Western Weekender February 2 2024 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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heir TV commercials are iconic – a vacuum taking on a bowling ball, and winning – but Godfreys is at risk of being sucked into history after entering voluntary administration this week. The future of its two Penrith

stores, including its long-time Nepean Village location, is in serious doubt with 54 of its 141 outlets to close almost immediately. Administrators did not immediately confirm which stores would close. They will attempt to keep other stores open and restructure the business, ultimately

preparing it for a potential sale if a lifeline emerges. “While the decision to appoint Administrators was difficult, it was made with the best interests of Godfreys’ employees, customers and broader stakeholders in mind,” said Godfreys Director, Grant Hancock. Full story on » p. 9

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LOCAL NEWS

Making noise over airport Penrith City Council submits official response to airport’s EIS as concerns grow TROY DODDS

An artist’s impression of the Western Sydney International Airport.

in its own submission, with a memo back to Councillors on the additional inclusions. The submission was due on Wednesday. In its response, Council notes that the EIS only includes impacts associated with the first runway, meaning that the impacts of the second runway are not known. “Council’s submission calls for information on both runways to be made available so that the community can consider the cumulative impact of both runways and to better inform future land use planning decisions,” Council said in its submission.

“Building on the first point, the Draft EIS identifies that there will be noticeable noise impacts for Penrith resulting in changed flight movements from Sydney International Airport (SIA). The information in the EIS should be presented in a way that allows the cumulative impact of both WSI and SIA to be assessed.” Council also noted the EIS adopted night time noise criteria determined by the curfew of SIA. That is, the night time noise period for WSI is 11pm to 5.30am rather than the typical industry standard for sleep disturbance

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enrith City Council has reiterated its support for Western Sydney International Airport, but is demanding a number of issues be addressed before its opening in 2026. On Monday night, Councillors endorsed Council’s official response to the Airport’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which was released last year. But not before concerns were raised about noise impacts on a number of local suburbs, specifically St Clair. St Clair resident Ken Mott spoke at Council’s meeting, slamming Council’s response and airing concerns that the noise impact on his suburb would be dramatic and result in sleep deprivation. “The impact on residents is only mentioned briefly in Penrith City Council’s submission,” he said. Mott claimed increased noise in the years after the airport opened would have significant health impacts on St Clair residents, and impact quality of life for locals. Councillor Kevin Crameri asked for a response back to Council in relation to Mott’s concerns. “I think our submission is not really good enough,” he said. Councillors agreed to include additional concerns and submissions from residents

of 11pm to 7am for airports. The Council submission calls for an alignment of the night time noise period. In addition, Council says the Flight Path and Noise Insulation Policy accompanying the EIS is high level and requires more detailed work to allow for it to be fully assessed. “The Policy is intended to generally align with the ANEC (Australian Noise Exposure Concept) Contours for Land Use Planning controls. However, it is expected that there will be noise impacts beyond the ANEC contours,” Council said. “Council’s submission calls for the Policy, including financial support for retrofitting insulation measures, to be extended beyond the ANEC contours.” In addition, Council’s response says: “Council has been notating properties advising of the likely impacts of aircraft noise for a number of years. These notations have been broadly based around the ANEC noise contours. Based on the exhibited EIS, it appears as if there are areas, particularly within St Clair, that will be impacted by noise that do not currently have notations. This will need to be managed by all levels of Government.” Council is pushing for all properties in the Penrith Local Government Area to have a notation applied to Planning Certificates, directing potential landowners to the Australian Government’s Aircraft Overflight Noise Tool.

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

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The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

westernweekender.com.au

The reality is, Albanese got it right I

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t used to be the Brits who had the market cornered on whinging, but I reckon Aussies give them a fairly good run for their money these days. Who would complain about getting extra money in their pocket, for doing next to nothing? The reaction to Anthony Albanese’s decision to alter stage three tax cuts, due to be implemented from later this year, has been extraordinary to watch unfold. Yes, the Prime Minister has backed down on an election commitment to implement the stage three tax cuts as planned. You could accept the outrage if his changes resulted in people not getting a tax cut at all or if they impacted our lowest paid workers significantly. But quite the opposite is true. Under Albanese’s new plan, someone earning $40,000 per year will actually be $654 better off. If you’re earning between $45,000 and $135,000, you’re $804 better off. Even if you’re earning $145,000 per year – a more than decent wage and significantly higher than the average Australian pay packet – you’re scoring $104 more than you were under the Morrison government’s initial plan. It is only when you reach a $150,000 wage that you’re worse off under this plan. But worse off does not mean no cut and a re-working of your family budget. In fact, if you’re earning $150,000 per year you’re still getting a tax cut of $3,729. Even someone on a $200,000 wage is scoring $4,529 in their pocket; albeit about half of what they would have got under the previous plan. For the last year the cost-of-living crisis has dominated conversations in living rooms across the country. We all know that people are doing it tough, whether it’s at the supermarket checkout, putting petrol in their car or paying the electricity bill. And while I don’t subscribe to the theory that you should constantly target high income earners, it stands to reason that weathering the cost-of-living crisis is far

Index

“It’s not Albanese’s promises that keep people up at night, it’s the amount of money sitting in their wallet or bank account”

tougher for someone earning $70,000 than it is for someone taking home $150,000. So, the Prime Minister reacted. He’s come up with a plan that puts more money into the pockets of people who need it, and has essentially put people before politics. Sure, you could mount an argument that regardless, it’s a broken election promise. You could go back and find the many times Albanese was interviewed during the election, and afterwards, and find gotcha quotes where he says the tax cuts would be implemented as planned. But circumstances change. Peter Dutton should know that, given he was a senior Minister in the Morrison Government during the COVID pandemic, when plans and promises were thrown out the window to battle economic uncertainty. Albanese has broken a promise here but it’s hard to argue that he wasn’t right to do so. Though many are mounting that argument. Andrew Clennell on Sky News, when pointing out the average income earner would score only $20 extra per week under the plan, asked Albanese last weekend: “Is that ‘lobster’ enough in the supermarket to allow people to forgive you for breaking an election promises?” Let me tell you, for many struggling families at the moment, it absolutely is.

News..........................................................1-27 Business.............................................28-34 Entertainment..............................35-46

They’ll sleep much better at night knowing they were able to use that ‘lobster’ for muchneeded groceries than they would knowing Albanese has kept a promise. It is not Albanese’s promises that keep people up at night, it’s the amount of money sitting in their wallet or bank account. We have to accept that Albanese’s original commitment was made when the economy looked a little different and when the cost-ofliving crisis wasn’t as severe. Certainly, those commitments were made long before interest rates went up month after month. Should he have been more careful with his wording? Perhaps, but he would have been criticised for that, too. I get the argument that Albanese’s credibility comes into the argument here. If he could break this promise, what’s next? But an election is the greatest litmus test of all and one is only 18 months away. I assure you, Labor won’t be losing an election based on giving people more money in their pocket, despite what the political analysts want us to believe. He may have lost a few friends at the top end of town, but the majority of Australians will struggle to find fault here. That’s not to say Albanese’s star hasn’t fallen significantly since he came to power and indeed, as I wrote last year, you can see a path where he finishes as a one-term Prime Minister. But to suggest that would be on the back of this broken promise, and to suggest he was booed at the Australian Open Final on Sunday night because of tax cut changes, just isn’t a reflection of reality. No, you should not always punish the big end of town when it comes to taxes and budgets. They play a crucial role in the economy. But the best decision for right now is the one that Albanese has made. To listen to what people are telling him on the ground, to get more money to those most impacted by the cost-of-living crisis, and to react when you need to despite what your critics may say. Albo got this one right.

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LOCAL NEWS

Making a splash: Beach a hit as attendance numbers impress CASSIDY PEARCE

he numbers are in! Love it or hate it, it’s now clear that people just can’t get enough of Penrith Beach, with over 150,000 visitors heading down to escape the summer heat since it opened in mid-December. As of Sunday, January 28, a total of 154,084 people had visited the beach, which has become fondly known as ‘Pondi’ – a staggering 25,000 on average each week since its opening. According to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure figures, Penrith and Blacktown residents are the most frequent visitors to Penrith Beach, with the most popular suburbs being Penrith, Werrington, Castlereagh, Cranebrook, Glenmore Park, St Marys, Mount Druitt, Willmot and Marsden Park. Member for Penrith Karen McKeown emphasised just how exciting it is to have a facility like Penrith Beach – which includes toilets, adult accessible change rooms, a fresh-water drinking

Local kids enjoy a run on Penrith Beach.

station, a café and access for people with a disability – so close to home for local residents. “After waiting many years for this area to be unlocked, it’s exciting that more than 150,000 Penrith locals have embraced this free facility over

the summer to cool off,” she said. “Seeing this beach flourish has been fantastic for our community, and I look forward to having more to say about this in the future.” With locals formerly having to travel for over an hour to get to the

closest beach, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully expressed his excitement that the current government was able to make the long-promised Penrith Beach a reality. “Western Sydney residents have

been asking for a beach of their own for decades now. It’s fantastic to say that we’ve that we have delivered this trial within nine months of coming to Government,” he said. Prue Car, Minister for Western Sydney and Londonderry MP, shared this sentiment, encouraging locals to head down before the temporary activation concludes on March 3. “I am pleased that more than 150,000 people have had the chance to experience the sun, sand, and scenic mountain views at Penrith Beach,” she said. “This free beach has been a huge success, and throughout summer, it has been embraced by the people of western Sydney, especially families. “If you haven’t visited yet, there’s still plenty of time to bring your friends and family down to Penrith Beach for a swim, a coffee and a day by the water.” While the beach has been a hit overall, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. A tragic fatality occurred over the Christmas period, while water quality issues forced it to be closed for one day last week.

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LOCAL NEWS Houses in sinking suburb to go Lendlease will demolish 18 houses it built in Jordan Springs East in the latest twist of the ‘sinking suburb’ saga that has dragged on for years. For years stressed residents dealt with major cracks inside and outside their homes, as well as sunken driveways and crumbling roads in the new development. In June 2020, Lendlease established a compensation scheme with the Commissioner for Fair Trading to support residents impacted by localised excessive land settlement in Jordan Springs East and purchased back a number of properties. Now, 18 of those properties will be bulldozed, deemed as not meeting Lendlease’s own “internal quality standards”. “Since becoming aware of the ground settlement issues, we’ve been working with affected owners and administering a compensation scheme to address the impacts,” said Lendlease Managing Director Communities, Ranisha Clarke. “As part of the scheme, a number of homes were repurchased from owners, and some of these will now be removed as they do not meet our own internal quality standards. “We’re continuing to stand by our customers and committed to providing ongoing support as we work through the process.” There are approximately 1000 properties at Jordan Springs East and around 90 homes have been impacted by localised excessive ground settlement. Removal works for 18 houses will commence later this month and be complete this year. – Troy Dodds

Asbestos concern Mulch was supplied by same company as Transport sites TROY DODDS

enrith City Council has closed parts of the river walk after asbestos fears. Council took the proactive step last week to review suppliers of mulch to Council sites and projects over the past 18 months. This was undertaken to determine if mulch had been supplied by the same company that has been supplying mulch to Transport for NSW sites, which has been identified as containing asbestos in recent weeks. Late last week, that review found the principal landscape and civil construction contractor for Regatta Park at Emu Plains received mulch from the same supplier, which has been used in two locations in the park – a closed area still under construction; the other a recently opened section of the river walk. “Council immediately fenced off the area on Thursday evening, which impacts access to the river walk. Pedestrians will detour via the new section of River Road around the area, rejoining the

Asbestos warning signs now adorn parts of Regatta Park. Photo: Melinda Jane.

walk on the southern end of Regatta Park,” a Council spokesperson said. “Council officers are working with the principal contractor for Regatta Park on the actions

required for identifying, testing and removing the mulch which are in line with Council’s stringent Asbestos Management Framework, and regulations set by the NSW Environment

Protection Authority (EPA) and SafeWork NSW.” NSW Health advice is that bonded asbestos is of very low risk. It’s not known how long the process will take.

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LOCAL NEWS

Council expresses interest in hosting ALGWA conference TROY DODDS

enrith City Council may bid to host the 2026 Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) NSW State Conference. The Annual State Conference is conducted on a rotational basis every two years between a metropolitan and a regional council. Penrith has previously hosted the Conference in 2017. Penrith will submit an Expression of Interest to host the 2026 event, with a formal bid to follow soon after if Penrith is shortlisted. “The conference attracts between 120 and 200 delegates from across NSW and presents an opportunity to showcase Penrith as an exemplar NSW council and as an attractive business conferencing destination,” a report presented to Council at Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting said. ALGWA’s purpose is to promote greater representation of women in local government, provide advice to potential female candidates for election to councils, as well as policy advocacy on matters that may be of interest to the sector. “Council officers have undertaken an initial estimate of the cost of producing the 2026 ALGWA NSW conference, which is approximately $160,000,” the report said.

A presentation at the 2017 ALGWA State Conference in Penrith.

“The cost estimate includes the initial outlay for venue hire, catering, marketing and materials, engaging a conference organiser as well as the in-kind cost for Council staff in co-producing the conference.” It is expected that the host council would be

able to recoup the upfront cash costs of the production of the conference and the value of in-kind support through conference fees to delegates. Any additional income generated by the conference is provided to ALGWA, which would result in a break-even position

for the host council, being Penrith in this situation. ALGWA does not retain staff in order to develop and deliver their Annual Conference and operates with a voluntary committee made up of elected Councillors from NSW Councils. The executive Committee of ALGWA organises the Conference with significant operational support and coordination of the host council. Councillors endorsed the Expression of Interest on Monday night, accepting it would provide significant benefits to Penrith, though it wasn’t smooth sailing. Councillor Bernard Bratusa raised a number of questions at Council’s meeting, including querying the length of the conference, what proposed venues would be used, and what “additional costs” referred to in the report are. “I think it’s a great initiative, and kudos to the city, but I’m not comfortable writing a blank cheque,” he said. Councillor Ross Fowler said he would have expected a better analysis of the return on investment. After a back and forth between Councillors and Council staff, Councillors agreed to lodge an Expression of Interest, but requested a report back on specifics around the costs. Council officers have estimated the event could deliver $190,000 in local economic benefit.

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

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˃˥ˢ˨˗˟ˬ ˙˨ˡ˗˘˗ ˕ˬ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʶ˜˧ˬ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˔ˡ˗ ˧˛˘ ˁˆˊ ʺˢ˩˘˥ˡˠ˘ˡ˧ʡ

Contact Us Administration Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street. Contact Centre Open 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777 PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Council Briefs ● Is your pool summer ready? Over the last 20 years almost 500 Australian children under the age of five drowned. While all these drowning deaths are preventable, it’s the 54% that occur in home swimming pools where your immediate action can make a difference.

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

Meeting Dates 12 February 2024 – 7pm (Policy Review Meeting) Online via penrith.city 26 February 2024 – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via penrith.city

penrith.city.council penrithcouncil penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Please include a subject line indicating ‘Proposed amendment to the Orchard Hills North, Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 chapters of Penrith DCP 2014’. For further enquiries: Please contact Owen Lay, Planner on 4732 7612.

For more information, visit penrith.city/pools or contact Council’s Swimming Pool team on 4732 7864.

The following development application has been received by Council:

● Join us for our Seniors Festival Comedy Gala at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on 12 March. We have a great line-up of comedians that will have you laughing till you cry. Call 4723 7600 or register at thejoan.com.au

4732 7777

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It’s easy to check whether your pool is safe for you and any children by making sure that there is an effective child resistant barrier, pool gates and latches are in working order, and gates are never propped open.

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• Post: The General Manager (Attention City Planning) Penrith City Council PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

Public Notice Proposed amendments to the Orchard Hills North, Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 chapters of Penrith DCP 2014 Council invites you to review and provide feedback on proposed amendments to the Orchard Hills North, Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 chapters of the Penrith Development Control Plan 2014 (DCP 2014). Council at its Ordinary Meeting of Monday, 11 December 2023 resolved to publicly exhibit the above proposed amendments to DCP 2014. Key changes to the Orchard Hills North DCP chapter include making minor changes which reflect the associated final Planning Proposal, addressing formatting matters and addressing other discrepancies identified. Key updates to the Glenmore Park Stage 2 and Glenmore Park Stage 3 DCP chapters include the addition of a development staging section, updated figures and minor formatting matters. The proposed changes are administrative in nature and do not introduce or amend any existing policy positions in either DCP chapter.

Development Application • Celestino Developments SSP Pty Ltd

Construction of a 650m upgrade to part of Luddenham Road fronting Sydney Science Park, with new interim signalised intersection to provide access to Sydney Science Park site, relocation of services, associated works and Torens title subdivision of 3 lots into 6 lots Contact: Robert Walker on 4732 7409 Closing date: Monday, 26 February 2024

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

Approved Development Applications • NF Billyard Pty Ltd

DA23/0687

Lot 132 DP 16330 and Lot 133 DP 16330, 27 Adelaide Street, Oxley Park Demolition of existing structures and construction of multidwelling housing consisting of 10 x 2-storey townhouses and associated works • NF Billyard Pty Ltd

Mod23/0243

Lot 38 DP 12590, 145 Brisbane Street, St Marys Section 4.55(1A) modification of DA20/0366 to amend side and rear boundary fencing, finished ground levels and retaining walls

Following the public exhibition, the outcomes of the exhibition will be reported to Council for consideration. The proposed amendments to DCP 2014 will be on public exhibition until Monday, 26 February 2024. The exhibition material may be viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au and at Council’s Civic Centre.

Viewing of Development Applications

You are invited to provide feedback on the proposed changes by making a written submission to Council by Monday, 26 February 2024 by:

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

• Email: city.planning@penrith.city

DA24/0009

581 Luddenham Road, Luddenham

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

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

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LOCAL NEWS

WSPG launches new websites

That sucks: Godfreys in crisis

S western sydney publ is hing grou p

Bradfield Bulletin The Blue Mountains Record Bradfield Bulletin Western Sydney Publishing Group now boasts four brands under its banner.

estern Sydney Publishing Group has expanded its reach in western Sydney with the launch of two new websites: Bradfield Bulletin and Blue Mountains Record. The two websites join the highly successful Western Weekender and Parra News brands, which boast both print and digital products. Bradfield Bulletin is the first news outlet dedicated to the new city aligned with Western Sydney International Airport, and will become the voice for businesses and future residents of the airport city and aerotropolis. Blue Mountains Record is dedicated to being a new voice for the Blue Mountains, covering the issues that matter to residents of a vibrant and important part of New South Wales. “With four websites servicing western Sydney, Western Sydney Publishing Group

is establishing itself as the leading news publisher in western Sydney,” said Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor, Troy Dodds. “Both of these websites will grow as their communities grow with it. We’re excited to bring back the Blue Mountains Record brand, and to also present Bradfield Bulletin for the first time – as we prepare for the arrival of Western Sydney International Airport in 2026.” Western Sydney Publishing Group brands Western Weekender: www.westernweekender.com.au + print every Friday. Parra News: www.parranews.com.au + print every Tuesday. Bradfield Bulletin: www.bradfieldbulletin. com.au. Blue Mountains Record: www.bluemountainsrecord.com.au.

tores will be closed and jobs lost as vacuum retailer Godfreys Group enters Voluntary Administration. The future of the company, which is more than 90-yearsold, now hangs in the balance. Established in 1931, Godfreys is one of the world’s largest vacuum retailers and one of Australia and New Zealand’s leading suppliers of specialty commercial floor care and associated cleaning products. The business operates 141 stores and employs more than 600 staff across Australia and New Zealand, with an additional 28 stores run by franchisees. It is anticipated that 54 of those stores will be closed within the next 14 days, affecting the employment of approximately 193 staff, 171 in Australia and 22 in New Zealand. There are two Godfreys stores in Penrith, including its rather iconic Nepean Village store. It is not known if the Penrith stores are among the 54 to immediately close. Craig Crosbie, Robert Ditrich and Daniel Walley of PricewaterhouseCoopers

Godfreys has stores across Australia and New Zealand.

(PwC) Australia have been appointed as Voluntary Administrators of the Australian entities. John Fisk and Stephen White of PwC New Zealand have been appointed Voluntary Administrators over the New Zealand subsidiary. The Administrators will continue to trade the Godfreys business while undertaking an immediate operational restructure and sale process. “Like many retailers, Godfreys has faced a challenging economic and operating environment. Lower customer demand amid cost-of-living pressures, higher operating costs, and increased competition have all taken a toll on profitabil-

ity, with some stores more impacted than others,” Crosbie said. “Our aim is to move quickly to restructure Godfreys to preserve as much of the business and as many jobs as possible. We intend to trade the restructured store network and sell the business and assets as a going concern, with strong interest expected from prospective buyers.” Godfreys’ director, Grant Hancock, said: “While the decision to appoint Administrators was difficult, it was made with the best interests of Godfreys’ employees, customers and broader stakeholders in mind.” Creditors will meet on February 9.

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

Joke of the Week

Q: What do you call a hot dog on wheels? A: Fast food! Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

prize cupboard

a s c i n at i n g p e o p l e a r o u n d the globe since the ’80s with their popular cube, Rubik’s Race is the new fast-paced sequence board game that is designed to get players’ minds and fingers racing. Shake the scrambler and take your opponent on head-to-head. Shift and slide the tiles to become the first racer to complete the 3x3 centre. The Rubik’s Race board game requires skill, speed and dexterity. Challenge your friends and family to

the Rubik’s Race and battle for the pole position. Available at Big W, Target and all good toy retailers for RRP $19.99. The Weekender has eight copies of Rubik’s Race to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ wester nweekender. com.au with ‘Rubik’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, February 9 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. wester nweekender. com.au or Weekender reception.

lucky paceway winners

Members of the Penrith Paceway in Penrith have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and your favourite newspaper, The Western Weekender. Club members can pick up a free specially numbered

bumper sticker from the Paceway or the Weekender office, and our spotters will be out and about in the community. Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Pace-

way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week! This week’s lucky winners are: 0536, 0578, 0076.

I SPY

Dose of Dorin

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 ispy@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

The footprints are located at the new City Park in Penrith. Have you paid Penrith’s newest park a visit on your lunch break yet?

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All the outrage over the ‘Barbie’ movie’s apparent snubs neglects to mention it was nominated for an array of Oscars, and lacks knowledge of how the nominations work.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

@wwpenrith @westernweekender

Congratulations to My88 presenter Wayne Tunks, who this week celebrated three years at the radio station, which is dedicated to playing the best 80s music.

@westernweekender @westernweekender

WHAT IS ILLEGAL DUMPING? Unwanted items like household goods, building materials, or commercial waste discarded in public places.

WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?

Makes public spaces untidy

Harms human and wildlife health

Contaminates soil and waterways

HOW TO REPORT ILLEGAL DUMPING?

Attracts vermin

Increases Ѓ˥˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˧ˢ˫˜˖ fumes risk

Obstructs footpaths and roadways

Costs thousands to clean up

WHAT TO DO WITH EXCESS OR R BULKY WASTE? Council Options

Use RIDonline to report 24/7

Make a report at ridonline.epa .nsw.gov.au

Say no to illegal dumping!

Bulky Waste:

Up to four collections per year.

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Adjust your service to better suit your household needs.

Household Problem Waste:

Free drop-off at Penrith Community Recycling Centre.

Building Waste:

Responsibly dispose of construction and demolition waste through local options found on recyclingnearyou.

This project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy initiative, funded from the waste levy.

penrith.city/illegaldumping WW52918

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

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COMPLETE L E G A L & C O N V E YA N C I N G

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY TROY DODDS

St Marys: Man gives cops fake name during breath test

About 9.40pm on Wednesday, January 24, police were conducting stationary breath testing on King Street, St Marys. Police stopped a vehicle and had a conversation with the driver, a 20-year-old Mount Druitt man. It is alleged the man was asked if he had a driver’s licence and he stated that he did not have it on him. The man was also asked if he had been drinking and it is alleged the man stated that he had. Police asked the man for his name. It is alleged the man supplied a name and checks were made. It is alleged that a person with that name could not be located on the Roads and Maritime Services site. The man was arrested, and was asked his name again. On the second request the man supplied his correct name. Checks were again made, which revealed the man was the holder of a Class C learners licence that was disqualified until September 2024. The man was breath tested, which proved positive. He was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.062. The man was charged with ‘drive motor vehicle during disqualification period – 2nd+off’, ‘Driver or rider state false name or home address’ and ‘Drive with low range PCA – 1st off’. The man was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court on March 3.

Colyton: Man blows mid-range, earns himself court date

A man has been charged after an incident in Cranebrook last weekend. About 8.30am on Saturday, January 27, police say a 38-year-old Jamisontown man has attended an address in Lakeview Drive, Cranebrook. It is alleged the has knocked on the front door and has then gone down the side of the house and entered the backyard. It is alleged he had entered a back shed and has attempted to open all the doors on the house without success. A brief time later it is alleged a neighbour has heard sounds in the backyard and contacted the owner of the residence. The owner has checked her CCTV and contacted police. Police have attended a short time later and appended the man. The man was charged with ‘Enter enclosed land not presc premises w/o lawful excuse’ and ‘Larceny value >$15000-T1’. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on March 13.

Kemps Creek: Woman damages property during rampage

About 11.25am on Saturday, January 27 it is alleged a 38-year-old Kemps Creek woman has attended the main house on the property she was renting. It is alleged she has rented the granny flat at this location for a number of years. At the time it is alleged she was armed with a metal pole. She then approached the owner’s motor vehicle and begun to smash the windows of the vehicle. She has then gone to the front of the house yelling and screaming to herself. It is alleged the owner’s wife has asked her what was wrong. It is alleged she has continued to yell at her. The woman has then walked back to the granny flat and the wife has contacted police. Police attended, it is alleged the woman was still screaming inside the granny flat. Police asked her to come out and she refused. The owner then supplied the key to the premise and Police have entered and apprehended the woman. She was charged with ‘Destroy or damage property’. She is due to front Penrith Local Court later this month.

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A man has been busted drink driving in Colyton on the eve of the Australia Day long weekend. About 12.00am on Thursday, January 25, police were patrolling the Great Western Highway, Colyton. Police have stopped a vehicle for a random breath test and had a conversation with the driver, a 49-year-old man from Mount Druitt. The man was breath tested, which proved positive. He was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he underwent a breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.116. The man’s driver’s licence was suspended. He was charged and will front court later this month.

Cranebrook: CCTV helps track down alleged thief after alarm raised

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

with Daniel McKinnon Complete Legal & Conveyancing • 4704 9991 • Suite 11, 354 High Street Penrith

SETTLING IS COMMERCIAL, NOT WEAK Any kind of litigation is hard on all participants. We act for clients in relation to a range of general civil litigation matters – everything from disputes about deceased people’s Wills through to contract and business disputes that end up in Court. We are big believers that acting like a cowboy and revving clients up so that they think their case is unlosable, helps no one and only ends in tears. While we are always ready, willing and able to get in the trenches and litigate matters to final hearing, we also encourage our clients to settle disputes by way of compromise, if possible. There are two main reasons for this. The first is that litigation is incredibly expensive. On the lower end of the scale, you can expect a lawyer to charge $300.00 to $400.00 plus GST per hour. A junior barrister would charge about the same and if you want a senior barrister, you can expect to pay in the range of $1,000.00 per hour. Litigation is quite laborious irrespective of the type of claim involved. While some cases are certainly more complex than others, it is rare for lawyers and barristers’ costs not to stretch into the tens of thousands of dollars and often hundreds of thousands of dollars in hard fought litigation. This is money that is generally paid for by each party to their own lawyers. Usually, the winner of the litigation obtains some form of costs order requiring the losing party to pay some or all of their costs. This is usually in the range of about 60 to 70 per cent. An indemnity costs order requiring the other party to pay 100 per cent of your costs is not common. In other words, litigation is going to result in an enormous hit to your hip pocket irrespective of the outcome.

The second thing we stress to our clients is how mentally tolling litigation is. This is particularly the case in litigation about things of a personal nature, such as a challenge to a deceased person’s Will where parties’ relationships with the deceased and conduct in their personal lives is often examined. Commercial disputes are not devoid of these problems however. Often parties are involved in a dispute that is about their business or a property. For most people, assets of this nature are either the biggest asset they will ever invest in, or in the case of a person or entity’s business, their very livelihood. We have had lots of clients sit across from us at the beginning of a dispute convinced that they want to litigate to the very end however our experience is that their energy dissipates once proceedings are commenced, the parties are required to put on Affidavits, some form of mediation or settlement conference has occurred, and we are gearing up for a final hearing. That is certainly not a criticism, it is simply the case that most people aren’t involved in disputes as part of their daily lives and so exposure to disputes of the biggest kind, being Court litigation, is strenuous and testing. We will also recommend to our clients that they try to put their commercial hat on when considering the different ways to resolve a dispute. Sometimes litigation to the point of a final hearing is the only way to get a result and we will never try to force our clients to accept a compromise that they are strongly opposed to – it is our job however to advise our clients about all of the ways in which a dispute can be resolved and all of the possible outcomes, good, bad and ugly. If you are involved in some sort of Court dispute and need assistance, feel free to get in touch.

LOOKING FOR A COPY OF THE PAPER? Did you know there’s a number of ways to get your hands on a copy of the Western Weekender each week? We have some 130 distribution pick-up points. You can also secure home delivery by

signing up for a paid subscription from as low as $20 per month. Head to www.westernweekender.com.au/ getapaper to find out how you can make sure you never miss out.

LOCAL NEWS

Beloved local doctor honoured for life’s work CASSIDY PEARCE

lecturer at the University of Sydney – something he said has been a particular highlight of his career. “Maybe you’ve had a minuscule influence on some of them, hopefully positively, but the profession needs to make sure it looks after the future of itself, and that is in the fantastic medical students,” he said. Last week, Sheen was recognised as part of the Australia Day 2024 Honours List. “I worked and studied in England, so I think to come to a country and make Australia my home, and then to be awarded such a high recognition, is actually an extraordinary moment, because you suddenly look back and realise that everything you’ve wanted to do in life has had some sort of recognition in the community,” he said. “We don’t do it for that, but it is nice just for a few seconds to really appreciate whoever put us up for it. “I hope this waves a flag for the family doctor. Being a family doctor is special, and that privilege is given to you by the community. I’m very grateful to my family for being supportive, and to my staff.”

Adrian Sheen OAM. Photo: Melinda Jane.

ulgoa resident and beloved family doctor Adrian Sheen is seeing his dedication to the local community celebrated, receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). According to Sheen, he never thought of doing anything else but being a family doctor. “Ever since I was four, I always wanted to be a family doctor, and I’ve been blessed to not only think that, but also do it,” he said. Having been in the industry for decades now, Sheen said the variety in each day has made his career so far incredibly special, crediting his patients as the reason he’s stayed in it for so long. “I’ve been in practice for 43 years, so I’ve seen at least two generations of patients,” he said. “I think that enjoying learning about people and creating a relationship as a family doctor is the key, otherwise it doesn’t work as a career.” Over the years, Sheen has created quite the presence for himself in the community, having not only treated hundreds of people he once delivered

as babies, but also provided a safe contact for thousands of local residents, and creating a link to health services that is not only comfortable, but accessible. “It’s about the fact that [my patients] have, in the community, somebody that they can ring up and they can deal with, and they know that there’s someone,” he said. “They don’t have to question if they need to be in the hospital, if they need to be in emergency, if they need to see another doctor – who else do you see but your family doctor?” Sheen added that the medical advancements he’s seen over the course of his career has also been incredibly fascinating. “We’ve lived through the most extraordinary advances in medicine over the last 50 years,” he said. “I don’t think there will ever be such an advance in the next 50 years.” In an effort to add to the strength of the medical industry and ensure that the future is bright, Sheen has always endeavoured to be as involved in this as possible, creating Western Sydney GP support group ‘Doctors Action’, providing care in Fiji, developing his own medical device called the Widdleometer, and working as a

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

Approval for new units Hundreds of apartments plus new retail for Thornton TROY DODDS

undreds of new apartments are coming to Penrith after two new residential towers were approved in Thornton. The mixed-use development at 160-172 Lord Sheffield Circuit will be known as ‘Mayfair at North Penrith’. The east tower consists of eight levels above a joint commercial podium, with 152 apartments, common circulation areas, a rooftop open space and swimming pool. The west tower features 135 apartments and also features common circulation areas, a rooftop space and pool. Beneath, a joint commercial space will feature 14 ground level units and flexible commercial floorspace. There will be three levels of basement parking, accommodating more than 400 spaces. The apartment’s proposed location is currently vacant, but was previously home to a community garden. “Many and varied employment opportunities (direct and indirect jobs) will be generated during marketing, construction, fit-out, and operation of the development,” the Development Application said. “The proposed development responds to opportunities for retail uses that are presented by the location of the site. Further noting the

An artist’s impression of the new development at Thornton.

point above, the proposal will have an overall positive social and economic impact. “The proposed development will activate the southern portion of Thornton North Penrith Precinct towards the Station Plaza. This will encourage people to shop, visit, and work in the area.” The Development Application notes the site is well serviced by public transport, with close

proximity to Penrith Railway Station and the Penrith CBD. “Future residents of the development will benefit from excellent amenity with ready access to public transport, local services and facilities, and employment opportunities,” the DA said. “The proposal responds to Government’s objectives to provide new employment floor

space towards Penrith CBD, and to deliver more residential dwellings within 30 minutes of employment centres. In this regard, the site is eminently suitable for the proposed development.” Final approval for the project – which will cost around $122 million – was granted on Monday. Construction is set to begin later this year.

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

New leaders get to work Meet the fresh faces who are guiding several of our local schools this year CASSIDY PEARCE

ocal students heading back to school this week may have noticed a few new faces in the office, with two new principals starting in the area. Gabriela Osterlund is swapping a five-storey building for acreage, coming to Emmaus Catholic College Kemps Creek from Santa Sophia Catholic College in Gables. Formerly, Osterlund’s role was Head of School – similar to an Assistant Principal – but she said she’s always wanted the top spot. “I’ve been aspiring to be a principal for a little while, and feel that I can lead a school well,” she said. “This particular school took me by the heart, because I have worked in the western suburbs before in Mount Druitt and Marayong, and I just love the community out here.” Osterlund said her main goal for the school in 2024 is to encourage growth in all areas, nurturing the uniqueness of her students whilst also pushing them to fulfil their academic potential. “My priorities are having high standards and that pursuit of excel-

lence, but I think that excellence is multi-dimensional – it’s not just about academic excellence,” she said. “It’s about students getting to their personal best, seeking and embracing different challenges, being courageous, and trying to get to what is possible as far as academics, but also as far as their personal nature.” Brand new to the school and the area, Osterlund said she c a n’t wait to get

into the year and build relationships within the school community. “I’m most excited to meet the new community, I think that’s always really important,” she said. “You’ve got a lot of feeder primary schools, all the parents, all the students, so I’m really looking forward to day one and having everybody return and meeting all the students.” Over at Penola Catholic College in Emu Plains, the new

principal is a much more familiar face, with Peta Sparkes starting her first full year in the job after being an Assistant Principal at the school for six years. “I feel really proud, and I feel it’s a great privilege, having been a child that grew up in this area and had all of my schooling and my sporting background in Penrith,” she said. Noting that she has big shoes to fill, Sparkes said she can’t wait to bring her long-term visions for the school to life.

Penola’s leadership team: Charlie Thomas (Vice Captain), Ben Norris (Captain), Peta Sparkes, Imelda Wright (Captain) and Montana La Rosa (Vice Captain).

“I’ve had great leaders in the past in Jim Fanning and Tania Cairns, and there’s been about 12 principals here in the time of McCarthy and Penola,” she said. “There’s a great sense of care in the school community, so I stand on the shoulders of those great people who have always shown great care of the kids, the families, and the staff. That’s something I absolutely am taking forward, but we absolutely need to keep growing and lifting our kids.” Finding this balance between care and challenge is a key goal for Sparkes in 2024. As an advocate for western Sydney, she added that she has big dreams for the school and its students, coming along with a restructured leadership team, and a new pilot program for mental health. “When I first went to university, people would say, ‘You’re from the west? How did you get into uni?’,” she said. “I want kids in this community to continue to believe that they deserve a seat at the table, that everyone’s got gifts, and it’s our job as educators to bring forward those gifts and those talents.”

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

Emu Plains local is king of barbeque CASSIDY PEARCE

mu Plains local Lukas Armstrong has been crowned 2023 Barbeques Galore Australian Barbeque Champion as part of his team, The Jacks Creek BBQ Team. 2023 was a massive year for Armstrong, competing in events nationwide. Despite being one of the most challenging wins, he said that taking out Grand Champion at the invitational in Port Macquarie was a highlight, with a comeback on the second day earning him the top spot. “We did okay on the first day – there was only one category that let us down. If we hadn’t gotten an average score for our pork on the Saturday, we probably would have won both days,” he said. “If you know where you’ve made a mistake, it’s easier to fix it most of the time. I’ve been doing this long enough to know that if I’ve made a mistake, it’s usually something that I have done.” Aside from competing in mostly Australian competitions this past year, Armstrong did take a spontaneous trip to New Zealand to ensure he could compete for Australian Barbeque Champion. “There was only one other team that could actually beat me overall for the year, and they were going to New Zealand, so I figured we should probably go, just to be safe, on the off

chance that we do go over there, get lucky, and win,” he said. “We did pretty well there and finished ninth out of a pretty strong field, which wasn’t bad considering we went over there with nothing and borrowed everything we had to.” After finding out the other team didn’t win, Armstrong was ecstatic, knowing he’d finished in the top spot overall. “It was very relieving,” he said. “It’s been eight years we’ve been trying to get it, and we’ve come close – I think in 2019 we finished second. We were happy, and my wife was pretty ecstatic, she was crying.” Armstrong credits a lot of his win to his local butcher, which he says is the best in the area. “We’ve got East Blaxland Butchery, who do all of my meat, and they’re literally the best,” he said. “They’ve won the Barbeque Butcher of the Year, and he’s had me and another team who used to use him before they finished doing comps win the championship, so it definitely helps to have a really good butcher – especially one that’s literally three minutes away.” According to Armstrong, 2024 will bring another big year of competitions, hopefully also in the United States. But, he’ll also be shifting his focus more so to teaching, helping locals to make next level barbeque at home. “We do most of our classes out of Ace Butcher in Jamisontown, and it’s all run by Scott, the butcher, as well,” he said.

“We do beg inner classes, so if you know absolutely nothing and you’ve c o o k e d steak and sausages and that’s it, you can come and we can teach you the basics of what you’ll need to do, and the things that you should learn. Then we do more of an advanced class for p e o p l e who cook barbeque now, but still want to gain more skills and knowledge. We’re going to step up into full competition classes as well, so that’s literally everything in my head about competition barbeque, we’ll be teaching.”

Lukas Armstrong is Barbeques Galore’s 2023 Australian Barbeque Champion.

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Back-to-back wins for beer that locals love CASSIDY PEARCE

ountain Culture Beer Co has once again topped the GABS Hottest 100 Craft Beer People’s Choice list, going back-to-back with their much-loved Status Quo Pale Ale. Despite starting out in Katoomba, Mountain Culture’s Emu Plains factory has made their brews local favourites since opening in 2022. This time last year, the team from Mountain Culture was celebrating topping the list in their first ever year entering, and according to co-owner DJ McCready, that triggered a meteoric rise for the business in the craft beer scene. “It’s definitely been a crazy year,” he told the Weekender. “We’ve grown our production capacity by about four times what it was this time last year, and we’ve done a huge upgrade to our breweries, so now we’re probably one of the largest independent breweries in the country.” When the competition came around again, McCready said that entering Status Quo for a second time was a no-brainer. “If I had one beer that represented Mountain Culture as a brewery, I would say Status Quo,” he said. “We do a lot of different styles here, but

still, when it comes to the one product that I consider to be Mountain Culture in a can, it’s for sure Status Quo.” Despite feeling confident in their product, McCready admitted that there were even more nervous this year than last when the list was announced over the weekend. “I remember the first year, we got down to where Balter was announced the number two beer in the country, and I still wasn’t convinced that Status Quo had made the list,” he said. “This year, I went into it being like, ‘It’s okay, wherever we place we place, we’ve got an amazing business, we’ve got an amazing fan base that really supports us, it’ll be fine’, but all of that went out the window as soon as they started calling it out.” McCready heard the top spot announced surrounded by his team, who were experiencing equal parts of joy and shock. “The whole of last year, I’ve just thought that maybe people were voting for us because we were the underdogs, and they wanted to see the underdog come through and have some success, or maybe it was a fluke – I just didn’t want to allow myself to think that we would take it out again,” he said. “It’s incredible, and it really is so, so validating. I’m incredibly grateful to the fan base that we have, and I’m really excited to take out the number one spot, because I think that

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

DJ McCready with his award-winning beer.

it will help us to achieve our mission, which is to bring more people into being interested in craft beer in general – but hopefully Mountain Culture beer.” Already preparing for next year’s list, McCready said he’s ready for a three-peat. “The Penrith Panthers keep winning, and now that we’re down here in Emu Plains we’re just picking up on their mojo, so we’ve got to

keep winning as well!” he said. But, he added the top spot might be taken by a new beer, with the business launching the perfect easy to drink brew in APL this weekend. “This is the first time we’ve added a beer to our core range in the last four years,” he said. “It’s almost the opposite to Status Quo – it’s very light, it’s very clean, it’s very crisp.”

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

What’s On

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

How airport is starting to fulfil its local employment promises CASSIDY PEARCE

s Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) inches closer and closer to operation, an increasing number of local residents are beginning to reap the benefits. 19-year-old Claremont Meadows resident Mikayla Becroft has recently completed a traineeship at WSI, fulfilling her goal of becoming part of a massive infrastructure project. Alongside gaining her Certificate IV in Business at Liverpool TAFE, Becroft said she developed a plethora of new skills during her traineeship at WSI, learning directly from subject matter experts. In particular, Becroft’s focus was on the communications side of operations, leading her to have achieved some pretty exciting milestones. “My role has been extremely varied, from taking part in planning and participation in media events, government relations, leading data projects, social media and leading tours of the airport site,” she said.

“A highlight was assisting in organising a media call for the Prime Minister to announce the milestone of 50 per cent completion of the airport’s construction and Qantas’ agreement to base 15 aircraft at WSI on the airport’s opening in late 2026.” According to Becroft, not only was the traineeship beneficial to her, but also to the company as a whole. “The Traineeship Program at WSI has allowed me to build a strong set of professional and interpersonal skills, working within Corporate Affairs and the broader team at WSI,” she said. “Having eager, young, learning workers as part of the WSI team, is important in providing diversity and a new perspective to the organisation.” Since completing her term as a trainee, Becroft has gained a fulltime job at WSI as a Community Engagement Officer. Becroft is one of more than 4000 people working onsite at WSI – half of these living in western Sydney, and around a third learning new skills on the job. Katy Hannouch, General Manager

Mikayla Becroft is now working at Western Sydney International Airport.

– Community Engagement and Social Impact at WSI, added that the traineeship program at WSI equips students with practical skills combined with formal education, building capability and employment pathways for the community in western Sydney.

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This is only heightened by the fact that come 2026, there will be an abundance of new job opportunities directly with the airport, as well as with local businesses supporting it. “The Traineeship Program is aimed at HSC graduate students and the trainees work in a 12-month

paid program. Students work four days a week and attend TAFE on the fifth day to further their studies,” she said. “The program is extremely popular. We have had more than 400 applications for the next round of trainees.”

Karen’s Comment The weekly views of the State Member for Penrith

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Have your say: Shaping the future of Penrith’s bus services

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Are you a bus passenger in Penrith or the surrounding areas? Your voice matters, and I want to invite you to shape the future of bus services in the Penrith community. The Bus Industry Task Force is bringing the Bus Passenger Forum to Penrith on Thursday, February 15, from 6pm to 8pm at Penrith RSL, 8 Tindale St, Penrith. With over 30 bus services running in the Penrith electorate and more than 500 residents using these services daily, the forum will source valuable feedback from those who USE our buses. This drop-in style event will allow you to share your thoughts on various aspects, including: • Planning trip and timetable information • Getting to the stop/waiting for the bus • Getting on/off the bus and being on the bus • Bus service planning and design • Feedback process • Bus operations • Other feedback (unrelated to the bus journey) Representatives from the Taskforce and subject matter experts from Transport for NSW will be on hand to answer questions and listen to your feedback. Don’t miss this opportunity to influence the

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MEMBER FOR PENRITH

recommendations for improving the quality, reliability, and effectiveness of bus services in Penrith and across NSW. Members of the public and representatives from community groups, local businesses and non-government organisations are welcome to come by and have their say. People may register their interest to attend the Forum at: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ bustaskforce. Can’t make it to the forum? No problem! Have your say any time at www.nsw.gov.au/ haveyour-say/bus-industry-taskforce and complete an online survey or make an online submission. Penrith Bus Passenger Forum When: Thursday, February 15, 6pm – 8pm Venue: Penrith RSL, 8 Tindale St, Penrith.

KAREN MCKEOWN OAM Member for Penrith

‘Authorised by’ Karen McKeown OAM MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary entitlements’. Shop 23, 510-534 Ground Floor Tattersalls Centre High St Penrith 2750

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

An incredible glimpse at From the archives of the State Library, we look back at a time long forgotten

he incredible Max Dupain, a well known photographer, visited Penrith in 1948 and captured some remarkable images of the city. Dupain was hired to take shots as part of a tourism campaign, but he probably had no idea that some 70 years later, they would still be wowing people. Here’s a selection of his best photos from that visit, thanks to the State Library of NSW...

An iconic shot of the Aussie Arms Hotel.

A beautiful day by the river.

Frozen in time: An historic retail shot.

This image shows the Miller’s store and Nepean Cafe & Milk Bar.

An iconic shot of the Red Cow Hotel.

Anyone for some shoe shopping?

Pendragons Abreast:

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supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating. At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities. Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith. We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams. Want to know more? Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384 Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea. Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0407 278 384

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

LOCAL NEWS

our history Staff inside a soda and coffee shop on High Street.

Hard at work: Inside a local factory.

The Penrith School of Arts.

Neale’s Furniture Store.

The fashion! Hitting the shops in 1948.

Women at work in a local factory.

Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square. With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Local band’s big break Club Halifax will support Louis Tomlinson ahead of his Sydney show tonight CASSIDY PEARCE

fter taking over venues everywhere from Katoomba to Canberra, local band Club Halifax is about to hit their biggest stage yet, opening for internationally renowned singer-songwriter Louis Tomlinson at Qudos Bank Arena. Club Halifax initially came together in 2021, when existing bandmates Bree Greasley, Cameron Browning and Cameron Hopcroft joined forces with new members Robert Jinks and Ethan Karpathy to create a brand new sound. Over the last few years, the group has performed all over New South Wales and interstate whilst working collaboratively to write and release two singles, with Karpathy admitting that Glenmore Park local Hopcroft, whose home they record at, is always the “secret ingredient” in their music. “I like a lot of heavier music, a lot of the other guys like a lot of the folkier stuff, so you blend that all together, and then our sprinkle on top is always Hop – whenever Hop brings his lead lines on, that’s when it goes

Club Halifax performing at a recent gig.

from a song, to a Club Halifax song,” he said. Everything changed for the band last year when a targeted advertisement came up on Karpathy’s Instagram looking for a local act to support the former One Direction member at his Sydney show on Friday, February 2. Despite saying he ignored the advertisement at first, thinking the band had no chance at the spot, Karpathy ended up applying the next day with a short blurb and video of them playing at the Blue Mountains Theatre.

You can only imagine their shock upon opening an email from Tomlinson’s team just a few weeks ago naming Club Halifax as the official opener. “[Browning] and I yessed it before we got everyone else saying ‘yes’ – we just knew it had to be done,” Karpathy said. Club Halifax is one of three Australian bands opening for Tomlinson over the span of his tour, with The Velvet Club performing in Melbourne, and Safety Hazard in Brisbane – each local to their respective shows.

According to Greasley, artists like Tomlinson providing opportunities like these for smaller bands is an integral part of the industry locally, showcasing that there’s no shortage of musical talent in Australia. “I think it’s awesome, because all of these smaller bands are getting so much momentum out of it, and hopefully opportunities out of it as well,” she said. With the countdown now officially on, the band said they’re all dealing with mixed emotions, struggling to focus on day-to-day life without being reminded of the gig. “I think we’re all feeling terrified, but excited,” Hopcroft said. Ultimately, however, Jinks noted that they can’t wait to soak it all up, especially given they’ll be surrounded by loved ones who have bought tickets to support them. “For a western Sydney band, this is a huge opportunity. I don’t think any of us saw this coming, and definitely not this quick. It’s the dream, but it doesn’t happen often,” Jinks said. “I’m pretty excited that we’re going to have all of our friends and family in the audience. I think that’s going to be the only comforting thing in the whole gig – looking out and

seeing mum. But also, brushing shoulders with pop royalty Louis Tomlinson is super exciting.” As for what’s next for Club Halifax, Browning assured that there’s plenty more in the pipeline for 2024. “There’s at least one EP, potentially two, in the works, and then other stuff beyond that, like merch and more gigs,” Browning said.

Ethan Karpathy, Cameron Hopcroft, Cameron Browning, Bree Greasley and Robert Jinks.

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

Celebrations success

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I would like to thank everyone for coming out to celebrate Australia Day 2024 with Council, whether that was at our events at Ripples Penrith and St Marys, or at our two Citizenship Ceremonies held on the day. The hot sunny weather was perfect for a swim at our ultimate pool party with more than 1,300 people attending Ripples Penrith and 1,400 visiting the St Marys site, with both pools reaching capacity before 1pm! There was lots of fun to be had with free entry, games, entertainment, an engaging bush tucker talk, food trucks, lamington workshops, a zinc station and giveaways. Party-goers even had the chance to immerse themselves in magical encounters with our mermaid. Penrith City Council also hosted two Citizenship Ceremonies where I proudly welcomed 300 new residents to our growing community. Whether we are citizens through birth or by active choice, citizenship of our great country is a chance to embrace shared identity, the

common bond that unites all Australians while celebrating our diversity. A special thank you goes to the NSW Premier Chris Minns and NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car MP for attending the ceremonies and celebrating with our new residents along with the many other VIPs who joined us. I’d also like to acknowledge Mulgoa resident, Doctor Adrian Sheen who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to medicine through a range of roles. Dr Sheen has been practicing medicine for 43 years and in that time has served as the Vice-President of the New South Wales Branch of the Australian Medical Association and has been the Executive Director of the Nepean Division of General Practice. He was also awarded the Bruce Shepherd Medal for services to independent medicine in 2019. Congratulations to Dr Sheen on his well-deserved recognition and thank you for your service to our City.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

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

LOCAL NEWS

Paige puts best foot forward for Penrith CASSIDY PEARCE

ast year, the Penrith District AH&I Society went back to its roots with the return of the Penrith Show Young Woman Competition. Now, with The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Zone 2 Final rapidly approaching, our local representative is doing everything she can to ensure she secures the top spot. With the initial winner unable to continue as Penrith’s representative, 20-year-old Paige Peters stepped up to the plate in July, embracing her connection to the Penrith Show through both horses and singing. According to Peters, the last few months has been nothing but “amazing”, seeing her be involved in award presentations, race nights, and more. “It’s given me so many opportunities,” she said. “It’s taken me to Nowra Development Day, which is a day that they put on for Young Women past, future,

and current, to get them ready for Zone, telling them good outfit choices and etiquette and how to speak on stage.” Following the success of the 2023 competition, the Penrith Show Society has been selected to host The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Competition Zone 2 2024 Final on Saturday, February 17. The event will bring together 11 entrants, representing Sydney, the Southern Highlands and the South Coast areas. Peters will be competing in the Zone Final for the opportunity to represent the Penrith Show Society and our local community in the State Final at the Sydney Royal Show 2024. “I’m a performer naturally, so the stage moment doesn’t scare me, but talking about yourself is probably the hardest thing,” she said. “As a singer, you’re singing a song that someone else wrote that you’re connecting to and you’re believing that, but talking about yourself is so hard to do.” For Paige, winning the

Radio host gives airport tick of approval during Penrith visit TERRY GALLAWAY

elbourne radio per sona l it y, and self-styled aviation “nut” Tony Moclair has made a flying visit to Penrith, to catch up with old friends, and to uncover the latest news surrounding the

Nancy Bird-Walton airport and its supporting “Aerotropolis”. Moclair has taken over afternoons on the top rated 3AW as the station re-launches its line-up after the departure of Melbourne radio legend Neil Mitchell. After seven years presenting the mid-dawn shift,

Paige Peters.

competition is all about becoming known for something other than her singing, instead using her platform to advocate for women in agriculture. “Agriculture is a very male-dominated industry, so getting the word out there that women are in the industry as well, but also pushing to advocate for women in agriculture, is such an important part,” she said. The Gala Young Woman Dinner will be held in the Sky Lounge at Club Paceway on Saturday, February 17. Tickets are $85. For more information or to book, visit clubpacewaypenrith.com.

Tony Moclair in Penrith recently.

Moclair describes the move to the new shift as bringing “light after darkness”. He is also an aviation historian with published titles including Hornet Country, an in depth look at the FA-18 Super Hornet and other Boeing fighter aircraft, as flown by the Royal Australian Air Force. His aircraft expertise is also called on as a tour guide, an air show commentator, and aviation magazines contributor. He said the naming of Sydney’s new international airport after pioneering pilot Nancy Bird-Walton, was “ideal and a fitting tribute to a great woman and a great aviator”, and the establishment of the Aerotropolis as a marvellous move that will benefit the western Sydney region, its infrastructure and its liveability. The Aerotropolis is facing new controversy, labelled the aero-FLOP-olis after documents show little progress has been made despite the allocation of half a billion dollars towards the mammoth project.

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

TURNING BACK TIME This photo of Mamre House was taken in 1965. Mamre House was built in the 1820s by Samuel Marsden. Originally believed to be a wool store, it was then converted into a homestead. When Marsden died in 1838, ownership of the homestead fell to his son, Charles, who used the house as a permanent residence. It was sold a few years later to Richard Rouse, who gave it to his daughter Elizabeth as a wedding present when she married Robert Fitzgerald. The property remained in Elizabeth and Robert’s family until 1975, when it was purchased by the NSW Government. In 1984 the house was restored and is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register. Further restoration took place in 1999 and 2016. Today it runs as a community space. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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up to launch Vegemite Cheese Bagels. The limited-edition bagels hit Aussie shelves this month, for the ‘hole’ family to enjoy. Vegemite and cheese is an iconic pairing and now Australia’s favourite bagel brand is combining these much loved Aussie flavours with their delicious bagels. This new product is the weekend brunch love-child you never knew you needed. Loaded with a whole lot of Vegemite and topped with a moreish hit of cheese, these mitey beauties do half the work for you – just slap on some butter! Here for a good time, not a long time, with a limited-edi-

Δ Bavarian closes: German restaurant The Bavarian (pictured above) has suddenly closed its Penrith location, exiting the Westfield centre. The restaurant opened its Penrith location in February 2017, co-sharing the space with Fratelli Famous. There has been no formal announcement from The Bavarian but Penrith has been removed as a location on its website and Westfield Penrith has also removed The Bavarian’s listing. It is understood its final trading day was on Sunday. The Bavarian has six other locations in New South Wales, but the closure of the Penrith restaurant is the latest in a string of closures.

tion run at Coles stores across Australia.

Δ Super Bowl event: Local brewery Drink West has confirmed it’ll open on Monday, February 12 for a special Super Bowl event. There will be $6 schooners all day and great American food, with bookings available via the Drink West website. Δ Got some Source? We want to hear about new products, store openings, new menus and more! Email news@westernweekender. com.au.

Δ Bakery back open: Erskine Park Bakery has re-opened this week, almost two months after a tragedy claimed the life of one of the owners. Locals have shown enormous support to the business. Δ New gym: Snap Fitness continues its expansion into the Penrith area, with plans underway to open a new gym at St Clair in the coming weeks. It’ll be located at St Clair Shopping Centre. Δ Iconic partnership: Abe’s Bagels and the nation’s beloved Vegemite have teamed

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

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Supporting our new educators E

arly childhood teacher Jade Seabury is easing the burden for her fellow teachers entering the profession in her role as a registered NESA Supervisor and Area Manager for Affinity Education Group in Sydney’s western suburbs. It is, she says, a vital step to ensuring early childhood teachers feel supported as they enter their careers.

“After years of university study, NESA accreditation can be a significant final hurdle for new early childhood teachers to overcome, which is why we provide full support through the entire accreditation process,” Jade explained. Newly qualified early childhood teacher Jessie Klaassen is now working in Jade’s team at Kids Academy Glenmore Park. “During the provisional stage

Affinity Education Group provides fully funded Bachelor Scholarships for educators to become early childhood teachers.

Jade’s mentoring really enabled me to understand the requirements for early childhood teachers in order to obtain my NESA accreditation, and it was invaluable to have that type of support,” Jessie said. “Working for Affinity Education Group also gives me access to the unique Lifelong Learning Curriculum for children which is incorporated into the Preschool program here at Kids Academy Glenmore Park. “It’s a thrill to provide STEM, emotional wellbeing, and early conservation education to children who attend the program.” In addition to the practical and curriculum support available, Affinity Education Group is currently offering cash sign on bonuses and a host of employment benefits to successful candidates for select early childhood teacher roles in western Sydney. Affinity Education Group is also currently negotiating above award wages up to 14 per cent above the award plus up to six weeks leave for qualified teachers joining the company. Applicants can search and apply for jobs by visiting https:// careers.affinityeducation.com.au/ en/listing.

Jessie Klaassen and Jade Seabury at Kids Academy Glenmore Park.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

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proactive rather than reactive is key. To manage an effective social media, you must plan your content for the week. Content can be planned in one day and scheduled for posting throughout the week. Meta Business Suite is a great tool to manage this. Creating content Some of you may have the image in your mind but think you don’t have the skills to create it, but don’t worry, you don’t have to be a graphic designer to create content. A program such as Canva could be a great tool for you to use to create meaningful images that will attract the attention from your following. A lot of businesses now struggle

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WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

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

BEST OF THE BEST CASSIDY PEARCE

ernadette Robinson has been in the music industry for a long time, selling out one-woman shows for over a decade, but, according to the singer, it’s been a part of her life for even longer. “I was the fourth child of seven, so when I was born there wasn’t much room, and I had the cot near the television,” she said. “I just got to humming along with the ads, and apparently I could sing before I could speak.” Over time, Robinson grew to love the sounds of different women’s voices, picking up a lot of their nuances and cultivating the characteristics of those she really loved. Eventually, this would accidentally become her schtick. But, it wasn’t until she met director and long-term collaborator Simon Phillips at a Melbourne Theatre Company show that everything changed. “I contacted Melbourne Theatre Company and asked them if I could have a meeting with him, which I did, and he said ‘I’d love to do something with you, but I do plays – this is a theatre company!’,” she said. “I said ‘Yes, but Joanna Murray-Smith’s a great playwright, and she wrote ‘Bombshell’ for Caroline O’Connor. Could we do something like that?’, and we did.” Robinson and Phillips went on to work together on ‘Songs For Nobodies’ – a now-critically acclaimed show which was a hit both nationally and over in Lon-

don – as well as ‘Pennsylvania Avenue’, and more. Her newest show ‘Divas’ is along the same line, but with a twist, sharing the songs and stories of some of the greatest divas of all-time. “’Divas’ is really much more about the singers and their songs,” she said. “It’s not a play as such, but it’s 10 of the most diverse styles of women vocalists, and great singers and singers I admire right across from Amy Winehouse to Dolly Parton and Barbra Streisand.” According to Robinson, speaking and singing in such unique voices has made the show one of her most challenging yet. “Amy Winehouse is a bit tricky, but I loved her after a while,” she said. “Karen Carpenter is also a tricky singer, because she’s got quite a low voice, and quite a steady line in her voice, so there’s a control there. She comes out of Bassey, who’s a big belter, so bringing her down from ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ to a tiny Karen Carpenter, which is a very different style, is quite tricky.” After touring Australia and New Zealand, she can’t wait to bring the show to Riverside this month, guaranteeing a night of entertainment and variety for audiences. “It’s everything they can imagine and more – there’s the opera, there’s the drama, and it’s full of surprises,” she said. Bernadette Robinson’s ‘Divas’ will be on at Riverside Theatres Parramatta from Thursday, February 15 to Saturday, February 17. Tickets start at $49. For more information or to book, visit riversideparramatta.com.au.

H a p p y H o u r M o n d ay t o F r i d ay 3 p m t o 6 p m Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

THINGS TO DO Yoga festival comes to Penrith

Penrith Regional Gallery Open Day

Tasty way to show your love

Yogis and wellness lovers – it’s your last chance to book tickets for the Australian Yoga & Wellness Festival! Taking place this Saturday, February 3, at Western Sydney Conference Centre in Penrith, the Australian Yoga & Wellness Festival is the ultimate celebration of mind, body, and soul. For more information, visit penrith.panthers.com.au.

This Saturday, February 3, connect with artists and ideas from the current suite of exhibitions at Penrith Regional Gallery through free activities, talks and performances at their Gallery Open Day. The day will include a spotlight artist talk, artist meet up hosted by local artist run initiative Riff Raff, and a variety of drop-in art making activities for all ages.

Who needs a pick-up line when your cookies can do the talking? Join the team at The Creative Fringe next Friday, February 9 for a night of fun as they dive into the world of cookie artistry. In this hands-on class, you’ll craft not just cookies, but edible love notes and stamped conversation starters that are sure to steal hearts. To book, visit thecreativefringe.com.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

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

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of the month at 10am, Jordan Springs Hub. 0414 766 763. Nepean Riverlands Probus Club Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Nepean Rowing Club from 10am. New members are always welcome.

Penrith Lions Club Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information. Nepean Valley RSL Day Club Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542. Penrith Hospital Auxiliary Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Volunteers needed. Call Helen on 4572 5244. Blue Mountains Amateur Radio Club Club meets at 7pm on the first Friday of the month at the old scout hall at 4 Moore St, Glenbrook. Call Ron on 0408 483 269 for more information. Red Cross Penrith Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

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

Nepean Food Services Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au. Free food shop 9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway. 0415 625 573 for more information. Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700. The Nepean Naval Museum opened in 2014 and is the area’s first museum dedicated to the naval forces. The Museum houses a collection of Naval forces memorabilia. Arms of Australia Inn Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains..

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222.

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594. Gamblers Anonymous Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484. Penrith Carer Support Group First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160. Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River. Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499. Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details. Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

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JESS HEADS TO PENRITH

UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS The Kings & Queens of Swing – Morning Melodies Wednesday 14 February - Morning Tea 10am, Performance 11am Get Rhythm - The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show Wednesday 28 February, 7:30pm

CASSIDY PEARCE

Good Morning Vietnam: Music from the Vietnam War Era Live in Concert Vol2. Saturday 9 March, 3pm Nurse Georgie Carroll: Sista Flo 2.0 Saturday 1 + 23 March, 8pm

WW53038

ustralian pop royalty Jessica Mauboy has locked in a stop in Penrith to launch her brand new album, ‘Yours Forever’. Mauboy will be heading to Westfield Penrith next Friday, February 9 – the same date as the album release. According to Mauboy, her fifth studio album ‘Yours Forever’ reflects a journey of self discovery and empowerment, permeating a strong sense of time and place as she chronicles both her life’s brightest and darkest moments.

With plenty of writing credits on the album for the singer, ‘Yours Truly’ spotlights Mauboy’s introspective song writing ability, exploring themes of love, hope, heartbreak and resilience in both ballads, and the infectious pop melodies that audiences know and love. Audience members will also have the chance to meet Mauboy on the day, with the singer holding a meet and greet after the show to sign copies of the brand new album, which can be purchased nearby at JB Hi-Fi. Jessica Mauboy will be on at Westfield Penrith on Friday, February 9 at 4pm. Entry to the event is free. For more information, visit westfield.com.au.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

NIGHT OF MUSIC AND ART

ead to Penrith Regional Gallery this Friday, February 2 to see W.E.S.T. and Tabua-Harrison take the stage in an exciting night of music and art. The performance is part of ‘Simmer’ – an evening program of experimental music and art at Penrith Regional Gallery over the summer. Curated by acclaimed Blue Mountains composer Monica Brooks, ‘Simmer’ includes a program of music and sound art, and a series of workshops facilitated by guest artists. Kicking off the show this Friday night, W.E.S.T. – otherwise known as Wilcox, Encarnacao, Swanton Trio – perform completely improvised music, using

extended techniques across acoustic guitar, double bass and piano. In their performance, W.E.S.T. use their instruments in both conventional and non-conventional ways, also embracing the use of everyday objects and experimental techniques. Then, Tabua-Harrison will take the stage. Made up of Joseph Tabua on guitar, and Holly Harrison on the drum kit, Tabua-Harrison also makes music that is completely improvised, combining the visceral energy of rock, metal and funk and the intricacy and surprise of contemporary art music to create a fun and exciting sound. Simmer: W.E.S.T. and Tabua-Harrison will be on at Penrith Regional Gallery on Friday, February 2 at 7pm. Tickets are $15. For more information or to book, visit penrithregionalgallery.com.au.

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

PENRIT

D BY T L O T – S E I R H’S STO

HE P

Penrith’s stories – told by the people who made them!

On The

Record HOW TO LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

1. Search ‘Western Weekender’ wherever you listen to podcasts and subscribe. We’re on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podcast Addict and more! 2. Visit www.westernweekender.com.au/ podcast and listen direct on our website 3. Scan the QR code to listen now

Ray Filewood Former St Marys Local Area Commander

Bruce Turner Finance and auditing expert and local author

Alan Whiticker Respected author and former teacher

Gai Hawthorn CEO of the Penrith CBD Corporation

Greg Taylor Penrith real estate veteran

Fiona Scott Former Member for Lindsay

Jim Mason 45-year Penrith Council veteran & local historian

Belinda Wollaston Musical theatre performer

Peter Collins Bernard Zuel Chair of Nepean Blue Popular music critic & Mtns Local Health District former Penrith journalist

Ross Free First Federal Member for Lindsay

Troy Dodds Long-time Editor of The Western Weekender

John Todd CEO of Western Sydney Business Centre

Tricia Hitchen Current Penrith City Mayor

Mark Geyer Penrith Panthers legend and gym owner

Stuart Ayres State Member for Penrith

Matt Jones Former owner of the Daily Planet nightclub

Graham Chapman Local business and marketing guru

Greg Alexander Penrith Panthers 1991 Grand Final captain

Ian Taylor Former ONE FM broadcaster

Kevin Crameri Veteran Penrith City Councillor

Prue Car State Member for Londonderry

Terry Gallaway Veteran journalist and broadcaster

Peter Lang Respected Panthers rugby league writer

Andrew Paech Local charity leader

Wayne Willmington Local radio legend

Royce Simmons Penrith Panthers legend

Ross Hutchison Entertainer

John Scott Local business icon

Ben Feszczuk Penrith’s former top cop

John Thain Veteran Councillor

Matthew Freeburn Long-time Penrith business owner

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

At the movies... REVIEW The Iron Claw  2 hours, 12 minutes Family can bring us close, but it can also destroy us. Such is the message of ‘The Iron Claw’, the true story of wrestling’s famous Von Erich family – though the sport itself certainly takes a back seat in their journey. What could have been an incredible family story of success in the growing entertainment spectacle of wrestling in the 1980s instead turned into one of tragedy; one family should not face so much sorrow. But it is also a harsh warning of parental influence – led by family patriarch, Fritz Von Erich (Jack Adkisson). The film’s story primarily focuses on the second oldest son Kevin Von Erich (Zac Efron), who today is the only one of the immediate family still alive. The story of Kevin and his brothers is equal parts heartfelt as it is frustrating, but at its

core it is one of sadness and turmoil, lowlighted by immense tragedy and heartbreak. Early in the film, Fritz declares that too much has been taken from his family – referring to his own disappointment in wrestling and son Kerry (Jeremy Allen White) having his Olympic dream quashed – which offers some insight into his persona. He becomes so determined for his sons to succeed, that he is more interested in a wrestling belt sitting on the dining room table than he is having a happy family sitting around it. ‘The Iron Claw’ is not the best biopic out there, but it’s a fascinating story that will have you doing plenty of research afterwards and perhaps shedding a tear, especially if you have brothers. – Troy Dodds

See this movie at...

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Ph: 4739 4433 The Boys in the Boat

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The Chosen Season Four: Episodes 1 & 2 (PG)

Force of Nature: The Dry 2

1, 3 & 7 Feb

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

KINGSWOOD we’ve got you covered

Kingswood locals can pick the paper up at the following locations:

�� BARISTA BAR COFFEE SHOP (NEPEAN PRIVATE HOSPITAL) �� COUNTRY BREWER �� HALLANI’S �� KINGSWOOD HOTEL �� KINGSWOOD NEWSAGENCY �� KINGSWOOD SMASH REPAIRS

�� KINGSWOOD SPORTS CLUB �� PENRITH GAELS CLUB �� RADHE INDIAN GROCERY STORE �� VOLUNTEERS DESK NEPEAN HOSPITAL �� 7/11 KINGSWOOD

westernweekender.com.au/getapaper

COUNTRY CORNER The best in Australian country music has been celebrated in the nation’s country music capital, with the top artists and rising stars recognised and winners crowned at the 52nd Golden Guitar Awards in Tamworth. The Wolfe Brothers took home three awards from their six nominations, including the highly coveted Album of the Year for their album ‘Livin’ the Dream’, Country Music Capital News Group or Duo of the Year, as well as Vocal Collaboration of the Year with Travis Collins for their single ‘Runnin’ the Country’. Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham also claimed three Golden Guitar Awards, with their track ‘Size Up’ named Song of the Year and Single of the Year. The duo also took home Traditional Country Album of the Year, for their album ‘Birdsong’. Brad Cox, who was unable to attend the awards night, was named Male Artist of the Year, while his album ‘Acres’ was awarded the Contemporary Country Album of the Year and Top Selling Country Album of the Year.

2023 Golden Guitar Award winner Kaylee Bell was crowned Female Artist of the Year, while 2022 Toyota Star Maker, Max Jackson picked up her first ever Golden Guitar, New Talent of the Year. The Guitar Awards also featured another special presentation with the Country Music Capital Award presented to long time radio presenter Ray Hadley (pictured below) for

his continued support and promotion of Australian Country Music. The Country Music Capital Award, first awarded in 1977, recognises individuals who are not singers, musicians, composers, or music producers and therefore not covered by the regular criteria for the Awards, but who’ve made an outstanding and sustained contribution to the industry over a long period.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

Ê The new season of ‘Ambulance Australia’ will premiere on 10 next Wednesday, February 7 at 7.30pm. Narrated by Chris Bath, the series looks beyond the lights and sirens to the heart and soul of the men and women of NSW Ambulance, Australia’s busiest Ambulance service, responding to a call every 26 seconds.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê The second season of ABC series ‘Better Date than Ever’ arrives on Tuesday, February 20 at 8.30pm. ‘Better Date than Never’ is a warm-hearted series that explores the world of dating and relationships, from the creators of ‘Love on the Spectrum’. With a little help from the producers, the participants launch themselves into a world they’ve always found daunting but wanted to explore. They are matched with a potential suitor, and ready themselves to meet them on a blind date. We are with them as they experience the most important moment of their dating lives: the beginning. Ê Journalists and media networks beware – ‘Media Watch’ is returning to the ABC this

FEBRUARY 7 7.30PM AMBULANCE AUSTRALIA, 10

FEBRUARY 22

THE FAMILY STALLONE, PARAMOUNT+

Monday, February 5 at 9.30pm. Paul Barry is back in the chair to bring you a brave and fearless critique of the week’s journalism, issues and events in the news.

Ê New conspiracy-based psychological thriller ‘Constellation’ will drop on Apple TV+ on Wednesday, February 21. Created and written by Peter Harness, ‘Constellation’ stars Noomi Rapace as Jo – an astronaut who returns to Earth after a disaster in space – only to discover that key pieces of her life seem to be missing. The action-packed space adventure is an exploration of the dark edges of human psychology, and one woman’s desperate quest to expose the truth about the hidden history of space travel and recover all that she has lost. Ê The second season of US docuseries ‘The Family Stallone’, starring Sylvester Stallone,

will premiere on Paramount+ on Thursday, February 22. This season, after four decades as one of Los Angeles’ most famous families, the Stallones are leaving Hollywood for good and moving east. With daughters Sophia and Sistine following their dreams in New York City and Scarlet navigating college and a new love in Miami, Sly and Jen set up roots in Palm Beach as empty nesters.

Ê Channel Seven will broadcast the 2024 Academy Awards on Monday, March 11. Jimmy Kimmel will host this year’s Awards. Ê Foxtel drama series ‘The Flight Attendant’ has been axed after two seasons. The series starred Kaley Cuoco as flight attendant Cassie Bowden who became embroiled in an espionage plot following her affair with a first-class passenger, who winds up murdered after their night together.

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TV Guide: February 2–8

Sunday 4 February

Saturday 3 February

Friday 2 February

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Planet America 10:30 The Cook And The Chef 11:00 Fake Or Fortune? 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Silent Witness (M v) 2:00 Total Control (PG) 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:30 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Love Your Garden 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:35 Gardening Australia 8:35 Midsomer Murders (M) 10:05 A Life In Ten Pictures (PG) 11:00 ABC Late News 11:15 Love Your Garden 2:30 Sydney Weekender 3:00 Cities Of The Underworld (PG) 4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Maternal (M l,s) 8:30 Escape To The Country

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Danger In The Spotlight” (AKA ‘Paralysed By Danger’) (PG) (’21) Stars: Jessica Morris 2:00 House Of Wellness (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 Australian Idol: Auditions (PG) 1:25 12 Monkeys (MA15+) 3:30 Home Shopping 4:00 Million Dollar Minute 5:00 NBC Today

3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Desert Collectors (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 American Restoration (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Amazing SpiderMan 2” (M v) (’14) Stars: Andrew Garfield

3:00 ABC News 5:00 Popularity Papers Afternoons 4:00 5:20 Miraculous: Tales Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Of Ladybug And Cat Noir (PG) 6:00 Ted’s Top Ten ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC Evening News 7:00 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories 7:35 Phoenix ABC National News 8:00 Planet America: Fireside Chat Rise (PG) 8:35 Dragon Ball Super (PG) 9:25 The Legend 8:45 The Business 9:00 The Of Korra (PG) 10:10 Gym Stars World 9:30 Close Of Business

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Mr Mayor (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Taronga - Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Dry” (MA15+) (’20) Stars: Eric Bana 10:45 Movie: “Widows” (MA15+) (’18) Stars: Viola Davis 1:05 Tipping Point (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG)

12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Judge Judy (PG) 2:00 TBA 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Everyday Gourmet 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Graham Norton Show (M) 8:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia (PG) 9:30 Fire Country (M v) 10:30 So Help Me Todd (PG) 11:30 The Project (PG)

10:00 Great Lighthouses Of Ireland (PG) 11:00 Make Up - A Glamorous History (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 4:30 Jeopardy! (PG) 4:55 Letters And Numbers 5:25 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 The Good Ship Murder (PG) 8:30 Silk Road From Above (PG) (In English/ Mandarin)

3:35 The Magic Canoe 3:00 Mesmerised (PG) 4:00 Toi Time 4:30 3:30 Black-ish (PG) Spartakus And The Sun 4:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 4:30 America’s Got Talent Beneath The Sea 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 NITV News: Nula Extreme (PG) 6:25 Movie: 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Group “Spies In Disguise” (M) (’19) Stars: Rachel Brosnahan 8:30 Survival (PG) 7:35 Movie: “Luis And The Aliens” (PG) (’18) Movie: “The Da Vinci Code” Stars: Callum Maloney (M v) (’06) Stars: Tom Hanks

10:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 11:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 NCIS (PG) 1:30 FBI (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M)

2:00 My Lottery Dream 12:00 Frasier (PG) 1:00 Home International The Middle (PG) 2:00 3:00 The Block (PG) The Big Bang Theory (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens 4:00 Caribbean Life 5:00 Fixer (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Upper 6:00 House Hunters Becker (PG) 5:30 Frasier (PG) International 7:00 House 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 6:30 The Hunters USA 7:30 Island Of Bryan 8:30 Houses With Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 History 9:30 Restored Two And A Half Men (PG)

5:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein’s Far Eastern Odyssey 8:40 Guillaume’s Paris 9:35 Come Dine With Me UK 10:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

4:15 PBS Newshour 5:15 The Ice Cream Show (PG) 5:45 The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross 6:15 The Fast History Of (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 8:30 Hoarders (M)

4:00 Family Ties (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 5:40 Movie: “The Croods: A New Age” (PG) (’20) Stars: Nicolas Cage 7:30 Movie: “Get Smart” (PG) (’08) Stars: Steve Carell

5:55 Octonauts 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Looking For Alibrandi” (M l) (’00) Stars: Pia Miranda 10:10 Two Hands (MA15+)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Caulfield/ Eagle Farm *Live* 5:00 Seven Keeping Faith (M l) 1:30 Darby And Joan News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s (PG) 2:15 Spicks And Specks (PG) 2:45 Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 McCartney 3, 2, 1 (M) 3:15 Julia Zemiro’s Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) Home Delivery (PG) 3:45 Extraordinary 7:30 Movie: “The Bourne Identity” (M l,v) Escapes (PG) 4:30 Grand Designs (’02) Stars: Adewale Akinnuoye Agbaje 9:55 Transformations (PG) 5:30 Muster Dogs (PG) 6:30 Back Roads (PG) 7:00 ABC News Movie: “Atomic Blonde” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Charlize Theron 12:25 12 Monkeys (MA15+) 7:30 Darby And Joan (PG) 8:15 Vera (M)

6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Summer 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 Mr Mayor (PG) 1:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 2:00 Movie: “Everything, Everything” (PG) (’17) Stars: Amandla Stenberg 4:00 The Garden Hustle (PG) 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Country House Hunters Australia 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Space Invaders (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Rocketman” (M l,v) (’19) Stars: Taron Egerton

9:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 9:30 Cook With Luke 10:00 Australia By Design (PG) 10:30 Healthy Homes 11:00 The Chef’s Garden (PG) 11:30 All 4 Adventure 12:30 TBA 2:00 Wildlife Rescue Australia 3:00 What’s Up Down Under 3:30 Exploring Off The Grid 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30 Taste Of Australia 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 TBA 7:00 TBA 8:00 Ambulance UK (M l) 10:00 FBI: International (M v) 12:00 Home Shopping

10:05 Love Your Garden (PG) 11:00 Great Irish Interiors (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 1:00 Surf Life Saving: Iron Series *Live* From Kurrawa Beach 3:00 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 3:55 Worldwatch 4:55 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Lochs (PG) 5:30 The Irish Civil War (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres (PG) 8:25 Scotland’s Scenic Railways (PG) 9:20 Queen Victoria Love, Lust And Leadership (PG)

2:30 Cricket: One Day International Women’s Cricket: Australia v South Africa *Live* From Adelaide Oval 9:30 Mighty Ships (PG) 10:30 Mighty Planes (PG) 11:30 Building Giants (PG) 12:30 Air Crash Investigations (PG)

1:40 America’s Got Talent Extreme (PG) 3:35 Baking It 4:30 Dodger (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Prince And Me 3: A Royal Honeymoon” (PG) (’08) Stars: Adam Croasdell 7:30 Movie: “The Queen” (M l) (’06) Stars: Helen Mirren

2:35 Pecan Summer (PG) 4:10 Movie: “Emu Runner” (M) (’18) Stars: Rhae-Kye Waites 5:50 The Last Land (PG) 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 The Cotton Club: The Musicians Story 7:00 Family Rules (PG) 7:30 Call Of The Baby Beluga (PG)

12:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Camper Deals 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 Reel Action 6:00 JAG (PG) 7:00 Football: Isuzu Ute A-League: Round 15: Adelaide United v Central Coast Mariners *Live*

8:00 Becker (PG) 9:00 Neighbours (PG) 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Frasier (PG) 12:30 The King Of Queens (PG) 1:00 Deal Or No Deal 2:30 TBA 4:30 TBA 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Friends (PG) 12:00 Home Shopping

1:00 My Lottery Dream Home International 1:30 Houses With History 2:30 Renovation 911 3:30 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 4:30 Island Of Bryan 5:30 Restored 6:30 Holiday Homes In The Sun 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

3:30 Indonesia Decides 5:15 Total Drama Island 4:00 ABC News 4:30 (PG) 5:40 100 Things Close Of Business 5:00 To Do Before High ABC News 5:30 The World School 6:05 The Next Step This Week 6:00 ABC Evening 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 News 6:15 Planet America: Mythbusters 7:35 Star Wars: Fireside Chat 7:00 ABC Young Jedi Adventures 7:50 National News 7:30 Back Kung Fu Panda 8:15 The Roads 8:00 ABC News Tonight Legend Of Korra (PG)

4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:35 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes 5:55 Octonauts: Above And Beyond 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo (M l,s)

5:30 Khanh Ong’s Wild Food 6:30 Homegrown Tastes South Africa 7:40 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours 8:30 Rick Stein’s Taste Of The Sea 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 River Cottage Australia

3:30 PBS Newshour 4:30 Asia’s Next Top Model (PG) 5:30 The Bob Ross Experience 6:40 The Toys That Built The World (PG) 7:30 Building The Ultimate 8:30 Music Videos That Defined The 90s (PG) 10:20 Better Things (M l,s,v)

1:45 Formula E 2024 Highlights 4:05 Surfing Australia TV 4:35 World Rugby Sevens Series Show Perth 5:45 Movie: “Astro Boy” (PG) (’09) Stars: Freddie Highmore 7:30 Movie: “Ready Player One” (M l,v) (’18) Stars: Tye Sheridan

3:05 Movie: “Muscle Beach Party” (G) (’64) Stars: Annette Funicello 5:00 Movie: “The Way West” (PG) (’67) Stars: Kirk Douglas 7:30 Movie: “Rain Man” (M l) (’88) Stars: Dustin Hoffman 10:15 Movie: “Lions For Lambs” (M l,v) (’07)

2:00 Escape To The Perfect Town (PG) 3:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ Caulfield/ Eagle Farm *Live* 6:00 Extreme Animal Transport (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 TBA 12:00 ABC 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under News 12:30 Landline Summer 1:00 New Highlights 1:00 TBA 2:45 TBA 4:30 Border Leash On Life 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:55 Dream Gardens 3:30 Nigella Bites 3:55 Patrol (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Martin Clunes: Islands Of America (PG) 4:40 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) Extraordinary Escapes (PG) 5:30 The ABC 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Australian Idol (PG) Of John Howard (PG) 6:00 Grand Designs 8:40 Ron Iddles - The Good Cop (M v) 9:45 What The Killer Did Next (M v) 10:45 The Transformations 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Disappearance Of Gabby Petito (M v) 12:10 Muster Dogs (PG) 8:30 Total Control (PG) Bates Motel (M v) 2:00 Home Shopping 9:30 Best Interests (M d,l)

10:00 GolfBarons 10:30 Golf: Jack Newton Celebrity Classic Highlights 11:30 The Bizarre Pet Vets (PG) 12:30 Fishing Australia 1:00 Swimming: National Open Water Championships Highlights 1:30 Movie: “The Cure” (PG) (’95) Stars: Brad Renfro 3:30 Space Invaders (PG) 4:30 Explore TV 5:00 NINE News: First At 5 5:30 RBT (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Late

9:00 Luca’s Key Ingredient 9:30 My Market Kitchen 10:00 Farm To Fork 10:30 TBA 12:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventure 1:00 Buy To Build 1:30 Healthy Homes 2:00 Cook With Luke 2:30 My Market Kitchen 3:00 Roads Less Travelled 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 What’s Up Down Under 4:30 Taste Of Australia 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Sunday Project (PG) 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 9:00 NCIS: Hawaii (M v) 11:00 TBA 12:00 The Sunday Project (PG)

10:00 Love Your Garden (PG) 11:00 Great Irish Interiors (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Wheelchair Sports 1:00 Surf Life Saving: Iron Series *Live* From Kurrawa Beach 3:00 Speedweek 5:00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Lochs (PG) 5:30 The Irish Civil War (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Giza Pyramid - Reaching For The Stars (In English/ French) 8:30 Secrets Of Modern Archaeology (PG) (In English/ French) 10:30 Viking Empires (M)

1:00 Escape To The Country 2:00 South Aussie With Cosi (PG) 2:30 Discover Travel With RAA (PG) 3:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 5:00 I Escaped To The Country 6:00 Escape To The Country 7:10 The Vicar Of Dibley (PG) 8:30 Vera (PG)

4:00 Disasters At Sea (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars New York (PG) 6:00 Border Security: International (PG) 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Dark Knight Rises” (M l,v) (’12) Stars: Christian Bale

10:00 Holistic Living (PG) 10:30 The Real Dirty Dancing (PG) 11:55 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 1:45 Australian Idol (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M)

3:25 Dance Rites (PG) 5:00 Woven Threads Stories From Within 5:40 Moko (PG) 6:10 NITV News Update 6:20 Yellowstone (PG) 7:30 No Maori Allowed 8:25 Movie: “Tupaia’s Endeavour” (M l) (’20) Stars: Michel Tuffery

11:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:30 JAG (PG) 1:30 What’s Up Down Under 2:00 Camper Deals 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Football: Round 15: Macarthur FC v Western Sydney Wanderers *Live* 7:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

12:30 Beachfront 2:00 Basketball: NBL: Bargain Hunt 1:30 Round 18: Tasmania Mexico Life 2:30 Jackjumpers v Adelaide Holiday Homes In The Sun 36ers *Live* 4:00 Basketball: NBL: Round 18: Perth Wildcats 3:30 The Garden Hustle 4:30 v New Zealand Breakers *Live* Escape To The Chateau 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two And A Half Men House Hunters International 7:30 Fixer Upper (PG) 10:00 South Park (M)

4:55 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir 5:15 Total Drama Island 5:40 School Of Rock 6:05 The Next Step 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Mythbusters (PG) 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 8:15 The Legend Of Korra

3:30 Offsiders 4:00 ABC News 4:30 Regional Roundup 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 ABC News Regional 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Movin’ To The Country 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders 8:30 ABC News Tonight

3:30 Play School 4:00 Grace’s Amazing Machines 4:35 Little J And Big Cuz 5:05 Zog 5:35 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes 6:10 Pfffirates 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 QI (PG)

5:30 The Curious Chef 6:30 Michel Roux’s French Country Cooking 7:30 James Martin’s French Adventure 8:30 Remarkable Places To Eat 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 River Cottage Australia

4:15 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:40 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic 5:10 Retro Gamers (PG) 5:45 Alone Sweden (M l) (In Swedish) 6:40 Ocean Wreck Investigation (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering

1:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) 1:45 TBA 2:45 Rich House, Poor House (PG) 3:45 100% Wolf (PG) 5:45 Movie: “Penguins Of Madagascar” (G) (’14) Stars: Tom McGrath 7:30 Movie: “Mission: Impossible Fallout” (M v) (’18)

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

3:30 Movie: “Train Of Events” (PG) (’49) Stars: Peter Finch 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speedsters (PG) 8:40 Movie: “The Notebook” (M) (’04) Stars: Ryan Gosling

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

1:30 Movie: “Pacific Destiny” (PG) (’56) Stars: Denholm Elliot 3:30 Movie: “Sayonara” (PG) (’57) Stars: Marlon Brando 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Man On Fire” (M l,v) (’04) Stars: Denzel Washington 11:25 Madam Secretary (M l,s)

Thursday 8 February

Wednesday 7 February

Tuesday 6 February

Monday 5 February

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Vera (M v) 2:30 Back Roads (PG) 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:30 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Love Your Garden 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Nemesis - The Turnbull Years (M) 9:40 Media Watch 9:55 What Broke The Rental Market? (PG) 10:55 ABC Late News

12:00 The 66th Annual Grammy Awards *Live* From Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles 3:30 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 Australian Idol (PG) 9:05 The 66th Annual Grammy Awards *Replay* 12:35 Bates Motel (M v) 2:30 Home Shopping

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:45 9Honey Hacks (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:00 Big Miracles (M)

12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 TBA 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 9:00 FBI: Most Wanted (M v) 11:00 The Project (PG)

12:10 Worldwatch 2:10 Good With Wood (PG) 3:05 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (PG) 8:30 Isle Of Wight (PG)

2:00 Zombie House 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Flipping 3:00 The Block Becker (PG) 5:30 (PG) 4:00 Caribbean Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Life 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two 7:00 House Hunters USA And A Half Men (PG)

3:00 Australian Idol 5:30 American Pickers 4:30 Better Homes And (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars Gardens 5:30 Escape (PG) 6:30 Dr Harry’s (PG) 7:30 Outback To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin Opal Hunters (PG) 8:30 Aussie Animal Encounters (PG) 7:30 Salvage Squad (PG) 10:30 Ax Law & Order: Criminal Intent (PG) 8:30 Foyle’s War (M v) (M) 9:30 Law & Order: SVU Men (M l) 10:45 Mighty Ships (PG)

5:00 Our Stories 5:30 APTN National News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Wild Survivors 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8:35 Karla Grant Presents (PG)

2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 NCIS: Los Angeles (M)

5:55 Octonauts 6:30 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 6:00 Ted’s Top Ten Ben And Holly’s Little 5:00 ABC News With 6:30 Operation Ouch! Kingdom 7:05 Star Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:05 Horrible Histories News Hour 7:00 ABC National Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 7:35 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 The Legend News 7:30 ABC Evening News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Jade Armor 8:00 ABC News Tonight

5:30 Seoul At Home 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Malaysia Gourmet With Justine Schofield

6:00 Everybody Loves 5:45 The Joy Of Raymond (PG) 7:00 Painting With Bob Ross The Nanny (PG) 7:30 6:15 The Fast History Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: Of (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out “Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows” (M v) (’11) Of 10 Cats Does Countdown

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Call The Midwife (PG) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:30 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Love Your Garden 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 McCartney 3, 2, 1 (M) 9:00 Earth 10:00 You Can’t Ask That (MA15+)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 TBA 1:30 Border Patrol (PG) 2:00 Autopsy USA (M) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Australian Idol (PG) 9:05 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (MA15+)

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Kenan (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:00 The Hundred With Andy Lee (PG) 10:00 TBA

6:30 First Dates 5:30 American Pickers 4:30 Better Homes And Australia (PG) 7:35 (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars Gardens 5:30 Escape First Dates UK (M s) (PG) 7:30 Outback To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Rosemary & Truckers (PG) 9:30 Heavy Tow 8:40 Movie: “The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Thyme (PG) 8:30 A Touch Of Truckers Down Under (PG) Frost (M l,v) 10:50 Wanted (M) 10:30 Ice Road Truckers (PG) Society” (M) (’18) 5:55 So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 The Legend Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Jade Armor

5:55 Octonauts 6:30 4:00 Afternoon Briefing Ben And Holly’s Little 5:00 ABC News With Kingdom 7:05 Star Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National Wars: Young Jedi Adventures News 7:30 ABC Evening News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 ABC News Tonight

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:30 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:10 Love Your Garden 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering (M) 9:00 This Is Going To Hurt (M)

12:00 TBA 1:30 Border Patrol (PG) 2:00 Autopsy USA (M) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Australian Idol (PG) 9:05 Movie: “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (M v) (’21) Stars: Tom Holland 12:20 Parenthood (M) 2:00 Home Shopping

2:30 Cricket: One Day 4:00 RSPCA Animal International Women’s Rescue 4:30 Better Cricket: Australia v Homes And Gardens South Africa *Live* 9:30 5:30 Escape To The Country Motorway Patrol (PG) 10:30 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat (PG) 8:45 Lewis (M) Police: Hour Of Duty (PG) 5:55 So Awkward 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 The Legend Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Jade Armor

4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown (M) 8:30 The Coroner

2:00 Mexico Life 3:00 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 The Block (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Caribbean Life 5:00 Flip Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Or Flop 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two Hunters USA And A Half Men (PG)

12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 TBA 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Ambulance Australia (PG) 8:30 FBI: International (M v) 10:30 Blue Bloods (M v)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:15 Coastal Ireland With Adrian Dunbar (PG) 3:10 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Scottish Islands With Ben Fogle (PG)

2:30 The Block (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 4:00 Caribbean Life Becker (PG) 5:30 5:00 Holiday Homes In Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big The Sun 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town And A Half Men (PG)

6:00 Everybody Loves 5:30 TVNZ 1News At 5:00 Taiwan Bites 6:00 Raymond (PG) 7:00 Midday 6:10 Food Safari 6:30 Lidia’s The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Duckrockers (PG) 6:40 Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Paradise Kitchen Bali 8:00 The Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats “Jupiter Ascending” (M v) (’15) Stars: Channing Tatum Does Countdown (M l,s) Chocolate Queen

6:00 Today 6:30 Today Extra 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Mr Mayor (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 RBT (PG) 8:30 Emergency (M l) 9:30 RPA (PG) 10:30 NINE News Late

5:00 Our Stories 5:30 3:00 Mesmerised (PG) The 77 Percent 6:00 3:30 Black-ish (PG) Bamay 6:30 NITV 4:00 The Goldbergs (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 News Update 6:40 Brazil 10 Years Younger In 10 Days Untamed (PG) 7:30 Going (PG) 7:30 First Dates UK (PG) Places With Ernie Dingo (PG)

5:55 Octonauts 6:30 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 6:30 Operation Ouch! Ben And Holly’s Little 5:00 ABC News With 7:00 Horrible Histories Kingdom 7:05 Star Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC 7:40 The Penguins Of Madagascar 8:00 The Legend News Hour 7:00 ABC National Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Of Korra (PG) 8:25 Kong: King News 7:30 ABC Evening News 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 8:00 ABC News Tonight Of The Apes (PG)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:05 No Maori Allowed (M l) (In English/ Maori) 3:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG)

3:30 Movie: “The Iron 6:00 Everybody Loves 5:30 TVNZ 1News At 5:30 Seoul At Home Maiden” (PG) (’63) Raymond (PG) 7:00 Midday 6:10 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 Stars: Anne Helm 5:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Duckrockers (PG) 6:40 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The The Travelling Auctioneers The Cook Up With Adam Liaw Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 7:30 Mary Berry Everyday 8:00 Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Legend Of Zorro” (M v) (’05) New Tricks (M v) Stars: Catherine Zeta-Jones Nadiya’s Spices Made Simple Does Countdown (M l,s)

12:30 NCIS (M) 1:30 5:00 Our Stories 5:30 3:00 Australian Idol FBI (M v) 2:30 Jake Living Black 6:30 NITV (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet And The Fatman (PG) News Update 6:40 Wild (PG) 6:30 First Dates 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) Australia (PG) 7:40 First Dates Survivors 7:30 High Arctic 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) Haulers 8:25 Rodman: For UK (M s) 8:45 Ramsay’s 8:30 NCIS (M) Kitchen Nightmares USA (M l) Better Or Worse (M l)

12:00 TBA 1:30 Border Patrol (PG) 2:00 Your Money & Your Life 2:30 Border Patrol (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 Mrs. Brown’s Boys (M l,s) 10:00 The Latest Seven News 10:30 Australia Now And Then (M)

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

2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 9:25 FBI: International (M) 10:20 NCIS: Los Angeles (M)

11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 1:30 Explore TV (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:00 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Married At First Sight (M l,s) 9:00 Under Investigation (M)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Earth 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 The Cook And The Chef 3:30 Tenable 4:15 Antiques Roadshow 5:15 Love Your Garden 6:00 Back Roads 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Grand Designs Transformations 9:00 Martin Clunes: Islands Of America (PG) 9:50 Fake Or Fortune?

5:00 Our Stories 5:30 Indian Country 6:00 Bamay 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Wild Survivors 7:30 Chatham Islanders (M)

12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) 9:00 NCIS (M v) 10:00 NCIS: Los Angeles (M v)

3:35 Movie: “Mandy” (PG) (’52) Stars: Mandy Miller 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Death In Paradise (PG)

12:00 10 News First: Midday 1:00 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 1:30 Judge Judy (PG) 2:00 TBA 3:00 Farm To Fork 3:30 10 News First: Afternoon 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Dog House Australia (PG)

12:30 NCIS (PG) 1:30 FBI (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 NCIS (PG)

3:20 Movie: “Let’s Be Happy” (G) (’57) Stars: Vera Ellen 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By (M v)

12:00 Worldwatch 2:10 Coastal Ireland With Adrian Dunbar (PG) 3:05 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 DNA Family Secrets (PG)

2:00 Home Town 3:00 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 The Block (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:30 Caribbean Life 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 The Big Restored By The Fords 6:00 House Hunters International Bang Theory (PG) 8:30 Two 7:00 House Hunters USA And A Half Men (PG)

6:00 Everybody Loves 5:30 TVNZ 1News At 5:00 Taiwan Bites 6:00 Raymond (PG) 7:00 Midday 6:10 Food Safari 6:30 Lidia’s The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Duckrockers (PG) 6:40 Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 My “Under Siege” (M l,v) (’92) Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Greatest Dishes 8:30 Rick Stars: Tommy Lee Jones Does Countdown (M l,s) Stein’s Road To Mexico

5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Keeping Up Appearances (PG) 8:40 Poirot (PG) 10:50 Coroner (MA15+)

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

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

Pick up a copy of the paper

weekendeFrree THE GREATEST the western

Lifesttyle Home&L

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Friday, October

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

F CT PERFE POT ANTS PLA

7, 2022

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der.com.au

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.

| SEE PAGE 62 GHTEN UP YOUR HOME

Mark STEVENSON

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ST, ST MARYS 9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN RD, ST CLAIR 1/46-52 MELVILLE 9834 1044 | SHOP

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Colyton Colyton Centre Pharmacy Colyton Friendly Grocer Colyton Hotel Colyton Newsagency Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook Aldi Cranebrook Cranebrook Community Health Cranebrook Village Mcdonald’s Mother Earth Nursery Plus Pharmacy Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains Chambers Cellars Lennox Centre Newsagency Mcdonald’s Penrith Regional Gallery Woolworths Lennox Village 7/11 Emu Plains (Great Western Highway) 7/11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

(Penrith Homemaker) Salt Cafe (Penrith Homemaker) Shell Service Station The Coffee Club Nepean River Three Sugars Café Western Weekender York Takeaway Zoo Fitness 7/11 Jamisontown

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Kingswood Barista Bar Coffee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital) Country Brewer Hallani’s Kingswood Hotel Kingswood Newsagency Kingswood Smash Repairs Kingswood Sports Club Penrith Gaels Club Radhe Indian Grocery Store Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital 7/11 Kingswood

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Budget Service Station Fish Fish Friendly Grocer Grose’s Pharmacy Southlands Newsagency Southlands Takeaway South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre Woolworths

Penrith Aldi Astina Atmosphere Gym Australian Arms Borec Road Takeaway (Valley Café) Brisket Boys Café Fred Caltex Coreen Avenue Coles Penrith (Nepean Village) Coles (Westfield Penrith) Crescent Mini Mart High Street Pies Hoyts Westfield Joan Sutherland Arts Centre Lemongrove Community Health Centre Liquor Stax Peachtree Mcdonald’s High Street Mcdonald’s Panthers Leagues Mcdonald’s Peachtree Mercure Hotel Museum Of Fire Nepean Aquatic Centre Nepean Motor Group Café Nepean Rowing Club Nepean Village Coffee Club Nepean Village Newsagency Nextra Westfield Office of Karen McKeown MP One Point Health Panthers Leagues Club Peachtree Hotel Penrith Bowling Club Penrith Cbd Corporation Penrith City Council Penrith City Library Penrith Golf Club Penrith Hotel Penrith Paceway Penrith Rsl Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre Pioneer Tavern Re/Max Sittano’s Restaurant Tattersalls Hotel The Chicken Run The Heritage Terrace Café The Log Cabin Westfield World Gym 7/11 Henry Street

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Thornton Petramart Thornton Community Centre

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Warragamba Warragamba Sports Club

Werrington Colonial Hotel Crossroads Convenience Store Dirani’s Mfc George’s Charcoal Chicken Henry Sports Club Mcdonald’s Supa Iga The Foodary Werrington Newsagency

Silverdale Mobil Service Station The Chemist Shop

Flower Power

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

WW48421

Caddens

EMBRACE ELARA

AN EXCITING, ACTIVE COMMUNITY | SEE PAGE 48

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SEE PAGE 58

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Selling, buying or renting?

Contact our award-winning team today! PETER DIAMANTIDIS Director | Selling Principal

51371

9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR

FEATURE STORY Western Property

HUGE INTEREST IN NEW RESIDENTIAL PRECINCT S

tockland has launched its newest residential precinct, Elara Place, which is expected to provide an additional 800 homes in the sought-after Stockland Elara community in Marsden Park, in Sydney’s north west, with the first release now available.

“RESIDENTS CAN EMBRACE ELARA’S ACTIVE, OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE”

Elara Place is located on Glengarrie Road and South Street and has easy access to transport links as well as the amenity in the adjacent Elara community, including an inclusive water-themed playground, a dog park, 40-hectares

of green open space, and around seven kilometres of cycling and walking trails that lead to a three-hectare lake. Construction will commence this year on the Elara Northern Playing Fields and childcare centre. Elara Place is also close to the future Marsden Park Strategic Town Centre, which is currently in the planning stage by Blacktown City Council in collaboration with the NSW Government. Stockland General Manager, Master planned Communities NSW and ACT, Ed Krushka, said Elara Place provides customers with a range of housing options in a location that’s central to transport, schools, shops, and open space. “For more than 70 years, we have helped more Australians achieve the dream of home ownership and we are committed to providing options to people seeking more affordable homes,

including first homebuyers, young families, upgraders, and downsizers,” Krushka said.

“Elara Place has easy access to transport links, shops, and schools, with more proposed facilities expected in the future. “Residents can embrace Elara’s active, outdoor lifestyle with around seven kilometres of walking and cycling paths, a three-hectare lake, local parks, and large open playing fields.” Construction of the first homes is expected to begin in the second half of this year, with lots in the first release ranging from 250 to 300 square metres, and prices ranging from $575,000 to $705,000. A recent open day saw strong interest from first homebuyers, families, upgraders, and downsizers, with the first land release available now. The Stockland Elara Sales and Information Centre, located at Elara Boulevard, Marsden Park, is open from 11am – 4pm Monday to Friday and also 10am – 5pm on weekends. More information on the Elara Place can be found online at www.stockland. c om .au/resident ia l/n s w/ elara.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

303 / 4D RETREAT DRIVE, PENRITH

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

RESORT-STYLE LIVING! What is so great about this property? Experience resort-style living at its finest in Aqua, East Side Quarter, Penrith’s first resort-side Development. Drawing inspiration from tropical luxury resorts,

Aqua introduces an oasis lifestyle to Penrith’s vibrant landscape. Immerse yourself in the centrally positioned pool complex, indulge in rooftop cinema entertainment, and relish a luxurious lifestyle in the heart of the Panthers precinct.

Who does this property suit? First home buyers and downsizers. Tell us about the suburb the property is in? An all-encompassing lifestyle

and residential quarter for lovers of river walks, café culture, doorstep amenity and world-class design, conveniently situated next to Panthers Entertainment Complex and close to Penrith Station.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

OPEN FOR INSPECTION: Saturday, February 3 12pm – 12.30pm CONTACT: PRD Real Estate Penrith Thomas Latty • 0452 230 480 thomas.latty@prd.net.au

Get Macca’s delivered. ®

McDelivery® is available in select locations.

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.® OFFICE: 233 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750

57 Callistemon Circuit, Jordan Springs

9/28 Gwen Parade, Raymond Terrace

JUST LISTED

VILLA

• 4 generous-sized BRs all fitted with BIRs • Main BR with generous WIR plus stylish ensuite & split system a/c • Open plan design with combined living & dining area • Modern kitchen with island benchtop, 900mm gas cooktop & ducted stainless range hood • Spacious WI pantry • 2nd living/media/home office • Main bathroom with separate shower, bathtub, toilet • Internal laundry • Plantation shutters • Under cover alfresco • Low maintenance backyard • Remote control double garage with internal access • Concreted driveway

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

26 Gadara Drive, South Penrith

Teenage

3+ Retreat

1.5

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Thinking of moving to the Hunter Valley? Inspection: February 3, 9am-9.30am

44 & 44A Richmond Road, Cambridge Park

3+1

• 3 generous-sized BRs, 2 with BIRs • Natural light-filled living room with s/s a/c • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar plus ample storage • Main bathroom with separate bath & shower • Internal laundry with 2nd toilet • Well maintained large above ground pool • Spacious front and backyard • Covered alfresco area • Concreted driveway • 758.5sqm block • Shops, schools, cafes and eateries as well as a variety of nearby transport options • Zoned R2, granny flat potential (STCA)

JUST LISTED

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

SOLD Very Happy Seller

1+1

JUST LISTED Close to Kingswood Station, childcare centres, bus stop, schools, shops, parks, Nepean Hospital & Penrith CBD. MAIN HOUSE: 3 BRs • Open plan living • Modern kitchen with dishwasher, breakfast bar • Separate dining • Spacious bathroom tiled up to the ceiling with bathtub • Ducted a/c throughout • External laundry • Good-sized backyard • Currently rented APPROVED GRANNY FLAT: • 1 BR, fitted with BIs • Contemporary kitchen • Modern bathroom • Internal laundry • Currently rented

Ideal for Growing Family or Astute Investors Inspection: 9:30-10am

SMSF $749,990

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Great agent and very accommodating

“ We had a great experience with Gizzelle. She was very accommodating and if you have any issues or concerns, she will make sure all concerns are resolved. During our selling she always gave us updates. We are so happy for the short period of time our house was SOLD. Thank you so much Gizzelle, you are such an angel to us and it was a great experience that you were our agent. ” Ruby & Charles 31 & 31A Deborah Cres, Cambridge Park

Verified by RateMyAgent

81 College Street, Cambridge Park

19 Platypus Street, Marsden Park

Garage + Carport

1.5

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Potential rent : $860-$920 per week Dual living (house & granny)

Thinking of Selling, Buying or Investing? Call or SMS Gizzelle on 0428 934 618

Ducted A/C

JUST LISTED

This fully renovated home is ideally suited for family living or investment purposes. Positioned in a sought-after pocket of Cambridge Park. Fully renovated, this home offers 3 generous-sized BRs, exquisite kitchen with beautiful splashbacks, island benchtops, 40mm stone benchtops and stainless-steel appliances. Walking distance to Kingswood Station, schools, shops, parks, and close to Nepean Hospital and only a short drive to Penrith CBD & St Marys CBD.

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

For Sale Furnished

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

4/490 George Street, South Windsor

• 2 good-sized bedrooms with built-ins • Combined bathroom and laundry • Separate toilet • Balcony • Carport

Inspection: February 10, 5pm-5.30pm

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

111 Blueridge Drive, Blue Haven

+ 50m2 approx shed

Central Coast

Coming Soon

• Secured Complex • Currently rented with tenants happy to stay

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Put Our Winning Team to Work 50

Gizzelle Powell

0428 934 618

Litsa Meleti

0466 969 164 0

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

Room for the caravan, boat, trailer and more.

Peter Parker

0408 432 998

Uzrah Bi 0435 205 061

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Sat Feb 3, 11:30-12pm

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Teeannah Camilleri 0424 823 911

Victor Borg

0439 755 081 1

APARTME

N T

L NA

ACT NOW! N

SELLI

ORAN PARK

This is your last opportunity to secure a luxury apartment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the heart of the Oran Park community. Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apartment features ample floor space, sophisticated style and the finest finishes. Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction, the residence is completed to a high standard with: •

Miele oven, gas cooktop, rangehood, built-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

•

Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

•

Ground floor entry, two levels of secure parking and a communal rooftop with barbeque facilities

Interior

111sqm

Exterior

33sqm

Total

144sqm

Price

$829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

View the Display Apartment by appointment Open 9am – 5pm | Cnr Oran Park Dr & Peter Brock Dr, Oran Park

Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

WW51470

Apartment G.03

Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains 104 Hindmarsh Street, Cranebrook

FOR SALE

8 Cotula Place, Glenmore Park

LI NEW ST IN G

AUCTION

Going To Auction 24th February • Appealing 3 bedroom brick home set for Auction • Spacious lounge & dining areas with lots of natural light • Galley-style kitchen, ample cupboards & bench space • Upgraded bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiling • Elevated fully fenced 560m2 allotment • Close to Cranebrook shopping complex, local schools & sporting fields

OPEN HOME

AUCTION INSPECT Sat 3 February at 12:00pm - 12:30pm AUCTION 24th February at 12:30pm On Site ADDRESS 104 Hindmarsh Street, Cranebrook CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood

Definitely Worth Your Time! • Beautiful 2-storey, 3-bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • Huge modern kitchen with S/S appliances • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite to main • Private U/C timb er deck entertaining area • Secured gated complex with street frontage

FOR SALE

Expect To Be Impressed! • Beautiful double-storey 3 bedroom home • Amazing modern living design with high ceilings • Stunning modern kitchen with S/S appliances • 3 double-sized bedrooms with B/I robes • Ducted A/C throughout • Established lawn & gardens set on fully-fenced allotment

2.5

This Could Be Home!

$669,990

• Beautiful 3 bedroom brick home is located in Glenmore Park estate • Spacious open living design • Large kitchen with ample cupboards & bench space • 3 good-sized bedrooms with carpet flooring • Quiet cul-de-sac location

OPEN HOME

Beautiful, Stylish & Modern

INSPECT Sat 3 February at 10:15am - 10:45am ADDRESS 16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

41 Cooper Street, Penrith

OPEN HOME

$859,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 41 Cooper Street, Penrith CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

$869,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 8 Cotula Place, Glenmore Park CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood

• Modern 2-storey 3 bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite & WIR to main • Large modern kitchen & bathroom • Ducted A/C throughout • 1 of 10 in complex, street frontage

Beautiful & Modern • Stunning modern 2 bedroom unit • Spacious open living design • Gorgeous modern kitchen with S/S appliances • 2 great-sized bedrooms, stylish ensuite to main • Large balcony with northern aspect • Currently returning $380 per week in rent

$659,990 INSPECT Sat 3 February at 11:00am - 11:30am ADDRESS 10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

56/144 High Street, Penrith

$529,950 INSPECT Sat 3 February at 9:30am - 10:00am ADDRESS 56/144 High Street, Penrith CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith 52

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

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$ $ $" $ # !$ $ $ $ $ $ Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

SWIMMING CHILDREN ARE SMARTER CHILDREN! S

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

chools are back for 2024, and parents everywhere are heaving a sigh of relief, or missing the summer holidays, or a strange mix of both! Time to get back into the routine of school and after school activities. Here’s a fun fact, and yet another reason to prioritise children’s swimming lessons – did you know that children who are learning to swim also do better at school? A study conducted by Griffith University suggests that swimming children are not only safer, but smarter. The research conducted over four years concluded that children who swim demonstrate more advanced cognitive and physical abilities than other children and indicates that swimming children have many advantages when starting school. Lead researcher Professor Robyn Jorgensen said: “While we expected the children to show better physical development and perhaps be more confident through swim-

ming, the results in literacy and numeracy really shocked us. The children were anywhere from six to 15 months ahead of the normal population when it came to cognitive skills,

“On average, these children were 11 months ahead of the normal population in Oral Expression, six months ahead in Mathematics Reasoning and two months

problem solving in mathematics, counting, language and following instructions.” In addition to achieving physical milestones faster, the swimming children scored significantly better in visual-motor skills such as cutting paper, colouring in and drawing lines and shapes. Professor Jorgensen added:

ahead in Brief Reading. Most amazing was the difference in Story Recall (17 months ahead) and Understanding Directions (20 months ahead).” We have some morning swimming lesson places opening up at both of our centres this month as our preschoolers go off to kindergarten, so now is the perfect time

to book your baby, toddler or preschooler into weekday morning lessons. Mornings are very focused on young children, with no school aged children in the centre, and set your child up for a good lunch and afternoon rest after the exercise and mental stimulation swimming lessons provides. Many children and parents will also experience their first school swimming carnival in the coming weeks. Encourage your child to take the plunge – a high student participation rate makes for a fun and exciting day for all, and with the number of children reaching the 50m freestyle swimming milestone declining, it is sad to see less and less competitors in these races each year. Good luck to all and race well. If your children are not yet in swimming lessons, make this your year to start their swimming journey and begin to work towards the recommended swimming milestones!

BROKING BREAKDOWN

BROKERS OVER BANKS, ALWAYS!

hen you’re planning to buy a new car, it’s unlikely you’ll only visit one car yard and test drive a single vehicle. Chances are, you’ll shop around – trying to find not only the best price, but the car that meets all your needs. And you’d likely do the same when purchasing a new TV – visiting multiple stores, finding the best deal and the best TV for your space and needs. So it’s always a

LEARN TO WW52271

FOR ALL AGES nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au • 4730 8900

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

surprise that so many people still just walk into their usual bank to apply for a home loan – arguably the biggest financial decision you’ll make in your life. Your usual bank probably feels comfortable – you may have been with them since your very first pay cheque, and it just seems logical to go to them when it comes to your home loan. But there’s so much to consider when it comes to a home loan, and it’s possible your usual bank isn’t the right answer for you. A broker works on your behalf to get the best possible home loan result for you – incorporating the all-important interest rate, as well as various elements and features of the loan you may desire, including withdraw facilities, low monthly fees, offset accounts and a variety of other elements. A broker, like a bank, will assess your financial situation and provide any advice required when it comes to your borrowing power, and the best type of

The Experts

MARK STEVENSON Bell Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

loan for you. Sometimes it can feel like a broker is an added step in the process but it’s definitely a worthwhile one – and in fact could save you tens of thousands of dollars over the term of a loan. Think about the car and TV examples from earlier. You will always shop around to get the best deal. Using a broker means they do the hard work for you and do the shopping around – presenting the best deal for you. Whether it’s Bell Partners or another broker, if you’re in the market for a home loan – get in touch with one today and you’ll definitely be happy with the outcome versus going to a bank direct.

TALKING TECH The Experts

SEND YOUR NAME TO THE MOON ON NASA’S VIPER A

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

few months ago, I wrote about getting your name engraved on a plaque being sent to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa. If you missed out on that NASA is now gearing up for a historic mission to the Moon’s South Pole in late 2024. NASA’s Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) will embark on a 100-day quest to hunt for water, ice and other valuable resources, paving the way for future lunar exploration. VIPER is a crucial stepping stone for NASA’s ambitious Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon by 2025. By understanding the Moon’s resources, VIPER will help pave the way for sustainable lunar settlements, where astronauts can live and work using resources

found on the Moon itself. Want to be a part of this groundbreaking mission? NASA is offering a unique opportunity to send your name to the Moon! Through the “Fly Your Name with VIPER” campaign, you can submit your name for a chance to have it etched onto a microchip onboard the rover. VIPER is no ordinary rover. This rugged robot is built to withstand the Moon’s harsh environment. It boasts a powerful drill that can extract ice samples for analysis. It also has a selection of cutting-edge instruments, including a Neutron Spectrometer System (NSS) that will sniff out hydrogen, a key indicator of water ice. A Mass Spectrometer will analyse the chemical makeup of the lunar soil and gases, revealing the

HEALTH

WHY YOU NEED TO GET MOVING!

t’s surprising how a lot of people still believe that you can only suffer from joint and muscle pain from doing too much physical activity. But did you know that the lack of physical activity can also cause you body pains or worse suffer from muscle and joint injury. It is highly recommended to move your muscles and joints in some way or form every day to keep it all moving and avoid stiffness. Joint manipulation is one of the most common practices for relieving pain and providing patients with a better range of motion when they are experiencing stiffness. It is also known as manual therapy and is often used by healthcare professionals and podiatrists to reduce pain and restore/ improve the patient’s range of motion, allowing better movement and improving their quality of life. It works by improving the mobility and congruency of joints in the feet, which in turn allows muscles to work more

efficiently around those joints. This establishes better movement pathways and can help to relieve chronic pain. The body is complex, there are 33 joints in each foot and due to the overload from just walking these get painful and adding joint manipulation and a mobilisation method can help break this pain cycle. Our podiatrists can assess the mobility of the joints in your feet to uncover restrictions that’s possibly adding to the pain. We can then provide

The Experts

presence of other valuable resources. A Lunar InfraRed Camera for mapping the terrain and searching for signs of ice. To participate in this exciting campaign, you need to follow these simple steps: 1. Visit the mission website at https:// www3.nasa.gov/sendy o u r- n a m e -w i t h viper. Enter your first and last name and a PIN Number. 2. Click on the “Submit”

button and confirm your participation. 3. It will then display your personalised boarding pass. The deadline for submitting your name is March 15, 2024. The names will be compiled and engraved on the spacecraft before it is shipped to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for launch preparations. The Europa Clipper mission is scheduled to launch in November 2024 aboard a SpaceX

Falcon Heavy rocket. Once in lunar orbit, the Falcon Heavy will deploy the Griffin lander, carrying the VIPER rover safely to the Moon’s surface. The Griffin lander is designed for precision control and soft landings, ensuring a smooth touchdown within the permanently shadowed region of the South Pole, where VIPER will conduct its ice-hunting mission. So let your inner geek take over!

I I

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ANITHA BEERAPU One Point Health 4732 5188 treatment to allow better communication between your joints and muscles. The benefits of foot mobilisation are many, and the feeling of walking on air afterwards can be the cherry on the top.

bringthebling.com.au Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce Your guide to creating the best look for your Taylor Swift experience

he countdown is officially on, with just a few weeks to go until Taylor Swift hits Aussie shores for seven huge nights of her Eras Tour across Sydney and Melbourne. If you managed to get tickets for a show, or if you’ll be going to one of the many Swift-themed events popping up in the lead up, you should well and truly have your outfit sorted. But, if you’re feeling lost on ideas, here are a few to get you started.

Reputation One of Swift’s most distinct album eras, ‘Reputation’ is characterised by its darker,

more villainous aesthetics. Any good ‘Reputation’-inspired outfit requires a more edgy, vampy makeup look to go along with it. Throw out the classic red lipstick that Swift is generally known for and instead look for a deeper crimson shade, like MAC’s ‘Diva’, paired with a grungy eyeshadow look using the Natasha Denona Xenon Eyeshadow Palette, or Huda Beauty’s Pretty Grunge Eyeshadow Palette.

Lover Another one of my favourite eras, ‘Lover’ is perfect for anyone who loves colour – especially pink. If you’re planning on wearing a ‘Lover’-inspired outfit, keep in mind that there’s no better time

to get creative. Palettes like the Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina Pro Pigment Palette Vol. 6 for Face and Body are perfect to allow your imagination run wild. Channel Swift’s looks from the era with some temporary pink or blue hair dye, and, if you want to be a little bit extra, use glitter or face jewels to create a love heart shape around your eye.

lore’ is focused on storytelling, meaning there are plenty of individual songs you can be inspired by if you don’t want to opt for a more general ‘Folklore’ look. Go all silver for a ‘Mirrorball’ look, using the Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner in ‘Glamrock’, and the Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear nail polish in ‘Silver Storm’.

Folklore

Similar to ‘Folklore’, the aesthetics of ‘Evermore’ remain very earthy and dulled down. However, this album has a warmer, more autumnal vibe, meaning eyeshadow palettes like Natasha Denona’s Bronze Eyeshadow Palette or the Morphe 9T Neutral Territory Artistry Palette would be perfect to recreate it. Both of these eras can be

A stark contrast from ‘Lover’, ‘Folklore’ was the first album in a while where fans really saw Swift dull down her look, opting for a more c o t t a g e c o r e -i nspired aesthetic to match the softer sound of the album. The entirety of ‘Folk-

Evermore

topped off with identifiable (and easy to recreate) hairstyles, like low, loose buns and braids.

Midnights And finally, Swift’s most recent album ‘Midnights’. Another deeper, grungy era, midnight blue and other jewel tones are the most obvious colours to use when building a ‘Midnights’-inspired look. The Pat McGrath Labs Mothership I Subliminal Eyeshadow Palette is perfect if you’re in the mood to splurge, or opt for a glittery single eyeshadow like the Shiseido Pop Powdergel Eye Shadow in ‘Zaa-Zaa Navy’.

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Is it time for a new bathroom or laundry? Why not deal with a local trades company who has been in the area for 50 years.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

PET HEALTH The Experts

ENRICHING YOUR CAT’S LIFE WITH SIMPLE METHODS I

n the bustling world of pet ownership, the charm of having a cat as a companion is undeniable. However, for our indoor feline friends, ensuring their

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

wellbeing goes beyond providing food and shelter. One key aspect that often gets overlooked is environmental enrichment – a vital component in keeping indoor cats mentally stimulated and physically active. Cats are natural hunters and explorers, hardwired to seek out new challenges and engage in activities that mimic their instincts. When confined to indoor spaces, they may face a lack of mental and physical stimulation, leading to boredom, lethargy, and potentially behavioural issues. As responsible pet owners, it is important to create an environment that supports their innate needs. Introducing environmental enrichment into your cat’s life is like opening a treasure chest of possibilities. It involves providing a variety of stimuli that engage their senses, encouraging mental and physical exercise. Simple additions such as scratching posts, interactive

toys, and climbing structures can transform an ordinary living space into a playground of excitement. Puzzle feeders also can not only make mealtime more engaging but also tap into a cat’s problem-solving abilities. Strategically placed perches and window shelves offer a frontrow seat to the outside world, allowing cats to observe birds, passing cars, and rustling leaves – providing endless entertainment and mental stimulation. To green your home with cat-friendly indoor plants, look for lipstick vine (Aeschynanthus), bromeliads, calathea and maranta (peacock plant, prayer plant, pilea and peperomia), spider plants and Fittonia (snakeskin or nerve plant). For those with a creative flair, DIY projects such as homemade puzzle feeders or crafting intricate cardboard forts can add an extra layer of enrichment. The key is to continuously rotate and introduce new elements to

prevent boredom and maintain the novelty factor. Beyond physical wellbeing, environmental enrichment contributes to a cat’s emotional health. Enriched environments reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a happier and more contented feline companion. Moreover, a stimulated cat is less likely to engage in destructive behaviours or develop obesity-related issues, ensuring a longer and healthier life. It is important to remember that keeping indoor cats entertained through environmental enrichment is not just a luxury but a necessity for their wellbeing. Providing them with an environment that nurtures their instincts and encourages a life filled with curiosity, and exploration offers our feline friends a life of contentment. For more information on environmental enrichment for your cat, contact the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

GLENMORE PARK we’ve got you covered

Get the care your pet deserves at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital! At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your pet is a cherished family member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pet care services to animals across the Penrith district. We offer: • Vaccinations • Radiography • Microchipping • Surgery • Dental care • Ultrasound

52383

Contact us! Phone 4736 2027 49 Wentworth Road,Orchard Hills Monday - Friday: 8am-7pm | Saturday: 8am-2pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9am-3pm

Glenmore Park can pick the paper up at the following locations:

�� COLES �� MAGS NEWS �� MCDONALD’S

�� MEDI ADVICE PHARMACY �� WOOLWORTHS

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

WERRINGTON we’ve got you covered

PET OF THE WEEK Relax & Unwind

We r r i n g to n l o c a l s c a n p i c k t h e p a p e r u p at t h e fo l l ow i n g l o c at i o n s

C O LO N I A L H OT E L

MCDONALD’S

CROSSROADS CONVENIENCE STORE

S U PA I G A

DIRANI’S MFC GEORGE’S CHARCOAL CHICKEN

THE FOODARY WERRINGTON NEWSAGENCY

HENRY SPORTS CLUB

my name: Bella my proud owner: Kylie Haynes i live in: South Penrith a bit about me: Bella is Kylie’s gorgeous, crazy, needy, fur child. She has two settings – setting one is bouncing off the furniture, or zoomies in the backyard, and setting two is curled up on someone’s lap or hogging the human bed.

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Email Cassidy.Pearce@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.

Experience the thrill of coming face to face with the

King of beasts!

Zambi Wildlife Retreat is an exclusive and unique Not for Profit Animal Sanctuary, set in beautifully landscaped grounds. A tour of the retreat allows you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals and learn about their history and species. Zambi only allows limited visitors each week and you will need to book your spot on our website booking page here: www.zambi.org/bookings The bookings are only available for a total of 7 guests and includes a tour of the retreat with an experienced guide where you will get to hand feed the macaw parrots and baboon monkeys. Complimentary hot and cold drinks and light snacks are included in the cost. There is also the opportunity to add on animal encounters such as hand feeding the big cats and meeting the meerkats and little marmoset monkeys. This can be booked at the same time as your tour or added during your visit.

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

zambi.org

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

There are four planets transiting through your sign – the Sun encourages creativity, the New Moon signals a fresh cycle of growth and learning, and the Mercury/Pluto conjunction boosts concentration. But Thursday’s Sun/ Uranus square could stir up a domestic drama. And remember – just because you’ve thought of a brilliant idea (and talked about it endlessly) doesn’t mean you’ve achieved anything. Be proactive about turning dreams into reality!

The Mars/Neptune connection is wonderful for manifesting dreams – especially involving personal projects. Then the New Moon lights up your spirituality zone on Friday night. Put aside some special ‘me time’ so you can meditate, contemplate, ruminate, slow down, calm down and re-calibrate. Your motto is from writer (and birthday great) Alice Walker, “Look closely at the present you are constructing - it should look like the future you are dreaming.”

The Sun/Uranus square and New Moon (in Aquarius) shake up and reboot your peer group zone, so a friend or work colleague from the past could boomerang back into your world! Whatever happens, do your best to surround yourself with authentic people who help you in hard times, encourage your talents and support your dreams. As birthday great Bob Marley observed, “True friends are like stars; you can only recognise them when it’s dark around you.”

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

You’ll be in the public eye in some way as the Sun, New Moon, Mercury and Pluto stimulate your reputation/career zone. So you could shine at work, at school or in a volunteer position. When it comes to your job, do you need to upskill? Are you looking for employment or is it time to change vocation? The winds of change are blowing so prepare to pivot! Are you looking for love? You could be attracted to someone from another country or culture.

You’re super busy and raring to go but are you actually achieving anything of substance? On Monday your ruler Mercury hooks up with meticulous Pluto, so make sure you double-check details and leave plenty of time to get to appointments. If you focus and prioritise (plus tackle tasks in regular short bursts) then you’ll gradually get things done. Friday night’s New Moon heralds an insightful realisation about yourself or a welcome weekend getaway.

Crabs are sentimental creatures and can spend too much time in the past. Resist the urge to brood over love gone wrong. This week’s stars help heal your hurt feelings so you can finally let go and move on. The New Moon also signals a major shift in the areas of intimacy or money. Perhaps a passionate new affair or the start of a promising financial partnership? But plenty of patience is required on Thursday when a relationship goes through a bumpy patch.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

On Thursday, a romantic relationship or a professional partnership could veer off in an unpredictable direction, when disruptive Uranus squares the Sun (your ruling planet). When it comes to your career, don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater! Try to get the balance right between keeping what works and exploring exciting new options. Friday night’s New Moon is all about new beginnings involving, love, marriage, a joint venture or a business partnership.

The Sun, New Moon, Mercury and Pluto all highlight your health and wellbeing zone, so strive to be the fittest and most vibrant Virgo you can be. Get your body moving ASAP! Reinvention is the name of the game, as the planets encourage you to reboot your daily routine with passion and determination. The best way to manage stress is with relaxing indoor pursuits (like meditation or yoga) and vigorous outdoor activities (like running, cycling or hiking).

This week six planets activate your family and friendship zones, so focus on the important people in your life who make your world go ‘round. Make sure you love, nurture, and appreciate them to the max – but don’t expect them to make you happy! As writer (and birthday great) Alice Walker wisely observed, “Any happiness you get you’ve got to make yourself.” The terrific Venus/ Uranus trine encourages you to express yourself creatively.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Monday’s Mercury/Pluto conjunction is all about intense communication and powerful conversations, especially with family members and/or housemates. And then Friday night’s New Moon encourages you to patch up an unpredictable relationship with a relative, as you demonstrate endless patience and hold out the olive branch of peace. As music legend (and birthday great) Bob Marley sang, “Overcome the devils with a thing called love.”

Friday night’s New Moon inspires you to contribute your versatile talents to a worthy cause within your local community. Then satisfying connections and positive friendships will follow. However, when it comes to a neighbour, family member or work colleague, hold onto your seat and prepare for a rollercoaster ride. And avoid putting your foot firmly in your mouth on the weekend when the Mercury/Jupiter square encourages rash words and impulsive actions.

The New Moon stimulates your cash zone, so take stock of your financial situation and initiate some smart strategies. And don’t forget to do an inventory of your inner wealth, which includes your self-esteem and core Capricorn values. Remember – you are more than your job, what you earn and what you own. With love planet Venus visiting your sign (until February 16) romance is in the air. Singles – amazing synchronicities could lead you to your soul mate.

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A special 48-page magazine dedicated to an incredible era in Penrith Panthers history. www.westernweekender.com.au/threepeat Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Gold Coast

WORDS

Troy Dodds

IMAGES Supplied

GOLDIE GROWS UP: NOT F

or as long as anyone can remember, the Gold Coast has been pitched as the ideal family holiday spot – the beaches, the theme parks, affordable eating spots, the friendly atmosphere and relaxed, holiday vibe. Indeed it is a rite of passage for any suburban family to take that road trip a couple of times while the kids are growing up; the ‘are we there yets’ ringing through your ears for much of the trip. And indeed much of the Gold Coast’s accommodation is family based, making booking such a trip easy and generally hasslefree.

MORE INFO “THERE’S PLENTY OF TRUTH TO THIS NEW FEEL ABOUT THE GOLDIE”

One of the Imperial Hotel’s suites.

But in recent years, the Gold Coast has done a little growing up, and while it remains an ideal family getaway spot, it’s also turning into the perfect holiday for couples – with no kids in tow. With our toddler happily spending a few days with her grandparents, my wife and I put this to the test – heading to the Gold Coast for three nights to see if a trip north can be fulfilling without the family focus. And yes, there’s plenty of truth

to this new feel about the Goldie. We stayed at the five-star Imperial Hotel, and while it remains a child-friendly option, its slightly higher price range means it never feels like you’re in the middle of a play centre. Even the pool has a dedicated adult’s only section – though it should be noted it’s something of an imaginary line and, understandably, isn’t overly policed. There’s a varied selection of room types, and we stayed in a Superior Suite – the perfect option if one of you wants a sleep in while the other is an early riser

and wants to get in some early morning TV in the other room. It’s very spacious, with a spa bath included and two bathrooms; probably overkill for a couple but if you’re either looking for that extra bit of luxury or you do have one or two kids with you, it’s the perfect option. The hotel boasts an Italian restaurant with a seafood buffet on Friday and Saturday nights, and the buffet breakfast was very impressive (something that can always be hit and miss) so it’s worth trying to include it in your package.

The Imperial Hotel offers an impressive pool, with various day bed options.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

Visit www.theimperialgc.com. au. On our first night, we had the opportunity to take a sunset sail on the Gold Coast Broadwater with Sun Sailing – which boasts a 38ft yacht. It’s a calm trip, so those with weak stomachs need not worry, and this husband and wife team really hit the mark with the overall experience (plus, you get to say hello to their adorable dog, Wilson!). It’s a great way to learn a little more about the Gold Coast, and while there’s a whole range of cruises available, the sunset

TRAVEL

WHAT YOU EXPECT cruise was absolutely delightful and a beautiful way to see the sun set. If you’re lucky, you may get the boat to yourself – but otherwise, it’ll just be a small group of fellow travellers. You’ll sit back and enjoy cruising alongside the Gold Coast Spit, past the entrance to the Seaway, Porpoise Point on South Stradbroke Island and Wavebreak Island. Visit www.sunsailing.com.au. The Gold Coast has certainly upped its game in the restaurant stakes and my two standout recommendations would be Bonita Bonita – a cute little Mexican restaurant at Mermaid

La Luna Beach Club.

Beach that dishes up a chicken and chorizo quesadilla that is to die for – and Ladybird, an Asian fusion restaurant on Main Beach with delicious modern dishes and sensational cocktails. Next on the list for us was a visit to La Luna Beach Club – where the cocktails are flowing, the music is pumping and the pool is sparkling. You can reserve a spot by the pool, get yourself a day bed for a long stint or just enjoy a cocktail at one of the surrounding tables; it’s certainly a party vibe and you won’t be disappointed by the atmosphere.

It’s connected to Mare Restaurant, which has a seafood-dominated menu that features both small plates and full meals; and I can tell you the Wagyu Rump was a sensational choice, with some honey and black pepper glazed carrots on the side and some creamy mash potato to top it all off. Visit www.lalunabeachclub.com. au. While the pool at La Luna was nothing short of sensational, we made a point of spending a pool day at the hotel as well – you can’t go past the relaxation of getting yourself a day bed and coming in and out of the water all day, with cocktail and food service right at your fingertips (the cocktails by the way are pretty darn good, which can be hit and miss at hotels). The Gold Coast remains the ideal family holiday location, but it’s certainly become a wonderful destination for a couple’s getaway too – as long as you’re well planned and make your reservations in advance, given some of the above restaurants and experiences can fill up quickly. Parts of this trip were facilitated by Destination Gold Coast.

A beautiful Gold Coast sunset.

The beautiful yacht owned by Sun Sailing Gold Coast.

La Luna Beach Club offers an incredible menu.

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ACROSS DOWN 1. Beach crustacean 1. Scoundrels 4. Shouting 2. Take in (orphan) 8. Space shuttle agency 3. London’s Big ... 11. River-mouth triangle 4. Crochet thread 13. Civic 5. Dally 15. Pilotless spy plane 6. Sloping typeface style 17. Irish movement 7. Slimy matter (1,1,1) 8. Niggle 18. Encourage (3,2) 9. Heavenly spirit 20. Soak (up) 10. The A of AD 21. Grape variety, ... noir 12. Social outcast 24. Malaysian noodle dish 14. Whiskers 27. Self-image 16. Prized flowers 28. Knight’s horse 19. Gazes lecherously at 30. Suit 22. Principles 31. Harass online 23. Abided by (rules) 33. Be partial to 25. Without delay (2,4) 34. Cocktail, piña ... 26. TV screen supporting 35. Italian sparkling wine bases 36. Impetuous 29. Embodiment 39. Conversed 32. Rowing aid 42. Skims swiftly 35. Blameworthy (2,5) 44. Attempts 37. Demanded 45. Jitterbug or jive 38. Keeps in check (5,2) 46. Dismiss (from job) 40. Greek fable writer 48. Canadian rocker, 41. Tapering tucks Bryan ... 42. Twist 49. Sports ground 43. More protected 50. Rock group, Kings Of 44. Peals (of laughter) ... 47. Coal ashes 52. Brace (oneself) 51. Calling 54. Minister (to) 52. Soundest 55. Fathers 53. End points 56. Sorcerer 54. Knotted jumble 57. Long elephant tooth 58. Dim 60. Actor, ... McGregor 59. Fool 62. Wading birds 61. Broad expanse 65. Crooner 63. Blow one’s own 67. Lured (3,2) trumpet 69. Director, Ridley ... 64. Panoramic 70. Cutting beam 65. Film production 72. Mock playfully company 73. Banded quartz 66. Makes (wage) 75. Escort 68. Dark wood 77. Expression of 71. Wuthering Heights indifference author, ... Bronte 79. Physics particles 72. Risqué 81. Bushranger, ... Kelly 74. Mimics 82. Commotion 76. Wheel centres 84. Cathedral, ... Dame 78. This spot 85. Sweet herb Cattle sound Previous solution80. - Medium 86. Child’s toy (2-2) 83. Black gold 87. Zones 1 3 2 4 5 88. Harp-like instrument 6 3 2 1 9 5 4 8 7

Tough

6 1

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

r8ts.com

5 6 4 2 3 1 7

Sudoku brought to you by Ray White St Marys raywhitedg.com.au

SUDOKU No. 680

7 8

6 2 3 4 5

Easy

8 6 9 5 7 1 2 9 02 9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS NSW 2760 4 3 5 7 02 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR NSW 2759 5 4 8 1 3 2 6 8 1 9 7 2 6 7 1 4 2 8 3 6 9 5 4 3

5 1

5 7

4 6 8

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.

6 4 3 8 1 8 2 5 2 6

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

Previous solution - Very Hard

9 4

Crossword

3 8 2 7 4 6 9 5 1

4 6 1 9 5 3 8 7 2

1 5 6 3 9 8 2 4 7

7 4 8 2 1 5 3 9 6

2 3 9 6 7 4 5 1 8

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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This wordsearch is brought to you by CPAP Direct, would you finish it faster with a better night sleep? - cpap.com.au

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: THE HUMAN BODY LEGS ANKLE LIPS APPENDIX LIVER ARMS MUSCLES ARTERIES NAILS BLADDER NECK CAPILLARIES NERVES CARTILAGE PANCREAS CHEST SALIVA CHIN SHOULDERS EYES SKELETON FEET SKIN FINGERS SPLEEN HANDS STOMACH HEAD TEETH HORMONES TOES INTESTINES VEINS KIDNEY

Last week’s solution B R E A K D A N C E U C E B T E A P O H Y D N I L W H L O S A S L U H I P H O P M A T L I F B I B O G N A T E W R S E W L L M A O S P O R T A L U R T Y D A U N A C E C K X E H O S E W J M R O N F L E M S R M W L A I X E G L O C A R T V M I B T T E U N P O Z O X O O N N O A T E I C C U P O M N C T G D H E P Q G R O F Z E P E U O O C R X L K G H B S T U E C I S A B M A S T O T M N L S T C A B U K N U F E B I A I A K E P D G T A P P J M O D M X W G

P S R E D L V R T T N N D V E I E I H E H C K E F C K S S S S A A T C S A P L M L A E P W I O N R E A H P T C N T Y M S N D O S C A A I E N H E P X S I Y H G S K E L E U J S V K I Trivia Quiz Test your knowledge about Super Bowl history in our special trivia quiz this week.

U O H S A F K I A N C P N H D M N R H E K Q W O H T M B L A D D E R E S E I R E T R A S E S R E G N I F T L A E E N C A K I C R L N V E U M N S E T I O I R K E U S E I V M L V S M P I L L A R I E S A D D P A L O D S T E E T S G N H G T O N B O A E S E D N E Y H B E Q L

1. In what year was the first Super Bowl played? 2. Who was the first team to go back-to-back as Super Bowl champions? 3. True or false? No team has ever produced a Super Bowl threepeat. 4.The Buffalo Bills famously lost how many Super Bowls in a

row, creating an unwanted record? 5. How many current NFL teams have never won the Super Bowl? 6. When did the Miami Dolphins last win the Super Bowl? 7. Which player has won the most number of Super Bowls in their career?

ANSWERS 1. 1967 2. Green Bay Packers 3. True 4. Four 5. 12 6. 1984 7. Tom Brady

Word Search

VOICEOVERS ON HOLD MESSAGES RADIO COMMERCIALS & ALL OTHER AUDIO info@hourmedia.com.au www.happyhourmedia.com.au Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

Test Your Brain brought to you by My88, Your home of the eighties! my88.com.au | 0401 222 088

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOK Tough

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

2 6

1 2

8 7 1 8 2

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

Hexwords

No. 680

Previous solution - Medium

Str8ts, Hexwords & Name the Movie brought to you by Choices Flooring Penrith

Str8ts

No. 680

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

4 5 2 3

5 4 1 2 3

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

7 8

7 6 2 3 4 5

6 4 1 8 2 5

Name the Movie

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.

G A W YJ N E H I E L L Previous solution:

Who Am I?

÷6 x9

douBle IT

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

+6 ÷7 x9 -5 ¼ x5 ÷11 -40

InTeRMedIaTe 9/10 of IT

+1600 50% of IT -900 2/5 of ThIs 25% of ThIs

adVanced

Plus 15% ThIs +240 -110 of87½%

2000 6000

12½% of ThIs

www.30secondchallenge.com

7/10 of IT

ansWeR

1. I was born in New York City. 2. I was a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. 3. I’m an avid basketball fan.

ansWeR

of ThIs ansWeR

Plus 12½% 20% of ThIs

Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 170- BEGINNER - 11, INTERMEDIATE -6400 , ADVANCED - 62 ½.

4. I’ve been seen a lot on Netflix of late. 5. My new film is set in space. Last week’s answer: RICHARD WILKINS

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 171 - BEGINNER - 49, INTERMEDIATE - 70, ADVANCED - 18.

Plus 10% -290 of ThIs Plus 25% +25 of ThIs 5600 12½% of ThIs

62½% half of IT half of IT

62½%

TIMes By ITself

400 3/10 of IT douBle IT +10 ÷5

douBle IT

+14 ÷7 +19

InTeRMedIaTe

douBle IT 1/5 of ThIs 4/7 of IT

+6 ÷8 +15 ½

of ThIs

ansWeR ansWeR

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2024

www.30secondchallenge.com

0401 222 088

+15 ¼ of ThIs

HINTS

my88.com.au

adVanced

Your home of the eighties!

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge, BegInneR

Previous solution: A VERY COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

30 Second Challenge My88

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Friday, February 2, 2024 « the western weekender

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SPORT

Howzat! Locals shine at major cricket awards after huge year NATHAN TAYLOR

hree Australian cricketers – all with connections to the Penrith area – have cleaned up at the International Cricket Council’s ICC Awards 2023. Penrith Cricket Club junior Pat Cummins was the big winner, while St Clair Hawks junior Usman Khawaja and Penrith Cricket Club premiership-winner Phoebe Litchfield also picked up gongs for their incredible seasons. Cummins claimed the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Award as the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year, and was also named as captain of the ICC Test Team of the Year. The awards cap off a remarkable list of achievements for Cummins in 2023, which also included retaining the Ashes and captaining Australia to victories in the World Test Championship and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Another member of Australia’s World Test Championship winning side Usman Khawaja was named ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year after scoring 1210 runs at an average of 52.60 and three centuries. The former Erskine Park resident was the only batter to score over 1000 Test runs in Pat Cummins. the 2023 calendar year.

Phoebe Litchfield.

20-year-old Phoebe Litchfield – who was a member of Penrith’s premiership-winning team last season – was awarded the ICC

Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year after an impressive first year in ODI cricket, amassing 485 runs in 13 matches at an average of 53.88 and a strike rate of 81.92. The individual awards were based on performances between January 1 and December 31 2023 and determined by votes cast by the ICC Voting Academy and hundreds of thousands of global cricket fans. “Congratulations to Pat, Usman and Phoebe on their individual honours at the ICC Awards, which are a fantastic global recognition for their incredible performances that have contributed to a stellar year for Australian cricket,” Cricket Australia Chief Executive, Nick Hockley said. “Pat is the first Australian to be recognised as the men’s ICC Cricketer of the Year since Steve Smith in 2015 and this is richly deserved recognition for both his excellent individual performances and also his captaincy. “Usman has had another brilliant year and his runs at the top of the order have been crucial to our success in the Test arena. At 37, he is playing as well as ever, while Phoebe has begun her career in incredible fashion.”

Usman Khawaja.

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SPORT

A star on the rise Ciara enjoys very successful start to new year NATHAN TAYLOR

ost teens spend their school holidays relaxing by the pool, seeing a movie with friends, or going on a family vacation, but Ciara Saunby spent her summer break winning major softball tournaments all over the country. In mid-January, the 17-year-old was in Western Australia representing NSW at the U18 Girls’ Nationals, while last weekend she was in the ACT coaching the U14 NSW team at Regionals. Ciara returned from both tournaments a champion – giving her plenty to brag about when she returned to school. The latest Penrith Valley Sports Federation Senior Sports Star said it’s been an enjoyable school holidays. “I enjoy it a lot,” she admitted. “I didn’t expect it to be so tiring – going from playing to coaching – but it’s totally worth it. “I got two wins in the end, and it was really cool to see the U14’s team experience something I’ve experienced before.” The Glenmore Park teenager grew up in a softball-loving household, with her older sister playing it and her dad Justin president of the Penrith City Softball Association. “I first started playing in 2011. My older sister played it first and I got dragged along too, and loved it,” Ciara said.

A member of the Penrith Softball Club, Ciara has played in numerous representative teams for Penrith City as well as at State level. Playing in the important role of catcher, the Year 12 Hills Sports High School student sets the tone in every match she plays. “I’ve been catching since I started,” Ciara said. “I watched Ethan Field growing up and I wanted to be a catcher just like him. I got the opportunity to play catcher in the U18’s recently. “What makes a good catcher is knowledge of the game – it really makes you stand out.” As far as knowledge goes, Ciara is one of the best among her peers. She hopes she can continue her amazing form and hopefully be recognised for higher honours in the future. “It’s been a very busy year so far. The medal in Perth was the biggest highlight – I worked very hard with my team,” she said. “My next goal is to represent Australia. There are many pathways to be able to do that. The tournament I just played in, you can get selected via that, so I’m hoping I get chosen.” Nominated by her dad Justin Saunby, Ciara’s Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Senior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor Penrith Panthers Leagues Club. If you or you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your

BIG BOOST FOR FEMALE FOOTY Story continued from » p.72

“He was a part of the Parramatta Pathways Program and has a wealth of experience – it’s fantastic to have him on board. “We have men’s teams in the Sydney Shield and Ron Massey Cup competitions and we want our girls to share in the same success that our boys have. We’re not a club that says we look after our boys more than our girls. We want our girls to be up there alongside them.” If you’re interested in becoming a sister at Brothers Penrith in 2024, the club is holding a Registration Day for all players this Saturday, February 3 from 7.30am at Parker Street Oval. Potential players can mix with coaching staff and the Club Executive as well as check out the new male and female headgears and jerseys available. “Last year our U13 and U15 girls teams – all first time players most of them – won their respective Grand Finals and we look forward to building on that success this year,” Lewis said.

Ciara Saunby. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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SPORT

Fox girls shine at Champs Flying Foxes: Jessica and Noemie secure medal haul at Whitewater Stadium NATHAN TAYLOR

essica and Noemie Fox have shown the world how it’s done on their home turf, finishing the 2024 Canoe Slalom Oceania Championships with a stack of medals. Held at Penrith Whitewater Stadium last weekend, Jessica won three gold medals (canoe, kayak and kayak cross) while Noemie claimed two bronze medals (kayak and kayak cross). Jessica said she’s pleased to finish the first racing weekend of the year with three gold medals, and getting some racing experience under her belt in the lead up to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. “It couldn’t have gone better for me this weekend really,” she said. “The kayak and canoe were what I was aiming for, to do some good paddling. And with the Kayak Cross you never really know, you’ve kind of got to take it step by step and it’s good to get that race experience.” For the 29-year-old, it was

refreshing to have the world’s best paddlers back in Australia to compete against, after a few years of limited internationals visiting due to COVID restrictions. “Here we had the [Kayak Cross] world number one [Kimberley Woods], we had Luuka Jones who won the [Kayak Cross] World Cup in Paris, Noemie who is a super strong competitor and in the [Kayak Cross] final we also had Camille Prigent, one of the French paddlers,” Jessica said. “That’s a world class final, that’s a field you would expect at a World Cup of World Championships. “It was cool to be in the final with Noemie as well, and to fight it out together. I’m really proud of her racing this weekend, with her bronze in K1 as well. For her, it’s super important to get this racing experience, and it’s great to be able to do that together and with the international athletes here as well.” Last Sunday’s bronze medal was an important result for Noemie, who is working

towards the kayak cross Olympic quota qualification event in Prague in June. “Racing experience is definitely the biggest thing, so it’s a great confidence boost. But it’s also very nerve racking and I think I put a lot of pressure on every race that I do in the lead up to Prague, but it’s great for me to have that opening and to seize whatever opportunity I get to go to the Games,” Noemie said. “There’s a great team behind me, supporting me, and it’s a great experience for me to undertake. “In an Olympic year you definitely feel the shift in quality of racing, and there’s definitely been a big uplift in the competitions. “That Kayak Cross final felt like a World Championships final, and I was definitely happy to be in there and be a part of that.” Racing will return to Penrith Whitewater Stadium this weekend for the 2024 Canoe Slalom AUS Open. Spectators are welcome.

Camille Prigent, Jessica Fox and Noemie Fox. Photo: JGR Images.

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WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Wanderers show faith in Borrello FOOTBALL: He’s been on the sidelines for most of the season through injury, but Western Sydney are standing by their man – re-signing Socceroos forward Brandon Borrello on a three-year deal. Borrello returned to the domestic competition in 2022 with the Wanderers after an extensive career in Germany. The forward instantly made an impact at the Wanderers and won the club’s Rod Allen Media Player of the Year Award, Members Player of the Year Award, Golden Boot and prestigious Wanderers Medal in his first season at the club. Borrello also returned to the Socceroos squad thanks to his sensational form at the Wanderers and his passion for the club and region saw him win over the hearts of the Wanderers faithful. Wanderers coach Marko Rudan said he was proud to retain the 28-year-old for the next three seasons. “We are very proud as a football club that Brandon has re-signed on a long-term deal that will see him at the club for many seasons to come,” he said. “Brandon has not only been an influential player of this club on the field, but off the field where he has embodied what it truly means to represent this club and region. While this season hasn’t gone the way that he has certainly planned, we have put our full support behind Brandon and are excited to see him return back to the field in the months to come.” Borrello thanked the club for their belief in him and the extension. “I’ve fallen back in love with football at the Wanderers and I cannot thank the club enough for the way that they have not only welcomed me, but embraced me as one of their family,” he said. “I’d like to also thank head coach Marko Rudan, for not only bringing me back to the A-Leagues, but for his mentorship and guidance that has not only helped me develop as a player and also as a person.” Borrello suffered a foot fracture during the Sydney Derby in Round 5. It’s anticipated that he will return later this season. FOOTBALL: Western Sydney have returned from Tasmania with all three points, defeating Western United 1-0 last Saturday afternoon. Despite being reduced to 10 men after a straight red card to defender Aidan Simmons in the second half, the Wanderers did enough to hang on for victory and remain in the top four. Lachlan Brook gave the Wanderers a first-half lead before Simmons’ dismissal in the 66th minute made things interesting. The Wanderers will travel to Campbelltown on Sunday to take on Macarthur at 5pm. FOOTBALL: Brisbane have broken Western

Sydney’s historic undefeated run, smashing the Wanderers 3-1 at Marconi Stadium last

weekend. Both sides were locked at 1-all at half-time before the Roar – led by the brilliance of Matildas star Tameka Yallop – ran riot with a couple of goals to put the result beyond doubt. The result means Robbie Hooker’s side miss out on the chance to go second on the ladder as their four-game winning streak came to an end. They’ll face off against Adelaide United on Saturday. CRICKET: Penrith have gone down to Western Suburbs in Round 12 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval, Western Suburbs won the toss and elected to bowl. Penrith struggled with the bat on day one and were all out for a disappointing 183. When play resumed on day two, Western Suburbs started the morning 0/53. The visitors batted well in stages, and just did enough to reach Penrith’s target with two wickets in hand. Luke Hodges took 5/37 in the loss. Penrith will attempt to bounce back when they hit the road for a game against Mosman this weekend. CRICKET: Manly Warringah have belted Penrith in Round 14 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a One-Day match at Howell Oval, Manly Warringah won the toss and elected to bat. The visitors put up a solid score of 9/188 after 50 overs. When Penrith hit the crease later that day, they lost their opening batters for one run and things didn’t get better from there. In the end, they were dismissed for just 89. Alana Ryan top scored with 16. The Lady Cats will aim to put a stop to their losing streak when they battle Sydney this Sunday at Howell Oval. SWIMMING: Recent Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star and Cranebrook resident Hayley Faull is raising funds for an organisation close to her heart. The 11-year-old swimmer is aiming to swim 45km by the end of February, to raise funds for hearing research at the Bionic Institute. Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to delayed language development in children, isolation, loneliness and reduced educational and work opportunities. The Bionics Institute is a world leader in the development of life-changing hearing treatments. With a family history in genetic hearing loss, the Year 6

NORMAN’S

Brandon Borrello has re-signed with the Wanderers long-term.

Cambridge Gardens Public School student will take part in this month’s Bionic Institute Couch to your KM Challenge. To donate to the cause,

Hayley Faull is raising money for charity.

SCRAP

visit https://shorturl.at/fGRU4. CRICKET: Round 14 of the Nepean District Cricket Association (NDCA) competition took place last weekend, with an excellent round of results for Panthers Cricket Club. The Panthers T20 team won their Final against Glenmore Park in a tight match. Panthers defended 94 to dismiss Glenmore Park for just 68. In fifth grade, Panthers put in an excellent batting performance on the first day of their match against Emu Plains. Panthers finished the day at 10/251. The father/son combination of Nick and Riley Killeen put on 135 runs for the fourth wicket, with stand-in skipper Nick Killeen dismissed for 114. Panthers’ bowlers will now have the job to secure first innings points on the second day next Sunday. GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

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f Brothers Penrith’s recent female recruitment drive is anything to go by, they may need to change their name to ‘Sisters Penrith’ in the not-too-distant future. The junior rugby league club of Nathan Cleary and Greg Alexander is hoping they can produce more NRLW talent in the years to come – boosting their female stocks for the upcoming season. With the announcement by Panthers

Juniors regarding on-age girls competitions for 2024, the club have conducted a big promotional effort to recruit females, and they are now on track to have an all-girls team for every age group from U12’s up. Brothers Penrith coach, committee member and female ambassador Mark Lewis said the club is committed to recruiting a full complement of girls teams off the back of recent changes made by Panthers Juniors. “Panthers Juniors have announced U8, U10, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16 and U18 girl-

age teams. Last year, at Brothers, we only had an U13s and U15s team, with a lot of our girls playing up a year to get into those teams,” Lewis told the Weekender. “Some of the clubs in the competition had multiple girls’ teams for some age groups but, as part of these new rules, each club is only permitted to have one girls team per age group. “What that will do is spread the talent out and gives other clubs, like ours, an opportunity to field more girls’ teams.” With the NRLW continuing to expand every few years, the women’s game is

exploding from the seniors right down to the junior level. Lewis said the club is “very serious” about promoting the female game and have even recruited an experienced coach to take charge of their new U18s team this year. “Our new U18’s coach, Kevin Chester, has come across from the Wentworthville Harvey Norman’s Women’s Premiership club, where he’s coached for the past three years,” he said. Story continues on » p. 69

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