Western Weekender October 6 2023

Panthers party hard after creating history with third straight NRL title

greeting them both outside and inside the club.

Thousands of rugby league fans flocked to BlueBet Stadium on Monday morning to celebrate Sunday night’s Grand Final win with history-making Panthers players.

It was the culmination of an all-night party following Penrith’s remarkable 26-24 win over Brisbane in the season decider at Accor Stadium.

The Panthers came from 24-8 down with less than 20 minutes remaining to pull off a comeback for the ages and become the first team since Parramatta in the early 1980s to win three straight titles.

It’s the first time a threepeat has been achieved in the NRL era.

After the game, the players returned to Panthers Leagues Club in the early hours of Monday morning, with thousands of fans

At one point lines to get into the club exceeded an hour, while police closed Mulgoa Road as fans took to the streets to party.

It was an incredible atmosphere up there with the 1991 celebrations that followed Penrith’s maiden title.

After being presented to the waiting crowd inside the club, the players attended a private function at the EVAN Theatre.

They continued to mingle with family, friends and sponsors through the morning.

The players then headed across to the BlueBet Stadium event where a crowd somewhere in the vicinity of 7,000 had turned out.

They continued to party privately on Monday and Tuesday at Drink West brewery and on Sydney Harbour, celebrating their feat.

More coverage: See pages 4, 5, 37-60.

Penrith players are presented to the crowd at BlueBet Stadium on Monday.

Photo: NRL Images.

TROY DODDS

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The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds

A night of unforgettable moments

There’s part of me that still doesn’t believe the events of Sunday night actually happened.

the club itself were out of his world, right up there with the 1991 party after the club’s first title.

home to me and my group of friends, will be torn down.

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If any Penrith fan tells you that they still had hope after Brisbane superstar Ezra Mam’s third try in the second half, they are lying to you.

Here’s a collection of thoughts from a Grand Final for the ages...

A glorious comeback silences the critics

The Panthers were gone. The engravers about to fire up the inscription on the trophy in favour of the Broncos. Ezra Mam about to win the Clive Churchill Medal, and Penrith’s critics about to have the last laugh.

Instead, those critics have now been silenced once and for all.

Silenced by 20 minutes of top shelf rugby league from halfback Nathan Cleary, and by a champion football team that can never be written off.

For the last three years, Penrith have faced attacks from all corners: sections of the media, opposition fans, the wider news cycle. Much of it has been unfair, without context and agenda-driven.

The fact that this brilliant bunch of players has had the last laugh is the icing on top of the three-peat cake.

Not that it was ever about the critics.

The players didn’t need to prove anything to anyone but themselves and they knew the Penrith community they represent was behind them.

Passion runs deep in Penrith

The stunning support from the local area over this past week or two has been extraordinary.

I actually expected things to be a little more subdued this year given we went through it all COVID-free in 2022 against our western Sydney rivals in Parramatta.

But the Penrith community out-did itself this year, with everything from house and business decorations to attendance at fan days and post-game celebrations going up a level this year.

The celebrations outside of Panthers and in

History will tell the full story

It will be history that defines how good this Penrith team really is. In the present, there is too much distraction and recency bias to ever make that final declaration.

But you can be pretty sure that rugby league aficionados of the future will reflect fondly on this side, which has crushed all before it.

For decades to come, great teams will be compared to this Penrith side, which now rightly sits alongside some of the greatest rugby league teams from the game’s long and proud history.

For the true believers

I’ve got nothing against the bandwagon jumpers or fans who’ve only gotten behind the team in the last four or so years.

Your support must start somewhere, and the positive thing is that even though you’ll lose a few of those new fans when times get tough, many will stick around and create a new generation of loyal supporters.

But for those of us who’ve put a lifetime of support into this club and been there when times were particularly tough, this threepeat is something extra special.

It must have felt the same in 1991 for fans who had been there through the lean formative years of the club.

I know that in 2003, it felt amazing knowing that just two years earlier, I sat through a wooden spoon season. It just made victory taste that little bit better.

The last three years have been an incredible reward for those difficult years that followed the success of the mid-2000s.

We all know who we are, and we all know how much it means.

The timing feels right

There is something fortuitous about the timing of this golden run.

At the end of next year, significant changes will happen at Penrith Stadium.

The Western Grandstand, almost a second

News..........................................................1-23

Local Business Awards.........24-30

Business...............................................31-36

Progress is inevitable and nobody is about to chain themselves to our seats.

But the fact we’ve got to go through this era before everything changes (for better or worse) makes it a little easier to deal with.

Those cold, winter nights getting belted by 30 or 40 points feel like so long ago now.

As long as the spirit of Penrith Park remains intact through any changes that are made, better facilities can only be a good thing.

There will always be the memories.

Clearys elevated to legendary status

It is impossible to know just what the Cleary family’s final mark will be on this football club and the community, but this era will forever be considered as Penrith’s greatest.

Ivan Cleary is now in the top echelon of NRL coaches, while Nathan has matured to be not only a great player, but a tremendous role model off the field.

There was a time in 2019 when all of this appeared like it was headed off the tracks. The turnaround has been very special. Could it all end in tears one day? Perhaps, but you get the feeling the future of the Clearys will be decided on their own terms. And they’ve certainly earned the right.

Silent players in Premiership picture

There are so many individuals who have played a role in this period of success for Penrith.

You can’t not mention Phil Gould, who in the very least put the building blocks in place for the vision of what this club could be, and now is.

Former Chairman Dave O’Neill and his call to bring back Ivan Cleary in 2019 is the stuff of legend. His shock departure from the Board last year remains an unfortunate quirk of this wonderful era.

Group CEO Brian Fletcher has been extraordinary through this period, while current Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron is perhaps the club’s top tier secret weapon. His role in this era is as under-rated as Dylan Edwards is by representative selectors.

Extra Time......................................37-60

Entertainment................................61-70 Western Property.........................71-81

The Experts....................................82-86

Relax & Unwind...........................87-92

Sport.....................................................93-96

Penrith’s Royal Family

How the Clearys have joined the Cartwrights in legendary status at the Panthers

The Cartwright family rightly sits at the top of the tree when it comes to influence on the Panthers over its 56-year history. There would be no Penrith Panthers without Merv Cartwright, and six players on the long list of caps for the club have carried the surname. But there can be no doubt the Cleary family is the modern day Royal Family of the Panthers.

Canterbury was once regarded as the family club of rugby league but that mantle now belongs with Penrith.

Ivan's impact on Penrith since his famous return in 2019 cannot be overstated.

He has taken the club to four Grand Finals in his five seasons since being back at the foot of the Mountains, and won three Grand Finals, a feat many considered impossible.

Wife Bec’s influence is strong too – not just on Ivan and superstar son Nathan, but on the club itself.

She was overcome with emotion when speaking after the game about Nathan’s heroics to save the Grand Final.

“I'm just super proud of him. It’s a team effort and I think all the boys were amazing. Nat did a few special things and we’re really proud of him,” she told Channel Nine.

“It was amazing. Even to get to a Grand Final is next level and to do that, I’m so proud of all the boys. They were amazing.”

Nathan’s sisters Indi and Milaya and brother Jett were all on the field to celebrate the Grand Final victory on Sunday night. Ivan made a point of

bringing them down from the stands to join in the celebrations.

Wearing an old-school Sanyo-sponsored Panthers jersey, Jett said it was a special moment.

“It was pretty unreal. I don't think I'll ever live through something like that ever again,” he told Nine.

“There's been three but that was definitely the hardest one but the best one to watch.”

Nathan's place in Penrith history is assured. He is now without question the club's greatest ever halfback, and still potentially has a decade of football ahead of him.

Jett too has a promising league career in the pipeline, while Indi is making waves in the local real estate market.

No matter what happens in the years to come, the Cleary family’s impact on this football team and the wider city is nothing short of phenomenal.

More Grand Final coverage: See Extra Time pull-out, starts page 37.

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The Cleary family is interviewed on Channel Nine post-game.

Photo: NRL Images.

Nathan and Ivan Cleary with the trophy.

Australia still divided as

they also know that division won’t solve the problems facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In just over a week, Australians will head to the polls and vote on the Voice, in the first referendum since 1999.

After six weeks of extensive campaigning from both the ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ camps, voters will be asked to vote on the following question: “A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?”

With pre-polling now open, people on both sides of the debate are hoping to sway undecided voters.

Jack Gibson is a proud Wiradjuri man and a supporter of the Yes campaign.

He told the Weekender that this is the biggest transformational change since the 1967 referendum, which saw Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples counted as part of the Australian population.

“It's very important because Aboriginal people have suffered for so long and they haven't been listened to,” Gibson said.

“I think that a Yes vote will give Aboriginal people an opportunity to be able to have some input into the laws and policies that affect their lives.”

According to Gibson, having a Voice enshrined in the Constitution means that

successive governments will also have to listen to First Nations people.

He said governments have established and abolished different advisory bodies over the years, but this one would be permanent.

“We’ve had these advisory groups for forever and a day,” he said.

“But governments can establish them and take them away, and that's what's happened.”

Gibson said that the Voice is not divisive, but a step towards a more united Australia.

MONDAY 25TH DECEMBER 2023

12PM – 3PM

‘Tis the se ason to celebrate with family and friends.

Immerse yourself in a magical experience and indulge in a gourmet Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Set in the Grand Ballroom with a festive atmosphere and a special appearance by Santa Claus all the wa y from the Nor th Pole!

He is urging all Australians to really look at the question they’re being asked.

“If we want a more equal society then we must vote Yes,” Gibson said.

“We cannot continue to have more of the same, statistics tell us things are not working.”

Warren Mundine and Indigenous Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price have been spearheading the No case.

They said people understand how important unity and community are for a country but

Ahead of a rally in western Sydney, Mundine said the government just wants to add another layer of bureaucracy that will be accountable to no one.

“The Prime Minister thinks this voice is going to be a magic wand that fixes all the issues in Indigenous affairs, the one thing that can actually make an impact today is accountability,” he said.

“The taxpayer pays approximately $30 billion a year to address things like closing the gap, yet we do not know where the money is going, it is definitely not getting where it needs to, the regional, rural and remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.”

Former Federal Lindsay MP Emma Husar is actively pushing locals to vote Yes.

She told the Weekender that voting No is voting to keep the status quo.

“We’re living in No now… and that’s not working,” she said.

“The gap between Aboriginal Australians and non-Aboriginal Australians is growing at an exponential rate.”

According to Husar, this is a moral issue and she’s urging all Australians to ask themselves what they value in this country when they cast their votes.

“If you’re not an Aboriginal person, a Voice is not going to make any difference to you on

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“We haven’t been listened to”: Why Jack Gibson believes voting Yes is crucial at

Jack Gibson is encouraging locals to vote Yes.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

referendum approaches

next weekend’s Voice referendum, as polls point to victory for the No campaign

Your say: What are your thoughts about the Voice?

“I think possibly there could be a bit more information on what it will actually mean to people for everyday purposes. Personally, I will be voting Yes but I think it gets a little bit confusing, especially when I look at someone like my elderly mother, trying to explain what it would mean to her.”

“They’re dividing us, they’re not including everyone. We’re all supposed to be Australians looking after each other and wanting a better country. I don’t see how our government’s helping us out at all.”

a practical or day to day level. But it will mean a world of difference for people who haven't been represented and don't get heard on issues which affect them,” she said.

“The next generation also deserves to be heard and respected. Change is hard but not changing is harder… you have to be brave.”

Polls continue to point to the referendum failing to succeed, which will be a significant blow to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has been championing the Yes campaign.

Voting takes place on October 14.

“I don’t really have a lot of thoughts about it. I could find out information if I wanted to, but I don’t really look for information.”

“Vote No, you don’t want to vote Yes. Jacinta Price, she tells the truth because she’s Aboriginal.”

“I’ve been conflicted, but I’ve finally been able to manage to take the politicians out of it and look at it as just a clear subject matter and I’ll be voting Yes.”

“I’ve been going both ways on this one. At this stage of the game, less than two weeks out, I’m still very undecided about which way I’m going to vote.”

“I’m voting for the Aboriginals, I’m with them.”

“I think it’s good. In uni there’s been a lot of movements for it and I agree.”

Former Lindsay MP Emma Husar.

Brian

Aleata

Francis Abboodi

Joanna

Nate

Anthony

Kathy

Penrith builder collapses

Staff terminated as $4.7 million is owed to creditors by Zadro Constructions

ny’s affairs and complete projects underway,” a Grant Thornton spokesperson said.

After more than 60 years of trading, Penrith building company Zadro Constructions has been placed into voluntary administration.

As a result, all seven of the company’s staff have been made redundant, with a ripple effect impacting subcontractors and suppliers. It is unlikely that the company will ever trade again.

Joel Austin, Director of Voltcom Electrical & Communications, has worked with Zadro as their exclusive electrical contractor for a decade.

Despite admitting that he’s become extremely close with the company and its employees, Austin recalled years of difficulty receiving payment, ultimately having to use leverage, slowing down jobs and impacting clients.

“It’s not fair to them, but that’s what was happening,” he said.

According to Austin, who has worked with Zadro Constructions on many government jobs over the years, starting work on Sydney Science Park in Luddenham was the last straw.

“We had to basically beg and pry retention out of them, and that’s where a lot of people have been hit,” he said.

“It kept rolling over, and rolling over, and

then we found out later from clients that they’d paid them full retention. That was when we put the hard word on them that we had to be paid, but nothing happened, and phones went off.”

Grant Thornton administrators John McIn-

erney and Cameron Crichton were appointed on September 15.

“At the time of our appointment, the Company’s operations ceased while the Administrators held discussions with key customers regarding options to restructure the Compa-

“Whilst discussions regarding the future of the projects are continuing, it appears unlikely that the business will recommence trading and all staff (seven) have been formally terminated.”

Austin said that his company is owed around $80,000, with Zadro reportedly owing other companies between $60,000 and $500,000. The Weekender understands the total owing to creditors stands at $4.7 million.

Austin is now part of a three-person committee which has been in communication with the administrators and the company, and is requesting bank statements to bring the pieces of the puzzle together.

“The bank statements will be the key to end the speculation – this is what’s been paid to everybody, this is where the money’s gone,” he said.

A Grant Thornton spokesperson said that a meeting of creditors will be held on or around Monday, October 23 to determine the future of Zadro Constructions.

“A detailed report to creditors outlining, amongst other things, the causes of the Company’s failure will be provided to creditors in the coming weeks when the Administrators have completed their investigations,” they said.

Zadro Constructions was contacted by the Weekender for comment but did not respond.

CASSIDY

The perfect warm weather game has just launched in store. Ideal for young pet lovers, Soggy Doggy is the suspense-filled interactive board game sensation that has kids on the edge of their seat. Kids take turns rolling the dice and giving Soggy Doggy a bath as they race around the board. But watch out – he loves to shake himself dry! Get soaked and you’re sent back to start.

2018 Winner of the prestigious Toy of the Year (TOTY) award, Soggy Doggy is shakin’ things up with a new look. Designed for ages four to eight years, Soggy Doggy is an easy and fun game for kids to enjoy and keep entertained for hours.

Each round takes about 10 minutes and is ideal for two to four players. Kids can unleash their

paceway winners lucky

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

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imagination with this immersive experience as Soggy Doggy takes you for a round of showering, shaking, wet doggy fun. Race to wash this playful pup for a fun-soaked time that brings the whole family together. Share some laughs and try not to get splashed! Soggy Doggy (RRP $29.99) is available in major retailers Kmart, Target and Big W, as well as Amazon and independent trade. The Weekender has five Soggy Doggy toys to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Soggy' in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, October 20 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

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: 0068, 0798, 0886.

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 giant yellow elephant blow-up is located outside a car yard on the corner of Castlereagh Road and Andrews Road in North Penrith.

Our giant failure: Future

• Outgoing Mayor’s regret over stalled Lakes development • Locals left to swelter

After decades of failed attempts to coordinate development, Western Sydney Lakes (formerly Penrith Lakes) is sitting idle while the State Government launches a feasibility study for Prospect Reservoir.

As the country moves into what is expected to be one of its hottest summers in years, people further west are calling to open the Lakes so they can enjoy recreational and water-based activities.

However, last month, it was announced that the government is looking at opening Prospect’s backup water supply to the public, meaning the vision for Penrith’s purposebuilt waterways could be abandoned again.

“There doesn’t seem to be any great efforts to get it open,” Penrith Councillor Tricia Hitchen told the Weekender

“It seems horribly unfair and I don't understand why we’re being ignored.”

After the quarrying was completed in 2015, it was understood by the community that the site would be rehabilitated and returned to the government.

There have been numerous plans to develop the area into an international tourist destination but years of ridiculous bureaucracy has ensured that none of the bold proposals put forward have come to fruition.

Investigators at Sydney Water’s Urban Plunge team have deemed the water safe for swimming but it seems the future of the Lakes is being given little consideration, even though they could be the answer to cooling down in hot summers to come.

In her final address as the Mayor of Penrith, Councillor Tricia Hitchen said it's a major regret that Western Sydney Lakes still aren't open.

She said it’s frustrating that the Lakes are sitting behind a locked fence, with no sign of that changing any time soon.

“It's bigger than Sydney Harbour… the water is perfect to swim in and we can’t get in there,” Hitchen told the Weekender

She also said that people from Penrith shouldn’t have to travel an hour-and-a-half to the beach when they have a perfectly good one in their own backyard.

“Once upon a time, going to the beach was free but now with petrol, tolls and parking it's $100,” she said.

“People can't afford that.”

Penrith City Council is “really keen” to work with the Lakes Corporation and NSW Government to masterplan the area.

“It's such a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Hitchen said.

Western Sydney Lakes CEO Jacqueline Vozzo said a golf course, heliport and wave park have been approved for the site.

In relation to the rest of the most recent

proposal, the Department of Planning said more work had to be done due to the flood and pointed that our fulsome rezoning proposal was not accepted by Planning,” she told the Weekender

“We took a lot of checks to ensure that there were no flooding and evacuation concerns.”

Vozzo said she wants the government to be

An artist’s impression of the vision for Western Sydney Lakes in Penrith.

of Lakes still up in the air

while site remains fenced off • Government refuses to provide definite answers

open to having conversations around opening the Lakes, so the community can enjoy free water respite.

She also said she has received no timeframe as to when we can expect the Lakes to open.

“There should be avenues for conversation to try and bring this to the community sooner rather than later,” she said.

“Penrith is always reported as the hottest place on the planet… and we have water for swimming sitting there ready.”

State Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown told the Weekender that despite being unable to provide a definite time frame, she is happy to have conversations around the future of Western Sydney Lakes, which are such an important asset for the area.

“I know that the community are really keen to have access to the area and the recreational activities,” she said.

“I am committed to working with the Western Sydney Lakes to expand opportunities for recreation in the area.”

According to McKeown, the whole site needs to be carefully and cleverly master planned to best utilise this “golden opportunity”.

“Let's not rush it and go off half informed with what we can do,” she said.

“I think this is an absolute jewel for the people of Penrith.”

The Department of Planning acknowledges strong community support for parklands and recreational activities to be delivered as part

of the Penrith Lakes Schemem according to a spokesperson.

“The Penrith Whitewater Stadium and the International Regatta Centre currently offer fantastic opportunities for water-related sports and other activities,” a spokesperson from Planning said.

“We’re working with Western Sydney Lakes on ways to open up more opportunities, noting that the Penrith Lakes scheme is a long-term project with many complex issues that will take time to resolve.”

The Leura Village Association and major sponsors Belle Property and Bendigo Bank is proud to hold the returning Leura Village Fair Sat 7th and Sun 8th October. The main street of Leura will once again be lined with over 100 market stalls o ering Local artisan, crafts, trade goods, vintage wear and much more.

A Landmark 41st celebration of the Leura Village Spring Fair finally returns with a visiting food hub located in the Megalong St Carpark with a wide array of food and take-home favourites ready to serve all your culinar y desires.

Take a seat and enjoy the food and entertainment provided by local choirs and musicians, performing over the two days.

Free face painting for the kids at the Belle Property Stall and many creative family activities to participate in including fun kids activities at the Raine and Horne stall. The Leura cafes and speciality shops that line Leura Mall and arcades are excited and stocked up ready to welcome everyone back to Leura.. . The shops will be decorated in spring fling, with a competition for the best dressed window prizes. Dazzle and come dressed in your favourite spring get up ... competition for best dressed, with a prize kindly donated by Geekdom in the Mall.

Organisers from The Leura Village Association are excited

“We combined with the RFS and Local member Ray Wiles whose mammoth e orts within the Blue Mountains Community, welcome one and all to celebrate our beautiful village. Revel in our stunning blooming cherry tree blossoms, our scenery, our hospitality and bring a much-needed tourism injection back into the Blue Mountains village. “ We thank all our sponsors and recognise the fair would not be possible without the combined e orts of the Blue Mountain’s community.. a True testament of Mountains living

We particularly wish to thank the following: Matt and Rebecca Grima from Belle Real Estate for their contribution to our community over the many years the Leura fairs have been running.

We also ver y kindly thank the RFS for the mammoth e orts over the 2days.

Our Sponsors: Fairmont Resort and Spa, Lilianfels, C arrington hotel, Raine and Horne Leura, Katoomba Mitre 10, Purcell Property, Bec Alchin at the Wayzgoose C afe, Firdaus Gardens, Jen at Zoe Clare Leura, Blue Mountain s Grammer School and Jodie Dalglish from Megalong Books Leura.

Leura Village Fair held in Leura Mall Saturday 7th October 9am -4. 30pm and Sunday 8th October 9am -3pm.

We can’t wait to see you there and look forward to serving you.

The vision for Western Sydney Lakes.

Western Sydney Lakes.

What the Lakes could look like if opened to the public.

Toolkit solves communication gap for people with disabilities

People with disabilities are being put at the forefront at Nepean Hospital, thanks to a collaboration between Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and DARE Disability Support.

Project manager of My Health My Communication, Kathryn Woods, said that the concept came about through lived experience with people with disabilities in the local community.

“We had a problem with communication with hospitals, and these problems were quite significant problems, where people, because of communication, weren’t having the greatest of health outcomes or patient experience,” she said.

In researching, Woods found that almost 60 per cent of people with intellectual disability have severe communication limitations, resulting in challenges in the admission, treatment or discharge process that could all be avoided if better processes were in place.

In October of 2020, My Health My Communication was created, bringing people with disabilities from DARE and other services together to contribute to creating a solution. However, what made the project so unique was the collaboration with nurses, to see what they needed to fill the gap.

“It’s a first-of-its-kind project where a hospital and disability services have come together and worked in tandem,” she said.

“What was really beautiful about this project was that we had the opportunity to also get into the minds of our nurses that are on the ward and ask, ‘What information do you need?’, ‘How do you need it?’, ‘How can we make it concise and clear, fast to read, easy to use, and easy to implement?’.”

The result of the project, which ended this month, is a hospital handover tool, and a wallet card that they’re giving out for free.

“The toolkit’s always going to be available online for any person with a disability to use to write down all the important information that they need to handover to the hospital when they’re admitted, because often they can’t communicate those needs,” she said.

“If they need adjustments, or they have allergies, or if they need special requirements so that they can eat safely and not choke on food, for example, all of those things are captured in that handover tool.”

In particular, the team collaborated closely with Nepean Hospital, which Woods said is doing more and more work on inclusivity as the redevelopments are being done.

“A lot of work went in with Katoomba, but we’ve also started to roll out the package

into Nepean,” she said.

“Nepean has gone through a whole lot of restructure with the building and everything else being updated, and another beautiful thing about that is that the hospital was able to start looking at ways that they can accept the information coming from people from disabilities – so not just this tool, but in general.”

Woods said that she’s incredibly grateful for the support from the Nepean Blue Mountains LHD and the hospitals within it, which has seen the toolkit go further than they ever envisaged, with the possibility now emerging that it could be used to amend age and language barriers.

“We were selfish – being a disability service, we were just thinking mainly about our clients, and that we wanted to make things better for people with intellectual disabilities, because they can’t communicate,” she said.

“In rolling it out, we’ve had some aged care providers and providers for people with Alzheimer’s that are just scooping it up going, ‘This is brilliant!’.”

Now that the toolkit is completed, Woods can’t wait to share it far and wide.

“We are really happy and really excited about it,” she said.

“The resource is online, it can be downloaded, and we’ve now made it so that no matter what health district somebody’s in, anywhere in New South Wales, they can use the tool.”

For more information, visit myhealthmycommunication.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Cathy and Carolyn, who participated in project working groups, with Project Manager Kathryn Woods.

Dawn Hutley and Karen Alexander from Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, who are part of the project team.

The world’s rst interactive magic spectacular! See international magicians, breathtaking illusions, cutting edge technology, and you will be able to interact live via your phone!

or you will miss your chance to tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice on her magical adventures!

After a sell out tour in 2022 Jon Stevens is back by popular demand. The Noiseworks & INXS Collection Tour is coming to Sydney Coliseum.

Starting out on the Star Factor show aged 14 Mowie is a now Filipino singer, songwriter and actress returning to Sydney for the rst time since 2018.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

COMPILED BY MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Kingswood: Man charged after cops catch him with drugs at station

A man has been charged after he was busted with a banned substance in Kingswood.

About 11am on Friday, September 29, Police were patrolling Kingswood Railway Station.

Police allege that the 26-year-old arrived on a train and left the station without tapping an Opal card or device.

Police spoke with the man and searched him, allegedly locating a small resealable plastic bag containing methylamphetamine and a small plastic resealable bag containing cannabis seeds.

The man was charged with two counts of 'possess prohibited drug' and issued an infringement notice for travelling without a valid ticket. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on October 20.

Llandilo: Police find weapon during search of vehicle

A man has been charged after he was caught with a weapon in Llandilo.

About 4.20pm on Friday, September 29, police stopped a motor vehicle on The Northern Road. During a subsequent search of that vehicle, police allegedly located a firearm on the passenger footwell.

The driver, a 30-year-old man from Bidwill, was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station. The man was charged with possessing an unauthorised pistol and not keeping a firearm safe.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court on October 12.

Erskine Park: Man blows mid-range over long weekend

A man has been charged after he was caught mid-range drink-driving in Erskine Park

About 9.40pm on Saturday, September 30, police were conducting Random Breath Testing and stopped a vehicle on Mamre Road.

Police allege that the 66-year-old driver from Rossmore, was breath tested, and returned a positive result.

The man was arrested and taken to a Mobile RBT Bus where Police allege he underwent a breath analysis that returned a reading in the middle range.

The man's licence was suspended on the spot and he was charged.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court on October 26.

St Marys: Man wanted over alleged thefts found in local car park

A wanted man has been charged after being caught in St Marys.

About 1.30am on Saturday, October 1, police were patrolling North St Marys when they approached a 48-year-old man from Queensland, who was standing in a car park.

Police allege they searched the man and located a small plastic bag containing Methylamphetamine.

Checks were carried out on the man, which revealed he was wanted for allegedly stealing a motor vehicle from a business in Cranebrook on July 7. Police allege the man was also wanted for stealing items from homes in Cundletown on July 15. He was also wanted over allegations he stole items from a business in North St Marys on September 9.

The man was arrested and conveyed to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with the matters.

He was also charged with two outstanding arrest warrants.

The man was refused bail and will appear in Penrith Local Court on October 5.

WANTED: HAVE YOU SEEN THIS MAN?

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant, who is known to frequent a number of local suburbs.

Rafael Piliae, aged 24, is wanted by virtue of an outstanding arrest warrant in relation to domestic violence offences.

He is described as being of Pacific Islander / Maori

appearance, between 180cm to 185cm tall, of a large build with black hair, unshaven and brown eyes.

He is known to frequent the Mt Druitt, Blacktown, Penrith and Kingswood areas of western Sydney.

Anyone with information about Rafael’s whereabouts is urged to contact police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

One of the things to remember if you are buying or selling a property is that there will be an adjustment on settlement with respect to Council and water rates (and if applicable strata levies).

The way this works is that we calculate the current state of play as at the completion date, that is, whether or not the seller is behind, up to date or ahead with respect to their payments.

If they are behind, some of the purchase monies are redirected from the seller to pay the outstanding debt. If the seller is ahead on their rates, the buyer has to make an additional payment to cover the amount that the seller is in credit.

The real magic however is in calculating exactly how much money needs to be credited to arrears or refunded to the seller if they are ahead in circumstances where your settlement date almost never aligns exactly with the start or end of a ratings period.

For example, you might settle in the middle of the month, but the Council rates with respect to the property you are buying might not be due until the end of the month or quarter. The same is true for water rates and strata levies.

So what we do, together with the solicitor or conveyancer for the other party, is calculate rates on a daily basis and pro rata them so the seller only pays up until the date of settlement and the buyer does not start paying until the day of settlement. Essentially this means each of the parties finishes/starts with a clean slate.

To demonstrate how this works in practice, consider a game of rugby league. If the 80th minute i.e. full time is the equivalent of the settlement date and as at full time one team has 26 points and the other team has 24 points then the team with 26 points would have to give a point to the team with 24 points so that scores are level, and things were fair and square.

Of course, in rugby league parlance however, this is not what occurs.

Rather, there is no adjustment in the Broncos’ favour, the Panthers win 26-24 and become the first team in the NRL era to win three premierships in a row.

If you need help buying or selling a property, contact us today.

All our details are in the advertisement below.

See you next week.

TRIAL FOCUSES ON EDUCATION ACCESS

The State Government has launched a $20 million trial grants program aimed at improving working families’ access to early childhood education and care when and where they need it most.

Offering providers a pool of up to $20 million over two years, the Flexible Initiatives Trial will provide grants to support existing ECEC services to expand and innovate, to better meet the needs of children and families and allow parents to enter the workforce or increase their hours.

New or adapted operating models will include:

• extending hours of care beyond traditional working hours

• providing flexible pick-up and drop-off times

• improved access to ad hoc care arrangements outside scheduled hours

• establishing new family day care services in remote areas.

The Flexible Initiatives Trial includes funding to ensure the workforce is supported to deliver flexible models of ECEC. It is one of a suite of ECEC programs to be delivered by the NSW Government in 2023-24, which aim to improve affordability and access.

All eligible ECEC service provider types are invited to apply for the Flexible Initiatives Trial, with funding to support family day care services on offer for the first time.

Applications are now open for the first round of the program, and close on December 1. Visit the NSW Department of Education website for more information.

with Daniel McKinnon

Pick up a copy of the paper

Caddens

Caddens News (Caddens Corner)

Clementine’s Café

Woolworths

Cambridge Gardens

Coles

Mcdonald’s

Overlander Hotel

Cambridge Park

Cambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

Castlereagh

Ampol Service Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

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)

Emu Heights

Super Save Compounding Chemist

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

Glenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

Mcdonald’s

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

Jamisontown

Abcoe

Abel Street Eatery (Happy Harrys)

Batt Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Harvey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(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

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

Caltex Service Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

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

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow Café (Formerly Willow Tree Café)

Llandilo Iga

Londonderry

Londonderry Liquor Store Shell X Roads

Luddenham

Ampol

Australia Post Iga Luddenham

Minchinbury

Mcdonald’s

Minchinbury Fruit Market

Mount Druitt

Westfield Mount Druitt

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

The Bunker

North St Marys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Mfc Food Stores

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

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

Regentville

7/11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Mobil Service Station

The Chemist Shop

South Penrith

Budget Service Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Southlands Takeaway

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair

Blue Cattle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

Melville Road Takeaway

St Clair Library

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/11 St Clair

St Marys

Andrew’s Corner Store

Ampol Foodary

Astley Pharmacy

Cassandra’s On Queen

Guido’s Hair Care

Jayam Supermarket

Mcdonald’s St Marys South

Monfarville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency St Marys Band Club

St Marys Fish Market

St Marys Leagues Club

St Marys Library

St Marys Pharmacy Queen St

St Marys Pizza Hut

St Marys Rsl

St Marys Village

Wagon Wheel Hotel

Walter’s Newsagency

Thornton

Petramart

Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia

Wallacia Golf Club

Wallacia Hotel

Wallacia Post Office

Wallacia Takeaway

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

HSC begins next week

Learn from the past, take your time: The tips to get you through the big exams

In no surprise to Year 12 students, teachers and their families, the HSC written exams are right around the corner.

A recent graduate herself, Vivian Lai from Young Growth Academy in Penrith remembers all too well the stresses of the HSC.

“Funnily enough, when I was waiting outside the exam hall, it felt sort of like a first date,” she said.

“I was both nervous and excited as I anticipated what might happen. I imagined what could go wrong, but also what could go well and the possibilities for the future.”

Whilst, hopefully, study notes and flash cards have already been made, there are still a few things students can do to prepare.

For the next few days leading up to English Paper 1, Lai is encouraging students to look back on their past mistakes.

“The most effective way to study now is to complete practice papers and check your answers or ask

your tutor to give you feedback. See what you've done wrong and focus on improving in those areas,” she said.

“I went one step further by cutting out the errors I made in past papers and gluing them in a notebook. Instead of aimlessly skimming my notes before an exam, I would look through the book to remind myself not to repeat those mistakes!”

When it comes to the exam room itself, taking every opportunity to spark inspiration is key – especially if you catch yourself going blank.

“[If you get stuck on a question or blank out], my advice is to snap yourself out of that so you can see your exam paper with fresh eyes. Doing another question or even taking a quick toilet break helps,” she said.

“But whatever you do, do not leave the exam early. It’s now or never – even if you think you’ve done and tried everything, stay there until time is up. Who knows, you might catch a mistake or have a sudden hit of inspiration. The last thing I want is for you to have regrets!”

Ultimately, Lai said the most important thing is to take care of

your physical and mental health by getting a good night’s sleep, and doing whatever you need to do to go in with a clear mind – whether that’s listening to music, or talking about other things to manage the nerves.

At the end of the day, the HSC isn’t the be all and end all.

“Think of it this way; the ATAR is like your ticket to get to where you want, but it's not the only way. If you want something badly enough, you'll take an alternative pathway to get there, it’ll just take a bit longer. That might even be a good thing because it gives you time to work out what you’re really passionate about!” Lai said.

“Plus, it always helps to think about the bigger picture. You're only 17 or 18-years-old, with so much life to live. As challenging as it feels now, I assure you that there is so much out there and so much to look forward to beyond the HSC.

“In the grand scheme of things, this will be a short time of your life which you can look fondly back on.”

The first exams of the 2023 HSC period begin on Wednesday, October 11.

CONGRATULATIONS

TO THE MIGHTY PENRITH PANTHERS ON A THREE-PEAT!

It’s a feat that hasn’t been achieved for 40 years and the Panthers team have done it and brought the trophy home... AGAIN!

Thank you to the Penrith community for getting behind and supporting OUR team, painting Penrith in yellow, green, red and black, decorating businesses, homes and streets.

The support was heard far and wide for the winning team.

Congratulations to Ivan Cleary and all the coaching and support staff.

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

Tutor Kevinly Santoso helps a HSC student.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

CASSIDY PEARCE

Dancers unite for a cause

concert set to raise important funds

for

Pink Up Penrith this month

This month, local dance studios are choosing community over competition in support of Pink Up Penrith. Owner of PAWS Studios, Rebecca Liu-Brennan, said that upon discussing the important cause with Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn, she was determined to get involved.

“When [Gai] said she needed the money for breast cancer nurses, I was all about it,” she said.

“My mum’s had breast cancer, my dad’s got brain cancer, so I know how hard those nurses work, and I know how amazing they are for the patients, so it’s definitely a good cause.”

In coming up with an idea for the fundraiser, Liu-Brennan referred back to an event she held a few years ago for Penrith Community Kitchen, which saw a number of local dance studios come together for a joint concert.

Liu-Brennan said she was ecstatic to see other studios be so eager to get involved in the event, this time for Pink Up Penrith.

“I emailed everyone and they were all super keen, which is lovely. There’s actually seven dance studios involved,” she said.

“It’s amazing that we, as a community can work together. Everyone in the dance world is so competitive with each other, and not just in Penrith but in Sydney in general, I’m trying to teach everyone that we don’t need to do that, that we’re stronger together and there’s enough kids to go around.

“I feel like it’s good that we’re, in Penrith, setting a great example for other suburbs as well that dance studios don’t always have to be fierce and competitive, and that we can do things together for the greater good.”

The concert, which will be held on Tuesday, October 17, will see PAWS

Studios, Westside Performing Arts, Excite Dance and Cheer, A-Live, Dance On Pointe, All Star Dance and Entertainment Studios and Velocity Performing Arts provide a number of fabulous routines each.

Students from all of the studios will then come together for a ‘Barbie’ themed finale, with the night topped off with a raffle including prizes such as travel

vouchers and dancewear. With 400 families set to be in attendance on the night, Liu-Brennan is hoping to see support flow in from the wider community in Penrith.

“I’d love to see some of the local businesses coming along and supporting it, bringing some of their team to come and watch, because I think it’s a great cause,” she said.

“There’s also still time to sponsor things for the raffle if they want to!” For sponsorship enquiries, contact Rebecca at pawsstudios@gmail. com.

Dancers are coming together in support of Pink Up Penrith.

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Cash for crucial projects

Community garden and food pantry to receive assistance from Penrith Council

Anon-profit community garden run by seniors and a local food pantry service will soon get a boost in resources thanks to funding from Penrith City Council.

Following a recent visit to Barnardos at Cranebrook as one of her last Mayoral duties, Councillor Tricia Hitchen called on her councillor colleagues at the September Ordinary Meeting for their backing to give $3,000 to the organisation, to support two key community programs.

“The Active Care Network has a community garden established by a number of elderly people that go to the garden with their carers – they were talking to me about the long, hot summer we’re expecting, and they had concerns about their ability to keep the garden alive,” Hitchen explained.

“While I was there, I was talking to the Barnardos case workers who were telling me that their case work has increased by 300 per cent, and they are turning people away without food parcels.”

Hitchen asked that each of Council’s three wards donate $1,000.

Of the $3,000, $1000 will support the community garden and $2,000 will assist with the delivery of Barnardos’ food hampers.

Councillors voted in favour of the urgent motion.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said Council was proud to help where possible as the cost-

of-living rises means times are tough for many in the community.

“Council cares deeply about our residents and we recognise that there are amazing organisations and community groups making a difference in our City,” Carney said.

“Council’s well-managed budget enables us to keep funds aside for urgent requests such as this, to improve these vital community programs and ensure that they continue to be offered to community members.”

The Active Gardening Club brings senior

residents together to improve their wellbeing and decrease loneliness through opportunities to keep active and get their hands dirty.

Penrith City Council has been a partner of the Club, with Council’s Nursery offering space for members to hold fortnightly meetings and partake in gardening sessions, activities, tours and demonstrations.

Active Care Network’s Community Programs Manager, Coralie Griffiths, thanked Council for the donation which will fund items including a hose trigger nozzle, irrigation timer, compost materials, a greenhouse, shade cloth, vegetable wash bay, and more.

Meanwhile, Barnardos Cranebrook’s food parcels provide essential fruit, vegetables, bread, pies and other pantry staples for those in need.

Program Manager for the Family Support Program, Melissa Cooke, said Barnardos was grateful for the $2,000 donation, which would enable the organisation to meet growing demand, with up to 700 food parcels handed out each month.

“The support we provide is free to residents and while our fridge is filled every morning, it is empty by the end of the day so we have had to limit how many pantry items we offer – this donation will keep our fridge restocked," she said.

The funding will be delivered to both projects shortly.

Councillor Tricia Hitchen (centre) with members of the Active Gardening Club and staff from the Active Care Network and Barnardos.

Ana uses her voice to convey a heartfelt message at competition

CASSIDY PEARCE

Ana Gaina from Our Lady of the Rosary Primary St Marys has won the overall award at the 2023 Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) Voice of Youth public speaking finals.

The finals saw six Year 6 students selected across 58 primary schools take to the stage at St John XXIII Catholic College Auditorium at Stanhope Gardens, after taking place in a series of school, cluster and regional finals involving thousands of students.

The students each delivered speeches on thought-provoking topics including diversity, loneliness, teachers, success from failure, electricity and the importance of living in the moment, creating what CSPD Voice of Youth Coordinator Paul Devlin said was a “wonderful celebration of learning”.

“As the competition developed, the excitement was just palpable,” he said.

“We had about 300 students, family and staff all there supporting the finalists and enjoying all the speeches.”

Ana won the overall award for her speech ‘Pasta’ – a heartfelt note about individual strengths and how our differences can change the world.

“This is an amazing opportunity and I’m so grateful to everyone who organises Voice

of Youth. I’m so very proud and I’m sure my school is too,” she said.

“My family thinks I can use this talent in some way in the future and I’m excited to do that. I think diversity is important because it’s something that helps our world be a better

King of beasts!

place and helps us be better people.”

Our Lady of the Rosary Principal Michael Siciliano echoed this sentiment.

“I just think about our 371 kids representing over 40 nationalities,” he said.

“This is about all the children who continue

to strive to be outstanding students. That’s what we want for our kids.

“We want them to be safe and respectful learners and given the right opportunities, with the support of parents, they can achieve anything.”

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

zambi.org

Ana Gaina with fellow students and teachers at the public speaking competition.

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

An incredible win for our City as Panthers claim Grand Final glory

What an amazing moment it was for our City, for the people of Penrith, and for the many fans and supporters of our team.

The mighty Panthers beating the Brisbane Broncos, in what was a cliffhanger for a little while in the second half, to claim the 2023 NRL grand final title.

In doing so, the Panthers have now won three consecutive NRL premierships and are rewriting the history books – not since the 1980’s has this been done.

This extraordinary achievement is a credit to the fearless determination, tremendous talent and incredible hard work of the players and staff.

They have been, and continue to be, an inspiration to so many people in our City and the values for which this club is built on – which is very much a family club.

It also reflects the outstanding leadership, support, and excellent junior development initiatives of the Club. But it also comes down to something

else – something truly special – and that is of course the unwavering support of our die-hard Penrith fans across our community.

They love their Penrith Panthers with a passion and have been behind you every step of the way, all year and every year before.

And this is their moment too!

I know that Penrith and the western Sydney region feels your success and will remember this moment for many, many years to come.

On behalf of Penrith City Council and the Penrith Community, a mighty congratulations to the Panthers players, coaches, staff and Club on what has been a remarkable year of rugby league.

Our Mighty Penrith Panthers – our 2021, 2022 and 2023 NRL Premiers!

See you next week.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

LOOKING FOR A PAPER?

Did you know there’s a number of ways to get your hands on a copy of the Western Weekender each week?

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

Penrith Aero Club was big in the 1950s. The club and clubhouse was located in Jamison Park where the Aero Club conducted

joy flights from the park during the 1950s. The clubhouse was moved to Howell Oval and in 1968 it became the N A Hunter Pavilion,

named after Norman Hunter. The building was demolished in 2012. (Photos thanks to Penrith City Council)

Δ Bunker expands again: The Bunker is expanding again with news that they'll open a new location in Cranebrook on November 6. Owner Ross Purser (pictured) has confirmed the popular café will take over the site previously occupied by Greek restaurant, Avli.

Δ New Nutri-Grain: Iconic Australian cereal Nutri-Grain has just release its new range – the Nutri-Grain Vanilla Malt with 25 per cent Less Sugar! Although it contains less

sugar, fans of the cereal will be happy to hear it still has the same great taste. Nutri-Grain Vanilla Malt with 25 per cent Less Sugar is available on shelves now at supermarkets across the country.

Δ New ice cream flavours: Connoisseur Gourmet Ice Cream has just released two new delicious flavours as part of its Laneway Sweets Range range of ice creams. Introducing the Golden Blondie stick, which features

a core of white chocolate-flavoured ice cream swirled with caramelised white chocolate syrup, within a layer of caramel-flavoured ice cream packed with blondie pieces. The second flavour is the Jam Doughnut tub, which combines the nostalgic taste of the iconic jam doughnut with cinnamon-infused ice cream, mixed through with doughnut flavoured pieces and swirled with raspberry syrup. Find the new flavours now at all leading supermarkets.

swood. Butter Chicken is located at 1/228 Great Western Highway, and has some terrific specials on offer.

Δ Whiskas gets new look, variety: Australia’s most iconic cat food brand, Whiskas, has just released its new modernised pack designs and enhanced Favourites pouch recipes, as demand for commercial cat food continues to be the preferred food source for Australian cat owners. After successful launches in Europe in January, Australia’s felines are the next in line to enjoy the reinvigorated look and irresistible taste. The new pouches also feature a renewed recipe, expertly crafted with real meat for that chunky texture cats love, all while ensuring they receive the essential nutrition they need.

Δ Accountant opens new office: Witten Partners Chartered Accountants held an event late last week to officially open their new office at 1/2 Castlereagh Street in Penrith.

Δ New Indian takeaway: A new Indian takeaway restaurant has opened in King-

Δ Got some Source? We want to know about store and restaurant openings, new products and all your other local news and information. Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

MT DRUITT ST MARYS LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Mt Druitt St Marys Local Business Awards

This year’s Mount Druitt St Marys Local Business Awards was a glittering spectacular that provided a fitting finale to the annual event. This year’s winners exchanged exuberant hugs and cheers filled the room as they made their way to the stage on Tuesday, September 12.

Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said the evening was an exciting culmination to a successful awards program.

“The Local Business Awards recognise the vital role business people play in the lives of their communities,” he said.

“The presentation evening not only sees the announcement of the category winners but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all the finalists.

“We had a sell-out crowd that included our finalists, their families and staff, as well as our sponsors and local dignitaries, who helped to present awards to the winners.”

The Western Weekender captured all the excitement as the finalists in each category were announced, complete with images on the big screen, followed by huge cheers as the winners’ names were read out and they took to the stage to claim their trophies.

“The winners’ speeches are always heartfelt and emotional,” Loe said.

“This year was no exception.

“It’s very emotional for everyone there to see their tears and smiles as well as hear the beautiful acceptance speeches.”

As official media partner for the Mount Druitt St Marys Local Business Awards, the The Western Weekender today publishes this winners feature, that recognises all category winners from the presentation evening.

“Of course, the awards are only possibly with the support of Major Partners Blacktown City Council and NOVA Employment and Support Partners, Plumpton Marketplace, St Clair Shopping Centre, White Key Marketing and Cornerstone Community.” Loe said.

“Their involvement proves their commitment to their community and the businesses that thrive there.”

Loe also thanked St Marys Rugby League Club for the high quality food and service it provided.

“Thanks to them it was a five-star occasion,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge the incredible entertainment and our fabulous MC Paul Hancock who kept the evening flowing smoothly.”

Businesses can register for the 2024 Local Business Awards at www.thebusinessawards.com.au with anticipation already building.

Priceline Pharmacy at St Clair was a winner at the Local Business Awards.

Soul Origin was a winner on the night.

The suppor t of the Local Business Awards par tners helps bring a special program for local business people to life.

thank them for this.

CATEGORYCATEGORY WINNER WINNER

Plumpt on Aut os Tyr e

Sergio’s Cake ShopWestfield Mount Druitt

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Beauty Servic es

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Ev er gr een Early E ducation Centre

F ashion

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Hair dr esser J ew ellery S to re

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Laing + Simmons

Big Bo y z Pok er R

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EVERGREEN

EARL

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2023 WINNER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRE

What an incredible honour it has been to be named the 2023 Local Business Award winner for outstanding Early Childhood Centre. This award is a re ection of our passion and commitment to Early Childhood education, and the amazing Evergreen team who make children and families a priority

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who voted for us, all our children and families past and present who have been on this journey with us as we have built Evergreen to what it is today

Thank you to our local community for ongoing suppor t and love

An even bigger thank you to our wonderful team who ensure the Evergreen experience has a positive and lasting impact on ever y child who comes and goes from Evergreen.

We look forward to continuing on our journey and exploring new ways to build on the quality of our ser vice to ensure that we deliver what we promise and exceed expectations Evergreen will always be a place where everyone belongs

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MICK T’S CL OT HING O THING

2023 WINNER F ASHION

Mick & Staff would like to thank our loyal customers for voting for us and giving us the chance to win the Local Business Award. The locals have suppor ted us since we opened in 2012 and we can’t thank them enough. At Mick T’s we offer men’s clothing to suit all budgets We have a great selection of brands like Henley’s, Ellesse, Wndrr, Mad Hueys, St Goliath, Calidi, and even suiting for that next formal occasion.

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THE HAIR SHA CK

2023 WINNER HAIRDRESSER

W e ar e T he Hair Shack locat ed in Erskine P ark. It w as an absolut e pleasur e t o win the L ocal Business Aw ar d f or Most Outst anding Hair dr esser 2023 . To be r ecognised is such an honour

W e tr y t o mak e all our clients f eel comf or t able and our aim is t o list en t o our clients’ needs and hope they f eel amazing aft er e ve r y hair or beauty ser vice. Hair is our passion so if y ou’r e looking f or a ne w hair dr esser come visit us

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FRUIT W ORLD PLUMPT ON

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No w pr oudly in its 17th y comm unity , Fruit W orld Plumpt on sells pr emium quality fruit and v eget ables and ov er 1000 dif fe r ent gr ocer y it ems

F eels gr eat t o win again as w e ar e alw ays r aising the bar and alw ays aim t o please!

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ON MEDIC AL

2023 WINNERS HEALTH IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

T his aw ar d is a re f lection of the outst anding quality of Emer t on Medical Imaging in achieving business success

Emer t on Medical Imaging has demonstr at ed leadership in their industr y and hav e been r ecognised as an outst anding pr o vider of Health Ser vices in our L ocal Go v ernment ar ea.

Please call our friendly st af f to assist with y our booking needs We accept all re f err als , as long as they ar e fr om a Medical Pr actitioner and cer t ain allied health.

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MET ALLUM LASER CUTTING AND MANUF A CTURING

2023 WINNER NEW BUSINESS

Laser CuttingCutting all material including Stainless Aluminium, Mild Steel, Copper and Brass Our bre Laser Cutter is in a class of its own with state ar t technologies making it the fastest most ef cient machine in its class

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We are committed to providing outstanding customer ser vice. We provide our clients with the best value for their money

A: UNIT 2 124-126 DUNHEVED CIRCUIT ST MARYS

P: 8608 2187 | W: MET ALLUM.COM. AU

LAING + SIMMONS

2023 WINNER REAL ES TA TE A GENCY MOST INCLUSIVE EMPL OYER

At Laing+Simmons The Abassi Group we combine exper tise across the full spectrum of real estate ser vices with a genuine passion for the local area. Under the leadership of experienced Director and passionate local Paul Abassi, we provide expert sales proper ty management, project marketing and valuation ser vices to the greater Western Sydney area from three convenient of ces located in St Mar ys Ropes Crossing and Caddens

We realise that ever y home, and ever y client, is unique and we therefore tailor individual solutions to meet your individual needs

In shor t, we treat you with the respect you deser ve

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LB A 2023

2023 WINNER B ARBER SHOP

MRS D’S SUCCULENTS

2023 WINNER SPECIALISED RETAIL BUSINESS

Wow what a surprise. My rst thanks goes to the Lord for His goodness and blessing. My husband, children and parents have really suppor ted and sacri ced for this business My team, Mar y and Vaya for turning up and getting the job done, even on the tough days Our customers suppliers family and friends - without whom this business wouldn’t be what it is today

I am so passionate about succulents - they provide so much therapy and hearing what they do for people is what keeps me going when it gets too hard. It’s so much more than money for me.

Thank you to the Local Business Awards and its sponsors including the Western Weekender for putting on such an event and recognising small business and suppor ting them. Mrs D’s Succulents runs Facebook sales and attends various markets/fetes/festival locations Suppor t small business - especially while small business is battling the current economic climate.

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Photo: NRL Images.

MAGIC BRINGS

It was a Grand Final for the ages, capped off with a moment rivalling Kyle Feldt’s last minute try for the Cowboys in 2015, or Darren Albert’s miracle four-pointer in 1997.

The roar around Accor Stadium when Nathan Cleary crossed in the 76th minute to win the game for Penrith was deafening.

With the try and subsequent conversion, Cleary had not only brought the Panthers back from the dead to win the season decider but had put the icing on one of the most memorable 20 minute periods of his career.

There was only 18 minutes left on the clock when Cleary decided to take the game by both hands and deliver a performance that will be talked about for decades to come.

A smart play to set up a try for Moses Leota, a 40/20, a clever decision to force a penalty from a Brisbane drop-out and his own personal four-pointer were the highlights of his heroics.

Earlier, the Grand Final appeared gone.

With the game precariously

placed at 8-6 to Penrith early in the second half, Ezra Mam stepped up in an unstoppable 10 minute period to put Brisbane into a Premiership-winning position.

Mam scored three straight tries – carving up the Penrith defence with blistering speed to give the Broncos a 24-8 lead.

It should have been enough.

"It's just hard to get your head around what actually happened. It's very disappointing," Brisbane coach Kevin Walters said. Somehow the Broncos went from a commanding lead with Mam's name on the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal to a brutal collapse that will sting for the entire off-season.

Nobody could have seen Penrith's comeback on the horizon.

Not when inspirational co-captain Isaah Yeo was forced from the field for a Head Injury Assessment and Jarome Luai's shoulder finally gave way in the midst of Mam's hat-trick. Scott Sorensen, too, was forced from the field after a head knock.

The momentum just shouldn't have turned, and yet it did.

“I must say I was a little worried half-way through that second

Moses Leota had an epic game in the Grand Final. Photo: NRL Images.

FROM THE DEAD IN EPIC NRL DECIDER

half,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said post-match.

“One thing I’d never doubt is these boys’ ability to keep fighting. There was still a long time to go and that was the important part. If they had have jumped to 24-8 with 15 to go I don’t think we would have come back.”

It had been a pulsating opening half to the Grand Final but nobody could have imagined what would unfold in the second 40 minutes.

Brisbane had talked up their big game experience all week despite it coming from other arenas like Origin, but nerves were evident in the opening period. They put themselves under pressure with a raft of errors, but Penrith struggled to capitalise.

The opening try came in the 17th minute when a short drop-out somehow bounced into the hands of Mitch Kenny who scored his first try of the season. With Cleary getting attention in back play, Stephen Crichton grabbed the conversion to give Penrith a 6-0 advantage.

It became 8-0 in the 29th minute when Cleary resumed the kicking duties and potted a penalty goal, but Brisbane started to get into the game more in the period closing in on half-time.

When Thomas Flegler barged his way over in the 38th minute, it felt like a reward for Brisbane’s entire season more than anything else – they had toiled and toiled, and finally got what they needed.

Ivan Cleary admitted post-game, the 8-0 lead should have been bigger.

“The first half, I reckon the way the season has been going... we probably would have been up by more than 8-0,” he said.

“But they just weren’t going

away. When they got the ball back they were striking, they really backed themselves from all over the field and were a constant threat which took a lot of gas out of our team.

“We knew we had a battle at halftime. I don’t really know what to say after that.”

In the end it was the 29th minute penalty goal that proved the difference. Both teams scored four tries, and landed four conversions.

Dig deeper though and it is likely Penrith’s 97 per cent completion rate – freakish in any game, let alone a Grand Final – that ensured they were still within a chance of winning and sending the more than 81,000 fans at Accor Stadium into a state of disbelief.

Brisbane made 11 errors to Penrith’s one, likely having a impact on their fatigue late in the game.

For Penrith, the victory ensured their place in rugby league folklore – a third straight Premiership, the first team in the NRL era to achieve such a feat.

It was the perfect farewell for Stephen Crichton, Spencer Leniu and Jack Cogger.

Meanwhile, for the Broncos it’s a long off-season of pondering what could have been.

And for both clubs, a new rivalry – one that in the past has barely caused a ripple – has been born.

Penrith 26 (Tries: Mitch Kenny, Moses Leota, Stephen Crichton, Nathan Cleary. Goals: Nathan Cleary 4/4, Stephen Crichton 1/1) def Brisbane 24 (Tries: Ezra Mam

3, Thomas Flegler. Goals: Adam Reynolds 4/4). Crowd: 81,947.

Crucial moment: Thomas Flegler powers over to score for Brisbane in the lead-up to half-time.

Photo: NRL Images.

Nathan Cleary celebrates his match-winning try.

Photo: NRL Images.

UNFORGETTABLE GRAND FINAL NIGHT

Isaah Yeo takes the ball up.

Photo: NRL Images.

The moment the siren sounded.

Photo: NRL Images. Mitch Kenny bags the opener. Photo: NRL Images.

Nathan Cleary scores. Photo: NRL Images.

The pre-match entertainment. Photo: NRL Images.

The Panthers celebrate a try. Photo: NRL Images.

Moses Leota races away to score a crucial try. Photo: NRL Images.

AT ACCOR STADIUM

Sunia Turuva and Mick Fanning celebrate. A dejected Reece Walsh.

Liam Martin and Dylan Edwards with the trophy. Photo: NRL Images.

Premiers again. An incredible moment for the Panthers. Photo: NRL Images.

Ivan Cleary is soaked as the celebrations roll on. Photo: NRL Images.

Nathan Cleary kisses the trophy. Photo: NRL Images.

REP CALL-UPS FOR GRAND FINAL STARS

Three Penrith Grand Final winners have been named in the Australian team for the upcoming Pacific Championship.

Nathan Cleary, Liam Martin and Isaah Yeo were all picked to represent the Kangaroos in the tournament, which gets underway on October 14.

However, Cleary is understood to be in some doubt after picking up an injury in the Grand Final.

James Tedesco was confirmed as Australian captain and has held on to his fullback jersey.

Superstar Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards has missed out on selection in the squad.

“These players have all been exceptional this season and should be very proud to play in the green and gold colours. It’s the ultimate achievement in our game,” ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys said at Monday’s announcement.

“The Commission is excited to see further growth in the Pacific through this tournament, highlighted by the strength of the squad assembled to represent the Kangaroos.”

Kangaroos Coach Mal Meninga congratulated all of the players on their selection in the squad.

“The quality we saw in the regular season, the State of Origin series and the Finals Series means we have been able to put together an outstanding squad,” Meninga said.

“The squad has a healthy blend of representatives from last year’s World Cup, as well as others who have performed extremely well over the course of the season.”

Meanwhile, four Penrith players have been named in the Samoa squad.

Stephen Crichton, Spencer Leniu, Brian To'o and Izack Tago all feature, while Jarome Luai was not considered for selection due to injury.

Penrith’s Premiership-winning front rowers James Fisher-Harris and Moses Leota will represent New Zealand.

“This series is exciting for the game in New Zealand and also a chance for us to start our journey to the next World Cup in 2025,” said New Zealand coach Michael Maguire.

The Pacific Championships gets underway on Saturday, October 14 when Australia take on Samoa at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville.

Papua New Guinea and Cook Islands meet on Sunday, October 15 to complete the tournament’s opening weekend.

New Zealand and Samoa meet on Saturday, October 21 at Eden Park while Fiji and Cook Islands face-off on Sunday, October 22.

The hotly anticipated clash between Australia and New Zealand will be played on Saturday, October 28 at AAMI Park in Melbourne, while Papua New Guinea and Fiji play on Sunday, October 29.

The tournament then moves into the Finals.

All games will be broadcast on Fox League.

Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga on Tuesday.

Photo: NRL Images.

grand final bits & pieces

FANS IN FOCUS

Penrith attracted plenty of media attention in the lead-up to Sunday’s Grand Final, with the major TV networks all keen to soak up the atmosphere in the city.

We were at passionate fan Anthea Strathdee’s home on Sunday morning, capturing all the fun of the ‘Today’ show doing a live broadcast.

FANS REV UP THEIR ENGINES

HUGE ATTENDANCE AT GAME DAY CAR PARADE

Passionate Penrith fans gathered at Jamison Park on Grand Final morning for what’s become an annual tradition: a car parade.

Hundreds of cars decked out in Panthers colours kicked off a tour through Penrith from Jamison Park.

Thousands of people gathered to watch the start of the event, with Penrith jerseys and flags out in full force.

Channel Seven reporter Michelle Bishop and Channel Nine stalwart Mike Dalton were both on hand to capture the action for the major television networks.

Photos: Megan Dunn

GRAND FINAL KEEPSAKE

NEW MAGAZINE

REF PRAISE

In his debut Grand Final, Gee was praised for letting the game flow with a low penalty count and strong game management.

Gee is now in the box seat to referee the biggest games next season, including the State of Origin series.

He was appointed to the season decider after both Ashley Klein and Gerard Sutton were involved in Finals controversies.

A LEGEND’S EMBRACE

Panthers legend Greg Alexander celebrated with the current-day players on the field after Sunday’s Grand Final win. He hugged halfback Nathan Cleary before embracing co-captain Isaah Yeo (pictured), the emotion clearly overflowing.

‘Brandy’ was also on the field after the 2003 and 2022 deciders, lapping up the enjoyment of Premiership success.

Alexander captained Penrith to their historic 1991 Premiership win and is currently on the Board of the club. He ventured back to Panthers after the game, joining the official after party at the EVAN Theatre.

HAAS CITED AFTER FINAL

Brisbane forward Payne Haas was the only player charged by the NRL Match Review Committee following the Grand Final on Sunday.

He was hit with a Grade 1 Dangerous Contact charge for an incident involving Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary in the 10th minute.

The powerful Broncos forward opted to take an early guilty plea, and incurred a financial penalty of $1,800.

This November, The Western Weekender will release a commemorative 40-page magazine honouring the Penrith Panthers’ three-peat.

The magazine will feature some of the best articles and pictures from Penrith’s 2021, 2022 and 2023 Premierships as well as all-new original content.

This is a Western Weekender original, and will not be available anywhere else.

It’s the perfect collector’s item – with exclusive Weekender photos, interviews with the players and memories from an incredible period in Penrith’s history.

Pre-order now.

The magazine costs $19.95 including postage and will be dispatched in mid-November.

Visit www.westernweekender.com.au/threepeat.

NRLW OFFERS A TOUCH OF IRONY

How’s this for some rugby league trivia: Just like the NRL decider, the NRLW Grand Final at Accor Stadium last Sunday also featured a

hat-trick of tries from a player on the losing team.

Jaime Chapman scored three tries for the Titans, giving them a shot at the title,

but the Knights roared home to win 24-18.

It marked back-to-back Premierships for Newcastle, with Tamika Upton the star.

“That last 20 minutes was the best performance by a halfback in a Grand Final.”

IMPRESSIVE RATINGS FOR GRAND FINAL

The thrilling Premiership decider between the Penrith Panthers and Brisbane Broncos attracted a record Australian Grand Final streaming audience with 605,000 on 9Now –the largest for a rugby league game in history.

The Grand Final scored a national average audience of 2.916 million viewers on Linear TV (Metro: 2.045 million / Regional: 870,000) and a Live BVOD figure of 605,000 taking the TotalTV audience to 3.521 million viewers.

Viewers flocked to 9Now, with the game attracting a record BVOD Live average audi-

ence that was up a whopping 56 per cent yearon-year.

“The incredible NRL Grand Final reached 4.6 million and further highlighted 9Now as the No.1 destination for big event live sport with a 56 per cent year-on-year uplift,” said Hamish Turner, Nine’s Director of 9Now and Programming.

“We have experienced fantastic year-on-year growth for 9Now this season as Nine continues to offer the biggest reach of any broadcaster in the country.”

THE LEGENDARY ANDREW JOHNS TALKS UP NATHAN CLEARY

Adam Gee staked his claim as the game’s leading referee with a strong performance in the Grand Final.

NATHAN CLEARY JOINS ELITE CLUB

TROY DODDS

Astunning final 20 minutes has not only secured Penrith its fifth Premiership, but allowed Nathan Cleary to enter a rare class of dual Clive Churchill Medal winners.

Cleary joins Canberra’s Bradley Clyde (1989, 1991) and Billy Slater (2019, 2017) as a two-time winner of the player of the match award.

The 25-year-old grabbed the Grand Final by both hands in its dramatic climax, scoring the winning try and setting up another in a frantic finish to the game. He finished with a try, four goals, two line breaks, a try assist, a 40/20 and four tackle breaks.

“It honestly doesn't feel real right now,” Cleary said after being presented the award by NRL legend Cliff Lyons.

“It was the hardest game I’ve ever played.

“We’ve worked so hard for this, and we’re still just getting started so let’s go!”

Cleary won the Clive Churchill Medal two years ago after his

outstanding performance in the thrilling win over South Sydney at Suncorp Stadium.

Ironically, both of his Medals have come when facing Adam Reynolds in the opposite jumper.

What made his performance in the final 20 minutes even more remarkable is that he’d struggled to make his mark on the contest earlier.

“I think the 20 minutes before it was close to the worst I’ve ever played,” he said.

“To be honest I think my experience from the past particularly in that 2020 Storm Grand Final helped me to be in the game at the end of this one. Sometimes it feels shit at the time like it did in that 2020 game, but I think it’s made me who I am today."

In the post-match press conference, Cleary said the environment at Penrith is a joy to be involved in.

“It’s an enjoyable group to be a part of. Everyone is allowed to be themselves and it’s fun, and that’s how it should be,” he said.

“We grew up loving playing rugby league and now we get the opportunity to do it on the biggest stage and the biggest night.”

Nathan Cleary on his way to receive the Clive Churchill Medal.

Photo: NRL Images.

A TING A MEMORABLE F AREWELL IS AN AR T

what they said

A NIGHT WE WON’T FORGET: WHO SAID

We’ve collected some of the best postmatch comments from Sunday’s NRL Grand Final between Penrith and Brisbane. Here’s what was said in the aftermath of a pulsating season decider...

“It’s just hard to get your head around what actually happened.”

“It means a lot. It’s my last year here and to win a game like that for my last game, words can’t describe the feelings I’m feeling right now.”

“We had our moments, we were good in patches… but we just didn’t find a way in the end to get it done.”

“It honestly doesn’t feel real right now. I can’t wait for it to set in. To the Broncos boys… that was the hardest game I’ve ever played. To our boys… it’s nothing but love. We’ve worked so hard for this and we’re still just getting started.”

“I can’t remember a greater second half performance in a Grand Final from a halfback like I’ve seen tonight. I was just mind blown.”

“All of our hard work throughout the year, always training us for the big moments and we knew that we were three tries down and we knew that we just had to dig deep. We knew that it was there. We just had to give ourselves the chance.”

Nathan Cleary

Kevin Walters

“I love this group of boys, we are never out!”

Jarome Luai

“This is the best thing ever… Nathan Cleary is the greatest athlete on Earth. Seriously… he’s the greatest athlete on Earth!”

Mick Fanning

Jonathan Thurston

Spencer Leniu

Adam Reynolds

Stephen Crichton

WHAT AFTER THE GF WIN

Isaah Yeo

“He’s a future Immortal. In a short career he’s done effectively what everyone else has done in their whole careers.”

“Stop the fight. End the debate. After all the talk about where Nathan Cleary stood in the pecking order of elite halves, 20 minutes at Accor Stadium sealed his greatness.”

Brent Read

says he wants to be the greatest, and he has produced one of the greatest performances we’ve ever seen. Don’t anyone ever doubt Nathan Cleary again.”

“That was an incredible game, what a contest, one of the best Grand Finals. I’ve never seen such a comeback. Well done Penrith Panthers. Never give up, that’s what it takes.”

Jimmy Barnes

“I actually said to him (Nathan Cleary) yesterday if I married someone else, he would’ve been a pretty shit player. I’ve got to thank his Mum for everything that he’s got because it’s certainly not from me. I’m so proud of him.”

“We just had to keep believing… keep believing in each other. We know our process. I thought if we could just jag one [try] and then we’d be back in the fight. It turned out that’s what happened.”

Dylan Edwards

Ivan Cleary on ‘Today’

“Nathan Cleary

Dan Ginnane on Triple M

Brett Kimmorley on Nathan Cleary

“It was dire straits out there. It was ‘The Ezra Mam Show’ for a period in that second half… but we’re just never out of the fight. Just such a tough group here, we’re just never out of it.”

panther rumblings

WESTERN STAND TO BE TORN DOWN

! End of beer hill: More detail has been revealed about the upcoming refurbishment to Penrith Stadium. The Western Grandstand will be demolished and re-built, while a stand will be constructed at the southern end of the ground – effectively ending the ‘beer hill’ era. That will upset a lot of fans who love the atmosphere of that end of the ground, but you can’t please everybody. The Western Stand re-construction will include a much larger Chairman’s Lounge. Let’s hope the Panthers look after those long-term members in the Western Stand with seats in the new stand, and that it doesn’t become too focused on corporate supporters. Penrith will move out of the stadium at the end of 2024 but will be back for the start of the 2026 season.

! Premier’s own goal: NSW Premier Chris Minns has plenty of work to do to win back the people of Penrith after his bizarre backing of the Broncos in the Grand Final. His refusal to throw his full support behind the only team from NSW in a radio interview on 2GB last Friday was utterly odd, particularly given Penrith proved to be a vital seat in the NSW election earlier this year. Minns was rather quiet about the Grand Final all week – failing to take the chance to talk up Sydney as the event host. It was strange all-round.

! Erin’s farewell: Popular Pantherette Erin-Louise Camilleri (pictured) has hung up her pom-poms, opting to finish up with the club's cheer squad this year. Her last performance was at Sunday’s Grand Final. !

Spotted: Penrith Panthers recruitment manager Jim Jones enjoying a Grand Final day breakfast with his family at Percy Plunkett last Sunday morning.

! Panthers back in Parramatta: Last year the Panthers avoided staying in Parramatta the night before the Grand Final given they were playing the Eels in the season decider. They’d stayed there for the Preliminary Final the previous week but sensibly avoided all the Eels fanfare for the big one. Last week, with no such rivalry in place, they bunkered down at the Park Royal. Interestingly, they actually wanted to stay at Sydney Olympic Park but Brisbane, as the visiting team, get first choice of hotel.

! New documentary coming: The Panthers have once again partnered with Channel Nine to produce a documentary detailing the club’s ride to a third straight Premiership. Officials were considering releasing the documentary even if Penrith hadn’t won on Sunday, but now won’t have to make that call. It’ll stream on 9Now later this year.

! Broncos go off early: A couple of Brisbane staffers headed down to the team’s dressing room after Ezra Mam’s third try to begin setting up for the post-match celebrations. Like most at the ground, they thought the Broncos had it won.

! Fanning rides Panthers wave: Surfing champion Mick Fanning played a big role in Penrith’s post-match celebrations at Accor Stadium last weekend (pictured below with James-FisherHarris). Fanning, a life-long

Panthers fan, has been in the inner sanctum through the Finals series. He was partying with the players after full-time on Sunday night –soaking in Penrith’s incredible victory over Brisbane.

! End of an era: One of the most recognised major sponsorships in Australian sport is now over with OAK finishing up as the club’s principal partner following last week’s Grand Final. My Place will take over as the front of jersey sponsor for 2025, which keen-eyed readers may have noticed I revealed cryptically a couple of months back.

! Paper back on board: The Western Weekender has signed on as a corporate partner of the Panthers for the 2024 season, extending the paper’s long-term sponsorship of the club.

! See you next year: I’m taking a few months off but I’ll be back ready and raring to go for the 2024 NRL season. Thanks for reading the column this year. Let’s make it four in ‘24!

The Western Grandstand and Chairman’s Club.

analysis

Itried to Google it but couldn’t find any term which defined winning four Premierships in a row. So, I’m just going to call it a ‘four-peat’ and leave it at that.

For now, the Panthers team and supporters are just happy celebrating a ‘three-peat’ on Sunday after a thrilling 26-24 NRL Grand Final win over the Brisbane Broncos.

It was a game for the ages and both teams came ready to play. Brisbane were outstanding and they made every Penrith supporter white knuckle it until the very end.

The game had barely finished when the Triple M radio crew, who called the game, started asking the question, can the Panthers win fourin-a-row next year? The response from former NRL player Wendell Sailor was so fast, host Dan Ginnane barely had time to ask it.

“No,” said Sailor emphatically.

And that’s a fair answer. it seems impossible to the neutral supporter that the Panthers could possibly win a fourth straight Premiership, given they were almost beaten this year.

Almost… but not quite.

I’m not going to review every pivotal moment of the Grand Final, that’s been done to death already.

I am here to ask a legitimate question though.

Can the Penrith Panthers take out the NRL Premiership in 2024 and really make it rare-air, if it isn’t already. Can they achieve a ‘four-peat’?

All I can say to that is, even if it doesn’t happen, I believe the players think they can do it.

I can’t imagine for a moment that coach Ivan Cleary and the team will turn up for pre-season training in December and just say; ‘Yeah a fourpeat is impossible. Let’s just have a cruisy season, I mean we’ve achieved so much already.”

No chance in hell will that happen.

This team is special. This team is led by some very special players like Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Dylan Edwards, James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota and Jarome Luai. They won’t let the team standards drop, if anything I expect they’ll raise the bar even higher.

In an ominous warning to other teams, Nathan Cleary said after his remarkable Grand Final heroics that; “We are just getting started.”

Now while both Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu are leaving the club along with several other players. I have no doubt that coach Ivan Cleary will tinker with the line-up, change the game plan and keep the Panthers machine rolling.

Now I’d just like to finish my final column

of 2023 on a personal note. I’m so proud to be a Panthers supporter and to have lived and worked in the area for over 50 years.

Over the last four years alone I’ve watched Penrith lose and win a Grand Final with my nephew and Weekender journalist, Nathan Taylor. I also just watched an incredible threepeat victory with my eldest daughter Sierra.

And I believe in my heart, that my beautiful mum, who sadly passed away last November, was watching from above and smiling when the full-time buzzer sounded last Sunday.

So, you know what, as hard as it will be to win four Premierships in a row, I’m going to dare to dream, for if you believe in dreams…. miracles can happen.

See you next year.

PROFESSIONALS.

849

BE PREPARED WITH LIFEVAC Learn more at:

The Panthers celebrate in style. Photo: NRL Images.

with Peter Lang

2023 nrl final ladder

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PENRITH PANTHERS ON WINNING THE 2023 GRAND FINAL Hertz are proud supporters of the Penrith Panthers

extra time awards

CRICHTON TAKES OUT OUR TOP AWARD

It’s time for our annual Western Weekender Extra Time Awards. Here’s our year’s best:

Player of the Year: Stephen Crichton

In his final season at the club, it’s hard not to go with the ‘human highlight reel’ for our Player of the Year for 2023. Whether it was for Penrith or the NSW Blues, Crichton was simply outstanding this season, appearing in 24 games for the Panthers and scoring 15 tries and 21 goals. The 23-year-old also took out Centre of the Year at the Dally M Awards last week and scored a pivotal try in Penrith’s Grand Final triumph over the Broncos on Sunday. After 100 games in Panthers’ colours, Critta leaves the club with a bucket load of memorable moments and three Premiership rings.

2022 winner: Dylan Edwards

Rookie of the Year: Sunia Turuva

What can you say about the man everyone calls ‘Tito’. Sunia Turuva wasn’t meant to play much first grade in 2023, but an injury to Taylan May in the pre-season saw Turuva elevated into coach Ivan Cleary’s starting side for Round 1 and he remained there ever since. The Fijian flyer played 26 matches for the Panthers this season, scoring 12 tries including three in the Finals. What made Turuva’s season so special is no task was too big for him. No matter who he matched up against or how many bomb kicks were sent his way, the 21-year-old winger handled everything with ease. The NRL also recognised Turuva with their Rookie of the Year award at last week’s Dally M’s 2022 winner: Taylan May

Win of the Year: v Broncos, Grand Final

The greatest Panthers game of all-time has to take out our ‘Win of the Year’, right? No matter how many years pass by no-one will ever forget Penrith’s incredible victory over the Brisbane Broncos at the 2023 NRL Grand Final. Penrith led Kevin Walters’ men 8-6 at half-time before Ezra Mam laid on three scintillating tries to give

the Broncos an almost untouchable 24-8 lead. With their backs against the wall and with less than 20 minutes to go, halfback Nathan Cleary orchestrated the most remarkable comeback in Grand Final history. Tries to Moses Leota, Stephen Crichton and Cleary himself put the Panthers in front in the dying stages and the rest they say is history. A win that will be hard

to top in the years and seasons to come for Penrith.

2022 winner: v Rabbitohs, Round 23

Moment of the Year: Nathan Cleary’s 76th minute try

How often do we see it? Champion players in champion moments. While Penrith scored dozens of special tries this season, Nathan Cleary’s Grand Final-winning try stands above them all. Not only was the four-pointer crucial in Penrith’s ultimate three-peat, but it was mind-blowing at the same time. It was a moment of individual brilliance that fans of the game will remember forever. Along with Royce Simmons’ try in ’91 and Stephen Crichton’s intercept three decades later, Cleary’s 76th minute miracle will go down as one of the most important tries in Panthers history.

2022 winner: Panthers go back-to-back

Headline Event of the Year: Panthers secure historic three-peat

It took 40 long years for another team to do it, but Penrith winning three consecutive NRL Premierships is the story of the year. Many said a three-peat couldn’t be done during the salary cap era, but in stepped those mighty Panthers. With Ivan Cleary steering the ship and Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo doing what they do best, Penrith lived up to the hype to notch up their third NRL Premiership in as many years and their fifth title overall. They became the first side since Parramatta in the early 1980s to secure the honour.

2022 winner: Panthers win all four grades

hidden panther WHO AM I ?

Nathan Cleary and Stephen Crichton picked up Extra Time Awards.

Photo: NRL Images.

panthers season results

Penrith Panthers

Pendragons Abreast: 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: 0 0407 278 384

PRESENTS

Gotcha4Life Ball

Date: 18th November 2023

Time: 6:30 PM

Venue: Penrith Panthers Convention Centre 123 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith NSW 2750

Dress code: Formal

Ticket Prices

$275 each Or $2,500 for a table of 10

Platinum

MAGICAL STORY ON LOCAL STAGE

crack in a new area, so worst comes to worst, I can run away if things go terribly?”

After months of hard work, Penrith Musical Comedy Company is set to bring their newest show to the stage this month, and it’s one we all know and love.

Penrith Musical Comedy Company’s ‘The Wizard of Oz’ is the directorial debut of Laura Campbell who, after coming to the area just last year, will be making the move after many years of acting.

“I moved to Penrith last year to live with my partner and family who grew up in the area – I actually grew up in the Hornsby area, so this is quite far for me,” she said.

“I grew up as an actor and performer, and I really wanted to have a go at directing my first production, and I thought, why not give it a

Something that Campbell is bringing from her previous experience working in the arts professionally is her vision for diversity.

“In all of these fields, I strive to promote voices and stories of marginalised communities, because I think these are the stories we need to hear, and this is also seen through castings,” she said.

“When we had auditions for ‘The Wizard of Oz’, I wanted to make sure that we were encouraging all people from all walks of life to audition, and not have to deal with barriers.”

The result is a 40-person cast with ages ranging from 11 to in their 60s, filled with those from all walks of life, including trans and gender diverse individuals, and neurodiverse cast members.

Though she said working alone has had its

difficulties, Campbell said she’s thoroughly enjoyed the experience, with nothing better to bring her into the Penrith community.

“I have loved the process,” she said.

“I’ve learned so much, and I think it’s improved my self-esteem, in that everyone in the arts will often struggle with imposter syndrome, and actually doing this for the first time has made me realise that I actually am skilled, and I know what I’m doing.”

As far as what people can expect from her version of ‘The Wizard of Oz’, Campbell said it’s everything she’d hoped it would be, and more.

“‘The Wizard of Oz’ is an amazing, magical experience that is full of local talent of all different ages, walks of life, and abilities,” she said.

“There are some amazing singers, dancers and actors, some amazing sets that we’ve been

working hard at creating every Sunday, and it’s just a great accumulation of community spirit and creativity.”

Campbell is hoping to see the community get behind the show and the local talent that’s a part of it.

“I know that the cost-of-living has impacted audience members’ ability to purchase tickets, and I appreciate that Penrith is far away from the city which would potentially impact audiences from attending shows in Sydney, but hopefully this is the next best thing,” she said.

If you love the famous story, this is the show for you.

Penrith Musical Comedy Company’s ‘The Wizard of Oz’ will be on at The Joan from Thursday, October 19 to Sunday, October 22. Tickets are $53. For more information or to book, visit thejoan.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

THINGS TO DO

Entertaining school holiday show

Fun for the whole family, head to the EVAN Theatre on Saturday, October 7 for Aladdin’s magical adventure. In ‘Aladdin and his Magic Smartwatch’, Aladdin is sick and tired of his boring old lamp, so he trades it for a brand-new smartwatch. The smartwatch was great, but it came with a very strange Genie. For more information or to book, visit penrith.panthers.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

Car show returns to Museum of Fire

The NSW All Chrysler Day will celebrate its 36th anniversary on Sunday, October 15 at the Museum of Fire. See some of Australia’s motoring history in the flesh or, for just $20, get your Chrysler out of the garage and bring it to the show. All funds raised will go to the Museum of Fire. For more information, visit museumoffire.net.

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.

Penrith NASHO’s Monthly meetings at Penrith RSL Club. Call 0400 129 006 for details.

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

Create your own masterpiece

Join Mitch from Rain & Pours at the Creative Fringe on Friday, October 13 at 6pm as he teaches you how to create your very own fluid art masterpiece using stunning blue and gold tones and punches of colours in-between. In this class you'll learn everything you need create a stunning focal point for your home. For more information, visit thecreativefringe.com.au.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous

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..

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.

Book now

Wednesday 11 Oc tober

A Morning of the Knights

with Danny Elliott & Sharna Le -Grand

Soweto G ospel Choir - Hope

Saturday 7 October, 5pm + 7:30pm

The Whitlams

Sunday 8 October, 6:30pm

A Morning of the Knights: Danny Elliott and Sharna Le -Grand

Wed 11 Oc tober, Morning Tea 10am | Performance 11am

BMMS Presents: Strictly Ballroom The Musical

21 Oc tober to 5 November

The Soul Story: Committed to Soul

Wed 8 November, Morning Tea 10am | Performance 11am

John Waters: Radio Luxembourg

Saturday 18 November, 7:30pm

BOOKINGS 4723 5050 • bluemountainstheatre.com.au

10 6 Macquarie Road Springwood

SWING AND STYLE FROM TOP TRIO

This Friday, October 6, don’t miss the iconic Andrew Dickeson Trio when they make their way to The Joan.

Hailed as the epitome of swing, the Andrew Dickeson Trio is made up of Jacob Graham on the double bass, Peter Locke on piano, and, on drums, Andrew Dickeson himself. Having worked with numerous jazz legends during his time playing and studying in New York City, including Art Taylor, Vernel Fournier and Michael Carvin, it’s no surprise that Dickeson is becoming an icon in his own right.

Dickeson (pictured left) is known for his crisp, hard-swinging style, and has been one of the foremost drummers on the Australian Jazz scene for over 25 years. Graham (pictured right) was initially mentored by Dickeson as part of the Sydney

Conservatorium’s Open Academy program, and has since become one of Australia’s first-call bass players despite only being in his early 20s.

Few musicians move so seamlessly from interpretations of the works of Bix Beiderbecke and Duke Ellington to Be-Bop and beyond quite like Locke, who is one of Australia’s most respected jazz pianists. When the three come together, audiences are sure to be stunned by their rarely heard combination of sophistication, grace and swing, displayed through stylish arrangements of best-loved standards from the Great American Songbook, classic tunes by jazz greats such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie, and some new original compositions too.

The Andrew Dickeson Trio will be on at The Joan on Friday, October 6 at 7pm. Tickets are $35. For more information or to book, visit thejoan.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

At the movies...

Liam Neeson is back in the driver’s seat of a new highstakes thriller in ‘Retribution’ – but why does it feel like we’ve watched this movie before?

If there’s one thing Neeson is going to do, it’s play an action man who is fighting to protect his always-in-danger family. And although it’s worked in previous movies, it’s not enough to save ‘Retribution’.

This time around the 71-year-old plays Matt Turner, a successful Berlin based American businessman who prioritises his work over his family – made obvious by his

frustration at having to simply drive his kids (played by Lilly Aspell and Jack Champion) to school.

But to make the school run even worse, Matt receives a phone call from a mysterious voice telling him there’s a bomb under his seat.

If he doesn’t do exactly what he’s told, the bomb will go off, killing him and his kids.

From there, the movie really kicks into gear as Matt races against the clock to save himself and his family, with the body count rising along the way.

Taking place almost entirely

in a car, Neeson isn’t fighting bad guys or racing around the city to find his family this time around. But aside from that, ‘Retribution’ plays out in a very similar way to his other movies.

Although the 90-minute film wraps everything up with a good twist and car chase, the movie ends in a rather anti-climactic way and you’re left thinking “is that it?”.

When it comes down to it though, ‘Retribution’ isn’t a terrible film – it’s just not a particularly memorable one.

– Ellie Busby

Country Corner

Tori’s long-awaited return

Refreshed and refocused, Sunshine Coast artist Tori Forsyth ushers in a new era with the release of her new single ‘Sometimes’. Her first release in two years, ‘Sometimes’ is a song that marks a strong intention for the multiple Golden Guitar Award nominee, that is to seek out and pursue what she loves, and to settle for nothing less.

With plenty of new music on the way, ‘Sometimes’ is a return to the unique alt-country sound that first launched her music career. Driven by her arresting vocals, and featuring friend and country music icon Shane Nicholson, the new single is a delicate and tender reflection on the ending of a relationship, without malice or resentment, simply bittersweet.

It's available now on all streaming services.

James makes history

Aussie country music star James Johnston (pictured) has made history, delivering Australia's largest debut country album ever, a body of work featuring 20 extraordinary

tracks and a heartfelt celebration of country living. His sound is modern and unique with driving guitars, pounding drums and his gravelly vocal centre stage.

“I wanted to share songs about the good but also the often less talked about side of country life. When it’s all said and done, I hope this album makes you feel proud of where you call home,” he said.

“Music has forever been the way I can express myself in the most honest way possible,” admits the singer-songwriter."

The album, titled ‘Raised Like That’ was released last Friday.

Can’t stop Toby

Toby Keith has been fighting stomach cancer since 2021, but he's refusing to give up on music.

He’s just announced a brand new studio album called ‘100% Songwriter’, which will be released on November 3.

The 13-song collection is a compilation of songs that Keith wrote totally alone, including a whole bunch of his hits.

Ê Foxtel and 10 have announced that ‘Celebrity Gogglebox’ will premiere later this month. The special episode will hit our screens on Wednesday, October 25 on LifeStyle before it gets its free-to-air premiere on Thursday, October 26 at 8.30pm. The celebrities taking part are yet to be unveiled.

Ê 10 has revealed the cast of ‘Gladiators’ (pictured), which will premiere some time early next year. The cast includes some well-known names including former Penrith Panthers winger Sandor Earl as ‘Phoenix’ and Australian Ironman Jett Kenny as ‘Viking’. Beau Ryan and Liz Ellis will host.

Nathan Taylor

TV NEWS 2024 GLADIATORS, CHANNEL 10

Ê The ABC has confirmed a third season of standout Aussie drama ‘The Newsreader’ along with a third season of ‘Ginger and the Vegesaurs’. In some exciting news, the ABC will also produce a six-part series based on the hit novel and film ‘Ladies in Black’. The drama centres around a group of women who work in a city department store (think Myer or David Jones) in the 1960s.

Ê In case you missed it, the 45th season of ‘Survivor’ is now airing on 9GO! and 9Now.

90-minute episodes are fast-tracked every Thursday at 7.30pm.

Ê Still on popular American reality shows, ‘The Amazing Race’ has returned with a 35th season on Channel Seven and 7Plus. New episodes air on Wednesday nights at 9.50pm.

Ê Stan wrestling drama ‘Heels’ has been axed after two seasons. ‘Heels’ followed the professional wrestlers of the Duffy Wrestling League, a small independent promotion in Georgia.

Ê Season two of ‘The Santa Clauses’, starring Tim Allen, will premiere on Wednesday, November 8 on Disney+. In the series’ second season, the Calvin family is back at the North Pole, as Scott Calvin (Allen) continues his role as Santa Claus after his retirement plans were thwarted when he failed to find a worthy successor in season one. Now that Scott and his family have successfully saved

Christmas, Scott turns his focus towards training his son Cal (Austin Kane) to eventually take over the “family business” as Santa Claus.

Ê Four-part documentary series ‘The Enfield Poltergeist’, which tells the story of the most famous poltergeist haunting in history, will screen on Apple TV+ on Friday, October 27. In 1977, the terrifying haunting of an everyday family in Enfield, London, dominated headlines across the UK and had a tremendous impact on an entire generation of children.

Ê Finally, with the writer’s strike in America now over, it was good to see all the Late-Night talk shows return this week. It’s a shame we don’t get most of them here on Aussie TV, but subscribe to their respective YouTube channels as celebrity interviews and popular segments go up there straight after.

TV Guide: October 6–12

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

Championship 2023:

1000 - Day 2: Practice/ Practice &

Qualifying & Supports *Live* From Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Border SecurityAustralia’s Front Line (PG) 7:30 Movie:

Saturday 7

12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Flemington/ Rosehill 6:00 Heathrow (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30

The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country 11:30

The Great Outdoors (PG)

12:30 My Greek Odyssey: Mykonos (PG)

4:00 Counting Cars (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) 5:00 AFL:

Women’s: Round 6: Port Adelaide v Sydney *Live* From Alberton Oval 7:00 AFL

Women’s: Round 6: Brisbane v Collingwood *Live* From Brighton Homes Arena

2:00 Frogger (PG) 3:10 Black-ish (PG) 3:40 The Goldbergs (PG)

4:40 Movie: “Dave” (PG) (’93) Stars: Kevin Kline 7:00 Movie: “Ladies In Black” (PG) (’18) Stars: Julia Ormond 9:15 Movie: “Snatched” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Amy Schumer

QI (PG) 8:30 Louis Theroux: Behind Bars (M l,n)

You Can’t Ask That (M l)

Flat Out Food 6:30 John Torode’s Korean Food Tour 7:30 James Martin’s French Adventure 8:30 Marcus Wareing’s Kitchen Garden Tales 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s Tour

3:45 Bamay 4:55

France 24 English News 5:25 Inside Sydney Airport (PG) 6:20 Kars & Stars (PG) 6:50 Mysteries From Above (PG) 7:45

Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:40 The UnXplained With William Shatner (PG)

4:15 Abby’s (PG) 4:45

Movie: “Scooby-Doo” (PG) (’02) Stars: Freddie Prinze Jr 6:30 Movie: “Zookeeper” (PG) (’11) Stars: Kevin James 8:30 Movie: “Jurassic World” (PG) (’15)

Stars: Chris Pratt 11:00 Grimm (MA15+)

2:00 Movie: “Shalako” (PG) (’68) Stars: Brigitte Bardot 4:20 Movie: “Sabata” (PG) (’69) Stars: Lee Van Cleef 6:20 M*A*S*H (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Under Siege” (M l,v) (’92) Stars: Tommy Lee Jones 10:40 Forensics: Catching The Killer (M v) Classifications:

Get Macca’s® delivered.

12 October 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown (M) 8:30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke (M v)

5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 The Simpsons (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Longest Yard” (PG) (’05)

Stars: Adam Sandler

5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 10 Years Younger In 10 Days (PG) 7:30 First Dates UK (PG) 8:35 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (M l)

6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Brazil Untamed 7:30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30 True Colours (M l,v) 9:30 Movie: “Stigmata” (M) (’99)

12:30 In The Dark (PG)

1:30 Bull (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 v)

Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro (PG)

4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M) 9:30 Seinfeld (PG)

WIN FOR FAMILIES AS RATES STAY ON HOLD

Families were breathing a sigh of relief this week after the official cash rate was left unchanged at 4.10 per cent.

It is the fourth straight month that rates have been left on hold.

“Inflation in Australia has

passed its peak but is still too high and will remain so for some time yet,” Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock said in a statement.

“Timely indicators on inflation suggest that goods price inflation has eased further, but the prices

of many services are continuing to rise briskly and fuel prices have risen noticeably of late. Rent inflation also remains elevated. The central forecast is for CPI inflation to continue to decline and to be back within the 2–3 per cent target range in late 2025.”

Bullock warned that future interest rate rises may still be on the cards.

“Some further tightening of monetary policy may be required to ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe, but that will continue to depend upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks,” she said.

“In making its decisions, the Board will continue to pay close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in household spending, and the outlook for inflation and the labour market. The Board remains resolute in its determination to return inflation to target and will do what is necessary to achieve that outcome.”

Graham Cooke, Head of Consumer Research at Finder, said anyone with a home loan should remain vigilant.

“A fourth consecutive rate hold from the RBA will be welcome news to mortgage holders, many of whom are struggling with higher repayments,” he said.

“While homeowners have been given a break, stubborn inflation means we could still see another rate hike before Christmas.” RateCity.com.au Research

Director Sally Tindall, said the RBA might be on pause for the fourth consecutive month, but that doesn’t mean families will be shifting into cruise control.

“The cash rate might be on hold, but major expenses such as electricity, petrol and insurances are still on the rise, putting extra pressure on household budgets at a time when many are already at breaking point,” she said.

“The RBA has bought itself yet another month to assess how households are holding up under the weight of the previous 12 cash rate increases. It has said more hikes could be necessary but it’s not going to lift the cash rate again unless it is absolutely necessary.”

Western Property

What is so great about this property?

This spacious home offers the perfect option for the growing or larger family looking to settle in a quaint and quiet cul-de-sac location.

Description:

For those working from home, one of the living rooms could be used as a home office, or let the kids enjoy this space as their own breakout area.

The benefits of buying this property are enormous, and include:

• Six generous sized bedrooms, all fitted with built-in robes

• Three bedrooms downstairs and three bedrooms upstairs

• Study or sitting area upstairs

• Multiple living and entertaining areas all filled with natural light

• Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar

• Separate dining area

• Main bathroom and separate toilet

• Separate laundry with extra toilet

• Sparkling swimming pool perfect for upcoming summer

• Spacious backyard, perfect with cubby house and green grass for the children/pet to enjoy

• Oversized undercover carport

• Concreted driveway for extra car spaces

• Located in a quiet cul-de-sac

• Nestled on a 705.5 square metre block of land

Who does this property suit?

This property is for everyone who is buying to live in an ideal lifestyle location as the property is close to the M4 Motorway, shops, schools, cafes and eateries as well as a variety of nearby transport options plus it is only a short drive to Nepean Hospital and Penrith CBD.

SOLD

Simply The Best!!

Litsa helped us through the selling process from start to nish. She is diligent, es about the outcome and goes above and beyond to get the best results. d she works she donned the gloves and helped us clean ell me who does that? She was a nish and kept us informed . In the end even in a downtur n of the market we exceeded our expectations in terms of sales price.

Fantastic For First Home Buyer Or Investor!

• Fantastic top floor unit with high ceilings

• Spacious living with modern flooring throughout

• L arge galley-style kitchen

• 2 great-sized bedrooms with B / I robes

• Generous outdoor balcony with E astern aspect

• Single lock-up garage

$339,950 INSPECT

We will most certainly be using Shannon again!

“Shannon is the most honest and reliable real estate agent out there! He was always on time, very reliable and was always accommodating for us! He was always punctual and always willing to work around our schedule. He never once pushed us into a decision and was always ready to answer any questions that we had regarding the property we were wanting to purchase. We will most certainly be using Shannon to purchase our next property within the same area and surrounds.”

Top Bloke 10 out of 10 – Full Marks

Seller of a townhouse in Glenmore Park, NSW

“Shannon displayed comprehensive knowledge of the market within the suburb, backed up with detailed sales data to develop a proven sales plan. Shannon went the extra mile, offering top tier promotion, video, photos. Even as far to assist our sale by giving multiple trades access prior to the sale of the property (painters/carpetlayers). This enabled us to stress less and have the property in good hands as we are now living far down south.

In conclusion, top bloke 10/10 - Full marks.”

This is your last oppor tunit y to secure a luxur y apar tment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the hear t of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apar tment features ample floor space, sophisticated styl e and the finest finishes

Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction , the residence is completed to a high standard with:

• Miele oven, gas cook top, rangehood, buil t-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedroom s

• Ground floor entr y, two levels of secure parking and a communal roof top with barbeque faciliti es

9043 7500

ORAN P ARK

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As cost-of-living pressures continue to bite, particularly from rising fuel prices, a survey has found a majority of Australians want early access to their superannuation to help ease their current financial situation.

During the height of COVID19 in 2020, the then Coalition Federal Government allowed those hit by the financial impact of the pandemic to withdraw up to $20,000 from their super in two tranches. The program approved 3.5 million initial and 1.4 million repeat applications, averaging $7,638 per withdrawal and totalling $36.4 billion.

But according to a University of NSW study using Commonwealth Bank data, while withdrawers spent seven per cent more on groceries and 12 per cent more on utilities on average, they also spent 16 per cent more on discretionary shopping, and 20

per cent more on entertainment compared to age and incomematched non-withdrawers.

Cost-of-living pressures now are hurting some consumers more in the hip pocket than the impact of lockdowns and other measures during the COVID era.

A survey of 1,090 respondents by

financial comparison site Finder found 56 per cent would access their retirement nest egg early if they could, with 17 per cent citing rising costs as the main reason, while 15 per cent would use funds to help buy a home. Eight per cent would put it towards an investment property and four per cent

said help buy a home for their children.

While 44 per cent of respondents would not touch their super before retirement, eight per cent said they would use funds to pay for a holiday!

This year is the 30th anniversary of the Superannuation Guarantee levy, which mandated employers pay a three per cent contribution to employees’ super funds. This levy will rise to 12 per cent from 2025.

Alison Banney, superannuation expert at Finder, said the prospect of early access to super is increasingly up for debate.

“Currently, there are a limited number of circumstances where you can access your super early such as financial hardship, compassion grounds and the First Home Super Save Scheme, but just because you can doesn’t mean you should,” she said. All food for thought.

BIG WIN?

It’s great to be back – and with a bang! The sun is shining (it’s felt like summer is here already over the past couple of weeks), and the mighty Panthers got their three-peat last weekend – what more can we wish for?

This spring / summer I am wishing for a community focus on water safety to prevent any tragedies from occurring in our area this season. For that to happen I believe we can learn from our sporting heroes and take a leaf out of the Panthers’ playbook by focusing on consistency, persistence, determination and working together to achieve our goals!

Learning to swim is a marathon, not a sprint. Whatever your age or stage of development, attending your swimming lessons every week is the key to success, regardless of whatever else is happening in your world. Of course, we understand that sometimes life happens – which is why we have an extremely flexible make up lesson policy, with no limit on

the amount of makeup’s allowed per year – however coming to the same lesson every week, with the same instructor at the same centre will really set your child up for success, reinforcing the skills they are learning in a familiar environment. Consistency is key. Persistence is equally important. I am sometimes asked, “How long will it take for my child to learn to swim?” The answer is actually in the question and there is no one size fits all answer – your child is unique, and all children,

indeed all people, learn at their own pace, with some skills taking longer than others to master and confidently execute. Please do not become frustrated or give up if a particular stroke is challenging to you or your child, because with persistence and determination, you will definitely get there (just as the Panthers did last weekend). As a community, there are so many ways we can work together to achieve the goal of water safety. Please check your fences and gates, always supervise your

children when swimming or near any body of water and encourage other adults to do the same. Take advantage of our free community water safety roadshow and encourage your child’s school or daycare centre to reach out to us to book a visit.

Book your children in for a discounted second weekly lesson, for our school holiday intensive lessons, or for our school holiday

Paddles Super Swim Camp, where children learn all about water safety and lifeguarding skills. Can’t swim yourself and would not be able to help your child if in trouble – come and learn to swim in our adult classes, it’s never too late. Looking for work? Apply to train with us as a Swimming Teacher.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but I believe it takes a community to keep children safer around water. Swim skills save lives. What are you going to do this spring / summer to contribute to this cause? See you next week.

THE TECHNOLOGY USED IN THE NRL GRAND FINAL

This year’s NRL Grand Final must be one of the best. Congratulations to Penrith. You might be surprised at the amount of technology used by sporting codes, including rugby league. Here’s just some of them...

Sportable: This technology tracks the position, speed, spin, and angle of the rugby league ball using a microchip implanted in the ball. It can detect forward passes (although the NRL doesn’t utilise this) by analysing the angle of the player’s hand as the ball leaves them. It uses an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer to measure the ball’s acceleration, rotation, and orientation. It also uses flight-tracking radar and radio chips to communicate with pitchside sensors up to 20 times per second. It has a claimed accuracy of 99.9 per cent.

Hawk-Eye: This is a computer vision system that tracks the ball’s

trajectory and assists the referees and the Bunker in making decisions on contentious calls, such as tries, knock-ons, forward passes, and offside. The technology uses multiple cameras and angles to provide a clear view of the action. The referees can request a review from the Bunker, which uses Hawk-Eye to analyse the footage and communicate the decision to the on-field referee.

Telstra Tracker: This wearable technology tracks the speed, distance, and intensity of NRL players during the game. The technology uses GPS and accelerometers to measure metrics such as top speed, total distance, highspeed efforts, and work rate. The data is displayed on the broadcast and online platforms for fans to see how their favourite players perform. It works by attaching a small device to the back of the player’s jersey, which collects and transmits the data to a cloud server. This data is also available to NRL coaches and staff.

Skycam: The wired camera is a computer-controlled, stabilised, cable-suspended camera system that can move through three dimensions in the open space over the playing area of the stadium. The system is responsible for bringing video game–like camera angles to television sports.

Fox Sports Lab: This data analysis platform provides live statistics and insights on NRL games. The platform uses advanced algorithms and machine learning to generate predictive models, trends, and ratings for NRL teams

and players. The platform also provides historical data and records for comparison and context.

Reaction Wall: At half-time, this tests the reaction time of a fan against the speed of an NRL player.

The fan is usually given a 20m head start over the 100m.

These technologies make it more exciting and engaging for fans and players alike. They show how technology can enhance the sport and create a better experience for everyone involved.

HEALTH

The Experts

WHY IS PREHAB SO IMPORTANT?

Any major surgery can induce functional decline and pain, which can also have negative implications on health care utilisation and quality of life. Prehabilitation is the first stage in the rehabilitation pathway. ‘Prehab’ prepares you both physically and mentally for the surgery and the rehabilitation that follows. It can be applied to people who are anticipating upcoming surgery or are participating in demanding physical activity. Many studies have shown that those who undergo ‘prehab’ have much better recovery following their surgery, with less pain, a shorter hospital admission and more function. It can also

reduce post operative complications. For patients considering orthopaedic surgery, it’s important to understand that the condition of your overall health and fitness can impact your post-surgery recovery. For example, being overweight increases stress on the joints and can increase in-surgery risks. Patients requiring a joint replacement, who maintain or work towards becoming as fit and healthy as possible, build a strong foundation for a better recovery.

Prehab is paramount to a successful joint replacement and should be started ideally at least six weeks prior to your surgery. There was a 38 per cent rise in the rate of total knee replacements for osteoarthritis from 2005–06 to 2017–18!

During the initial assessment, your physiotherapist will assess you to identify common impairments such as poor muscle activation, mobility limitations and balance issues. You will then begin to address these

JUSTIN HANNA One Point Health 4732 5188

issues prior to surgery which allows you to recover quicker with better outcomes. Prehabilitation training can be a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and functional training – all of which are used based upon the needs of the individual.

So why should I do prehab before my surgery?

1) Decrease your pain levels prior to your surgery

2) Prepares you physically and mentally for your rehabilitation

3) Familiarise yourself with the exercises you will need to do after your surgery

4) Improve general fitness, balance, and conditioning for your surgery.

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

The best sunscreens to keep you safe as the weather warms up

Here in Australia, we understand the value of sunscreen more than most, with the UV index even in winter enough to warrant slip, slop, slapping. If you haven’t been wearing sunscreen all year round (which you should be), the warm weather this week should be enough to tell you it’s time to start.

Luckily, the days of leaving the house with a greasy, ghostly white cast are over –and you don’t have to sacri fice protection.

Mecca Cosmetica

To Save Face SPF50+ Super screen

This Mecca

Cosmetica sunscreen is a cult classic for good reason.

Retailing for $44, the Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen is built with makeup wearers in mind. It has natural matte, non-greasy finish, and a tint that means the skin isn’t left with a white cast.

The formula is cruelty free and vegan, and also contains Vitamin E and Sodium PCA to promote elasticity and hydration.

Consistency-wise, it feels just like a moisturiser – making it one of my personal favourites for daily wear. Just make sure you get it when it’s in stock!

Ultra Violette Lean Screen

Mineral Mattifying SPF 50+

Though not quite as popular as Ultra Violette’s Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF 50+, those with

oily skin can’t look past the Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying SPF 50+.

Similar to the Mecca Cosmetica option, this sunscreen offers high UV protection with a light tint to prevent the dreaded white cast.

However, it comes with the addition of a soft matte finish, making it ideal for oily to combination skin, or those prone to sensitivity or eczema. I like to wear this one under my makeup, or mix it with my foundation for an everyday look. However, it’s important to

note that this does decrease the level of sun protection it can provide, so if you’re going out in the sun, be sure to layer another sunscreen product underneath.

Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Fluid

A long-time fan of Bondi Sands’ self-tanning products, I will say I was pretty excited when they expanded into sunscreens – and they don’t disappoint.

For the face, you can’t go past the Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Fluid. The formula, though lacking a tint, is light enough that it works perfectly under makeup – especially if you’re fair like me – and it comes in a small, convenient tube that makes it perfect for travelling, or bringing along to a beach trip or festival.

Plus, it can be paired

perfectly with the brand’s SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Body Sunscreen Lotion, which has seen me through many days out in the sun, with no redness to be found.

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. www.pancakesontherocks.com.au

Pyometra is the term used to describe a pus-filled infected uterus. Sounds serious, doesn’t it? That’s because it is serious and can be a life-threatening disease if not addressed quickly. Animals that are most at risk of developing a pyometra are female dogs who are not desexed and that have already had a few heat cycles.

Pyometras can become life threatening especially if the uterus ruptures inside the body. Untreated pyometra can cause dehydration, kidney failure and eventual death from infection and toxin accumulation.

What causes a pyometra?

Each time a dog has a season (generally twice a year), she undergoes hormonal changes. These changes affect the uterus and cervix and make infection more likely. Infection is usually caused by a very common organism called E. Coli. The disease usually becomes apparent several weeks or months following heat.

What are the signs of pyometra?

Pyometra is obviously only seen in females and can occur at any age but more commonly occurs in dogs over the age of six. Early signs can be subtle and could just include increased licking around the back end or just being a bit tired and not as hungry as usual. In the advanced stages you may notice that she drinks lots of water and sometimes you may even find a reddish-brown discharge coming from the back end. Some dogs will have a distended abdomen and become very depressed and tired.

How is pyometra diagnosed?

A good history is generally suggestive of pyometra but x-rays/ultrasound and blood tests are generally needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess how sick the dog is.

Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the best treatment option is surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus as soon as

possible. Some animals are too sick for an anaesthetic and need to be stabilised prior to surgery.

Can it be prevented?

Yes! The only way to prevent this condition is by having your dog desexed.

If you are not intending to breed your dog, then she should be desexed at any time from six months of age.

Not only does desexing prevent

pyometra and cancers of the reproductive tract, but if you get your female dog desexed before her first season then this reduces the chance of breast cancer developing later in life by 90 per cent.

If you have any questions about desexing your pet, please contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 to discuss options.

Relax & Unwind

With Mars visiting your professional/ life direction zone, be more proactive about where you are heading. Don’t just hope that things will magically change. Saturday night’s Solar Eclipse is the ideal time to set intentions and make wishes involving holidays, education and aspirations. Most of all … be yourself! Draw inspiration from birthday great Eleanor Roosevelt, “You not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Boho

Does it feel as if your dreams are on hold or a relationship is going backwards? This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations. But then lucky Venus and proactive Mars encourage you to pair up with a loved one and make your combined dreams come true. You’ll need to be patient though! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great John Lennon, “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Leo style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns so expect power plays, disruptions and delays. Patience and compromise are required, otherwise it will be a long and challenging week. When it comes to your daily routine, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No one (not even a super capable Leo) is indispensable! The Solar Eclipse signals a fresh start in your neighbourhood.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Venus transits into your networking zone on Monday, which bodes well for connecting with friends, colleagues and your extended peer group in beneficial ways. Then the Solar Eclipse lights up your solitude/soul zone. So it’s time to slow down and look within as you contemplate, ruminate and meditate about where you’re going and where you’ve been. Your motto is from birthday great, John Lennon, “Turn off your mind, relax and float downstream.”

PISCES

Tuesday’s Venus/Saturn opposition revs up your relationship zone. So be very careful what you say to a loved one who is tired, sick, stressed or just plain grumpy!

Saturday night’s Solar Eclipse spotlights close partnerships and trust issues. And have you been feeling frustrated about a dream or goal? It’s time to minimise your disappointment and maximise your motivation. With hard work and a positive, proactive attitude, you can turn things around.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Mercury (your patron planet), Mars and the Solar Eclipse are all energising your creativity and peer group zone. So it’s a wonderful week to create, inspire, socialise and fraternise. An exciting new romance or friendship could be just around the corner! Are you single and looking for love? You could be introduced to your future partner via a housemate, relative or family friend. Friday is the best day to tick the to-do list and get things done at work.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Long term partnerships – of the romantic, platonic and business variety – are highlighted this week. Saturn tests dedication and loyalty, Venus – calm cooperation, and Neptune – emotional maturity. But don’t get bogged down in gossip and criticism – keep the conversation inspiring and uplifting! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Eleanor Roosevelt, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Lucky Venus is transiting through your exploration and education zone (from Monday until November 8) so it’s a fortuitous time to travel, start a course of study or make some new interstate or international friends. Then the weekend Solar Eclipse is the perfect time to revise, reassess and reboot your goals and dreams for the future. Think of creative ways you can navigate the unpredictable economic landscape, adapt profession ally and pivot personally.

Saturday night’s Libran Solar Eclipse (in your relationship zone) is all about love, harmony and compromise. But this week – with Mars square Pluto and Venus opposite Saturn – balance, moderation and cooperation could be difficult to find. So do your best to calm down and keep the peace. Friday’s terrific Mars/Saturn trine increases your enthusiasm, motivation and capacity to get things done. Passion and patience are a winning combination!

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

If you are crabby with friends and family members this week, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So do your best to be more compassionate and generous towards loved ones. Plus try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. As birthday great John Lennon observed, “We’ve got this gift of love, but love is like a precious plant. You’ve got to keep watering it. You’ve got to really look after it and nurture it.”

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Saturn and Pluto stymie motivation and slow progress (especially involving a close relationship, joint venture, domestic project or work matter). You could also disappoint yourself, as you find it difficult to stick to your chosen diet, daily exercise program or usual beauty routine. Perhaps it would be better to moderate your perfectionist streak and learn to accept your perceived imperfections? Saturday night’s Solar Eclipse emphasises self-awareness and self-love.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Mars, Mercury and the Solar Eclipse light up your career zone, so utilise your ambition, communication skills and natural charisma to attract opportunities into your world. Then use your can-do Capricorn attitude to take action. The terrific Mars/Saturn trine reminds you to be proactive and practical. Preparation is the key. As Libran singer/actress Julie Andrews observes, “Work hard,

ALPINE CHIC MEETS EPIC ADVENTURE IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

Tucked away among one million hectares of national parkland, Chalets at Blackheath is a secret spot of solace in Austr anged across freestanding chalets and spread over expansiv ounds, this is alpine bliss at its peak.

Modern and well-proportioned, the chalets are a celebration of luxury with an eco-sensitive edge. Floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking bush views, oversized bathrooms, and twin rainfall showers that cascade UV-filtered mountain water. Light, bright and spacious, it’s the perfect setting for a cosy couples retreat.

Need To Know:

• Onsite Library

• Yoga Deck

• Champagne Picnics

• Indigenous edible garden

• Firepit

Key Activities by local operators:

• Fly Fishing

• Tru e Hunting

• Guided walks

• Breakfast with the Kangaroos

Treatments offered:

• In-room massage

• Private Yoga

• Private Meditation

• In-room facials

machine

Crossword

52 Excuse (3,3)

53 Concurs

1 Poor work (5-2)

2 Drifts

3 Using

5 Copied

6 Speak slowly

7 Artist’s equipment

8 Cheap

9 Pins

10 Speculated

11 Hiker

14 Eat hastily

20 Impetuously 22 Confined

25 Purveyor

27 Amazing (3-9)

28 Relocated

29 Go to bed

30 Impressive

33 Near the back

34 Retainer

38 Racers

39 Shooting star

42 Misty

44 First showing

46 Incensed

48 Gold-bearing vein

How

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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store. The solutions will be published here in the next issue. www.str8ts.com

Previous solution - Medium

No. 666

Tough Previous solution - Medium

Word Search

Find all the words below in the grid - they can go in any direction, but always in a straight line. The leftover letters spell a hidden word!

Find all the words below in the grid - they can go in any direction, but always in a straight line. The leftover letters spell a hidden word!

AMBER AQUA BLUE BROWN CHARTREUSE CRIMSON CYAN

EBONY FAWN GOLD GREEN GREY HELIOTROPE INDIGO KHAKI LEMON

ACACIA BAMBOO BANKSIA BOTTLEBRUSH BRIAR CACTI CAMELLIA COMFREY COTTON DAHLIA EUCALYPTUS FRANGIPANI GORSE HEMP JUTE

The hidden word is :

The hidden word is :

MAUVE OCHRE ORANGE PINK

LILY ORCHID PANSY POPPY REED

PRIMROSE PURPLE SAGE

SCARLET SEPIA TURQUOISE ULTRAMARINE VIRIDIAN WHITE YELLOW

RUSHES SHRUBBERY SNAPDRAGON

Find all the words below in the grid - they can go in any direction, but always in a straight line. The leftover letters spell a hidden word! is the mystery word!

Find all the words below in the grid - they can go in any direction, but always in a straight line. The leftover letters spell a hidden word!

Last week’s solution

is

Trivia Quiz

Test

1. Who scored the first try of the Grand Final?

2. Who was the referee for the Grand Final?

3. Nathan Cleary joins how many other players as two-time winners of the Clive Churchill Medal?

4. How many tries did Brisbane star Ezra Mam score?

5. Adam Reynolds has now lost two Grand Finals against the Panthers. Who was he playing for in the first?

6. What was the crowd figure at the Grand Final?

7. Before Penrith’s three-peat efforts of 2021, 2022 and 2023, which team last won three straight Premierships?

Tri in safe hands

Major shake-up sees Nepean Triathlon moved to April

The future of Australia’s oldest triathlon has been secured long-term after Mark “Emo” Emerton and his team at Elite Energy were handed the keys to the Nepean Triathlon this week.

Following a series of challenges, including lack of funding, sponsorship and issues with the Sydney International Regatta Centre course, the future of the Nepean Triathlon, which has been running continuously in Penrith since 1981, was in huge doubt.

Rather than the volunteer-led event be cancelled altogether, an honest conversation was had between Race Director Chris Joseph and Emerton, CEO and owner of Elite Energy, about keeping one of Penrith’s most popular sporting events alive.

“Each year Joey and I talk to each other, I ask him how the race is going etc… and he said he wasn’t getting the numbers that he wanted, and he was questioning whether to run it or

not this year,” Emerton told the Weekender

“Him and I had a chat and came to the agreement to keep it going and here we are.”

On October 1, Emerton and Elite Energy took over the Nepean Triathlon and will now hold it on April 6 and 7 next year, instead of the previously scheduled date of October 28 and 29 this year.

The new date allows Emerton

and his team, which run 90 per cent of the triathlons in NSW, to get their hands on the event properly and build it back up to being one of the premier races in the state.

“I decided to take it on probably because I’m an old passionate sucker,” Emerton laughed.

“I did the 1984 Nepean Triathlon and I’ve done 10-15 of them since then.

“Being the oldest race in

BRODY EYES 2032 OLYMPICS

Story continued from » back page

“When I was older, I started getting more and more interested in the sport and by the time I was six, I was winning races interstate.”

Australia and the next oldest race is the Noosa Triathlon, it’s a bit like State of Origin – I didn’t want those Queenslanders to start saying they have the oldest race in Australia.”

Emerton said the main Nepean Triathlon race on the Sunday will largely remain unchanged, however he will be introducing a couple of new events to the weekend to attract more participants.

“Elite Energy was also given the Australian Super Sprint Championships for next year and we’re going to take it to Nepean and it will be held on the Saturday. That should bring other people from interstate who wouldn’t normally come to Nepean and race,” he said.

“Then on the Sunday, we’ll have two main races – the Nepean Triathlon, which is the premier race, and the Nepean Classic, which is a 2km swim, 60km ride and 15km run. It will be close to a half Ironman.”

Elite Energy is currently in the process of updating the Nepean Triathlon website, with entries to next year’s event expected to be open in due course.

Last year, the Bethany Primary School student took his talents to France, representing Australia for the first time at the UCI BMX World Championships. While his bike got lost in transit and didn’t arrive until the day before his first race, it didn’t get Brody down and he was able to perform to a high standard.

“I wasn’t feeling very good beforehand. I was scared, nervous, but I ended up finishing second in my first race and first in another,” Brody said.

“I was so happy and so were my parents.”

After he returns from New Zealand’s north island, Brody’s next major goal is to qualify for the UCI BMX World Championships in South Carolina next year, while his ultimate goal is the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.

Last year’s female winner Lotte Vandekerckhove. Photo: JGR Images.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Rentoy becomes a King

He cut his teeth in Penrith, now basketball sensation is poised to star in NBL

Local basketballer Jasper Rentoy has come a long way since playing with the St Clair Wolves, signing a development contract with the Sydney Kings late last month.

The 23-year-old, who most recently played with the Eastern Mavericks, becomes Sydney’s fourth development player for the 2023/24 NBL season.

“Signing as a development player with the Sydney Kings is an absolute dream come true,” Rentoy said.

“Growing up, I went to all the Kings games and camps, so being a part of them now, it’s definitely come full circle.

“I’ve always had goals to make it to the NBL, but never would I have thought that I’d get the honour to wear the purple and gold and represent my home. Born and raised in western Sydney, I know it truly means a lot to them, my family and the Filipino community.

“I am thankful to the Sydney Kings for this opportunity, words can’t explain how much it means to me.”

The point guard, who started his hoops journey with the Penrith Basketball Association, believes the harbour city club is the best place for him at this stage of his career.

“At this stage of my career, there is no better place to be than a part of the Kings organisation,” Rentoy said.

“They’ve been the benchmark of the NBL these last couple of seasons in all aspects and getting a chance to learn from the best, there’s not much more I can ask for.

“I’m really looking forward to learning from guys like Shaun Bruce and Jayden Adams, as they are elite point guards at this level, being mentored by them will only help in my growth as a basketball player.

“I am also very excited to learn from coach Mahmoud [Abdelfattah] and Denzel Valentine, being from the NBA, they have a wealth of knowledge I hope to obtain from them.

“I definitely feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity to learn from the entire team and coaching staff, they have been great so far and I think it’s definitely going to be a fun year.”

Kings assistant coach Daniel Kickert is excited about what Rentoy can bring to the team this season.

“We saw a commitment to being the best player he could possibly be, day in and day out, and a desire to help make everyone else around him a better player,” he said.

“Jasper brings a high level of professionalism to his approach to the game and a willingness to and eagerness to learn from his teammates.

“[With all these things being considered] I know he can have a positive impact on our club.”

Growing up, Rentoy used to put hours upon hours into his craft, dedicated to one day making it on the big stage. Now, that dream is a reality.

“Jasper, your journey to the Sydney Kings is a testament to your talent and commitment,” Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC) General Manager, Luke Hepburn said.

“You would often find Jasper working out at the PVRSC at all hours. We have no doubt that you'll continue to shine on and off the court.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

Jasper Rentoy at the recent NBL Blitz.

Photo: Kris Saad.

Around The Grounds

CRICKET: Penrith will take on Parramatta in the opening round of the Cricket NSW Women’s First Grade competition this Sunday afternoon at Merrylands Park. The Round 1 fixture will see the reigning first grade women’s Premiers play a T20 match against their arch-rivals. T20 matches make up the first six rounds of the season.

CRICKET: Penrith will do battle with Hawkesbury in Round 2 of the Belvidere Cup this Saturday morning. The two sides will go head-to-head in a One Day match at Bensons Lane Oval. Penrith, who enjoyed the bye in Round 1, are hoping to get back into the Finals this season after missing out by one-point last year. They are once again coached by Andrew Lamb and captained by Ryan Gibson.

AFLW: The GWS Giants can’t buy a win at the moment, beaten convincingly by the North Melbourne Kangaroos 32-2 in Round 5 of the AFLW. Despite a strong defensive performance by the Giants, the Roos proved too strong in the end. It’s the first time this season the Giants have failed to score a goal in a match. GWS will look to secure their first win of the season when they host West Coast at Blacktown International Sportspark on Saturday afternoon.

AFL: First-year GWS Giants head coach Adam Kingsley has won the 2023 Monjon Allan Jeans Senior Coach of the Year for a superb season in charge. After a 16th place finish in 2022 and with a team in transformation, Kingsley led the Giants to a Preliminary Finals berth where they came up agonisingly short to eventual Premiers Collingwood by one-point. The

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former Richmond Tigers assistant coach was awarded 263 votes from his peers, which saw him edge out Grand Final combatants Collingwood’s Craig McRae (197) and Chris Fagan (164).

SOCCER: Nepean FC star Chloe Carmichael has been signed by the Central Coast Mariners for the upcoming A-League Women’s season. The young goalkeeper joins the club on a scholarship contract. The 20-year-old said she was “extremely grateful” for the opportunity.

SOCCER: The Western Sydney Wanderers continue to make signings ahead of the upcoming A-League Women’s season, with Ischia Brooking and Maliah Morris agreeing to deals. Brooking, who has signed on for two seasons on a scholarship deal, joins Western Sydney off the back of the CommBank Junior Matildas qualification campaign for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup where she played a pivotal role in the national team’s qualification. Striker Morris arrives in Wanderland after a recent stint in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) with Orlando Pride where she made multiple appearances in their pre-season campaign and went on to sign as an injury replacement in April. The upcoming A-League season will be Morris’ first time in the competition. The Western Sydney Wanderers A-League Women’s team will kick-off their campaign with a blockbuster Sydney Derby at Allianz Stadium on Saturday, October 14.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan@westernweekender. com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

A MIGHTY EXPERIENCE

After representing Australia in France last year, 11-yearold Brody Willmott will add a second stamp to his passport when he travels to New Zealand this month for a special international BMX competition.

The Glenmore Park resident, who oozes confidence on and off the track, will represent the Mighty 11s Australian BMX Team against New Zealand on October 21 and 22.

After a rider from Ipswich BMX Club was tragically killed in a car accident, his mother gave the club a trophy to be used in his memory.

The Ipswich BMX Club committee at the time, decided to hold

an invitational meet for a junior class, as the rider that the trophy honoured was 11 at the time of the accident.

When discussing the event options and guidelines, it was reported that one committee member said: “It can’t be in June, my son will be 12.”

As a result, three ages were put into a hat and one was drawn, thus was the birth of the ‘Mighty 11s’. Out of the close friendship between the President of the Ipswich BMX Club, Neville Gray, and New Zealand’s Errol Nelson, a Trans-Tasman BMX exchange was developed.

Their vision was a cultural exchange trip along with BMX racing. The exchange was timed to

happen with the Mighty 11s meeting, which then combined to create a Mighty 11s experience.

Speaking with the Weekender, Brody said it’s always been his dream to be involved in Mighty 11s.

“Ever since I heard about it, I’ve always wanted to do it,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to heading over to New Zealand and being part of the experience.”

A popular member of the Macarthur BMX Club, Brody got involved in BMX after riding his neighbour’s bike growing up.

“I’ve been riding for eight years and have always felt confident on the bike from a young age,” he told the Weekender

Story continues on » p. 93

NATHAN TAYLOR

Photos: Melinda Jane.