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weekender the western FRI 30 JAN 2015 • Issue 1188

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B U S I N E S S T I PS Advice, tips and profiles on the best local businesses p.30-31

Our Woman of the Year She just keeps winning: Jessica Fox takes out prestigious honour DALE DRINKWATER

Auckland Nines kick off the 2015 NRL season p.33

Finding jobs via Facebook p.22 COMMUNITY Penrith celebrates 200 years with range of events p.27

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essica Fox’s impressive work in and out of the water has landed her the honour of being Penrith’s 2015 Local Woman of the Year. Ms Fox was presented the award by State Penrith MP, Stuart Ayres and Minister for Women, Pru Goward on Wednesday. Ms Goward said that even though the award is to recognise women who don’t have a major public profile, it’s also just as important to give it to women who act as an inspiration to other women. “Jess’ is the story of ‘work, work, work and you can get there’ and I think Jess is a great role model for young women in this region,” she said. “We need to keep encouraging girls to take a risk, to have ambition, to want to be the best.” Ms Goward commended her on her 99.1 mark in the HSC, and her efforts in studying psychology and communications through university online. “We have a young woman that is not only at the top in her sport in the world but also recognises that she’s got to set herself up to be independent,” she said. “I’m afraid a lot of young women don’t always think of that last part, they don’t aspire to independence, they think Prince Charming is going to look after all of that.” Mr Ayres said it was difficult to turn down a local world champion for the award, but agrees it’s about much more than that. “To be able to say to people that you can follow your personal dreams as well as build a professional career I think is the main reason why we

Stuart Ayres, Jessica Fox and Pru Goward at Penrith Whitewater Stadium. Photo: Melinda Jane should recognise her for her fantastic work,” he said. “We talk about role models a lot in society, I think Jess does that without really thinking about it, whether it’s her dedication to her sport, her dedication to her community, she’s someone who’s continued to study,”

Ms Fox said the award was humbling and that it meant a lot to be recognised in such a way. “When I’m competing and representing my country and community I’m not thinking about these kind of awards. I’m just out there to do the best I can to represent the people who support me,” she said.

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Australia Day Honours

the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Helping others is what Barbara Mitchell loves KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

hile any outsider would immediately agree that Barbara Mitchell OAM is the perfect candidate to be honoured with a Medal of the Order of Australia, the local resident herself accepted the honour with amazement, completely blown away that she was singled out as being an exceptional Australian. Mrs Mitchell has for six years been single-handedly leading a team of doctors, nurses and anaesthetists from the local area on a mission to improve the wellbeing of thousands of people who are living in poverty in Bangladesh. The group, which changes each year, has been on six annual trips to the third-world country to conduct difficult surgeries free of charge to Bangladeshi people. Of these trips, Mrs Mitchell has attended four but has coordinated every one. She has become so invested in supporting the people of Bangladesh that she has also become involved in a range of other programs and has even founded the local chapter of Days for Girls, which involves the creation of sanitary kits for young women in developing countries.

It is her contribution and commitment to bettering the community of Bangladesh that saw Mrs Mitchell awarded with a Medal of the Order of Australia. “There are so many people out there who do amazing things, I didn’t think that I was that noteworthy. I am just doing this because I can; the people in Bangladesh, they need this stuff, they need our help,” Mrs Mitchell said. Mrs Mitchell co-founded the project, Aussi Bangla Smile, in 2006 and the following year, a team made the project’s first trip to Bangladesh. “We had assembled this little team to head over and we had no idea what to expect, no idea. But away we went,” Mrs Mitchell said. Since then, the group has conducted 639 operations. “If only you could see the smiles on their faces, then you would know why we do it. The mums, when they see their children, [who we have operated on] they just smile, hold one hand to their heart and touch our arm with the other. It is very emotional. That’s why we do it,” Mrs Mitchell said. Next month a team will be heading over for the seventh Aussi Bangla Smile trip, conducting surgeries and distributing sanitary kits and toiletries packs.

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Like a football coach given the “full support of the board”, it would seem that Tony Abbott’s position as Prime Minister is on a knife’s edge. In itself, it’s a remarkable story – how can the man that led the Coalition out of the wilderness and into power just 18 months ago be so on the nose with voters, commentators and, it would seem, members of his own party? But what’s even more flabbergasting is how Mr Abbott possibly thought that Monday’s decision to bestow a knighthood on a foreign royal was going to wash well with a public that is growing more and more sceptical of his leadership by the day. Even those who have defended Mr Abbott’s previous gaffes and political backflips (me included, a lot of the time) were left bemused by this one. In isolation, it’s probably not the biggest deal, but it seemed an unnecessary risk for a Prime Minister who is drowning in poor public opinion. In the days before the Federal Election in 2013, I told you that my opinion was that Tony Abbott deserved his chance. After years of the Rudd-Gillard-Rudd mess, it was time for stability. Voters clearly felt the same and made their thoughts well known at the ballot box. Now, we’re all left scratching our heads. It’s not as if Prime Minister Abbott didn’t have some warning that this whole thing with Prince Phillip wouldn’t go down well. Last year, when Mr Abbott re-introduced such honours, critics said it was archaic and not needed in modern Australia. They said it certainly shouldn’t be a priority. The PM obviously didn’t get the message. And situations like this will only continue – in the modern world of social media, 24 hour news channels and the like, honours such as Australian of the Year and new Knights and Dames will always be open for public criticism and opinion,

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TROY DODDS @troydodds

Mr Abbott is drowning and there’s no lifesaver in sight

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which has been proven in recent days. Mr Abbott’s captain’s pick in honouring Price Phillip is simply baffling. It would seem that Mr Abbott is constantly writing his own death warrant by not providing the stability and type of leadership that Australians craved when they elected him in 2013. At the end of 2014, during a marathon press conference, he seemed to wipe the slate clean in the hopes that 2015 would be a defining year for his government; one that would put it in good stead for an election in late 2016. But 2015 has started awfully for the Prime Minister, and you really do now have to wonder if the Coalition will do the unthinkable and force him out of the top job before year’s end. Mr Abbott is drowning and in the near future at least, there appears to be no lifesaver in sight. I am not a fan of Governments swapping and changing their leaders during a term in power, nor is the Australian public who couldn’t stand the Rudd-Gillard-Rudd circus. And while the Coalition would be very wary of a leadership change for this very reason, you get the feeling that the whispers are getting stronger and stronger. The problem with dumping a leader is, that if you do it once, you open up the possibility of doing it again. Leadership tensions are like poison to a political party, as shown by the previous Labor tenure. If the Coalition dumps Tony Abbott, the next leader will face enormous scrutiny and most likely, constant whispers about their future. The short term poll wins may not help at the poll that matters in 2016. But if the Coalition doesn’t move on Abbott, the door starts to open wider for Bill Shorten. Either way, the Coalition has a major headache. The bottom line, however, is that it’s us, the voting public, who should decide whether Abbott goes or stays (at an election), not his colleagues.

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Australia Day Honours

Mark White honoured with OAM for his passion for a “community institution” KATHERINE TWEED

Tanya Davies MP Member for Mulgoa a

@ktweed_

enrith’s Museum of Fire has been a strong part of the local community for years, putting smiles on the faces of local families and educating them about fire safety. Part of the reason for its long-term presence in the community is undoubtedly the commitment of Mark White OAM. Mr White, the Museum’s voluntary CEO, was this week awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia, in recognition of his service to Penrith through his work with the Museum of Fire. He has had a 40-year history with the museum, which he has stuck by out of his dedication to supporting the local community. “People scratch the surface when they say it is a museum. It is a great community centre, people just don’t see it as that,” Mr White said. “A lot of people don’t realise that the museum itself is a charity – we are here for the community, to teach them about fire safety and to support the emergency services.” Mr White, who is working as a member of Fire and Rescue NSW, joined the museum as a board member in 1976.

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Mark White from the Museum of Fire has been honoured with an OAM From there, he became Chairman in 1982 and then voluntary Chief Executive Officer in 2000. “I have loved every moment of the 33 years that I have been in the fire brigade and I am passionate about the museum,” Mr White. “I get a buzz from watching other people’s enjoyment of the museum, I feed off the enthusiasm.”

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Mr White thanked his family for their support over the years and said that he hopes the local community will come together to back the museum into the future. “The people own the museum, it is a community institution. Whatever we raise goes back into the museum for the community’s enjoyment. Penrith should really embrace the museum,” he said.

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the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Dedication to museum is recognised

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Australia Day Honours

New helmets for our firies

David has always put safety first

Fire & Rescue NSW’s (FRNSW) 6,800 fire officers will soon be wearing cutting-edge firefighting helmets with in-built radio technology and lighting that will provide greater protection and clearer communications at emergencies. Minister for Police and Emergency Services and Penrith MP, Stuart Ayres said the new helmets would enable firefighters to clearly communicate with each other while wearing self-contained breathing apparatus. “The NSW Government has committed more than $7 million to this project, which will see our firefighters equipped with the most modern, safest, high-tech helmets in the world,” Mr Ayres said. “The new helmets will also provide firefighters with greater protection from heat and falling debris. “In addition to the integrated communications system, the helmet includes other innovative features such as lighting and adjustable eye protection.” The tender, one of the largest of its type in the world, has been awarded to MSA Australia. Fire & Rescue Commissioner Greg Mullins welcomed the announcement. “An extensive process was undertaken to identify the best product on the market and we know that we’ve achieved a great result,” Commissioner Mullins said. “Fire officers have to deal with lifethreatening situations on a daily basis, and they deserve the best protection money can buy.”

Australia Day recognition for local resident with a passion for safer roads KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

ordan Springs resident David Bentham OAM has been awarded one of the highest honours an Australian can hope for, a Medal of the Order of Australia. Mr Bentham was awarded the honour in recognition of his time serving on the Hills Shire Council and on the board of the National Roads and Motoring Association (NRMA). It is his dedication to ensuring the safety of fellow Australians that led him to make a number of ground breaking changes during his time on Hills Shire Council and it also led to his involvement in the NRMA, where he still sits as a board member. “I am chuffed, and couldn’t be more pleased to be honoured in this way,” Mr Bentham said. “There are many people who are good at what they are involved in, are diligent and leaders in their field and they are duly rewarded.” Mr Bentham said that one of his proudest achievements in his time on Hills Shire Council, from 2004-2012, was encouraging the Council to improve its safety record.

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“The Hills Shire Council now has the best safety record [of local councils in the state] of people in their employ, by a long way. I was the guy who pushed them into putting safety first,” he said. “I am certainly proud of the Hills Shire achieving a very high level of safety, having been part of the drive towards it in the beginning. “I also initiated a men’s shed in the

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Hills Shire and an audit committee on Council.” In 2009 Mr Bentham decided to stand for election onto the board of directors at the NRMA, where he is still a director. “The NRMA has grown greatly since I became director,” he said. The local resident is also passionate about public education and is keen to see more jobs created in Penrith.

Police snapshot Australia Day: Police pleased with public’s behaviour

Penrith: Man steals food, drinks and electronic items

Police have congratulated the public on their good behaviour on Australia Day. In Penrith, police said the behaviour of the public was great, with only a few minor incidents occurring at local licensed venues. Across the state officers were carrying out Operation Float on Australia Day, which was a high-visibility police operation. “Crowds were well-behaved and there were only a few isolated incidents where officers were required to intervene or take action,” said Operation Float Commander, Assistant Commissioner Alan Clarke. 34 people were arrested and charged with 66 offences throughout the day, including assault, resist arrest, offensive behaviour, offensive language, drink-driving, drug possession and malicious damage. Despite the drizzly conditions, the crowds came out to planned events across Sydney and a number of regional areas, and celebrated Australia without too many incidents.

Police are appealing for information after a woman’s home was broken into on Lethbridge Street, Penrith, last week. At about 3am on Wednesday, January 21, an unknown male broke into a home where a woman was sleeping. The resident awoke, armed herself with a screwdriver and confronted the male, who fled the home on foot. He stole frozen food, drinks and a number of electronic items. The woman, who has a medical condition, told her carer of the incident the following morning. Police are searching for a male aged in his late teens or early 20s, of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance. They say he was of a medium build, with brown curly hair and between 165 and 175cm tall. Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Penrith: 30 people hold public demonstration at station

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David Bentham from Jordan Springs has been honoured with an OAM

Police were present at a demonstration at Penrith Railway Station on the evening of Friday, January 23, where a number of people were protesting the building of a number of Muslim prayer halls in the Penrith LGA. Police said the group, called Squadron 88, were expecting about 150 people but due to poor weather conditions, there were only about 30 present. The group was well behaved and the demonstration, which involved a speaker talking about the group’s discontent, concluded without incident.

Cranebrook: Multiple charges after chase through local area A man has been refused bail in court after he was arrested after leading police on a pursuit through Cranebrook. Police allege that at about 2pm on Monday, January 26, a man was detected ‘fishtailing’ around a corner in his gold Holden Commodore. Police indicated for the vehicle to stop however a pursuit began from Sherringham Road. Police allege the vehicle reached speeds of 100km/h in a 50km/h zone. The pursuit continued down the Northern Road and came to a conclusion in the vicinity of Stoulton Way, Cranebrook. It was found that the man was a disqualified driver. He was charged with a number of offences.

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Talking weight while you wait Displays aim to make local residents think during Healthy Weight Week KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

simple trip to a local doctor’s surgery next month may see residents make the decision to change their eating habits for the better, thanks to local dietitian Tuo Tao. Mr Tao, who is an accredited practising dietitian in Penrith is dedicated to changing the health of local residents through what they eat. To coincide with Healthy Weight Week, which takes place during February, Mr Tao will be setting up product review displays in a few GPs’ and specialists’ practices across the local area throughout the month. “These will compare some common products such as tomato sauce and potato chips with their healthier alternatives,” Mr Tao said. “For some products, I will provide free

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Dietitian Tuo Tao samples for people to try. Free meal plans and different recipes will also be available to collect.” The displays are all part of Mr Tao’s aim to raise health awareness in the area.

“When people are waiting for doctors in medical practices, they have time and space to look at the displays and information available. It is a great way to engage people and help them realise how simple food swaps and small positive changes to their diet can significantly improve their health,” he said. “There is lots of hidden fat and added sugar in many of the foods people eat on a daily basis. Product reviews help show people that achieving better health and losing weight does not necessarily mean sacrificing a lot. It can simply mean identifying these unhealthy foods and swapping them for their healthy but also tasty alternatives.” While Healthy Weight Week only lasts from February 16-22, with the support of local doctors, Mr Tao hopes to keep the product review displays in practices for longer times. Keep your eye out for a display.

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PENRITH

PENRITH’S BICENTENARY CELEBRATING 200 YEARS 1815 – 2015

NEWS

Visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au for more information

CONTACT US ADMINISTRATION Penrith Ofﬁce Civic Centre, 601 High Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Ofﬁce Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street. Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri. P: (02) 4732 7777 F: (02) 4732 7958 Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751. E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

SERVICES Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735 Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). Grafﬁti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

MEETING DATES Council Meetings 2 February 2015 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting) 9 February 2015 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)

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COUNCIL BRIEFS s Ten of the world’s best Harness Racing drivers are heading to Penrith next month to compete in the 2015 World Driving Championship. The Championship is the oldest and richest horse racing event of its kind and will hold three of its qualifying heat races in Penrith on Thursday, 26 February. Penrith Paceway, along with five other tracks in NSW, will host these important races ahead of the final heat at the Inter Dominion on Sunday, 1 March. This event will attract some of the biggest names in harness racing. For further information visit clubpacewaypenrith.com s Take the opportunity to clean out the clutter on these two waste collection days. The first, a free Chemical Clean Out Day will be held on Saturday, 7 March at Jamison Park from 9am–3.30pm. Please bring your household chemicals including motor oils, paints, car batteries, pool chemicals, cleaners and gas bottles to drop off. For further information please call 4732 7615. A free Electronic Waste Drop Off day is on the very next day, Sunday, 8 March, also at Jamison Park from 9am–3.30pm. Pack your old televisions, computers, microwaves, stereos and other electronic waste into your car or trailer. Our friendly staff will then unload all the items which will then be recycled. Phone 4732 7615 for further details. s Get free downloadable magazines and books to read this summer with the library’s fantastic online reading facilities. Library members can read and download hundreds of eBooks, audioBooks and eMagazines for free. This excellent service is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week. You can read and download your favourite magazines or books for reading on iPads, iPhones and Android devices anytime you like. All you need is your library card number. If you’re not already a member, it’s free to join for residents. Use these services before 28 February and you could win one of three iPads. This online service adds another layer to the library’s excellent suite of services. For further details visit: penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Library

TENDERS Provision of a Library Management System Reference 14/15-12 Penrith City Council is seeking proposals for the reliable and cost effective provision of a Library Management System (LMS) for Penrith City Library Services. Pre-Tender Brieﬁng at 10.30am Wednesday, 11 February 2015. Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Our-Council/Tenders/ to register and download tender documents free of charge. Alternatively a hard copy is available for a non-refundable fee of $75 (inc GST) by arrangement. For queries please contact Michael Doggett on 4732 8152 or mdoggett@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au All submissions should be lodged on the forms provided in accordance

with the lodgement instructions contained in the documents no later than 11am Wednesday, 25 February 2015 (‘the Closing Date’). Tenders received after will not be considered.

Provision of Election Services Reference 14-15/19 Penrith City Council invites Tenders from suitably qualiﬁed and experienced organisations for the provision of election services for the Penrith City Council election held in September 2016. An electronic version of the tender is available by visiting tenders. nsw.gov.au/wsroc/ to register and download tender documents free of charge. Alternatively a hard copy is available for a nonrefundable fee of $75 (inc GST) by arrangement. For queries please contact Laura Schuil on 4732 7663 or lschuil@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au All submissions are required to be lodged on the forms provided in accordance with the lodgement instructions contained in the Documents and must be lodged no later than 10am Friday, 20 February 2015 (‘the Closing Date’). Tenders received after the advertised closing time will not be considered.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS The following development applications have been received by Council: s N F Billyard Pty Ltd DA15/0043 11 & 13 Perth Street, Oxley Park Demolition of existing structures and construction of 8 x 3-bedroom attic style villas with associated car parking, landscape and drainage works. Contact: Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726 Closing Date: 16 February 2015 s Stimson and Baker Planning DA15/0026 Proposed Lot 3105, Lot 1198 DP 1171491, Lot 1198 off Coreen Avenue, Penrith Mixed-use development – staged construction of 3 x 9-storey buildings comprising 151 residential units and 151 affordable housing units with ground ﬂoor commercial/retail tenancy and associated car parking, landscaping and drainage works Contact: Kate Smith on 4732 7705 Closing Date: 16 February 2015. In accordance with Section 23G of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979, the development application will be referred to the Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) for the Sydney Metro West Region for determination. Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au Viewing of Development Applications The above development determination/s may be inspected between 8.30am and 4pm Mondays to Fridays (except Public Holidays) at Council’s Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Ofﬁcers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

WW15557

Police

Police urge locals to register their parties on Mynight website

14-year-old arrested after South Penrith homes hit by break-ins

KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

KATHERINE TWEED

olice are encouraging the public to be vigilant after there have been a large number of gate-crashing incidents occurring in the local area in the past two months. Since early December, there have been six incidents reported to police where local people have advertised parties on social media or where the word has got out and a number of unwanted guests have shown up as a result. “The news gets out and the event ends up being larger than what the organiser expected. We’ve had a group of males who we’ve identified as regularly gatecrashing parties,” said Penrith Local Area Command Crime Manager, Detective Sergeant Stuart Gordon. “Those males are pacific islander in appearance, aged between late teens to early 20s and arrive in groups of at least six. They have attended a number of parties over that last six-week period, uninvited and have caused a number of problems.” The most recent incident that police have linked to the group took place on Monday, January 26, where a group of about 15 people were celebrating Australia Day with a small gathering at a home on Preston Street, Jamisontown. At about 9pm the number of people at

@ktweed_

14-year-old boy has been caught after allegedly breaking into three South Penrith homes last Sunday. Shortly before 4am on Sunday, January 25, police say that a male resident of a home in Pindari Drive, South Penrith, was awoken by sounds coming from inside his home. Upon going downstairs he discovered that his home had been ransacked and that a wallet, identification documents, cash, car keys and a mobile phone had been stolen. Not long after, at a home just 500 metres away in Bickley Drive, a second male was awoken to noises in the property. He went into his kitchen and allegedly observed a young male standing there. The resident confronted the male who ran from the house, out through the open laundry door, closely followed by the resident, who did not manage to catch him. Just 15 minutes later, a third male who was asleep in his home on Malabine Place, where his wife and children were also asleep, also awoke to noises. On exiting his bedroom the resident allegedly observed a young male wearing a baseball cap in the loungeroom of his home and a second male there as

Partygoers must be vigilant [file photo] the party swelled to about 30, with a large number of uninvited guests turning up. The organiser decided to stop the music and attempted to ask the uninvited guests to leave. Police say that at that point, six males, of Pacific Islander appearance, were in the vicinity of the party and re-attended the party a short time later, forcing entry through the front door. They damaged some property within the house and on threat of police being called, they fled. Police are encouraging people to register house parties on the website mynight. com.au.

WE’RE EXHAUSTED!

well. He noticed they were carrying an iPad and some other property. After the homeowner challenged them, the alleged offenders decided to run through the house to find they were unable to exit through the front door. In order to escape, one young male proceeded to dive feet-first through the living room window. Police say he didn’t quite manage to exit before his mate pushed him all the way through. Both alleged offenders made their escape down an adjacent laneway. Police were called and the victim from the third home patrolled the street looking for the alleged offenders, during which time he discovered that his mobile phone and wallet had been stolen. “Police attended and a police dog attended and they began to track the offenders. Ultimately police discovered a young male matching the description of the male with a cap walking along York Road,” said Penrith Local Area Command Crime Manager, Detective Sergeant Stuart Gordon. The 14-year-old was arrested and taken back to Penrith Police Station, where he made a number of admissions to the offences. He was refused bail and will appear in court at a later date. Police are still enquiring in relation to the second male.

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

After our biggest Christmas season ever, Rick Rutherford’s Country has been made new! We’ve packed away all the trees (don’t panic, our permanent Christmas Room is still bursting at the seams) and we’ve cleaned; we’ve rearranged the furniture and we’ve restocked to the hilt.

Australia Day Honours

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I would like to acknowledge and congratulate those Penrith residents who received the nation’s recognition for their outstanding achievements and service to our city. Three residents received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for their work in the community. Barbara Mitchell of Emu Plains was recognised for her services to the international community of Bangladesh through humanitarian medical programs. Mrs Mitchell is the co-founder of the Aussi Bangla Smile Project that performs procedures free of charge for patients in Bangladesh suffering from cleft lip and palate, burns, hand deformities and injuries. Mark White AFSM of St Clair was recognised for his service to the community of Penrith through the Museum of Fire. The Museum stands as a great community museum and has developed unique and interesting ways in which to help fund itself, while attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Penrith region. David Bentham a Jordan Springs resident, has been recognised for services in local government, the Hills Shire and to business. Mr Bentham has served

on the boards of the NRMA, Western Sydney Area Health and the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Penrith Council also recognised a number of residents at a special Australia Day function on Thursday evening. It was my pleasure as Mayor to acknowledge the community work of David Currie who was awarded Penrith Citizen of the Year for his work with charities. Max Fenton received the Young Citizen of the Year for excelling in youth work with disadvantaged young people. Penrith’s Sportsperson of the Year was awarded to Tahlia Tupaea whose representation in basketball saw her captain the U17s Australian team to fifth place at the world championships. Lesly Smith received the Penrith’s Local Hero award for her work with the Rural Fire Service while Local Appreciation Awards were received by Sally Wawn, Abaker Athum, Om Dhungyel, Alexis Leones and Sally Reedy. Congratulations to all recipients and on behalf of the city thank you for the selfless work you do in our community and further afield.

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Health

Helping those in need: Penrith is home to first ‘LikeMind’ centre in New South Wales @daledrinkwater

DALE DRINKWATER

enrith is the first city in New South Wales to open ‘LikeMind’, a new mental health facility that caters to providing a collaborated one-stop access to people living with the complex illness. Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres and Minister for Mental Health, Jai Rowell cut the ribbon to officially open the centre on Tuesday, alongside Councillor Bernard Bratusa. Mr Rowell said western Sydney with its 1.7 million people had an immediate demand for the service that will give them access to a range of specialist mental health practitioners under the one roof. “People are buffered around from service to service, they might get the support they need here then have to wait another week to get more support, but to have it all here in the one place is absolutely amazing,” he said. “Penrith was the site chosen that will see some really innovative service delivery models now through LikeMind, and in the two months it’s already been opened we’ve seen some really fantastic results.” He said the service is doing so well, the NSW Government has committed to

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, Councillor Bernard Bratusa and Mental Health Minister Jai Rowell cutting the ribbon to officially open LikeMind in Penrith on Tuesday

investing $115 million into mental health over the next three years to combat the prevalence of mental illness in the community. “Over the next two years, $2 million will see the roll out of an additional two more LikeMind services and we are very much looking forward to seeing who will apply to be a part of that,” he said. “In any given year, 20 per cent of the population will suffer mental illness and in our lifetime close to half the Australian population will suffer mental illness.” Mr Ayres added that the state government plans to spend $18.7 billion on health in NSW, some which should be invested in these collaborations of government and non-government support services. “Having a centre like LikeMind means if we can stop a person from having to go to hospital because they can get better out of hospital care... then that’s going to make our community stronger and it’s also going to make that $18.7 billion go a lot further,” he said. John Fenely, Commissioner of the Mental Health Commission of NSW, said it’s a very substantial new service for people in this area: “For all of those people walking through the door, it’s a seamless experience and all of their needs are met”.

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New facility to tackle mental illness

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Police

Increase in Australia Day speeders Police not happy with thousands booked for speeding over the Australia Day long weekend KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

ocal police joined a statewide campaign over the Australia Day long weekend, enforcing road safety laws in an attempt to ensure local residents had a ‘safe return’ back home from holiday destinations. Operation Safe Return concluded at 11.59pm on Monday, January 26, and while police were pleased with a decrease in drink driving offences from the previous year, they booked an additional 140 people for speeding. Across the state, 3,585 people were booked for speeding offences over the weekend which, compared to last year’s Australia Day long weekend, is an increase and police say that many were caught doing more than 45km/h over the speed limit. “More than 3,500 motorists risked their own lives, and those of fellow road-users, by breaking the speed limit over the course of the last four days,” said Superintendent Stuart Smith at the conclusion of the Operation. “People need to realise that speed limits are set for a reason – exceeding them can have a devastating impact on your life.

You could seriously injure or kill yourself, or another road user. “Please, slow down and stick to the speed limit – if everyone did, we’d have far less people dying on our roads.” 272 motorists were charged for drink driving over the long weekend, which is a decrease from last year’s Operation but police are still not impressed. “During this year’s Operation Safe Return we conducted 215,465 breath tests – 11,884 more than we did over the course of last year’s operation,” Superintendent Smith said. “At the start of this campaign, we said that we would breath-test 200,000 drivers and we have exceeded that figure. We have seen a reduction in the number of motorists caught drink driving but there have been too many cases of drivers with alcohol readings in the high-range; some as high as 0.290.” 6,377 motorists were booked for other traffic infringements, including seat-belt and restraint offences. Double demerits were in effect over the weekend. Why do you think people still drink and drive? Tell us via email at news@ westernweekender.com.au or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

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Police were out in force over the Australia Day long weekend [file photo]

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The era of being told to sit up straight at school is slipping away, as new technologies overtake the tradition with more students slouching and slumping over laptops, ipads and smartphones for hours at a time. With children returning back to school after the summer holiday break, chiropractors are calling for an increased focus on posture training at schools in order to combat the epidemic of ‘text neck’ issues facing teenagers. The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (NSW) surveyed its members, with the results finding their major concerns are technology overuse and sedentary lifestyle amongst youth and over 97 per cent called for posture training tech-

media to encourage communities to report suspected cases. “The campaign is aimed at educating parents and community leaders that underage forced marriage is illegal under NSW law,” Ms Goward said. “Underage forced marriage is against the law in Australia and we rely on community members to report children who may be at risk. The Child Not Bride campaign reinforces that every girl deserves a childhood and the chance for a bright future, including the right to choose who, when and if she wants to marry.” Ms Goward said the Child Not Bride campaign has been focus tested on young women and community leaders from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

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Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Road Safety

Slow down to protect our kids Flashing lights play a vital role in keeping our children safe, says Roads Minister DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

s 63 schools in the area begin the new school year, Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres met with NSW Minister for Roads Duncan Gay at Kingswood Public School this week to remind motorists to slow down in a ‘flashy’ way. Flashing lights in school zones have now been installed in all schools across the Penrith LGA just in time for thousands of children to begin their daily walk to school. Mr Gay said it was great to be in Penrith, one of the first areas to have all of its school zones equipped with flashing lights. “Particularly in this early part of the school year when the kindergarten kids are there for their first time, they’re away from their parents – we need to be particularly vigilant,” he said. “I don’t think anyone deliberately speeds through a school zone, sometimes we just forget where it is and are inattentive, flashing lights alert you that a school zone is there and in place.” Mr Gay said school zones were a necessity on our roads. “It is obvious that there are more accidents involving children near school zones

Liberal Candidate for Londonderry Bernard Bratusa, Penrith MP Stuart Ayres and Roads Minister Duncan Gay with students at Kingswood Public School on Tuesday

because this is the area where they’re away from their parents, sometimes for the first time,” he said. The roll-out of lights in the Penrith LGA is now completed, with the remainder of the state’s schools to be equipped with flashing lights by the end of the year in what Mr Ayres said is a fantastic investment in the community. “Penrith LGA is now finished, and I’m very happy it’s been prioritised,” Mr Ayres said. “The statistics tell us that if you slow down, if you do happen to be involved in an accident, the risk of injury is significantly reduced if you’re driving at a lower speed.” Mr Gay said it’s a very important time for parents when children are interacting with the road for the first time, and there are programs in schools that aim to help children understand road safety. Amanda Cooper, mother of three and a Kingswood P&C representative said she is very happy the lights are in place across the whole area. “When university is back it’s really busy, and I think the lights stand out a lot more and make a huge difference. Personally it reminds me, so hopefully it will remind everyone else,” she said.

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17 the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

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Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

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Community

Thousands of young people with disabilities are forced into aged care homes DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

fter spending two years in hospital, Cambridge Gardens man Ben Marshall is finally in a group home, and unlike thousands of other young people living with disabilities, he’s lucky it’s not a home for the elderly. The shortage of affordable accommodation for people with disabilities meant Mr Marshall faced the rest of his life in an aged care facility, an unfortunate truth for 6500 other Australians. According to the Young People in Nursing Homes National Alliance’s most recent estimates, almost 2500 of those are from NSW – a figure that fades the hopes of families wanting appropriate care for their loved ones. Mr Marshall was left with an acquired brain injury and is paralysed down his right hand side after suffering a rare reaction to medication in 2012. His mother, Dianne Marshall, said she tried to get him out of bed one morning but he wasn’t moving. Now her son is in a wheelchair and struggles to communicate. After nine months in hospital, his parents campaigned to keep him in hospi-

Diane Marshalll with son Ben Marshall tal knowing his only prospect for care outside was in aged care. Mr Marshall is now in Northcott’s Guildford residence for young people, which

Mrs Marshall said has taken an intense amount of pressure off his family. “We know he’s got the care, staff and support he needs there,” she said.

e p O n Da y

“They’re working on Ben’s living skills and helping him become more independent by working on things like using a spoon and fork.” Northcott’s Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Stubbs, said although aged care providers can provide excellent care for their clients, they are not the right place for young people living with disability. “Sadly there are far too many younger people with a disability still living in aged care facilities and this is not acceptable in a country like Australia,” she said. “The National Disability Insurance Scheme should help address this issue, but there are still many unanswered questions.” Ms Stubbs said there is currently a Senate inquiry into the adequacy of existing residential care arrangements available for young people with severe physical, mental or intellectual disabilities in Australia. She urges members of the public to aid in the inquiry and submit their similar experiences by Tuesday, February 6 via email to community.affairs.sen@aph.gov.au. We’re keen to hear your stories related to this subject. Email Dale.Drinkwater@ westernweekender.com.au, call us on 4722 2998 or write to Suite 2, 42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown 2750.

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the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Crisis confronting the disabled

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Community

Leading the fight against violence From beauty queens to anti-violence crusaders: Putting a stop to a global problem KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

ocal beauty queen, Kim Cancellier, is taking her passion for ending violence against women to a global

level. The Ropes Crossing resident is part of a worldwide community-based organisation called ‘Queens Without Scars’, which was created by a number of international beauty queens who all participated in the Miss Universe world finals in 2014. Ms Cancellier, who manages the organisation’s Facebook page, is leading its most recent campaign to raise awareness of violence against women. “The aim of this global campaign is to educate society that all women should be viewed as queens in their own right and a queen deserves to be treated with respect,” Ms Cancellier said. “It is the aim to provide victims with a voice to ‘speak out’ on their behalf until they find the confidence to do so themselves and to reinforce the fact that by working together on this global issue violence against women can be put to an end.” Ms Cancellier has raised over $20,000 for charitable organisations in the past year.

Ropes Crossing resident Kim Cancellier has a passion for ending violence against women

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Penrith Council will hold a community workshop to outline the Cranebrook Wetland and Bushland restoration project. The community is urged to attend on Saturday, February 21 from 9.30am to 11.30am to have a short walk around the wetland, with the chance for the community to ask questions about the project. Meeting at the Cranebrook Wetland and Bushland, Mayor Ross Fowler said the community workshop is designed to keep local residents informed, especially those who have properties that neighbour the wetland and woodland. “Council is restoring wetland and adjacent areas of the Cumberland Plain Woodland which will improve water quality entering the Penrith Lakes and Nepean River,” he said. There are limited places available, so register your attendance via cranebrookwetland@penrithcity.nsw.gov. au or jmurphy@penrithcity.nsw.gov. au or by phoning 4732 8084. The community is being offered the opportunity to have their say on the current social housing system with Penrith Council holding a consultation on the issue at the Council’s Nepean Room, 601 High St, Penrith on January 30 from 10am to 12pm. The NSW Government released their

Social Housing in NSW: A discussion paper for input and comment and believes the existing social housing system is “not fit for purpose” and is “unfair and unsustainable”. The community is encouraged to attend the community forum and have their say before feedback closes on February 20. The venue has a capacity limit, so if interested, please RSVP to socialhousingreform@facs. nsw.gov.au with the venue, time and your name. For more information, visit www.facs.nsw.gov.au/reforms/ social-housing-in-nsw. There are even less excuses not to recycle now Council’s SMS reminder service is continuing. Initially introduced for the extra waste collection over the Christmas period, the free ‘Resource Recovery Reminder’ service sends a text message to residents reminding them of their bin pick up the next day. The service is free and will now also include a variety of programs, such as Chemical Clean Out drop off days, Electronic Waste Recycling collections and Resource Recovery initiatives. To register for the service, email your name, home address and mobile phone number to rrr@penrithcity. nsw.gov.au or phone 4732 7615.

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the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

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Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Open Day is off

Employment

An Open Day being planned by officers from the St Marys Police Station has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. Officers were planning to hold the Open Day on Sunday, February 8, with the public invited to come along and see what life and work is really like inside a police station. The day will be re-scheduled.

Security scare Police are searching for a man after a security scare at St Marys last week. About 9am last Friday, emergency services were called to the St Marys Village shopping centre on Charles Hackett Drive, after an unattended item was discovered. Police established an exclusion zone as a precaution. The item was assessed by specialist police before being deemed non-suspicious. The item has been seized and will undergo forensic examinations. Investigations into the incident are continuing and police are hoping to speak to a man who may be able to assist with inquires. He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 180cm tall, with a solid build. He was last seen wearing three-quarter khaki pants and a black t-shirt. Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. The Western Weekender had full coverage of this story as it unfolded on our Facebook page. ‘Like’ us at www. facebook.com/westernweekender.

How Facebook can find you a job Local social media venture is connecting employers and jobseekers estern Sydney job seekers are turning to social media to find new employment – with outstanding results. Jobs Available Western Sydney is a Facebook page set up to help local people find jobs close to home. Its co-founder, Justin Todd, said he has been overwhelmed by its popularity. “We all know that hundreds of thousands of western Sydney residents leave the area in which they live to go to work, either battling Sydney’s congested road network or fighting with the crowds on public transport,” Mr Todd said. “The Facebook page is designed to help people find work close to home – we only post jobs available in western Sydney and obviously that’s where most of our followers are from.” Employers have reported excellent results from the page, which is a more cost effective option than other job websites, which generally charge hundreds of dollars to list available positions. “Our main aim is to find local people local jobs – it’s that simple,” Mr Todd said. “We’ve had some amazing success stories and it’s always fantastic to hear when a position listed on our page has gone to a local person who saw it while browsing Facebook through our posts.”

Justin Todd is helping local people find work via Facebook. Photo: Melinda Jane The page has around 18,000 followers and fantastic rates of engagement. “There’s just so many ways that jobs are advertised these days – from the traditional media to word of mouth, job websites and through agencies – so we wanted to bring everything close to

home and given the amount of people using social media these days, a page like this made sense,” Mr Todd said. “We’re really excited about bringing job seekers and employers together.” For more information, visit www.facebook.com/jobsavailable02.

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Join us every Sunday at 10am Kids program for ages 1-12 years old

NEW LOCATION: 4-5 Production Ave, Jamisontown For more information contact 4729 8489 or visit empowerchurch.com.au Email: info.penrith@empowerchurch.com.au WW15268

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Community

Local family can’t thank Nepean Cancer Care Centre enough DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

ine-year-old Brooke Jones has presented an official cheque to the Nepean Cancer Care Centre for over $10,000, which she raised late last year in her self designed car rally event. Two years ago Brooke decided she wanted to help sick people, so she started a car scavenger hunt, Brooke’s Car Rally, to raise money for the cancer centre. It was so successful it became an annual event and in November last year, more than 100 people came together in 66 cars and raised an incredible $10,671 – 30 per cent more than the previous year. At $15 per car to enter the rally, she raised a lot of the money from donations and said she is excited and happy she raised so much money this year. “People can donate if they like and they can have as many people in the car as they can fit,” she said. “It’s like a treasure hunt in your car where you go around and answer questions. It’s a family event, there’s a trophy for the winner and a raffle, and the major prize last year was three nights accommodation on the Gold Coast.” Brooke said there were big plans in place for the future of the car rally, stepping up the number of places benefiting from it this time around. “This year I’m raising money for two different centres, and splitting the money between them. There’s Epilepsy Research at Westmead, and the Westmead Children’s Hospital, and every second year I’m raising it for the Nepean Cancer Care Centre,” she said. Brooke’s dad, Gary Jones, said there’s not enough coverage about the good work that hospitals are doing and he believes

Nepean Swim and Fitness is mourning the loss of the iconic Eva Bory, founder of Eva Bory’s Swim School in Emu Plains. Mrs Bory died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Arizona, USA, after a long life full of professional swimming as well as passing her skills onto others through swim schools.

Eva Bory with Forbes and Ursula Carlile

The Jones family with the cheque for Nepean Cancer Care Centre Nepean Cancer Care Centre is one of the best cancer care centres in the world. “My wife wouldn’t be here today if the kind staff, nursing and admin and all the doctors, especially Dr Taper, wasn’t there to actually do that and save my wife’s life,” he said. “He’s given me a wife, a mum and we have a family because of it.”

It’s been seven years since Brooke’s mother, Amanda, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Dr John Taper said she has done very well. “It’s a truly wonderful, absolutely unique gesture, and the whole family is just fantastic,” he said. “It’s greatly appreciated by the Cancer Centre.”

Mrs Bory came to the Penrith area in the 1970s and by 1973, she had built the Emu Plains pool. Terry Spinks, Operations Manager at Nepean Swim and Fitness, said Mrs Bory’s passion for swimming shone through well after her retirement. “Every time I saw her she was still just as passionate as when she was running it back in the day. She came out when she was retired and we would still talk about swimming strokes and it’s one thing I really admired about her,” he said. “She really was a pioneer in the learn to swim. She was developing pools when it wasn’t very big then, there really wasn’t much around in the early ‘70s.” Alan Bentley, who owns Nepean Swim and Fitness and is a longtime friend and colleague of the successful swimmer, said she was “a larger than life character who touched the lives of so many people both locally and internationally”. “She will be sadly missed, however Eva’s name will continue to live on at the Eva Bory Swimming School,” he said.

Council

Council names our Citizen of the Year David Currie’s dedication to Penrith and devotion to disability campaigns earns him city’s top honour TROY DODDS

@troydodds

enrith’s 2015 Citizen of the Year David Currie is a champion of people with disability. Mr Currie has lived in Penrith for 70 years and for many decades has devoted his time to several charities and campaigning for the rights of people with a disability. He was one of nine residents awarded Australia Day honours at a formal dinner held at the Civic Centre late last week. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said Mr Currie had made a significant contribution to the city. “David has been a valuable member of Council’s Access Committee since 2006 helping to make Penrith more accessible for all community members,” he said.

Ross Fowler with David Currie

Mr Currie also volunteered his time, and his financial expertise, to the PARAQUAD board for close to a decade, and has been on the board of Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy for 10 years. He is involved in community work with the Parish of Holy Spirit at St Clair and is also a board member of Wentworth Community Housing. Meanwhile, the 2015 Penrith Young Person of the Year is Max Fenton. Mr Fenton is passionate about youth work and has backed his passion with hard work and dedication – especially toward disadvantaged young people. “Max has played an important role in Council’s Mondo Project which seeks to engage young people and curb anti-social behaviour ,” Cr Fowler said. Tahlia Tupaea was named Penrith’s

Sports Person of the Year. Ms Tupaea has made representative teams in tennis, athletics and most notably basketball. She represented Australia in the Open Australian School Girls basketball team when she was just 14. At 15 she joined the Sydney Uni Flames, making her the second youngest debutant ever in the Women’s National Basketball League. Ms Tupaea fits her sport commitments around her HSC studies and is a keen supporter of other young players through coaching and clinics. The 2015 Penrith Local Hero was named as Lesley Smith. Mrs Smith was recognised for her tireless efforts to raise money for charity and volunteering, particularly with the Rural Fire Service.

23 the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Brooke gives back to cancer centre

Community mourns sad loss

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

PEGASUS COACH TOURS 2015 ALASKA SAWYER GLACIER CRUISE 18 Day Tour/Cruise

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Relax at Hopewood Hopewood is located near Wallacia on the banks of the Nepean River. For more information about the special offers available visit hopewood.com.au and to book, simply call 4773 8401. The Weekender has one Delightful Day Visit to give away. For your chance to win, we want to hear your most embarrassing Valentine’s Day stories. Share them with us via email at news@westernweekender. com.au and put Valentine’s Competition in the subject line. The prize is valued at $249 and includes a facial and a massage treatment, lunch and access to all facilities, activities and classes on the day. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/15/00066. Entries close Friday, February 7. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au.

LEURA FIRST SUNDAY MARKETS Sunday 1st February 2015 9am-2pm Live Music

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the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Relax with a wonderful day at Hopewood near Wallacia reat someone special with indulgent pampering and a relaxing escape to Hopewood Health Retreat and Day Spa. What better way to unwind, focus on your health and spoil the one you love?! And to make your Valentine’s gift go even further, Hopewood has some amazing ‘two for the price of one’ pamper treatment specials available. Hopewood Health Retreat is a healthfocused home away from home and they’d love to welcome you as a guest. Their peaceful, nurturing and comforting environment will help you relax, refresh and revitalise. You don’t have to stay a night at Hopewood to enjoy their facilities. Come for lunch, a pamper treatment or for a relaxing day out. A day visit at Hopewood includes refreshments, a gourmet vegetarian smorgasbord lunch, use of all facilities and the opportunity to participate in their daily activities program and healthy lifestyle presentations. Go to a cooking demonstration, enjoy an Aquaaerobics class in the heated outdoor pool, or read a book in the gardens. To really make the most of your day at Hopewood, book a beauty treatment or spoil yourself with a blissful massage. They have a range of Day Visit packages to suit your needs!

Hopewood’s Summer Spa Special is the perfect Valentine’s Day Gift!

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Penrith Medical Centre

Education

NEW DOCTOR !

Jennifer takes it upon herself to get crucial industry experience

Welcomes Dr (Mrs) Savithri Rao The Doctors at Penrith Medical Centre are excited to welcome Dr (Mrs) Savithri Rao, who will be joining our Practice on 2 February. Dr Rao has over 30 years experience in all areas of general practice and joins our existing Doctors to offer the highest standard of healthcare for all ages. Call and book an appointment with Dr Rao Today!

DALE DRINKWATER

Appointments Available New Patients Welcome! Dr Rao’s Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri: 8am - 4:30pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm

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4721 8755

Jennifer Noorbergen has launched a digital and print publication

OPEN 6 DAYS!

Penrith Medical Centre 61-79 Henry Street Penrith NSW 2750 WW15307

@daledrinkwater

niversity of Western Sydney (UWS) student Jennifer Noorbergen has started an online and print publication to help fellow creatives connect and share their ideas. After studying graphic design, she experienced the catch-22 all arts and communications graduates face, and took it upon herself to do something about it and turned to the Internet to make it happen. “Starting out, we all face the same difficulty of needing experience to get a

job, and needing a job to get experience,” Miss Noorbergen said. She went to crowd funding website Pozible, and in 33 days raised $10,000 which was enough to fund Kaleido, her new bi-annual western Sydney print and online newspaper. “Raising the funds shows how many people are interested in the project, and it really validates all the work we’ve put in,” Miss Noorbergen said. The paper offers an outlet where people can promote creative events, feature people’s art, projects and places and network with others, easing their transition into their industry.

Gymnastics

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Saturday 31st January 10.00am-1.00pm at Unit 8a 116 Old Bathurst Rd, Emu Plains (behind Emu Mowers) Classes Start Monday 2nd Febuary Check website for infomation www.j.agymsports.com.au

All Coaches are fully qualified affiliated with NSW and Australian Gymnastics Unit 8a 116 Old Bathurst Rd, Emu Plains (behind Emu Mowers)

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0412 096 006 WW15579

Community

Penrith RSL Fishing Club

the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Penrith’s big milestone

2015 Bicentennial Program FEB-SEPTEMBER: Heritage Display, Penrith City Library APRIL-MAY: Historic Houses ‘Ghost’ Tours, Penrith JULY-AUG: Time Capsule Competition

• Charter boat out of Wollongong Twice a month • Yearly Christmas BBQ every year • Point scoring competition • Join at the Penrith RSL ﬁshing club meetings at Penrith RSL on the ﬁrst Wednesday of every month • Fishing club membership on $10

SEPTEMBER: Bicentennial Community Festival (main event), Thornton Oval Mayor Ross Fowler and Junior Mayor Alannah Hader at Thornton Oval DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

enrith is 200 years old this year, and to celebrate its bicentenary Penrith City Council has organised a year full of events for the community. 2015 is an important historic milestone as it marks two centuries since Penrith’s first government building was constructed that established the city of Penrith itself. Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler, said amid the celebrations of Penrith’s unique and colourful past, he’s looking forward to learning more about it during the year. “There are so many people who have played important roles in Penrith’s history, and yet they remain largely unknown to our community. The Bicentennial celebrations give us an opportunity to acknowledge these people and celebrate their achievements,” he said.

“Most importantly, the Bicentenary allows us to look back at the history of Penrith, to see how far the city has come in 200 years and really appreciate everything about our current way of life and where we live today.” The year-long celebration program of community events, named The Bicentenary of Penrith, will kick off in February with the launch of a heritage display at Penrith City Library. The rich exhibition will be full of artefacts, images and important documents from early settlers and explorers dating all the way back to the 1800s. Each month from February, the community can involve themselves in many history inspired events, activities and competitions, leading up to September’s Bicentenary Community Festival. The Bicentenary Community Festival will be held at the 145-year-old Thornton Oval.

Dose of Dorin

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Penrith RSL Fishing club Contact the club Secretary- Rod on 0437 501 114

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Join Now and get hooked

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Enrol Now - Studio Near You! You want to learn just for fun or if you want a career Westside is the best.

Boys and Girls from 3 years to Professional. The only studio in the area that can teach • RAD Ballet to Advanced levels • GWT Tap to the highest level • JAZZ all styles, hip hop, funk and Broadway jazz • American Style Cheerleading • Drama • Musical Theatre Classes from • Singing • Acrobatics • HSC preparation

WHERE WILL YOU BE DANCING IN 2015

BOOK NOW FOR 2015 Phone for enquiries: Laura Harrison 0412 417 052 or Jenine Wright 0412 217 051 Email: westsidepa@bigpond.com • Website: www.westsideperformingarts.com.au WW15425

WESTSIDE PERFORMING ARTS

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Studio near you: North Penrith, Cranebrook, South Penrith

ST CLAIR BJP PHYSICAL CULTURE “The Fun Dancing Sport”

Ages 3 years up to ladies Combination of ballet, gymnastics, pilates and jazz dance all rolled into one Develops strength, rhythm, flexibility & fitness.

New Members Welcome Registration Day:

Tuesday, 3rd February at St Clair Public School from 5.00-6.30pm

Classes Commence: Tuesday 10th February

• Affordable dance sport, classes start from $7 • Individual and team competitions available ST CLAIR BJP PHYSICAL CULTURE CLASSES St Clair Public School Hall, Timesweep Drive, St Clair Banks Public School, 182 Banks Dr, St Clair www.stclairphysicalculture.com.au • email: physie.stclair@hotmail.com

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• Physical Culture is a modern low impact exercise • Promotes good posture and presentation • Open to all ages beginning from 3 years

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G7273698AD-200115

• Exercises are structured according to the ability of the age group and modern, popular music is used • Fun and Friendly clubs

Please contact Lyn on 0414 472 460, or visit our Website www.wzpcd.com.au

Articulate

St Clair Physical Culture Club

t Clair Physical Culture Club is hoping to build on its successes of last year with a bumper year planned for 2015. St Clair Physie is a not-for-profit dance school for females aged three-years-old to ladies with registrations for the 2015 season now open. Physie fuses dance styles such as jazz, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, aerobic dance and yoga, and is a great way to improve flexibility, coordination, fitness and confidence. “St Clair Physical Culture Club

Dance Studio

has been a successful club since its establishment 33 years ago and, with over 100 memberships in 2014, we are continually growing,” Club President and teacher, Alison Jones said. Dance classes are available for all ages three and above with the first class free for all new members. St Clair Physie will hold a registration day this Tuesday, February 3 from 5pm to 6.30pm at St Clair Public School, which is located at 4 Timesweep Drive. For more information, visit www. stclairphysicalculture.com.au.

Jazz | Tap | Ballet Hip Hop and Contemporary Exam Classes Solos and Show Troupes Located in Minchinbury Ages 2+ E:

articulate.dancestudio@hotmail.com Ph: 0420998224

W: www.articulatedancestudio.com Articulate Dance Studio

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PLAYERS REQUIRED Under 6’s up to A Grade (Can start playing when they turn 4 years old) ALSO LOOKING FOR GIRLS WHO WANT TO PLAY FROM UNDER 6’s UP TO 17 YEARS OLD

2015 Registration Information Days All clothing can be picked up on these 3 days At Peppertree Reserve (Cnr Peppertree & Swallow Drive Erskine Park) 7th , 8th and 14th Feb — 10.00am to 3.00pm

ALL REGISTRATIONS AND PAYMENTS ARE NOW ONLINE. VISIT OUR WEB PAGE AND FOLLOW THE LINKS Training starts the week of 9th Feb. All players welcome. See web page for times and details. For Further Enquiries please contact: Secretary: Bill Borg — 0425 226683 Registrar: Michael Zammit — 0412 531935 Email: bill@stclairjrlc.org.au More details on our web page: stclaircomets.com.au

Congratulations to our State and National winning teams!

;<4)305. ࠮ (*96)(;: ࠮ +(5*, */,,93,(+05. ࠮ 7(9;5,9 (5+ .96<7 :;<5; 764 ࠮ TINY TOTS CHEERLEADING Unit 3/31 Coombes Drive Penrith Studio Number 02 4722 8207 Kirsten 0438 355 304

All NEW players will be required to provide a Birth Certificate or Passport to be sighted. FREE SHORTS, SOCKS & POLO SHIRT WHEN REGISTRATION FEES PAID A Grade and C Grade training on Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm at Solander Drive St Clair. A Grade Coach: Bobby Bright – 0401 855278 MAJOR SPONSOR – ST MARYS RSL CLUB

JOIN THE NATIONAL ALL STAR CHAMPIONS!

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JOIN US FOR 2015

www.penrithdistrictcheerleading.com.au WW15155

the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

WESTERN ZONE PHYSICAL CULTURE & DANCE

SPECIAL FEATURE

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

SPONSORED CONTENT

They care because they’ve been there

he founders of Debt Cutter started out in a similar way to every client they’ve ever supported over the last 10 years. Their background in Debt Management emerged from beginnings that look more like humiliation, but on reflection, humbling, as they turned pain into the ability to help thousands. Geoff Chester (pictured) and wife Mal, at 50, not only lost their family business, they lost everything they worked their whole lives for to make sure their staff did not lose out. The stress of everything crumbling contributed to Geoff almost losing his life, but thanks to modern medicine he survived a serious heart attack. Getting back on the horse wasn’t easy, the emotional pain of leaving the past behind was enormous. During the humbling experience of being on Centrelink after a lifetime of professional employment, Geoff happened upon a job advert seeking a Debt Agreement consultant and found himself

Debt Cutter

1300 332 828 www.debtcutter.com.au

saying: “I know a bit about debt”. Just like every story of trial and tribulations their journey was filled with long nights of hard work making ends meet, while helping thousands overcome their debt struggles. But Geoff and Mal’s unending positive attitude means they never gave up. Now Debt Cutter is supporting many employees, some who have also experienced the trauma of crippling debt. That’s where the motto comes from: “We care, because we’ve been there”. Not another company looking for an avenue to make a buck, but one that truly believes everyone deserves a light at the end of the tunnel. Geoff and Mal have brought their own experiences to the table and developed a business that takes great care with their clients. Why? Because they know how it feels. And the rest is not just history. It’s the present and it will be long into the future that Debt Cutter will continue to pour their caring attitude, support and success mindsets into their clients.

If you’re drowning in debt there is a way out. Meet Johnny Debt. Like a lot of Australians, Johnny’s debts were getting out of control. Overdue notices kept piling up and the harassing phone calls never stopped. It can happen so easily. You lose your job ... there’s a baby on the way ... an illness in the family ... suddenly your credit cards are maxed and loan payments start mounting up. Johnny decided to do something about it, and so can you.

DEBT HELP 1300 33 28 28 | debtcutter.com.au Debt Cutter is a Government Registered Debt Agreement Administrator, License No. 985

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BUSINESS TIPS

Price shouldn’t be your only difference to competitors

Michelle Grice // Founder of Shel Design

Michael Todd // Small Biz Connect Advisor Penrith Valley BEC

s Australians, we are known for having a bit of a whine about, well, almost everything! And the reality is, it is not hard to create a list of things that make operating a business in Australia a hard task. According to recent research, the average Australian small business spends about five hours a week on red tape and compliance. This includes GST and BAS compliance, employment laws and superannuation regulations. We have the highest minimum wage in the developed world and penalty rates are high. Adding up four weeks of annual leave, two weeks’ worth of public holidays, sick leave and other entitlements, means that small business owners are paying employees for nearly two non-working months each year. Our transport costs are high, trading hours are regulated in some industries, rent is astronomical in urban areas and I could go on! If you look only at the disadvantages of operating a business in Australia, your outlook would be very grim.

But we can choose to focus on the negatives (which can only lead to failure) or we can give more attention to the positives. Particularly as we mark Australia Day, a great way to do this is to look back on all the inventions that have come from Australia (most of which have turned into thriving and valuable enterprises). These include: the black box flight recorder, spray-on skin for burns victims, cochlear implant, the electric drill (back in 1889!), permaculture, wi-fi technology, the inflatable escape slide for aircrafts, and many more examples. Yes, that’s right, all of these incredible inventions that are used around the world were created right here in Australia. I guarantee you that each of these inventors and entrepreneurs would have spent a great deal more time on their passions and projects than focusing on the negatives. We have a culture of innovation and exploration. Tap into that history and acknowledge that we truly live in the lucky country. Happy Australia Day!

hen you’re selling the same products or services as everyone else in your industry, it can be hard to find a way to differentiate yourself that doesn’t include competing on price. While it can seem like a good idea to begin with, focusing on price alone means you have to work harder to make a profit. It also leaves you vulnerable to competitors who undercut, and you tend to attract a certain kind of customer which is difficult, price-driven and will leave you the moment they find a cheaper price. Here are some ideas to get you thinking about how you can differentiate your business, without competing on price. 1. Experience or expertise Take a closer look at what you personally bring to your business and clients that your competitors don’t. You might have more experience, specialise in an area others don’t or deal with uncommon situations that make you more specialised. 2. Make it hard to copy The tougher it is to replicate you the stronger point of difference you have.

Even if it is easy to copy, ensure you are always innovative and stay ahead of the game. 3.Better processes Are there any key differences in the way you develop, produce and deliver your products or services compared with the way others do? You may take extra steps for clients, follow a specific process or formula that gets consistent results or offer a guarantee that is longer or better than your competitors. 4. Exceptional quality and/or consistent results Are your products or services of a higher standard or achieve better results than your competitors? A potential client will likely select your business if you can, even if you are more expensive. It could be helping a large number of clients achieve something or generate consistent results. 5. A wider range of products or services Do you or could you offer a wider range of products or services than your competitors? It could be different material or patterns, bigger range of shapes and colours or have a one-stop shop of sorts to assist clients.

GIANT HAMSTER BALL INSIDE VIDEO GAMES OUTDOOR LASER TAG OUTSIDE VIDEO GAMES

Book your GAMES2U Party NOW!! Parties start from $295 - Mobile video game theatre - Bumper Balls - Outdoor mobile laser tag - T-Shirt Cannon - Giant size hamster balls

Call 1300 780 562 www.games2u.com.au WW15634

the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Australian (business) let us rejoice

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Actress Pia Miller joins Mazda family MAZDA Australia is excited to announce its latest brand ambassador, model and actress Pia Miller. The Chilean beauty recently landed her first full-time television acting role in ‘Home & Away’, having already made a name for herself in the modelling world representing brands including Myer and Qantas. The 30-year-old mother of two is accustomed to a life on-the-go. Having moved to Australia at the age of four from her homeland Chile, she won a modelling contract at the age of 13 and was working the runways in the US by the time she was 17. Based in Melbourne with husband and former AFL player Brad Miller and her two sons, Pia splits her time between Sydney and Melbourne. “I love driving my CX-5! It’s an amazing car that ticks all of the boxes. Not only is it great to drive, but it’s incredibly safe and that’s very important to me when it comes to my family. I’ll go from yoga to football, even surfing with the kids, and the CX-5 is the perfect car for all of that. Plus it looks fantastic. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Mazda family,” said Miller. Pia is driving the CX-5 Akera AWD. It features Mazda’s stylish ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design language and ground-breaking SKYACTIV Technology.

KIA

Kia kicks off the new year with the arrival of the upgraded Rio – at a price you’ll love! NATHAN TAYLOR @natetaylor87

ia’s award-winning Rio has led off the New Year with the arrival of the upgraded light car hero. The entry-level S, new S Premium and Si models gain a new front and rear bumper design, new grille pattern, new centre fascia and audio unit design, and metallic look highlights while retaining all the safety and convenience features from the outgoing models. The S is available in three and five-door configuration with the proven 1.4 litre MPI engine coupled to a six-speed manual and four-speed automatic. The three-door S is $15,990 for the manual and $17,990 for the automatic. The five-door model is $16,990 for the manual with the automatic an additional $2000. The new S Premium grade is available in five-door with the same drive trains as the S but with additional trim and comfort features including 15-inch alloys, front fog lamps, electric folding side mirrors with indicators, cruise control, a six-speaker audio unit with dual tweeters and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The S Premium manual is $17,690 with a $2000 additional charge for automatic.

2015 Kia Rio S 3 door Stepping up to the Si, available in fivedoor only, the Rio gains the 1.6-litre GDI engine and standard six-speed automatic along with a new design 16-inch alloy while retaining the additional comfort and convenience features the outgoing Si enjoyed over the S. This includes soft touch trim, sliding centre armrest and centre storage bin. The Si is $21,490. Across all grades the Rio has benefited from additional refinement of the ride

and handling localisation program from Kia Motors Australia. Ride comfort and control have been improved while steering feel has been moved to a new level. The upgraded Rio is available in eight colours including Clear White, Bright Silver, Aurora Black, Graphite, Mocha, Deep Blue, Urban Blue and Signal Red. The high end Sport (replacing the current SLS model) and SLi will be released at a time to be determined.

GLENDENNING

AUTO REPAIRS Specialists in steering & front ends, brakes

Steve

Service and repairs for all makes & models

Shane

2/52 Christie St

St Marys - 9833 1724

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weekender

Kevin Kingston is back. Photo: Melinda Jane

Registration days 2015 February

Saturday 31st 4pm-7pm Sunday 1st 9am-1pm Saturday 7th 4pm-7pm Sunday 8th 9am-1pm At Potter Field, Corner of Shepherd Street and Bennett Road St Marys

Enquiries: John Sipsak 0406 914 332 - Registrar Joe Youssef 0410 694 742 - President

@natetaylor87

opular Panthers hooker Kevin Kingston will come out of retirement to lead a side full of youth as well as some familiar faces at this weekend’s Auckland Nines. Kingston, who retired from the NRL at the end of last season to take up a role on Penrith’s Holden Cup coaching staff, was one of the shock selections in Ivan Cleary’s 18-man squad which will compete for a share in $2.4 million in prize money. With Penrith’s biggest names including Matt Moylan, Jamie Soward, James Segeyaro and Peter Wallace all missing from the team, Kingston will instead be joined by the likes of veterans Nathan Smith, Sika Manu, Isaac John and Ben MurdochMasila as well as a host of young up and comers from Penrith’s Holden Cup and NSW Cup sides. Some of the young Panthers set to be unleashed at the tournament, which will be held at Auckland’s Eden Park, include former Newcastle half Adrian Davis, speedy winger Joshua Jay, classy fullback Kieran Moss and Junior Kangaroo Andy Saunders. Other youngsters also named include the relatively unknown Christian Crichton, local junior Brendan Attwood, Darwin-born prop Chris Smith and Fijian international Reagan Campbell-Gillard. Speaking on Penrith’s official website, Cleary gave an interesting insight into his selections for the tournament. “Adrian Davis is a cheeky little halfback from the Newcastle Knights who will play well in this tournament while Josh Jay has super speed who I hope to see in the clear,” he said. “Kieran Moss has been coming through our junior grades and played in our winning NYC team in 2013 and our NSW Cup team in 2014. He’s built for speed and should do well. “Chris Smith is another young guy coming through the grades, first chance in the big time, Brendan Attwood ditto. Christian Crichton is another outstanding young prospect who should play well in this format.”

It’s January, but the footy is back!

Local club backs their GWS heroes p.37

NATHAN TAYLOR

January

GIANT NEWS

Also included in the side is premiershipwinning South Sydney hooker and new recruit Apisai Koroisau, fellow newcomer Tupou Sopoaga from the Cronulla Sharks as well as familiar names in George Jennings, Isaah Yeo and Will Smith. “George was outstanding in this tournament last year before he hurt his elbow. He doesn’t care he got injured, he’s back and keen to go,” Cleary said. “Api is another who’s had a fantastic preseason and I look forward to seeing him in a Penrith jersey for the first time.” Penrith have been grouped in a pool alongside the Melbourne Storm, North Queensland Cowboys and South Sydney Rabbitohs. Their first game will be up against the Rabbitohs at 11.45am on Saturday, January 31. All games will be broadcast live on FOX Sports 1 from 10.30am on Saturday and 9.30am on Sunday, February 1. The final will be played late on Sunday afternoon.

Full Team BRENDAN Attwood REAGAN Campbell-Gillard CHRISTIAN Crichton ADRIAN Davis JOSHUA Jay GEORGE Jennings ISAAC John KEVIN Kingston APISAI Koroisau SIKA Manu KIERAN Moss BEN Murdoch-Masila ANDY Saunders CHRIS Smith NATHAN Smith WILL Smith TUPOU Sopoaga ISAAH Yeo

ST. MARYS X Players turning 5 in 2015 to All Age, including Over 35's & 45's. X Female only team start at under 10's. SOCCER CLUB X All registrations to be done online at MyFootballClub.com.au or via our website and follow the link. X All new players need proof of age ( License, passport or birth certificate). X Discounts apply to fully paid registrations on the 7 official rego days. X All junior players up to and including U16’s receive a soccer ball.

Website: www.stmaryssoccer.com.au club sponsors

cards accepted ed WW15004

the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Sport

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Sport PANTHERS SPORTS PACKAGE (4 x Wheels & Tyres to suit Commodores)

20” 1,199 $

+ LOWERING fr $400 + WINDOW TINTING fr $250 Other Packages Available to suit any Vehicle

FULL MECHANICAL REPAIRS & SERVICE also Pink Slips available OPEN 6 DAYS

UNIT 7, 37 YORK RD, PENRITH

175/70-13 175/70 13

205/65-15 205/65 15

215/60-16

235/45-17

FREE Fitting, Balance & New Valves on Every Tyre STRICTLY WHILE STOCKS LAST.

WHEEL ALIGNMENTS (Bookings essential)

Phone:4731 3922

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PENRITH ROVERS FOOTBALL CLUB

Bowls Mick Gilfoyle Kingswood Men’s completed their Fours Championship last weekend and the winners were Grant McKirdy, Glen Hogan, Oscar Tolomeo and Kevin Shaw who defeated Stephen Vrana, Christopher Harris, Derrick Gunnel and Phil Taylor. Australia Day came early for the Glenbrook lady bowlers on January 22. Dressed in patriotic colours, the day started with a delicious homemade morning tea, consisting of many Australian favourites. A successful game of social bowls was had by all. Social bowls results: V Fitzpatrick, V Charlwood, J Sell, M Jacka defeated N Wilmington, H Hale, C Pugh, M Wiseman; D Carnevale, M

Henry, C Dark defeated J Reeves, J Lewis, J Holdsworth; E Hunter, E Gaynor, M Dempster defeated P Doggett, A Merrick, H Tracey; P Tolhurst, L O’Donaghoe, B McNulty defeated B Coleman, C Thornton, S Leach; S Viney, M Peasnell, T Allcock defeated M McColl, H Wallace, D North; A Jeans, H Caldwell, R Crimston defeated H Pearse, J Hunt, S Armour; F Judge, M Waters, V Rumpf defeated T Coop, J Deane, H Larson; M Hobson, M Collins, A Dodds defeated P Harvey, J Goodman, L Andrews/J Snape. President Jackie thanked everyone for their attendance and enthusiasm with their Australiana dress and drew the winners for the day from the cards. See you next week!

BRIEF

SOCCER REGISTRATIONS Male & Female - Juniors From U/5 To U/18 Male & Female - Seniors - All Age To Premier Division Saturday 31st January 2015 : 11.00am – 2.00pm Sunday 1st February 2015 : 11.00am – 2.00pm Location - Penrith Gaels Club, Kingswood Patrick Shannon (Junior Coordinator) Email: p_shannon@aapt.net.au Mob: 0431 898 700 or Michelle Sultana (Registrar) Email: mmsultana@bigpond.com Mob: 0401 333 202

The NAB Challenge starts in just over a month and now GWS Giants members can take advantage of an exclusive ticket pre-sale. Giants members receive free general admission access to the club’s three NAB Challenge matches, however from this week members can upgrade to a reserved seat at a discounted price. The Giants begin their NAB Challenge campaign against the Suns at

Blacktown International Sportspark on Saturday, March 7 before playing the first-ever Friday night game at Spotless Stadium against Essendon on March 13. They round out their preparations for the 2015 season with a clash against cross-town rivals the Swans at StarTrack Oval in Canberra on Sunday, March 22. Visit membership.gwsgiants.com.au or call 1300 442 687.

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ST MARYS CONVENT SOCCER CLUB 2015 Season Registration Information

2015 Registration Days Under 6 – A Grade

New and returning players all welcome. Teams available in all ages and levels! Thinking about registering? There are two ways: ONLINE:

Online registrations are encouraged and available from 5th January 2015

10 am- 2 pm 31 January – Henry Sports Club 7 February – Amart Sports Penrith 14 February – Henry Sports Club

Visit: myfootball.com.au Refer to club’s website for details http://www.nepeansoccer.com.au/stmarysconvent/

Under 6, 7 and 8 players registration only $60.00 inc shorts, socks & polo shirt

DOWN AT THE FIELD: For those that are unable to register online or want more information, the following registration days are available:

Where: Myrtle St Fields, Claremont Meadows When: Saturday 31/1, 7/2 & Sunday 1/2, 15/2 10am til 2pm each day

Enquiries: Kim Wheatley – Registrar 0417 268 286 kimwheatley2@optusnet.com.au

For information contact either Mark Bennett 0412466646 Or email stmarysconvent@iprimus.com.au

Coaches still needed for Under 6, 8 & 17 A Grade Training commences – 27 January 2014 – 6.30 pm U/19 Training commences – 28 January 2014 – 6.00 pm at Allsopp Oval

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Be part of a Western Sydney soccer club with over 50 years of rich playing history in the local area

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All new players require original birth certificate plus photocopy Non refundable $25.00 deposit required upon registration

WANT TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE

CRICKET: Penrith have gone down to Mosman in a thriller during Round 10 of the Sydney Grade Cricket competition. Playing in a One Day match last Saturday, Penrith batted first scoring a solid 9/206 after 50 overs. Penrith’s Kishen Velani was best with the bat scoring 62. When Mosman hit the crease in the afternoon, it went right down to the wire with the visitors scoring the winning runs on the final ball. Penrith’s Ryan Smith was best of the bowlers with 3/21. Penrith have now slipped to sixth position and will play Parramatta in a two-day match this weekend.

won in a tight one 9-8. However, in another close game last Sunday, Penrith lost to the Sharks 11-10. Penrith remain in third on the ladder and will play the last-placed Canterbury Vikings in Round 16 this weekend.

CRICKET: The Sydney Sixers have announced that outstanding Penrith cricketer Jordan Silk has signed a new three-year extension with the Big Bash League club. Silk said there was no place he would rather be than with the men in magenta. “It’s exciting to have the security of knowing what lies in the future, and what better place to be really,” he said. “I’ve loved my time over the last couple of seasons at the Sixers and can’t wait to continue at the club.”

AFL: The Penrith Rams have announced that Ramettes stars Natalie Camilleri, Nikki Perrett and Stephanie Kostic have been selected in the AFL (NSW/ACT) Development Squad. The squad of 40 will commence training this Saturday at the GWS Giants training venue, Tom Wills Oval at Homebush. The three sessions will be a combination of skill acquisition along with some basic testing and data collation. We wish them all the very best!

BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers have enjoyed a mixed round of results during their past two games in the NSW State Baseball League season. In their mid-week Round 15 clash against Cronulla, the Panthers

LEAGUE: The 2015 rugby league season was officially launched in New Zealand last night (Thursday). It’s the first time the launch of the season has been taken across the Tasman.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers Y-League match against the Brisbane Roar was postponed last weekend due to bad weather in south-east Queensland. The Wanderers will return to the pitch this Sunday against Melbourne Victory at Lakeside Stadium.

THIS SUMMER?

 Call us now to find out how

02 8999 5597 or 0419 283 113

www.nulookroofing.com.au

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Emu Plains JRLFC 2015 Registration

FORK LIFT TRAINING & LICENCE

UNIT 1/4 CUNNEEN ST MULGRAVE

FORKLIFT TRAINING FORKLIFT TRAINING High Reach & Counter Balanced High Reach & Counter Balanced Licence & Refresher Courses Licence & Refresher Courses CONSTRUCTION INDUCTION CONSTRUCTION INDUCTION White Cards – Mulgrave & Faulconbridge White Cards – Mulgrave & Faulconbridge EWPA COURSES Yellow Card Courses EWPA COURSES Yellow Card Courses incl SCISSOR & VERTICAL Lift incl SCISSOR & VERTICAL Lift WORKING AT HEIGHTS Training Courses WORKING AT HEIGHTS Training Courses CONFINED SPACE TRAINING CONFINED SPACE TRAINING & MORE

(Near Windsor)

Registration Dates

• Saturday 7th Feb 1pm/4pm

at New Dimensions Health Club, 4/32 Leonay Parade, Leonay

• Sunday 15th Feb 10am/2pm at Leonay Oval • Saturday 21st Feb 10am/2pm at Leonay Oval (Skills Day) You can pickup shorts & socks on all the above dates New players must bring a passport photo & original birth certificate to be sighted plus a photocopy of the birth certificate.

All returning 2014 Emu Plains JRLFC players must register online at http://bit.ly/emurego Visa and Mastercard accepted 2015 Registration Fees

Registered Training Organisation

New Mini & Mod Rugby League Players (Under 6’s - 11’s) - $45 Mini Rugby League Players (Under 6’s, 7’s & 8’s) - $100 Mod Rugby League Players (Under 9’s, 10’s, 11’s) - $120 Int Rugby League Players (Under 12’s - U15’s) - $130 Int Rugby League Players (Under 16’s - 17’s) - $140

4577 9577

Phone • Book online: www.forktime.com.au

FREE REGISTRATION FEES FOR NEW U6>U11 PLAYERS

Includes:Shorts, Socks, NSWRL Player Insurance

Free socks & shorts for returning 2014 players & new U12>U17 players REGISTRAR- Jodi Grant: 0412 096 006 SECRETARY-Joanne Vella :0410 439 348 WW15623

www.emuplainsjrlfc.com.au

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the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

Around the grounds

Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

Rugby League

Panthers target 20,000 members Club sets lofty goal as fans prepare to flock to Penrith Stadium in 2015 NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

he 2014 NRL season wasn’t just a year to remember the on-field successes of the Penrith Panthers but also the off-field achievements, like their record-breaking season membership numbers. A whopping 16,400 people signed up to become Panthers members in 2014, which was almost 10,000 more than the previous year’s total. However, the Panthers membership team have a new goal for season 2015 – that’s to hit the 20,000 members milestone for the first time. “Our current total is around 7000, which is approximately 20 per cent up on the same time last year,” Panthers General Manager Consumer, Nathan Russell said. “We expect to have around 12,000 members by Round 1. However, our target for the 2015 season is 20,000 and we are tracking well to achieve that goal.” The Panthers have unleashed a number of new improvements to their membership packages for 2015, to hopefully reach that target at some stage during the rugby league season. Improvements include replacing the

Nathan Russell, Josh Mansour, Tyrone Peachey and Justin Pascoe. Photo: Melinda Jane membership pack with a $30 merchandise voucher which can be spent at the Panther Shop; reducing the price of seats in the Panther Den to encourage more people to experience the fun and excitement that is the Panthers supporter bay; restructuring the Diamond category to free up an extra 300 premium seats; and to deliver

memberships out to fans within two weeks of registering. Mr Russell said feedback on the 2015 memberships have been “extremely positive”. “There is a sense of anticipation for the 2015 season and fans are looking to get more actively involved,” he said.

“I think this also comes off the back of our continued focus to improve the game day experience – two big screens, Kidz Korner rides and activities. “Casual fans who experienced one or two games in 2014 are looking to come back and get more involved in 2015.” According to Mr Russell, there are plenty of huge incentives to becoming a Panthers member in 2015 like cheap food and drinks and exclusive members only email and functions. “Along with enjoying high quality entertainment by watching the Panthers, a 2015 Panthers football membership includes discounts on food, beverages and merchandise at both Sportingbet Stadium and Panthers Group clubs,” he said. “Members can also enjoy priority access to State of Origin, Finals Series and NRL Grand Final tickets. In addition, there is exclusive access to players through members only events and exclusive member only giveaways and email correspondence.” If you’re not a Panthers member already you can become one now by visiting membership.penrithpanthers.com.au, by calling 1300 PANTHERS or popping into the Panther Shop, located on Level 1 inside Penrith Panthers.

WANDERLAND ON TOUR

VS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY SPORTINGBET STADIUM KICK-OFF 5.00PM

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT TICKETEK.COM.AU

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AUSSIE RULES

Juniors make Giant change Swans branding dumped as Penrith partners with Greater Western Sydney NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

he Penrith Swans are the latest community club to adopt the Giants name and colours following in the footsteps of their club ambassador, GWS Giants star Shane Mumford. Penrith joins other western Sydney clubs including the Macarthur Giants, the Concord Giants and the Auburn Giants who have partnered with the AFL team. The Penrith Swans will be known as the Penrith Giants when they compete in the Greater Western Sydney Junior competition this season. Club ambassador Shane Mumford, who joined the Giants after playing 79 games with the Sydney Swans, welcomed the re-branding. “I think the name change is a fantastic idea,” he said. “This will be my second season at the club now and I haven’t looked back since swapping from the Swans to the Giants. “Penrith Juniors are a great club and I always enjoy heading there as part of my ambassador role. It’s great to have them on board now officially.” Penrith Giants President, Kylie O’Connor,

Shane Mumford with players from the Penrith Giants said aligning with the Giants would secure the long-term future of the juniors club. “This is not a decision we took lightly but it was certainly well supported across the whole club,” she said. “Many of our players wear Giants gear at training and given our base in western Sydney it seemed like the perfect fit. “There’s an exciting feeling around the

club and we look forward to continuing our great relationship with the Giants well into the future.” The club is just one of more than 20 around the world who have adopted the Giants name in recent years. The Penrith Giants is hosting a registration day at Greygums Oval in Cranebrook on Saturday, February 7 from 11am to 2pm.

Fans will enjoy free train travel to watch the Greater Western Sydney Giants play at Spotless Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park in 2015. The Giants and NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation Stuart Ayres announced all tickets to the club’s home games will include train travel to and from Spotless Stadium. “Train travel on the day of the game will be included with all match tickets, Giants memberships and corporate ticket purchases at Spotless Stadium,” Mr Ayres said. The Giants will play eight games at Spotless Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park in 2015, starting with their Round Six clash against reigning AFL Premiers Hawthorn on Saturday, May 9. “The train is a great way to get to Spotless Stadium, with Olympic Park Station only a short stroll away,” Mr Ayres said. “Wherever you are in Sydney, this new arrangement makes the train the best way to get to Spotless Stadium and support the mighty Giants.” Giants Chief Executive David Matthews said it was an added bonus for AFL fans. “To be able to include train travel to our games at Spotless Stadium is a great outcome for our members, fans and the sporting public right across Sydney,” he said. He said it was one of a number of benefits for Giants members in the 2015 season.

the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

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Friday 30 January 2015 « the western weekender

FOOTBALL The Western Sydney Wanderers have denied that they’re in talks with ANZ Stadium about moving matches to the venue. Fairfax Media reported last Wednesday night that the club was considering moving games to the bigger Homebush venue, away from their traditional home of Parramatta Stadium. The Wanderers face a significant headache moving forward with membership and crowd growth likely to mean Parramatta Stadium isn’t big enough for demand. But the Wanderers quickly hosed down the suggestion of moving away from their traditional home. “The Western Sydney Wanderers have no plans and is not negotiating with ANZ Stadium to move fixtures to the venue,” the club said in a statement. “The Western Sydney Wanderers club and management have long maintained that our home ground is Pirtek Stadium for both Hyundai A-League and AFC Champions League matches.” Meanwhile, the worst kept secret at the Wanderers was confirmed this week when the club and midfielder Vitor Saba parted ways. “The club and player have mutually agreed to part ways to allow the player to pursue alternative playing opportunities,” Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said. Saba has departed the Wanderers immediately.

Five Shots With

Ante Covic Fresh start for Wanderers

FOOTBALL

How has the A-League break been and what did you get up to? We had five days off after our last game, which was good to take our minds off football and enjoy life after a very busy schedule. When we got back a week later we went up to Coffs Harbour for a very intense training week. There wasn’t too much sightseeing involved, there was a lot of hard work trying to make every aspect of our game better. We need to improve and we know that. Even though we haven’t been playing poorly, we haven’t been getting results and that needs to change. I think we got a lot out of the training camp, and the last week has been as per normal. I think it’s come to the point now where we’re raring to go. I really want to get back onto the field and start playing games. Do you think the break came at a good or bad time for you boys? I think the break came at a really good time. We had extreme highs at the beginning of the season with the AFC Champions League and things hadn’t been going the way we had hoped or wanted to. We are currently winless in the A-League

which is not a position you want to be in. It’s definitely the first time in my career I’ve gone 12 games without a win. The break, with the AFC Champions League, Club World Cup and travel we’ve done, was timely for us to refresh ourselves and re-focus. There’s still 15 games left, that’s 45 points up for grabs. There’s no towel being thrown in, there’s no giving up. You return to action on Sunday against Melbourne City, what are your thoughts on them? I think Melbourne City are a dangerous side. They have some very good players and this year they’ve probably been hot and cold. There have been some games where they’ve punished teams but other games where you scratch your head wondering if it’s the same team. Melbourne City have quality around the park but we’ve got to make sure we do what we need to do and not worry about them too much but at the same time give them the respect they deserve. Does the group still believe they have a chance of making the finals?

The club made some new signings during recent weeks, how have those players settled in? They’ve been good and very positive from what I’ve seen of them so far. The two Japanese players used to play for Kawasaki and Hiroshima and were in the Champions League last year. They are very good, hard and technical players who have shown their class at training so far. I think they are going to be solid for us.

INDOOR SPORTS

2015 REGISTRATIONS All registrations are required to be done online through www.myfootballclub.com.au. Limited access to online registrations will be provided at the club.

Without question! For two and a half years we’ve been proving everyone wrong. Everyone doubted us, no one believed we could do anything in that first year but we did. They said we couldn’t do anything in the second year but we made another Grand Final. No one believed we would win the AFC Champions League but we’ve done that. Now everyone will write us off this season but we’ve proven in the past that we can come back from anything. There’s a group of guys and coaching staff that believe in us again and no one’s going to tell us we can’t do it. We’ve proven so many people wrong and we’ve got belief in ourselves.

Competition Starting Dates:

You then attend with your confirmation slip and finalise payment at the Penrith Paceway, Station Street, Penrith on the following dates and times: Saturday 17 January 10 - 2pm | Saturday 31 January 10 - 2 pm Sunday 1 February 10 - 2 pm | Saturday 7 February 12 - 4 pm

We are seeking players for all divisions.

Feb 4 - Wednesday Mens Soccer

Feb 10 - Tuesday Mens Soccer

Feb 4 - Wednesday Mens Cricket

Feb 12 - Thursday Ladies Soccer

Feb 8 - Sunday Mixed Netball

Mar 9 - Monday Junior Cricket

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Mar 11 - Wednesday Winter Junior Soccor 6/7s

Feb 10 - Tuesday Mixed Soccer

Trials will be held for Under 16, 17 Boys and Premier League on Monday 2 February 2015 at 6.15 until 9.00 pm on Field 6.

• Court Hire

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Under 5,6,7 Monday 23rd Feb 2015

• Bowling Machine

Under 8,9,10 Tuesday 24th Feb 2015 Under 11,12,13, Wednesday 25th Feb 2015 Under 14 - 18 Thursday 26th Feb 2015

Fun Sports Birthday Parties with bubble soccer, zorb balls and sumo suits.

U 19 - AA Thursday 26th Feb 2015 All Muster Times Start at 6.30pm Meet at the back of the canteen.

Check out our website www.penrithfc.net for all details maria.lowenstein@det.nsw.edu.au

1/16-26 Jack Williams Drive Penrith Phone: 4732 3777 Fax: 4721 7254 WW15207

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OPINION

FOX SPORTS is the only place to watch every game of the AFC Asian Cup LIVE with comprehensive pre and post-match coverage

Football’s considerable resurgence in Australia and particularly Sydney in recent years is set to take another step forward on Saturday night, with Australia taking on South Korea in the Final of the Asian Cup. Soccer was all but dead in Australia a few years ago, with interest peaking slightly whenever the World Cup came around. Fans here were more interested in watching the English Premier League in the middle of the night than anything the A-League was dishing up. However, the arrival of Australia’s fairytale sporting team, the Western Sydney Wanderers, helped to revitalise football in the sports-mad city of Sydney. For years, rugby league officials had expected the AFL would pose the biggest threat to the game’s continued dominance. It turns out that the biggest threat in fact comes from football. Saturday night will see a sellout crowd for the Asian Cup Final, and television ratings that will confirm football does have a future as a major television sport in Australia. The arrival of David Gallop as the boss of soccer in Australia may ultimately be the thing history looks back on as the defining moment for football in this country. It’ll be a very special night on Saturday, and a win would be the next step in soccer’s resurgence. – Troy Dodds

Adam Peacock

A night we may remember forever he west of Sydney is the focus of entire continents this weekend, and certainly the focus of every football-loving fan in Australia. Fans, eyeballs and even VIP’s and VVIP’s (yes, there’s a difference – at the games, they are split into two different functions. Don’t dare try to be a VVIP if you’re only a VIP) will converge on the scene of so far, our greatest modern day football triumph. There’s a bit of a debate at FOX as to what is potentially the greater achievement – qualifying for the World Cup in 2005, or winning the 2015 Asian Cup. My vote probably rests with the snapping of the 32 year drought in 2005, when we snuck past a very good Uruguay outfit to make it to the World Cup after so many near misses and utter heartbreak. That’s not to undervalue what this team and what Ange Postecoglou has been able to do. Three months ago, questions swirled around this team like they do to the mind of a kid starting school for the first time. There was still excitement for the impending task, but no-one was totally sure of how it would turn out. Over 40 players were tried and tested

in the 13 months since Postecoglou’s appointment. The way he wanted them to play had wavered too greatly – attack, attack, attack! – but sifting through the required personnel to carry out the masterplan was testing patience. Patience many had lost long ago, with the water treading that took place since the highs of 2006. Now it all seems worth it. Two wins in 12 before this tournament has turned into four wins from five since, not by accident. And the way it is taking place, taking it to the opposition full throttle is enjoyable to watch. A colleague, who was born outside Australia once told me – “Australians never like to find out they aren’t good at something”. It’s so true, we can’t stand it. It makes us boil. Not to get all jingoistic, but it’s a big reason why this team is one to be proud of – the notion of submission has been banished. Sure, it may need to be refined when we resume against the powerhouses of world football (in March, we play Germany in a friendly) but that’s not now.

Tim Cahill Hopefully the issue will be forced upon South Korea, like in Brisbane, as this time, unlike two weeks ago, one of the multitude of chances is taken not spurned. If we do win it in the most dramatic fashion – be it through a Tim Cahill bicycle kick in the 94th minute, or western Sydney boy Mile Jedinak scoring the decisive penalty in a shootout – maybe it will surpass 2005 as our most memorable night. Whatever the case, however it’s done, should Australia triumph, it would cap an impeccable three weeks of football in the best way possible.

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the western weekender » Friday 30 January 2015

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Friday 30 January 2015

Wandering to Penrith Stadium A-League comes to Penrith as Wanderers take on Wellington next weekend NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

enrith’s Sportingbet Stadium will be a sea of red and black next Sunday when the Western Sydney Wanderers take on the Wellington Phoenix. The February 8 fixture will be the first time the Wanderers have taken an official A-League match to the home of the Penrith Panthers. It’ll also be the first time Penrith has hosted top-tier men’s football since the final round of the National Soccer League season way back in 1985. Speaking with the Weekender, Wanderers goalkeeper Ante Covic said it was a great move by the club to bring a game to Penrith. “We’re moving out a bit further west but we’ve played a pre-season game there before and it’s a great stadium,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of support in Penrith and I think the fans are going to show their appreciation, especially the ones that live further than Parramatta.” The last time the Wanderers played a game at Sportingbet Stadium was in September 2012. It was a pre-season match against Adelaide United.

Covic said the team were proud of their western Sydney roots and hoped fans would also show the same pride for their local team. “The fans will come out in force because it’s a great stadium,” he said. “It’s great that once in a while we do something like this and get a different mix of fans coming and supporting. “It’s a fantastic initiative and I know our fans will fill the stadium up and do the team proud.” In December Sportingbet Stadium hosted a Wanderers W-League fixture which saw thousands of fans show their support. Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said the club was looking forward to featuring in the next chapter of Penrith sporting history. “We’re proud to play a home match in a region that has such a proud footballing history in Penrith,” he said. “The Penrith area is a strong base for Wanderers fans with the Nepean region having the second highest number of Foundation members and we see this game as a way of rewarding those members.” The Western Sydney Wanderers will take on the Wellington Phoenix at 5pm on Sunday, February 8 at Sportingbet Stadium.

Fans came out in force the last time the Wanderers were in Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane The Western Weekender has one family pass (two adults, two children) to catch the Wanderers in Penrith to give away. For your chance to win, email the code word ‘WANDERERS’ to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with your name and contact details. Entries close Wednesday, February 4. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/15/00066. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

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