attacking dog’.

Penrith: Drug dealer busted by security guard at Panthers

A keen-eyed security guard has caught an ecstasy dealer in action last weekend. At about 1.45pm on Sunday, May 21, a security guard at Penrith Leagues Club observed a 22-year-old man from Blaxland acting suspiciously. After being approached by the security guard, the male handed over a bag of pills, alleged to be ecstasy. Police were notified and attended the location and conducted a search. In addition to the pills, police officers also seized a mobile phone and an amount of money located on the Blaxland male. He was questioned and subsequently charged by police with ‘supply prohibited drug’, ‘possess prohibited drug’ and ‘deal with proceeds of a crime’.

St Marys: Woman robbed after withdrawing cash from ATM

At about 7.50am on Sunday, May 21 a 60-year old Ropes Crossing woman was robbed in East Lane, St Marys.

She has walked through a small arcade onto Queen Street, St Marys where she withdrew a sum of money from an ATM, and as she returned to her vehicle, a man holding a knife in his hand demanded the money. The male person is described as caucasian, slender build, 183cm tall, 17 to 18 with fair skin and dirty brown/blonde hair. He was wearing a grey hooded jumper and dark shorts and runners. Investigations into the incident are continuing and police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

North St Marys: Car fire was deliberately lit, police say

Police were called to an address in Maple Road, North St Marys regarding a vehicle fire, believed to have been deliberately lit. About 1.30am on Sunday, May 21 officers arrived to meet NSW Fire Bridge in the process of extinguishing a motor vehicle at the location. It is alleged a person wearing all black clothing was seen throwing something in the rear of the vehicle before running off.

St Clair: Driver in trouble after being caught by police

A man was caught driving with a cancelled licence with a six-year-old sitting in the passenger seat. At about 3.10pm on Thursday, May 18, police were patrolling McIntyre Avenue, St Clair when they sighted a vehicle and stopped it. They spoke to a 34-year-old St Clair man, and following checks on his driver’s licence, police have discovered that it was cancelled. Further checks of the vehicle located a six-year-old child in the front passenger seat, and no other persons in the vehicle. By law the child is to be restrained in the rear seat, unless all the seats are occupied by persons younger than the child.

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that share will automatically pass to the surviving co-owners, even if the deceased person’s Will says something different. These types of distinctions become particularly important if one co-owner dies, or for example in the breakdown of a marriage or relationship. It is important if you are purchasing property with another person or people that you speak to your solicitor about the type of ownership you wish to have. There are benefits to both types of ownership. For example, in the context of joint tenants and a married couple, upon the death of one joint tenant the property will automatically pass to the other by registering a Notice of Death, as opposed to an expensive Application for a Grant of Probate. Similarly, in the context of friends or unrelated parties and the ownership of property, tenants in common is a good way to have flexibility if you wish to sell your share to a third party or to other co-owners in the future. If you are looking at purchasing a property with another person or entity, contact us to discuss the different types of property ownership you need to consider.

Police not to blame for siege deaths A Coroner has found that one person was solely responsible for what happened during the Sydney Siege in 2014 – murderer and terrorist Man Haron Monis. Coroner Michael Barnes stressed that

the deaths that occurred as a result of the siege in the Lindt Chocolate Cafe were not the fault of police. Emu Plains resident Louisa Hope, along with her mother, was among those held hostage on that tragic day.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

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Council

Development Application for Islamic school set to be rejected ALENA HIGGINS

taunch opponents of the proposed Islamic school on Henry Street are rejoicing after Penrith Council asked the applicant to withdraw its application. In a major and surprising turn of events, Councillors were told during Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting that the Development Application (DA) had failed to address significant site constraints. The DA for the fit out and use of existing buildings for an independent primary and secondary school at the former Penrith Public School site sparked fierce community outcry, with Council set to schedule a date for a public meeting imminently. But that looks unnecessary following the recent twist. Councillor Marcus Cornish said he was thrilled a sensible outcome appears to have prevailed. “I do praise the Council for a common sense decision that reflects what the majority of people in Penrith want and expect,” he said. “If for any strange reason it were to be a recommendation for acceptance, it must come back to Council.” A Council spokesman said the DA may now be determined under Delegated

Authority following the completion of the public exhibition period on May 31. “[Councillors] were informed that extensive public consultation had been undertaken, a large number of submissions received and assessment had established that the DA has not responded to significant site constraints of which the applicants had been advised,” the spokesperson said. The applicant, Irfan College of Cecil Park, failed to return the Weekender’s calls for comment prior to deadline. Cr Cornish said he believed the DA was rejected on issues of non-compliance, including a recommendation from the Roads and Maritime Services, overland flooding and other issues, but said people power was also a “driving force” in the result. If approved, the development at 57 Henry Street would have allowed for a Kindergarten to Year 12 school, initially with 50 to 120 students from Kindergarten to Year 8 and gradually increasing to 300 students from Kindergarten to Year 12 by the end of 2021. It comes after Councillors unanimously approved construction of a church hall, including an indoor recreation area, provision for religious classes, clergy accommodation and associated car parking at 363 Ninth Avenue, Llandilo, at the same meeting.

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Helping artists chase their dreams Roadshow stops by Penrith to offer insight and guidance to talented locals EMILY NEWTON

ocal artists were given an insight into future opportunities and pathways this week. New integrated arts and cultural agency Create NSW offered creative advice and support at a special event held at The Joan in Penrith on Monday. Sophia Zachariou, Create NSW’s Director of Sector Investment, said the visiting roadshow offered insight to up and coming local artists. “It’s an opportunity for individual artists to sit down and get some feedback, find out what support is available out there and how to apply,” she said. “They can get specialist information, talk about their projects and bounce around ideas.” Western Sydney, and particularly Penrith, often feels ignored when it comes to the arts. Create NSW CEO Michael Brealey said that as a new agency for arts, screen and culture across NSW, they want to be visible in the heart of the communities that they are supporting. “As well as a multitude of NSW Government funding initiatives offered through the Arts and Cultural Development Program, support for screen develop-

The Western Weekender remains the most circulated local newspaper in the Penrith region. The latest Audited Media Association of Australia figures, released last Friday, confirm that the Weekender distributes 59,133 copies per week. That’s up almost 1000 copies per week on the previous audit. The Weekender distributes 8,272 copies more than the Penrith Press each week and 20,532 copies more than the Penrith City Gazette. “The audit figure is important to our advertisers as it gives them peace of mind that they’re promoting their products and services in a publication that has the potential to reach more people and get excellent results,” said Western Weekender Managing Editor, Troy Dodds.

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

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The Create NSW Roadshow aims to help local artists and filmmakers with any ideas or questions they might have. Photo: Melinda Jane ment and production, and for screen industry development and for small film festivals, we can also offer a wealth of advice and information that may make a huge difference to the many diverse arts individuals and groups in the region,” Mr Brealey said. “Applying for funding can be a daunting process and isn’t a one-size-fits-all model, so we want to be able to show

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artists exactly who we are, listen to their needs and have a relaxed face to face conversation to advise on what the best options are for support.” The stop in Penrith on Monday was part of a wider roadshow that Create NSW is undertaking across the state to deliver workshops, panel discussions and one-on-one meetings with artists and organisations.

If you can’t get enough of the Weekender, make sure you tune in to our weekly podcast, ‘The Week’. ‘The Week’ airs as a radio show on Vintage FM in Penrith from 8am on Saturday mornings, and is available as a podcast on the Weekender website from 9am Saturdays. ‘The Week’, hosted by Weekender Managing Editor Troy Dodds, features a complete wrap of local news, sport, lifestyle and more. We also turn back time with a special history segment in each edition. You can download the latest edition of ‘The Week’ by heading to our website at www.westernweekender.com.au.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Business

Monica takes the wheel and surprises her critics After being knocked back for dozens of applications and interviews, Ms Miruzzi couldn’t believe her luck when she landed the gig, beating over 250 applicants for the Penrith spot. “I received an email from the NRMA and I didn’t respond to it straight away. I rang the store and I said, ‘you know I’m 34 and a single mother with four little children’,” she recalled “They said to me, ‘I don’t care if you’re tattooed from head to toe, I don’t care what God you believe in. Are you passionate about being a mechanic? Because that’s all that matters’.” While her bosses never doubted her ability, she still gets the odd look from customers from time to time, and has been asked if she was the receptionist on more than one occasion. Ms Miruzzi is one of six female first-year apprentice mechanics to join the NRMA’s Car Servicing Centres in 2017, showing that women are breaking down traditional stereotypes. “I’m not just a female, I’m a single mum, I’m tattooed from the neck down, and today I laugh at anyone who ever told me I’d never get this,” Ms Miruzzi said. “There’s nothing that can’t be achieved if you don’t have drive or passion about it. You get out what you put in.”

EMILY NEWTON

he was rejected time and time again and told she’d never achieve her dream of becoming a mechanic, but Monica Miruzzi is having the last laugh. The single mother of four has landed her dream job at the NRMA Car Servicing Centre in Penrith, proving her critics wrong in the process. Starting her apprenticeship in January, Ms Miruzzi said fixing cars was always a dream of hers. “My oldest son is in Year 6, and now that he is a little bit older, I can start focusing on me,” she said. “I ride bikes and I’ve always had crappy cars. Being a single mum, you can’t afford a good car, so I always wanted to learn how to fix them and how to make them run better. “I want to be a fully qualified technician, and who knows what the future will bring with the NRMA.” Ms Miruzzi said she likes getting her hands dirty, assisting with anything she can. “I’m helping my foreman with car services, log book services, fixing tyres, pulley systems – they’ve got me everywhere,” she said.

Monica Miruzzi at the NRMA Car Servicing Centre in Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane

dear weekender... email: news@westernweekender.com.au post: Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown 2750

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It will be difficult for western Sydney motorists to avoid the WestConnex tolls because Parramatta Road will be reduced to one lane in each direction, this is according to the announcement by then Roads Minister Duncan Gay last year. A repeat of the disgraceful act of reducing Epping Road to one lane that forced people to use the Lane Cove Tunnel. I understand that the M1 tunnel connecting the M2/M7 will also be compulsory for heavy vehicles in lieu of using Pennant Hills Road. Yes, as said by the Premier, “we all hate having to pay tolls”, but to be forced to pay is unforgivable. DAVE STIMSON, EAST KURRAJONG

Tolls push locals out It’s going to cost my hubby $3000 a year to go to work once the tolls come in. We’ve decided to sell up and move elsewhere. Penrith is overcrowded and Council are getting greedier with no concern for people’s welfare. When I moved here only 10 years ago it was clean, and a great environment, now it’s dirty, overcrowded and run down. It’s sad because I loved it here once. SUE CLARKE, VIA FACEBOOK

Let’s stop burials Can’t we just cremate everyone? (Fight is on at Fernhill, Weekender May 19). I’d

rather have small houses for the homeless than use up more land in this way. KIMMY HORWOOD, VIA FACEBOOK

Move with the times People need to stop complaining about everything and start looking at the positives of new development, not just the negative all the time. Times change like it or not. PETRA TARANTO, VIA FACEBOOK

NDIS concerns are widespread From my understanding now, the NDIS is more about making money for agencies rather than helping my son (Cracks begin to appear in NDIS, Weekender May 19). I think a more useful way to help would be to have reasonable and necessary access to therapies rather than pay for a person to come and take him on an outing. MEL BURNET, VIA FACEBOOK

Thanks to all who helped On behalf of the Leukaemia Foundation, I would like to say a big thank you to readers for their incredible support of World’s Greatest Shave this year. The extraordinary people who shaved or coloured and their generous sponsors have now raised an incredible $4,920,000 in NSW alone, helping to fund projects that will make a genuine difference. BILL PETCH CEO, LEUKAEMIA FOUNDATION

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

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Health

The desperate battle to save Taryn Family turns to American specialists to help win teenager’s battle with severe epilepsy EMILY NEWTON

mother in Orchard Hills will move Heaven and Earth to save the life of her daughter, aiming to raise $200,000 in search of a cure for her epilepsy. Taryn McCaffrey, aged 19, was diagnosed with frontal lobe epilepsy when she was just five-years-old. Her mother Tracy McCaffrey is pleading for help to save her daughter. “It took us a long time to find medication that would help manage her seizures. As time went on, we thought she was actually managed,” Ms McCaffrey said. However, after a night camping with friends when Taryn was 14, her family learned that she had been experiencing nocturnal seizures, something that was causing irreversible brain damage. “When Taryn has seizures, she does not breathe,” Ms McCaffrey said. Following testing, doctors discovered that her epilepsy was spreading and medication was only keeping seizures at bay for so long. Taryn was bullied, segregated and ostracised, leading her to leave school and take up an apprenticeship with her mother while she battled depression.

Delyse, Taryn and Tracy McCaffrey will do anything to find a cure for Taryn. Photo: Kate Reid

As the seizures were nocturnal, Taryn was allowed to get her driver’s licence, and began to gain control of her life – but that too was taken from her. “She was in a massive car accident. She had a seizure at the wheel, and that was her first seizure during the day time,” Ms McCaffrey said. “A week prior to that, we got the result from all of her latest testing, and the specialist told us that the epilepsy had spread to the right temporal, so it’s on the frontal and the right temporal lobe, and the brain damage that has been done is her visual memory. “If she wanted to read a book and learn it now, she can’t. “Every time she tries to do something to be normal, she just keeps getting knocked back.” Specialists have exhausted every avenue in Australia and the family is now turning to a clinic in America, which boasts the best specialists in the world, for help. With her sister, Delyse studying to become a neuroscientist, the family is determined to do anything to save their sister. To donate to the family and read more about Taryn’s story, visit www.gofundme. com/send-taryn-to-america.

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Mayor’s News

80 years in business, and Capral is only getting stronger

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Arts and comedy festival at the Joan in June

Stuart Ayres visited the Capral site to celebrate the manufacturing company’s milestone EMILY NEWTON

anufacturing in western Sydney continues to soar as Capral celebrates 80 years of business and 43 years of manufacturing in Penrith by delivering its strongest performance in more than a decade. State Member for Penrith and Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres joined workers last week for a tour of the Penrith site in celebration. “Capral has a long and rich history of manufacturing in western Sydney,” Mr Ayres said.

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

Business

“It is testament to the resilience of our manufacturing sector that Capral has been able to secure the future of its workforce by developing new ways of doing business to manage the headwinds of a strong Aussie dollar and international competition.” With net assets of approximately $110 million, Capral employs 163 people in NSW across five sites, including 50 in Penrith, as it’s the nation’s largest manufacturer and distributor of aluminium products. Emu Plains resident Rick Stacchino also marks Capral’s 80 years with his 23 years of service with the company, believing Capral has thrived due to innovation.

Penrith Council is hosting a free family arts and comedy festival at The Joan on Sunday, June 4, to celebrate World Environment Day. The festival will include ‘World Environment Sun-day’ and the ‘Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala’, both of which have been curated by much-loved Australian comedy trio Tripod. World Environment Sun-day is a family-friendly event, which is on from 12-4pm at the Mondo greenspace outside The Joan. It will include a range of creative games and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Every activity has been designed to encourage you to get involved and improve your own backyard by embracing recycling, upcycling and waste reduction. There will be food trucks and entertainment throughout the afternoon, with a fun recycled, sustainable and enviro-focus, including the Fast and the Refuse-rious, Wheelie? and You Bin

Busy. Entries for the inaugural Binema film festival will also be screened in The Joan’s foyer and the winner will be announced on the day. There’s also a fantastic line-up of roving musicians and main stage entertainment, with the 11-piece brass band, Hot Potato, award-winning live music for kids, families and foodies from The Vegetable Plot, and four-girl indie-folk band, All our Exes Live in Texas. As the sun sets, Tripod will headline the adults-only Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala from 7pm at The Joan. They’ll be joined on stage by a stellar line-up of Australia’s hottest comedians including MC Rhys Nicholson, Luke Heggie and Becky Lucas. Tickets, through The Joan box office, for the Comedy Gala are free and limited to two per person. Preference will be given to residents of Penrith, Hawkesbury and the Blue Mountains.

CR JOHN THAIN Mayor of Penrith

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: Keep up to date with all the local breaking news, sport and more by ‘liking’ us on Facebook. Visit www.facebook.com/ westernweekender.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

SPECIAL FEATURE

EMMAUS CATHOLIC COLLEGE

SPONSORED CONTENT

Deal with a local team you can trust

mage Carpets & Blinds have become an iconic part of Penrith, serving the region for over 35 years. As a family business, there’s no one more experienced to help you find the right in-home solution. “After taking over the previous owner, we strongly believe in supporting our local community whenever we can and providing the service that only a strong local business can provide,” owner, Dan Lindsay said. “I’ve worked in this business for over 20 years, and it was a natural progression to take over the business a few years ago.” With many of the team having been a part of the Image Carpets & Blinds family for over 10 years, staff are well-equipped to provide the best service and right solutions for all customers. “We showcase a wide range of innovative window blinds, shades, shutters and awnings for your home and lifestyle,” Mr Lindsay said. “Our experienced consultants are thoroughly trained and can

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provide you with a solution to your light, privacy, environment, comfort or design requirements.” Having taken on a new partnership for their blinds, the team is excited to show Penrith clients the innovative product designs of Blinds by Peter Meyer. Whether you have your heart set on roller blinds, woven blinds or timber blinds, there is something for every style and specification. Taking the greatest pride in providing the best customer service for any job, there is no home or business requirement too hard for the team. “We believe that old fashioned customer service is always number one,” Mr Lindsay said. “We’re your one stop floor and windows solution company.” With customers that keep coming back through the years, you know you’re in hands you can trust at Image Carpets & Blinds. If you want to deal with a team you can trust with plenty of local experience, give the team at Image Carpets & Blinds a call today on 4735 1222.

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

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Friday, May 26, 2017 ÂŤ the western weekender

BUSINESS T Targeting everyone doesnâ€™t result in success d

Making the most of your social media followers

Michelle Grice // Founder of Shel Design

Jane Tweedy // Western Sydney Business Centre

0412 701 147 | info@sheldesign.com.au

4721 5011 | info@wsbusiness.com.au

ost of us have been guilty of casting our nets too wide. When you started your new business, you probably thought that the more types of customers you target, the more sales you would make, right? Wrong. Every business has an ideal customer, and in order to effectively market your product or service, you need to work out who they are. Your target might still be really big but it needs parameters: â€˜everyone in Penrithâ€™ is not a target. Taking the time to work out your best customer will result in great benefits: â€˘ You can target them more easily when you are advertising. â€˘ You can use language in your promotional materials that speaks clearly to them. â€˘ You can provide greater value because you know what your customer needs. â€˘ You can understand who to avoid so that you save time and money. Until recently, I thought that I had to work with anyone who requested my services. But after a few hard lessons,

I learned that some people are simply going to create far more stress than itâ€™s worth. People who donâ€™t fit my ideal customer, ultimately end up taking far more of my time and resources. This isnâ€™t good for my finances or my mental health! To develop a profile of your ideal customer, it helps to write down characteristics as though you are describing a person sitting in your workplace. You can include: demographics; their likes and dislikes; their dreams and fears; what they like to read or watch on TV; their family make up and/or relationship status; education; gender; and so on. Once you have done this exercise, you will be able to tailor your marketing, customer service and sales in a way that will resonate with the people you want as customers. It will become much easier to create marketing content that is relevant to them. You can work out how you can deliver more value to them, because you now understand what THEY value. And you can genuinely offer a solution to your target market that they need you to solve.

he key to maintaining an effective social media presence and getting new leads is your follower base. The main thing we want to focus on when increasing our followers is ensuring they are real customers, either current or potential. This ensures that our organic, unpaid posts are getting to the followers who we want to see it. We donâ€™t want to waste our organic reach on people who will never utilise our services, live overseas or are completely out of your target market. Therefore, it is not practical to invite every single personal friend on your Facebook page or buy followers from third party vendors who instantly give you 5,000 followers for $50. By having fake followers on your page, you are wasting your organic reach on people who arenâ€™t real customers and therefore the only way to reach your actual customers is by paid advertising. To get effective followers: Ask your customers to follow you The simplest way to get real followers is to put your socials out there to your current customer base.

Add social images with links to your email signature and to all of your marketing collateral, to let your current customers know youâ€™re there. If you ask your customers to follow you, youâ€™ll find the majority of them will want to keep up to date with your business. Itâ€™s the simplest and quickest way for them to do so. Encourage your customers to post on their socials If a client is happy with the service you provide, chances are they will be happy to share their positive experience with their friends. Ask them to post a photo on their personal socials and tag you in their posts. Youâ€™ll be appearing right in front of all their friends and followers which, in turn, become potential followers and customers. After your client has posted their photo, repost it on your socials. Itâ€™s easy content for your page and shows all of your followers that other people are both loving your business and posting about it, so it encourages others to do it too. We will cover more follower building tips next week!

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with the Masked Panther

KIND GESTUREs » For every story about bad behaving

players in the NRL, there’s a dozen good ones that often go unreported. Jack Noble is a long-time Panthers fan who is confined to a wheelchair after being born with a rare genetic degenerative disease that means he’s unable to speak or move. Jack, who has a passion for poetry as well as rugby league, was at McDonald Jones Stadium last weekend to watch Penrith beat Newcastle. After the game, the players were more than happy to take a break from their post-match celebrations to spend some time with Jack and pose for photos. Small gestures like this mean a lot to people and like last weekend’s Beanie for Brain Cancer round, show how much rugby league makes a difference in people’s lives. Credit to the Knights who have arranged tickets for Jack and his family to attend the Panthers v Newcastle game for the last two seasons.

» Bryce Cartwright’s troublesome year

continues with the City Origin star suffering a knee injury last weekend that may put him out of action for some time. The 22-year-old left the field early in the second half of Penrith’s 30-20 win over Newcastle on Sunday and scans later revealed a lateral meniscus tear in his left knee. He was due to meet with surgeons this week to determine the extent of the injury. Cartwright has had a difficult year both on and off the field, with the headlines he attracted earlier this season only compounded by ongoing issues with his ankle. Thankfully the support of team mates is keeping his spirits high.

fact leave the Panthers for the Warriors as expected. There’s been some conflicting reports out there this week – some indicating that the deal is done for Martin to head across the ditch before June 30, others suggesting the Warriors may have gone cold on the deal. Watch this space.

» Plenty gets said and debated about

when it comes to cheerleaders in the NRL, but the truth is that most of those in cheer squads are using it to supplement their income or follow their passions while they work to achieve their dreams elsewhere. One great example is Pantherette Nat Sinclair (below), who last week officially became a lawyer after years of hard study. From corporate partnership managers to physiotherapy, sales and teaching, the back story to many of Penrith’s cheer squad is something we can all be proud of. The mindless critics should perhaps focus on such great achievements rather than the silly commentary that cheerleaders often attract.

Jack Noble with Peta Hiku, Trent Merrin and Corey Harawira-Naera. Photo: Penrith Panthers

» Trent Merrin has launched a brand new

personal website, where he plans to post a regular blog which will focus on life on and off the field. You can visit the website at www.trentmerrin.com.au.

» Could Sharks and New South Wales

five-eighth James Maloney end up at Penrith? That’s just one theory doing the rounds as questions continue about who will be in the halves for the Panthers next season. There’s some talk that Cronulla could be interested in the Sydney-bound Cooper Cronk, which could suddenly put Maloney on the market. The puzzle is likely to be put together slowly over the next couple of months and one important piece is whether Te Maire Martin does in

» I’m told the Panthers are working on » Panthers boss Phil Gould made a rare

jump from Channel Nine to Fox Sports this week, where he appeared on the ‘League Life’ program on Fox League. Gus is very close to one of the show’s hosts, Yvonne Sampson, who he previously worked with at Nine.

new pricing packages for members next year, which could see renewing members pay less than new members – a great move. The club is also looking at ways to reward loyal members. There’s currently nothing in place – pricing or otherwise – to differentiate somebody in their first year of membership to somebody who has been a season ticket holder for more than a decade, for example. Plans are

underway to try and change that, which is a really positive direction.

» Penrith ISP NSW player Jack Hetherington has copped a one match suspension for a careless high tackle.

» Kids were smiling from ear to ear this

week when Penrith players visited the Quakers Hill Destroyers Junior Rugby League Club. The youngsters got to meet their NRL heroes and grab photos and autographs.

» Have you got some Panthers news or gossip? Send your info to maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

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ORIGIN HEARTBREAK NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

anthers hooker Peter Wallace was just 24 hours away from breaking an eight year State of Origin drought, but his Blues dream was shattered on Monday afternoon when he learned the extent of a devastating groin injury. On Monday morning the 31-year-old was delivered the news by NSW coach Laurie Daley that he was back in the Origin team for the first time since 2009, pending scan results on a groin injury suffered during Penrith’s 30-20 win over Newcastle. It’s understood Wallace was part of the NSW camp early Monday but exited shortly after hearing the news from medical staff that he had suffered a grade two adductor (groin) tear. The St Marys junior could be sidelined for up to six weeks but won’t require surgery. Wallace had burst back into Origin contention late last week when it was revealed NSW coach Laurie Daley planned to take the side in a different direction.

Instead of bringing back Origin veteran Robbie Farah for another year, Daley decided to go with the Penrith number 9 as he was a “better fit” for new Blues halves James Maloney and Mitchell Pearce. On the back of Wallace’s devastating news, Daley once again snubbed Farah in favour of Gold Coast Titans dummy half Nathan Peats, who will now make his Origin debut at Suncorp Stadium this Wednesday night. Despite having two representatives in Matt Moylan and Josh Mansour during the 2016 series, Penrith will have no local representation for Origin I. Moylan has however been named in the extended Blues squad and has been in camp with the team this week. Panthers lock Trent Merrin was left out of the squad, despite representing Australia a matter of weeks ago, while a slow start to the year has seen prop James Tamou miss out on selection for the first time since debuting in 2012. On the NRL front, former Dragons hooker Mitch Rein is the most likely choice to replace Wallace in the Panthers side while Tyrone Peachey and Sione Katoa are also possibilities.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

FEATURE

IN BIG DEMAND NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

ff contract Panthers rookie Corey HarawiraNaera is hopeful of returning to the foot of the Mountains next year despite big money offers from rival clubs. The 22-year-old Kiwi product, who made his NRL debut in Round 4, received a contract offer from Panthers boss Phil Gould a number of weeks ago but is yet to put pen to paper. It’s been reported that a number of high profile clubs are chasing the rising star including last year’s grand finalists Melbourne and Cronulla. It’s understood the Storm and Sharks can offer the youngster a bigger deal than the Panthers, who may need to offload players in order to fit him under the salary cap. Speaking with Extra Time,

Harawira-Naera confirmed an offer had been made by the Panthers, and that remaining in Penrith long term is his preference. “Nothing has been put to paper yet but hopefully I can get that over and done with soon,” the backrower said. “Penrith is probably the closest club you can get to New Zealand where I’m from. It’s small, rural and I like the country feel. I’m a country boy.” Pressed on whether his decision was based on loyalty over money, Harawira-Naera preferred to hedge his bets. “I’m sitting on the fence. I can’t say anymore without sitting on the fence,” he said. “What I will say is that I’m glad I made my debut at this club, they’ve done a lot for me and I’m enjoying it.” Harawira-Naera, who was part of Penrith’s premiership-winning Holden Cup team in 2015, has been the talk of the town since making his first grade debut back in March. Scoring a try on debut and three in

total, Harawira-Naera continues to impress with every game he plays. “It’s been an experience to say the least. The first game was a real high with that big win over Newcastle,” he said. “Players like Mez (Trent Merrin) and Jimmy (James Tamou) have been helping with my transition from reserve grade and the U20s. “It’s been tough but I’m blessed to be in this position.” While Harawira-Naera is growing in confidence with every match he plays, he does know his defence has to improve if he is to hold on to his spot in first grade. “Growing up I played a lot of fullback, so it’s taken me a while to get used to the contact and tackling week in, week out,” Harawira-Naera said. “It’s something I know I need to work on and that’s going to make me a better player. “I always try and pull Hook aside and get a few pointers plus go over some video, to make my game better.”

Corey Harawira-Naera . Photo: Megan Dunn

WW24699

Fate of entire Origin series could rest on first 20 minutes of game one

JAMIE SOWARD

fter months and months of hype, the 2017 State of Origin series is finally here – and I can’t wait to see the teams battle it out in Brisbane this Wednesday night! Playing Origin at Suncorp Stadium – the Cauldron – is the absolute best. I believe running out in an Origin game is more exciting than running out on Grand Final day. Like Nathan Peats and Jake Trbojevic will on Wednesday night, I too debuted in front of a Queensland crowd back in 2011. You know as soon as you step foot on that hallowed turf, you aren’t going to get any love or support from the crowd like you do in Sydney. The Cauldron is the ultimate feeling and no one does it better than those Queenslanders. New South Wales coach Laurie Daley (pictured) picked a really strong side on Monday night and, for the first time in five years, has selected a team that is all in form. Except for maybe Jarryd Hayne, who is still finding his feet back in the game, there’s no one in that Blues’ 1-17 that you

are second guessing. Hayne will come good and he’s certainly earned his place in the Origin arena. Queensland also named a strong side on Monday, choosing to remain loyal to last year’s team by leaving fullback Billy Slater out. While I think leaving Slater out of the team is a massive call, the players that matter are still there including Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and probably Johnathan Thurston. Nothing will change with Queensland’s direction, it’ll just be if NSW can execute. The first thing the Blues have to do, is not worry about the past. New hooker Nathan Peats should have nothing to worry about and Mitchell Pearce should wipe his poor Origin record from his mind. This is a new team that needs to go up to Suncorp and make sure that their first 20 minutes is their best 20 minutes. If it’s nil-all after the first 20 then the Blues will be right in this series. The worst thing NSW can do is go up to Brisbane and get blown out and hope they can get one back in Sydney – nothing is guaranteed in Origin.

If the Blues can win this first game then that puts the pressure back on the Queenslanders, who don’t have a great record in Sydney. NSW need to keep competing and put

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 26, 2017

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themselves into the game. If they don’t do that we will see another Queensland victory – no one in NSW wants that! I’m tipping NSW will win Origin I 18-16 and then go on to win the series 2-1.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

NRL LADDER AND FIXTURES PD

+/-

PTS

Storm

238

165

+73

2 Broncos

251

161

+90

3 Sharks

218

146

+72

4 Roosters

236

170

+66

5 Dragons

269

183

+86

6 Sea Eagles

260

203

+57

7 Cowboys

213

222

-9

8 Raiders

252

209

+43

9 Bulldogs

170

198

-28

10 Eels

198

236

-38

11 Panthers

222

233

-11

12 Titans

258

292

-34

13 Rabbitohs

188

247

-59

14 Warriors

188

249

-61

15 W. Tigers

152

290 -138

16 Knights

184

293

CLUB

-109

Round 12

/ / / /

Saturday, May 27 7.30pm Southern Cross Group Stadium Sunday, May 28 4pm GIO Stadium

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

Extra Time Issue Number 013 PRINTED BY Spotpress Pty Ltd / PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 / troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Jamie Soward

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

on the prowl

The Primary Classroom Program at Panthers on the Prowl has been running continuously for 15 years. We serve local primary schools to assist in the development of social and emotional learning targeted at small groups. Each week we nominate a student of the week from a participating school to highlight their efforts. ts.

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Friday, May 26 8pm ANZ Stadium

FOR THE LATEST PANTHERS NEWS AND UPDATES, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @WWPENRITH

This week’s student of the week is Holly Klem. Holly attends Kingswood Park Public School and she has been working hard during our mindfulness lessons. Mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. At Panthers on the Prowl we use the Peaceful Kids Program to teach students about how to manage worrying thoughts, stress and anxiety. Holly has shown enthusiasm and openness during these weekly lessons and has encouraged her fellow class mates to do the same. As part of her recognition as student of the week Holly attended her first ever game at Pepper Stadium, going on to the field pre game to watch the Panthers warm up.

FACE IN THE CROWD

WW28017

SCOREBOARD

PROUD PANTHER

NRL PANTHERS 30 KNIGHTS 20

Steve Carter in 1999 TROY DODDS @troydodds

here used to be a video played at Penrith Stadium as part of the pre-game build-up that featured Steve Carter saying the words “never give up, never give up”. The video was used during a tough time at the Panthers and epitomised not only where Penrith was placed during that period in the late 1990’s but Steve Carter himself as a player. He was a dedicated, passionate player who wore his heart on his sleeve and was Penrith to the core. To this day, nobody has played more first grade games for Penrith than Steve Carter. He clocked up 244 appearances for the Panthers, a record that won’t be

broken for many seasons to come, with nobody in the current squad even close to that number of games for the men in black. He made his debut for the Panthers in 1988, and was part of a wonderful era for the club that included the 1991 premiership. The image of Carter pointing under the posts as Brad Izzard flew towards the tryline is one of the endearing memories from the 1991 decider. Carter stuck solid with the Panthers even during the tough times, eventually retiring in 2001. He probably should have retired a year earlier, but with the club record for matches played on the line, he opted to stick around for the 2001 season despite injuries plaguing his later years. Carter’s long career at Penrith came during perhaps the most up and down time in the club’s long history. He was there for that first premiership, but he was also there when his teammate Ben

Alexander was tragically killed in a car crash a year later. He was also there during the Super League years and witnessed first hand the club’s fight for survival, and he was there when a new era began in 2000 – the Panthers were back in black and on the cusp of an exciting new period. During his 14 years with the Panthers, Carter scored 65 tries and even managed to kick three goals – two in 1998 and another in his final year at the club. Carter was never a glamour player of the game, and he only made one appearance for New South Wales – in 1992 – but he will forever be remembered as part of Penrith folklore. In an era where Greg Alexander, Brad Fittler and Mark Geyer were the a-list stars at the Panthers, Carter let his work on the field do the talking. He even inspired the club’s unofficial supporter group, at one stage called ‘Scarter’s Army’.

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tr ivia 1. How many clubs did Phil Gould play first grade footy for? 2. In what year did Phil Gould finish up as coach of the Roosters? 3. Was Phil Gould’s winning percentage as New South Wales coach above or below 50 per cent? 4. What is Phil Gould’s middle name? 5. Which TV network does Phil Gould call games for?

ANSWERS: 1. Four (Penrith, Newtown, Canterbury, Souths) 2. 1999 3. Above 4. Ronald 5. Channel Nine

Eels Broncos

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, May 26, 2017

Eels Broncos

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender • extra time

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Tenor out of 10

Y KATE REID

ou don’t have to be an opera fan to know the name Pavarotti. The acclaimed Italian tenor managed to bring a seemingly inaccessible genre to the masses by mixing his craft with popular music. Operatic golden boy Lorenzo Rositano is attempting to do the same in his home of western Sydney. The proud Penrith local knows it’s an uphill battle – with funding issues, lack of venues, and a culture that tends more towards sport than opera – but the hardships have just made him that much more determined. “My main aim is to contemporise opera and bring it to a wider audience,” he said. “We’re in a modern country and although I’m Italian and have had an extensive career in Italy, it’s one thing to do opera recitals around Italy, where opera was born, but in Australia we want to bring it to a wider audience.” Last year Lorenzo – who is affectionately known as Penrith’s Pavarotti – put a few more wheels in motion with the launch of Western Sydney Opera. In a similar vein to the ‘Pavarotti & Friends’ concerts, Western Sydney Opera will be bringing ‘Lorenzo Rosi-

tano & Friends’ to Riverside Theatres in Parramatta this June. Lorenzo will be joined by emerging artists including sopranos Bridget Patterson and Claire Chehade-James, along with mezzo-soprano Bree Meara-Hendy and accompanist and baritone Glenn Amer. “It will be a sort of variety show, covering a range of genres including opera, operetta, musical theatre and pop or ‘popera’ – since it’s opera singers singing them,” Lorenzo said. “If you’ve never been to an opera it can be very intimidating, so it’s a matter of just slowly introducing a little taste of it to the public.” Lorenzo was inspired by recent trips to Italy where he performed in venues of a similar scale to The Joan in Penrith and Riverside Theatres in Parramatta. “I want to bring those experiences I had in Italy to the west,” Lorenzo said. “I’m a westie, I’m a Penrithian. We’ve got an opera house and we’ve got opera in Sydney, but we need it in western Sydney. “There’s so many people I’ve spoken to that won’t hike to the city because it takes forever and it costs too much to go to the opera. So I’m bringing it to them.” Western Sydney Opera’s ‘Lorenzo Rositano & Friends’ will be on at the Riverside Theatres in Parramatta on Sunday, June 18 at 3pm. Tickets are $37-$45. To purchase tickets, visit www.riversideparramatta.com.au or call 8839 3399.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

creative A U

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WW27660

the western weekender Âť Friday, May 26, 2017

A life of fun and feathers

6 JUNE

KATE REID

will put on a captivating show that delves into the ups and downs of her life in the spotlight, and offers insights into her experiences as Queen of Les Girls nightclub in Kings Cross. Carlotta has been a regular on Australian TV screens, and in recent times has appeared as a panel member on Channel 10â€™s morning show â€˜Studio 10â€™. â€˜Carlotta: Live & Intimateâ€™ will be on at Kemps Creek Bowling Club on Saturday, June 3 at 8pm. Tickets are $30. This performance is 18+ only. For more information or to purchase tickets to the show, visit www.kcsb.com.au or call 9826 1375.

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the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

Angelic

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KATE REID

old onto your stomachs Penrith because the belly laughs are heading our way. It’s that time of the year again when we get a taste of the funniest comedians from Australia’s biggest comedy festival. Audiences will have the chance to check out some of the best standup, slapstick and songs at the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow at the Joan this June. Comedians from around Australia and

beyond will be bringing over two hours worth of laughs to the stage. The hilarious line-up features Aussies Mandy Nolan, Dilruk Jayasinha and Sam Taunton, along with UK comedian Adam Hess and MC Dave Callan. Grab your tickets now and say goodbye to those winter blues with this all-killer no-filler night of comedy. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow will be on at the Joan in Penrith on Tuesday, June 6 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $40-$45. For more information or to purchase tickets to the show visit www.thejoan.com.au or call 4723 7600.

SONGS OF THE LATIN SKIES

World Music

Meets Jazz

SUNDAY 11 JUNE 5pm KATIE NOONAN & KARIN SCHAUPP

Group Discounts

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Angelic vocals meet lyrical and fiery guitar as two of Australia’s most loved female artists perform music with a Latin flavour.

STANDARD $55 CONCESSION $50 CHILD $15

BOOKINGS | THEJOAN.COM.AU | 4723 7600 JOAN SUTHERLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE 597 HIGH STREET PENRITH

What’s on at your Club KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LTD 1490 Elizabeth Drive Kemps Creek NSW 2178 | (02) 9826 1375 www.kcsb.com.au | reception@kcsb.com.au | Find us on Instagram @kempscreeksportingbowling

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“It’s nice

“

Get ready for a night of laughs

out here

’

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, May 26 Acoustic Soloist – Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Mary’s DJ – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Dean’s Karaoke with Freddie – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 2060 Lots of Laughs Comedy Night – Rooty Hill RSL Free entry, 8pm 9677 4916 Friday Night Lights – The Joan Free entry, 5.30pm 4723 7600 Robbie & Kylie Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Soundproofed – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Todd McKenney Sings Peter Allen Evan Theatre 4720 5555 Friday, May 26, 8.00pm, $59

Saturday, May 27

Friday, June 2

Saturday, June 3

Di Bird Red Hot & Blue – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 Planet Groove – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Big Radio Dynamite – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Shaylee Wilde – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180 Crawl File, Australian Crawl Show – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4773 8888 Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole – Rooty Hill RSL $44-$74, 8pm 9677 4916

Acoustic Soloist – Red Cow Free entry, 4.30pm 4721 5666 Friday Night Lights – The Joan Free entry, 5.30pm 4723 7600 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211

Jive Bombers – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Mary’s Karaoke – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4721 5764 The Eagles Show, Desperado– Rooty Hill RSL $25, 8pm 9677 4916 Big Way Out – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Jesus Christ Superstar – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $32.40-$46, 2pm and 8pm 4723 5050 Retrospective – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Todd McKenney sings Peter Allen – Blacktown Workers Club $55, 8pm 9830 0600

Travis Collins Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Friday, June 2, 8.00pm, $20-$25

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Evan Theatre 4720 5555 Saturday, May 27, 8.00pm, $35-$39

Sunday, June 4 The Shuffle Boys – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Jesus Christ Superstar – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $32.40-$46, 2pm 4723 5050 Talking Rubbish Comedy Gala The Joan 4723 7600 Sunday, June 4, 7.00pm, Free entry

2 Way Split – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Down Thunder – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Circus Oz – The Joan $55-$60, 7.30pm 4723 7600 Jimmy Bear – Oriental Hotel, Springwood Free entry, 8pm 4751 4488

Sunday, May 28 Tall Timbre – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Jade Hurley – Evan Theatre Members: Free entry, Visitors: $27, 4pm 4720 5555 Blackwater – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 5pm 4722 8180

Jesus Christ Superstar – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood $32.40-$46, 8pm 4723 5050 Mary’s DJ – Australian Arms Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4731 3881 Dean’s Karaoke with Freddie – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 2060 Toxic Dolls – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Australian Blink 182 Show – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 K.P – Oriental Hotel, Springwood Free entry, 8pm 4751 4488 Jalepeno Deluxe – St Marys Leagues Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Blake Tailor Duo – Winmalee Tavern Free entry, 8pm 4754 2172

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O D UST

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Jordan Springs & Surrounds Women’s Community Group JS-WCG@outlook.com Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Emu Craft Market Second Saturday of the month • Nepean High School Lung Support Group Second Wednesday of each month • 4733 8926 30-plus Singles Group Meets Friday nights at Penrith RSL • 0418 254 229 Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at Nepean Hospital • 1300 133 878 Penrith Evening NSA Branch First Tuesday of each month 0439 926 423

Explore the life and times of an American icon Head along to the opening of the Winter Exhibition Suite this Saturday from 3pm to 5pm at the Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest in Emu Plains. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the life and times of John F.Kennedy in ‘American Visionary’, along with creative works by Australian sculptor, artist, author and architect Richard Goodwin in ‘Navigator’. If you miss out on the official opening, you can catch the exhibits on display until Sunday, August 20.

Baby Bootie Club For local young mums Tuesdays • 0417 498 918

OR I N E S FOR

S D I K R FO

Emu Plains Lions Club New members always needed • 4735 5120

Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Wednesdays • 0407 077 143

Diary of a Wombat at The Joan

Afternoon of wonderful music

Come face to face with Australian children’s literature’s favourite wombat Mothball with ‘Diary of a Wombat’ at The Joan this Tuesday.

St. Finbar’s Church in Glenbrook will be filled with the sounds of Mozart, Handel and Bach for a special concert this Sunday at 3pm.

PH: 4731 5444 • 218 Great Western Hwy Kingswood

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Great view, great club New menu – dine inside or outside New weekend breakfast menu Book your next family celebration Club & Bistro Ph. 4731 2255 Function Enquiries Ph. 1300 747 646

www.nepeanrowingclub.com.au

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Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

Ê Season two of hit Channel Nine comedy ‘Here Comes The Habibs’ returns on Monday, June 5 at 8pm. This local production was a breakout hit for Nine last year and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s in store for the Habib family this time around.

HERE COME THE HABIBS JUNE 5 CHANNEL NINE

Ê After plenty of speculation of late, it’s official – ‘Roseanne’ is returning to television. The classic US sitcom, starring Roseanne Barr and John Goodman, is back along with many other original cast members. Eight episodes have been announced to debut sometime later this year. John Goodman will return, despite his character Dan being killed off, which will be explained as Roseanne’s ‘dream’. News of the show’s revival follows recent comebacks for ‘Gilmore Girls’, ‘Will and Grace’, ‘Twin Peaks’, ‘Prison Break’ and ‘Full House’. Ê More shows in the US have been hit with the axe over the past week including ‘Training Day’, ‘Doubt’, ‘Pure Genius’, ‘Scream Queens’, ‘Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders’, ‘Secrets and Lies’ and ‘The Odd Couple’. Ê A number of US shows have been spared the axe and earned themselves new seasons including ‘New Girl’, ‘Quantico’, ‘The Exorcist’, ‘Fresh Off The Boat’ and ‘Code Black’. Ê Pop superstar Katy Perry is the first big name judge to join the brand new ‘American Idol’. Ê Channel Seven has secured the rights to the 2017 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, screening all 12 matches on broad-

cast and live streaming. Matches begin in mid November in Cronulla and culminate in a final on December 2 in Brisbane, where both the men’s and women’s finals are played.

man washes ashore, she must uncover the town’s secrets while investigating its strange inhabitants, a group of dangerous half-Sirens, half-humans called “Tidelanders”.

Ê Great news for fans of ‘Arrested Development’ with Netflix renewing the hit Jason Bateman comedy for a fifth season.

Ê Dr Christian Jessen from ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ will front new SBS series ‘Dr Christian Will See You Now’ this Monday, May 29 at 7.35pm.

Ê Netflix has announced its first ever Australian original series ‘Tidelands’, a supernatural crime drama to be filmed in Queensland. The 10-part series follows a former criminal as she returns home to the small fishing village of Orphelin Bay. When the body of a local fisher-

Ê ‘Nashville’ returns from a mid-season break in the US next week. Now that they’ve caught up after delaying the season in Australia, Foxtel has the chance to fast track episodes, but there’s no indication yet that it’ll happen.

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Above:

A Biggest Morning Tea event was held at the Creative Fringe in Penrith on Tuesday morning

Below:

The music was pumping and the drinks were flowing as locals descended on the Peachy last Friday night

SPECIALISING IN

Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Social Scene

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CD Linkin Park: One More Light

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

OUT NOW WON T UO

DVD Patriots Day Rated M

Mark Wahlberg leads an all star cast in this action thriller based on the Boston Marathon bombing. After two bombs explode during the popular marathon Sergeant Tommy Saunders (Wahlberg) joins a group of first responders, investigators and courageous survivors as they attempt to hunt down the bombers and bring them to justice. Celebrating the resilience and strength of Boston natives, the film brings together the

stories of Police Commissioner Ed Davis (John Goodman), Special Agent Richard DesLauriers (Kevin Bacon), nurse Carol Saunders (Michelle Monaghan) and Sergeant Jeffrey Pugliese (J.K. Simmons). It’s often the case that these types of films can over-dramatise true stories, but critics have praised ‘Patriots Day’ for doing justice to the events of this horrifying real-life tragedy. Grab your copy now on DVD and Blu-ray.

CINEMA Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales Rated M

Grammy Award winners Linkin Park take a new direction on their seventh full-length album ‘One More Light’. The band are no strangers to reinvention, but this might just be their biggest stretch yet with this release being a purely pop affair. It’s a long way from the nu-metal sound that made their debut album ‘Hybrid Theory’ such a success. While it’s understandable that musicians would want to explore different genres, it remains to be seen whether fans will want to stick around for the journey.

Captain Jack Sparrow is sailing back onto the big screen with the release of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales’. In this all-new adventure, Jack (Johnny Depp) finds his life under threat when his old enemy, the evil Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), manages to escape the Devil’s Triangle. The only way to save himself is to find the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to do so Jack must team up with the brilliant astronomer Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario) and the headstrong young sailor Henry (Brenton Thwaites) from the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, Jack at-

DIARY OF A WOMBAT

tempts to reverse his misfortune while saving himself from his malicious foe. ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales’ is the fifth film in the blockbuster franchise. Early reviews are looking good for this latest release, which was filmed in the Gold Coast hinterland in Queensland. This is definitely one to watch on the big screen so don’t miss out, grab your tickets now. ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales’ is currently screening at Hoyts Penrith inside the Westfield Penrith complex. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.hoyts. com.au.

A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production

Based on the book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley.

THE BELOVED, AWARD WINNING CHILDREN’S BOOK IS BROUGHT TO LIFE WITH THE MAGIC OF PUPPETRY AND LIVE MUSIC.

Ages 3+

ALL TICKETS $18 BOOKINGS

thejoan.com.au | 4723 7600

TUESDAY 30 MAY 2PM

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Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre 597 High Street Penrith

OUR PARTNER IN CREATIVITY

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

creative A U

Custom design, production, printing and digital solutions I

sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au 4722 2998

crossword ACROSS 1. Honey liquor 4. Researched 8. Undulating 11. Painter, ... Picasso 13. Feelings 15. Smiles broadly 17. Soak (up) 18. Diff erent 20. Kangaroo pouch 21. Eskimo shelter 24. Desert spring 27. Large antlered animal 28. Squalid 30. Approaching 31. Explode 33. Bordered 34. Stoat 35. Appeal 36. Lion’s neck hair 39. Commending (for bravery) 42. Speak 44. In the buff 45. Marten pelt 46. Swedish automobile manufacturer 48. Cheque recipient 49. Stacked 50. Guide 52. Cherish 54. Desperate 55. Gangly 56. Steers clear of 57. Strong fl avour 60. Pen fl uids 62. Stamp books 65. As a gamble (2,4) 67. Netherlands centre of government, The ... 69. Malicious insults 70. Appreciated 72. ... & don’ts 73. Computer input device (1,1-3) 75. Mooed 77. Sore (loser) 79. Fragrance 81. Snow-runner 82. Inspire 84. Apple-shaped fruit,pear 85. Actress, Sophia ... 86. Supplemented, ... out 87. Flaxseed 88. Workout clubs

DOWN 1. Crowds 2. Quickly 3. Block (river) 4. Music style 5. Leftover (merchandise) 6. Levy (tax) 7. Rented movie discs (1,1,2) 8. Moisten 9. Hearth fl akes 10. Sarah, Duchess of ... 12. Record’s secondary track (1-4) 14. Naval offi cer 16. Art stand 19. Singer, ... John 22. Spin 23. Coastal waters 25. Make fi zzy 26. Curved-bill birds 29. Refugee 32. Dreaming period, ... sleep (1,1,1) 35. Seer 37. Saunter 38. Travel cheats, fare ... 40. Model 41. Garish 42. Radical 43. Very swift 44. Toothbrush bristles fi bre 47. Ill on jet 51. Touched lightly 52. Hands-on-hips position 53. Nonetheless (4,2) 54. Chin indentation 58. Detest 59. Cloth used to silence person 61. Photographic supplies company 63. Director, George ... 64. Biblical strongman 65. Compel 66. Kind of duck 68. United (2,3) 71. Dark wood 72. Stupefy 74. Post & ... fence 76. Fuse 78. Young society entrants 80. Livid 83. Meat & three ...

Last week’s solution

Sudoku brought to you by Emerson’s Envirocare 1800 600 760 www.emersonenvirocaresydney.com

Sudoku Fill in all squares so each row, column and each of the nine 3 x 3 squares contain all digits from one to nine.

Last week’s Sudoku solution

life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

Get ready for the spontaneous sparks to fly this week! Which could work out well, depending on your attitude. Brilliant ideas are favoured, but a hasty and half-baked approach could see you end up in a heap of trouble. So pace yourself Rams. Relationships and social media look super. You’ll find the more actively you participate in community projects, the more fabulous connections you’ll make.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The planets activate your hopes and wishes zone, so you need to be passionately proactive about your goals for the future. Don’t just dream about it, get out there and do it! Confidence is the fuel that will take you where you want to go. It’s also time to celebrate your strengths. Be inspired by Marilyn Monroe: “Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring”.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Business-minded Bulls – a creative approach clears away the cobwebs, especially when it comes to money matters. And with Mars moving through your $$$ zone, the more proactive you are about increasing your cash flow, the more your financial situation will improve. But avoid being too black and white about a complicated relationship issue (especially involving possessions or joint finances).

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Virgos are versatile and multi-talented, but you’re not very good at promoting your skills and blowing your own trumpet. This week, with the Sun, Mars and Jupiter revving up your reputation zone, you’re shining in the public spotlight. So make sure you’re putting on a spectacular show! As Marilyn Monroe said, “Everyone is a star and deserves the right to twinkle”.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

With the Sun and sexy Mars stimulating your sign, you’re feeling flirtatious. As Australian performer Kylie Minogue says, “I’m just a natural flirt”. Mercury (your ruling planet) links up with powerful Pluto on Wednesday, so it’s time to approach life with extra passion and persistence. And don’t rush! Research and an unusually forensic approach will see you solve a problem or uncover a mystery or two.

Joanne Madeline Moore

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

You love your creature comforts and Libran luxuries but avoid getting stuck in a complacent rut. With the Sun, Mars and Jupiter all activating your adventure zone, it’s time to plan an overseas sojourn; take an interstate trip; or rough it in the great outdoors closer to home. If you stretch yourself beyond your comfort zone, then you’ll feel more energised and alive! It’s also a wonderful week to consolidate a long-term relationship.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Weekly posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2017

With Jupiter and the Sun stimulating your home zone, is it time to shake up your domestic routine; clear the clutter; extend your living space or even renovate? You need plenty of room to move at the moment. A family relationship is also set to improve in leaps and bounds. Saturn boosts professional productivity on Thursday, and helps you socialise and circulate with an influential new crowd.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Grab your magnifying glass and don your detective cap! With the Sun and Jupiter activating your intrigue zones you could uncover a surprising secret, as a financial fiasco or a romantic indiscretion is revealed. So your motto for the moment is from fellow Scorpio, Bill Gates: “Whether I’m at the office, at home or on the road, I always have a stack of books I’m looking forward to reading”.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

When it comes to a close personal relationship, slow down. If you jump to half-baked conclusions about a loved one, then you could end up with scrambled egg on your Sagittarian face! Single Archers – love and travel are linked in wonderful ways, so start saving ASAP. Saturday is a fabulously fortunate day, when prosperity planet Jupiter sends blessings your way. Just make sure you don’t let a lucky opportunity pass you by.

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

your

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Expect Monday to be full of frustrations and delays. But then business deals and professional matters are favoured from Tuesday, when your instincts lead you in the right direction. If you are fair and flexible, then you’ll be able to patch up a problem with a fractious family member. Clint Eastwood: “Sometimes, if you want to see a change for the better, you have to take things into your own hands”.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

You’ll feel like rocking the relationship boat and causing controversy. Be careful who you stir up though, as they may have a few surprise moves of their own! Make the most of your unique talents on Tuesday and Wednesday, when Mars and Uranus rev up your creativity. Look to avant-garde Aquarian role models for some extra inspiration. Sick of being single? You could fall for someone very fast, especially via an online introduction.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Life’s confusing for many Pisceans at the moment but don’t complicate matters by becoming overly dependent on the counsel of others. Asking for advice is fine, but it’s up to you to make the final decision. Flashes of intuition will lead intrepid Fish in the right direction. With Mercury moving through your communication zone, it’s time to express your feelings and say what’s on your mind.

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your

religion

How carefully do you choose the words you use? Words can come so easily, but cause so much damage...

Rev John Lavender www.glenmorepark anglican.com.au and on Facebook

Did you know that in the English language there are about one million words? Apparently the average adult recognises about 30,000 to 50,000 of these words but only uses 10,000 to 15,000. While there are many words we don’t use, a bigger issue is, how careful are we with the words we do use? It has been said, “cold words freeze people, hot words scorch them, bitter words make them bitter and angry words only increase their anger”. A careless, thoughtless word can have the intensity of a shot gun blast – quick, powerful and destructive – something we cannot take back and something causing great damage, hurt and pain. This is why God in the Bible speaks in strong, plain language about the words we use, urging us to give thought to the way we speak. For example, in the book of Proverbs, we read how “the tongue of the wise brings healing” but “a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit”. In the book of James, we read how the uncontrolled use of our tongue can be compared to the damage caused by a wild forest fire.

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Or in the book of Ephesians, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen”. Ultimately, our words matter, whether spoken or in an email or text message. From our own experience we know it

is not true that “sticks and stones might break my bones, but words will never hurt me”. Our words can crush or build up. It would be good to pray, asking God to help you use words for the building up of others according to their needs. Have a great weekend and I’ll see you next week!

your education

Rob Ollis

Master Coaching Penrith 4722 3072

The Weekender today launches a brand new education column, which will be featured in ‘Your Life’ every week. Meet Robert Ollis from Master Coaching Penrith... Hi, my name is Robert Ollis, and for the next few weeks I will be the educational columnist for the Western Weekender. As well as my academic qualifications, my credentials for this position are as follows: 1. I was a State High School teacher for 18 years in four different large high schools in the western suburbs of Sydney. 2. I was Head of Mathematics for nine years in three different schools. 3. I left school to start an educational tuition business, which I later franchised. 4. I sold over 100 franchises throughout Australia including at least one in every State and Territory. 5. During the past 20 years I have run professional seminars in at least 50 different schools and in the process trained at least 1000 different teachers on my own developed unique teaching methods.

6. I have been a guest lecturer and teacher at a number of schools in both China and Korea. 7. For a number of years I was the Educational Spokesperson on the Leon Byner program, 5AA Adelaide, the number one talkback radio program in South Australia. My passion is education, specifically coaching students in mathematics. My philosophy is that every child has unlimited potential to learn. I am not afraid of controversial issues and would welcome the comment of dissenting opinions. I know that it is only by listening that you learn, as an educator I appreciate the value of continued learning. In the next few weeks, we will look at such issues as ‘how children learn’; ‘the controversy surrounding homework’; ‘creating good study habits’; ‘the HSC, what it really means’; ‘tips for examination preparation’; and many more. Occasionally, the column will be replaced with a puzzle for you to enjoy. A small sample: Jai tosses two fair coins, looks at the result and truthfully exclaims; “I have at least one head”. What is the probability that Jai’s coins both show heads? Answer next week. If you have a topic you’d like Robert to address in his column, email news@ westernweekender.com.au or send us a message on Facebook.

health

Knowledge is power when it comes to surgery recovery Seeing a physiotherapist can be a huge help when planning your recovery from serious surgery...

Joanne Wholahan Physiotherapist OnePointHealth 4732 5188 onepointhealth.com.au

Many women undertake gynaecological repair surgery such as hysterectomy and pelvic organ prolapse repair. Women are often anxious and fearful of impending surgery. Too many women are unaware of the precise surgical procedure they are embarking on and don’t fully understand how they can maximise their recovery and success of the procedure. Preparing for surgery is key to a better recovery. Empowering women with strategies to help them recover not only reduces anxiety and fear but also helps them feel in control of the rehabilitation phases allowing women to safely and successfully return to a healthy active lifestyle. Some key points on helping prepare for surgery include: • Discuss with your specialist the exact procedure you will be having so you are fully informed and understand the surgery. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or do your own research. • Develop healthy habits to ensure you are at peak health for the anaesthetic and surgery.

• Get organised for when you get home from hospital such as a stocked pantry, meals in the freezer, home help, childcare and a driver for appointments. • Organise the physical setting to allow you to comfortably recover, which could include being in a room close to the bathroom, choosing a suitable chair to be able to sit and stand from, use a long handled “grapper” to assist you with picking things up. • Have strategies in place to assist you manage your pain such as suitable medications, a comfortable resting place and pacing yourself. • Know how to move around safely to protect and avoid strain on your surgical site such as how to stand up from sitting, bend, roll, cough, lifting/ carrying. • Understand how to avoid constipation and how to correctly empty and manage bowel symptoms after surgery. • Know how to correctly activate your pelvic floor and core muscles. • Know what type of movement and exercise is appropriate for what stage of your recovery. A pre and post surgery visit to physiotherapy will empower you with all the information and exercise required for optimal recovery. See you next week!

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

your

Be front of mind for tax time

Foot or leg pain? Be put in front of our readers so you are front of mind for tax time.

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We are a truly Independent paper servicing Penrith for over 25 years.

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

your

Eye problems are a common sight in dogs and cats

pets

You should always be alert to any eye issues that your pet may have...

Nicole McMillan Practice owner of Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic and the Western Sydney Cat Hospital

Eye ulceration is a painful and serious problem we commonly see in our practice. Dogs and cats will often demonstrate their eye is sore by squinting or closing the eye and/or rubbing at the eye. Ocular discharge may be seen as watery tears or thick yellow/green discharge. The clear surface of the eye (the cornea) may become cloudy if inflammation or infection is present. It is often termed a “red eye” as the whites of the eye (the sclera) and the conjunctiva become inflamed. Eye ulcers are caused by anything that damages the cornea. It can include trauma from a dog fight or a cat scratch, foreign bodies caught behind the eyelids like grass seeds and chemical burns including shampoo in the eye. Abnormalities with the eyelids can also cause irritation. This includes eyelashes that grow on the inside of the eyelid, lumps that grow on the eyelid edge and entropion, a condition where the eyelids roll inwards and the eyelashes and fur rub against the eye. A lot of animals will get damage to the eye when running through long grass, bushy areas or getting into the plants in

your garden. The brachycephalic breeds are more prone to eye trauma as their eyes bulge forward more and their noses are shorter, so they have less protection to their eyes. Sometimes animals will have a skin irritation and rub at their face and accidently rub against the eye. Cats can develop eye ulceration secondary to herpes virus infection, one of the cat flu viruses. If an eye appears sore, is closed, red, cloudy or has discharge, seek veterinary attention immediately. When your vet examines the eye, they will use a local anaesthetic to help relieve pain and open the eye. A specialised fluorescent stain is placed on the eye. It attaches to the ulcerated area and fluoresces under a coloured

light. This will show the size and location of the ulcer and is helpful for monitoring how an ulcer is healing. Often the pupil will constrict in response to pain, this can cause increased pressure within the eye. A medication can be applied to the eye to open the pupil and reduce intraocular pressure. A calm patient may allow examination behind the third eyelid for foreign bodies and ectopic cilia may be visible, but as the area is painful, sedation is often required to examine the eye further. A corneal ulcer will normally heal quite quickly if the eye remains free of infection, pain and trauma. This is achieved by antibiotic eye medication, pain relief and anti-inflammatory oral medications.

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look

Seeing red: Australian Fashion Week proves that black’s out! Australian Fashion Week is great to check out all the new trends, but you can be inspired by the colours and styles to build your perfect new wardrobe...

Alyce Madden For the latest trends follow @westfieldpenrith on Instagram

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At 8 years of age this lovely girl is quite stressed with the shelter environment and really needs a new home. We had her out for a run and some treats and she is a nice friendly lady that would make a great addition to most homes.

The red trend can be taken on no matter if you a going big or small. A great way to include the showstopper colour is to accessorise red with your bag or shoe and keep the rest of your outfit neutral with whites and denim. At Novo Shoes, you can find the Kalisha red velvet pointed toe boot, perfect for the season with an elegant stiletto heel. Street style watching at the MercedesBenz Fashion Week has shown us a few little tricks and tips to update our current wardrobe with the way we choose to wear different pieces. Jackets – whether it be an oversized boyfriend denim one or a zip up bomber – they have all been buttoned/zipped to a point that lets you wear them completely off the shoulder. This trick works well with the classic trench coat and instantly gives you a cool updated 2017 look. Play around with the Selena Dolly Coat from Forever New at Westfield Penrith and layer a long sleeved top underneath, so you don’t get cold shoulders! You may not be walking the cat walk any time soon and maybe you can’t afford the high end fashion that we sometimes see at Fashion Week, but you can certainly be inspired by the trends and pick up some great items at your local Westfield. Do you have a fashion subject you’d like Alyce to tackle? Send an email to news@ westernweekender.com.au.

Every Australian Fashion Week has us waiting on the edge of our seats to see what the big name designers will be releasing in their upcoming new season collections. Often pulling more inspiration are the captivating street style looks of fashion goers attending the huge event. For fashion fans and fans of people watching, here are the latest upcoming trends you should be looking out for in the months ahead. The colour of the season has to be red. Nobody wants to wear black anymore, the more bold the better! At designer Strateas Carlucci’s show, a striking patent leather above the knee coat was featured. The designer chose to pair back the red coat with grey neutral tights and strappy grey heels. A look that certainly grabs attention, Michael Lo Sordo opted at his show for a daring red on red silk pantsuit, channeling vibes cross between oriental and classy pyjamas.

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This poor boy is way out of his comfort zone at the shelter, he likes to hide and not be noticed but is a very sweet boy. He does enjoy some pats and in a home environment would open up and show his true lovely personality..

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Rugar has been surrendered by his owners as they are moving Overseas. They have left the following info about him. He is a yard dog, not house trained, he doesn’t climb fences or dig & gets along with Men, Women & Children ( ages 11, 13, 16 ).

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For 9 weeks this girl has sat at the shelter wondering if it’s her turn to be adopted, sadly yet that time hasn’t come. She is a nice friendly cat that will always greet you for a pat and chat when you walk into the cattery.

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

your

HCC 129 BULL ARAB MALE 3 YEARS $360.00 AVAILABLE FOR REHOMING 11.4.17 KENNEL 33 Dozer has been at the shelter for 9 weeks now and we can’t understand how he hasn’t been Adopted in that time. Dozer is a calm, happy and beautiful natured dog that has done many meets with dogs and has always been a gentleman.

We always recommend bringing your own dogs to the shelter to meet any of the shelter dogs.

The shelter is in need of toys, blankets (not doonas or pillows though), treats and coats for large dogs. Please contact the shelter if you can help.

Our contact details are:

facebook.com/FriendsHCAS twitter.com/HawkesburyPdVol fohcas.com

Shelters contact details are:

Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756 ph: 02 4560 4644 companionanimal@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au WW28042

Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

your

food

No such thing as a perfect size: Time to focus on health Too often we judge health by what the scales say, but it’s a dangerous approach that isn’t helping us lead a better lifestyle...

Kate Reid Nutritionist kate.reid@ westernweekender.com.au @kate_reid6

When it comes to the war on weight we are well and truly losing – and not in the way we intended. Even with a thriving diet industry we haven’t quite worked out the key to long term weight loss, with most people regaining weight, and then some. While this is a complex issue with a myriad of contributing factors there is one question that comes up over and over again: are we focusing too much on weight and not enough on health? This question has spawned a movement called Health At Every Size (HAES), which is gaining popularity among dietitians and other health professionals. The concept of the HAES approach is simple, put the focus on adopting healthy behaviours rather than weight loss. Teach people how to eat intuitively in a way that is healthy and pleasurable and encourage them to find physical activity they enjoy. As someone who worked with hundreds of clients during my years as a health coach, I have to say there’s many things that make sense about this approach.

Within my own little sample of clients – which in no way holds the same weight as peer reviewed scientific research, but does offer some interesting insights – I noticed that those who focused on weight seemed to lose less weight than those who focused on healthy behaviour change. I also spoke to many people who were in a ‘healthy’ weight range who had poor habits, and vice versa. The problem is there are many ways to lose weight, and not all of them correlate with health. For example, I could live on nothing but hamburgers and still lose weight, as long as I was restricting my intake enough.

What is good for weight loss is not always good for health. Now I am not going to get into a discussion about the complex relationship between weight and health – as I could never do it justice in this short amount of space, but I do think that focusing on the behaviours rather than the outcome is an important step in making progress towards better physical and mental health. I also know that people are more likely to take care of themselves when they feel they are worth taking care of. That’s hard to do when we’re too focused on being the ever-elusive ‘perfect’ size. See you next week!

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armelo D’Aquino holds a special place in my heart for two reasons. Firstly, the small delicatessen he established in Orange was one of the things that kept my late father sane. Arnold was an extremely proud Australian but as a post-war refugee from war-torn Europe he found the food here somewhat bland, to say the least… except for the continental goodies — sausages and breads and table wines, etc — stocked by Carmelo. Secondly, we tend to think of Orange as a quite recent addition to the Australian wine scene, but, in fact, Carmelo D’Aquino made his first barrel of wine there, in a small tin shed, in 1946, just on 70 years ago. The origin of the grapes has been lost to history but that hardly matters. What matters is that Carmelo is recorded as the first winemaker in Orange and that he started an industry that has boomed in recent years and lifted the district to an esteemed standard in the world of wine. That tradition has been inherited by his grandson Rex D’Aquino, who produces some of the country’s top drops under the Highland Heritage label and has just released a couple of reds in the new Patrono series, released specifically to honour the pioneering work of work of Carmelo. The Highland Heritage operation, on the outskirts of Orange along the Mitchell Highway towards Sydney, is one of region’s modern landmarks. And Rex, thankfully, has a firm grip on history. “We have seen great changes over the past 70 years. From traversing Australia to buy grapes we moved closer to home, making wine from Cowra during the 1980s and now making our flagship wines from vines that we planted here in Orange 1985,” he said.

JOHN ROZENTALS

money

Why insurance is something we all need to think about Insurance is rarely a hot discussion topic but it’s a part of your life you must seriously consider...

Alex McKenzie Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

I must admit that most people don’t get too excited talking about insurance, and therefore often don’t give it the attention it deserves. The problem is, if the worst happens, very few families would have the means to maintain their lifestyle without proper insurance. A 2013 survey from insurance provider TAL found that only about one third of Australians of working age had life insurance, and about 1 in 10 had trauma or income protection insurance. Worse still a Rice Warner survey indicated that even for those with insurance, over half were underinsured. I’m often asked if we really need life insurance? In simple terms if someone is financially dependent on you, it is likely that you need insurance. How much insurance do I need is a more complex question. At our office we have a very structured method of calculating how much cover will be required. In broad terms we attempt to calculate how much money the surviving family will require to maintain their lifestyle for

the remainder of their life expectancy. We also estimate future income likely to be earned by the surviving partner (this may be reduced without the support of their partner) and saleable assets that have already been accumulated. The gap between the sum required and the future income and current assets is the amount of life insurance we need. We have a very defined process to calcu-

late the future income needed. We look at debt, living costs and specific costs such as children’s education. We take into consideration inflation, future changes such as children leaving home and other potential changes. We are able to use this information to calculate a figure that the family requires to maintain their lifestyle. The saleable assets usually include super and investments, including investment properties. Although we call them saleable assets, the assets won’t necessarily be sold, but it is envisaged that they will be used one way or another to help provide for the family. The calculation of future income is based on the surviving spouse’s income keeping pace with the average Australian wage increases. However we will often make adjustments where a change in work situation is likely. The most common being an increase in work hours when the kids reach school age. Although these calculations require estimates and assumptions, they provide an excellent framework to ensure that your family is taken care of in the event the worst happens. Although not something we like to think about, it is all too common that a death in the family, which is already emotionally shattering, can also result in an enormous amount of financial pressure. Life insurance can at least relieve the financial pressure.

the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

your

The Week - Podcast Now reading your favourite local newspaper is just the beginning. Join us every Saturday for ‘The Week’ - an engaging new podcast covering the week that was, and the week that will be, in Penrith. New edition available every Saturday from 9am at westernweekender.com.au. Also hear the show on Vintage FM from 8am Saturdays.

Friday, May 26, 2017 ÂŤ the western weekender

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

AUTO

NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

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the western weekender » Friday, May 26, 2017

Sport

FOOTBALL

Quiet way to send a loud message Teams from Cranebrook United and Hazelbrook FC promoting Shoosh for Kids Week last weekend NATHAN TAYLOR

he Nepean Football Association teamed up with the Office of Sport and Football NSW last weekend, to promote positive sideline behaviour at junior sporting events through Shoosh for Kids Week. Despite a number of local grounds closed due to wet weather, Shoosh for Kids was deemed a major success according to Nepean FA General Manager, Linda Cerone. “Even though we did have some ground closures, it didn’t detract from the message,” Cerone said.

“By all accounts, the clubs who remained open supported the event and the concept.” The general rule is, if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. The purpose of the campaign is to support grass roots sport to provide a positive environment for their members, whilst assisting to address issues which arise from poor sideline behaviour, a common sight at local grounds. This was the first time Nepean FA took part in the Shoosh for Kids initiative, despite it being around for a number of years. “We were really excited to get on board with this state initiative, which was

strongly supported by Football NSW and playbytherules.net.au,” Cerone said. “It was great to have the support of our governing body – it definitely gave the event and the concept more traction when it was delivered state-wide.” With sport playing such an important role in everyone’s lives, Office of Sport Chief Executive Matt Miller said ensuring all players, officials and spectators have a positive experience is key. “We want everyone, especially children, to continue their involvement in sport because it’s a fun and encouraging environment for everyone,” he said. “Most people do the right thing. However, the sports we are working with

want to remind spectators that there is no place for negative comments in local sport.” Nepean FA weren’t the only local sporting association recognising Shoosh for Kids Week, with the Penrith Basketball Association, Penrith District Netball Association and a number of local junior AFL clubs also taking part. “It’s really important for parents, team officials and other sideline supporters to understand that their behaviour and their actions can have either a positive or negative influence on the kids and officials on the field,” Cerone said. “The grown-ups need to remember, it’s just a game.”

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Meet The Chairman

How a rugby league fan found his way The introduction of the GWS Giants into the AFL has helped spark a revival in Aussie Rules, and the NATHAN TAYLOR

The Weekender’s Meet The Chairman series introduces you to the people in charge of our local sporting clubs. This week, we chat with Penrith Rams Chairman, Greg Corless... How long have you been Chairman of the Penrith Rams? This is my third year as Chairman of the Penrith Rams. How long have you been involved with the club and what were your roles? This is my 10th year at the Penrith Rams. I was Director of Youth Football for a couple of years and focused on re-establishing an U18’s team. Following that I became Director of Football Operations for five years. Prior to my move to the club, I was President of the mighty Emu Plains/Glenmore Park Lions Junior AFL Club. Explain what your role entails? To be honest, it’s just a title. Everyone from the five-member board to the subcommittee, volunteers, families, supporters and players play a huge role in keeping the operational side of the club successful

and viable. Although it involves a lot of administrative duties, meetings, recruitment, player retention, planning, fundraising and the like, it all becomes worthwhile on match day watching the teams on the field. This season we are fielding six teams – three senior men’s, two women’s teams and an U19’s side. Next year we are looking to add an U18’s female team in conjunction with the junior clubs. Being the largest club in western Sydney certainly has its challenges. On many occasions, we find ourselves at five or six different venues in the Sydney-wide competition, which requires significant logistical planning. All our members, from the board, coaching staff, support staff and players, volunteer their services with no remuneration. We have had over a decade of support from our major sponsor, the FAL Group, who operate the best two hotels in western Sydney, The Red Cow and O’Donoghues Irish Pub at Emu Plains. How did you fall in love with the sport? I was always a league fan and had little time for ‘Aerial Ping Pong’. In 2000, my nine-year-old son decided after a few years of soccer, that he wanted to play

PH: 4730 6000

AFL after watching a Swans game. It was the first year that a junior AFL association in the area was formed. The dream of seeing my son wear the green and gold for Australia was shattered with the wife winning over and ruling that he join the newly formed Emu Plains/Glenmore Park Lions. For better or worse, we became friendly with the club founders, David and Kim Nolan, who over a few dinners and many red wines, convinced me to join the committee. Over the next 17 years, I slowly grasped the concept of the skill and athleticism of the sport, although the camaraderie and passion of the local football community gave me a great love for the game. What are some of challenges/issues facing Aussie Rules locally? Our challenges are probably very similar to most sporting organisations locally. Good venues would rank highly. We work closely with Penrith City Council in improvements to our home at Greygums Oval in Cranebrook. They do a fantastic job with limited resources. Another issue is the transformation of junior players to continue playing sport after leaving the junior ranks. The retention rate is quite poor. We acknowledge

that the 16-19 age group is a difficult one with HSC, uni, jobs, girlfriends/boyfriends etc, often taking priorities. We work hard to encourage all kids to continue playing sport locally with their mates and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This year has seen some heartbreaking tragedy with the loss of some young people associated with the AFL community. We are planning a big ‘Charity Round’ in August to raise funds to financially support local organisations in dealing with educating, supporting and counselling young people on awareness in what is regarded as a somewhat a fragile demographic. If you could improve one area of your sport on a local level, what would it be? Probably driving the relationship between the junior feeder clubs and the senior club in the area, Penrith Rams. Encouraging players to play locally instils a sense of belonging in this great sporting city of ours. Are you happy with the amount of Government funding your club receives or could you do with more financial help? Like all sporting organisations locally, funding is a big issue.

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to Aussie Rules Penrith Rams are at the forefront of the revolution Over the last five years we have been fortunate in gaining some great government grants. Recently we have received funding for a new facility at Greygums Oval, to stand alongside the existing facility. It will include a meeting room, kitchen, first aid/umpires room, ambulant toilet and much-needed storage space to replace the rusting containers currently in use. We have also had a lighting upgrade to enable night matches, awning extension, change room upgrades, electronic scoreboard and re-turfing over the last few years with the help of the Federal, State and Local Governments along with our own fundraising efforts.

Also, in 2012, we saw Reserve Grade win their first premiership. Another highlight was seeing local Cranebrook girl Renee “Tonka Truck” Tomkins drafted in the AFLW National Competition and playing every minute of every game for the GWS Giants.

There are always plenty of success stories about Aussie Rules in the Weekender, what are some of the things you are most proud of? It’s too hard to name just one, so I’ll name a few. Winning a first grade flag in 2011 – breaking a 20-year drought – brought tears to many long-time members. The introduction of the women’s team, the Ramettes, in 2012 is close to my heart. After a tough initiation, they are proving to be a powerhouse in Sydney Women’s AFL with two teams competing this year.

Looking into your crystal ball, where do you see Aussie Rules locally in five years’ time? I envisage healthy, organic growth. The success of the GWS Giants in western Sydney has given a higher profile to the sport and the flow-on effect should see benefits. Female football participation is exploding and we are proud to be recognised as one of the first western Sydney clubs to introduce a team. I’m certain that 2022 will be a great year for the Rams.

How many registered players does the Penrith Rams currently have and how do you plan to grow the game? We have around 170 registered players for our six teams this year. Probably just short of our ideal numbers of around 30 players per squad, so new players are certainly most welcome.

Greg Corless is passionate about Aussie Rules. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, May 26, 2017 « the western weekender

Football Popovic chases experience as he builds new-look squad NATHAN TAYLOR

fter they punted numerous big names last week, including captain Dimas, the Western Sydney Wanderers have gone on a spending spree, adding four new players to the club. Roly Bonevacia and Josh Risdon have both signed with the Wanderers until the end of the 2018/19 season while Michael Thwaite and John Hall will join the club on one-year deals. Bonevacia joins from Wellington Phoenix, where he made 80 A-League appearances and netted 14 goals in his three seasons at the club. A youth international with the Netherlands, the 25-year-old’s ability to fill a number of attacking roles for the team will be a big bonus for coach Tony Popovic. “I’m very excited to start a new challenge, it’s something I’m really looking forward to,” Bonevacia said. “The club is very hungry for success and the coach gets the best out of his players and makes them better.” Josh Risdon moves east from Perth Glory where the right-back was the club’s most capped player with 142 appearances. Capped three times by the Socceroos,

the 24-year-old said he was delighted to be entering a new stage in his career. “Obviously being at Perth for so long, it was a tough decision but I feel that this is the right choice and I’m excited for the new experience,” Risdon said. Michael Thwaite arrives in western Sydney after spending last season in the Chinese Super League. The former Socceroo, who began his professional footballing journey with the Marconi Stallions, returns to the A-League for a ninth season having notched up 183 appearances with Melbourne Victory, Gold Coast United and Perth Glory. Capped 13 times by the Socceroos, the 34-year-old said his decision to return home was an easy one to make. “It has a lot to do with the response from both ex-players and the current players at the Wanderers. I know that Tony’s very thorough and his success is proven, so it’s something that I’m very eager to be a part of,” Thwaite said. Former Adelaide goalkeeper John Hall joins the Wanderers as an injury replacement player for Jerrad Tyson, who will be sidelined for a period following a shoulder reconstruction last week. The 22-year-old will make the move across from Adelaide United, where he spent the last five years.

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Roly Bonevacia. Photo: Cameron McIntosh/ Photomac

Michael Thwaite. Photo: Darren Speedie

Josh Risdon. Photo: Darren Speedie

Around the grounds RUGBY: The Penrith Emus have continued their losing ways, going down to Eastern Suburbs 59-14 in Round 8 of the Shute Shield. This Saturday afternoon the Emus will return to Nepean Rugby Park to take on first-placed Manly. AUSSIE RULES: The Penrith Rams are back in the winner’s circle, defeating the Pennant Hills Demons 83-29 in Round 7 of the AFL Sydney Division 2 competition. Mitchell Stevens top scored with four goals for the Rams. Penrith will battle the East Coast Eagles this Saturday afternoon at Greygums Oval. Meanwhile, the Auburn-Penrith Giants will take on the UNSW/ES Stingrays in Round 7 of the AFL Sydney Premier Women’s Division competition this weekend. Last week the Giants enjoyed a well-deserved bye but will return to action this Sunday afternoon at Henson Park. AFL: The second-placed GWS Giants have shocked fans for the second straight week, coming back to defeat the Richmond Tigers 78-75 in Round 9 of the AFL. Richmond led for all but the final fateful moments, by 31 points at quarter-time, 21 at the main break and 25 at three-quarter time. With just over a minute to go, Giants star Jeremy Cameron completed the almighty comeback with a ripper of a goal, to put the home side up by three. It was a second straight week of late heartbreak for the Tigers. The

Giants will now look for three straight wins when they face the West Coast Eagles this Sunday. NETBALL: Giants Netball have gone down in a thriller, defeated by the fifth-placed Queensland Firebirds 56-53 in Round 13 of the Super Netball competition. The three-point loss sees the Giants slip from first to third with one round remaining. This Saturday the Giants will take on the Sunshine Coast Lightning. If other results go their way, a win could see them still claim the minor premiership. BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers are back in business, hammering Bankstown 103-81 in Round 11 of the Division 1 Youth League Men’s competition. The Panthers will look for back to back wins when they take on the Central Coast Waves this Saturday night in Penrith. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Division 1 Youth League Women’s team managed to get yet another win on the board, defeating the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles 62-57. This Sunday afternoon the Panthers will battle the Sutherland Sharks in Penrith. To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/westernweekender or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

the western weekender Â» Friday, May 26, 2017

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he Greater Western Baseball Association (GWBA) has finished with the second-best tournament win record at their first ever appearance at the Australian Little League Championships, held in Lismore last week. Pooled against three State Champions, including last year’s Australian representatives, the team of 15 and 16-year-olds from western Sydney recorded four wins from seven games and left as the fifth best Senior League Division team in the country. “This team has done a sensational job,” GWBA President, Michael Bryan said. “14 months ago the coaches came to me with plans of being the first team from GWBA to qualify for a National Tournament, which they did back in April, and this past week they showed that they deserved to be there.” Unfortunately GWBA missed out on playing finals baseball after heavy rain forced a change to the schedule. “The rain was an absolute killer,” Bryan said. “Not only did it cancel the first day’s play but, with the need to cancel the quarter finals to fit in a condensed schedule, only the top

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Cody Godbold at bat for the Greater Western Baseball Association Warriors two teams from each pool would go through. I have no doubt that these boys could have come away with a medal under the original schedule.” Nine teams from across the country were battling it out for the title of Australian cham-

pions and, in turn, earn themselves a trip to the United States to compete in the prestigious Little League World Series. GWBA found themselves in a tough pool, matched against the Victorian, Western Australian and NSW State Champions.

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