Western Weekender October 20

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We shake our heads at the United States and praise our gun control laws, but there’s a secret lurking in our suburbs. Extraordinary ary figures show thousands of guns are registered across the local ocal area, including 3,247 in the 2745 postcode, where one individual owns a whopping 144 firearms. There’s 3,136 guns within the 2750 postcode.

Emily Newton reports on pages 6-7

HORROR CRASH See page 3

SAVING HUNTER See page 17

THUNDER’S BACK See page 64

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Inexperienced and unlicenced: 14-year-old involved in horror Werrington crash EMILY NEWTON

he woman left with serious injuries after a horror car crash in Werrington last week is facing a “long road to recovery”.

Danielle Oldfield, a nurse at Nepean Hospital, was trapped in the wreckage of her car for about an hour before being taken to Westmead Hospital with critical injuries after the crash last Thursday.

On Tuesday she took to social media to thank the community for its support.

“I have a lot of injuries and a really long road to recovery but I’ll get there slowly,” she posted on the Penrith Baseball Member Forum.

“Thanks everyone for all the love and support, it’s overwhelming.”

Westmead Hospital staff have confirmed that the 27-year-old is currently in a stable condition.

Ms Oldfield’s brother, 16-year-old Billy, was in the car with her and was also taken to Westmead Hospital. He has since been released.

Emergency services were called to Dunheved Road at Werrington about 7.35pm last Thursday, after a Holden Commodore sedan and a Holden Commodore utility collided head-on.

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There were four passengers in the sedan that collided with Ms Oldfield’s ute, aged between 14 and 18-years-old, with a 14-year-old behind the wheel.

“The driver of the sedan, a 14-year-old boy from Bidwill, was taken to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead with serious abdominal injuries and fractures,” a police statement said.

“A 14-year-old boy, from Blackett, and a 16-year-old boy, from Hassall Grove, escaped with minor injuries and were also taken to The Children’s Hospital.

“A back-seat passenger in the sedan, an 18-year-old man from Mt Druitt, was taken to Westmead Hospital with leg injuries.”

Detective Inspector Katie Orr from the Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit said that investigations are ongoing.

“Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time, anyone who has dash cam footage to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers,” she said.

“That’s very alarming when you’re 14 and behind the wheel. It appears they’ve crossed onto the incorrect side of the road.

It’s still very early on in the investigation.”

Detective Inspector Orr said Ms Oldfield and her brother “were in the wrong place at the wrong time”.

“They were driving within their lane,” she confirmed.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Nurse on road to recovery

The two vehicles collided head-on in Werrington. Photo: Jason Donnelly

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Troy Dodds

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troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Editor’s Desk

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was at the studios of a major Sydney radio network last weekend, when I noticed something quite strange in the car park.

Like in tens of thousands of other buildings around the country (and the world), I pressed a button to call for the elevator.

Then I saw it – an A4 piece of paper with a clear message: “To call for the lift, press this button”.

Seriously, what action or event led to the management of this building having to put up such a sign?

Did somebody starve to death standing down there, trapped without the knowledge that the magic button with an arrow pointing upwards would indeed call the lift in question?

Did two radio rivals get stuck in an awkward situation; neither knowing that the button would get them out of the mind-boggling small talk they were forced to endure?

It’s 2017.

48 years since we put a man on the moon.

20 years since Google was founded.

And yet, we need to put a sign up to indicate to people that the obvious button in front of them will call the very lift they’re wanting to use.

There seemed to be a time when we used common sense a lot more than today.

The technology and advances available to us should make us smarter than ever. They should enable us to achieve remarkable things and think outside the square more than ever before.

Instead, we apparently don’t know how to use a lift. We are dumber, not smarter.

And such examples exist elsewhere.

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Thinking for ourselves is out I “As long as he doesn’t become the perfectly proportioned controller, I’m happy”

On Monday, yet another one of “those” stories got a run after journalist Tracy Spicer posted a picture of two different toys being marketed side by side in Target.

One, coloured pink, was a “beauty studio” while the other, coloured blue, was a “medical centre”.

You see, this is telling three-year-olds that girls must become hairdressers and boys must become doctors.

Oh please. The only people creating such a stereotype are the adults who whinge about this stuff.

There are more female doctors today than at any other time in our history and we want to blame a bloody toy on sale in Target for brainwashing our children.

How about we just use common sense and have a real conversation with our kids about such things – you know, maybe when you’ve got some time away from your smart phone.

It seems to me that while we want to give people freedom of choice, the

chance to speak their mind and the opportunity to chase their dreams, we want to achieve it by having somebody else do the thinking.

When did thinking for ourselves and using common sense become something not part of our daily routine?

Why do we need the media to fight a battle about a blue and pink toy when we could just have a quick chat with our kids, who by the way are most likely to be drawn to the traditional stereotype of blue for boys and pink for girls anyway – does it really matter?

The only saving grace to all of this is that despite the politically correct world in which we live, you can still be a fat white bloke in charge of things.

Let me explain.

Plenty of airtime has been given to a childhood favourite this week with the Thomas The Tank Engine franchise to undergo some significant changes, including the axing of Thomas’ old chums Edward and Henry and the arrival of Nia and Rebecca.

While you’re shaking your head and trying to work out that one, rest assured I’ve investigated the character most in question during a politically correct overhaul and I’ve discovered that the Fat Controller lives – for now.

Apparently he is to be “modernised”, whatever that means. As long as he doesn’t become the Perfectly Proportioned Controller, I’m happy.

As far as rumours of an upcoming episode where Thomas reveals he identifies as a car rather than a train, we’ll just have to wait to see if such talk comes to fruition.

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the western weekender

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Finding Peace Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the e world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27).

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Issue 1325

Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Journalists: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Emily Newton | @emmerleener Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Kate Reid | @kate_reid6 Photographers: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Daniel Vella, Sergio Carrasco, Chantelle Lang

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Solar team takes sixth spot

80 firefighters brought St Marys blaze under control

The Western Sydney University Solar Team had great success he Western Sydney University Solar Team has finished sixth in the world and was the first Australian car in its Challenger Class to cross the line in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.

Heavy rain, headwinds of up to 60km/h and limited weather tracking equipment didn’t stop the team taking home the university’s best performance at the prestigious competition.

The challenge sees solar car teams from around the world travel 3,000 kilometres from Darwin to Adelaide.

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Uni staff strike

The fire took hours to put out. Photo: Kate Reid EMILY NEWTON

ire crews battled a blaze that erupted at a metal recycling yard in St Marys last week.

Crews were called to the scene on Christie Street just before 2pm on Thursday,

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Crews win battle with fire

October 12, with thick black smoke pouring from the metal facility.

It took several hours for firefighters to get on top of the fire, eventually containing the blaze to a few scrap vehicles.

“At 4.08pm they had contained the fire and they had it under control,” a Fire and Rescue NSW spokesperson said.

The spokesperson also added that crews were using heavy machinery to get to the seat of the fire and more than 80 firefighters from 12 crews were on the scene.

It’s understood nobody was injured, with the cause of the fire still under investigation.

Staff from Western Sydney University’s Kingswood campus were due to walk off the job yesterday.

The workers are striking “amid growing concerns about rampant casualisation and precarious employment at the university”.

NTEU WSU Branch President David Burchell said WSU was in “turmoil”.

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t’s the secret that thousands of suburban houses are keeping within their walls.

Residences across the Penrith region are housing thousands of guns with an average of four guns to each registered firearms owner’s name.

Data released by the Greens reveals that across postcode 2750, there are 736 registered firearm owners that had a total of 3,136 firearms.

In the same postcode, the largest number of guns held by one registered owner, excluding collectors, is 97.

Similarly in 2747, which makes up Kingswood, Werrington and Cambridge Park, there are 760 registered firearms owners who have 3,071 registered firearms.

In Penrith’s slightly more affluent postcode of 2745, which consists of Glenmore Park, Luddenham, Mulgoa, Wallacia and Regentville, one individual has 144 registered guns.

In 2760, there are 392 registered owners and 1,765 registered firearms, and 2759 has 491 owners and 1,827 registered firearms.

In a bid to stand up for safe gun laws, the NSW Police statistics were obtained

under freedom of information laws by the Greens as part of its Too Many Guns campaign.

“These numbers show that there’s clearly a problem with our gun laws that needs fixing,” Greens Senator and Gun Control spokesperson Lee Rhiannon said.

“This new data shows how urgent it is for Prime Minister Turnbull to take the lead and establish a national firearms register. The public have a right to know how many guns are in their neighbourhood on a postcode basis.”

But President of Nepean Hunters Club, Pete Johnson, argues that the website uses fear mongering to push a one-sided message.

“It’s playing on people’s minds and insecurities,” he said.

“If they look at BOSCAR statistics, the amount of firearm crime has actually gone down.”

NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research data shows that robbery with a firearm has significantly dropped through the Penrith LGA in the past five years.

In the 2012/13 financial year, there were 15 recorded offences and 10 in 2013/14.

Last year from July 2016 to June 2017, there were just two.

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Penrith: The huge number of firearms lurking behind closed doors of suburbia Largest number of guns held by one registered owner in local postcodes (excluding collectors):

144 97 58

57 43

43 24

2750

2747

2760

2748

2749

Data shows that one resident of the 2745 postcode has 144 registered firearms

2759

2745

Mr Johnson also disputes the fact that the highest number of firearm owners does not include collectors, arguing that the Greens would not be able to confirm whether someone was a collector or not based on raw data alone.

“Firearms, whether they are owned by collectors or not, have to be registered,” he said.

Mr Johnson said that with over 800 members, and a part of the community for 47 years, the Nepean Hunters Club believe there is a lot of misinformation and stereotypes around gun ownership in Australia.

“People like ourselves that are hunters, we hunt because we enjoy putting wholesome meat on the table,” he said Despite this, the Greens are calling for more “backbone on gun control”.

“It is vitally important for law enforcement authorities to have even more detailed knowledge of where guns are and how many are held by individuals,” Senator Rhiannon said.

The Greens claim that NSW is on track to have one million registered guns by 2020 through a relatively small number of gun owners owning dozens of weapons.

The data shows the overall number of guns and gun owners in NSW overall and by postcode as of March 2017 and can be found at www.toomanyguns.org.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

PENRITH

NEWS

CHILDREN’S WEEK 24 - 27 OCTOBER 2017 Free events for the family. * «« } Õ« >Ì wÛi V>Ì Ã >VÀ ÃÃ *i À Ì °

CONTACT US

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

ADMINISTRATION Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION

COUNCIL BRIEFS ● Council is looking for emerging artists to participate in its

The following development application has been received

by Council:

acclaimed Queen Street Riches & Textures 2018 project. s Sharon Jones Accomplished Design Successful applicants will help deliver an innovative cultural

DA17/0925

44 Australia Street, St Marys

Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri.

project that generates valuable social interaction between

P: 4732 7777

the artists and the community. You will work with a highly

Demolition of existing structures, construction of 4 x town houses and associated works and strata subdivision

F: 4732 7958

experienced artist and receive a one-off stipend allowance

Contact: Mahbub Alam on 4732 7693

Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751.

of $500.

Closing Date: 3 November 2017

E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

Applications close Friday, 10 November 2017. Apply now – penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/culture-creativity

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

Graffiti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

MEETING DATES Council Meetings 23 October 2017 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting) 13 November 2017 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)

● See Australia’s top golfers as they go head-to-head in the 2017 NSW Open Championship, 16–19 November 2017 at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club.

Collect your FREE four-day event pass from the Penrith Civic Centre or your local library today. For details see visitpenrith.com.au ● Real Festival is now only a few weeks away. To minimise traffic and keep patrons safe during the event, Tench Avenue will be closed to northbound traffic between Jamison Road and Cross Road from 7am on Friday, 3 November 2017 through to midnight on Sunday, 5 November 2017. Tench Avenue will remain open for southbound traffic entering from Jamison Road.

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council.

Details of these determinations are available for public inspection free of charge during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Approved Development Application s Connect Homes Pty Limited

DA17/0253

Lot 1342 DP 1194558 (No. 24) Carcoola Way, Jordan Springs Proposed Integrated Housing Development with construction of 9 x 2-storey town houses and Torrens title subdivision x 9 lots

To view this road closure as well as access information and

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au visitpenrith.com.au

maps, visit livetraffic.com closer to the event. To learn

Viewing of Development Applications

more about the event and plan your trip, head to

The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/DATracker. Alternatively, the applications can be viewed during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

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Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

Trading’s ‘Shred and Protect’ event on Wednesday, 1 November 2017 at the Mondo Community Space from 8am–1pm. Bring your documents for FREE on-the-spot destruction.

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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

facebook.com/penrith.city.council

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

visitpenrith.com.au WW30831

The Development Application referred to in this

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make

notice and supporting documentation accompanying

a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in

the subject application may be inspected at the

Penrith City Council has received Development Applications in respect of the subject properties.

The consent authority for these development applications is Penrith City Council.

relation to the Development Application. Where a

locations listed below at any time during ordinary

s Maryland Development Company Pty Ltd

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make

DA17/0920

office hours, in the period from 20 October 2017 to 3 November 2017.

a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in

submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA17/0918.

Lot 1003 DP 1215087 (Lot 1003) Wianamatta Parkway, Llandilo

relation to the Development Application. Where a

For any queries relating to the proposal, please

submission is made by way of an objection, the

contact Lucy Goldstein on 4732 8136.

Stage 5A – Torrens title subdivision into 119 x residential lots, 1 x drainage lot and public roads

grounds of objection are to be specified in the

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service – Rural Fires Act 1997 and the Department of Primary Industries Water – Water Management Act 2000.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary office hours, in the period from 20 October 2017 to 20 November 2017.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA17/0920.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Gannon Cuneo on 4732 7774.

submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA17/0889.

Pty Ltd

For any queries relating to the proposal, please

Lot 1183 DP 1215092,

contact Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726.

Lot 1184 DP 1215092,

s Maryland Development Company

Lot 1185 DP 1215092,

DA16/0113.02

DA17/0917

Lot 2046 DP 1220914 (No. 49) Tedbury Road, Llandilo Torrens title subdivision x 5 lots and associated drainage works

Lot 1998 DP 1220914,

Lot 1037 DP 1149525, Lot 1003 DP 1215087

Lot 1999 DP 1220914

(Nos. 1208–1274) The Northern Road, Llandilo

(Lot 1998) Armoury Road, Llandilo

Modification: Stage 3A – Subdivision into

Stage 1W & 2W – Torrens title subdivision into

79 x Torrens title residential lots, 1 x residue lot and associated road construction an infrastructure works – modification involving x 6 residue allotments

application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The

Service – Rural Fires Act 1997 and the Department

application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire

of Primary Industries Water – Water Management

Service – Rural Fires Act 1997 and the Department

Act 2000.

of Primary Industries Water – Water Management

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service – Rural Fires Act 1997.

the subject application may be inspected at the

locations listed below at any time during ordinary

office hours, in the period from 20 October 2017

office hours, in the period from 20 October 2017

to 20 November 2017.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the grounds of objection are to be specified in the submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA17/0917.

Consolidation of 2 lots into 1 x open space lot and Torrens title subdivision x 4 residue lots and public roads

notice and supporting documentation accompanying

locations listed below at any time during ordinary

relation to the Development Application. Where a

Lot 1003 DP 1215087 (Lot 1003) Wianamatta Parkway, Llandilo

The Development Application referred to in this

the subject application may be inspected at the

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the locations listed below at any time during ordinary office hours, in the period from 20 October 2017 to 3 November 2017.

DA17/0889

3 x residue lots and associated works The proposal is an Integrated Development. The

to 20 November 2017.

s Maryland Development Company Pty Ltd

67 x residential lots, 2 x open space lots and

subdivision of residue allotment to create

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service – Rural Fires Act 1997.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Lucy Goldstein on 4732 8136.

DA17/0919

Pty Ltd

Act 2000. s Maryland Development Company Pty Ltd

s Maryland Development Company

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in submission is made by way of an objection, the

a submission in writing to Penrith City Council, in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is made by way of an objection, the

grounds of objection are to be specified in the

grounds of objection are to be specified in the

submission. The submission is to include Council’s

submission. The submission is to include Council’s

reference number DA16/0113.02.

reference number DA17/0919.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please

For any queries relating to the proposal, please

contact Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726. s Maryland Development Company

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENTS

contact Belinda Borg on 4732 7505.

DA17/0918

Pty Ltd Lot 2090 DP 1220915 (No. 51) Tedbury Road, Llandilo Torrens title subdivision x 5 lots and associated drainage works The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service – Rural Fires Act 1997.

Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ DATracker. Alternatively, the applications can be viewed during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Officers of Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

The Development Application referred to in this

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

notice and supporting documentation accompanying

Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith

the subject application may be inspected at the

Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or

locations listed below at any time during ordinary

gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning

office hours, in the period from 20 October 2017

application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit

to 3 November 2017.

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au WW30832

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN my Penrith

Reading the paper not enough? Listen to ‘The Week’ on Vintage FM every Saturday morning from 8am. Download the podcast from 9am at www.westernweekender.com.au or subscribe on iTunes.

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A

house can hold many unknown tales between its walls.

Few understand this better than author Graham Wilson, who created The Old Balmain House Series – a collection of fictional stories which were inspired by an old weatherboard cottage in Balmain where he once lived.

In the first book Little Lost Girl an old portrait is found of a young girl called Sophie who, along with a school friend, went missing 100 years earlier.

The discovery starts a journey to uncover the story of Sophie and her family.

The second book in the series, Lizzie’s Tale, is set in the 1960s and tells the story of a young girl living in Sophie’s room 50 years on.

The working class teen finds herself pregnant and refuses to give her baby up for adoption. Through her struggles she learns what it takes to survive in an unforgiving society.

Both Little Lost Girl and Lizzie’s Tale have received positive feedback on book review site Goodreads.

Be sure to add this one to your summer reading list!

Little Lost Girl and Lizzie’s Tale are available for purchase at Dymock’s Penrith, located inside the Westfield complex.

The Weekender has four book packs containing Graham Wilson’s novels Little Lost Girl and Lizzie’s Tale to give away. For your chance to win one, email the code word ‘LOST’ to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with your name and contact details. Entries close Thursday, October 26. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/17/01416. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com. au or Weekender reception.

Nathan Brookfield Kingswood FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Outback Steakhouse FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE IN PENRITH? High St Depot FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK IN PENRITH? The Jamison Hotel FIRST PLACE YOU WOULD TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? The Rock Lookout at Mulgoa in the Blue Mountains National Park, it highlights the beauty of the local area and landscape that is hidden away so close to civilisation WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The high-speed Internet, there is nowhere you can go in the Penrith region where there isn’t high broadband provided by a local provider WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The Penrith Regional Gallery at Emu Plains is a hidden gem with a beautiful café to boot

Good luck to students from St Nicholas of Myra Primary School who are competing in a World of Maths Day today. They will complete rotating activities all focused on mathematics.

The #MeToo campaign that has taken social media by storm this week has shown just how many people out there take advantage of others. Hopefully, this campaign shames them all.

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TAKE A NUMBER

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After 24 years, the Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin era is over at Channel Nine’s ‘The Footy Show’.

Thursday nights simply won’t be the same without Fatty, who steered the show to multiple Logie wins through his tenure.

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

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westernweekender

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

After almost twenty years at Penrith’s premier law firm, Adam’s & Partners Lawyers, Joseph Mazurkiewicz has decided to retire as a Director. Joe will remain as a Senior Consultant at Adams & Partners Lawyers. Megan Johnson, a long serving member of Staff, has been appointed as Joe’s replacement and has become a Director of Adams & Partners Lawyers from 1st September 2017.

Megan and Joe have worked together in the Property/ Conveyancing Department in excess of seventeen years.

Joe is a well respected Member of the community having started work in Petty Sessions and worked as a Coroner at both Westmead and Richmond. Joe has spent the last thirty years working as a Lawyer in the Penrith and Campbelltown communities.

Megan commenced working at Adams and Partners Lawyers in 1999 and is currently in charge of their Property/ Conveyancing department. Megan is a licenced Conveyancer and has lived the majority of her life in the Penrith area.

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « 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.

Motorbike rider lucky to survive drunken crash

A man who lost control of his motorbike while four times over the legal alcohol limit has been told he was fortunate not be facing the Coroner’s Court.

Penrith Local Court heard a heavily intoxicated Andrew Ian Gault, 34, had just left a Lapstone establishment when he failed to negotiate a slight turn and “glanced off” the side of a parked car, ending up on the roadway.

“He fell on the road, cracked his helmet, knocked himself out and broke his collarbone and spent four days in hospital,” his lawyer told the court.

“It’s been a big wake up call and he is now addressing his demons.”

Magistrate Stephen Corry told the father-of-two, charged with high-range drink driving and negligent driving, he was lucky he only collided with a parked vehicle.

“Well I hope it’s your road to Damascus today... because if it isn’t and you come back you’ll be going to jail,” Magistrate Corry said.

“It’s a wonder at that reading you were able to operate the vehicle at all.”

Magistrate Corry said he could have easily ended up “lying on the slab in the Coroner’s Court”.

“It could have ended up very differently for you,” he said.

He was ordered to undertake 116 hours of community service, including a 16-hour sober driver program, was disqualified for 12 months, and ordered to fit an interlock device to his car for 48 months at the completion of his suspension.

He was also convicted and fined $700 for negligent driving.

Man who stabbed mother and girlfriend faces court again

The Emu Plains man who stabbed his mother and girlfriend with a sword late last year has had weapons charges downgraded on appeal.

Clinton Walker, 26, was found not guilty

by reason of mental illness on July 31 of two counts of ‘wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm’ after he suffered a psychotic breakdown on December 5, 2016.

He was back in court last Friday to appeal the severity of four Section 9 good behaviour bonds he was handed after pleading guilty to possessing prohibited weapons found on the same day.

His lawyer submitted the weapons – a sling shot, pair of nunchucks and a ballistic vest – were “innocently sourced” and not used or acquired for criminal purposes, saying this was an “important point of distinction”.

He said Mr Walker had been very proactive in getting his life back on track and his “record will be worse for wear given these convictions”.

The Crown argued the convictions would give Mr Walker personal deterrence to stay clean, but Judge Mark Buscombe pointed out he had “plenty of reminders”.

“He stabbed his mother and partner...

I don’t think he’s going to forget it,” the Judge said.

His appeal was allowed and he was discharged upon entering four Section 101B bonds for a period of two years.

Questions raised over man’s motorbike accident excuse

Leslie John Budahazy has been given a final chance to comply with his community service hours.

Mr Budahazy fronted Penrith Local Court last Thursday after failing to meet his community service order and Section 9 bonds.

“I just want to finish my hours, Your Honour,” he insisted.

“I’ve been out of trouble for eight years and don’t want to go back to jail.”

But Magistrate Brett Shields was doubtful, noting there had been “a long period of non-compliance”.

“It doesn’t give me a lot of confidence when you now say you want to – that you will,” he said.

The court heard Mr Budahazy had allegedly suffered an injury in a motorbike accident earlier this year, but a Community Corrections’ representative said there were questions surrounding his leg injury and subsequent medical certificates.

Magistrate Shields said the only way to know for sure was to allow Mr Budahazy to obtain a medical assessment.

He warned the accused he was “likely looking at the prospect of going to jail” if he failed to get the required documentation.

“If you don’t do it... your options will have really have run out,” he said.

His matter was adjourned to November 2.

Man’s workload prevents him from preparing for court

Luke Ferguson has been warned to come to court prepared after he requested a further adjournment.

Mr Ferguson told Magistrate Brett Shields in court last week that he hadn’t had time to seek legal advice as he works six days a week.

Although Magistrate Shields gave him one last chance, he stressed there would be no further stoppages.

“If you come back and haven’t done it, the matter will be dealt with, do you understand?” Magistrate Shields said.

His matter was adjourned to Thursday, October 26.

Driving while suspended but one last chance looms

Geoffrey Paul Sampson has been given another opportunity to obtain his provisional driver’s licence.

Mr Sampson faced Penrith Local Court last Thursday where he pleaded guilty to driving while suspended.

The court heard the accused had been on his learner’s licence since 2011 and only needed to sit and pass the exam to get his provisional licence.

His matter was adjourned to November 9 for sentence.

Woman pleads not guilty to failing to comply

Elizabeth Cox has pleaded not guilty to failing to comply with reporting obligations under the Child Protection Offenders Act. Ms Cox appeared before Penrith Local Court by video link from custody last Thursday.

She is due to face court again on October 26.

Man to spend time behind bars for mid-range drink driving

Ian Thomas Wright will spend the next six months behind bars after pleading guilty to mid-range drink driving and driving while suspended at St Marys.

Mr Wright appeared before Penrith Local Court via video link after being refused bail in August.

The court heard the 46-year-old had also breached a good behaviour bond imposed in October last year for another mid-range drink driving offence.

In her sentencing submissions, his lawyer said Mr Wright accepted he crossed the threshold for a prison sentence.

He is eligible for release into the community in March 2018

Woman will get driver’s licence sooner than expected after having declaration quashed

Rachelle Withers has had her habitual offender declaration quashed.

Ms Withers, disqualified from driving to 2023, faced Penrith Local Court last Thursday where her lawyer successfully argued her case.

Magistrate Brett Shields noted there had been “significant improvement” in the applicant’s driving.

He determined the declaration was “disproportionate and unjust” before quashing the RMS imposed disqualification, which adds an additional five years to any court-imposed ban.

She will be eligible to reapply for her licence on October 29, 2018.

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY EMILY NEWTON

Cranebrook: Man unaware he was being watched by police

A man was arrested last week after being unaware his dangerous motorbike riding antics were being watched by local cops.

At 4pm on Friday, October 13, Penrith trail bike squad officers observed a 20-year-old male from Cranebrook riding an unregistered motorbike.

He was riding through the park area between Greygums Road, McHenry Road and Sherringham Road.

Police continued to observe the rider for a time, who was unaware of the police presence, with the help of the local community. During this time, the driver conducted a number of wheelies within the park, which was occupied by many children and adults.

Officers on serialised motorbikes then followed the man as he left the area, where they observed him driving in excess of the 50km/h speed limit.

They also saw the driver cross onto the incorrect side of the road, at times skidding his wheels sideways.

He was followed onto Dolomite Road, still unaware of the police, where he pulled into a driveway.

It was at this time that he finally noticed the officers who were observing and following him.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station, and checks on his licence revealed it was disqualified until November 2019.

He was charged with driving matters and breach of bail.

His bail was refused, and he attended bail court on Saturday, October 14.

Penrith: Dee Why man can’t get enough of Panthers

Early on Sunday morning, one patron of Penrith Panthers refused to leave despite multiple move on requests, until officers took him to Penrith Police Station.

At 2.40am on October 15, police were conducting a walk through of the popular leagues club.

They were inside the front door area, when they witnessed a 24-year-old man from Dee Why approached by Panthers staff and asked to leave.

The male was asked to leave several times, and failed to leave each time, as it appeared he was affected by alcohol.

Police then approached the male, and directed him to move on.

The male became agitated to officers and when asked to provide identification, he failed to comply.

He continued to refuse to identify himself and began using offensive language.

He was arrested as a result, but when officers took a hold of his wrists he pulled away, began shouting and continued to violently resist arrest.

A search of the man revealed identification that confirmed his identity.

At this time, police were called to attend a more prioritised matter, and the man was told to expect a Court Attendance Notice in the mail.

However, a short time later, police drove past Panthers again where they saw the man still at the establishment.

He was subsequently arrested, and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with ‘fail to comply with direction’, ‘fail to quit licensed premises’ and ‘resisting arrest’ to appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, November 7.

Erskine Park: Police investigate damage to shade sail at school

Police are appealing for information following malicious damage at Erskine Park High School last Friday night.

Around 8pm, a witness has driven past Erskine Park High School on Swallow Drive, Erskine Park where he has seen young persons within the school grounds and has entered the location.

On entering, the young persons have run off.

The witness has discovered that the shade sale at the location had been slashed repeatedly, with multiple pieces on the ground. Investigations continue.

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

Failing to settle For most people, buying or selling a property is one of the largest transactions they will be involved in during their lives.

Making the decision to buy or sell a property should not be taken lightly, as once you enter into a contract you put yourself at significant risk if you cannot comply with your contractual obligations.

We often get asked the question “What happens if we cannot settle?”.

The question can essentially be broken into two parts: Property Purchase When you enter into a contract to purchase a property you are promising to pay the purchase price by the due date (completion date). If you cannot come up with the money to finalise the purchase on the due date the seller can issue a Notice to Complete. This usually gives you 14 days in which to settle the matter, and if you fail to do so in this 14 day period you lose your deposit.

In addition, the seller may be able to sue you for the difference in the purchase price if they have to sell the property at a lower price to somebody else.

Selling a Property Like with a purchase above, if you are selling a property and you cannot settle on the due date, then the purchaser can issue a Notice to Complete calling upon you to settle the matter (usually within 14 days).

If you cannot settle on the due date, then the purchaser can withdraw from the contract and get their deposit back.

In the alternative, the purchaser may be able to commence proceedings against you in the Supreme Court of NSW for “specific performance”, or sue you for damages.

Specific performance means that they go to Court and seek to have the contract enforced; that is, force you to transfer the property to them. Damages is money you have to pay to the purchaser if they suffered some loss as a result of you not being able to settle on the sale.

It is very important that you have advice from a range of professionals when buying or selling property. This is not limited to your lawyer, but includes your real estate agent, your finance broker, and in some situations, your accountant.

New centre to carry Grace Lynch’s name A residential and counselling facility named after the mother of homicide victim Anita Cobby will receive a $50,000 grant from the NSW Government.

The Homicide Victims’ Support Group (HVSG) is building the facility for young people and their families affected by the murder of someone they love.

Get a copy of our Statement of Wishes to help you plan your final wishes. Ph: 02 9826 2273 or visit www.kempscreekcemetery.com.au

Grace’s Place is named in honour of the late Grace Lynch, mother of Anita Cobby, who was murdered in Prospect as she walked home from Blacktown Railway Station in 1986.

Grace Lynch and her husband Garry founded the HVSG in 1993 with Christine and Peter Simpson.

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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safely-prohibited firearm’, and ‘deal with identity info to commit indictable offence’,” a police statement said.

He was refused bail and was due to appear at Central Local Court last Friday.

Following further inquiries, Strike Force Millstream detectives also arrested a 31-year-old man at Surry Hills Police Station just before 12pm on Thursday, October 12.

“As investigations under Strike Force Millstream are ongoing, no further information is available,” a police statement said.

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$3.6 million in cash and a pistol was seized following search warrants at Erskine Park and St Clair

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etectives have found $3.6 million in cash and a pistol with a silencer following searches on properties at Erskine Park and St Clair.

In 2014 detectives from the State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad and the NSW Crime Commission established Strike Force Millstream to investigate large-scale supply of prohibited drugs in NSW. As part of the investigation, detectives uncovered a significant money laundering syndicate and other organised criminal activity.

Two men were charged by Strike Force Millstream detectives over their alleged roles in the syndicate last week.

They remain before the courts.

Detectives executed two search warrants at homes in Erskine Park and St Clair about 8am on Wednesday, October 11.

During the searches, police seized $3.6 million cash, a pistol with a silencer, electronic storage devices, and documentation.

“The Erskine Park man was charged with ‘knowingly deal with proceeds of crime with intent to conceal’, ‘knowingly deal with proceeds of crime’, ‘possess unauthorised pistol’, two counts of ‘possess unregistered firearmprohibited firearm’, ‘not keep firearm

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

We’ll fight for our Hunter Never giving up: Couple’s $30,000 battle to save their ill puppy is far from over EMILY NEWTON

hen locals Emily Leedham and Tom Knight took the next step in their relationship, they had no idea it would see them spend over $30,000 on vet bills.

After the couple moved into a rental property together they decided to buy a dog but, after only a few weeks, their energetic puppy Hunter was not himself.

“We organised his first vet check-up... and that was fine,” Ms Leedham said.

“A month later he started getting a little bit slow and lethargic. He just wasn’t a puppy anymore. He developed this cough and he had no appetite.”

The couple took Hunter to a vet where they began treatment for aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when something is breathed into the lungs instead of being swallowed.

“After spending about $8,000 there, they told us he was 50 per cent better,” Ms Leedham said.

“But then I got a call saying they were wrong.”

She was offered a “very vague apology” and swiftly looked elsewhere to continue the fight for Hunter’s life.

They began seeing a specialist who has

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continued treatment with x-rays, CT scans and surgery, but after a year of treatment, Hunter’s journey is far from over as his immune system still struggles.

To date, the couple have spent $30,200 on trying to save their puppy’s life, including taking out a loan to help pay for his surgery – each month expecting to pay almost $1,000.

“Every two weeks is $115 in medication, and every month is about $600 for consultation and treatment,” Ms Leedham said.

The pair have moved into Ms Leedham’s parents’ home in Emu Heights as they continue to care for their puppy.

They say their vet is “level-headed” and “honest” and would let the pair know whether Hunter was in pain, but the specialist agrees that he is still worth fighting for.

“If I saw him suffering or moping or crying, I would have to let him go,” Ms Leedham said.

“Of course we want a house, we want to be home owners, we want what every person in their 20s wants.

“But we want Hunter as well.”

Anyone who has gone through a similar experience with their pet that may be able to help or if you just want to follow Hunter’s journey, visit www.gofundme. com/surgeryforhunter.

Tom Knight and Emily Leedham say they will do whatever it takes to help their beloved puppy Hunter

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

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Teachers make it better 22 Penrith Public School teachers in running for prestigious recognition LAUREN SUTTIE

ore than 20 teachers from Penrith Public School have been nominated in this year’s OfficeMax ‘A Day Made Better’ teacher awards.

The nationwide competition, which is now in its seventh year, recognises and rewards primary and secondary school teachers who go above and beyond for their students, school and community.

Principal of Penrith Public School, Chantal Beltran, said she is incredibly proud of the recognition that her staff has received.

“The number of teachers nominated in OfficeMax’s ‘A Day Made Better’ competition is reflective of the outstanding work our teachers do each and every day,” she said.

Receiving her first nomination, Naomi Footit, who has been teaching for 19 years, said she couldn’t see herself doing anything else.

“I enjoy building my relationships with the children and it can be a lot of fun spending my day with seven-year-olds,” she said.

“No two days are ever the same when you’re teaching and I enjoy this about my job.”

Any primary or secondary school

M

Some of the teachers from Penrith Public School nominated for the awards. Photo: Melinda Jane teacher can be nominated to win the award by both past and present students, colleagues and parents.

Year 1 teacher Karlie Manning also received her first nomination, and said she feels very fortunate to work with dedicated colleagues, parents and members of the wider school community who support

each other to provide the best for the students.

While a total of 15,780 teachers were nominated this year, only 10 will be chosen to receive the $6,000 classroom prize package that includes an Apple iPad. “We celebrate the 22 members of staff who were nominated and should one of

our teachers win, we will most certainly acknowledge and celebrate their achievement as a whole school community,” Ms Beltran said.

While three winners have already been announced, the other seven winners are set to be announced by the end of next month.

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After years of hard work, more than 70,000 NSW students are on the final stretch to completing their Higher School Certificate with written exams officially starting earlier this week.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education Rob Stokes congratulated all HSC students on reaching this point and wished them well in the coming weeks.

“I want to congratulate every student on their diligence in getting to this final stage of their HSC,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“What you have learned will prepare you well for the next phase of your lives. Whatever path you choose the NSW HSC is highly respected across Australia and overseas.”

Mr Stokes also encouraged students and reminded them to work steadily through the exams.

“Congratulations on all your hard work preparing for these exams. While this is the last leg of your 13-year school journey, remember at the end of the day it’s just an exam,” he said.

This year marks the 50th anniversary since the first HSC exam was held.

“During the past 50 years, more than 2.3 million students have studied the HSC. That’s millions of Australians educated, nurtured, and guided to adulthood by our wonderfully dedicated teachers,” Mr Stokes said.

The 117 written exams will finish on Tuesday, November 7 with results due in mid-December.

Awareness week is a chance to reflect on punting habits Gambling is in the spotlight next week with Responsible Gambling Awareness Week to run from October 23 to 29.

The week aims to get the 65 per cent of NSW adults who gamble to think carefully about their limits whenever they have a bet.

The current period between the football grand finals and Melbourne Cup is a

great time for people to reflect on their gambling behaviour and consider if they need to make any changes.

Throughout the week, local Gambling Help services will be running communitybased events such as BBQs, morning teas, meetings and forums to raise awareness of the need to gamble responsibly.

Young people in particular are being

invited to get involved in Responsible Gambling Awareness Week and learn about the need to keep to limits when having a bet.

The week is a chance to spread the word about responsible gambling behaviour and also let people know how they can get support if they feel their gambling is becoming a problem.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Testing time begins for kids

Chance to win Penrith Homemaker Centre is once again presenting their yearly major giveaway.

This year the Centre is giving one lucky shopper the chance to win a BMW X3MSport valued at $78,390.

Customers simply need to purchase any item from any of the participating retailers in the Centre and fill in an entry for their chance to win.

The promotion commences on Monday, October 23 at 9am and concludes 10am on Monday, November 20.

In the past, Penrith Homemaker Centre has given away other cars, holidays and vouchers, however this is the biggest prize given away to date.

See www.penrithhomemakercentre. com.au for more details.

Going booze free Penrith City Council has supported the re-establishment of 85 Alcohol Free Zones and Alcohol Prohibited areas for an additional four year period, expiring October 2021.

Following a request from Penrith Police, an additional zone on Henry Street, Penrith will go to public exhibition.

Discussions will also be held with Thornton Community Group Inc regarding the suitability of alcohol prohibited areas in the new Thornton estate.

A final report will be presented to Council for these additional locations at a later date.

– Emily Newton

The Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey 2017 closes 7 November.

Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?

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Just answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ on the form. Put it in the Reply Paid envelope and mail it back straight away.

Survey responses must be received by 7 November. Your response will be completely confidential.

Have your say.

Information Line: 1800 572 113 | Visit: www.marriagesurvey.abs.gov.au WW30031

19

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Bag a Christmas bargain Younger shoppers help lead revival of charity stores selling second hand goods EMILY NEWTON

ne man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and the volunteers at the Salvos Store in Penrith are ready to help you find a gem.

Store Manager Richard Ebsworth said he is constantly surprised by the things that end up at his High Street store.

“We’ve got, at any given time, 6,000 garments in the place that are replenished with just over 1,000 more every week, so there is always something new in here,” he said.

“Each week a selection of clothes is 50 per cent off and another selection is $2 each, and that rotates every week.

“There’s always something fresh in here, there is always something on special.”

Without the hard work of their volunteers, Mr Ebsworth believes the shop wouldn’t run at all.

“I’ve got five or six volunteers in the store on any given day and, without them, we couldn’t do what we do,” he said.

“They do everything from general housekeeping to sorting new donations and pricing clothes.

“I’ve only been in this shop for a year, and we’ve got volunteers that have been helping here for eight or nine years.”

O

Your local Salvos staff are ready to help you grab a bargain. Photo: Melinda Jane The money made at Salvos stores also goes back into the local community.

“By shopping local, you’re supporting the local work that Salvos do,” Mr Ebsworth said.

“There’s always a bargain to be found, you never know what you’re going to get.

“The things that people donate still astonish me.”

Frequently, Mr Ebsworth sees donations

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made of items that would easily fetch hundreds online including household furniture and homewares.

“There’s four other charity stores literally within 200m of here, so competition is there,” he laughed.

“But our price point is what brings people in and keeps them coming back to our store.”

Recently, there has been a rise in younger

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shoppers coming through and grabbing some vintage fashion.

“Everything that comes through our doors as a donation is something that isn’t going into landfill,” he said.

“I like to think we’re helping the environment as well as helping the people.”

The Salvos birthday sale kicks off next month and will continue until Christmas, with plenty of bargains on offer.

stations shouldn’t cause a problem in that respect but them being physically closer to population hotspots would be more beneficial.

LISSI JANE KNIGHT, VIA FACEBOOK

I was interested to read about the Penrith CBD Corporation in last week’s Weekender (Changing face of CBD, Weekender October 13). I accept that this organisation and its Board are doing a good job in guiding the future of the Penrith CBD, but are they fighting a losing battle? No matter what we do, the only thing that will improve the CBD is better parking and a wider range of shops. Most weeks, even months, go by without me even needing to go to a shop or service on High Street or Henry Street. In fact, only the arrival of some of the new burger joints around town has encouraged me to venture back into the CBD – but the other retail offerings are mostly drab and boring. I don’t envy the job the CBD Corporation has, because shifting the retail offering is very difficult with other large shopping centres nearby.

STEVE WILLOUGHBY, CRANEBROOK

A whole lot of waffle and very little specifics on how the merger will work.

Will they be keeping both stations, but be considered one team or will they be closing down one building and have the officers race up and down the Great Western Highway and M4 Motorway in order to maintain response times? And considering Penrith is acknowledged as a growth area, how will the merging impact upon our cops and community?

CHAIRMAINE CASEY, VIA FACEBOOK (Editor’s note: It’s our understanding the physical St Marys Police Station will remain open, as well as Penrith Police Station)

Police commands merge

Why online is winning

Terrible idea! (Cop shops to merge, Weekender October 13). Would be a better idea to have more smaller stations spread out, say one near Glenmore Park and one near Ropes Crossing/ Jordan Springs. Would reduce times for call outs when they are needed to get somewhere quickly. All paperwork and correspondence is electronic these days, so having them split up to smaller sub

Major retailers are doing my head in.

Clearly sales targets are the priority now which means it is difficult to trust what a person in a shop is telling you about a product. I have had many awful experiences lately. I am now shopping online, using careful research and reading reviews. A much better experience. Lift your game, retailers!

TOBY SMART, VIA EMAIL

How will merger work?

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

For more information, see our public notices section.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Delay causes safety concern EMILY NEWTON

South Penrith resident was left with a hole in his driveway for over two weeks after being continually “fobbed off”.

Peter Townsend was left unable to use his driveway and was faced with a safety concern in front of his home from the gaping hole.

“I had a sewer inspection hole blocked up and I had to get a plumber out,” he told the Weekender.

Doing his due diligence, Mr Townsend called Dial Before You Dig, only to find the number constantly engaged.

Having to check his blocked pipes, the plumber ended up pulling up an NBN conduit from underneath his driveway.

“I must have had half a metre slack.

It pulled the conduit away from their conduit box,” Mr Townsend said.

He called his server provider who directed him to contact NBN Co directly, which has seen almost three weeks of inactivity.

“They keep saying they’ll be out in a couple of days,” he said.

“I’ve still got that hole in my driveway because he picked up that conduit.

A

“I want to do the right thing, but I’ve been waiting for weeks now.

Since the hole was dug, Mr Townsend said he feels “fobbed off” by various people when he called looking for help.

“I just need them to come, have a look at it so I can fill the hole,” he said.

“This is what happens when they privatise government utilities.”

The Weekender contacted NBN Co regarding the incident on Tuesday morning, citing the safety concerns of Mr Townsend.

By Tuesday afternoon, technicians had arrived to waterproof the conduit in the hole and check that it was working at Mr Townsend’s property.

“NBN was notified that excavation works conducted by a plumber had dug up an NBN conduit,” Marcela Balart, an NBN spokesperson for NSW said on Tuesday.

“Services were not affected, however an NBN technician was requested to check for damage to the conduit before works were completed. NBN contacted the resident last Friday (October 13) to confirm an NBN technician would attend today.

“The NBN technician attended this afternoon and repaired damage to the conduit.

We apologise to Mr and Mrs Townsend for the inconvenience caused by the delay.”

Peter Townsend was left waiting for weeks with a hole in his driveway after NBN Co kept telling him someone would be out in a few days. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Technology Expo The newest and most innovative engineering industry products will be on show in Penrith at a Technology Expo hosted by the Institute of Instrumentation Control and Automation Australia (IICA).

IICA Sydney Manager, Julie Meynell, said the exhibition is designed for everyone involved in the engineering field – from the shop floor to the top door – including designers, engineers, technicians and operators, purchasing and management.

50 exhibitors from global and local companies will converge on Panthers Leagues Club on Wednesday, October 25 for an afternoon of networking and to show off cutting edge developments in the instrumentation control and automation industry.

For more info, visit www.iica.org.au.

Nappy Drive St Marys Village is once again a collection point for The Nappy Collective’s Nappy Drive.

The Nappy Collective is a not-for profit scheme which is wholly run by volunteers who work with over 200 beneficiaries to collect and distribute the nappies to those in need.

To date, they have collected over two million leftover nappies, which would otherwise be destined for landfill.

Mirvac shopping centres have collected over 95,000 of these nappies over the past two and a half years.

Spare nappies can be dropped off to St Marys Village at Centre Management until Friday, October 27.

Evening they won’t forget Gala Ball a huge success as emotional duet steals the show LAUREN SUTTIE

isability support organisation, Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford) successfully hosted its second Gala Ball last month, transporting guests to the circus with this year’s theme being ‘A Night Under the Big Top’.

Held at Penrith Panthers Marquee, the annual Afford Gala Ball is an opportunity for those living with a disability to enjoy a night out in a formal setting with their families, friends and carers.

“Many clients don’t have the opportunity to attend formal events and get dressed up, so Afford chose to stage the Gala Ball every year, so that every individual has the chance to be a shining star,” Afford CEO, Steven Herald said.

This year Afford also launched Project Princess which called on the community to donate clothes and accessories as well as hair and make-up services for clients attending the Gala Ball.

“The initiative was a great success with so many of our clients brimming with confidence as they walked through the event doors wearing formal dresses and suits that made them feel like stars,” Mr Herald said.

Federal Member for Lindsay Emma Husar also had the honour of opening the

D

Mark Vincent performs with Afford clients at the Gala Ball Gala Ball for the second year in a row, and was pleased to host Project Princess by helping collect formal attire for clients to wear on the night.

“The staff were amazing and I know many gave their time on the night voluntarily,” Ms Husar said.

“It was a truly magical evening for Afford clients, their families and carers.”

The circus theme was showcased

with a range of performances, including an emotional performance by 2009 ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ winner and opera superstar Mark Vincent, who sang a duet of ‘You Raise Me Up’ with two Afford clients.

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School also performed a range of circus inspired acrobatics and dance performances on the night.

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

Young Innovators: Winners Announced Two absolutely outstanding entries were received in the 2017 Young Innovators competition held as part of the Penrith Talks: Innovation Series.

So much so, that it was too difficult to select one major winner, so instead we have two very deserving winners.

Alissa Anastasio, a Year 11 student who attends Caroline Chisholm College has won for her entry in the Design and Technology category.

Alissa designed a portable charging system she calls “Dock It” for smart phones that can be used by Mums and/or carers to charge their phone or other device using the kinetic energy generated from pushing a pram around.

Alissa’s design is versatile, durable and adaptable, and includes a battery that stores the energy generated for later use. Very innovative, highly convenient and most importantly environmentally sustainable.

A team of young innovators from

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Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School has won for their thought provoking entry titled “Muru” that aims to inspire a clean, green future for the Penrith community.

The entry comprises various elements which target the sensitive and sustainable use of the Nepean River for future generations to enjoy.

At the heart of the proposal and as a reflection of the huge role the Nepean River plays in Penrith’s identity is the symbolic construction of 150 boat and canoe vessels made from materials found on the Nepean River banks creating a link between human connection and interaction with the river. It is proposed that they will be displayed as part of an installation along the Great River Walk and performance at the opening of the Green Bridge.

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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, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Baton honour for St Marys local nthony Micallef may have carried the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton in Malta, but it was a fitting opportunity given that the 2018 Commonwealth Games will be hosted by his native Australia next year.

Born and raised in St Marys, Micallef played soccer for St Marys Band Club and Dunheved High as a teenager, and as a 21-year-old commenced his rugby league coaching career with St Marys JRLFC. But when an opportunity to coach the Malta national rugby league team came knocking in 2008, the then 26-year-old jumped on the next flight to the Mediterranean island.

After an eight-year coaching term that saw his Malta national team become the highest ranked national sporting team the Mediterranean island nation has ever seen, Micallef joined the committee of Mdina FC, a soccer club that plays in the Maltese Third Division.

The latest highlight of his sporting career came off the pitch and at sea after he was recently invited by the Malta Olympic Committee Secretary General Joseph Cassar to carry the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton aboard a yacht called Nauti Buoy with the iconic capital city of Valletta acting as a splendid backdrop.

A

With three younger brothers and his parents still living at their family home in St Marys, Micallef is very much still in touch with his grassroots.

“I’ve been away for nine years, but I’m in touch with my family at least every week. I am planning to get back to Sydney to catch up with family and friends, and I want to time it with a Panthers home game early next season. I never missed a home game from about the age of 14 to 26, and I’m very much still a big Panthers fan,” he said.

“Rugby league gave me a great opportunity to work across Europe for a number of years as the Malta coach.

“And my full-time work these days is still quite relative to the sports industry, that being in the gambling industry. Together with volunteering at Mdina FC, sports as part of one’s daily life is something I am always keen to encourage with all citizens of the community.

“The opportunity to carry the Queen’s Baton was amazing, pretty surreal even.

It’s an amazing journey that the Baton goes through. It travels some 280,000 kilometres across every Commonwealth Games participating nation over 388 days, then it arrives at the Gold Coast 2018 opening ceremony where the Queen’s message that is within the Baton is read out.”

The Queen’s Baton Relay spent its last full day in Malta where it took part in a variety of events there and on the neighbouring island of Gozo

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Film tackles a taboo subject EMILY NEWTON

ocal actor and filmmaker Brendan Byrne is focusing his lens on a serious subject matter in his latest short film, ‘I’m Here Too’.

Shadow Wolves Productions, an independent film production company located in Penrith, have just finished the film aimed at raising awareness about depression and suicide prevention.

“Suicide touches just about every single person,” Mr Byrne said.

“It’s one thing that has touched most people in the world, and not a lot of people want to talk about it because it is confronting.

“But, at the same time, it is real and it does happen.”

Having written and starred in numerous short films before, Mr Byrne said this time was very personal and confronting, changing his original script from having an adult male lead to a teenage girl.

“Dealing with depression myself early on, and having so many people around me that have suffered depression, anxiety and a variety of mental health issues, it’s something that’s always been around me,” he said.

L

“But everyone has different ways of dealing with things. People are scared to talk about it for fear of not being accepted.

There is a stigma that comes with anxiety and depression.”

The story hits close to home for many and aims to make us question how we view depression.

“It’s about a young female... who has a seemingly perfect life to everyone on the outside but she’s suffering on the inside,” Mr Byrne.

The film also features a closing scene filmed at Cranebrook High, and Mr Byrne hopes it will encourage young people to talk more about how they’re feeling.

The World Health Organisation reports that every 40 seconds someone in the world takes their own life, a global tally of more than 800,000 suicides a year.

“That’s a huge number of people that could potentially be saved,” he said “The film is something that needs to be shown.”

On Thursday, November 9, Mr Byrne is holding a fundraiser for Beyondblue for the film’s premiere at Paddington RSL, to help address issues associated with depression and anxiety disorders.

For tickets and more information, visit www.stickytickets.com.au/59388.

Brendan Byrne is hoping to raise awareness with his new film

Resident Notification Roadworks Glenmore Parkway

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From Monday 16 October 2017 to Monday 13 November 2017, works will be carried out on Glenmore Parkway, between Camellia Avenue and Town Terrace (north), Glenmore Park to facilitate construction of the new Glenmore Park Shopping Centre. Works will include the upgrade of Glenmore Parkway with Kerb and Gutter restoration, asphalting and line marking.

Traffic management will be on-site to aid both motorists and pedestrians and for the protection of workers, so please obey road work speed limits and instructions from traffic control.

Further night works are scheduled for Monday 13 November 2017 to Friday 24 November 2017 to install a new concrete median strip on Glenmore Parkway. The section of Glenmore Parkway between Camellia Avenue and Town Terrace (north) will be temporarily closed to through traffic during the hours of 8.00pm to 5.00am. Please follow instructions from traffic control and detour signage during these times.

Footpath access will be retained on the northern and western sides of Glenmore Parkway for the duration of night works.

Suitable access arrangements will also be made for emergency services and heavy vehicles travelling on Glenmore Parkway.

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact Billy Katsiris, Project Co Ordinator from Quasar Constructions Pty Ltd on 0424 268 271.

We understand that this work will have an impact on you and your neighbours. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Proudly brought to you by:

St Marys

Trick Or Treat Trail Saturday 28th October, 10am - 2pm Coachmans Park, St Marys (Cnr Queen St and Charles Hackett Dr, St Marys) Kids, come to St Marys with your parents and take part in the 2017 St Marys Trick or Treat Trail.

Dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and register to participate.

It is free to register and you will receive a free trick or treat bag. There will be loads of free entertainment including airbrush tattoos, jumping castle and prizes to be won.

PROGRAM:

Meet and greet with Marshall from Nick Jr.’s PAW Patrol 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm & 1:30pm

10:00AM Official Opening 10:10AM All Star Dance 10:40AM Vivid Performing Arts 11:00AM Red Hot and Country 11:30AM M.C. Dance Company 11:45AM Katiya Knoester and Ella Dunlop - Singers 12:00PM All Star Dance 12:30PM Meg Whittaker - Singer 1:00PM

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Joven Estigoy - Singer

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Program subject to change. True and correct at the time of printing.

For more information on the event and on how to pre-register visit stmarystowncentre.com.au or

https://www.facebook.com/stmarystowncentreltd

With thanks to the following businesses for their support:

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Anastasia’s Hair Design x Baldo's Hair Care Centre x Big G’s Pizzeria x Cartridge World St Marys x Castlereagh Imaging, St Marys x Catch Hair Design x Chrissy's Café x Crust Pizza CV Beauty Founders & Beauty Therapists x Define Hair Design and Beauty x Doves Jewellers x Enchanted Hair and Beauty x Essential Locksmiths x Fernz Cafe x H&R Block x Hair Options By Mary Harry’s Cafe & Restaurant x Hobby Pro x J & B Realty x Jamjo Home & Gifts x Jonelles Hair and Beauty x Laing + Simmons St Marys x Lee Nova Craft x Mega Cash x Mooney Financial Services Optus St Marys x Party Pit Stop x Real Estate One x Right Property Management x Skin Essentials x Skye’s The Limit For Hair x Smythe Wozniak Lawyers x St Marys Library x St Marys Pet Haven St Marys Pharmacy x St Marys Police x St Marys Professionals Real Estate x Super Tools Australia - St Marys x Sydney's Charcoal Chicken x Tax Today St Marys x Untamed Flowers Western Sydney Smiles x Workplace Safety Centre

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ne local family operated business is doing their part to help the National Breast Cancer Foundation reach their goal of zero deaths from breast cancer by 2030.

Tanti Financial Services is hosting a fun run around the Nepean River next Saturday, October 28, to create awareness and raise money.

“We’ve been doing pro bono work for the Cancer Council for almost 10 years,

and it’s just another way of creating awareness for cancer, in this case breast cancer,” business owner and Practice Principal Tony Tanti said.

“We want to create more awareness in the local community, and we thought if we do a walk in some crazy pink outfits, we could really get the word out.”

The run kicks off at 8.30am on Saturday, October 28, and is expected to finish by 11am. A delicious BBQ breakfast will be supplied at the end.

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Six decades of lending a hand in the community Roads and Maritime Services Night Work and Ramp Closures M4 Motorway at The Northern Road, South Penrith Roads and Maritime Services is building a new bridge over the M4 Motorway (M4) at The Northern Road, South Penrith as part of The Northern Road upgrade between Glenmore Parkway, Glenmore Park and Jamison Road, South Penrith.

Work includes installing temporary barriers, building temporary access roads and concrete platforms, earthwork, building retaining walls, transporting equipment, clearing vegetation, installing or changing signs and line marking.

During this work, the M4 on and off ramps at The Northern Road, South Penrith will be closed between 10pm and 8am on the following dates: Friday 27 and Saturday 28 October 2017 eastbound on-ramp to the M4 and westbound off-ramp to The Northern Road Friday 3 and Saturday 4 November 2017 -

St Marys Rotary Club members Tony Jones, Lesley Daly, Terry Bulloch, Colman Young and Chris Miller. Photo: Melinda Jane

eastbound off-ramp to The Northern Road and westbound on-ramp to the M4.

Detours during the Northern Road ramp closures will be in place re-directing people

LAUREN SUTTIE

to the Kent Road and Mulgoa Road M4 ramps. Please visit the Roads and Maritime website to view the detour maps.

the direction of detour signs and traffic controllers.

These closures will be carried out at night when traffic volumes are lower to minimise 126369

impact on traffic and safety of the travelling public.

Thank you for your patience during this important work.

For more information please contact our delivery partner Lendlease on 1800 870 665, email tnr.community@lendlease.com or visit rms.nsw.gov.au/thenorthernroad.

embers both past and present came together this week to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the St Marys Rotary Club.

The club, which was formed on October 19, 1957, started out with just 23 members and has since been involved in a range of community projects.

Looking back on some of the club’s achievements, member Colman Young believes the event held for the

M

Detours and closures may affect travel times, please keep to speed limits and follow

WW30770

bicentenary of the crossing of the Blue Mountains in 2013 was one of the Club’s standouts.

“That to me was something where we were given a fairly big task and it worked out extremely well as far as the club was concerned,” Mr Young said.

Another highlight for Rotary is the annual Police Officer of the Year Awards Night, which has raised over $39,000 for Police Legacy since it started in 2008.

If you are interested in becoming a member, contact the Club secretary on 0422 410 146 for more information.

NEW STORE: 3/89 Batt St Penrith 02

28

John’s Carpets

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Mamre

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MAJOR PLUS SERVICE* Service Includes:

• Includes Air Filter & External Fuel Filter • Full Brake Inspection • 102 point written safety report • Valvoline premium engine oil & filter • Standard spark plugs • Coolant top up * Diesel and light commercials not included

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• 6 month/ 10,000 warranty

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• POWER STEERING RACKS & PUMPS • AIR CON RE-GAS • EFI REPAIRS WW30754

We now carry out Diesel injector servicing 29

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Eat with us this weekend

Get your menu in front of our readers ahead of the weekend.

Con

tact

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Contact us today sales@westernweekender.com.au • (02) 4722 2998 VV

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Hix Group is celebrating its 25th Year in business and is continuing to grow!

We currently have a number of roles available, to join our Penrith Based business, with a range of government, commercial, construction & domestic clients throughout the Sydney Metropolitan area

ELECTRICAL TRADES –TECHNICAL & ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT

Apprentices – 2nd or 3rd Year & new apprentices for 2017/18

FIRE SERVICES TECHNICIAN

This is a new & unique role, in our Penrith Office, for an experienced electrician with maintenance experience BUT who is now seeking to work in an administrative role, within our Electrical division.

PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL Looking for a great team and a structured training program to complete your trade and move into a permanent role?

We are seeking an EXPERIENCED Fire Services Technician to join our PENRITH BASED team to carry out all aspects of Essential Fire Services testing, inspection, maintenance and repairs & fault finding with a particular focus on Fire Panels and EWIS systems.

We provide services for a range of clients including Local Councils, Strata Clients, commercial and industrial.

The Successful applicant will be an energetic “people person” who is well organized and can communicate effectively with clients and staff alike & is comfortable recording all job information using Smartphone/Electronic Table, via our Job Management System.

MUST have a sound knowledge of an experience in the above areas and clear understanding & willingness to follow the relevant Australian Standards & Building Codes relating to the Industry and all aspects of Work Health and Safety.

FPAS Training an advantage.

Perhaps you are now unable to or don’t want to continue to perform the physically challenging parts of a trades role or simply prefer to work in the office rather than on the tools.

You will be responsible for prep & checking of invoices, quotes & documentation for jobs, assisting the managers with progress & handling of scheduled works & other admin duties related to progress of works.

In addition to your trades background you will have computer skills, strong communication skills & attention to detail & accuracy.

30

LICENSED ELECTRICIANS – MAINTENANCE We are adding to our team of qualified maintenance electricians, and are seeking licensed tradespeople with experience in domestic & commercial works, fault finding, stove & hot water repairs & all general electrical repairs & installs.

Works will be across Government, Council, commercial, industrial & domestic sites and will include repairs, maintenance installation, testing & inspection and fitout works.

You will be an efficient & customer based tradesperson who values the service Hix Group provides to clients & you will be willing & able to train and develop our apprentices who are also a valuable part of our company’s growth.

You will be meticulous with quality, well presented, willing to use our electronic job management system & keen to embrace our Hix Group Culture of Team work, Pride & Responsibility. Send your resume now to HR@hix.com.au (applications will be treated in strict confidence) Enquiries Phone: 4721 7500 WW30835

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hen your regular GP Clinic is closed and you require medical treatment, going to the hospital isn’t your only option.

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The service is a bulk billed doctor visit with no cost to you if you have a valid Medicare card or DVA card, meaning they will be able to provide services at the comfort of your home at no cost.

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

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31

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

BUSINESS H How does your mind sabotage you? m

Should you outsource or hire employees?

Phil Voysey // OneGroup Leadership

Jane Tweedy // Western Sydney Business Centre

0457 999 987 | onegroupleadership.com.au

4721 5011 | info@wsbusiness.com.au

H

ave you ever had the experience of a job or business opportunity that seemed too frightening and beyond your capability?

I’ve had this experience several times.

I remember arriving in Bangladesh to take up the position of Country Director for Save the Children and feeling extreme anxiety and overwhelm.

Culture shock was a factor but mainly I doubted my ability to do the job.

Similarly, when I took up a leadership position at Macquarie University I was initially intimidated by my colleagues, Professors and senior academics with PHDs who, in my mind at least, were all smarter than I was.

How could I lead them?

And I have questioned my suitability to run a business. Coming from an education and not for profit background the idea of running a business seemed, well, so not me.

I told my coach one day that I didn’t think I was cut out for business.

“Phil,” he said, “how many businesses have you failed at?”

“None.”

aving sorted out systems and processes (covered last week), if you’re still overwhelmed with your workload, it’s time to look at outsourcing work or hiring an employee.

Below I touch on how to go about this.

Time logging As a micro business owner, you’ll be doing most, if not, all functions within your business. You’re the IT, service, marketing, and accounting departments, all rolled into one! Therefore before hiring we need to determine what type of workers we need.

Time logging involves noting down how much time we spend doing each function. We can then use this to work out do we need an admin person, marketing, technical etc. It may also have side effects in identifying where we undercharge, or how much time we really spend on Facebook! Log 15 minute increments using an app or a spreadsheet for a few ‘normal’ weeks.

Outsourcing and the deemed employee issue Typically we start with outsourcing – getting a business outside of ours

Got a business topic you’d like Phil to address? Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

WE

H

“So, what makes you think you can’t run a business?”

Of course, I had no answer.

It was only my mind telling me that I couldn’t.

And I believed it.

Just as it had told me that I couldn’t run a development program in Bangladesh or lead academics at university.

The mind is a bloody insidious sower of self-doubt and crusher of dreams.

I can’t do that.

I’m no good at that.

How often have you heard that conversation deep in your psyche sabotaging your goals, persuading you from not taking a chance on something exciting and potentially life changing in your business or your life?

The mistake we make is in believing that our thoughts are real. That they are us.

Let’s stop it. Now. Let’s learn to take control and run our own brains.

SHOW YOU

to perform a function. Please note outsourcing to a company as a contract for services is relatively simple – they perform the service and invoice us. If they’re a sole trader we need to make sure using the ATO tool that they are a contractor, and will not be considered a ‘deemed employee’, as we will need to pay their Super. For all outsourcing make sure the ABN is valid or you need to withhold payment.

Hiring the right employee You can hire casual, or permanent employees (full or part-time). You will have obligations, which you can find from Fairwork Australia or your advisor.

If you have older children, consider employing them in your business, which can be done in most cases subject to meeting some standards (like not employing during school time).

Selecting the right person or business Make sure the person fits your needs, not just in technical elements but also cultural fit and the values of the organisation. You can seek recommendations from trusted people, advertise or utilise your network of contacts.

WHY..

WHAT..

HOW..

Local Business Advisors are ready to assist you with Starting or Running Your Business WW24905

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Visit mylocalreview.com.au

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

She’ll be Spectacular!

B KATE REID

efore this year, St Marys Senior High School student Ashley Dawes hadn’t heard of the Schools Spectacular.

But come November, the 17-year-old Penrith local will take to the Qudos Bank Arena stage as one of the featured solo artists for the iconic event which showcases the talents of students from public schools across NSW. “I feel so lucky because it’s only my first

year doing Schools Spectacular,” Ashley said.

“We just did our first whole run through a week ago. I was just so amazed, I can’t believe that in just over a month we’re going to be performing in a huge arena.”

The talented singer moved to Australia at the age of 11, and though she recalls home videos of four-year-old Ashley singing Aretha Franklin songs around the house, her confidence took a bit of a knock after moving from New Jersey to her new home in western Sydney.

“That’s when my shyness started because moving countries is a big thing, especially when you’re 11 and trying to figure out who you are,” she said.

It wasn’t until earlier this year – when Ashley was encouraged by her music teacher Fatima Deassis to get involved in a solo vocal camp – that things started to change.

“I really don’t think I’d be in Schools Spectacular if I hadn’t gone to that camp,” she said.

“It really boosted my confidence and I really found my love for singing and performing again.

“It’s easy to think ‘I’m never going to be as amazing as the people around me’, so it’s so important to have people who are willing to get behind you.”

Though the song list was chosen for her, in a funny twist of fate Ashley is very

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familiar with one of the tracks she will be performing.

“I remember when I was around 12, I was sitting on my bedroom floor and I was trying to sing this song and I was getting so frustrated that I couldn’t sing it,” Ashley said.

“I was thinking ‘I’m probably never going to be able to sing this song’, but five years later here I am, about to sing that same song in front of thousands of people, it’s just so crazy.”

The 2017 Schools Spectacular will be on at Qudos Bank Arena at Sydney Olympic Park on Friday, November 24 and Saturday, November 25. For more information, visit www.schoolsspectacular.com.au.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

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10:30 am – Cash Housie 11:30am – Pots O Gold LTPM/16/01259 3:00pm – 6.00pm – Happy Hour

33

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

I am much happier about life with my NDIS plan. I have found a passion to help others.

HANNAH, HWNS customer EVERY DAY House with No Steps support people like you on their NDIS journey. Let’s work together on making your plan a reality. visit hwns.com.au email enquiries@hwns.com.au freecall 1300 LETS GO (538 746)

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WW30556

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Opera comes to life at the Joan this Saturday evening

blue mountains musical society presents

KATE REID

A

fter launching last year, local opera company Western Sydney Opera has gone from strength to strength.

The talented performers will continue that success this Saturday evening with their new show ‘Ciao, Compare’.

Western Sydney Opera Artistic Director and tenor Lorenzo Rositano, aka Penrith’s Pavarotti, will be joined by entertainer Glenn Amer and soprano Alejandra Blandino to bring popular Italian songs and aria favourites to The Joan stage.

‘Ciao, Compare’ will open with the song of the same name by Robert Goulet, and will feature tracks by Mario Lanza, Connie Francis, Dean Martin and many more.

The concert will also mark the launch of Western Sydney Opera’s 2017 CD release, which will feature songs from

OCT 21 - NOV 5 SAT 21ST 8PM • SUN 22ND 2PM FRI* 27TH 8PM • SAT 28TH 2PM & 8PM • SUN 29TH 2PM FRI 3RD 8PM • SAT 4TH 2PM & 8PM • SUN 5TH 2PM

BLUE MOUNTAINS THEATRE

the show. Audience members will have the opportunity to purchase a copy of the album at the concert.

If you’re sick of spending Saturday nights in front of the TV, grab your tickets now and enjoy a magical evening of opera in our very own backyard.

‘Ciao, Compare’ will be on at The Joan on Saturday, October 21 at 8pm. Tickets start at $35. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.thejoan. com.au or call 4723 7600.

104-108 Macquarie Road, Springwood

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Phone: 02 4723 5050 • Online: www.bmms.org.au In Person: Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub ADULTS $46 • CONCESSION $42 • CHILD $36 • GROUPS (15+) 10% OFF BOOKING FEES APPLY

*FRIDAY 27TH - ALL TICKETS $37 WW30230

PENRITH’S BIGGEST RANGE FOR CHRISTMAS Largest range of Quality C Christmas Tr Trees 2ft/61cm to 20ft/610cm

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35

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Push the boundaries with Peter Powers at the Bandy

Warragamba Workers & Sporting Club Be a winner on Melbourne Cup Day

• Club opens 9am • Dress to impress for your chance to win!

• Courtesy bus • Sweeps • Fashions on the lawn Cheese & Cracker Platter $20 with Bubbly for Two • Entertainment: Soul Jamz

KATE REID

T

here’s something highly amusing about watching a person pretend to be a chicken while under a hypnotic spell.

And when it comes to the hilarious art of hypnotism there’s few who do it better than Peter Powers.

The British hypnotist is no stranger to our shores, having starred in his own TV series ‘Mesmerised’, made regular appearances on ‘The Footy Show’ and sold out shows around the country.

“Australia is my favourite place to perform,” Peter said.

“The people here are mad, outrageous and push themselves to the edge, which provides entertainment like nothing else!”

SPILLWAY BISTRO OPEN 7 DAYS FOR LUNCH & DINNER Thai meals available ThursSunday nights

One thing audiences have come to expect from Peter Powers is the unexpected. With volunteers living out their wildest fantasies and worst fears, there’s no other show that pushes the boundaries quite like this.

Peter Powers’ ‘The Naughty Naughty Hypno Show’ will be on at St Marys Band Club on Saturday, October 28 at 8.30pm. Tickets start at $33. To purchase tickets, visit www.stmarysbandclub.com.au or call 9623 1211.

9/11 Eighteenth St, WARRAGAMBA Opens 11am daily

Phone: 4774 1211 WW30694

Think about your choices. Call gambling help 1800 858 858 www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au

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A Briefcase Full of Blues

A

Bringing DESIGNS to Life Penrith City Council - Community Newsletter

PENRITH CITY COMMUNITY NEWS

IN HOUSE graphic design team

The official newsletter of Penrith City Council December 2016 edition

26 January

nal o i t re rna gis he e t In win Ro It’s all he Help us celebrate our diverse heritage and traditions with free fun for all the family, including Pavlova decorating, games, face painting, bubble soccer, historical and interactive displays and shows, music and performances by Shaun the Sheep and Swamp Dawkins.

Penr ith

Penrith Civic Centre 601 High Street, Penrith

re in

S

uit up, put on your sunglasses and black fedora, and get ready to feel the blues with The Oz Blues Brothers Show.

This fully scripted and choreographed show will have audiences dancing in the aisles of the Evan Theatre with all your Blue Brothers favourites.

Groove along to classic tunes including ‘Shake Your Tail Feather’, ‘Gimme Some Lovin’, ‘Soul Man’, ‘Everybody Needs Somebody, ‘Rawhide’, ‘Sweet Home Chicago’ and many more in the fantastic venue inside Panthers.

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36

• Bowls NSW Magazine

Brothers have entertained audiences around Australia, Asia and the Pacific, and now they’ve got their sights set firmly on Penrith.

If you’re a fan of the classic comedy film then grab your friends and family and head along for a night of fun, music and laughs with Jake and Elwood.

Get into the summer spirit and enjoy a great night out with plenty of restaurants and bars also inside Panthers.

The Oz Blues Brothers’ ‘A Briefcase Full of Blues’ will be on at the Evan Theatre on Saturday, November 4 at 8pm. Tickets start at $17. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.penrith.panthers.com.au or call 1300 PANTHERS.

WW28890

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

LOCAL NEEDS MET

BY LOCAL PEOPLE

Community Connection NEPEAN

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Serving Penrith since 1977 SUPPORT A LOCAL CHARITY WESTCARE.ORG.AU WW28443

37

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, October 20 Karaoke with Dean – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Songs in the Key of Motown Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Friday, Oct 20, 8.00pm, $45

Foghorn Stringband – The Metropole Guesthouse, Katoomba From $21.50, 6.30pm, 4782 5544 Leura Singers: Choral Concert – Leura Uniting Church $15, 2.30pm 0438 572 412 Macka – Milestone Hotel, Kingswood Free entry, 9pm 4721 2999 Soundproofed – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4773 8888 Planet Groove – St Marys Band Club

Sunday, October 22 Stephanie Jansen – The Henry Sports Club Free entry, 11am 9623 2119 Muddy Feet – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 1pm 9677 7777 Tall Timbre – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Little Mermaid Musical – Blue Mountains Theatre From $32.40, 2pm 4723 5050 Cass Eager and The Velvet Rope – The Metropole Guesthouse, Katoomba From $21.50, 6pm, 4782 5544

Todd McKenney Sings Peter Allen Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Saturday, October 28, 8pm, $55

Friday, October 27 Karaoke with Dean – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Social Darts – St Marys Band Club $3, 7pm 9623 1211 Live Music – Wentworth Falls Country Club Free entry, 7pm 4757 1202 Austracana Travelling Revue – Rooty Hill RSL $25, 8pm 9677 4916 In the Heights – The Joan From $37.50, 8pm 4723 7600 The Little Mermaid Musical – Blue Mountains Theatre From $32.40, 8pm 4723 5050 Live Music – Wentworth Falls Country Club Free entry, 7pm 4757 1202 Smooth Jive – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Mescalero – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Skyz The Limit – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 8pm 4722 8180 Christie Lamb – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 9623 1384

Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 The Matchbox Tribute Show – Pioneer Tavern Free entry, 9pm 4736 4466 The Little Mermaid Musical – Blue Mountains Theatre From $32.40, 8pm 4723 5050

Melinda Schneider Evan Theatre 1300 PANTHERS Saturday, October 28, 8pm, From $39

Rick Price • Windsor Uniting Church Sunday, Oct 22, 1.30pm, From $30 www.trybooking.com

Saturday, October 21

SPECIALISING IN

Di Bird Red Hot & Blue – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Ciao, Compare – The Joan From $35, 8pm 4723 7600 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 5764 Retrospective – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 The Frocks – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The POD Brothers – Penrith Gaels Club Free entry, 7pm 4722 8180

BEER BREWING  ...................................................................

DISTILLING  ...................................................................

CIDER AND SOFT DRINKS  ...................................................................

CHEESE MAKING  ...................................................................

YOGHURT AND KEFIR  ...................................................................

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SAUSAGES SMOKING CURING  ...................................................................

COFFEE ROASTING  ...................................................................

FOOD PRESERVING  ...................................................................

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CHOCOLATE MAKING  ...................................................................

WINE AND MEAD MAKING  ...................................................................

Saturday, October 28 Mulgoa Road Jazz Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 In the Heights – The Joan From $37.50, 2pm and 8pm 4723 7600 Karaoke – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 8.30pm 4721 5764 Have fun with your friends!

Digger Revell and Vicky O’Keefe – Windsor RSL $25, 7pm 4587 6900 Strauss, Gershwin and Carmen – The Joan From $52, 8pm 4723 7600 The Little Mermaid Musical – Blue Mountains Theatre From $32.40, 2pm and 8pm 4723 5050 Triple Shot FM – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 Big Way Out – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Van Sereno – Milestone Hotel, Kingswood Free entry, 9pm 4721 2999

Sunday, October 29

Lisa Crouch and Dig This – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 9pm 9677 7777 The Police & Thin Lizzy Show – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200

Venus 2 – St Marys Leagues Club Free entry, 12pm 9677 7777 Tezza and the Twistops – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Little Mermaid Musical – Blue Mountains Theatre From $32.40, 2pm 4723 5050 Kids Halloween Disco – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 4pm 4721 5764

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O D UST

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Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce networking 4722 6969 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Emu Craft Market Second Saturday of the month • Nepean High School

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Lung Support Group Second Wednesday of each month • 4733 8926 W.S. Melanoma Support Group • 1st Monday of each month • 0431 142 911 Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Circle of Security Helping parents deal with kids’ behaviour • 4720 6500

Check out Sci-Fi Lab @ The Joan Film, art and science come together this week with Sci-Fi Lab @ The Joan. Every Friday night in October, from 7pm, The Joan will play host to sci-fi cult classic film screenings followed by guest talks, performances and art installations. Head along before the show to enjoy a drink at The Joan’s Borland Bar and then check out this week’s screening of the hit Disney Pixar film ‘WALL-E’. Tickets are just $15 and include finger food. For more information, visit www.thejoan.com.au

Sunset Station Singers Mondays at St Marys RSL from 7.30pm • 0425 223 113

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Emu Plains Lions Club New members always needed • 4735 5120

Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Wednesdays • 0407 077 143

Your kids will love this Disney classic!

See some beautiful flowers on display

Join Ariel for some underwater fun in ‘The Little Mermaid Musical’. The show kicks off this Saturday at the Blue Mountains Theatre.

Garden lovers will be in heaven at the 2017 Annual NSW Iris Show at Blackheath Community Hall this Saturday and Sunday.

Brooke’s Car Rally November 12 www.brookescarrally.com

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Ê The biggest TV story of the week is without doubt the departure of Lisa Wilkinson from ‘Today’ after 10 years.

There’s much more to the story than just pay equality, but regardless it’s the end of an era in breakfast television. Focus is now starting to turn to just who will replace Wilkinson next to Karl Stefanovic.

Georgie Gardner and Sylvia Jeffries are the early favourites, but former Channel Seven star Chris Bath has also been suggested as a candidate.

Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS

Ê Wilkinson wasn’t the only big casualty at Nine this week with the network ending the run of Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin as host of ‘The Footy Show’. While the show has struggled for viewers in recent years, it’s still sad to see Fatty go – many of us grew up watching ‘The Footy Show’ well before the advent of Fox Sports. Ê Channel Ten could be without their biggest shows for the foreseeable future after a deal with Fox broke down recently.

It’s been reported that Fox is understood to have been unhappy with the amount Ten offered to pay for its content, which leaves major shows like ‘The Simpsons’, ‘Modern Family’ and ‘This Is Us’ without a home in Australia. It’s still not known whether a deal will be sorted or whether some of our most popular shows could be soon appearing on a different network. Ê New Aussie drama ‘Sisters’ premieres this Wednesday, October 25 at 8.40pm.

The new Channel Ten series, which is being heavily promoted by the network, stars Maria Angelico, Lucy Durack and Antonia Prebble plus Barry Otto, Magda Szubanski, Catherine McClements and Roy Billings. This should do well for Ten!

SISTERS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25 CHANNEL TEN Ê At Channel Nine’s upfronts last week they officially announced the return of ‘Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation’. The reboot will include original host Sean Micallef along with a bunch of new team captains including Robyn Butler (Gen X), Andy Lee (Gen Y) and Laurence Boxhall (Gen Z). Gone are the Baby Boomers!

in Brisbane, gives cameras access for 12 months to a community that is often misunderstood. For the first time in Australia, television cameras were given unprecedented 24-hour access into Holland Park Mosque – one of the country’s oldest. It premieres on Wednesday, November 8 at 8.30pm.

Ê A few huge shows Nine didn’t announce would be returning next year include ‘Here Come the Habibs’, ‘Murder Calls’, ‘Love Child’ and House Husbands’.

Ê A fun episode of ‘All-Star Family Feud’ is due to air this Monday night on Ten with a Bachelor vs Bachelorette battle. On Team Bachelor is Matty Johnson, Cameron Cranley, Clancy Ryan and Jake Ellis while on Team Bachelorette is Sophie Monk, Laura Byrne, Tara Pavlovic and Florence Sophia.

Ê New documentary series ‘The Mosque Next Door’ will screen on SBS next month. The three-part series, filmed

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BOOK Turtles All The Way Down

Josh Green He’s the literary mind behind bestsellers like Looking For Alaska, The Fault in Our Stars and Paper Towns.

Now author John Green is back with his latest book Turtles All The Way Down.

This time round the story revolves around 16-year-old protagonist Aza, who together with her best friend Daisy, decides to investigate the mystery behind the disappearance of a fugitive billionaire. After all, there is a $100,000 reward up for grabs.

On their journey the pair find themselves tackling the short distance, and broad divide, between themselves and Russell’s son Davis.

But it’s not just detective work that’s occupying Aza’s mind. As well as trying to be a good friend, daughter and student, she is also dealing with mental illness and the constant barrage of negative thoughts.

John Green has opened up about his own struggles with OCD and his aim to share those experiences with his young fans through Turtles All The Way Down.

It’s encouraging to see authors like Green being open about these types of issues, in a bid to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.

And clearly his reach is wide, having had many of his bestselling novels made into films, including the 2014 tearjerker The Fault in Our Stars and the 2015 mystery flick Paper Towns.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

OUT NOW WON T UO

DVD Spider-Man: Homecoming Rated M

Cinema’s favourite spideresque superhero is back on the small screen with the release of ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’.

The young Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Tom Holland) is just starting to come to grips with his new identity.

After a positive experience with the Avengers, Peter heads home to his Aunt May (Marisa Tomei) and his new mentor Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.), who is watching out for the young superhero.

As Peter tries to get back into a normal routine, the peace is disrupted by Vulture (Michael Keaton), a new villain who threatens everything that Peter holds dear.

Taking over from Andrew Garfield – who led the last Spider-Man reboot – is newcomer Tom Holland, who was the perfect choice for the role.

A background as a dancer and experience with gymnastics made this young star the ideal agile Spidey.

Though film reboots don’t have a great history, ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ has earned plenty of critical praise with an overwhelmingly positive response on movie review site Rotten Tomatoes.

‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ is out now on DVD, Blu-ray and digital download.

Don’t miss it!

CINEMA Home Again Rated M

After the huge success of the Emmy award-winning HBO series ‘Big Little Lies’, Reese Witherspoon is back in the world of rom-coms with her new release ‘Home Again’.

Recently separated Alice Kinney (Witherspoon) decides to take her two daughters and start a new life in Los Angeles.

During her 40th birthday celebrations she meets young filmmakers Harry, Teddy and George who are looking for a place to stay.

Alice agrees to allow them to live in the guesthouse temporarily, but having three new house guests comes with a long list of complications.

With Alice starting a new romance with Harry the last thing

she expects is to have her workaholic ex-husband (Michael Sheen) at her door with a suitcase in hand.

‘Home Again’ marks the debut writing and directing role for Hallie Meyers-Shyer, who is the daughter of producer Nancy Meyers.

Audiences will most likely know Nancy’s work from her role as the writer of hit films including ‘The Holiday’, ‘Something’s Gotta Give’, ‘The Intern’ and ‘It’s Complicated’.

If you’re looking to escape for a few hours with a feel-good romcom then this is the film to see.

‘Home Again’ is currently screening at Hoyts Penrith in Westfield.

For more information on session times or to purchase tickets, visit www.hoyts.com.au.

MUSIC Pink

Beautiful Trauma It’s safe to say that Pink is one of Australia’s most loved international acts.

Now the pop rock queen is back with her new album ‘Beautiful Trauma’.

For this release Pink has worked with a host of songwriters and producers including Steve Mac, Jack Antonoff and Max Martin.

So far the album has spawned the singles ‘What About Us’, ‘Whatever You Want’ and title track ‘Beautiful Trauma’.

Pink has found much success in Australia, with three ARIA number one albums and eight ARIA number one singles, and there’s no doubt this will be another hit with fans!

Geostorm - 109 min (M - Mature themes and violence) Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 10:40AM, 1:40PM, 4:10PM, 6:40PM, 9:00PM. Sat, Sun: 1:40PM, 4:10PM, 6:40PM, 9:00PM. Wed: 10:50AM, 1:50PM, 4:10PM, 6:40PM, 9:00PM Home Again - 97 min (M - Coarse language)

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Foreigner, The - 113 min (MA15+ - Strong themes, violence and coarse language) WW29582

Daily: 10:10AM, 12:40PM, 7:00PM, 9:30PM Session times are subject to change without notice, visit www.hoyts.com.au to check session times or book tickets

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Social Scene

Above:

Plenty of money was raised for Ronald McDonald House at McHappy Day celebrations across Garton Group McDonald’s stores

Below:

Adams & Partners Lawyers held a special farewell to recognise founding partner Joseph Mazurkiewicz’s semi-retirement

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

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crossword ACROSS 1. Zodiac crustacean 4. Soft Italian cheese 8. Printed words 11. Blunder 13. Salesman’s pitch 15. In flames 17. Disfigure 18. Speaks sharply to, ... at 20. Jelly-like substance 21. Idolise 24. Search thoroughly (through) 27. Make lace 28. Flipped around, vice ...

30. Plant growth on water 31. Chopped 33. Greek capital 34. Despoil 35. Cot 36. Couturier, ... Saint Laurent 39. Taunted 42. Garden-maze wall 44. Leaning Tower city 45. Determined age of (fossil) 46. Deserve 48. Congeals (of cream) 49. Sorrowfully 50. Applied (talents) 52. Baby bird 54. Football arbiters 55. Lebanon’s northern neighbour 56. Overwhelm 57. Loch ... Monster 60. Moos 62. Astounded 65. Fortress 67. Extreme malice 69. Assorted 70. Diction flaws 72. Shop ... you drop (‘3) 73. Couches 75. Grey 77. This ... that 79. United (2,3) 81. Commuter vehicle 82. Country singer, ...

Brooks 84. Stakes 85. Painter’s shirt 86. Recognised 87. Increases (volume) (5,2) 88. Big

DOWN 1. Rugged peak 2. Nifty 3. Heater element 4. US gambling resort 5. Dromedaries 6. Hardened dental plaque 7. China/Korea continent 8. Decimal number 9. Exhilarate 10. International cricket match 12. Great meal 14. Britain’s Scilly ...

16. Frenzy 19. Army chaplain 22. Large showy flower 23. Classified 25. Brought up (kids) 26. Moan 29. Waffles (on) 32. How come?

35. Interest 37. Sells to public 38. Endurance runners 40. Beasts of burden 41. Russian villa 42. From here 43. Canvas support 44. Rains heavily 47. Lucky dips 51. Eager beaver 52. Entertainment venue 53. Works (dough) 54. Steal (cattle) 58. The King, ... Presley 59. California fracture line, ... Andreas Fault 61. Was not (4’1) 63. OT prophet 64. Strike off 65. Desists 66. Foreign language 68. Flee with lover 71. Warm hooded coat 72. Chat 74. Boxer’s weapon 76. Clasp 78. Indian pulse dish 80. Without further ado 83. Government bill

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Sudoku brought to you by Emerson’s Envirocare 1800 600 760 www.emersonenvirocaresydney.com

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

Last week’s Sudoku solution

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life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

LEO

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

It’s time to replace confrontation with cooperation! With Venus and Mars moving through your relationship zone, the more you focus on the needs of loved ones, the happier everyone will be. And the more proactive you are about finding win-win solutions to partnership problems (whether romantic or platonic) the more harmonious life will be. As Robert Louis Stevenson said: “Compromise is the best and cheapest lawyer”.

TAURUS

With Venus and Mars both visiting your wellbeing zone, be proactive about finding a fitness routine that keeps you motivated. And choose healthy food options that you actually enjoy eating!

Attached Taurus – are you stuck in a relationship rut? The Sun and Jupiter urge you to communicate with your partner in creative new ways. Single? Don’t be seduced by powerful pecs!

GEMINI

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter encourage creative communication, as you expand your influence. Being confident is paramount, as you go after what you want with plenty of passion and pizazz. Venus and Mars promise an increase in cash flow … but be careful you don’t cancel that out by indulging in a spontaneous spending spree! You’re super perceptive on the weekend, when you solve an issue.

LIBRA

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Weekly posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2017

It’s one of your luckiest weeks of the year as Jupiter (planet of prosperity) links up with the Sun (your power planet).

Domestic matters and relationships with family members should improve, as Jupiter blesses all things to do with your home life. Fun, festivities, learning and loving are especially favoured in your Lion’s den. You’ll find the more positive and proactive you are about Home Sweet Home, the better you’ll feel.

VIRGO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Joanne Madeline Moore

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

This week you’re in the mood for fun, action and entertainment! But, in order to capitalise on the Sun-Jupiter energy surge, some forethought and planning are required. There’s just no substitute for thorough research and paying close attention to details as perceptive Pluto helps you think deeply and Mercury helps you multi-task. So don’t waste the opportunity to be mega-organised and super productive.

CANCER

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Your Libran passion for fashion and addiction to romance are both magnified at the moment, as Venus and Mars move through your sign. So it’s a wonderful week to attend a fashion show; buy a fabulous new outfit; have a romantic rendezvous with your partner; or fall in love. But, when it comes to a business deal or a financial decision, don’t stress over minor details that don’t matter. Think big as you plan for prosperous times ahead.

SCORPIO

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The planetary patterns promise a period of nurturing old friendships and establishing new ones. Creativity is high, so tap into the magical muse within. With Venus and Mars visiting your domestic zone, strive to be more proactive and diplomatic about a current family problem. Plus adjust your home/work ratio so it’s much more balanced – and more family-friendly.

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week prosperity and good humour planet Jupiter joins up with the Sun in your sign. So sarcasm and sulking are out, and buoyant joie de vivre is in! There’s much to look forward to as you attract good luck, acknowledge a success and/or celebrate a major milestone. It’s also time to be as proactive and positive as you can manage. As Pablo Picasso said: “One must act in painting as in life, directly”.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Sagittarians to the rescue! The generous Sun/Jupiter conjunction increases your enthusiasm for assisting those who are sick or in need. You’ll find the more you lend a hand to others, the better you’ll feel and the more friends you’ll make. With Venus and Mars visiting your peer group zone, your motto for the moment is from writer Robert Louis Stevenson: “A friend is a gift you give yourself”. If you listen to your intuition, good luck will follow.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

your

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

When it comes to work matters, Mars and Venus encourage you to balance being proactive and productive with being calm and cooperative. It’s also a good time to apply for a job or promotion; redecorate your work space; expand your business; or fall for a colleague. With the Sun and Jupiter joining up in your hopes and wishes zone, do your best to be bold about the future as you face your fears.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

A lucky professional opportunity is heading your way but you must reach out and grab it or it will pass you by. Confidence is the key. Be inspired by birthday great, singer Katy Perry: “If you’re presenting yourself with confidence, you can pull off pretty much anything”. Superficialities won’t work on the weekend! A problem requires a focused and forensic approach, as you get to the bottom of what’s really going on.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The Sun and Jupiter activate your adventure zone. Many Pisceans are keen to travel, and the best time to take a heavenly holiday is between now and December 2. So start planning, booking and packing ASAP. Coupled Pisces – love and lust are in the air. Are you looking for love? With Venus and Mars visiting your intimacy zone, you need to be romantically proactive.

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

your

food

We need to talk about reducing food wastage We all waste food, but making small changes to our daily habits can make a huge difference...

Kate Reid Nutritionist kate.reid@ westernweekender.com.au @kate_reid6

On Monday, countries around the globe celebrated World Food Day. Days like this are a timely reminder that we still have a long way to go when it comes to reducing food waste.

With Australians throwing out a staggering $8 to $10 billion of food each year, it’s a subject that needs to be put back on the table.

Managing Director of online office catering leader Order-In, Jonathan Rowley is passionate about reducing food wastage, and has come up with some simple ways that individuals and businesses can help tackle the issue.

“We have looked at the reduction habits of hundreds of our customers and found that the best practices to prevent food wastage at work, many of which can also translate to the home, are very easily implemented,” Mr Rowley said.

At home: • Start with a plan: At the beginning of the week work out what meals you will be preparing so you don’t end up buying unnecessary items.

• Think FIFO: When it comes to the items in your fridge or pantry aim for the ‘first in, first out’ approach. Put

newer items towards the back and older items to the front so you’re less likely to have out-of-date products lurking at the back of the shelf.

• Be creative: Ingredients will often have more than one use. Bones, meat scraps and vegetables are perfect to make stocks, while overripe fruit can be used for smoothies, cakes and muffins.

At work: • Donate rather than discard: Ordered too much food for that office meeting? There are many charities who will gladly take unused items and pass them on to those in need.

• Choose in-season food: Seasonal food

WINE LIST

is more likely to be produced locally, which helps support farmers and growers. The produce is likely to be fresher, and won’t perish as quickly.

• Consider the environment: When it comes to serving food, aim to either use reusable plates, cutlery and cups, or disposable items that are bio-degradable or can be recycled or composted.

“World Food Day is a good reminder of how fortunate we are and how we can all do our little bit to make it count,” Mr Rowley said.

How do you reduce food wastage? We’d love to hear your tips. Send an email to news@westernweekender.com.au.

JOHN ROZENTALS

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hile I spend most of my beverage-writing time penning stories about wine, I’ll also admit to a partiality for good beers and the occasional cider, though in the latter area I almost completely eschew the stuff churned out by the big guys.

Why? Because much of it is sweetened up and doesn’t appeal to my taste. And because much of it hasn’t ever sniffed an apple, let alone been made from one.

They may smell vaguely of apples because the manufacturers incorporate apple flavouring into the product, but they’ve got nothing to do with cider.

That’s why it’s so heartening to hear about an operation like the Hillbilly Cider Shed, located in the heart of

Bilpin apple country, on the outskirts of Sydney along the Bells Line of Road.

It overlooks a working apple orchard, and the owners, Shane and Tessa McLaughlin describe themselves as hillbilly by nature and pride themselves on producing cider from nothing but pure apples.

“We don’t add sugar, we don’t pasteurise and we don’t add artificial flavours,” says Shane. “We’re all about keeping it real and honest — 100 per cent crushed fruit fermented with minimal intervention for an easy bohemian bubble.”

The Hillbilly Cider Shed is located at Shields Orchard, 2270 Bells Line of Road, Bilpin, and is open from noon to 5pm on Fridays and from 11am to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

money

Injury can lead to devastation without the right insurance Without the right type of insurance, a simple fall at work can be disastrous...

Alex McKenzie Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

Coincidentally, I spoke to two tradies recently who both suffered serious longterm injuries from seemingly innocuous workplace falls, with vastly different results.

The first tradie is a new client who came into the office because he was in some financial trouble and was looking for a way out.

This client was hardworking, had savings, owned his house midway through minor renovations with a minor mortgage, was living within his means and was doing well. Not the sort of person we think of getting into financial trouble.

Unfortunately, a fall at work resulted in a broken femur and six months without income. This brought about some credit card debts and mortgage payments being put on hold. A loan re-finance was required at a higher interest rate as the client was now considered high risk, despite being a model client for the previous 20 years.

Once back at work, the client was really struggling, barely making repayments with no support behind him – he was just hanging in there. No room for even minor financial setbacks.

Regrettably, a second minor injury was

Your chance to

the straw that broke the camel’s back.

A further two months without income and now the client was behind on the mortgage with no way of rectifying the situation.

The client decided to sell the house, but first he had to finish the renovations to make it sellable. A short-term, high interest loan was required to complete these

renovations, the interest on the second loan accrued on top of the original debt.

A few injuries have forced this client to lose his house. It is a terrible situation and by the time the client came to us there was not much we could do to help.

The second tradie is a long-term client and last year a fall resulted in his shoulder being so badly damaged that it he was told almost immediately that he’d never work again. Thankfully, this client had Income Protection and Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance.

Since the time of the injury, the client has been receiving an Income Protection payment.

This has meant he has been able to meet living costs over this period. The client’s cover is significantly less than what he was earning previously, but enough to meet expenses – he and his wife are getting by. This will continue until he is 65-years-old.

Today we received confirmation that this client was going to receive a lump sum payment from his TPD insurance.

This means he can repay the last of his remaining mortgage and will have some funds left over to top up his superannuation so he will be able to maintain a comfortable lifestyle throughout retirement.

Having insurance or not having insurance meant a world of difference to these two tradies.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

your

look

There’s so much to plan when it comes to your wedding, but getting your hair and make-up right can be a huge challenge...

Alyce Madden For the latest trends follow @westfieldpenrith on Instagram

Your wedding is such a beautiful day to be enjoyed and remembered for the rest of your life, brides often wanting everything to be just perfect down to the very last detail.

As big an investment as the dress is, hair and make-up are just as important when determining your final look that you will wear walking down the aisle.

Brides time and time again all want the same thing: just to simply look beautiful and flawless.

Remember as much pressure as you feel on the day to look your very best, choose a look that is still you, if you can’t stand false lashes don’t wear them, if bright poise pink lips are not for you stick with your nude tones. You still need to be you, that’s who your partner fell in love with after all isn’t it?

Invest in a trial for make-up and hair early. It’s vital to pick your hair stylist and make-up artist wisely and early on in your bridal prep as the best ones are booked out months and months in advance.

When going for your trial try to schedule your dress fitting on the same day, this is

definitely getting your money’s worth and you will be able to see the final look come together.

If you have a special event on this is excellent for testing longevity of your make-up and hair, and to see just how many times you might need to powder or how your hair holds up while dancing all night.

Think classic and timeless for your look.

Photos of your big day will last a lifetime and you will be showing them off for generations to come. What is in fashion today might not be the case in 10 years’ time.

As fun as they are save the glitter and bright eye make-up for the hen’s night and stick to a more polished and classic look for the wedding.

Another great tip is to waterproof everything.

Mascara in a waterproof formula is an absolute must but also think about your foundation and blush as well.

Rain is said to be good luck on your wedding day but not so lucky for your hair and make-up. A setting spray for your face and a weather proof hairspray definitely do the trick.

Make sure your make-up artist powders first and then sets with a finishing spray to lock in everything.

Relax and know that you are prepared.

Make sure you enjoy every second as it can go by so fast!

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How to ensure the best hair and make-up for your big day

health

The key signs that you may have a blood flow problem Blood flow to the feet is critical for good health, but many of us don’t know we have an issue. There’s an easy way to find out...

Kristen Haywood Podiatrist OnePointHealth 4732 5188 onepointhealth.com.au

Reduced blood flow to the feet (clinically known as Peripheral Arterial Disease) is a circulatory problem, where the arteries narrow due to plaque build up (atherosclerosis). Narrowing in the arteries reduces the delivery of oxygen and nutrients required to maintain good lower limb health, which results in some of the clinical signs and symptoms outlined below.

Leg pain During exercise: Cramp like feeling, tightness and tiredness in the calves, thighs or buttock that is induced by exercise. This pain is always relieved with rest, but commences again after returning to exercise.

With elevated legs: When you elevate your legs it reduces gravities contribution to blood flow to the lower legs. This leaves the body struggling to push the blood to your feet on its own through the narrowed arteries, causing a reduction in blood delivery. Resolution of pain occurs when the legs are lowered.

Slow growing or thick nails: Without the nutrients and oxygen delivery to the

your education

Rob Ollis

Master Coaching Penrith 4722 3072

Comparing our education system to countries around the world reveals legitimate concerns...

Last week we looked at Australia’s OECD world ranking of mathematics performance by Australian students aged 15.

The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) ranks Australia 25th out of 72 countries with Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Japan filling the top four positions.

It is interesting to compare the educational experiences of students in those countries in comparison to Australia.

I have been fortunate to visit schools in three of those countries, the exception is Taiwan, and the first impression is the respect for teachers in the school and the classroom discipline in the teaching situation.

In Finland, PISA ranked sixth and the top ranked European country, the teaching profession is highly respected and attracts the best and brightest students from schools.

Contrast Australia where very few top class students become teachers, opting for medicine, law, engineering, accountancy or one of the more ‘respected’ professions.

Wage expectation may be a factor in those decisions.

Aside from the school aspect, in each of the top four nations after school tuition centres flourish.

NOVA, a private tuition centre in Japan, became so powerful that the company completely sponsored the 1964 Olympics.

Students in South Korea attend after school tuition classes most days of the week because they realise the benefits that accrue from such attendance.

• In Singapore, 60 per cent of high school and 80 per cent of primary school age students receive private tuition.

• 40 per cent of pre-schoolers receive private tuition.

Another difference is that all high schools are selective.

Singapore is a poor country in terms of its natural resources, energy, minerals etc., yet it is ranked 10th on GDP per Capita, well ahead of Australia with all its resources but is yet ranked 18 on GDP per Capita.

Singapore’s wealth is built on its education system, it’s time for politicians in Australia to tackle our looming education crises, instead of the rhetoric just saying that our education policies are structured around science and innovation. The evidence is otherwise.

See you next week!

nails their growth slows and the nails can begin to uniformly thicken.

Hairlessness: If a hair follicle is not getting enough blood flow, it can’t get the nutrient it needs to sustain hair growth.

This results in hair loss below the occlu-

sion site, often starting at the feet and progressing up the leg.

Unpalpable pulses: There are two main arteries that supply blood to the feet; the posterior tibial artery and dorsalis pedis. These arteries should be palpable by hand or detectable on a Doppler Ultrasound analysis.

Skin colour: White, purple or blue discolouration of the feet can indicate blood flow issues. This can occur bilaterally or unilaterally and can become more prominent when the legs are elevated or by the cold.

Temperature: Reduced blood flow will result in cold lower limbs. A sudden drop in temperature as you run your hands down your feet or a temperature difference between your two feet can be a cause for concern.

If you feel you suffer with any of these signs or symptoms of peripheral arterial disease on a regular basis, we recommend a Doppler Ultrasound analysis to assess your blood flow.

If any abnormalities appear, we can refer back to your general practitioner for further investigation.

See you next week!

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

your

TUITION THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE • Most School Subjects • Pre-school to Adult 4 Week Money Back Guarantee, Term Reports and Free Diagnostic

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Suite 9, Allen Arcade 140-142 Henry Street, Penrith Ph Rob 4722 3072 www.mastercoachingpenrith.com WW28796

49

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

your

religion

The loud message we can’t continue to ignore Are you hearing the call?

Reverend John Lavender says there’s a message out there we all need to hear...

Rev John Lavender www.glenmorepark anglican.com.au and on Facebook

Well known author C.S. Lewis, creator of the Narnia series, did more than write children’s books, he also wrestled with the big issues of pain and suffering.

See what he said, “Pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, and shouts to us in our pain.

Pain is God’s megaphone to rouse a deaf world”.

What did he mean?

Lewis was explaining that the pain we often experience is God “shouting” to us that things are not right, that they are the consequence of a world gone wrong.

Suffering and hardship were never God’s plan but are the consequence of a world out of step with Him, the result of the fact that all people have turned their back on God and are not living the way He intended.

Pain is a megaphone calling us back to God; calling us to Jesus; that we would learn from and follow Him, even draw strength from Him in times of hardship.

The Apostle Paul, in the Bible, put it like this; “Therefore we do not lose heart.

Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all”.

Lewis himself experienced pain as he watched his cherished wife die of cancer.

Although this caused him grief, he never lost his trust in God and the hope of eter-

nal glory enabled him to persevere.

With our physical health we know the importance of not ignoring pain; so too with our spiritual health; pain is calling you back to God. Are you hearing the call?

Have a great weekend and I’ll see you in next week’s paper.

ln times of crisis, you can give Please donate now salvos.org.au | 13 SALVOS 50

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Keep our kids safe by ensuring your backyard pool is secure

Making your backyard pool a safe place and following all the rules is critical to reducing the number of drownings...

Julie Fletcher Nepean Swim and Fitness julie@nepeanswim.com.au nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au and on Facebook

The Royal Lifesaving National Drowning Report was released last month, and unfortunately the news was not good.

291 people died as a result of drowning in Australia in the 2016/17 financial year – a three per cent increase on the 282 drowning deaths in the previous period.

32 per cent of drowning deaths occurred in NSW, the highest state percentage nationwide.

Extremely concerning is the fact that drowning in children under five increased last year, with 29 children aged 0-4 years drowning, a 38 per cent increase on the previous year.

Greg Hunt, Minister for Health, said “Australians love the water, it’s an important part of our culture. This is a sobering reminder to always actively supervise children around water, for people young and old to learn to swim and survive, to increase lifejacket use, reduce alcohol consumption around water and to always respect the river”.

Justin Scarr, Royal Life Saving CEO, said “Kids and families love pools, but they can pose a significant drowning risk to toddlers. Royal Life Saving urges

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

your swim safety

pool owners to actively supervise young children around water and check that the pool fence and gate is in working order”.

The report found there were 12 drowning deaths in children aged 5-14 years.

Mr Scarr said “Though many Australian children swim well, we still find too many kids can’t swim at all and have limited water safety knowledge”.

Royal Life Saving has developed a home pool safety checklist home owners can use to minimise the risks.

I encourage you to take a look if you have a backyard pool.

You can find the checklist at: www. r oy a l l i fe s av i n g .c o m . au /f a m i l i e s / at-home/home-pool-safety/home-poolsafety-checklist.

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If you are going to attend please RSVP To Michelle on (02) 4722 3083 Or Email: michellea@gct.org.au

WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters submitted for publication are done so on the condition that The Western Weekender may edit them, without affecting the overall message or intent of the letter. The Western Weekender reserves the right to publish letters in other publications.

COPYRIGHT Content in this publication belongs to Western Sydney Publishing Group, publishers of The Western Weekender, or its licensors, advertisers or affiliates. All content in this publication is protected by Australian and international copyright laws.

ETHICAL AND ACCURATE CONTENT The Western Weekender operates under a code covering both ethics and accuracy. If you believe either have been compromised in relation to editorial or advertising content that appears in this publication, you should initially contact the Managing Editor.

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the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

AUTO

NATHAN TAYLOR @NateTaylor87

H

yundai’s all-new, first generation Kona small SUV is the latest addition to Hyundai’s stylish and competent SUV family, joining the bigger Tucson and Santa Fe – vehicles which have already established themselves among Australia’s best-selling SUVs. Kona has been developed to meet both the rational and emotional needs of its buyers and neatly blends the key elements required of such a vehicle, with dynamic and expressive design and advanced safety and technology features.

It also sets a new standard with its advanced levels of safety and technology and its engineering excellence ensures it hits the sweet spot, with passenger carlike driving dynamics and SUV practicality, without losing any of the comfort or cargo space demanded by its customers.

Featuring an advanced platform design and dynamic, stand-out styling, new Kona is one of the most compact vehicles in its class, shorter and lower than most of its rivals but also wider than many and with a substantial wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs. It comes to market with modest dimensions but it is one of the roomiest.

Named after Hawaii’s famous Kona Coast, Kona is a true SUV that’s ready to step into one of Australia’s most popular vehicle classes with a bold presence on the road and a tonne of character.

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Football thrives all year round p.62

Derby delight NATHAN TAYLOR

fter a strong start to the year, the Western Sydney Wanderers will face their biggest challenge thus far when they battle reigning A-League champions and bitter arch-rivals Sydney FC this weekend.

Following an undefeated start to the season from both sides, a near sell-out crowd is expected to pack Allianz Stadium for this Saturday night’s highly anticipated Sydney Derby.

While Sydney FC well and truly have the edge over the Wanderers in past derbies, Western Sydney did manage to win the last meeting between the two sides back in February this year.

Graham Arnold’s men went 19 games unbeaten before the Wanderers put their record streak on ice with a 1-0 victory.

Speaking on We d n e s d a y afternoon, new Wanderers recruit and Socceroos star Josh Risdon said he can’t wait to hit the pitch and play in his first ever Sydney Derby.

A

The Wanderers now face their toughest task of the season. Photo: Steve Christo

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

Sport

SUMMER LOVIN’

“I’ve heard lots of good things about the Sydney Derby and I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.

“I’ve heard the atmosphere is incredible, the intensity is going to be tough but I’m really looking forward to it – hopefully we can get the win.”

Switching from Perth Glory in the off-season, Risdon said he’s going to treat his Sydney Derby debut like any other game.

“I’m just going to prepare like any other game. I think if I get too hyped up and focused on how big it is, I think I might lose myself. I’m just going to enjoy it; it’s going to be a massive game.”

Meanwhile, the Wanderers shared the points with the Central Coast Mariners following a 2-2 draw at Spotless Stadium last weekend.

An Oriol Riera penalty cancelled out Central Coast’s early opener before Roly Bonevacia eventually levelled things after Daniel De Silva had put the Mariners up 2-1.

The result leaves the Wanderers undefeated to start the year and sitting in fourth place on the A-League ladder.

“It’s the best start in the A-League we’ve had in six seasons,” interim Wanderers coach, Hayden Foxe said.

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57

Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

Your INDEPENDENT Voice FREE

TARGETED bulk drop & home delivered format

Tuesday, November 15, 2016 • Issue 024

PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

www.bluemountainsrecord.com.au

Strong DIGITAL and Social Media engagement

Chance to win tickets to see some of RnB’s finest artists Page 10

CENTRE STAGE

Truly INDEPENDENTLY owned paper servicing The Blue Mountains area

Clean & modern DESIGN in an attractive, compact format

GIVEAWAY!

Mt Riverview youngster Nicholas Stevanovic is making huge strides in ballet. So much so that the smiling 10-year-old, who is a member of Glenbrook Ballet Theatre, has been accepted to attend the prestigious Australian Ballet School in Melbourne next year.

See Page 3 inside

JOBSHOP EXPO COMING Springwood to host jobs event tomorrow See page 7

DISCOUNT VET BILLS A win for pets and their owners See page 13

MARINA’S IN TOWN Prior takes to the stage See page 17

Proud SUPPORTERS of the area‘s leading community organisations

Multiple SECTIONS with rich content to engage a wide variety of readers

Why choose the Blue Mountains Record • Home delivered

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• Truly local sales and editorial team

• We are proudly independent

• Hotondo Homes

• The Carrington Hotel

• The Lapstone Hotel

• Blue Mountains Regional Chamber

• The Blue Mountains City Council

• Glenbrook Cinema

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Blockbuster to kick off new NRL season

Going one better Grand Final loss still hurts but Giants ready for new season NATHAN TAYLOR

iants Netball will look to avenge last season’s Grand Final heartbreak when they battle the Sunshine Coast Lightning in the opening match of the 2018 Super Netball season.

Netball Australia announced the 2018 fixtures last week, confirming the Giants will host seven home games at four different venues next season; starting with defending champions Sunshine Coast in Round 1.

“There’s a fresh air of excitement after today’s announcement as it marks one step closer to the 2018 season,” Giants coach Julie Fitzgerald said.

“We were disappointed with our last performance and how that ended the 2017 season. The fact we get the opportunity to rectify our Grand Final result first up in Round 1 is a bonus, especially in front of a big NSW home crowd at Qudos Bank Arena. While 2017 didn’t finish the way we wanted, we produced some great and entertaining netball and it’s provided us with a solid platform to build on next year.”

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Giants Netball are ready for a bigger and better 2018 season after losing the Grand Final this year. Photo: Murray Wilkinson The Giants will welcome back injured Australian representatives Kristiana Manu’a (Achilles) and captain Kimberlee Green (ACL) in 2018, with both ahead of their respective rehabilitation programs.

Along with Green and Manu’a, the Giants will also welcome back nine or 10 inaugural players with former training partner Kiera Austin elevated into the team as the only inclusion.

The Giants will officially begin their pre-season preparations in November

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Greavis was found and brought into the shelter, although he is With no chip, name tag or any chipped he hasn’t gone home way to contact her owners this so he is looking for a new girl is looking for a new home.

Staff estimate her to be around family with a loving home to see out his years. At 8.5 he has 12 months old so she has her whole life ahead of her to share slowed down but still has a lot with a new family. She’s a sweet of life left in him, he will do just about anything for a treat and and happy girl that will make a loves people. great addition to your home.

following the conclusion of the Fast5 Netball World Series.

“The 2017 season feels so long ago, so I’m really excited to get the group together and get stuck into our 2018 preparations,” Fitzgerald said.

“Last season far exceeded my expectations. We saw incredible netball played by some of the world’s best athletes, who put on a show for the hundreds of thousands of fans who turned up or tuned in each and every week.”

Penrith will play Parramatta in a Sunday afternoon blockbuster to kick off the new NRL season at the foot of the Mountains.

Club officials will be hoping a crowd of around 20,000 will pack into Panthers Stadium for the opening round local derby on Sunday, March 11.

Penrith and Parramatta didn’t play at Panthers Stadium in 2017, sparking criticism of the draw.

The NRL has moved to rectify that issue quickly, scheduling a round one clash between the arch rivals.

The full NRL draw was released yesterday. See more at www.westernweekender.com.au.

Moylan may leave Panthers after all Speculation is starting to emerge that the Matt Moylan saga at Penrith is far from over.

While it appeared the story was put to bed earlier this month and Moylan was staying at the Panthers, there’s new whispers suggesting he’s on his way to Cronulla.

Penrith would most likely grant Moylan an early release if a swap deal with James Maloney can be arranged with the Sharks.

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What a smile! This girl is thought to be around 5 years old and has ended up at the shelter with no owner coming to collect her. She has completed her impound time and is ready to meet her new family, she is a happy girl that loves treats and will sit when asked.

How stunning is Zues, it’s a shame no owner came for him.

He is a happy, friendly boy that has been well looked after in his previous home. Zues is only 3 years old and is ready to move onto the next part of his life so come and meet him today and see if he is your new lifelong best friend!

This gorgeous little bundle came into the shelter with her sibling who has now been adopted. At just 8 weeks old she is looking for a Forever Home. She’s a friendly little kitten but a little shy at this stage in the shelter environment. If you would like to meet her please contact the shelter.

We always recommend bringing your own dogs to the shelter to meet any of the shelter dogs.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

NETBALL

THSC 63. DSH. FEMALE 1 YEAR DUE FOR SALE 21.10.17. $181.50. FOUND CASTLE HILL This girl was bought into the shelter as a stray and like most cats isn’t chipped so there is no way to contact her owner.

She has been waiting but sadly no one has come for her. With a sweet personality and a loud purr she will make someone a very nice companion.

The shelter is in need of toys, blankets (not doonas or pillows though), treats and coats for large dogs. Please contact the shelter if you can help.

Our contact details are:

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Shelters contact details are:

Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756 ph: 02 4560 4644 companionanimal@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au WW29958

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

CRICKET

Thunder lock up stars Confidence builds as key players show their faith in growing franchise NATHAN TAYLOR

he Sydney Thunder have extended the contract of captain Alex Blackwell while at the same time announcing the signing of international bowling sensation Mitch McClenaghan.

The Australian women’s vice-captain will once again skipper the Thunder in the WBBL while McClenaghan will join the club for the BBL season following the termination of his New Zealand Cricket contract.

“I spent some time at the St Lucia Stars with Shane Watson and got to know his outlook on the game and hear his passion for Sydney Thunder and the organisation,” McClenaghan said.

“I grew up in Australia and watched a lot of Aussie cricket and to have the opportunity to play in the Big Bash is something I’m really looking forward to.

“The Big Bash is a fantastic spectacle, the atmosphere is amazing and skill levels are incredible.”

The 31-year-old was the leading international bowler during this year’s Indian Premier League, taking 19 wickets to go

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Mitch McClenaghan and Alex Blackwell have committed to the Sydney Thunder

along with his 112 wickets in ODI and IT20 cricket.

Meanwhile, the Thunder have been quick to secure the services of captain Alex Blackwell on a two-year deal after the recent introduction of multi-year contracts in the WBBL. “I really wanted to continue what we’ve started to build at Thunder,” Blackwell said.

“I enjoy captaining this new team, there’s a lot of pride that goes into it. The core of the team will stay the same but we’ll get an injection of new and exciting talent and our list looks very strong.

“We’ve got the best players in the world flooding to this competition because of the standard. Australian cricket can be very proud, we’re leading the world for both men and women’s T20 cricket.”

Blackwell has scored 796 runs in 29 games for the Thunder.

The Thunder also announced that major sponsor Mazda will once again feature on the uniforms of both teams.

The Thunder will open their WBBL season against the Melbourne Renegades on December 9 while the BBL side will battle the Sydney Sixers on December 19.

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Blitzing the Blaze Phantoms pull off upset win to be crowned champions NATHAN TAYLOR

hey were major underdogs heading into the Final but the Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club managed to pull off an almighty victory at the recent Softball NSW Blue Blaze Tournament.

Now in its third year, the Blue Blaze Tournament saw 29 female teams from around NSW, ACT and New Zealand compete in 87 games across three days at Blacktown International Sportspark.

The annual tournament featured three divisions – U13, U15 and U17.

While the Glenmore Phantoms – who play in the Penrith City Softball Association – were crowned champions of the U17 division for the first time, they certainly had to do it the hard way.

During the Round Robin portion of the tournament, the Phantoms were hammered by Sweet Heat from the Cumberland Nepean Softball Association by a whopping 10 runs.

While it was Glenmore’s only loss of the tournament, it wouldn’t be the last time they would face the undefeated side.

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The Glenmore Phantoms celebrate their success With both teams finishing in first and second place after the Round Robin, they would go on to meet each other one last time in the Final.

“Sweet Heat thought they were unbeatable – they never lost a game and defeated every team they came up against convincingly,” Phantoms Assistant

Coach, Daniel Murphy said.

“We decided to make a few changes for the Final and, with our strongest line-up on the field, I was fairly confident we’d be competitive.”

The Phantoms were more than competitive in the decider, prevailing 5-2 in an epic encounter.

Women’s cricket returns to Howell Story continued from » p.64 “Penrith Council has shown great support for women’s cricket and the Thunder club, and I’m very pleased this will continue,” he said.

“The region boasts large numbers of participants in our sport and has developed many outstanding cricketers. This makes Penrith an integral part of our Thunder Nation.

“Families and fans attending the match on December 16 will have a great day out while watching the best cricketers in the world.”

The Thunder played the very first WBBL game at Howell Oval in 2015 and faced the Adelaide Strikers there last season. This season will see local batter Naomi Stalenberg return to the club after signing a one-year contract extension while fellow Penrith cricketer Lisa Griffith has also signed on following her return to cricket last year.

“I find Howell Oval a really nice ground to play at,” Stalenberg said.

“Taking it back to where we beat the Sixers in the first WBBL season makes it a pretty special place as that’s where it all started, it’s great that we can continue playing there.”

In addition to the game, Howell Oval will also host a Super Clinic on January 18 featuring players from both the WBBL and BBL squads.

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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Friday, October 20, 2017 « the western weekender

FOOTBALL

Summer lovin’ players keep soccer thriving NATHAN TAYLOR

hile most people would usually identify the summer months with cricket and tennis, there’s a popular winter sport that’s still kicking goals even as the mercury rises.

Summer football has become one of the fastest growing sports in the local area, with registration numbers skyrocketing since the competition got underway three years ago.

When Nepean Summer Football, operated by the Nepean Football Association, began in 2015 it had just over 200 registered players. Fast forward to today and the number is closing in on 1600 – proving that people can’t get enough of playing the round ball game all year round.

Played at Jamison Park and Summerhayes Park in the Mountains, Summer Football Manager Graham Chapman is thrilled with the competition’s growth.

“We have seen incredible growth for three years now, which is an awesome feeling,” Chapman said.

“It’s pretty simple really, we just needed to provide the right venue, give people a well-organised format and the most important fact of all is to ensure summer

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football is played at the same time and place every week, which we have successfully done.”

Chapman believes the warm weather and longer days during spring and summer are giving locals the urge to get outdoors and be active.

“I love watching so many people become involved in summer football, keeping people engaged and active through the warmer months,” he said.

One Glenmore Park family is certainly making the most of football all year round with five members of the Cole clan taking part in summer football.

The fit family joined the competition last season and play in five different teams three nights a week.

Scott Cole said his wife Colette and kids Joshua, Shaun, Anthony and Samantha love the convenience and the competition’s six-a-side format.

“For us it’s all about convenience, just to know the kids are outside doing something as opposed to being at home playing on the Xbox,” he said.

“There’s a couple of other summer competitions we’ve tried around town, including one played on the university’s hockey pitch as well as indoor venues, but you can’t beat a grass pitch.”

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The Cole family play in the Nepean Summer Football competition. Photo: Melinda Jane

Around the grounds CRICKET: Penrith are in a very shaky position during Round 3 of the NSW Premier Cricket competition.

Playing in a Two Day Match against Bankstown at Howell Oval, Penrith won the toss and sent Bankstown in to bat. Penrith managed to dismiss the visitors for 279. Ryan Smith was best with the ball, taking 3/114.

When Penrith hit the crease later that afternoon they were 6/72 at stumps. John DiBartolo top scored for Penrith with 27. Penrith will hope luck is on their side on Day 2 when play resumes this Saturday morning.

BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers first grade side continue to struggle to start the season, losing to Baulkham Hills in Round 5 of the NSW State Baseball League. In the mid-week game last Wednesday night, Penrith’s match against Baulkham Hills was suspended while last Sunday afternoon they went down in a tight one 5-4.

Penrith, who currently sit in last position, will take on Central Coast in Round 6.

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GRIDIRON: The Nepean Ducks are back to their winning ways, thrashing the Newcastle Kings 22-0 in Round 6 of the Gridiron NSW Division 1 competition. Meanwhile, Nepean’s Colts team continued their slow start to the year, going down to the Central Coast Giants 16-8. Both teams will take on the Northern Sydney Rebels this Saturday.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Basketball Association have announced their senior representative head coaches for the upcoming 2018 season. Danielle Schwarzer will take charge of Penrith’s Youth League women’s team while Rod Miskell will look after the women’s Championship League side. Steve Sardi is the new Youth League men’s coach while Jeff Kilbourne will coach the men’s Championship League side.

IRONMAN: Congratulations to Nepean Swim and Fitness Director Alan Bentley who completed the gruelling Hawaiian Ironman World Championships last weekend. The 50-year-old Emu Plains resident finished in just under 10 and a half hours, to be the fourth Australian to cross the line. Well done!

FOOTBALL: Recently Jamisontown FC sent three teams to Tasmania to compete at the Launceston Mitsubishi National Soccer Tournament.

The local Nepean Football Association club were the only organisation from NSW to compete in the prestigious tournament. Jamisontown’s U10 boys team finished equal first but were runners-up on goal differential, while their U13 girls team placed third. Jamisontown’s U12 boys team played exceptionally well in a division above their age group but weren’t able to return with any wins. Congratulations to all teams that took part!

the western weekender » Friday, October 20, 2017

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Thunder strikes three times ne of the biggest events on the local sporting calendar is returning this December when the Women’s Big Bash League hits Howell Oval.

For the third straight year, the Sydney Thunder will call Penrith home for a one-off match on December 16 when they face the Melbourne Stars.

The Weekender revealed back in August that Penrith Council and Sydney Thunder bosses were in serious talks to bring another WBBL game to the iconic Howell Oval. Last Thursday that became a reality when the Thunder and Council confirmed the mid-December match, which includes free admission.

“Council is a strong supporter of women’s sport and in particular cricket, with our collaboration with Sydney Thunder now in its third year,” Penrith Mayor, John Thain said.

“This event recognises the achievements of female players and has become an annual celebration of women’s sport in Penrith.”

Sydney Thunder General Manager Lee Gormon said Penrith is an important part of the Thunder region and is pleased to be able to bring elite cricket to the area this summer.

Story continues on » p. 61

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Penrith Mayor John Thain with Thunder players and young cricketers. Photo: Kate Reid

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