PANPA 2014 NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR RUNNER-UP
weekender the western FRI 31 JUL 2015 • Issue 1214
PROUDLY INDEPENDENT
Printed on 100% recycled paper
EXTRA TIME
Let us entertain you
Penrith’s leading coverage of the NRL See centre pull-out
Panthers Chairman quits Don Feltis calls it a day at his beloved club after six decade association TROY DODDS
Your complete guide to local entertainment p.43-54
Wanderers ready to strike p.66-67 JOB LOSSES Store closures create worry for job seekers p.18
@troydodds
P
anthers Chairman Don Feltis has suddenly resigned, ending a six decade association with the club. The Feltis era will end with immediate effect with the Board accepting his resignation at its meeting on Wednesday. Brian Fletcher will step in as Chairman while David O’Neill will become Deputy Chairman. The Western Weekender understands that 80-year-old Mr Feltis made his intentions to resign clear last Friday. Fellow Director John Hiatt has also resigned. While the Weekender understands there has been issues behind the scenes at Panthers in recent times, the decision to step down primarily relates to Mr Feltis’ age and a recent health scare. “I have been involved with Panthers for over 60 years, on the Board for 13 years and Chairman for five years,” Mr Feltis said. “I am very proud of the significant part both John [Hiatt] and myself had in the progress of the club and the Group. “I have great respect for the Panthers organisation and the brand and leave the Board quite satisfied with what has been achieved. I am 80 years of age, had a recent health scare and short stay in hospital and I am looking forward to taking it easy and enjoying the next chapter in my life.” The Western Weekender broke the news of the resignations of Mr Feltis and Mr Hiatt exclusively on Monday afternoon. Story continues on » p. 3
Don Feltis received an OAM last year. Photo: Melinda Jane
ADVERTISEMENT
G IN T A RS R A EB YE
Any 2 large pizzas, garlic bread + 1.25L drink
WW18413
40
Proudly brought br to you by:
$
30
*
*pick up only
www.cbellas.com.au
& 4731 5667
WW17479
421 High Street, Penrith Forr more Fo mo re r e iinformation nfor nf n orm m ati ma tion on n con c contact: o ttact on ont a ct:: St M Marys arys ar y T ys Town own ow n Ce Cent Centre ntre re o on n 02 9 9833 83 33 2433
EL
C
PRESENT THIS VOUCHER TO RECEIVE...