Western Weekender March 20 2020

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SAVE OUR SHOPS PENRITH BUSINESSES NEED OUR SUPPORT AS CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC ESCALATES

Albert Rahme, Gai Hawthorn and Joseph Rahme in the Penrith CBD this week.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

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enrith residents are being urged to support local businesses where they can as the Coronavirus pandemic poses massive challenges in the weeks and months ahead.

The crisis has already claimed dozens of local events, including this weekend’s Penrith Festival, which has been called off for the second year in a row.

The Penrith Show, St Marys Easter Egg Hunt, Penrith Working Truck Show and the Xtreme Bulls Rodeo are among other local events either cancelled or postponed.

Some businesses, including Monkey Mania and Apple, have temporarily closed their doors in Penrith while the full impact of Coronavirus is realised.

Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn

said people should support local businesses, even suggesting buying gift cards to help provide an immediate boost to struggling retailers, with the cards able to be redeemed later in the year when required.

“We will get through this but in the meantime it’s funds in their pocket so that their staff can feed their families,” Ms Hawthorn said.

“This is about people and their livelihoods.”

For Albert and Joseph Rahme, the pandemic could not have happened at a worse time.

They’re about to open a new eatery on High Street, desperate for a strong start.

Sport is also being heavily impacted by the virus, with most local competitions and associations postponing matches and training.

Coronavirus coverage: Pages 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 28 and 67, plus www.westernweekender.com.au.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

CORONAVIRUS CRISIS: THE IMPACT ON PENRITH

Crippled by Penrith businesses desperate for your NICOLA BARTON

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Gai Hawthorn with new business owners Albert Rahme and Joseph Rahme.

ancelled events, a plummeting ASX and panicking residents.

It’s too early to say just how big of an impact the Coronavirus is going to have on our local economy, but if one thing’s for certain; small businesses will suffer.

As events like the Penrith Festival are called off and residents are urged to keep their outings to a minimum, the community now more than ever needs to support its local business owners, growers and makers, says Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn.

Ms Hawthorn said the CBD Corporation is working with its members to support them through this period of uncertainty but urged residents, especially young people, to shop local where they can.

“The repercussions of this, the enormity of this, is something that we cannot understand at this point, it’s all hearsay but it’s about that continued support and having the right information at hand,” she said.

“We want local businesses to know that they aren’t alone.”

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A new Lebanese style eatery, Pappa Charlie’s Bakehouse, was due to open on High Street, Penrith, on Saturday.

Co-owner Albert Rahme said they fear its success will be severely impacted by the virus.

“Our grand opening was meant to be at the time of the CBD Festival but now we just have to play it by ear and see if people are still out on High Street but we don’t know what could happen,” he said.

“If we go into lockdown or people can’t leave their homes it will impact us dramatically so we’re going to have to try and find different avenues and we’ve already been looking at Uber Eats to cater for that.”

Even for bigger businesses like Panthers, the impact has the potential to be catastrophic. CEO Brian Fletcher said the club is concerned about how Coronavirus will affect both the leagues club and National Rugby League franchise.

“It’s going to be drastic club- wise and football-wise, we’re just working through the issues, we’ve got a very large staff that we’ve got to protect but we need people to continue to visit the club for sure,” he said.

Mr Fletcher said extra hygiene measures have been implemented.

support as pandemic forces event cancellations and puts companies on high alert Clubs were awaiting further advice regarding their short- term futures after the Government’s new 100-person indoor limit was announced on Wednesday.

But it’s not just our businesses that will suffer, with not-for-profit groups and charities also feeling the impacts of the outbreak.

“Relay for Life and even the Biggest Morning Tea are now having to consider what they are going to do, this is a massive chunk of their funds,” Ms Hawthorn said.

“Penrith Community Kitchen are also struggling, our volunteers are all in their late 70’s, that’s going to put themselves at risk and we also rely on local fundraising and the generosity of schools but without that the bills go up and the money doesn’t come through.”

Mama Lana’s Community Kitchen has made changes to their operations from Monday, March 16 until March 30 as a result of the virus.

This will involve limiting volunteers, adjusting operating hours and closing their dining areas, offering take away meals instead.

As we enter a stage of economic uncertainty, residents are encouraged to

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

Corona: Challenges loom

Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher says the club is monitoring Coronavirus developments. Photo: Melinda Jane. support local businesses and each other.

Penrith CBD Corporation has suggested voucher buying as a way to inject money into the local economy.

“We will get through this but in the meantime it’s funds in their pocket so that their staff can feed their families,” Ms Hawthorn said.

“This is about people and their livelihoods.”

Stay updated with developments at www.westernweekender.com.au.

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Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

Finally, ScoMo stands tall I

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t took until just after 9am on Wednesday, March 18 2020 but finally the real Scott Morrison has stood up.

His press conference on Wednesday morning was the best he’s spoken on the Coronavirus pandemic that is gripping Australia, and the world.

In fact, it’s the best he’s spoken since getting the top job.

It was a calm, measured and strong press conference that wasn’t just full of political rhetoric, which some of his previous addresses have been tinged with in recent weeks.

His message to panic buyers and hoarders of shopping products was strong and to- the- point: stop it, and you are being un- Australian by continuing to act so irresponsibly.

After his summer from hell, where his handling of the bushfire crisis saw many lose faith in political leadership, Morrison went some way to redeeming himself this week.

He also rightly addressed ‘fake news’ and premature talks of lockdowns, asserting his leadership and strength by declaring that if there’s to be such drastic measures, you will hear it from him or the relevant authorities.

In other words, the third or fourth hand text message or Facebook post you’ve seen is probably not the most reliable source of information. Stop buying it.

Scott Morrison is far from out of the woods yet in terms of respect and trust from the Australian public, but his work this week has in the very least given us some faith that history may treat him favourably once this crisis is done.

It’s not the time for political point scoring, and in fact the Opposition – both

Whether at school, home, the workplace or travelling we all have the right to feel and be safe. n Psalms 91 tells us that when we turn V WR *RG ZH ³FDQ ¿QG VDIHW\ XQGHU KLV wings” and that we “shall not fear”.

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“Let’s focus on hope and others, not fear and ourselves”

state and federal – would be best served playing on the same team for now instead of acting like an annoying fly that pointlessly hovers around a completed backyard BBQ. I’ll have plenty to say in the coming weeks about the way Anthony Albanese and Jodi McKay have acted.

There is no question that the government’s tough decisions as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic will send many businesses, and individuals, to the wall.

It is a cost governments believe we need to accept for the greater good.

The reality is that many businesses won’t survive the next few months.

Many individuals, meanwhile, are worried about where the next mortgage payment will come from or how the summer electricity bill will get paid.

There is not one individual who won’t be impacted by Coronavirus in one way or another.

All we can do is heed the advice, do what we can to follow the best health

News.............................................1-28 Extra Time..........................29-44 Entertainment .................45-54

Index

Staying Safe

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practices and wait it out. We need to remember that life not only goes on, but it will one day return to normal.

It won’t be too long before you don’t need boxing gloves to buy toilet paper.

We’ll be back at the footy, eventually.

And in the meantime, there’s plenty of businesses out there hurting that need your help. While social distancing is understandable, nobody is asking you to put your life on hold – we simply need to find balance with health and safety in mind.

Talking of playing on the same team, there’s plenty of us still not doing that right now. Fear and uncertainty is understandable, but the panic buying we’re seeing remains over- the- top and unnecessary, as the Prime Minister said on Wednesday.

Sure, buy two weeks’ worth of food.

But two months’ worth? You’re just being selfish and hurting others, while contributing to the breakdown of the true Australian spirit that was on show during the bushfires, and has previously been exemplified in other natural disasters.

There is a general theory this will get worse before it gets better, and that will require us to show a lot more consideration and empathy than we, as a wider society, have done over the past few weeks.

Seeing retail workers abused is some of the lowest behaviour I’ve seen from Australians in some time.

It’s just not needed, and if nothing else, is deeply sad.

As the Coronavirus crisis continues, let’s focus on hope and others, not fear and ourselves. If we stick together, we may just come out the other end.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

the western weekender

Supermarkets bite back Coles and Woolworths take action as panic buying continues to strip shelves TROY DODDS

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oles and Woolworths this week implemented special provisions to allow the elderly and disabled to shop for groceries as panic buying continues to lead to supermarket stock shortages.

From Wednesday, Coles supermarkets temporarily changed their trading hours to open 7am to 8pm on weekdays, with the first hour of trade open exclusively to customers who hold a government-issued Pensioner Concession Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, Companion Card and Health Care Card.

Supermarkets will also close no later than 8pm for the time being to give team members the time and space to extensively clean stores and replenish the shelves for customers the next day.

Woolworths implemented a similar plan.

Since Tuesday, its supermarkets have also been opening exclusively for the elderly and those with a disability to shop from 7am to 8am.

The move by both supermarkets was

Elderly shoppers enter Woolworths at Emu Plains on Tuesday. Photo: Megan Dunn. prompted by the unprecedented demand over the past few weeks, which has seen many elderly and vulnerable people in

the community missing out on vital items they may need when they shop.

“While we’ll continue to do our very best

to restock our stores during this period of unprecedented demand, we know many of our elderly customers have been missing out on essential items when they shop,” Woolworths Supermarkets Managing Director Claire Peters said.

“This temporary measure will give them, and those with a disability, the opportunity to shop before our stores officially open – helping them obtain the essential items they need most in a less crowded environment.

“We continue to encourage all Australians to be mindful of those in our communities who might need extra help at this time. Now – more than ever – we need to be kind to each other, especially to those most vulnerable.

“We’d like to thank our customers for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused by the revised opening hours.”

Both major retailers have also suspended their home delivery services.

The changes sparked massive lines at local supermarkets this week, but many seniors were left disappointed with key items still unavailable.

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

CORONAVIRUS CRISIS: THE IMPACT ON PENRITH

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

CORONAVIRUS CRISIS: THE IMPACT ON PENRITH

The show must continue Virus impacts dance schools as teachers vow to keep children happy and active NICOLA BARTON

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local dance school owner says giving children something to look forward to is paramount, amid panic over how the Coronavirus will continue to impact local sporting clubs.

After the Federal Government’s push for individuals to practice self distancing sparked a week of ruthless event cancellations, concerns over how this will impact the ability for kids to participate in afterschool activities looms large.

But owner of South Penrith’s Excite Dance and Cheer, Kerry Richardson said it’s important for ‘high contact’ sporting groups to look for alternatives.

“Dance and cheer and other sporting activities are an outlet for children on so many levels, for their health, social interaction and keeping a healthy active mind,” she said.

“Self isolation is already a very distressing time for everyone and it is important we try and keep things as ‘normal’ as possible.”

While the effect the virus will have on

Amber Horne, Jarryn Moreau, Kara Dilworth and Kerry Richardson at Excite.

her business is hard to know, Ms Richardson said if the studio has to close at any point, she will look to online alternatives.

“Giving the kids something to look forward to every day via online lessons will be one small step to creating a light in their day,” she said.

Another Penrith-based dance and cheer studio, Liberty Allstars is also feeling the impact of the virus.

Just recently 60 of its athletes and three senior coaches travelled internationally to perform.

Since their return, a handful began showing flu- like symptoms and were tested for the virus, forcing a complete studio shut down.

The studio re- opened on Wednesday after a week’s closure and said no one has tested positive to the virus.

Meanwhile, gyms are also facing challenges as people question whether they should be working out in close proximity to others during the outbreak.

This week, F45 Training at South Penrith altered its class timetable to allow for additional cleaning of equipment before classes.

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Outbreak halts holidays Local travellers scramble to re-book trips and get refunds as world comes to a stop EMILY FESZCZUK

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veryone has a Coronavirus story, and for Cranebrook resident Amanda Coleman it’s one of a dream holiday now likely to be cancelled.

Ms Coleman has a holiday booked with a friend in May, visiting Europe with renowned travel company Contiki to celebrate finishing her Bachelor of Natural Science.

“Contiki has suspended all their trips due to depart before April 30, so as ours was starting a week after these and the virus is still spreading, we think it’s most likely to be suspended,” Ms Coleman said.

“They have done regular updates on their site which has been super helpful, and we’ve been keeping an eye on the Smart Traveller website, but with more countries announcing they are isolating we will have to re-book.”

With the changes to her plans, Ms Coleman said she will be out of pocket as a result.

“Contiki has waived fees to reschedule so we can change that but our flights and a

Amanda Coleman’s holidays have been put on hold. Photo: Megan Dunn.

train trip we booked are up in the air plus a hotel we booked actually charges you the amount of your booking to cancel,” Ms Coleman said.

“I am counting myself lucky though because I know some people will lose the majority of what they’ve paid because insurance won’t cover it.”

While Contiki isn’t offering refunds but rather transferring people onto different trips up until December 31, 2021, Ms Coleman is hoping that the outbreak is contained so she can make the trip.

“I know our experience would’ve been impacted so we are hoping it might be better by February next year when we plan to re-book but no one can predict the future,” Ms Coleman said.

“If it is better by then there is also the fact I am hoping to find a new job now that I am ready to graduate so that may be another thing which will hinder what was meant to be the trip of a lifetime.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on Tuesday issued advice recommending Australians abroad who wish to return home do so as soon as possible given the current situation.

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

CORONAVIRUS CRISIS: THE IMPACT ON PENRITH

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

PENRITH

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Partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well and truly over From bright lights to lonely days: Penrith man in self-isolation after US holiday EMILY FESZCZUK

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rom one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party capitals to confinement in his lounge room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the reality for Penrith resident Chad Robinson.

Mr Robinson arrived home from a 10-night trip with friends to Las Vegas and went straight into self-isolation due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

Mr Robinson told the Weekender he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t concerned when he departed for his holiday to Las Vegas and California until a â&#x20AC;&#x153;shiftâ&#x20AC;? happened. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I almost had a sense of invincibility that we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be impacted by something like this, and the US cases being much lower when we departed, helped build that sense of comfort,â&#x20AC;? Mr Robinson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was only when we arrived, and the atmosphere shifted, and we started to see blanket news coverage that we started to acknowledge our heightened risk and were more mindful of our actions.â&#x20AC;?

He said he noticed the US slowly reaching a similar level of alertness to Australia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The general atmosphere in the US was

different when we first arrived as every venue and tourist destination was very busy and there was no precautions noticeable,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Mr Robinson said he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t surprised at the self- isolation measures being put in place. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now working from home and trying to abide by the rules and advice the best he can. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am having minimal contact with my family as one of them has to go to work but we understand if I begin to show symptoms then they would immediately have to self-isolate,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the time being I am fine complying, but I feel like if we went to full lockdowns beyond two weeks a lot of people would find it very difficult.â&#x20AC;?

Jack McDonald with Chad Robinson enjoying Las Vegas earlier this month.

Premier delivers stimulus package as crisis mounts

T

he State Government has announced a major $2.3 billion health boost and economic stimulus package as the Coronavirus outbreak continues to escalate in New South Wales.

The package includes $700 million extra funding for NSW Health to assist in doubling ICU capacity, preparing for additional COVID- 19 testing, purchasing additional ventilators and medical equipment, establishing acute respiratory clinics and bringing forward elective surgeries to private hospitals.

For businesses, $450 million will be allocated for the waiver of payroll tax for businesses with payrolls of up to $10 million for three months (the rest of 2019-20). $56 million will be spent to bring forward the next round of payroll tax cuts by raising the threshold limit to $1 million in 2020-21. $80 million will be used to waive a range of fees and charges for small businesses including bars, cafes, restaurants and tradies.

The Government will also employ additional cleaners of public infrastructure such as transport assets, schools and other public buildings. More than $250 million will be spent to bring forward maintenance on public assets including social housing and crown land fencing. $500 million has also been allocated to bring forward capital works and maintenance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our first priority is always the health of the people of this State and looking

the western weekender Âť Friday, March 20, 2020

CORONAVIRUS CRISIS: THE IMPACT ON PENRITH

Chad Robinson is being forced to work from home during self-isolation.

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED Pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council. Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free RI FKDUJH GXULQJ &RXQFLO¡V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH 601 High Street, Penrith.

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Lot 101 DP 249441 (No. 2531) Homestead Road, Orchard Hills Torrens title subdivision x 2 lots Viewing of Development Applications 7KH DERYH GHYHORSPHQW DSSOLFDWLRQ V PD\ EH YLHZHG RQ &RXQFLO¡V '$ 7UDFNHU YLD penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker Alternatively, the applications can be viewed GXULQJ &RXQFLO¡V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI &RXQFLO¡V 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW ZLOO EH DEOH WR DVVLVW ZLWK

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian. after their families and jobs,â&#x20AC;? said NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This package works hand- in- hand with the recent moves by the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Federal Government. It will provide more resources to help slow the spread of this virus and boost treatment for those people in our community who need it most.â&#x20AC;?

your enquiries.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrith.city WW40613

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prize cupboard

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN

On April 13 at Hawkesbury Stadium, James and Oliver Phelps, the actors who played the Weasley twins in the ‘Harry Potter’ movie series will headline ‘The Quiz Show of Magic

While it may have had some teething issues, Woolworths and Coles both deserve some praise for at least trying to help the most vulnerable in the community by implementing special shopping hours, in the wake of the panic buying fiasco.

& Wizards’. Participants have the opportunity to be immersed in the world of magic and wizards, before letting the quiz show begin with thousands of dollars in prizes to be

my Penrith

won – then, to top it all off, a Q&A session with the Phelps twins.

There is fun for all the family – participants will be taken into the world of magic and wizards and are

invited to dress in their very own magic and wizard- themed outfits, with prizes given to those who are best-dressed.

This 3+ hour show promises to be the best fix for all Harry Potter fans and is coming to western Sydney in April 2020.

For more information or to get tickets to the show, visit www. hpquizshow.com.au.

The Weekender has two double passes to ‘The Quiz Show of Magic & Wizards’ on April 13 to give away.

For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Harry’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details.

Entries close Tuesday, March 31 and winners will be notified by email.

Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/19/04131. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au.

lucky paceway winners Members of the Penrith Paceway have the chance to win great prizes thanks to a special promotion involving the club and The Western Weekender. Club members can pick up a free specially numbered bumper sticker from the Paceway, and our spotters will be out and about in the community.

Three spotted bumper sticker numbers will be printed each week, with winners needing to report to the Paceway to verify their bumper sticker number and collect their prize.

Look out for new winners on this page every single week!

This week’s lucky winners are: 0934, 0935, 0808.

Dose of Dorin Montana Fink

Werrington Downs

10

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? KFC South Penrith (Northern Road).

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? The Coffee Club.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? Panthers.

FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Aqua Golf.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? Definitely the local Facebook pages.

WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? If I’m honest, it would have to be the Krispy Kreme doughnuts are always so much better, more fresh when you buy them from 7/11 rather than the actual Krispy Kreme itself.

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

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westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

PO NE D

Car wants commitment for high school in Jordan Springs

Let’s show community support and spread Autism awareness this April and join us for a walk or run in the colour fun explosion event.

Londonderry MP Prue Car says land should be reserved for a new high school.

PO ST

Afterwards, continue having fun in the TEVO [MXL ƼXRIWW EGXMZMXMIW JSSH XVYGOW entertainment, stalls, special guests, face painting and rides.

For more info, volunteer, business WTSRWSVWLMTW WIX YT ]SYV S[R TVSƼPI SV pre-order your LPF t-shirts Please call Lucy (02) 4736 2202or email events@lukepriddisfoundation.com

Don’t miss your Extra Time pull-out

http://tix.yt/2020‫ܪ‬YSJXX FZYNXR

Don’t miss all the latest Panthers news, plus our preview of tonight’s clash between Penrith and the Dragons.

See centre pull-out.

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The NRL season continues this weekend and the Weekender has your footy fix covered with the latest edition of Extra Time.

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR $12 EACH VIA STICKY TICKETS.

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W

ith a high population of young families, the Jordan Springs community fought long and hard for a primary school, but where will these kids go after Year 6?

The new primary school is set to cater for up to 600 students upon opening, with the capacity for an additional 400.

Its neighbour, Ropes Crossing Public School, currently has close to 800 students.

Londonderry MP Prue Car has launched a community campaign, calling on the State Government to secure land for a future high school and said it is critical they plan ahead for these students.

“They do not have a local high school to go to, they are being sent to areas that are way outside their communities and there are new release areas that are smaller than the combined number of residents living in Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing that do have high schools planned,” Ms Car said.

“I am urging the State Government to work with the developer to come up with a piece of land in this area that is yet to be developed and quarantine it before it is too late, so that in time we can have a high school.”

The area in question is the undeveloped land off Commodore Street.

Land owner Lendlease is currently in the midst of attempting to get this rezoned from employment land to urban, to make way for future residential development.

Ms Car said if the State Government don’t act soon there will be no available space for the school.

“There is an opportunity here with vacant land that has not been developed for the government to purchase, once that is gone we will have nowhere and we’ll have a whole generation of students with no local high school,” she said.

The Jordan Springs area is currently zoned for Cranebrook High School.

A NSW Department of Education spokesperson said this school has the land and space capacity to accommodate additional students.

“A school upgrade, including additional teaching spaces, is currently in early planning stages,” the spokesperson said.

“The Department of Education is finalising the delivery of a new primary school in Jordan Springs and will continue to monitor primary and secondary student enrolment developments in the area.”

Ms Car has sent a letter to Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell asking for her consideration.

ONED

NICOLA BARTON

11

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Cemetery debate rolls on Email slammed but club says rejection of DA would have dire consequences ALENA HIGGINS

T

he licensee of Wallacia Country Club has come under fire after sending an email to members claiming the golf club is doomed if amended plans for a cemetery on the site are rejected.

The email, sent from St Johns Park Bowling Club, listed impressive facility upgrades and highlighted the major differences between the former and current development applications (DAs).

It also contended “Wallacia will lose their local golf club” if the DA is refused.

During last month’s Ordinary Council meeting, Councillor Bernard Bratusa slammed the email, calling it “disturbing” and saying “it almost smacks of blackmail”.

“Now, I find that abhorrent that an organisation of the quality and integrity of the St Johns Park Bowling Club would be sending that out to members,” said Cr Bratusa, who declared himself to be a member.

He also questioned the legitimacy of the promised upgrades before reiterating his stance against a cemetery “anywhere” in the Mulgoa or Wallacia regions.

Plans for a cemetery have been met with stiff opposition for years, but despite

this, St Johns Parks Bowling Club Group CEO David Marsh said “most members” approve of the new proposal.

The original plans for the site, lodged by the Catholic Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (CMCT), sought approval for up to 88,000 burial plots but was knocked back by the Independent Planning Commission (IPC).

Six months later, the CMCT lodged a new DA seeking to halve the golf course to nine holes, making way for 27,000 burial plots, a chapel plus administration building.

Additions and alterations to the existing Wallacia Golf Club were also slated to take place.

Mr Marsh said the “truth” was the DA was do or die, adding the company could not continue to operate at a loss.

“Catholic Cemeteries have conditionally sold a large portion of the Wallacia land to St Johns Park Bowling Club,” he said.

“If the DA is rejected again, the sale will fall through and the proposed improvements to the club house along with the new gym, swimming pool, and bowling greens will not go ahead.”

Mayor Ross Fowler, who was also critical of the email, said Penrith Council was “committed” to fighting CMCT’s appeal of the IPC decision and was “critically analysing” the second DA.

The future of Wallacia Country Club remains clouded. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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the western weekender Âť Friday, March 20, 2020

Connecting People & Business St Marys Town Centre is one of the few open air shopping precincts in Western Sydney, with over 250 businesses located within St Marys CBD, including St Marys Village and Station Plaza.

St Marys Town Centre continues to undergo changes to create a safe and inviting place where we hope you will eat, stay, shop and play!

www.facebook.com/stmarystowncentreltd/

stmarystowncentre.com.au WW40497

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Penrith MP in firing line Labor refers Stuart Ayres to ICAC over grant being used to build conference centre NICOLA BARTON

L

abor has referred State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) as the fall- out over a grant to Panthers Leagues Club continues.

Mr Ayres is maintaining that the $12 million State Government grant to the club delivers on an election promise, despite the original plans for the money not coming to fruition.

Panthers had originally planned to build a centre for grassroots sport, and the $12 million commitment from the State Government was promised on that basis.

Mr Ayres was Sports Minister at the time the commitment was first made in 2015.

Panthers is no longer building the sports centre but is instead constructing a conference centre, hotel and underground car park. The funding remains in place.

Labor says the funding should have been re-allocated to sporting projects and raised questions over donations made

by Panthers to the Liberal Party and Mr Ayres’ undeclared Panthers membership.

“Labor is not satisfied that Mr Ayres’ handling of this $12 million taxpayer grant, and the political donations from the recipient satisfy the standard our commu-

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres is standing by a grant to Panthers Leagues Club. nity expects from politicians,” Shadow Sports Minister Lynda Voltz said.

“Mr Ayres should immediately step aside

until this matter can be investigated, if he doesn’t then Gladys Berejiklian must step in.”

Ms Voltz confirmed that Labor had referred the matter to ICAC last Wednesday.

Despite this, Mr Ayres maintains the grant fulfils its purpose.

“The Western Sydney Community and Conference Centre will be a fantastic asset for the people of Penrith,” he said.

“It will create jobs, attract events, trade shows and conferences as well as additional investment into our community.

“The delivery of this funding was an election commitment and I deliver on my election commitments.

“The funding of this project has not come at the expense of other local sport projects.”

The project is co-funded by the Commonwealth Government, State Government and Panthers.

The Commonwealth Government approved the change submitted by Panthers that removed sporting facilities from the original design.

Mr Ayres said during budget estimates last week that he was advised that due to the nature of the election commitment, his Panthers membership would not be a conflict of interest.

Ms Voltz said his membership should have been declared, calling on him to step aside from his Ministerial positions.

New data centre in Erskine Park to cost $29 million Cancellation of all public ANZAC Commemoration Services In accordance with the NSW Government Public Health Order, the City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch has cancelled all ANZAC commemorations.

This includes: • • •

14

ANZAC School Service on the 7th Apr 2020 Sunday Service on the 19th Apr 2020 ANZAC Day Dawn Service on the 25th Apr 2020

Given the significant concerns around the spread of COVID-19, it would be irresponsible to allow such large gatherings as we see each year on ANZAC Day to go ahead. This is not a decision we have taken lightly. The RSL has a responsibility to act in the best interests of veterans and the general public. In these uncertain times we must follow the advice of medical experts and do everything we can to protect the community.

WW40630

An artist’s impression of the new data centre in Erskine Park.

ALENA HIGGINS

E

rskine Park could soon be home to another data centre as local demand for secure data storage continues to grow.

Penrith City Council recently approved a development application (DA) for the construction of a $29 million data centre at 16 Lockwood Road.

Based in Erskine Business Park, the centre is tipped to employ up to 65 people once complete and will offer critical IT infrastructure to the Penrith Local Government Area and Greater Sydney.

It will also signal the third project in the Erskine Park precinct for Americanbased Digital Realty, which already operates two data centres in nearby Templar Road plus another in Melbourne.

A real estate investment trust, Digital Realty has 267 data centres across 20

countries with its headquarters based in San Francisco, according to its website.

“The company is focused on providing data centre, colocation and interconnection solutions for domestic and international customers across a variety of industry verticals, ranging from cloud and information technology services, communications and social networking to financial services, manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and consumer products,” it states.

The two-storey data centre will operate 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and will respond to the growing need to provide secure data storage and IT infrastructure for businesses in western Sydney, according to documents attached to the successful DA. The surrounding area is largely developed with uses comprising of warehouses, distribution centres, data centres and light industrial.

WW40057

the western weekender Âť Friday, March 20, 2020

15

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

L AW a n d O R D E R From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Another man found guilty over attack in restaurant car park

Relatives of two men viciously assaulted in a Penrith car park last year are one step closer to learning the fate of the remaining three offenders yet to be dealt with.

Shannon Rushworth was knocked unconscious and left fighting for life, while his friend Tyson Gampe sustained less serious facial injuries, when they were set upon by a group of five men in a fast food restaurant’s Penrith car park in the early hours of February 3, 2019.

The sickening attack, which was captured on CCTV and witnesses’ mobile phones, shows the group herding the men away from each other before a number of the co-offenders separately knock them to the ground and stomp on their heads.

On Tuesday, Dean Hooper, 23, was found guilty of one count of ‘affray’, after Penrith Local Court Magistrate Geoff Hiatt rejected the defence’s submissions that he was acting “nonchalantly” and was “merely a curious hanger-on”.

While Magistrate Hiatt acknowledged Hooper “didn’t impart any actual physical violence on the victims”, he found he was nevertheless in the thick of the “menacing” affray as the group continued to advance towards the victims, and was “well aware of what was happening”.

To be convicted, the prosecution needed to establish beyond reasonable doubt that Hooper was present, used or threatened unlawful violence towards another, and displayed conduct that would cause a person of reasonable firmness present at the scene to fear for his or her personal safety.

Magistrate Hiatt’s decision followed a two-day defended hearing last month.

During the hearing, the court heard from multiple witnesses who testified to feeling scared and unsafe during the assault.

Hooper, who has no previous criminal convictions and remains at liberty, will be formally sentenced on May 5 and faces a

maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment.

Meanwhile, St Clair’s Byron Donovan, 20, and Glenmore Park’s Wendell Milgate, 21, face a maximum of 14 years’ imprisonment for their involvement in the brawl when they are sentenced at Penrith District Court on April 7.

The pair previously pleaded guilty to one count each of ‘reckless wounding causing grievous bodily harm in company’, ‘affray’ and Milgate to one count of ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company’.

Milgate’s brothers, Blake and Mitchell, 23 and 21, were jailed for 18 months with a non-parole period of 12 months in October for their roles in the attack.

This involved assaulting Mr Gampe and being part of the affray itself.

Their sentences were subject to an unsuccessful appeal, with Penrith District Court Judge Mark Buscombe upholding the Local Court decision.

Blake and Mitchell will be eligible for release on November 28.

Plea deal on the table for local man accused of sex crimes

A plea deal has been offered to the Werrington man accused of procuring a 14-year-old girl online for sex, Penrith Local Court has heard.

Last Friday, the accused’s lawyer told Magistrate Janine Lacy he required a twoweek adjournment to get formal instructions from his client on a plea offer.

Michael Robert Amery, who appeared via video link from Junee Correctional Centre, is accused of engaging with the teen online and outlining sexually explicit acts he wished to perform on her.

Following a tip off, Child Abuse detectives became involved in August 2019, posing as the girl online about a month after the pair allegedly began communicating.

When Amery allegedly organised to meet the girl, detectives swooped, arresting him and seizing his mobile phone at

a prominent Penrith shopping centre on September 5.

On Friday, the court heard the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions had forwarded Amery’s lawyer some amended facts and a plea offer had been made.

Amery, a truck driver, is charged with ‘using a carriage service to procure a person under 16 years of age for sexual activity’ and faces a maximum of 15 years behind bars if convicted.

Due to the nature of the offending, a community-based jail sentence is prohibited.

In an initial police interview, Amery denied the contact was for the purposes of sexual activity.

The details of the plea offer are yet to be disclosed.

He remains bail refused and is due to reappear on March 27.

Woman accused of stabbing man remains behind bars

A woman accused of stabbing a man in Oxley Park earlier this month has been bail refused.

Emily Jane Smith, 26, fronted Penrith Local Court on Monday and was denied release.

Police were called to a Braddon Street unit about 9.15pm on March 11 following reports of a domestic-related assault Police allege Smith stabbed the man, 28, to his abdomen during a physical altercation between the pair and another man.

All three are known to each other.

The accused is charged with ‘wound person intend to cause grievous bodily harm’, ‘reckless wounding – in company’ and ‘armed with intent to commit indictable offence’.

Her matter was adjourned to May 7.

Man cops fine after stealing power tools from business

Ryan Gibson has copped a $700 fine for stealing power tools.

Gibson, 22, who is in custody on other

matters, appeared at Penrith Local Court last month via video link.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen told the tradie he should have known better after he stole $600 worth of power tools and a gas cylinder.

“You’re just stealing from the community,” Magistrate van Zuylen said matterof-factly, referring the likelihood the business would pass costs on to customers.

He was convicted and fined.

Woman guilty of assault after attack on son’s girlfriend

A mother who assaulted her son’s partner for what she claimed was her inadequate care of him has been handed an 18-month good behaviour bond.

The woman, 57, lashed out at her son’s girlfriend at their South Penrith home on May 8, 2019 after a screaming match descended into violence.

In court, the woman’s lawyer told Magistrate Janine Lacy his client was overly protective of her adult son, who had cerebral palsy and profound deafness.

She was convicted of ‘common assault’ and ordered to enter a Community Correction Order with supervision.

Cranebrook man’s sex abuse trial to be held in Katoomba

The trial of an elderly Cranebrook man, accused of historical sexual abuse of two boys while in his care, is set to begin in the coming months.

The man, 84, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had his matter mentioned before Penrith District Court before it was adjourned to Katoomba for trial.

It follows an investigation in 2016 by detectives after reports a boy, 15, had been sexually abused by a male carer earlier that year. As part of their inquiries, detectives also spoke with a boy who had reported he was sexually abused by a mentor while in care between 2006 and 2008, when he was aged 11.

His trial is set to begin on Monday, August 17.

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• Conveyancing & Property Law • Wills, Power of Attorney & Enduring Guardianship • Deceased Estates • Migration Agents

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

Officers from Nepean Police Area Command are warning residents to stay vigilant as Coronavirus (COVID-19) scams emerge.

Text messages impersonating the Government with advice on testing for COVID-19 have been circulating.

Officers urge those who receive these text messages to not click the link and delete them immediately.

These messages try to trick you into installing software that steals your banking details.

For more information and updates, visit https://bit.ly/2WlG5jJ

Jordan Springs: Police search for missing teenager

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenager reported missing.

17-year-old Jordan Osmond was last seen at his residence on Katandra Place, Jordan Springs, about 11.45pm last Tuesday, March 10.

Officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command commenced an investigation and are appealing for public assistance to locate him.

Mr Osmond is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 183cm tall, with a thin build, short brown hair, and brown eyes.

He was last seen wearing black Nike skate shoes, carrying a black backpack and men’s satchel bag.

His family hold concerns for his welfare due to his age and his need for regular medication.

A photo of Jordan can be viewed on the Weekender website or Facebook page.

Six people charged over drug supply syndicate in Sydney

A sixth person has been charged by Penrith investigators over her alleged role in a ‘Dial-a-Dealer’ syndicate supplying cocaine across Sydney’s north west.

ARD GIFT C

D AR TC F I G

In August 2019, Penrith Region Enforcement Squad (RES) established Strike Force Gundain to investigate and target the supply of cocaine in the North West Metropolitan Region and surrounding suburbs.

Following extensive inquiries, strike force investigators executed three search warrants at units in Granville, Ryde and Carlingford from 6am on Thursday, March 12.

So far during the investigation, officers have seized more than $115,000 cash, mobile phones, laptops, documentation, a ballistics vest, steroids and equipment consistent with the supply of prohibited drugs.

Officers have also seized more than 1kg of cocaine, more than 2kg of a substance believed to be methylamphetamine and 117g of heroin.

Five men aged between 23 and 32-yearsold have been charged and remain before the courts.

Following further inquiries, officers attended a home at Mt Druitt Road, Mt Druitt, and arrested a 21-year-old woman just after 10am on Monday, March 16.

She was taken to Mt Druitt Hospital before being taken to Mt Druitt Police Station.

The woman was charged with 10 offences.

Police will allege in court that the woman was involved in the supply of cocaine through the ‘Dial-a-Dealer’ criminal syndicate.

She was refused bail and appeared at Mt Druitt Local Court on Tuesday.

Investigations under Strike Force Gundain are continuing.

Random Breath Testing called off during Coronavirus crisis

Police have cancelled ‘mass’ Random Breath Testing due to health concerns during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Motorists are warned that officers can still conduct individual roadside tests for drugs and alcohol.

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

A special offer to readers Often during times of global panic, we see a spike in people wanting to plan for the future and put in place things like a Power of Attorney, Enduring Guardianship and make sure their Will is up to date.

Unfortunately in light of the Coronavirus pandemic, we are seeing a spike in these types of enquiries.

Rather than turning clients away and telling them there is no need to panic, we always like to encourage clients to take the opportunity to put things in place now to plan for things like sickness, incapacity or death.

This is a responsible thing for people to do irrespective of the current virus situation, however we would like to assist anyone who would feel better about putting these things in place now by offering a 50 per cent discount on all Wills, Powers of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship documents for a limited period of time to enable everyone to be able to have these documents in place irrespective of their financial situation.

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To finish off the column, we would like to give you a quick explanation of what each Estate planning document does: Will Your Will is a document that dictates what happens to your assets when you die. To write a Will you need to decide who you want to be in charge of executing its terms after your death (your Executor) and how you want your assets (for example real estate, money in the bank, shares and personal belonging) to be distributed amongst your family and/ or friends or any other entity.

Power of Attorney A Power of Attorney is a document that allows you to appoint a person to assist you with the management of your financial affairs if you are unable to do so. Your Attorney can do things like buy and sell real estate for you, operate your bank account and pay your bills.

Enduring Guardianship An Enduring Guardianship document allows you to appoint a person or people to make health and lifestyle decisions for you if you suffer an incapacity that renders you unable to make those decisions for yourself. Your Guardian can made decisions like where you live and consent to medical and dental treatment.

At Complete Legal & Conveyancing we are taking the Coronavirus issue very seriously. All of the staff in our office are currently healthy, and any person who begins to feel unwell will spend some time at home to recover.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

Driving away nasty scammers NICOLA BARTON

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t’s a scam that has been around for decades but locals are urged to be vigilant of potentially shonky tradesmen doing the rounds in Castlereagh and Agnes Banks.

Known as the ‘Bitumen Bandits’, these tradesmen door knock and letter box drop offers for cheap driveways that are too good to be true, targeting more vulnerable residents such as the elderly.

Several locals have come forward to report such activity over the past two weeks.

Castlereagh resident David Attrill was approached recently by men who said they had left over materials and would give him a good deal. But as cracks in their story started to appear, Mr Attrill questioned their legitimacy.

“I said nothing was happening without any paperwork as they refused to give even an ABN,” he said.

Mr Attrill then spoke to who he was told was the ‘boss’ of the company on the phone who said he would be emailed an invoice, warranty and ABN after the work was completed but Mr Attrill said that was not good enough and no work would

start until he had seen and read all the paperwork.

“I was then told the boss didn’t want to work for me,” he said.

David Gardner, owner of Cranebrook road construction business Centre Line Paving, who fixed another local victim’s driveway last year, said more often than not these scammers start work without official approval and then pressure for payment.

“Some of the things I’ve seen them do and some of the results is really scary,” he said.

A spokesperson from Fair Trading NSW said residents should always be wary of persons who come knocking offering unsolicited work, regardless of how professional they present.

“Consumers who are approached should always ask if the trader holds an authority issued by Fair Trading to do that work,” the spokesperson said.

“Anyone who does rebuilding or repair work valued at more than $5,000, or any type of specialist work like plumbing or electrical, must have a valid licence or tradespersons certificate.”

Other tips include seeking more than one quote and consider payment by credit.

To report a complaint: bit.ly/2IBIZcj.

dear weekender... email: news@westernweekender.com.au post: Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown 2750

Why the Royal Easter Show should go for good Next month’s Easter Show has been cancelled, due to concerns about the proliferating Coronavirus. It should remain cancelled in the future, and not just for health reasons. The Show does its best to deceive children and even adults who attend, by presenting an idyllic but inaccurate picture of how farmed animals are confined, tormented and killed. People see a handful of well-groomed animals that, temporarily, avoid the routine cruelty experienced by farmed animals. For the millions of others (and many of the ones being shown, when they return to the farm), profit is the only concern governing their lives, and suffering the only fate awaiting them.

DESMOND BELLAMY, VIA EMAIL

place of what we used to have – genuine news from genuine journalists. And that goes for the editors as well. And don’t get me started on the abysmal standard of proof readers and grammar and spelling as well as stories that are incomplete, leaving out half the information needed for the readers and listeners to know what has happened. I’m afraid I classify the daily metropolitan papers and news services as rags fit only for use when we eventually run out of toilet paper.

COLIN HADDEN, EMU PLAINS

Year of the halfwits People panic buying toilet rolls and other items; people now wanting to return panic purchases, confirms my opinion that 2020 truly is the year of the halfwits.

RICHARD MERRELL, PENRITH

Media in the toilet

Will society ever recover?

Troy Dodds’ and Daniel McKinnon’s columns this week (Weekender March 13) really struck a chord with me. The major media, both print and electronic (TV moreso than radio) have become opinion-papers and opinion-broadcasts rather than news organs. Anything goes as long as it is sensationalised and attracts viewers, buyers and hits. And they still try to disguise them as genuine news.

Idiot (anti)social media users, ridiculous panickers, biased opinions put forward by the so called “journalists”, all these in

I think it is fair to ask if society will ever be the same again after the Coronavirus has come and gone. Generations before us got stronger after tragedy, such as past pandemics and wars. The way so many of us in society have behaved this past few weeks, you have to wonder if we will do the opposite, and get weaker. We have all seen what each other is capable of, and that will not change even once this is done.

STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space.

For more information, see our public notices section.

David Gardner fixed up a local resident’s driveway last year. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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The successful individual will play a significant role in driving the overall growth, sales performance and success of the Penrith business.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Treasured midwifery program celebrates 10 years at Nepean

Rooty Hill Village

Nepean Hospital Caseload Midwife Cindy Partridge with Kiara Duncan and Luca.

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The program began in 2010 with four midwives and has now grown to include 12 that support women for the duration of their pregnancy, birth and early postnatal journey.

Cindy Partridge said receiving the care of a caseload midwife during her two

pregnancies inspired her to pursue a career change and become one herself.

“Being an expectant mother on the caseload program, I saw the impact caseload midwifery could have on a family,” she said.

“I thought I’d like to be involved in that as I wanted to give to others what I was given.”

Describing the program as an opportunity to work with the whole family, Ms Partridge said she treasures the special bonds she forms.

“There’s a warmth to the relationship a woman has with her caseload midwife which makes a really special bond,” she said.

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After surviving cancer, Ryan is determined to find a cure NICOLA BARTON

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Jan Swinhoe and Robert Ryan from IMB Bank with Jayne Baric.

EMILY FESZCZUK

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South Penrith local puts her whole heart into making sure people are healthy. Jayne Baric is the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute nurse behind NSW’s largest public heart health screening initiative.

Ms Baric has been responsible for working with the mobile heart health testing service for 10 years.

“The Victor Chang Institute studies signs of heart disease and cures but

thought they also have a community responsibility to help people understand heart health,” she said.

“That’s where I came in and I now have a team of nine nurses that travel all around the country doing free heart tests.”

Not receiving any government funding, Ms Baric said grants from organisations are so important.

“The IMB Bank Community Foundation has given us $150,000 over a two- year period to go to 50 stops around NSW and the ACT,” she said.

More funding would be welcomed.

enrith resident Ryan Nesbit was just a regular video game-obsessed little boy, until he and his family received the shocking news that he had Leukemia back in 2018.

From that moment, their world turned upside down as he underwent harsh treatments including a heartbreaking 776 days of chemotherapy, which caused him to lose his hair, as he battled against the blood cancer.

Now, aged 11, Ryan is in remission and rang the bell at Westmead Children’s Hospital last Wednesday as a way to signify the end of treatment.

While Ryan has been one of the lucky ones, a devastating 23 per cent of cancer related mortality in Australian children is from Leukemia.

Determined to help fundraise towards finding a cure, Ryan shaved off his grownback hair in front of his peers at Bethany Catholic Primary School on Monday.

“I want to raise money to open doors to better treatment options so we need money for research,” he told the Weekender.

“Treatment is really difficult and I hope I can help prevent others from going through this, I was scared because I didn’t know what would happen and if I would live.

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

Funding helps keep crucial heart health service strong

Ryan Nesbit loses his locks on Monday.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

“I hope if anyone else gets diagnosed they might see my story and be inspired to go on and keep fighting, to show they can get through treatment.”

When Ryan rang the bell last week, his school gathered in their hall space to watch it via live streaming.

“Ringing the bell felt good, it was a big relief after the last few years and I can’t believe the day finally arrived,” Ryan said.

To help Ryan fundraise, visit bit. ly/2IIPme0.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

It’s a better place to play Kids celebrate completion of long-awaited playground upgrade in Oxley Park NICOLA BARTON

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amilies from Oxley Park gathered at Ridge Park last week in celebration of long- awaited playground upgrades, thanks to the State Government and Penrith City Council.

New shade sails, seating and trees have been delivered as part of the State Government’s Community Building Partnership.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler, Councillor Robin Cook and Londonderry MP Prue Car were on hand last Tuesday, March 10 to mark the occasion.

Cr Fowler said it was a huge win for families in the Oxley Park community.

“It’s really great to see improvements happening in older areas such as Oxley Park and that’s been one of Council’s thrusts over the last 10 or 12 years, to regenerate older areas of Penrith where the facilities aren’t up to date or scratch,” he said.

“Over the last six years, we’ve been involved in a few of those with a park at North St Marys, Cranebrook, Cambridge Park and another in Oxley Park.

“It’s a slow process but what it is doing is adding an asset to the community and I thank the community for waiting for those assets to occur.”

Ross Fowler, Prue Car and Robin Cook joined members of the community for the playground opening.

Cr Fowler said this should be used as encouragement for children to play outside more.

“It is really something that will enhance livability and use and hopefully get the kids out playing and not being at home in front of tablets, just getting out and being active and being part of the community,” he said.

Ms Car, who advocated for the upgrades,

said she was pleased to see it finally come to light.

“It is really exciting to see this actually happen, particularly the overhead shade sail because I can not tell you how many complaints I get and it’s warranted because so many playgrounds around the area don’t have shade sails,” she said.

“I’m a mum, I don’t want to take my child to an area where he is going to get

sunburned. We want our kids to be out and about playing and learning through that play, I know X-boxes are cool but playgrounds are cooler, so the more we can do this the better.”

Applications for the 2020 round of grants as part of the Community Building Partnership will open on Monday, May 4 and close on Friday, June 12. Applications will be available online.

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

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Keep a look out in your letterbox this week for our new-format community newsletter. It celebrates everything that’s unique about living in Penrith: our quality of life, family-friendly playspaces and recreation facilities and our vibrant local events. The newsletter will help all residents feel more connected to everything that’s happening locally, regardless of what stage of life or what part of Penrith you are in.

Quarterly seasonal editions will focus on the best local stories and activities for each autumn, winter, spring and summer. The first issue will be sent to every household in the Penrith area, but if you would like to opt out of receiving the print edition, you can choose to read your news online instead.

Council understands that personal choice is important – many of us prefer to read a print magazine or newspaper with our morning coffee and keep it in the kitchen to refer back to later. With information about upcoming events,

and important phone numbers and website links in every issue, Our Place will be a handy reference guide to keep on-hand.

Other residents prefer to get their news online or on a phone while on-the-go. Our Place is available as an online magazine, as well as an email delivered straight into your inbox.

Whichever way you prefer, there’s an option to suit you.

Providing digital options allows us to avoid any potential wastage and helps us achieve our sustainability goals.

Leaving a minimal ecological footprint was at the front of our mind when creating Our Place; the paper is 100% sustainable and the wrap is biodegradable. Communication is a two-way street, and your input is valuable for this newsletter. Each issue will feature a Community Noticeboard, where residents can suggest upcoming events and initiatives to be featured.

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, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

RAIL CHANGES EVERYTHING A SPECIAL PENRITH COUNCIL FEATURE

Message from the Mayor: Rail is crucial for new airport’s success

BY PENRITH MAYOR ROSS FOWLER Since 2014, when the Federal Government announced western Sydney would be the location for a new international airport, we turned our minds to ensuring we could maximise the benefits of this significant investment while minimising the impacts.

We recognised an opportunity to respond to two of the biggest issues for our community – more local jobs and better infrastructure that makes it easier to get where we need to. It’s a once in a generation chance to create the most liveable City we can – cutting the long daily commute and bringing new job opportunities closer to home so people can spend more time doing things they love.

As Sydney’s population surges towards 7.1m in 2041, western Sydney is being expected to house the lion’s share of new residents. We knew we needed to reimagine our City as a place where you can live and work, with new, diverse jobs and where it’s easy to get around.

Penrith has advocated hard for this vision and in March 2018, as part of the Western Sydney City Deal, the promise of North South Rail was made – a new Metro service that would connect the Airport to our City at St Marys and be ready when the airport opens in 2026.

Last year the Premier said construction would start in 2021 yet fast forward 12 months and we still don’t know exactly

where the corridor will run and where stations will be – which is concerning when we’re only six short years away from the promised opening and we want to plan

and maximise the benefits. Our community wants a more efficient and productive region, that’s connected to itself and the world. We need both levels of Government

to make sure the new Metro will deliver on its enormous potential and reassure our community this infrastructure will be the change they’ve been waiting for.

We’re reliant on our cars, but public transport can change the future Our community is dependent on cars, due to necessity. A Council survey showed more than 70 per cent of our residents spend the equivalent of a day’s work getting to and from their job each week – changing that stat can change lives.

In 2016- 17 Penrith residents made 756,835 trips on an average weekday.

More than three quarters (86 per cent) of all trips were made in private vehicles, either as vehicle drivers (58 per cent) or as passengers (28 per cent).

Even if we wanted to change our journey to public transport, we know it’s not easy and often doesn’t get us where we need to go.

Only 15 per cent of public transport stops in the Penrith LGA have a medium to high frequency service in the morning peak.

(Infrastructure Australia data 2019).

The Northern Gateway (north of the airport site) is projected to provide up to 21,000 jobs and housing for up to 10,000 people, including Sydney Science Park with 3,400 dwellings and 12,000 jobs.

The Quarter (Penrith’s Health and Education Precinct) is planning for 25,000 new knowledge jobs, education for up to 25,000 students and 15,000 homes with a metro station.

A single station at St Marys would provide rail access to jobs at the airport

for around 15,000 residents. Penrith’s preferred station locations would more than double the potential workforce that could access jobs at the airport by rail and stimulate growth and development of these centres.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said the NSW Treasurer has spoken of the 845,000 journeys to and from work western Sydney residents make each day and the Federal Government’s Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics estimated the ‘avoidable’ social costs of congestion at $16.5 billion in 2015 and without intervention, a $37.3 billion price tag in 2030.

“Without strategically located stations and an effective connecting public transport network, the highly anticipated North South Rail Link may not bring the bang for buck we’ve been expecting, it will condemn current and future communities to more time in their cars and less time to spend with their families,” he said.

“Cutting corners won’t accelerate the transformation western Sydney needs now. The true value of the rail connection for jobs and housing will only be realised with strategically planned stations to maximise the number of people who can use it. That means locating stations near existing and planned housing and jobs.”

A 2017 DELOITTE ACCESS REPORT ON THE BENEFIT OF RAIL FOR SOCIETY FOUND: - Each passenger journey made by rail instead of road generates benefits for society of between $3.88 and $10.64 by reducing congestion, accident and carbon costs - A single train is estimated to be able to replace up to 800 cars during peak hour

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Source: Deloitte Access Economics 2017 Value of Rail: The contribution of rail in Australia.

A report commissioned by the Australasian Railway Association (ARA).

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

Rail line would have huge impact on economy, proving its worth long-term Research by Deloitte and Arup into the new rail line predicted it would inject an extra $3.6bn into the economy – but that assumes there will be centres of activity along the line. Beyond moving people from A to B, rail lines and stations have the potential to create vibrant centres of activity thick with jobs and people, well connected and supporting diverse housing to suit everyone.

To maximise the benefits of the Airport for people in Penrith rail needs to connect people in and across the region.

Knowing our City best, Penrith Council has identified the best locations for these future stations, in areas where jobs and housing can flourish along the rail corridor – refer Structure Plan (pictured right).

These stations are needed to support and activate the Sydney Science Park with its 12,000 jobs and 10,000 students and The Quarter, Penrith’s Health and Education precinct including hospitals, health services, TAFE and university campuses – where thousands of jobs will be created over the next decade.

Council also envisages a station at Orchard Hills, supporting current and future residents and easily accessible by a wider catchment of existing residents.

So far, Sydney Metro, who are leading the planning, have only released details of stations at the Airport, the adjacent Aerotropolis and St Marys.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said: “We need to know where the other stations will be so we can plan. A 15km stretch between the airport and St Marys without a station is not what we would expect from a true Metro service if we want to create a 30-minute city.

“North West Metro is proving a winner for commuters, it has 13 stations along 36km which is a station every 3kms. While the new West Metro, which parallels an existing passenger rail line, is being planned with at least six stations on the 22km route between Westmead and the CBD.” “The North South Rail line (Sydney Metro

The Structure Plan for the rail corridor.

Greater West) will only benefit current and future residents of Penrith if they can access it through a station. With connectivity in western Sydney a key priority of the City Deal, could we be short-changed with an inferior service that won’t deliver on its promise, let alone its potential?

“The Sydney Metro Greater West should

allow for three stations along the 15km route between the Airport station(s) and the interchange at St Marys. Ultimately, the new Metro line should connect to the Metro North West at Tallawong and Macarthur in the South, allowing people to move seamlessly between centres in and around western Sydney.

“This North-South link via the Western Sydney Airport was the preferred option identified by the Joint Scoping Study into Rail Needs in Western Sydney – which described it as “a city shaping rail link… [that offers] opportunities to stimulate local growth and connectivity within the region.”

HAVE YOUR SAY The new Sydney Metro Greater West has the potential to link residents with local jobs, education, health, housing and other services within 30 minutes but only with the right train stations.

The State Government is calling for feedback on this important project. This is an opportunity for the Penrith community to speak up and ask for additional train stations at The Quarter (Penrith’s Health and Education Precinct), Sydney Science Park and Orchard Hills.

The survey is open until 20 March 2020. Have your say at: sydneymetro.info/greaterwest

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

SNIPS AND SNAPS: CORONAVIRUS EDITION THE RACES WILL GO ON: HARNESS MEETINGS GO AHEAD IN PENRITH Harness racing meetings will continue to be run at the Penrith Paceway despite the Coronavirus crisis, however no fans will be allowed to cheer their favourite horses on.

A closed venue policy has been implemented for harness racing meetings at the Paceway.

Thursday night meetings at the Paceway are usually a hive of activity with a strong family atmosphere.

The Paceway will close at 4.30pm on Thursdays,

with gates closed at 5pm.

From then on, the only people allowed to access the grounds will be those essential for the running of the race meeting.

The club and grounds will then re- open the following day.

Racegoers are also being banned from being on course at the Richmond

Greyhound Club in Londonderry, but races will still go ahead for the time being.

Major race meetings are also being impacted with Saturday’s Golden Slipper to run without fans on course at Rose Hill.

Most race meetings across the country are still going ahead.

PENRITH HARNESS AND RICHMOND GREYS RACES ARE LIVE ON SKY RACING

TAKE IT AWAY Popular chicken eatery El Jannah has announced it’s banning in- store eating temporarily as the Coronavirus outbreak escalates.

Takeaway service will still operate, while partners such as Uber Eats will continue to offer delivery.

“El Jannah holds with utmost importance the health and safety of our customers and staff,” the High Street, Penrith business said on its Facebook page.

“El Jannah is implementing preventative and control measures to ensure that El Jannah remains a safe- haven for all customers and staff.”

PRINT IT! WEEKENDER HERE TO HELP

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While the Coronavirus outbreak is impacting all individuals and businesses, the Western Weekender is doing its best to keep local residents informed.

“We understand that for many people in our community, our print edition is their only source of reliable local news and information,” said Managing Editor, Troy Dodds.

“Throughout the Coronavirus outbreak, we’ll continue to deliver informative, balanced and localised content.”

The Weekender’s Penrith office remains open.

“We will continue to inform our readers, and also assist our partners in getting their messages out to customers and clients,” Mr Dodds said.

STORES CLOSED Leading retailer Apple has closed all of its stores, including in Westfield Penrith, until further notice.

It was originally expected stores would only be closed until March 27 but that advice has now been changed to be an indefinite closure.

Apple stores are usually full of activity, not only with numerous staff and customers but window shoppers browsing the latest phones, computers and gadgets.

Most returns will now be accepted up to 14 days after the stores re-open.

Anyone hoping to buy a new phone or laptop will have to rely on the world of online shopping.

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STOCKPILING ISN’T COOL

PM’S BLUNT MESSAGE

OUTDOOR CINEMA NIGHT POSTPONED Emu Hall has decided to postpone its planned Cinema Under The Stars event, but remains open for business.

“At Emu Hall, we have been sanitising all our kitchen and customer areas on a daily basis – including our menus and tills; and have also made sure that any team members who are feeling unwell, stay at home to rest,” the business said on its Facebook page.

“We are very much a community- driven space so we want to assure everyone that our staff, customers and communities are our main priority during this worrying time with COVID-19.”

Emu Hall is open seven days a week.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has urged people to stop stockpiling and stripping supermarket shelves of products.

Scenes like the above, at IGA in Colyton, have become commonplace across supermarkets.

There is no need for locals to stockpile as the Coronavirus does not threaten Australia’s food supply chain.

Only selfish people do.

“It’s not sensible, it’s not helpful and I’ve got to say it’s been one of the most disappointing things I’ve seen in Australian behaviour in response to this crisis,” Mr Morrison said on Wednesday.

“That is not who we are as a people. It is not necessary. It is not something that people should be doing.

What it does is it is distracting attention and efforts that need to be going into other measures to be focusing on how we maintain supply chains into these shopping centres.

“There is no reason for people to be hoarding supplies in fear of a lockdown or anything like this. As I’ve said, we’re putting in place scalable and sustainable measures.”

Locals are being urged to show calm behaviour and stop any hoarding behaviour.

MOUNTAINS EVENTS CANCELLED

THEATRE HIT HARD

“You get the impression that there’s a massive meteor about to collide with Earth.”

RADIO 2GB’S ALAN JONES ON OUR CORONAVIRUS REACTION

Blue Mountains Theatre has cancelled all programming until June 2020 due to Coronavirus.

All affected patrons will be contacted over the coming week to arrange the refund of tickets already sold.

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said all large gatherings scheduled for the Blue Mountains Theatre and Hub would have to be cancelled, or postponed, including

Springwood Growers Market that was to take place on Sunday, March 22.

Council is currently working with the organisers of all upcoming events in the City, to determine if they can proceed.

The organisers of Springwood Foundation Day, which was to be held on Saturday, March 28, have postponed the event until later in 2020 with a date to be confirmed.

“It is really unfortunate

that Council has to take these unprecedented steps,” Mayor Greenhill said.

“A pandemic is a time of uncertainty and we continue to follow the advice of NSW Health and the Federal Department of Health, in order to support our staff and community during this time.

“At this stage, Council facilities like our leisure centres and libraries remain open.”

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

the final word

v

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 20, 2020

match preview

Brought to you by

The Panthers show some strong defence against the Roosters. Photo: Megan Dunn.

TROY DODDS

R

ugby league enters a surreal situation this weekend with games to be played in front of no fans, as the Coronavirus response ramps up across the world.

The Panthers travel to Kogarah for the early Friday night game against a St George- Illawarra side on a very short back- up after playing in Wollongong against Wests Tigers on Sunday night.

Dragons fans would be worried after what they saw against the Tigers – a 24-14 defeat and a side that, despite scoring in the opening minute of the game and leading for much of the contest, never really looked in control Penrith meantime surprised plenty across the rugby league landscape with an impressive come- from- behind win over defending premiers the Roosters at Panthers Stadium.

FOX LEAGUE

ABC TRIPLE M

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 | 6PM | NETSTRATA JUBILEE STADIUM | REFEREES: MATT CECCHIN & JON STONE While Penrith looked out of sorts in the first half, they really clicked into gear as the match progressed and absolutely dominated the Roosters in the second stanza, shutting them out of the contest and announcing themselves as a realistic top eight threat this year – if a top eight is ever determined, of course.

The usual suspects were in fine form – Nathan Cleary led the side well, Viliame Kikau crashed over when it mattered and Isaah Yeo was a menace, clocking up a team high 170 metres.

Api Koroisau’s return to Penrith was also a success – 59 tackles and a performance that had many fans relieved, with the side’s problem at hooker appearing to be resolved.

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has been forced to replace forward Jack Hetherington with Billy Burns on the bench, after

Hetherington was suspended – again – for a high tackle on Roosters fullback James Tedesco.

The Dragons also didn’t miss the ire of the match review committee, losing Tariq Sims for Friday night’s game after he was hit with a dangerous contact charge.

While they’ll be watching from the lounge room instead of the famous Kogarah hill, Dragons fans will be desperate to see their side collect their first win of the season and I’ve got no doubt there could be a big bounce back factor for Paul McGregor’s men after the disappointment of Sunday night against the Tigers.

For that reason I expect the Dragons to come out firing early, much like they did last weekend.

That should be no problem for a Penrith side that displayed impressive patience against the Roosters last week, and

PANTHERS

showed much more in attack than they did last season.

Again the likes of Cleary, Kikau and Yeo will be key, but after getting the cobwebs out it’d be nice to see strong performances from James Fisher- Harris, Moses Leota and Zane Tetevano this weekend. All three have the potential to offer so much to Penrith’s go-forward.

The Dragons are boosted by the return of Matt Dufty at fullback.

It’ll take both sides some time to get used the distinct lack of atmosphere at games, but eventually it’ll settle – and as Ivan Cleary said last week, they train that way every other day of the week anyway.

While I think the Dragons will improve on their first round efforts, I’m sensing back- to- back victories loom for the Panthers.

Tip: Panthers by 8.

DRAGONS

1 Caleb Aekins

10 Zane Tetevano

1 Matt Dufty

2 Josh Mansour

11 Viliame Kikau

2 Jordan Pereira

11 Tyson Frizell

3 Dean Whare

12 Isaah Yeo

3 Brayden Wiliame

12 Tyrell Fuimaono

4 Brent Naden

13 James Fisher-Harris

4 Timoteo Lafai

13 Blake Lawrie

5 Brian To’o

14 Stephen Crichton

5 Zac Lomax

14 Trent Merrin

6 Jarome Luai

15 Billy Burns

6 Corey Norman

15 Josh Kerr

7 Nathan Cleary

16 Moses Leota

7 Ben Hunt (c)

16 Billy Brittain

10 Paul Vaughan

8 James Tamou (c)

17 Liam Martin

8 James Graham

17 Jacob Host

9 Apisai Koroisau

18 Matt Burton 19 Jed Cartwright

9 Issac Luke

18 Jackson Ford

19 Adam Clune

31

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE! !

The Panthers have started to implement Coronavirus protection measures including keeping the media at least 1.5 metres away from players during interviews. As the picture on the right shows, it made for bizarre scenes at the Rugby League Academy on Monday afternoon when journalists were chatting to forward Viliame Kikau about last weekend’s game. Visitors have also been banned from using the bathrooms at the Academy. When nature called for a female journalist, she was told the Academy toilets were off-limits.

Social distancing in action.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

!

Penrith is playing a waiting game as far as its three home games scheduled for April are concerned. The side is on the road for the next fortnight to play the Dragons and Storm, but is then scheduled to return to Panthers Stadium to take on the Broncos, Raiders and Tigers in a three week run. Nobody knows if the NRL will still be running by then, so contingency plans are only pencilled in at this stage.

It would be a huge financial blow to the club if those three games go ahead without fans, and would have a major flow-on impact to the leagues club. It would have been anticipating huge crowds back at the club after the Saturday night game against the Broncos, and a huge family attendance as part of the Easter Sunday game against Canberra.

!

There’s some special people out there, highlighted by those desperate to find out what happens to their season ticket if the NRL season is cancelled. Never mind that the world is in a major health crisis, let’s worry about your season ticket to the football. I feel like these are the same people who have a special room in their house dedicated to toilet paper. For the record, the NRL is developing a whole of game response as to how members and sponsors are dealt with as a result of the Coronavirus shutting down attendances at matches.

!

The Coronavirus crisis means that Thursday night’s planned official opening of the new Basement sports bar at Panthers was called off earlier this week.

Club dignitaries and special guests were to gather at the impressive new bar to cut the ribbon. The bar remains open and is very impressive, with good numbers in attendance before and after last week’s game against the Roosters.

!

Forward Jack Hetherington has taken only one game to find himself in trouble with the NRL’s Match Review Committee. Hetherington was charged over a high tackle on Roosters fullback James Tedesco last Saturday night, and has subsequently been suspended for two matches.

!

Spotted: Emma Lawrence, who just happens to be the partner of new ground

The Panthers v Roosters match was Saturday’s most watched program on Foxtel, attracting an average of 247,000 viewers on Fox League.

deal with the club. A local St Marys junior, Smith first entered the Panthers’ development pathways at the age of 14 via the club’s Junior Elite Training Scheme (JETS). His representative honours include a man-of-the-match performance for the U16s NSW Origin team in 2016 and selection in the 2017 Australian Schoolboys side alongside Panthers teammates Spencer Leniu and Shawn Blore. A double shoulder reconstruction sidelined Smith in 2018 before he returned to play 19 games for the Panthers’ Jersey Flegg side last season.

!

!

announcer Zac Bailey, hosting proceedings in the Chairman’s Lounge at Panthers Stadium last Saturday night.

!

Spotted: Injured Panthers recruit Kurt Capewell being put to good use in the Chairman’s Lounge last Saturday night. He was in charge of handing out the ice creams for dessert.

!

Youngster Lindsay Smith will join Penrith’s top 30 squad for the 2021 and 2022 NRL seasons after a signing a new

Do you have a rumour or news story to share? You can email me at maskedpanther@westernweekender.com.au.

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32

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 20, 2020

feature

PANTHERS ENTER A NEW WORLD P

anthers players are fully stocked up on toilet paper, have their very own bottle of hand sanitiser, and have even invented a new contactless way of doing fist bumps – welcome to the NRL in 2020.

While the future of the current rugby league season is shrouded in uncertainty due to COVID-19, it’s business as usual at Panthers with NRL games still set down for this weekend minus crowds.

Panthers are taking the health crisis very seriously by making sure each of their players are practicing good personal hygiene at training and at home.

Penrith centre Brent Naden said the club is doing everything it can to look after the players’ wellbeing.

“It’s just precautionary things like hand sanitisers – there’s one at every locker.

We’re also doing fist bumps instead of

shaking hands, and purely just keeping our distance,” he said.

“We are just being sensible, we’re not going too over the top, but it’s just practicing good personal hygiene. If everyone looks after themselves, we shouldn’t have a problem.”

After defeating the Sydney Roosters last Saturday night in front of a strong crowd at Panthers Stadium, the scene will look a whole lot different this evening when Penrith play the Dragons at Kogarah in front of essential staff only.

Panthers forward Isaah Yeo said he’s happy to play games without fans but it will be an unusual experience.

“We’re paid to play with or without a crowd… it’ll be like an opposed training session out there,” he said.

“The Dragons would love to have their home crowd there but that won’t be the case this week, I’m glad we’re not having a home game [until Round 4].

“It will be a bit different for both sides, but we are still preparing to play a game

Brent Naden showing off his contactless fist bumps. Photo: Megan Dunn. and perform for the people watching at home.”

With life changing so rapidly each and every day, it remains uncertain just how long the NRL can continue to play games amid the pandemic.

Players say they’ll continue to prepare for matches but will be guided by the NRL in terms of how long for.

“It’s hour by hour, day by day at the moment. We are preparing for the Dragons on Friday with no crowd, if that changes then it’s up to the NRL,” Yeo said.

“We’ll play if we have to play, it’s all in the NRL’s hands. All we are worried about is playing good footy whether that’s behind closed doors or in front of fans,” Naden added.

WW40288

NATHAN TAYLOR

33

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

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League’s new world has us all wondering what’s next

lang on league

with Peter Lang Diesel Fitter and workshop supervisor at Westrac in Casula. He cites the late Steve Waddell as the toughest man he has ever played with and believes the Panthers can make the Top 8 in 2020.

“It’s going to be a big year for Ivan Cleary and his son I think,” Bobby said.

What game I’m looking forward to...

New Zealand Warriors v Canberra Raiders at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday.

Under normal circumstances this game would not attract much attention however with all the drama surrounding the Warriors this week, it could very well be the last match they play in 2020. The Raiders will turn up ready to play so it’ll be up to the Warriors to block out all the noise, dig deep and win, not only for themselves but for their friends, family and all their loyal supporters.

What caught my eye last week...

The wonderful performance by the Penny Panthers against the reigning NRL Premiers and World Champions, the Sydney Roosters last Saturday night.

It didn’t look good when the home side found themselves 12 points down midway through the first half but this year’s team is made of sterner stuff. They look like a team who really play for each other and it was evident in every try celebration. My hat also goes off to the 10,000 plus spectators who turned up on a cold, windy and miserable night to watch what was a remarkable win.

This week I got the chance to catch up with Bobby Thompson who played 60 first grade games for the Panthers between 1995- 98. He then went to the

UK where he played with Salford for one season. Now retired from rugby league for almost 20 years, Bobby finds himself living back in Penrith and working as a

WW39678

Where are they now? – former Panthers back Bobby Thompson...

The Panthers celebrate a special win last weekend. Photo: Megan Dunn.

The final word...

It seems it will take more than a pandemic named Coronavirus to stop the 2020 NRL Premiership.

On the one hand, I really admire the resilience shown by NRL CEO Todd Greenberg and ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys to soldier on. To want to find a way to keep the competition going no matter what obstacles fall in its path in the days and weeks ahead.

On the other hand, it reeks a little of desperation.

Of having to keep a competition running, only because it can’t afford not to. At the end of the day, the welfare of the player both physical and mental must be the number one priority.

I believe it will only take one infected player or team official to stop the NRL Premiership in its tracks.

Perhaps at the end of the day the Coronavirus may save the competition from itself.

34

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 20, 2020

feature

PANTHERS KEEN TO KEEP WINNING NATHAN TAYLOR

P

anthers supporters breathed a huge sigh of relief on Saturday night when superstar forward Viliame Kikau returned to the field to score the match-winning try over the Roosters.

The 24-year-old Fijian backrower left the game in the first half with a what appeared to be a serious shoulder injury, however he managed to return in the second to put the Panthers in front.

Speaking with the media on Monday, Kikau said he was just dealing with a ‘stinger’ in his right shoulder, but he initially feared his diagnosis would be much worse.

“At first I heard a weird cracking sound, I thought I was gone because on the next play I went to play hooker and I couldn’t pass the ball – I couldn’t feel my arm – but luckily I’m all good,” he said.

“I got a good stinger on my shoulder. I

thought I heard a crack but when I came off, I did all the testing and was declared all good.”

When teammate Isaah Yeo saw Kikau coming from the field with his arm in a makeshift jersey sling, he was very concerned.

“I saw his arm in the jersey and I thought ‘oh no’, I bet Ivan (coach) was thinking that as well,” Yeo said.

“He’s very important to the side and as far as I know it was just a stinger and he came back on. I’m glad he did return because he scored a good try. We’re a much better side when he’s on the field.”

Penrith will aim for back to back wins to start the season when they travel to Kogarah on Friday night to face the Dragons.

While there will be no crowd in attendance at tonight’s game, Yeo said his side took plenty of confidence out of their come from behind 20- 14 win over the Premiers last weekend.

“It was a massive win… the start we had wasn’t ideal, but I thought we rallied

Isaah Yeo starred in Penrith’s win over the Roosters last Saturday. Photo: Megan Dunn. pre-season and believing in one another.

“That comes down to trusting what Baz, Ciro and Ivan enforced during the preseason, just trusting the process, grinding together and sticking it out,” he said.

“You get a bit of confidence out of a win like that but you can’t get too cocky, there’s a lot to work on still.”

around each other really well,” he said.

“There wasn’t any panic at any stage and I think the way we were able to perform against the reigning Premiers and World Club Champions was really pleasing.”

Panthers centre Brent Naden, who scored a try in the match, said the grind out win could be put down to a strong

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37

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

Captain’s Challenge delivers a positive unintended consequence

Brought to you by

warren smith W

hen the NRL decided to give the idea of a Captain’s Challenge the green light for this year’s NRL competition it was hard to imagine how much of an influence it was going to have over the course of the 80 minutes of a game.

You only get one incorrect challenge per team, after all, and depending on the scoreline and flow of a game there was every chance a captain might never have the need to use it.

Or, he might listen too intently to an aggrieved front rower and challenge a knock- on call the first time a ball hit the deck.

After the first round of the season there’s already a few big men who’ll be getting the ‘talk to the hand’ treatment from their captain if they so much as glance at him after coming up empty in the play- theball.

There were more incorrect challenges than correct ones over the course of the weekend, and the longer the round went the more it became apparent that an unintended consequence of the new system was seeing somebody other than referees make the occasional mistake when it came to decision-making.

Before the Captain’s Challenge, the only person on the field who ever made a mistake on a split second call was the

referee, but suddenly the players were given the chance to play whistleblower and in more cases than not they got it wrong.

Showing how difficult the job of controlling an NRL game can be was not what the crew at League Central was thinking when they brought in the new initiative, but when the players make mistakes on judgement calls it helps show the fans just how tough it can be to get every call in a game right.

The refs make the odd mistake, and now the players do as well.

If nothing else, it was refreshing to see how it all played out last weekend.

You’d imagine the players will get a better feel for what is worth challenging and when it might be best to keep their options open for later in the match, but for the moment I get the impression that they might have found an extra level of respect for the job the referees have always had to do.

To err is human, after all, and to see the way it all panned out in Round 1 has made this particular Captain’s Challenge sceptic a true believer!

Referees got it right more than not after a weekend of Captain’s Challenges.

Hear Warren Smith calling matches on Fox League. Watch your team every round, live and ad- break free on Fox League on Foxtel.

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Ph: 4721 3871

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arnall_trophies@bigpond.com

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PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

+/-

PTS

1

Knights

1

1

0

0

0

20

0

+20

2

2

Raiders

1

1

0

0

0

24

6

+18

2

3

Storm

1

1

0

0

0

18

4

+14

2

4

W. Tigers

1

1

0

0

0

24

14

+10

2

5

Broncos

1

1

0

0

0

28

21

+7

2

6

Eels

1

1

0

0

0

8

2

+6

2

7

Panthers

1

1

0

0

0

20

14

+6

2

8

Rabbitohs

1

1

0

0

0

22

18

+4

2

9

Sharks

1

0

0

1

0

18

22

-4

0

10 Roosters

1

0

0

1

0

14

20

-6

0

11

Bulldogs

1

0

0

1

0

2

8

-6

0

12 Cowboys

1

0

0

1

0

21

28

-7

0

13 Dragons

1

0

0

1

0

14

24

-10

0

14 Sea Eagles

1

0

0

1

0

4

18

-14

0

15 Titans

1

0

0

1

0

6

24

-18

0

16 Warriors

1

0

0

1

0

0

20

-20

0

4732 6007

ROUND 2 V

Thursday, March 19 8.05pm ANZ Stadium

V

Friday, March 20 6.00pm Kogarah Oval

V

Friday, March 20 8.05pm Suncorp Stadium

V

Saturday, March 21 3.00pm C Cbus Super Stadium

V

Saturday, March 21 5.30pm Leichhardt Oval

V

Saturday, March 21 7.35pm Kogarah Oval

V

Sunday, March 22 4.05pm Leichhardt Oval

V

Sunday, March 22 6.15pm Cbus Super 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 Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2020-002 PRODUCED BY The Western Weekender EDITOR Troy Dodds / 4722 2998 troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Taylor / Clinton Maynard / Peter Lang SALES DIRECTOR Chris Pennisi / 4722 2998 chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au

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42

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

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clinton maynard R

ugby league has never experienced a start to a season like this before.

The panic that has swept the world triggered by the Coronavirus (COVID- 19) means whether the competition continues will be a week to week proposition.

The NRL is doing everything within its powers to ensure football continues, as they’ve warned the consequences will be dire for the clubs if TV broadcast revenue dries up. There are many solutions being put forward and it’s such a complex global problem no one really has the answer.

I can offer one suggestion. The NRL has made it clear for the moment it needs to keep playing games to ensure broadcast agreements are met and vital revenue is generated. It’s been left with the unattractive proposition of playing games in empty stadiums. This is the result of understandable directive from the Government, in an effort to do as much as possible to protect public health.

However perhaps there is a way to continue to protect our health and ensure clubs still generate game day and membership revenue and give the players some sort of audience and atmosphere.

The solution is ANZ Stadium. I hate ANZ Stadium as much as any league supporter, it’s a ground without a soul, unless it’s filled with 80,000 people on Grand Final

Nathan Cleary playing at ANZ Stadium. Photo: Megan Dunn.

day. However its greatest flaw, its carnivorous size could actually be the saviour of the game.

I watched Cronulla play Souths there last weekend. There was no one else in my row, just me and my daughter. That wasn’t because people are staying away from ANZ Stadium, even with a crowd of 15,000 people you’d be lucky to come into contact with another fan without getting out of your seat and going for a light run.

So why not play all games at ANZ across the four days of each round?

The NRL can spread the crowd out around the ground so the most in any one section would be say 50 people. It would be well down on the Government’s mandate of no public events of 500 people or more outdoors.

It’s a left field suggestion, but if it saves clubs from having to provide membership refunds and allows them to continue to generate some revenue from ticket sales and game day merchandise while not putting fans’ health at any further risk surely it’s worth consideration.

The reality is, if you walk into any supermarket at the moment, packed with panic buying customers, you have a much greater chance of picking up a disease through close contact than you would at an 80 per cent empty ANZ Stadium.

Food for thought?

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, March 20, 2020

Could ANZ Stadium be rugby league’s saving grace?

extra minutes !

The NRL will march ahead this weekend with matches to be played behind closed doors due to the Coronavirus restrictions. “We understand and appreciate the variety of different opinions raised by players, commentators and coaches and we are always listening but it remains our plan to continue to play games in round two this weekend,” said NRL CEO Todd Greenberg.

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The English Super League has been suspended due to the global Coronavirus pandemic. At this stage, games are off until April 3. “The Super League clubs discussed a range of contingency plans with the RFL at their board meeting in Huddersfield, and the situation will be reviewed with broadcasters and sponsors throughout the initial suspension,” a statement said.

through these troubled times, and is getting plenty of praise from clubs and fans.

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The Roosters moved their clash against Manly this weekend to Leichhardt Oval from Central Coast Stadium.

With games being played behind closed doors for now, you can expect to see several more sensible venue switches in the coming rounds.

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The Coronavirus pandemic has given NRL CEO Todd Greenberg a stay of execution. While a decision on Greenberg’s future was likely to be made this week, the planned agenda for the ARLC has been suspended while the game works through the virus dramas.

Greenberg is handling himself well

New NRL trading cards are out now.

Channel Nine has commenced calling games from the studio during the Coronavirus pandemic, in an effort to protect the health of their commentators. At this stage Fox League remains at the ground. The 2GB Continuous Call Team was also at grounds across the weekend.

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If you want to re-live your childhood, make sure you get your hands on some 2020 NRL Trading Cards, which are now on sale. While you can pick up single packets at various retailers, you can also secure a full box for $140.00 from nrlgamecards.com.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

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PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

Show everyone will talk about EMILY FESZCZUK

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he award- nominated, West End hit musical ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’ will be worth the wait when it hits the Sydney Coliseum’s stage this September.

Screen and stage star, Simon Burke told the Weekender there is a reason everybody’s talking about Jamie.

“James Majoos, who plays Jamie, is out of this world. His character is a 16-year-old kid that lives on a council estate within a rough area in England but dreams of going to the prom in drag,” Simon said.

“My character, Hugo, becomes his mentor and gives him the courage to do what he wants and to be who he is which is amazing, and we have a great connection on stage.”

Inspired by a true story and a BBC documentary ‘Drag Queen at 16’, Simon said the show is topical and timely.

“There has been such a shift in Australia since marriage equality and this is not necessarily a gay show but the idea of equality, diversity and celebrating being yourself is there,” he said.

“It has a message of happiness and anti-bullying with so much heart and fun which is what is needed at the moment with the crazy uncertainty of the world.”

Being a veteran performer, Simon said he loves working with a fresh and talented cast.

“One of the joys of being around for a while is that I don’t get nervous so I can help support and take on some of that for other people,” he said.

“What keeps me going and challenges my work to be better is being inspired by the young performers at the beginning of their career.”

Describing it as a mix of ‘Matilda’, ‘Billy Elliot’ and ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’, Simon said people must experience it for themselves.

“It is full of amazing dance numbers along with sweet moments between

Jamie and his friend Pritti and his mum who is played by my best friend, Helen Dallimore,” he said.

“This show has so much outrageousness but also beautiful, heartwarming songs and a really good message so it is the perfect show for young people, but mums and dads will just love it as well.”

Tickets to the show will make the perfect gift for Mum ahead of Mother’s Day in May. ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’ will be on at Sydney Coliseum Theatre in Rooty Hill from September 4 to 20.

Tickets are from $79.90. To book or for more information, call 9851 5912 or visit sydneycoliseum.com.au.

Onward (PG) Fri: 6:45PM, 7:45PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 3:00PM, 4:00PM, 6:45PM, 7:45PM.

Bloodshot (M)

PENRITH

Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 11:00AM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM, 4:10PM, 5:20PM, 6:45PM, 8:00PM. Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 1:45PM, 4:10PM, 5:30PM, 6:45PM, 8:00PM.

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Wed: 11:00AM, 1:30PM, 2:50PM, 4:10PM, 5:20PM, 6:45PM, 8:00PM.

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Session times are subject to change without notice, visit www.hoyts.com.au to check session times or book tickets

Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 11:15AM, 2:30PM, 5:00PM, 7:30PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 12:20PM, 2:40PM, 5:00PM, 7:30PM. Wed: 10:10AM, 12:20PM, 2:40PM, 5:00PM, 7:30PM.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Intriguing look behind the scenes EMILY FESZCZUK

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KEMPS CREEK SPORTING & BOWLING CLUB LTD 1490 Elizabeth Drive | Kemps Creek | Phone: 9826 1375 Email: functions@kcsb.com.au | Website: www.kcsb.com.au

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ometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking but always compelling, ‘Grace Under Pressure’ weaves together the experiences of the health professionals that look after us.

Health professionals are with us when we’re born, and they’re with us when we die. They devote their lives to caring for us, but how do we care for them? Can a doctor or nurse give a patient the best possible care if he or she hasn’t slept for days? What if they’re also being bullied or sexually harassed at work? What if they complain about having to work excessive hours, but are told to stop whinging and suck it up?

How do they cope with the pressure?

Based on interviews with doctors and nursing staff, this very relevant show invites a conversation about these often-taboo issues. The audience is invited to peek behind the scenes of this fascinating industry. You may be shocked at what you find.

This show does have challenging content including descriptions of sexual harassment in the workplace, a description of a suicide attempt, and descriptions of surgical procedures so is recommended for ages over 14.

‘Grace Under Pressure’ is scheduled to be on at The Joan in Penrith on Saturday, March 28 at 2pm and 7.30pm.

Tickets are from $30. To book or for more information, call 4723 7600 or visit www.thejoan.com.au.

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the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

Powerful play will have you on your seat’s edge

STILL OPEN

EMILY FESZCZUK

A

change and balancing choice versus fate in the world, this young cast makes you question how people are supposed to move into the future, when the past keeps dragging them backwards.

This production does contain coarse language and adult themes including descriptions of sexual acts and references to trauma and self- harm so is recommended for ages over 15.

‘Cusp’ will be on at Riverside Theatre in Parramatta on March 31 and April 1 at 11am and 6.30pm. Tickets are from $24.

To book or for more information, call 8839 3399 or visit www.riversideparramatta.com.au.

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coming of age story, ‘Cusp’, set in the Northern Territory’s Top End deals with how some people just get better choices than others. This vital new work comes to Parramatta from the pen of awardwinning playwright, Mary Anne Butler.

The play follows Elvis, who wants Rosie, but Rosie wants to escape.

Maddie does not know what the hell she wants, but it sure isn’t this. While Rosie balances the needs of community with her own life dreams, Elvis struggles to move away from a life of crime and Maddie faces life as a single parent.

Juxtaposing the vast landscape with the turbulent lives of three emerging adults as they swim against the tide of

DRAMA

Special anniversary EMILY FESZCZUK

C

elebrating the 40- year anniversary of the inception of a regional gallery in Penrith, Penrith Regional Gallery, home of the Lewers Bequest, will hold a special series of exhibitions titled ‘Dream Realised: Our Community Victory’.

The exhibition is comprised of three separate parts. One in the heritage Ancher House, called ‘Art Lives Here’ celebrating the creative partnership of Margo and Gerald Lewers who were pivotal figures in the Sydney creative scene and had a wish for their home at Emu Plains to become an art centre.

In 1980 the community’s dream was realised thanks to the generous Lewers

Bequest. The Lewers’ creative spirit lives on through the Gallery programs offering exhibitions, gardens, architectural heritage, education and an art collection within the unique property that was once their home.

Taking place in Lewers House, ‘Circle of Friends’, showcases acquisitions the gallery has bought along with artists connected to the centre including 98- year- old Australian artist Guy Warren. A solo exhibition named ‘Warwick Fuller – Chasing the Light’ ends the experience.

‘Dream Realised: Our Community Victory’ will be on at Penrith Regional Gallery from April 4 to August 9. Entry is free. For more information, call 4735 1100 or visit www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au.

GRACE UNDER PRESSURE WRITERS David Williams & Paul Dwyer in collaboration with the Sydney Arts & Health Collective DIRECTOR David Williams

SAT 28 MAR 2PM & 7.30PM

A compelling glimpse into the world of health professionals.

TICKETS | Standard $40 | Concession $35 | Under 30s $30 | Seniors Matinee $30 Health Professionals $30

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S UPPORT LOCAL

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Communities TOGETHER

BUY A LOCAL VOUCHER Ring for delivery or takeaway at a restaurant or café in the CBD

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We have been buoyed by the optimism in the local community despite the stressful and challenging issues surrounding the coronavirus.

We are pleased to say we are very much open for business and able to help clients in person, via telephone, via video-call or via email with a range of legal services including: • Conveyancing and Property Law • Business and Commercial Law • Wills and Deceased Estates • Family Law • Criminal and Traffic Law

the western weekender Âť Friday, March 20, 2020

One Stop Cake Decorations has it all whether you need a cake mould, piping bag, or place an order for that special occasion.

DIY at home we have all the tools, equipment and ingredients you need to make your own novelty, special occasion or wedding cake.

NK Centre, 12/450 High St, Penrith onestopcake.com.au/oscd/

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Our team at Blitz hairdressing really care about you and your hair, we have extra cleaning precaution in place every day for every client.

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This is the biggest celebration of the 45 years we have been in business.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Ê I mentioned in last week’s column about possible changes to ‘The Amazing Race Australia’ due to Coronavirus and this week I can confirm that the 10 series will not be going overseas for the upcoming season. Instead host Beau Ryan and the new batch of contestants will remain in Australia, with a domestic route proving the safest option. Production will begin in June.

Nathan Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Season eight of prison drama ‘Wentworth’ will premiere in June on Fox Showcase. Foxtel also announced that ‘Prisoner’ heritage character ‘Judy Bryant’ will appear in the upcoming series.

The character will be played by Vivienne Awosoga. Ê ‘Back to the Future’ legend Christopher Lloyd will guest star in an upcoming episode of ‘NCIS’. Lloyd, who played Doc Brown in the hit movie franchise, will appear in an upcoming episode as Joe Smith, a 95-year-old former Navy sailor who served on the USS Arizona when it was attacked at Pearl Harbor in 1941. Ê

Season two of ABC drama ‘Mystery

MAY 11 8.30PM THE UNDOING, FOX SHOWCASE

JUNE, 2020

WENTWORTH, FOX SHOWCASE

Road’ will premiere on Sunday, April 19 at 8.30pm. The second season sees Detective Jay Swan (Aaron Pedersen) take on a grisly case in a new town in order to be closer to his family.

a successful New York City therapist, and her husband Jonathan (Grant) who are living the only lives they ever wanted for themselves. Overnight, a chasm opens in their lives: a violent death, a missing spouse and a chain of terrible revelations. The series is created and written for television by David E. Kelley.

Ê Long-running MTV competition reality series ‘The Challenge’ returns for its 35th season on Tuesday, April 7 at 9.30pm. 28 players will face strenuous challenges in pursuit of a $1 million prize with a shocking twist, unleashing mental warfare like never before.

Ê Netflix has renewed ‘Lost in Space’ for a third and final season. The series is a reboot of the classic 1960s sci-fi which ran for 83 episodes. It will stream in 2021.

Ê Six-part HBO psychological thriller ‘The Undoing’, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, will premiere on Fox Showcase on Monday, May 11 at 8.30pm.

Based on The New York Times bestselling novel You Should Have Known, ‘The Undoing’ follows Grace Fraser (Kidman),

Ê Acclaimed Kiwi director Taika Waititi will write, direct, and executive produce two Roald Dahl animation series’ for Netflix. The first is a series based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory while the second is a wholly original take on the Oompa-Loompas.

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the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

DINING GUIDE RESTAURANTS - CAFÉS - BARS - FOOD DESTINATIONS

Monday – Thursday 11am to 9pm Friday 11am to 9:30pm Saturday 9am to 9:30pm Sunday 9am to 9pm New menu out now

Monday – Tuesday 7am to 2pm Wednesday – Thursday 7am to 11pm Friday – Saturday 7am to Late Sunday 7am to 11pm

4722 4444 sittanos.com.au Shop R03 Level 1, 585 Riley Street Westfield Penrith

4751 6615 thebunkercafebarrestaurant.com.au Shop 8 & 9, 150 Macquarie Road Springwood

4720 5652 cjscrabshack.com.au Panthers Penrith, 123 Mulgoa Road

Monday – Wednesday 11am to 1am Thursday 11am to 2am Friday – Saturday 11am to 5am Sunday 11am to 1am Uber Eats & Menulog available

Thursday – Saturday 6pm Saturday – Sunday 9am to 12pm, A La Carte 12 to 3pm

Monday – Thursday 12 to 3pm | 5:30 to 9:30pm Friday – Saturday 12 to 3pm | 10pm

4732 1767 pantherspizza.com.au 363 High Street, Penrith

4729 3222 lakesiderestaurant.com.au Gate A, Old Castlereagh Road Penrith Lakes

4720 5588 osso.com.au Panthers Penrith, 123 Mulgoa Road

Tuesday – Sunday 7:30am to 4pm Thursday 7:30am to 4pm | 5:30pm to 10pm

Tuesday – Friday 11:30am to 2:30pm Tuesday – Sunday 5:30 to 9pm

Monday – Sunday 11am till Late

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Lunch: Thursday to Sunday 12pm until 3pm Dinner: Sunday to Thursday 5:30pm until 9pm Friday & Saturday 5:30pm until 10pm

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

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

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8. Orthodox Church portrait 11. Window canopy 13. America, ... Sam 15. Theatrical piece 17. Computer key 18. Soothe 20. Soak (up) 21. Xbox or Wii player 24. Deplete (3,2) 27. Hollywood is there, ... Angeles 28. First Pope 30. Secret store 31. Male chorister 33. Journalists’ angles 34. Cafe 35. Oriental continent 36. Panache 39. Elevates 42. Boatswain 44. Singer/actress, ...Turner 45. Bordello boss 46. Animal pouches 48. Twist (neck) 49. Outer casing 50. Fragrant tea, ... Grey 52. Daring feat 54. 60s duo, Sonny & ...

55. Tugs sharply 56. Coastal atmosphere (3,3) 57. Betting game 60. Military subdivision 62. Family crest, coat ...(2,4) 65. Action-word modifi er 67. Core values 69. Artist, ... Picasso 70. Food preference 72. %, ... cent 73. Spirit 75. Inner turmoil 77. Top credit rating (1,1,1) 79. Digression 81. ... & downs 82. Hard-wearing fabric 84. Cheque recipient 85. Singer, ... Adams 86. Pink (cheeks) 87. Curving inwards 88. Eyelid swelling

DOWN 1. Likelihood 2. Wide open 3. Edible tuber 4. Roof timber 5. Turns away 6. Charge with crime 7. Vast 8. Ailing 9. Stringed instrument 10. Ayes & ...

12. Ring-shaped roll 14. Prance 16. Lariats 19. Major blood vessel 22. Country, Saudi ...

23. Admiration 25. Hebrew greeting 26. Womb 29. Tsar’s wife 32. New Year’s Eve (1,1,1) 35. Paintings & drawings 37. No-hoper 38. Most chivalrous 40. Furious 41. Purgative, Epsom ...

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(3-2) 47. Angels 51. Soft thin fl atbread 52. Economises 53. Muscle/bone connector 54. Trainee offi cers 58. Duelling swords 59. ... & aah 61. Just right 63. Fuddy-duddy 64. Sixth planet 65. Largest US state 66. Irritable 68. Excursions 71. Tarnish 72. Overseas student nanny, au ...

74. Oil producers’ group 76. Cutting remark 78. Plant, ... vera 80. Light hours 83. Used to be

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Last week’s Sudoku solution

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the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

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

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

At the movies...

Go on, give it a shot!

BLOODSHOT +++ 1 hour, 49 minutes EMILY FESZCZUK

Don’t let the harsh critic reviews turn you off, this superhero story has some life to it.

Based on the Valiant Comic’s story of the same name, ‘Bloodshot’ tells the tale of elite soldier Ray Garrison (Vin Diesel), who is brought back to life by an advanced technology that gives him the ability of superhuman strength and fast healing.

With someone else having control over his body and mind, he is on a mission to find what is real and who he can trust.

With a noticeably different style to Marvel and DC, first time

feature film Director Dave Wilson does manage a new spin on the superhero origin story that is funny and fresh.

A slightly different role for him, Diesel still plays his cliché tough guy but has some more emotional moments.

The storyline at the beginning is sometimes predictable but the twist keeps you interested as CGI works well for the science fiction elements.

Giving you retro Terminator vibes mixed with a modern futuristic take, this action film is overall an entertaining one to sit back, not think too hard about and get lost in.

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the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

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

HOROSCOPES PISCES BROUGHT TO YOU BY

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE DAILY POSTS AT WWW.BOHOASTRO.COM TWITTER @JOMADELINEMOORE © JOANNE MADELINE MOORE 2018

AQUARIUS

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

This week’s New Moon sees curious Aquarians keen to explore, experiment and ricochet off in diverse directions.

But the Coronavirus Crisis and Pandemic Panic have severely trimmed your wings.

So do your very best to keep expressing your true self in more housebound ways.

As birthday great Lady Gaga observes: “You have to be unique and different and shine in your own way”.

Restless Rams are ready to charge off in exciting new directions, as the New Moon lights up your sign. Even in the current Coronavirus climate, it’s still a good week to hatch ideas, make plans and be proactive. But your ruler Mars pairs up with powerful Pluto on Monday. So avoid coming on too strong; losing your sense of perspective; and scaring people away with your fiery intensity.

TAURUS APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Are you stubbornly holding onto outdated ideas? Are you sticking to obsolete ways of thinking, as if you’re on autopilot? This week the New Moon, Jupiter and Pluto encourage you to let go of an old grudge, put aside pre-conceived notions and examine current circumstances in a new light. As Maya Angelou says: “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude”.

GEMINI

CANCER

LEO

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

This week secrets and mysteries percolate, and appearances can be deceptive.

Still waters run deep and there is much more to a current situation than meets the eye. So think things through carefully before you speak and, if you find yourself compelled to spread salacious gossip, just bite your tongue and say nothing! It is a good time to dream big dreams and set ambitious goals for next year.

Tuesday’s New Moon charges up your career/reputation zone so prepare for a few changes. But the more you try to control those around you, the more they will tend to push back. So take a good long look at your motives. Perhaps you need to be less possessive? Perhaps you could give someone more freedom, so they can fight their own battles and make their own mistakes?

VIRGO

With the New Moon falling in fellow fire sign Aries, you’re feeling feisty and ready for adventure! But with social distancing and travel bans in place in most areas, you’ll feel like a cat on a hot tin roof! And remember that hubris often come before a fall. So the buzz word this week is humility. If you’re a clever Cat, then you’ll be kinder towards other people and more tolerant of their individual idiosyncrasies.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

When it comes to relationships, appearance and performance, don’t get hung up on an obsession with perfection. This week Jupiter encourages you to accept people as they are and appreciate the positives in your life, while Pluto compels you to transform yourself into who you really are. Be inspired by Lady Gaga: “I am not perfect, I just think that imperfections are beautiful”.

Monday’s Mars-Pluto connection boosts your intensity and amplifies your assertive side. Then (courtesy of Tuesday’s New Moon) it’s a good time to review your physical fitness levels, introduce healthier food choices, stop bad habits (like smoking) and reboot your exercise program. Don’t have one? It’s time to make a dynamic start! And avoid the temptation to operate on autopilot.

The New Moon lights up your cash zone, which signals a fresh financial chapter.

So the more informed you are about money matters, the better things will be.

Times are tough but knowledge is power.

Mars and Pluto also send an important message your way. When it comes to your social circle and peer group, don’t waste precious time on negative friends who bring you down.

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Insightful speech is recommended this week. You’ll get the best results if you research something thoroughly (with your Virgo x-ray vision) and then tell it like it is. Other people will appreciate your direct and honest approach. Monday and Tuesday are the most suitable days to uncover a secret, solve a puzzling problem or get to the bottom of an intriguing mystery.

CAPRICORN

Sagittarians have big ideas but you can have trouble walking your talk. This week Mars and Pluto help you get motivated so you can get things done. So it’s a good week to power through all those mundane tasks you’ve been putting off for a very long time. Like finalising paperwork, paying bills, making appointments and tackling overdue household chores.

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

With Mars, Pluto and Jupiter all congregating in Capricorn, it’s time to be fiercely protective of your persona and publicly confident about your capabilities. If you don’t love yourself and respect your talents, then why should anyone else?

So your motto is from birthday great, entertainer Lady Gaga: “Don’t you ever let a soul in the world tell you that you can’t be exactly who you are”.

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55

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

HEALTHY LIVING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ONE POINT HEALTH

JACQUELINE SMITH • 4732 5188

The Muscular System explained and how massage can help What is the Muscular System?

Muscles help you move, contribute to joint stability and help maintain good posture.

How can Massage Therapy help?

A deep tissue massage is used to break down adhesions (commonly known as knots). It also helps increase muscle flexibility as well as either increase or maintain the full range of movement in joints.

Do you sometimes feel “knots”?

It may feel like a small, bump-like areas of muscle that can sometimes be painful to the touch. They can reduce muscle function and reduce the full range of movement in a joint. If you leave these knots untreated long enough it can often lead to that muscle being used less and when you don’t use a muscle as much it then becomes weak.

If muscle imbalance occurs, problems such as poor posture can result.

This can be due to one group of muscles being weaker than another. If your muscle condition is poor due to muscle weakness, injuries can occur such as pulls and tears.

Massage therapy uses various tech-

niques to remove these knots such as palms, fingertips and thumbs to increase the muscle temperature.

By increasing the temperature of the muscle, it will enable the fibres to be

softened and any bumps smoothed out and back into normal muscle alignment.

The benefits of maintaining healthy muscles through massage are that muscles relax as well as reduced muscle tension

and tightness. Having healthy muscles can also help you maintain daily activities easier as muscles are less likely to fatigue because they are working properly.

So is it time to book your massage?

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FUTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES

ALEX MCKENZIE • 4704 8585

How the Coronavirus is impacting your investment position

C

oronavirus is impacting us all.

The stock markets worldwide have sustained large losses, and this is likely to be reflected in the balances of your investments.

Almost all investments will have some exposure to the share markets. The financial impacts of the Coronavirus are real and there will be some economic downturn as a result. Initially the reports we were receiving indicated the financial risks were low and minimal, this is almost certainly no longer the case. On the plus side the Government has committed to a stimulus package that is likely to kickstart the economy once we are on the other side of the issue.

As is always the case with investments, remember that they are long- term in nature and it is best to stick to your long-term plan and be consistent in your approach. Panic selling is the biggest mistake investors make when markets fall.

For those contributing, including employer contributions to Superan nuation, we are now buyers in a buyers’ market. Our contribution is buying

more shares now than it did last month.

Although looking at the value of our balances decline can be scary, remember we have no intent on selling, therefore the sale price is mostly irrelevant to us.

For those in income phase and who are drawing from their investments, the drop in the market is a greater issue. Our retirement strategies have a process for times like this to minimise the problem. We have a focus on income providing investments that distribute to a cash account from which your payments are drawn. This structure aims to reduce the need to sell shares at a time where markets are down.

Our retirement strategies are prepared for times just like this.

I would also like to remind you that the underlying investments in your portfolio are good companies. These companies will no doubt face some challenges in the next few months but will continue to be good companies into the future.

Companies like the Commonwealth Bank and Woolworths will continue to be strong companies moving forward.

These are the types of companies you are invested in.

There is no need to sell investments in these sorts of companies.

I have also had a few enquiries asking whether their insurance policy covers the Coronavirus. A number of insurance companies have proactively answered this question. TAL, Onepath, Metlife, MLC, AMP (including Elevate), Zurich and AIA all announced that their clients are covered for the Coronavirus. An article in Riskinfo (a respected industry publica-

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

MONEY MATTERS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

tion) indicated that they believe that none of the retail insurers have a clause that will prevent them paying in the event of a pandemic.

There is some discussion that insurance linked to some industry superannuation funds may have an exclusion for pandemics.

I’m yet to see anything confirming this, and it would differ from provider to provider.

WW40587 WW W WW4 WW40 W40 W W4 40 4 05 58 587 87 8 7

57

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

PET HEALTH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

GREENCROSS COREEN AVENUE

NICOLE MCMILL AN • 4731 3055

Should pet owners be on alert for Coronavirus in their furry friends?

W

e know that pet lovers around Australia and the world are asking questions about Coronavirus/COV ID-19. We’re here to help you better care for your pet, ensuring you have all the essential information on COVID- 19, and what this means for you and your pet.

There is currently no known reason to believe that any animals, including pets in Australia, can spread COVID-19.

To date, the Australian Veterinary Association has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19.

Can the Coronavirus infect dogs and cats?

There is absolutely no evidence that pets are involved in the spread of COVID-19.

Can pets spread the disease and if a pet has been in contact with someone who is diagnosed with COVID-19, can the pet spread the disease to other people or pets?

No, there is no evidence that pet dogs or cats can be a source of infection to other animals or to humans. This epidemic is being spread from humans to humans

and there is no evidence that pets are involved.

Recently in Hong Kong there were precautionary measures to quarantine the pets of people who were diagnosed with COVID-19. In February one of these pets, a healthy dog, had a small amount of viral genetic material that was detected in the dog’s mouth and nose. The dog did not get sick and did not have COVID-19 illness or sickness, but this single case sparked discussion across the globe. There have been no further cases reported.

There is a lot of information online about dogs, cats and Coronavirus. Why is this?

The term ‘Coronavirus’ defines a broad family (type) of viruses which have been around for a long time, some of which only affect dogs and cats. Dog and cat Coronaviruses are different to COVID- 19 and cannot infect people. Unfortunately, due to the similar name, these terms may appear in historical articles or online forums and this can cause unnecessary confusion, panic or concern. Pets are not involved in the spread of COVID- 19, you do not need to be alarmed.

How can pet parents protect themselves and their pets?

Remember, the way you can catch COVID-19 is from exposure to an infected person. Therefore, practice standard precautionary hygiene measures as recom-

mended by the relevant Health Departments in your state or territory.

We recommend following good hygiene whenever interacting with your pets, this advice has not changed.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching any animal.

Avoid sharing food with your pets or letting your pets kiss or lick your face or mouth.

If you are concerned about your pet’s health, contact the team at Greencross Vets Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

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NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE & EVA BORY’S SWIM SCHOOL

JULIE SHELDRAKE • 4730 8900

We need to work together to reduce drowning numbers

T

run for adults at Nepean Aquatic Centre, and of the free water safety visits we conduct in daycare centres, pre- schools, and primary schools.

Remove water hazards and temptations at home. Please supervise children in the bath and do not answer the phone or door and leave them in the water alone.

Be aware of other items which present a significant drowning threat to young children in and around the home, such as buckets, eskies, fountains, fishponds, inflatable pools and even pet bowls. It is crucial that these are emptied, covered, put away and not left where they can fill up with water, especially in the heavy rain we have been experiencing. Remember to check outside areas after storms, has a toy or other item filled with water and become a drowning hazard?

Never swim alone, and never consume alcohol when swimming, fishing, boating or supervising children in the water. Swim between the flags at the beach, and be aware of rips. Be aware of polluted water and strong currents and floating debris following heavy rainfall.

here has been a lot of media coverage of current and previous epidemics over the past few months, but to put the figures in perspective, we have lost 1367 lives to drowning in Australia in just the past five years, and drowning remains the number one cause of accidental death in under five-yearolds. This is an ongoing threat that we need to reduce and finally eradicate. As we approach the end of March, it’s always worth looking back on all of the ways we can stay safer around the water, so that’s exactly what we will be doing this week and next. Let’s work together to reduce the local drowning rate to zero.

Always actively supervise children in any aquatic environment, no exceptions, no lapses. Fence the pool, regularly check fences and keep all barriers well maintained. Shut the pool gate, and never prop it open for any reason. Never allow children to play breath holding games, and be aware of the symptoms of dry and secondary drowning. Make it a priority to learn rescue techniques and CPR. Take advantage of the monthly CPR courses

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

SWIM SAFETY

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

creative A U S T R A L I A

Bringing DESIGNS to Life Penrith City Council - Community Newsletter

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

» Friday, December 16, 2016

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Getting your social media marketing right Emma Gosper // Western Sydney Business Centre 4721 5011 | reception@wsbusiness.com.au

I

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We enjoy working with the Penrith Panthers through our Physiotherapy and Podiatry services.

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t is no secret that social media is a huge platform for small business marketing. But if you wear all the hats in your business, it can be hard to find time to keep up.

Here are some very simple ways to stay ahead of the social game: Take photos and videos of everything – behind the scenes, of your products, your service, your team, everything.

There is no better content than real life business content, in real time.

Create your own quote images – design a template for quotes relating to your business, based on your business branding with your colours and logo.

They’ll inspire as well as create a uniformed look among your feed and help you connect to your fans on a personal level.

Encourage user generated content – ask your customers and clients to take their own photos and upload it to their socials and tag you. Respond to the post and ‘repost’ it to your channels.

It demonstrates that consumers are enjoying your product/service and it’s easy content for you.

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

WE

SHOW YOU

Incorporate your other marketing into your social content – Do you write a blog for your business? Create a template like your quote template with a snippet of your blog and drive visitors back to your website to read the blog in full.

It’s unique content, demonstrates your knowledge and drives traffic to your site.

Stockpile content – Spend a day or downtime creating content and have it ready to go (or schedule it).

This way you have it ready to go whenever you need it, and you’re not scrambling to find content last minute to post for the sake of it. That’s when your content will lack in quality and consistency and can be your social downfall.

Outsource – if you simply don’t have time to create consider hiring a social media manager or digital marketing expert to take over, so you can focus on running your business.

Remember, consistency is key to a good social strategy, in both the content you create and when you’re posting your content.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

AUTO

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udi Australia is enhancing its small compact SUV model range with the unique Q2 Edition #2.

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In addition, helpful features like convenience key and side assist safety technology make the Edition #2 the perfect companion to a busy urban lifestyle.

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

*****IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT*****

EVENT CANCELLED Following the Australian Government’s ban on all public gatherings of over 500 people the Penrith Working Truck Show has been cancelled.

As a charitable organisation the show is the Museum’s primary fundraiser for the year and so this decision will have major financial implications for the day-to-day operations of the museum.

The Museum and show operate primarily thanks to the efforts of both current and retired firefighters and following a very difficult summer of fires and floods this international crisis is a very large blow to museum operations.

Due to recent events group bookings and tours to the museum have also been cancelled which has further caused financial strain.

As such we urge you to please donate to the museum! Rather than pay the entry fee to the show why not donate what you would have paid at the gate to the museum today. All contributions large and small are both welcome and greatly appreciated and will assist in our ability to run the show in 2021.

See you in 2021!

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the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

SPORT

GIANT SEASON

Can GWS go one better in 2020? p.69

Local sport is being rapidly called off, with Coronavirus fears significantly disrupting competitions.

Sport grinds to a halt L

ike the whole country this week, the local Penrith sporting community was also feeling the brunt of the Coronavirus pandemic with most sports shut down indefinitely.

While many sports were on the brink of starting their new competitions, others were advised to either cancel or suspend their current seasons immediately.

The upcoming Nepean Football Association (NFA) season is in jeopardy with Football Federation Australia suspending all community football activities until at least April 14.

Effective immediately, all games, both competition and pre- season friendlies, all training and other football activities must cease. This also includes gala days, coaching courses, and any school holiday clinics or academies that fall before mid-next month.

Despite being at the tail- end of their season, cricket was also hit hard with Cricket NSW fully supporting Cricket Australia’s strong recommendation to immediately stop playing cricket at all levels for the remainder of the season based on medical advice.

Fortunately the Nepean District Cricket Association ended earlier this month, but the Women’s Premier Cricket season,

which involved two Penrith teams, was cancelled on the eve of the Finals.

The NRL, in partnership with State governing bodies, has postponed community rugby league in Australia until at least the first weekend of May. The postponement includes all junior and senior community club rugby league competitions, training, gala days and future League Stars programs.

Penrith District Netball Association’s season is in doubt too. Netball NSW have advised that all netball training is to be temporarily ceased effectively until May 2.

Penrith OzTag finished their summer season on Thursday, however their

upcoming winter competition has been pushed back until May 5.

Various AFL Sydney competitions were on the verge of commencing in the coming weeks, however they’ve now been delayed until May 31 with training to recommence on April 21.

Penrith Basketball competitions and programs are also suspended until further notice due to the precautionary closure of the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre in Cambridge Park.

Meanwhile, community rugby union games will be postponed until the first week of May, and the upcoming hockey season has been delayed until May 4.

All information is subject change.

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NATHAN TAYLOR

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Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

68

FOOTBALL

Quietest derby of all-time At least there won’t be any flares: A-League goes behind closed doors due to virus NATHAN TAYLOR

I

t will be an eerie scene at Bankwest Stadium in Parramatta on Saturday night when the Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney FC do battle in the third and final Sydney Derby of the season.

As confirmed by the FFA on Monday morning, the remainder of the A- League 2019/20 regular season from this weekend will go ahead, but with all matches to be played behind closed doors and with no fans permitted to attend.

The policy will be reviewed for the A- League 2020 Finals Series, which begins in May. Several games will also be re- scheduled due to issues surrounding Melbourne Victory and Wellington.

The Wanderers are still in the hunt for a Finals berth despite drawing with Melbourne City 1-1 last Saturday night at AAMI Park.

Western Sydney remain in eighth spot but are now just two competition points from a place in the coveted top six with six rounds remaining.

20- year- old Tate Russell gave the Wanderers the lead after a great build up

Crowds will be locked out of Bankwest Stadium on Saturday night. Photo: Megan Dunn. in the 21st minute before the home side equalised from the penalty spot just seven minutes later.

The visitors had their chances to get back in front in the second half but were unable to convert.

“The boys did extremely well tactically, and we showed an unbelievable discipline within our structure,” Wanderers coach Jean-Paul de Marigny said after the game.

“I’m very proud of the boys and the way they applied themselves throughout the

whole game. It was very pleasing for us and a great reaction from last week.”

On the subject of the COVID- 19 crisis, de Marigny said the health of every single staff member at the Wanderers club should be of the upmost importance.

“The club’s mindset is all about the wellbeing of the people within the club, which covers all the administrators and all the football staff,” he said.

“They’ve put procedures in place and we’re one step ahead to make sure that the wellbeing of all the staff at the football club is respected.”

Meanwhile, Western Sydney’s W-League title dream is over following a 5-1 hammering at the hands of Melbourne City last Sunday afternoon.

The Wanderers tried hard and kept fighting to the end but they were no match for the undefeated City, who now advance to this weekend’s Grand Final against Sydney FC. It was a tough way to finish what was an historic season for Dean Heffernan’s team, which qualified for the Finals for the first time in club history.

Cortnee Vine was the lone scorer for the Wanderers.

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Giants ready to lift in 2020 Big year ahead, but AFL season remains in limbo as Coronavirus fears take hold

L

ike many major sporting codes across the country, the AFL was planning to kick off its 2020 season with no crowds in attendance on Thursday night.

While the AFL and AFLW competitions are scheduled to go ahead, fans will not be permitted to attend games for the foreseeable future.

After reaching the AFL Grand Final last season, the GWS Giants were primed for a huge season in 2020 with plenty of new and adoring fans watching on.

However, due to the Government restrictions in place because of COVID-19, the only people that will be in attendance during Saturday’s season opener will be essential staff only.

Up against the Geelong Cats, the Giants were due to host an historic double header involving their AFL and AFLW teams but, instead, the gates will remain locked at Giants Stadium tomorrow night.

In a statement to fans, Giants Chief Executive David Matthews said the club will manage what is an extremely chal-

Giants star Heath Shaw meeting fans after a match last year. Photo: GWS Giants. lenging and unprecedented situation to ensure the best possible outcome for all concerned.

“We are disappointed that our fans won’t be able to attend the historic double header this weekend, but we must put

health and safety of the community first,” he said.

“We have already put in place a raft of measures to mitigate risk and we will continue to work closely with health authorities, the Government and the AFL

to get the best possible advice and ensure that we are acting responsibly during this difficult time.

“We are grateful to our members and supporters for their ongoing support, patience and understanding.”

The Giants enjoyed a strong pre-season, winning both their Marsh Community Series matches against the Sydney Swans and Richmond Tigers.

While their Premiership dreams ended in tatters to the Tigers last September, the Giants have been installed as third favourites to win this year’s flag.

Meanwhile, AFL boss Gillon McLachlan earlier this week announced unprecedented changes to the fixture for the 2020 season.

The length of the season is set to be reduced from 23 rounds to a maximum of 17, with clubs to face each other once.

However, the AFL situation is changing rapidly with plenty of confusion.

Fans who purchased tickets to this weekend’s double header at Giants Stadium will receive a refund.

AFL and AFLW matches will continue to be broadcast live on the Seven Network and Foxtel.

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NATHAN TAYLOR

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

AUSSIE RULES

69

Friday, March 20, 2020 « the western weekender

Penrith celebrates successful season Story continued from » p. 72 Penrith finished an incredible second on the ladder after 16 rounds, recording eight wins and two draws.

While many believe Woods was the catalyst for turning around the fortunes of the side, he said it’s been a “team effort” from top to bottom.

“I’ve had a lot of people pat me on the back congratulating me on getting them to the Finals, but the coaching staff and management have been outstanding,” he said.

“We’ve trained really hard and the senior players, the likes of Lisa Griffith and Naomi Stalenberg, have really led the way.

“Our captain Sammy Arnold has been magnificent too. I’ve been around women’s cricket a long time and her captaincy was tremendous.”

While reaching the Finals was a tough and challenging task, Woods strongly believed Penrith had the team to go all the way if the competition didn’t get canned.

“The general consensus was that when we were playing our best cricket, we were the best team in the comp,” he said.

Meanwhile, Penrith is also celebrating the success of its U15s women’s team, who finished on top of their respective competition. The young side went undefeated over the course of the season.

BMX

Star in the making Teenage BMX rider is on the right track for bright future NATHAN TAYLOR

M

ost kids receive a BMX bike from their parents growing up, but not every kid uses said bike to become a National Series Champion.

Competing since 2015 as a nine- yearold, teenage BMX sensation Danielle Fleming is the latest recipient of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation (PVSF) Junior Sports Star Award.

A junior rider at Penrith BMX Club and a valued member of the Western Sydney Academy of Sport, the 13- year- old enjoyed the season of her life last year.

Not only was Danielle named the 2019 National Series Champion for her age group, but she was also a member of the 2019 BMX Merit Team; finished first at the ACT State Titles; took out second place at the NSW State Titles; and was a semi-finalist at the National BMX Championships.

In 2018, Danielle placed second at the NSW State Titles; third overall at the BMX National Series; fourth in the U12 Oceania Championships; and was ranked fifth in Australia.

Tradies are the winners

That same year, Danielle was awarded the PVSF Junior Sports Star Award for the month of April and was also crowned the Most Outstanding Junior Rider at Penrith BMX Club.

In 2017, Danielle placed second at the NSW State Titles and was a semi-finalist at the National BMX Championships.

While Danielle’s BMX career is only getting started, it’s very clear by her recent achievements that she’s on the right track thanks to plenty of hard work and persistence.

Without doubt, you’ll be hearing her name more in coming years both here and overseas.

Danielle Fleming’s Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club.

If you or you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

There are three categories to be nominated in: Reach for the Sky (up to 10 years); Junior Sports Star (11- 16 years); and Senior Sports Star (over 16 years).

Nomination forms are available at www.pvsf.org.au.

Around the grounds CRICKET: Penrith’s Round 14 Belvidere Cup match against Western Suburbs has ended in a draw due to rain.

Playing in a One-Day match at Howell Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bat first. The home side were 8/230 after 48 overs before the match was abandoned due to bad weather.

Penrith’s best with the bat was Ryan Gibson who scored a team-high 49 runs.

It was a season to forget for the reigning Premiers, finishing 12th on the ladder with just five wins to their name.

AFLW: The GWS Giants have just about assured themselves of a spot in their first ever AFLW Finals, defeating reigning Premiers Adelaide in Round 6 of the competition. Played behind closed doors at Hisense Stadium in Adelaide, the Giants put on a sensational performance to defeat the Crows 26-21. The second-placed Giants will return home this Saturday evening to face Geelong at Giants Stadium.

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BMX star Danielle Fleming.

GOLF: Local golf clubs Penrith and Twin Creeks have reached the playoffs in this year’s Major Pennant competition. Penrith and Twin Creeks are both in Division 2, with Penrith falling 4.5-2.5 to Cromer on Sunday and Twin Creeks defeating Killara 5.5-1.5 in the final round of the regular season. The two local clubs will be joined in the Division 2 playoffs by North Ryde and Oatlands.

The playoff draw is available at www. golfnsw.org.au/metro-major-pennant.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 6 of the

NSWRL Junior Representative season took place last weekend with Penrith’s SG Ball and Harold Matthews teams enjoying byes. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Tarsha Gale Cup side have enjoyed their first win of the year defeating Parramatta 12-10 in a thriller. As announced on Wednesday, all junior and senior rugby league competitions have been postponed due to the current health crisis.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 1 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions got underway last weekend with excellent results for St Marys in both grades. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys defeated the Asquith Magpies 44-32. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys narrowly overcame Asquith 20-16. No Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield games will be played until at least late May. BASKETBALL: Congratulations to the St Paul’s Grammar School basketball team who recently took out the Independent Sporting Association School Championship. Led by respected Penrith Panthers Premiership-winning coach Steve Sardi, the U17 Boys team were too good throughout the season going undefeated (12-0) against their opponents.

Due to the current situation with local sport and Coronavirus, Around The Grounds will go on hiatus from next week.

It’ll be back as soon as practical. Send any submissions to Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au.

the western weekender » Friday, March 20, 2020

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SPORT What could have been?

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B

efore a ball was even bowled this season, Penrith Cricket Club women’s coach Ron Woods said anything short of a Finals appearance for his side would be a failure.

Four months on and the club was set to appear in its first ever Women’s Premier Cricket Finals game this weekend, however that will no longer be the case due to the global Coronavirus pandemic .

On Tuesday, Cricket Australia strongly recommended that all amateur cricket played within the community should cease including Community Cricket and Premier Cricket.

Before the competition was called to a halt earlier this week, coach Woods said the success of the 2019/20 season should be put down to culture.

“We’ve had a really good year, we worked really hard as a group of players and coaches to work on our culture at Penrith – the culture out here has been really tight,” he said.

“I said at the start of the season if we don’t make the Finals I’d be disappointed, but we made the Finals because of our culture and training discipline.”

Story continues on » p. 70

Penrith’s women’s cricket team enjoyed an outstanding season, reaching the Finals.

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