Western Weekender September 25 2020

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Get ready for school! 2021 enrolments feature.

Starts on Page 45 Liam Martin having some fun at training.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

Confidence grows as Panthers claim historic Minor Premiership

There were no signs of Finals nerves at Panthers training this week, as the club celebrated its first Minor Premiership in 17 years and talked up its prospects of going one step further.

Full coverage: Extra Time pull-out inside today!

Man in his 20s killed in horror Emu Plains incident

DEADLY STABBING A man has died after a daylight stabbing at a park in Emu Plains.

NSW Ambulance crews and police rushed to the scene at Bunyarra Reserve near Russell Street just before 8am on Thursday.

It is understood paramedics treated the man, aged in his 20s, at the scene but he could not be saved.

Investigations had only just commenced when the Weekender went to print.

“Officers from Nepean Police Area Command established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident,� a NSW Police spokesperson said.

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“A vehicle found crashed nearby has also been secured. Anyone with information or who has dashcam vision is urged to come forward.�

For the latest developments on this story, visit www.westernweekender.com.au.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Decision looms on plan for more homes NICOLA BARTON

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lans to re- zone 38.4ha of employment land to make way for 500 more residential homes near Jordan Springs is pending acceleration approval.

The former Australian Defence Industries site at St Marys, which borders Jordan Springs off Commodore Street, is owned

by Lendlease and has been selected for inclusion in the State Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program.

The program aims to generate construction jobs in the wake of COVID- 19, with the project estimated to create 252 positions.

Concerns regarding congestion, surrounding infrastructure and the loss of potential long- term employment opportunities were flagged during the consultation period.

Penrith City Council made a submission identifying key issues that needed to be considered if it were to proceed.

Some of these issues include

removing much- needed space for smaller industrial units or business premises; removing long- term job opportunities to help fix the job deficit in Penrith; and the fact that it is not required to meet current housing targets.

In 2018 the Department of Education wrote a letter to the Department of Industry, Planning and Environment (DPIE) stating that local schools would not be able to cope with the increase in population, if the site were to be re-zoned.

Now, with this round of the acceleration program to be decided by October 9, Shadow Minister for Education, Prue Car is calling for the State Government to commit to purchasing land for a future school, before it is too late.

“The Government’s own department admits that the growing population is putting pressure on existing schools,” she said.

“Cranebrook High School is already nearing capacity and that’s even without the new

release of Jordan Springs. There’s definitely a need and market for new housing in Jordan Springs, but we just don’t have the infrastructure currently to cope with that kind of population.”

A DPIE spokesperson said “the educational needs of the community and all submissions received will be considered as part of the department’s assessment”.

The proposed ‘urban’ zoning would still permit the construction of childcare facilities, community facilities, educational establishments, medical centres, commercial premises and retail shops.

Lendlease has also proposed to contribute a further $1,580,000 on a number of additional job creation initiatives to be implemented through the St Marys Employment Development Strategy (EDS).

As part of this application, an additional 1.2 hectares is also proposed for re- zoning for regional parklands.

If approved, a DA could be lodged within six months.

Londonderry MP Prue Car wants a new school at Jordan Springs.

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

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Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

More twists than a great play A rts stories very rarely make it into the mainstream media, which is why the absolute s**tshow that is theatre’s Rob Guest Endowment this year hasn’t captured widespread public attention.

But boy, this story is a doozy, and perhaps a shining example of the challenges that confront us when it comes to the quest for equality and diversity.

In short, the Endowment is a scholarship named after the late Rob Guest, an extraordinary theatre performer who came through that golden era of musicals in the 1980s and 1990s.

For the last decade or so the Endowment has quietly gone about its business, awarding scholarships to rising musical theatre talent across the country and becoming highly sought after.

But this year, when the 30 performers shortlisted for the 2020 scholarship were announced, a problem of sorts emerged.

All 30 performers – every single one of them – was white.

That was an issue in itself – where was the diversity, theatre- followers asked, especially in an industry that, on the surface at least, embraces it wholeheartedly.

The real problem emerged when the Rob Guest Endowment organisers responded to the criticism.

They essentially made the argument that of the 251 applicants this year, very few entries came from the BIPOC (black, Indigenous and people of colour) community, therefore it should be no surprise that the finalists were all white.

We’ve probably moved beyond that argument when it comes to this issue, even if you can see their point.

Index

Organisers, in the wake of even more criticism of their initial response, then announced changes for the future.

There was an apology of sorts, followed by the announcement of a quota.

Oh goodie, a quota.

The leadership committee will now have a minimum of 20 per cent BIPOC, the judging panel will also have such a quota and at least 20 per cent of the semifinalists will also be BIPOC. The latter creates a whole new argument – shouldn’t we just choose the best talent for the finals, not the talent that fits a quota?

Anyway, this story takes another turn – as criticism continued, the organisers announced the cancellation of the 2020 Endowment altogether, because it was concerned “for the mental health and welfare of the 30 semi- finalists in this year’s competition”.

“We are aware that some semi-finalists have been targeted and intimidated from a number of sources and as a result have experienced significant anxiety over recent weeks. Bullying and intimidation have no place in a competition that has only ever sought to bring joy and hope to talented young performers in the commercial musical theatre sector,” organisers said.

You guessed it, just like a great play, there’s another twist.

The 30 finalists issued their own statement, categorically refuting claims that this year’s event needed to be cancelled.

“In response to the events leading up to yesterday’s statement, we fervently denounce the actions of the Endowment, including but not limited to; silencing POC and First Nations voices, misrepre-

News..............................................1-32 Extra Time..........................33-44 2021 Enrolments............45-55

senting us and our stance on the matter, and the lack of transparency that has occurred from within the Endowment,” the statement said, in part.

And so what did we learn from all of that?

Very little, it would seem.

Except that implementing quotas is not the answer – as the woke Oscars will soon realise following its recent announcements in this space.

You now can’t be even considered for Best Picture at the Oscars regardless of how good your movie may be, unless you meet a set of diversity targets.

Racism and a lack of understanding about diversity still plagues so many parts of our work and entertainment landscape.

But quotas and diversity targets is hardly the answer, rather it’s a Band-aid fix that makes white people feel good about themselves.

The answer cannot be forcing people to not be racist by opening the door to considerations other than merit.

The answer, complicated and confronting as it may be, is finding out why that systemic racism exists in the first place, and the real reasons behind the lack of diversity.

It seems counter- productive to make the honouring of excellence a box-ticking exercise, rather than a legitimate review of the work.

As for the Rob Guest Endowment, I can’t see how the concept comes back from this.

It would almost seem that continuing on with the Scholarship would only tarnish the man it is named after. It might be time to close the curtain.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

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Former Masters site at Jamisontown continues to evolve ALENA HIGGINS

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childcare centre has been slated for a portion of the existing car park at HomeCo Penrith.

HomeCo, which occupies the former Masters Home Improvement Warehouse on Mulgoa Road, recently lodged a Development Application (DA) to construct a 110-place childcare centre adjacent to the southern side of the existing building.

Aurrum Kids, previously known as Aurrum Childcare, will run the purposebuilt centre and will support the roll-out of a number of high quality childcare and preschool centres across a range of HomeCo sites. “Penrith has been selected as an attractive location for a new childcare centre because it is a high growth area with strong demand for childcare services,�

Aurrum Kids CEO Craig Rutherford said. “The HomeCo centre at Penrith, with its ease of access, is ideally situated to service the burgeoning demand of working parents in western Sydney.�

If successful, the development will result in the loss of 69 car spaces.

However, HomeCo, which acquired the property assets formerly occupied by Masters in 2016, said there is currently a surplus of car parking which exceeds its needs.

The Penrith Panthers have called in lawyers and cyber investigators to get the bottom of a nasty rumour that has been circulating in the rugby league world. “Panthers have been made aware of false allegations circulating on social media alleging inappropriate relationships between a former staff member and current staff members,� the club said in a statement on Wednesday. “The allegations are untrue. Panthers have instructed their lawyers and are also retaining cyber investigators to trace the source and sharing of the allegations and to apply the full force of the law including reporting the matter to the Police.�

The rumours have been circulating for some weeks, but gained more traction via a series of Twitter posts last weekend.

the western weekender Âť Friday, September 25, 2020

Childcare centre proposed

Panthers go legal

Fire on Batt Street A new childcare centre is proposed for HomeCo Penrith. “The proposal would support the introduction of a new childcare centre and make productive use of an underutilised portion of the existing car park,� information contained in the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) states. “The childcare centre would complement surrounding employment- generating uses as well as nearby residential catchments by delivering essential childcare services. “At the same time, the centre itself would provide new job opportunities.�

HomeCo Penrith is home to a number of established lifestyle brands and a cafe.

A separate DA is also being considered for the establishment of a Chipmunks indoor playland and cafe, which would be located next to Rebel Sport.

The childcare DA states the car park will have sufficient capacity for HomeCo, the childcare centre and Chipmunks to co-exist. “The site exhibits suitable area and dimensions to accommodate the proposed childcare centre, with adequate area provided for indoor play space, outdoor play space, all associated amenities, pick-up/drop-off, parking and vehicular circulation,� the SEE states.

Fire crews extinguished a fire at a restaurant complex in Batt Street, Jamisontown, on Sunday.

When crews first arrived on scene they observed very large volumes of black smoke coming from the roof of the building, which houses the Al Aseel restaurant, among others.

They made initial investigations and determined that the source of the fire was from ducting associated with the restaurants.

They managed to locate the fire in a section of machinery associated with ducting in machinery space on the second level.

16 fire crews responded to the blaze.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

We’ll go broke at this rate Land valuations deliver big financial blow to rural residents NICOLA BARTON

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ural property owners say they feel powerless in a never ending battle against a ‘grossly unfair system’.

Over the past few weeks owners have begun receiving their rate notices, with astronomical price increases coming as no surprise.

Despite yet another blow, rural community spokespeople, Castlereagh resident Mary Vella, Mario Pace from Berkshire Park and Elise Tedesco from Mt Vernon are not giving up their fight for a fairer system.

“One quarter of our rates covers a whole year’s rates for the base rates in Penrith and yet we barely have sealed roads, we don’t have kerb and guttering and we are constantly fighting for basic maintenance,” Ms Vella said.

Due to the new land valuations that were applied from July 1, all rural landholders’ rates have significantly increased, with Llandilo hit the worst.

Council announced in May it would implement the standard 2.6 per cent rate rise set by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal, despite the pandemic.

Mayor Ross Fowler defended the increase and said if it were to not go ahead Council services would be reduced, putting projects on the back burner that were budgeted according to the rate rise.

Council did however apply twice to the NSW Government and Valuer General to have the new land valuations delayed 12 months, although this was denied.

Rural residents say huge rate increases are unfair. Photo: Megan Dunn.

An application was submitted to the Premier, which was referred to the Minister for Water, Property and Housing.

A formal reply has not yet been received, however a spokesperson from Penrith Council said the NSW Valuer General has indicated Council’s requests would not be adopted.

“Property owners who believe their land valuations are too high should contact the Valuer General’s office to object to their land valuation,” the spokesperson said.

Ms Vella, among other residents, applied for a valuation review, which was knocked back last week.

Now, residents will be eagerly awaiting the Office of Local Government to imple-

ment the Government’s response to the IPART rating review report, which will allow Council to vary a rate for each area.

Penrith Councillor and Llandilo resident Kevin Crameri, whose rates went up $1500, said this must be implemented before the next rate notices are issued in March next year.

“A great majority of people out here are self- funded retirees, or on the pension and bought this land when it was cheap 40 years ago,” he said.

A spokesperson from the Office of Local Government indicated they are working to implement the new system in response to the IPART report, “including legislative amendments to create additional rating categories and sub-categories”.

Cardiac boost for Nepean Improved technology means patients can be treated locally

Dr Hisham Hallani, Margaret Padjen, Sharon Verhoeven with Dr Ihab El-Sokkari and Dr David Coulshed.

EMILY FESZCZUK

R 6

WW42129

esidents with complex heart rhythm problems now have the option to be treated at Nepean Hospital.

With the introduction of new technology, the Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cardiac Cath Lab) can now diagnose and treat patients with arrhythmias.

Newly appointed cardiac electro physiologist, Dr Ihab El- Sokkari, said 3D mapping technology can help locals who would have had to previously receive treatment at hospitals outside

the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, which could have meant lengthy wait times.

“There are different types of electrical short circuits that can cause rhythm problems in the heart and some of them are easy to locate and treat, while some are more difficult and require newer technologies,” he said.

“For some heart rhythm problems, an electrophysiology procedure can cure the arrhythmia with a success rate greater than 95 per cent and a recurrence rate less than five per cent.”

Before the upgrade from a basic electrophysiology service, the Cardiac Cath

Lab treated an average of 15 cases of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) per year, which is a common cardiac issue.

Despite COVID-19 disrupting some procedures, the new services have helped staff already complete 45 cases this year.

Dr El-Sokkari said the expanded service ensures improved safety of procedures and increases the number of cases as it can deal with not only SVT but a variety of heart problems, such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, ectopic beats and atrial flutters.

“The new 3D mapping technology within our electrophysiology service allows us to potentially eliminate the need for x- ray and radiation within the procedure,” he said.

“It also allows us to localise things with accuracy that we didn’t have before with x-ray alone and now we can pinpoint the catheters in the heart within millimetres of accuracy.”

With the team within the Cardiac Cath Lab now managing an average of two cases a week, this enhancement is part of an ongoing expansion of cardiac services at Nepean Hospital.

Access to the service is available via cardiologist referral.

Isolation and job loss the “perfect storm” that could lead to relapses, more abuse NICOLA BARTON

F

igures reflecting the impact COVID19 restrictions have had on addiction are beginning to roll in but the worst is yet to come, says a local expert.

According to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) amphetamine usage in Penrith has risen 33.5 per cent over the past year, with the pandemic set to have significantly contributed to the rising figure.

Isolation and job loss can be the perfect storm for those who suffer from substance abuse.

Clinical Director of the Drug and Alcohol Service at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD), Dr Karen Fisher said the pandemic has had a grave impact on addiction across the board, as locals opt for an easy escape.

“We know anyone who suffers isolation is going to struggle more with their substance use,” she said.

“People gravitate towards substances that give them a sense of fearlessness and confidence and unfortunately that’s amphetamines. It’s a drug to feel OK with and gives them that boost to say ‘I’m going to get through this’ when they don’t have family, social or societal support.”

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Pandemic feeds addiction

Dr Karen Fisher says drug and alcohol addiction is problematic during the current health pandemic.

Dr Fisher said the silent killer in all of this is alcohol and predicts shocking statistics will support this, as data is released in the new year.

“The logistics of supply at the moment mean amphetamines can actually be hard to get and expensive,” she said.

“Counter-intuitively alcohol, because its an immensely responsive industry, began adapting and marketing home delivery;

there’s no longer those social cues to stop drinking once you switch off that Zoom meeting.”

But with alcohol so ingrained in the Australian culture, Dr Fisher said no one is taking it seriously enough.

“It’s so contested as a substance to us, no one wants to talk about it but it can cause more harm than people think,” she said.

If you or someone you know is struggling

“It’s our happy place.

It’s home.”

with substance abuse or is at risk of relapsing, there are many services available in the region.

It’s never too late to seek assistance from professionals.

NBMLHD Drug and Alcohol services are available in Lithgow, Katoomba, Springwood, Penrith, Cranebrook and St Marys.

For more information and to get help, visit bit.ly/2ZGkEe2.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

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WW42141

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Pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council.

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 JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA20/0566.

Approved Development Applications â&#x20AC;˘ Penrith City Council

DA20/0338

Lot 10 DP 807387 (No. 34) Floribunda Avenue, Glenmore Park Internal and external alterations to existing community facility building â&#x20AC;˘ SHMH 4 Pty Ltd

DA19/0574

Lot 12 DP 234581 (No. 164) Station Street, Penrith Torrens title subdivision x 5 lots and public roads including related civil engineering and utility servicing works

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

The consent authority for these development applications is Penrith City Council. â&#x20AC;˘ Vince Hardy

DA20/0554

Lot 4 DP 1090232 (Nos. 386â&#x20AC;&#x201C;392) Caddens Road, Claremont Meadows Torrens title subdivision x 5 lots including retention of existing dwelling The proposal is an Integrated Development.

The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

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 RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 6HSWHPEHU to 12 October 2020.

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 JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA20/0554.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726. â&#x20AC;˘ Calibre Consulting

DA20/0566

Proposed Lot 12 in Lot A DP 392643 (No. 2b) Aldington Road, Kemps Creek Torrens title subdivision x 3 lots and public road The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks concurrent approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected at the

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Sandra Fagan on 4732 7992. â&#x20AC;˘ The Cobra Group Pty Ltd

DA20/0568

Lot 6 DP 259038 & Lot 90 DP 883411 (Nos. 30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;32) Bent Street, St Marys Proposed increase in processing of general waste from 10,000 tonnes per year (EPL No. 21011) up to but not exceeding 30,000 tonnes per annum The proposal is an Integrated Development.

The application seeks approval from the NSW Environment Protection Authority.

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 RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 6HSWHPEHU to 28 October 2020.

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 JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA20/0568.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Lucy Goldstein on 4732 8136. â&#x20AC;˘ Vince Hardy

DA20/0551

Lot 348 & Lot 349 DP 752021 (Nos. 41â&#x20AC;&#x201C;51) Cranebrook Road, Cranebrook Community facility for Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council, site remediation and environmental protection works with associated on-site sewage management, drainage, landscaping, signage, car parking and tree removal works The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from Natural Resource Accesses Regulator under the 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 RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 6HSWHPEHU to 28 October 2020.

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 JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA20/0551.

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

Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. In accordance with Section 2.12 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the development application will be referred to the Sydney Western City Planning Panel (SWCPP) for determination. â&#x20AC;˘ 2¡&RQQHOO 6WUHHW &DGGHQV 3W\ /WG '$ Lot 3 DP 1103503, Lot 6 DP 593628 & Lot 2 '3 1RV ² E D 2¡&RQQHOO Street, Caddens Proposed staged subdivision comprising x 160 residential lots, 2 residue lots, bulk earthworks and civil works including roads and drainage, new park and associated landscaping works The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

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 RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 6HSWHPEHU to 12 October 2020.

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 JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA20/0550.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Jane Hetherington on 4732 8078.

Penrith City Council has received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith Local Planning Panel. â&#x20AC;˘ Celestino Pty Ltd DA20/0565 Lot 4 DP 1242470, Lot 4 DP 1255721 and Lot 5 DP 1255721 (Nos. 565â&#x20AC;&#x201C;599) Luddenham Road, Luddenham Torrens title subdivision x 10 lots and public roads including related bulk earthworks, civil engineering works and utility servicing works (Stage A1, Precinct 1, Sydney Science Park) The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application seeks concurrent approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

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 RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 6HSWHPEHU WR 12 October 2020.

Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith Local Planning Panel, in relation to the Development Application.

Where a submission is made by way of an objection, WKH JURXQGV RI REMHFWLRQ DUH WR EH VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;HG LQ WKH VXEPLVVLRQ 7KH VXEPLVVLRQ LV WR LQFOXGH &RXQFLO¡V reference number DA20/0565.

For any queries relating to the proposal, please contact Sandra Fagan on 4732 7992.

Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed RQ &RXQFLO¡V '$ 7UDFNHU YLD penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ DATracker Alternatively, the applications can be YLHZHG GXULQJ &RXQFLO¡V QRUPDO EXVLQHVV KRXUV DW WKH &LYLF &HQWUH +LJK 6WUHHW 3HQULWK 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI &RXQFLO¡V 'HYHORSPHQW 6HUYLFHV 'HSDUWPHQW ZLOO EH able to assist with your enquiries.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

penrith.city

WW42142

locations listed below at any time during ordinary RIĂ&#x20AC;FH KRXUV LQ WKH SHULRG IURP 6HSWHPEHU WR 12 October 2020.

the western weekender Âť Friday, September 25, 2020

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED

9

Friday, September 25, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

WSU staff safe

Waste facility proposes increase in operations at St Marys A St Marys waste facility has lodged a Development Application seeking to triple its processing capacity.

Cobra Group Pty Ltd, otherwise known as Cobra Bins, proposes to increase processing at its Bent Street facility from 10,000 tonnes up to 30,000 tonnes of waste per year.

The increase will be achieved by installing a new system within the existing building, and will mean about 75 to 80 per cent of materials will be diverted from landfill, according to the Statement of Environmental Effects.

If successful, the plant, which only stores and processes building and demolition

PUBLIC NOTICE Proposed Road Dedication The Roads Act 1993, Section 17

wastes, will operate about eight hours per day, up from five hours, Monday to Saturday.

A traffic report commissioned by Cobra Bins concluded nearby intersections have spare capacity to accommodate additional traffic. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Alena Higgins

â&#x20AC;˘ Site 5: ² 7KH 'ULIWZD\ /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW 6HF ' '3

â&#x20AC;˘ Site 6: ² 7KH 'ULIWZD\ /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW 6HF ' '3

Under Section 17 of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to dedicate, pursuant to Section 16 of the Roads Act 1993, part of the public road created by Deposited Plan 1687 (and remaining ZLWKLQ &HUWLĂ&#x20AC;FDWH RI 7LWOH 9ROXPH )ROLR KHOG E\ David Innes Watt.

â&#x20AC;˘ Site 7: ² 7KH 'ULIWZD\ /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW 6HF ' '3

7KH ODQG FRPSULVHV SDUW RI :ROVHOH\ 6WUHHW DQG *LEEHV Street, Jamisontown, and is shown outlined below on the diagram below.

$IWHU WKH H[KLELWLRQ KDV Ă&#x20AC;QLVKHG &RXQFLO ZLOO KROG D SXEOLF KHDULQJ IRU WKLV SODQQLQJ SURSRVDO 7KH UHVXOWV RI WKH public exhibition and public hearing will be reported to Council for its consideration in the coming months.

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You are invited to review and comment on the proposed changes to the planning controls by making a written VXEPLVVLRQ EHIRUH SP 7KXUVGD\ 2FWREHU

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Draft Penrith Developer Infrastructure Agreements Policy All interested parties are invited to make submissions FRQFHUQLQJ WKH SURSRVDO WR WKH *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU 3HQULWK &LW\ &RXQFLO 32 %R[ 3HQULWK 16: E\ 0RQGD\ 1RYHPEHU )RU DOO HQTXLULHV SOHDVH FRQWDFW .DUHQ /XND 6HQLRU 'HYHORSPHQW 0DQDJHU RQ

Penrith City Council seeks feedback in relation to the draft Penrith Developer Infrastructure Agreements Policy.

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PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS Planning Proposal to Reclassify 7 Sites at The Driftway and Reynolds Road, Londonderry Penrith City Council is publicly exhibiting a Planning 3URSRVDO WR DPHQG WKH 3HQULWK /RFDO (QYLURQPHQWDO 3ODQ /(3 WR UHFODVVLI\ VHYHQ VLWHV RZQHG E\ +DZNHVEXU\ &LW\ &RXQFLO IURP Âś&RPPXQLW\¡ WR Âś2SHUDWLRQDO¡ /DQG DW 7KH 'ULIWZD\ DQG 5H\QROGV 5RDG /RQGRQGHUU\ 7KH 3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO DOVR VHHNV WR UHVWULFW GHYHORSPHQW on these sites for the purposes of renovated, new or LQWHQVLĂ&#x20AC;HG UHVLGHQWLDO DFFRPPRGDWLRQ ZKLOVW D :DVWH RU 5HVRXUFH 0DQDJHPHQW )DFLOLW\ LV ORFDWHG QRUWK RI WKH ODQG LQ +DZNHVEXU\ /RFDO *RYHUQPHQW $UHD 7KLV LV LQ order to maintain a buffer between residential dwellings.

7KH ODQG VXEMHFW WR WKLV 3ODQQLQJ 3URSRVDO LQFOXGHV â&#x20AC;˘ Site 1: ² 5H\QROGV 5RDG /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW '3

â&#x20AC;˘ Site 2: ² 7KH 'ULIWZD\ /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW 6HF ' '3

â&#x20AC;˘ Site 3: ² 7KH 'ULIWZD\ /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW 6HF ' '3

â&#x20AC;˘ Site 4: ² 7KH 'ULIWZD\ /RQGRQGHUU\ /RW 6HF ' '3

â&#x20AC;˘ Provide a consistent and streamlined process for entering into agreements; â&#x20AC;˘ Have clear probity standards for agreements; â&#x20AC;˘ 3URYLGH WKH FRPPXQLW\ ZLWK FRQĂ&#x20AC;GHQFH LQ WKH DJUHHPHQW process and the delivery of infrastructure by parties other than Council;

A 68- year- old man was hit by a car when he was crossing the road on Maxwell Street, South Penrith on Tuesday afternoon.

The impact caused the pedestrian to fall and hit his head, sustaining head and chest injuries.

CareFlightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rapid Response Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance at 2.40pm and landed 15 minutes later in Southlands Oval where NSW Ambulance paramedics were transporting the patient to meet CareFlightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clinical team.

An ultrasound at the site of the accident confirmed the man suffered suspected internal fractures that were treated before the man was taken to Westmead Hospital by road ambulance.

He remains in hospital.

Plaza upgrade

â&#x20AC;˘ Assist in facilitating the timing of infrastructure delivery to meet the needs of our growing community; â&#x20AC;˘ (QDEOH GHYHORSHUV WR GLUHFWO\ SURYLGH XUEDQ infrastructure as part of their developments where this is in the public interest and the infrastructure delivered DFKLHYHV D QHW FRPPXQLW\ EHQHĂ&#x20AC;W DQG â&#x20AC;˘ :RUN ZLWK GHYHORSHUV WR FUHDWH Ă H[LEOH DQG LQQRYDWLYH VROXWLRQV WR DFKLHYH LQIUDVWUXFWXUH DQG SXEOLF EHQHĂ&#x20AC;WV for the community.

7KH 'UDIW 3HQULWK 'HYHORSHU ,QIUDVWUXFWXUH $JUHHPHQWV 3ROLF\ LV RQ SXEOLF H[KLELWLRQ IURP 7KXUVGD\ 6HSWHPEHU WR 7KXUVGD\ 2FWREHU 7KH 3ROLF\ FDQ EH viewed online at yoursaypenrith.com.au You are invited to review and provide comment on the GUDIW SROLF\ E\ PDNLQJ D ZULWWHQ VXEPLVVLRQ EHIRUH SP RQ 7KXUVGD\ 2FWREHU )RU IXUWKHU HQTXLULHV SOHDVH FRQWDFW 1DWDOLH 6WDQRZVNL 3ULQFLSDO 3ODQQHU &LW\ 3ODQQLQJ RQ RU HPDLO cityplanning@penrith.city

penrith.city

10

Western Sydney University (WSU) has confirmed it will not stand down staff or force redundancies this year, despite other Sydney universities tightening their belts.

With closed borders and a dried up cohort of international students, the COVID- 19 pandemic has been a challenging period for universities, with many opting for strict operational cost cutting in order to keep afloat.

The University of NSW is set to cut 493 staff, the University of Technology between 400 and 500 jobs and Monash University has announced 277 voluntary redundancies.

Despite the difficult financial period, WSU confirmed to the Weekender they will not stand down or make any staff redundant this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the support of staff and unions, the university has already taken considerable steps to manage immediate funding shortfalls and mitigate significant financial loss for 2020,â&#x20AC;? a WSU spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said job security â&#x20AC;&#x153;has been preserved for 2020â&#x20AC;?, with no job cuts planned. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nicola Barton

WW42143

St Marysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Station Plaza re- development is edging closer to reality, with the developer set to enter into a contract with Penrith Council.

The Trust Company (Australia) Limited has offered to enter into a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) with Council, with the draft currently on public exhibition.

The catalyst project, to be built at 33-43 Phillip Street, could see the land re- developed into a 19 or 20- storey building consisting of 600 apartments, 8,300sqm of retail and commercial floor space plus parking.

The VPA sets out the mechanisms for the timing and delivery of certain infrastructure, including affordable housing, traffic infrastructure works, public open space and embellishment, and money contributions towards the upgrade of Bennett Park.

It comes after Council rubberstamped a planning proposal for the site that increased the maximum building height from 32 to 61 metres. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Alena Higgins

WW41535

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

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11

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Hidden crisis in childcare “The biggest fear is we are not protected”: Workers raise concerns over safety NICOLA BARTON

N

ews headlines have become accustomed to the violence experienced by paramedics, police officers, security guards and the like, but for those working in early childhood care, this is a silent battle.

From biting and scratching to hitting and kicking, some workers even report attending hospital to seek treatment for various injuries.

Local childcare worker Sarah Smith, whose name has been changed for privacy reasons, has worked in the industry for 40 years and says she’s seen and experienced it all.

“In that time I have seen far too many people leave work or go on workers compensation because of the injuries, we’re talking serious shoulder and back injuries as a result of ongoing incidents,” she told the Weekender.

“The biggest fear is we are not protected, we are a necessity and we are here for the parents and that was made very clear by the Government during the pandemic when we remained open.

“Every child must have access to early childhood education where as if they have this behaviour in schools it is a completely

An injury suffered by a childcare worker.

Childcare workers say more support is needed. Stock photo. different ball game, they are put on behaviour programs or expelled.”

Whilst she is firmly against expelling any child, she thinks more support and funding needs to be committed to support both the educators and the child.

“There is not enough consultation between everyone, people aren’t looking

at the big picture. The way a child behaves in a one- on- one doctor’s office is not the same when they are in a noisy group learning situation,” she said.

“We need a multipurpose conference with everyone involved and informed.

“It’s not the child’s fault, they are just as much as a victim of the system as we are.

“We need more funding not only in early childcare but in schools as well, there’s too much disparity.”

A spokesperson from the Education Department said the National Quality Standard includes practices which may involve services and educators working collaboratively with families and professionals to develop plans for the inclusion of children with additional needs.

“This can include behaviour guidance as part of the service’s educational program to help children self-regulate their behaviour,” the spokesperson said.

“The department has developed a number of resources with peak organisations to support educators identify and manage behavioural issues in their services.”

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WW42180

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Life starts at Thornton Park

early bird offer

ex of te fer nd ed

Secure your apartment and receive a premium whitegoods package valued at $4,336 when you move in. Includes washing machine, dryer, microwave oven and fridge.*

Your time to discover, explore and enjoy what makes you happy.

Imagine no longer having to devote time to maintaining a family home, mowing lawns or worrying about home practicalities. With all that taken care of, you have complete peace of mind and are free to focus on what really matters.

Not only will you secure the relaxed, comfortable lifestyle you promised yourself, you’ll be part of a vibrant community of like-minded people.

All apartments feature include: • • • • •

Modern kitchens Beautifully finished bathrooms Blinds and curtains included Ducted air conditioning Miele appliances

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Study or study nook NBN & Foxtel-ready Lift access to all levels Secure access & parking 24-hour emergency call system

These stylish, contemporary apartments start from only $495,000 If you’ve ever thought about retirement living, don’t hesitate to contact us for an information pack and to book your obligation-free tour. It just might be the best thing you ever do.

1800 860 502 thorntonpark.com.au *Deposit must be made by 31/12/2020 and settlement by 31/03/2021. You may have to pay a departure fee when you leave this village.

WW41830 scc-ww-full-page-2020-09-11.indd 1

9/9/20 2:50 pm

13

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Hoping for DA rejection Furious residents say Hope Street can’t handle any more apartment developments EMILY FESZCZUK

R

esidents are calling for Penrith City Council to consider refusing a Development Application (DA) for another apartment block to be built on Hope Street, Penrith.

If approved, the DA, which has already been refused twice in the last two years, will see three houses at 26-30 Hope Street demolished and replaced with six residential flat buildings including 38 apartments.

Jordan Delph, who lives next door to a newly constructed apartment building on the street, told the Weekender that no more should be built.

“I lived here two years before all these apartments started popping up and it has become ridiculous, the street is already narrow, parking is full of hospital workers and now we are just adding to the traffic congestion,” he said.

“The other issue is the lack of privacy with all these apartments above the old one storey houses, people throw rubbish into my yard from their balconies and their guests park across my driveway so I have to call the ranger just to leave my house.”

Director of Think Planners, Jonathon Wood, who is involved with the DA on

behalf of the applicant and developer, said that the proposal will benefit the community with expanded housing choices in a good location.

“We understand those concerns existing residents may have in the older dwellings in the R4 zone, however over time we expect that most existing dwellings will be redeveloped for similar buildings as the zoning permits,” he said.

“The development is also designed to meet the minimum parking requirements in Council’s policies and regarding the comments on the width of the street, we understand Council are looking at this from their point of view as a bigger picture issue for the area.”

A Penrith Council spokesperson said that Council welcomes community input in assessing applications.

“All applications are assessed in accordance with relevant legislation, State and Local Policies which have regard for considerations such as infrastructure as well as matters raised in submissions received during the exhibition of the DA,” the spokesperson said.

For details on how to comment on development proposals, head online and visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/contact-us/ have-your-say/commenting-on-development-proposals.

Jordan Delph thinks Hope Street can’t handle any more apartments.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

Live FEE FREE for 6 months*

Find your happy at Nelsons Grove.

Nelsons Grove Over 55s retirement community offers a warm and welcoming environment for you to live a life of relaxation, recreation, luxury and fulfilment.

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to downsize to a stylish brand new home, with the peace of mind you’ll be living amongst likeminded neighbours but still be part of a broader community. Nelsons Grove is conveniently located in walking distance to Pemulwuy Marketplace, cafes and opposite local public bus transport.

Brand new, architect designed spacious homes are now selling, with air conditioning, quality European appliances and ultra modern finishes.

Book your private tour and discover why living here puts a smile on everyone’s face.

14

WW42013

Just off Greystanes Road next to Pemulwuy Marketplace Call 1800 550 550 | nelsonsgrove.com.au

Disclaimer: Information about services and facilities is correct at time of printing but subject to change. You may have to pay a departure fee when you leave this village. You may have to share any capital gains received with the operator of this village *The Live Free promotion is subject to the Lendlease Retirement Living Promotion Terms and Conditions – Nelsons Grove “Live 6 Months Service Fee Free Offer” (‘the Offer’), such that the Offer is only valid in relation to the purchase of any development (not resale) stock independent living units at Nelsons Grove Retirement Village to prospective buyers who pay a $1000 reservation fee by 28 November 2020 and satisfy the conditions of the Offer including signing the required Village Agreement and complete settlement of the property by 18 December 2020. Published by Lendlease RL Reality (NSW) Pty Ltd ABN 55 124 646 484. September 2020.

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Free Spring Time Fun

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28 September – 9 October 28 September – 9 only October Mondays – Fridays Mondays – Fridays only 10am – 3pm

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No Bookings necessary, limit of 16 children per activity The safety of our customers is our top priority, restrictions will be in place for capacity, after each sitting all equipment will be sanitised. All attendees will be required to check in, sanitise and answer a quick questionnaire.

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From The Courts: Your Complete Legal Wrap COMPILED BY ALENA HIGGINS. OUR COURT REPORTING IS SPONSORED BY LOCAL LAW FIRM COMPLETE LEGAL & CONVEYANCING.

Woman “sorry” kids were involved in violent incident

A Cranebrook mother who assaulted her one-year-old and three-year-old daughters during a violent rage has been handed a suspended jail sentence.

The 33-year-old woman, who originally pleaded not guilty, faced Penrith Local Court last Thursday on the day of her defended hearing and changed her plea.

When asked what she had to say for herself, the woman, who was self-represented, said she was in the process of working with the Department of Family and Community Services to address her alcohol and mental health issues.

“I’m really sorry my kids got hurt that night,” she said of the incident on January 5.

Facts disclose the mother-of-three, who cannot be named for legal reasons, became enraged when her partner told her to get off her phone and start helping around the house.

She began throwing objects, one of which hit her 14-month-old in the face causing her lip to split.

Her 41-year-old partner then said he was leaving and went upstairs with the injured child and began packing some clothes before calling 000.

The three-year-old and the woman’s five-year-old son also followed.

When the woman entered the bedroom a short time later, she grabbed the threeyear-old and threw her forcefully to the ground.

Throughout the entire incident the couple were swearing loudly, and along with the children’s screams and crying, could be heard by neighbours three doors down.

So concerned were the residents that they tried to intervene themselves.

Facts reveal neighbours from across the road knocked on the front door and attempted to remove the children, while other neighbours contacted police.

When police arrived, no one answered and they were forced to bust down the

door. Once inside, they heard all three children crying and located the offender who immediately became aggressive.

The woman was arrested and conveyed to Penrith Police Station where she stated she did not touch the children but admitted she had gone into a rage.

The court heard it was not the woman’s first domestic violence-related incident, having been previously convicted for ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’ in 2018.

Magistrate Geoff Hiatt condemned her behaviour, saying it would have had a “significant impact” on her children.

He noted she had issues with aggression when drinking but said that was not an excuse for her behaviour before handing her a 10-month jail sentence.

The woman will not spend time behind bars however, unless she re-offends, after she was found eligible to serve her sentence in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order (ICO).

As part of the ICO, the woman must attend counselling and drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Magistrate says drunk driver should be “ashamed”

A heavily intoxicated man who ploughed into a tree and stationary vehicle when he attempted to reverse out of his driveway has been stripped of his licence for nine months.

Nicholas Peter Kounelis, 65, appeared before Penrith Local Court last Thursday and pleaded guilty to high-range drink driving.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen told the Cambridge Gardens grandfather his criminal behaviour in this case was “appalling”.

“You should be ashamed of yourself at your age driving in that state!” he slammed.

He was convicted, fined $1,500 and ordered to fit an alcohol interlock device to his car for 24 months upon completion of his driving ban.

Man claims cannabis plants were for personal use

A man has been hit with more than $2,000 worth of fines after cultivating and possessing cannabis plants.

Stephen John Mansfield, 55, faced Penrith Local Court after 10 plants were found in a garden bed on his rear patio.

His lawyer said Mansfield had always been a contributing member of the community, but “unfortunately” had also been a cannabis user since the tender age of 14.

“Since being detected, he’s gotten rid of the plants – he’s simply given up cannabis,” his lawyer said, who also submitted they were for his personal use.

But Magistrate Brian van Zuylen was sceptical.

“10 plants are a lot of plants for personal use,” he said.

Magistrate van Zuylen also noted he was subject to a good behaviour bond for ‘driving with an illicit drug present in his system’ at the time.

He was convicted of ‘cultivate plant’ and ‘possess prohibited plant’ and fined $1,000 and $800 respectively.

His bond was also revoked and he was banned from driving for three months and fined $300 in lieu.

He was also placed on a 12-month Community Correction Order for the fresh offending.

Repeat offender to serve jail sentence in the community

A P-plater detected driving on the wrong side of the road has been convicted of her second drink driving charge in as many years.

Penrith Local Court heard Bianca Jane McDonald was seen entering the wrong side of a roundabout on The Northern Road, Cranebrook, telling officers who pulled her over she had consumed her last drink only minutes earlier.

A road side breath test returned a reading of 0.144.

Despite being suspended on the spot,

the court heard the 29-year-old was busted behind the wheel again four days later.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen noted her unenviable traffic record, which included a high-range drink driving conviction in 2019.

He determined no other penalty then prison would suffice, however allowed her to serve her eight-month sentence in the community by way of an Intensive Correction Order (ICO).

As part of her ICO, McDonald must abstain from alcohol and illicit drugs.

She was also stripped of her licence for 12 months, fined $350 and warned not to drive again while disqualified.

Man gave brother’s name when pulled over by police

A Magistrate has scolded Bradley Conduit for his “weak and low act” after he gave his brother’s name when pulled over by police.

The 31-year-old faced Penrith Local Court via video link last Thursday charged with a string of stealing, dishonesty and driving offences.

The court heard Conduit, who had a $250-a-day heroin habit at the time, was the passenger during a number of car thefts in shopping centres in the Penrith region in June and July.

Magistrate Brian van Zuylen noted the father-of-five, who had been in jail about a month, admitted to giving the victims little thought at the time with his main priority being to feed his drug habit.

He was handed multiple Community Correction Orders with a condition that he abstain from illegal drugs.

Fine for man caught with cannabis during vehicle stop

A man busted with 252g of cannabis in his car has been slugged a $900 fine.

Van Thanh Nguyen faced Penrith Local Court last week.

The court heard Nguyen was caught with the drugs during a vehicle stop.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

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L AW a n d O R D E R

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

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY NICOLA BARTON

Penrith: Man arrested after attacking ride share driver

A man will front court next month after allegedly attacking his Uber driver whilst intoxicated.

About 12am on Saturday, September 19 a 26-year-old Cambridge Park man requested an Uber and was picked up to go to a licensed premises in Penrith.

It is alleged the man began arguing with the driver and punched the driver to the side of his head.

Both parties exited the car, with the Uber driver informing the 26-year-old he was calling the police.

When he was on the phone the 26-yearold jumped into the driver’s seat of the car and sped off.

The 26-year-old drove about 300 metres, before stopping the car and walking back to the driver, grabbing him around the throat and ripping his shirt.

The driver pushed him away and ran into the licensed premises where security assisted him.

The 26-year-old followed the driver and was apprehended by security.

Police attended and conducted checks on the 26-year-old driver’s license, which revealed he was disqualified from driving until February 2021.

He was also breath tested, which proved positive.

He was arrested and conveyed to Penrith Police Station where he was subject to further breath analysis, returning a positive reading of 0.133.

The man was charged with ‘common assault’, ‘take and drive conveyance without consent of owner’, ‘drive motor vehicle during disqualification period’ and ‘drive with middle range PCA’.

He will appear at Penrith Local Court on Monday, October 12.

Orchard Hills: Man caught red handed during break-in

A burglar was caught in the act in Orchard Hills on Sunday and is now facing break and enter charges.

About 10am on Sunday, September 20, police were called to a break and enter at a home on The Northern Road, Orchard Hills.

Police attended and entered the premises, locating a 32-year-old Blackett man inside.

The man was arrested and searched by police.

It is alleged located in the man’s backpack was screwdrivers, screws, household tools and metal rods.

A knife was also found on his person.

The man was charged with ‘break and enter’ and ‘possess knife in public place’.

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

Jamisontown: Multiple charges after man caught speeding

A driver has copped hefty fines after he was caught flying down Jamison Road last week.

About 6.20pm on Wednesday, September 16, police were conducting speed enforcement duties on Jamison Road, Jamisontown when they estimated a passing car was speeding in excess of the posted 50km/h speed limit.

The estimated speed was 82km/h by Lidar technology.

Police pulled over the driver, a 51-yearold Valley Heights man, and had a conversation with him.

He was subject to a breath test, which proved positive.

He was arrested and conveyed to Penrith Police Station where he underwent further breath analysis that returned a positive reading of 0.060.

The man’s license was suspended for the speed offence and he was issued two infringement notices.

He received a $581 infringement for ‘drive with low range PCA’ and a $1464 fine and five demerit points for ‘motor vehicle excess speed limit over 30km/h’.

More police news: Visit us online at www.westernweekender.com.au.

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

Cleaning up their Act The NSW Government’s six pillars to reform the building industry in NSW continues to roll out with the introduction of the Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act 2020 coming into force on September 1.

The Act comes on the back of the Design and Building Practitioners Act of 2020, and focuses on preventing occupation and other Compliance Certificates from being issued in apartment developments that contain defective building work, and widening those who can be found culpable in relation to said defective work.

The Act requires developers to notify the government as to when building work will be completed in relation to apartment developments. The developer must notify the government at least six months, but not more than 12 months before an application for an Occupation Certificate is made.

Section 9 of the Act gives the government the power to prohibit the issue of an Occupation Certificate and, if relevant, the registration of a strata plan in relation to a residential apartment building if the expected completion notice was not given in time, the government is satisfied that a serious defect in the building exists, or any applicable building bonds required under Section 207 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 has not been provided.

These prohibition orders will not only affect developers, but also prevent private certifiers from issuing Occupation Certificates in relation to building work, and rendering any Occupation Certificate issued in contravention of

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

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the prohibition order invalid. The Act is aimed at making sure developers ensure building work is free of any serious defects before an Occupation Certificate is issued.

The Occupation Certificate is important because this is the document that determines that a property is ready to be lived in and is often a trigger for settlement of off-the-plan conveyancing transactions.

The Act also gives the government power to issue stop work orders if they believe that building work is being conducted in a manner that could result in significant harm or loss to the public or occupiers or potential occupiers of the building.

The Act also empowers the government to issue work orders to developers if they have a reasonable belief that the building work was or is being carried out in a manner that could result in a serious defect.

The provisions of the new Act essentially apply a microscope on the certifications/completion phase of new developments to avoid dodgy certifiers providing Occupation Certificates and/ or developers taking shortcuts to complete projects.

The Act also imposes significant penalties for body corporates, including directors or persons in control thereof, who breach the Act. Reform in the building and construction industry comes on the back of increased reports of defective building work in apartment buildings, such as the now infamous Opal Tower at Sydney Olympic Park, which was evacuated in 2018.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Education review aims to provide more support and reduce suspension periods

A

new draft behaviour strategy for schools in NSW seeks to reduce suspension times and provide more support for teachers, parents and students – in a bid to fix the system.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said “student behaviour has sat in the too hard basket for too long”.

“We will be empowering schools to increase proactive early intervention and prevention, balanced with strong and appropriate discipline using evidencebased best practice to support students inside and outside of the school,” she said.

“We need a behaviour system in our schools that considers a student’s circumstances to help them stay engaged in school and their education.”

The strategy seeks to halve suspension times from 20 to 10 days.

Student suspensions for those in K- 2 will be limited to instances of physical violence only.

“We know that suspension disproportionately affects vulnerable students, particularly those with disability, leaving them even further behind in their education than they were at the beginning of the suspension,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Managing behaviours in the classroom is a complex task which is why this strategy is now out for extensive work shopping and in- school testing to make sure we get this right and give our schools the support they need.”

Schools will be asked to provide work for suspended students to learn from home and check in with students daily and provide more opportunity for in- school suspension.

Local child disability advocate and Founder of Mama Love Connect, Melanie James, said the strategy is a step in the right direction but it will take a ‘two way street’ approach between parents and schools to ensure children with behavioural disabilities, like ADHD, can achieve their best learning outcomes.

“The schools need to engage with parents and children’s therapists before they start kindergarten but they don’t,” she said.

“There’s really no government support for children with ADHD alone, unless they have a duel diagnosis with autism or something else; there’s just no funding for these kids.

“In saying that, it is also the responsibility of the parent to work with the school regarding their child’s troubles.

“Overall, this needs to be individualised

Local child disability advocate and Founder of Mama Love Connect, Melanie James. case-by-case management, you can’t stick these children in a box and we can’t have a one size fits all approach to managing their behaviour.”

The consultation period for the draft runs to the end of Term 3 with the final strategy to be revised and implemented for Term 1, 2021.

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

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the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Bad behaviour in spotlight

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Friday, September 25, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

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the western weekender Âť Friday, September 25, 2020

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Listen up and get checked A simple hearing test could change your life forever, so what are you waiting for?

NICOLA BARTON

F

or Cambridge Gardens resident Marilyn Parsons, losing her hearing was an isolating experience.

From being unable to properly contribute to conversations, to not having the ability to enjoy simple things like watching a movie like she used to.

For over 15 years she struggled with depleting hearing loss, causing her to retract from the people she loved and the experiences she enjoyed.

At around 50-years-old when she went back to university to study Philosophy, she found it near impossible to keep up without being able to hear what professors were saying during lectures.

This was the final push for her to book an appointment with Hearing Australia, which she has never looked back from.

“I’d speak to my grandchildren and they couldn’t understand what grandma was saying; they thought I was crazy,” Ms Parsons said.

“When they first put the hearing aids in I realised just how deaf I was.

“It has given me a complete new lease on life.”

Ms Parsons is now happy, living a full life surrounded by family and supported

Marilyn Parsons with her hearing aid. Photo: Melinda Jane.

by a team of hearing professionals, who have helped to make her life much more comfortable.

She says she has never felt so engaged with the world.

“Suddenly I could hear the sounds I grew up with that I had almost forgotten about, simple things, like birds singing or the neighbours’ children laughing,” she said.

According to the Hearing Care Industry Association around 3.6 million Australians suffer from hearing loss but shockingly only one in five who could benefit from a hearing aid actually use one.

Many of those who suffer experience embarrassment or are reluctant to seek assistance.

Ms Parsons had simple advice for those who may be hesitant to get checked: do it.

“If children ask me what’s in my ears I just tell them it’s so I can hear what they’re thinking; just have fun with it,” she said.

Hearing Australia Audiologist Robyn Russell, who assessed and supported Ms Parsons throughout her hearing journey, said the best part about her job is seeing how much it changes people’s lives.

“We take the time to understand the specific needs and challenges of each person who comes to see us,” she said.

“We do our best to offer the right solution to meet their needs.”

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the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Preserving her incredible life L

osing the loved one you once knew to dementia is devastating. That’s why Penrith local Mariza Harris is doing whatever she can to preserve her 101-year-old mother’s memory.

Her Facebook page ‘Come walk with me, my mother Agnes and dementia’ details the day to day life of her mother Agnes Borg as a journal and keepsake for her many children and grandchildren.

Born in Malta in 1918, Mrs Borg went on to marry and have 10 children before migrating to Australia in 1964.

Her children describe her as a strong and courageous woman who, despite facing many hardships in her life, always found time to volunteer.

She is the last surviving of her 18 siblings.

When Mrs Borg was in her mid 80s, her daughter Mariza noticed she began forgetting things.

“It was things like, not noticing she had left the gas stove top on but not ignited, filling the hard wired kettle submerged in a sink full of water, poking a knife in the toaster to pull the toast out while it was on, then forgetting which bus stop to get off or catching the wrong bus,” Ms Harris said.

She was officially diagnosed with onset dementia in 2010.

Ms Harris said her mother fluctuates between remembering and not, and that her mind plays tricks on her where she is sometimes taken back to yesteryear, before she migrated to Australia.

“Dementia is cruel and plays tricks on the person with it,” she said.

Ms Harris has centred her life around caring for her mother.

Whilst this is both difficult and challenging, her love for her mother has always been at the core of her care.

September is Dementia Awareness Month and this year Dementia Australia is spreading the important message ‘you are not alone’.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe has encouraged all Australians to get behind national awareness activities.

“Without a medical breakthrough, the number of people living with dementia is expected to grow from 447,000 Australians today to almost 1.1 million by 2058, with many more families, friends and carers impacted,” she said.

Ms Harris encourages those with questions or concerns for someone with dementia to contact her via her Facebook page: bit.ly/2Zz9iZq.

Mariza Harris with her mother Agnes Borg.

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NICOLA BARTON

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

More make organic switch Organic Awareness Month highlights growing desire for healthier products EMILY FESZCZUK

L

ocal businesses are celebrating Australian Organic Awareness Month this September and highlighting the importance of choosing organic products.

David Bayssari, who has owned the Rainbow Organic store in Penrith for over 10 years, said that organic products have been around worldwide for years but are growing in popularity.

“Organic products are free from ingredients such as synthetic pesticides, herbicides or hormones which are harmful to the body, they promote good health and care for the environment and animals,” Mr Bayssari said.

“Consumers have been increasingly questioning what is contained within their products and the increased awareness of the amazing benefits of organic products has led to more people switching over to organic products.”

Mr Bayssari said the continually growing range has many benefits for customers.

“We stock grocery items such as pasta, milk, dips, honey, tea, coffee, protein powders, superfoods, confectionary, essential oils along with personal and skin care products,” he said.

Dee, David and Harry at Rainbow Organic in Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“Consumers who use organic products have had great benefits, which include elimination of allergies, better gut health and an increase in general wellbeing.”

Pirovic Family Farms in Llandilo has

been a producer of certified organic eggs for over 14 years.

Operations/livestock supervisor Petar Pirovic, who was named Organic Farmer of the Year in 2019, said it is vital to look

for official certification when it comes to choosing products.

“To win was a great honour and a recognition of the efforts of our staff which we celebrated by placing myself and my hens on the carton with the organic awards medal,” he said.

“The organic bud logo represents integrity, transparency and quality so make sure you look for it so you can be confident a product is genuinely organic.”

Australia Organic Limited CEO Niki Ford said organic products are more affordable than ever and they are working to make organic certification mandatory to ensure quality.

“Larger retailers have their own certified organic home-brands, which offer a range of products at reasonable prices, there are local organic farmers markets and specialised online retailers,” she said.

“We are currently working with the Government to enforce regulations around the use of the word ‘organic’, which will provide much greater clarity that the product they are purchasing has been rigorously audited against a highquality standard.

“By buying locally and in-season, you’re not only reducing your own carbon footprint, but are also promoting and supporting our economy.”

Mayor’s News

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT ST MARYS WITH 5G

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S0830 St Marys South: St Marys Police Station, 321A Great Western Highway, St Marys NSW 2760 (RFNSA 2760007) 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: r Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas, 0.59m long and installation of three (3) new 4G panel antennas, 2.688m long, on an existing headframe r Installation of new ancillary equipment, including twelve (12) Remote Radio Units, cabling and antenna mounts r Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter, including removal of existing Remote Radio units and removal of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas 2. Optus regards the proposed installations as Exempt Development under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007, based on the description above 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2018 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact Chan Chen at Axicom, 02 9495 9000, community@axicom.com.au or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065 by Monday 12 October 2020. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2760007.

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The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Plenty to celebrate As my two-year Mayoral term comes to an end, I am extremely proud that as a Council we have achieved many great outcomes for our community despite many challenges.

This time last year, out-of-control bushfires were burning in NSW. These blazes started well ahead of the official fire season and were a harbinger of the devastating conditions and extreme heat events that were to come.

If the fires were well ahead of time, so was Penrith Council’s thinking. Our sold-out Cooling the City Masterclass provided a forum for national and international experts to share ideas on how government and industry can improve our built environment.

We have continued to demonstrate our commitment to plan with not for our community by consulting with the community on our plans to enhance Regatta Park and create a landmark City Park, the Local Strategic Planning

Statement, Floodplain Management Plans and Council’s Youth Action Plan.

This year, in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also been focused on grass roots advocacy. Working with local businesses and community organisations, our aim is to protect our economy and social structures through the formation of two taskforces to accelerate a sustainable post-pandemic recovery.

And as I finish, I would like to congratulate the Panthers on their stunning 2020 NRL season. This season has all the hallmarks of their 1991 and 2003 seasons where they too were awarded the minor premiership and then went on to win the premiership.

Their spirit has captured the hearts of Penrith in a challenging year by giving our community hope.

Go the Panthers!

CR ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

READ NEWS IN MORE LANGUAGES: Did you know you can read articles from The Western Weekender in multiple languages? Head to our website at www. westernweekender.com.au and use the drop-down menu to select your language of choice. It’s a great way to expand local news reach within the area.

the western weekender Âť Friday, September 25, 2020

Join me in getting behind Australian manufacturing and local jobs.

of people trust Australian Made to be high quality

Securing our critical supply chains

Creating local jobs for local people

Roy Morgan Research

Sign my petition Go to melissamcintosh.com.au/back-australian-manufacturing to sign my petition and show your support.

WW42152

Open the camera app on your smartphone and scan here to sign the petition

MELISSA McINTOSH MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au

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Coronavirus has impacted plenty of businesses, but those opening when NICOLA BARTON

S

tarting a new business is difficult at the best of times, let alone during a pandemic that has forced companies across the world to shut their doors.

For entrepreneurs investing in Penrith, this is a challenge that could never have been predicted when launching their businesses this year.

New family-owned restaurant, Tuk Tuk Thai Street Food, has experienced the wrath of COVID-19 on small business first hand, after launching just days after full hospitality restrictions were enforced in NSW. “We had everything ready and planned for grand opening day and then the restrictions came into place just days before,” co-owner Sudjai Phatthaisong said.

“It was so difficult; lucky at the time our landlord reduced a bit of the rent but there was still so much money we were needing to come through that wasn’t.”

Ms Phatthaisong runs the business alongside her mother, Phaeo, and sister, Surangkana, serving beautiful authentic Thai food.

They had been planning for the business six months prior to its opening.

The team at Tuk Tuk Thai Street Food, which opened earlier this year. Photo: Megan Dunn.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Brave businesses defy

26

the crisis first hit faced sleepless nights as dreams turned to nightmares Since restrictions eased they say business has started to pick up, although times are still tough.

“We’ve been struggling now that full rent is back but things are still slow,” Ms Phatthaisong said.

“For now we’re just trying to save money where we can until things pick up.”

High Street gift store, Donna’s Flower Shop, is also new on the block after being kicked out of its former shop front where it stood for 28 years.

“When COVID hit, the owner of the centre we were at evicted all its tenants,” Donna’s Flower Shop’s John Lynch said.

“They had intentions of developing it so it was rushed through before the government put any legislation through regarding tenant eviction, so we had very little time to get out.”

Mr Lynch fought his landlord to let him stay for three more months before he secured the High Street premises.

He says the pandemic has created a shift in trade and demand in his industry.

“We had our best Mother’s Day in over 15 years, people can’t see their families, so they were opting for flowers,” he said.

Love Beans Cafe and Papa Charlie’s Bakehouse were also among some of the businesses to open during the pandemic.

John Lynch from Donna’s Flower Shop on High Street. Photo: Melinda Jane.

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

pandemic’s pressures

#InThisTogether Tips for your mental health and wellbeing during COVID-19

Seek Support it’s ok to not feel ok

Get Sweaty exercise is great for your mental health

Routine Helps create a new daily routine

Stay Connected get creative in the ways you connect

Talk don’t just type

Take a break

Check-in & be kind to yourself

Play your part

Follow the Facts pause the scrolling

Helpers need help too

Financial stress is real, talk about it

Reach out to those who may not have connections

Keep kids communicating let children know it is ok to be worried, and talk it out WW42186

If you need to talk, these free support lines are here to listen 24/7: Lifeline 13 11 14 | Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 | Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 National Coronavirus Helpline 1800 020 080 or headtohealth.gov.au

(02) 4722 2998 | westernweekender.com.au

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Friday, September 25, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

Riding to keep up the cancer fight EMILY FESZCZUK

W

Kristian Wren will ride to raise funds.

Photo: Megan Dunn.

ith three children dying from cancer each week in Australia, Kristian Wren wanted to help make a difference.

The Cranebrook resident is taking part in the Great Cycle Challenge next month to raise money for the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Research Institute.

Participating for his fifth consecutive year, Mr Wren discovered the challenge when he was looking to increase his own fitness. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2016 I was looking for ways to maintain my fitness and make exercise purposeful to achieve my own goals when I came across it and saw how beneficial the money was for research along with supporting those fighting childhood cancer,â&#x20AC;? Mr Wren said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have felt the effects first-hand when the church youth group that I am a leader of lost a 15-yearold girl from aggressive brain cancer and then two years ago we lost a 14-year-old girl when an inoperable tumour was revealed after she collapsed, causing her to pass away not long after.â&#x20AC;?

Setting out to ride 300km over the

month of October, Mr Wren said anyone can be involved and ride to their own personal fitness level. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are seven- year- old kids with targets of 15km or elite athletes who have the time and energy to ride up to 1000km but I think 300km for the month is a good target for my fitness level and work/life balance,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will try to ride around 10km each day after work and then maybe longer on weekends, it is a great way to see what Penrith has to offer as Council has put in so many tracks to explore.â&#x20AC;?

Mr Wren said he hopes to raise $500 despite the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting fundraising efforts of most charity events this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have raised over $2000 in the past but this year a lot of fundraisers canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen plus people are struggling financially, which is understandable,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you can social distance I am hoping to set up a stationary bike at Cranebrook or Jordan Springs shops to ride for a few hours to maybe get a few donations, show people what I am doing, and get others to participate for a great cause.â&#x20AC;?

To donate to Mr Wrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundraiser, visit www.greatcyclechallenge.com.au/Riders/ KristianWren/d.

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29

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Dingo sanctuary calls on local volunteers for help

EMILY FESZCZUK

T Tiffany Naylor, Joshua Said and Brianna Roche at Dingo Den. Photo: Melinda Jane.

EMILY FESZCZUK

T

hey might be Australia’s native apex predator, but Dingo Den Animal Rescue is seeking people to help support a dingo sanctuary in the Penrith area.

The animal charity, which has been running for five years, is looking for people to sponsor dingoes and tradespeople to volunteer.

Dingo Den Founder and President, Joshua Said, said despite being impacted

by COVID-19, they are focused on positive outcomes.

“We weren’t able to run our Discovery Experiences, which impacted us finan-

30

Hat-trick of nominations for Nordoff Robbins CEO

cially, but we have been able to focus on some very exciting long-term projects to upgrade our sanctuary,” he said.

“Our current projects require generous tradies to help with construction, commercial refrigeration, plumbing, electrical, concreting and earthmoving that will enhance these animals’ lives.”

Ms Said said people who love dingoes can help in many ways, including its sponsorship program, which starts from $10 per week.

“Our sponsorship program, which has three levels of care, is a life changing experience that will save dingoes’ lives and let them see first-hand the difference their contribution is making,” he said.

For more info, visit www.dingoden.net.

he CEO of Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy (Noro) in Kingswood, Belinda Leonard, has been recognised for her contribution to the community with not one but three award nominations.

Ms Leonard has been nominated in the ‘Community’ category at the Western Sydney Women Awards and is a semifinalist for the Transgrid Leadership Award in the 2020 NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards.

She is also a nominee in the 2020 Westfield Local Heroes Awards.

Working at Nordoff Robbins for over seven years, Ms Leonard said it feels “strange” to receive so much attention.

“I am not comfortable with it all, but it is very flattering to be recognised with such good company and if it draws attention to the good stuff my team does than I am happy,” she said.

“When I started, the organisation saw 200 people a week and we now help over 1300 individuals each week with disabilities, mental health issues or dementia achieve health and wellbeing outcomes through our music therapy programs.”

As well as being a mum of a 10-year-old son, Ms Leonard does plenty of volunteer work, which she said has always been a part of her life.

Nordoff Robbins CEO Belinda Leonard.

Photo: Melinda Jane.

“Volunteering has always been something I have done as I have a passion to take my skillset from my corporate career and apply them in a different way for community benefit,” she said.

Ms Leonard said if she was awarded the $10,000 from the Local Heroes awards, she would use the grant to fulfil a longheld dream.

“Our youngest participant at Noro is sixweeks-old and our oldest is 107, so I would love to form a large choir that all ages and abilities can be a part of,” she said.

“It means that participants with disabilities could join with their parents and carers so everyone can come together and experience the benefit of music equally.”

WW42183

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

SNIPS AND SNAPS

EARLY RISER? Early to bed, early to rise… while the old saying promises health, wealth and wisdom, new research confirms part of the adage holds true, as a world first study shows that people who go to bed early are more likely to be in better health and more physically active compared to night owls.

It found that night owls (people who went to bed late and got up late, or ‘evening chronotypes’) have an excessively sedentary lifestyle characterised by low levels and low intensities of physical activity – and that this is putting their health at greater risk.

So, get to bed!

LOVE VISITS THE BACHELOR IN PENRITH! Channel 10’s ‘The Bach elor Australia’ recently visited Penrith Whitewater Stadium where the adventure loving Bachelor for 2020, Locky Gilbert and his date, thrashed it out on the whitewater rapids.

Locky and his rafting partner took on the rapids without a guide and navigated their way down the grade three rapids like pros.

Locky, who is an outdoor enthusiast, made it all look easy and his date was in good hands.

GRANTS OPEN Penrith MP Stuart Ayres has welcomed the announcement that community organisations in Penrith impacted by COVID-19 can now apply for funding, thanks to the next round of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program.

“Community sporting and cultural organisations are the lifeblood for many communities and this funding can be used for projects that foster equity, social inclusion and participation,” Mr Ayres said.

“We want these organisations to not just keep their doors open but to grow and prosper.”

Visit www.responsiblegambling. nsw.gov.au to apply.

COUNCIL GETS TO WORK

Penrith City Council is revitalising its 35- year- old nursey to ensure Council is self- sufficient in plant production of local providence plants and shrubs to meet existing and future operational needs within the Local Government Area.

Council has for many years operated a nursery that supports day to day operational requirements of the City Presentation Department including supplying soil, mulch,

landscape supplies and the management of fallen trees and branches.

The site on Castlereagh Road, Penrith has also supported a range of typical nursery functions such as seed collection, plant propagation and growing, and the supply of plants for some Council projects.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler welcomed the revitalisation project.

“The first outcome is to bring the nursery up to contemporary standards

which is being achieved by implementing the right infrastructure, equipment and tools for its operation,” Cr Fowler said.

Physical works that will be undertaken will include the upgrade of existing amenity facilities, installation of gravel paved work areas and potting tables, pathways, a refurbished glasshouse, improved material store, solar panels, recycled water and the undergrounding of power lines.

NEW EMPLOYMENT ROLE

JOBS FOR LOCALS “This is a painful but necessary process to ensure we survive.”

NRL CEO ANDREW ABDO ON JOB CUTS AT THE CODE’S HEAD OFFICE

PINK UP PENRITH LAUNCHES WITH HUGE GOLF DAY AT TWIN CREEKS This year’s Pink Up Penrith launch raised $5,500 for the McGrath Foundation, kicking off a huge fundraising month in October.

Pink Up Penrith sees businesses contribute to fundraising initiatives during October to raise money for breast cancer nurses at Nepean Hospital.

Last Friday’s Golf Day at Twin Creeks kicked off this year’s fundraising efforts.

Cricket legend Gavin Robertson was among the guest speakers.

NURSERY UPGRADE

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WANDERERS CREATE HISTORY Western Sydney Wanderers have this week become the first Australian sporting club to team up with global fan engagement company BrandTURBO to launch a new customised Google homepage extension.

The Red & Black have joined the likes of Fenerbahce, Aston Villa and Leicester City who are all using the platform as a way to directly engage with members and fans in a digital world.

Simply install the new Western Sydney Wanderers new tab extension on the Google Chrome Web Store to get your Wanderers themed page with rolling club imagery, the latest news and information on a daily basis.

Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh has announced the appointment of an Employment Facilitator in western Sydney to utilise specialist expertise and knowledge to help get more local people into jobs.

“The Morrison Government has announced $62.8 million for the Local Jobs Program to help people in our community reskill, upskill and find employment as quickly as possible,” Ms McIntosh said.

“In western Sydney, we will now have a local Employment Facilitator. Our facilitator will use local expertise to connect job seekers in western Sydney with training, job opportunities and additional support.

“The facilitator will also chair a Local Jobs and Skills Taskforce made of government representatives, Indigenous representatives and community organisations.

The Taskforce will develop a Local Jobs Plan to identify our priorities, opportunities and skills gap and help build pathways for people in our community to enter industries with jobs on demand.”

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

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WW42178

Photo: NRL Images.

RS E I M E R P R O MIN IVE T A R O M E M COM IDE! S N I R E T S O P

MINOR MIRACLE

Panthers claim historic minor premiership RECORD-BREAKING REGULAR SEASON FOR THE AGES: FULL COVERAGE INSIDE

lang on league

with Peter Lang

T

he Panthers have amassed such depth in every position this season that they could easily field a very handy second 13 starting team, which would give many current first grade sides in the competition a run for their money.

Taking out Penrith’s best 13 players when everyone is fit, a second Penrith side would look something like this: 1. Caleb Aekins 2. Malakai WateneZelezniak 3. Dean Whare 4. Daine Laurie 5. Charlie Staines 6. Tyrone May 7. Matt Burton 8. Jack Hetherington 9. Mitch Kenny 10. Spencer Leniu 11. Billy Burns 12. Pat Hollis 13. Kurt Capewell.

Now of course I’ve taken some liberties with some of the players selected having played first grade this year and pinched a few off the bench like Tyrone May and Spencer Leniu but the regular starting 13 have all been omitted.

I also left out Zane Tetevano and Moses Leota who have played most of the season in the top grade off the bench.

Even with those little tweaks, the side above is still brimming with plenty of talent. In the backs we have experienced centre Dean Whare and flyer Charlie Staines to call upon.

In the halves you have Matt Burton and Tyrone May ready to come in if either Nathan Cleary or Jarome Luai go down, while in the forwards Jack Hetherington

a bottle of water, with plenty of force behind it, out of the coach’s box when a penalty went against his side in the match against the Warriors at GIO Stadium last Sunday. He’s lucky he didn’t hit anyone!

What game I’m looking forward to...

The Roosters v the Rabbitohs on Friday night, of course. This is always a great encounter because these two teams genuinely hate each other. It’s a fierce rivalry that goes back many years. On paper and on form, it looks like the boys from Bondi may be just in too good a form but form goes out the window when these sides get ready to rumble.

My tips for the week...

Cowboys, Knights, Roosters, Panthers, Raiders, Eels, Warriors, Storm.

Matt Burton is a sign of Penrith’s incredible depth this season. Photo: NRL Images. and Kurt Capewell as well as Billy Burns are all chomping at the bit to come into the first grade side.

There’s no doubt that many of the players listed above could walk straight into a

first grade team in most of the 15 clubs in the competition.

What caught my eye last week...

Raiders coach Ricky Stuart throwing

The final word...

Has to go to Chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission Peter V’landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo who have worked tirelessly with the NSW State Government and numerous other related parties to have crowds to NRL Finals games lifted to up to 50 per cent stadium capacity.

It’s a great boost for fans because more of them will be able to attend a game and help lift the atmosphere at every Finals game.

WW42094

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

Depth shows Penrith’s true strength in this competition

34

Stephen Crichton will rest up for the Finals.

Photo: NRL Images.

the final word

v TROY DODDS

A

s we head into the final round of the regular season this weekend, there is no question that the years of Penrith and Canterbury have been vastly different.

Ivan Cleary has guided Penrith to its first Minor Premiership in 17 years and a club record 14 straight wins, all while unearthing some of the game’s most incredible young talent.

The Bulldogs meantime have recorded just three wins, sacked a coach along the way and scored just 282 points – a woeful season by anyone’s reckoning.

The two sides meet on Saturday afternoon with very different end games in play. For the Bulldogs, finishing the season on a high with back- to- back wins and impressing incoming coach Trent Barrett (who just happens to be in the opposition coaching box) will be front of mind, while for Penrith capping off a regular season

FOX LEAGUE KAYO TRIPLE M ABC 702

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, September 25, 2020

match preview

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 | 3.00PM | ANZ STADIUM | REFEREE: HENRY PERENARA for the ages with a strong victory is the mission, as is lifting the J.J. Giltinan Shield on the back of a win.

Not surprisingly, Ivan Cleary has opted to rest some of his stars for what is – officially – a dead rubber at ANZ Stadium. Dylan Edwards, Viliame Kikau and Stephen Crichton will all be missing from the side – taking a well- deserved break before a tough month of Finals footy arrives.

The depth that Penrith can call on means that the side running out on Saturday is far from a reserve grade outfit, and given the lack of footy some of them have played this year it’s important to give them a run heading into the Finals. Cleary would also be determined to avoid any major injuries given how well Penrith has done on that front this season.

Canterbury showed last Thursday against Souths that they hold no fear against the better teams. The Rabbitohs

took the opposition lightly and they paid for it, with the Bulldogs going out to what was ultimately an unassailable lead thanks to a dynamite first 25 minutes.

Penrith can’t afford the same complacency this weekend nor do they want a hit to their confidence just a week out from the post-season. The whole ‘they need to have a loss’ argument has sailed, no team wants to go into the Finals on the back of a defeat – the doubt that would inevitably creep into the squad is not needed.

The Panthers were impressive against the Cowboys last weekend, yet again strangling their opposition to the point of no return. The game was all but over after 15 minutes, Penrith simply coming out of the blocks with too much enthusiasm for their lowly opposition.

A similar result is possible this weekend – the Panthers would love to put the game in the books nice and early, allowing a

PANTHERS

comfortable second half to take place knowing that a huge home Final awaits.

Whether this game becomes a contest or not really comes down to the opposition. Do the Bulldogs put the cue in the rack after grabbing the scalp of Souths last weekend or do they come out and put in one last strong performance before putting this COVID-riddled season to bed?

If it’s the former, the Panthers will do this easily – they have the skill and firepower across the park to blow the Bulldogs away and make this nothing but a training run.

But if it’s the latter, Penrith may just have a job on its hands to contain a Canterbury side that, on its day, has shown some praise-worthy attack, albeit too rarely.

Whatever happens, I suspect that as the sun starts to set on Saturday afternoon, it’ll be Penrith in front on the scoreboard – the question is just by how many.

Tip: Panthers by 20.

BULLDOGS

1 Daine Laurie

10 James Fisher-Harris

1 Will Hopoate

2 Josh Mansour

11 Kurt Capewell

2 Dallin Watene-Zelezniak

10 Luke Thompson 11 Chris Smith

3 Tyrone May

12 Liam Martin

3 Reimis Smith

12 Raymond Faitala-Mariner

4 Brent Naden

13 Isaah Yeo

4 Tim Lafai

13 Josh Jackson (c)

5 Brian To’o

14 Matt Burton

5 Jayden Okunbor

14 Brandon Wakeham

6 Jarome Luai

15 Spencer Leniu

6 Jake Averillo

15 Renouf To’omaga

7 Nathan Cleary

16 Moses Leota

7 Lachlan Lewis

16 Sione Katoa

8 James Tamou (c)

17 Zane Tetevano

8 Aiden Tolman

17 Sauaso Sue

9 Apisai Koroisau

18 Mitch Kenny 19 Dean Whare

9 Jeremy Marshall-King

19 Dean Britt 20 Jack Cogger

35

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

panther rumblings

WITH THE MASKED PANTHER

MAY’S NEW PENRITH DEAL !

Tyrone May has quietly resigned with Penrith for another season. While there’s no official announcement from the club, May confirmed on Monday that he’ll be at Penrith in 2021. “That was a big relief, I can’t thank the staff enough for backing me and giving me another opportunity. I love being here and I’m grateful for that,” May told Extra Time. “I signed it as quick as possible to get it done, it’s all sorted now.”

!

Western Weekender cartoonist Paul Dorin has created this awesome Minor Premier’s graphic, which was released on Twitter earlier this week. It’s hard to know where to look – there’s so many great elements. My favourite is the special COVID-inspired inclusion in the middle of the trophy!

!

Rumours are doing the rounds that Melbourne has its eye on Panthers centre Brent Naden, and could put an offer to the strike centre as early as November. The 24-year-old, who is having a sensational season for Penrith, is contracted at the foot of the Mountains until the end of next year but is apparently likely to be targeted

by Craig Bellamy. This will be a common story in the next few months – Penrith’s exciting crop of talent is garnering plenty of interest across the NRL.

!

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys is investigating whether Penrith’s last Grand Final captain, Craig Gower, can be awarded the 2003 Dally M Medal this year, 17 years after he controversially missed out on the gong. Gower was a sure bet to be handed the Dally M in Penrith’s premiership year but industrial action by the players saw the ceremony abandoned and the award never presented. It is the missing piece of the 2003 premiership puzzle and it’d be fitting to see Gower finally Paul Dorin’s Minor Premiers cartoon.

recognised for his stellar season.

The Weekender raised the issue several weeks ago and it’s now got huge momentum.

! Talking of the Dally M Awards, this year’s event will be held on Monday, October 19 and will be a made- for- television presentation, with COVID- 19 restrictions preventing the traditional ceremony from taking place. It’ll be broadcast by Fox Sports. ! I’m hearing that Zac Bailey will return as the Panthers Stadium ground announcer next season.

Bailey’s first year behind the microphone has been disrupted by COVID- 19, which has prevented him from being out on the field and getting to know fans better. ! Talking of ground announcers, I checked in with former Panthers Stadium announcer Scott McRae this week to make sure he’s still cheering on the boys heading into the Finals. “It’s killing me not being a part of game day, but I am loving watching the boys ripping it up regardless,” McRae said. “Lets Go Panthers”. ! Any prospect of Penrith moving next weekend’s home Final away from Panthers Stadium has been brushed aside, despite the looming rush for tickets. Officials are hoping a crowd of between 8,000 and 10,000 will be able to attend the match, likely to be against Parramatta, with final COVID safety checks and approvals being arranged. At worst a crowd of 3,500 will be allowed to attend, which will mean many fans will miss out. The possibility of moving the match to ANZ Stadium, which can now allow up to 40,000 fans to attend, was floated but never really seriously considered. The home Final is likely to be played next Friday with tickets on sale on Monday morning.

OFFICIAL PARTNER

36

WW39693

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, September 25, 2020

feature

ONLY GOOD TIMES AHEAD FOR MAY A

year in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons has made newly re- signed Panthers utility Tyrone May appreciate life more.

This time last year the 24- year- old’s rugby league career was in severe doubt as he awaited the outcome of muchpublicised legal proceedings.

The Blacktown product wasn’t sure whether he’d go to prison for his off-field indiscretions or be banned from the game altogether – nothing was certain, everything was up in the air.

In January – after nearly 12 months out of the game – May’s fate was decided in court, paving the way for him to finally return to his happy place… the footy field.

Speaking with Extra Time on the eve of the NRL Finals, the Samoan international said he’s finally in a good mental and physical state after the toughest period of his young life.

“I can’t complain… I’m just happy to be playing footy again,” May admitted.

“I missed out last year and to be on the roll that we’re on now has been great to be a part of.”

With May’s career hanging by a thread this time last year, he almost can’t believe how much his life has turned around since. The Minchinbury Jets junior said he appreciates every single minute he’s out on the field, contributing to Penrith’s immense success this season.

“You just can’t take anything for granted, just roll with the punches, and to be able to be on this team is unbelievable,” he said.

“I don’t want to take any moment for granted, this one especially.”

In his 12 appearances for the Panthers this season, May has enjoyed a starring role off Ivan Cleary’s bench. Not only has he had a hand in six tries for Penrith, but he’s proven his versatility by playing in several positions.

“I’m just happy to play anywhere, I don’t even know what position I like best. I just

Tyrone May has been playing an important role for Penrith. Photo: Megan Dunn. love playing footy and it’s a bonus that I can play so many positions,” May said.

“I’ve always known I can play a few positions, I’ve played a few coming through the grades. Ivan tells me to be prepared for anything because if someone goes down you just don’t know where you’re going to play. I just have to know everyone’s roles.”

Even though his on- field experience is confined to just 31 first grade matches, May’s footy IQ will be hugely important to the Panthers come the start of the Finals next week.

May was there the last time Penrith played post- season footy and will use previous Finals defeats to his advantage.

“I think we’re better for the losses that have come before and hopefully we can learn from them,” May said.

“I know how disheartening it was when we lost that semi against the Sharks in 2018, it wasn’t a good feeling. Everyone wants to win the Grand Final and we’re in a good position to give it a crack. It would be a shame if we didn’t put our best foot forward in the coming weeks.”

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Friday, September 25, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender â&#x20AC;˘ extra time

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, September 25, 2020

39

CLUB

PD

W

D

L

B

F

A

1

Panthers

19

17

1

1

0

495

238

2

Storm

19 16

0

3

0

512

246 +266 32

3

Roosters

19

14

0

5

0

544

262 +282 28

4

Eels

19

14

0

5

0

364

264 +100 28

5

Raiders

19

13

0

6

0

407

289

+118 26

6

Knights

19

11

1

7

0

415

338

+77

23

7

Rabbitohs

19

11

0

8

0

461

344

+117

22

8

Sharks

19 10

0

9

0

452

442

+10

20

9

Titans

19

8

0

11

0

310

457

-147

16

10 W. Tigers

19

7

0

12

0

416

477

-61

14

11

19

7

0

12

0

347

469

-122

14

12 Warriors

19

7

0

12

0

303

430

-127

14

13 Dragons

19

6

0

13

0

348

430

-82

12

Sea Eagles

+/-

PTS

+257 35

14 Cowboys

19

4

0

15

0

336

504

-168

8

15 Bulldogs

19

3

0

16

0

282

462

-180

6

16 Broncos

19

3

0

16

0

252

592

-340

6

4732 6007

ROUND 20 V

Thursday, September 24 7.50pm Suncorp Stadium

V

Friday, September 25 6.00pm Cbus Super Stadium

V

Friday, September 25 7.55pm ANZ Stadium

V

Saturday, September 26 3.00pm ANZ Stadium

V

Saturday, September 26 5.30pm Kogarah Oval

V

Saturday, September 26 7.35pm Bankwest Stadium

V

Sunday, September 27 2.00pm Central Coast Stadium

V

Sunday, September 27 4.05pm Kogarah Oval

Face In Th e Crowd

IS THIS YOU YOU? U? Is this you at a recent Penrith Panthers game? If it is, you’ve won a Hoyts Family Movie Pass to use at any Hoyts Cinema in Australia! To collect your prize, visit the Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown and ask for Nathan Taylor.

Extra Time Issue Number 2020-025

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

nrl ladder & fixtures

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

CLEARY BACKS YEO FOR CAPTAINCY NATHAN TAYLOR

W

ith Panthers skipper James Tamou Tigers - bound next season, one of the favourites for the vacated captaincy gig at Penrith has thrown his support behind someone else.

Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary believes club stalwart Isaah Yeo should be next in line for the coveted position, not him.

On Monday afternoon, Extra Time asked the 22-year- old if he would put his hand up for the club captaincy role with Tamou departing.

“I don’t know… obviously I’d be very honoured to be captain of a club like Penrith, but I think there’s a lot of leaders amongst the group at the moment,” Cleary said.

“Jimmy (Tamou) has really set the bar high, he’s someone everyone looks up to and respects.”

While many believe Cleary would make a strong captaincy choice for Penrith in the future, many also argue that it could be too soon in his career to take on such a challenging role.

The NSW Blues halfback said the club is

Nathan Cleary is the favourite to win the Dally M Medal. Photo: Megan Dunn. currently flooded with leaders, but he believes 25-year- old Yeo – who made his NRL debut with the Panthers in 2014 – would be the perfect replacement.

“Isaah Yeo, who captained last week

WARREN SMITH

Brought to you by

against the Cowboys, did a really good job and he’s so similar to Jimmy,” Cleary said.

“He’s so well respected, he’s the nicest guy and gets through so much work.

“He’s a freak of a player and I think he’d

make a great captain.”

Currently in career- best form, Cleary is one of the favourites to secure the NRL’s biggest individual honour this season – the Dally M Medal.

While a deduction of six points for a twogame suspension earlier this season has dented his chances, many experts in the game believe Cleary has still done enough throughout the year to claim the prize.

If Cleary is announced as the winner on October 19, he’ll be the first Panther since Greg Alexander in 1985 to win the game’s Player of the Year award.

Asked if he’s done enough to win the Dally M, Cleary’s answer was somewhat surprising.

“I don’t reckon, I don’t reckon I’ll win it,” he admitted to Extra Time.

“To be honest, I haven’t really thought about it too much either. I’m just happy at the moment where I’m at – grateful to be part of this team.

“If I win it, I’ll be super grateful but if not, I’d take a season like this any day of the week the way the team is going, rather than win the Dally M.” Cleary will have one last chance to stake his claim for the Dally M Medal when he lines up for the Panthers against the Bulldogs this Saturday afternoon at ANZ Stadium.

the western weekender • extra time » Friday, September 25, 2020

feature

Tradies are the winners

LEAGUE HAS PLENTY OF DEPTH been travelling, but I think it’s fair to say that there are very likely as many reasons to be found off the field as on as to why some clubs are struggling in 2020.

What the pundits opposed to expansion overlook is how many players each season prove that they can play at the NRL level when given a chance to fill in for players far more established than themselves.

Charnze Nikoll- Klokstad couldn’t get a game for the Warriors two years ago – now he’s one of the star fullbacks in the game for a Raiders team that a had hole to fill and took a chance on a relative unknown.

So with that in mind, here’s a 13 man line- up of players looking for either a second chance at a regular position in the NRL or those who have shown there’s a healthy supply of late bloomers out there just looking for their big opportunity.

1. Nicho Hynes 2. George Jennings 3. Hayze Perham 4. Billy Smith 5. Matt Ikuvalu 6. Matt Burton 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Jaiman Jolliffe 9. Tom Starling 10. Toby Rudolph 11. Jack Murchie 12. Bayley Sironen 13. Jack Hetherington

WHY choose The Western Weekender’s directory to advertise YOUR business?

Standard Directory Sites

U Intrusive capture of

reader information U Readers often need an account to access tradies U Lots of competition of other tradies

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WW42187

T

he focus in the footy world at the moment is, naturally enough, the upcoming Finals series and whether the Panthers can keep their winning streak alive and take it all the way to the Grand Final.

But while the chatter goes back and forth about whether the young Penrith outfit can overcome more experienced outfits like the Roosters and Storm, there’s another competition taking place between consortiums who can only dream about being part of a Finals campaign.

The race is on to be the 17th team in the NRL, with the powerful Redcliffe Dolphins club making headlines this week as they present what they hope will be a compelling case for inclusion.

They believe they have all the answers to any questions the NRL can fire their way and they certainly have the financial clout to hit the ground running should they be given the green light.

The only thing they don’t have is a coach and a playing roster, which brings us to the counterpoint that is always put forward by those who don’t believe there’s enough depth in the NRL playing ranks to warrant a 17th team being added to the mix.

It’s a reasonable viewpoint when, at times, you see how poorly some of the teams at the bottom of the ladder have

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender • extra time

celebrity tipsters

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the western weekender • extra time » Friday, September 25, 2020

Broncos Knights Roosters Panthers

weekender

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Lower Mountains

AIR CONDITIONING

4735 6411 DIAMOND DEALER

SPLIT SYSTEMS

Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW $1790 3.5kW $1980 5kW $2410 7kW $2790 8kW $3240

SPLIT SYSTEMS

Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW $1620 0 3.5kW $1730 0 WIFI 5kW $2160 0 INCLUDED 7kW $2480 0 8kW $3110 0

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY

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SPLIT SYSTEMS

SPLIT SYSTEMS

Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW $1650 3.5kW $1830 5kW $2210 7kW $2560 8kW $3170

Reverse Cycle Inverters FULLY INSTALLED 2.5kW $1810 3.5kW $2120 5kW $2470 7kW $2890 8.5kW $3510

ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST • 5 YEAR WARRANTY

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Based on a back-to-back install, single storey

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HEATING & COOLING SPECIALISTS WW40592

44

SPONSORED CONTENT

Penrith Anglican College builds bright futures

P

receive the best possible start to their education.

Early literacy skills are recognised as one of the most important foundation skills for a child’s success at school.

Exploring the world through reading stimulates the imagination and enables students to think creatively, anticipate outcomes and sets them up to achieve their best.

WW41796

enrith Anglican College has been using a research-based program developed by Macquarie University with all students in Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 to ensure their students

The InitiaLit program is based on the foundation that explicit and direct teaching is at the heart of how literacy is taught in the early years of schooling.

It has enabled teachers at the College to use a coherent and universal approach to teaching the fundamentals in literacy in the classroom.

“After just two years, we are seeing great results across all classrooms,” according to Primary Teaching and Learning Co-ordinator Stephen Nott.

“The use of PreLit in our pre- Kindergarten classrooms and the InitiaLit programs in Kindergarten to Year 2 has seen a marked improvement in the overall attainment, confidence and progress of students.

“We have also seen a decline in the number of students who require small group and individual intervention, which is encouraging for all involved in the program, and the students love it.”

The InitiaLit whole - class literacy program is proving to successfully provide students in the first three years of schooling with the essential core knowledge and strong foundations to become successful and independent readers and writers.

The College, which is located on Wentworth Road at Orchard Hills, is currently taking enrolments for Kindergarten 2021.

To find out more about the reading program or enrolling at Penrith Anglican College, contact the College Registrar, Mrs Hazel Salmon, on 4736 8100 or visit their website www.penrith.nsw.edu.au.

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

Building a bright future Enrolling now for 2021

Book a personal tour of our campus.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Visit our website or call 4736 8100 to enquire now.

www.penrith.nsw.edu.au

To Serve Christ

A member school of the Anglican Schools Corporation

45

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

SPONSORED CONTENT

Dedicated to providing a quality education to all

K

ingswood South Public School is committed to providing a quality education for every student.

The school vision is that “Kingswood South Public School is dedicated to providing a quality education that is inclusive for every student where the school values of be safe, be a learner and be respectful are paramount”.

Kingswood South’s P-6 learning environment includes a pre-school which is rated as Exceeding National Quality Standard, a special education unit with five classes catering for students with disabilities, 12 mainstream classes, School Counsellor, the Penrith Hearing and Vision Itinerant Teams, the Braille Interpreter and the Senior Psychologist, Education.

The school has a dedicated, collaborative and enthusiastic team of staff who ensure all students are known, valued and cared for.

The school offers student leadership opportunities through student elected Year 6 leaders, a Student Representative Council elected from K-6, library monitors and sport house captains that are involved in leadership opportunities throughout the year.

Quality Literacy and Numeracy Programs delivered via explicit direct instruction are a main focus for Kingswood South Public School.

They celebrate ‘100 Days of Learning’ throughout the school community. Individualised learning goals are set every term by teachers in consultation with students to promote active learning.

Kingswood South Public School also has a strong student welfare and discipline program which fosters a safe learning environment for all.

The ‘Be You Initiative’ is a focus for community involvement in wellbeing.

Creative and Performing Arts is supported by the whole school community with students involved in several regional Performing Arts Festivals, debating and public speaking.

Kingswood South also participates in the Premier’s Sporting Challenge to enable its students to develop skills in a range of different sports.

Talk to the school today about 2021 enrolment for Kindergarten, which is now open.

For more information, call the school on 4736 2408.

Kingswood South Public School Enrolling for 2021 Kindergarten

Quality Literacy and Numeracy Programs Caring and supportive school environment Student wellbeing a priority Enrolling for Preschool 2021 High quality early childhood education for the year prior to school for children 4 to 5yrs Rated as Exceeding National Quality Standard 46

WW41802

SPONSORED CONTENT

Students aim high at Penola Catholic College

P

enola Catholic College Emu Plains is a co-educational college Years 7-12 providing quality education for students of the Greater Penrith and Blue Mountains area.

Penola is a newly transformed college named in the spirit of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first saint Mary Mackillop and her first school in

Penola, South Australia.

The school community learning and wellbeing programs focus on building the key values of courage, compassion, integrity and hope in all aspects of school life.

The college is part of the prestigious P- TECH program that allows students to work in close partnership with Price

Waterhouse Coopers(PwC), Telstra and IBM. The students have the opportunity to develop skills in design thinking, problem solving and critical thinking in application to cyber security, robotics, artificial intelligence and communication capabilities.

Students work with the collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

partners both as mentors on school site, virtually and off- site. Students have developed strong employment capabilities and credentials that will assist their rĂŠsumĂŠ and post- school options. This model of learning is contemporary and allows students to be exposed to cutting edge technology.

The Learning spaces are open, light filled and inspire innovative and creative learning experiences. The college has several spaces that enable students to learn by collaborating with peers and developing independent learning skills.

The Mackillop Learning Centre, Junior and Senior Learning Hubs all promote these contemporary learning skills required for jobs of the future.

The college supports students in the HSC learning pathway by ensuring each student has a HSC Learning Coach to guide and mentor students throughout the challenging HSC journey allowing them to be successful in achieving their HSC goals enabling them to secure a University placement or securing work placements.

In 2021, students will be able to commence wearing the new Penola school uniform proudly, which reflects the modern and contemporary needs of their learning community.

Students in Years 7-10 will all be part of a Careers program through BECOME education where they will be exploring personal and careers goals throughout the year as part of a holistic approach to learning and student wellbeing.

the western weekender Âť Friday, September 25, 2020

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

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WW42047

SPONSORED CONTENT

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

A Catholic education provides an unrivalled learning experience – Social and emotional learning programs.

– Counselling and access to specialist services such as psychology, speech language pathology, occupational therapy, and numeracy and literacy coaching.

With 80 schools in western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, Catholic Education in the Diocese of Parramatta is known for high quality, values-based education.

They provide a foundation for the full development of each student – intellectually, spiritually, socially, emotionally and physically.

A Catholic education in the Diocese of Parramatta is innovative, personalised and relevant to the needs of today’s learner.

Due to COVID- 19, some families may not have had the opportunity to make the usual preparations for school in 2021: it’s

not too late to enrol! Enrolments are now open, and you are welcome!

Catholic Education in the Diocese of Parramatta is supporting families as the impact of COVID- 19 continues to be felt in the community. No child will be denied an opportunity to attend a Catholic school because of financial hardship.

Visit www.parra.catholic.edu.au today to find information about your local Catholic school.

SAFE - RESPECTFUL - LEARNERS

Kindergarten 2021 ENROL TODAY... Come and meet our lovely office staff or call 9670 6506

Enrol Online www.banks-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Follow our Facebook Page for upcoming events @BanksPublicSchool

WW41827

I

n these challenging times, Catholic schools in western Sydney offer a safe, welcoming and nurturing community for your child.

Centred on the needs of each student, caring and dedicated teachers provide every student with the support to get the very best learning experience, including: – Collaboration and partnership with parents.

– Tailored learning plans and support.

49

WW41858

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

CONTEMPORARY FACILITIES

PASTORAL CARE & WELLBEING

AFTER SCHOOL STUDY SUPPORT

50

BROAD CURRICULUM

w

www.stdominics.nsw.edu.au

f

t

YEAR 7 EMBARK PROGRAM

ONLINE PARENT PORTAL

SPONSORED CONTENT

The region’s newest school has welcomed its first students

J

is the key intervention for supporting the school community to utilise the technology we have at our fingertips to its full potential.

Since opening its doors, staff have begun the professional learning suite that follows the succinct guidelines defined by Microsoft in the school’s transformation journey. These include: – A commitment to transform

– A culture of learning and growth – A personalised learning and inclusion – Future ready skills for all – Data driven decision making – A Microsoft solutions impact This process will enable Jordan Springs Public School’s students, teachers and office staff alike to build its capacity in working collaboratively, effectively and efficiently.

It is an exciting adventure that is mirroring the education leaders in more than 50 countries from Finland to South Africa, who have already used the Digital Transformation Framework to help plan their strategies in partnership with Microsoft.

Jordan Springs Public School is a new school with a new way of thinking, teaching, learning and communicating.

Call 4726 6020 for more information.

WW42011

ordan Springs Public School is working towards being a Microsoft Showcase School.

Jordan Springs Public School opened its doors to students on July 20, 2020.

This saw 320 students and their families join together as a school community along with the staff appointed to create a school that is future focused and delivering on the philosophy from the Department of Education that every student is known, valued and cared for.

The school itself boasts 27 collaborative learning spaces and vast landscaped gardens for students to explore and interact with parkland features, that have both sensory sculptures and native flora in its design.

This is the foundation for the school’s innovation and connection to teach and learn but also has another very exciting feature to its learning pedagogy; Jordan Springs Public School is a Microsoft Showcase school.

This involves a rigorous teaching and learning platform for the teachers and administration staff as they embark on a new way of engaging educational delivery and school operations.

Led by Microsoft Learning Delivery Specialist Megan Townes, engaging in the Microsoft School Transformation Program

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

51

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS SPONSORED CONTENT

Students feel valued and cared for at Braddock Public School

B

DĂŵƌĞ

ŶŐůŝĐĂŶ ^ĐŚŽŽů ŶƌŽůůŝŶŐ EŽǁ Ăůů ϵϴϯϰ ϭϴϴϭ ƚŽ ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞ Ă ĐŚĂƚ ĂŶĚ ƚŽƵƌ

WW42121

ĂƌůLJ >ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐ ĞŶƚƌĞ Ͳ ϭϭ ϮϬϮϭ

raddock Public School is a K-6 primary school located in Cranebrook.

The school’s core business is delivering high quality and engaging educational programs.

They have high expectations for teaching and learning and deliver excellent literacy and numeracy programs.

This includes collaboration with students to develop literacy and numeracy goals focusing on continual academic growth.

Braddock Public School caters for the needs of all of its students with specialised art, music, sport, kitchen garden, Aboriginal, technology, student voice, school transition and personalised learning programs.

Their drive is to ensure the school meets the needs of each learner. Braddock prides itself on ensuring every student is known, valued and feels cared for and they value parent and community collaboration.

Braddock’s highly dedicated staff go above and beyond in the delivery of innovative programs, providing opportunities for students and ensuring individual and collective success.

Call 4729 0625 to arrange a tour of the school at your convenience.

BRADDOCK PUBLIC SCHOOL

Enrolling now for Kindergarten 2021

Braddock Public School offers high quality teaching and learning programs.

We offer unique opportunities for our students including: • Current research based approaches to learning including visible learning and growth mindset practices • A learning space and specialist teachers dedicated to the creative and performing arts • A K-6 music program • Aboriginal education programs embedded across the school • A school kitchen garden program • A whole year transition to school program for 4 years olds • Positive Behaviour for Learning • A sport and fitness program with specialist staff and equipment • Personalised learning support for students • Technology programs for all learning spaces • Social and emotional wellbeing programs

Braddock Public School is a caring, friendly and supportive environment where all students are known, valued, cared for and thrive.

52

54 - 70 Laycock Street, Cranebrook | Ph: 4729 0392 Principal – Ms Michelle Drage WW42045

wisdom through knowledge Commi ed to a culture of excellence, based on Chris an values & principles

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Heritage College Sydney

x Posi ve, Chris an environment x Individualised student programs encourage them to become confident, ac ve, self mo vated and to pursue excellence in all areas

x Highly qualified professional staff, commi ed to the ethos of the College, the op mal achievement of each student and to best prac ce educa on

x Class sizes assist staff to provide more individualised, needs based tui on x Student Welfare programs supplement classroom learning x Low fee base x Suppor ve, involved, community members.

110 Cross Street, Kemps Creek NSW, 2178 | Ph: 9826 2116 www.hcs.nsw.edu.au | office@hcs.nsw.edu.au WW42122

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54

WW42161

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

SPONSORED CONTENT

Doing it differently: Nepean Christian School offers a unique and fulfilling educational experience for local students of the school and that begins with the way we form relationships.”

Walking around the school there is a sense that this is not like other schools. Spacious grounds are set out amidst natural bushland. Learning facilities are state- of- the- art, thanks to recent building programs and plans are currently in Council for a pre-school for 2022.

The school also has a variety of other initiatives, including a sister school in Vanuatu at which all Year 11 students visit and serve. Senior students also complete leadership training and community service as part of a holistic education grounded in Christian faith.

The school is currently accepting enrolments for 2021 and beyond and would welcome the opportunity to show visitors around this very different place of learning.

Contact 4773 9055 or visit www.nepean.nsw.edu.au.

ENROLLING NOW FOR 2021 Limited positions available

KINDERGARTEN TO YEAR 12 Our heart is to nurture all students, regardless of ability, skill or interest.

Here, all students are loved and valued for who they are, not just what they can do.

We are a rich, diverse, K to 12 learning community, where Christian faith permeates all aspects of school life, including how we bring learning to life and in the relationships that we share.

We are about developing young men and women to enjoy all of God’s good gifts; to love learning and to work together to build community.

DR CAMERON NUNN (PRINCIPAL)

ŝƌĞĐƚ ďƵƐĞƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ĨƌŽŵ WĞŶƌŝƚŚ͕ 'ůĞŶŵŽƌĞ WĂƌŬ͕ tĂƌƌĂŐĂŵďĂͬ^ŝůǀĞƌĚĂůĞ ĂŶĚ ^ƉƌŝŶŐǁŽŽĚ͘

WW42083

N

ot all schools are the same.

Nestled on the outskirts of Penrith is a Christian school that is drawing attention for doing things differently.

Rather than an impersonal institution, Nepean Christian School has focused on building a community, where every child is known by name and teachers prioritise engaging with students, rather than just ticking off the curriculum.

And the outcomes are incredible.

Not only have the academic results continued to surge but indicators of student well-being and creating a sense of belonging are clearly evident throughout the school.

“Valuing children for who God had made them to be rather than just what they can do shapes the whole way teachers relate to students and parents,” Principal Dr Cameron Nunn said.

“For us, faith shapes every part

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

FOR MORE INFO CALL 4773 9055

www.nepean.nsw.edu.au

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

BUSINESS Ensuring your business survives the pandemic Bob Green // Western Sydney Business Centre 0490 251 615 | bob@wsbusiness.com.au

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y now, everyone I have spoken to are well and truly over the COVID-19 issue.

Everyone has an opinion on some aspect of the virus and are making statements about all sorts of things.

The main thing for small business is that you remain focused on surviving and recovering from the crisis.

You couldn’t be in a better state for doing business than NSW. Most of the statistics regarding job creation, support for small business and cross- border rationalism indicate that we are heading forward rather than sitting around navel gazing.

Small business can move forward as well.

Obviously, there are rules we each must follow to stay safe, but we can restart our businesses within this framework to give us the new foundations we need in a new environment.

We need to build a restart plan which takes into account the things we need to do to keep ourselves and our customers safe, how to reach out to the market in a new way, what changes we need to make

YOU KNOW THE YOU KNOW THE

WE

SHOW YOU

to our places of business, what changes do we need to make to our customer interface, and others that are particular to your business.

The lockdown has also caused small business to lose contact with their customer base.

Using all the marketing tools available to you is vital.

But they have to be used effectively because the digital channels are full of “static” from suppliers of similar goods and services.

So how do you start to do it?

Well, you have advisors available through the Business Connect program.

Go to the Business Connect website, look at the Western Sydney Business Centre advisor bios and book a call back from one of them or call Western Sydney Business Centre direct on 4721 5011.

I can also help NDIS providers.

How has your business survived the pandemic? We’d love to hear your stories. Send an email to news@westernweekender.com.au or contact us on social media.

WHY..

WHAT..

HOW..

Local Business Advisors are ready to assist you with Starting or Running Your Business Two Fully Subsidised & Confidential Appointments Small Business Workshops & Training Offices across Western Sydney & the Blue Mountains Mobile Advisors Available to visit you at your home or business WW42175

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the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITH’S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Dami Im roars with new track OVID 19 has changed a lot of plans, but for Dami Im, it has opened a new chapter for the singer-songwriter.

The 2013 ‘X Factor’ winner has just signed with ABC Music and released her new single ‘Paper Dragon’.

Planned to be her entry song for Eurovision 2021, Dami decided to release it after the popular song contest’s cancellation.

“I announced I would be doing Eurovision and this big, bold pop anthem would have been the perfect entry but, after it was cancelled, I didn’t want to just hold onto it,” Dami told the Weekender.

“The co- writer ELKI and I kept working on it and then I recorded it with the producer Konstantin because everybody needs a bit of hope after this year and it made me feel better, so I wanted it to lift up others.”

A nod to her love of synth pop, Dami got a music video made remotely, depicting the dragon she references in the song.

“The song is about believing in yourself and the dragon inside, so when I came across Italian stop motion director

Stefano Bertelli, I knew his work was 100 per cent perfect for the song,” she said.

“It was such an interesting process as he makes videos entirely with paper models and I was so happy with how cute it turned out to be.”

Growing as an artist since her career took off, Dami said she is happy in the place she is at with her new label.

“I love the culture of ABC Music and the people I work with are very supportive of my vision as an artist, so I appreciate that mutual respect,” she said.

“I wasn’t planning on winning a TV singing competition to enter the industry, so it was a whirlwind to navigate it all but now I feel competent and know how to

communicate what I want to achieve.”

Using this time to focus on writing music, Dami plans to release her sixth album next year.

“It has been hard for so many people during COVID, including myself, to stay creative and positive but I have been writing every single day to try to lift my spirits,” she said.

“I want to showcase the light and shade of myself along with the different sound influences that inspire me, so I am looking forward to working towards this album.”

Dami Im’s brand new single ‘Paper Dragon’ is out now on all streaming services.

WW38935

C EMILY FESZCZUK

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Friday, September 25, 2020 ÂŤ the western weekender

FR EE

pair of baby shoes for all orders $ over 75!

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bespokebaby.com.au | 1300 332 229 wwfreebie@bespokebaby.com.au WW42182

Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 St Marys Probus Club Second Tuesday of each month • 0411 248 149

O D UST

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Penrith South Probus Club Third Thursday of each month 4729 21199 Penrith Museum of Printing Saturdays from 10am-2pm Pen Paceway • 0415 625 573

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

WHAT'S ON AND WHERE

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Nepean Retired Men’s Club Third Wednesday of each month • 0401 507 260 Seniors & Pensioners Club Tuesdays at 10am 86 Station Street, Penrith St Marys Stitch and Sew Tuesdays 1pm St Marys Parish Hall Penrith Red Cross Branch Second Thursday of each month • 9623 6702

The fun heats up at Cables Aqua Park

Penrith RSL Travel Club New members welcome 0405 332 464

The weather is warming up and the perfect place to cool down is Cables Aqua Park in Penrith. Newly re-opened from its winter season, it provides fun, excitement and exercise for the whole family. Situated in the back lake of Cables Wake Park, it boasts a series of inflatable slides, trampolines, jumping pillows and obstacles all connected. Get the most fun for your money and let your inner child come to life. It is located at 405 Jamison Road and is open weekends 10am to 5pm. Bookings are required, so visit www.cableswakepark.com.au or call 4722 2537.

Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509

DS I K R O F

Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942

S R O I N FOR SE

Magic fun during the holidays

Pick up a bargain at Country Market

Be wowed by magician Joey Presto at Panthers Penrith this Monday, September 28 at 11am-12pm. Call 1800 061 991.

Stroll through the stalls at Luddenham Country Market this Sunday, September 27 from 10am-2pm. Call 1300 385 838.

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

THE FRIDAY FIVE

PLAYING MORE OF THE MUSIC YOU GREW UP WITH!

FIND THE PERFECT SCHNITTY IN PENRITH!

www.vintagefm.com.au

Australia and Austria don’t really share any similarities other than our names, but we are grateful for their mighty schnitzel. Whether you like it plain or with toppings, a schnitzel is a fan favourite for lunch or dinner with the chicken kind being the top choice. We have chosen the top spots to get some crumbed goodness around Penrith…

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5. O’Donoghues Irish Pub (Great Western Highway, Emu Plains) A pub is the perfect place to get a good old schnitzel and you can’t go past OD’s to enjoy a relaxed meal and drink.

Enjoy a classic panko crumbed chicken breast schnitzel with a choice of sides and sauce for $22 or grab a lunch special during the week for $14, which will get you a yummy schnitty, chips, salad and sauce.

While we know chips and gravy are the go- to pairing, we suggest the steamed greens with mushroom sauce for something different.

4. Peachtree Hotel (Peachtree Road, Penrith) The newly renovated Peachy has refined its menu but they have stuck to their roots with a great schnitzel with added options.

If you have a big appetite grab the giant 400 gram chicken schnitzel for $22 or if you are after a light meal, during the week from 12pm-3pm you can get a $15 smaller version.

For that little bit extra add the Oscar to top your meal with avocado, grilled prawns and bearnaise sauce.

3. Kelly’s Brasserie (Mulgoa Road, Penrith)

FRI 9 OCT 7.30PM

CURTAINS If you’re a fan of a showtune and a backstage story – you’ll love Curtains. Featuring seasoned entertainer Meredith O’Reilly and pianist John Martin.

BOOK NOW | thejoan.com.au 4723 7600 | 597 High St Penrith

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WW41875

TICKETS | Std $40 | Conc. $35

Panthers Penrith boasts 11 restaurants, but Kelly’s serves up food that will make you feel like you are enjoying a home cooked meal made with love.

Their signature chicken schnitzel is hand crumbed with herbs and parmesan which adds something special to the tender meat.

If you are feeling adventurous, load your chicken with Hawaiian, bacon lover or parmigiana toppings on Mondays for just $15 for members.

2. Red Cow Hotel (Station Street, Penrith) The Red Cow is a quintessential pub and you will not be disappointed by the schnitties here.

They keep it simple, but you can’t really improve on a lightly crumbed, crunchy outside with a juicy inside.

Pick up a $15 special on Wednesday nights and make sure to have crisp chips with traditional gravy on the side, it is a match made in heaven!

1. Pioneer Tavern (pictured) (Aspen Street, South Penrith) The Pio, as it is affectionately known, is the place to go if you love schnitzels.

With three different sizes available, their chicken will satisfy no matter how hungry you are feeling but the toppers are what will have you coming back for more.

With 17 options on the set menu plus specials each week, you can feel like you are eating a different cuisine with your favourite schnitzels.

If you are feeling Italian try the Godfather with bacon, salami, chorizo, spinach, parmi sauce and cheese or the Texas with BBQ bacon, prawns, BBQ sauce and cheese.

TV NEWS

Ê While Nine will unleash a wave of new shows next year, it is also bringing back some of its most successful franchises including ‘LEGO Masters’, ‘Married at

OCTOBER 30

THE MADALORIAN, DISNEY+

First Sight’, ‘The Block’, ‘Australian Ninja Warrior’, ‘Doctor Doctor’ and ‘Travel Guides’.

Ê SBS has secured the exclusive broadcast rights to the Tour de France until 2030. Ê Chef Gordon Ramsay will host and produce a brand new game show (yes, you read that correctly) for the BBC. ‘Bank Balance’ is described as a highstakes, high-pressure game show where contestants test their poise, precision, knowledge and nerve to succeed to build themselves a fortune – or see it come crashing down in an instant.

SEPTEMBER 30 8.30PM CLASS ACTION PARK, FOX SHOWCASE

Ê The 12th season of ‘Gruen’ premieres on the ABC on Wednesday, October 14 at 8.30pm.

Ê New HBO documentary ‘Class Action Park’, which goes inside the world’s most dangerous amusement park, premieres on FOX Showcase next Wednesday, September 30 at 8.30pm. The documentary reveals the truth about New Jersey’s Action Park; widely regarded as the world’s most dangerous amusement park and a staple of growing up in the New York/ New Jersey area in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

Sounds fascinating!

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Nathan Taylor

Ê Channel Nine has given viewers an insight into its new shows for 2021. After a six-year hiatus, Nine is bringing back ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ with UK boss Lord Alan Sugar replacing Mark Bouris.

Already signed up for the new season is Michelle Bridges, Michael “Wippa” Wipfli and Olympic gymnast Olivia Vivian. ‘Love Island Australia’ is also back for a third season after not appearing at all in 2020. The new season will go away from the typical island theme and instead be filmed on the Gold Coast. After many years at Channel Seven, Nine is now the new home of fun reality series ‘Beauty and the Geek’, with Sophie Monk taking on the hosting duties. Other new shows coming next year include new drama series ‘Amazing Grace’, news program ‘Under Investigation’ with Liz Hayes, Jo Frost’s ‘The Parent Jury’, new reality series ‘Beach House Escape’, an Aussie version of ‘Celebrity IOU’, and new local factual series ‘Mega Zoo’.

Ê ‘Stars Wars’ fans rejoice! Season two of mega hit ‘The Mandalorian’ will premiere on Friday, October 30 on Disney+.

In the new season, the Mandalorian and the Child continue their journey, facing enemies and rallying allies as they make their way through a dangerous galaxy in the tumultuous era after the collapse of the Galactic Empire.

Gift-tember is coming Receive a bonus $20 Westfield Gift Card when you spend $200 or more at participating retailers*

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PENRITH

WW41949

westfield.com.au/penrith

61

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Want to own this spot?

weekender the western

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by thewesternweekender.com.au | 4722 2998

Contact us today!

4722 2998

1

Crossword ACROSS 1. Prima donna 4. Harvesters 8. Fairy’s rod 11. Creeps 13. Tap fluid 15. Join register 17. Nauseous 18. Senior to 20. Judo level 21. Popular dessert pie 24. Behind 27. Laid eyes on 28. Paris underground 30. Wonderland character 31. Cosmetics house, Elizabeth ...

33. Send back to custody 34. Plant seed 35. Thought 36. Slash 39. Barked 42. Lose blood 44. Reddish-purple 45. Prized fur 46. Writer, Roald ...

48. Army hat 49. Wagging appendages 50. Fertiliser ingredient 52. Fawn shade 54. Footpath’s steppingoff point 55. Stiff 56. Anxiety 57. Payments owing 60. Qualifying race 62. Smashed into 65. Superintend 67. Backbone 69. 1962’s ... missile crisis 70. Scathing put-downs 72. That girl’s 73. Tiny insects 75. Smallest amount 77. Record of hours flown 79. Ring-shaped coral reef 81. ... chi (1’2) 82. Jet black 84. Californian port, San...

85. Stoneworker 86. Quiz 87. Inner layers 88. Dedicatory poems

DOWN 1. Changed fabric colour 2. Sci-fi author, Jules ...

3. Commotion 4. Invitation footnote (1,1,1,1) 5. Away from home 6. Intertwine 7. Crush (fly) 8. Skin between fingers 9. Came up 10. Formed (conclusion) 12. Angry look 14. Linger 16. Nominated 19. Windmill arms 22. Cheerleader’s accessory 23. Cavalry weapons 25. Mare’s gender 26. Deserved 29. Tuna-catching boat 32. Cat’s nemesis 35. Badly brought-up (34) 37. Improvise (2-3) 38. Showy expert 40. External 41. Groggy 42. Online opinion pages 43. Appointments 44. Puritanical person 47. More grating 51. Pilots 52. Cut in two 53. Petroleum component 54. Turkish snacks, doner ...

58. Unnerve 59. Country, ... Lanka 61. Incendiary crime 63. 90 degrees, right ...

64. Actor, ... Hoff man 65. Harmful 66. Fence openings 68. Nudges 71. Fair-haired 72. Stag 74. Absent without leave 76. Charity gifts 78. Exercise clubs 80. Burning 83. Disapproving cry

Last week’s solution

2

3

11

15

4

5

6

7

12

8

13

16

21

28

22

23

29

18

24

25

27

31

33

32

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36

39

40

41

44

42

45

38

46

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49

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51

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58

67

54

56

59

62

60

63

64

68

73

79

65

70

74

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75

71

76

81

84

61

66

69

72

86

37

43

48

57

19

26

30

10

14

17

20

9

77

82

78

83

85

87

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender

88

weekender the western

thewesternweekender.com.au 4722 2998

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

Last week’s Sudoku solution

62

thewesternweekender.com.au | 4722 2998

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

Crossword and Word Search brought to you by

weekender the western

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

THEME: ICE WORDS ADVICE CHOICE COWARDICE CREVICE DEVICE JUSTICE LATTICE NOVICE PRACTICE PRECIPICE PREJUDICE REJOICE SACRIFICE SERVICE SLUICE THRICE TWICE VOICE

Last week’s Word Search solution

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

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

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

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

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

TOFU  ...................................................................

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

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

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

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE FOODS  ...................................................................

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

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

4. ‘The Princess Bride’ is based on a book of the same name.

Who’s the author?

5. What date is ‘Groundhog Day’?

6. What is the first rule of Fight Club, in ‘Fight Club’?

7. What’s the name of Woody’s horse in ‘Toy Story 2’?

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SPECIALISING IN

Test your knowledge about classic movies in this week’s special trivia quiz!

1. Who played the lead role in the ‘Father of the Bride’ movies?

2. In which city do the McCallister family live in ‘Home Alone’?

3. What was the name of the main villain in ‘Die Hard’, played by Alan Rickman?

ANSWERS 1. Steve Martin 2. Chicago 3. Hans Gruber 4. William Goldman 5. April 2 6. Don’t talk about Fight Club 7. Bullseye

Trivia Quiz

63

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

At the movies...

Don’t let this film stay a secret THE SECRET GARDEN +++ 1 hour, 40 minutes EMILY FESZCZUK

Going into ‘The Secret Garden’ I couldn’t remember the exact details of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 novel and the 1993 movie adaptation of the same name, but I knew that I loved them as a child.

As we started to follow spoiled orphan Mary Lennox, who gets sent to the English countryside from India to live with her sad uncle Archibald Craven and discovers a hidden garden... it all started to come flooding back to me.

While it does keep the qualities that made the original story so appealing, director Marc Munden has put a more modern spin on the source material.

It is still a period piece but has a fresher feel to it.

Leading that new atmosphere are the child leads with Mary, her bed ridden cousin Colin and sidekick Dickon, who are strong actors portraying deep themes such as grief and isolation at a young age.

The mood really does shift from a big haunted house to the full-on fantasy in the magical garden. The scenery will have you in awe no matter what age you are as it visually shows the healing powers of happiness and how personalities can bloom with love.

People who loved the originals might not like the changes, but I found them rather enjoyable.

See this movie at...

64

PENRITH

www.hoyts.com.au

WW42176

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

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

HOROSCOPES LIBRA BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOHO ASTRO

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

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

AQUARIUS

PISCES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The fiery Full Moon ignites your spontaneous and adventurous dare-devil side.

But slow down otherwise you’ll put your foot in it and come a cropper! Do your best to find more balance in your relationships and more equilibrium within yourself.

As Aussie actress Naomi Watts said: “You have to make peace with yourself. The key is to find the harmony in what you have”.

ARIES

Thursday night’s Full Moon highlights a financial problem, a self-esteem issue or a challenge that needs to be overcome.

But is a cherished dream taking forever to manifest? Forget about airy-fairy fantasies! Reality planet Saturn urges you to set a solid and achievable goal and then work towards it in a patient and persistent way. Julie Andrews: “Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th”.

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Avoid being an argumentative and drama addicted Ram! The Sun’s visiting peaceloving Libra and Venus makes beautiful music with Mars. So, if you practice the gentle arts of patience and persuasion, you’ll be surprised how much easier life can be. As Mohandas Gandhi once said: “Leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people”.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Thursday’s Full Moon illuminates your solitude/soul zone, so slow down and look within as you contemplate the meaning of life. With Uranus transiting slowly through your sign, think of innovative ways that you can navigate the unpredictable landscape, adapt professionally and pivot personally. Susan Sarandon: “I take responsibility for the ups and downs of my life, and that is very liberating”.

Expect some Full Moon turmoil this week, especially involving your peer group. Even under provocation, strive to display a flexible approach and a diplomatic demeanour. You’re in a hurry to get things done but be especially cautious when it comes to your social circle. Be wary of fake friends or work mates who are undermining your professional ambitions.

Resist the temptation to butt heads with a frustrated boss, authority figure or loved one. Do your best to calm troubled waters and defuse potentially fiery Full Moon situations. But you’re likely feel rather lonely, as people are preoccupied with their own problems and communication is blocked in some way. So avoid being overprotective, as it won’t be appreciated by others.

VIRGO

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

The more intently you try to micromanage relationships this week, the more loved ones or work colleagues will distance themselves from you. And if you are too critical or demanding, then a frustrating power struggle is likely. You’re brimming over with plenty of ideas and are keen to teach or instruct others but don’t assume you have all the answers.

Smart-aleck behaviour will put others off.

Scorpios have strong likes and dislikes and you don’t do things by halves … especially when there’s a Full Moon!

And you could find it difficult to let go of a grudge or grievance. If you stew over perceived slights and sweat the small stuff, then you’ll just end up feeling stressed and exhausted by the end of the week. So avoid getting drawn into complicated discussions!

Prepare for a stop-start kind of week.

You’ve got a head full of fabulous ideas and you’re keen to proceed with lightning speed, but Saturn and retrograde Mars will slow you right down. Money matters look particularly challenging as you are hit with reduced income, extra bills, expensive repairs or rising costs. You’ll be at your bouncy and buoyant best on Thursday and Friday.

Expect some relationship rumbles this week, as retrograde Mars and the fiery Full Moon stimulate your partnership zone. Saturn also urges you to get the ratio right between your personal needs and those of loved ones. If you always give other people too much then there’ll be no petrol left in the tank when you need it. So do your best to reset the balance between giving and receiving.

LEO JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

The Full Moon revs up your adventure zone but hold your horses. Mars is retro so if you are too hasty, you’ll run into obstacles. You also need to be extra careful when communicating with others. If you say or write something when you’re feeling rushed, then it could backfire on you later. And don’t hog the conversation!

As Truman Capote said: “A conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue”.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

This week’s celestial salad throws some Full Moon frustration into the mix, as your ruler Saturn squares retrograde Mars and slows everything down. Which could send your stress levels into the outer stratosphere. Calm down! The Serenity Prayer said: “Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference”.

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65

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

TRAVEL

SYDNEY More Info captaincook.com.au

Reclaim your city and enjoy a magical cruise around Sydney this spring C aptain Cook Cruises has re- imagined cruising on Sydney Harbour with the launch of the new Harbour Bar & Restaurant from September 25. The company’s new vision includes relaxed dining options, a fabulous new bar with live music and pick-ups every 90 minutes.

Spring has arrived and so has our desire for big horizons, sunshine, water and stars. Enter Sydney’s new Harbour Bar & Restaurant – a hybrid of boat, restaurant and bar, where you can escape to beautiful Sydney Harbour in a safe, fun environment.

Guests enjoy a multi- faceted Harbour experience encompassing food, wine, music and amazing views, in a venue so large and open that social distancing is quite literally a breeze.

“The freedom to join the Harbour Bar & Restaurant at a time that suits our guests is a key element of the new 90- minute schedule,” said Captain Cook Cruises General Manager, Anthony Haworth.

“The number of guests on each bar and restaurant level is also carefully managed by the onboard Concierge, so they can sit back, relax and enjoy the experience.”

The Harbour Bar & Restaurant departs from a choice of two city locations – Circular Quay and King St Wharf. With international borders closed, Sydneysiders are reclaiming their city. The crowds have disappeared and driving into the city on a Friday night takes half the time. Parking is easy with great deals available all over town. Frankly, there has never been a better time to come to the city.

On entry you find yourself on the Harbour Bar deck – a fusion of Sydney’s famous rooftop bars, heritage pubs and wine bars, with the added dimension of amazing water- level views. Guests may choose to linger here, enjoying a bespoke cocktail in the comfy lounges, the live acoustic music and a tapas- style bar menu, before heading upstairs to the Harbour Restaurant.

Both the dining experience and the views go up another level at the Harbour Restaurant. You simply can’t get more waterfront than this. The setting is distinctively relaxed with a bistro- style menu featuring local produce prepared simply.

The perfect spot for a quick lunch, a casual catch-up, or dinner with friends.

um Dining range includes a choice of High Tea, Lunch and Dinner options. When only the best will do, the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise will impress your guests from the moment you arrive to the last morsel of the divine six- course degustation menu.

Both the Harbour Bar and Harbour Restaurant includes your reserved table or lounge area, live music and approximately 90 minutes of relaxed cruising, with the option of staying longer if you wish.

The Harbour Restaurant includes your choice of main course from the bistrostyle menu and is priced at $59 per adult, and $29 per child 4-15 years.

The Harbour Bar is priced at $29 per person and guests can purchase from the food, wine and cocktail menu onboard.

As a launching special, book the Harbour Restaurant for only $49 and you can also request a seat in the Harbour Bar before your meal at no additional charge.

For further information and bookings, contact Captain Cook Cruises on 9206 1111 or visit captaincook.com.au.

Happy cruising!

winning peelin’ WW42185

Get that

For seafood lovers, the fresh prawns, oysters, scallops and barramundi are a must and for carnivores the local eye fillet steak is hard to pass. Vegetarian, glutenfree and kid friendly alternatives are also available.

Picks-ups every 90 to 120 minutes from 12 noon to 10.30pm, allow guests to board at a time of their choosing. Stay for one circuit of the Harbour or stay longer if you wish. The Concierge will happily find you a table at either the Bar or Restaurant, in any order you prefer.

The Harbour Bar & Restaurant is cashless with a smartphone ordering system and contactless check- in. The service is fast, friendly and every table offers amazing views.

Spacious outdoor areas are a feature of the Harbour Bar & Restaurant and include a 360-degree open star deck. Two private dining rooms, both with a private outdoor cocktail deck, are ideal for intimate family gatherings, or groups seeking a little more privacy.

If personalised service and an all-inclusive menu is more your style, the Premi-

66

PET HEALTH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ONE POINT HEALTH

GREENCROSS COREEN AVENUE

MAT THEW JEFFRE Y • PHYSIO

DR ERIN SHORT • VET

Jaw pain and tenderness explained Parvovirus can be deadly to our dogs

D

o you experience localised jaw joint pain or tenderness? Is the pain accompanied with clicking or popping sensations of the jaw? You may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.

The TMJ The TMJ is a synovial joint that includes the lower jaw (head of mandible) and the socket (temporal bone). In between the mandible and the socket is an articular disc, which allows the TMJ to glide smoothly when opening and closing the mouth. The TMJ is also stabilised by muscles and ligaments that control the movement of the jaw.

Function of the TMJ There are five primary movements of the TMJ: • Opening of the mouth (depression) • Closing of the mouth (elevation) • Pushing the jaw forward (protrusion) • Pulling the jaw backwards (retrusion) • Moving the jaw side to side (lateral deviation) TMJ dysfunction prevalence TMJ pain can affect up to 75 per cent of individuals at least once in their lifetime.

The reason for the high prevalence is because the TMJ is the most utilised joint

during daily functions such as chewing, talking, and yawning. This dysfunction appears to affect males more than females, with a peak incidence in the early twenties.

What is TMJ dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction is a collective term for multiple symptoms that affect the craniofacial- mandibular complex. TMJ dysfunction is often linked with headaches, teeth grinding, tinnitus, dizziness, anxiety or stress, neck posture, and strength.

Does it even get better?

Effective management strategies include: • Education to be aware of when clenching or grinding the teeth, to utilise relaxation techniques such as meditation prior to bed to relax jaw muscles, and to avoid hard chewy foods, chewing gum, chewing on pen lids or nail biting.

• Manual therapy techniques on the TMJ (intra-oral and extra-oral) • Soft tissue massage and releases on the muscles involved in TMJ function • Applying heat or ice • Neck postural advice and correction • Exercises to improve jaw movement.

W

e are approaching the time of year when we unfortunately begin to see an increase in dogs diagnosed with the potentially deadly Parvovirus.

With positive cases in surrounding suburbs in the past few weeks, we are encouraging all dog owners to check that their dog is up-to-date with their vaccinations.

Parvovirus is a deadly, highly infectious viral disease that affects dogs.

The virus is shed from infected dogs in their saliva, vomit and faeces. It is extremely hardy and can resist most household disinfectants and survive in soil.

It can be transported on shoes, clothes, flying insects and tyres (these kinds of transport are called fomites).

Dogs become infected when there is oral exposure to the virus in faeces, soil and fomites and they will be affected within three to seven days of exposure.

Clinical signs of infection are inappetence, vomiting and haemorrhagic diarrhoea.

The virus causes sloughing of the intestinal lining and attacks the immune system.

Affected dogs have severe abdominal pain; they become dehydrated and will often develop complications like pneumonia and sepsis.

Dogs without treatment normally die rapidly. To detect parvovirus infection a simple test that takes only minutes to perform is available.

There is no way of killing the virus once dogs are affected.

Treatment is intensive and aims to support the body until the virus is fought off by the dog’s own immune system.

Patients require treatment in isolation with IV fluids, antibiotics, anti- nausea medications and pain relief.

They often need plasma transfusions to help replace proteins lost from the gut.

Transfusions also offer some antibodies from the donor.

Recovery depends on the strength of the dog’s immunity and if complications can be successfully treated.

Most dogs will recover with treatment but it can be lengthy and expensive, some dogs despite treatment sadly still die.

Dogs will continue to shed the virus to three weeks after recovery.

The best protection from parvovirus is vaccination.

Puppies require a series of vaccinations, normally three. Adult dogs require boosters to maintain their immunity. There are vaccinations that offer either one or three years of protection.

the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

HEALTHY LIVING

SWIM SAFETY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

NEPEAN AQUATIC CENTRE & EVA BORY’S SWIM SCHOOL J ULIE SHELDR AKE • 4730 89 00

Work still to be done despite positive figures

Puppy Preschool & NEW

Similarly, we can’t yet be certain of the potential impacts of COVID-19 over the coming summer, or of the long- term safety impacts resulting from restricted access to learn to swim programs during periods of lockdown, especially in Victoria.

There were calls for swimming lessons to be classified as an essential service this week, following reports of drownings being up 300 per cent in Victoria during the pandemic, and concerns about children missing out on swimming lessons with summer fast approaching.

Please, prioritise supervision, and enrol your children in swimming lessons if they are not already learning aquatic skills, whether you have a backyard pool or not.

Check pool fences and gates. Learn CPR, so that you know what to do in an emergency.

We can never drown proof our children, but we can do everything possible make them safer.

Adolescent classes available

4-week block with small class sizes With COVID restrictions beginning to lift, we are excited the school is back in session for our puppies and adolescent dogs.

The classes are currently smaller in numbers, socially distanced and also take into consideration your puppy’s age, size and breed.

WW41562

W

hilst every single life lost to drowning is too many, this year’s National Drowning report represents an encouraging step in the right direction. Although 248 people drowned in Australia in 2019/20, this is an eight per cent decrease on the previous year, and a 12 per cent decrease on the 10-year average.

However, we can’t get too carried away with this number, as last summer was unlike any other, and we know that the bushfires changed people’s behaviours, temporarily closed access to national parks and forced holiday cancellations, lowering the total number of Australians swimming and recreating over this period as compared to the previous year.

The 248 fatal drownings also do not reflect the further 504 people who experienced a non- fatal drowning incident, many of whom will experience longterm injuries and challenges as a result.

89 deaths were in NSW, the highest of any state.

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PATIOMAN

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or Email: djconcreteresurfacing@gmail.com

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• Garden Renovation Specialists • Complete Garden Maintenance Programs • Quality Plants supplied and planted • Turf supplied and laid • Ride-on mower avail.

Peter Rowlands 0419 993 866

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT ST MARYS Site Address: Police Station, 38 King St, St Marys NSW 2760 Site Ref: 2760007 1.) The proposed installation will involve the following: • Existing 30m concrete pole (Axicom owned) • Reconfigure 3 existing panel antennas at a centreline elevation (CL) of 25.45m • Install 3 new panel antennas, each 800mm in length, at a CL of 25.45m • Ancillary works involve the installation of 6 new radio boxes to be installed immediately behind the existing antennas, install hybrid cables to run within the internal cable trays of the tower, and works within the shelter to support the proposal.

2.) The proposed installation is deemed to be a Low-impact Facility pursuant to the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the descriptions above.

Consent from council is not required in this instance.

3.) Further information including an EME Report can be obtained from – Wireless Consultation on behalf of Telstra on Mobile: 0436 011 966, at Telstra.enquiries@wirelessconsultation.com.au and at Site Ref: www.rfnsa.com.au/ 2760007 4.) The proposed installation will be in compliance with the ACMA EMR regulatory arrangements. Public notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of the Communications Alliance Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code C564:2018.

5.) We invite you to make a submission. Written submissions can be sent to: Telstra.enquiries@wirelessconsultation.com.au or Zenith Centre, Level 5, Tower B, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 Australia by 5pm on Friday, 9 October 2020.

Call Davis Zora on

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1. The proposed works consist of the replacement of (6) existing panel antennas with (3) 4G panel antennas measuring 2533mm(h) by 350mm(w) and the installation of (3) 5G panel antennas measuring 827mm(h) by 415mm(w) on the monopole.

Ancillary works including the installation of (3) Tower Mounted Amplifiers, (3) Junction Boxes, cabling and electrical equipment.

There will be no increase in height to the facility 2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2018 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au and at www.rfnsa.com.au/2745006 by Monday 12 October 2020.

MINING LEASE APPLICATION Notice is given in accordance with Section 51A of the Mining Act 1992 and Clause 26 of the Mining Regulation 2016 that Mining Lease Application No 592 (1992) for Clay/Shale and Structural Clay has been lodged with the Department of Regional NSW by CFT No. 13 Pty Limited, ACN 636 106 253, over an area of about 12 hectares which is located approximately 14 kilometres south of the town of Penrith, in the Parish of Bringelly, County of Cumberland as shown on the diagram below.

Information regarding this application can be obtained from Hetherington Exploration & Mining Title Services Pty Ltd, Phone Number (02) 9967 4844.

Information regarding landholder’s rights is available from the Department’s website: https://www. resourcesandgeoscience.nsw.gov.au/landholdersand-community/landholders-rights

Lic. %$(#(#5

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the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

SPORT

GIANTS FLOP

GWS left to ponder poor season p.74

Local MMA star Arlene Blencowe will fight Cris Cyborg next month in the United States. Photo: Megan Dunn.

Taking down Cyborg A

s she prepares for the biggest fight of her career, Jordan Springs MMA star Arlene Blencowe says she’s never felt physically and mentally better than she does now.

Next month the 37-year-old mother of two will fly to the United States to face one of the most famous names the sport has ever produced – Cris Cyborg.

The 35- year- old Brazilian- American will put her Bellator women’s featherweight title on the line when she comes up against Blencowe on October 16.

Blencowe said she can’t wait to get

over to the US and fight after such a disruptive year.

“It’s been a long fight camp and I’m very lucky to get this fight in this year,” she told the Weekender.

“I didn’t think I’d get the opportunity to fly to America, so I’m super happy I can get it done.

“I feel like I’m in the best position both physically and mentally and where I am in my personal life to have this fight happen now.”

When Blencowe arrives at her destination on October 8, she’ll be picked up in a private car from the airport and transported straight to her casino hotel.

Once there she’ll be tested for COVID-19

Get that

and locked in her room until the result comes back negative.

“After the negative test result is returned, we will only be allowed in the quarantined areas of the casino. We can go outside and get fresh air, but we can’t leave the premises to do any sightseeing like we usually would,” she said.

ESPN currently ranks Cyborg the number three pound- for- pound female fighter in the world. She won the Bellator title in her last outing, stopping Julia Budd by fourth-round TKO in January.

When Blencowe and her opponent step into the cage in three weeks’ time, it will be a very unusual atmosphere to what the pair are accustomed to.

“There will be no crowds watching at all,” Blencowe revealed.

“I think that will affect her more than me – she’d be used to fighting in front of packed out arenas. I don’t think it’s going to bother me at all.”

Blencowe has won her last three Bellator fights and is coming off a unanimous decision win over UFC veteran Leslie Smith last November.

Blencowe said she’s putting it all on the line as she prepares for the biggest match-up of her life.

“Every fight camp I just want to get better and better, this fight camp I feel like I’ve left no stone unturned,” she said.

winning peelin’ WW42184

NATHAN TAYLOR

71

Griffith heads east Penrith Cricket Club star moves on from Sydney Thunder NATHAN TAYLOR

L

isa Griffith’s Sydney Thunder days are over, opting to sign with crosstown rivals the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season.

The 28- year- old all- rounder joins the Sixers after three seasons in the lime green. Griffith, who grew up in Bathurst and plays with the Penrith Cricket Club, played 29 matches for the Thunder taking 11 wickets.

In 2017, she returned to the elite level of the game following a six- year hiatus spent working on cattle stations throughout Australia’s northern states.

Griffith will provide experience with bat and ball, and brings strong leadership skills having captained the NSW Breakers in five WNCL matches, including the loss to Western Australia in the Final last summer.

Griffith said she was looking forward to immersing herself in the culture at the Sixers and learning from head coach Ben Sawyer, noting there were many positives awaiting at her new club.

“I am really excited to have the chance to work with Benny Sawyer, he’s a fantastic bowling coach,” she said.

“Also to be able to play alongside players like Ellyse Perry and Alyssa Healy, who I grew up being inspired by and aspiring to be like, will be great.

“The Sixers pride themselves on playing an attacking brand of cricket and I hope that will also help improve my game.”

Griffith revealed she had chatted with Healy about a move to the Sixers before putting pen to paper.

“I caught up with Midge about her thoughts about coming across and she talked to me about the values the club has,” she said.

“The family orientated nature of the club, the attacking brand of cricket – those things really appealed to me.”

The Penrith grade cricket star said she was equally thankful for her time at the Thunder and the opportunity that a move east offered.

“I’m extremely grateful for the time and opportunities I had at the Thunder,” Griffith said.

“I have come to the Sixers with an

Lisa Griffith has signed with the Sixers. open mind and will be grateful for any opportunity.

“One thing I really want to do this season is improve my fielding abilities, contribute with the bat and ball and anything else is a bonus.”

• •

358 Jamison Road, Penrith Ph: 4721 3871 | www.arnalltrophies.com.au | arnall_trophies@bigpond.com •

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72

Trophies | Plaques | Shields | Honour Boards | Glassware and more

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

“Both teams played well, I just think our desire may have been greater than theirs – our boys didn’t give up. It was very exciting and very rewarding for the boys. If you work that hard and get the reward, it’s a good incentive to encourage you to keep working hard.”

While getting into the Grand Final is hard, winning it is even harder.

The Rams will go into Saturday’s game as outsiders, with their opponents from the Shire looking to secure back- to- back Platinum Division premierships.

Kirk said he’s expecting another tight and tough contest.

“Power will be very physical, they are a good football side,” he said.

“I think the team that works the hardest and has the most desire is going to win the game.”

Power will go into tomorrow’s Grand Final full of confidence having belted the Rams by a whopping 50 points earlier this month.

Kirk said previous encounters will be thrown out the window come 3.40pm tomorrow.

“I’m not too fussed with the result from a few weeks ago, they played well and we didn’t that day,” he said.

“It’s a new dawn and we’ll just take excitement and enthusiasm into the game and see what we can do.”

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

Story continued from » p. 76

CRICKET

•

Rams are underdogs for season decider

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Stadium’s legacy lives on Athletes and dignitaries attend special luncheon to remember Sydney 2000 Games

2

0 years on from the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games canoe slalom competition, current and past Olympians came together at Penrith Whitewater Stadium last week to celebrate two decades of Olympic legacy.

Last Thursday, Sydney Olympians Robin Bell and Kai Swoboda and Rio Olympians Lucien Delfour and Ian Borrows were joined by Sydney 2000 Canoe Slalom Head Coach and Olympian Richard Fox, Sydney 2000 Team Manager Noel Harrod, Australian Olympic Committee Vice President Helen Brownlee, Australian Olympic Committee CEO Matt Carroll, Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh, Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler as well as a number of other dignitaries, to commemorate the Sydney 2000 Games that kicked off a 20- year success story of the world class Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

“It’s great catching up with everyone.

Some of the guys on the team, I haven’t seen for about 19 years,” Bell said.

“There’s a lot of stories that happened in 2000, some of them you can share, some

Plenty of well-known faces attended the celebrations last week. Photo: JGRImages. of them you can’t – but there’s a lot of good, fun times. “ Delfour, who is set to represent Australia at the Tokyo Games next year, joined the celebrations in Penrith and spoke about the impact the Whitewater Stadium has had on his career.

“I came out here to Australia [from France] in 2007 and that was my first time

on an actual artificial course that’s Olympic sized and I thought it was amazing,” he said.

“It’s such a different thing from a natural river, it’s messy and perfect at the same time and it’s so much fun. For me, it’s great to train here every day, it’s one of the best courses in the world.”

Carroll acknowledged the legacy of

Penrith Whitewater Stadium which, two decades on, is still pivotal to the success of Australian canoe slalom.

“20 years on, it’s one of the great legacy venues from the 2000 Games,” he said.

“Not only is it a legacy venue but it’s also a way for the athletes to keep training for the Games that have rolled on since then and Australia’s done very well in the sport of paddle.

“So, having this centre built at the time was obviously a lot of foresight and it’s lasted for years.”

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the origins of this iconic Sydney 2000 legacy venue, also marks the starting point of an exciting future for the Olympic sport of canoe slalom and the local community with a $2.3 million Federal Government grant towards a permanent high- performance facility at the venue, securing a bright future for paddling in Australia.

The future plans for the venue were presented at a celebratory luncheon at Lakeside Restaurant last week and will continue to be unveiled over the next couple of months.

The Sydney 2000 20th anniversary celebrations will continue until October 1.

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the western weekender » Friday, September 25, 2020

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73

Giants ponder poor year Finals flops: GWS miss post-season after poor finish to COVID-impacted season NATHAN TAYLOR

1

2 months is a long time in footy and that couldn’t be more evident for the GWS Giants.

This time last year they were preparing to play in their first ever AFL Grand Final, this week the club was reflecting on what could’ve been after missing their first Finals series in five years.

After an inconsistent year of results, GWS ended the COVID- affected 2020 season in 10th place, with eight wins and nine losses to their name.

Speaking with the media after his side’s 52- point beating by St Kilda last week, Giants coach Leon Cameron was almost at a loss for words when asked to sum up the season.

“Where do you start?” he asked.

“It was just a disappointing season, we really couldn’t get going at all.”

Like the Victorian clubs, the Giants and Sydney Swans (finished 16th) were forced to play the majority of their home games on the road this season.

Cameron didn’t want to use the COVID situation as an excuse for his side’s up and

Giants coach Leon Cameron after his side’s huge loss to St Kilda. down year, but many believe playing away from Sydney for so long was a significant factor in the side not performing well.

“That would be taking the easy road out,

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Friday, September 25, 2020 « the western weekender

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blaming that as an excuse,” he said after last week’s game.

“Our normal fight and finding ways to win games – doesn’t matter whether

you’re interstate or here in a Queensland hub – it just wasn’t there. It was particularly disappointing in the last three weeks when your season is on the line and you get beaten by 12 points, five points, and then we probably conceded and rolled over in the second half tonight.”

With Cameron re- signed for two more years, attention now turns to 2021 and who the Giants will recruit and retain.

Already several GWS players have announced their departures including Tom Sheridan, Aidan Corr and Sam Jacobs. Star defender Zac Williams will also explore free agency and veteran Jeremy Cameron could be on the move also. Stalwarts Shane Mumford and Heath Shaw, both 34, are tipped to retire.

“I don’t think it will be a huge list turnover, I think it’s a correction year and I’d be disappointed if we can’t bounce back next year,” Cameron said.

“There’s no doubt there will be some changes though but I don’t see it as a huge list overhaul.

“I still think we’ve got a great list that can really challenge, but we need to regain the respect of the footy club because we lost it in six months.”

Around the grounds AFL: The Penrith Rams are through to the AFL Sydney Platinum Division Grand Final after defeating the Balmain Tigers 72-62 last Sunday. Rams veteran Phil Aumann kicked a team-high five goals in the thrilling 10-point win.

Penrith will take on Southern Power in this Saturday afternoon’s Grand Final at Rosedale Park. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Platinum Division Reserves team won’t be playing in this weekend’s decider after getting smashed by Macquarie University 145-22 in last Saturday’s semi-final. The Rams were never in the contest from the opening bounce, down 51-2 after the first quarter.

CRICKET: Sydney Thunder’s all-time leading wicket-taker Daniel Sams has reaffirmed his commitment to Thunder Nation, signing a contract extension that will see him remain at the club until the end of BBL|12. The left-arm quick dominated the Big Bash League last summer, finishing with a recordbreaking 30 wickets at an average of 15.37, overtaking Kane Richardson’s record of 24.

RUGBY: The Penrith Emus have continued their losing ways, defeated at the hands of Eastwood 47-14 in Round 10 of the Shute Shield. The Emus scored a couple of tries in the contest, but in the end they were no match for their third-placed opponents. Tomorrow afternoon the Penrith Emus will hit the road once again when they travel to Woollahra Oval to face sixth-placed Eastern Suburbs.

SUPER NETBALL: Giants Netball are officially out of Finals contention after going down to the West Coast Fever 71-66 in Round 13 of the Super Netball competition. The Giants led at half-time before the Fever enjoyed an excellent third quarter to take a narrow lead into the fourth. This Saturday afternoon at Nissan Arena the Giants will play arch rivals the NSW Swifts in the final game of the regular season.

NETBALL: The Panthers Opens team have failed to win back to back games, hammered by the Central Coast Heart 69-46 in Round 9 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition.

Meanwhile, the Panthers Under 23s team couldn’t make it three straight wins, losing to the Heart 57-45. Both teams will take on the ERNA Hawks in Round 10.

OZTAG: The Red Ninjas mixed OzTag team, which features several Western Weekender team members, have lost their Division 4 winter season Grand Final 10-3. The Ninjas led the Security Risks early in the match, but were overpowered by their opponents’ youth and enthusiasm late in the contest. Neil Magus and Monique Lacaze were the try scorers for the Ninjas.

To make a submission to Around The Grounds, email Nathan.Taylor@ westernweekender.com.au. You can also private message us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/westernweekender or Tweet us @wwpenrith.

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SPORT Rams close in on trophy Friday, September 25, 2020

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he Penrith Rams will use their ‘underdog’ status in this weekend’s Grand Final as motivation, as they look to claim their second AFL Sydney premiership in three years.

The Rams will take on Southern Power in tomorrow afternoon’s decider at Rosedale Park after both sides knocked off the top two regular season teams in last week’s semi-finals.

Power took care of business against minor premiers Macquarie University, while the Rams enjoyed a thrilling 10-point win over the Balmain Tigers.

Penrith came out hot in the first quarter, but it was the boys from Balmain who led late in the final term. Fortunately for Rams supporters, the side hit back with three quick goals and a 10- point buffer with just a couple of minutes left on the clock.

The 72-62 win is now being billed as one of the club’s “most tenacious victories ever”.

Rams coach Kevin Kirk said he was on the edge of his seat for the entire match.

“It’s very hard to maintain your composure in those types of matches, you try and control yourself but it’s hard,” he admitted.

Story continues on » p. 72

Penrith Rams players celebrate their semi-final win last weekend. Photo: Christian Triffitt.

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