PANPA 2014 NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR RUNNER-UP
weekender the western
Printed on 100% recycled paper
FRI 9 JAN 2015 • Issue 1185
Wallace eyes return
PROUDLY INDEPENDENT
Business Advice, tips and profiles on the best local businesses p.22-23
Our plans for 2015 Penrith City Council outlines its agenda for a busy year ahead DALE DRINKWATER
Captain to be ready for round one p.40
Building Hope in Uganda p.20
Rocking into Penrith We catch up with The Amity Affliction p.24
@daledrinkwater
T
here are big plans on the way for Penrith this year to reshape the regional city, in a bid to keep up with growth in what Penrith Council deems “the heart of the new west”. Outlining its plans for 2015, Council said it would seek funding from the State Government on numerous projects this year to provide facilities and services they consider beyond Penrith’s own resources. Funding would go towards upgrading the city’s car parks to free up space for potential economic or cultural development sites under the guise of the Rebuilding NSW Plan. After years of pushing for progress, Council said this year will see developments in Penrith Lakes after the State Government’s Draft Vision for the area was released back in December. Council said it wants more areas opened up for recreation sooner and agrees that the area is western Sydney’s equal to the east’s waterfront Barangaroo. The city’s iconic Nepean River is set to be upgraded and is to include a playground, a water’s edge amphitheatre, cafes, public art, new paths and recreational facilities, with plans to start work on a pedestrian bridge across the river. Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler, said construction of the pedestrian bridge should begin soon and is expected to take two years to complete. Mr Fowler is also keen to push Penrith’s claims for a new major sports stadium. Mayor Ross Fowler at the Nepean River this week. Photo: Melinda Jane
Story continues on » p. 8
COME IN & SEE US
For all information visit www.atmospherefitness.com.au or email info@atmospherefitness.com.au Phone 4760 0700 16-19 Lambridge Pl, Penrith
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR @ atmospherefitness.com.au TA
WW12565
MEMBERSHIPS ON SALE NOW
WW12565
local news
2
Are all foot doctors the same?
“ Our Podiatrist Dr Brenden Brown is the kid’s foot health expert. ■ Clark’s ■ Today ■
“
Are you getting the best advice for your kids?
Australia kid’s footwear ambassador
Show “Back to School” and foot health expert
Featured in Practical Parenting
■ “Back ■ ABC
to School” expert for A Current Affair
702 Sydney foot health expert
■ Featured
in Men’s and Women’s Health
Most importantly, he’s the super proud dad of 2 fantastic, local, school aged kids. BB loves kids, has a relaxed nature and practical solutions to get your kids happy, healthy and active.
A Step Ahead
Foot+AnkleCare
We have appeared as foot health experts in
Australian Ambassadors for Clarks footwear
Penrith 4732 2007 St Marys 9673 2987 Check us out now at www.astepahead.com.au Join us and our 9000+ fans on
WW15066
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
DON’T DELAY CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. Appointments available now pre Back to school
http://www.facebook.com/podiatristsydney for more information
COMMUNITY
Penrith gets its skates on again
3
Roller skating set for a revival as Penrith Skatel prepares for special reunion KATHERINE TWEED
past-time that has soared and dropped in popularity throughout the ages is ready for a comeback in the Penrith area, according to the owners and patrons of Penrith Skatel. Roller skating, hugely popular in the 1950s, 60s and again in the late 80s and 90s, took a dip in popularity in the noughties but now, the activity is beginning to become fashionable again. Bob and Sue Kersten have owned the only roller skating rinks in the area since the 80s. They originally owned three but now, have shrunk their empire to just one; Penrith Skatel, which has been theirs for 25 years. The couple is very passionate about preserving roller skating as a past-time in Penrith and offer endless support to local roller skating sports like Roller Derby, with the hopes of keeping it alive. Patricia McClean has been attending Penrith Skatel since 2012, when she began to train with the local Roller Derby team, now known as the Western Sydney Rollers. She told the Weekender that Skatel’s support and passion has been essential
in keeping the sport alive in the area. Ms McClean said Skatel’s passion is one that has spread to her and the rest of the team, who are keen to see the local business and sport thriving once again. “Roller skating is making a big comeback and whilst many new businesses are opening up, Skatel, in my opinion, is the heart and soul of skating in the area,” she said. “What I love about Skatel is the family fun atmosphere. It offers people a chance to relive their childhood and strap on some skates and have a great time.” To kick off the roller skating trend in Penrith again, Penrith Skatel and its current patrons are holding a special reunion; inviting back all their past customers on Saturday, February 27 at 7.30pm to catch up and check out the renovations that have been undertaken. “We have been in the roller skating business for quite a while and we have made great friends with our patrons. We have been operating since ‘89 and, although it feels like yesterday to me, there are a lot of people who we haven’t seen for a while, particularly some of our old regulars from over the years,” said Mr Kersten. “The reunion is a bit of nostalgia really and we hope that it might spark a bit of interest in the local area as well.”
local news
A
@ktweed_
Roller derby players call the Penrith Skatel home Ms McClean, who is helping to organise the event, said everyone is welcome . “We are organising the reunion to give people the opportunity to get back to
skating, or even try it for the first time. It is mainly our way to show support to Skatel for all they have done for us for many years,” she said.
Exclusive Stockist in Penrith Shop 203 Westfield Penrith T. (02) 4732 3688 www.penrithjewelleryworkshop.com.au
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
WW11515
EDITOR'S DESK
4
troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au
Equal opportunity shouldn’t be about meeting targets and quotas
opinion
SUNDAYS 9.30am with kids programs 5.30pm Afternoon Service with kids programs
WW10431
CNR NORTHERN RD & M4 ORCHARD HILLS PH: 4736 3000 INCHURCHPENRITH.COM
discover real life SUNDAY
10am 1hr NIGHT SERVICE for Young Adults–5:05pm last Sunday of month WW15086
Ps Mik and Margaret Wrotniak
46-54 Second Rd, Ave,Kignswood Kingswood Meets at Kingswood Public School – 131 Bringelly 0413 827 872 www.real_lifechurch.com.au
Licence No. 189585C
ABN: 49559903646
Call Shane 0411 704 302
A 30-something-year-old bloke talking about feminism should probably run for shelter, but I’m going to do it anyway. Two stories got steam flowing from my ears over the holiday period. The first was a story in The Sydney Morning Herald, which stated the number of women on government Boards had slipped below the 40 per cent target. The Herald said that a new report says men made up 75 per cent of new appointees within Tony Abbott’s own Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet this year. The annual Gender Balance on Australian Government Boards Report says overall female representation slipped from its peak of 41.7 per cent under Labor in 2013 to 39.7 under the Coalition in 2014. That all prompted the advocacy group Women on Boards to question the Government’s commitment to women and gender equality. And of course, the Twitterverse and the antiAbbott brigade went nuts. Here’s my problem: Do women really want positions on Boards and the like purely because of their sex? Surely it is offensive and indeed the very definition of discrimination and sexism to be appointing someone to meet a quota. When it comes to government Boards and the like, as a tax payer, I’d prefer to see the very best people appointed – regardless of their sex. Let’s just say a male and a female are vying for the same position on a Board. Let’s say the male is slightly more qualified and has a touch more experience. Should he be overlooked because his rival candidate just happens to be a woman and it’d help meet a quota or target? And here’s another thing we never seem to ask when these stories do the rounds: How many female applicants were there for Board positions
TROY DODDS @troydodds
Screaming down the joint for the sake of it is getting us nowhere
compared to male applicants? Could it be that the appointment statistics balance quite well with the application statistics? Maybe I’m looking at things too simplistically. Or maybe I’m looking at things as somebody who has grown up in a generation that has benefited from the real feminism movement, not the one that exists through mummy bloggers and Twitter. Which brings me to the star of ‘The Big Bang Theory’, Kaley Kuoco. During an interview, she was asked if she was a feminist. “Is it bad if I say no?” she said. “Things are different now, and I know a lot of the work that paved the way for women happened before I was around ... I was never that feminist girl demanding equality, but maybe that’s because I’ve never really faced inequality.” I applauded her comments at the time – here was a highly successful woman, very sure of herself, and not conforming to the expectation of screaming of sexism and unfairness. But of course, the critics brought her down. So much so, that she actually had to backtrack somewhat on her original comments, so as not to tread too fiercely on the toes of the precious feminist movement that has, in some cases, lost the plot. Shouldn’t we be celebrating the fact that Kaley Kuoco has had enormous success in a cut-throat industry and has never felt discriminated against because of her sex? No, we have to be offended. Offended at what, I’m not too sure, but offended nonetheless. I appreciate and understand the extraordinary feminist movement that paved the way for equal rights and opportunities, and I’m not stupid enough to believe the job is complete. But screaming down the joint for the sake of it is really getting us nowhere.
“Where quality, service & great prices come together”
With Every New Driveway
the western weekender
FREE
Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255
Excavation and Removal of Old Driveway WW15114
LET US TRANSFORM THE LOOK OF YOUR PRIDE & JOY & BE THE ENVY OF YOUR STREET
www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith
Advertising: penrithsales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au Printed by: Spotpress Pty Ltd CIRCULATION: 59,400 [CAB Audit November 2014]
Editor: Troy Dodds • Journalists: Nathan Taylor, Katherine Tweed, Dale Drinkwater, Kate Reid Photographer: Melinda Jane Production Manager: Irene Adams • Production: Alana Christanga, Maddy Searle • Administration: Karlee Hansen Sales Manager: Simon Gould • Sales Executives: Paula Allsopp, Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Lewis, James Miller, Gina Perrin, Katie Grasso, Howard Cox
Sydney’s Best Prices - 7 Days a Week - No Obligation FREE Quotes
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
X Obligation-free design and quotation service
ENJOY MORE OF YOUR HOME IN SUMMER!
X We customise the style and design of the structure to suit your home X Choose from the full range of COLORBOND® colours X Choice of roof sheeting to suit your design and budget needs WW15108
177185C
CRIME
5
Warning over fake cash Police say counterfeit money is a big issue in Penrith KATHERINE TWEED
@ktweed_
Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith 2750
Tanya Davies MP Member for Mulgoa a
local news
WW10514
L
ocal clubs and pubs have been collectively losing hundreds of dollars over the past month at the hands of criminals using counterfeit money. Local venues have been inundated with fake $20, $50 and $100 notes through December and into the new year, with management realising they have been conned too late. The issue of counterfeit money is one that local and state police are continually having to deal with but local police say that the situation in Penrith has reached a new level. It has prompted police to warn business owners in the local area to educate their staff so that they can identify counterfeit money before it hits the till. “It is important to know what it looks like and know what it feels like. If it doesn’t feel like real money, it isn’t,” said Penrith Local Area Command Crime Manager, Grant Healey. There have been five incidents where fake $50 notes have hit the tills at local clubs and pubs between Christmas and New Year. The serial numbers for counterfeit $50
A fake is hard to spot: The real $50 note is on top, the fake one is on the bottom notes that are circulating are DL06155176 and LM06855354. Counterfeit $20 notes circulating at the moment have the serial number BA10861877 and fake $100 notes have the
serial number; FA96403514. Local police say that the counterfeit money is normally passed late at night. Have you been conned? Email us at news@westernweekender.com.au.
Phone: (02) 9833 2913 Address: Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys 2760 Email: mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au Mail: PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790
WW6756
Simply Affordable. 98 Station Street, Penrith Ph. 4721 7776 Call us anytime on 1300 556 222
WW15106
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
Supporting Penrith families for over 25 years
Why not talk to us today and learn more about the benefits of prepaying a funeral with Australia’s leading prepaid funeral plan.
6
POLICE
No holidays for local police Police remain visible over the holiday period in an effort to keep roads safe
local news
KATHERINE TWEED
@ktweed_
D
ouble demerits, an increased police presence on the roads and roadside breath testing left, right and centre this Christmas-New Year period formed part of a state-wide plan by NSW Police to help get holidaymakers to their destinations safely. Last weekend marked the end of Operation Safe Arrival, a 17-day special operation that saw police use a number of different methods to encourage drivers to employ safe behaviours on roads during the busy period. Unfortunately, not everyone in the local area got the message. Penrith Highway Patrol issued over 300 speeding infringements and over 400 infringements for other offences. In conjunction with local police over 12,000 breath tests were conducted, with a number of infringements handed out as a result. About 5.30am on Friday, December 19, it is alleged that a 49-year-old male was detected travelling on the Great Western Highway at St Marys at a speed of 127km/h in a 60km/h area. The driver was issued with a court attendance notice to appear
at Penrith Local Court on January 29 and had his licence suspended. About 3.30pm on Friday, December 19, it is alleged that a motorcycle travelling on Lenore Drive, Erskine Park was seen to conduct a burnout before accelerating to a speed of between 130-150km/h in an 80km/h area. The rider was stopped and issued with court attendance notices for the offences and had his licence suspended. By trying to discourage people from speeding, drink driving and other dangerous behaviours, police hoped to ensure that every person using the roads would get to their destinations without incident. “This year’s operation began with the entire Highway Patrol fleet being deckedout in high visibility markings,” said Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Assistant Commissioner, John Hartley. “That visibility and the brightly marked cars will continue year-round. You can see us and we can see you, and that visual deterrent is more important to us than the offences we detect.” NSW Police carried out 830,670 random breath tests throughout the operation. During the special operation, 1273 people were charged with drink driving offences and 14,422 people were detected speeding.
Police were highly visible in the local area over the holidays
from IN
D ITE LIM
SE
99
$
789
329
AR 15 YE
$
199
70% off
URBANE TOILET SUITE
$
40% 20% off off
PRICE SLASHED
LUX BATH/SHOWER WALL MIXER
$
KIAMA WALL FACED SUITE
$
VIVID SLIM MATTE BLACK BASIN MIXER
900 GRANGE WALL HUNG AR 15 YE
A LE
MADE IN GERMANY
RE
AR 15 YE
W
459
K
$
SABANO FREESTANDING BATH 1490MM, 1595MM AND 1675MM
NE
OC ST
K OC ST
EUROWA STEEL ENAMEL BATH 1500MM, 1600M AND 1700MM
EXCLUSIVE TO ABL TILE AND BATHROOM CENTRE
$
15% off
659
Modular Laundry System
15% off
10% OFF with special
1500 MARSHALL WALL HUNG WITH SLAB TOP
1430
NEW MODEL
$
online code ABLWW05 2 WEEKS ONLY
2710
NEW RELEASE
Timberline has now released a new laundry system. This modular system allow you to customise you laundry to suit your individual needs. Whether you need a custom wall to wall or just a small laundry we have a solution for you.
• Mix and Match from our huge range. ANY Cabinet, ANY Colour, ANY Handle
$
1299
$150 cash back
AR 12 YE
$
449
MONET DOUBLE BOWL SINK PACKAGE R 3 YEA
15% off
SEE INSTORE OR ONLINE FOR MORE GREAT DEALS
$
599 25% off
NEO TASTIC SINGLE 3 IN 1
$
529
• 100% Australian Made R 5 YEA
• Easy DIY Installation
SAVE $120
18 FORTHORN PLACE, ST MARYS PH: 9623 0499 WWW.ABLTILECENTRE.COM.AU
OPENING HOURS MON TO FRI 7:30 - 5PM SAT 8:30AM - 4PM / SUN 9AM - 3PM
WW13064
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
• Wall to Wall CUSTOM MADE 55 PLUS FOOD DISPOSAL UNIT
INFINITY 26 TOUCH W/ WIRELESS REMOTE
Police snapshot
Certificate IV - The Original
Police have charged a man with the possession of prohibited drugs after they searched a car on Firetrail Road, Londonderry. Police were patrolling the area at 2am on Saturday, January 3, when they spotted a man in a vehicle allegedly acting suspiciously. They had reason to search the 34-yearold’s vehicle. There they allegedly located an amount of green vegetable matter, a powder and ‘tabs’. Police allege that the substances they located were cannabis, amphetamines and LSD. After being arrested and charged, the man will appear in Windsor Local Court on January 22 to face charges of three counts of ‘possess prohibited drug’.
Police are investigating an attempted armed robbery that occurred in St Marys last month and are calling on any witnesses to come forward. At about 10pm on Sunday, December 28, police were called to a business in Gallipoli Street, St Marys following reports of an alleged robbery. Police say they were informed that two males had allegedly entered the business and jumped over a counter whilst armed with a knife sharpener. They then approached a staff member and demanded cash before leaving the store empty handed. The offenders were described as wearing hooded jumpers and gloves at the time of the offence. No one was injured during the incident. Any witnesses who may have information in regard to this incident are urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333-000.
Jamisontown: Alleged robber ate food, used phone charger
St Clair: Man stabbed during neighbourhood dispute
A man is to appear before court later this month after he allegedly broke into a local home and was found using the utilities there. Police arrived at a home on Drake Street, Jamisontown on Friday, January 2, in relation to an alleged break and enter. There they arrested a 22-year-old Plumpton man. Police allege that he broke into a house and ransacked it as well as ate some food, bathed and used the victim’s phone charger. Police are investigating a number of other suspected related break and enters. The man will appear before Parramatta Local Court on January 22.
Police are making enquiries after a man was stabbed in the abdomen during an alleged dispute with a neighbour on Monday. Officers from Penrith Local Area Command were called to a home on Burley Griffin Close, St Clair, shortly after 10pm on Monday, January 5. There they found a man suffering a stab wound to the abdomen. He was taken by ambulance to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition. As part of investigations, police attended neighbouring premises in the street, where they spoke to a man who is assisting with inquiries. Investigations are continuing.
• SHOCKS
Bowen Technique Nationally Recognized Training through Border College of Natural Therapies Now Available locally New course starting on the 17th January, 2015. $50 Discount. For more information on the course call or email Vimla Rao – Instructor / Practitioner vimlarao@live.com ph: 4736 2595 mobile: 0415 483 459
We provide a friendly flexible learning environment
46 York Road, South Penrith
Treatments at the Clinic are also available
• SPRINGS • BRAKES
WW15085
St Marys: Police investigate attempted armed robbery
local news
Londonderry: Drugs found during vehicle search
7
• TOWBARS • STEERING
Straight advice, specialists you understand and...
OUR TECH, CHECK AND REPORT FOR $28 INCLUDES: Shock Absorber Test
Brake Pad & Rotor Inspection
Obligation Free Analysis & Written Report * Conditions Apply
UNIT 3/29 YORK RD PENRITH 4731 2444 | penrith@pedders.com.au
WW15088
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
Under Car Inspection
local news
8
Busy year ahead Story continued from » p. 1 The footbridge across the Nepean River will be among the year’s biggest projects. “It’s a footbridge but it will take cyclists and it’s also being constructed wide enough to take an ambulance if something happened on the current bridge in the case of emergency,” Cr Fowler said. Road and rail infrastructure upgrades will include prioritising existing hot spots of The Northern Road and the M4 Interchange, ahead of Sydney’s second airport developments and focus on express train services between the Blue Mountains and Parramatta. Council has called on the State to assist in job creation in the Broader Western Sydney Employment Area by investing in roads and utilities to encourage more developers into the area sooner. Council has also identified a significant shortfall in government funding for culture and arts, and aim to focus on the growth and nurturing of creativity in the area.
Mamre Rd works Night roadworks on Mamre Road will begin on Monday, January 19 extending almost two months until Friday, March 13. The works will remove the existing concrete medians to extend the northbound and southbound right-turn lanes from Mamre Road onto the M4 Motorway on-ramps. State Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said the NSW Government fully funded the $525,000 project as part of the $265 million Pinch Point Program. “[The program] aims to reduce delays and manage congestion on Sydney’s main roads, as well as improve road safety for all road users,” she said. Lane closures will be in place, and to ensure safety for all, road users are asked to follow the direction of traffic controllers, adhere to reduced speed limits and follow traffic signs. There will be some noise and temporary changes to street parking during the work, with the possibility of equipment resting in these car parks.
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
Road safety State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres is encouraging community groups to submit an application as part of the NSW Government’s new $1.6 million grants initiative to help boost road safety in Penrith communities. “We all have a role to play when it comes to road safety and that’s why the NSW Government is providing $1.6 million in grants to help deliver grass roots road safety initiatives,” he said. “Penrith communities may have specific road safety issues that could be best addressed first hand by the community, which is in addition to the state-wide campaigns the NSW Government delivers. “[For example], if a school in Emu Plains wants to run a campaign about the impacts of drink and drug driving, we want to hear about it.” See www.roadsafety.transport.nsw. gov.au for details.
DESIGNATED & INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL Council has received an application from Cityscape Planning & Projects seeking consent for alterations and additions to an approved waste management facility including the processing of mercury waste (Designated Development) on 18 December 2014.
NSW Department of Planning s Information Centre 23–33 Bridge Street, Sydney (Monday–Friday: Open business hours only. Public holidays excluded)
s DA14/1596 Lot 1552 DP 773154, (No. 22–24) Christie Street, St Marys Proposed alterations and additions to an approved waste management facility including the processing of mercury waste (Designated Development)
s Sydney Region West Office Parramatta Office 10 Valentine Avenue, Parramatta (Monday–Friday: Open business hours only. Public holidays excluded)
This development is Designated Development under Section 77A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. It is also Integrated Development under Section 91 of the Act. Approval is also being sought from NSW Office of Enviroment and Heritage in accordance with relevant legislation. This application can be viewed at the following locations: Penrith City Council s Civic Centre 601 High Street, Penrith (Monday–Friday: 8.30am–4pm. Public holidays excluded) s Penrith City Library 601 High Street, Penrith (Monday–Friday: 9am–8pm, Saturday: 9am–5pm and Sunday: 12 noon–5pm) s Queen Street Centre St Marys Branch Library 207–209 Queen Street, St Marys (Monday–Thursday: 9am–8pm, Friday: 9am–5.30pm, Saturday: 9am–5pm and Sunday: 10am–5pm
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS The following Development Applications have been received by Council: s Insight Architecture DA14/1591 5 Lethbridge Street, Penrith Demolition of existing structures and construction of residential flat building containing 20 apartments and ground floor car parking Contact: Mathew Rawson on 4732 7522 Closing Date: 27 January 2015 s Pretech Pty Ltd DA14/1599 90–92 Irwin Street, Werrington Demolition of existing structures and construction of 12 x 3-bed attic style villas with associated lot consolidation, landscaping, car parking and drainage works Contact: Mahbub Alam on 4732 7693 Closing Date: 27 January 2015
Any person may, from 12 January 2015 to 11 February 2015, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the written submission. In accordance with Section 23G of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979, the development application will be referred to the Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) for the Sydney Metro West Region for determination. Any person who makes a submission and who is dissatisfied with the determination of Penrith City Council to grant consent to the subject Development Application, may appeal to the Land and Environment Court in accordance with Section 98 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979. Any queries regarding the proposal, please contact Donna Clarke on 4732 7705.
Approved Development Applications s JS Architects
DA14/0429
Lot 101 DP 747696, (No. 52–54) College Street, Cambridge Park Demolition of existing structures and construction of a seniors living development with 7 dwellings and associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works s Maryland Development Company Pty Ltd DA14/0935 Lot 3997 DP 1179646, (No. 3997) Greenwood Parkway, Jordan Springs Subdivision of Lot 3997 DP 1179646 in 5 stages creating a total of 244 residential lots, 2 open space lots and 4 lots for future integrated housing developments and associated road construction, drainage, earthworks and landscaping works s Maryland Development Company Pty Ltd
DA14/1073
Lot 2257 DP 1168992, Lot 2146 DP 1168991 (No. 6–12) Katandra Place and (No. 2146) Milpera Street, Jordan Springs
s JS Architects Pty Ltd DA14/1577 114–116 Station Street, Penrith Demolition of existing structures and construction of 7-storey residential flat building containing 25 apartments and 2 levels of basement car parking Contact: Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726 Closing Date: 27 January 2015
Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts
DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED
Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council.
Subdivision of Lot 2146 DP 1168991 and Lot 2257 DP 1168992 by Torrens title creating 49 residential lots, construction of 2 roads and associated earthworks, provision of stormwater infrastructure, landscaping and tree removal
Viewing of Development Applications
Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free-of-charge during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.
The above development determination/s may be inspected between 8.30am and 4pm Mondays to Fridays (except Public Holidays) at Council’s Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.
penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
penrithishere.com.au WW15082
9
local news
FREE eBOOKS & eMAGAZINES 24/7 WITH YOUR LIBRARY CARD
PENRITH
Penrith Library now offers a digital magazine collection of over 100 popular magazines. Simply use your library card to login and start browsing and downloading.
NEWS
GO TO: PENRITHCITY.NSW.GOV.AU/LIBRARY
CONTACT US ADMINISTRATION Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri. P: (02) 4732 7777 F: (02) 4732 7958 Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751. E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
SERVICES Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735 Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). Graffiti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182
SUBSCRIBE TO WIN 1 OF 3 iPADS
Enjoy popular magazines today! Download the Zinio app and read on your iPod, iPhone or Android device.
(ENTRIES CLOSE FEBRUARY 28, 2015)
COUNCIL BRIEFS s A spectacular live fireworks display will be the main drawcard of
PENRITH CITY COUNCIL ONLINE facebook.com/penrith.city.council
Penrith’s Australia Day Concert at the Lakes on Monday, 26 January 2015.
twitter.com/penrithcouncil
The event will feature over three hours of free entertainment, including Play School presenter Justine Clarke and her popular
instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil
songs. The Jitterbugs will also perform their high energy show for the kids.
youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil
Don’t miss Penrith’s free annual Australia Day party at the Sydney
penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
International Regatta Centre. s Penrith Council has welcomed the State Government’s launch of
penrithishere.com.au
community consultation into the Draft Vision Plan for the Penrith Lakes Parkland. Council is eager to see the site transform into the Penrith Lakes Parkland. Regeneration works being carried out as quarrying ceases are already attracting wildlife to the lakes.
TENDER
MEETING DATES
along with planting of natural species providing a habitat for
Council Meetings
animals.
Project Management & Design Consultancy for Kingsway Sporting Complex and Blair Oval All Weather Athletics Facility
2 February 2015 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting)
This will be one of the most significant developments in Penrith.
Reference 14/15-17
9 February 2015 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)
A dedicated wildlife lake provides sanctuary to migratory birds
The Lakes are the jewel in the City’s crown. Council expects the development of the Penrith Lakes Parkland to be the benchmark for similar developments in the future.
penrithcity.nsw.gov.au penrithishere.com.au
Consultation with the community is an important step and is open until April 2015. For more information on the draft vision plan and
Penrith City Council invites Tenders from suitably qualified and experienced Project Manager & Consultancy team for the Civil, Architectural and Services Design of The Kingsway Sporting Complex and South Creek Park All Weather Athletics Facility, St Marys.
to make a submission visit opl.nsw.gov.au Pre-Tender Briefing at 10am Thursday, 22 January 2015. s Council has opened a new playground at Jamison Park featuring a double embankment slide, nest swing, pod spinner, a rubber crocodile, lizard and spider as well as a path suitable for young children to ride bikes and scooters. The next stage will be work on the Active Zone which will commence
Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Our-Council/Tenders/ to register and download tender documents free of charge. Alternatively a hard copy is available for a non-refundable fee of $75 (inc GST) by arrangement. For queries please contact Michael Doggett on 4732 8152 or
gym, seniors’ exercise equipment and a multi-sports court that will
mdoggett@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
be completed by the end of March.
All submissions should be lodged on the forms provided in accordance
The playground is just one part of a $1.8 million upgrade of
with the lodgement instructions contained in the documents no later
Jamison Park that is being jointly funded by Penrith Council and
than 11am Wednesday, 4 February 2015 (‘the Closing Date’).
the State Government.
Tenders received after will not be considered.
WW15083
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
in January. It will include equipment for 8–15 year olds, an outdoor
local news
10
Police assaulted at St Clair The good behaviour of local residents during New Year celebrations was tarnished when two police officers were allegedly assaulted in St Clair. The officers were in Palena Crescent responding to a call about an alleged assault when, at about 12.30am on January 1, they saw two males walking from the area. “Police stopped and approached the males when it is alleged that one of the males has assaulted police and a short struggle ensued,” said St Marys Local Area Command Crime Manager, Barry Vincent. “Whilst this male was being held by police, a second male has allegedly approached police and pulled a police officer to the ground before punching the officer a number of times.” The officer, from St Marys Local Area Command, was allegedly struck in the head, sustaining bruising and swelling while the first officer sustained minor injuries to his knee. “Police continued to struggle with this second male before he too was arrested and handcuffed,” Detective Inspector Vincent said. The men, a 37-year-old from Colyton and a 32-year-old from Oxley Park were then taken to St Marys Police Station, where they were issued Court Attendance Notices for ‘assault police’ and ‘resist officer in the execution of duty’. They will appear in Penrith Local Court on January 29. The officers are recovering.
POLICE
Police praise locals Cops happy with how Penrith celebrated the new year KATHERINE TWEED
@ktweed_
L
ocal police, who generally gear up for a big night on New Year’s Eve, have praised the behaviour of local residents celebrating the arrival of 2015. St Marys and Penrith Local Area Command took part in a joint operation over the New Year Period, Operation Corsair. As part of the operation, there were over 40 additional police officers working in the St Marys and Penrith Local Area Commands. Police conducted patrols of local licensed venues and transport interchanges as well as monitored the situation at the fireworks, which took place at Penrith Panthers. “The community in general was well behaved with no significant matters reported – although police continued to respond to a number of incidents during the night,” said St Marys Local Area Command Crime Manager, Barry Vincent. Crime Manager for Penrith Local Area Command, Grant Healey agreed. “We only had a couple of people we were disappointed in about their behav-
Police had an extra presence in the area on New Year’s Eve (file photo) iour. There were two incidents of assault, two assault police incidents, two people were charged with malicious damage and one offensive behaviour offence was recorded,” he said. “On a whole, we were very happy with how everyone was behaved. In the Penrith Local Area Command, the biggest event was the fireworks. The crowd was very well behaved and left the area without any major incidents.” However, at about 11.50pm on New Year’s Eve police had cause to stop and speak to an 18-year-old in Pyramid Street, Emu Plains.
The man was searched and police located a firework in his possession, for which he was handed an infringement notice carrying a fine of $1000. Mr Healey said that in general the behaviour of local residents throughout the entire silly season was great. “Everyone was fairly well behaved except for a small number of incidents, including one in South Penrith where a family had their Christmas presents stolen,” he said. That incident happened on Monday, December 22 on Fragar Road, and attracted huge community attention.
Mayor’s News The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor
2015
RACING EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT from 7pm & WEDNESDAYS from 3.30pm
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
FREE Jumping Castle for Kids on Saturday Nights
Phone: 02 4578 2136 RICHMOND RACE CLUB
312 Londonderry Rd Londonderry WW15109
As Mayor of Penrith I am excited by the opportunities that lie ahead for Penrith as we welcome the New Year. Penrith is one of Sydney’s most dynamic and visionary cities, it is a growth city and the heart of the new west. Western Sydney is growing at twice the national average and Penrith produces services for half a million people, representing seven per cent of the state’s population and we will grow further. The opportunities presented by Penrith Lakes are limitless and will see a mix of quality open space for recreational activities blended with a diverse array of residential options. The site is larger than the CBD of Sydney and almost 10 times larger than Sydney’s Centennial Park. The Nepean River is one of the most popular places in Penrith for people to get out and enjoy. The State Government has started the early phases of construction on an iconic new bridge for pedestrians and cyclists, which will draw more people to this already popular area. Council continues to open new playgrounds and outdoor health
activities across the city. Jamison Park is undergoing a $1.8 million revamp. The children’s playground has been completed with work under way on extensions to the amenity buildings and reconstruction of four playing fields. The next stage will be work on the Active Zone which will include equipment for eight to 15-year-olds, an outdoor gym, seniors exercise equipment and a multi-sports court that will be completed by the end of March. Vital road and rail infrastructure is being prioritised with state and federal governments to alleviate pressures residents experience in commuting to work and in their daily lives. Job creation is high on our priorities too with Council welcoming the State Government’s commitment to its Metro Strategy and the development of the Broader Western Sydney Employment Area in meeting western Sydney jobs targets. The outlook for 2015 is very positive, I welcome the opportunities that lie ahead for the community, residents and businesses and I look forward to making them a reality.
ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith
11
local news
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
WW12944
local news
12
Make a resolyouutiondeservto gete. the comfort
JANUARY
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
SALE Penrith Store Penrith Homemaker Centre Shop 290 (opp JB Hi-Fi) Mulgoa Rd, Penrith NSW 2750 Phone 02 8039 1795 Email penrith@reclinefurniture.com.au
UP TO 50% * OFF STOREWIDE
*Discount off RRP. Terms and conditions apply.
Artarmon Store Home HQ Artarmon 1 Frederick Street Artarmon NSW 2064 Phone 02 8072 4101 Email artarmon@reclinefurniture.com.au WW13450
PLAYGROUND INJURY
13
Parents question safety of popular play area KATHERINE TWEED
errington eight-year-old Holly Thorpe came home to her mother one day with her finger so severely cut that her bone was visible and though her injuries were consistent with a severe accident, it happened when she fell over at a local playground. The incident happened at Thornton playground in North Penrith last month and has sparked a discussion among local parents, who are questioning the safety of the play area. “Her finger was scraped down to the bone; she could see her own bone. Obviously that causes an 8-year-old girl a lot of distress,” said Holly’s mum, Sara Ryk. “I understand that kids get hurt but when it is in a public play area that is supposed to be safe, it is disappointing.” Holly’s injury occurred when she slipped in a fountain adjacent to the play park and had her finger caught in a drainage grate. The fountain, which is full of children on a hot day, is surrounded by just a small retaining wall and Ms Ryk said that there is no signage to suggest that it isn’t a playfountain and that it is easily accessible by children. What is of the most concern to the local
mum is that Holly’s injury is not the only one that has occurred in the fountain and play area. Parents are saying that there have been a string of incidents that have left children with horrifying injuries, from grazes to cuts needing stitches and even head injuries. “The potential for much larger injury is concerning. I have spoken to another parent whose child slipped and hit his head very hard. Are we going to end up with a child dying from serious head injuries?” Ms Ryk said. “When you are talking about a play area, child safety should be paramount.” Ms Ryk said that she would not feel safe to take her daughter there again until the facility was made safer, so that not so many children would slip over in the water. Despite the concerns of parents, UrbanGrowth NSW has said that the playground is very popular and has received lots of positive feedback since its inception. UrbanGrowth NSW Development Director, Mike Williams said that the issue of the safety of children in the water play area is being addressed. “We want to make the playground as safe as it can be and ensure children can play safely in the water play area,” he said this week.
local news
W
@ktweed_
Sara Ryk with her daughter Holly. Inset: The injury Holly suffered at the playground
MT DRUITT STARTS WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY RIVERSTONE STARTS WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY CENTRAL COAST STARTS THURSDAY 29 JANUARY
WW15008
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
CAMPBELLTOWN STARTS TUESDAY 27 JANUARY
14
COUNCIL
More consultation needed Residents impacted by new infrastructure projects fear for the future
local news
DALE DRINKWATER
@daledrinkwater
C
ouncillors Bernard Bratusa and Prue Car have acknowledged that there needs to be more community consultation on the South West Rail Link Extension and Outer Sydney Orbital (M9) projects. The admission comes after residents of Orchard Hills and Claremont Meadows made it clear to Penrith Council, late last month, that they were unhappy with the lack of consultation on the project. Bruce Downes, who has lived in Orchard Hills for over 17 years and is a member of the Stop The Orbital and Rail Corridor group (STORC), says residents feel like they’ve been hoodwinked. “Residents thought the land was protected, that’s what it said in the document people read when they moved in,” he said. Mr Downes added that STORC have been continually told it’s the beginning of the process, but are concerned it’s the end. “Council are not going to turn around after 12 months of planning then decide [where it will go], they’ve likely already decided,” he said. Another local resident, Christopher Rust, fears acoustic walls will be built on
Councillor Bernard Bratusa agrees more community consultation is needed
people’s fences, ruining their property values. “There’s so much at stake,” he said. “We invested our life savings when we moved to the area.” Cr Bratusa agreed with the community’s concerns, and said Council needs to advocate on behalf of the community until the residents are satisfied. “It is clear that there needs to be much more consultation, and a much better understanding on Council’s role in this,” he said. “We have to make sure we get this right, they’ve spoken, and they’ve spoken in numbers. It’s people’s homes, people’s lives, people’s future.” Cr Car has thrown her support behind the South West Rail Link but said it needs to be done right. “We’ve listened and moved motions to show that we don’t support a corridor that destroys residential properties,” she said. Though not final, the current rail and orbital corridor designs link Badgerys Creek and St Marys through Orchard Hills and Claremont Meadows. Are you affected? What’s your view? Email Dale.Drinkwater@westernweekender.com.au, call us on 4722 2998 or write to us at Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown 2750.
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE TEAM AT
ANY COLOUR SERVI C E 25 OFF %
Must present coupon to redeem offer. Valid to 1/1/15
Friday 9 January 2015 the western weekender
Must present coupon to redeem offer. Valid to 1/3/15
Every Visit you make we Donate to Cancer Council or Ross Hutchinson Foundation: The Niki Pump A/c Opening Hours Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9am – 5pm Thursday Evening by appointment only | Saturday 8am – 4pm
Shop B 201-211 High Street, Penrith (Aldi Complex)
Like us on Facebook
4721 5000
Salon O’Driah Ph:
WW15116
STAY COOL THIS SUMMER
15
DUCTED PACKAGES FULLY INSTALLED ALL WITH 5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY
7.1kW COOLING & 8kW HEATING INVERTER s /54,%43 )$%!, &/2 "%$2//-3
12.5kW COOLING & 14kW HEATING INVERTER s /54,%43 7)4( :/.%3
$
14kW COOLING & 16kW HEATING INVERTER s /54,%43 7)4( :/.%3
4995
DUCTED PACKAGE 3
$
6995
22kW COOLING & 24kW HEATING INVERTER s /54,%43 7)4( :/.%3 )$%!, &/2 ")'