Western Weekender June 5 2020

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METRO ON TRACK Prime Minister Scott Morrison at Luddenham on Monday.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

St Marys

Orchard Hills

Luddenham

Western Sydney International Business Park

Western Sydney International Airport Terminal

Western Sydney Aerotropolis

New stations confirmed for airport rail line Metro stations will be built at St Marys, Orchard Hills and Luddenham as part of the airport rail line, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison announcing construction on the massive project would begin this year.

Two stations will also be built within the airport site – one at the airport terminal and another at the airport business park.

The exact locations of the Orchard Hills and Luddenham stations are yet to be determined.

The Orchard Hills station will be accompanied by a new town centre, which Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh said would “create new jobs for small businesses”.

The commitment to begin construction on

the $11 billion metro line this year, ensuring it would be ready for the airport’s opening in 2026, was made by Mr Morrison and Premier Gladys Berejiklian during a visit to Luddenham on Monday. More details: See page 7.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Rising from virus slumber Gyms, dance studios and tattoo parlours to re-open from June 13 under new rules NICOLA BARTON

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yms, dance studios and tattoo parlours are just some of the businesses given the green light to re- open from June 13, as more COVID- 19 restrictions are lifted.

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro made the announcement on Tuesday as business owners and employees of the industries celebrated the news.

Part owner of World Gym Penrith, Clair Williams burst into tears when she heard the news and said it’s a huge relief after an extremely tough couple of months.

“It’s such a relief, we’re all just over the moon,” she said.

“It’s happy and excited tears for us, I was here in the studio cleaning and doing the final touches to make sure it was ready and all the staff were here when the announcement came through, so it was really special.”

Ms Williams said the World Gym online platform has been vital in maintaining health and wellbeing in the community but she is looking forward to seeing the gym’s members face- to- face once again from later this month.

Owner of PAWS dance studios, Rebecca Liu- Brennan also opted for an online

World Gym co-owners Hayden Mace and Clair Williams. model during restrictions but said she can’t wait to be back.

“I am so excited for my kids to be doing classes, we’ve been doing them online but I know they’ll be so excited to get back in the studio,” she said.

Ms Liu- Brennan said she has been consulting with Penrith MP Stuart Ayres during restrictions and thanked him for his support and advocacy throughout the process.

With about 30 students generally in their

Crossbones’ Brenton Eldridge, Jess Chodat and Michael Vincent.

dance classes but only 10 students now allowed, PAWS classes will operate on a three-week rotation basis.

The news also came as a huge relief to local tattooists, who felt they had been forgotten by the State Government after the beauty industry, including cosmetic tattooing services, were given the all clear from June 1.

“It’s a huge relief and about time,” Crossbones Gallery co-owner Brenton Eldridge said.

“Keeping tattoo parlours shut was just promoting tattooing to take place in nonhealth registered premises and there are serious health implications that come with unlicensed people illegally operating.

“We have Australian standards, the Skin Penetration Act, and very stringent health guidelines, we can’t wait to get people back in the studio.”

Large gyms and indoor centres will be allowed 100 people inside their facilities, subject to the four square metre rule.

Early earthworks completed for Western Sydney International Airport The Early earthworks project for the Western Sydney International Airport has now been completed. a® NjÈ ¼ÐÞNj Þê®ûÐÞ¿âNjÛÞм êNj ÐÉê±Éï âNjÐÉNjê® Nj â±ê ƛ The project began in September 2018, to help prepare the foundations for Sydney’s new airport. Work included: x moving 1.8 million cubic metres of earth x clearing and remediation work x construction of a new and realigned Badgerys Creek Road x installing utilities and temporary works; and x construction of a new intersection at Elizabeth Drive, in collaboration with Transport for NSW.

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Some final close out activities are still required, including installing barriers around Pitt Street, landscaping and demobilising equipment, which will be completed over the coming month.

The Early earthworks project has been delivered by the CPB Contractors and Lendlease Joint Venture (CPBLLJV).

We sincerely thank residents, motorists and local businesses for their patience while early earthworks activities have taken place.

For more information on Western Sydney International Airport, please visit westernsydney.com.au or call 1800 972 972 or email info@wsaco.com.au

An aerial view of the Early earthworks site in March 2020

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eauty buffs flocked to their favourite salons on Monday, after a two-month freeze on services was

lifted.

It’s going to be a busy few weeks for staff at Tranquility Skin & Body Care with excited clients desperate for their first appointments back.

Co-owner Peta Marchant said they are beyond excited to re-open their doors. “It’s definitely been hard, we’ve really had to survive off online sales,� she said. “Our clients have been amazing and stuck by us. My clients are like my friends, so not having that contact has killed me but I’m just so glad to have that back again.�

NSW Health has compiled a checklist for the industry to minimise risk from COVID19 in the wake of the pandemic.

Some of these include the one person per four square metre rule, hygiene protocols and attendance recording, with a maximum of 10 clients allowed at a time. “I hope we can make people feel themselves again, people have missed that human contact and feeling good about themselves,� Ms Marchant said. “Beauty isn’t superficial, it lifts people’s spirits, it makes people feel beautiful and even for people who have been feeling lonely to have that contact and conversation again is so important.� – Nicola Barton

the western weekender Âť Friday, June 5, 2020

BEAUTY BACK IN BUSINESS

Tranquility Skin & Body Care’s Peta Marchant with customer Megan Dunkley. Photo: Megan Dunn.

SCHOOL CANTEEN LICENCE Tenders are called for the licence of the Cambridge Park High School canteen commencing Monday, 20 July 2020 and for a term of approximately 4 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 730. General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to:

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Sarah Abbott – School Business Manager Cambridge Park High School Telephone: 4731 6722

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Tenders close at 3pm on Wednesday, 17 June 2020

Adult $20.00

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Family $55.00

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All applicants must make themselves familiar with clause 2 of the tender offer.

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530 Mayfield Road | Oberon Phone 6336 3131 – mayfieldgarden.com.au

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

the western weekender PO BOX 7105 South Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998 • F (02) 4731 6255 www.westernweekender.com.au www.facebook.com/westernweekender www.twitter.com/wwpenrith westernweekender Issue 1454

50,000

weekly average distribution Publisher’s claim

Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Journalist: Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Journalist: Nicola Barton | @nicolabarton123 Journalist: Emily Feszczuk | @emilyfeszczuk Photographer: Megan Dunn If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Kate Shaw, Kendall Clarkson, Jay Lowe To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Ian Beard, Claire Catacouzinos, Kacey Wilson

Administration: Sarah Coates, Jennifer Zuleni

The Western Weekender is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930).

For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Wage freeze is a necessary evil A s good as Australia’s fight against the health and economic fallout of Coronavirus has been – the envy of the world, it could be argued – there is a long way to go before our recovery is even close to complete.

As Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Premier Gladys Berejiklian have flagged numerous times, the road out is in many ways going to be tougher than the road in, particularly when it comes to the economic challenges we now face.

As a result, tough decisions will be made along the way for the greater good, and Ms Berejiklian has been forced to make two of the biggest in the last seven days.

First, she froze public sector wages for the next 12 months, then she pulled the ANZ Stadium re- build – breaking a key election promise in the process.

“Priorities have changed”, the Premier declared when announcing the latter decision last Sunday, and it is hard to argue, given what we’re all going through at the moment.

The wage freeze has captured much of the political conversation in the past week, and while it’s a bitter blow to some 400,000 workers including many on the ‘front line’, it is surely understandable in the present situation.

The lack of a 2.5 per cent pay rise this year is tough to swallow for many in a public sector job, but at least they have a job.

And despite Labor predictably labelling it a ‘pay cut’, that’s not really true – you can’t cut something you never had. Public sector wages will be retained, not cut.

Also missing from the headline was the unprecedented guarantee of no forced redundancies for all workers who are not

Index

Lend your voice to suicide prevention in Nepean Blue Mountains People with a lived experience of suicide are invited to participate in a workshop to help others and inform the future direction of suicide prevention. Your voice and insight is important to providing support for community-based suicide prevention.

Start Date: Wednesday 17 June 2020 Location: Online The ‘Our Voice in Action’ online workshop will be delivered over a period of two weeks with a combination of: • 4 x small group zoom sessions (1 to 1.5 hours each) • 2 x 1-on-1 coaching sessions (1 hour each) • self-paced activities between sessions For more information: Visit bit.ly/yourvoiceNBM or scan the QR code

senior executives across the NSW public sector for a year.

In short, there’s no 2.5 per cent pay increase but there is the guarantee of a job and job security, and that’s a luxury many in the private sector don’t enjoy at present.

I understand why some feel it’s a kick in the teeth for those front line workers, many of whom went above and beyond at the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, but the long game must be played here, and we must play it together.

More than 200,000 people in NSW have lost their jobs since COVID-19 first reached the State. There’s many more job losses to come too, as businesses face the harsh reality of revenue not returning to pre- pandemic levels. Many others who kept their jobs have had hours slashed.

The wage freeze may not be ideal, but it’s certainly necessary in the current circumstances. The Industrial Relations Commission will now have the final say.

Also necessary is the Premier’s decision to dump the ANZ Stadium upgrade.

While it has major long-term ramifications in terms of Sydney’s sporting and event infrastructure, it will allow more smaller projects to go ahead, injecting an extra 20,000 jobs into the workforce.

It could also see smaller stadiums across Sydney be renovated, something fans of the NRL and other sporting codes have always preferred over an upgrade of the Olympic venue.

The pay freeze and walking away from the promised ANZ Stadium overhaul probably won’t win Gladys Berejiklian many friends, but it is responsible governing and strong leadership under the toughest of circumstances.

News..............................................1-22 Extra Time...........................23-34 Entertainment..................35-42

‘Our Voice in Action’ Lived Experience Workshop

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@troydodds

And another thing...

Much has been said of News Corp’s decision to axe more than 100 print newspapers last week as it puts most of its chips into digital news.

For many regional and suburban areas, their local newspaper forms part of their identity and has done so for generations, so we are right to lament the losses.

But we also need to be honest here: While COVID-19 accelerated News Corp’s decisions, the company had made its own bed some time ago.

Particularly in its suburban newspapers, News Corp had closed local offices, moved most staff to centralised locations and lost the community feel that is critical to produce a local newspaper.

When they made those decisions, a spreadsheet most likely told them it was the right call. The communities they represent told them otherwise.

Now, News Corp will try to make local news work in an exclusively digital format for most of its brands – largely behind the paywall of The Daily Telegraph.

Again, the spreadsheet probably thinks it’ll work. The community may have other ideas, but time will tell.

The loss of News Corp’s Penrith Press means the Weekender is Penrith’s last remaining weekly paper.

Under the leadership of our CEO and publisher, Kathryn Garton, the Weekender has emerged as Penrith’s premier news product, with its print edition outlasting our News Corp and Fairfax competitors. That is an incredible local story in its own right.

For the record, digital is part of what we do too – but we’re also fully committed to our print edition. It’s in our DNA.

Weekender Living........43-46 Business................................47-48 Business Directory........49-51

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SEE YOU SOON AT THE POOL! Download ‘Nepean Swim’ App & follow us on Facebook for updates!

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the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

CLUBS OPEN THEIR DOORS T

here were many happy faces on Monday morning as loyal patrons of St Marys Rugby League Club queued to walk through the doors for the first time since March.

Subject to the new restrictions and social distancing protocols, the club will be able to host 380 patrons at a time.

For now, it will be members only and those attending must be 18-years-old and over.

“The shutdown has really highlighted how important the club is to the social wellbeing of the community,” said CEO Rod Desborough.

Every second poker machine will operate, however events, promotions and live music will not.

Member Diane Watson, who has been a regular at the club for 10 years, couldn’t wait to get inside on Monday.

“It’s been absolutely awful during the close, I can’t wait to just see everyone again,” she said.

“I don’t drink but the first thing my husband will be buying is a schooner.”

New signage, social distancing measures and cleaning procedures are in place to ensure the club can operate safely.

Most other major clubs across the area have also re- opened, including Panthers Leagues which can cater to 700 visitors.

– Nicola Barton St Marys Leagues CEO Rod Desborough. Inset: Patrons eagerly await the club’s doors to open on Monday morning.

OUTDOOR FUNERAL OPTIONS AVAILABLE

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Stop the Presses: Local paper chopped after seven decades

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Website: www.distinqtcarhire.com.au Email: info@distinqt.com.au Phone: 1300 831 191

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enrith has lost its longest-running newspaper, with News Corp axing the print edition of the Penrith Press after 73 years.

The decision by News Corp last week comes after the Press suspended printing at the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, meaning the publication has already printed for the final time.

First launched in 1947, the Press once printed twice a week in the Penrith market but axed its Tuesday edition in 2015, before closing its High Street, Penrith office two years later and centralising much of its operations.

News Corp said it will retain the Penrith Press’ digital presence, which currently exists largely behind the paywall of The Daily Telegraph.

A long list of other publications have also been axed or will transform to digital- only titles, including the Blacktown Advocate, Canterbury Bankstown Express, Parramatta Advertiser and Fairfield Advance. Many regional titles are also impacted, with around 100 newspapers closing overall as News Corp shifts its focus from print to digital.

2/13 - 15 Gallipoli Street, St Marys NSW 2760

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An edition of the Press from the 1960s.

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FRUIT AND VEG DIRECT FROM WESTERN SYDNEY PARKLANDS URBAN FARMS PLUS OTHER LOCAL PRODUCERS WWW.LIZARDLOGMARKETS.COM | 9747 1986

An edition of the Press from the 1980s. that matter to their communities – particularly in outer-metro and regional Australia,” she said.

“The loss of print editions is particularly hard on those Australians in the digital divide, including the elderly, who will no longer be able to read the local paper.”

NSW Shadow Minister for Western Sydney, Greg Warren, said the importance of local media should not be undervalued.

“The dedication and passion of those involved in local media often goes unheralded,” he said.

“But make no mistake, local media play a crucial role in shaping communities for the better.”

News Corp’s decision means The Western Weekender is now the only weekly local newspaper in the Penrith region.

Independently owned, it will celebrate its 30th birthday next year.

For more than 25 years three major newspapers went head to head in Penrith – the Weekender, the Press and the Penrith City Star, which later became the Penrith City Gazette.

Fairfax Media axed the Gazette in 2017, along with five other local publications.

Like the Press, the Gazette had moved to more centralised operations.

The Weekender continues to run its sales, editorial and production operations from its Jamisontown office.

News Corp Executive Chairman Michael Miller said the business was making “fundamental” but “necessary” changes, which would result in job losses across the organisation. He thanked departing staff for their “professionalism, dedication and contribution”.

“They have provided News with invaluable years of service,” he said.

“Their passionate commitment to the communities in which they live and work and their role in ensuring these have been informed and served by trusted local media has been substantial.”

Federal Shadow Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the loss of jobs and publications was disappointing.

“Local journalists play an essential role in breaking news and telling the stories One of the final editions of the Press.

Orchard Hills and Luddenham confirmed as stops on new airport rail line NICOLA BARTON

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onstruction on a rail link connecting St Marys to Western Sydney Airport will begin later this year, with more funding injected into the project to ensure its delivery by 2026.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison visited the airport site at Badgerys Creek on Monday, offering bold promises of job growth and a long- term economic boost to western Sydney thanks to the $11 billion metro line project.

Under a new agreement between the State and Federal Governments, a further $3.5 billion will be injected into the metro line construction to ensure it’s running when the airport begins operations. “The new metro and the new airport will deliver billions of dollars and thousands of jobs to western Sydney, while establishing the infrastructure needed now and into the future,� Mr Morrison said. “Construction is already well underway on the airport, and later this year works will start on this new metro service which will link the suburbs of western Sydney to the rest of Sydney.�

The metro line includes six proposed metro railway stations, including two stations within the airport site – at the

the western weekender Âť Friday, June 5, 2020

Metro stations locked in

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh and Prime Minister Scott Morrison at Badgerys Creek on Monday. airport terminal and at the airport business park – as well as a station serving the commercial heart of the Aerotropolis.

A station will also be at St Marys, interchanging with the existing railway station and connecting commuters with the rest of the rail system. Orchard Hills and Luddenham will also have stations.

NSW Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance could not confirm the exact location of the stations at Orchard Hills and Luddenham, but conceded some homes will be acquired. “The beauty of this project is that there are not that many properties that we actually have to deal with,� he said.

The construction phase alone is set to support 14,000 jobs. “Each one of these jobs mean people in our community can work where they live, contribute to our local economy, spend less time in traffic and more time with their families,� said Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

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Glen-more housing: Council paves the way for more than 2,500 new properties ALENA HIGGINS

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enrith Council has endorsed a planning proposal that could see rural land to the south of Glenmore Park re-zoned to make way for more than 2,500 new homes.

Known as ‘Glenmore Park Stage 3’, the 206- hectare rezoning area is slated to provide about 2,550 to 2,650 dwellings on varying lot sizes, a new neighbourhood centre, a primary school, retail shops, five playing fields and a network of public open space and environmental corridors.

The planning proposal sparked lengthy discussion when it was tabled last week, with many Councillors expressing concerns, despite acknowledging a significant improvement since it for first brought to Council by Mirvac in May 2018.

Minimum lot sizes of 180sqm, lack of transport infrastructure, housing densities, and noise abatement along The Northern Road were raised.

Councillor Kath Presdee declared she was still “not entirely sold” on the proposal, saying Council had been “burnt very badly” by a number of other developments in the past.

“I don’t want this to be the starting point for the negotiations in five years’

The site is bounded by Glenmore Park to the north, The Northern Road to the east, Chain-O-Ponds Road to the south and the Mulgoa Nature Reserve and rural-residential properties to the west. time when they are actually trying to sell and say ‘oh no, for affordable housing we need lot sizes of 150sqm not 180sqm’,” Cr Presdee said.

Councillors Robin Cook said Kevin Crameri raised environmental issues in relation to the proposal.

Online scams on the rise during Coronavirus crisis

“If we’re serious about the heat problem we have out here in Penrith, and there’s going to be, I think it’s 637 dwellings that are around that 180sqm, well where do you put the tree?” Cr Cook said.

Deputy Mayor Karen McKeown and Councillor Mark Davies worried about

the distance to Penrith Train Station and further pressure on The Northern and Mulgoa roads, which are already under significant pressure and are currently being upgraded.

“I just think we are going to exacerbate a problem that we have already got,” Cr Davies said, adding he didn’t think it would work well in the long-term “at all”.

To deliver a mix of housing types and affordability, about 1,830 dwellings will have an average lot size of approximately 400sqm, with a 300sqm minimum permissible, while 637 will have an average lot size of about 210sqm, with an 180sqm minimum.

Approximately 20 per cent of the site would be conserved for green space and public recreation.

The motion was eventually passed, eight votes to five, and will now proceed to the gateway process.

Councillors Tricia Hitchen, John Thain, Brian Cartwright, Aaron Duke, Mayor Ross Fowler, Todd Carney, Bernard Bratusa and Greg Davies voted for the motion, while Councillors Robin Cook, Deputy Mayor Karen McKeown, Kevin Crameri, Kath Presdee and Mark Davies voted against.

Councillors Marcus Cornish and Jim Aitken were absent from the meeting and did not vote.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Thousands of new homes

PUBLIC NOTICE Naming of Roads

Tarek Rifai is urging locals to be aware of scams. Photo: Megan Dunn.

EMILY FESZCZUK

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ocal residents are being urged to be more careful than ever with their personal information, with scams on the rise during the pandemic.

The ACCC’s Scamwatch has received over 2700 spam reports mentioning COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, with over $1 million in reported losses.

Common scams include phishing for personal information, online shopping and superannuation.

Glenmore Park Tacomp IT business owner Tarek Rifai said he has dealt with

a lot of local victims lately, with scam emails and websites often looking so realistic that users only realise they’ve been tricked when it’s too late.

Mr Rifai said there are things you can do to prevent being caught by scammers.

“Always set strong passwords and never share too much personal information or financial details unless you know that the site is a trusted organisation,” he said.

“Don’t let anyone access your computer if they call you, don’t open any links from emails without checking the address, and if you think it isn’t safe get someone you trust to help you check.”

NAME

LOCATION

Peartree Circuit, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Meyer Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Cargo Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Plumcott Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Paling Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Apple Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Tramway Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Chapman Street (extension), Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Spinifex Road, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Steam Lane, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Corymbia Road, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Gauge Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

Spur Street, Off Chapman Street

Werrington

For further information, please contact Mrs Cindye Russell on 4732 7617.

penrith.city

WW41023

Pursuant to Clause 7 of the Roads Regulation 2008, notice is hereby given that an application has been received for the naming of the following road/s.

9

my Penrith

Elicia Symes

In 1984, the old RAAF Barracks site was purchased by Penrith City Council for $1.725 million to build a new Civic Centre incorporating the Chambers, administrative centre and library. Construction would not start until 1991, with the project completed in 1993. The Civic Centre remains there today.

C

J’s Crab Shack started with a vision – to deliver the food of Southern USA and ensure patrons were able to escape the rat race and have some fun while dining.

The fresh menu of classic flavours from the seafood boil to the classic burgers and grilled options are prepared from the best seasonal produce available. Ensuring the quality of your meal is of utmost importance to the entire team.

CJ’s Crab Shack focuses on fun, its tagline of ‘Get Messy’ is not a marketing ploy, it is exactly what they want you to do. Put your phones in a bucket, grab a board game and relax and enjoy yourself while you wait for your meal to arrive. And once your meal is there, honestly, just dig in and get messy, that’s why they have bibs on hand, because how else would you eat all that amazing seafood!

CJ’s Crab Shack is located inside Panthers. To book, call 4720 5652.

The Weekender has a $100 CJ’s Crab Shack gift voucher to give away. For your chance to win, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Crab’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, June 19 and the winner will be notified by email. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/20/05506. Terms and conditions are available at our website or reception.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

Fun fact Friday

In all of the corporate messages that have come out in the wake of George Floyd’s death in the United States and the subsequent protests, Reebok won the Internet for us. In a message to its social media followers, it said: “Without the black community, Reebok would not exist.

America would not exist. We are not asking you to buy our shoes. We are asking you to walk in someone else’s. To stand in solidarity. To find our common ground of humanity.” There’s a lot of noise out there at the moment, but this message sums it all up perfectly.

The NSW court of appeal this week upheld a ruling that media companies can be held responsible for defamatory comments under stories they post on Facebook. It is a stunning ruling, and one that has major ramifications for media companies. Facebook does not allow comments to be turned off on posts, meaning media companies may have to employ 24/7 monitoring of their social media pages in an effort to avoid an avalanche of defamation claims. According to the court, publishers have “sufficient control” over the platform.

Dose of Dorin

Claremont Meadows

10

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Ton Siams in St Marys.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? Daily Break.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? O’Donoghues.

FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Nepean River or Jamison Park (playgrounds for the kids).

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The people. I meet so many new mums through my Kangatraining business, and the way they welcome new mums each and every time is amazing. Exercising with a baby can be daunting, the more experienced mums really help the new ones feel at ease.

WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? How close it is to so many adventures. We can swim or go for a bush walk, get to campgrounds or find a new playground. Our dog can come with us. Ride bikes and scooters, have a picnic.

Connect with us online... facebook.com/westernweekender

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westernweekender

Ownership of Castlereagh Cemetery officially transferred to Penrith City Council ALENA HIGGINS

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aintenance and preservation of Castlereagh’s historic grave site have been solidified, with ownership officially being transferred to Penrith City Council.

Recognised as one of the oldest undisturbed graveyards in Australia, the Castlereagh Cemetery houses the final resting place of many early pioneers and members of the First Fleet.

The bush cemetery contains at least 64 monuments, however depressions in the ground suggest there are many unmarked graves scattered throughout.

Families represented at the cemetery – which is situated adjacent to the eastern side of the intersection of Church Lane and Wilchard Road – include MacHenry, Single, Hadley, Field, Herbert, Rope, Fraser and Mills.

Records show the first burial occurred in 1811, while the earliest headstone still standing is that of Mary Ann Smith, who died aged 34 on May 20, 1814.

Councillor John Thain welcomed the move and hopes Council will highlight and provide prominent directions to the sacred site, so locals can better understand its significance.

Councillors John Thain and Ross Fowler at the Castlereagh Cemetery, which has huge significance to local and national history. Photo: Megan Dunn.

“I think probably under the previous management it hasn’t been made as important to the City as it is,” he said

during Council’s Ordinary meeting last week.

“I mean, this is a place of first settlement

where there is a lot of our early fathers that are buried there.

“Really quite important people in the history, not just of Sydney but our country as well, and I think it deserves better significance.”

The cemetery is the only remnant of the township envisioned by Governor Lachlan Macquarie – who proclaimed in 1810 that Castlereagh would become one of five new towns established in the colony.

Although the area, which today lies on the outer edge of Cranebrook, was surveyed with a town square, streets with lots allocated and a cemetery, it failed to evolve, with most settlers preferring to live on their farms close to the river where there was a guaranteed water supply rather than on high, flood-free ground.

From 1815, the town of Penrith also began to develop following the completion of the new western road from Parramatta to Emu Plains, making the area south of Castlereagh more attractive.

The Anglican Church Property Trust transferred the cemetery to Council, which has been maintaining the site for several years, for a nominal fee of $10.

What is your favourite historical place in Penrith to visit? We’d love to hear your stories. Email news@westernweekender. com.au or call 4722 2998.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Preserving crucial history

Vital program to be axed “People will unnecessarily end up in jail”: Dire warning from disability experts NICOLA BARTON

A

fter getting in trouble with the law last year, Kingswood resident Kirra Cochrane, who lives with an intellectual disability, was facing potential imprisonment.

Now, thanks to support from the Cognitive Impairment Diversion Program (CIDP) she has avoided jail time, gained employment and for the first time, been able to access the support she needs.

But despite the program changing lives, it is set to be axed this month by the State Government.

Ms Cochrane, along with the NSW Council for Intellectual Disability, is lobbying for the program to remain, in fear more people with disabilities will fall through the cracks.

“If it weren’t for CIDP I would have gone to jail, they’ve completely turned my life around,” she said.

“Thanks to CIDP I got a proper diagnosis which my caseworker used to get me better support and more funding from the NDIS. “She took the time and had the patience to listen to what I had to say so that I got the help I needed.”

The Cognitive Impairment Diversion Program was piloted from October 2017 at Gosford and Penrith Local Courts.

NSW Council for Intellectual Disability Senior Advocate, Jim Simpson, said the CIDP provides a vital bridge between the justice system and support services.

“People with cognitive disability are often charged with offences like fare evasion, shoplifting, drug possession and assaults,” he said.

“Often, their offences flow from their lack of understanding of legal rules and how to deal with difficult situations.

“Too often, magistrates send a person to jail, not because they want to, but because the person lacks the services to help them keep out of trouble.

“If the CIDP closes down, the opportunity to break a cycle of offending and lead a positive lifestyle will be lost for many people with cognitive disability and many people will unnecessarily end up in jail.”

The Department of Communities and Justice commissioned an evaluation and cost benefit analysis of the program, which was finalised in April 2019.

The findings concluded that the program was resource intensive, lacked timeliness and overall, was not cost effective.

A Department of Communities and Justice spokesperson said a transition plan to manage the end of the pilot has been developed, with support for clients available through the existing Statewide Community and Court Liaison Service and the Justice Advocacy Service.

Kingswood resident Kirra Cochrane. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

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From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap

COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Driver who caused fatal crash to be sentenced in October

The driver who killed a teenage girl and a woman heavily pregnant with twins in a horrific crash at Orchard Hills will have to wait until later this year to learn his fate.

Richard Moananu, of Glenmore Park, was due to be sentenced last Friday, however the 30-year-old’s matter was adjourned to October due to COVID-19, which has caused extensive re-listing of court dates.

Moananu previously pleaded guilty in December 2019 to two counts of ‘manslaughter’ and one count of ‘aggravated dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm’ following the fatal crash.

The offender’s sentence will come more than two years after he lost control of his Mazda 3 and veered onto the wrong side of The Northern Road, slamming into a Nissan Tiida travelling northbound near Glenmore Parkway about 7.40pm on September 28, 2018.

The 17-year-old learner driver Anh Thu Belinda Hoang died at the scene, along with newlywed Katherine Gordon, 23, who was weeks away from giving birth to twin boys, who also perished.

Ms Gordon’s husband, Bronko Hoang, who was travelling in the front passenger seat, was placed in an induced coma but survived.

Court documents reveal Moananu was a cancelled driver, had cannabis in his system and was more than three times the legal alcohol limit at the time of the collision.

Additional charges relating to his intoxication and licence status will be taken into account on sentence.

The maximum penalty for manslaughter is 25 years behind bars.

Moananu, who remains bail refused, will be sentenced at Penrith District Court on October 8.

Man’s long criminal record gets another chapter

A man who assaulted his mother and

14

was found to have hidden a loaded firearm in his roof has been jailed for a minimum of nine months.

The 28-year-old appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday via video link and was handed a 15-month aggregate sentence with a nine-month non-parole period.

The court heard the man had pleaded guilty to ‘stalk/intimidate’, ‘possess unauthorised pistol’, ‘not keep firearm safe’, ‘possess ammunition’ and ‘common assault’ on March 17, the day of his defended hearing.

His lawyer told the court the man was raised in western Sydney by his mother and her boyfriend, who was both physically and mentally abusive.

He said his mother witnessed the abuse and did nothing to curb it, which lead to a strained relationship.

On the day of the offending, the pair had argued over money after the mother, who had recently received an insurance payout, refused to give him any.

The man then assaulted the woman, punching her to the right side of her head and pulling her hair.

He also threatened to kill her other children and himself.

When officers attended the house, the victim told them her son had a flare gun secreted in the roof, which was found to be loaded.

He was arrested and bail-refused on September 3.

His lawyer conceded the threshold for a custodial sentence had been crossed, but said the man was now addressing his childhood trauma.

He asked Magistrate Brian van Zuylen to find special circumstances and not to take any action on the breach of his client’s good behaviour bond, which he received for driving while disqualified.

He said the offender was trade qualified as a concreter and required his licence for employment.

Magistrate van Zuylen said the man’s record, which spanned 24 pages, was a

“poor one” and did not assist him. He said given the “extreme seriousness” of the loaded firearm, there was no other alternative than full-time imprisonment.

However, he said the court did not want to impose a “crushing sentence” upon him.

The man’s bond was revoked and he was disqualified for three months.

He was eligible for release last Tuesday following time already served.

Man avoids jail after being caught with drugs and knife

A man charged with drug possession and custody of a knife has received convictions and good behaviour bonds.

Michael Gary Murphy, 36, fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday charged with three counts of ‘possess prohibited drug’ and one count of ‘custody of a knife’.

His lawyer told the court Murphy was homeless and had been couch surfing since 2016.

She said he had completed the Magistrate’s Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) program for his habitual drug use and he was on the wait list for residential rehabilitation.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen noted he was already on a good behaviour bond for carrying a tyre iron, which he claimed was for safety, then was found with a meat clever on February 26, then a knife on March 4.

“There is a very strong community interest for you not to carry any weapons, especially given your past drug use and mental health issues,” he said.

He said the only reason he wasn’t considering a jail sentence was because Murphy had completed the MERIT program.

Magistrate van Zuylen noted he was still using drugs but had stopped using heroin and wanted to improve himself, describing it as “very impressive”.

He was convicted with no further penalty for the drug possession charges, while he was handed 15-month super-

vised Community Correction Orders for the remaining matters.

Woman in prison hid drugs, but escapes further jail time

Alison Maree Don has escaped jail time despite pleading guilty to possessing drugs in prison.

Don, who is currently at liberty, faced Penrith Local Court last Thursday and her lawyer requested an adjournment to obtain mental health records.

But Magistrate Brian van Zuylen indicated he would not require them.

He said despite Don’s lengthy record, he was not persuaded on this occasion to send her back to jail.

The court heard while Don was lining up to receive methadone in custody, she was searched and found to have secreted 1g worth of drugs down her backside.

Magistrate van Zuylen determined fulltime imprisonment was the only option, but took into account she had already spent 20 days in custody on the matter and had also received other prison sanctions at the time.

She was sentenced to time already served.

Man pleads not guilty over police pursuit charges

Elijah Delaney has pleaded not guilty to instigating a police pursuit.

Delaney’s lawyer entered the plea on his behalf at Penrith Local Court last Thursday.

She also entered a plea of not guilty to a charge of ‘never licenced’.

Several other charges, including ‘offensive language’, ‘damage property’, ‘throw missile at police’, ‘stalk/intimidate’, ‘use carriage service’ and ‘breach AVO’ were adjourned for representations to police.

Bail was not applied for and it was formally refused.

More court news: Make sure you visit www.westernweekender.com.au for local news as it happens.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R

COMPLETE L E G A L & C O N V E YA N C I N G

LegalMatters

Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

Investigations are ongoing after the body of a man was discovered on the balcony of a Penrith apartment.

About 2.45pm on Thursday, May 28, emergency services were called to Lethbridge Street, Penrith following reports of a fire on the balcony of a unit complex.

Officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance paramedics attended.

After the fire was extinguished, the body of a man was located on the balcony. He is yet to be formally identified.

A crime scene was established and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire is underway.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Cranebrook: Trail bike rider hid from police under mattress

Police have charged a man just one week after launching their Trail Bike Unit operation.

About 1.50pm on Sunday, May 31 the Nepean Police Area Command Trail Bike Unit were patrolling the Cranebrook area when they saw a male person riding an unregistered 60cc KTM Trail Bike in the reserve west of Collen Place.

Upon seeing police, it is alleged the man attempted to kick start the cycle before abandoning the motorcycle and jumping the rear boundary fence onto a property on Collen Place. A pursuit was initiated.

As police entered the rear yard they witnessed the man run into the front door of the address. Police entered and arrested a 23-year-old Jordan Springs man who has attempted to hide under a mattress.

The man was charged with ‘drive whist disqualified’, ‘operate vehicle so as to harass/intimidate person in a public place’, ‘use unregistered vehicle’, ‘motor bike rider not wear approved helmet’ and ‘goods in suspected of being stolen’.

He is to appear in Penrith Local Court at a later date.

with Daniel McKinnon

Penrith: Expensive bike stolen from High Street shop

Police are appealing for witnesses after a mountain bike was stolen from a High Street store on Sunday, May 31.

About 5.50am CCTV footage shows an unknown male person forcing the roller door open on a bicycle store on High Street, Penrith.

The man then forces a glass door off its hinges before entering the premises.

Once inside he began moving several bikes around the store before leaving with a Pivot Mach 6 Alloy Race XT 27.5” black/blue mountain bike, valued at $6499. Investigations are continuing.

Penrith: Man with toy gun threatens to “kill” bystander

A 21-year-old Mt Druitt man has been charged after he threatened a person with a replica pistol outside Penrith Police Station.

About 7.50pm on Saturday, May 30 police were alerted to a male who was walking past the station and allegedly pointing a firearm at the front doors.

He then pointed the gun at a bystander and threatened to kill him.

The victim rushed to the police station to report the incident and CCTV of the incident was reviewed.

Further reviews of the footage showed a possible red or orange tip on the gun, suggesting it to be a toy.

Extensive inquiries were made that evening and the following day.

About 6pm on Sunday, May 31 the 21-year-old Mt Druitt man was arrested in Reserve Street, Penrith for unrelated matters.

At this time arresting police realised he was wearing the same clothing depicted in the footage the previous night.

He was searched and a black toy gun with an orange tip was located on his person.

He was charged and faced Penrith Local Court where he was refused bail and sectioned for a Mental Health assessment.

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The Federal government is set to announce a multi-billion dollar construction stimulus package to create new jobs and fill an expected shortfall in new home constructions as a result of the COVID-19 economic slowdown.

The Prime Minister has said that the government is close to finalising the package, which will reportedly include new home grants of up to $20,000 to encourage people to buy land and build on it.

This package is similar to the State based new home builders bonus that existed a number of years ago in NSW to stimulate activity in the construction industry.

It has also been reported that the stimulus package will include grants to owners of existing homes who wish to complete renovations.

It is understood that the renovations grants will need to be matched by the homeowner at least dollar for dollar and used to fund substantial renovations as opposed to small projects.

The stimulus package is aimed at stymying a projected 30 per cent decline in construction in NSW. The package comes off the back of continued speculation that the NSW State government is going to dump

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stamp duty, putting tens of thousands of dollars back in the pockets of buyers to stave off any COVID-19 related property market decline.

As we reported in our column two weeks ago, there is already plenty of optimism back in the market as a result of the reintroduction of open homes, auctions, and the continued easing of restrictions in the State.

We spoke with a number of local real estate agents in preparation for penning this article who all reported a significant increase in numbers through open homes and plenty of activity in the local property market.

These pleasing signs come off the back of a continued COVID-19 transmission rate of less than one per cent and the reopening of dozens of local cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs in the Penrith LGA, albeit currently subject to ongoing restrictions.

The Federal and State governments also announced this week that the metro line between St Marys and the Western Sydney Airport is to be fast tracked, announcing stations at Orchard Hills, Luddenham, the proposed Western Sydney Business Park, and the Aerotropolis.

The multi-billion dollar infrastructure project will bring more people, and importantly more money, to the local area in a huge plus for Penrith and its surrounding suburbs.

After a number of months of nothing but bad news, it is great to see some positivity returning to Penrith.

Read more about the airport metro announcement: See Nicola Barton’s story on page 7.

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Penrith: Police investigating discovery of man’s body

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Lifeline for HSC students Western Sydney University to consider Year 11 results due to COVID-19 disruption EMILY FESZCZUK

Y

ear 12 students who have had their HSC studies disrupted by COVID-19 have been thrown a lifeline by Western Sydney University (WSU).

School leavers can now apply based on their Year 11 results, giving them peace of mind about going to university next year.

The university’s True Reward early offer program will be based on the students’ HSC subject results instead of the scaled ATAR. WSU Vice- Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover, said it is another way to open access to higher education.

“We know how much stress the COVID19 pandemic has caused Year 12 students and their families, worrying about what this might mean for gaining entry into their preferred course for next year,” he said.

“We wanted to help relieve students and their families of some of that anxiety, so they can focus all their energies on the HSC and doing well in their final year exams.”

For St Marys Senior College student Emily Bouchet, the program brings a sense of relief as she has struggled with online learning.

“Things have changed so rapidly for Year 12 students moving to online study as there is nowhere near the amount of structure and you aren’t necessarily in the right head space to learn when you’re thrown into something,” she said.

“Learning from home takes a toll and the last few months have had an impact on my wellbeing and I have asked myself a few times whether I should complete my HSC. “Everyone has been affected during this time but the idea of having to live up to usual expectations is very unrealistic and it has been hard so anything that can give some sympathy to students’ situations is helpful.”

Ms Bouchet hopes to finish her HSC and achieve her goal of studying psychology at university with the help of the program.

“I think it’s important to finish the year as best I can and after my own mental health struggles, I can empathise with others and want to help,” she said.

“Anything universities can do to ease the pressure on students will be welcomed and I want to study at WSU because I have heard it’s a nurturing environment and I think it will be a good fit for my learning style.

For more information, visit www.westernsydney.edu.au/hsctruereward.

Year 12 student Emily Bouchet is planning to study at Western Sydney University.

Famous support program goes online during crisis

SCHOOL CANTEEN LICENCE JAMES ERSKINE PUBLIC SCHOOL Tenders are called for the licence of the School Canteen commencing 14 July 2020 and for a fixed term + options to renew which add up to 5 years in total. Annual school enrolments are approximately 570 students. General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to:

Anyone is welcome to attend a local Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.

Mrs Mandy Anderson School Administrative Manager James Erskine Public School Telephone: 9834 3009

EMILY FESZCZUK

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The Principal: Ms Kim Dunscombe James Erskine Public School 53 Peppertree Drive Erskine Park, NSW 2759 Tenders close at 3pm on 23 June 2020 A tender visit and briefing session is planned to be held in the near future.

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n organisation all about milestones is celebrating one of its own this month with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) reaching 75 years of operation in Australia.

And it reaches the diamond anniversary at the height of one of its biggest challenges – helping Australians to stop drinking at the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, with traditional meetings unable to be held.

“We would meet in community centres, churches or halls but all the spaces we usually rent have been closed so we had to move our meetings online via Zoom to keep everyone connected,” a local AA spokesperson said.

“Most of our meetings happen at the exact time they normally would in person with all of the details on our website and, in future, we will continue having an online presence to reach more people.”

The spokesperson said anyone is always welcome to join the group to help solve a common problem that impacts many people.

“Anybody can turn up to a meeting to find out information, you don’t have to let anyone know who you are or become a member and there are no leaders who are in charge of the group,” he said.

Some 19 AA meetings are run throughout the Penrith Local Government Area each week.

Visit www.aa.org.au or call 1300 22 22 22 for more information.

They care for our furry friends, but who looks after them?

EMILY FESZCZUK

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ith veterinary suicides likely to happen four times more than the general public and double the rate of doctors or dentists, the industry is facing a mental health crisis.

Professionals are speaking out to prevent more lives being lost.

Greencross Vets Coreen Avenue Veterinary Director Nicole McMillan said while the profession is rewarding, it does have some real issues.

“I love my job and feel privileged to be able to assist pets and their owners throughout every stage, however vets do struggle with some aspects of our career and suicide is common,” she said.

“My first brush with suicide occurred six months after my graduation when one of my mates ended his life alone in a country town after a difficult time in a new job and being on call for several weeks straight.”

With abuse being a contributing factor, Dr McMillan said the community needs to be aware of the stress vets encounter.

“Physical violence isn’t as common, but I have been punched at and held up against a consult wall one night on- call by myself trying to protect a puppy and her owner from a partner in a domestic violence situation,” she said.

Police will be back out in force to target drink and drug drivers as stationary Random Breath Test (RBT) and Roadside Drug Test (RDT) operations recommence across NSW. Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the easing of COVID- 19 restrictions on licensed premises and regional travel called for a return of proactive stationary testing operations.

“Irresponsible or reckless behaviour that endangers others will not be tolerated – there’s no excuse for not abiding by the road rules and police will be there to catch you if you flout the law,” he said.

RBT and RDT operations were suspended at the height of the Coronavirus pandemic due to health concerns.

Operations resumed on Wednesday.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Vets at high suicide risk

RBTs back in force

Approval push

Vets Nicole McMillan, Sandy Gale, Laura McGuffog, Anita Trinh and Erin Short.

“Verbal abuse happens on a fairly regular basis especially about the cost and I get told if I loved animals I wouldn’t charge, but veterinary care isn’t subsidised by Medicare like human care, so the price is out of our control.”

Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) President Warwick Vale said reducing suicide risk factors was critical.

“The AVA is here to support all members of the veterinary profession, especially those experiencing stress, anxiety and other impacts to their mental health,” he said.

“We’ve implemented a range of initiatives to support veterinary mental health and wellbeing.”

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

There’s calls for planning approvals for the Nepean Business Park to be fasttracked.

David Borger, Executive Director of the Western Sydney Business Chamber, said that the business park was a critical project for the west that would generate jobs and establish new businesses.

“It is essential that projects such as the Nepean Business Park are given the green light to get western Sydney and the Australian economy up and running as fast as possible,” he said.

“There is no doubt that the public benefit will be enormous, which include the benefits to the local economy and employment.”

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

I am proud to announce that Council is set to invest millions towards shade provisions for 90 playspaces within our City. The three-year program to upgrade the playspaces includes more trees and new shade structures which was an outcome from the Cooling the City Masterclass held earlier this year.

The program forms part of a shade assessment that was completed last year as part of Council’s Shade Facilities at Playspaces Policy. The assessment noted 90 playspaces were in need of shade to improve the experience for adults and children and to help us beat the heat during our summer months.

With increased shade, our playspaces will be used more frequently throughout the year, play equipment will stay cooler to the touch and the area generally will be more comfortable for everyone during warm days.

The works will start this month and take place on a rolling schedule until

2023. While there will be some disruption to the use of playgrounds during this time, we’ve worked to minimise this by scheduling the upgrades during normal business hours between Monday to Friday. You will still be able to enjoy the use of our playgrounds on weekends and public holidays.

Our tree planting program will be delivered during times of optimal growing conditions throughout the three-year period. We envisage the trees will provide a long-term shade solution in each location and deliver additional benefits such increased habitat for our wildlife and reduced noise pollution.

While our new shade provisions will help to protect from the sun, it’s still always important to be sun smart and slip, slop, slap.

We look forward to welcoming you to our new and improved playspaces soon!

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: Keep up to date with all the local breaking news, sport and more by ‘liking’ us on Facebook. Visit www.facebook.com/ westernweekender.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Volunteers wrap Penrith with love for fourth straight year

Next generation of front line heroes honoured with awards NICOLA BARTON

S

Blankets were handed over to local community groups on Monday.

NICOLA BARTON

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rapping up the community with love for the fourth consecutive year, The Creative Fringe had its first handover of knitted blankets to local not-for-profit services.

As part of their Think Outside the Square initiative, volunteers knit or crochet 20x20cm squares which are later made into larger blankets and donated to the homeless, domestic violence survivors and other people in need.

On Monday, the first round of completed blankets were handed over to representatives from Mama Lana’s, Westcare and Penrith Community Kitchen to help spread the love and warmth this winter.

“This little idea that I had four years ago has turned into an incredible community movement,” The Creative Fringe’s Debbie O’Connor said.

Over the years the challenge has donated 224 blankets.

Squares can be dropped off at their contactless set-up point at Unit 6, 51 York Road, Jamisontown. Call 1300 722 896.

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front-line heroes getting involved during these difficult times.

“These winners are fine examples of enthusiastic young people who have devoted their time to help protect lives and communities.”

Penrith author’s new book aims to help others heal

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Ella Jayne West has written a new book. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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ome of the state’s youngest heroes have been recognised as the 2020 Young People in Emergency Services Award winners are announced.

15- year- old Oxley Park resident Zara El- Khodr was crowned NSW RFS Cadet of the Year for her devotion to volunteer duties.

Zara said she felt honoured to receive the award.

“The program helped me gain confidence and get me out of my comfort zone,” she said.

“It has also helped me appreciate and understand the risk that the RFS put themselves in to help our country every day.”

NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott said the award program is an opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable role of young people who work in emergency services and associated fields.

“These exceptional young people have been recognised for their outstanding participation and achievements and I congratulate every single person involved,” he said.

“The unprecedented ‘Black Summer’ bush fires saw our emergency service workers challenged beyond belief and I’m so proud to see the next generation of

enrith author Ella Jayne West wants to use her path to healing to help others. She has written a book called Goodbye Narcissist, Hello Self Love, about dealing with domestic violence.

Ms West said after experiencing abuse herself, she decided to document her journey to self-love.

“It is sort of a semi memoir about my experience of when I looked at my history with relationships and recognised the signs and impacts of the abuse so that I could begin healing,” she said.

“Initially writing my feelings was just a part of my own process but when I got

further into it, I felt it was important to share as domestic and emotional violence is such a big issue in our community.”

With both men and women experiencing abusive relationships, Ms West hopes the resource that will be released in June will help others reach out.

“People might not be aware of the signs, so I wanted to get the message out that they are not crazy and there are red flags in bad relationships to identify.” she said.

“Once they see the patterns, they too can seek support to finally be safe and start their own healing journey.”

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/AGuideToHealingYourInnerWoundsThroughSelfLove.

Shift in demographics leads to calls for more youth facilities such as skate parks EMILY FESZCZUK

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ith more families choosing to live in the Penrith Local Government Area, demographics in certain areas are changing and so are residents’ needs.

Leonay locals want Council to consider more youth facilities to keep their kids entertained and active.

Mother of two, Stephanie Cook, is one of the many parents who has noticed a shift in the suburb.

“Since we moved here seven years ago, we noticed the change in demographics with the original older owners downsizing and more families moving in,” she said.

“Especially since COVID, you can see all the kids out on bikes, scooters and skateboards but there is nothing for them to do outdoors to be fit and have fun.”

The Penrith City Council Community Profile shows a growth trend in Leonay between 2006 and 2016 with an increase of 68 per cent for children aged five to 11.

Ms Cook said a mini skate ramp would be welcomed in the area.

“A few families in the area have built skate ramps in their backyards or regularly travel to other parks to safely keep active so a small beginner to intermediate style

skate park would cater to all. It would eliminate boredom, helps kids who don’t like traditional team sports and foster a community spirit with families coming together to socialise,” she said.

A Council spokesperson said anyone can put forward a suggestion to Council’s Sport and Recreation Strategy (SRS).

“The SRS provides strategic frameworks and direction for future open space, play, sport and recreation provision over the next 15 years. It also includes a program of work, including $125 million for capital projects to be delivered in the first five years,” the spokesperson said.

“It has been divided into timeframes for

delivery, these being short-term (1-5 years), medium- term (6- 10 years) and long- term (10-15 years). Reviews will be undertaken during each period to consider progress of implementation, community need, infrastructure development in the City, contemporary trends in sport and recreation, and resource availability.”

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Changing face of Leonay

Leonay families would love more youth facilities. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

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REHABILITATION WORK UNDERWAY ON FORMER QUARRY SITE Rehabilitation work on the former 47ha quarry site adjacent to the Sydney International Regatta Centre and the North Penrith employment area has commenced to restore the land to a standard suitable for the construction of the new Nepean Business Park.

The work involves major earthworks and a drainage scheme that will extract underground water trapped in fine sands left over from the quarry works.

A temporary layer of soil is placed on the surface which will compact the sands and push water up to the surface through wick drains for collection.

BOOST FOR LOCAL JOBS The rehabilitation works will create 250 jobs overall, with first stage works already seeing the employment of a substantial workforce which will continue to grow once sub-division and then building construction commences in the Nepean Business Park.

Mr Baudinet said a significant element of the works planned for the site included the extension of the Great River Walk which overlooks the Nepean River and Penrith Lakes.

“Precinct Capital is funding and building the walk extension as part of our contribution to the community. The firm will also provide connectivity with walk and cycle paths as well as environmental features through the business park.

“Once again, this is a jobs booster with the whole project generating more than 18,000 jobs overall”.

“This work is needed to first stabilise the land-form before the temporary soil layer is removed and further restoration earthworks are conducted to allow building construction and environmental plantings,” according to Precinct Capital Project Director Dylan Baudinet (pictured right).

“Rehabilitating this quarry site is a major engineering task and the method we are using is proven and regarded as world-best practice,” Mr Baudinet said.

Local Penrith firm Baker Group has been engaged to undertake first stage earthworks and began operations in April.

DESIGN FOR GREAT RIVER WALK A KEY FOCUS The firm responsible for designing the extension to the Great River Walk skirting the future Nepean Business

16km of path between the M4 Bridge and the village of Castlereagh. Mr Lorimer said the Walk’s extension in the

Park has a long history with planning for the Walk.

business park was a critical part of the project because the path bounding the business park to be constructed

by Precinct Capital is likely to prove highly popular, as it will link directly to the existing river paths close to the

Precinct Capital has engaged CLOUSTON & Associates to design the walk extension and surrounding landscape as part of the project’s community contribution.

Managing Director Crosbie Lorimer has worked with the Penrith City Council and other State bodies on numerous projects for the Great River Walk around Penrith and estimates that the walk could cover up to

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CBD. “The design for the Great River Walk is a key focus in the business park which will be a main gateway for users,” he said.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

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WHAT THEY SAY:

David Borger, Executive Director of the Western Sydney Business Chamber, has joined the chorus of voices calling for the fast-tracking of planning approvals for the new Nepean Business Park.

Mr Borger said that the business park was a critical project for the west because it would not only generate more than 18,000 jobs but it was a major driver for the establishment of more small to medium sized enterprises in Western Sydney.

“The impact of the coronavirus pandemic has forced the closure of businesses and threatened thousands of jobs in Western Sydney. It is essential that projects such as the Nepean Business Park are given the green light to get Western Sydney and the Australian economy up and running as fast as possible,” said Mr Borger.

The NSW Government has signed off on the exhibition of the rezoning for employment purposes of the land that would be the site of the business park, however major approvals were still needed from the Department of Planning, Infrastructure and Environment to allow infrastructure and building construction to take place.

“The Nepean Business Park is a common-sense project for Western Sydney at a time when we are desperately wanting to see business continue to invest in the region and start to kickstart the economy after COVID-19,” Mr Borger said.

Mr Borger said the Western Sydney Business Chamber had written to the Planning Minister suggesting the Nepean Business Park, which will occupy 46.9 hectares of land near Penrith Lakes, is a project worthy of the fast-tracked assessment process.

“There is no doubt that the public benefit will be enormous, which include the benefits to the local economy and employment.”

“This is about creating more jobs closer to where people live.”

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

“What is going to be developed... is something exceptional.”

Ross Fowler OAM Penrith Mayor

“... a great initiative... ... will help our employment status.”

Gai Hawthorn CEO CBD Corp.

“It’s going to generate jobs. It’s going to bring private investment...”

Simon Gould Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce

“... a project worthy of the fast-tracked assessment process.”

David Borger Western Sydney Business Chamber

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BORGER JOINS CHORUS BACKING BUSINESS PARK

BUSINESSES REGISTER BIG INTEREST Major interest in the Nepean Business Park has been received from small to medium-sized businesses with

“An impressive range of enterprises are showing interest. Everything from small scale manufacturing,

nearly 50 enterprises already indicating a desire to locate to the park.

food storage, technology firms, landscaping, cafés and local construction businesses have put their hand

Project Director Dylan Baudinet said he was delighted with the response.

up for a potential site at the Nepean Business Park,” he said.

21

Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

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MASKED PANTHER Footy fans go wild for Peter V’landys poster

PAGE 26

CELEBRITY TIPSTERS Not sure who to back this weekend? See who our local experts have picked.

PAGES 30-31

FACE IN THE CROWD No fans at games, but we’re still giving you the chance to win

PAGE 32

CLINTON MAYNARD Where to now? State Government chops ANZ upgrade plan

PAGE 33

MAKING A POINT PANTHERS STILL UNBEATEN AHEAD OF WARRIORS CLASH MATCH PREVIEW: PAGE 25

Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

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the final word

v

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 5, 2020

match preview

Brought to you by

Matt Burton attempts a field goal. Photo: NRL Images.

TROY DODDS

P

enrith go into Friday night’s match against the Warriors at Campbelltown Stadium with very little time to think about what happened, or what could have happened, at Campbelltown Stadium last Sunday afternoon.

While the Panthers walked away from their new temporary home with a vital competition point, coach Ivan Cleary and his team know that it should have been more. Up 14-0, and with Newcastle limping after losing Mitchell Pearce and Connor Watson early in the game, the Panthers had every right to steamroll their opposition (especially with 59 per cent of possession).

Instead, the young Panthers lacked composure and allowed their opposition the sniff they desperately needed just before half- time, changing the match completely. Penrith never picked their heads back up again after conceding that

FOX LEAGUE

TRIPLE M

FRIDAY, JUNE 5 | 6.00PM | CAMPBELLTOWN STADIUM | REFEREE: MATT CECCHIN try and Newcastle, full of belief and with Pearce yelling instructions from the sideline, grew in confidence by the minute.

With such a short turnaround, the Panthers have the opportunity to right the wrongs of last Sunday very quickly on Friday and go one better against a Warriors side that easily dismantled the Dragons.

Form lines here are difficult – the Warriors recorded their win on the back of a near perfect completion rate, something they’d be unlikely to repeat two weeks in a row. They also played an opposition bereft of ideas, that never really looked like crossing the line.

Penrith meanwhile seemed totally in control of their game for 39 minutes, before things went awfully awry. There were moments, however, that suggested the Panthers had come out of the shutdown with a strong mindset and impressive fitness.

It makes for a tipster’s nightmare at Campbelltown on Friday.

The Warriors, already dealing with injury issues, will be without Agnatius Paasi for this week’s game due to suspension, while Peta Hiku is out with a rib injury.

The Panthers look set to field the same side that almost got the job done on Sunday, with the only change being the addition of Liam Martin on the bench.

That means Brent Naden remains sidelined to make way for Stephen Crichton, the lanky centre that Penrith coach Ivan Cleary wants to give more game time. He also brings the added bonus of a strong goal kicking record.

With Nathan Cleary still sitting on the sideline, game management will remain an issue for Penrith for at least another week. Jarome Luai and Matt Burton are both talented players, but they lack the required experience to properly manage

PANTHERS

a set, and to get the best result come the last tackle. It’s only human nature Burton would also be rattled by his five missed field goal attempts against the Knights, so it’s likely he’ll be in his shell a little – at least at first – against the Warriors.

Penrith need the likes of James Tamou to step up, not only with rampaging runs and strong defence, but with the talk on the field. From the stands last Sunday, I noticed how often Josh Mansour injected himself into the on-field talk, but he can only do so much from the wing. Louder voices are needed from the centre of the park. As long as the Panthers take the positives out of the draw with Newcastle and don’t dwell on the disappointing aspects of the performance, I’m confident they can start well again and perhaps hold their lead, learning the lessons of the previous round.

Tip: Panthers by 6.

WARRIORS

1 Caleb Aekins

10 James Fisher-Harris

1 Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (c)

2 Josh Mansour

11 Viliame Kikau

2 Patrick Herbert

11 Eliesa Katoa

3 Dean Whare

12 Kurt Capewell

3 Karl Lawton

12 Tohu Harris

4 Stephen Crichton

13 Isaah Yeo

4 Gerard Beale

13 Isaiah Papali’i

5 Brian To’o

14 Mitch Kenny

5 Ken Maumalo

14 Jack Murchie

6 Matt Burton

15 Zane Tetevano

6 Kodi Nikorima

15 Poasa Faamausili

7 Jarome Luai

16 Moses Leota

7 Blake Green

16 King Vuniyayawa

10 Adam Blair

8 James Tamou (c)

17 Liam Martin

8 Jamayne Taunoa-Brown

17 Josh Curan

9 Apisai Koroisau

18 Brent Naden 19 Billy Burns

9 Wayde Egan

18 Chanel Harris-Tavita

25

Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

POSTER PROVES POPULAR

Dale Drinkwater proudly showing off her poster.

!

It was great to see so much attention surrounding Extra Time’s Peter V’landys poster last week. The poster was mentioned on Nine News, ‘Sports Sunday’, ‘NRL 360’, ‘The Matty Johns Podcast’, ‘The Matty Johns Show’, in The Daily Telegraph, on 2GB, 2KY and even radio stations in Perth. The great man was also spotted hanging outside of Panthers Stadium, and former Weekender journalist Dale Drinkwater even showed off her poster during a quick visit to Penrith. I hear the editorial team here at the paper are feverishly trying to think of their next cheeky promotion.

!

Major sponsors were well looked after at Campbelltown Stadium last Sunday, with massive banners adorning the vacant seats and most usual signage commitments met by the corporate team.

They got bang for their buck too, with impressive TV audience figures for the Panthers v Knights clash. Channel Nine had an average audience of 495,369 for the Golden Point thriller, while Fox League had an average audience of 242,048 – up four per cent on the Panthers’ 2019 average.

Our poster even made its way to Panthers Stadium.

!

While the crowd was missing from last Sunday’s clash at Campbelltown, most of the usual game day features were still part of the afternoon. Zac Bailey was there as ground announcer, the team list video went ahead as usual and even the Panthers’ mascot was on deck – sitting amongst the cardboard cutouts on the eastern side of the ground. There was some pre-match drama though – I hear a member of Channel Nine’s crew was sent home after recording a temperature above the NRL’s protocols.

shelved, Penrith’s patience may deliver rewards with Panthers Stadium back in the discussion about an overhaul. And the person who could make it happen?

None other than Peter V’landys. The ARLC boss is a huge fan of tribalism and suburban grounds, and has an ace up his sleeve as the State Government desperately tries to retain the Grand Final in Sydney. If he convinces the government to deliver an upgrade at Penrith, we won’t only print another poster – we’ll campaign for a statue!

!

!

There’s some talk doing the rounds that the Panthers may be talking with Castleford Tigers prop Liam Watts, possibly as a replacement for James Tamou next season. The 29-year-old has played close to 300 games in the UK, and while he does have a contract until the end of 2023, there’s whispers that an Australian adventure may be on the cards.

!

In sport and business, you often play the long game – which is exactly the approach Penrith officials took surrounding an upgrade to Panthers Stadium. With the ANZ Stadium upgrade now officially

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary was quick to console youngster Matt Burton in the dressing room after Penrith’s 14-all draw with Newcastle on Sunday. A quick conversation was important to ensure Burton didn’t dwell on the five missed field goals late in the game. Cleary told Burton he was proud of him for stepping up to take the shots. “He’ll grow from it,” the Panthers coach said.

!

The NRL last week confirmed it had reached a new agreement with broadcaster Fox Sports, with the pay television network to show NRL matches until

at least the end of 2027. Channel Nine remains off-contract at the end of 2022. “I want to thank Foxtel CEO Patrick Delany and Nine CEO Hugh Marks for reaching an outcome that puts the fans and the game’s future first,” said ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys. “Our negotiations were tough but always in a spirit of goodwill and shared ambitions for the betterment of rugby league. We could not have reached our May 28 restart ambitions without the teamwork and collaboration of our partners. These deals provide certainty to ensure our 16 clubs remain strong and that we can continue to invest in grassroots rugby league across our communities.”

!

Spotted: Veteran rugby league reporters Dean Ritchie and Brent Read swapping barbs while waiting for the post-match press conference to start at Campbelltown Stadium last Sunday.

!

The Panthers Shop has re-opened inside Panthers Leagues Club, with the club itself back in operation this week thanks to eased Coronavirus restrictions. Some good discounts are on offer, too.

OFFICIAL PARTNER

26

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PLAYERS RALLIED AROUND ‘BURTO’ NATHAN TAYLOR

M

att Burton’s teammates rallied around him on Sunday night after the 20- year- old fill- in fiveeighth missed five field goals that would’ve given Penrith victory against Newcastle.

With the scores locked at 14-all, Burton attempted to break the deadlock on numerous occasions but wasn’t successful.

While many rookie halves would’ve went into their shell after one or two misses, Burton persevered – proving he’ll be better for the experience in the long run.

Panthers powerhouse Viliame Kikau said Burton, who was filling in for a suspended Nathan Cleary, had the full trust of his teammates.

“All of us boys had faith in him to do the job,” he said.

“We know Nathan has the ability to steer the team around the park but, as we said after the game, we have a lot of trust in Burto too and I actually thought his kicking game was really good throughout the match.”

A disappointed Matt Burton on Sunday night. Photo: NRL Images.

Penrith winger Brian To’o said Burton was kicking stones after the nail-biter, but they showed him plenty of support in the sheds.

“We just tried to keep his spirits up, he was a bit down about it but we just kept him positive and told him to hold his head up high,” he said.

“Burto did his job but it wasn’t the outcome we needed. We win together, we lose together, we draw together.”

Penrith had a huge opportunity to go into Round 4 on the back of three consecutive wins, instead they had to settle for a rare draw last Sunday night – the club’s first since 2009 – after Newcastle fought back

feature

from 14-0 down. To’o said the group was disappointed they let the lead slip against a depleted Knights outfit.

“It wasn’t really the result we wanted but it was our first hit out with the new ‘six-again’ rule, and something we’ll take out of that is that we held our own and stuck together right to the very end,” he said.

“Obviously we didn’t come through with the win but we’ll continue to work on that and stay positive about it.”

Kikau, who scored the game’s opening try and was dominant every time he touched the ball, said his side needs to focus on both their starts and finishes.

“It’s been an issue the last two years, starting slow and then at the backend of the game we try and catch up,” he said.

“We’ve been doing that for the last two years, winning games in the final minute.

It was addressed during the pre- season about starting fast and being aggressive from the beginning.”

Kikau will be fit and raring to go against the Warriors tonight, despite concerns he’d suffered a shoulder problem against the Knights.

“The body is feeling good… I just had a stinger on the same shoulder that I did against the Roosters in Round 1,” he said.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, June 5, 2020

feature

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.®

HOMECOMING: PANTHERS KEEN ON RETURN TO PENRITH NATHAN TAYLOR

P

I do not remember too many games where I haven’t been on the edge of my seat till right to the end. Keep it up.

– Phil Brian To’o. Photo: NRL Images. that happened, we relocated and Campbelltown is our home ground now,” he said.

“Campbelltown feels like a home ground for me because that’s where I played my first NRL game.”

It’s understood the NRL is looking to play games at other venues across the league – including Panthers Stadium – from Round 10 onwards.

WW40190

opular Penrith winger Brian To’o is hoping it won’t be long before his side can return to playing games at Panthers Stadium again with ‘real’ fans watching on.

Last Sunday afternoon Penrith players got their first taste of their new home away from home when they took on the Knights at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

While the ground was in pristine condition, To’o said he’d love to be able to return to Panthers Stadium – with supporters in attendance – at some stage this year.

“We are praying and hoping the restrictions can be lifted and we can see some of the Penrith fans come back,” he said.

“Those cardboard cut- outs were a bit scary at times… I knew they were there but sometimes out of the corner of my eye I could see them moving. It was a bit off-putting, but I’m getting used to it.”

One player who is a big fan of Campbelltown is Viliame Kikau, who made his NRL debut at the ground in 2017. The big Fijian said the venue feels like “home”.

“With the pandemic and everything

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

nrl ladder & fixtures CLUB

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

1

Eels

3

3

0

0

0

88

14

+74

6

2

Raiders

3

3

0

0

0

66

18

+48

6

3

Knights

3

2

1

0

0

76

38

+38

5

4

Panthers

3

2

1

0

0

66

56

+10

5

5

Cowboys

3

2

0

1

0

81

50

+31

4

6

Sea Eagles

3

2

0

1

0

45

32

+13

4

7

W. Tigers

3

2

0

1

0

76

72

+4

4

8

Storm

3

2

0

1

0

36

36

0

4

9

Broncos

3

2

0

1

0

56

73

-17

4

10 Roosters

3

1

0

2

0

50

41

+9

2

11

3

1

0

2

0

52

68

-16

2

12 Warriors

3

1

0

2

0

24

40

-16

2

13 Sharks

3

0

0

3

0

44

62

-18

0

Rabbitohs

14 Dragons

3

0

0

3

0

42

74

-32

0

15 Bulldogs

3

0

0

3

0

24

64

-40

0

16 Titans

3

0

0

3

0

18

106

-88

0

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ROUND 4 V

Thursday, June 4 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium

V

Friday, June 5 6.00pm Campbelltown Stadium

V

Friday, June 5 7.55pm AAMI Park

V

Saturday, June 6 5.30pm Bankwest Stadium

V

Saturday, June 6 7.35pm QLD Country Bank Stadium

V

Sunday, June 7 4.00pm Campbelltown Stadium

V

Sunday, June 7 6.30pm Suncorp Stadium

V

Monday, June 8 8.00pm Bankwest Stadium

Face In Th e Crowd

IS THIS YOU YOU? U? Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game? If it is, you’ve won a $25 voucher to use at Hog’s Breath Cafe in Penrith or St Marys! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2020-009 PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au WRITERS Nathan Taylor, Clinton Maynard, Peter Lang SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

Contact us for a free planning guide to give you and your family peace of mind.

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lang on league

What game I’m looking forward to The Storm vs Rabbitohs game on Friday night is set to be a big one. Two powerhouse teams coming off less than impressive Round 3 performances squaring up in a match which may define their season.

Too early to make such statements? I don’t think so, especially in this shortened season. Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy said it like it is during his press conference after his side was well beaten 22-6 by the Green Machine while the old fox or should I say Bunny, Wayne Bennett, tried to wax lyrical about his side’s ‘effort’ and refused to push the panic button. Whoever wins this one will not only feel good about themselves but possibly kick start their season in the right direction as well.

What’s making news Unfortunately it’s not good news but I’ve heard there are up to six Penrith junior rugby league clubs which are close to going into voluntary administration. Let’s hope something can be done to keep them from going under.

My tips for the week Roosters, Panthers, Storm, Eels, Cowboys, Raiders, Tigers, Dragons.

The final word Well it’s only been one weekend but I already hate the ‘silent’ six-again referee’s call for ruck infringements. I say ‘silent’ because half the time you don’t even know what it’s for. There is some stupid loud and annoying ‘buzzer’ that goes off which is supposed to let the fans know that a ‘six again’ call has been made but then you have 0.02 seconds to digest why before the tackle count is restarted. Now this is hard enough to follow at home watching the game on TV where the commentary team alert you why the ‘six again’ tackle count has been given, how you’re ever going to know what it’s for when you’re at the ground watching the match, will be the real challenge. Plus it’s not touch football for crying out loud. I just hate it.

Until next week, you ain’t seen nothing yet!

Clinton Maynard NEW STADIUMS WILL SAVE NRL

I

’ve argued for a year in this column that outside of the Grand Final and Origin, ANZ Stadium is a soulless waste of space, so my initial reaction to the State Government’s announcement that it wouldn’t be rebuilt was disappointment.

That was before this name entered my mind, Peter V’landys. The leader of our game makes things happen, simple as that and he has the opportunity to transform rugby league in Sydney.

Critics laughed when he proposed a May 28 resumption of the competition when the country was still gripped by the Coronavirus but footy resumed last week and it’s never looked so attractive. For years we’ve whinged about the wrestle and tactics to slow down the ruck. V’landys didn’t send the issue off to a committee, he axed the two referee system and introduced the six-again rule and instantly we saw the wrestle take a back seat, small players benefit from big opponents suffering fatigue and free flowing football.

When he came to the job he declared his love of suburban football, he knows it is at the heart of the game, now he has the chance to allow it to thrive.

Very quickly he welcomed the decision to scrap the ANZ re- build, however he wants part of the $800 million saved.

He’s proposing three to four boutique

stadiums in Sydney, replacing antiquated suburban grounds. These would potentially be located at Brookvale, replacing Manly’s disgraceful ground; Sydney’s south, maybe Kogarah providing a home for the Dragons, Sharks and Sydney FC; and another in Campbelltown or Penrith.

These grounds would be 15 to 20 thousand in size and they’ve got to happen.

Dilapidated venues like Shark Park and even Panthers Stadium can’t compete with what Bankwest has to offer, but if we move those outer suburban clubs to the big centralised stadiums, their souls will be destroyed, their fans won’t follow and those traditional clubs will wither.

So the solution is mini versions of Bankwest in the suburbs. It is the perfect answer, gone will be the days of playing in front of no fans in big empty stadiums but also supporters wouldn’t have to put up with facilities that haven’t changed much since 1982.

It is the ideal compromise to ensure rugby league thrives in the suburbs which is the heart of the game. The Super League War proved the game won’t prosper under a big city franchise model, it needs a combination of clubs from all over the country and strong traditional Sydney teams and for those to prosper smaller modern grounds are essential.

In Peter V’landys ‘Rugba League’ in Sydney now has a future.

Craig Bellamy will be hoping for a win on Friday night. Photo: NRL Images.

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What caught my eye last week I’m happy to admit, even after one round, that I love the ‘one referee’ change.

I know I said last week that I didn’t think it would work after having two referees for so long but already I can see I was wrong. Better to have one referee get things right or wrong then watch two of them potentially stuff up a game. The lone referee actually looks more confident and willing to back himself then when he had a partner to help him out. Peter V’landys, my apologies, you got this one 100 per cent right!

with Peter Lang

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One referee a winner, but new six-again rule falls flat

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Out of their comfort zone

SPECIALISING IN

ive high profile Australians swap privilege for life on the streets. The third season of ‘Filthy Rich & Homeless’ will show you what it is like to go from having everything to having absolutely nothing.

Emergency doctor, businessman and TV presenter, Dr Andrew Rochford said he wanted the challenge of having everything taken from him to experience 10 days of being homeless in NSW.

“They took our phone, ID and money, then we were given second- hand clothing and a sleeping bag,” he said.

“I had never gone out of my way to learn about homelessness because it was an uncomfortable topic, but I knew the best way to educate myself was to put myself in their shoes.”

Filmed across the state, including in western Sydney, Andrew said he was surprised what he struggled with the most in the different experiences.

“There was the isolation and hunger that you expect but what emotionally challenged me the most was how open and kind the people were that I met who deal with this every day,” he said.

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“They were warm and invited me into their world and told me their stories which took the greatest toll on me, which I did not expect to happen.”

With the last Census data showing 116,000 people in Australia don’t have a place to call home and now during a global pandemic, Andrew said the issue is more important than ever.

“I met a girl who was about to give birth and another single mum of two, and when you hear people would rather be in prison because it is easier you really feel that we are letting so many people down,” he said.

“We are in a world first event and the outcome will be huge unemployment

rates along with mental health, alcohol, and relationship issues which can all lead to more homelessness.”

Andrew hopes the latest season sparks plenty of conversation.

“I am looking forward to watching the show again because it shows five people completely out of their comfort zones and being broken down, but it teaches you so much,” he said.

“We sit back thinking they will be fine, which isn’t the truth, and we need to care enough and work together towards a community where we don’t have homelessness at all.”

‘Filthy Rich & Homeless’ will premiere on June 9, 10 and 11 on SBS at 8.30pm.

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EMILY FESZCZUK

35

Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

E V I F Y A D I R F E H T

creative A U

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Bringing DESIGNS to Life IN HOUSE graphic design team

CHICKEN, GLORIOUS CHICKEN (AND CHIPS!)

EXCLUSIVE partnerships with some of Australia’s leading print providers

Penrith City Council - Community Newsletter

PENRITH CITY COMMUNITY NEWS The official newsletter of Penrith City Council December 2016 edition

From fried chicken to roast chicken, there’s so many varieties of this delicious delight to choose from. To help with your choice we have brought our Friday Five series, which ran online last year, to our print edition. We’ve done our best to scour the Penrith LGA for the best chicken options around…

» Friday, December 16, 2016

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5. High Street Social High Street, Penrith Popcorn chicken? Yum. Fried chicken?

Even better. Wings? Stop it!

The great thing about the fried chicken here is the options you’ve got. Choose your cut or get a mixed bucket. Choose your flavour (go on, give the Hot AF a try!) and then choose your side.

High Street Social offers a great atmosphere right in the heart of the Penrith CBD but make sure to book.

FAST turn around times

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Grab the kids and enjoy the he free family fun day on 26 January

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4. Broaster Chicken High Street, Penrith The newest kid on the block in Penrith surged into our Friday Five.

The fried chicken here is top notch – and being able to choose between original or hot and spicy is a definite plus. The chicken isn’t too oily and tastes delightful.

With new tenders on the menu it should definitely be on your list!

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3. Frango Batt Street, Jamisontown Frango is Portuguese for chicken and English for bloody delightful. Since arriving in Penrith a couple of years ago, Frango has become exceptionally popular.

After a short break they are back and of course better than ever. We can’t go past the famous Frango Burger here.

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It’s the perfect meal for lunch or dinner.

The chips here are good too – especially when you throw some famous Chilli sauce into the equation.

2. El Jannah High Street, Penrith We know, we know… this could have easily been number one. After all, El Jannah does it almost better than anyone.

If you don’t get a half chicken meal and upsize the garlic sauce, did you really even have El Jannah?

These guys not only know their food, but their service and layout is sensational too. You won’t be hungry for long after walking into their High Street store.

1. Chicken Man Great Western Highway, Kingswood Controversial? We think not. This old school chicken shop may not look like the most inviting eatery around from the outside, but the delights contained within are amazing!

The fried chicken here is first class.

Forget anything else you’ve tried, this fried chicken is the President of all fried chickens.

Chips? Sensational, especially with the glorious chicken salt and gravy that is on offer.

F

rom the markets of Darwin to the landscapes of Kakadu, taste the top end with celebrated chef Jimmy Shu during his new show.

‘Jimmy Shu’s Taste of the Territory’ is an eight-part culinary journey to the multicultural melting pot of Australia’s Northern Territory.

A huge variety of migrants have made Darwin their home and contributed significantly to its unique culture and dining scene. With food always being a passion of his, Jimmy said it’s more than just a cooking show.

“I was born in Sri Lanka to Chinese parents and my father had a restaurant for 38 years, so food is in my blood,” he told the Weekender.

“The show is part travelogue, part food odyssey, part cooking show, while I explore the sights, smells and stories of tropical Darwin’s diverse food scene.”

Jimmy said now is the perfect time to virtually travel to the Northern Territory if you’ve never been, so make sure to delve into this delicious series now on SBS. ‘Jimmy Shu’s Taste of the Territory’ is available to watch every Thursday at 8.30pm on SBS Food or via SBS On Demand.

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EMILY FESZCZUK

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Taste of the Territory

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37

Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

At the movies...

Perfect weekend binge THE LOVEBIRDS ++ 1 hour, 27 minutes EMILY FESZCZUK

‘The Lovebirds’ is a better rom-com than it is a murder mystery, even if it is a little light on the romance.

The couple Leilani (Issa Rae) and Jibran (Kumail Nanjiani) are in the fast lane to splitsville but when they accidentally careen into a murder, they take off on a wild ride together to find the killer and clear their names.

Affected by the pandemic, this one has skipped the cinema and gone straight from the studio to Netflix.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as it may have been a little underwhelming in that context, but it works perfectly well from the couch.

You may think it is a little slow to start but right as you consider pressing the exit button, it kicks into gear with a series of ridiculous situations that will have you confused, yet entertained.

Director Michael Showalter has let the movie pick its own direction as the storyline swerves from one direction to the next.

The saving grace is really the two leads who show such a great diversity. The comedic chemistry between them will have you rooting for their very relatable romance as they are argue about random things.

If you like unicorns, goofy jokes and monologues about milkshakes then this movie is for you!

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E IN OPEN FOR DIN 7 NIGHTS FROM TE 5:30PM TILL LA

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê If you’re missing your ‘Gogglebox’ fix, you’ll be happy know that 10 will screen ‘Celebrity Gogglebox USA’ next Thursday, June 11 at 8.40pm. 10 will edit the series for Aussie audiences with shows we recognise. It will also feature an Australian narrator. Some of the famous households include: Ozzy, Sharon and Kelly Osbourne; Rob Lowe and his sons; Curtis Stone and Lindsay Price; Tyra Banks and her mum; DJ Khaled and his wife; Steve Wozniak and his wife; and Meghan Trainor and her brother. Ê A Dreamworks pop-up channel is currently airing on Foxtel until the end of the month. The channel features a wide-range of Dreamworks programming including ‘Trolls’, ‘Kung Fu Panda’,

QUEER EYE, NETFLIX

‘Rocky and Bullwinkle’ and even ‘Where’s Wally?’. With Foxtel losing the Disney contract last year, perhaps this could become a permanent kids’ channel down the track.

studio and will stream on 7news.com. au. The show will feature different guests each week, including current and former housemates, host Sonia Kruger and ‘Big Brother’ insiders.

Ê Season five of ‘Queer Eye’ drops on Netflix today, June 5. The latest series will see the Fab Five head to Philadelphia to transform people’s lives… and their wardrobes! This show is one of my favourites on Netflix, so I’m thrilled to see it back!

Ê Animated classic ‘Fraggle Rock’ is heading back to series for Apple TV. The new series, from The Jim Henson Company, will reunite the original characters – Gobo, Red, Boober, Mokey, Wembley, and Uncle Travelling Matt – and feature new songs and adventures.

Ê With ‘Big Brother’ kicking off this Monday, June 6, it’s been announced that the show’s original narrator, Mike Goldman, is getting his own spin-off show. Goldman will present a recap of the all-new ‘Big Brother’ in a new digital offering. ‘The Big Bro Show’ will be produced from Goldman’s own Queensland

Ê Aussie drama ‘Mr Inbetween’, which is very popular internationally, has been renewed for a third season, while US vampire comedy ‘What We Do in the Shadows’ has also been greenlit for a third offering. Both shows air on Fox Showcase.

WW37783

JUNE 11 8.40PM CELEBRITY GOGGLEBOX USA, 10

JUNE 5

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Ê Everyone’s favourite game show, ‘Family Feud’, is making a comeback next month. 10 will produce a special 10-episode event series involving frontline workers. Grant Denyer will return as host, with $100,000 in prize money up for grabs. So if you are a doctor, nurse, paramedic, fire fighter or teacher, you can apply at www.10play.com.au/casting.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by worldaway.com.au | 8872 9697

1

Crossword ACROSS 1. Fabled whale, ... Dick 4. Bug (phone) 8. Interwoven fencing, wattle & ...

11. Panache 13. Roughly 15. Hollywood icon, Greta ...

17. Place 18. Castrates (horse) 20. That woman 21. Postie-delivered letters, ... mail 24. In sequence, one after the ...

27. Perfectly all right (11,1) 28. Blot out 30. NZ native 31. Baking agent 33. Stickily sweet 34. Least risky 35. Dedicatory verses 36. Fabricated 39. Apprehension 42. Coupled 44. Unrefi ned metals 45. The King, ... Presley 46. Bar accounts 48. Coalface worker 49. Ambles 50. Whirlpool 52. Brainwaves 54. AM, ... meridiem 55. Marten fur 56. Most recent 57. Yorkshire valley 60. Formerly Persia 62. Unite (against) (4,2) 65. Allocate 67. Grog 69. Relish or salsa 70. Seaweed 72. Target 73. Goat mammary gland 75. Muddle 77. Gossip 79. Guide (boat) 81. GP 82. Belittle 84. Glow 85. Admit guilt (3,2) 86. Moved in water 87. Ice-cream desserts 88. Accomplishment

DOWN 1. Jumbo cups 2. Drilling tool 3. Lout 4. Slow down!

5. TV action rerun 6. Teachers 7. Route 8. Expected 9. Collection of maps 10. Entertain in street 12. Green (of stone) 14. Man-eating giants 16. In front 19. Lavished aff ection (on) 22. Jitters 23. Infl ict 25. Diadems 26. Shoelace hole 29. Confi dent 32. Automatic teller (1,1,1) 35. Elderly spinster (3,4) 37. Cinema gangway 38. Natural weathering 40. Geeks 41. Evade 42. Italian football club, AC ...

43. Breaks (of day) 44. Actress, Tatum ...

(1’4) 47. Cotton wadding for quilts 51. Sighed sleepily 52. Treat cruelly (3-3) 53. Detected 54. Dogfi ght, ... combat 58. Scope 59. The self 61. Regions 63. Sky blue 64. Excuse 65. Thorny shrub 66. Harvest 68. First & last, alpha & ...

71. Wide open 72. Serpents 74. Grows faint 76. Twosomes 78. Curve 80. Spreading tree 83. Unopened bloom

Last week’s solution

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15

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28

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18

24

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37

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19

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77

82

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Sudoku brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

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creative A U

S T

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A

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I

A

sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au 4722 2998

Sudoku Fill in all squares so each row, column and each of the nine 3 x 3 squares contain all digits from one to nine.

Last week’s Sudoku solution

40

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by worldaway.com.au | 8872 9697

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

THEME: LEATHER BAGS BALLS BELT BOOK COVER BOOTS BRIEFCASE CLOTHING CROCODILE DRUM HEADS FOOTWEAR GARMENTS HAT OTTOMAN OXEN PIGSKIN PORTFOLIO PURSE SANDALS SATCHEL SEAT SHAGREEN SKIRT SNAKE SOFA SUITCASE TOILETRY KIT TROUSERS UPHOLSTERY WAISTCOAT WALLET WHIPS

Last week’s Word Search solution

Test your knowledge about American black history in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. What is the name of the woman who famously refused to give up her seat to a white man on an Alabama bus in 1955?

2. Pioneering black female athlete Ora Washington played which sport?

3. Which amendment to the US

Constitution effectively ended slavery in the country?

4. In which state was Martin Luther King Jnr born?

5. Which month is known as Black History Month in the US? 6. In what year was the Civil Rights Act signed?

ANSWERS 1. Rosa Parks 2. Tennis 3. 13th amendment 4. Georgia 5. February 6. 1964

Trivia Quiz

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Str8ts & Wheel Words brought to you by Creative Publishing Australia

creative A U

S

T

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A

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sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au | 4722 2998

I

A

TEST YOUR BRAIN Str8ts How to beat Str8ts Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’.

A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, e.g. [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

You can find more help and strategies at www.str8ts.com along with more puzzles, Apple apps and books.

Wheel Words Create words of four letters or more using the given letters once only, but always including the middle letter.

Do not use proper names or plurals ending with S. See if you can find the nine letter word using up all letters 15 Good

20 Very Good

25+ Excellent

Last Week’s Solution

42

Sad news

Much- loved country music manager and executive David Woodward has passed away suddenly.

Heavily involved with the Tamworth Country Music Festival, ‘Woody’ also had a period of involvement with theatre, and was instrumental in the early days of AussieTheatre.com, a website that would become the industry’s news leader.

Woodward died of a heart attack on Monday, at the age of 40.

Woodward worked with a range of well- known Australian country artists including Beccy Cole, John Williamson and Shannon Noll.

A statement issued by the Woodward family said: “It’s with broken hearts that the Woodward family grieve the sudden loss of their son, brother, uncle and friend, David Woodward. Thank you for the messages, thoughts and prayers.”

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

WEEKENDER LIVING PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

HOROSCOPES GEMINI BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOHO ASTRO

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE DAILY POSTS AT WWW.BOHOASTRO.COM TWITTER @JOMADELINEMOORE © JOANNE MADELINE MOORE 2020

AQUARIUS

PISCES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Saturn is sauntering through your sign, which is frustrating and you may feel as if you’re banging your head against a wall.

The path you are on has obstacles along the way but don’t give up. Aquarians love to change the world for the better. So keep going on your chosen trajectory. As Anne Frank said: “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world”.

Avoid making important decisions as your feelings will fluctuate. The more you express the artistic, humanitarian and/ or spiritual sides of your personality, the less confused you’ll feel. So it’s a great week to create and contemplate, plus help someone in need. Tricky aspects can also aggravate sensitivities or trigger allergic reactions, so steer clear of things that don’t agree with you.

ARIES MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Self-delusion is a danger. Plus be very clear in the way you explain things, otherwise you’re likely to get your wires crossed and your true meaning will be scrambled. And are you being the real you? Or are you living your life according to other people’s agendas and expectations? As Judy Garland said: “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else”.

TAURUS

CANCER

LEO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

This week Mars pairs up with Neptune, which is fabulous for taking new ideas (which you discuss with others) and incorporating them into your hopes, dreams and wishes for the future. Destiny is around you and the more you combine the creative with the practical, the better the long-term outcome will be. But with Venus still in retrograde mode there’ll be some stumbling blocks along the way.

This week will be confusing so slow down and get your bearings before you proceed.

Aim to get the balance right between socialising with others and spending some quality time on your own. Plus shine a bright spotlight on your aspirations for the future. Are they an honest reflection of who you are right here and right now? If you have a problem that’s bothering you, get help!

Nebulous Neptune squares the Sun on Thursday. So don’t worry if your concentration wanes, your confidence is curbed or your motivation is muted. It’s just a passing phase. Use the time to tap into your intuition and delve into some delicious daydreams. And with Venus still in retrograde mode, it’s definitely not a good week to make momentous decisions (especially involving finances).

LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Your ruling planet Venus is retrograde until June 25. So things won’t run smoothly, especially involving relationships, finances, education or travel. If you adapt to changing circumstances and accept mistakes and misunderstandings with good grace, then you’ll manage fine. As Beyonce said: “If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow”.

You’ve stewed over a complicated situation for a while now. Resentment has built up and this could be the week when you say exactly what’s on your mind. Don’t expect a favourable response from others though! The Sun, Mars and Neptune shine a bright spotlight on your relationship with a child, teenager, lover or friend. If you don’t take the time to listen, then expect mixed messages.

The planets confuse communication, so be careful you’re not viewing people through rose-coloured glasses. Intuitive insights are highlighted, but don’t get so carried away that you head into the realm of pure fantasy. When it comes to a major goal, are you and your partner on the same page? Make sure you can you differentiate between a dream date and a disappointing dud.

Venus continues reversing through your sign and then Neptune squares the Gemini Sun. So you can expect some disruptions, delays, difficulties, misunderstandings and general shenanigans this week. Don’t let that deter you Gemini! If you are flexible and adapt to constantly changing circumstances, then you can still have a week that is stimulating and satisfying.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The planetary patterns highlight your helpful nature and your strong desire to be of service to others. But do other people require your well-meaning assistance? Be careful you’re not just being a fussy and finicky meddler. And if you are too quick to critique others, then you could find yourself with a fractious friend, a cranky colleague or a livid lover on your hands.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Avoid being a gullible Goat this week, when someone could try to pull the wool over your eyes. Stay alert. Aim to channel your creative energy into friendships, neighbourhood connections and local community projects. And be careful you’re not pushing yourself too much. As Michael J. Fox said: “The more I expect, the more unhappy I am going to be. The more I accept, the more serene I am”.

AS PENRITH RE-OPENS, WE’RE HERE FOR YOU As Penrith emerges from the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s more important than ever for your business to be in the spotlight.

That’s why we’re committed to working with businesses to develop costeffective marketing campaigns to help them get back on their feet.

Contact us today on sales@westernweekender.com.au or 4722 2998

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43

ONE POINT HEALTH

RAYMOND NGUYEN • 4732 5188

How diabetes can impact your feet, and what you can do about it

D

iabetes is a condition whereby the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body is unable to use it properly.

There are two common types of diabetes: – Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children and young adults and will require daily insulin injections.

– Type 2 is most common and generally affects those over the age of 40; medication and/or insulin may be required.

How does diabetes affect your feet?

Poorly controlled diabetes for a long period of time can lead to: – Nerve damage (Peripheral Neuropathy); reducing feeling in the feet and possibly meaning that injuries/ wounds go unnoticed.

– Poor circulation (Peripheral Vascular Disease); which increases the time it takes for wounds or infections to heal.

What can I do?

A yearly check- up with your podiatrist will help to detect any changes earlier,

making them easier to manage. A care plan can then be tailored to your needs depending on the results.

Tips to minimise problems • Maintain acceptable blood sugar control.

• Avoid walking barefoot; even at home – Wear lace- up/velcro shoes that are wide and deep enough where possible.

– Check that there are no rough edges inside your shoes.

• Inspect your feet every day for cracks, cuts, callus or other injuries • Exercise regularly; half an hour of walking/day is often sufficient.

• Refrain from smoking.

• See your podiatrist as soon as possible should you notice any abnormalities or have any concerns.

It is important to keep on top of issues related to diabetes, including the impact it can have on your feet.

If you’re concerned, book an appointment with a podiatrist today.

REOPENING AND RECRUITING

WE’RE HIRIN G

Vision Personal Training, situated in the heart of Penrith CBD, has a client list that will impress, virtually a VIP of local personalities. This client list is part of the reason why Vision Personal Training only recruits the best in the field, we are currently seeking a personal trainer who is truly passionate about the care provided to clients whilst helping them reach their goals. It is of key importance that you are a proven role model, leading by example with your own health and fitness. The right person will be someone who lives by the values of leadership, spirit and growth to drive positive change in our community.

REOPENING JUNE 13TH

We are also looking for attributes that include: • Goal orientated • Self-assured • Results based • Forward thinker • Team player • Structured • Great communicator

Experience with personal training clients is required for this position as we would like to FastTrack you through our early development program. This opportunity will lead you into becoming a senior trainer with the objective to become an assistant manager/manager where you may be given the Option to buy into the business.

If the above sounds like you please contact me on cgrosvisionpt.com.au or text your details to 0431 415 706

44

Vision Personal Training Penrith A: 78 Station St, Penrith Ph: (02) 4742 5079

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

HEALTHY LIVING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

GRACE FUNERALS

ASHA DOOLEY • 4735 6900

Things you need to know before choosing a funeral director

H

ow do you select the right funeral director? You should start with the end in mind; what type and quality of service do you want, then find a funeral director who matches your ideal.

Personally, I would caution against choosing on price alone, your funeral director is someone who you will become very close to for the period of the service and you need to feel comfortable and confident that they will deal with you with respect and care. A budget operator does not have the resources to provide all necessary services.

If you cannot obtain a personal recommendation, websites are the best resource, they should be clear, user friendly and informative, including photos and detail of the owners and team. Also check the testimonials and look for consistency and the most recent comments.

Narrow your choices down and call them. On the phone you are looking for rapport and transparent information, ask yourself, does this interaction match your impression of the website?

If proceeding, ask who you will be meeting with; you might like the person who answered the phone but in some larger companies this will be a call centre and not the person you will meet.

Ask about cost, I believe in it being clear, transparent, and upfront. If you have a provider who will not provide a detailed and written quote, chances are they do not have consistent pricing. Check that all the costs are quoted with no “hidden extras” or unnecessary additional services.

Such as excluding GST and ensure that all costs are itemised, not bundled as a total cost.

Finally, choose a firm who is an accredited member of a leading industry association that does regular inspections of the premises. It is your guarantee of quality and professionalism. Check that they have full facilities onsite including a mortuary and chapel, most funeral businesses do not. You have the right to know where your loved one will be located at all times and who is caring for them. As always if you would like some additional advice please email asha@gracefunerals.com.au.

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the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

ASK ASHA

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

45

Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

PET HEALTH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

GREENCROSS COREEN AVENUE

NICOLE MCMILLAN • 4731 3055

Fleas aren’t the only reason your dog is scratching T here are many reasons why pets become itchy.

We usually think that fleas are the cause, however there are other reasons too.

Some pets experience allergies, just like people.

Others may have a skin infection that will go away with simple treatments.

Thus, ignoring your pet’s skin condition will complicate treatment options and prolong your pet’s discomfort.

Unfortunately, we often see dogs and cats who have scratched themselves to the point that the skin has been broken.

This can lead to bleeding and infection – which in turn leads to further self-trauma.

This level of skin damage requires a visit to your veterinarian to ensure a diagnosis and correct treatment are commenced.

Fungal, bacterial, and yeast infections are some common causes of itchy skin that can be simple to treat.

So, don’t delay in bringing your pet to the vet to find out what’s causing them to scratch.

Your pet’s quality of life can be affected

by uncomfortable itching and scratching, we are here to help!

Skin disorders can be difficult to diagnose. The expertise of a professional veterinarian is needed to ensure safe and

effective treatment is started to get your dog back to full health.

Over the next few weeks, we will cover a few of the most common causes of skin problems in pets.

Causes may include flea allergy dermatitis, atopy and food allergies.

We will also try and assist you with solutions to make your furry friend more comfortable.

KEEP IT CLEAN BROUGHT TO YOU BY

DISTINQT BIOCLEAN MATHEW LOF TI • 0434 0 65 640

The tools you need to keep your car clean

Coreen Avenue Passionate about Pets Extended consulting hours

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Phone for an appointment Exclusive Cat Clinic including boarding Best Behaviour Puppy Programs

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Unit 2 & 3/117 Coreen Avenue, Penrith 4731 3055 | www.greencrossvet.com.au

id you know that a steering wheel has four times the amount of germs and bacteria found on a toilet seat? You do

now!

As life is slowly getting back to normal, we will find ourselves using our cars a lot more. Remember that at a time like this, cleaning, disinfecting and decontaminating your car is more important than your regular clean.

Make sure that you are regularly cleaning and disinfecting your car to stop the community spread of germs, bacteria and viruses, especially if the car you drive is shared with other people, or if the person using the car is sick!

You only need two tools to clean, disinfect and decontaminate your car.

The first tool is an alcoholic- based cleaning solution.

The benefits of an alcoholic cleaning solution is that it has the ability to clean, disinfect and decontaminate in one wipe!

The second tool is a lint free microfibre cloth.

You should start off by identifying high- touch areas such as, steering wheels, gear sticks, touch screen displays, audio, climate control systems, arm rests, cup holders, air conditioning vents and anywhere directly in the front line of a cough or sneeze.

You will be surprised at how much dirt you will pick up when wiping these surfaces down!

Which is why it is important to always wear gloves before attacking a job like this.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

BUSINESS It’s time to move forward with a fresh approach Bob Green // Western Sydney Business Centre 0490 251 615 | bob@wsbusiness.com.au

W

e have all seen the many memes circulating about 2020 in Australia. Some are funny, many are depress-

“Ultra-fast, super professional and delivering way much more than I ever anticipated” - Melinda Leyshon, write copy

Do you need a professional voiceover, radio commercial, on hold message or any other form of audio recorded?

• Cost effective • Professional • Fast turnarounds • Male and female voices available

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ing.

The Prime Minister is now encouraging us to come out from under the doona and start getting back to work again.

Although Australia has changed since The Great Depression and two world wars, we still have the guts to do something about difficult situations.

And what can be more difficult than this?

Although we feel like a very small cog in some enormous wheel, without that cog, the wheel won’t turn.

The Australian economy is the big wheel and we can do our part to start it turning again, to trample on the after effects of a tiny, spikey little bug and take Australia and our State down a new and exciting road.

You are going to be bewildered, you are going to be frightened, you are going to wonder how to reset your business compass; but this is a natural and not

insurmountable reaction to this unique situation.

You are not alone for three big reasons: 1. You can start to think outside the square, challenge the old ways of doing business and become innovative in the goods and services delivery sphere, with the help of – 2. The expertise of our business advisors who have been chosen for their innovative thinking and their experience with managing change, free to you and also – 3. Hook into the many things both the NSW State and Commonwealth governments have put in place to help small business cope with this enormous event.

For existing NDIS Providers, I can help you audit your internal processes and give you a document which helps proof of currency when it comes to the next audit as well.

Times are tough, but there is definitely a bright future ahead if you grab the opportunity with both hands.

Call Western Sydney Business Centre on 4721 5011 for assistance.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

Need advice?

We’re here to help.

TALK TO CARTER’S TAX ADVISORY TODAY.

02 4708 3088 info@carterstaxadvisory.com.au www.carterstaxadvisory.com.au

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SPORT

FUNDING

Upgrade for Chapman Gardens p.54

Jessica Fox is happy to be back on the whitewater following the COVID-19 shutdown. Inset: Fox training in her pool at home.

Fox returns to the water NATHAN TAYLOR

L

ocal Olympian Jessica Fox is spending her first winter in Penrith in more than a decade after the postponement of the Tokyo Olympic Games and cancellation of the European World Cup season.

Following several months out of the rapids, the Leonay resident was one of the first paddlers to return to Penrith Whitewater Stadium last week after the State Government eased restrictions.

Fox said she was appreciative the Whitewater Stadium re-opened its doors so quickly, and was thrilled to get back

on her home water after two months of training in isolation.

“I was stoked and it was great to be back on the whitewater. It was pure joy despite the cold and wind,” she said.

“It’s something I probably took for granted. I’m sure a lot of us have had that feeling when our day to day activities have had to change due to COVID, but I just feel so grateful to be back on the water and looking forward to getting back to work. I think it’s been eight weeks and definitely the longest time I’ve had off the water since I was probably 12-years-old. I could definitely feel that it had been a while but hopefully the feeling comes back quickly.”

Instead of travelling to Japan and preparing for her third consecutive Olympics, the 25- year- old stayed fit training at home and adapting to the circumstances.

“My training has been modified with home gym workouts and our team gym and NSWIS lent me some equipment so that I could do a great workout at home – a lot of core work and elastics,” Fox said.

“I have also done flatwater sprint boat paddling on the Nepean River and some flatwater gates in the canoe. There’s been more variety, which has been nice, and I feel like I’ve made the most of the situation.”

It will be the first Australian winter at

home for Fox and the national team, who usually contest the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup season in Europe around this time of year.

Having a world- class course on their doorstep will be essential in getting the necessary whitewater training in for when normality resumes.

“We feel fortunate to have this venue at home and to have a world-class course we will be able to train on,” Fox said.

“I think it will still be a challenge and a disadvantage for us not to travel this year... but if the Whitewater Stadium stays open over winter then it will be great to have access to whitewater during that period.”

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Friday, June 5, 2020 « the western weekender

SPORT

BASKETBALL

Health and fitness boost Athletes go online to help thanks to $30,000 grant guide next generation NATHAN TAYLOR

W

Councillor Tricia Hitchen and Penrith MP Stuart Ayres at Chapman Gardens.

NATHAN TAYLOR

T

o help stay fit and active, Kingswood residents will soon have a new outdoor gym to utilise.

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres joined Penrith Councillor Tricia Hitchen at Chapman Gardens to announce a $30,000 grant for Penrith City Council through the 2019 NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program.

“Penrith City Council will use the funds

54

to construct an accessible outdoor gym at Chapman Gardens that will offer free exercise equipment for local residents, students and local workers,” he said.

Cr Hitchen said the project will enhance and promote participation in health and fitness by people of all ages and abilities.

The local community will be invited to help decide on the types of equipment to be installed.

The 2020 NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grant program is now open. Visit: www.nsw.gov.au/cbp.

ith their season on hold for the foreseeable future, local basketballers have turned themselves into YouTubers to not only cure their boredom during the pandemic but to help the next generation of exciting talent coming through.

Hosted by Penrith Waratah 1 captain and guard Ben Kearins, the Panthers Hoops at Home series is aimed at both kids and teens who are unable to get onto a basketball court and play due to the Coronavirus.

Now available online, the short but informative videos comprise of a basic home skills program for Aussie Hoopers, U10 and U12 players as well as an advanced program for U14 and U16 players.

A long- time member of the Penrith Basketball Association, Kearins teaches kids various skills and drills in the videos including ball handling, dribbling, pivoting, shooting and crossover techniques.

Filmed at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC), the weekly videos have proved very popular with young players – garnering nearly 500 views last month.

To watch the Panthers Hoops at Home series, visit the Penrith Basketball Association Facebook page and follow the links provided.

Meanwhile, the PVRSC Board has

Penrith skipper Ben Kearins hosts the Panthers Hoops at Home series. decided to remain closed until midSeptember despite the easing of restrictions.

The decision is based on the proposed COVID-19 return to play strategies and the current building works at the PVRSC.

WW40168

Eye-catching design to be worn by Rams

Taylah’s a real star Impressive new accolade for Penrith’s softball superstar NATHAN TAYLOR

S

he’s arguably Penrith’s greatest softball export, now Taylah Tsitsikronis has added yet another accolade to her long list of achievements.

The 25-year- old, who was a shoo- in to represent Australia at the Tokyo Olympics this year before it was postponed, has become the latest recipient of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation (PVSF) Senior Sports Star Award.

A popular member of the Penrith City Softball Association for the past 19 years, Tsitsikronis has gone from strength to strength and is a huge role model to young softballers across the local area.

Since 2014, she’s been a member of the NSW Open Women’s Softball Team and Australian Women’s Softball Team.

This year Tsitsikronis was selected in the Olympic Qualifier team and was a huge chance of being part of softball’s long-awaited return to the Olympics.

Unfortunately, due to COVID- 19, the Penrith Softball Club junior will have to wait another 12 months to live out her ultimate softball dream.

The new Rams Gotcha4Life jersey.

Story continued from » p. 56

Taylah Tsitsikronis is the latest PVSF Senior Sports Star.

Not only has Tsitsikronis starred for Australia over the years, but she’s also taken her talents to the United States playing for the Pennsylvania Rebellion, Chicago Bandits and Aussie Peppers in the National Pro Fastpitch League.

One of the best female catchers in the country, Tsitsikronis has donned the famous green and gold at many World Championships, Asia Pacific Championships and numerous international tournaments.

the western weekender » Friday, June 5, 2020

SOFTBALL

“Like every year, the plan is to wear this jersey during a game as well,” Rix said.

“Our players have always jumped on board and purchased one.”

While the club’s popular Sportsman’s Lunch will not be held this year due to the current climate, the Rams are happy they are still able to give back in some way.

“Unfortunately the Sportsman’s function won’t be happening in 2020, but I’m proud we are still doing something,” Rix said.

“We, the footy club, are just the vehicle but it’s the Penrith community that have donated all the money over the last few years.”

To purchase a jersey, visit www. cognitoforms.com/Rams4/ColonelsCorner20.

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Friday, June 5, 2020 Penrith’s #1 NRL coverage – Extra Time – see centre pull-out

Jersey design hits the mark NATHAN TAYLOR

W

hat do Gus Worland, Jake Trbojevic, Jude Bolton, Steve Smith and Hugh Jackman all have in common? They’ve each had a hand in selecting the winning entry in the Penrith Rams Gotcha4Life jersey design competition.

Rams star Zac Pianta could have a career as an international fashion designer after his jersey design was selected by the high-profile judging panel from a whopping 40 entries.

Speaking with the Weekender, Penrith Rams Chairman John Rix explained the origins behind the club’s annual Gotcha4Life jersey.

“We’ve been running a very successful Sportsman’s Lunch for the past two years, but every year we also do a charity round where we play in a Rams Gotcha4Life jersey,” he said.

“For the past three years I’ve designed the jersey myself but this year, to keep the club connected during this difficult time, we ran a competition and all of our Facebook followers were welcome

to design the jersey. We ended up receiving 40 very creative entries and Zac Pianta was declared the winner by our star-studded judging panel.”

Pianta’s winning design is now available for purchase in AFL jersey and training t- shirt form, with proceeds from each sale going towards Gotcha4Life and their partner programs.

The Rams and the surrounding community are true Gotcha4Life champions, who have demonstrated an ongoing support towards fundraising efforts over the last three years.

They have not only increased awareness of the importance of identifying stronger connections and building mental fitness, but they have also enabled educational workshops and training programs to be delivered across Penrith and the western Sydney area.

“All proceeds raised from jersey sales will go to Gotcha4Life, who in turn help fund important programs like Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman,” Rix said.

It is hoped locals will get behind the jersey and pull out their credit cards.

Story continues on » p. 55

Zac Pianta won the design competition.

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