Lillypilly has a diverse range of wines from dry to sweet, including dessert and fortified wines. Winemaker Robert has won over 1000 awards and his passion for wine continues to enable him to capture the Riverina region’s unique climate and flavours in a bottle. Order now on their website
WE often hear that Australian men face higher rates of suicide, heart disease, lung cancer and diabetes, and that it’s driven in part by their lower uptake of preventative healthcare.
But higher rates of smoking, alcohol use, other drugs and even gambling are also part of the picture.
This Men’s Health Week, Health Education Officer Len Marks is encouraging men to challenge the social stigmas and cultural barriers that can prevent them from seeking support.
Len has spent decades supporting men affected by addiction and the health challenges that often accompany it, including alcoholism, smoking, gambling and associated behavioural and mental health problems.
“If people are still in the throes of addiction, going and checking on their health is not a priority. It’s just not,” says Len.
Len says these problems can be aggravated by unhelpful messages about self-reliance that men often absorb from as early as childhood.
“That particular lie around being the tough loner is fed to us from a very young age,” says Len, who instead encourages men to rethink what strength really looks like.
“It’s actually quite a radical move to start reaching out and looking after your health, and to challenge those messages that we’ve got to tough this out alone.”
One message from early in Len’s career has stayed with him for more than 30 years, and it emphasises that non-judgemental care and support is available for men who seek it:
“If you want to use drugs, that’s your business. If you want to stop, that’s our business.”
While Len’s work centres on alcohol and other drugs, his message is one that sits at the heart of Men’s Health Week: don’t wait until you’re in crisis. Reach out, have the conversation, and take that first step towards better health.
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AUSTRALIANS are encouraged to nominate people in their communities who are making a real difference, with nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards closing on 31 July 2026.
Across the country, extraordinary Australians are contributing to their communities in ways both big and small. Some are well known, whilst many are quietly changing lives every day. The National Australia Day Council is calling on Australians to shine a light on these stories by submitting a nomination.
The Awards rely entirely on public nominations, and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered. Nominating is simple: explain who the person is, what they have done and why their contribution matters.
“Every year these Awards begin with someone taking the time to recognise another person’s contribution. A nomination can shine a light on extraordinary Australians whose work is improving lives, strengthening communities and helping shape the nation,” said Todd Ashurst, Interim CEO, National Australia Day Council.
One nomination can:
• Raise the profile of important work
• Recognise the contribution of an individual
• Open the door to further recognition. Importantly, nominators do not need to know the person they put forward personally. Many nominees are people Australians have seen, heard about, or been inspired by through their work, leadership or service. Nominators can also choose to remain anonymous.
The Australian of the Year Awards recognise outstanding Australians across four categories:
• Australian of the Year
• Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over)
• Young Australian of the Year (16–30 years)
• Australia’s Local Hero
Each state and territory selection panel chooses four recipients, one in each award category. Those 32 recipients then represent their state or territory at the national awards announcement in Canberra on 25 January 2027.
HOW TO NOMINATE & DEADLINE
Nominations can be submitted online at australianoftheyear.org.au.
Nominations close at midnight AEST on Friday, 31 July 2026.
NEPEAN Hospital’s Emergency Department recently came together to celebrate Sri Lankan Sinhala and Tamil New Year for the second year running.
Organised by our Sri Lankan ED staff and the Nepean Emergency Wellbeing Interest Group, the celebration was filled with traditional food, games and friendly competition. Staff enjoyed a spread of authentic homemade dishes, showcasing the rich flavours and hospitality of Sri Lankan culture.
The event was attended by staff before shifts,
during meal breaks, and after finishing work, with many dropping in throughout the afternoon to join the celebrations. The event was a wonderful opportunity to share traditions, build cultural understanding, and strengthen connections across the team.
“The generosity, enthusiasm and pride of our colleagues in sharing their traditions created a memorable celebration embraced by all who attended,” said Dr Nasim Erfani, Emergency Staff Specialist.
Tof the Penrith Stadium has reached its highest point and the first roof panel was lifted into place on Friday 12th June.
More than 1,100 workers have been on site, delivering essential local jobs and keeping construction activity flowing through the Western Sydney economy.
With the grandstands now in place, the stadium’s shape and scale are taking form. Fans can now see the steepness of the stands, which will significantly improve sight-lines to the field.
The western grandstand will deliver:
• modern media and broadcast facilities
• upgraded player amenities, including change rooms purpose-built to host both
women’s and men’s matches, as well as recovery pools
• corporate suites and flexible function spaces suitable for events year-round
• expanded kitchen and back-of-house facilities to support major events
• more food and beverage options throughout the venue
• increased toilet facilities across the precinct.
These upgrades will help cement Penrith Stadium as a premier destination for professional sporting and entertainment in Western Sydney.
Over the coming months, construction will focus on continuing the fit-out of the grandstands and completing the roof installation over both the eastern and western grandstands.
SYDNEY’S dachshund community is being called to make history this Sunday, as ‘World Dachshund Day Penrith 2026’ prepares to bring hundreds of sausage dogs and their families together at its brand-new home, The Orchard, Tench Avenue, Penrith.
After three successful years and a record-breaking turnout at last year’s Penrith Dachshund Festival at Penrith Paceway, the event has officially outgrown its former venue. With space becoming limited due to growing demand, organisers made the decision to move the festival to a larger location for 2026.
This year, World Dachshund Day Penrith will be held at The Orchard, offering more space, a bigger festival atmosphere, and a fresh new experience for dachshund owners, families, vendors, media and the wider community.
Event organiser Chris Boswell from Dogs in the Park NSW said the move marks an exciting new chapter for the much-loved Penrith event.
“The Penrith Dachshund Festival has grown every year, and after last
year’s huge attendance, we knew we needed more room. The Orchard gives us the space to create a bigger and better day for dachshunds, their owners, local businesses and the community.”
new businesses are
also joining the festival for the first time, making this one of the biggest dachshund-focused market days in NSW.
The 2026 event will feature a mix of returning crowd favourites and exciting new competitions, giving dachshunds of all ages, sizes and personalities their chance to shine. From fun races and best-looking competitions to novelty categories and family-friendly entertainment, the day is designed to celebrate everything people love about the dachshund breed.
Organisers are also calling on dachshund owners from across Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Illawarra, Newcastle, the Nepean / Hawkesbury and regional NSW to attend and help create one of the largest gatherings of dachshunds in the country.
“We want dachshund owners from far and wide to come together at Penrith and help us create something truly special. This is more than just an event — it is a chance to be part of dachshund history,” Boswell said.
World Dachshund Day Penrith 2026, Sunday 21 June 2026, 10:00am –3:00pm, The Orchard, Tench Avenue, Penrith NSW, hosted by Dogs in the Park NSW and is a ticketed event.
Avibrant new mural inspired by local young people has transformed an 11-metre wall at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct, bringing colour, creativity and energy to the popular Youth Zone. VIBRANT new mural inspired by local young people has transformed an 11-metre wall at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct, bringing colour, creativity and energy to the popular Youth Zone.
The mural was shaped by ideas shared by young people who contributed their thoughts on themes, colours and styles earlier this year. Their input helped guide the final design, which was created and painted by artists Daniel Walton and Scott Nagy.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the mural reflects
the voices and creativity of young people in the community.
“This mural is a fantastic example of what can happen when young people are invited to share their ideas and help shape the spaces they use,” Cr Carney said.
“Gipps Street Recreation Precinct has quickly become a favourite place for young people to meet, play and spend time outdoors. This artwork celebrates their creativity and helps make the Youth Zone an even more vibrant and welcoming place.”
Artist Daniel Walton said working with ideas from local young people helped shape a mural that reflects the spirit of the space.
“We drew on the ideas young people shared with us and combined them with elements of sport, native wildlife and bold colour to create something that really belongs to this space,” Mr Walton said.
The new mural adds to the variety of activities available at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct and highlights Council’s commitment to creating places where young people feel connected and included.
Community members are invited to visit the Youth Zone at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct to see the mural and celebrate the creativity of Penrith’s young people.
Learn more about the project at yoursaypenrith. com.au/youth-mural
THE Albanese Government is investing $2.2 million to preserve our wartime heritage and honour veterans in local communities across Australia.
Delivered through the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, funding will go to 92 community-led projects aimed at helping Australians of all ages appreciate the sacrifices made in war, conflict and peacekeeping operations.
One Giant Leap Australia will receive $145,000 under the program for their digital project From ANZAC Cove to the Moon: Australian Women Who Dare.
This project will develop a curated online library profiling 30 remarkable Australian women whose courage, service, and innovation spans more than a century. From the nurses, drivers, signallers, and medical staff who served in the First World War to the engineers, aviators, scientists, cyber specialists, and spacesector leaders shaping Australia’s future today.
Since its inception, the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program has funded thousands of projects nationwide, creating lasting tributes in communities large
and small.
The program is designed to support projects that commemorate our military history and ensure we continue to honour our veterans for many generations to come.
For more information about the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, including how to apply for the 202627 funding round, please visit the STS Grants website.
“The projects we are funding today help local communities large and small to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans for generations to come,” Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh said.
“Just as importantly, they bring people of all ages together to reflect on the impact of war and conflict on their local community.
“These projects often highlight lesser-known stories, shining a
light on individual experiences and deepening our overall knowledge of our wartime heritage.”
Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman MP, has congratulated One Giant Leap on their successful application.
“Since its inception, the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program has funded thousands of projects nationwide, creating lasting tributes,” said Ms Templeman.
“The program is designed to support projects that commemorate our military history and ensure we continue to honour our veterans for many generations to come.”
“Many of us are familiar with the wartime service of Australian women as nurses and radio operators, but this project by One Giant Leap promises to educate all of us in the myriad of ways Australian women have served.”
Jackie Carpenter, Founder and Director of One Giant Leap Australia said, “Australian women have always dared. Those who served in the past and those leading in critical fields today. Their stories show courage in every era, and they deserve to be visible, valued, and shared with the young people who will become tomorrow’s leaders.”
to 10.30am at ‘Gather Café’, Penrith RSL Club. Just an inclusive social gathering - Free
Maldinis By The River, for a
of your choosing.
Defence & First Responder Veterans Shed 10am - 2pm, Richmond Race Track (out the back). Contact Kirky: 0401 310 078
THURSDAY Penrith Mens Walk & Talk 5.00pm, Nepean River ‘’Coffee Club’’ for a cuppa, then a social walk of your choosing.
THURSDAY Guitar for Vets (G4V) 1.30 to 3.30pm at the Penrith RSL Club. Beginners welcome. Contact Dan - 0407 934 656 Veterans - must be registered
THURSDAY Australian Military Wives Choir (AMWChoir) 7.00 to 8.30pm, (1st, 3rd and 5th) Thursday each month (no school holidays), beginners welcome. Email: coordinator.sydney@amwchoir.com
FRIDAY Nepean Valley RSL Day Club 9.30am to 1.30pm at 86 Station Street, Penrith. Social, morning tea and lunch provided. Roz: 0407 014 542
Wives, girlfriends, partners, mothers, sisters and female ADF
Australian War Memorial Overnight Bus Trip Must be registered through the Trybooking link emailed to Members, cost $50 each. Accommodation at own cost. City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch Members & Partners only FRIDAY 24 JULY Dining In Night Must be registered through the Trybooking link emailed to Members, cost $25 each. City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch Members & Partners only
All community Members over 55 If you would like more information or are interested in getting involved in any way please, feel free to contact the sub-Branch Office. Office Open: Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 3.00pm. Phone: 4728 5225 Email: secretary@penrithrslsubbranch.org.au
• As the arrival of winter marks an increased use of portable heaters and electric blankets, as well as more time spent indoors, Australian house fires typically increase at this time of year
• Despite the increased risk, in almost half of NSW winter home fires in 2024, there was no working smoke alarm onsite, or the alarm failed to alert
• At this time of year, having working quality smoke alarms is non-negotiable, with Brooks Australia urging homeowners and renters to avoid cutting corners when it comes to fire safety
WITH winter officially here, Australians across the country are turning off air conditioners and relying on heaters to stay warm, but whilst temperatures may be dropping, the risk of house fires increases during the colder months. With more than a third of Australians financially stressed and unable to pay an energy or water bill on time, experts are urging homeowners and renters to prioritise safety and keep their smoke alarms maintained for the best chance of escaping a house fire.
In NSW alone, home fires typically increase by 13% during winter, with almost half (48%) of incidents in 2025 linked to preventable human behaviours such as unattended cooking, heating appliances, and overloaded power boards.
In fact, more than 1,020 residential fires were recorded across New South Wales last winter, resulting in 94 injuries and nine deaths. Alarmingly, nearly half (44%) of winter home fires in 2024 occurred in properties where there was either no working smoke alarm or the alarm failed to activate. These trends are not limited to NSW either, with winter bringing 15% more preventable house fires and around 100 heater-caused fires annually in Victoria, and Queensland families impacted by more than 1,600 house fires in just one year.
Cathy Brand, CEO at Brooks Australia, says rising energy prices and cost-of-living pressures are
prompting many Australians to seek cheaper ways to stay warm this winter, which may increase the risk of residential fires.
“Winter always brings an increased risk of house fires, but this year rising energy prices and cost-ofliving pressures could make that risk even greater. As households look for cheaper ways to stay warm, we may see more reliance on portable heaters, overloaded electrical outlets, candles and other higher-risk heating methods.
“With many Australians feeling the impact of rising energy prices, there may be a temptation to cut corners on heating costs, but some of these alternatives can significantly increase the risk of a fire in the home.
“No one should have to choose between staying warm and staying safe. As financial pressures continue to grow, it’s important Australians understand that fire safety should remain a priority alongside managing energy costs. Taking a few simple precautions can help households stay both warm and protected throughout winter,” Ms Brand says.
Experts advise that smoke alarms should take only 10 seconds to test and clean, with working smoke alarms remaining the most effective way to receive early warning of a fire.
“Regular maintenance is just as important as having an alarm installed in the first place.
“Testing smoke alarms regularly and replacing batteries when needed is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve safety at home this winter. Working smoke alarms give occupants valuable time to escape and potentially save lives.
“Having a clear evacuation plan and ensuring everyone in the household knows how to respond in an emergency can also make all the difference. Once outside, stay out and call Triple Zero (000).” Ms Brand continues.
Whilst prevention is the best defence against household fires, the risk can often be downgraded simply by taking some simple precautions while keeping warm.
“To minimise fire risk before winter use, check portable heaters and electric blankets for signs of damage and always switch them off before going to sleep. Follow wheat bag heating instructions carefully to prevent overheating, avoid drying clothes directly on heaters, and ensure chimneys and flues are cleaned regularly, with ashes disposed of safely. Small steps like these can help households stay warm, safe and prepared throughout the colder months.
“Whilst winter may bring added financial pressure for many households, fire safety should never be compromised,” Ms Brand concludes.
As Australians look for ways to manage rising energy costs this winter, Brooks Australia is encouraging homeowners and renters not to cut corners when it comes to fire safety. A simple way to stay on top of smoke alarm maintenance is to remember the Rule of 10:
• Smoke alarms should be less than 10 years old;
• It takes less than 10 seconds to clean them;
• It takes less than 10 seconds to test them.
Taking a few moments to check your smoke alarms today can provide peace of mind and help ensure your household is protected throughout the colder months.
GRADUATE nurses and midwives are being encouraged to start their careers in Australia’s largest and busiest public health system, by applying to the NSW Health GradStart program.
GradStart is a statewide recruitment program offering employment opportunities across more than 150 metropolitan, regional, rural and remote health facilities throughout NSW.
Applications for NSW Health’s 2027 GradStart intake are now open and close on 29 June 2026. Students are eligible to apply if they: Are completing a nursing or midwifery degree between 1 June 2026 and 31 May 2027
Will meet all the requirements to be registered as a nurse or midwife with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
Are an Australian Citizen or hold a visa that allows ongoing full-time employment in Australia.
Working in NSW Health offers graduate nurses and midwives a wide range of employment opportunities and experiences to support the beginning of their professional careers.
The GradStart program also offers opportunities to participate in the Metro Rural Exchange, allowing graduate nurses and midwives to gain experience across both metropolitan
and rural setting over a 12-month period.
More information on the GradStart program, including details on how to apply, is available on the NSW Health website here: https://www.health.nsw. gov.au/gradstart. Candidates may also be eligible for scholarships .
“Our nurses and midwives play a critical role in delivering high-quality care across NSW, and I encourage
graduate nurses and midwives to apply to join the NSW Health family,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.
“Beginning your career in the NSW public health system offers comprehensive training, professional development, and ongoing support as you build your future in NSW Health.
“GradStart offers great benefits, providing opportunities to work in different locations. I encourage graduates to consider options in rural and regional settings which can offer both a great lifestyle and professional opportunities.”
NSW Health’s Chief Nurse Jacqui Cross said a career with NSW Health offers graduate nurses and midwives a diverse range of clinical environments and locations to build their skills and confidence.
“I encourage graduate nurses and midwives to apply and join an innovative and fast-paced health system where learning and development are part of everyday practice,” Mrs Cross said.
LAST week, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District staff were recognised and celebrated for their extraordinary contributions to patient care, service delivery and research at the 2026 Celebrate Together Excellence Awards.
The awards exemplify what it means to go above and beyond to drive meaningful change, improve health outcomes and strengthen the experiences of patients, families and staff across our hospitals and services.
What unites all of our winners is a
shared dedication to putting people first. Whether supporting vulnerable communities, pioneering new models of care or fostering strong, inclusive workplace cultures, each recipient demonstrates how excellence is achieved through teamwork, innovation and a genuine passion for making a difference.
Congratulations to all our winners, finalists and nominees.
Learn more about their achievements: https://shorturl.at/ jlruA
ON Thursday 11 June, Nepean Blue Mountains Health proudly recognised staff who have reached the incredible milestone of 30, 40 and 50 years of service at the NBMLHD Celebrate Together Excellence Awards.
These achievements represent decades of commitment, compassion and care for patients, communities
and each other. Across generations of healthcare, our years of service recipients have played an important role in shaping our hospitals and services and supporting better health outcomes for the community.
Congratulations and thank you to all recipients for your extraordinary contribution.
Step into a magical Winter Wonderland
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FRIDAY 26TH JUNE 2026
FROM PETS WAREHOUSE PENRITH
AFTER nearly 20 wonderful years, our beloved Larry the Lorikeet is getting ready for a new adventure!
For more than 13 years, Larry has been a familiar face at our store, greeting customers, entertaining children, and brightening so many people’s days. We know that for many of you, a visit to the shop wasn’t complete without stopping by to say hello to Larry.
As Larry gets older, we’ve made the decision for her to retire from shop life and move in with our family at home, where she can enjoy a quieter environment and all the love, attention, and treats she deserves.
While we’ll miss seeing her instore every day, we’re excited for this next chapter and know she’ll be living her best life with us. Don’t worry— we’ll be sure to share the occasional update and photo so you can continue to follow Larry’s adventures!
Thank you to everyone who has loved Larry over the years. Your smiles, chats, and visits have been a huge part of her story, and we’re so grateful for the memories you’ve helped create.
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
WINTER can be a time that leaves many of us feeling under the weather, and our pets are no different. Whilst dogs and cats may have fur coats, they can still feel the effects of colder temperatures and changes in routine. As the days become shorter and temperatures drop, it’s important for pet owners to be aware of some common winter health concerns and take a few extra steps to keep their furry family members comfortable and healthy.
One of the most common winter concerns is arthritis. Just as cold weather can worsen aches and pains in people, it can also make arthritis
symptoms more pronounced in pets. Owners may notice their dog or cat becoming slower to get up in the morning, reluctant to climb stairs, hesitant to jump onto furniture, or generally less active than usual. These subtle changes can indicate discomfort and should not be ignored. Fortunately, there are a range of treatment options available to help manage arthritis and improve your pet’s quality of life.
Providing adequate warmth and shelter is another important consideration during winter. Whilst many pets naturally seek out warm places to rest, some older pets with severe arthritis, mobility issues, or cognitive decline may struggle to move themselves away from cold, wet, or windy conditions. Ensuring your pet has access to warm, padded bedding, extra blankets, and sheltered sleeping areas can make a significant difference to their comfort. Some pets may also benefit from wearing a well-fitted coat or jacket when outdoors, and older pets may be more comfortable spending winter nights indoors.
Winter also brings some hidden household dangers. Heaters, electric
blankets, fireplaces and hot water bottles can all pose burn risks if curious pets get too close. Whilst it is important to keep pets warm, always ensure they have a safe place to rest away from direct heat sources and never leave them unsupervised around heating appliances.
Winter can also lead to changes in activity levels. Many of us are less inclined to exercise when the weather is cold, wet and dark, and the same often applies to our pets. Reduced exercise without adjustments to food intake can result in unwanted weight gain, placing additional strain on joints and worsening conditions such as arthritis. If your dog is going for shorter walks or your cat is spending more time indoors, it may be worth reviewing their diet to ensure it matches their activity level.
The good news is that most pets still
enjoy regular exercise during winter, particularly when it means spending time with their owners. Daily walks, gentle play sessions and interactive games help maintain physical fitness and mental stimulation. Older pets may require a slower pace and a gentle warm-up before activity, but keeping them moving is often beneficial for their joints and overall wellbeing.
If your pet seems slower than usual, appears stiff, reluctant to exercise, or shows signs of discomfort, don’t assume it’s simply part of getting older. Cold weather can exacerbate underlying health conditions. If you have any concerns about your pet this winter, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027. Early intervention can help keep your furry family members healthy, comfortable and happy throughout the colder months.
Understanding the Quotation Process - continued.
WHY we conduct site visits and why you should expect one as part of an installation process.
Providing ‘estimates’ over the phone or in a showroom can give you an idea on what a system may cost you, it can often end up costing you more when the installers arrive and find other
issues that were not discovered earlier in the design process or even result in the installers leaving the site and taking with them, your expectations .
There are a wide variety of design tools available to assist with a design remotely, but all installations will, at some point, require someone qualified to visit the site and confirm the design before the installation teams arrive.
The designs for Solar have to take in consideration the location and wind region, close proximity to sea spray, safe access to the roof, the condition of the meterbox or subboard and confirm compliance with the numerous rule books (and other Australian, State and Local Government regulations) as well as compliance with the Clean Energy Council requirements.
Designs for Storage Systems
Nita Lemonia McHugh Author of All You NEEDLE to Know Cosmetic Nurse, Trainer, Educator Practising at Cosmetic Culture
318 High St, Penrith Ph: (02) 4731 8100
(Batteries) have even more standards and requirements with locations being the most prominent due to maintaining clearance from windows, doors to habitable rooms and other appliances and even strength of your home’s wifi or access to install an ethernet cable for monitoring purposes. Yes, a stable internet is a requirement for all battery systems and your mobile phone with a hotspot won’t meet these requirements.
So once all rules and regulations have been taken into consideration in the design stage for estimating purposes a physical site visit is necessary to determine if the location selected is suitable and other components can be connected safely such as wiring, circuit breakers and battery meters.
Therefore the quotation needs a lot more than a casual conversation in
order to deliver you a safe, reliable Solar and Battery Storage system and this can’t be done via a quick look at your home via ‘Google’.
If you’re considering solar or battery storage, the team at Nepean Solar Solutions is always happy to help. We’ve proudly served our local community for more than 11 years, helping households take control of their power costs.
And if you’d like local advice on solar or battery storage, the team at Nepean Solar Solutions is always happy to help.
We’ve been proudly serving our community for over 11 years, helping local households take control of their energy bills.
Nepean Solar Solutions — (02) 4760 0809.
ONE of the biggest misconceptions about cosmetic treatments is that people are simply chasing vanity.
After more than 30 years in aesthetic nursing, I can honestly say that most people are not trying to become someone else. They are usually trying to soften something that no longer reflects how they feel inside.
Very often, it is not about beauty at all.
It is about expression.
Our faces communicate before we even speak. Over time, repeated muscle movement, stress, fatigue, genetics, hormonal changes, weight loss, and ageing can create expressions that unintentionally send the wrong message.
Teachers are a perfect example. Many spend years concentrating, squinting, marking papers, and managing classrooms. The constant frowning and focus can eventually create deep lines between the eyebrows. They often tell me:
“People keep asking me if I’m angry.”
“I look cross even when I’m not.”
Others develop what we call a “tired face.”
This is one of the most common concerns I hear.
Hollowing under the eyes, loss of cheek support, skin thinning, and volume loss can create shadows that make someone appear exhausted, stressed, or unwell — even when they feel perfectly fine. Many people say:
“I look tired all the time.”
“Everyone keeps asking if I’m okay.”
For some, it is the downturned corners of the mouth that can make them appear sad.
For others, jaw clenching and stress can enlarge the masseter muscles, creating tension headaches and a heavier lower face.
Many women in midlife notice sudden facial changes around menopause. Skin becomes thinner and drier,
collagen declines, and the face can seem to “drop” almost overnight. It can feel confronting because the reflection in the mirror suddenly no longer matches the vibrant person inside.
Men often present differently. They are usually not asking for dramatic change. Most simply want to look less exhausted, less stern, or more refreshed in professional environments. In competitive workplaces, appearance can influence confidence and first impressions more than people realise.
Then there are the emotional reasons.
Divorce. Grief. Illness. Stress. Caring for ageing parents. Sleepless nights. Burnout.
The face often carries the emotional weight of life long before words do.
What many people are truly seeking is not perfection. They want alignment.
They want their outer appearance to better reflect how they still feel internally — energetic, capable, youthful, approachable, and well.
The best cosmetic work should never erase character or individuality. It should simply soften what is distracting. Good aesthetic medicine is not about changing faces into trends. It is about restoring harmony, balance, and confidence while still looking like yourself.
Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest emotional difference:
A softened frown
A fresher under-eye area
Improved skin quality
A more rested appearance
When done naturally and conservatively, cosmetic treatments should not make people ask:
“What have you had done?”
They should simply say:
“You look well.”
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
WILLIAM Faithfull was born in Hampshire, England in 1774. He arrived in NSW on the “Pitt” as a Private in the New South Wales Corps, Captain Joseph Foveaux’s company in February 1792. In 1795 after being ordered by Quartermaster Thomas Laycock to shoot one of John Boston’s pigs that was trespassing on Captain Foveaux’s land he was sued by John Boston but both Laycock and Faithful were found liable for the damages. On his discharge from the army in 1799 he was employed by Foveaux in the management of his farms and when Foveaux left the colony in 1801 he settled part of his flock on William who became a farmer when he received a grant of 25 acres at Petersham Hill and a further 1000 acres at Liberty Plains. William married Susannah Pitt by Samuel Marsden in November 1804 at St Johns Church Parramatta with the permission of His Excellency Philip Gidley King, in the presence of Thomas and Hester Pitt who both signed the register. William made his X mark and Susannah signed the register as ‘Susanna Pitt’. In January 1805 an accident happened at Richmond Hill where he fell on the prongs of a pitchfork that entered the lower part of his belly and passing upwards through his right side that could have killed him, but he recovered. The grant at Liberty Plains in 1808 was made on a recommendation by Lord Nelson in favour of William’s wife Susannah who was a daughter of Mary Pitt, née Matcham a relation of Lord Nelson. Governor Macquarie regranted the land to William at Liberty Plains in 1811 and William later exchanged it for better land at Jordan Hills in the Richmond district where he became a prominent settler gradually extending his holdings, Also, in June 1805 in the Court of Civil Jurisdiction an action was brought by James Morris against William to recover damages for passing around false information to damage his character. James stated that he had for a length of time maintained a friendly demeaner with William, who was residing at the Hawkesbury but had found a home in Sydney in his house without any charge whatsoever, but sometime since William had the misfortune to receive violent harm from which it was said that he was not likely to recover, and as soon as James heard of the accident he went to the Hawkesbury to find that William had happily recovered and had gone to Sydney and put up again at his house as before. After William’s return to the Hawkesbury, James heard that William had contrived an account against him to the amount of £200 and more, whereas upon checking the accounts James found there appeared to be nothing due on either side and he concluded by saying that as a person in trade his reputation was injured by the accusations that found its way throughout the different settlements which could only be wiped away by this enquiry into its origin and called for evidence to prove that William had said that “he was somewhat alarmed to hear at Sydney that at the time of his dangerous illness, James or somebody belonging to him had positively affirmed that he had him for upwards of £200 that his property was sufficient to satisfy.” William admitted having used such expressions but would prove they were not fabricated by him, having been circulated and mentioned to him by a respectable
person who, being called upon by William, admitted it. The report was then traced to various persons, who anxious to rid themselves of the burden, pitched it on the shoulders of others who followed their example in disposing of it until it fell upon an eight-year-old child who, when challenged by her parents, totally denied it. The Court thought it time to interfere and firmly demanded of James what his chief end was bringing it to court?. Had it been for the recovery of damages? as none had been made to appear, and William had given up sufficient proof that the scandal had not originated with him. If however, he only sought to rescue his character from gross and villainous imputation, he had effectually done so by running down the calamity and prohibiting the shadow of presumption, that it could have been sanctioned by any such expressions from himself or any of his family. William was ready to do every justice to James who he always esteemed and made a declaration which was accepted as satisfactory. Court adjourned with each paying his own court costs. In 1820 Susannah died and he married Susannah’s sister but that marriage was annulled, then he married Margaret Thompson of Bringelly in November 1821. Margaret died in July 1842 then William went on to marry Maria the eldest daughter of Archibald Bell of Belmont in June 1843 by special license at St Peters Church Richmond. William died of disease in April 1847 aged 73 and Maria in May 1859. He is buried in St Peter’s cemetery, Richmond with his three wives. In 1826/27 Anthony and Elizabeth Rope occupied land on William Faithful’s property that was near the junction of Ropes Creek and South Creek and between Shanes Park and Dunheved. They were still farming there in 1828 and at that time had 11 acres of land, all cleared and cultivated and five horned cattle. The area is now known as the suburb of `Ropes Crossing’ and the creek is called “Ropes Creek” (a small tributary east of South Creek) The `Gazetteer of NSW 1866’ described the area as a small agricultural village situated on Ropes Creek three miles west of Hebersham or Eastern Creek. There were two hotels “The Farmers Home” and the “Wheat Sheaf”. The surrounding country was generally flat and the population was employed on the various agricultural farms in the district. Elizabeth died in 1837 and is buried next to her son William and granddaughter Eliza Frost in Castlereagh Cemetery, Church Lane, Castlereagh. Anthony died in April 1843 at Castlereagh and is buried next to Elizabeth. His headstone no longer exists but that of Elizabeth remains, located in the middle of the cemetery. Note: The Fellowship of First Freeters placed a plaque on Elizabeth’s headstone in a ceremony in October 1985 and as a descendent of their daughter Susannah I was there. Later a headstone for Anthony was provided in 1994. We now know that Ropes Crossing is named after the family who came as convicts but left as a respected farming family.
Sources: Historical Records of Australia, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Pioneer Families of Australia, State Library of New South Wales C. H. Bertie, The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, Memorials To The Governor, 1810-1826, Australian Royalty website.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Master Pennant has moved into its final stages, with several Western Sydney clubs in a strong position to win through to the playoffs, depending upon results over the remaining two rounds.
DIVISION ONE: Penrith is currently in 2nd place in Section Two and faces Long Reef home and away over the next two weeks. Penrith needs to win both games and hope Woolooware can grab at least one victory over first-placed Cromer. Dunheved cannot make the playoffs but their next two matches against Asquith will determine which club faces the Relegation playoffs from Section Three. Stonecutters Ridge is currently third but there is little separating the four teams in Section Four. Two wins against Monash could carry Stonecutters Ridge to the playoffs.
DIVISION TWO: Lynwood currently leads Section One and face second-placed Bayview over the next two weekends to decide which club goes to the playoffs. Richmond is currently at the bottom of Section Two and the next two weekends against Lakeside Camden will determine which club heads to the Relegation
playoffs. Springwood is in second spot in Section Three and needs to defeat front-runners Oatlands twice for a chance to reach the playoffs. In Section Four, all four clubs are almost exactly matched, so Twin Creeks needs to win both games against Manly over the next two weeks, faced with playoffs from victories or the relegation playoffs from defeats.
DIVISION THREE: Leonay is in second spot in Section One and appears destined to miss the playoffs but also avoid relegation—results still matter. Glenmore Heritage Valley leads Section Three and their matches
against second-placed Roseville over the next two weeks will decide which club heads to the playoffs. Fox Hills leads Section Four and will be heavily favoured to claim at least one win over last-placed Beverley Park in the final two rounds.
DIVISION FOUR: Wallacia leads Section Three and their match with Rosnay this Sunday would guarantee a playoff berth. A loss however would leave the Section title in abeyance until the following week’s clash between Rosnay and Palm Beach.
ROUND FOUR RESULTS (Home teams listed first): Woolooware won
4.5-3.5 over Penrith, Dunheved won 5.5-2.5 over Camden (Studley Park), Stonecutters Ridge drew 4-4 with Mona Vale, Lynwood won 7-1 over Muirfield, Cumberland won 4.5-3.5 over Richmond, Springwood won 6.51.5 over Macquarie Links, The Coast won 6-2 over Twin Creeks, Leonay lost 4.5-3.5 to North Ryde, Campbelltown won 5.5-2.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley, Fox Hills won 6-2 over Brighton Lakes, Wallacia won 7.0-0.5 over Palm Beach.
Next weekend’s only two home games are: Penrith vs Long Reef (11:30am) and Twin Creeks vs Manly (11:00am),
Round Four of the 2026 Women’s Golf Nepean (WGN) Pennant competition was played on Monday at Richmond GC.
Penrith Golf Club defeated Windsor 4-1, Camden defeated Campbelltown 3.5-1.5 and Lakeside Golf Club, Camden defeated Leonay Golf Club 4-1.
Camden continue to set the pace, having won all four rounds played this season.
This Monday’s matches will be played at Windsor and feature Penrith vs Leonay at 9:00am, Lakeside Camden v Camden (Studley Park) at 9:30am and Campbelltown v Richmond at 10:00am.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Penrith Basketball Association was represented by three teams (U14 Girls, U16 Girls and U16 Boys) at the 2026 National Junior Classic, held at the State Basketball Centre (VIC) from June 6–8.
NSW had a total of 29 teams at the Classic, which catered for U12 through to U18 age groups, with a total number of 128 teams from Victoria, NSW and South Australia in attendance.
The National Junior Classic
remains one of the premier events on the Australian junior basketball calendar and teams must qualify or earn an invitation to compete.
Basketball Victoria National Junior Classic Coordinator, Emma Hayes said the tournament continues to showcase the very best of junior basketball talent from across Australia.
“Every year the National Junior Classic brings together some of the strongest junior programs in the country, and 2026 shaped up to be another incredibly high-level tournament,” Hayes said.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for athletes, coaches and officials to test themselves amongst the best teams and individuals from across the country. It also gives the wider basketball community the chance to see the future of the game on display right here in Victoria.”
Penrith’s U14 Girls finished in 10th spot, the U16 Girls in 14th, and the U16 Boys in 15th.
U14 Girls: West Adelaide 49 def Penrith 46, Traralgon 57 def Penrith 39, Camberwell 58 def Penrith 39, Penrith 61 def Eastern Mavericks 45, Penrith 53 def Manly Warringah 44,
Traralgon 41 def Penrith 39. U16 Girls: Penrith 67 def Eastern Mavericks 58, Diamond Valley 65 def Penrith 55, Bendigo 97 def Penrith 23, Frankston 58 def Penrith 43, Penrith 61 def Forestville 52, Eastern Mavericks 68 def Penrith 60, U16 Boys: North Adelaide 77 def Penrith 55, Nunawading 76 def Penrith 60, Knox 97 def Penrith 58, Sandringham 72 def Penrith 66, West Adelaide 67 def Penrith 63, Penrith 58 def Manly Warringah 48.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Penrith senior basketball teams lost both games to the visiting Norths Bears on Saturday night at the Hawkesbury Indoor Sports Stadium, in Round 10 of the 2026 Mitsubishi NBL1 East Basketball competition, but nearly grabbed an upset win in the opening game.
The Norths Bears men sit in second place on the competition ladder, whilst the Panthers are languishing in 15th, but that disparity in positions was not evident in Saturday night’s clash.
Norths led narrowly at the first (1615) and second breaks (36-32) before the Panthers rallied to take the lead at the end of the third term (60-59).
Norths, however, have their eyes firmly set on the end-of-season playoffs and could not be denied, edging ahead in the final term for a 6-point (85-79) win.
Jesse Weinstein led the Panthers with 17 points, ahead of Angus Ole 14 and Simun Krpez 11.
The Penrith women were once again without the services of their leading point-scorer Hannah Griffin and could not match the superior firepower of the Bears, who led 2911, 60-35 and 85-50 at the first three breaks, then carried on relentlessly for
a 46-point (113-67) win.
Tatiana Beaumont led the Panthers with 17 points, ahead of import Maria Garcia Leon (13 points / 9 boards) and Chanel Bastin (12 points).
The Panthers have a double-header weekend ahead at the Blacktown
Leisure Centre, Stanhope Gardens, taking on the Maitland Mustangs on Saturday (women 1pm, men 3pm) and the Central Coast Crusaders on Sunday (men 11:30am, women 1:30pm).
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Australian Racing Drivers’ Club will host Round Three of the 2026 NSW Motor Racing Championship (MRC) as a Day/Night event at Sydney Motorsport Park on Saturday 20th June,
Categories on the day include RX-8 Cup, Sports Sedans / Production Sports, HQ Holdens, Production Touring, Aussie TT, Formula Ford and Improved Production.
Since 2024, the NSW MRC rounds at SMSP have been free admission for all, offering both new and old fans the opportunity to experience the thrill of Motorsport.
The action commences at 9:00am and continues into the night session.
Full details can be found at: www. ardc.com.au/nswmrc/ma-nsw2026-motor-race-championshipround-3/
JESS Fox OAM has continued her golden run since returning to canoe slalom, winning the Women’s Canoe (WC1) Final at the International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup in Augsburg, Germany on Saturday night.
After missing the Women’s Kayak Final on Friday, Jess roared back to top form on Saturday,
qualifying as the second-fastest for the WC1 Final. Building on her success from Prague last week, Jess sealed first position once again in the women’s C1, winning by more than two seconds ahead of Nuria Vilarrubla (Spain) and Martina Satkova (Czech). Noemie Fox OAM also made the Final and finished in fifth spot.
“It’s the best feeling. I was disappointed yesterday not to make the final in the kayak, so to come out on this course today and put together a winning run means a lot,” Jess said.
“This course constantly makes you question your decisions and your line choices, but I managed to piece everything together.
“The touch near the bottom was probably the only thing stopping it from being a perfect run, but overall I’m really pleased.”
Lucien Delfour was the only other Australian to reach a Final, finishing ninth in the Men’s Kayak (MK1), and also reaching the semi-finals of the Men’s Kayak Cross.
A daunting prospect for the 16th placed Titans as they host the rampaging Penrith Panthers, who have lost just once all season and sit three games clear at the top of the ladder.
THE Titans were riding high after upsetting the Broncos in Round 14 but came crashing back to earth at Leichhardt Oval last Sunday in a 36-28 loss to Wests Tigers.
The last time the Titans beat the Panthers was in 2019 although their last two efforts against Ivan Cleary’s men have been stellar, going down by only four points at Cbus Super Stadium last year and six points the year before at Penrith.
All eyes will be on the Origin representatives from both clubs to see who backs up but such is the Panthers’ depth they will go in as the hottest of favourites, regardless of who takes the field at the Goldie.
TEAM NEWS
Titans: Coach Josh Hannay has named Maroons reps Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Jojo Fifita to back up so Klese Haas and Jaylan De Groot revert to the bench after starting against Wests Tigers. Back-rower Chris Randall missed the Wests Tigers game and will remain sidelined for another week as the club takes a precautionary
approach to his return after failing a HIA in Round 14 against the Broncos and also in Magic Round last month.
Halfback Lachlan Ilias has been added to the interchange for his first NRL appearance since Round 9.
Panthers: Isaah Yeo, Nathan Cleary and Brian To’o are listed among the reserves and will be monitored after Origin Two. Jack Cogger will slot in at halfback should Cleary be rested while Lindsay Smith would go to lock if Yeo fails to come up. Luke Garner and Izack Tago are the new centres with Casey McLean (quad) sidelined and Paul Alamoti pushing out to the wing to cover for To’o. The new faces on the interchange are Billy Phillips, Luron Patea, Jack Cole and John Fonua.
STAT ATTACK
• The Titans have not defeated the Panthers since 2019.
• The Panthers have won 11 of their last 12 games against the Titans.
• Titans winger Phillip Sami has scored seven tries in his last nine games at Cbus Super Stadium.
• Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards has scored six tries in his last six games against the Titans.
• The Titans are 0-5 against topeight opposition this season.
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has named his squad for Saturday’s clash with the Gold Coast Titans at Cbus Super Stadium.
Round 16 - Saturday 20th June, 5.30pm Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
V1. Dylan EDWARDS - sponsored by Café at Lewers
2. Tom JENKINS - sponsored by Wisdom Dental & Denture Clinic
3. Izack TAGO - sponsored by Casella Express
4. Luke GARNER - sponsored by Eather Group
5. Paul ALAMOTI - sponsored by CC Tyres
6. Blaize TALAGI - sponsored by Loan Talk Home Loans
7. Jack COGGER - sponsored by Potter Automotive
8. Moses LEOTA - sponsored by Granville Plastamasta
9. Freddy LUSSICK - sponsored by Zenn Ability
10. Liam HENRY - sponsored by Wright Way Plumbing & Civil
11. Isaiah PAPALI’I - sponsored by Protech Locksmiths
12. Liam MARTIN - sponsored by Montana Signs
13. Lindsay SMITH - sponsored by Penrith City Tyres & Automotive
14. Billy SCOTT - sponsored by My Meat Online
15. Scott SORENSEN - sponsored by Chemtools
16. Billy PHILLIPS - sponsored by Uphire
17. Luron PATEA - sponsored by Hertz
18. Jack COLE - sponsored by We Love Group
19. Sione FONUA - sponsored by Kennect Electrical
20. Kalani LEULUAI-GOING - sponsored by Houseproud Cleaning
21. Isaah YEO - sponsored by Southern Cross Masonry
22. Brian TO’O - sponsored by Panthers Foundation
23. Nathan CLEARY - sponsored by Panthers Foundation
