Western Weekender October 29 2026 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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Thursday, October 29, 2026

INSIDE Try your luck at our puzzles and crosswords Pages 62-64

MAKING HISTORY

It’s official: Western Sydney International Airport is open, providing a new gateway to the world. Full coverage: Pages 11, 12 and 13. Some of the first passengers at WSI on Sunday.

CANDIDATE LOCKED IN

CADDENS PLAN APPROVED

A NIGHT IN FOR A CAUSE

Labor backs Thain: Page 3

Residents dismayed: Page 15

Annual event a hit: Page 22

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

FOOD, FITNESS, FUN

$9.4 million proposal for new fast food outlets and recreation facilities revealed

Plans show three proposed fast food restaurants as well as a swim school, gym and new parking.

EMILY CHATE

errington County could be home to a trio of new fast food restaurants as well as an indoor recreation facility after a proposal was submitted to Penrith City Council.

The proposal outlines plans for three single storey quick service restaurants and a two-storey indoor recreation facility that will house a café and swim school on the ground floor and a gym on the first floor. The proposal has a price tag of $9,413,257 and relates to 2 John

Oxley Avenue in Werrington County. The proposal also includes plans for 146 car parking spaces. The café is proposed to be open seven days a week between 6am and 11pm with five staff. The swim school is expected to

be operational between 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 7pm Monday to Wednesday, 9am to 7pm on Thursdays, 2pm to 7pm on Friday, 7am to 2pm on Saturday, and 9am to 12pm on Sunday. “The swim school’s maximum visitor patronage is expected to be

between 40-60 people during weekdays and between 60-80 people during weekends,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said. The gym is set to open 24/7. Council will now assess the proposal.

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

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Recyling plan is just rubbish F

irst they came for our straws, now they want our coffee cups. For anyone still enjoying only portions of their favourite drink because the paper straw disintegrates well before your chosen poison is complete, the State Government’s move on the humble coffee cup should raise an alarm. Last week, NSW Parliament passed laws aimed at reducing single-use plastic waste. From 2028, single-use takeaway coffee cups must be recyclable. Traditional plastic-lined paper cups that cannot meet the new recyclability requirements will need to be replaced. All this is well and good. Sounds wonderful. But I have a query. And maybe I’m just a simpleton from Penrith, but I reckon it’s a reasonable one. If I buy a takeaway coffee from my local shopping strip today, I tend to place it in the only available bin on that same strip, which is a general rubbish bin. Which is point one. If I am disposing of the cup correctly, and the management of that bin and the cup’s journey to landfill is handled correctly, then while that does of course still create waste, the environmental impact in terms of litter and pollution is negated, right? Onto point two. When I buy that same coffee in 2028 and I’m given it in a recyclable cup, which I have a feeling will make for a poorer experience, as it stands I’m going to put it in that same general rubbish bin, given a recycling bin is unlikely to be available. Hence, it heads to the same landfill, right? There will be arguments back at me, of course. In many cases the option for recycling will exist, and hence that will reduce the amount of coffee cups going to landfill. But I still think the broader point is being missed here. The problem around litter, ocean pollution and environmental impact is generally more with the human being than it is the manufactured product. These rules will still rely on you and I doing the right thing and finding a recycling bin to have any real impact.

INDEX

And let’s be honest, in the real world, the vast majority of these cups are still going to end up in landfill. Unless of course the government is also mandating that recycling bins be provided in every coffee shop? That recycling bins are provided in every park where there’s a public bin? On every shopping strip? Every workplace? Perhaps it will, but I’m sure it’d make businesses pay for it. Beyond the single-use cups, we’ve seen this past week the Government doesn’t really understand its own legislation. Or moreso, it involved itself in something that it could have just stayed well clear of. Because it got itself in quite the tangle. Under the legislation as it was written, takeaway businesses must supply reusable cups from 2028 – or face fines. The NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe fronted up on Ben Fordham’s 2GB morning show on Wednesday with the reverse lights well and truly shining. “There was never an intention that we’d be making people do this. I know the legislation says that it’s being mandated but we were expecting to do a lot of exemptions as we work through this,” she said. But back to the recyclable cups. Under the changes, you are forcing businesses to provide cups that can be recycled, you are forcing customers to use cups that can be recycled, but having an actual recycling bin to put them in – that’s optional. Something seems odd about that, does it not? Or is it just because it’s easier for a government to tell businesses and customers what to do than it is to have to think deeper about the actual impact and the infrastructure that may be required for a move such as this to make a legitimate difference? The Government says more than 800 million single-use plastic cups are consumed annually in NSW, with most ending up in landfill. That’s a huge number. But I’m not convinced that number will reduce all that much by the mandate the government is bringing in.

News..........................................................1-26 Tourism Awards Feature.....27-29 Business............................................30-34

Making a cup recyclable doesn’t automatically mean someone will recycle it. The Government claims takeaway food and beverage packaging, including cups and lids, accounts for 24 per cent of litter found in NSW urban estuaries. But how does this mandate change that? That 24 per cent has to come from somewhere. People littering, overflowing bins, rubbish escaping collection systems or waste entering stormwater drains. Surely the priority should be stopping rubbish from reaching our waterways in the first place? None of those things change by bringing in a mandate around recyclable coffee cups. My biggest concern here is that it’s another little twist in the knife to small businesses. Perhaps the cost impact is not huge, but it is something. And the time spent changing suppliers, managing the change and absorbing the feedback from customers all has an impact. But both the State and Federal Government lost touch with small business some time ago, so perhaps it’s not a surprise. Perhaps I’m being too cynical. But I’ve watched the real-world, laughable introduction of the laws around plastic straws and I have little faith in initiatives like this. My favourite part has been going to the movies, where they now give me three paper straws instead of the single plastic one I used to receive. On my way out of the movies, I place all three straws in the same bin I used to place the single plastic straw. And that’s the problem with so much of our environmental policy. We’re obsessed with changing the product, but seemingly far less interested in what happens to it once we’re finished. By all means, let’s reduce waste. Let’s keep rubbish out of our waterways. Let’s recycle more. But let’s build the infrastructure, change the systems and actually measure the outcomes before declaring victory. Because a recyclable coffee cup thrown into a general rubbish bin isn’t a recycling success story.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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LOCAL NEWS

BATTLE FOR BADGERYS TROY DODDS

abor has announced that sitting Penrith City Councillor Garion Thain will contest the seat of Badgerys Creek at the March 2027 State Election. It will be the former Deputy Mayor’s second tilt at the seat after he took on long-time Liberal MP Tanya Davies in 2023. The seat has become one to watch after Davies’ shock announcement last week that she would not contest the election. The Liberals have yet to announce a replacement candidate. “Western Sydney is home to great, honest people who just want to have a go,” Thain said. “Having lived here all my life, I’ve seen how our community has changed and the opportunities the region has with a new airport and Bradfield at its heart. “As a Labor member my entire adult life, I’ve always felt that only Labor governments deliver and fully fund the crucial infrastructure growing communities rely on: schools, hospitals, roads and more.” The Liberal Party hold the seat with a safe 10.5 per cent margin but Davies’ departure, the impact

of One Nation and the launch of the new airport mean there’s added intrigue and uncertainty about where Badgerys Creek will land at the 2027 election. Davies’ decision caught people by surprise given she was already endorsed to run. Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said Davies had been a “passionate advocate for western Sydney”. “Tanya has always brought strongly held convictions and a determination to speak up for the people and causes she believes in. I thank her for her contribution to her community and NSW,” she said. “I wish Tanya, her husband Mark and their children Laura and Harry all the very best for the next chapter, with more time together as a family.” Premier Chris Minns said he was keen to see the seat fall to Labor, believing Thain could gain ground in the electorate. “Garion has grown up in western Sydney and can see the potential this area has. If he’s elected to Parliament, he’ll spend every day making sure his community gets the investment it deserves under a Labor Government,” he said. The State Election will be held in March.

Garion Thain had plenty of high profile support when announcing his candidacy this week.

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Penrith: Man caught napping after stealing A man was given a brutal wake-up call when police found him asleep in the Penrith CBD over the weekend. At 6.30pm on Saturday, October 24 a 35-year-old Belmont North man allegedly stole alcohol from a liquor store in Penrith. At 9.30am the following day, police found the 35-year-old asleep in a car park within the CBD of Penrith. The 35-year-old was awoken and searched during which police found a small amount of prohibited drugs and an array of stolen items. The 35-year-old was charged ‘possess prohibited drug’, ‘goods in personal custody suspected stolen’, and ‘larceny’. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, December 4.

St Clair: Two teens arrested after daytime assault Two teenagers have fronted court over a scuffle in a fast food restaurant. At 2.40pm on Sunday, October 25 a girl was inside a fast food restaurant in St Clair when two 16-year-old girls began to run towards her. The teenagers accused the girl of talking about them before allegedly punching her multiple times to her head and face. The two teenagers pulled the girl’s hair with force and continued to punch her. The teenagers then kicked the girl’s face several times. Police were called to the fast-food restaurant and arrived quickly. An Ambulance was also called for the victim due to the nature of her injuries. The two 16-year-olds were arrested later that day and taken to St Marys Police Station. They had both been banned from the fast food restaurant a week prior to the assault. The teenagers were both charged with ‘enter enclosed land without lawful excuse’ and ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company’. They appeared in Parramatta Children Court earlier this week.

Penrith: Man caught carrying out sexual act in public A man will face court before Christmas after being caught in an unforgiving position in public over the weekend. At 9.50am on Saturday, October 24 a man parked his car at a reserve in Penrith not far from a toilet block. The man then noticed a 43-year-old Mulgoa man sitting in his car about five metres away

from him. The man noticed the 43-year-old was engaging in a sexual act while staring at him. The man approached the 43-year-old’s car and told him to leave the area. The 43-yearold then left the area. Later that day, police attended the home of the 43-year-old who admitted to being in his car at the reserve. The 43-year-old was charged with ‘carry out sexual act with another without consent’ and ‘behave in offensive manner in a public place’. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, December 14.

St Clair: Learner driver caught in unregistered car without supervisor A woman is facing a raft of charges after her driving caught the attention of police. At 11.30am on Saturday, October 24 police saw a 26-year-old Werrington woman who was driving her car in an erratic manner while driving on the M4 at St Clair. The 26-year-old swerved her car across multiple lanes and solid lines. She also overtook police and other cars before exiting the M4 onto Mamre Road. Police activated their lights and sirens and caught up with the car on Mamre Road. The 26-year-old pulled her car to a stop and police approached. The 26-year-old produced a learner driver’s licence but was not being accompanied by a supervisor. The 26-year-old’s car was also unregistered. The car was searched with police finding drug paraphernalia and a small amount of prohibited drugs. The 26-year-old was charged with six offences. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, November 19.

Penrith: Woman caught pushing knife in pram That’s not a baby, it’s a knife. At 3.25pm on Wednesday, October 21 police were patrolling Wainwright Lane in Penrith when they saw a 60-year-old Glenmore Park woman pushing a pram in the middle of the road. As police approached the 60-year-old they saw a large knife in the pram. Police seized the knife and a search was conducted. The 60-year-old was charged with ‘custody of knife in public place’. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, November 30.

Generations of Trust.

THINKING OF APPOINTING MORE THAN ONE ATTORNEY OR GUARDIAN? When appointing more than one attorney under a power of attorney, or more than one enduring guardian, an important decision is whether they must act jointly or may act jointly and severally. The choice affects how decisions are made and what happens if one appointee cannot continue. An attorney generally makes financial and legal decisions, such as managing bank accounts, paying expenses or dealing with property. An enduring guardian makes personal and lifestyle decisions after the appointing person loses decision-making capacity, such as decisions about accommodation, health care and services. If two or more attorneys or enduring guardians are appointed jointly, they must make decisions together. This provides an important safeguard because no individual appointee can act alone. Joint appointment may be suitable where oversight is important, the decisions may be significant, or the appointees have different skills and perspectives. It can also reduce the risk of one person misusing their authority. However, requiring everyone to agree can cause delays or deadlock. This may be difficult when an urgent decision is needed or the appointees live in different locations. It can also create practical problems when signing documents or dealing with organisations that require evidence of every appointee’s agreement. Depending on the wording of the document and applicable law, the authority may also be affected if one joint appointee dies, resigns, loses capacity or becomes unable to act. A joint and several appointment is more

flexible. The appointees may act together, but each may also act independently. For example, either attorney may be able to pay an account or communicate with a bank without obtaining the other attorney’s approval each time. Similarly, either enduring guardian may be able to make an authorised personal decision when required. The main advantage is convenience. Decisions can be made quickly, and the arrangement may continue operating when one appointee is temporarily unavailable. It can be particularly useful where the appointees are trusted equally and communicate well. The principal risk is that one appointee may make an important decision without consulting the others. Different appointees could also give inconsistent instructions, causing conflict and uncertainty. Although each appointee must comply with their legal duties, a joint and several appointment provides less day-to-day oversight than a joint appointment. The best choice depends on the appointing person’s circumstances, the level of trust between the appointees, their availability and the types of decisions they may need to make. The document can sometimes include practical safeguards, such as requiring consultation before major decisions, while allowing routine or urgent matters to be handled by one person. Clear drafting is essential so that the appointees and third parties understand exactly how the authority is intended to operate. Have a great weekend.

PEPTIDE WARNING FROM HEALTH BOSS NSW Health is warning the community about the risks of using unapproved peptide products following a sharp increase in emergency department presentations associated with their use. New NSW Health surveillance data shows 1,180 presentations to NSW emergency departments associated with peptide use between July 1 2025 and September 30 2026. Monthly presentations increased from just five in July 2025 to more than 217 presentations in September 2026.

“A professional looking website, a label, purity claim, reviews, or influencer endorsement is not proof of what is inside the product,” said NSW Chief Health Officer, Kerry Chant. “The contents and strength may also vary between products carrying the same label. “We encourage people to discuss the risks, benefits and safer alternatives to products they see advertised with their usual general practitioner or qualified healthcare provider.”

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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Write Out West

Western Sydney Libraries and Literature Festival Writing Crime with Ashley Kalagian Blunt

Friday 27 November 2-4pm Penrith City Library

Illustration Workshop with Bill Hope

ˊˢ˥˞˜ˡ˚ ˢˡ ˔ ˖˥˜ˠ˘ ˡˢ˩˘˟ ˢ˥ scheming to start a new one? Join bestselling thriller author Ashley Kalagian Blunt for a practical workshop covering ˞˘ˬ ˔˦ˣ˘˖˧˦ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ ˚˘ˡ˥˘ʡ You’ll gain insights into crime writing conventions, hooking your reader and crafting ˦˨˦ˣ˘ˡ˦˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˧˘ˡ˦˜ˢˡʡ

An Afternoon with James O’Loghlin

Sunday 29 November 2-3pm Penrith City Library

Thursday 26 November 4-5pm Penrith City Library

Join illustrator Bill Hope for a ˙˨ˡ ˔˙˧˘˥ˡˢˢˡ ˢ˙ ˗˥˔˪˜ˡ˚ʡ Bill will help kids work through some creative exercises developed with ʴˡ˗ˬ ʺ˥˜˙Ѓ˧˛˦ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˛˘˜˥ ˡ˘˪ book Let’s Go! The workshop will be followed by book signing ˪˜˧˛ ˄ʵʷ ʵˢˢ˞˦ʡ

Belinda Alexandra

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

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

Join James O’Loghlin— comedian, broadcaster and acclaimed author as he ˥˘Є˘˖˧˦ ˢˡ ˛˜˦ ˖˔˥˘˘˥ ˔˖˥ˢ˦˦ law, comedy, broadcasting and writing and discusses his ˪ˢ˥˞ ˔˖˥ˢ˦˦ ˕ˢ˧˛ Ѓ˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔ˡ˗ ˡˢˡʠЃ˖˧˜ˢˡʡ ˊ˜˧˛ ˧˪ˢ ˡ˘˪ ˕ˢˢ˞˦ published this year, he’ll share insights into his writing process, ˧˛˘ ˦˧ˢ˥˜˘˦ ˧˛˔˧ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˜˥˘ ˛˜ˠʡ

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

penrith.city/library WW59752

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Is your pool ready for summer? Make sure your pool is safe and compliant before you dive in. Explore helpful safety tips, checklists and resources to help protect your family and others.

News

Find out more at

penrith.city/pools

Council Briefs

ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

West Lane closure

ʶˢˡ˧˔˖˧ ʶ˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˂ˣ˘ˡ 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri.

intersection will be permanently closed from approximately

4732 7777

There will no longer be vehicle or pedestrian access from

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

ʶ˛˔˥˟˘˦ ʻ˔˖˞˘˧˧ ʷ˥˜˩˘ ˢˡ˧ˢ ˊ˘˦˧ ʿ˔ˡ˘ʡ ˇ˥˔˙Ѓ˖ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˥˘˗˜˥˘˖˧˘˗

council@penrith.city

Lane, approximately 35-metres south of Charles Hackett Drive,

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at ˠˬʡˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

As part of the next stage of the St Marys central park project, a small section of West Lane at the Charles Hackett Drive Monday 9 November 2026.

to a new one-way road between Carinya Avenue and West which will be open from Monday 9 November. Footpath access along Charles Hackett Drive will remain open, with pedestrian access to West Lane via Carinya Avenue. Access to Kokoda Place car park is also via Carinya Avenue.

Services ˊ˔˦˧˘ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦ 4732 7777 ʼ˟˟˘˚˔˟ ʷ˨ˠˣ˜ˡ˚ Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ Freecall 1800 022 182

This project is funded by the NSW Government and Penrith City Council.

Monday 30 November – 7pm (Ordinary Council Meeting) Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

penrithcouncil penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Penrith City Council is publicly notifying a draft Deed of Variation (the Deed) to amend the Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Council, HB&B Property and Atilol Holdings. The Deed seeks to amend and clarify the timing of certain infrastructure and road access obligations under the VPA. A copy of the draft VPA and explanatory note can be viewed online at ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ ˇ˛˘ ˡˢ˧˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ ˜˦ ˇ˨˘˦˗˔ˬ ʥʪ ˂˖˧ˢ˕˘˥ ʥʣʥʩ ˧ˢ ˇ˨˘˦˗˔ˬ 24 November 2026. Submissions must be received by 5pm on Tuesday 24 November 2026. For enquiries: Please contact Kathryn Sprang, Senior Planner on 4732 7834 or email ˞˔˧˛˥ˬˡʡ˦ˣ˥˔ˡ˚ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

• ʨʩʬʠʨʬʨ ʻ˜˚˛ ˆ˧˥˘˘˧ʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʛˊ˘˦˧Ѓ˘˟˗ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʜ

Help shape Penrith’s 2026 Census resources Penrith City Council is inviting feedback from community members, businesses, researchers and organisations who use demographic information. Whether you access Census data regularly or occasionally, we want to hear which topics and ˥˘˦ˢ˨˥˖˘ ˙ˢ˥ˠ˔˧˦ ˬˢ˨ Ѓˡ˗ ˠˢ˦˧ ˩˔˟˨˔˕˟˘ʡ Your feedback will help focus available resources to develop

The draft VPA has been prepared to support Planning Proposal PP-2025-1540 and secures monetary contributions towards infrastructure in Penrith City Centre, consistent with Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan 2008. A copy of the draft VPA and explanatory note can be viewed online at ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬˣ˥ˢЃ˟˘

ˇ˛˘ ˡˢ˧˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ ˜˦ ˇ˨˘˦˗˔ˬ ʥʪ ˂˖˧ˢ˕˘˥ ʥʣʥʩ ˧ˢ ˇ˨˘˦˗˔ˬ 24 November 2026. Submissions must be received by 5pm on Tuesday 24 November 2026.

Sporting facilities refreshed across St Marys and Werrington

For enquiries: Please contact Kathryn Sprang, Senior Planner, on 4732 7834 or email ˞˔˧˛˥ˬˡʡ˦ˣ˥˔ˡ˚ʳˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

Complete the survey and have your say via:

Sporting facilities in St Marys and Werrington have received a much-needed refresh, with upgrades to clubhouses, amenities and storage facilities. Rance Oval in Werrington now has a new storage building to

penrith.city.council

• ʥʥʤϝʥʥʪ ʙ ʥʫʬϝʦʤʪ ʿ˨˗˗˘ˡ˛˔ˠ ˅ˢ˔˗ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ʛʴ˟˦ˣ˘˖ ʸ˦˧˔˧˘ʜ

Penrith City Council is publicly notifying a draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Council, Scentre Management Limited, RE1 Limited and GPT RE Limited.

community needs.

Monday 9 November – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting)

ʷ˥˔˙˧ ʴˠ˘ˡ˗ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˧ˢ ˉˢ˟˨ˡ˧˔˥ˬ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ʴ˚˥˘˘ˠ˘ˡ˧˦ ʛˉ˃ʴʜ

ˇˢ Ѓˡ˗ ˢ˨˧ ˠˢ˥˘ʟ ˩˜˦˜˧ ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢ˦˧ˠ˔˥ˬ˦˖˘ˡ˧˥˔˟ˣ˔˥˞

useful and accessible 2026 Census resources that meet

Meeting Dates

Public Notices

support local sporting groups. Mavis Harris Clubhouse and the amenities building at Blair Oval, St Marys have undergone interior and exterior refurbishments, improving their longevity,

Development Application The following Development Application has been received by Council: • Cadence Property Developments Pty Ltd

Mod26/0209

ʥʣʠʥʫ ʿ˘˧˛˕˥˜˗˚˘ ˆ˧˥˘˘˧ʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛

Oval storage building upgrade was proudly funded by the

ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʧʡʨʨʛʥʜ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˧ˢ ʷʴʤʨʢʤʤʪʨ ʛ˔˦ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˘˗ ˕ˬ Mod26/0077) for 6-storey residential apartment development ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˜ˡ˚ ˔ˠ˘ˡ˗ˠ˘ˡ˧˦ ˧ˢ ˔ˣ˔˥˧ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˠ˜˫ʟ ˥˘˖ˢˡЃ˚˨˥˔˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ internal layouts, external facade amendments, increase in building height and other design amendments

Penrith City Council and NSW Government.

Contact: Natalie Piggott on 4732 7607

Find out more at ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˦ˣˢ˥˧˦ʠ˨ˣ˚˥˔˗˘˦

Closing Date: Sunday 15 November 2026

appearance and functionality. These projects form part of Council’s ongoing commitment to asset renewal and improving community facilities. The Rance

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Westfield plan takes another step EMILY CHATE

major expansion to Westfield Penrith has been supported by Penrith City Council, which will now submit the planning proposal to the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure (DPHI) for final determination. Scentre Group, Westfield’s parent company, proposed a 22-storey hotel, major commercial tower and new retail as part of the biggest ever upgrade to Penrith’s main shopping centre in 2023. The plan reveals a major overhaul of Borec House, which would extend the Justice and Health precincts that line Henry Street. The proposed green terraced building will step up from the street to become an extension of City Park and create a

welcoming corner extending along Station Street and Henry Street, according to the Planning Proposal attached to the project. Meanwhile, part of the project labelled ‘The Hub’ would feature a renewed retail and premium dining destination with a new public forecourt. Above, 10,000sqm of A-grade commercial office space would be built. To complete the tower, a 150-key hotel with sky lobby and dining would be constructed that will offer views across the Nepean River, Blue Mountains and the Great Dividing Range. The Planning Proposal for the expansion was placed on public exhibition at the end of last year with a number of agencies making submissions.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) raised objections about insufficient flood evacuation capacity to support the intensification of the site despite it being a non-residential development. One public submission raised a similar issue to the NSW RA. Council believe these concerns and others can be addressed during the Development Application stage of the proposal should it progress. The expansion presents an opportunity to stimulate Penrith’s economy and night life. “The proposal is expected to generate new employment opportunities during both construction and operation, contributing to Penrith City Centre’s economic resilience,” a Council report read. “Introducing hotel, commercial office, and mixed use offerings

The view from Riley Street looking north-east (Block A, ‘The Hub’ and public domain).

at this strategic location would generate additional foot traffic and support retail spend within Westfield and the surrounding High Street and City Park precinct. “This uplift in pedestrian activity

would also help stimulate Penrith’s emerging night-time economy, improving viability for restaurants, bars and entertainment offerings.” The planning proposal will now be forwarded to the DPHI.

Transpfor ofor rtfor fo rNSW NSW Transport NSW Transport Transport NSW Transport for NSW

Integrated Developments Penrith City Council have received Development Applications in respect of the subject properties. The consent authority for the development application is Penrith City Council. • St Marys Land Limited DA26/0856 (Lot 7 DP 31908 & Lot 20 DP 1287299) 75b Dunheved Circuit & 87 Christie Street, St Marys Remediation of land and subdivision of Lot 7 into 2 lots in accordance with the requirements of the St Marys Development Agreement The application is for Nominated Integrated Development under Section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act and requires the concurrence of the Development Coordination Authority (DCA) with regards to Section 91(2) of the Water Management Act. The application is also for Category 1 remediation works under State Environmental Planning Policy (Resilience and Hazards) 2021. The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from Monday 2 November 2026 to Sunday 29 November 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡʡ The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA26/0856. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Hannah Vousden on James Heathcote on 4732 8378. • Heppa Constructions Pty Ltd DA26/0926 (Lot 51 DP 259135) 930-966 Mamre Road, Kemps Creek Torrens title subdivision creating 12 lots (2) for road widening purposes, construction and intended dedication of 1 internal road and associated site preparation works including, demolition, dam dewatering, vegetation removal, bulk-earthworks, stormwater works, utility services and landscaping. The application is for Nominated Integrated Development and Integrated Development under Section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and requires approval from the Development Coordination Authority (DCA) with regards to Sections 90 and 91 of the Water Management Act 2000 and Section 90 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

Trraaffficicsignals saat a adnd Traffic ssignals isginganlaslat tatM Mulgoa Road and T Mulgoa Road Traffic uMlguolgaoR oRaodaad nand Traffic Mulgoa Road and Gle lennm moorreParkway eParkway Glenmore Glenmore Parkway Glenmore G PPaarrkkwwaayy.. .. MulgRoad oaRoad RoUpgrade adUpgrade UpgraStage deStage Sta2ge22 Mulgoa Mulgoa October 2026 Transport for NSW acknowledges the Darug people as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and pays respect to Elders past and present.

We are installing new traffic signals at the intersection of Mulgoa Road and Glenmore Parkway as part of the Mulgoa Road Upgrade. These works will support the delivery of the upgraded intersection and improve traffic flow through the area. Work includes installing traffic signal infrastructure, electrical equipment, line marking, safety barriers and commissioning the new traffic signals. Further construction work will continue following the traffic signal installation to complete the upgraded intersection. pmand a7am nd7am 7am onMonday Mon26 d26 ay26 26and aTuesday ndTuesday Tue27 sd27 ayOctober 2October 7October October , We will carry out day and night work between 6and 6pm Monday and 6pm and 7am Monday Tuesday 6pm Monday 26 and Tuesday 27 October 6pm6pm andand 7am7am Monday 26and and Tuesday 27 27 October weather permitting. Night and day work along Mulgoa Road and Glenmore Parkway will require temporary lane and road closures. Please allow extra travel time and follow traffic control directions . Some noise and additional lighting may be noticeable while work is underway. We will make every effort to minimise disruption and thank the community for its patience. For more information about the Mulgoa Road Upgrade, visit the project website, email Construction.mulgoaroadupgrade@transport.nsw.gov.au or call the Project Infoline on 1800 733 084 (press 1).

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker, in the period from Monday 2 November 2026 to Sunday 29 November 2026. Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡʡ The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA26/0926. For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact Jake Bentley on 4732 8087.

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penrith.city Map of

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Joke of the Week

prize cupboard

rom theme parks in Japan to a sunrise over the Gold Coast, these are the experiences to plan for in

2. Universal Studios Japan Over in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is just as popular, with more than six million book-

ings. It’s home to Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 3. SHIBUYA SKY, Tokyo

2027. Forget New Year’s resolutions about the gym. The best list to write for 2027 is a list of things you actually want to do. Klook, the travel app and website for booking tours, attraction tickets and activities around the world, shows how many times each experience has been booked. That makes it a handy guide to what other travellers love. 1. Tokyo Disney Resort A favourite with families. Park tickets covering Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea have been booked more than six million times on Klook and are rated 4.8 out of 5.

Q: Why did the man throw a clock off the building? A: He was trying to kill time. Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

For the best view in Tokyo, head to the rooftop of SHIBUYA SKY, above the world’s most famous pedestrian crossing. Tickets start from around $26 and have been booked more than three million times. 4. teamLab Borderless, Tokyo Part art gallery, part dream. This museum of digital art has no set path, with rooms of light and colour that move and change around you. It has more than a million bookings on Klook. 5. A hot air balloon over the Gold Coast Closer to home, a dawn balloon flight over the Gold Coast hinterland, finished with sparkling wine, is a true bucket list moment. 6. A tandem skydive over Wollongong For thrill seekers, Wollongong’s tandem skydive lands right on

the beach. It has been booked more than 10,000 times. 7. A night at the Sydney Opera House Klook sells tickets to opera and musical shows at the Sydney Opera House, plus a Tour and Dine experience that takes you behind the scenes before a meal. Visit https://www.klook.com/ en-AU. The Weekender has two $250 Klook vouchers to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ wester nweekender.com.au with ‘Klook’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, December 10 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

PET

iSPY

OF THE WEEK my name: Karma

my proud owner: Melody i live in: Jamisontown a bit about me: I love hiding in paper shopping bags and then jumping out to scare people! I also routinely get the zoomies every time the lights go out for bedtime.

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

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

Dose of Dorin

Fish City at Batt Street, Jamisontown.

Sydney-based critics of the new airport complaining about the cost to get between WSI and the city. Newsflash: not everyone lives in Mosman. You just stick with KSA and leave us alone.

Ben Fordham’s stunning long-form interview with Ben Roberts-Smith on 2GB was compulsory listening. Let’s hope we see more of this from 2GB in the future.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Up, up and away! Our new airport is open TROY DODDS

The first flight takes off from WSI on Sunday.

Western Sydney International Airport CEO Simon Hickey said the opening was a case of ambition becoming reality. “WSI is the most transformational

piece of infrastructure our nation has seen since the Sydney Harbour Bridge,” he said. “It brings the world closer to western Sydney and opportunity closer

to home, creating new meaningful jobs for generations to come. Young people growing up in the west can now look to the sky and see their future is bright and right here, in

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viation history has been made in western Sydney. 40 years after Bob Hawke first declared Badgerys Creek as the site for Sydney’s second airport, the first passenger flight took off from Western Sydney International (WIS) Airport on Sunday. Jetstar flight JQ362 took off at around 11.20am – 20 minutes behind the official schedule – bound for the Gold Coast. Members of the public had gathered to watch the historic moment inside the terminal, while an official event was held at the adjoining international terminal. Plane spotters and locals also gathered on the streets outside the airport to watch the historic moment. Families in the back of utes watched on as the airport’s first flight took to the sky. The official opening largely went off without a hitch – plenty of staff were on site to guide people around the new airport. There was clearly an excited nervousness in the air.

their own backyard.” On the tarmac, Jetstar crew gathered to farewell the inaugural flight – taking photos to mark the occasion and waving the flight off as it headed for the runway. Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said Sunday’s first flight was a historic moment for the company – and noted it would mean cheaper plane travel for people in western Sydney. “This is an historic day for aviation in Australia, and we’re proud to bring more choice and low fares to western Sydney,” she said. “For many customers, the Uber or taxi across the city has been the most expensive part of their trip. From today, for three million people who live in and around western Sydney, low fares start a lot closer to home. “We’ve got a strong track record of opening up new markets, and western Sydney, one of the fastest growing regions in the country, is going to be one of the great ones. We can’t wait to help more people takeoff more for less.”

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Pollies declare west is open for business TROY DODDS

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrives at the airport opening on Sunday alongside Transport Minister Catherine King and other dignitaries.

for western Sydney, creating jobs, supporting local businesses and making it easier for people to travel for generations to come.” Carney, who attended the offi-

cial opening alongside Council’s General Manager Andrew Moore, said the airport provided enormous opportunities for Penrith. “The airport opening brings the

world closer to Penrith, creating opportunities for local people, businesses and future generations,” Carney said. “It is a future Penrith City Council

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he official opening of Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport on Sunday attracted politicians past and present from all sides of politics. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese officially unveiled the commemorative plaque, while former Prime Minister Tony Abbott – who once and for all declared the airport would be built at Badgerys Creek in 2014 – was also there. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, former Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Premier Chris Minns, Deputy Premier Prue Car and Mayor Todd Carney were among the many others. “It’s a milestone that has been decades in the making and one that belongs to the people of western Sydney,” Albanese said. “I’ve been a strong supporter of this project for a long time and I’m very proud to officially open it. “I want to thank the thousands of workers who made it happen. This airport will make a real difference

has been planning for, over many years.” The airport puts Penrith within easy reach of more visitors than ever before. “We will have a wonderful opportunity to share our spectacular natural surrounds, adventure experiences, attractions and major events with people from across Australia and overseas, supporting local tourism operators and our broader economy,” Carney said. “I know many people across our community share my excitement, now that we’ve reached this historic opening. I congratulate everyone who has played a part in reaching this milestone through many years of planning, advocacy and hard work.” Federal Transport Minister Catherine King, who spoke at Sunday’s official opening, said the airport would transform Sydney’s west more broadly. “It can’t be overstated how big a moment this is for western Sydney, for its people, for its economy and its industries,” she said.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

The world is waiting for us EMILY CHATE

onday marked the beginning of international services out of Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), connecting the region to the rest of the world. Air New Zealand will fly three times weekly to Auckland, followed by Singapore Airlines flights in November, and Fiji Airways and Qatar Airways next year. Flight NZ165 touched down at WSI at 7.27am bringing with it the first international passengers. “It was so good to be part of the atmosphere and part of history,” Penrith resident Jayne George said after arriving. “I can tell my grandkids that I was on one of the first planes here. “As a local, it’s been great. I know people didn’t want the airport, but we did need it and it’s great.” It took just over 17 minutes after touching down for the first passengers to have collected their bags and reach the arrival terminal. Flight NZ166 then departed WSI

for Auckland at 9.17am – 22 minutes behind schedule but ready for a historic moment. Cheers were heard as it took to the skies. Air New Zealand Captain Andrew McGuigan, who commanded the inaugural services, says it was a rare moment in his flying career. “As a pilot, you don’t often get the chance to be part of opening a major new international airport, let alone command the first international passenger flight to land there or take-off again,” McGuigan said. “There was a real sense of occasion as we came into western Sydney this morning. To have our crew and customers onboard and know we were making a little bit of aviation history together made it a very special flight.” St Marys resident Chris Grant, who was on both the inaugural domestic and international flights, said it was a historic moment for the area. “I’m just excited about Western Sydney Airport,” he said. “I do love travel and I love flying but this is all about the new airport

and it’s such a historical moment. It’s something I can tell my grandkids about. I’ve made sure to get paper boarding passes so I can leave it to them.” WSI CEO Simon Hickey said having a 24/7 international airport in western Sydney will be a gamechanger for travellers. “Kia ora to our friends across the Tasman and a very warm welcome to Sydney’s new global gateway. Together with our valued partners at Air New Zealand, western Sydney is now off taking off to the world,” he said. “Through our 24-hour operations, Western Sydney International Airport gives airlines greater flexibility to connect into global hubs and travellers more choice in how they reach the world, offering an unprecedented new era of connectivity for people across Greater Sydney.” Air New Zealand Chief Operations Officer Ground and Inflight, Kate Boyer, said Air New Zealand was proud to launch the first international flight out of WSI.

Air New Zealand crew at Western Sydney International Airport on Monday.

“Air New Zealand has always had a pioneering spirit. From our early days connecting Australia and New Zealand to the innovations we’ve introduced in the skies over the decades, we’ve never been afraid to

be first,” Boyer said. “It’s not every day you get to be part of opening a brand-new international airport, and we’re proud to be the first international passenger airline to land here.”

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

“Harder to do our jobs”: Call for respect, calm EMILY CHATE

ome things extend beyond party lines, levels of government, and politics. When Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines was attacked on Monday, October 19 outside of her electorate office in Wangaratta, shockwaves were felt across the country. It has prompted Councillors, State MPs and Federal representatives to come together to ensure political violence does not become more commonplace in Australia. “We are all shocked that Helen Haines was the victim of an attack. I’m friends with Helen; I’ve been to her electorate,” Templeman told the Weekender. “She and I both care about our communities in the same way. I think we were shocked it was Helen, but I don’t think anyone was surprised that aggression escalated into violence. “We’re seeing an increase in aggression, and it’s unpredictable when that will overflow into violence.” State Penrith MP Karen McKeown said the increasing threat of violence, both online and in person, will have an effect on how politicians interact with their communities. “Increasingly, it is getting more problematic,” she said. “It’s getting harder for us to do our jobs. I pride myself on being accessible to the community – I have mobile offices, I take a stall at the markets, we’re out and about in the community. “It’s a part of our job and it is what we are supposed to be doing. It is very concerning when we’re now getting security advice from police, both state and federal, saying we need to look at what we are doing and how we are doing it and be a bit more vigilant. “I’ve never, ever had the need before.” Templeman shares McKeown’s sentiment, saying community interaction is a key pillar of democracy. “My real worry is that this sort of behaviour leads to a real restriction on the way Members of Parliament can interact with their community,” she said. McKeown said the increasing risk of violence throughout her over two decade long career have caused her to make changes to the way she operates. “I’ve had to become a silent voter and I’ve had my number restricted – these are things that I’ve never had to do and it’s because of the

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown and Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman. Photo: Melinda Jane.

amount of vitriol that is coming at politicians in general but certainly for women and it’s just not acceptable,” she said. “We need to dial down the rhetoric, and we need to make sure that people are treating each other in a respectful way.” Deputy Mayor Hollie McLean this week asked Penrith City Council to write to Local Government NSW asking that they work with NSW Police to create practical online safety briefings for Councillors across NSW in the wake of the attack on Haines. “We all recognise how easily it could have been any one of us. We all know what it is like to try to have eyes in the backs of our heads,” she said. “As councillors, we are and should be incred-

ibly accessible to our communities. We attend community events, meet with residents in parks, cafes and their front yards; we sit down with residents who sometimes come to us in moments of enormous frustration or distress. “Very often we do these things alone, and we don’t have security details, we don’t have our own staff, we don’t have the protections that might be available and rightly available to representatives at other levels of government. “I’m not suggesting this needs to be done at more expense, I’m not suggesting we all should have protective details and staff, but we should be able to have the knowledge and the practical skills to help keep ourselves safe.” Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh said

“there is something different about being a woman in politics”. “Women face particular scrutiny, hostility and personal attacks, and increasingly those pressures reach into our communities and private lives,” she said. “We should never accept intimidation as simply part of the job.” Templeman knows firsthand what can happen when lines are crossed. “I am one of many MPs where the Australian Federal Police have chosen to lay charges against someone, and it’s not for the first time,” she said. All of the MPs have urged locals to be respectful when engaging with them whether in person or online.

Bradfield Bulletin www. bradfieldbulletin.com.au Bradfield Bulletin is an online news website dedicated to the Bradfield City Centre and Western Sydney International Airport.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

CONCERNS IGNORED TROY DODDS

mega 17-building development at Caddens has been approved despite a plethora of public objections to the

plan. The proposal for O’Connell Street would demolish the current car park at the Caddens Corner shopping centre and build 482 residential apartments across 17 buildings, also extending to land at the back of the shopping centre. New parking would be constructed to cater for the apartments, new retail and existing shopping centre. Penrith City Council has consistently been against the proposal while the Sydney Western City Planning Panel initially refused the ambitious project in 2024. But last Friday, the State Government granted approval despite significant objections to the plan. The revised 482-apartment plan increases the number of units from 469 in the original proposal but now includes 79 affordable apartments – which emerged as a key element of the approval process. The approved development comprises 11 residential apartment buildings, five shoptop housing buildings and a single-storey retail building. The public submissions related to concerns over traffic congestion and road safety, kangaroos and loss of wildlife habitat, overcrowding and pressure on schools and other issues. There were 147 public submissions objecting to the proposal, with just three in support.

An artist’s impression of the proposed development.

But despite those concerns and the development not changing significantly in terms of size from the 2024 refusal, the State Government has powered ahead and approved the plan via Planning Minister Paul Scully. It has left local residents fuming. “My concern is not simply this development in isolation, but the cumulative impact of the substantial development occurring within approximately five kilometres of our neighbourhood,” said Jennifer Newman.

“I feel Paul Scully and the Government need to come out and witness the traffic congestion and the lack of infrastructure in the area as well as significant development already under construction.” The developer did make a range of amendments to the project based on the feedback and submissions. “The project would provide a range of benefits for the region and the State as a whole,” the Notice of Decision released last Friday said.

It was noted the plan would provide 600 construction jobs and 81 operational jobs. The Decision said that “weighing all relevant considerations, the project is in the public interest”. Newman, who lives in Claremont Meadows, cannot understand how the public’s significant opposition was ignored and the plan approved. “There needs to be more explanation on how this was approved even though a lot of the original problems raised are still present and not addressed properly,” she said. “Penrith Council believed this development was just too much for this area, but the State Government’s response was that the problems raised are minimal concern. “How can someone come in and just say she’ll be right mate?” Londonderry MP Prue Car has backed her government’s call, saying the housing boost was important. “New homes, including almost 80 affordable homes, help to ensure western Sydney families don’t have to move out of Sydney or interstate to find a home in the area they grew up in,” she said. Dannielle Green is the Animal Justice Party’s candidate for Londonderry at the next State Election and said she had concerns for kangaroos living in the surrounds of the proposed development. “I have already contacted [the developer] Holdmark requesting its Kangaroo Management Strategy, information about long-term habitat and welfare monitoring, and a meeting,” she said.

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

DUNHEVED DRAMA EMILY CHATE

here is a fresh twist in the ongoing Dunheved Road upgrade saga, with revelations that just a portion of the project can be delivered under current funding. The issue was brought to Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting of Penrith City Council where councillors voted to split the construction into three stages after a funding shortfall. Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh originally secured funding for the road upgrade in 2019. The road was identified as a key piece of infrastructure that would ease traffic if upgraded. “The 4.2km road upgrade would provide much-needed transport infrastructure to alleviate travel congestion, improve capacity, enhance safety, and improve connectivity across Penrith,” the Council report said. In 2020, with anticipated State Government funding not being forthcoming, the Federal Government brought its commitment to $127 million. But six years later, work has yet to commence with the planning and preparation phase taking longer than originally anticipated. Now, Council has split the project into three stages – Stage 2A (Tasman Street to Henry Lawson Avenue), Stage 2B (Henry Lawson Avenue to Christie Street) and Stage 2C (Richmond Road area to Tasman Street). The full cost of Stages 2A, 2B, and 2C are proposed to cost $135 million.

The Dunheved Road upgrade has been split into stages. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Council has formally requested additional Federal Government funding for the remaining stages. The precise additional amount requested is not known. The likelihood of a funding shortfall emerged almost two years ago, it has been revealed, with Penrith Mayor Todd Carney informing the Federal Government of chal-

lenges around the funding available. The Dunheved Road Project full scope includes widening the 4.2km corridor to add two lanes, intersection upgrades, tie-in works, duplication of the eastbound bridge, shared paths, footpaths, noise walls, traffic control signal upgrades, athome noise treatments, and landscaping.

Councillors on Monday moved to approve a $72 million construction contract for Stage 2A to Georgiou Group. They also moved to accept Georgiou Group’s pricing for Stages 2B and 2C, if additional funding is secured. There was no debate of the matter in Council Chambers, with the discussion held in Confidential Business.

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

TOOLS FOR SUCCESS Creating connection between women in trades KEELY MARSH

omen working in traditionally male dominated industries are finding strength in numbers, with a Women in Trades networking breakfast bringing apprentices, qualified tradeswomen and job seekers together to share experience and support one another. The event, run by the Department of Education, aimed to create connections between women across different trades, from manufacturing and construction to mechanical work. Tradeswoman and mentor Louise Azzopardi said while the number of women entering the industry is growing, many still faced the challenge of being the only woman in their workplace or on a worksite. “It’s amazing to get us all together because the numbers are rising, but what the numbers don’t show is that we are still often the only female in our workplace or sometimes even on the sites we’re working on,” Azzopardi said. Azzopardi, who has supported

tradeswomen for more than 10 years and formally operated her business for about six years, said opportunities for women to connect with others who understand their experiences were invaluable. “Women connecting with women who have been in their shoes, is really valuable and important,” she said. Her own journey into the trades was shaped by a childhood spent on a farm, where she developed a passion for hands-on work and maintaining machinery alongside her father. “I grew up on a farm, and I was always working with my hands and wanted to get out of school as soon as possible,” Azzopardi said. “But my parents and I were getting a lot of comments about how I couldn’t do it, even at careers expos, I originally wanted to be a motorcycle mechanic but people said I was too small, I can’t do it and I wouldn’t be able to work on the bikes.” While she did not have access to a formal women in trades network, she said several key people supported her.

That experience has shaped her belief that creating supportive workplaces is essential to helping the next generation succeed. “My belief is that supported people, support people,” she said. Azzopardi said workers who feel secure and valued are more likely to share their knowledge and skills with others, regardless of their gender, age or background. She encouraged women interested in the trades to seek out networking opportunities across Sydney and NSW, even if attending an event alone feels intimidating. “I encourage women to keep an eye for different events,” Azzopardi said. “Take advantage of networking opportunities that are available and if anyone’s feeling nervous, it’s worth pushing through the nerves.” Azzopardi said the aim was to ensure women entering the industry felt welcomed rather than isolated. “There will be someone to greet you and welcome you into the community,” Azzopardi said.

DEAR WEEKENDER

SANTA'S ON HIS WAY!

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750 Caddens approval a shocker

I am writing to express my absolute shock and profound disappointment at the approval of the mixed-use development with in-fill affordable housing at 68-80 O’Connell Street, Caddens. Looking at this decision, it is completely obvious that profit has been prioritised over the well-being of our community. Given the extensive, well-reasoned objections raised by local residents, it is clear that no real, meaningful investigation into the true impact of this proposal was actually carried out. This decision feels like yet another kick in the guts for the people of western Sydney. For too long, our region has been treated as a dumping ground for overdevelopment while our residents are treated like second-class citizens. It is impossible to understand how government officials expect the community to have any faith or trust in them when decisions like this are made behind closed doors, completely ignoring local voices. Thanks to this approval, local residents are now left to deal with the fallout. Our roads will be completely packed, our schools will be overflowing, and our already struggling local infrastructure will be pushed into a massive backlog. We needed advocates who would protect the liveability of our area, but instead, we have been left behind. FAHRI KOBRA, VIA EMAIL WW59788

SAT 7 NOV 11AM BEGINS ON LEVEL 2, NEAR BIG W

Penrith

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Guest speaker Louise Azzopardi at the Women in Trades event.

Car park query

How can Penrith Council justify spending $100 million on a car park? Meanwhile, our roads are riddled with potholes, line marking is fading, pedestrian crossings are inadequate, bus shelters are missing,

and safe, separated cycleways are almost nonexistent. Emu Plains could benefit from a pump track for young people, while a community bus service would help seniors maintain their independence. Instead, Council seems determined to turn Penrith into another Campbelltown – a sprawling, car-dependent wasteland. Not everyone wants to drive, and not everyone can. Walking, cycling and catching a bus should be safe, convenient and practical alternatives. We don’t want an induced demand issue. Imagine what $100 million could achieve if invested across our suburbs rather than poured into one expensive car park. Penrith needs better priorities, not more parking spaces (which it has plenty of). Just visit the upper levels of Westfield carpark during the week (plenty of space). JOSEPHI AUGUSTINE, SOUTH PENRITH

Nup to the Cup

Punters may be put out when losing their bet on the Melbourne Cup, but the horses are the real losers. What are the odds that a horse will die during the race? These animals are always at risk when they’re whipped into running at breakneck speed with humans on their backs. PETA calculates, based on fatality statistics, that the odds of a fatality across the four days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival are around 5:1. Punters should be aware that they’re gambling with animals’ lives. Since 2013, six horses have died in the Melbourne Cup, seven on Cup Day. An average of two horses die every day on Australian tracks, with a record 175 horses dying in the past racing year. DEMOND BELLAMY, VIA EMAIL

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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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Honour for man who gave so much EMILY CHATE

beloved resident of St Marys will have his name immortalised to honour all his contributions to the city. On Monday evening, Penrith City Council moved to rename the Ripples St Marys Hydrotherapy Centre to the David Trist Hydrotherapy Centre in recognition of the late David Trist. “The proposed naming acknowledges Mr Trist’s extraordinary and significant commitment to both the country and community over his lifetime, while directly reflecting his strong leadership, influence and determination in the planning and delivery of the Hydrotherapy Centre in St Marys,” the Council report said. “Mr Trist was also a founding

Director of Ripples Leisure Centre and served on the Board from 1995 to 2003.” During his time on the board, Trist was instrumental in the planning and delivery of the hydrotherapy centre which opened in 2001. “As he was about a lot of things in the community, he was very passionate about St Marys Ripples, very passionate about it performing well and very instrumental in obtaining the funding… for the hydrotherapy pool,” Liberal Councillor Ross Fowler said in Council Chambers. Councillor John Thain served on the Board of Ripples during his early terms on Council and worked alongside Trist. “David was incredibly passionate about St Marys and western Sydney in general, but I think it is fair to say

that the hydrotherapy pool would not be there if it wasn’t for his drive and his commitment to get the funding,” he said. Trist sadly passed away last year just weeks before his 100th birthday. Following his military service in the Second World War, Trist returned to banking and was transferred from Parramatta to St Marys, where he managed the local Commonwealth Bank branch. Trist was an active member of the St Marys RSL sub-Branch, a Legatee with Sydney Legacy Nepean Division, and a volunteer with Wounded Heroes Australia. He was also involved in numerous local clubs and committees and most recently served as Secretary of the Dunheved Business Park Development Committee. Trist was a long-term Chair of the

David Trist celebrates his 99th birthday. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Penrith Valley Co-op Housing Society, and he was a strong advocate for affordable housing, the social and economic growth of St Marys and the Dunheved Industrial Estate, and the establishment of Western

Sydney International Airport. His daughter Elizabeth carried a photo of her father on board the inaugural domestic flight out of Western Sydney International Airport on Sunday.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

JOURNEY OF HEALING

From pain to purpose: Chris Mason shares his extraordinary comeback story KEELY MARSH

723km journey from Brewarrina Fish Traps to Penrith has become more than a test of endurance for Ngemba man Chris Mason, with his memoir The Boy They Took, The Man I Became, sharing the personal story behind his fight for change. The book, launched alongside the end of his Long Walk Home campaign, explores Mason’s story of childhood, resilience, healing and his journey towards recovery and reconnecting with culture. Mason said the title reflected the impact of being taken from his family and placed in an Aboriginal protection board, and the years he spent trying to understand where he came from. While acknowledging the love and good intentions of people around him, he said the experience left him struggling with his identity and searching for a sense of belonging. His life later took him through addiction, prison and suicidal thoughts, leaving him determined

Chris Mason returned to Penrith after his 723km journey.

not to become another statistic. The memoir documents what he describes as a fight back, a decision to change his life and find a way forward. “It’s raw and real, but it’s inspiring and encouraging,” he said. Mason hopes his story will reach people experiencing similar struggles, particularly those in prison or rehabilitation who may have lost hope. “If there’s someone sitting in jail or rehab thinking ‘I don’t know if it’s worth living,’ have a read,” Mason said. “There’s a beautiful life waiting for you down the road.” Beyond sharing his personal experiences, Mason said the book offered practical steps readers could apply to their own lives, whether they wanted to overcome addiction, improve relationships, change jobs or make better financial decisions. “My life has been about change,” Mason said. He also hopes the memoir and his long-distance walk will encourage conversations around First Nations

mental health, suicide prevention and trauma recovery within the community. For Mason, reconnecting with his culture was central to rebuilding his life. He said finding that connection gave him stronger understanding of who he was and provided something to hold on to during difficult times. “You need something that’s going to ground and anchor you through difficult times, and through culture I did this,” Mason explained. “It gave me a sense of who I am and what I’m about.” Through his memoir and advocacy, Mason hopes others will recognise that change is possible, regardless of how difficult their circumstances may seem. “Nothing is too good for the recovering addict,” he said. “If you put your mind to it, anything is possible.” The memoir is available now online. To purchase your copy of The Boy They Took, The Man I Became, visit https://shorturl.at/9jLDf.

Beloved Barry starts a new chapter at Mulgoa KEELY MARSH

or the Mulgoa community, a familiar face is back and isn’t wanting to leave any time

soon. Barry, the once beloved lollipop man for Mulgoa Public School, now has the important role of reading supervisor to the students. At the end of July, Barry made the tough decision to quit his duties as the school’s lollipop man and was

looking to retirement. But Barry couldn’t keep away, admitting the couple months he spent at home was “boring” for him. “The school, the kids, all of the parents, just the area in general, is something I’ve enjoyed for many years now,” Barry said. “And I just didn’t want to leave them.” In his new role as reading supervisor, Barry assisted the kids by watching them read and explaining

Barry with School Principal Justine Blackley. Photo: Keely Marsh.

what different words mean and helping them pronounce words when they’re stuck. Principal Justine Blackley explained to the Weekender that Barry has been a beloved member of the school community for 14 years and is truly an important member of the school. “Barry’s included in everything we do, he’s not a separate entity to the school,” Blackley said. Completely different to his previous role at the school, Barry has undergone a crash course in phonics and reading instructions, to support him around how he can help the kids as readers, correct them and allow them to pause and have the time to think and sound words out. “It’s a different interaction, I’m now trying to help them,” he said. “Before it was just ‘good morning, how are you?’ and ‘what are you doing today?’ It’s totally different.” For Blackley, she’s looking at the bigger picture, admitting how amazing of a role model and support person Barry is for the young students. “The bigger thing for me, is that Barry is modelling that reading, we know reading is so important, and for our children it needs to be done every day,” she stated.

Barry helps the kids with their reading and understanding of words. Photo: Keely Marsh.

“Barry provides this wonderful male role model for our kids, our teachers and they know that they’re being listened too.” Not ready to leave the school’s supportive and friendly environment, Barry joked, “Well, unless something happens or Justine throws me out, I’ll be here for as long as I can.”

Feeling so welcomed into the community, Barry believes the school is the core and at the centre of Mulgoa as a whole. Blackley said: “I think that we’re a unique and beautiful school, our community is warm and welcoming, and we embrace everyone that’s been part of our Mulgoa family.”

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

NIGHT IN FOR A CAUSE M

ore than 140 guests packed St Dominic’s College in Kingswood earlier this month for OnePointHealth’s Boys Night In, raising more than $20,000 for men’s health awareness, FightMND and The Haven. Now in its fifth year, the annual men’s mental health event doubled its attendance since last year, bringing together local businesses, health professionals, community leaders and sporting icons for an evening of conversation, connection and fundraising. The night was hosted by OnePointHealth, with a team of its practitioners and administration staff volunteering throughout. This year’s event was held in support of OnePointHealth Director Jeff Jenkins, who is living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), and the many families affected by the unforgiving condition. Funds raised through ticket sales, auctions, raffles, donations and virtual seats will support FightMND’s research into MND and The Haven’s impactful community work. Penrith lawyer Daniel McKinnon of Bateman Battersby Complete Legal MC’d the evening. Guests

Daniel McKinnon and Jake Trbojevic at Boys Night In.

Attendees at the annual Boys Night In event.

heard from Manly Sea Eagles co-captain and former NSW State of Origin captain Jake Trbojevic; former NRL and Super League playmaker Blake Austin; Western Sydney adaptive athlete and mental health advocate Michael Zinghini; and St Dominic’s College Principal Natalie Devenish. Devenish’s address on the mental health and wellbeing of boys as they grow up resonated strongly with the room, establishing the tone for an

seen,” said OnePointHealth CEO, Michael Todd. “To see so many people turn out for men’s health as well as our amazing causes, is humbling.” Boys Night In is OnePointHealth’s annual fundraising event raising awareness of men’s health and supporting local and national causes. “Our aim is to make it easier for men and boys to talk about their health and to look out for their

evening focused on men’s mental health, early conversations and looking out for one another. Live speed painter Brad Blaze added a standout moment, creating a Penrith Panthers painting and a portrait of Jeff Jenkins in front of the crowd. “Boys Night In has become a strong community event, and thanks to St Dominic’s College, this year the room was fuller and the support stronger than we have ever

mates. The generosity on the night, from guests, speakers and local businesses, made that real,” said Alicia Whiticker, Event Coordinator, OnePointHealth. OnePointHealth is an allied health provider with clinics across Penrith, Ryde, Ropes Crossing, Blaxland, Springwood, Katoomba and Lindfield, offering services including podiatry, physiotherapy, exercise physiology, dietetics, psychology, and more.

A safe place to be understood KEELY MARSH

afe Spaces Support (SSS) is a family-led service, founded by Joey and Adriana Betham, providing behaviour, mental health, and family-focused supports for children, young people and families across Penrith and Greater western Sydney. At the heart of it all, they want to create safe and supportive environments where individuals will feel understood, regulated and empowered to thrive and ultimately where families feel seen, supported and not alone. This weekend SSS is hosting a pregnancy and infant loss remembrance morning tea at Regatta Park, Emu Plains. “I really wanted to honour the fact it’s a sensitive topic for everyone going through pregnancy and infant loss,” Adriana Betham said. “Coming from personal experience, I know

that it’s different for everybody, everyone’s journey is different.” Understanding the sensitive topic, SSS wanted to put on a morning tea, something that’s not too long, to avoid making it to heavy of a situation for people. Betham explained there is no pressure to share anything with others, it’s all about women coming together who have been through that experience, whether they’re still in the grief process or working through it. “We want to provide a space where for them to reflect and remember and be around others that have been through that can hopefully really help,” Betham said. “I want them to feel relaxed, feel loved on and I want them to meet other women and just have that community” Held behind the Regatta Park Kitchen Café, refreshments will be supplied and little gifts have been curated for everyone to take home.

NORMAN’S

“It’s going to be a real gentle set up and there’s going to be rock art painting,” Betham explained. The big heart and idea behind the remembrance morning tea is to have women feel safe, heard and valued. “I want there to be that real sense of belonging,” Betham admitted. “Being around like-minded people, taking part in something, they’re feeling a part of a community while feeling safe and loved on.” Betham hopes that this morning tea and future support services help those in the healing process. “It’s not formal therapy but it’s helpful and I think it’s an outlet,” Betham said. “I would like them to feel like the weight of the world is off their shoulders for just one hour, where they can be together.” Seeing the bigger picture, Betham explained the heart behind SSS itself is having that safe

SCRAP

space for women and the community to really feel loved in a non-judgemental space. “I feel like there is a real need on our Penrith community for that,” she said. To register for the remembrance morning tea, which will be held this Saturday, October 31 from 10am-11am at Regatta Park, visit https://shorturl.at/A63In.

Joey and Adriana Betham, co-founders of Safe Spaces Support.

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LOCAL NEWS

FESTIVE FUN FOR ALL

Team Colyton is preparing for its annual Christmas Carols tradition

Team Colyton is starting to put together its Christmas Carols event, to be held on November 28.

LOUISE ARMSTRONG

eam Colyton is gearing up for its annual Christmas Carols event to provide the local community with a free, fun day out during the festive season. Core member of Team Colyton, Julie Padgett explained that the organisation is run by volunteers

from Colyton to organise free, family and social events for the community. The not-for-profit group has held other events this year such as their Easter Fun Day at Colyton Neighbourhood Centre and Kite Day at Kevin Dwyer Park, and is now looking towards the Community Christmas Carols scheduled for

Saturday, November 28. Throughout the year, Team Colyton relies on fundraising from local sausage sizzles and raffles along with sponsorships and Council grants to fund their community events. Padgett said that the group is excited about their upcoming Carols and emphasised the importance of

free social gatherings for the local community. “It’s a place for the community to get together that’s free. We understand there’s a lot of pressure on families these days and so everything we do, we try to make sure there’s no charge,” she said. “We have kids’ activities there, we put on entertainment, we have

fireworks, so it’s a place for the local community to get together to celebrate and to just have some fun without spending a lot of money.” For a night of singing, market stalls, entertainment and family fun, Team Colyton invites all members to the Christmas Carols event at Kevin Dwyer Park on Saturday, November 28 from 5-9pm.

Mayor’s News

A clear vision and priorities for the term ahead When I was first elected Mayor of Penrith, my vision was clear — I wanted my kids and grandkids to grow up near quality education and jobs, in a well-connected place that offers a great quality of life. That’s what I want for everyone in Penrith. I believe Penrith Council is on its way to achieving this for our community, and this vision frames my priorities for the 2-year Mayoral term ahead. Council’s decisions must stay community-focused and improve daily life for our diverse community. On the ground, we’ll continue to improve services and support the unique needs of neighbourhoods while continuing to connect everyone through programs and events. With the new airport open and the Metro to come, the once-in-a-generation opportunities we’ve planned for are here now. Penrith and St Marys are gateways to the new airport economy and Council wants local people to share in its benefits. We’re building the central park in St Marys that will complement the long-term vision for around 9,300 new homes and more than 8,300 new jobs in the town centre. We are also progressing plans for King-

swood-Werrington, with a focus on safer public spaces, better connections, more housing choice and more jobs. Guided by our refreshed Advocacy Strategy, Council will continue to advocate to the Australian and NSW Governments for further investment to provide the infrastructure needed to manage Penrith’s growth well. We will keep pushing for the full north–south Metro connection, rapid bus services, flood evacuation infrastructure, freight rail, improved local roads and community facilities. Council will continue to protect our much-loved Nepean River, improve access to green spaces, increase shade and tree canopy, support healthy waterways and pursue lasting plans for Penrith Beach and Penrith Lakes. As service demands grow, assets age and infrastructure costs rise, we’ll need to make some tough decisions this term to ensure we remain financially sustainable and that future generations inherit a strong, liveable and prosperous Penrith. By September 2028, I want residents to see visible progress. Most importantly, I want our community to see itself in Penrith’s bright future.

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Cake and guests to celebrate Probus’ 50th anniversary

Gym’s birthday turned into giant fundraiser for charity KEELY MARSH

President Mandy Stevens and Penrith Mayor Todd Carney. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Western Weekender Managing Editor Troy Dodds was also a special guest, speaking to members about the Weekender’s history in Penrith and its alignment with groups like Probus. “It was fantastic to speak to members of the Probus Club of Glenmore Park and be part of the big celebrations,” Dodds said. “Groups like this are so important to our commu-

nity, and we have a shared vision here at the Weekender – to be part of the community and to ensure it thrives.” Carney had the honour of cutting the delicious cake that was made for the 50th anniversary celebrations, sharing the duties with Probus Club of Glenmore Park President, Mandy Stevens. The club meets at Leonay Golf Club.

Mark Murphy and his family.

and time to celebrate with the MMFIT family. “It’s open for everyone but the class itself is capped at 60 registrations,” he said. “But absolutely anyone can come from the community, it will be good to make it a big community event, because it just means that we’ll raise more money on the day.” Leading up to the seventh birthday celebration, Murphy and the MMFIT team have been working hard and joining together to raise funds. “We had $7000 as the figure, to go with the seven themes but we’ve now doubled it and raised $14,000,” Murphy explained. With seven years of friendships, training, memories and a community that continues to grow, the MMFIT family hopes to put on a spectacular event for a birthday celebration and for one incredible cause. Visit MMFIT on Facebook to book or for more information.

WW59748

he Probus Club of Glenmore Park welcomed a number of special guests to its meeting last week as it celebrated Probus’ 50th anniversary in Australia. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney was the guest of honour, congratulating Probus on the achievement and giving a special nod to the Glenmore Park club that has strong membership.

ocal gym MMFIT is celebrating its seventh birthday with a charity event on Saturday, November 7 at Leonay Golf Club. From 7am, the gym is bringing together the community to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House. Owner of MMFIT, Mark Murphy, believes that many people have been touched by the organisation, whether it’s directly or indirectly and that’s why he chose to fundraise for them. “Ronald McDonald House is a charity that pretty much most people have been touched by in some element, like our family has been as well,” Murphy said. “My daughter was born, and it was week two of her life and she had really bad anaphylaxis to dairy and we were rushed to hospital.” After spending a week at the hospital, the family then returned when she was five-weeks-old after being diagnosed with meningitis for another week’s stay. “The Ronald McDonald House was offered to us at the time, but we lived close enough that we didn’t want to hold it up for someone else, who might be coming from more rural or further away places,” Murphy explained. To celebrate the gym’s birthday and the significance of Ronald McDonald House, MMFIT will host a morning of fitness, fun and giving back. With everyone invited, people can expect a morning of energy, with a charity workout, the Ronald McDonald House rower, local business pop-ups, raffles, a barbeque, music

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Δ Bakery open longer: The very popular Crotty’s Bakery will open on Sundays from November, giving you an extra day of the week to grab some of those delicious old-school treats.

landed with Steak Up opening in Memory Mall in the Penriht CBD. There’s delicious steak (pictured), chicken and fish options – and we can declare it restaurant quality but with that takeaway feel (and price). They’ve also got lunch specials.

Δ Summer

favourites combine: Few things say Aussie summer quite like a slurpee run or cracking into a classic Drumstick. Now, these two summer staples are getting an unexpected shake-up, with the arrival of the new Drumstick Slurpee, transforming 7-Eleven’s much-loved raspberry Slurpee flavour into a cone and marking an exciting first for Drumstick: its first-ever sorbet creation. Already a hit overseas, the collaboration has just landed in Australia, bringing a fruity new twist to the classic Drumstick cone. The Drumstick Slurpee combines refreshing raspberry-flavoured sorbet with smooth, creamy vanilla, topped with fizzy candy pieces for a playful pop and crunch. And yes, the iconic Drumstick choccy tip made the cut. The new Drumstick Slurpee is now available exclusively at 7-Eleven stores.

Δ Cedars x El Jannah collab: El Jannah is bringing Lebanese flavour and footy pride together with the recent launch of the limited-edition Cedars Roll Meal, available at all El Jannah restaurants until November 15 for only $14. Inspired by the Cedars and the Lebanese roots at the heart of El Jannah, the limited-edition meal celebrates the flavours, pride and culture that bring the Lebanese community together. Packed with legendary charcoal chicken, chips, pickles and garlic sauce, plus extra toum (garlic sauce) and tabouli for dipping and dunking. Speaking on the partnership, George Katrib, Chairman of the Lebanese Rugby League team, said: “The Cedars have always been about more than just footy. We represent a community that’s incredibly proud of its Lebanese roots, so teaming up with El Jannah feels like a natural fit.”

www.my88.com.au

57678

Δ Steak up! Penrith’s newest eatery has

Δ Spicing up the bachelor’s handbag: Coles is teaming up with Old El Paso to put a Mexican-inspired twist on one of its mostloved dinner favourites, with the new Old El Paso Hot Roast Chicken launching nationally from November 4. The collaboration brings together two of Coles’ biggest customer favourites, pairing its iconic Hot Roast Chicken, the second most popular product across Coles stores nationally, with Old El Paso, the most popular brand in Coles’ Mexican range. The new addition to the range offers households a great value, convenient meal solution that can be on the table in under 15 minutes. Priced at $14.50, or $13.50 for the first two weeks, it can be enjoyed straight from the bag, or easily turned into tacos, wraps, salads or loaded nachos for a budget-friendly dinner at home.

Δ Spicy nuggs: McDonald’s is bringing Spicy Chicken McNuggets back to the menu from tomorrow, with the returning product available for four weeks. Macca’s is also making the spicy nuggets available across all serving sizes, along with half-and-half packs that let customers combine regular and Spicy Chicken McNuggets in the same order. The return also includes dedicated 6-piece and 10-piece Spicy Chicken McNuggets packaging, giving the limited-time range its own visual identity.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

TURNING BACK TIME

Check out this flashback shot of the strip of shops along Bringelly Road at Kingswood. The supermarket, which would later become

Hallanis, is still there – along with other retailers. Time has moved on, but not much has

changed here (except maybe the cars and that huge cigarette billboard). (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS FROM PENRITH’S PAST – INFO@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

ARNALL TROPHIES Trophies – Plaques – Shields – Honour Boards – Glassware

TROPHIES FOR ALL OCCASIONS A family owned and operated business which has served the community for over 30 years

358 Jamison Road, Penrith www.arnalltrophies.com.au 26

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

4721 3871

Western Sydney Tourism Awards Celebrating west’s tourism leaders W

estern Sydney’s tourism industry took centre stage as the Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2026 brought together the region’s leading tourism operators, businesses and industry figures for an evening of celebration and recognition. Hosted by Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW (WSTTF) at the Western Sydney Convention Centre in Penrith, the awards recognised the people and businesses driving excellence, innovation and growth across one of Australia’s fastest-growing visitor economies. A total of 13 awards were presented, recognising excellence across tourism, hospitality, accommodation, events, arts and visitor experiences. Winners

were acknowledged by prominent government and industry leaders, including Kellie Sloane, NSW Opposition Leader and Karen Jones, CEO of Destination NSW, along with representatives from Qantas, Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Vietnam Airlines, Western Sydney University, Business NSW and Cabravale Club Resort, and Liverpool Catholic Club. The evening culminated in the presentation of the coveted Tourism Business of the Year award, before a finale of some exciting lucky draw prizes coordinated by the WSTTF, including airfare tickets, accommodation packages and a range of experiences sponsored by the region’s hotels, wineries, Vietnam Airlines, Qantas and Jetstar. Opening the evening, Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce Chair

Fazila Farhad reflected on the remarkable progress of the region’s tourism industry. “Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists and winners, whose innovation, passion and commitment continue to showcase the very best of western Sydney,” Farhad said. “Since launching in 2024, these awards have celebrated the people, businesses and experiences shaping the future of tourism in our region. “As western Sydney prepares to welcome the opening of Western Sydney International Airport and enters a new era of opportunity, success will be defined not by infrastructure alone, but by the people and experiences that bring our region to life and make it such a unique destination for visitors.”

Winners at the Western Sydney Tourism Awards.

WINNERS OF THE WESTERN SYDNEY TOURISM AWARDS 2026 OUTSTANDING TOURISM CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR Platinum Winner: West HQ Filipino Festival Gold Winners: Club Marconi Festa Della Repubblica Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park – Wake Up with the Wildlife

EVENT CAMPAIGN AWARD – COUNCIL Platinum Winner: Fairfield City Council Moon Festival – National Lion Dance Competition Gold Winners: City of Parramatta – New Year’s Eve 2025 Penrith City Council – REAL Festival 2025

MEETING/CONFERENCE VENUE OF THE YEAR Platinum Winner: Liverpool Catholic Club Venues Gold Winners: Australian Turf Club – Rosehill Gardens Racecourse Visy Dior Hotel International

TOUR GROUP EXPERIENCE OF THE YEAR Platinum Winner: Anderson’s Tours

Gold Winner: Gledswood Homestead & Winery Highly Commended: Vietravel Australia

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN ACCESSIBLE TOURISM Platinum Winner: Quest Penrith Gold Winner: Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park

APARTMENT HOTELS AND UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION Apartment Hotels Platinum Winner: Meriton Suites Liverpool Gold Winner: Quest Campbelltown Unique Accommodation Platinum Winner: Novotel Sydney Cabramatta Gold Winner: Holiday Inn Sydney St Marys

OURISM EXCELLENCE – TEAM MEMBER T OF THE YEAR Platinum Winner: Amanda Fuller the William Inglis Hotel – MGallery Collection Gold Winner: Ruwani Weerasinghe La Vie Hotels & Resorts

BEST BAR/PUB OF THE YEAR Platinum Winner: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains –Two Doctors Whiskey Tavern Gold Winner: Station Hotel Parramatta

EST RATED CUISINE – HOTELS/CLUBS/ B RESTAURANTS Platinum Winner: Magma by Dany Karam-Cabravale Club Resort Gold Winner: Wenty Leagues Highly commended: Fairways Restaurant & Bar – Comfort Inn Leura

TOURISM TRANSFORMATION EXCELLENCE AWARD (NEW OR REFURBISHED PROJECT) Platinum Winner: Western Sydney International Airport Gold Winner: Cabravale Club Resort

BEST MUSIC AND ARTS VENUE Platinum Winner: Coliseum Theatre – West HQ Gold Winners: EVAN Theatre – Penrith Panthers Leagues Club

Liverpool Powerhouse – Liverpool Council Highly Commended: Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre (WPAC) – Wollondilly City Council

CHIEF EXECUTIVE/GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR (HOTELS, CLUBS & TOURISM BUSINESSES) Platinum Winner: Stephen Wills – General Manager, Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley Gold Winners: Noah Moseley – General Manager, Calmsley Hill City Farm Vicki Le – Chief Commercial Officer, Cabravale Club Resort Special Award: Leadership Legacy Award Winner: Belinda Thomson – General Manager, The William Inglis Hotel – MGallery Collection

OURISM BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – T MAJOR Platinum Winner: Cabravale Club Resort Gold Winner: The William Inglis Hotel – MGallery Collection

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Western Sydney Tourism Awards

COLISEUM THEATRE | BEST MUSIC & ARTS VENUE Experience world-class entertainment in the heart of Western Sydney at the Coliseum Theatre. From international musicals and comedy to family favourites, concerts, symphony and live events, the Coliseum brings unforgettable experiences closer to home. As Western Sydney’s only multimode theatre, it offers state-of-the-art production technology alongside premium guest amenities, including elegant bars, accessible facilities and exceptional customer service. Renowned for its award-winning design and welcoming atmosphere, the venue is a proud cultural hub for the region, showcasing celebrated artists and world-class productions. Located within the West HQ precinct, guests can also enjoy free parking, dining, accommodation, leisure and entertainment, all in one convenient destination.

WW59726

PLATINUM WINNER

(02) 9625 5500 | coliseumtheatre.com.au 33 Railway Street, Rooty Hill

ANDERSON’S TOURS | TOUR GROUP EXPERIENCE OF THE YEAR

WW59727

PLATINUM WINNER Anderson’s Tours Celebrates Platinum Excellence! We are incredibly proud and honoured to receive the Platinum Award for Tour Experience of the Year at the Western Sydney Awards, recognising our commitment to delivering exceptional Australian tourism experiences. As a family-owned, multi-award-winning business with over 26 years of experience, Anderson’s Tours specialises in small-group Blue Mountains Tours. This recognition is a celebration of our passionate team, valued guests and industry partners who make our success possible. We proudly welcome Western Sydney residents, their visiting family and friends, and businesses seeking memorable corporate charters, group excursions and unique team experiences to discover the spectacular Blue Mountains with us.

0414 514 949 | ANDERSONSTOURS.COM.AU

YOUR NEXT AWARD-WINNING EVENT AWAITS WW59711

GOLD WINNER Meeting/Conference Venue of the Year Western Sydney Tourism Awards

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Western Sydney Tourism Awards

TWO DOCTORS WHISKEY TAVERN

AWARD WINNING EXCELLENCE PLATINUM WINNER

BEST BAR OF THE YEAR Western Sydney Tourism Awards

We’re proud to share that Two Doctors Whisky Tavern at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains - MGallery Collection has been named Platinum Winner in the Best Bar/Pub of the Year category at the recent Western Sydney Tourism Awards. This award is a fantastic achievement for our team and a reflection

WW59712

of the hard work that goes into making Two Doctors Whisky Tavern one of the Blue Mountains’ standout venues. We’re thrilled to receive this recognition and thank everyone who has supported us along the way.

1 Sublime Sub Point Road, Leura, NSW 2780 | www.fairmontresort.com.au | 02 4785 0000 000

FIVE CategoRy WinneRs WinneRs Platinum - Western Sydney Tourism Business of the Year

Platinum - Unique Accommodation Novotel Sydney Cabramatta Platinum - Best Rated Cuisine Magma by Dany Karam Gold - Tourism Transformation Excellence Award Gold - Chief Executive/General Manager/Business Leader Vicki Le, Chief Commerical Officer

Your place to play.

WW59756

WW59746

(02) 9727 3600 | www.cabravale.com.au

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

UNITING EDINGLASSIE EMU PLAINS • 5 EMERALD STREET, EMU PLAINS • WWW.UNITING.ORG

Chapel welcomes visitors again O

ver 70s considering their next move can experience the future of retirement living in Emu Plains, with the sales office at Uniting Edinglassie officially open within a carefully restored heritage-listed chapel. The site’s 106-year-old chapel on Emerald Street housing the new sales office provides prospective residents and their families with the opportunity to learn more about the retirement living community currently under construction by Uniting NSW.ACT. Set to deliver 147 homes, including contemporary one, two and three-bedroom apartments designed specifically for over-70s seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, Uniting Edinglassie creates opportunities for western Sydney residents to downsize and remain connected to their local community. Uniting NSW.ACT Head of Property Development, Adrian Ciano, said Uniting Edinglassie was designed with a unique focus on helping people plan confidently for the future. “Uniting Edinglassie is a place where residents can enjoy their independence, stay socially connected and have the peace of mind that support is available if their needs change over time,” Ciano said. “Moving later in life is about more than finding a home that is easy to maintain. It is about feeling settled in familiar surroundings and having a clear pathway for the future. “We are delivering a model of care which breaks down barriers between retirement

Artist’s impression, subject to change.

living, care services and the wider community, and allows residents to plan ahead with greater confidence while enjoying the lifestyle they want today. “Uniting Edinglassie makes it easy for residents to connect with support services,

including in-home support available through Uniting Home Care, and the award-winning Uniting Edinglassie Residential Aged Care on-site.” The opening of the sales office marks an important milestone for the community,

Uniting Edinglassie Sales office now open!

giving visitors the chance to explore apartment plans and village amenities with the help of the Uniting Team. “Our experienced and friendly staff are an important part of our commitment to communities, and their knowledge, continuity and care mean residents feel welcome from the moment they arrive,” Ciano said. Alongside thoughtfully designed homes, Uniting Edinglassie residents will have access to a range of amenities including landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining spaces, a clubroom and library, as well as access to a café, hair salon, and chapel co-located in the residential aged care onsite. Ideally positioned directly opposite Lennox Village, future residents will enjoy easy access to supermarkets, cafés, pharmacies and everyday essentials, while remaining close to the Nepean River, local services and public transport. Uniting Edinglassie is expected to welcome its first residents by Spring 2027. Interest in the community has been strong, with growing demand for appointments. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to book a private appointment to avoid missing out on preferred apartments. To book an appointment, visit the sales office at 5 Emerald Street, Emu Plains, or call 0478 264 332. To find out more, visit www.uniting.org/ services/retirement-and-independent-living/ villages/edinglassie.

MOVE IN SPRING 2027

Discover Uniting Edinglassie, a new retirement village in Emu Plains, directly opposite Lennox Village and at the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The Sales Office is now open, with private appointments underway. Appointments are filling quickly, so book yours today to explore the available apartments, discuss your contract options and see what life at Uniting Edinglassie could look like. •

Generously sized 1,2 and 3-bedroom apartments Brand-new clubroom, landscaped gardens, BBQ and outdoor entertaining areas

•

Bus stop directly outside the village, with connections to Penrith and surrounding suburbs

•

Award-winning Residential Aged Care onsite, with support close by if your needs change

Call our team on 0478 264 332 or visit edinglassie.com.au 5 Emerald Street, Emu Plains *Access to home care and residential age care services is subject to eligibility and availability. Additional fees and charges apply’ Uniting operates under the Retirement Villages Act. You will have to pay a departure fee when you leave.

Artist impression

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

BUSINESS MATTERS

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

THE AI CHAT YOU NEED TO HAVE

MORE PROFIT. SAME CUSTOMERS.

here’s no shortage of noise around AI at the moment. Every week there seems to be another tool promising to completely change the way we work. But I think a lot of businesses are starting the conversation in the wrong place. The question shouldn’t be, “What AI should we buy?” A much better question is, “Where are we wasting time?” Think about what happens inside your business every day. Someone manually prepares the same report. Information gets copied from one system into another. Someone spends half an hour looking through emails for something they know they’ve seen before. Another person spends hours turning notes into documents or answering the

Practical strategies. More profit. Stronger businesses.

PAUL DITRIH same types of enquiries. None of these things seem like a big deal on their own. But add them all together across a business and suddenly you’re burning a lot of time. That’s where I think AI gets interesting. Instead of chasing the latest AI tool, look for the repetitive, administrative work getting in the way of your people doing more valuable things. That doesn’t mean everything should be automated either. There are parts of business where experience, judgement, relationships and simply having a conversation matter. AI should support those things,

Fusion Red Penrith Chamber Platinum Member

not replace them. Over the next few years, I don’t think the winners will necessarily be the businesses using the most AI. I think they’ll be the ones asking better questions. Where are we losing time? What could we do differently? What should stay human? And if we could give our people some of that time back, what could they be doing instead? That’s a business conversation, not an IT one.

ere’s a radical business strategy: Stop looking for new customers. At least for a moment. I know, that sounds ridiculous coming from a business advisor. But hear me out. I’m certainly not suggesting you stop the marketing that’s working. That momentum takes years to build, and you want to keep it going. But business owners spend enormous amounts of time, energy and money chasing their next customer, while some of their greatest profit opportunities are sitting right under their noses. The problem isn’t always that you need more sales. Sometimes, you need to get better at making money from the sales you’ve already got. Before spending another dollar chasing new business, consider these five opportunities.

1. Increase your prices. When did you last review them? I know business confidence is low, but if your gross profit margins aren’t healthy, a price increase may be essential, not optional. Don’t automatically assume customers will leave. 2. Sell more to existing customers. What else do they need that you could genuinely provide? Additional services, complementary products or ongoing support. You’ve already earned their trust. Build on it. 3. Improve your gross profit. Review supplier costs, staff productivity, wasted materials and rework. Small improvements across multiple jobs can add up to serious money. 4. Eliminate scope creep. Those little extras, additional requests and unpaid hours are quietly eating your profit. Define what’s included and

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

charge appropriately for anything additional. 5. Make better use of your capacity. Could your team deliver more with the same resources? Improve processes, remove bottlenecks and reduce wasted time. Choose one area this week. Calculate what a five per cent improvement could mean over the next 12 months. Then take action. Financially Unshakeable businesses focus on turning hard work into healthy profits. Of course, attracting new customers matters. But before you grow your business, make sure you’ve made the most of the one you’ve already built.

Suzanne Walker Clear Path Accounting clearpathaccounting.com.au

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At Clear Path Accounting, we help ambitious business owners:

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

PENRITH LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

www.mjpainting.com.au

LOCAL AIR CON SPECIALIST

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p Dro

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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>> Z ^ ͵ >> W ^d^

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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Traffic Notice Penrith CBD Road Closures Penrith Christmas Tree Lighting Friday 13th November 2026

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1.00pm

11.00pm

6.00am

11.00pm

Woodriff Street (between High St & the end of Union Lane) Roundabout to Tindale Street open to traffic. Judges Carpark open till 1am

GLENMORE PARK HIGH SCHOOL

Canteen Licence

glenmorepk-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au Tenders close at 3pm on 6th November 2026. Mandatory Criteria: All employees must hold a current working with children check.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen for the school year commencing Thursday 28th January 2027 and for a term of 3 years with an option to renew for 2 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 880. General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to: Yvonne Lees Business Manager 02 4733 0155 Tenders must be sent electronically and noted in the subject line “Commercial in Confidence – School Canteen Tender” and sent to: The Principal Lisette Gorick

Masters Carpark — small section at front of Woodriff Street end, will be closed for rides to be installed

Parking on the night of event: Castlereagh Street OPEN for flow of traffic around event site. Note: and into Tindale Street open and access to PENRITH RSL carpark for members is as usual for their carpark. Masters Carpark — opened for parking. Note: NO entrance or exit onto Woodriff Street from Masters Carpark. Noting a small section of carpark closed for event in parking area outside Griddle Restaurant block near front of Woodriff Street for rides setup.

Judges Carpark — open both entrances. Open to 1am Friday night. Allen Place Carpark — open enter via Lawson Street or Henry Street Union Lane Carpark — open enter via Union Road or via Station Street near Tattersalls Hotel For more information phone the Penrith CBD Corporation on 47 225556 business hours (except day of event).

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PUBLIC NOTICES

MELBOURNE CUP

It’s the race that stops the nation! LOUISE ARMSTRONG

dressed and best hat competition, alongside sweeps and lucky door prizes. The Paceway Melbourne Cup Luncheon is on between 12pm and 2pm, and members can enjoy happy hour drinks all day long. The Paceway’s karaoke jukebox will also be in action from 4pm to keep the music and positive vibes going after the race. If you’re looking for another great Melbourne Cup lunch option, Penrith Golf Club is holding a two-course lunch for just $50 per person. Despite being hundreds of kilometres away from the Melbourne Cup race, Penrith’s local events and vibrant atmosphere are sure to make you feel like you’re amongst the real action. Enjoy!

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ondering how to celebrate this year’s Melbourne Cup? Penrith has got you sorted with an exciting array of festivities, food and fun times. Whether you’re looking for great company, food and drinks or games, start planning for Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday, November 3 and get amongst the celebrations of the race that stops the nation each year. Penrith Panthers Leagues Club is hosting a Garden Party from 12pm in The Backyard, with a seafood buffet, live entertainment, yard games and of course every moment of the race live on the super-sized outdoor screen. A Melbourne Cup Brunch

at Alexander’s is also on at Panthers from 11am for a day of fashion, socialising and entertainment. The Log Cabin Hotel will be holding a buffet in their Bridgeview Room, allowing guests to soak up the atmosphere with live music, a Fashions on the Field competition and sweepstakes. There will also be a DJ afterparty at The Log Cabin from 3pm to keep the celebrations going into the night. Penrith RSL is holding a race day bingo and raffle, and guests can purchase $12 spritz cocktails all day long. A lively atmosphere will be created at the RSL with a solo artist performing from Midday to 3pm. Penrith Paceway will be hosting its traditional Cup Day event featuring a best

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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Pick up a copy of the paper

weekendeFrree THE GREATEST the western

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Brian To’o and Jarome Luai. Photo: NRL Images.

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PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS

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

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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Blaxland

CONNECTION to country

A special supplement focused on local Indigenous affairs and services

NRMA backs Indigenous Artist Program

RMA Insurance is returning as a major partner of Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi, which is now underway. Marking the second year of their Major Partnership, the organisations are celebrating their shared commitment to supporting artists, education and free cultural experiences for the community. This year, in addition to continuing the NRMA Insurance Artist Subsidy and NRMA Insurance School Education Program, the partnership will support the launch of the NRMA Insurance Indigenous Artist Program, providing $20,000 to an Indigenous

artist to create and present an ambitious new sculpture at Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi. The inaugural recipient, David Doyle, is a Barkindji and Malyangapa artist based in Broken Hill, NSW. His practice is grounded in intergenerational knowledge and explores relationships between Country, identity and cultural continuity. Doyle’s sculpture ‘Kaaku-Kaakulinya: Eternal Sentinels’ explores protection, resilience and continual presence through two shield forms. Created in cast iron and steel, the work is installed on Tamarama beach looking out to sea.

NRMA Insurance Chief Customer and Marketing Officer Emily Roberts said the company was delighted to be returning as a major partner of the iconic Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi exhibition in 2026. “We’re proud to grow our partnership in its second year, helping support artists, students and the broader community experience the joy, inspiration and creativity of this much-loved event,” she said. “Our support of the inaugural NRMA Insurance Indigenous Artist Program, provides an important avenue to help ensure First Nations storytelling is celebrated, understood and elevated in

Australia’s arts and culture scene.” Sculpture by the Sea Founding CEO & Artistic Director David Handley said: “We are delighted NRMA Insurance has joined us for a second year as a major partner, doubling its commitment to artists and continuing support for the NRMA Insurance School Education Program. This support makes a real difference to artists and helps us continue to stage Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi as a free to the public event for all to enjoy.” This year Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi marks its 30th anniversary, with 100 sculptures transforming the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk.

David Doyle’s incredible work. Photo: Charlotte Curd.

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MERCH TODAY Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Services and community organisations: Your local guide Health Services

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

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

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

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

Mental Health, Counselling & Wellbeing

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Services

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

Strait Islander people across Western Sydney and NSW.

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

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

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

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

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

Community & Cultural Organisations

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

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

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

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

Emergency & Crisis Support

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

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

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

PENRITHNEWS.AU

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

CONNECTION to country

A stunning discovery R

esearchers from the Vere Gordon Childe Centre at the University of Sydney and the Australian Museum have identified three previously unregistered Aboriginal rock shelters in the Blue Mountains using drone-based LiDAR technology. Working alongside the Dharug Custodian Aboriginal Corporation (DCAC), researchers used drones to scan the Blue Mountains from the air, identifying potential rock shelters that would have been difficult and time-consuming to find on foot. LiDAR (Light, Detection and Ranging) uses laser pulses to create detailed 3D maps of the landscape, helping researchers detect features hidden beneath dense bushland and tree cover. The newly recorded shelters contain visually striking rock art, including red hand stencils, as well as stone artefacts. The team says the approach could help Aboriginal communities, archaeologists and heritage managers locate and protect cultural sites more efficiently across Australia. The work forms part of the Gulamada Project, which is built on the principle of walking side by side, bringing together scientific knowledge and First Nations cultural knowledge to better understand and care for Country. “From the outset, our vision for the Gulamada Project has been to create a true nexus of science and culture. This work highlights the importance of listening, learning and working together,” said project co-director, and Indigenous rock art expert, Wayne Brennan, at the University of Sydney. Susan Templeman, the Federal Member for Macquarie, which includes the Blue Mountains

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

Students on Dr Way’s fieldwork team getting ready to walk to potential rock shelter sites detected by the drone. Photo: University of Sydney.

said: “This project demonstrates the power of bringing together First Nations knowledge and new technology to better understand and protect Australia’s rich cultural heritage. I’m proud that the Australian Government’s First Nations Heritage Grants program is supporting important projects like Gulamada here in the Blue Mountains, already renowned for the extraordinary natural and cultural significance within our rugged landscapes.” The drone-based field surveys confirmed the locations of six registered rock shelters and three previously unregistered shelters containing rock art and stone artefacts. The work also produced much more accurate coordinates than those listed in the official NSW sites register – the

Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS). After the drone surveys identified potential rock shelter sites, project co-director Dr Amy Mosig Way, a research archaeologist at

“This work is exciting” the University of Sydney and the Australian Museum, led teams of students and volunteers into the field to verify the locations and assess whether the shelters contained cultural material. More than 200 rock shelters

Dr Jacob Bongers with the DJI M350 drone with a Yellowscan Explorer version 2 LiDAR sensor.

containing cultural and archaeological evidence have been recorded in the Blue Mountains. Yet, according to Dr Way, only an estimated 10 percent of the region has been surveyed because of its rugged and difficult terrain. The new methodology enables Aboriginal communities, archaeologists and heritage managers to search vast areas of challenging landscape much faster than traditional ground surveys. “This work is exciting because it offers an efficient and accurate way to locate sites in rugged environments, which are notoriously arduous, expensive and time-consuming to survey,” said Dr Jacob Bongers, lead author on the drone research and a digital archaeologist at the University of Sydney. He is also a former AMF/ AMRI Visiting Research Fellow at the Australian Museum. “Importantly, our methodology is helping expand the record of Aboriginal cultural sites in the Blue Mountains and has the potential to be applied in other regions.” While identifying previously unregistered rock shelters is significant, the broader impact may be the ability to find and safeguard many more cultural sites across Australia using a faster and more targeted approach. The technology provides Aboriginal communities with another tool to use alongside existing knowledge and cultural practices to locate, document and protect important heritage sites before they are affected by development, erosion, bushfires or other threats. These promising results lay the groundwork for further LiDAR-assisted surveys across Australia in partnership with Aboriginal communities.

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

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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

MURDER WITH A TWIST

gatha Christie is one of the most influential playwrights of the 20th century, her works transcending time and continuing to be a source of not only entertainment, but a look into the human condition. This November, the Glenbrook Players are taking one of her lesser known works, ‘Verdict’, to the stage, in an intriguing look at murder, destructive love and the consequences of human choices. The story centres on the brilliant Professor Karl Hendryk, an academic who has fled political prosecution and settled in London with his wife, Anya, who is gravely ill, and her cousin Lisa. Tensions within the household build as Lisa’s quiet affection for

Hendryk becomes undeniable. This fragile balance is disrupted by a wealthy and headstrong student who wishes to receive teachings from Hendryk, and falls in love with him in the process. Her obsession leads to tragic consequences, forcing the characters to confront questions of guilt, sacrifice and justice as themes of desire, resentment and misplaced infatuation collide. Different to Christie’s more well-known plays, ‘Verdict’ does not centre around the who-done-it trope. Instead, the audience watches the murder take place and experiences the character’s reactions and fear surrounding the event. “It’s more of a thriller, as opposed to a crime mystery, but it still has those elements and the sort of character archetypes

that we’re used to from Agatha Christie’s work,” said John Forbes, President of the Glenbrook Players. Looking to intrigue audiences with an under appreciated Christie work, the Glenbrook Players sought out ‘Verdict’, to give audiences an opportunity to expand their dramatic palette. However, ‘Verdict’ being performed less than plays such as ‘The Mousetrap’ or ‘And Then There Were None’, meant the Players struggled to adapt some scenes to a contemporary crowd. “The play definitely reflects the time it comes from,” Forbes said. “It’s been this really delicate balance to play with the themes and bring them into a 21st century lens, but it’s also been part of the joy of putting on the show.” Giving emphasis to the three female leads

who originally take a backseat to the male protagonist was high on director Ron Waddick’s list of script changes, which may change the way audiences view the play. “We’ve kept the 1950s setting, but there are certain lines that may not have been comical in the original, but now serve as a really fun commentary on 1950s viewpoints,” Forbes said. “It really is just a real example of what makes community theatre really special because everyone’s loving the process of putting on this show. It’s really bringing out everyone’s creative juices. I’m really excited for audiences to see it.” ‘Verdict’ is being performed at Glenbrook Cinema from November 6-15. Tickets are available at the box office, or online via https://glenbrookplayers.com.au.

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

THINGS TO DO Halloween DJ Night

Halloween Kids Dance Party

Nepean Belle Mystic Cruise

Get ready for a wicked night out at The Backyard this Saturday, October 31! Dress to impress and party with DJ 13, Halloween-themed drinks, giveaways and prizes for the best dressed. Plus, enjoy $5 spirits from 8pm–10pm! This event is strictly 18+ with free entry from 9.30pm. For more information, visit https://penrith.panthers.com.au.

Get ready for a spooktacular night of dancing, games and fun at St Marys Rugby League Club! This Friday, October 30, come dressed in your spookiest costume and enjoy two hours packed with games, prizes, dancing and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. Tickets are essential! Visit https://stmarysleagues. com.au to secure your spot!

All aboard the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler for an enchanting afternoon this Saturday, October 31. Enjoy a three-hour cruise on the beautiful Nepean River and receive a private 1-1 personal psychic reading – the perfect blend of fun, friendship and a touch of mystery. Book your spot at www.nepeanbelle.com.au/ mystic-cruise – but hurry, spots are limited!

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

BUSINESS

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

CLASSES AND FUN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

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

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

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

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

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

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

MUSEUMS

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

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

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

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

WW59796

BARGAIN BUYS

At the movies... REVIEW Other Mommy  1 hour, 33 minutes There’s something inherently creepy as a parent about a malevolent entity living inside your home, let alone the bedroom of your seven-year-old daughter. There’s something even more creepy about that entity looking and sounding like you, and hearing your daughter refer to it as ‘Other Mommy’. Adapted from best selling book Incidents Around The House by Josh Malerman, ‘Other Mommy’ follows seven-year-old Bela living in a house with clear marital problems. The disconnect between her family is exacerbated by, you guessed it, an entity living within her room that looks and sounds exactly like her mother. Fondly called ‘Other Mommy’, this entity befriends Bela, offering her comfort in a time of need, and always asking “Can I go into your heart?”.

As her parents (played by Jessica Chastain and Jay Duplass) fight to understand just what is so interested in their daughter, all hell breaks loose as ‘Other Mommy’ becomes more and more violent, desperate to go inside Bela’s heart and switch places with her. As a lover of the book, I was very excited to see this film. The book is creepy, unsettling and downright eerie, making me fear for a time I might have a child with an active imagination. The film however, didn’t quite live up to expectations. Marketing boasted a jump scare roughly every 96 seconds, which sounds like a lot, but didn’t feel like it actually came to fruition. Even when they did, they were low level and expected. The plot was fairly close to the book, but

See these movies at...

included significant changes to the story’s direction and characters. For all its marketing and high scare count,

PENRITH

this movie was just fine, and honestly a bit of a disappointment. – Madeline Dantier

www.hoyts.com.au

Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 Pressure

Sense and Sensibility (PG)

Klara and the Sun (M)

Wildwood

(M) 29 Oct to 11 Nov

Now Showing to 11 Nov

Now Showing to 4 Nov

Now Showing to 3 Nov

Hadestown: The Musical (G) 31 Oct & 8 Nov

(M)

Wicker

Pan’s Labyrinth (MA) 3 Nov

(MA) Advance Screening 1 Nov Season 5 to 18 Nov

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

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www.glenbrookcinema.com.au

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Seven have announced that singer RickiLee and comedian Jim Jefferies will host the new season of ‘I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here’. The big news was announced last Thursday at Seven’s Upfronts, which revealed which shows were coming to the network in 2027. ‘My Kitchen Rules’, ‘Australian Idol’ ‘The 1% Club Australia’, ‘Home and Away’ and ‘Glenn & Mick’s Celebrity Intervention’ will return to our screens next year along with ‘Better Homes and Gardens’, ‘Border Security’, ‘Highway Patrol’ and ‘Ooops! I Bought A Pub’. New shows hitting Seven in 2027 include new primetime game show titled ‘Stacks of Cash’ hosted by Matt Shirvington, quiz show ‘Caught in the Middle’ hosted by Shane Jacobson, and ‘Once in a Lifetime’ hosted by Dr Chris Brown. Unlikely to return to Seven in 2027 are ‘First Dates’, ‘Dancing with the Stars’, ‘My Reno Rules’, ‘RFDS’, ‘The Great Outdoors’ and ‘SAS Australia’. Ê Quirky ABC series ‘Austin’ is returning for a third season on Wednesday, November 11 at 9pm. When Julian (Ben Miller) and Ingrid’s (Sally Phillips) upbeat divorce party triggers Austin’s (Michael Theo) impulsive

NOVEMBER 11

9PM

AUSTIN, ABC

marriage proposal to Hayley (Natalie Abbott), both families find themselves at Hayley’s family’s traditional Australian homestead. As old bonds rekindle and truths surface, the wedding is thrown into uncertainty, and the families are forced to rebuild.

Ê Long-running 10 observational series ‘Bondi Rescue’ is returning to our screens next year. 10 is expected to confirm the news at their upcoming 2027 Upfronts. Ê Exciting news for fans of beloved TV series ‘Glee’, with Disney+ and Hulu ordering a reboot. Co-creator Ryan Murphy has confirmed a script is in the works, with star Lea Michele in talks to revive her character of Rachel Berry. Still on hit Ryan Murphy shows, ‘American Horror Story’ has been renewed for a 14th season. Season 13 wrapped up on Foxtel and Binge this week.

DECEMBER 18 FRISCO KING, PARAMOUNT +

Ê Crappy news for Prime Video subscribers, with the streamer hiking prices by 30 per cent. Monthly subscriptions will rise from

$9.99 to $12.99 per month, while annual subscriptions will jump from $79 to $99. To view without ads is an extra $3 per month. Existing members will pay the price rise from November 25, while new subscribers already have the new price. Come on, Mr Bezos! Some of these price rises are getting out of control.

Ê Nicolas Cage and Antonio Banderas will team up for a fifth season of HBO crime drama anthology ‘True Detective’. Cage will play Henry Logan and Banderas will play Rai Garcia. Season five will take place in Jamaica Bay, New York, and begin filming in 2027. Issa Lopez, who wrote and served as showrunner on season four, is returning for the fifth season. Ê New Paramount+ series ‘Frisco King’, starring Samuel L. Jackson, will premiere on Friday, December 18. The Taylor Sheridan series expands the ‘Tulsa King’ universe and follows a seasoned New Orleans gangster after he moves to Frisco, Texas.

COUNTRY CORNER and the people who have shaped me along the way.”

Let’s Truck Around Following recent performances at the Deni Ute Muster and Savannah in the Round, Australian country artist Bella Mackenzie releases ‘Truck Around’, teaming up with Nashville-based Australian artist Billy Dylan for a sassy modern country single. With her raw, raspy vocals and a playful challenge to a guy who thinks he has country charm down pat, Bella delivers a simple message, looking the part will only get you so far. “‘Truck Around’ is about a guy who thinks he’s the ultimate country heartthrob, but he’s never met an actual country girl like her,” Mackenzie said. “The song pokes fun at the kind of guy who wears his country identity on the outside. He looks the part and thinks he knows exactly what he’s doing, but she’s there to remind him that all the boots, trucks and country credentials in the world don’t prepare you for a strong girl from the country.” The song is streaming now on all the usual services. Track of the Week Get Justin Moore and Dierks Bentley on your speakers with ‘Time’s Ticking’.

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Celebrating his roots 15 years after arriving in Nashville with a dream and a determination that refused to quit, country star Drew Baldridge tells his story like never before on his first major-label album, ‘Farm Faith Family’, out now via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. The 16-track collection is his most personal project to date, rooted in the values and experiences that have shaped both his life and career. It’s available to stream or download now on all the usual streaming services. Baldridge’s story is rooted in the three pillars of ‘Farm Faith Family’. Raised on a farm in Southern Illinois, he learned hard work, grit, and perseverance – values that continue to shape both his life and music today. His faith keeps him grounded through every season, while his wife and boys remain the heart behind everything he does. At its core, Baldridge’s journey is about staying true to yourself, working hard, and proving the good guys can finish first. “‘Farm Family Faith’ isn’t just an album title – it’s who I am,” Baldridge said. “Everything I have and everything I believe in comes back to those three things. These songs tell my story, the lessons I’ve learned,

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

TV Guide: October 30 - November 5

Sunday 1 November

Saturday 31 October

Friday 30 October

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Believe In Magic (PG) 11:00 Austin (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Recipe Of The Year 1:50 Dustfall (M l,s,v) 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:20 Vera (M) 9:50 Recipe Of The Year 10:45 Class Clowns (PG) 11:15 ABC Late News 11:30 Crime Night! (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Movie: “Roadhouse Romance” (M) (’21) Stars: Lauren Alaina 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 7:30 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: England v Papua New Guinea *Live* 10:00 Rugby League: Post Game 10:30 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 12:10 GetOn Extra 12:40 Jamestown (MA15+)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Sullivan’s Crossing (M mp) 1:00 Best Of Explore TV 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Chateau DIY Australia 8:30 Movie: “Civil War” (MA15+) (’24) Stars: Nick Offerman 10:40 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival 11:40 See No Evil (MA15+)

9:00 The Finish Line 10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Entertainment Tonight 10:50 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Big Brother Australia (M) 8:40 Love It Or List It Australia

5:00 Worldwatch 9:10 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:10 My Dream Green Home (PG)11:05 Our Welsh Chapel Dream (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Every Family Has A Secret (M l) 3:00 NITV News - Nula 3:30 Plat Du Tour 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Dinosaur With Stephen Fry (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Hotel Portofino (M v) 8:35 Summer In The Isles Of Scilly

2:00 Australia’s Big Backyards (PG) 3:00 A Moveable Feast - All New Series (PG) 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Escape To The Country 6:00 Bargain Hunt 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens

2:55 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: Papua New Guinea v Samoa *Live* 5:25 Rugby League: Women’s World Cup: England v Samoa *Live* 7:30 Outback Pilots (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood” (M) (’19)

12:00 S.W.A.T. (M v) 3:00 Jabba’s Movies 3:30 The Food Dude (PG) 4:00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 5:00 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) 6:40 Movie: “Beethoven” (G) (’92) Stars: Charles Grodin 8:30 Movie: “This Is 40” (M) (’12)

10:30 Building The 3:25 Mysterious Cities Dream Home 11:30 Of Gold (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Thalu 5:00 Amplify Beautiful (PG) 12:00 Days Of (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Saving Yellowstone (PG) 7:30 Movie: Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull “Gremlins” (PG) (’84) Stars: Zach Galligan 9:30 Movie: “The (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Witches Of Eastwick” (M) (’87) Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

1:00 Fixer To Fabulous 11:30 Ridiculousness 2:00 My Lottery Dream (M l) 12:30 Becker (PG) Home (PG) 3:00 The 1:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 Block (PG) 4:00 Good Bones Frasier (PG) 4:00 Everyday (PG) 5:00 No Demo Reno 6:00 Gourmet With Justine House Hunters International Schofield 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 (PG) 8:00 Two And A Half Men Barnwood Builders 8:30 House Hunters: Cabin Dreams (PG) 9:30 Becker (PG)

3:00 Play School 3:45 Wiggle And Learn 4:05 Gardening Australia Junior 4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior 7:35 Monkie Kid (PG)

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

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

12:35 Movie: “Sweet 6:00 Taste Of Australia November” (M s) (’00) In Vietnam 6:30 Stars: Keanu Reeves Everyday Gourmet With 2:50 Forged In Fire (PG) 3:45 Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Worldwatch 5:50 The Curse Of Beyond Bali With Lara Lee 8:30 Oak Island (PG) 6:40 How Do They Really Do It? 9:30 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 Big Fat Quiz Best Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s Bits Tour

12:40 Movie: “Labor Of Lies” (M v) (’21) Stars: Gina Vitori 2:30 Baywatch (M v) 3:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Seinfeld (PG) 6:30 Baywatch (M v) 7:30 Movie: “The Notebook” (M) (’04) Stars: Ryan Gosling

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Beyond Paradise (PG) 1:25 Vera (M) 3:00 Grand Designs: House Of The Year (PG) 3:50 You Can’t Ask That (M l) 4:10 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Atlantic 5:00 Australian Story (PG) 5:30 Landline 6:00 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Beyond Paradise (PG) 8:30 Lynley (M v) 10:00 Darby And Joan (PG)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ Doomben *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: Australia v Cook Islands *Live* 10:00 Rugby League: Post Game 10:30 Movie: “The Rock” (M s,v) (’96) Stars: Sean Connery 1:20 Jamestown (MA15+)

3:15 Rugby League: 3:00 The Yorkshire Vet Men’s World Cup: New (PG) 4:00 Bondi Vet Zealand v Fiji *Live* (PG) 5:00 Seven’s 5:30 Rugby League: Women’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ World Cup: New Zealand v Doomben *Live* 6:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 7:00 AFLW: Papua New Guinea *Live* 7:30 Round 12: West Coast Eagles Movie: “Spider-Man: Far From v Hawthorn Hawks *Live* 9:15 Home” (M v) (’19) Stars: Tom Escape To The Chateau (PG) Holland 3:05 Play School 3:35 Room On The Broom 4:00 Dino Dex 4:25 Football Fantastics 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 Peppa Pig 6:10 Shaun The Sheep 6:25 Zog 7:05 Do Not Watch This Show 7:30 Hard Quiz Kids 7:55 Kids Baking Championship

2:00 ABC News 2:30 If You’re Listening 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Planet America 4:00 ABC News 4:30 BTN 4:55 Heywire 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:15 Recipe Of The Year 3:10 A Bite To Eat With Alice 3:35 Annabel Crabb’s Civic Duty (PG) 4:25 Joanna Lumley’s Danube (PG) 5:15 Grand Designs New Zealand (PG) 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Recipe Of The Year 8:20 Dustfall (M l,s)

6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday (PG) 11:30 Horse Racing: Howden Victoria Derby Day *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Bohemian Rhapsody” (M) (’18) Stars: Rami Malek 10:15 Movie: “Freddie Mercury: A Secret Daughter” (M s) (’25) Stars: Valerie Finn 11:40 Dirty John (MA15+) 12:30 TopKnotz - Wild On Water (M l) 1:30 The Garden Gurus

3:55 Movie: “Black 1:00 Bringing Sexy Magic” (PG) (’88) Stars: Back (PG) 2:20 Wife Randy Cochran 5:00 Swap Australia (PG) 3:35 Britain’s Got Talent (PG) Piri’s Tiki Tour (PG) 6:00 5:30 Movie: “Dakota” (PG) (’22) Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side Stars: Abbie Cornish 7:30 Movie: “Downton Abbey” (PG) (PG) 7:30 Pro Bull Riding (’19) Stars: Stephen Campbell Teams USA 8:30 Movie: “Wolf Creek” (PG) (’05) Moore 2:50 Penn And Teller: Fool Us (PG) 3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Surf Patrol 12:30 AFLW: Round 12: GWS Giants v Gold Coast Suns *Live* 2:30 Border Security - International (PG) 3:00 Rugby League: Pre-Game 3:30 Rugby League: Women’s World Cup: Australia v Wales *Live* 5:30 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: Lebanon v France *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:30 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: Tonga v Samoa *Live*

5:30 Taste Of The Tropics: Share Plates 6:00 Global Soul Kitchen 6:30 Secrets Of Spain 7:30 Inside Sydney Fish Market 8:30 Rick Stein’s Far Eastern Odyssey 9:40 Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted 10:30 Ainsley’s Taste Of Malta

9:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 9:20 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 10:30 The Celebrity Traitors UK (PG) 12:00 Buy To Build (PG) 1:00 Silvia’s Masterclass 1:30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures 2:30 Planet Shapers 3:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 3:30 Food Trail South Africa 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Football: Pre-Game 7:40 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Macarthur FC v Western Sydney Wanderers. *Live*

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Beautiful Game Changers 9:05 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:05 It’s A Beautiful World (PG) 11:05 Icons Of Auto (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:00 Football: Australian Championship: Sutherland Sharks FC v Sydney United 58 FC *Live* 5:00 Plat Du Tour 5:05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:35 Greatest Escapes Of WW2 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Royals And Their Gardens (PG)

7:30 Deal Or No Deal 6:00 Home Shopping 8:30 The Bold & The 9:00 Reel Action 9:30 Beautiful (PG) 11:00 Building The Dream Home 11:30 So Help Me Todd Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Becker (PG) 12:30 The Living Room (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Reel (PG) 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Action 5:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) Becker (PG) 1:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 2:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Two And A Half Men (PG) 8:30 FBI: Most Wanted (M v)

2:30 Renovation Aloha (PG) 3:30 New Neighbourhoods (PG) 4:00 House Hunters: Cabin Dreams 4:30 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 5:30 Good Bones (PG) 6:30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses 7:30 Bargain Mansions

4:45 Seinfeld (PG) 5:15 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 5:45 Movie: “Yours, Mine And Ours” (PG) (’05) Stars: Dennis Quaid 7:30 Basketball: Cairns Taipans v Melbourne United *Live* 9:30 Basketball: Perth Wildcats v Illawarra Hawks *Live*

4:00 Movie: “Angels One Five” (G) (’54) Stars: John Gregson 6:00 Horse Racing: Melbourne Cup Barrier Draw *Live* 6:30 Find My Country House NZ 7:30 Movie: “The Fugitive” (PG) (’93) Stars: Harrison Ford

5:00 Worldwatch 10:30 Bamay 10:50 Uncanny (PG) 3:30 Worldwatch 5:35 Mastermind 6:35 Mysteries From Above: Celtic Mysteries (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (M v) (’13) Stars: Jennifer Lawrence

6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 Cross Court 11:30 Fishing Australia 12:00 A Golf Club Somewhere (PG) 12:30 Drive TV 1:00 Tasman Trails 2:00 Budget Battlers (PG) 3:00 1 Euro House (PG) 4:00 Ready Vet Go - The Vet Ambulance Service (PG) 4:30 Explore TV 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 RBT (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The Block (PG) 8:45 60 Minutes (PG)

9:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 9:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 Well Traveller (PG) 11:00 Intrepid Adventures 11:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 12:00 Big Brother Australia 1:30 Exploring Off The Grid 2:00 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 10 News Plus 7:00 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 8:10 The Graham Norton Show (M) 9:10 Sam Pang Tonight (M l,s) 10:10 FBI (M v) 11:10 FBI - International (M)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:00 Roads Unknown - India 11:05 Icons Of Auto (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Beautiful Game Changers 1:00 Motorsport: Speedweek 3:00 Figure Skating: ISU Highlights 5:30 Plat Du Tour 5:35 Greatest Escapes Of WW2 (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Richard E Grant’s Very Modern Odyssey 8:25 The Hunt For King Knut England’s Viking King 9:45 Army Of Lovers - Ancient Greece (M l,s,v)

1:30 New 6:00 Home Shopping Neighbourhoods (PG) 7:30 Deal Or No Deal 2:00 Mexico Life 2:30 9:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 11:30 Becker (PG) Chateau DIY 3:30 House 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Becker Hunters: Cabin Dreams 4:30 Barnwood Builders 5:30 House (PG) 1:30 Frasier (PG) 2:30 Friends (PG) 7:30 Two And A Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters International 7:30 Half Men (PG) 10:30 Becker Home Town (PG) 11:00 Frasier (PG)

2:00 South Aussie With Cosi (PG) 2:30 Harry’s Practice 3:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 4:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 AFLW: Round 12: Fremantle Dockers v Sydney Swans *Live* 7:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 7:30 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG)

2:30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates (PG) 3:00 AFLW: Round 12: Adelaide Crows v Melbourne Demons *Live* 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Rugby League: Men’s World Cup: Lebanon v France *Live* From CommBank Stadium

3:20 Froth 3:50 Movie: 10:00 The Greatest “Tina Turner Live” (PG) Aussie Caravan (PG) (’09) Stars: Tina Turner 10:30 Dream Home 6:10 Bamay 6:40 NITV News (PG) 12:30 Home And Away Update 6:50 Saving (PG) 3:30 WBBL: Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat *Live* Yellowstone (PG) 7:40 Casketeers Life & Death 7:00 Gold Coast Ocean Across The Globe (PG) (In Rescue (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Happily Ever After (M v) Various)

9:00 Roads Less Travelled 9:30 Building The Dream Home 12:30 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 1:30 Buy To Build 2:00 So Help Me Todd (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 I Fish 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Fire Country (M v)

3:00 Play School 3:25 Peppa Pig 4:00 Talking Tom Heroes 4:25 Football Fantastics 5:00 Peppa Pig 6:10 Shaun The Sheep 6:25 Zog 7:05 Do Not Watch This Show 7:30 Little Lunch 8:25 Are You Afraid Of The Dark?

2:00 ABC News 2:30 Australian Story 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 The Regions 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli 7:00 ABC National News

5:30 Christmas At The 4:05 Would I Lie To Castle 6:00 Norway You? (PG) 4:35 Gourmet With Justine MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK Schofield 6:30 Paula McIntyre’s 6:10 George Clarke’s Amazing Hamely Kitchen 7:00 Frugal Foodie 7:30 Island Bites With Spaces 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Hebridean Baker 8:30 Jamie Would I Lie To You? (M s) 8:30 Cooks Italy 9:30 Prue Leith’s George Clarke’s Building Home Cotswold Kitchen

12:50 Movie: “Eureka 1:00 Basketball: 11:00 Patriot Brains (M) Stockade” (G) (’49) Southside Melbourne 11:55 Our Stories (PG) Stars: Chips Rafferty Flyers v Adelaide 12:20 Movie: Lightning *Live* 3:00 Everwood 3:00 Movie: “Henry VIII And “Gremlins” (PG) (’84) Stars: His Six Wives” (PG) (’72) Stars: Zach Galligan 2:15 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:00 Movie: “Superman Keith Michell 5:30 Midsomer III” (PG) (’83) Stars: 4:20 Worldwatch 5:45 Icons Christopher Reeve 7:30 Movie: Murders (PG) 7:30 Clarkson’s Unearthed (PG) 6:40 Farm (M l) 8:50 TBA 11:00 “Stargate” (PG) (’94) Stars: Engineering Tomorrow (PG) Cold Case (M) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering Kurt Russell

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

3:00 Antiques Roadshow 3:30 Explore 3:45 Movie: “No Time For Tears” (PG) (’57) Stars: Anna Neagle 5:30 Secret Life Of The Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG)

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Thursday 5 November

Wednesday 4 November

Tuesday 3 November

Monday 2 November

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Landline 2:00 Back Roads 2:30 You Can’t Ask That (PG) 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story (PG) 8:30 Four Corners (PG) 9:20 Media Watch (M)

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

12:00 The Block (PG) 1:45 My Way 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Travel Guides (PG) 8:35 Love Island Australia (M) 9:45 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival 10:45 NINE News Late

5:00 Amplify (PG) 5:30 3:00 My Kitchen Rules The 77 Percent 6:00 (PG) 4:30 Lopez Vs. Bamay 6:30 NITV Lopez (PG) 5:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet News Update 6:40 Inside The Pack (PG) 7:30 Who Do You (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) Think You Are? (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M s,v)

5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (PG) 8:30 A Touch Of Frost (M v) 10:40 Escape To The Country

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

4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:40 Kangaroo Beach 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels

4:55 Portrait Artist Of 3:00 ABC News The Year UK 5:40 Afternoons 4:00 George Clarke’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Amazing Spaces 6:30 Richard ABC News With Joe O’Brien Osman’s House Of Games 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Beyond Paradise (PG) 2:00 Back Roads 2:25 You Can’t Ask That (PG) 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Ages Of Ice - The Frozen Heart

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Doomben *Live* 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 9:15 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu (M l) 10:15 The Amazing Race (PG) 11:45 Happy’s Place (PG) 12:15 The Path (MA15+)

4:00 Everyday 12:45 The Young And Gourmet With Justine The Restless (PG) 1:30 Schofield 4:30 Becker JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M) (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) Bull (M s,v) 11:15 JAG (PG)

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

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

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

3:50 Worldwatch 5:50 6:00 Good Food The Curse Of Oak Everyday With Gary Island (PG) 6:40 Mehigan 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) Liaw

6:00 Today 10:00 Horse Racing: Melbourne Cup Carnival *Live* 2:30 Horse Racing: Melbourne Cup *Live* From Flemington Racecourse 3:30 Horse Racing: Melbourne Cup Carnival *Live* 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 1 Euro Houses (PG) 8:30 Jamie Durie’s Future House (PG)

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch (M) 2:00 Back Roads 2:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe 3:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Class Clowns (M)

3:05 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Dinosaur With Stephen Fry (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits - Ultimate Rebels 8:30 24 Hours In Emergency (M l) 9:30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M)

1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 8:40 The Cheap Seats (M l) 9:40 10’s Late News 10:40 Two And A Half Men (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

3:05 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Endurance - Race To The Pole (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8:40 Norwegian Odyssey (PG) 9:35 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork: 12:45 The Young And 5:00 Amplify (PG) 5:30 3:00 My Kitchen Rules 5:00 Masters Of Flip Pick Of The Crop 4:30 The Restless (PG) 1:30 Indian Country Today 4:30 Lopez Vs. Lopez 6:00 House Hunters Becker (PG) 5:00 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 (PG) 5:00 The Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) International 6:30 House Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:30 (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) Hunters USA 7:30 Chateau Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Cold Justice (M) 8:05 Movie: (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) DIY 9:30 Becker (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) “Bring Her Home” (M) (’22) 7:30 CSI: New York (M v)

4:30 American 4:30 Better Homes And Restoration (PG) 5:00 Gardens 5:30 Escape Storage Wars (PG) To The Country 6:30 5:30 American Pickers (PG) Bargain Hunt 7:30 Call The 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Midwife (PG) 8:45 Inspector Outback Truckers (PG) Morse (M v) 4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels

1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 8:40 Sam Pang Tonight (M l,s) 9:40 10’s Late News 10:40 Australian True Crime With Meshel Laurie

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

3:45 Worldwatch 5:50 6:00 Good Food The Curse Of Oak Everyday With Gary Island (PG) 6:40 Mehigan 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) Liaw

12:00 America Decides: The Midterms *Live* 12:30 1 Euro Houses (PG) 1:30 Explore TV 2:00 America Decides: Update *Live* 2:10 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Budget Battlers (PG)

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

1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 8:40 The Celebrity Traitors UK 10:10 10’s Late News 11:10 The Cheap Seats (M l)

3:35 Movie: “Raising The Wind” (G) (’61) Stars: Kenneth Williams 5:30 Secret Life Of The Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 New Tricks (M)

3:00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes 3:35 Plat Du Tour 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Endurance - Race To The Pole (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Bill Bailey’s Korea (PG) 8:30 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley (PG)

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

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

4:00 Farm To Fork 12:45 The Young And 4:30 Thalu 5:00 Amplify 3:30 My Greek 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 The Restless (PG) 1:30 (PG) 5:30 APTN Odyssey (PG) 4:30 Frasier (PG) 6:00 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M) National News 6:00 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) Friends (PG) 8:00 Two And A 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull 5:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Bamay 6:40 Tales From Zambia (PG) 7:30 Friday Night (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Half Men (PG) 9:30 Becker Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge (PG) 10:00 Frasier (PG) Bull (M s,v) 11:15 JAG (PG) Judy (PG) 7:30 The Rookie (M) Thunder (PG)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00 House Hunters International 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Good Bones

4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News Mornings 10:00 USA Votes: Midterm Elections 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight

4:50 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 5:40 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 6:30 Richard Osman’s House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG)

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

3:30 Movie: “Strange Invaders” (PG) (’83) Stars: Paul Le Mat 5:30 Secret Life Of The Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By

12:00 ABC News 1:00 The Forsytes (PG) 2:00 Back Roads 2:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe 3:00 Frankie Drake Mysteries (PG) 3:45 Grand Designs Australia (PG) 4:40 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Grand Designs NZ 8:45 ABC Young Performers Awards

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Time Is Money 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 8:30 Glenn & Mick’s Celebrity Intervention (M l,s) 9:40 Christmas House Wars 10:40 Renters (PG)

3:40 Beautiful Game 6:00 Good Food Changers 3:45 Everyday With Gary Worldwatch 4:40 PBS Mehigan 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield News Special: US Misterms 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam *Live* 5:50 The Curse Of Oak Island (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! Liaw 7:30 Family Dineasties

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Getaway (PG) 12:30 Horse Racing: Crown Oaks Day *Live* 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 RBT (PG) 8:30 Paramedics (M l) 9:30 Love Island Australia (M l,s) 10:40 NINE News Late 11:10 The Rings Of Power (M v) 1:30 Home Shopping

4:30 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) 5:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares (M l)

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

7:00 WBBL: Sydney Thunder v Perth Scorchers *Live* 10:30 Movie: “Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo” (M l,s) (’05) Stars: Rob Schneider

4:30 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:25 Octonauts 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 Flower And Flour 7:05 Batwheels

4:50 Phil Spencer: 3:00 ABC News Secret Agent 5:40 Afternoons 4:00 George Clarke’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Amazing Spaces 6:30 Richard ABC News With Joe O’Brien Osman’s House Of Games 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG)

1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Big Brother Australia (M l,s) 8:40 The Celebrity Traitors UK 10:10 10’s Late News 11:05 Sports Tonight - The Weekly Kickoff

3:00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes 3:35 Plat Du Tour 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Endurance - Race To The Pole (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Tucci In Italy (PG) (In English/ Italian) 8:25 Inside Sydney Fish Market (PG)

4:00 Good Bones (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork: 12:45 The Young And 4:30 Thalu 5:00 Amplify 5:00 Help! I Wrecked Pick Of The Crop 4:30 The Restless (PG) 1:30 (PG) 5:30 Te Ao With My House 6:00 House Becker (PG) 5:00 JAG (M s,v) 3:30 Bull Moana (In English/ Maori) 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Tales (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (M s,v) 6:30 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) Hunters International 6:30 8:00 Two And A Half Men (PG) House Hunters USA 7:30 From Zambia (PG) 7:30 Going Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Bargain Block (PG) Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 9:30 Becker (PG) 3:30 The Big Bang 6:30 Jeopardy! 7:25 6:00 Good Food Theory (PG) 4:30 The NITV News Update Everyday With Gary Addams Family 5:30 7:30 Football: Mehigan 6:30 Everyday Seinfeld (PG) 6:30 Baywatch Gourmet With Justine Schofield Australian Championship: 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Sydney Olympic FC v Oakleigh (M v) 7:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) Cannons FC *Live* Liaw 7:30 Outback Gourmet

3:35 Movie: “Carry On Regardless” (G) (’61) Stars: Sid James 5:30 Secret Life Of The Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow

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

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

30/09/2026 4:21:24 PM

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

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The Experts

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

HISTORIC 83 HECTARE ESTATE ON THE MARKET A

fter 150 years in the hands of the same family, one of the Blue Mountains’ most significant private estates is being offered to the market, giving a new owner the opportunity to restore the historic Wynstay Estate to its former glory. Spanning 83 hectares at Mount Wilson, Wynstay was established in 1875 by Sydney merchant Richard Wynne whose family went on to establish the Wynne Prize for Landscape Painting and Sculpture at the Art Gallery of NSW. “Wynstay is one of those properties that stays with you. It has been part of the family for generations and holds so many special memories. It is difficult to let it go but we hope the next

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owner will appreciate what makes it so special, restore it to its former glory and create their own memories here,” said a spokesperson for the residence.

“WYNSTAY IS ONE OF THOSE PROPERTIES THAT STAYS WITH YOU”

The heritage-listed estate has remained within the Wynne family for five generations and includes the 1920s Wynstay residence, the original 1875 cottage, Old Wynstay, a gatekeeper’s

lodge, stables, historic Turkish Bath and extensive gardens. “Wynstay is not a turnkey property but that is part of the appeal. There is an opportunity for some-

one to take on the estate, restore it to its former glory and bring new life to a property with such a significant history and setting,” added Daniel McMahon, Director | Residential, Colliers. The estate’s scale and existing approvals also provide scope for a range of future possibilities with potential buyers including private purchasers, developers and hospitality or events operators. Its historic buildings, extensive gardens and mountain setting could lend themselves to a boutique wedding or events venue, subject to the relevant planning and heritage approvals. “Mount Wilson has a very particular appeal and Wynstay is a property that people will remember. The combination of the history, gardens, buildings and scale gives the next owner plenty to work with, whether that is creating a significant private retreat or exploring what else the estate could become,” added Nathan Berlyn, Director, Project Marketing | Residential. The decision to sell follows five generations of family ownership with the estate now being offered to a new custodian for the first time in its history. An Expressions of Interest campaign is now underway.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK What is so great about this property? Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods. Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its

foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day. With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.

Who does this property suit? Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes. Tell us about the suburb this property is in? Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.

Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers. Visit today!

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM LESSONS? I

JULIE SHELDRAKE Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s Swim School 4730 8900

n last week’s column, I wrote with a heavy heart about the drowning deaths that have occurred over the past 12 months. One of the most effective ways we can help reduce these tragic statistics is by ensuring people of all ages learn to swim. However, fear of the unknown can sometimes stop people from taking that first step. A question I’m often asked is: What should I expect when starting swimming lessons? For most students, regardless of age or ability, swimming lessons focus on developing foundational skills while building confidence in the water. Early lessons often include basic water familiarisation activities, such as floating, blowing bubbles, and learning essential water safety skills. Just as importantly, students begin building trust with their instructor and developing positive associations with being in the water. Progress is highly individual and depends on factors such as confidence levels, fear of

water, physical coordination, and consistency in attending lessons. Like any new skill, regular practice is essential. As students become more comfortable, lessons gradually introduce specific swimming techniques, including kicking, stroke development, and breathing skills, all with the long-term goals of water safety, fitness, and overall wellbeing. There is no set timeline for learning to swim. Every student progresses at their own pace, and it’s important that they are given the time and support they need to

build confidence. Patience is crucial, as is practising skills outside of lesson time. For younger children, this may be as simple as practising blowing bubbles in the bath under close supervision. Older children and adults can benefit from extra time in a public pool, ideally with a lifeguard on duty. Parents should also understand that it is completely normal for young children to be upset during their first lesson, or even their first few weeks of lessons. Swimming lessons are often a child’s first structured activity away from

home, and it can take time for them to feel comfortable with a new environment and instructor. While it can be difficult to watch as a parent, it is not a reason to stop lessons. Perseverance is key when learning a life skill that could one day save a child’s life. I speak from personal experience. Looking back, any tears or hesitation in those early lessons were far outweighed by the confidence I now feel sending my children to camps, pool parties, and other water-based activities knowing they can swim and understand water safety. There are several things parents can do to encourage a positive experience. Speak positively about swimming lessons at home, build excitement around attending, and model calm confidence around the water. If you don’t know how to swim yourself, consider learning. Children take their cues from the adults around them, and your attitude towards water safety can have a significant impact.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

hen it comes to managing your weight, it can be tempting to make big changes all at once. However, healthy weight management doesn’t have to mean following a strict diet or completely changing the way you eat. Small, realistic habits can be easier to maintain and, over time, can make a meaningful difference. Here are five simple habits to consider. 1. Build balanced meals Instead of focusing on eating less, focus on creating balanced meals. Include a source of protein, plenty of vegetables or fruit, and a high-fibre carbohydrate such as wholegrain bread, brown rice or potatoes. A balanced meal can help keep you satisfied and support steady energy levels throughout the day. 2. Include protein throughout the day Protein can help you feel satisfied after meals and is important for maintaining muscle. Include foods such

as eggs, greek yoghurt, fish, chicken, lean meat, tofu, beans and lentils across your meals and snacks. A protein-rich breakfast can also help keep hunger at bay during the morning. 3. Listen to your hunger and fullness cues Weight management doesn’t mean ignoring hunger. Before reaching for food, consider whether you’re physically hungry or eating out of habit, boredom or convenience. During meals, slow down and check in with how satisfied you feel. Over time, becoming more aware of these cues can help you better respond to your body’s needs. 4. Consider what you’re drinking It’s easy to overlook drinks when thinking about your overall diet. Soft drinks, energy drinks, juices and some specialty coffees can

The Experts

SARAH BONNICI OnePointHealth 4732 5188 contain high amounts of added sugar and energy. You don’t need to avoid them completely, but choosing water more often is a simple habit that can support your goals. 5. Aim for consistency, not perfection Healthy eating doesn’t need to be perfect. Enjoying a takeaway, dessert or a meal out is part of a balanced lifestyle. Rather than feeling guilty about these choices, focus on your overall eating pattern. What you do consistently matters far more than what happens occasionally. Looking for personalised advice? Book in with a dietitian for tailored nutrition advice, and help setting realistic goals.

PET HEALTH The Experts

THE LITTER TRAY COULD BE TELLING YOU SOMETHING F

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

requent trips to the litter tray, straining to urinate or unexpected accidents around the house could be more than a behavioural issue. They may be signs of a urinary problem that needs veterinary attention. Urinary problems are common in cats and can range from bladder inflammation to a life-threatening blockage. Many fall under the term Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), which affects the bladder and urethra. Recognising the warning signs early can make a significant difference to your cat’s comfort and, in some cases, save their life. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so changes in their usual habits can be an important clue that something is wrong. Warning signs include frequent trips to the litter tray, straining or crying out when urinating, blood in the urine, excessive licking around the genital area or urinating in unusual places. Your cat may also become restless,

hide more than usual or display sudden behavioural changes. One of the most important signs to recognise is difficulty passing urine. A cat that repeatedly strains but produces little or no urine may have a urinary blockage, which is a life-threatening emergency. Male cats are particularly at risk because their urethra is narrower. Never assume your cat is constipated if they are straining in the litter tray. Seek immediate veterinary care if little or no urine is being produced. There is no single cause of FLUTD, and treatment depends on the underlying condition. Feline idiopathic cystitis, which involves bladder inflammation without an identifiable cause, is one of the most common problems. Stress can contribute to flare-ups, with changes to the household, a new pet or conflict between cats potentially triggering symptoms. Other causes include bladder crystals or stones, which can irri-

tate the bladder and sometimes contribute to a blockage. Bacterial urinary tract infections are also possible, particularly in older cats or those with underlying health conditions. Being overweight and drinking insufficient water can further contribute to urinary health concerns.

Your veterinarian may recommend a physical examination, urine testing, blood tests or imaging to determine the cause. Treatment may include pain relief, dietary changes, increased water intake and stress reduction. Antibiotics are only appropriate when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed. A urinary blockage requires emergency treatment. There are several ways to

support your cat’s urinary health at home. Provide fresh water in multiple locations or consider a pet water fountain. Wet food can help increase water intake, while your veterinarian can advise whether a specialised urinary diet is appropriate. Keeping litter trays clean and accessible, providing quiet resting places and maintaining a predictable routine can also help. In multi-cat households, several litter trays in separate locations may reduce competition and stress. Urinary problems are not always preventable, but paying attention to changes in your cat’s habits can help you recognise trouble early. If your cat is making frequent trips to the litter tray, passing blood or showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian promptly. If your cat cannot pass urine, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. For advice or to arrange an appointment, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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Offering luxury treatments like blueberry facials and paw balm massages, the dogs that visit St Clair Dog Grooming are treated like family.

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

WHY RBA RAISES RATES TO FIGHT INFLATION T

STEVEN KORNER

catch is that it works slowly, often over a year or more, and it cools the whole economy, not just prices. That’s why the RBA moves

lift rates by the same amount within a few weeks of an RBA decision.Theyaren’tobligedtopass on the full rise, but most do.

in small 0.25 per cent steps and pauses to watch the effect. How it reaches your home loan When the cash rate rises, banks’ funding costs rise too, and most pass that on to borrowers. • Variable rate: Lenders usually

• Fixed rate: Your rate is locked until the fixed term ends. Lenders price new fixed rates on where they expect rates to go, so fixed rates often rise before the RBA moves. The real jolt comes when your fixed term expires.

What it means for your repayments On a $600,000 loan over 30 years, a 0.25 per cent rise from 6.09 per cent to 6.34 per cent lifts monthly principal-and-interest repayments from about $3,632 to $3,730. That’s roughly $97 more a month, or $1,170 a year, from a single rate rise. What you can do You can’t control the cash rate, but you can control your loan. • Review your rate. Lenders often offer new customers sharper rates than existing ones. • Know your fixed-rate expiry date and plan before it arrives. • Build a buffer by keeping extra repayments in an offset or redraw account. • Speak to your lender early if repayments are getting tight. The Finance Korner reviews every home loan client’s rate every six months. To check whether your loan is still competitive, contact info@thefinancekorner. com.au or visit thefinancekorner. com.au.

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The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

he cash rate is the interest rate banks charge each other on overnight loans, and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) sets its target. In 2026 the RBA has lifted it four times, from 3.60 per cent to 4.60 per cent on September 29, its highest level since 2011. Here’s why, and what it means for your mortgage. Why higher rates fight inflation The RBA’s job is to keep inflation within a two to three per cent target band. When prices rise faster than that, it makes borrowing more expensive to slow spending across the economy. Higher rates work in three ways: • Households with a mortgage have less left each month, so they spend less. • Businesses hold off borrowing to expand or invest. • Saving becomes more rewarding than spending. With less demand, businesses have less room to keep lifting prices, and inflation eases. The

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

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

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Your career and reputation are in focus this week, Aquarius. Something you started a while ago could come back around, giving you the chance to finish it your way. Avoid rushing important decisions and double-check any agreements. Family and home bring comfort toward the weekend, and you may feel the urge to create a cosier, calmer space.

A fresh perspective is opening up for you this week, Pisces. You may feel drawn to revisit a spiritual path, study or travel plan that once inspired you. Keep your plans flexible, as things may shift. Conversations bring healing and understanding toward the weekend, and someone may say exactly what you needed to hear. Follow your heart – it knows the way.

After a busy few weeks, this is your time to let go of what’s been weighing on you. You may finally understand why a certain situation unfolded the way it did, and that clarity brings real peace. Be patient if a financial or shared matter is still moving slowly - it’s being sorted in divine timing. A heartfelt conversation midweek could bring you closer to someone special.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The energy around you is shifting, Taurus, and you’re ready to release something you’ve outgrown. A relationship may need a little more give and take, so speak honestly but gently about what you need. Someone could surprise you with kindness when you least expect it. Toward the weekend, focus on your wellbeing and simple pleasures.

You may feel like you’re juggling a lot this week, Gemini, so slow down and tackle one thing at a time. A work matter you thought was finished might need another look, and that’s okay. Fresh eyes bring better results. Love and creativity light up toward the weekend, and you’ll find joy in the little things. Say yes to an invitation that makes your heart smile.

Your intuition is especially strong this week, Cancer, so listen to that quiet inner voice. A creative idea or old passion could reignite, reminding you of who you are when you’re happy and free. Family matters may need some patience, but your caring nature helps smooth the way. Toward the weekend, home becomes your sanctuary. Rest and nurture yourself.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Big things are building for you, Leo, even if they’re taking a little longer than you’d like. This week is about laying solid foundations at home and within yourself. A family member may open up in a way that touches your heart. Conversations flow more easily toward the weekend, and a message or catch-up could bring welcome news. Keep believing in yourself.

An old friend, colleague or idea may return, and it could lead somewhere wonderful. Take your time before making any decisions, especially about money or commitments. You don’t need to have every answer right now. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel more grounded and secure, and a small win reminds you that your hard work is paying off.

You may be thinking about a past relationship or reflecting on how you deserve to be treated. Be kind to yourself as you work through these feelings. Your beauty and charm are growing stronger, and others are noticing. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel a renewed sense of confidence. Choose what feels balanced, peaceful and true to you.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Your birthday season continues, Scorpio, and this is a powerful time of reflection and renewal. Rather than racing ahead, take time to review your goals and dreams for the year ahead. Someone from your past may reappear, bringing understanding or a sense of closure. Relationships feel deeper and more meaningful toward the weekend. Trust the transformation.

Your soul is asking for quiet time this week, Sagittarius. You may feel more sensitive than usual, so be gentle with yourself and protect your energy. Dreams and gut feelings could hold important messages, so pay attention. An old worry may finally be released. Toward the weekend, practical matters fall into place and you’ll feel more organised and refreshed.

Friendships and connections bring warmth and support this week, Capricorn. A group, community or friend from the past could reconnect with you, opening a lovely new door. It’s also a good time to revisit your goals and make sure they still light you up. Romance and fun are highlighted toward the weekend. Let yourself relax and enjoy life a little more.

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

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Wollongong

WORDS

Nathan Taylor

IMAGES Nathan Taylor / Supplied

MORE INFO

WOLLONGONG’S CHARM L

ike most local families growing up in the ‘90s, the South Coast was a destination that I visited often with my mother during the school holidays. Whether it was for a whole week or a just few days, Wollongong seemed to be the perfect place for some holiday fun at the beach. So, when I stayed at my old haunt recently for a few days, those vivid childhood memories came flooding right back. Now, don’t get me wrong, Wollongong has changed a fair bit since I last holidayed there, but thankfully it still has that classic coastal town charm and laidback vibe we all know and love. Thanks to leading Aussie online travel company Luxury Escapes, I was fortunate enough to spend two nights at Hotel TOTTO Wollongong, a four-star contemporary, industrial-style hotel, located right in the heart of the CBD.

Stunning Wollongong from above.

“PLEASE TRY THE QUATTRO CARNI FOR ME”

No, I didn’t have the stunning beaches of Wollongong on my very doorstep, but what I did have was a casual, modern base that was perfect for exploring all that Wollongong has to offer, including its array of shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment. Located on Market Street and a short stroll from Crown Street Mall and Wollongong Central shopping centre, Hotel TOTTO opened four years ago following a major refurbishment by operator EVT Hotels & Resorts. Before becoming the Hotel TOTTO that everyone knows and loves today, the property had a previous life as student accommodation for the University of Wollongong. Fortunately, those rowdy uni students have since departed the property, with scores of travellers from all over New South Wales, Australia and even the world now replacing them. Hotel TOTTO has 150 rooms across a compact multi-storey building. The aesthetic is minimalist and industrial chic – unfussy but comfortable with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, Smart TVs with casting, tea/coffee facilities, mini fridges and private bathrooms.

My wife and I stayed in a cozy Queen room on the first floor, which was more than ideal for the length of time that we were staying. Like I mentioned earlier, Hotel TOTTO is nowhere near the beach, so unfortunately you can’t hear those wonderful waves crashing onto the shore, but what you can hear is the hustle and bustle of everything else Wollongong has to offer – and that’s plenty! Firstly, Hotel TOTTO is home to its own popular restaurant, BASTA Trattoria. A casual Mediterranean/Italian restaurant and bar, BASTA Trattoria is located in the open-plan lobby area of the hotel and features an outdoor terrace for dining and drinks. BASTA Trattoria serves up delicious woodfired pizzas (please try the Quattro Carni for me), pastas, seafood, steaks, antipasti, salads, dessert as well as cocktails, local beers and

Watching the Illawarra Hawks.

Views from North Wollongong.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Hotel TOTTO’s rooms are stylish.

wine. And if you visit BASTA Trattoria on a Friday evening, you’ll be able to sit back and relax while listening to soothing live music – you may even hear it from your room’s open window like we did! BASTA Trattoria is also the venue for Hotel TOTTO’s extensive buffet breakfast of a morning, which we enjoyed immensely on two occasions during our stay! As evidence the hotel attracts tourists from all over the world, we spoke with a Japanese couple sitting next to us at breakfast that were eager to see some of Australia’s unique wildlife while they were in town. Still on Hotel TOTTO’s brilliant location, it’s just a three-minute walk from Crown Street Mall, which has the brilliant Eat Street Markets every Thursday evening; Wollongong Central, which is home to more than 200 retail

TRAVEL

NOT HURT BY PASSAGE OF TIME

Amigos Mexican restaurant.

Nathan at the beach.

Hotel TOTTO.

Pizza at BASTA Trattoria.

stores including David Jones; and the Keira Street Dining Precinct, which has a huge variety of casual dining and restaurant options including beloved Mexican institution Amigos (the tacos there were amazing!) and everyone’s favourite guilty pleasure Yo-Chi. If it’s entertainment that you’re after then Wollongong has that in spades especially if you’re a lover of sport like me. WIN Stadium, where the St George-Illawarra Dragons play during the winter months, and WIN Entertainment Centre, where the

Illawarra Hawks play at during the spring and summer, is roughly a 10-15 minute walk from Hotel TOTTO. When my basketball-mad wife and I stayed the other week, we got to catch the Hawks NBL team in action against the Tasmania JackJumpers. While Illawarra came up short on the night, the game had a great, intimate atmosphere, and you really felt like a true Wollongong local walking to and from the venue with the passionate fans. But you’re probably thinking to yourself,

‘Nathan, it sounds like you’ve had a fun-filled trip down south, but you can’t stay in the ‘Gong, recreating your favourite childhood memories, without visiting the beach!’. Well, readers, I’m here to tell you… I did! Whether you have a car or not, Wollongong’s incredible beaches aren’t actually that far from Hotel TOTTO. In-fact, we walked to both Wollongong City Beach and North Wollongong Beach in approximately 15-20 minutes – leaving the Haval H6 behind. Whilst there, we were able to frolic in the

waves, read a book on the sand and enjoy a soft serve with sprinkles from the famous ice cream truck near the iconic lighthouse – just like I did as a kid, sans the book reading of course! If you’re after a stylish, no-fuss CBD base close to everything Wollongong has to offer, Hotel TOTTO Wollongong should be at the top of your list. For exclusive offers and to book, visit www.luxuryescapes.com. The writer travelled courtesy of Luxury Escapes.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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

Crossword

edium

2 9

3 4

5 6

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

r8ts.com

westernweekender.com.au/digi-subscribe

SUDOKU No. 817

Medium

5 1 4

9 1

9 3

8 7

3 2 9

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

5 8 7

7 5 8 9 1 4 3 2 6

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

Previous solution - Easy

9 3 6 4

8 2

Last 7week’s 6 solution 5 4 2 3 1

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender

ACROSS 82 Hindu religious retreat (6) 1 /21 Across Location in 83 Greek goddess of the dawn Queensland of a depot left (3) by Burke and Wills (6,5) 84 Claim (6) 8 /44 Down New Zealand 85 Heron-like wading bird (5) conqueror of Everest (6,7) 86 Live (5) 11 See 8 Down (5) 87 /15 Down Fred Astaire’s 12 Grant (5) most famous dance partner 13 Zodiac sign of the bull (6) (6,6) 16 Donkey (3) 88 Range (6) 17 Most sagacious (6) 20 Barely average (2-2) DOWN 21 See 1 Across (5) 1 Andrew Lloyd Webber musical show based on a 22 Where active sailors can be work of TS Eliot (4) found (2,3) 2 Musical work (4) 23 Synthetic fertiliser (4) 3 Save (6) 24 Wildebeest (3) 4 Concurred (6) 25 Wise bird (3) 5 Polish city on the Vistula 26 Steel bar (3) River (6) 27 Eyelid inflammation (4) 6 Most common volcanic rock 28 Provide a source of funds (6) (5) 7 Balm (6) 31 Meek (5) 8 /11 Across Great English 34 Leave out (4) composer (6,5) 35 Scottish city on the Clyde 9 Drug taker (4) River (7) 10 Given information (4) 38 Light-purple colour (5) 14 Concerning the major blood 41 Extreme misery (7) vessel (6) 45 Mine entrance (4) 15 See 87 Across (6) 46 In place; in ... (4) 18 Japanese numbers game (6) 47 French island in the Indian 19 Multi-episode TV show (6) Ocean east of Madagascar 29 Intermittently (3,3,5) (7) 30 Completely done away with 48 Person from Dallas (5) (11) 49 Hindrance to free action (7) 32 Furnace (11) 50 Antlered animal (4) 33 Not genuine (11) 51 Sheet reinforcement for 35 Lei (7) concrete (4) 36 Aluminium oxide (7) 52 Legendary character associated with 40 thieves 37 Stringed instruments (7) (3,4) 39 Repeat (7) 53 Shaving implement (5) 40 According to the fashion 54 Former portion of Ethiopia, (1,2,4) now an independent state 42 Igneous rock widely used for (7) buildings (7) 55 Billy or nanny (4) 43 Dunk (7) 5 /68 Down Great Australian 44 See 8 Across (7) swimming champion, winner 58 Antarctic mount (6) of three successive 100m 59 Well-groomed (6) freestyle Gold Medals (4,6) 62 Bryan Brown’s wife; ... Ward 57 World’s lowest body of (6) surface water (4,3) 63 Important person (coll) (6) 60 Article of faith (5) 65 Seethe (6) 61 By that means (7) 66 Hospital doctor (6) 64 Seaweed (4) 67 Decadent (6) 65 Maliciously derogatory (5) 68 See 56 Across (6) 68 Dress (5) 69 Get the better of mentally (6) 71 US actor; Nicolas ... (4) 70 Japanese system of Previous 72 Polynesian food (3) solution - Tough unarmed combat (6) 73 A long way (3) 75 T8olled6a bell 5 3 4 7 (4) 74 Fire residue (3) 76 Eschew (4) 5 7(4) 8 75 Ploy (4) 6 1 3 2 480 Lake 77 Theme 3(5) 4 2 1 6 581 Lease 7 (4) 78 Communion table (5) 9 8 7 3 6 5 2 79 Independent Islamic 1 2 9 8 7 4 3 chieftain (4)

9 6 1 2 3 8 7 5 4

2 4 3 7 5 6 9 8 1

6 1 2 8 4 3 5 7 9

3 9 7 5 6 2 1 4 8

4 8 5 1 7 9 6 3 2

1 3 4 6 2 5 8 9 7

8 2 6 3 9 7 4 1 5

5 7 9 4 8 1 2 6 3

NEVER MISS AN EDITION

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

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Wordsearch brought to you by Penrith Jobs www.penrithjobs.com.au

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

THEME: HALLOWEEN BLACK CAT BROOMSTICK CANDY CAULDRON COSTUME FRANKENSTEIN GHOST GRAVEYARD HALLOWEEN HAUNTED HOUSE JACK O LANTERN PUMPKIN SCARECROW SKELETON SPIDERWEB TRICK OR TREAT VAMPIRE WEREWOLF WITCH ZOMBIE Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about the Salem Witch Trials quiz in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. When did the Salem Witch Trials occur? 2. Which American state is Salem in? 3. How many people were hanged after being found guilty of being witches? 4. True or false: people were burned at the stake during the Salem Witch Trials?

5. How old was the youngest person accused of being a witch? 6. After being accused of witchcraft, how was Giles Corey tortured for a plea? 7. When did Massachusetts issue a formal apology? 8. When were the final accused victims exonerated? 9. What caused the trials to end?

ANSWERS 1. Between 1692 and 1693 2. Massachusetts 3. 19 4. False 5. Four-years-old 6. Crushed beneath heavy stones 7. 1957 8. 2022 9. The Governor of Massachusetts wife was accused

Trivia Quiz

LISTEN NOW ON

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Grow your business by advertising with us! Contact sales@westernweekender.com.au or call 02 4722 2988

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 817

Medium

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

2 9

5 3 6

2 4

7 2 3 5 3

8 1 2

6 7

Str8ts

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

Cracking the Safe

No. 817

Previous solution - Tough

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

9 1

3 2 9

Name the Movie

In order to crack open the safe solve the six digit code. You are given five clues. The letters can be any number between 0-6.

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

TPOJBWETHLIRICCH E Previous solution:

HINTS

One of the five letters is in the right place.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Who Am I?

One of the five letters is in the right place.

BrainSnack® The Last Word

Previous solution: LOST IN TRANSLATION

1. Enter the last word at the bottom of the grid. 2. The symbols show how many letters from the word next to it are or are not used in the last word.

One of the five letters is not used. 3. All letters from the letter list below the symbols, are used at least once in the grid.

Previous solution:

1. We’re an Australian band. 2. We formed in 2012. 3. O ur music is heavily influenced by Britpop. 4. IDK but ‘Everybody’s Saying Thursday’s The Weekend’. 5. W e became internationally known for our cover of Cher’s ‘Believe’ on Triple J’s Like A Version. Last week’s answer: CHAZ MOSTERT

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

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

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Chorizo & Halloumi Pasta A delicious and filling meal, I can’t go past a good pasta!

– Large pot – Large pan

Ingredients: – Pasta (amount subject to servings) – 100g halloumi (small pieces) – 1-2 chorizo sausages (diced) – 1 brown onion (diced) – 2 cloves garlic (diced) – 2 sachets tomato paste (approx 4 tbsp) – 300ml thickened cream – Spices (I use salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika)

Method: 1. Bring a pot of salted water to the boil, cooking pasta as per

package instructions. Remove 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain completely. 2. In the pan, heat some oil on medium heat. Add diced chorizo and cook until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside. In the same pan, cook the halloumi until each side is golden brown, then remove and set aside. 3. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until softened. Add garlic, spices and tomato paste, stirring. Once combined, add cream, reducing heat to a simmer. 4. After a few minutes, add in drained pasta, chorizo, halloumi and a dash of pasta water. Stir until combined and glossy. Add more pasta water if sauce feels too thick. Serve and enjoy!

64 66

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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What You’ll Need:

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Outlander for the aspirational A

lready a capable and comfortable medium-large all-road touring wagon, Mitsubishi’s Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid EV) enjoyed a recent update, strengthening its offering even further. Structurally, the Outlander hasn’t really changed, remaining a traditional two-box station wagon, upright without being a Lego block. The front is squared-off, angled up and back from the grille, creating an aerodynamic profile as it pushes air over the bonnet. Our car was the mid-spec Aspire, keeping chrome to a minimum, with horizontal ‘U’-shaped trims framing the grille section, highlighting the distinctive mid-height headlights, below the guard-topping Daytime Running Lights.

“ROOMY, COMFORTABLE AND EFFICIENT, THE OUTLANDER PHEV TICKS A LOT OF BOXES” There is a chrome surround for the low-mount air intake, beneath the body colour bumper line, good news, the Aspire loses the previous ‘chin’ spoiler, improving the approach and departure angles when offroad. The Aspire also rides on new-design 20” alloys with medium profile all-terrain tyres, boosting ride height for improved off-road performance. The reprofiled rear bumper further improves off-road ability, without detracting from rear-end functionality. Overall, the Outlander is attractive and practical, with build quality matching any of its rivals. More noticeable are the interior changes, starting with comfortable and practical black microsuede ‘Granlux’ trim that remained user-friendly in mid-Spring temperatures, helped by he the dual zone automatic climate control air-conditioning. As a ‘big and tall’ driver, I enjoy the cabin, it offers plenty of head, leg and shoulder room, seats are well-bolstered for short and long

A luxurious look inside.

drives, providing plenty of support. The seat-wheel-pedal relationship is good, it is not a pretend sports car, but it allows you to relax into the drive, not cramping you into uncomfortable driving positions. The widescreen display is big without dominating, touch controls allow easy navigation of the multiple menus, the driver gets a full set of controls on the four-spoke steering wheel that neatly frames the selectable driving displays. Wheel-mounted paddles control regenerative braking, left for more energy capture, right reduces the braking effort. Mitsubishi has the layout and functionality nearly perfect, a few

days practice and most drivers will have mastered the controls. I like the stubby drive selector and near-flat centre console, the only downside is the forward phone storage, when plugged into either of the USB ports the cable connector is forced into a right angle. That aside, I found the interior well planned and user-friendly, cup holders are deep, but not so you lose your butterscotch latte!, all within driver’s reach. The broad, flat, padded storage box lid was appreciated, the box held wallet, keys and sundry items easily, the lid was a good armrest. With doors shut and windows up, the Outlander is comfortable and

The Outlander is definitely worth a look.

quiet, not totally isolated but sufficiently removed from the outside world to provide a feeling of calm. The only negative was the thirdrow seatback, it doesn’t latch when folded, without heavy cargo holding it down it will ‘thud’ over speedbumps and potholes. Like the exterior, the build quality is excellent, after driving numerous versions, they all show the same quality of finish. The PHEV driveline got the biggest update with a new 22.7kW/h battery and two upgraded electric motors offering a combined power of 221kW, blended with the 2.4-litre petrol engine. Full electric driving range is now 86 kilometres on the global WLTP test, we found an average of 50 kilometres was normal, across a mix of stop-start traffic, hills and extended highway driving. Mitsubishi has improved ‘on the run’ integration of the petrol engine, at 100km/h the engine fires up and adds its drive smoothly. There is an audible engine noise, but it isn’t raucous or harsh, more a ‘thrum’ as it powers up, but there is no jolting as the two power sources integrate. This is helped by the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), with no gears to engage, it reprofiles to meet demand, Mitsubishi has overcome the CVT’s biggest stumbling

block, eliminating the delay in the transmission responding to throttle inputs, while providing the fuel efficiency CVTs provide. For those new to hybrids or full EVs and regenerative braking, the paddle system allows everything from mild energy capture to full single pedal driving with maximum braking and energy capture. While this gives maximum driving range, the ‘on/off’ nature takes some adjustment as you learn how much, or how little, pedal is required to keep the car rolling. The energy capture is impressive, extending full electric driving ability, while it won’t recharge the battery it allows the Outlander to switch between power sources while cruising at 100km/h. The Outlander remains a ‘soft roader’, despite its excellent ‘Super All-Wheel Control System’ (SAWCS), rather than a full off-roader, that will be the preserve of the reborn Pajero, but with careful driving and reduced tyre pressures, it is capable of travelling well off the main roads. On the highway, the Outlander rolls along, propelling a full load of passengers and cargo to their destination comfortably and effortlessly. Throw in the Yamaha sound system, playing through eight speakers, and it is a great party bus, offering something for everyone. With a decent wheelbase, the Outlander absorbs bumps comfortably, allowing the suspension to deal with them before hitting the next pothole or corrugation, creating a stable platform. Electric power steering eliminates free play at the wheel, making it firm and accurate, but with a slow ratio to prevent it from turning itself inside out at the slightest turn. Power assistance is well sorted, not requiring much effort at low speed, before adding weight and resistance as speeds increase, preventing it from being floaty or twitchy from minor inputs. Aside from the rear seat ‘thud’, the ride feels good, it is relaxed, firm, but not stiff, the underfloor battery gives a lower centre of gravity, adding to the overall stability. If you are looking for a medium-large wagon offering decent comfort while able to tackle most road surfaces, the Outlander is worth a look, especially with its excellent fuel efficiency.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

SPORT

Sounding the Siren on a fresh start NATHAN TAYLOR

ollowing the recent sale of Giants Netball, new Super Netball franchise the Sydney Sirens will make their official on-court debut in April next year. The Sirens will create history on Sunday, April 11 when they host reigning Premiers, the Adelaide Thunderbirds, at the Quaycentre in Sydney Olympic Park. The historic opening match will be the first of five home games at the Quaycentre, which will serve as the club’s new primary home venue, promising to bring fans closer to the action in an intimate setting renowned for its rich netball history. A major highlight of the inaugural season will be the Sirens’ Round 13 home Derby against the NSW Swifts at Ken Rosewall Arena, with the club

looking to attract a huge crowd for what promises to be a blockbuster clash between Sydney’s two Super Netball teams. In a bid to attract supporters from all over the state, the Sirens will also take a game to regional NSW, hosting their Round 7 home game against fellow SEN Teams-owned team, the Melbourne Mavericks, at Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre. CEO of SEN Teams, which holds the Sirens licence, Richard Simkiss said the release of the fixture was another significant milestone for the club. “The fixture release makes everything feel very real, and it’s incredibly exciting to see our inaugural season taking shape,” he said. “To open our history against the reigning Premiers at the Quaycen-

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

tre is a fantastic occasion, and we can’t wait to see our players run out in front of our members and supporters for the very first time. “We’re also really looking forward to our home Derby against the Swifts at Ken Rosewall Arena in Round 13. There’s an exciting new rivalry developing between the two Sydney clubs, and we want to see a huge crowd there to be part of what promises to be a fantastic occasion. “We’ve always said we want the Sydney Sirens to be a club for all of NSW, and our fixture really reflects that ambition. From the Quaycentre to Ken Rosewall Arena and Wollongong, we’re focused on giving fans across the state the opportunity to be part of this journey.” Following their historic opening match, the Sirens will travel to Melbourne in Round 2 to take on

The Sydney Sirens will make their Super Netball debut next year.

2026 Grand Finalists the Melbourne Vixens, before returning home to face the Queensland Firebirds in Round 3. The Sirens will meet the NSW Swifts for the first time in Round 6, with former Swifts Grace Whyte and Teigan O’Shannassy set to face their former club in what will be the first chapter of an exciting new crosstown rivalry. Simkiss said there was plenty for fans to look forward to as the club prepares to make its mark on the competition. “There are so many firsts ahead of

us – our first game, our first home win, our first Sydney Derby and the chance to establish some exciting new rivalries,” he said. “We’re building a club that we want all of NSW to be proud of, and we want our fans to feel part of it from day one.” The 2027 Super Netball season will commence on Saturday, April 10, with the home-and-away season concluding on Sunday, July 11 ahead of the Super Netball Finals Series and the Netball World Cup in Sydney from August 25 to September 5.

SPORT

STRIKING GOLD Invictus inspiration: Local veteran takes home top honour NATHAN TAYLOR

ocal Navy veteran Jarryd Boyd has returned from Western Australia with gold around his neck after he represented his country at the inaugural Invictus Australia Sports Festival last weekend. The 37-year-old from Erskine Park was part of a 30-strong Australian squad made up of current and former serving, wounded or ill military personnel. Australia came up against cross Tasman rivals New Zealand and the Republic of Korea, competing in such sports as indoor rowing,

Jarryd Boyd on the indoor rowing machine.

pickleball, seated volleyball and swimming. The Indo-Pacific-focused Sports Festival gave veterans another opportunity to harness sport’s power to support their recovery, rehabilitation, connection and reintegration. Speaking with the Weekender upon returning home, Boyd said he loved getting the chance to represent Australia for the second time in two years. “I was happy with how I performed in Perth,” he said. “Last year I went to Canada for the Invictus Games, but I got quite sick with the flu over there. This was like the mini version of the big Invictus Games. It was perfect for people that have represented before because it’s not as daunting and you know what to expect.” Australia came out on top over in Perth, beating the Kiwis and Koreans in most events, with Boyd securing a gold medal in pickleball. “Like at the Olympics, Australia dominated in the pool as well as the rowing events but the Kiwis were pretty strong too,” Boyd said. “Surprisingly Korea, as a smaller unit, stuck it to us in a fair few things. They held us Aussies and the Kiwis very accountable. I shouldn’t have judged a book by its cover!” Boyd joined the Royal Australian Navy in 2009 and was medically discharged in June of this year. Over his 17-year career, the father of four met many amazing people and had incredible opportunities, however he’s had his fair share of setbacks, enduring multiple

surgeries on his left ankle as well as nerve damage to his left arm. Boyd said last year’s Invictus Games in Canada and the recent Invictus Australia Sports Festival in Perth help put his injuries into perspective. “I’ve had seven ankle operations and have to get an ankle replacement one day. I’ve also lost feeling in my left arm too,” he said. “I went through a period where I was beaten and defeated and then you go to these Invictus events and hear other people’s stories and it gives you that mindset that there’s always someone else that’s doing it tougher and it does put a lot of things into perspective for you.” With the next Invictus Games being held in Birmingham in the UK next year, Boyd said he’d love to see more and more Aussie veterans sign up for future events. “Invictus creates many sporting opportunities, especially around Australia – I don’t think the veteran community realises that,” he said. “There’s always opportunities that come up, you just have to pay attention online. I just want someone else to have that same experience as me.”

Jarryd Boyd wins gold in pickleball.

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SPORT HONOURS FOR NETBALL’S BEST Story continued from » p.72

PDNA awarded 2026 Club Coach of the Year to Alana Farr from St Nicholas Netball Club, who has poured her heart and soul into coaching for a decade. Glenmore Park Netball Club was crowned 2026 Cathy Ormerod Club of the Year for not only producing 25 teams this season, but also growing the club’s umpire pathway. Long-time NSW Swifts star and Penrith Netball junior Paige Hadley was also in attendance last Friday, in the room to hand out her 2026 Paige Hadley Strive to be a Diamond Award. This year’s winner was Aleighya Panuve from St Nicholas Netball Club, who in 2026 made the Netball NSW Emerging Talent Metro Team. “Aleighya has shown incredible growth throughout the season, going from a quiet GK to take on the challenge of becoming a shooter and stepping into a leadership role for her team,” PDNA Secretary Angela Flood said. The final award on the night was the Penrith District Netball Association Service Award, which went to Rochelle Mika from Penrith RSL Netball Club. “Rochelle epitomises the definition of volunteer – an individual who freely offers her time, labour and skills to assist others,” Ward said. “In true RSL spirit she is competitive, a lady of great integrity, handles challenges with respect, perseverance and resilience.”

LASTING LEGACY John’s memory lives on thanks to annual golf day NATHAN TAYLOR

olf days are held right across the local area for various reasons throughout the year, but the annual John Newham Memorial Golf Day is particularly special. Held at Leonay Golf Club on October 16, this year the John Newham Memorial Golf Day celebrated its 15th year. Not only does the golf day celebrate and remember a remarkable man who loved his family and community, but it also raises much needed funds for Legacy Australia. Gloria met her husband John at house party in Penrith and were married for 51 wonderful years before his passing in 2011. They had six children together, who were all very close to their dad. “I was in the Air Force and John was in the Army, and we’ve always been involved with Legacy and veterans,” Gloria told the Weekender. “When it was the first anniversary of John’s death, the kids suggested to round up the family and go to Leonay for a game of

Gloria Newham presenting a cheque for $3500 to Legacy Australia.

golf like he used to.” The John Newham Memorial Golf Day was created in John’s honour and was only ever meant to be a one-off. “We thought it would be a one-off when we first started. We had shirts made up to make it a really special day and then everyone kept asking us when the next one was,” Gloria recalled. “The first golf day had around 60 golfers and this year we have the most golfers ever!”

A record 138 golfers signed up to this year’s John Newham Memorial Golf Day, with an incredible $3500 raised for Legacy Australia through registrations, auctions, raffles and fun putting games. Gloria said John used to love playing golf with his friends at Leonay but would perhaps be somewhat embarrassed about all the fuss made about him each year. “I like to think he would’ve loved it and enjoyed it thoroughly, playing golf with so

many friends,” she said. “But he probably would’ve been slightly embarrassed everyone making a fuss of him.” Gloria said the golf day is a special way to keep her late husband’s memory alive while at the same time raise money for an organisation close to her heart. “I sort of feel his presence on a day like this because everyone is talking about him and we see lots of pictures of him,” she said. “Over 15 years, we’ve raised over $33,500 for Legacy. Legacy does such a good job for the veterans and their families in numerous ways. Whether it’s small or large, our donation always goes to Legacy in John’s memory.” Legacy Australia provides ongoing support to families of deceased and incapacitated veterans, ensuring they have stability and can realise their potential despite loss and hardship. Its role includes providing financial, social and developmental assistance, advocating for veterans’ rights and helping families, especially widows, cope with grief and hardship.

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Double delight for Wanderers FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have celebrated a memorable return to CommBank Stadium, with both its men’s and women’s teams securing impressive victories in last Saturday’s A-Leagues double header to deliver a six-point weekend for the Red & Black. In front of the Wanderers faithful, the women’s side opened proceedings with a commanding 3-1 comeback victory over Brisbane Roar before the men’s team produced an emphatic 5-2 triumph over Auckland FC, completing a clean sweep of the afternoon’s fixtures. It was a fitting homecoming for the Wanderers, with both teams demonstrating resilience, attacking quality and determination to overcome early deficits and secure their first victories of the 2026/27 campaign. The afternoon began with Geoff Abrahams’ A-League Women’s side responding to an unfortunate seventh-minute own goal against Brisbane Roar. Sofia Palywoda restored parity just eight minutes later with a superb header from a Talia Younis delivery, before the young Wanderers attacker stepped up to convert a second-half penalty and give the hosts the lead. Brooke Miller put the result beyond doubt in the 80th minute, producing a spectacular finish from outside the penalty area to seal a 3-1 victory and secure the women’s first three points of the season. The momentum carried into the men’s fixture, where Ufuk Talay’s side delivered a five-goal performance against Auckland FC. After falling behind in the 24th minute, captain Brandon Borrello brought the Wanderers level just before half-time, setting the stage for an explosive second-half display. Liam Gillion and Nicolas Milanovic struck within five minutes of the restart to turn the contest firmly in the Wanderers’ favour, before Miguel Di Pizio and substitute Atiya Waraga added two late goals to seal a memorable 5-2 victory. The result marked the men’s first triumph over Auckland FC and their first five-goal home performance since October

The Wanderers celebrate a huge victory.

2023. Across the two fixtures, the Wanderers found the back of the net eight times, with seven different goalscorers contributing to a dominant afternoon of football at CommBank Stadium. With six points secured from two matches, the Wanderers will look to build on a memorable afternoon at Wanderland as both teams continue their 2026/27 A-Leagues campaigns this weekend against Macarthur FC (men) and Canberra United (women). FOOTBALL: Jamisontown Giants Football Club recently held its annual awards presentation for its senior teams at The Log Cabin Hotel in Penrith. Apart from dishing out more than a dozen awards to players, one of the big highlights of the presentation was The Log Cabin Hotel General Manager Matt Betteridge handing over a cheque to Jamisontown FC to the tune of $10,000 to become the football club’s major sponsor for the 2027 season. The Log Cabin Hotel says they are getting behind local sport more than ever, with the popular watering hole promising to build their relationship with local sporting clubs and the Penrith community even more in the future. Contact The Log Cabin Hotel to express your interest in getting involved. RUGBY: The Penrith Emus have announced two changes to the naming of their individual awards, recognising people whose contributions and stories form an important part of the club’s history. Introduced last year, the Emus Fellowship Award was created to recognise something beyond on-field performance. Left unnamed in its inaugural year, the award celebrates the qualities that define the true Emu spirit: courage, willingness, fellowship and leadership. It is a players-only award, recognising those who consistently demonstrate these values throughout the season and make a positive contribution to the playing group. From this season, the award will be known as the Jim Mason Award, honouring the late James Mason OAM, the Penrith Emus’ first President and a Life Member of the club. Jim maintained a close association with the Emus throughout his life, including sponsoring the Highest Pointscorer Award. He is fondly remembered for his guidance, his willingness to take others under his wing, and his generosity in sharing his knowledge and the things he loved with those around him. These qualities make Jim a fitting namesake for an award that celebrates fellowship and leadership within the playing group. The Jim Mason Award will ensure that his example of supporting, guiding and encouraging others continues to be recognised

The Log Cabin Hotel hand over a $10,000 cheque to Jamisontown Football Club.

by future generations of Emus. This change also provides an opportunity to recognise two names associated with the club’s Highest Pointscorer Award. From this season, the award will be known as the Hewitt / Buckley Award, honouring Life Member Ian Hewitt and club stalwart Dean Buckley. Both men amassed more than 1,000 career points for the club during their respective eras. The award will preserve their achievements as an important part of the club’s playing history. These changes reflect the club’s ongoing commitment to recognising the people behind the Penrith Emus, not only for what they achieved on the field, but for what they brought to the club and connection to the community. AFLW: The GWS Giants have failed to win back-to-back games, going down to Carlton 38-23 at a wet Ikon Park last Sunday evening. In a game of momentum shifts, the Giants kicked the first two goals of the game before Carlton scored the next three in the first half. The arm-wrestle continued before the Blues kicked away in the final term. GWS will end their season hosting the Gold Coast Suns at Henson Park this Sunday afternoon. CRICKET: Penrith have been defeated by Northern District in Round 4 of the Belvidere Cup. Played in a Two-Day Match at Mark Taylor Oval, play resumed last Saturday morning with Northern District chasing 218 for victory. Led by opening batsman William Coffey (104*), the home side were on fire, reaching Penrith’s target with five wickets in hand. Liam Doddrell was best of the bowlers for Penrith, taking 3/49. Penrith will return home to Howell Oval this weekend to play Sydney in a Two-Day Match. GOLF: Penrith golfers are rallying to back men’s mental health through Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk as part of X-Golf for Good, a national six-week charity initiative running

until November 15. The partnership builds on an extraordinary fundraising effort last year, when the national spotlight was on X-Golf Penrith franchisee Matt Newton who set a new Guinness World Record for the most golf holes played in 24 hours to support the group’s annual fundraising event. This year, the team is turning its attention to a cause closer to home, supporting Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk, which brings local men together through free weekly walks to build connections, reduce social isolation and encourage conversations around mental health. For franchisee Kylie Newton, the partnership reflects the role X-Golf already plays in bringing people together through sport, socialising and mateship. “Last year, our team showed just how much can be achieved when you bring people together for a meaningful cause,” she said. “This year, we wanted to channel that same energy into something happening right here in our own backyard.” Anthony from Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk has a deep connection to the group, often partaking with friends and family. “Mental Health is a complex problem,” he said. “Catching up and for a walk and talk is a simple concept, but it plays a critical role in our community.” Last year, the X-Golf network raised more than $21,000 for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. This year, the focus is on supporting charities making a difference in the communities where X-Golf operates.

X-Golf are getting behind another cause.

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

Flemington R8 #1 LADY SHENANDOAH This mare is coming off a G1 win last start over the same distance. Didn’t have it all it’s own way there and beat a good one giving it 6kgs in impressive style. JMac stays on and it looks very hard to beat in this field.

1. Lady Shenandoah (8) J: James Mc Donald T: C J Waller W: 57.00kg

Randwick R8 #16 SHEZA ALIBI Still ran the track record in a tough run 2000m, narrowly going down on the line. It was closing on Autumn Glow this prep and I confidently believe it’s the best horse in the race. Comes back in distance but class should get it home.

16.Sheza Alibi (6) J: Luke Nolen T: P G Moody & Katherine Coleman W: 55.50kg

Flemington R6 #5 ST GOTTHARD Has been freshened since it’s run in the Golden Rose and comes back to a more suitable distance. First go up the Flemington straight but is definitely up to these. Waller x JMac combo can’t be ignored in these big races.

5. St Gotthard (6) J: James Mc Donald T: C J Waller W: 57.00kg

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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Sport’s new chapter – See page 68

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NETBALL’S BEST

Alana Farr, Ella Gunther, Aleighya Panuve and Charlotte Bryan. Photo: Clusterpix.

NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith District Netball Association (PDNA) held its annual dinner and presentation at Penrith Leagues Club last Friday evening, celebrating the year that was on the netball court. Players, coaches, umpires and clubs were acknowledged with awards throughout the evening, which was held inside a packed Ron Mulock AO Room at Panthers. Various teams were recognised for their efforts throughout the 2026 season, with a Player of the Year named from each side.

Monique Goldie was named the 2026 Panthers Metro League Team 1 Player of the Year, while Alana Brown was announced as the Rodney Watson Metro League Team 2 Player of the Year. Rose Spyrou was crowned the Jill Beckhaus Metro League Team 3 Player of the Year, while Eva Ahovaka was named the 2026 Margaret Smith Metro League Rookie of the Year. Following the 2026 Netball NSW U17 Senior State Titles, Ella Gunther was crowned the Player of the Tournament, while Brooke Ryan scored the Netball

NSW 2026 Opens Senior State Titles Player of the Tournament. Penrith Netball’s strong army of umpires were also recognised throughout the evening, with Zoe Brison-Schroeder from St Clair Netball Club named the 2026 Clare Cavanagh-Wright Senior Umpire of the Year. “The pinnacle of Zoe’s season was undoubtedly achieving her National A Badge – an outstanding accomplishment and a true reflection of her skill, dedication and hard work,” PDNA Senior Umpiring Convenor, Sue Ward said.

The Most Promising Junior Umpire of the Year was bestowed to youngster Charlotte Bryan from Penrith RSL Netball Club. “Achieving her National B Badge, she was selected by Netball NSW to umpire in the Metro League competition this season. This is a significant achievement and a wonderful reflection of the quality of umpire Charlotte has become, as well as the potential she continues to show,” PDNA Junior Umpiring Convenor, Rebecca Weston said. Story continues on » p. 70

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