The Western Weekender December 8 2023 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

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PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPAPER

Friday, December 8, 2023

INSIDE Win delicious wine for summer See page 10

PANTHER WITH A PLAN Panthers Chairman Peter Graham has opened up about his 10-year vision for the club, as the Board locks in an additional two-year term. Troy Dodds reports on pages 6-7

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LOCAL NEWS

Radiology business still closed

Extra bin collections locked in

Nepean Radiology remains closed. Photo: Melinda Jane.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

uantum Radiology remains closed after it was hit by a major cyber attack almost a fortnight ago. The company has 10 clinics in metropolitan Sydney, including the busy Nepean Radiology, which were all forced to cancel appointments. Quantum Radiology initially said they were down due to an unforeseen IT issue, but it has since been confirmed that the incident was a cyber attack on their servers and systems. It is unclear whether patient files and information has been compromised as a result of the attack. However, Nepean Radiology warned patients to be stay vigilant and beware of scams, earlier this week. “If you receive a text message that looks

like it is from Nepean Radiology, please do not click any links and delete the message immediately,” they posted on Facebook. “You can find information on how to recognise, avoid and report scams on the Scamwatch Australia website.” A spokesperson from Quantum Radiology said they are collaborating with referring doctors to assist patients with their ongoing healthcare needs, with hopes they may re-open next week. “We are working hard to bring systems back online and will re-open once our systems are tested and operational,” the spokesperson said. “We anticipate this will be during the week commencing 11th December. We expect to be in a position to confirm in the coming days and will notify referring doctors accordingly. “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or distress that this incident has caused.”

enrith City Council has locked in additional waste pick-ups during the Christmas and New Year period. The additional services include two weeks of extra bin collections, two weeks of additional recycling drop-off and a real Christmas Tree drop-off collection day. The two weeks of extra bin collections will commence from Monday, December 25 and will continue until Friday, January 5, including public holidays. Residents are requested to place all three bins at the kerbside the night before their normal collection day and leave them until they are emptied during this period. Waste collection drivers will be starting early and working late into the evening to accommodate the extra services. Recycling drop-off days are also available for residents to conveniently dispose of excess household recyclables that may not fit in their yellow-lidded bin over the festive season. Drop-off days will be held at The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington from 3pm until 6pm weekdays from Monday, December 18 2023

Bins will be collected more frequently over the holidays.

through to Friday, December 29 2023, excluding weekends and public holidays. Residents can bring excess household recyclables such as paper and cardboard boxes with staples and tape removed, glass bottles and jars, milk and juice cartons, plastic bottles and containers, and steel and aluminium cans. Non-recyclable items such as polystyrene will not be accepted, however, clean, white polystyrene can be dropped off at Penrith’s Community Recycling Centre for free. The real Christmas Tree drop-off on Saturday, January 6 2024 will be held at The

Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington from 10am until 2pm where real trees will be collected for mulching. Artificial trees and decorations will not be accepted on the day. Council recommends that residents who want to dispose of old and unwanted artificial trees book a bulky waste collection or break the tree down and place it into their red-lidded residual bin. To book a bulky waste collection, visit penrith.city/ thewastespot. For more information about the additional Christmas waste and recycling services, visit penrith.city/ christmaswaste.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

LOCAL NEWS

Christmas fire warning Firefighters warn complacency could lead to disaster across the festive season CASSIDY PEARCE

he festive season is a joyous time, characterised by dazzling Christmas decorations, firing up the barbeque, and catching up with friends and family. But, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is reminding local residents to stay vigilant, with any situation having the potential to turn sour in mere minutes. According to Garry Mitchell, Station Commander at Cranebrook Fire Station, relaxation over the holidays can be a doubleedged sword, with many taking it too far and letting safety precautions slip. “People tend to relax a lot more over that festive period, and sometimes they might lose sight of some really good safety tips – just your basic things that you might follow every day, and it might be as simple as keeping an eye on whatever’s cooking in your kitchen,” he said. If you’re planning to celebrate at home this Christmas, checking your barbeque can be a good place to start. “It’s important to follow all of our barbeque safety tips, which include checking that your hoses are in good condition, and that the little rubber O-ring that’s in there that connects into your gas cylinder is in good condition, because quite often, they perish, and when they’re perished, that can possibly allow gas to escape,” he said.

Cranebrook firefighters are urging locals to be vigilant at home. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Christmas lights can also be hazardous, with Mitchell citing examples closer to home than you might think. “We lost a two-storey house on River Road in Penrith on New Year’s Eve last year, and it went down to the Christmas lights – it was faulty Christmas lights, people left them on when they went out, and when they came

back, their house didn’t exist anymore,” he said. In order to ensure that your displays are as safe as possible, Mitchell said it’s vital to make sure you’re only purchasing decorative lights that have an Australian Standards label. When setting up your lights, use only one item per power socket and, if you are plugging

them into a power board, ensure it has overload protection. But, his biggest tip is to make sure they’re switched off when going to bed, or leaving the house. “I’m pretty sure that most people will leave their lights on and go out, and they’ll also leave them on at night, because it’s a really nice feel-good thing when you wake up and your Christmas lights are on,” he said. “However, it creates a dangerous environment.” In saying that, Mitchell noted that having a sufficient number of working smoke alarms throughout your home is the most important factor in assuring your safety. “If you leave your Christmas lights on, and you’ve got enough working smoke detectors, you should get enough warning to get out,” he said. If you’re not sure, Mitchell recommends booking a free home fire safety visit from local firefighters. “Anybody can ring their local fire station and arrange a time for a safety visit, in which case we’ll come out and we’ll discuss any concerns, we’ll have a look around the house and see if there are any concerns that we can point out,” he said. “We’ll also check that the smoke alarms are operating, and if they’re not, we’ll provide and install another one.” In an emergency, call 000.

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

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The Editor’s Desk | Opinion

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

Last piece of the puzzle is in place Y ou can go all the way back to the 1950s to find the first talk of the M4 Motorway and the acknowledgement that a quick and convenient connection between the city and its western suburbs was critical for Sydney. Some 70 years later, we’re finally there – a run from Penrith to the Sydney CBD without stopping at a single traffic light, in what is a true game-changer for the road network. The M4 of course started construction in the late 1960s, with new stages added progressively over the decades that followed. As each year went by, the city got just a little bit closer for us in the west. When I first got my licence back in 2001, a trip to the city was halted by the toll booths and the mad scramble to find the $2.20 to continue your journey. Then it was the stop-start joy of Parramatta Road and the City West Link (itself only completed in 2000). Everyone in Penrith knew the deal: you’d leave early for any sort of show or engagement, knowing that the state of your journey was largely pot luck. And so after work drinks were often missed, dinner engagements skipped or big shows and sporting events a rarity rather than a regular, convenient occurrence. Then came WestConnex, the most significant road project for us in western Sydney in a generation. The first stage opened a few years ago now but the pièce de résistance is the new tunnel extension that opened a few weeks ago, allowing western Sydney motorists to skip the City West Link, which had become the worst part of a journey into the city. I’ve had cause to travel into the city twice in the past week and both times it’s been a seamless journey. Not a single traffic light from getting onto the M4 at The Northern Road to exiting at the ANZAC Bridge. There’s been plenty of drama surrounding the Rozelle Interchange in the past couple of weeks and transport officials are desperately trying to alleviate the chaos caused, particularly for those in the inner west.

Index

“The hidden story has been just how great the new connection is for those coming from Parramatta, Blacktown and Penrith”

But the hidden story has been just how great the new connection is for those coming from Parramatta, Blacktown and Penrith. This is a real line in the sand moment for the connection between the city and the west. For too long those with blinkers on have seen Penrith as this foreign land that requires channelling Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson to venture to. Now it’s about a 40-to-45 minute journey. You can’t even get through a full podcast episode. Gone are the days you could change the CD three times on one trip into the city. Of course, the elephant in the room is the toll. It’s an expensive trip, and finding a route without a cost is harder and harder these days. 20-odd years ago you could do the sneaky James Ruse Drive exit and get into the city along Victoria Road, saving yourself the hit to the pocket. These days you’d spend more in petrol trying to avoid the toll. And that will be the biggest issue for western Sydney motorists moving forward. Rather than time being the problem, cost will become roadblock number one. But such a massive project cannot be undertaken without a cost back to the motorist and as much as it’s a pain to the hip pocket, the drive itself is bliss – albeit still impacted by the odd snarl, particularly in the morning and afternoon peak.

News..........................................................1-28 Business.............................................29-34 Entertainment..............................35-46

For the whole family FREE and light refreshments 8pm Sunday 17th December.

Nepean Baptist Church 173a Bringelly Rd, Kingswood Corner Parker St and Bringelly Rd – opposite the Medical Centre

Pastor Nathan Kemper – 0447 308 785

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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There is still work to be done on Sydney’s road network, but for the first time I can remember, it finally feels like we’ve caught up to what motorists from the west need. We’re no longer behind the eight ball and we’ve shrugged off that reputation of being a million miles away in the middle of nowhere. Now if they could somehow find a way to bring Laziko from Parramatta Road’s past back into the mix, it’d be perfect. And another thing... On Monday afternoon I had the wonderful opportunity to tour the new offices and classrooms of Panthers on the Prowl, the community arm of the Panthers Group. The Prowl has moved from its outdated facilities over at Panthers Stadium into a beautiful new space at the Western Sydney Conference Centre. And as much as the Prowl has been around for what seems like forever now (it launched in 2002), it is still very much the little organisation that could. Brad Waugh and his team do an amazing job making a positive and lasting difference to the wellbeing of young people in our local communities. Its Building Young Men program is world class, with rave reviews from anyone involved in it, and I’m told a recent pilot of a Building Young Women program, conducted through Jamison High School, has been an enormous success. The new space is a winner – allowing for more classes in a much more spacious and user-friendly environment. Recently the Panthers Board decided to double its commitment to the Prowl and its programs over the coming years, which will allow more and more kids to be exposed to its work. As much as Penrith’s on-field NRL success has been the headline story of the last four years or so, the real pride of the Panthers exists in its community efforts, and Panthers on the Prowl is at the forefront of it all. There’s some pretty exciting plans ahead for 2024, and I’m certain more success will come with it.

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LOCAL NEWS

Strong demand eased a little via new disability accommodation MAKAYLA MUSCAT

ruma has of f icia l ly opened the doors to its seven new, two-bedroom Specialist D i s a b i l i t y Ac c om modat ion (SDA) housing in Werrington. Stakeholders were able to take a look at the purpose-built apartments, which cater for people with a disability, this week.

Aruma’s Regional Manager, Yasmin Alameddin, on Wednesday. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Aruma’s Regional Manager, Yasmin Alameddin, said she is excited for the new tenants to be able to move into a place where their mobility and disability support needs will be met. “It’s no secret as a nation we are experiencing an ongoing demand for affordable housing. The scarcity of appropriate social housing is only increasing and causing strain,” she said. “Currently, there are 16 people with a disability in the immediate Penrith and St Marys areas alone looking for a suitable property that meets their needs. That number rises to around 70 across other western Sydney suburbs.” Located close to the centre of Penrith, these apartments come with open plan kitchens, heating and cooling throughout, and a shared backyard for residents to enjoy. They also include accessible features, such as wide door frames, adjustable benches, and provision for voice-controlled features. Antonella Acampora attended the opening on Wednesday to see if one would be suitable for her daughter to live in. “This seems to be the right

sort of place for her,” she told the Weekender. “She’s got all the independence she needs, and if she needs any help she can just call on a support worker. “It’s clean, it’s brand new, and from what I’ve seen, the staff are willing to help and make it fun as well.” Aruma Customer Engagement Manager, Bianca Von Clark, said there has been a lot of interest in the apartments. “We’ve had some great interest and a lot of EOI’s but not everyone is ready to move in,” she said. “One of the challenges is that sometimes the NDIS can be really slow to make decisions, and people won’t get the funding that aligns with their support needs.” Alameddin said it’s been amazing to see people’s faces light up when they see the apartments and realise that they’re built to meet their needs. “Access to safe and accessible housing is a fundamental human right. We’re happy to be able to provide these apartments for people with a disability,” she said. “These homes offer people with a disability a lifestyle full of independence, pride, and comfort.”

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

10-year plan to manage Exclusive: Panthers Chairman Peter Graham outlines club’s priorities, as the TROY DODDS

n his way to this interview at Penrith’s new Marcel restaurant inside the Western Sydney Conference Centre, Panthers Chairman Peter Graham – who lives at The Royce – glances at the stadium where he saw his first Penrith game in 1967 on his right, and to the Leagues Club housing a three-peat of NRL trophies on his left. There is a spring in his step, too, as there is for most who work around this joint these days. But on this day in particular, Graham and his Board have just received a significant vote of confidence – with no nominations from new candidates for what would have been an election early next year. Instead, the current Board will remain in place for the next two years – allowing the club to move towards implementing its 10-year plan for the Mulgoa Road site. Refusing to rest on the laurels of its success, Panthers will instead push forward with a growth plan

focused on football, community, the environment and property. “The Board is going through a process to take any opportunities that come up but also identify any roadblocks and issues that are likely to be problematic for us,” he said. “One of the benefits we’ve got from this period of stability is that you haven’t got to spend time fighting fires. You can look at the significant strategic opportunities that we’ve got. That’s the Board and we’ve got a great balance on the Board now.” Last year, Graham along with senior members from across the Panthers Group came together to identify the club’s path to 2032 and how the organisation would look in a decade’s time. “We came up with eight areas of aspiration and we’re still working through those,” he said. “For every aspiration what we wanted to have was a very clear statement of what we aspire to and a proof point for each one of them.” Among the aspirations was the football team’s blueprint for success – under-pinned by coach Ivan

Panthers Chairman Peter Graham. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Cleary’s mission to reach the top four each year. “He’s not promising nor can anyone promise a Premiership every year, although he’s done pretty well,” Graham said.

“IVAN WANTS THE FOOTBALL TEAM TO BE A SOURCE OF PRIDE FOR THE PEOPLE OF PENRITH”

“He wants the football team to be a source of pride for the people of Penrith. Ivan looks at things like how many jerseys are around the place, what kind of stories are we getting, are we in the press for the right reasons or the wrong reasons. “It’s not just football – he’s so concerned about us being in the community for all the right

reasons. We also want to be the Premier team when it comes to preparing our players for life after football.” Away from football, Panthers is currently mid-way through a ‘placemaking review’ aimed at ensuring it makes the most of the massive 60 hectare site on Mulgoa Road. “We’re looking at what the four or five things we could do are that would make a significant difference to the way in which this whole area is used by our community,” he said. “We’re about half-way through that. The second step of that process is understanding the opportunities we’ve got coming out of this review, and how should that influence the Masterplan for the whole area? “Once we’ve got that clear, what are the priorities that come out of that which we can then do business cases for and go to the market for?” Graham is also keen to implement a plan around Peachtree Creek, which runs through the Panthers site. The Board believes it could play a significant role in the club’s plans around property and the environment. “The biggest issue in Penrith is heat, and the things that will compensate for heat are water and greenery,” he said. “The creek that runs through here has got this great opportunity for us. You could put in some weirs on the creek that would retain the water and you could attract bird life and the affect it has on local trees and grass is just amazing. We’d be looking at doing that with Council and the Government. We want to green this area and make so much better use of it.” Graham points to Penrith’s efforts in the community and expansion of programs like Panthers on the Prowl in the coming years as a way the club will continue to invest in the city. “The Board recently voted to double our commitment to the Prowl,” he said. “The form that’s taking is that we want to double each of our programs. So instead of one primary school program, there will be two. Instead of two busses we will have four busses, and double the staff effectively. “In terms of what we are doing for the community we think that’s something of substance and it’s proven.” One of the biggest challenge the club faces in the years ahead is a reduction in poker machine revenue – a potential death knell for some clubs, but an opportunity for Penrith. The club has already reduced its reliance on gaming revenue to around 40 per cent and

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

LOCAL NEWS

giant growth of Panthers Board has its term extended for two years with no new nominations put forward expects that will continue to come down over the next decade. “Part of our responsibility as a Board is to look at those things... we’ve been actioning that for some time,” he said.

“WE’RE WORKING TOWARDS AN OUTCOME WHERE THE RELIANCE ON GAMING IS NOT MUCH AT ALL”

Back row: Panthers Directors Rob Wearn, Greg Alexander, Belinda Leonard, Tricia Hitchen and Mark Mulock. Front row: Group CEO Brian Fletcher, Director John Farragher, Chairman Peter Graham and Football CEO Matt Cameron.

“That’s an important issue for us. We’ve been thinking about that and planning for it for some time. This is a business issue and it’s a social issue, so we want to respond to both of those. We think the way to do that is to increase revenue from other sources. “We’re working towards an outcome where the reliance on gaming is not much at all. It’s not in the long term interests of the club to be focused on that.” Now enjoying an era of success unrivalled by anything in its past, Panthers and its current Board has a unique opportunity to position the organisation in the right direction for decades to come – a chance they appear to be taking with both hands.

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

ʥʣʥʧ ʿˢ˖˔˟ ʻ˜˦˧ˢ˥ˬ ʶ˔˟˘ˡ˗˔˥

News

Available at all Penrith City Libraries

Council Briefs

ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Queen Street Centre, ʥʣʪʠʥʣʬ ˄˨˘˘ˡ ˆ˧˥˘˘˧ʡ

● Penrith City Libraries’ 2024 Local History Calendar features old postcards depicting some of Penrith’s iconic locations from the 1800s and 1900s. The Calendar is available at all three Penrith City Libraries branches for $5. Get your copy today.

Contact Centre Open ʫʡʦʣ˔ˠʠʧˣˠʡ ˀˢˡʠʹ˥˜ʡ

● ʿˢˢ˞˜ˡ˚ ˙ˢ˥ ˔ ˙˨ˡ ˔ˡ˗ ʶ˛˥˜˦˧ˠ˔˦ Ѓ˟˟˘˗ ˡ˜˚˛˧ ˢ˨˧ ˪˜˧˛ ˧˛˘ family? Join us at St Marys Christmas Cinema this Saturday 16 December, 6–9pm!

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˃˂ ʵˢ˫ ʩʣʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ˁˆˊ ʥʪʨʤ

ˊ˘Ϡ˟˟ ˕˘ ˦˛ˢ˪˜ˡ˚ ˔ ʶ˛˥˜˦˧ˠ˔˦ ˖˟˔˦˦˜˖ʟ ϟʻˢˠ˘ ʴ˟ˢˡ˘ ʥʭ ʿˢ˦˧ ˜ˡ ˁ˘˪ ˌˢ˥˞Ϡ ϝ ˧˛˘ ˣ˘˥˙˘˖˧ ˪˔ˬ ˧ˢ ˚˘˧ ˜ˡ˧ˢ ˧˛˘ ˛ˢ˟˜˗˔ˬ ˦ˣ˜˥˜˧ʔ ˆ˘˘ you there!

council@penrith.city

For more information visit penrith.city/christmascinema

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at my.penrith.city

Services Waste Services ʧʪʦʥ ʪʪʪʪ Illegal Dumping ʶˢˡ˧˔˖˧ ˧˛˘ ʸ˃ʴ ˛ˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates ʤʤ ʷ˘˖˘ˠ˕˘˥ ϝ ʪˣˠ (Ordinary Meeting) Online via penrith.city

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● Penrith City Council is inviting the community to share their ˙˘˘˗˕˔˖˞ ˢˡ ˧˛˘ ˗˥˔˙˧ ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˇˢ˪ˡ ʶ˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˃˟˔˖˘ ˃˟˔ˡ ˙˥ˢˠ Monday, 4 December 2023 until Thursday, 29 February 2024. ʹˢ˟˟ˢ˪˜ˡ˚ ˘˫˧˘ˡ˦˜˩˘ ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˖ˢˡ˦˨˟˧˔˧˜ˢˡ ˟˔˦˧ ˬ˘˔˥ʟ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˔˗ˢˣ˧˘˗ ˜˧˦ ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˇˢ˪ˡ ʶ˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˆ˧˥˨˖˧˨˥˘ ˃˟˔ˡ ˪˛˜˖˛ ˘˦˧˔˕˟˜˦˛˘˗ ˔ ˦˛˔˥˘˗ ˩˜˦˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ˧˥˔ˡ˦˙ˢ˥ˠ ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˜ˡ˧ˢ ˔ ˩˜˕˥˔ˡ˧ʟ ˦˨˦˧˔˜ˡ˔˕˟˘ʟ ˔ˡ˗ ˪˘˟˖ˢˠ˜ˡ˚ ˦˧˥˔˧˘˚˜˖ ˖˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˢ˩˘˥ ˧˛˘ ˡ˘˫˧ ʥʣ ˬ˘˔˥˦ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˇˢ˪ˡ ʶ˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˃˟˔˖˘ ˃˟˔ˡ ˜˦ ˔ ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬʠ˟˘˗ ˥ˢ˔˗ˠ˔ˣ ˪˛˜˖˛ ˢ˨˧˟˜ˡ˘˦ ˔˖˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˢ˩˘˥ ˧˛˘ ˡ˘˫˧ Ѓ˩˘ ˬ˘˔˥˦ ˕˘˧˪˘˘ˡ ʥʣʥʧϝʥʣʥʫ ˧ˢ ˛˘˟ˣ ˔˖˛˜˘˩˘ ˧˛˜˦ ˟ˢˡ˚ʠ˧˘˥ˠ ˩˜˦˜ˢˡʟ ˪˜˧˛ ˔ ˙ˢ˖˨˦ ˢˡ ˘˩˘ˡ˧˦ʟ ˔˖˧˜˩˜˧˜˘˦ʟ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˧˥˘˘˧ ˔ˡ˗ ˣ˔˥˞ improvements. ˇˢ ˩˜˘˪ ˧˛˘ ˗˥˔˙˧ ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˃˟˔˖˘ ˃˟˔ˡ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˛˔˥˘ ˬˢ˨˥ feedback, please visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/stmarys ʻ˔˥˗ ˖ˢˣ˜˘˦ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ ˣ˟˔ˡ ˔˥˘ ˔˟˦ˢ ˔˩˔˜˟˔˕˟˘ ˧ˢ ˩˜˘˪ ˔˧ ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ Library and Penrith City Council Civic Centre. ● ʼ˦ ˬˢ˨˥ ˣˢˢ˟ ˦˨ˠˠ˘˥ ˥˘˔˗ˬʲ ʼ˧Ϡ˦ ˘˔˦ˬ ˧ˢ ˖˛˘˖˞ ˪˛˘˧˛˘˥ ˬˢ˨˥ pool is safe for you and any children by making sure that pool ˚˔˧˘˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˟˔˧˖˛˘˦ ˔˥˘ ˜ˡ ˪ˢ˥˞˜ˡ˚ ˢ˥˗˘˥ʟ ˔ˡ˗ ˚˔˧˘˦ ˔˥˘ ˡ˘˩˘˥ propped open. Backyard access to your pool must be restricted by a child resistant pool barrier. ˌˢ˨ˡ˚ ˖˛˜˟˗˥˘ˡ ˦˛ˢ˨˟˗ ˕˘ ˔˖˧˜˩˘˟ˬ ˦˨ˣ˘˥˩˜˦˘˗ ˪˛˘ˡ ˨˦˜ˡ˚ ˔ ˦˪˜ˠˠ˜ˡ˚ ˣˢˢ˟ʡ ʶ˛˜˟˗˥˘ˡ ˦˛ˢ˨˟˗ ˡˢ˧ ˕˘ ˥˘˦ˣˢˡ˦˜˕˟˘ ˙ˢ˥ supervising other children. These are just some things you can do to make sure that your pool is safe. For more information, visit penrith.city/pools or contact ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ˆ˪˜ˠˠ˜ˡ˚ ˃ˢˢ˟ ˧˘˔ˠ ˢˡ ʧʪʦʥ ʪʫʩʧʡ ● ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˜˦ ˣ˥ˢ˩˜˗˜ˡ˚ ˔ ˥˘˖ˬ˖˟˜ˡ˚ ˗˥ˢˣʠˢ˙˙ ˣˢ˜ˡ˧ ˢˡ ˪˘˘˞˗˔ˬ˦ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˪ˢ ˪˘˘˞˦ ˙˥ˢˠ ˀˢˡ˗˔ˬʟ ʤʫ ʷ˘˖˘ˠ˕˘˥ ˧ˢ ʹ˥˜˗˔ˬʟ ʥʬ ʷ˘˖˘ˠ˕˘˥ ʥʣʥʦʟ ˘˫˖˟˨˗˜ˡ˚ ˣ˨˕˟˜˖ ˛ˢ˟˜˗˔ˬ˦ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˗˥ˢˣʠˢ˙˙ ˣˢ˜ˡ˧ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˔˩˔˜˟˔˕˟˘ ˔˧ ˇ˛˘ ʾ˜ˡ˚˦˪˔ˬ ˃˟˔ˬ˜ˡ˚ ʹ˜˘˟˗˦ʟ ˊ˘˥˥˜ˡ˚˧ˢˡ from 3 pm until 6 pm. ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˔˖˖˘ˣ˧˜ˡ˚ ˘˫˖˘˦˦ ˛ˢ˨˦˘˛ˢ˟˗ ˥˘˖ˬ˖˟˔˕˟˘˦ ˧˛˔˧ ˪ˢ˨˟˗ ˡˢ˥ˠ˔˟˟ˬ ˚ˢ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˬ˘˟˟ˢ˪ʠ˟˜˗˗˘˗ ˥˘˖ˬ˖˟˜ˡ˚ ˕˜ˡʡ ʼ˧˘ˠ˦ ˔˖˖˘ˣ˧˘˗ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˘ ˪˥˔ˣˣ˜ˡ˚ ˣ˔ˣ˘˥ʟ ˖˔˥˗˕ˢ˔˥˗ ˕ˢ˫˘˦ʟ ˚˟˔˦˦ bottles and jars, plastic bottles and containers, and steel and ˔˟˨ˠ˜ˡ˜˨ˠ ˖˔ˡ˦ʡ ˃ˢ˟ˬ˦˧ˬ˥˘ˡ˘ ˪˜˟˟ ˡˢ˧ ˕˘ ˔˖˖˘ˣ˧˘˗ ˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˘˩˘ˡ˧ʡ ʻˢ˪˘˩˘˥ʟ ˖˟˘˔ˡʟ ˪˛˜˧˘ ˣˢ˟ˬ˦˧ˬ˥˘ˡ˘ ˖˔ˡ ˕˘ ˗˥ˢˣˣ˘˗ ˢ˙˙ for free at Penrith’s Community Recycling Centre. For more information about the service, visit penrith.city/ christmaswaste

Public Notice Public Meeting – Penrith Local Planning Panel ˇ˛˘ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʿˢ˖˔˟ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˃˔ˡ˘˟ ˪˜˟˟ ˠ˘˘˧ ˧ˢ ˗˘˧˘˥ˠ˜ˡ˘ ˧˛˘ ˙ˢ˟˟ˢ˪˜ˡ˚ʭ • ʷʴʥʦʢʣʥʩʣ 1 Besley Street, Cambridge Park ʷ˘ˠˢ˟˜˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ʸ˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ˦˧˥˨˖˧˨˥˘˦ʟ ˧˥˘˘ ˥˘ˠˢ˩˔˟ ˔ˡ˗ ˖ˢˡ˦˧˥˨˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˔ ˖˛˜˟˗˖˔˥˘ ˙˔˖˜˟˜˧ˬ ˫ ʦʬ ˖˛˜˟˗˥˘ˡ ˪˜˧˛ ˕˔˦˘ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˣ˔˥˞˜ˡ˚ ˔ˡ˗ ˔˦˦ˢ˖˜˔˧˘˗ ˪ˢ˥˞˦ When: Wednesday, 13 December 2023 commencing at 2pm Where: ˇ˛˘ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʿˢ˖˔˟ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˃˔ˡ˘˟ ˣ˨˕˟˜˖ ˠ˘˘˧˜ˡ˚ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˖ˢˡ˗˨˖˧˘˗ ˜ˡ ˔ ˛ˬ˕˥˜˗ ˘ˡ˩˜˥ˢˡˠ˘ˡ˧ ˪˜˧˛ ˢˣˣˢ˥˧˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˧ˢ ˔˧˧˘ˡ˗ the meeting in person or to connect online via zoom. To attend the meeting or for an opportunity to address the Panel, please register via the Online Form at Penrith Council’s ˪˘˕˦˜˧˘ yoursaypenrith.com.au/lpp-register-speak by 4pm on Monday, 11 December 2023. For any person intending to access the meeting remotely, a ˠ˘˘˧˜ˡ˚ ˜ˡ˩˜˧˔˧˜ˢˡ ˪˜˧˛ ˟ˢ˚ ˜ˡ ˗˘˧˔˜˟˦ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˣ˥ˢ˩˜˗˘˗ ˧ˢ ˧˛ˢ˦˘ ˪˛ˢ ˛˔˩˘ ˥˘˚˜˦˧˘˥˘˗ ˩˜˔ ˧˛˘ ˢˡ˟˜ˡ˘ ˙ˢ˥ˠ ʥʫϝʧʫ ˛ˢ˨˥˦ ˕˘˙ˢ˥˘ ˧˛˘ scheduled meeting date. ʴˡˬ ˣ˘˥˦ˢˡ ˝ˢ˜ˡ˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ˢˡ˟˜ˡ˘ ˠ˘˘˧˜ˡ˚ ˔˥˘ ˜ˡ˙ˢ˥ˠ˘˗ ˧˛˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˠ˘˘˧˜ˡ˚ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˔˨˗˜ˢ ˥˘˖ˢ˥˗˘˗ʟ ˔ˡ˗ ˔ ˖ˢˣˬ ˢ˙ ˧˛˔˧ ˥˘˖ˢ˥˗˜ˡ˚ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˠ˔˗˘ ˣ˨˕˟˜˖˟ˬ ˔˩˔˜˟˔˕˟˘ ˙ˢ˟˟ˢ˪˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ˠ˘˘˧˜ˡ˚ʡ ˅˘˟˘˩˔ˡ˧ ˗ˢ˖˨ˠ˘ˡ˧˦ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˔˩˔˜˟˔˕˟˘ ˢˡ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ˪˘˕˦˜˧˘ penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/building-development/ development/local-planning-panel For further assistance: Please contact the Panel Management ˆ˨ˣˣˢ˥˧ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥ ˢˡ ʧʪʦʥ ʪʧʧʪ ˢ˥ ˘ˠ˔˜˟ localpanel@penrith.city

Development Consent/s Determined Pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979ʟ ˧˛˘ ˦˖˛˘˗˨˟˘ ˕˘˟ˢ˪ ˟˜˦˧˦ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ recently determined by Penrith City Council.

Approved Development Applications • ʶˢ˥˜ˡ˔ ʼ˨˟˜˔ˡ˔ ˅ˢ˔˧ Lot 40 DP 16478, 24 Inkerman Road, Emu Heights ʼˡʠ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ ˖ˢˡ˖˥˘˧˘ ˦˪˜ˠˠ˜ˡ˚ ˣˢˢ˟

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʬʨʫ

• ˇ˛˘ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ʻ˨˕ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʧʫʬ Lot 45 DP 30266, 1226–1232 Mamre Road, Mount Vernon Torrens title subdivision of 1 lot into 2 lots including provision of ˡ˘˪ ˢˡʠ˦˜˧˘ ˦˘˪˔˚˘ ˠ˔ˡ˔˚˘ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˦ˬ˦˧˘ˠ˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˔ˡ˖˜˟˟˔˥ˬ ˪ˢ˥˞˦ • ˆ˧˘ˣ˛˘ˡ ʹ˨˟˟˘˥ Lot 355 DP 253624, 1 Daintree Glen, St Clair ʷ˘˧˔˖˛˘˗ ˦˘˖ˢˡ˗˔˥ˬ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʪʪʬ

• ˁʹ ʵ˜˟˟ˬ˔˥˗ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʩʥʨ Lot 706 DP 250238, 136 Henry Lawson Avenue, Werrington County ʶˢˡ˦˧˥˨˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˔ ʥʠ˦˧ˢ˥˘ˬ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚ ˧ˢ ˖˥˘˔˧˘ ˔ ˗˘˧˔˖˛˘˗ ˗˨˔˟ occupancy development • ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴ˦˦˜˦˧ ʶˢˡ˦˨˟˧˔ˡ˧˦ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ ˀˢ˗ʥʦʢʣʥʨʪ Lot 6217 DP 1211124, 62 Ninth Avenue, Jordan Springs ˆ˘˩˧˜ˢˡ ʧʡʨʨʛʤ˔ʜ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʦʪʩ ˙ˢ˥ ˔ˠ˘ˡ˗ˠ˘ˡ˧˦ to shed size

penrith.city WW52765

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

LOCAL NEWS

Posties in Christmas rush as parcels spark added demand

Development Consent/s Determined (cont.) • Chloe Brooke Richards Lot 4101 DP 1234610, 145 Armoury Road, Jordan Springs ʼˡʠ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ Ѓ˕˥˘˚˟˔˦˦ ˦˪˜ˠˠ˜ˡ˚ ˣˢˢ˟

DA23/0957

• Devine Drafting & Design Mod23/0246 Lot 1087 DP 259016, 30 Rivendell Crescent, Werrington Downs ˆ˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ʧʡʨʨʛʤ˔ʜ ˠˢ˗˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʤʪʤ ˧ˢ ˥˘ˠˢ˩˘ ˣ˥ˢˣˢ˦˘˗ ˦˪˜ˠˠ˜ˡ˚ ˣˢˢ˟ ˔ˡ˗ ˖˛˔ˡ˚˘˦ ˧ˢ ˦˧˔˜˥˦ʟ ˗˘˖˞ ˔ˡ˗ ˟˔ˬˢ˨˧ ˢ˙ ˕˘˗ ʤ • Sharon Jones Lot 59 DP 204975, 6 Westbank Avenue, Emu Plains ʴ˟˧˘˥˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˧ˢ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˜ˡ˚ Ѓ˥˦˧ Єˢˢ˥ ˔˗˗˜˧˜ˢˡ

DA23/0726

• ʷ ʙ ʶ ˃ˢˢ˟ ˆ˨ˣˣ˟ˬ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ Lot 4107 DP 1179649, 43 Cordyline Loop, Jordan Springs ʼˡʠ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗ Ѓ˕˥˘˚˟˔˦˦ ˦˪˜ˠˠ˜ˡ˚ ˣˢˢ˟

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʫʪʪ

• ˆ˘˘˗˪ˢˢ˗ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ Lot 28 DP 286003, 3 Fulmar Way, Cranebrook ʴ˟˧˘˥˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˔˗˗˜˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˧ˢ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ʥʠ˦˧ˢ˥˘ˬ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʪʤʬ

• ʹ˘˥ˡ˟˘˜˚˛ ʷ˥˔˙˧˜ˡ˚ Lot 1065 DP 713808, 1 Carnation Avenue, Claremont Meadows ʷ˘ˠˢ˟˜˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ˦˛˘˗ ˔ˡ˗ ˖ˢˡ˦˧˥˨˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˔ ˡ˘˪ ˦˛˘˗

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʫʩʨ

• ʵ˘˧˧ˬϠˆ ʵ˨˥˚˘˥˦ ʴ˨˦˧˥˔˟˜˔ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʫʣʩ ʿˢ˧ ʤ ʷ˃ ʤʤʦʪʩʬʬʟ ˊ˘˦˧Ѓ˘˟˗ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʟ ʨʩʬϝʨʬʨ ʻ˜˚˛ ˆ˧˥˘˘˧ʟ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʼˡ˦˧˔˟˟˔˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˜˟˟˨ˠ˜ˡ˔˧˘˗ ˕˨˦˜ˡ˘˦˦ ˜˗˘ˡ˧˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˦˜˚ˡ˔˚˘ ϝ ʵ˘˧˧ˬϠ˦ ʵ˨˥˚˘˥˦ ʛˆ˛ˢˣ ʨʨʴ ϝ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ˊ˘˦˧Ѓ˘˟˗ʜ • ʶˢˡ ˇ˛˔ˡˢˣˢ˨˟ˢ˦ ʿˢ˧ ʤʣ ʷ˃ ʥʧʪʫʧʥʟ ʩ ʻ˔˥˧˟˘ˬ ˃˟˔˖˘ʟ ˊ˘˥˥˜ˡ˚˧ˢˡ ʶˢ˨ˡ˧ˬ ˆ˧˥˔˧˔ ˦˨˕˗˜˩˜˦˜ˢˡ ˫ ʥ ˟ˢ˧˦

Australia Post is under increased pressure as Christmas approaches.

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

ith Christmas just around the corner, Australia Post has ramped up its delivery service to make sure parcels get to their destination on time. The company began temporary weekend deliveries in late November. The change means customers can look forward to getting their hands on their deliveries sooner. Australia Post Executive General Manager Parcel, Post and eCommerce Services, Gary Starr emphasised the importance of Saturday and Sunday deliveries to help parcels arrive in time this festive season. “We’ve been preparing for another big sales and festive season, including recruiting thousands of additional team members, and giving customers more convenient delivery options, such as the opportunity to collect missed deliveries from free 24/7 Australia Post Parcel Lockers instead of the Post Office,” he said. Online sales are expected to surge towards Christmas, after Australia Post delivered more than 50 million parcels last December. According to Starr, the increasing popularity of online sales was behind the growing demand for deliveries.

“As the sales events ramp up and online shopping surges in the lead up to Christmas, our temporary Saturday and Sunday service is just another way we are supporting our customers at the busiest time of the year,” he said. “We delivered 52 million parcels last December and we’re expecting another huge peak season ahead, driven by the increasing popularity of cyber sales events.” Weekend deliveries will remain in place up until Christmas. The postal service is urging people to send their parcels as early as possible, and by the cut-off date, or risk them not arriving in time. To give items the best chance of arriving on time, parcels should be sent by Monday, December 18, for most destinations within Australia, the postal service said. Express post deliveries should be sent by Thursday, December 21. People sending to or from Western Australia and Northern Territory should allow a few extra days. Australia Post said they will deliver items sent after these dates as quickly as possible, but they may not arrive until after Christmas. This week, Australia Post confirmed it will deliver letters on less days in the future, as demand decreases.

WSU Vice-Chancellor to leave role next year TROY DODDS

• ˊ˔ˬˡ˘ ˊ˜˟˦ˢˡ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʧʣʣ ʿˢ˧ ʧʤ ʷ˃ ʨʨʪʦʤʣʟ ʤʧʬϝʤʩʬ ʾ˜ˡ˚˦ ʻ˜˟˟ ˅ˢ˔˗ʟ ˀ˨˟˚ˢ˔ ʶˢˡ˩˘˥˦˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ˗˨˔˟ ˢ˖˖˨ˣ˔ˡ˖ˬ ˧ˢ ˦˜ˡ˚˟˘ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚ ˔ˡ˗ ˖ˢˡ˦˧˥˨˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˗˘˧˔˖˛˘˗ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚ ˧ˢ ˙ˢ˥ˠ ˗˨˔˟ ˢ˖˖˨ˣ˔ˡ˖ˬ • ˀ˖ʷˢˡ˔˟˗ ʽˢˡ˘˦ ʻˢˠ˘˦ ʛˆˬ˗ˡ˘ˬʜ Lot 25 DP 225503, 39 Riverview Parade, Leonay ˇ˪ˢʠ˦˧ˢ˥˘ˬ ˗˪˘˟˟˜ˡ˚

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʪʬʣ

Refused Development Application • ˀ˔˥˞ ˉ˘ˡ˧˨˥˘˦ ˃˧ˬ ʿ˧˗ ʷʴʥʥʢʣʫʦʨ ʿˢ˧ ʧ ʷ˃ ʥʪʤʣʪ ˔ˡ˗ ʿˢ˧ ʨʤ ʷ˃ ʤʤʩʩʨʩʬʟ ʥʩʥϝʥʩʫ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʟ ʶ˟˔˥˘ˠˢˡ˧ ˀ˘˔˗ˢ˪˦ ʷ˘ˠˢ˟˜˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ˦˧˥˨˖˧˨˥˘˦ʟ ˥˘ˠˢ˩˔˟ ˢ˙ ˩˘˚˘˧˔˧˜ˢˡʟ ˟ˢ˧ ˖ˢˡ˦ˢ˟˜˗˔˧˜ˢˡ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˨˕˗˜˩˜˦˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ˖˥˘˔˧˘ ʤʦ ˇˢ˥˥˘ˡ˦ ˧˜˧˟˘ ˟ˢ˧˦ ˖ˢˠˣ˥˜˦˜ˡ˚ ˢ˙ ʤʤ ˫ ˥˘˦˜˗˘ˡ˧˜˔˟ ˟ˢ˧˦ʟ ʤ ˫ ˗˥˔˜ˡ˔˚˘ ˟ˢ˧ ˔ˡ˗ ʤ ˫ ˥˘˦˜˗˨˘ ˟ˢ˧ ˔ˡ˗ ˖ˢˡ˦˧˥˨˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˔ ˣ˨˕˟˜˖ ˥ˢ˔˗

Integrated Developments

˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʶ˜˧ˬ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˛˔˩˘ ˥˘˖˘˜˩˘˗ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˜ˡ ˥˘˦ˣ˘˖˧ ˢ˙ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕˝˘˖˧ ˣ˥ˢˣ˘˥˧˜˘˦ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˖ˢˡ˦˘ˡ˧ ˔˨˧˛ˢ˥˜˧ˬ ˙ˢ˥ ˧˛˘˦˘ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˜˦ Penrith City Council. • ˇ˛˘ ˇ˥˨˦˧˘˘ ʹˢ˥ ʿ˘˚ˣ˥ˢ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ˈˡ˜˧ ˇ˥˨˦˧ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʬʫʤ ʿˢ˧ ʤʧ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʿˢ˧ ʤʨ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʿˢ˧ ʤʩ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʿˢ˧ ʤʪ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʤʧʫϝʤʨʧ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʟ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ʼˡ˧˘˚˥˔˧˘˗ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˙ˢ˥ ˔ ʛ˃˔ˣ˘˥ʜ ˇˢ˥˥˘ˡ˦ ˧˜˧˟˘ ˦˨˕˗˜˩˜˦˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ʧ ˟ˢ˧˦ ˜ˡ˧ˢ 2 residue lots ˇ˛˘ ˣ˥ˢˣˢ˦˔˟ ˜˦ ˔ˡ ʼˡ˧˘˚˥˔˧˘˗ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˦˘˘˞˦ ˔ˣˣ˥ˢ˩˔˟ ˙˥ˢˠ ˧˛˘ ˁˆˊ ˅˨˥˔˟ ʹ˜˥˘ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘ ʛ˅ʹˆʜʡ ˇ˛˘ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˥˘˙˘˥˥˘˗ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ ˧˛˜˦ ˡˢ˧˜˖˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˨ˣˣˢ˥˧˜ˡ˚ ˗ˢ˖˨ˠ˘ˡ˧˔˧˜ˢˡ ˔˖˖ˢˠˣ˔ˡˬ˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕˝˘˖˧ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˠ˔ˬ ˕˘ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˘˖˧˘˗ ˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˟ˢ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˟˜˦˧˘˗ ˕˘˟ˢ˪ ˔˧ ˔ˡˬ ˧˜ˠ˘ ˗˨˥˜ˡ˚ ˢ˥˗˜ˡ˔˥ˬ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˘ ˛ˢ˨˥˦ʟ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ ˙˥ˢˠ ˀˢˡ˗˔ˬʟ ʤʤ ʷ˘˖˘ˠ˕˘˥ ʥʣʥʦ ˧ˢ ˀˢˡ˗˔ˬʟ ʥʬ ʽ˔ˡ˨˔˥ˬ ʥʣʥʧʡ ʴˡˬ ˣ˘˥˦ˢˡ ˠ˔ˬʟ ˗˨˥˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ˘˫˛˜˕˜˧˜ˢˡ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ʟ ˠ˔˞˘ ˔ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜ˡ ˪˥˜˧˜ˡ˚ ˧ˢ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʶ˜˧ˬ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ʟ ˜ˡ ˥˘˟˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ˧˛˘ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡʡ ˊ˛˘˥˘ ˔ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜˦ ˠ˔˗˘ ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡʡ ˇ˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜˦ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˘ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ˥˘˙˘˥˘ˡ˖˘ ˡ˨ˠ˕˘˥ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʬʫʤʡ For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact ʽ˔˞˘ ʵ˘ˡ˧˟˘ˬ ˢˡ ʧʪʦʥ ʫʣʫʪʡ • ˇ˛˘ ˇ˥˨˦˧˘˘ ʹˢ˥ ʿ˘˚ˣ˥ˢ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ˈˡ˜˧ ˇ˥˨˦˧ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʬʩʬ ʿˢ˧ ʤʣʣ ʷ˃ ʪʣʣʤʧʤʟ ʤʤʧϝʤʥʥ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʮ ʿˢ˧ ʤʣʤ ʷ˃ ʪʣʣʤʧʤʟ ʤʥʧʠʤʦʣ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʮ ʿˢ˧ ʤʥ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʤʦʥʠʤʦʫ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʮ ʿˢ˧ ʤʦ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʤʧʣʠʤʧʩ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʮ ʿˢ˧ ʤʧ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʿˢ˧ ʤʨ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʿˢ˧ ʤʩ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʿˢ˧ ʤʪ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʤʧʫϝʤʨʧ ʶ˔˗˗˘ˡ˦ ˅ˢ˔˗ʟ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ʮ ʿˢ˧ ʦʩ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʬʬʠʤʣʨ ʶ˔˦˧˟˘ ˅ˢ˔˗ʮ ˔ˡ˗ ʿˢ˧ ʦʪ ʷ˃ ʤʦʧʧʟ ʤʣʪϝʤʤʨ ʶ˔˦˧˟˘ ˅ˢ˔˗ʟ ˂˥˖˛˔˥˗ ʻ˜˟˟˦ ʼˡ˧˘˚˥˔˧˘˗ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˙ˢ˥ ˇˢ˥˥˘ˡ˦ ˧˜˧˟˘ ˦˨˕˗˜˩˜˦˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ʪ ˘˫˜˦˧˜ˡ˚ ˟ˢ˧˦ ˜ˡ˧ˢ ʫʦ ˥˘˦˜˗˘ˡ˧˜˔˟ ˟ˢ˧˦ ˔ˡ˗ ʥ ˥˘˦˜˗˨˘ ˟ˢ˧˦ʟ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˜ˡ˚ ˘˔˥˧˛˪ˢ˥˞˦ʟ ˡ˘˪ ˥ˢ˔˗˦ʟ ˟˔ˡ˗˦˖˔ˣ˜ˡ˚ʟ ˥˘˧˔˜ˡ˜ˡ˚ ˪˔˟˟˦ʟ ˦˧ˢ˥ˠ˪˔˧˘˥ ˪ˢ˥˞˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˔˦˦ˢ˖˜˔˧˘˗ ˪ˢ˥˞˦ ˇ˛˘ ˣ˥ˢˣˢ˦˔˟ ˜˦ ˔ˡ ʼˡ˧˘˚˥˔˧˘˗ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˦˘˘˞˦ ˔ˣˣ˥ˢ˩˔˟ ˙˥ˢˠ ˧˛˘ ˁˆˊ ˅˨˥˔˟ ʹ˜˥˘ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘ ˔ˡ˗ ʷ˘ˣ˔˥˧ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˢ˙ ˃˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˔ˡ˗ ʸˡ˩˜˥ˢˡˠ˘ˡ˧ ʛˊ˔˧˘˥ʜʡ ˇ˛˘ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˥˘˙˘˥˥˘˗ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ ˧˛˜˦ ˡˢ˧˜˖˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˨ˣˣˢ˥˧˜ˡ˚ ˗ˢ˖˨ˠ˘ˡ˧˔˧˜ˢˡ ˔˖˖ˢˠˣ˔ˡˬ˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕˝˘˖˧ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˠ˔ˬ ˕˘ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˘˖˧˘˗ ˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˟ˢ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˟˜˦˧˘˗ ˕˘˟ˢ˪ ˔˧ ˔ˡˬ ˧˜ˠ˘ ˗˨˥˜ˡ˚ ˢ˥˗˜ˡ˔˥ˬ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˘ ˛ˢ˨˥˦ʟ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ ˙˥ˢˠ ˀˢˡ˗˔ˬʟ ʤʤ ʷ˘˖˘ˠ˕˘˥ ʥʣʥʦ ˧ˢ ˀˢˡ˗˔ˬʟ ʥʬ ʽ˔ˡ˨˔˥ˬ ʥʣʥʧʡ

arney Glover has announced he will not seek reappointment as Vice-Chancellor of Western Sydney University when his term ends in 2024 after more than a decade at the institution. Professor Glover commenced as the University’s fourth Vice-Chancellor in January 2014. “Professor Glover has been a fierce and effective advocate for western Sydney,” said Western Sydney University Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott. “This advocacy is backed by a bold and transformative infrastructure program. Through Western Growth, our Vice-Chancellor has shaped city centres across western Sydney and enlivened new economic futures for the people of the region.” Professor Glover said it continues to be an

ʷʴʥʦʢʣʬʩʩ

ʴˡˬ ˣ˘˥˦ˢˡ ˠ˔ˬʟ ˗˨˥˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ˘˫˛˜˕˜˧˜ˢˡ ˣ˘˥˜ˢ˗ʟ ˠ˔˞˘ ˔ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜ˡ ˪˥˜˧˜ˡ˚ ˧ˢ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ʶ˜˧ˬ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ʟ ˜ˡ ˥˘˟˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ˧˛˘ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡʡ ˊ˛˘˥˘ ˔ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜˦ ˠ˔˗˘ ˕ˬ ˪˔ˬ ˢ˙ ˔ˡ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡʟ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦ ˢ˙ ˢ˕˝˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˧ˢ ˕˘ ˦ˣ˘˖˜Ѓ˘˗ ˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡʡ ˇ˛˘ ˦˨˕ˠ˜˦˦˜ˢˡ ˜˦ ˧ˢ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˘ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ˥˘˙˘˥˘ˡ˖˘ ˡ˨ˠ˕˘˥ ʷʴʥʦʢʣʬʩʬʡ For any queries relating to the proposal: Please contact ʽ˔˞˘ ʵ˘ˡ˧˟˘ˬ ˢˡ ʧʪʦʥ ʫʣʫʪʡ

WSU Vice-Chancellor, Barney Glover.

honour to lead Western Sydney University. “I am proud of the things we have done together for this University and western Sydney. We have become a more engaged and ambitious institution, both for ourselves and for our communities,” he said.

Viewing of Development Applications ˇ˛˘ ˔˕ˢ˩˘ ˗˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡʢ˦ ˠ˔ˬ ˕˘ ˩˜˘˪˘˗ ˢˡ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ʷʴ ˇ˥˔˖˞˘˥ ˩˜˔ penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥˦ ˢ˙ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦ ʷ˘ˣ˔˥˧ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˔˕˟˘ ˧ˢ ˔˦˦˜˦˧ ˪˜˧˛ ˬˢ˨˥ ˘ˡˤ˨˜˥˜˘˦ʡ Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts ʵˬ ˟˔˪ʟ ˥˘ˣˢ˥˧˔˕˟˘ ˣˢ˟˜˧˜˖˔˟ ˗ˢˡ˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˢ˥ ˚˜˙˧˦ ˠ˨˦˧ ˕˘ ˗˜˦˖˟ˢ˦˘˗ ˕ˬ ˔ˡˬˢˡ˘ ˟ˢ˗˚˜ˡ˚ ˔ ˣ˟˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˧ˢ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ʡ ʶ˔˟˟ ʧʪʦʥ ʪʩʧʬ ˢ˥ ˩˜˦˜˧ penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

prize cupboard

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Joke of the Week

he favourited Pinot Grigio from Santa Margherita is the ultimate e n t e r t a i n e r ’s

wine. Clean, dry and versatile it beautifully complements any dinner party or spontaneous gathering. Over 60 years ago, Santa Margherita’s Pinot Grigio debuted in the Italian wine market: a new, elegant and modern wine that spurred a revolution in taste and wine-drinking pleasure. Over time, Pinot Grigio has become the leading Italian white varietal wine worldwide, and the Pinot Grigio from Santa Margherita continues to be its flagship: a wine that has made a huge contribution to the development of Italian winemaking, revolutionising

Q: Which of Santa’s friends is the most chill? A: Jack Frost. Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

both the national and foreign markets. Meantime, Santa Margherita’s Prosecco Superiore serves as the perfect bubbly for any festive celebration, with a fresh and vibrant aroma Prosecco Superiore makes any gathering a memorable occasion. Every day, thousands of bottles of Santa Margherita are uncorked around the world: a great success story for the Italian brand, whose roots date back to the last century. Today, their varietals are still richly steeped in tradition and are celebrated for their regional character. Santa Margherita’s mission is to make the pairing of wine and food an even more engaging experience, through continuously exploring new routes in taste and in the joy

of wine as an ideal accompaniment for entertaining and Christmas occasions. Santa Margherita’s Prosecco Superiore and Pinot Grigio are available across Dan Murphy’s and BWS stores nationally. The Weekender has four Santa Margherita prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Santa’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Thursday, December 14 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www. w e s t e r n w e e ke nd e r. c om . au or Weekender reception. Over 18s only permitted to enter. ID will be required on prize collection.

lucky paceway winners

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

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

way to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize. Look out for new winners on this page every single week! This week’s lucky winners are: 0324, 0527, 0880.

I SPY

Dose of Dorin

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

The giant kangaroo wearing a Santa hat and holding presents is located on top of the Centrelink builiding at 586 High Street, Penrith (opposite Westfield Penrith).

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The silly season certainly brings out the worst in drivers. Have you noticed more poor behaviour on the roads than usual in the past few weeks?

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

@wwpenrith @westernweekender

Congratulations to veteran Hix Group employees Stan and Bob, who were farewelled at a retirement party this week. They’ve had a huge impact on the Penrith business.

@westernweekender @westernweekender

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LegalMatters

Police Snapshot COMPILED BY MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Kingswood: Man refused bail after multiple alleged assaults

A man has been charged after he allegedly assaulted a police officer in Kingswood. About 3pm on Tuesday, November 28, a 46-year-old man was walking on High Street in Penrith. It is alleged he approached a 25-year-old man who was walking on the footpath and punched him in the face without warning. The 25-year-old fell to the ground in pain, and the 46-year-old allegedly ran off. Police were contacted, and they arrived at Santley Crescent in Kingswood where they located the 46-year-old man. He was subsequently arrested. It is alleged the man began yelling abuse before running and attempting to punch the officer. The officer has managed to move out of the way and the 46-year-old was wrestled to the ground, where he refused to be handcuffed and allegedly threatened an officer. Eventually he was handcuffed and taken to Penrith Police Station. He was charged with one count of ‘common assault’ and one count of ‘assault police officer in execution of duty without actual bodily harm’. He was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

Penrith: Phone found on man after shoplifting suspected

St Marys: Woman has court date after mid-afternoon drink driving charge

A woman has been charged after she was caught allegedly mid-range drink-driving in St Marys. Just after 2.30pm on Friday, December 1, police were travelling on Marsden Road. Police stopped a vehicle for a random breath test and had a conversation with the driver, a 25-year-old Werrington woman. The woman was subjected to a breath test, which proved positive. She was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where she underwent a breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.085. The woman’s licence was suspended and she was charged. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on February 2, 2024.

St Marys: Pursuit ends with police dog tacking down teenager

A man has been charged following a police pursuit that started in St Marys, and ended with a police dog tracking down an alleged offender. About 4am on Sunday, December 3, police were patrolling Cranebrook and sighted a White Audi A3. Checks were made on the vehicle that confirmed it was stolen. Police lost sight of the vehicle, but another police vehicle found the vehicle travelling east on Dunheved Road about five minutes later. That police vehicle has made a U-turn and engaged in a pursuit. The vehicle was pursued to Forrester Road, where due to speed and the actions of the driver, the pursuit was terminated. About 4.15am the vehicle was seen in Shanes Park. Again, a pursuit was engaged and road spikes were deployed, but were unsuccessful. The vehicle continued and turned right on Luxford Road, where it stopped and four people ran from the vehicle. The Police dog was utilised and located an 18-year-old in the backyard of a nearby premises. He was arrested and taken to Mt Druitt Police Station where he was charged. He was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

A man has been charged after he was caught attempting to shoplift in Penrith. About 10am on Thursday, November 30, it is alleged a 25-year-old Shalvey man attended a shopping centre in Penrith. He attended a major department store within the centre, where he allegedly walked around and collected numerous brand name items including a leather Ralph Lauren waist bag valued at $349.00. A short time later he saw plain clothes police and quickly walked away, out of sight of police, dropped all the items near an escalator and briskly walked from the store. Police have located the man and he was searched. Located on him was a Samsung phone. The man was asked about the goods he had in his hands. He allegedly stated that he did not have money to pay for the items. The man was charged with ‘attempt shoplifting value <=$2000-T2’ and ‘goods in personal custody suspected being stolen’.

He will appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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

LOTS TO CONSIDER IN BUSINESS SALES One of the main types of legal work we do is helping clients acquire or dispose of their businesses. The manner in which a business is transferred from one party to another usually depends on the structure of the business and/or the entity by whom it is held. For example: • Some businesses are run by sole traders. This means an individual person owns all of the assets and goodwill and is able to sell the business subject to a Business Sale Agreement to which they are a party in their individual capacity. • Other businesses might constitute a partnership, whereby multiple people own a business together in their individual capacities. Usually in this circumstance the Partnership Agreement (if one is in place) will determine how the business can be sold and the partnership dissolved. Again, this is often by way of a Business Sale Agreement. • Some businesses are run by private companies. In this case, it may be possible to acquire the actual entity that owns the business by buying the shares in the relevant company, which in essence results in the buyer controlling the entity that owns the business and therefore controlling the business. This is usually done by way of a Share Sale Agreement. • Other times a business is not being acquired per se, but the assets of the

business are. Examples might be an equipment hire business where a purchaser wishes to acquire all of the equipment that the business owns/uses, but not the entity or the business itself. This is usually done by way of an Asset Sale Agreement. All of the different types of documents referred to above are types of Contracts. If you are buying or selling a business you need expert advice from a commercial/business lawyer to make sure that the transaction is documented correctly. These documents do not just set out things like the purchase price and/or what is being acquired by the purchaser, but also things like the timing of the transaction, including the deadline for payment of any purchase price, what happens if either party refuses to comply with its obligations, and in some cases provisions regarding how business is to be transitioned from one owner to another. There is lots to consider, including whether a sale includes stock, whether there are any transferring employees and who will be responsible for any accrued leave entitlements, whether there is a leased premises from which the business is run that needs to be assigned to the acquiring entity, and a range of other considerations. If you are buying/selling/transferring some sort of business or commercial asset, contact one of our solicitors today for an obligation free chat over the phone.

MOTORISTS WARNED OF ROADWORKS Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions on Francis Street in Werrington Downs to install a 50km/h speed limit sign to help address safety issues that were raised by the community and align the speed with surrounding streets. Work will be carried out for one day shift from 7am to 6pm between Thursday, December 14 and Tuesday, December 19. No work will occur on Friday or Saturday night or public holidays. Temporary lane closures, traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place for worker and road user safety.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control. Meanwhile, motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions on Garswood Road and Northern Road at Glenmore Park, with improved signage being installed to help improve visibility in and out of Garswood Road. Work will also be carried out for one day shift from 7am to 6pm between Thursday , December 14 and Tuesday, December 19. No work will occur on Friday or Saturday night or public holidays.

LOCAL NEWS

New boss in charge as hundreds of new firefighters join the ranks A

Jeremy Fewtrell becomes the new NSW Fire Commissioner. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“It takes a special type of person to dedicate their time to protecting the lives of others, and these new firefighters have been training and studying for the past 14 weeks to hone their trade.” Fewtrell said the graduation ceremony represents the beginning of an exciting and rewarding career for NSW’s newest firefighters. “A career at Fire and Rescue NSW offers so many diverse opportunities. Our firefighters are ready to support our community at their time of greatest need in all sorts of ways,” he said. “They will conduct important prevention and education activities, as well as respond to a wide range of incidents across all of our capabilities, including technical rescues and road crashes, fire and hazardous material incidents, natural disasters like floods and bushfires, and so much more. “The firefighters graduating today have shown great determination, from the competitive application process to the demanding physical training, and they will go out into our communities armed with specialist skills to be prepared for anything.”

new chapter in the history of Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has been written with Jeremy Fewtrell formally recognised as the state’s 23rd Fire Commissioner. Fewtrell has been honoured in a ‘Commencement of Command’ ceremony during a Graduation Day at FRNSW’s Emergency Services Academy at Orchard Hills last Friday. The occasion was marked by Margaret Beazley, Governor of NSW, formally presenting the new Commissioner with the Commissioner’s black helmet. The historic day has also seen a new intake of 79 permanent and 193 on call firefighters officially graduate and begin a journey that will see them join stations around the state. Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said the 235 men and 37 women will be deployed all over NSW as they begin their new careers. “It speaks volumes that the overwhelming motivation for joining Fire and Rescue NSW is to make a positive difference to the community and protect the irreplaceable: our loved ones, pets and homes,” Dib said.

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

LOCAL NEWS

Keep it local this Christmas Shoppers urged to support Penrith and St Marys businesses this festive season MAKAYLA MUSCAT

ith Christmas just around the corner, residents are being urged to ‘Shop and Dine Local’, and give independent businesses the boost they need at the end of the year. The campaign is being spearheaded by Penrith CBD Corporation, which is calling on locals to shop close to home over the festive season. Penrith CBD Corporation CEO, Gai Hawthorn, said this is the season to give back and support small businesses in the Penrith and St Marys area. “We need to remind our local community how important it is to invest back in local business,” she told the Weekender. “They are the heartfelt best part of Penrith because without them we would all be travelling a long way away to do things or buy things. “We really want people to support our local businesses, especially our restaurants, cafés, retailers and services.” Hawthorn hopes people will rediscover some of the amazing stores that line the streets in the Penrith and St Marys CBDs. She also said that people who choose to spend their money locally really are making a difference in their community. “We have really diverse and unique busi-

Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn gets into the Christmas spirit in Penrith.

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nesses in the arcades and up and down High Street, so take a stroll and have a look,” she said. Last week, Penrith CBD Corporation launched its ‘24 Days of Christmas’, which will showcase local businesses and their offers this Christmas. Hawthorn said that Penrith CBD Corporation is heading a number of initiatives this month. She said it is all about spreading awareness and cheer, emphasising that it is much bigger than just grabbing a bargain locally. “Don't just think it's about buying a gift or having dinner locally,” she said. “If you do support a local business, it’s supporting your local economy and perhaps in the future creating jobs for yourself or your children. “We all want to work close to home and the only way to do it is to grow our local economy. So, you're not just getting a bargain you're actually helping your local area.” Interest rates being left on hold on Tuesday is a massive win for retailers heading into the final few weeks of shopping for the year. “Retailers are going to do what they can to get shoppers through the door this festive season, so we encourage Aussies to head to the stores and get in on these huge bargains because it will be a buyers’ Christmas,” said National Retail Association Deputy CEO, Lindsay Carroll.

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Insight into our history Is this Penrith’s oldest photo? Incredible treasure trove revealed CASSIDY PEARCE

he Penrith area has a lengthy colonial history, dating back to the early 19th century. In 1804, Irish ex-convict James McCarthy settled in what is now known as Cranebrook, having been granted a 100-acre lot named ‘Crane Brook Farm’, where he would successfully farm wheat and maize, and breed cattle and horses. Many of McCarthy’s belongings would be passed down from generation to generation, where they’ve now ended up with descendant Ann Dwyer, via her father Kevin Dwyer – a former Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Councillor on Penrith City Council over a span of 22 years.

“IT’S FASCINATING NOW, TO LOOK AT ALL OF IT”

As her parents’ only child, Dwyer said she’s ended up with what could very easily be turned into a museum, from convict bricks and heirlooms to fragile paperwork, recipe books, and just about anything to do with Penrith Show and Penrith Lakes from the past century – as well as what she believes to be Penrith’s oldest photo. Though she can’t place a specific date on the photo, Dwyer estimates it was taken over 100 years ago, and perhaps closer to 200. It depicts a section of the Nepean River and, given recent changes to the region, she thought it was about time it resurfaced in the public eye. “I just thought it was a photo people might want to look at – I don’t want it to go to waste,” she said.

Ann Dwyer with what she believes to be Penrith’s oldest photo. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Having lived in her current home for almost her entire life, Dwyer said she’s no stranger to being surrounded by historical treasures. “Even when I was in primary school, my father would always say, ‘Look after it all’,” she said.

The incredible photo from Penrith’s past. Photo: Melinda Jane.

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

However, she admits it took her a while to learn to love it all, with her appreciation for the items coming with age. “My kids don’t appreciate it, and I never did when I was a kid either, because that’s boring,” she said.

“It’s fascinating now, to look at all of it.” In particular, she said her favourite part of having it all is reading old letters and recounts of day-to-day life. “A lot of people, like my mother, still to this day, will write down what she’s done every day, what she’s had for breakfast – just their life and how easy it was,” she said. “We thought our lives were hard, their lives were actually harder.”

Confirming she has no intention of selling any of the items, Dwyer said she’s still making a decision about what to do with it all. But, for now, she said she’s enjoying spending her days reading, with some of the letters even inspiring her to do the same. “Some of us were actually talking about it the other day, and we all decided that we were going to post letters to our friends this Christmas,” she said.

Some of the incredible history in Ann Dwyer’s possession.

LOCAL NEWS

Upskill for free thanks to TAFE EX CRANE COPPER TUBE AND CRANE ENFIELD WORKERS

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Dear Ex Crane Copper Tube/ Crane Enfield Employee, By means of introduction, I’m Marna and I’m employed by the new owner of 2115 Castlereagh Road, Manufactor Precinct. (Old Crane Copper Tube/ Crane Enfield Property). Penrith’s TAFE campus.

able to complete courses in nursing, aged care, IT, hospitality, and early childhood education and care. “This includes areas such as digital, hospitality and tourism, construction, care and support services, renewable energy, and sovereign capability,” she said. “The initiative means students have access to training in the industries where job demand is greatest, leading to better employment prospects.” Fee-Free TAFE has resulted in considerable savings for students, and as of June there more than 38,000 students were enrolled across a number of sectors. “This is great news for anyone who’s been thinking of trying vocational education and training in NSW – they now have the opportunity to upskill for free in industries aligned to priority skill areas,” said NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan. Enrolments are currently open for semester one and two at Penrith and Kingswood campuses now. To check your eligibility, visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Our objective is to honor the legacy of Crane Copper Tube/ Crane Enfield by engraving former employee’s names in the old Remelt. To accomplish this, we are in the process of gathering details of all ex-employees. I am aware that some of your colleagues have passed away, and to commemorate their contributions, we would greatly appreciate receiving their Names and Surnames. I kindly request your assistance in spreading this message among as many former Crane Copper Tube/ Crane Enfield employees as possible and urging them to reach out to me. Marna

Marna.P@AonAri.com.au

I need: 1. Name & Surname 2. Date started and ended 3. Contact number

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eople wanting to train, retrain or upskill could soon be eligible to complete a fee-free short course or full qualification at TAFE from January. Late last month, the Federal and State Governments announced a further 147,400 Fee-Free TAFE places will be available in NSW over the next three years, giving more people the opportunity to study for future jobs in areas where the economy needs them most. “Fee-Free TAFE and VET has been such a success that the Albanese Government is committing to a further 300,000 places starting next year, with 147,400 of those places in New South Wales,” said Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor. “This is a $128.9 million Commonwealth investment in skills and training in NSW and comes in addition to the National Skills Agreement which will see $3.8 billion invested into the state VET sector by the Federal Government. “This is what genuine collaboration and partnership can achieve – real results for everyday Australians – and we couldn’t deliver it without the support of the Minns Government.” The partner-up aims to address persistent skills shortages and build on the success of Fee-Free TAFE in 2023, which attracted record enrolments in NSW. A TAFE NSW spokeswoman said they will provide fee-free training places in courses aligned to the state’s priority industry growth sectors, to eligible students. In the Nepean area, future students will be

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

PENRITH’S

1 2 d a y s o f

xmas How to play:

photo challenge

Step 1. Pick a challenge from below and snap a pic at a Penrith local business Step 2. Tag us on Instagram with #twwcbd and include your team name and the venue you are visiting Step 3. You can include multiple challenges at the one location Step 4. There is a business for every challenge advertising in the Western Weekender! Step 5. Competition closes 12pm Wednesday 20th December Must be a business in PENRITH

FANTASTIC PRIZE PACKS TO BE WON

Lunch & Loud Attire Dress the team in loud shirts and celebrate locally

+ 100 points per person

Get a photo with a shopping centre Santa

5 International Dining

Buy a local business gift certificate & snap a pic with it + 100 points

Make a 7 purchase from a

THREEPEAT

+ 100 points per order

+ 300

Relaxation

+ 100 points

+ 100 points per order

+ 100 points

3 people, 3 Panthers jerseys, 3 Panthers Players

Enjoy a mani/pedi, haircut, beard trim etc, from a Penrith business

+ 100 points

Eat in at a local venue with a foreign flavour

Penrith venue named after a person

Coffee, Sunrise & the Nepean River

Charity Xmas Tree at Panthers

+ 100 points

for 3 yourVote favourite

High Street Selfie

Visit a local brewery + 100 points

Fishy Feast

Snap a pic with a Xmas decorated High Street business

Savour local seafood dining in or for home cooking

+ 100 points

* Decisions on points is completely at the discretion of the Western Weekender * If there is more than one team with the top final points score the winner will be randomly selected from those teams. Proudly supporting local businesses

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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Great coffee and food Catering is available for your office and Christmas parties. 472 High St, Penrith

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

Shop & Dine Local

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Penrith, we’re here to help. Hi, I’m Tim Gulli, your local CommBank Branch Manager. As a proud member of the Penrith community, I enjoy helping our customers achieve their lifestyle and business goals. I’m on hand to chat about your financial situation, answer your questions and suggest solutions that will help meet your needs.

Talk to me today. 0478 402 844 tim.gulli@cba.com.au

Indulge in flavours and fun this Christmas at Masala Kitchen.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

LOCAL NEWS

15 years? How about 50! Colin defies expectations of surgeons surgeon and an electrical engineer. His recovery was relatively uneventful, and he was sent home to be with his family for Christmas. In the years that followed, McFarlane and his wife, Yvonne Thompson, went on to have four children, Cheryl, Graeme, Robert and Margo. McFarlane said he feels “lucky” to have had the surgery, which dramatically improved his quality of life. “The heart defect was really affecting my breathing, but after they put the valve in I was back to normal. I didn’t have any pain or any problems with the chest after that,” he said. “I could go swimming with the kids and do things I couldn’t do before, so that was great.” McFarlane was told his life expectancy would be reduced as a result of the heart damage, and that the valve was expected to last 10 to 15 years. Refusing to slow down, he went on to work two jobs before he eventually retired and travelled around Australia in a motorhome. McFarlane said he is extremely grateful for his heart valve and the great medical care he has received. He said, despite having a pacemaker and many stents, he is as active as can be. “I’m the longest living with the valve,” McFarlane said. “I really appreciate it. “They saved my life.”

MAKAYLA MUSCAT

Colin McFarlane received a prosthetic aortic heart valve 50 years ago.

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

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Life saving funds to support local defibrillators at sporting facilities The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program is aimed at providing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and associated equipment to NSW sport and recreation facilities and clubs. Penrith is one of several electorates that will share in $500,000 from the NSW Government through a program that installs life-saving defibrillators at sports facilities. The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program provides grants up to $3,000 to eligible sporting organisations towards the purchase of automated external defibrillators. The NSW Government wants to ensure that people participating in sport in the most disadvantaged areas have access to this life-saving equipment, so they are equipped to respond to life-threatening emergencies. The Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs in Penrith. Applications close February 24, 2024, at 1.00PM. For further information on the Local Sports Defibrillator Program, visit:

https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/ local-sport-defibrillator-grant-program.

Karen McKeown OAM Role Model Award Recipients It has been an honour to commence attending local schools and handing out the Karen McKeown OAM Role Model Awards to students recognised by their schools as a great role model, self motivated leader, demonstrates academic excellence and community minded, in the Penrith electorate. I would like to congratulate the below award recipients on their outstanding efforts and achievements for 2023. Kingswood PS – Muskaan S Penrith Christian College – Jonah B Penrith Christian College – Jaida T Emu Plains PS – Charlotte M St Dominic’s College – Joshua K St Dominic’s College – Brodie D York PS – Ella J Leonay PS – Daniel U Samuel Terry PS – William B St Nicholas of Myra – Stephanie O Henry Fulton PS – Myrah LCeptaquam.

KAREN MCKEOWN OAM Member for Penrith

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

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

:: ::

hen Colin McFarlane received Australia’s first prosthetic aortic heart valve implant, he was told it would last about 15 years. That was an incredible 50 years ago, and now the Jordan Springs local is just months away from his 86th birthday. His family said he was a mischievous young lad who grew up with his two brothers in Emu Plains. When McFarlane was eight-years-old, he was diagnosed with Rheumatic Fever, an illness which causes inflammation of the heart. At the age of 14, a medical officer at Penrith High School detected a heart murmur during a health check and sent a letter home recommending he see a specialist. “That’s what started me going to a professor in Macquarie Street, Sydney, for a long time. They found out about a new heart valve in America,” McFarlane told the Weekender. “I had to wait about five months for it to arrive, but on December 5, 1973, I went into Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and they replaced the valve.” When he was 35-years-old, McFarlane was admitted to have a prosthetic aortic heart valve implanted, which was developed by a

LOCAL NEWS

Club’s refurbishment honoured

Have your say on St Marys plan

enrith City Council is inviting the community to share their feedback on the draft St Marys Town Centre Place Plan. Following extensive community consultation last year, Council adopted its St Marys Town Centre Structure Plan, which established a shared vision to transform St Marys into a vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming strategic centre over the next 20 years. The St Marys Town Centre Place Plan is a community-led roadmap which outlines actions over the next five years between 2024-2028 to help achieve this long-term vision, with a focus on events, activities, and street and park improvements. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney thanked the community for its overwhelming response during community consultation to form the

draft plan earlier in the year, and now hopes more people will have a say. “Council heard from more than 540 residents, businesses, community groups, government stakeholders, and allied health professionals when we asked them to help us co-design the draft Place Plan,” Carney said. “We received lots of great ideas for ways to spruce up the Town Centre, support our local businesses, along with activities and events that will bring the community together. “Council has listened to this feedback, developed the draft Place Plan which we feel truly reflects the needs and desires of the community, and now we want to make sure residents and local business think we’re on the right track.” To view the draft plan and share your feedback, visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/stmarys.

St Marys Rugby League Club was a big winner at a recent awards event.

CASSIDY PEARCE

t Marys Rugby League Club has won a Master Builders Association Excellence in Construction award with their refurbishment by FDC Construction. The Club’s $25 million Western Foyer & Saints Event Centre Development was awarded the top spot in the ‘Hospitality Buildings Refurbishment $10-$30 million’ category – an achievement Club CEO Rod Desborough said was the icing on the cake. “We were very excited to receive this industry award, chosen among an excellent field of entrants,” he said. “The development was the realisation of a long-term strategic plan and turned a dream into reality – exceeding all our expectations.”

The significant development involved the reorientation of the main entrance to the club, as well as the addition of Saints Sports Bar, and Saints Event Centre. Desborough congratulated FDC, saying they “nailed the brief” which asked them to create a building and facilities that were unique, and added a ‘wow’ factor to the popular club. He also thanked the community for their support of the additions. “The way in which members and the community have embraced the development has been overwhelming, and very rewarding and satisfying for the Board,” he said. The award was received by Desborough, as well as representatives of FDC Construction, Bergstrom Architects, Club Vice President David Cartwright and Director Joe Borg.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

Locals can have their say on the future of St Marys.

LOCAL NEWS

Amaya’s business booms Meet Penrith’s youngest entrepreneur: The five-year-old with a passion for jewellery CASSIDY PEARCE

brand new business has just been launched by Penrith’s youngest entrepreneur, offering jewellery and accessories for juniors, by a junior, just in time for Christmas. Five-year-old Amaya Robinson initially started her business in June this year after being inspired by her aunty and best friend who had just done the same. According to Amaya, her goal with the business was to put smiles on the faces of her customers – with some extra pocket money for toys and makeup an added bonus. “I just wanted to get more jewellery to people, and I want to make them happy,” she said. Amaya’s business, Jnr Jeweller, sells gift boxes with rings, lip glosses, stickers and other accessories to fit a specific theme. Though she admitted she has some help from her mum, Ashley Robinson, Amaya assures she has the final say. “I choose what goes into the boxes,” she said. From her first launch, Amaya

Amaya Robinson. Photo: Melinda Jane.

sells the Rosy Posy, Share the Love and Pretty Princess boxes. Despite having more variations on the way for special occasions, she said there’s a clear frontrunner for her.

“My favourite box is Share the Love,” she said. Amaya said that the Share the Love box is inspired by her favourite YouTuber, Stephen Sharer, who has

a song and tour by the same name. Currently, Jnr Jeweller is being sold in two locations. “I have stalls in my room, and in Insignia,” she said.

Her Insignia location is a pop-up, which Amaya plans on having many more of in the near future, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas time. Another key part of the business is promoting positive messages to kids, with $2 from each purchase going towards a charity of Amaya’s choice each month. For the month of November, Amaya chose mental health, with December’s an anti-bullying charity, and January’s funds going to a dog rescue – all causes that are close to her heart. Amaya’s mum Ashley said she couldn’t be prouder of what her daughter has achieved with Jnr Jeweller so far. Though she admits running a business isn’t entirely in her wheelhouse, she’s been doing everything she can to encourage Amaya’s efforts. “When she said she wanted to start a business, I decided that I would try to teach her everything I know,” she said. The Jnr Jeweller website is under construction, however you can visit their Instagram page @jnrjeweller for more information, and to view the full range.

WW52425

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

Extra rubbish collections It’s easy to overdo things at Christmas, and we know that along with more parties and more presents comes more waste and recycling. That’s where Council has got your back as we increase our waste services to assist with extra waste or recycling you may have over the festive season. And the extra services don’t stop there, we’ll have two weeks of recycling drop-off and once Christmas is done, you can drop-off your real tree too. Our two weeks of extra bin collections will start from Monday, December 25 2023, and continue until Friday, January 5, 2024 – this includes the public holidays. All you need to do is place all three bins at the kerbside for collection during those weeks. It’s best to place your bins at the kerbside the night before their normal collection day and leave them out until they are emptied. The waste collection drivers are starting early and working late into the evening to help accommodate the extra services, so keep you bin in place until it has been collected. If you have excess household recyclables that would normally go in your

yellow lidded bin, such as paper and cardboard boxes with staples and tape removed, glass bottles and jars, milk and juice cartons, plastic bottles and containers, and steel and aluminium cans, drop them down to The Kingsway Playing Fields. We’ll be collecting these from 3pm until 6pm weekdays from Monday, December 18 through to Friday, December 29, (excluding public holidays). Polystyrene and electronic waste will not be accepted at the drop-off, however these items can be dropped off at Penrith’s Community Recycling Centre. For more information, visit penrith.city/CRC. The real Christmas Tree drop-off will occur on Saturday, January 6 2024 at The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington from 10am until 2pm where real trees will be collected for mulching. Artificial trees and decorations will not be accepted on the day, instead book a bulky waste collection or break them down and place them into their red-lidded residual waste bin.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Spreading joy at Christmas The Haven seeks a different kind of donation for women and children in their care MAKAYLA MUSCAT

he Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter – are seeking donations for this year’s Christmas Drive. They are appealing for vouchers for experiences, and places including Hoyts, Flip Out, TruNinja, Narrow Escape Rooms, Cables Water Park, Ripples Leisure Centre and the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre. The Haven’s Business Manager, Samantha Anderson, told the Weekender that reconnection, relaxation and fun are important recovery tools for domestic violence victims. “When families have gone through trauma together it’s important to not only provide a safe place for them to rebuild their lives, but to give them the opportunity to have fun and reconnect,” she said. “Physical activities, in particular, helps burn off stress chemicals, reduces muscle tension and encourages better sleep.” The charity kickstarted this initiative last week, saying these women and children seeking refuge there also deserve to be able to enjoy something special and fun this Christmas. “More often than not, the nervous system of both adults and children have been activated to be on high alert, so to be

able to provide opportunities and experiences to alleviate this is invaluable,” Anderson said. “The feel good hormones released after a good laugh and play are a wonderful antidote to the impacts of trauma.” Anderson said The Haven is hoping to receive enough vouchers to be able to give each family that comes to The Haven over the holiday period. “Bearing in mind that as one family leaves another one comes, so whilst they may not be with us on Christmas Day, if they are coming in the week after or throughout the holidays we want to be able to provide them experiences during this time too,” she said. While experiences are the focus this festive season, The Haven is also welcoming other donations. “We’ve got a charity organisation providing gifts and trees, so another way people can help is donating non-perishable food items that are a little more special than usual and feels like Christmas,” Anderson said. The Haven is asking the community to just imagine what children living in crisis accommodation have been through to get there, and help if they can. All donations must be received before Monday, December 18. To donate, contact donations@thehaven.org.au.

The Haven is helping women and children have some fun this Christmas.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Rapt with wrapping: Volunteers at your service for unwanted task CASSIDY PEARCE

hough there are so many highlights of the holiday season, everyone has their least favourite part, and for many, it’s wrapping gifts. Our Community Cares is making the process easy once again this year, and all it takes is a gold coin donation. According to Kris Gauci, the charity’s gift wrapping initiative is one of her favourites every year. “People are always so kind and generous around here, and we always have a good time and a laugh,” she said. “The people who volunteer with us always make our day, they’re so fantastic.” After successfully raising enough money to buy laser equipment for Nepean Hospital through the initiative last year, allowing premature babies with retinal issues to stay close to home and have the necessary operations onsite, Gauci has shifted her focus to another item on the hospital’s wish list for this Christmas season. “This year, we’re going to be rais-

Our Community Cares volunteers wrapping presents at Westfield. Photo: Megan Dunn.

ing funds for 20 sofa beds at Nepean Hospital,” she said. “We’ll be doing the neurology unit, emergency, palliative care, and one of the children’s wards, and if we’ve got money left over, we’ll be buying more for other different wards – as many as we can get!” As far as how it all works, Gauci

said it’s fairly simple, with the Our Community Cares elves prepared to do just about anything to ensure you’ve got beautiful gifts under the tree this Christmas, for just a gold coin donation per item. “They bring their presents in, some people bring trolleys, and they can leave them while they go to work or

have coffee and lunch, and we wrap them and put a bow on them if they want,” she said. “They can also put stickers on them, and we’ll re-sticker them with the name on a gift tag, then they just come and pick them up!” Getting your gifts wrapped for you can be a game changer.

“I think people these days are just time poor, and they just want someone to do that sort of thing for them,” she said. “Gone are the days where you sit up on Christmas Eve and wrap all your presents, right?” Gauci also assured no gift is too big or complex, as they’ve just about seen it all. “One time we had one of those big plastic sandpit shells, and that was absolutely unbelievable,” she said. “Last year or the year before, we had a trapezium, it was like a dollhouse almost, and it had all these things and was the weirdest shape. It was so hard to wrap, but we did it, and the customer was very happy! We can do anything!” But, for the expert gift wrappers out there, Gauci said they can always use an extra set of hands. “We’re always looking for volunteers, and we’ve still got a few shifts that they can fill in for,” she said. Our Community Cares will have elves set up at two locations at Westfield, as well as at Nepean Village, every day until Christmas Eve. To volunteer, this year call 0403 197 952.

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TURNING BACK TIME This photograph is from the stage play ‘Absurd Person Singular’, which was performed at the Q Theatre in Penrith in 1977. The play was written by Alan Ayckbourn. Performers include Andrea Kelland (as Eva Jackson), Bill Conn (as husband Geoffrey Jackson), Elaine Hudson (as Jane Hobcroft), Richard Brooks (as husband Sydney Hobcroft) and Vola Van Dere (as Marion Brewster-Wright). This photograph is from the hilarious scene in the play at the final Christmas Party. The production was part of the Q’s first slate of shows, having opened in the same year. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

people who may be experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety. Visit www.gidgetfoundation.org.au for more details on how to purchase the book.

Δ Summer Macca’s menu: You know summer has arrived when Macca’s announces its hotly-anticipated, drool-inducing summer menu (pictured above), and this year the menu stars some of the biggest icons from the Macca’s repertoire – the McRib and Chicken Big Mac. Making a grand entrance alongside the classic McRib is the new McRib Deluxe, a fresh, new take on the epic burger that comes with the addition of cheese, 100 per cent Aussie lettuce and tomato, plus creamy McChicken sauce. To cool down this summer, is the return of two Aussie icons – the Tim Tam McFlurry – back with a new chocolate twist featuring Chocolate Soft Serve, as well as the new Frozen Coke Y3000. Part of the

Coke Creations platform, Aussies can enjoy the taste of the future with the new Coca-Cola flavour from the Year 3000. Co-created with AI, the limited-edition Frozen Coke Y3000 is only available at Macca’s.

Δ A San Churro summer: Discover sweet summer relief with Churro Fries (pictured above right) and a range of Classic Shakes from popular dessert bar San Churro. Churro Fries is the perfect on-the-go treat for those sweet summer days – get six snack-sized churros for just $5.95 now. Plus, discover new shakes in traditional flavours, like Strawberry, Salted Caramel or Blue Heaven for $7.95, to keep you cool this summer.

Δ Book with purpose: Not for profit organisation the Gidget Foundation Australia has released a book telling a story about keeping things simple, so you can experience more of the Christmas magic with your loved ones. Unfolding across the pages of Bunny’s Little Big Christmas (pictured right) is that heartwarming tale of Bunny and her dear companion, Bright Shiny Star, who illuminates the profound magic of Christmas by teaching her the invaluable lesson of slowing down and cherishing what truly matters. 100 per cent of the proceeds from the sale of this Bunny Book support Gidget Foundation Australia, which works to raise awareness, advocate, educate, and provide early intervention services for

Δ New podcast: David Trist is the latest guest on the Weekender’s On The Record podcast series. The World War II veteran and passionate St Marys local runs us through his incredible life – including some never-beforetold stories. Search Western Weekender wherever you listen to podcasts or stream at www. westernweekender.com.au/podcast. Δ Got some Source? We want to know about store openings, new products and more. Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SP O N S O RED CO NTENT

NEPEAN LIQUOR ACCORD • WWW.NEPEANLIQUORACCORD.COM.AU

Think safe, drink safe this Christmas W

ith the festive season upon us, it is no surprise that people are heading out. The Nepean Liquor Accord is asking the community to protect themselves and their mates when they are enjoying a couple of drinks this Christmas. Nepean Liquor Accord Chairman, David Want, said it’s important to shine a spotlight on safe drinking this summer. The reduction in alcohol related incidents and anti-social behaviour in the Penrith LGA is the main objective this season of the Nepean Liquor Accord in collaboration with Nepean Police Area Command. According to Want, these incidents commonly occur when people have been moved on from one venue and cause trouble at the next one they walk into. For the past year, Accord members have been communicating live about misbehaving patrons, as part of their ‘refuse from one, refuse from all’ strategy which helps venues protect each other. Want said licenced venues are now refusing entry to people that have been asked to leave another venue for their own safety, as well as that of other patrons and staff. “People that drink irresponsibly, behave disorderly or participate in drug activity could be barred from all licenced venues with the Nepean Liquor Accord for 24 hours,” he said. These are their tips for safe drinking this Christmas:

– Don’t accept drinks from others – Be mindful of your teenage children, know where they are and where they are going, discourage underage drinking. – Pace yourself and eat while drinking – Consume water and drink responsibility – Keep an eye on your mates – Trust your feelings and instincts

– Have consent and set boundaries – Have a ‘Plan B’ The mitigation strategies implemented by the Nepean Liquor Accord can help ensure the community has a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year. “We want the community to exercise safe practices over the season and to have a safe

and happy new year, officers will be conducting proactive patrols in and around licensed premises, with a focus on compliance in venues and patron behaviour,” said Nepean Police Area Command Licensing Team Sargent, Hayden Burden Visit www.nepeanliquoraccord.com.au or find them on Facebook.

Trust your instincts. • • •

Let your mates know if you feel worried or uncomfortable If you feel unsafe, try to get somewhere that feels safer Find someone you trust that can help like a çóêæïå ãâó ôõâĢ ôæäöóêõú ðó ñðíêäæ

Know what YOU’RE Drinking. • • •

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• • • •

Let your mates know when you’re going, even if it’s just to the bathroom Keep an eye on each other and check in throughout the night Recognise when you or your friends might need help Seek help if something doesn’t feel right Supported by the

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

BUSINESS

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Take action now to prepare for 2024 ow I know we are all looking forward to the Christmas holidays, and there is no doubting that everyone is due for a well-deserved break. But the last thing you want to do is come back in 2024 to your business being at a standstill with no real plan for the year. I have compiled a list of what you should think about for your online presence before shutting up shop for 2023.

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Website – Make sure you take this time to analyse your website and note any changes you want to make, is it in need of a fresh look? This is a good time to look at your competitors to see what you are up against. – Review your Google analytics for the year. Is there a seasonal pattern? Can you see where campaigns increased web traffic? Where is most of your traffic coming from? Use this data to plan for next year. – Check your site ranking. If customers finding you via search engines is important for your business, check how your site is ranking for a few key search terms. If you’re not on the first few pages, you need to set aside some time/budget to address this in 2024.

when planning your content for 2024. Once you determine what posts your audience reacted to the most, you will start to see trends that may help your engagement in the new year. – For each piece of marketing you’ve done in the year, from adverts to social media, give it a success score out of 10. How you measure success will depend on your business and the activity. Tracking direct sales resulting from the activity is ideal.

Social Media – How has your social media marketing performed in 2023? Has it been a focus for you? Now is the time to look through your analytics to see what worked and what didn’t. – A nalytics will also be very important

These are just a few things that could shape the way your business performs online in 2024. A marketing plan for next year once all these steps have been taken is a must. I do encourage everyone to take the time to put their feet up and reset over the break, come back refreshed and ready for a BIG 2024!

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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Sydney Water invites Aboriginal groups and/or Aboriginal people who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the significance of Aboriginal objects and/or places at Penrith to register interest in a process of community consultation with the contact shown below (on behalf of Sydney Water):

The closing date for registration is 22 December 2023. Please be advised that in accordance with Heritage NSW requirements, we are required to record the names and contact details of each Aboriginal person who has registered an interest in this project and provide a copy of that record to the relevant Heritage NSW office and Local Aboriginal Land Council. If you are registering your interest, please let us know if you do not want your details forwarded to these organisations.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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

A LIFE FULL OF MAGIC CASSIDY PEARCE

nown for his signature showmanship and death-defying escapes, Paul Cosentino is undeniably one of Australia’s most iconic magicians. But, he admits he wasn’t always passionate about the craft. Cosentino recalls starting out in his early teens after being drawn in by a mysterious book with intricate pictures which would inspire him to build a life in magic. “I was an introverted, shy kid and I had a lot of learning difficulties – I didn’t learn to read until I was about 12-years-old, which was compounded by the fact that my mother was a school principal, so she was pulling her hair out trying to get me to connect, to engage, and nothing would work,” he said. “One day, she had this bright idea to take me to the local library, and of course I didn’t want to be there because I couldn’t read, so I’m looking at books with pictures, and I stumble across this book called The Encyclopedia of Magic. “My mother saw me with a book and thought, ‘Great, he’s finally got a book’, and we borrowed this magic book and she would read me stories and ad-

ventures and escapades of all these famous magicians like Harry Houdini, and how he would escape from jail cells all across the globe, and jump off bridges handcuffed and chained.” In the back of the book, there was a list of magic tricks which Cosentino and his mother would work through together – breaking down each word and applying them to his own hands. He continued to develop his skills until he became the expert he is today, and that many first met in 2011 on ‘Australia’s Got Talent’. Cosentino credits magic to changing his life, not only in terms of his successful career in television and film, but also as a person, giving him control and power for the very first time. “When you’re a kid, and you’re sitting in all these specialist classes, and you have to spend your lunchtime doing extra curriculum, and kids at school tease you because you’re seemingly less intelligent, it’s very, very difficult, so magic gave me a coping mechanism, and a tool to do things that were impossible,” he said. “My father’s a structural engineer, and I remember my first trick was making a 20c coin vanish, and he legitimately said to me, ‘How did you do it?’...

That was very powerful stuff, that was a transfer of power.” This year, Cosentino is reflecting on his many years in the i n dustry with his new show, ‘Decennium’. “‘Decennium’ is Latin for ‘a decade’, and that’s what it is – it’s a celebration of my life in magic over the last 10 years,” he said. “It’s the best of my best, so there’s people appearing, and levitating, and teleporting, and close-up magic, and death-defying escapes, and lots of humour, and audience participation all jam-packed into one.” Whether you’re five or 85, Cosentino promises you’ll find something to love in what’s more than just a magic show, but simply asks you to expect the unexpected. “Come in with an open mind – if you don’t like magic, then good, come and see the show, you’ll probably be surprised, and if you do love magic, then you’re going to really dig the show as well,” he said. Cosentino’s ‘Decennium – The Greatest Hits Tour’ will be on at Sydney Coliseum on Saturday, December 30. To book, visit sydneycoliseum.com.au.

Visit The Gifting Emporium Pop-Up Stall This Weekend Visit V isit T The Th he Gift Gifti Gifting ting Emporium Pop-Up Pop Up Stall this weekend! From gorgeous gifts and gift hampers to stocking stuffers and teacher gifts, The Gifting Emporium has everything you need to make this the most memorable Christmas ever. Visit them this weekend, Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th December from 9-4 at Southlands Shopping Centre, Birmingham Road, South Penrith.

Email hello@thegiftingemporium.com.au for more details WW52769

thegiftingemporium.com.au hello@thegiftingemporium.com.au

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

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SANTA’S SUPER

THINGS TO DO Get into the festive spirit

Free concert for Christmas

Brunch with Santa at Saints

Book your tickets now for ‘A Ruby Christmas’. On at John Lees Centre next Saturday, December 16 at 2pm and 7pm, the show will feature a talented local cast of singers and dancers performing popular and traditional season classics, with special appearances by Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and Santa Claus. Visit rubyproductions.com.au.

Formed in 1895, the NSW Police Force proudly boasts the country’s oldest concert band. Next Tuesday, December 12 at 2pm, celebrate the festive season at The Joan as the NSW Police Band perform some of your favourite Christmas songs. Admission to the show is free. For more information, visit thejoan.com.au.

Santa is coming to town and he’s inviting you to join him and his little elves for a magical brunch on the Ironbark Terrace at Saints this Sunday, December 10. Brunch with Santa will begin at 9.30am, complete with festive craft activities, balloon artists, and more special treats. Purchase tickets now at stmarysleagues.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.

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 Markets Wednesdays. Penrith Showground.

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

BUSINESS

Nepean Valley RSL Day Club Meets every Friday from 10am-2pm at Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Volunteers needed. 0407 014 542.

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

COMMUNITY SERVICES

JP Service Tuesday and Thursday 9am-5pm. 7/458-470 High Street, Penrith. Nepean Food Services Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au. Free food shop 9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith.

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.

MUSEUMS

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous Mondays 6pm. 1300 222 222. Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594. Gamblers Anonymous Mondays 7.30pm. 0433 018 484. Penrith Carer Support Group First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160. Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River. Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499. Penrith Autism Community Network Carers support group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.30pm at Maze Cafe, Penrith RSL. Phillip on 0420 209 015 for more details. Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

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BARKER’S BEST

Attention all art lovers! As a young man, Les Feher found his passion and studied art. Due to demanding circumstances at the time he needed to turn to a trade for income, leaving his beloved paint brushes aside.

Penrith City Library is pleased to present a selection of Les’ work in an exhibition not to be missed. Exhibition running: 1st December to 23rd of December Penrith City Library 601 High St, Penrith NSW 2750

bound to leave a lasting impression. You never really know what you’re going to get, with Barker ensuring each show is a unique and sidesplitting adventure. But, what makes this show special is Barker’s ability to connect with the audiences. His clever insights into everyday life, as well as relatable observations, are sure to resonate with viewers of all ages, creating an unforgettable bond, and a truly immersive experience. ‘The Best of Arj Barker – Power Hour’ will be on at the Evan Theatre at Panthers on Friday, December 15 at 8pm. Tickets are $58.95. For more information or to book, visit penrith.panthers.com.au.

CASSIDY PEARCE

WW52779

Upon retirement, Les has returned to his love of art. With a distinctive style of painting in abstract, geometric, decorative art, landscape, seaside and flora, Les really takes on a journey with his unquestionable talent and attention to detail.

Library open hours: Monday to Thursday 9am to 8pm Friday to Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 5pm

merican comedian Arj Barker has loved Australia since his first performance in the country in 2000 at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, so much so that he chose to move here. Now, he’s bringing his newest show, ‘The Best of Arj Barker – Power Hour’, to the Evan Theatre. Arj Barker’s ‘Power Hour’ is a rollercoaster ride of hilarity, providing audiences with plenty more than just a night of laughter. Complete with cleverly remastered jokes, fresh material, and a touch of improv, it’s

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

At the movies... PREVIEW

PREVIEW

Napoleon

Trolls Band Together

2 hour, 38 minutes

1 hour, 31 minutes

‘Napoleon’ is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix. Against a stunning backdrop of large-scale filmmaking orchestrated by legendary director Ridley Scott,

the film captures Bonaparte's relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed.

See these movies at...

After two films of true friendship and relentless flirting, Poppy and Branch are now officially, finally, a couple (#broppy)! As they grow closer, Poppy discovers that Branch has a secret past. He was once part of her favourite boyband phenomenon, BroZone, with his four brothers: Floyd, John Dory, Spruce and Clay. BroZone disbanded when Branch was still a baby,

PENRITH

as did the family, and Branch hasn’t seen his brothers since. But when Branch’s bro Floyd is kidnapped for his musical talents by a pair of nefarious pop-star villains – Velvet and Veneer – Branch and Poppy embark on a harrowing and emotional journey to reunite the other brothers and rescue Floyd from a fate even worse than pop-culture obscurity.

www.hoyts.com.au

Tickets $15 Movie Info & Session Times

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

COUNTRY CORNER Forsyth (pictured bottom left) has released her new single ‘Made Your Bed’. The single’s low-slung bassline and curls of pedal steel, has a bluesier feel with Forsyth’s blues-tinged vocals and incomparable songwriting. ‘Made Your Bed’ finds Forsyth pondering the space between the high road and low road. The song is available on all regular streaming services now.

Wallen tops Swift Australians are loving country music this year, with Morgan Wallen’s (pictured above) ‘One Thing At A Time’ taking out the number one spot for Australia’s most-streamed album on Spotify, followed by Taylor Swift’s ‘Midnights’ and SZA’s ‘SOS’.

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Forsyth drops new track Fresh from supporting US artist Jackson Dean, alt-country singer-songwriter Tori

An Opry invitation There was a major surprise at the Opry in Nashville last weekend with Garth Brooks officially inviting Scotty McCreery to become a member (pictured above). “I grew up listening to your records, Garth, and you’re a part of what made me want to do this for a living,” an emotional McCreery said in response. “I didn’t think that dream would become a reality, but it is because of all of y’all sitting in this house tonight. God bless y’all.” McCreery’s induction date will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

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PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS

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

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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

Oxley Park

South P Penrith ith

Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

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

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

Regentville 7/11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing Coles Ropes Crossing Newsagency

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 Crystal Café 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

Silverdale Mobil Service Station The Chemist Shop

Flower Power

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

Caddens

Ê You know it’s that time of year when the schedule for ‘Carols By Candlelight’ has been revealed. Paul Kelly will make his ‘Carols’ debut when he performs his Christmas classic ‘How to Make Gravy’. Also hitting the Sidney Myer Music Bowl stage, Clare Bowen from TV’s ‘Nashville’ and her husband Brandon Robert Young. Emma Watkins, the cast of ‘Grease The Musical’, Marcia Hines, Marina Prior, David Hobson, Denis Walter and Silvie Paladino will also perform. The fun gets underway at 8pm Christmas Eve on Channel Nine.

TV NEWS

Ê Still on shows for 2024, and Seven have confirmed ‘Home and Away’ will be back early next year on Monday, January 8. The season premiere will pick up where the epic cliffhanger left off, with Cash desperately

SHOWING NOW

JOHN LENNON: MURDER WITHOUT A TRIAL, APPLE TV+

searching for his missing girlfriend, Eden. While waiting for the soap’s highly anticipated return to screens, fans can call 1800 066 816 to hear an exclusive audio message of Cash’s last call to Eden.

Ê What seems to be becoming a Boxing Day tradition like the cricket, the new season of ‘Bump’ on Stan will drop on Tuesday, December 26. Season four will see the return of the usual cast along with some familiar faces with comedian Steph Tisdell and former tennis champ Dylan Alcott in his first acting role.

DECEMBER 24 8PM CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT, NINE

Ê UK drama ‘The Gold’ has been renewed by Paramount+ for a second season. The BBC drama is inspired by the true story of a Brink’s-Mat security depot theft of gold bullion worth £26m in 1983. I started watching this recently on a Qantas flight to New Zealand and it was quite good. Ê New three-part documentary series,

‘John Lennon: Murder Without A Trial’, is now showing on Apple TV+ some 43 years after the legendary musician was assassinated in New York. Narrated by Kiefer Sutherland, the docuseries features exclusive eyewitness interviews and previously unseen crime scene photos, shedding new light on the life and murder of the former Beatle and the investigation and conviction of Mark David Chapman, his confessed killer.

Ê Smash hit ABC series ‘Muster Dogs’ will return on Sunday, January 14 at 7.30pm. Narrated by news veteran Lisa Millar, the new five-part series sees five loveable Australian Border Collie pups, bred from the same litter by champion dog educator Mick Hudson, sent to five graziers around Australia who will each try to get their pup trained in just 12 months. If you can’t wait that long, then hop onto ABC iView where all the new episodes are already currently streaming. You’re welcome!

WW52782

Nathan Taylor

Ê Channel Seven announced the new season of ‘Australian Idol’ will premiere on Monday, January 29 at 7.30pm. Kyle Sandilands and Amy Shark return to the judging panel along with ‘Idol’ OG Marcia Hines, which is excellent news. Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie will host once again. Can you believe it’s been 20 years since Guy Sebastian pipped Shannon Noll for the inaugural title?

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

TV Guide: December 8–14

Sunday 10 December

Saturday 9 December

Friday 8 December

Your guide to the week’s television viewing

6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 The Secret Lives Of Our Urban Birds 11:00 Tiny Oz (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Shetland (PG) 2:00 Finding The Archibald (PG) 3:00 Worzel Gummidge (PG) 4:00 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:00 Back Roads 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:30 Under The Vines (M l) 9:15 Midsomer Murders (M v) 10:50 ABC Late News 11:05 Question Everything 11:35 Wakefield (M d,l)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “A Godwink Christmas” (AKA ‘A Christmas Coincidence’) (PG) (’18) Stars: Kimberley Sustad 2:00 Border Security International (PG) 2:30 Surf Patrol 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Sydney Sixers v Melbourne Renegades *Live* 11:00 Movie: “Priest” (PG) (’11) Stars: Paul Bettany

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra 11:30 NINE’s 8:00 Farm To Fork 8:30 Judge Judy (PG) Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Random Acts 9:00 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 9:30 Neighbours (PG) 10:00 Studio 10 (PG) Of Christmas” (G) (’19) Stars: Erin Cahill 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 12:00 10 News First 1:00 Dr Phil (M) 2:00 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire TBA 3:10 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 3:30 Neighbours (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 For The Love Of Pets (PG) The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 8:30 Movie: “London Has Fallen” (M l,v) Christmas With Australian Women’s Weekly (’16) Stars: Alon Abutbul 10:30 Movie: (PG) 8:30 The Graham Norton Show (M l,s) “Mercury Rising” (M l,v) (’98) Stars: Miko 10:30 TBA 11:30 Good Sam (M) Hughes 12:35 Tipping Point (PG)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:05 Legacy List With Matt Paxton 10:10 Paddington Station 24/7 (PG) 11:00 Ancient Invisible Cities (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:10 Elizabeth (PG) 3:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Lost Treasures Of Egypt (PG) 8:30 Lost World Of Angkor Wat (PG)

2:00 TBA 2:30 I Escaped To The Country 3:30 The Zoo 4:00 I Escaped To The Country 5:00 Bargain Hunt 6:00 Pie In The Sky 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer 8:30 Escape To The Country 10:30 Escape To The Perfect Town

3:00 Modern Family 2:00 Close Encounters (PG) 4:35 Movie: “Free Down Under (PG) 3:00 Willy 2: The Adventure STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Extreme Ice Railroad Home” (G) (’95) Stars: Jason (PG) 4:30 Storage Wars (PG) James Richter 6:35 Movie: “Hotel Transylvania” (PG) (’12) 5:00 American Restoration Stars: Adam Sandler 8:30 (PG) 5:30 American Pickers Movie: “The Sixth Sense” (M v) (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) (’99) Stars: Bruce Willis 7:30 TBA 9:50 TBA

5:00 Our Stories (PG) 5:30 Strait To The Plate (PG) 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Brazil Untamed 7:30 Movie: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (PG) (’09) Stars: Wes Anderson 9:05 Movie: “Eagle vs Shark” (M) (’07) Stars: Loren Taylor 10:20 Pacific Lockdown (PG)

8:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 9:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 10:30 JAG (PG) 12:30 NCIS (PG) 1:30 FBI (PG) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (M) 8:30 NCIS (M)

7:00 NBL Slam 7:30 Becker (PG) 8:30 Seinfeld (PG) 11:00 Frasier (PG) 12:00 Becker (PG) 1:00 Seinfeld (PG) 3:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Seinfeld (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

12:30 Unsellable Houses 1:30 My Lottery Dream Home 2:30 The Block (PG) 4:00 Blog Cabin 4:30 Yard Crashers 5:00 Fixer Upper 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Island Of Bryan

5:25 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir 6:00 Hardball 6:30 Operation Ouch! 6:45 Merlin (PG) 7:35 Phoenix Rise (PG) 8:35 Good Game Spawn Point 9:00 The Legend Of Korra 9:50 Mimi On A Mission: Digital Detox: Sharing Is Caring (PG)

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC Evening News 7:00 ABC National News 8:00 Planet America: Fireside Chat 8:45 ABC News Tonight 9:00 ABC Nightly News 9:30 Close Of Business 10:00 The World

4:00 Andy’s Wild Adventures 4:25 Reef School 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes 6:10 PJ Masks 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG)

5:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Secret World Of Snacks 8:30 Gordon Ramsay’s Christmas Cookalong 10:05 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

3:20 BBC News At Ten 3:50 ABC World News Tonight With David Muir 4:20 PBS Newshour 5:20 Shortland Street (PG) 5:50 The Curse Of Oak Island (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

4:40 The Addams Family 5:10 Bewitched 5:40 Movie: “ScoobyDoo 2: Monsters Unleashed” (PG) (’04) Stars: Matthew Lillard 7:30 Movie: “My Super Ex-Girlfriend” (PG) (’06) Stars: Uma Thurman 9:30 Movie: “Mortal Kombat” (M v) (’21)

2:50 Antiques Roadshow 3:20 Movie: “I’m All Right Jack” (G) (’59) Stars: Peter Sellers 5:30 Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 RBT (PG) 8:30 Movie: “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (PG) (’69) Stars: George Lazenby

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Midsomer Murders (PG) 2:00 Annika (M v) 2:50 The Durrells (PG) 4:30 Landline 5:10 Joanna Lumley’s Britain (PG) 6:00 The Way We Wore (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 All Creatures Great And Small (PG) 8:20 Vera (M v) 9:50 Annika (M v) 10:40 Under The Vines (PG) 11:25 QI (M s) 11:55 rage Guest Programmer (MA15+) 5:00 rage (MA15+)

6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Ballarat/ Randwick/ Eagle Farm *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 NSW Schools Spectacular 2023: Fabulous 9:45 Victoria State Schools Spectacular 2023: Happy Travels 12:30 12 Monkeys: Resurrection/ Blood Washed Away (MA15+) 2:30 Home Shopping

10:00 Today Extra - Saturday 12:00 Cybershack (PG) 12:30 Great Australian Detour 1:00 Movie: “Ruby’s Choice” (PG) (’22) Stars: Jane Seymour 3:30 Eatwell Christmas With Emma Dean 4:30 The Garden Gurus 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 Country House Hunters Australia 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Garden Hustle 8:30 Movie: “A Sunburnt Christmas” (M l) (’20) Stars: Daniel Henshall

10:00 Studio 10: Saturday 12:00 Luxury Escapes 12:30 The Yes Experiment (PG) 1:00 Christmas With Australian Women’s Weekly (PG) 2:00 Exploring Off The Grid 2:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 3:00 What’s Up Down Under 3:30 Luca’s Key Ingredient 4:00 My Market Kitchen 4:30 Farm To Fork 5:00 10 News First 6:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 6:30 Jamie Oliver - Cooking For Less 7:30 The Dog House (PG) 8:30 Ambulance (PG) 11:00 CSI: Vegas (PG) 1:00 CSI (PG)

2:00 Escape To The Perfect Town 3:00 Escape To The Country 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing *Live* 6:00 Extreme Animal Transport (PG) 6:30 The Yorkshire Vet In Autumn (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 8:30 Escape To The Country

2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 NDRC Top Doorslammer 4:00 Secrets Of The Supercars (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 5:30 Storage Wars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Air Crash Investigations (PG)

3:55 Dodger (PG) 4:55 Movie: “Nancy Drew” (PG) (’07) Stars: Emma Roberts 7:00 Movie: “The Wizard Of Oz” (G) (’39) Stars: Judy Garland 9:15 Movie: “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2” (M) (’12) Stars: Elizabeth Reaser

4:30 Brazil Untamed 5:20 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 The Barber 7:00 Great Lakes Wild 7:30 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro (PG) 8:30 Johnny Cash - The Man In Black Britain (M)

1:00 JAG (PG) 2:00 Healthy Homes Australia 2:30 Camper Deals (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Reel Action 5:30 I Fish 6:00 JAG (PG) 7:00 Football: Round 7: Sydney FC v Macarthur FC *Live* 10:15 NCIS (M) 11:10 Seal Team (M)

9:00 Neighbours (PG) 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Seinfeld (PG) 12:00 The King Of Queens (PG) 1:00 Becker (PG) 2:00 The Bachelors Australia (PG) 3:40 TBA 5:10 Seinfeld (PG) 6:10 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Friends (PG)

1:30 Log Cabin Living 2:30 Building Off The Grid 3:30 Restoration Man 4:30 Island Of Bryan 5:30 Lakefront Bargain Hunt 6:30 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 7:30 Escape To The Chateau 8:30 House Hunters USA

5:15 100 Things To Do Before High School 6:05 First Day (PG) 6:30 Operation Ouch! 7:00 Horrible Histories (PG) 7:35 Space Nova 8:00 Total DramaRama (PG) 8:20 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG) 8:45 Detention Adventure

4:00 ABC News 4:30 Close Of Business 5:00 ABC News 5:30 The World This Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 The Pacific 8:00 ABC News Tonight 8:30 7.30 Interview With Cheng Lei

4:00 Andy’s Wild Adventures 4:25 Reef School 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes 6:10 PJ Masks 6:30 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Live At The Apollo

3:20 BBC News At Ten 5:35 Hairy Bikers’ Asian 3:50 ABC World News Adventure 6:35 Order Tonight With David Up! 7:35 Tales From River Cottage 8:35 Rick Stein’s Muir 4:20 PBS Newshour 5:20 Mastermind Australia 5:50 Cornwall 9:35 Anthony American Runestone: A Viking Bourdain: No Reservations 10:30 River Cottage Australia Mystery 6:45 The Toys That Built The World (PG) 7:35 11:30 Mystery Diners 12:30 Impossible Engineering David Rocco’s Dolce India

3:30 Movie: “The Nine Kittens Of Christmas” (G) (’21) Stars: Brandon Routh 5:15 Movie: “The Secret Life Of Pets” (G) (’16) Stars: Kevin Hart 7:00 Movie: “The Mummy Returns” (PG) (’01) Stars: Brendan Fraser 9:30 Movie: “Hercules” (M l,v) (’14)

2:35 Movie: “Heavens Above!” (PG) (’63) Stars: Peter Sellers 5:00 Movie: “Some Like It Hot” (PG) (’59) Stars: Marilyn Monroe 7:30 Movie: “Johnny English” (PG) (’03) Stars: Rowan Atkinson 9:15 Movie: “Diamonds Are Forever” (PG)

9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass (PG) 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:00 You Can’t Ask That (M) 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 All Creatures Great And Small (PG) 3:15 Grand Designs (PG) 4:10 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia (PG) 5:00 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat Christmas Special 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Joanna Lumley’s Britain (PG) 8:20 Death In Paradise (M)

12:00 Christmas With The Salvos (PG) 12:30 Be Our Guest! Behind The Scenes Of Beauty And The Beast - The Musical (PG) 1:00 Highway Patrol (PG) 1:30 Movie: “Last Train To Christmas” (PG) (’22) Stars: Michael Sheen 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Melbourne Renegades v Perth *Live* 11:00 7News Spotlight: Busting The Scammers (PG) 12:00 Bates Motel (MA15+)

2:30 Step Outside With 2:00 TBA 2:30 TBA Paul Burt (PG) 3:00 3:00 TBA 3:30 The Mark Berg’s Fishing Yorkshire Vet In Autumn 4:30 The Yorkshire Vet Addiction (PG) 4:00 Pawn 5:30 I Escaped To The Country Stars (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars Texas (PG) 6:00 Border 6:30 Escape To The Country 7:30 Slow Train Through Africa Security International (PG) 7:00 Border Security With Griff Rhys Jones (PG) Australia’s Front Line (PG) 8:30 Call The Midwife (M) 5:00 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir 5:45 The Next Step 6:10 First Day (PG) 6:35 Operation Ouch! 7:05 Horrible Histories 7:40 Space Nova 8:05 Total DramaRama 8:30 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 8:50 Detention Adventure

4:00 ABC News 4:30 ABC News Regional 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 If You’re Listening 5:45 ABC News Video Lab 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Kitchen Cabinet 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders 8:30 ABC News Tonight

7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 SA Variety Bash (PG) 11:00 Cross Court 11:30 Iconic Australia (PG) 12:30 Fishing Australia 1:00 Drive TV 1:30 Great Getaways PG 2:30 For The Love Of Pets (PG) 3:30 Maritime Masters (PG) 4:30 The Pet Rescuers (PG) 5:00 NINE News: First At Five 5:30 RBT (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 The Hundred With Andy Lee (PG) 8:00 60 Minutes (PG) 9:00 Forged In Fire (M) 10:00 #TextMeWhenYouGetHome (M v)

6:00 Religious Programs 8:00 Everyday Gourmet 8:30 Freshly Picked 9:00 Christmas With Australian Women’s Weekly 10:00 Studio 10: Sunday (PG) 12:00 TBA 1:10 My Market Kitchen 1:30 Farm To Fork 2:00 Food Trail 2:30 Everyday Gourmet 3:00 Cook With Luke 3:30 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:00 All 4 Adventure 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Sunday Project (PG) 7:30 The Bachelors Australia (PG) 8:40 NCIS: Hawaii (M) 10:40 TBA

5:00 Worldwatch 9:05 Lap Of Luxury Escapes Down Under (PG) 10:05 The Autistic Gardener 11:00 Rick Steve’s Europe (M l) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:30 France 24 English News 1:00 Speedweek 3:00 Cycling Highlights 4:05 Dylan Alcott Meets Kevin Sheedy 4:40 Greatest Hits Of The 80s (PG) 5:35 Hitler - A Life In Pictures (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Fortress Britain With Alice Roberts (PG) 8:25 The Lost City Of Ramses (PG) (In English/ French) 2:30 The Garden Hustle 3:30 Self Made Mansions 4:30 Escape To The Chateau 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters International 7:30 Christina On The Coast 8:30 Flipping 101 With Tarek El Moussa

5:25 Ella Fitzgerald At The Paris Olympia 6:00 Untold History Of The Pacific 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Wild New Zealand (PG) 7:40 Greatest Hits Of The 70s (PG) 8:30 Dance Rites 10:05 Movie: “The Last Of The Mohicans” (M v) (’92)

10:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:00 JAG (PG) 1:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) 1:30 What’s Up Down Under 2:00 I Fish 2:30 Football Round 7: Adelaide United v Brisbane Roar *Live* 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 NCIS: Los Angeles (M v)

2:00 Basketball: NBL: Round 10: Melbourne United v Brisbane Bullets *Live* 4:00 Basketball: NBL: Round 10: Sydney Kings v South East Melbourne Phoenix *Live* 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 9:00 Two And A Half Men (PG)

5:30 Paul Hollywood: A 4:25 Reef School 5:00 Baker’s Life 6:00 In The Peppa Pig 5:30 Kiya Spirit With Lindsay And And The Kimoja Heroes 5:55 Octonauts 6:30 Ben And Curtis 6:30 Michel Roux’s French Country Cooking 7:30 Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 James Martin’s French Karma’s World 7:30 Spicks And Specks 8:00 QI (PG) 8:30 Adventure 8:30 Hairy Bikers Mediterranean 9:30 Anthony Louis Theroux: Louis & The Bourdain: No Reservations Brothel (M l,s)

4:25 Shortland Street (PG) 4:55 The Great British Urine Test (PG) 6:10 Kars & Stars (PG) 6:40 The Buildings That Fought Hitler (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Engineering (PG) 8:30 The Last Overland: Singapore To London (M)

11:45 Movie: “The 2:30 Movie: “Annie” Happiest Days Of Your (PG) (’14) Stars: Cameron Diaz 5:00 Life” (G) (’50) 1:30 Transformers: Cyberverse (PG) Movie: “The Duke Wore Jeans” 5:15 Movie: “The Lorax” (G) (G) (’58) Stars: Tommy Steele (’12) Stars: Zac Efron 7:00 3:30 Movie: “Irma La Douce” Movie: “Space Jam: A New (PG) (’63) 6:30 M*A*S*H (PG) Legacy” (G) (’21) 9:20 Movie: 8:30 Movie: “Live And Let Die” “The Matrix Reloaded” (M) (’03) (PG) (’73) Stars: Roger Moore

12:10 Movie: “Nancy Drew” (PG) (’07) Stars: Emma Roberts 4:15 Movie: “The Wizard Of Oz” (G) (’39) Stars: Judy Garland 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M) 8:30 Law & Order (M) 11:30 The Blacklist

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

5:00 Worldwatch 9:05 Lap Of Luxury Escapes Down Under (PG) 10:05 The Autistic Gardener 11:00 Rick Steve’s Europe (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Figure Skating: ISU Highlights 4:00 Seed 4:40 Greatest Hits Of The 80s (PG) 5:35 Hitler - A Life In Pictures 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys (PG) 8:25 Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey (PG) 9:20 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG)

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

Thursday 14 December

Wednesday 13 December

Tuesday 12 December

Monday 11 December

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Vera (M v) 2:30 The Cook And The Chef 3:00 Gardening Australia 4:10 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:00 Back Roads 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Prosecuting Evil (PG) 9:25 Under Cover (PG) 10:25 You Can’t Ask That (M l) 10:45 ABC Late News

12:00 Movie: “Alice In Winterland” (AKA ‘Love In Winterland’) (M) (’20) Stars: Italia Ricci 2:00 Border Security International (PG) 2:30 Surf Patrol 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Hobart v Sydney Sixers *Live* 11:00 Motorway Patrol (PG)

12:00 Movie: “The Christmas House” (PG) (’20) Stars: Robert Buckley 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III (PG) 8:40 Australian Crime Stories - The Investigators (M v)

12:00 10 News First 1:00 Dr Phil (M) 2:00 TBA 3:10 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Bachelors Australia (PG) 9:10 The Secrets She Keeps (M) 10:10 FBI: Most Wanted (M) 12:00 The Project (PG)

2:30 Jake And The 6:40 Brazil Untamed Fatman (PG) 3:30 7:30 Who Do You Think Diagnosis Murder (PG) You Are? (PG) 8:30 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) Living Black 9:05 Movie: “Buckskin” (PG) (’13) Director: 8:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 Blue Bloods (M) Dylan River

2:10 Elizabeth (PG) 3:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Close Encounters With Levison Wood 8:30 Concorde: The True Story (PG)

4:30 Yard Crashers 2:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 5:00 Christina On The The King Of Queens Coast 6:00 House (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 8:30 (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) Christina On The Coast 7:00 Friends (PG)

5:00 American 4:00 The Real Restoration (PG) 5:30 Seachange 4:30 Better American Pickers (PG) Homes And Gardens 5:30 I Escaped To The Country 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Opal Hunters (PG) 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin (M) 8:30 Endeavour (M) 8:30 Aussie Salvage Squad

4:00 Surf Patrol 4:30 Modern Family (PG) 5:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Puppy School (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law & Order (M)

6:00 ABC Evening 6:00 Hardball 6:30 News 7:00 ABC Operation Ouch! 6:45 National News 7:30 Merlin (PG) 7:35 Space Nova 8:00 Total DramaRama 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 8:45 The Business 9:00 ABC 8:20 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 8:45 So Awkward Files Nightly News

3:35 Movie: “Catch Us 5:30 I Dream Of 5:20 Shortland Street 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 5:30 Kiya And The If You Can” (G) (’65) Jeannie 6:00 Everybody (PG) 5:50 The Curse Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 Kimoja Heroes 6:10 PJ Stars: Dave Clark 5:30 Loves Raymond (PG) Of Oak Island (PG) The Cook Up With Masks 6:30 Ben And 7:00 Young Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Saved & Remade 6:30 Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Star Adam Liaw 7:30 Shane Delia’s 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Love Island Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Spice Journey 8:00 Luke Death In Paradise (PG) Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) Australia (M) Nguyen’s India 7:30 Spicks And Specks

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Vera (M v) 2:30 Death In Paradise (PG) 4:10 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 5:00 Back Roads 5:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 The Platypus Guardian (PG) 8:55 Yakka Australia At Work (PG) 9:55 Believing In Australia (PG) 10:45 ABC Late News

12:00 Movie: “Cooking Up Christmas” (PG) (’20) Stars: Meagan Holder 2:00 Border Security International (PG) 2:30 Surf Patrol 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Sydney Thunder v Brisbane *Live* 11:00 The Endgame (M l,v) 1:00 Grand Crew (PG)

12:00 Movie: “A Christmas Love Story” (PG) (’19) Stars: Kristin Chenoweth 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Travel Guides (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Crocodile Dundee” (M) (’86) Stars: Paul Hogan 10:30 New Amsterdam (M)

12:00 10 News First 1:00 Dr Phil (M) 2:00 TBA 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Bachelors Australia (PG) 8:40 NCIS (M v) 9:40 NCIS: Los Angeles (M v) 11:30 The Project (PG) 12:30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG)

12:30 Star Trek: 6:40 Brazil Untamed 4:00 Modern Family 4:30 Storage Wars 4:30 Better Homes And Voyager (PG) 1:30 7:30 The Casketeers (PG) 5:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 5:00 American Gardens 5:30 I MacGyver (M) 2:30 (PG) 8:30 Movie: (PG) 6:30 First Dates Restoration (PG) 5:30 Escaped To The Jake And The Fatman (PG) Australia (PG) 7:35 First Dates “Zappa” (MA15+) (’20) Stars: American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) Frank Zappa 10:45 Faboriginal 7:30 Rosemary & Thyme (PG) Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback UK (PG) 8:40 Movie: “The Devil’s Advocate” (M l,s,v) (’97) 11:15 My Family Matters (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) 8:30 Inspector George Gently Truckers (PG) 5:30 Freshly Picked 5:30 Kiya And The 6:00 ABC Evening 6:00 Hardball 6:30 With Simon Toohey Kimoja Heroes 6:10 PJ News 7:00 ABC Operation Ouch! 6:45 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 Masks 6:30 Ben And National News 7:30 Merlin (PG) 7:35 Space Nova 8:00 Total DramaRama 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Star Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 The Cook 8:30 Australian Story 9:00 ABC Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 8:20 Teenage Mutant Ninja Heston’s Feasts 7:30 Spicks And Specks Nightly News 9:30 Compass Turtles (PG)

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Vera (M v) 1:40 Media Watch (PG) 2:30 The Royal Variety Performance 2020 (PG) 4:00 Back In Time For Dinner 5:00 Back Roads 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Question Everything (PG) 9:00 Australian Epic (PG) 9:35 Planet America 10:05 QI (M)

12:00 Movie: “Last Vermont Christmas” (AKA ‘The Last Christmas Home’) (PG) (’18) Stars: Erin Cahill 2:00 Border Security International (PG) 2:30 Surf Patrol 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Melbourne Stars v Perth *Live* 11:00 Amazing Race (PG)

5:00 American 3:30 Harry’s Practice Restoration (PG) 5:30 4:00 The Zoo 4:30 American Pickers (PG) Better Homes And 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Gardens 5:30 I Escaped To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt Highway Patrol (PG) 8:30 The Force - Behind The Line (PG) 7:30 Heartbeat (PG)

6:00 Food Safari 6:30 5:30 Kiya And The 6:00 ABC Evening 6:00 Hardball 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 7:00 Kimoja Heroes 6:10 PJ News 7:00 ABC Operation Ouch! 6:45 The Cook Up With Masks 6:30 Ben And National News 7:30 Merlin (PG) 7:35 Space Nova 8:00 Total DramaRama 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Star Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Stein’s 8:30 Australian Story 9:00 ABC Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Seafood Lovers’ Guide 8:00 8:20 Teenage Mutant Ninja Luca’s Key Ingredient Turtles 8:45 So Awkward Files Nightly News 9:30 The Pacific 7:30 Spicks And Specks

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Vera (M v) 2:30 Question Everything 3:00 Gardening Australia 4:00 Back In Time For Dinner (PG) 5:00 Back Roads 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 6:00 The Drum 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 (PG) 8:00 Project Wild (PG) 8:30 Grand Designs (PG) 9:20 Lucy Worsley - Agatha Christie Mystery Queen (PG) 4:00 The Zoo 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 I Escaped To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father Brown (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 12:00 Beach Cops (PG) 12:30 Cricket: Pre Game 1:20 Cricket: Australia v Pakistan: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: Australia v Pakistan: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 9:00 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin 9:30 Movie: “Men In Black” (PG) (’97) Stars: Tommy Lee Jones 11:30 Movie: “Men In Black” (PG)

5:00 American Pickers (PG) 6:00 Cricket: Tea Break 6:20 Cricket: Australia v Pakistan: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* 7:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Family Guy (PG)

4:30 Yard Crashers 1:00 Seinfeld (PG) 3:00 5:00 Flip Or Flop 6:00 The King Of Queens House Hunters (PG) 4:00 Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Escape To (PG) 6:30 Neighbours (PG) The Farm With Kate Humble 7:00 Friends (PG)

5:30 Saved & Remade 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I 5:20 Shortland Street 6:30 Antiques Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 (PG) 5:50 The Curse Roadshow 7:30 New Everybody Loves Of Oak Island (PG) Tricks (M v) 8:40 Movie: “The Raymond (PG) 7:00 Young 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV Spy Who Loved Me” (M v) (’77) News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) (PG) 8:30 Love Island Australia Stars: Roger Moore

12:00 Movie: “Love, Bubbles & Crystal Cove” (PG) (’21) Stars: Stephanie Bennett 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Taronga - Who’s Who In The Zoo (PG) 8:30 Clarkson’s Farm 9:40 Police Rescue Australia (PG)

6:40 Brazil Untamed 4:00 TBA 4:30 TBA (PG) 7:30 Burn Gently 5:00 Bondi Vet (PG) 8:30 Sam Cooke 6:30 First Dates Australia (PG) 7:40 First Dates Legend (PG) 9:50 Milpirri Winds Of Change (PG) 10:55 UK (PG) 8:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (M l) Utopia Generations (PG)

2:10 Elizabeth (PG) 3:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8:35 Call Me Kate (PG) 10:15 SBS World News Late

12:00 10 News First 1:00 Dr Phil (M) 2:00 TBA 3:10 Entertainment Tonight (PG) 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 The Bachelors Australia (PG) 9:00 The Hunt For The Family Court Killer (M v) 10:00 My Life Is Murder (M v) 12:00 The Project (PG)

12:30 Star Trek: Voyager (PG) 1:30 MacGyver (M) 2:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG)

2:05 Elizabeth (PG) 3:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Gods Of Tennis (M l) 8:30 Costco At Christmas 9:25 Fargo (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 s)

4:30 Yard Crashers 5:00 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 6:00 House Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Good Bones

5:30 Saved & Remade 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I 5:50 The Curse Of Oak 6:30 Antiques Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 Island: Silver Lining Roadshow 7:30 As Everybody Loves (PG) 6:40 Jeopardy! Time Goes By (PG) 8:40 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Raymond (PG) 7:00 Young Movie: “Moonraker” (PG) (’79) Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Seinfeld Out Of 10 Cats Does (PG) 8:30 Love Island Australia Stars: Roger Moore Countdown (M l,s)

12:00 Movie: “A Christmas To Savour” (AKA ‘Serving Up The Holidays’) (PG) (’21) Stars: Zach Roerig 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Great Getaways (PG) 8:30 RPA (M) 9:30 Children’s Hospital (PG)

12:00 10 News First 1:00 Dr Phil (M) 2:00 TBA 3:30 Farm To Fork 4:00 Neighbours (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News First 6:30 The Project (PG) 7:30 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 9:30 The Hunt For The Family Court Killer (M v) 10:30 Blue Bloods (M) 11:30 The Project (PG)

12:30 Star Trek: 6:40 Brazil Untamed 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) Voyager (PG) 1:30 7:30 Going Places With 6:30 10 Years Younger MacGyver (M) 2:30 Ernie Dingo (PG) 8:30 In 10 Days (PG) 7:30 Jake And The Fatman (PG) Not Even (M) 9:00 Movie: First Dates UK (PG) 8:30 3:30 Diagnosis Murder (PG) Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares “Jimi: All Is By My Side” (M) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Bull (PG) (’13) Stars: Imogen Potts USA (M l)

2:00 Into The Storm (PG) 2:55 Mastermind Australia (PG) 3:25 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 3:55 Great Continental Railway Journeys (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Secret World Of Snacks (PG) 8:30 Niagara Falls 9:30 The Doll Factory (M)

4:30 Yard Crashers 3:00 The King Of 5:00 Home Again With Queens (PG) 4:00 The Fords 6:00 House Becker (PG) 5:00 Frasier (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) Hunters International 7:00 House Hunters USA 7:30 6:30 Neighbours (PG) 7:00 House Hunters Renovation Friends (PG)

5:30 Saved & Remade 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 I 5:20 Shortland Street 6:30 Lidia’s Kitchen 5:30 Kiya And The 6:00 ABC Evening 6:00 Hardball 6:30 6:30 Antiques Dream Of Jeannie 6:00 (PG) 5:50 The Curse 7:00 The Cook Up With Kimoja Heroes 6:10 PJ News 7:00 ABC Operation Ouch! 6:45 Roadshow 7:30 Everybody Loves Of Oak Island (PG) Adam Liaw 7:30 Rick Masks 6:30 Ben And National News 7:30 Merlin (PG) 7:35 Space Keeping Up Appearances (PG) Raymond (PG) 7:00 Young 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV Nova 8:00 Total DramaRama 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight Holly’s Little Kingdom 7:05 Star Stein’s Seafood Lovers’ Guide 8:30 Australian Story 9:00 ABC Wars: Young Jedi Adventures 8:00 Paula McIntyre’s Hamely News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Sheldon (PG) 7:30 Survivor 45 8:40 Movie: “For Your Eyes 8:20 Teenage Mutant Ninja Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) (PG) 9:00 Love Island Australia Only” (M v) (’81) Kitchen 7:30 Spicks And Specks Turtles 8:45 So Awkward Files Nightly News Programming information correct at time of going to press, changes are at the network’s discretion Prepared by National Typesetting Services

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

RATE REPRIEVE WIN FOR MORTGAGE HOLDERS AHEAD OF CHRISTMAS | SEE PAGE 48

In the MIRROR

SEE PAGE 60

Your HOROSCOPES SEE PAGE 63

Crosswords & PUZZLES

SEE PAGES 66-68

Selling, buying or renting?

9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR 9625 3777 | 34 ROOTY HILL RD N, ROOTY HILL

PETER DIAMANTIDIS Director | Selling Principal

WW51371

Contact our award-winning team today!

FEATURE STORY Western Property

RATES ON HOLD IN MAJOR PRE-CHRISTMAS RELIEF T

he Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has delivered an early Christmas present to mortgage holders by leaving the cash rate on hold at 4.35 per cent. It’s also a win for retailers who feared another interest rate rise would cripple pre-Christmas and Boxing Day sales. Australian Retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra said December’s rate decision will give the industry “cautious optimism” heading into the final few trading

weeks before Christmas and the highly important Boxing Day and post-Christmas period. “We’re pleased to see the RBA provide some much-needed reprieve for consumers and businesses during the busiest trading season of the year,” Zahra said. “At a time of immense financial pressure and hardship for most, avoiding another cash rate increase will have a positive impact on spending and retail preparations. “Avoiding a bitter rate increase

blow before Christmas will certainly come as a relief to Australian homeowners, consumers, businesses, and the retail industry. “Most discretionary retailers make up to two thirds of their profits at this time of year, and a second consecutive increase would have had a further negative impact on the rest of the year for retailers who are already battling a spending slowdown.” Compare the Market’s Economic Director, David Koch,

said the decision was a welcome relief for borrowers who had already seen repayments climb thousands of dollars since May 2022. “The average borrower with a loan of just under $600,000 is now paying about $1,549 more every month,” Koch said. “That could be round trip flights to Asia, paying off a new phone, or nearly two months’ worth of groceries. “Homeowners are under more than enough pressure right now, so I think the RBA has made the right decision to hold the cash rate.” Australians with a $750,000 mortgage on a variable rate could already be paying $1,940 more each month than they were at the start of May 2022.

“THE BOARD REMAINS RESOLUTE IN ITS DETERMINATION TO RETURN INFLATION TO TARGET”

RBA Governor Michele Bullock said “significant uncertainties” around Australia’s economic outlook remained. “Whether further tightening of monetary policy is required to ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe will depend upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks,” she said. “The Board will continue to pay close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in domestic demand, 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.”

Selling, buying or renting?

9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR 9625 3777 | 34 ROOTY HILL RD N, ROOTY HILL

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

PETER DIAMANTIDIS Director | Selling Principal

WW52786

Contact our award-winning team today!

WW52786

27 COOEE AVENUE, GLENMORE PARK

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

A DREAM COME TRUE! What is so great about this property? Spacious and open plan living on a generous 608sqm parcel in the highly sought after area of Mulgoa Rise. With the brand new Glenmore Park Village on the rise with luxury convenience, as well as an abundance of nearby parks and walking trails, this property

is a great opportunity to live in a slice of heaven.

having ample space for generous living and entertainment.

Who does this property suit? Perfect for everyone looking for modern and spacious living – suitable for downsizers looking to go from a double storey to a single storey home, or upsizers looking to grow their families whilst still

Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Glenmore Park is a wonderful and homey suburb with a emphasis on community and family living. The suburb is characterised by

its family-friendly atmosphere and amenities. It boasts several parks, recreational areas, and schools, making it an attractive residential area for families. The suburb has witnessed significant growth and development in recent years, with ongoing infrastructure improvements and community facilities.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

OPEN FOR INSPECTION Contact agent CONTACT Ray White Diamantidis Group Joshua Cassells • 0410 504 918 joshua.cassells@raywhite.com

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains OPEN HOME

10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood

Beautiful, Stylish & Modern

$659,990

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

INSPECT Sat 9 December 11:30am – 12.00pm ADDRESS 10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

OPEN HOME

LI NEW ST IN G

41 Cooper Street, Penrith

Expect To Be Impressed! • Beautiful double-storey 3 bedroom home • Amazing modern living design with high ceilings • Stunning modern kitchen with S/S appliances

• 3 double-sized bedrooms with B/I robes • Ducted A/C throughout • Established lawn & gardens set on fullyfenced allotment

$859,990 INSPECT Sat 9 December 12:15pm – 12.45pm ADDRESS 41 Cooper Street, Penrith CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith 50

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains OPEN HOME

69 Second Avenue, Kingswood

Dual Income – House & Granny Flat • Dual income investment opportunity • Spacious 3 bedroom house • Updated kitchen & bathroom • 2 bedroom granny flat

$1,029,000

• Modern & spacious design • Good-size backyard • Directly opposite Western Sydney University

INSPECT Sat 9 December 10:00am – 10.30am ADDRESS 69 Second Avenue, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

OPEN HOME

16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood

Definitely Worth Your Time! • Beautiful 2-storey, 3-bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • Huge modern kitchen with S/S appliances

• 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite to main • Private U/C timber deck entertaining area • Secured gated complex with street frontage

2.5

$669,990 INSPECT Sat 9 December 10:45am – 11:15am ADDRESS 16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

APARTME

N T

L NA

ACT NOW! N

SELLI

ORAN PARK

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

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

•

Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

•

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

Interior

111sqm

Exterior

33sqm

Total

144sqm

Price

$829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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

Apartment G.03

Penrith Finalist

SYDNEY METRO, NSW $220K LESS THAN ASKING $1.8M ASKING PRICE $1.58 PURCHASE PRICE

$1.72M CURRENT VALUATION | MADE $140K IN 6 MONTHS STATS Comparables- $1.7M | Lot size- 700 sqm | Walk to train stations & local school

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Property Buying Expert, assisting you to purchase a Fair property at a Fair price We are an experienced Buyer’s Agency helping people who are: -Looking to invest in a property Australia wide -Looking to purchase your family home in Sydney We will work with the Buyer to provide a best deal, by securing them a property on or off market! Nish Reddy

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WW51525

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95B Station Street, Penrith | 0422 99 1234 | getfairproperty.com.au Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

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

31 & 31A Deborah Cres, Cambridge Park 3+2

1+1

32A Braddon St & 32B Braddon St, Oxley Park 4

JUST LISTED

AUCTION

IDEAL FOR GROWING FAMILY OR ASTUTE INVESTORS

In an ideal lifestyle location, the property is close to Kingswood train station, childcare centres, bus stop, schools, shops, parks, Nepean Hospital and Penrith CBD. MAIN HOUSE: • 3 good-sized BRs • Contemporary kitchen with ample storage • Separate dining • Spacious bathroom with laundry • Cypress pine floorboards • High ceilings • Huge backyard • Double carport • Currently rented APPROVED GRANNY FLAT • 2 generous-sized BRs, both fitted with BIs • Modern kitchen • Combined bathroom & laundry • Currently rented

Auction Guide: $900,000 Ducted aircon BRAND NEW – not lived in

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

28 Orth Street, Kingswood

Open Home: Sat 9.00am - 9.45am Auction: 9.45am and 10.00am

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

26 Gadara Drive, South Penrith

Teenage

3+ Retreat

1.5

JUST LISTED

2+ HOT PROPERTY

It’s your call . . . develop, rent or land bank, whatever you want to do. Situated in the heart of Kingswood, just a walk away to the hospital, station, shops, childcare services, cafes etc. With the upcoming Western Sydney Airport & Nepean Hospital’s expansion you don’t want to miss this one. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity whether you want it rented, to develop or hold for future growth. * INFORMATION ABOUT THE ZONING: Land Zoning MU1 - Mixed Use: (pub. 24-22023) Height Of Building: 18m Floor Space Ratio: 3.5:1 Minimum.

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

ZONED MIXED USED IN THE HEART OF KINGSWOOD

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

Sale: $950,000 Inspection: Saturday, 10-10:30am

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

SOLD Very Happy Sellers

SOLD Happy Seller

Gizzelle, Amazing Agent that will work Above & Beyond

The Best!!

beyond to ensure all her client requirements are met. She was superb in preparing & coordinating the house presentation. The property was sold at first open home with a great & favourable price that exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Gizzelle to anyone looking forward to sell or buy a property, hassle free and under exceptional satisfactory conditions. ” ABUBAKAR, 19/32 O’BRIEN ST, MT DRUITT TOWNHOUSE: SOLD FOR $715,000 – Verified by RateMyAgent

Litsa helped us through the selling process from start to finish. She is diligent, cares about the outcome and goes above and beyond to get the best results. To show you how hard she works, she donned the gloves and helped us clean the internal and external of the house. Tell me who does that? She was a professional from start to finish and kept us informed all the way. In the end even in a downturn of the market we exceeded our expectations in terms of sales price. Thank you so much Litsa!!

“ Gizzelle is a Super hardworking agent who works over and

– Verified by RateMyAgent

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

409/71 Grima Street, Schofields

Thinking of Selling or Investing? Please give me a call or SMS Litsa on 0466 969 164

Marsden Park Townhouse Brand New

JUST LISTED

Cambridge Park

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

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

COMING SOON

NDIS

3+ 100A

This well-maintained home is ideally suited for family living or investment purposes. Positioned in a soughtafter pocket of Cambridge Park with 809sqm block offering 3 generous-sized BRs, freshly painted interiors, natural light-filled living room & massive backyard. In an ideal lifestyle location, the property is just a stone’s throw away from the bus stop, walking distance to Kingswood station, schools, shops, parks & close to Nepean Hospital and only a short drive to Penrith & St Marys CBD.

IDEAL FIRST HOME OR INVESTMENT PROPERTY

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

• Living area: 144m2 • Street frontage • First Home Buyer Budget

• 2 generous-sized BRs, both fitted with BIRs & access to the balcony, main with NEARLY NEW, JUST MOVE IN e/s • Natural light-filled living room with access to balcony • Well-appointed kitchen Inspection: Call Agent feat. quality European s/s appliances, 40mm stone benchtops, breakfast bar & high-grade cabinetry • Modern bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiles & premium GIZZELLE POWELL designer fixtures • Huge balcony • Specifically designed with privacy & space in M: 0428 934 618 mind • Ducted r/c a/c • Durable & waterproof hybrid flooring • Video intercom • Secure parking & storage area • Landscaped gardens, pathways & play areas E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Put Our Winning Team to Work

Gizzelle Powell

0428 934 618

Litsa Meleti

0466 969 164 0

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

JUST LISTED $220,000 gross rent per annum Potential Gross Rental Yield 25%

Peter Parker

0408 432 998

Uzrah Bi 0435 205 061

Sale: Just Listed

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

Teeannah Camilleri 0424 823 911

Victor Borg

0439 755 081 1

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

BROKING BREAKDOWN The Experts

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE YEAR AHEAD? F

MARK STEVENSON Bell Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

or no particular reason, I feel pretty positive about the year ahead as I consider my predictions for 2024. Don’t expect me to produce predictions like the blind Bulgarian soothsayer Baba Vanga, who although she died 26 years ago aged 84, is claimed to have foreseen the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the Russia-Ukraine war. Known as the Nostradamus of the Balkans, Vanga has reportedly predicted Russian President Vladimir Putin will be assassinated in 2024. I won’t be going in that direction with my predictions, but I am prepared to declare that I think official interest rates will start to go down next year. The latest inflation figures for October were well below expectations, falling to 4.9 per cent. 10 months ago, inflation was at 8.2 per cent, so if this trend continues the Reserve Bank of Australia can

put the brakes on more interest rate rises. We won’t have any interest rate decisions from the RBA now until February, so hopefully there will be better domestic and international economic news over the summer. One positive prediction from

Baba Vanga for 2024 was that there will be new treatments for incurable diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. I also have a positive prediction for next year in that I believe the Penrith Panthers can claim a fourth consecutive NRL premiership.

I have backed the Panthers for the past few years, and I see the bookmakers have them as $3.75 title favourites. The Broncos are second on the betting line at $4.50, but you wonder how they will overcome the anguish of throwing away that commanding lead in this year’s Grand Final. Odds blow out to $9.50 for the next team on the list, South Sydney. While there remains uncertainty about the future of five-eighth Jarome Luai, and centre Stephen Crichton is Bulldogs-bound, the Panthers look pretty settled. Any team with Nathan Cleary at the helm is always going to be hard to overcome. No club has won four premierships in succession since the glory days of St George when they won 11 in row from 1956-66. I think the Panthers can!

VIEW MARK’S COLUMNS ONLINE AT WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU/AUTHOR/MARKSTEVENSON/

NEW YEAR’S EVE SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER 2023 | 6.30PM-10PM

quee r a M e h t r e und

The Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains is hosting the ultimate family-friendly New Year’s Eve bash amidst the mountains!

SCAN QR TO BO

FOOD STALLS | KIDS ACTIVITIES | LIVE MUSIC FIREWORKS ON THE BIG SCREEN Enjoy a range of international food stalls and delights, live music, entertainment, a magician, face painting, kids play zone and more! A night of fun for all ages.

Don’t miss out on an unforgettable celebration!

1 Sublime Point Road, Leura, NSW, 2780, Australia | Tel: +61 2 4785 0000 | Email: reservations@fairmontresort.com.au | www.fairmontresort.com.au

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

SCAN QR CODE TO BOOK

52294

ADULT $85pp | KIDS 12-17yrs $59pp | CHILDREN 5-11yrs $45pp LITTLE ONES 0-4yrs Free

TALKING TECH The Experts

BARD’S READY TO HELP YOU WITH ANYTHING W

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

hile ChatGPT is a well-known large language model (LLM) Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool due to its earlier release, Google has also introduced a powerful LLM called Bard. Bard, which reached stable release on November 16, 2023, and is available worldwide, is freely accessible. Google Bard, released in 2023, is a large language model trained on a massive dataset of text and code. It is powered by PaLM 2, a neural network architecture that enables Bard to process and generate language with remarkable fluency and accuracy. Bard’s capabilities extend beyond mere text generation; it can also access and process information from the real world through Google Search, providing users

with up-to-date and relevant responses. This seamless integration with Google Search sets Bard apart from its competitors. One of the key differences which I like is Bard generates multiple responses to each query. Usually this is three different responses which you can read, each generated with a distinct emphasis, structure, and layout. This flexibility

empowers users to select the response that best suits their specific needs and preferences. This is a significant advantage over its competitors, which typically provide a single response per query. Bard also excels at summarising lengthy texts, providing concise and informative overviews of complex documents. This capability proves invaluable for users seeking to quickly

grasp the essence of lengthy reports, articles, or other written materials. Another notable feature is Bard’s voice command recognition, allowing users to speak instructions and receive generated responses. Bard incorporates tables and images into its answers, making them more informative and engaging. Tables can be exported to Google Sheets (and subsequently imported into Excel). Additionally, Bard can convert responses to email format and import them into Gmail with a simple click. Bard’s location-specific content provision is another powerful feature and additional Google maps integration is coming soon, it will only become more relevant. However, what truly sets Bard apart is its ability

to generate responses quickly and display them all at once, eliminating the line-by-line generation seen in competing LLMs. Another key difference is that ChatGPT has a stronger integration with Microsoft services, whilst Bard has stronger integration with Google services. Bard can also read out the response to you. Interestingly, the voice used had an Australian accent. Bard’s versatility makes it a valuable tool for various purposes. Its ability to compose a five-verse poem about my Blue Merle Border Collie puppy demonstrates its creative potential. The resulting poem was exceptionally good. I encourage you to explore Bard’s capabilities and push its boundaries by asking it to perform unusual tasks.

HEALTH

n a generation where technology is the reason we are sitting more than standing, these same tech companies are selling tools to encourage us to move more. A great marketing team is behind the latest craze in fitness watches and activity trackers with sales increasing 110 per cent over the last 12 months. It’s great to see a nation which is struggling to control a chronic disease epidemic become concerned about the amount of movement we are doing. But is 10,000 steps the answer to increasing our fitness and improving our health? The most important thing to understand with exercise is one size does not fit all and each individual is capable of and requires a different amount of exercise. In Australia seven million people or one in three are currently diagnosed with at least one chronic health condition. These seven million people all require different levels and intensities of exercise.

The number “10,000” steps has no real scientific background, and yes it is a great target to start with, but based on your health you need to set realistic goals. If you have no chronic health conditions and want to lose an amount of weight, you may need more than 10,000 steps to achieve your goal. However, if you have chronic arthritis and cannot walk 10,000 steps you may need other exercises such as swimming. Seeking help from an

It's better with a broker.

GEORGIA SMITH One Point Health 4732 5188

Accredited Exercise Physiologist to create a specific exercise regime to suit your lifestyle as well as factor in any chronic health conditions or injuries is important in gaining control of your health. Exercise Physiologist’s are trained in exercise for general populations as well as covering all chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and post injury rehabilitation. Let’s get one thing straight, moving more absolutely has a great impact on our health. Wearable fitness trackers are a great tool in assessing our movement and I encourage everyone to get on board. However, be sure to seek advice on how much movement is right for you.

Book a free appointment today 1300 112 355

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IS 10,000 STEPS REALLY THE AIM?

The Experts

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce The year that was in beauty: The products I’ve loved most this year

023 has been a huge year in beauty. From viral skincare to hair styling tools, here’s my recap of the best of the best of this year’s trending products. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm The Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balms have been all the rage this year. The product, which retails for $38, is described as a conditioning cream-oil lip mask which can be used during the day, or overnight as a mask. Though I don’t know about using this product whilst sleeping, I love it as my daily lip product, providing just the right amount of colour, whilst also being soot h i ng a n d definitely hydrating.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush Blush as a whole has been making a comeback in 2023, and with that, Rare Beauty liquid blushes have been in the spotlight. These blushes are no doubt some of the best on the market right now, offering buildable coverage, and a light, easily to blend formula. My two favourite shades are ‘Bliss’ for a more natural look, or ‘Joy’ for an extra pop of colour. Just beware of the pigment – a tiny dot will go a very long way! Fenty Skin Blemish Defeat’r Gone are the days of pimple patches – in 2023, Fenty Skin’s Blemish Defeat’r well and truly took over. The product, with a hashtag that’s garnered over 12 million views on TikTok, is an undetectable blemish shield

containing Salicylic Acid and Willow Bark, Chilean Mint, Rhubarb, Licorice and Ginger Extracts to clear skin, and can even be worn under makeup. Whilst I wouldn’t wear it for a long day under makeup, as the edges can begin to peel, I do think this product is a more seamless alternative to pimple patches, which also does a great job at clearing acne. For the best results, ensure the product has dried down completely before applying anything else on top. Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream Whilst not a trend exclusive 2023 trend, the internet has been loving Sol de Janeiro’s

Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, and I can definitely see why. The cream is described as being a rich yet fast absorbing body cream, scented with the brand’s iconic Cheirosa ‘62 Fragrance, packed with notes of pistachio, salted caramel and vanilla. Whilst it’s definitely not a bad body cream, I think you can get the same or better quality for a cheaper price. If it’s the scent you’re after, I’d really recommend purchasing one of their perfume mists instead – my favourite is Cheirosa ‘71! Nudestix Nudies Matte All Over Face Bronze Colour The Nudestix Nudies Matte Cream Bronzer has truly had its moment this year. As the proud owner of the shade ‘Bondi Bae’ for the past few years now, I can’t recommend this product

more – it provides just the right amount of pigment, and blends seamlessly using the attached brush or your own, meaning no patchiness or removing product underneath. Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set Ever since the pandemic, the natural or heatless hair movement has been in full swing. Tools like the Shark FlexStyle and Dyson Airwrap have completely taken over the hot tool space, and many are even opting to go without completely, using products such as the Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set. Though I’m still trying to master this one myself, as my naturally curly hair doesn’t generally lend itself to heatless styling in this way, I’d highly recommend giving this one a try if you can.

SWIM SAFETY

ACTIVE FUN IN THE HOLIDAYS

L Follow us on n socials for updatess

LEARN TO FOR ALL AGES

Give the gift of swimming lessons Christmas Gift Vouchers now available!

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

ooking for a way to keep children active, entertained and safer this school holidays? Having worked with children in the local area for over 30 years, we are often asked if we provide whole day programs in school holiday periods? To fulfil this request we combined a range of activities into a two day camp experience showcasing water sports, aquatic education, lifeguarding skills, CPR knowledge, creative expression, fun, games and fitness! One of my favourite quotes is from world renowned child play researcher, O’Fred Donaldson PHD, who said “Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn”. The importance of playing to learn can’t be underestimated, and the new friendships made at camp are incredibly valuable, with some children returning every school holidays. Our Paddles Super Swim Camp is a two day program, and you can use your Crea-

tive Kids Voucher towards the cost. Activities are both land and water based and will include CPR and water safety demonstrations and practise, stories and animations, water basketball, songs, games, swimming races, team building, aqua drumming and a pool party with our inflatable slide! The beach, the ocean, backyard pools and swimming are culturally entrenched in our Australian lifestyle, so safety messages and themes run throughout all activities for the duration of the camp to ensure the children take home vital aquatic safety education – all delivered in a fun and engaging way. Our focus is on facilitating a safe, familiar and supportive environment for children to experience a range of creative endeavours, gain confidence, experience teamwork, make new friends and encourage a generation of children to learn something new. The emphasis is on effort, and every child’s unique

The Experts

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

strengths are encouraged within each activity. Our Paddles Super Swim Camp is open to Kindy – Year 6 aged children, and all children must be able to swim without floatation devices. Lifeguards are present for all water based activities, and the weather is not an issue as our large training room is air conditioned and our pools are heated. The camp runs on Wednesdays and Thursdays in January at Nepean Aquatic Centre from 8.45am – 3pm both days. If this sounds like something your children might enjoy, check the website for dates, or contact us to make a booking – but be quick, camps sell out quickly.

PET HEALTH The Experts

TACKLING OBESITY IN OUR FURRY FRIENDS O

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

besity is the most common nutritional disorder seen in our dogs and cats. cats and dogs. Recent figures show that up 41 per cent of dogs and 32 per cent of cats are considered to be obese. Even more alarming is that, on average, an overweight pet will live two to five years less than a pet with an ideal weight. Causes: As with people, obesity is caused by overeating. Most obesity is simply caused when a pet eats more calories than they need. The excess calories are then stored as body fat. While we have limited control over a few contributing factors including the breed of the pet, sex, hereditable traits, and age, we can control our pets over-eating and exercise. A pet will become obese due to:

• Excessive calorie intake (over-eating) • Inappropriate use of human snacks and treats – did you know that one small plain biscuit given to a dog is equivalent to one hamburger consumed by a human. Do we ever just eat one? • Lack of exercise • Medications that stimulate appetite (cortisone)

• Decreased energy requirements – Desexed pets are linked more frequently to obesity. By removing organs that produce hormones your pet’s metabolism may be slowed. Adjusting your desexed pet’s diet and exercise regime will keep your pet trim and healthy. Health problems will begin to appear when

body fat exceeds 15 per cent above ideal body weight. This may include: • Diabetes Mellitus • C a r d i o v a s c u l a r disease (heart disease) • Joint problems and musculoskeletal pain (arthritis) • Increased surgical and anaesthetic complications • Neurological disorders • Respiratory problems • Cancer and tumours

• Skin problems • Decreased quality of life Healthy snacks: If you are trying to assist your pet in losing weight, the first place to look is at their diet, including snacks. Remember that one sausage that you gave to your pet last night? It is equivalent to you eating six donuts! Instead, why not try giving your pet: • Carrots – these contain Beta-carotene and aid in weight loss in dogs • Cucumbers • Apple • Ice cubes (on a hot day) If you have difficulty feeling your pet’s ribs, there’s little or no ‘waist’ and your pet waddles when it walks, your pet may have a weighty problem. Call the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

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

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

Watch how PFA helped Boss!! Scan Below

PET OF THE WEEK Relax & Unwind

my name: Argo my proud owner: Brad Wright i live in: Castlereagh a bit about me: You may recognise seven-year-old Argo as a volunteer with Nepean Therapy Dogs, bringing comfort and joy to many people in nursing homes, hospitals, and universities. When not working, she is a much loved family pet, who has the ability to detect when humans need a little more Labrador love than others. Email Cassidy.Pearce@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend. WW43972

WW48139

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Are you feeling confused Aquarius? Have you been questioning your goals in life? Or does it seem as if you’ve got the worries of the world on your shoulders? Take a step back and view things from a wider perspective. Doing good deeds will leave you with a warm inner glow. So think up some dynamic ways you can help those who are less fortunate. As Yoko Ono (a fellow Aquarian) observes, “Helping yourself is connected with helping others.”

This week – with a New Moon and Mercury turning retrograde – it’s time to do anything with an ‘re’ in front of it. Revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover, reconnect. Especially in areas involving career, colleagues, peer group, hopes, goals and dreams. But take extra care on the weekend when the Sun is at odds with your patron planet Neptune. A personal project could become very confusing, or a professional opportunity may be too good to be true.

Mighty Mars (your power planet) and the fiery New Moon encourage you to focus on your hopes and dreams for the future. The more ambitious your aspirations, the better! You’ll also shun superficial encounters with others, preferring deep and meaningful conversations with family and friends. But remember that Mercury is in retrograde mode from Wednesday until January 2. So smart Rams will try extra hard to be prudent, patient and persistent.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Your ruler Venus is visiting your relationship zone (until December 29) which favours romance, friendships, joint ventures and socialising with work colleagues. Then Mercury starts reversing through your travel and adventure zone (from Wednesday) so any weekend trips or longer holidays (interstate or overseas) should be planned extra carefully and then re-checked extra thoroughly. On the weekend, friends and finances could be a confusing mix.

Tuesday night’s New Moon heralds the rebirth of an important relationship of the romantic, platonic or business variety. But remember Mercury (your ruler) turns retrograde on Wednesday so financial partnerships, tax matters and deep, dark secrets must be handled with extra tact and care. Double-check everything twice! On the weekend, someone tells you something in the strictest of confidence, but are they telling the truth – and can they be trusted?

It’s a wonderful week to start a new diet or rejig your fitness routine, as proactive Mars and the New Moon activate your health and wellbeing zone. Then Mercury starts reversing through your relationship zone on Wednesday, so do your best to surround yourself with interesting, non-flappable people. As birthday great Jane Austen wrote, “My idea of good company is the company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.”

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Tuesday’s night’s New Moon is all about children, friends and creativity. On Wednesday, Mercury starts reversing through your wellbeing zone. So it’s a suitable week to revise your daily diet and fitness routine, as you choose healthier food options and a form of exercise that you enjoy. On the weekend the Sun (your power planet) squares Neptune, so be on alert for confusing information, fake news, and dodgy deals (especially involving friends and finances).

The New Moon (on Tuesday night) sets the stage for a fresh start involving your home, a family member or a domestic project. But do you have unrealistic expectations about a close relationship? This week Mercury (your patron planet) starts reversing through your romance/ friendship zone, and the Sun squares Neptune in your partnership zone. So it’s time for a major reality check as you reassess memories from the past, and recalibrate your present attitude.

The week starts well with a positive connection between Mercury and your power planet Venus. So Monday and Tuesday are fabulous days to communicate, circulate, socialise and fraternise. But – from Wednesday onwards – tread carefully with a fragile family member, as Mercury starts reversing through your domestic zone. If a recalcitrant relative sends negative vibes your way, then take the advice of birthday great Taylor Swift and “shake it off!”

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Expect some hiccups as Mercury starts reversing through your communication, education and travel zone on Wednesday. If you slow down, think before you speak and double-check your itinerary and appointments, then you’ll manage fine. Plus – with Venus vamping through your sign (until December 29) – it’s time to celebrate being a strong, sexy, sassy Scorpio! In the words of Taylor Swift (who turns 34 on Wednesday), “Just be yourself, there is no one better.”

This week you’re ready to sparkle and shine, flirt and have fun, as amorous Mars and the fiery New Moon light up your sign! It’s time to shake off the shackles of other people’s expectations and instead, be the authentically real you. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Taylor Swift, “Be yourself, chase your dreams, and just never say never.” But Mercury starts reversing through your money zone so try to reign in your shopaholic tendencies.

On Wednesday, Mercury starts reversing through your sign. Mercury is the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the internet. So – when it’s retrograde – it’s not a good time to do the following things: sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on a business trip or embark on a holiday.

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION The Capitol Hotel Sydney

WORDS

Troy Dodds

IMAGES Supplied

MORE INFO

(02) 9069 5540

REFRESHED CAPITOL IS A F

rom the moment you enter Sydney’s new Capitol Hotel, one thing stands out: the finer details. It starts from the very moment you enter the Capitol’s subtle yet elegant doors located next to its namesake, the Capitol Theatre. With its reception located upstairs, a staff member cheerfully guides you to the lifts – an experience that could have felt cold if wasn’t for the smiling greeting. Talking of smiling greetings, if you’re lucky enough, you may be checked in by Front Office Manager Shaishav, whose knowledge of the surrounding area is strong – so make sure you ask for a couple of recommendations. Check-in can also be done electronically via easy-to-use screens in the foyer – allowing an added touch of ease and convenience, especially around peak check-in times. Before we proceed, a history lesson: The Capitol officially re-opened in October, which means everything here feels new and fresh. There’s 95 completely transformed rooms across 11 accommodation styles, for solo travellers through to rooms catering to up to seven guests. I’m a big fan of any venue that delivers a nod to its past, and The Capitol certainly does that. Its design has been influenced by the hotel building’s unique history – once serving as the Belmore Markets, a circus and a hippodrome. The hotel’s location next to Sydney’s Capitol Theatre also plays a significant role in the design, with carefully curated arched wallpaper and a large curtain feature on the ground floor entrance, drawing on an ambience reminiscent of entering the theatre. A carefully selected colour palette consisting of teal, gold, sage, and red was chosen to evoke moments of theatre, while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. Each floor has been assigned one of the four distinct colours, complemented by matching artwork. Now, moving on to the experience of a weekend at the Capitol. After the ease of check-in, we headed to the room for a little relaxation – and discover a New York-style hotel room; small in nature

the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

but boasting all you’d need for a stay in a city that will have you out of the room more than in it.

“I’M A BIG FAN OF ANY VENUE THAT DELIVERS A NOD TO ITS PAST, AND THE CAPITOL CERTAINLY DOES THAT”

Some of the unique design elements and the aforementioned finer details feature in the rooms themselves – such as the curved mirrors and bespoke furniture. Using a tablet, you can order room service or get yourself acquainted with the hotel’s facilities – a move forward from the traditional

paper compendiums you often find in hotel rooms. Before heading out for the night, we ventured down to the Capitol Kitchen. Rather than deliver a full service restaurant in a location dominated by an array of food and beverage options, the Capitol has opted for a light bites menu – perfect too if you’re headed for a show next door and are time conscious. The lounge menu is available from Midday until 9pm and highlights include the fourcheese arancini, truffle parmesan fries and the Diavolo pizza. Topped off with a delicious margarita, this is the perfect beginning to a night – and I’d highly recommend kicking your evening off here before checking out what’s happening around town. Venturing out, your options are endless – a short stroll down to Darling Square and its ever-growing list of restaurants, a show at the Capitol Theatre or just lapping up the eclectic

TRAVEL

GEM FOR A SYDNEY STAYCATION food markets that are in good supply. We head just up the road to Blancho, an unassuming small bar in Thomas Street with an extensive range of whiskies and Asian inspired cocktails. The desire of this country music-loving writer to check out Jolene’s – at the end other end of the CBD – was easily fulfilled thanks to the Light Rail stop being so close to the hotel, but it’s also a quicker walk than you think, and no matter what your purpose for being in the Sydney CBD, The Capitol is far from being in an inconvenient location.

“THE CAPITOL HOTEL HAS POSITIONED ITSELF AS A HOTEL YOU CAN FALL IN LOVE WITH”

cheese croissant, wrapped in Capitol Hotel branding; again, the finer details. The Capitol Hotel has positioned itself as a hotel you can fall in love with and return time and time again as your base for any Sydney

staycation or event. General Manager Brad Worker and his team, including the designers, have thrown themselves into delivering an above and beyond experience. The Hotel is big enough to deliver on all your

modern expectations of a city-based location, but small enough to make you feel like it’s a cosy getaway a million miles away from the hustle and bustle that’s waiting outside. It’s a true gem.

The next morning, we returned to The Capitol Kitchen for a delightful continental breakfast. Far more than a bowl of corn flakes, however, there’s plenty here to get you started for the day – including a delicious ham and

Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

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Sudoku brought to you by Catholic Cemetries + Crematoria

Previous solution - Easy

PARTY

CLEANING & PACKAGING

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ACROSS DOWN 1. Half-open 1. iPhone programs 15 16 4. Proper 2. Make reparation 8. Doom 3. Crude 11. Forbidden 4. Cross (river) 20 13. Closer to picking-time 5. Pop star, ... Swift (of fruit) 6. Riling 15. Roam stealthily 7. Tennis handle 28 17. Chatter 8. Scarcely any 18. Distend 9. Sports ground 20. Transgress 10. Model, ... Macpherson 21. Singer, Paula ... 12. Culpability 24. Suggest 14. Talk (oneself into) 35 27. Born as 16. Vertical part of stair 28. Unpleasant 19. Temporarily supplies 30. 1000 kilograms 22. Secondary route 31. Pacific or Indian 23. Womb 33. Waiter 25. Paltry 34. Clumsy 26. Changing-room 35. Worry cupboard 36. Eyelid hair PRODUCTS 29. Wow ALL 48 39. Not transparent 32. Snake-like fish AVAILABLE 42. Crossword posers 35. Passion 44.IN-STORE Coagulated milk & ONLINE 37. Firebug’s felony 45. Peanut (sauce) 38. Annoyances 46. Cinderella’s work 40. Groom feathers clothes 41. Slackens ABCOE CENTRE | 69 York Road, South Penrith NSW 2750 48. Writer, Jules ... 42. Playing deck 49. Fluorescent colours 43. Sleigh-riding gift57 58 50. Dedicatory verses giver 52. Repairs 44. Coronet 54. Exclusive English 47. Rocks science school 51. Lampoon 55. Nominates 52. Entangled 67 56. Strappy shoe 53. Specimen 57. Pealed 54. Abdication monarch, 60. Balls King ... VIII 72 62. Burning 58. Fasten (to) 65. Leapt 59. Joyful 67. Aviator 61. Dull 79 69. Artist’s tripod 63. Prise 70. Cellulose fibre 64. Wine judge 72. Drink brand, ... Maria 65. Continuing drama 73. Sells to public 66. Objectionable 75. Splits apart 68. Non-clergy 86 77. Driver’s compartment 71. Eightsome 79. Banish 72. Rip 81. Chinese exercises, ... 74. Food chi (1’2) 76. Latest reports 82. Championship (fight) 78. Flex 84. Aquatic birds 80. Musical, ... Misérables 85. Cowboy actor, John 83. ... & outs ... 86. Light beams 87. Rushes headlong 88. Mares & foals farm

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

INTERFAITH REME

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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.

To remember th during 2023 a

INTERFAITH REMEMBRAN

Presided by Bish With live music

After the service, please jo

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

THEME: LIBRARIES ACCESS ACQUISITIONS ARCHITECTURE BODLEIAN CARDS CIRCULATION CLASSIFICATION INDEX INFORMATION INSTITUTION INTERNET LENDING LIBRARIANS MAPS MOBILE PERIODICALS READING ROOM REFERENCE RESOURCES SCHOLARS STACKS TECHNICAL THEOLOGICAL Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about Christmas movies in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. What is the name of the Grinch’s love interest in ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’? 2. How many lights were on the Griswold’s house in ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’? 3. Betty and Judy are sisters in what famous holiday movie? 4. In ‘Jingle All The Way’, what

toy causes all the Christmas chaos? 5. In what Christmas movie does the main character eat cotton balls at the doctor’s office? 6. What city is Kevin’s family travelling to in ‘Home Alone’? 7. In ‘The Santa Clause 2’, what does Scott have to do to keep being Santa?

ANSWERS 1. Martha May 2. 25,000 3. ‘White Christmas’ 4. TurboMan 5. ‘Elf’ 6. Paris 7. Get married

Trivia Quiz

A Reverse Advent Calendar encourages individuals, fami ffamilies fa ami mili lies ies es a and nd nd m off ffood ood o ood oo orr community groups to place one non-perishable item ox iiss fu ox ffull, full ull ll,, it it is is toiletries into a box each day for 20 days. When the b box ty. then donated to those struggling with food insecurity. WW52770

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

Test Your Brain brought to you by Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital orchardhillsvet.com.au | 4736 2027

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOK No. 675

We won the Pet Care category in 2015, 6 and 2019, and we are looking forward to the 2021 awards presentation!

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

Str8ts

e are grateful for the continued support d friendship of our clients and their pets.

Medium

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

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

Hexwords

No. 675

Previous solution - Easy

Camille and all the staff at rchard Hills Veterinary Hospital wish to hank everyone who voted for us in the 021 Penrith City Local Business Awards.

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2 5 9

Name the Movie

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

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4736 2027

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

HINTS

Plus 12½ %

49 Wentworth Rd Orchard Hills

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge

Orchard Hills Veterinery Hospital

Previous solution: FAILURE TO LAUNCH

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

3. Learn how to change a tyre Acquire the simple skill of changing a tyre to save time, money, and stress. Know the location of your jack and socket, and ensure you have a spare usable tyre. Changing a tyre can be done in under 15 minutes, with the right know how. 4. Be prepared for emergencies No one ever thinks they will be in an emergency, if you find yourself in one, and you feel prepared, you will feel in control. Organising a bag with essentials like a first aid kit, phone charger, photocopies of vehicle documents, notebook, pencil, gloves, rags, water, torch, muesli bar, and a blanket, will help. 5. Be aware of fuel consumption By driving in the correct gear, maintaining smooth driving habits, and not having unnecessary stuff in the boot or back seat will all reduce fuel consumption. Driving over 90 km/hr increases consumption, and using air conditioning becomes economical at this speed. 6. Be attentive Women are amazing at picking out the finer details. Once in the driver’s

avigating car care can pose challenges for many women, with technical terms, unreliable mechanics, and an overwhelming amount of information. Here are 10 essential tips for women and their cars: 1. Find a reliable mechanic If you only go down the road for convenience or head straight to the dealership because you simply haven’t tried anywhere else, then it’s time to move on. Seek recommendations from friends and family, check online reviews, and explore the business’ Facebook page and website to assess their suitability. 2. Build a comfortable relationship with your mechanic You may only see them a couple of times a year but, if you aren’t comfortable it may stop you from asking questions which could lead to unnecessary repairs being done. It will also limit your understanding of your car instead of being a learning opportunity. Choose a mechanic who makes you feel comfortable, explains things clearly, and values your understanding.

:: ::

SPORT

Fox set for glory in 2024

Defending Olympic Gold will be the priority as paddling champ ramps up training the gates and work on the feel and the physical element and then getting the tactical training in where you’re doing some head-to-head sparring, you’re doing different scenarios,” she said. “I’m not doing too much of it – I’m doing it two to three times a week, because the injury risk is still really high. I learn a lot in the competition setting... doing video review of this year’s races will be really important.” Fox is carefully managing her training schedule, especially with Kayak Cross now on her mind as well as the C1 and K1. However, the variety in training helps with the workload. “I think burnout is something you need to be mindful of but I’m pretty close with my coach and I think she can see when I start looking tired and drained and burnt out,” she said. “I’m at the point where I know my body and I need to know the warning signs as well when I need to tone it back, have a rest and come back fresher and I think keeping the mind fresh is really important and for me that variety helps with that.”

TROY DODDS

lympic champion Jess Fox is back in training as she prepares to defend her paddling crown at the Paris Games next year. The 29-year-old will be hoping for an early 30th birthday present in Paris, as she aims for back-to-back Gold in the C1. “We’re back into training. It’s pre-season at the moment so it’s always a bit tough at this time of year,” Fox said. She said being able to train at Penrith Whitewater Stadium – the Australian team’s training base – was a huge advantage ahead of a busy 2024 calendar, highlighted by the Olympics. “For us having the opportunity to train on such good quality Whitewater and to be able to change obstacles to mimic the Paris course will be really helpful,” she said. Fox is also training for Kayak Cross, an exciting combination of all of canoeing’s whitewater disciplines that sees four athletes race each other at the same time. It will make its Olympic debut at Paris next year. “I’m still finding the balance with Kayak Cross on training alone to work on the skills and the technique around

Jessica Fox speaking at Penrith Whitewater Stadium. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 8, 2023

2880

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Incredible honour for Fisher-Harris RUGBY LEAGUE: Penrith Panthers prop James Fisher-Harris has been crowned the men’s International Rugby League (IRL) Player of the Year, winning the 2023 IRL Golden Boot award this week. Fisher-Harris is the first prop – and first Panther – to win the prestigious award since its inception in 1984 and will add the IRL Golden Boot to the Pacific Cup medal he received after leading the Kiwis to a record 30-0 defeat of the Kangaroos and his third consecutive NRL premiership ring with the Panthers. The New Zealand captain was presented with the 2023 IRL Golden Boot by 2000 winner and Panthers legend Brad Fittler at an event in Sydney on Wednesday. The IRL Golden Boot is awarded each year to the best player in sanctioned rugby league international matches. Fisher-Harris was chosen by a panel comprising of Golden Cap recipients Adam Blair, James Graham, Darren Lockyer, Adrian Morley and Ruben Wiki, who are among just nine players to have played more than 50 internationals for their country. “I can’t think of a better bloke to take out such a prestigious award. It’s thoroughly deserved,” former Kiwis coach Michael Maguire said. “In our time together, over the years, I have watched you grow from that young player to winning Grand Finals and now leading the Kiwis to an emphatic win against Australia and creating a bit of history. You led right from the front, right from the time you walked into the month of the campaign that we had together. You’re an absolute champion with the way you go about things, and there’s a lot of reasons why you’re such a success in rugby league. What an award to have. You have now created a little piece of history for yourself in the international space, along with such a great win.” FOOTBALL: Down on troops, the Western Sydney Wanderers have shown plenty of heart by coming back from 2-0 down to share the points with Brisbane last Friday night at Suncorp Stadium. Nikola Mileusnic and Jack Hingert scored in quick succession to put the Roar two goals clear after 15 minutes, but Wanderers forward Nicolas Milanovic fired back just 33 seconds into the second half giving the visitors hope. Brisbane had chances to put the result to bed but failed to do so, opening the door for the Wanderers to strike late through a glancing Marcus Antonsson header in the 88th minute. The hosts could have leapt to the top of the A-League table with a three-point display, but instead the Wanderers retained their status as league leaders on the night Shae Cahill, son of legendary Socceroo Tim Cahill, made his A-League debut for Brisbane off the

to complete the match in the allocated time and number of overs. The result was then determined on run rate, which was in the favour of Glenmore Park. In fifth grade, Panthers defeated the Minchinbury Warriors by seven wickets. Panthers’ bowlers put in a tradesmen-like performance to restrict Minchinbury to 9/113. In reply, Panthers lost an early wicket, but two good partnerships saw them finish at 3/119. BASEBALL: Round 9 of the Baseball NSW State League First Grade competition was washed out last week, with Greater Western’s two matches against the Canterbury Vikings cancelled. The Warriors will play Baulkham Hills in Round 10. GRIDIRON: Sad news with Nepean Ducks stalwart Ben Cummins announcing his retirement from the game this week. The 40-year-old high school teacher confirmed the news on Facebook late Monday evening. “After 14 seasons being captain, pre-game talking angry guy, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Linemen of the Year, Duck of the Year, GNSW Volunteer of the Year, six stiches, two metal plates and a bucket load of bruises and cuts, it’s time to hang up the pads,” Cummins said. “I love this game and I’m so thankful for my wife for giving me this opportunity each year being out a full Saturday and barely being able to move on Sundays.”

James Fisher-Harris has been named the Golden Boot recipient for 2023.

bench. The Wanderers will look to continue their unbeaten run when they face Melbourne Victory at CommBank Stadium this Sunday at 5pm. They are expected to be without their captain Marcelo, who was injured in the draw with Brisbane. FOOTBALL: After having last weekend off,

the Wanderers will return to the pitch tonight against the Central Coast Mariners in Round 7 of the A-League Women’s competition. The Wanderers currently sit in third last place, but they did enjoy their first win of the season on November 25 against Western United. Tonight’s match will take place at Wanderers Football Park in Rooty Hill at 7pm. CRICKET: Penrith have crushed Campbelltown Camden in Round 7 of the Belvidere Cup. Playing in a Two-Day match at Howell Oval last weekend, Campbelltown Camden won the toss and elected to bowl. Penrith were dismissed for 283 following a strong batting display. Captain Ryan Gibson led the way with 69 for the Cats. When Campbelltown Camden hit the crease,

they batted well but were ultimately dismissed for 202. Sam Grant was the best with the ball, taking 5/33. Penrith, who currently sit in third spot, will face Gordon at Chatswood Oval this Saturday. CRICKET: Penrith have won back-to-back games, defeating Gordon with one wicket in hand in Round 9 of the Women’s First Grade competition. Playing in a One Day match at Chatswood Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. Gordon were dismissed for just 161. When Penrith hit the crease, they struggled early on but managed to get the job done by the skin of their teeth (9/163). Rebecca Cady top scored with 27. Penrith will aim for three straight victories when they battle Sydney University at 10am on Saturday. CRICKET: Round 8 of the Nepean District Cricket Association (NDCA) competition took place last weekend with Panthers Cricket Club having mixed results. In first grade, Panthers had a controversial loss to Glenmore Park. Panthers did not have the opportunity

Ben Cummins has announced his retirement. GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

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Friday, December 8, 2023 « the western weekender

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SPORT

PAT’S HONOUR P

enrith City Council has officially unveiled the newly named Pat Yates Oval, formerly known as Boronia Cricket Oval, in Boronia Park at North St Marys. Named in honour of 76-year-old Pat Yates, the naming recognises the contribution that Yates has made to the Penrith cricket community. He played an astounding 63 consecutive seasons of cricket up until the 2018/2019 season. During this time, he played for St Nicholas, Emu Plains, Penrith RSL, Panthers and the Colyton St Clair Colts cricket clubs. In addition to his time as a player, Yates has also contributed to the sport of cricket by serving on multiple club committees. He is a Life Member of the Colyton St Clair Cricket Club, a club which he played 500 games with, and is a Life Member of the Nepean District Cricket Association, where he served as President for 23 years. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the recognition was well deserved and

an inspiration for future generations of cricket players. “Pat Yates is a true local hero and has been such an important part of our community for decades. In 2000 Penrith City Council awarded Pat with the Wall of Achievement for Community Services,“ Carney said. “The naming of Pat Yates Oval is a lasting tribute to his contribution to cricket and community spirit.” Yates, a grandfather of five, said he was humbled and honoured by the oval naming, and noted the special memories that Boronia Park holds for him and his family. “The proudest moment was when I played with Adam and Bailey Coleman, my son-in-law and grandson–- three generations taking the field together. This is something I will always remember and cherish,” he said. “Boronia Park was where I played my last competition game at the end of season 2018/19 winning ninth grade. It was a great way to end my cricket sporting career.” Pat Yates with Mayor Todd Carney.

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