Nepean News 24 July 2026

Access to critical evidence

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE NSW Government will introduce legislation to give the NSW Police Force better tools to investigate homicides and organised crime, find missing persons and support coronial investigations.

New laws would enable police to access unredacted images captured by toll cameras from public toll roads when investigating a suspected serious indictable offence, or in response to a missing person report.

Under the current system, investigations into serious crime can be hampered as toll images provided to police are redacted, preventing investigators from identifying a suspect and potentially allowing a case to go cold.

If the legislation passes Parliament, the Government will commence preparations for a staged implementation of the reforms, beginning with cameras on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour Tunnel.

The government said these changes will not impact everyday drivers, but only those suspected of serious crimes or missing persons.

The reforms recognise the important role toll camera imagery can play in helping police investigate serious offences and establish a clearer picture of events and movements.

This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to build safer communities by strengthening our police force and giving police the tools they need to do their job.

From cracking down on serious criminals to finding missing people and supporting coronial investigations the state government claims these reforms will help police access the information they need to investigate, connect the dots and keep the community safe.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said for the first time, NSW Police will be given access to images that could help connect the dots and solve serious crimes in our state.

“This is all part of our plan to give our police the powers and capability they need to keep communities safe,” Minister Catley said.

“The Minns Government will pull every available lever to bring dangerous offenders and organised criminals to justice.”

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

Pink spirit shows Penrith at its best

THERE is something truly special about watching Penrith turn pink for a cause that has touched so many lives.

Each year, Pink Up Penrith brings businesses, community groups, schools and residents together to support the McGrath Foundation and raise vital funds for cancer care nurses. From pink shopfronts and community events to people proudly wearing pink, the campaign is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when a community unites behind a shared purpose.

The Penrith campaign began 9 years ago focussing on breast cancer and has now transformed to include all cancers. Cancer has affected so many families. Most of us know someone who has faced the dreaded diagnosis, supported a loved one through treatment or experienced the heartbreak of losing someone. That is why campaigns like Pink Up matter. They raise awareness, encourage conversations about early detection and, just as importantly, bring communities together to support those facing one of life’s toughest battles.

A huge part of the success of Pink Up Penrith comes down to the passion and dedication of Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn OAM. Gai has an incredible ability to bring people together and inspire others to get behind the causes she believes in. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and her love for Penrith and its people shines through in everything she does.

Gai is the first to acknowledge that Pink Up is a community effort, and she is right. It is the businesses that decorate their windows, the volunteers who give their time, the organisations that support the campaign and the residents who proudly wear pink that make it so special. But every great movement needs someone to champion it, and Penrith is lucky to have someone like Gai in its corner.

What I love most about Pink Up Penrith is that it captures the very best of our community. In a time when there is often so much negativity around us, it is uplifting to see people come together with kindness, generosity and genuine care for others.

Every dollar raised helps fund McGrath Cancer Care Nurses, providing essential support to people and families navigating one of life’s most difficult journeys. That support provides comfort, guidance and reassurance at a time when it is needed most.

The pink decorations may come down, but the impact remains. The money raised continues to make a difference, and the connections built through the campaign strengthen our community.

Congratulations to everyone involved in Pink Up Penrith. Whether you are hosting an event, attending or donating, volunteering or simply wore pink, you’re playing a part in something that truly matters.

You can read more about Pink Up Penrith inside this issue of Nepean News and over the next few weeks. You can also follow Pink Up Penrith on facebook

Penrith businesses recognised

ACROSS Penrith, small businesses play a vital role in supporting families, creating jobs, and improving the everyday lives of Penrith residents.

The Penrith City Local Business Awards honour these contributions by celebrating the businesses that go above and beyond, earning the trust and admiration of the people they serve.

All businesses receive nominations from members of the community who value their service, friendliness, and dedication. This grassroots recognition gives the awards a warmth and authenticity unmatched by other programs.

Finalists then undergo a fair and thorough judging process, ensuring winners reflect genuine excellence. The Local Business Awards logo has become a symbol of pride for businesses, often displayed prominently as a reminder of their achievement.

Congratulations to Kane Woods of K&A Quality Meats, South Penrith, who was honoured as Businessperson of the Year; a testament to his leadership, dedication, and commitment to exceptional service.

We also proudly acknowledge Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre, awarded Business of the Year, recognising their long-standing contribution to community wellbeing and their reputation for excellence in care.

Every finalist in this year’s Penrith City Local Business Awards represents the very best of our city. Their hard work, resilience, and commitment

to community service make Penrith stronger, and I am proud to celebrate every one of them.

Penrith has always been a place where small businesses thrive, and this year’s finalists show exactly why. The Local Business Awards shine a spotlight on their achievements, and we congratulate them all for helping make Penrith a city we’re proud to call home.

New permanent classrooms open for Term 3

SCHOOLS in some of NSW’s fastest-growing suburbs are receiving brand-new school infrastructure to begin Term 3, as the Minns Labor Government delivers on its promise to build classrooms and facilities.

Locally, a major upgrade at Kingswood Public School officially opened this week, six months ahead of schedule, with permanent, modern classrooms replacing temporary, demountable classrooms.

Upgrading Kingswood Public School was a key election commitment by the Minns Labor Government and the Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown, with the school’s brandnew building featuring eight modern, permanent classrooms along with the refurbishment of 13 classrooms.

“The new classrooms replace all of the demountables on site placed by the former Liberal-National Government, some of which are almost a decade old. Their removal returns valuable open play space to students,” it stated in a NSW Government press release.

Over the next four years the

Minns Labor Government says they will deliver a record $9.2 billion investment in school infrastructure, including $4.1 billion for new and upgraded schools in Western Sydney.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said giving kids the best start in life begins with a quality education.

“We said we’d remove the demountables at Kingswood Public School and we’re delivering on that promise,” Mr Minns said.

“Every child deserves to learn in a modern classroom with a permanent, well-paid teacher. Over the past three years that’s what we’ve been working hard to deliver and we’re starting to see the results.

“Investing in public education in areas like Western Sydney where it’s needed most isn’t just a line item in the budget. It’s an investment in a brighter future for the next generation.”

Deputy Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the Minns Labor Government is delivering the classrooms and schools that families and students across Western Sydney deserve.

“This transformation at Kingswood Public School shows the difference between a Labor Government

investing in permanent school infrastructure and the Liberals using demountables as a band-aid solution,” Ms Car said.

“By delivering our historic infrastructure investment alongside permanent, secure jobs for teachers, we’re establishing the settled, productive classrooms required to lift student outcomes.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said the government had listened and acted.

“The Kingswood community asked for better school facilities, and we listened. These world-class facilities will support generations of students and ensure Kingswood Public School continues to deliver excellence,” Mrs

WSI unveils five car rental partners

A SUITE of Australia’s leading car rental agencies has signed on to operate from Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), with customers set to benefit from a range of convenient options when flights take off from Sunday 25 October.

Travellers will be able to choose from a broad range of cars and rental options across five rental agencies –with Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar and Redspot all joining WSI – representing up to nine multinational brands.

WSI’s car rental offering has been designed to support its customer-first approach, delivering a seamless and intuitive experience, which reflects the airport’s digitally enabled operating model.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the appointment of car rental partners is another way in which customers will enjoy more choice and flexibility at their new 24-hour airport.

“At WSI, we’re rethinking the

airport experience from the ground up and that includes how customers access car hire when they arrive or depart,” he said.

“Our car rental offering has been designed around convenience, choice and simplicity giving travellers access to leading global brands through a seamless experience.

“WSI will serve as a gateway to some of Australia’s most popular driving holiday destinations including the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands.

“For visitors looking to explore Sydney and beyond, having convenient access to rental vehicles from the moment they arrive will make it easier to discover these iconic regions by road.”

Each of the major brands will have a kiosk within the terminal, serving both pre-booked and walk-up customers, in an integrated approach, allowing travellers to easily arrange transport on arrival.

In line with WSI’s focus on customer convenience and efficiency, vehicle collection will be in P1 –within a short two-to-three-minute walk from the terminal, swiftly connecting customers from aircraft to road to continue their journey.

Bookings will open via participating operator websites in the coming months with information also set to be published on the WSI website ahead of passenger services commencing in October.

These latest partnerships further strengthen WSI’s integrated ground transport offering, which is designed to provide a range of convenient travel options – from public bus links, car hire, ride-share, and expansive onsite parking.

Avis Budget Group Australia, Managing Director Pacific Thomas Mooney said Avis is incredibly excited to partner with Western Sydney International Airport and be part of this transformational project

McKeown said.

“We promised to replace every ageing demountable that the Liberals put on the school site and I’m proud the Minns Labor Government has delivered.”

Principal of Kingswood Public School Norma Petrocco thanked the families and community members who advocated for this project and helped make it possible.

“Students will benefit from these improvements for years to come,” Principal Petrocco said.

“This completed upgrade is a boost for our students and dedicated teachers who work tirelessly to inspire and nurture them through their schooling.”

from the very beginning.

“This partnership represents a significant opportunity to support the growth of Western Sydney while continuing to deliver convenient, reliable and innovative mobility solutions for travellers across Australia,” Mr Mooney said.

“Western Sydney International Airport will play a critical role in connecting communities, creating jobs and driving economic growth and we are proud that Avis Budget Group will be alongside the airport on this journey.”

Work begins on landmark central park project for St Marys

EARLY works are underway on Penrith City Council’s St Marys central park project, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of the transformational new green space in the heart of the St Marys Town Centre.

Site remediation works have commenced ahead of major construction, laying the groundwork for a landmark destination that will support the area’s rapid growth and evolving community needs.

The park will feature a fenced playspace, water play, entertainment area, expansive lawn areas, water features, gardens and trees, as well as toilets, seating and pathways. A dedicated entertainment area will also position the park as a hub for community events and performances.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the start of remediation works marks an exciting step forward for St Marys.

“Seeing work begin on site is a significant milestone and signals that the St Marys central park project is

moving from vision to reality,” Cr Carney said.

“This park will become the green civic heart of St Marys, a place where people can come together, relax and enjoy community events in a vibrant Town Centre setting.

“Council’s early investment in highquality public amenity is helping to drive the transformation of St Marys, while shaping a future-focused, connected Town Centre.

“As St Marys continues to grow,

particularly with the future Sydney Metro connection to Western Sydney International Airport, projects like this are essential to supporting a thriving community.”

The park’s central location will draw residents and visitors into the Town Centre, strengthening connections between Queen Street and surrounding shopping precincts.

The St Marys central park project is a key part of Council’s long-term vision to transform St Marys into a

more modern, connected and thriving strategic centre for current and future generations. The park is anticipated to open by mid-2028.

The St Marys central park project is a $26.5 million investment jointly funded by the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program and Penrith City Council.

NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Londonderry Prue Car MP said that this is the kind of investment St Marys deserves.

“St Marys is entering an exciting new chapter, and together with Penrith City Council, the NSW Government is delivering a vibrant new park that will transform the heart of our town centre.

“With the Metro and Western Sydney International Airport set to generate new opportunities for region, now is the time to build public spaces that will make our area an even better place to live, work and play.”

To find out more about this project go to yoursaypenrith.com.au/ stmaryscentralpark

Rapid relief team works with Ronald McDonald House to bring Winter Carnival joy

RAPID Relief Team (RRT) has again supported Ronald McDonald House (RMH) as it put on its Winter Carnival – an annual event to give sick children and their families a fun day away from medical treatments.

Volunteers from RRT Penrith brought their barbeques to cook and serve 130 meals, for children and their families as well as RMH support workers.

Local Team Leader Brian Lee said RRT regularly supports RMH events, providing meals and refreshments.

“RRT is pleased to offer our support to Ronald McDonald House, as it does so much to provide a home away from home for the families of seriously ill or injured children who require ongoing medical treatment,” said Brian.

“RMH provides an invaluable support system for these families, helping relieve some of the stress

while they are going through a challenging time.

“RRT volunteers were delighted to serve up 130 meals at the Winter Carnival, and see the smiles on children’s faces as they got a much-needed time out from hospital.

“We look forward to the next RMH event!”

As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT supports frontline workers and emergency services by providing food, donations and other resources, as well as hosting events for the community.

Established in 2013 to assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support, it’s expanded to more than 16,500 volunteers and provides support to the community through charitable donations and events.

For more information on RRT, please go to www.rrtglobal.org/

Project’s lead design team appointed

WORK to deliver a new Community Health Centre in Penrith has taken a key step forward, with the project’s lead design team appointed to progress planning and design.

The new purpose-built facility, delivered as part of the more than $1 billion Nepean Redevelopment, will be located at the existing Lemongrove campus in Penrith, providing contemporary, integrated healthcare services for local and surrounding communities, which are one of the fastest growing populations in Greater Western Sydney.

The centre will enhance access to a range of adult community health services, including HealthOne services and Renal Dialysis, and will bring together specialists, general practitioners, community health nurses and allied health professionals to help deliver coordinated, patientcentred care.

The new Community Health Centre will complement the existing community-based health services delivered in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and will enable improved integration of services and long-term development of the site.

The lead design team includes architect (lead designer) Angel MahChut, project manager Lineaire Projects and cost manager Altus Group who were appointed following a competitive tender process.

The existing Community Health Centre at Lemongrove will continue to operate, while broader master planning of the campus is carried out to determine the future layout of the campus and ensure the site can

support future healthcare delivery.

Staff and the local community will be kept informed as the planning and design process progresses.

Construction timeframes, including project completion, will be confirmed when the planning and design phase is complete and a builder has been appointed.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the new Community Health Centre in Penrith will improve access to

essential health services for some of our fastest growing communities.

“These integrated health services will help ensure people can see a GP, allied health professional, or a community health nurse more conveniently and closer to home,” Minister Park said.

“The Nepean redevelopment is progressing quickly, with the appointment of the lead design team for the Community Health Centre marking another milestone on the way to delivering better services for the region.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said the additional facility is another step towards delivering better healthcare closer to home for people across Penrith and our surrounding communities.

“The new Community Health Centre will bring together a range of essential services under one roof, making healthcare more convenient and connected for patients in need of care,” Mrs McKeown said.

“I’ve long advocated for continued investment in healthcare across Penrith, and I am pleased to see another milestone reached in delivering the facilities our growing community deserves.”

Community groups helping households get energy smart

THE Minns Labor Government is investing $2 million in ten community-based organisations to deliver energy education that helps households understand their energy use and reduce their bills.

These organisations will work with households through a mix of faceto-face workshops and community

events, home visits, and multilingual or culturally appropriate information. They will teach a range of skills, including:

• reading and understanding energy bills

• comparing energy plans and getting the best deal for their household

• improving energy safety

• learning energy-saving tips for

their home

• seeking energy payment support

• accessing renewable energy savings.

Funding prioritises organisations that work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, low-income households, seniors and households in rural and regional NSW.

Uniting Circle Penrith is a recipient of the grant which will support residents in the Penrith community. This is the second round of grants. First-round grantees helped more than 1,500 people understand their bills and take action to reduce them through more than 70 activities.

The program is one of the key actions being delivered under the NSW Consumer Energy Strategy to support energy education and ensure everyone can benefit from the energy transition.

For more information, visit: www. energy.nsw.gov.au/governmentand-local-organisations/programs grants-and-schemes/inclusiveenergy-outreach-grant

“No one should miss out on saving money simply because energy information is too complex or hard to access,” Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said.

“These grants will help trusted community organisations give people the knowledge and confidence to understand and or reduce their energy bills.

“I’m pleased to see Uniting Circle will receive funding to continue supporting our local community especially those who are culturally and linguistically diverse. Their trusted work will help more households access practical advice to lower their energy costs and make informed choices.”

Never Allow Your Past to Define Your Future

THIRTY-TWO young people from the Penrith area celebrated a major milestone last Thursday as they graduated from Nepean Community College’s Developing Skills for Education and Careers (DSEC) program under the theme “Never Allow Your Past to Define Your Future.”

The three DSEC classes commenced this year with 34 students, with 32 successfully completing the NESA Board Endorsed Alternative Education Program and achieving the FSK20119 Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways. For students aged 15–17, this qualification is equivalent to the NSW Record of School Achievement (RoSA), providing a recognised pathway to further education, training and employment.

The graduation ceremony was held at the Allan Mullins Studio at The Joan in Penrith, before graduates were chauffeured by Hummer limousine to The Lakeside Restaurant for a special

graduation dinner.

The achievement reflects the dedication and resilience of a group of young people who had previously become disengaged from mainstream education. Over two terms, they re-engaged with learning, developed new skills and

confidence, and demonstrated that their past circumstances do not have to determine their future.

The CEO Wesley Jones from Nepean Community College extends his sincere thanks to the teaching, administration and support teams whose commitment and

encouragement helped transform the educational journeys of these students.

As the graduates take their next steps into employment, training and further study, they leave with an important message: your past may shape your story, but it should never define your future.

St Marys set for new recreation space at Bennett Park

APOPULAR St Marys park is being revamped with a new mixed recreation space featuring a large playspace and mini pump track with beginner and intermediate loops.

Construction is underway at Bennett Park to replace the old playspace and learn-to-ride loop with modern infrastructure for children and young people of all ages to enjoy.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said that Bennett Park was one of several St Marys parks being upgraded this year.

“Council has plans to upgrade the playspaces at Poplar Park, Robin Wiles Park and Wattle Avenue Reserve this year, along with construction on the St Marys central park project which will create a new green civic heart in St Marys,” Cr Carney said.

“This year we’ve also delivered upgraded playspaces at Cook Park and Margaret Porter Reserve, as well as a brand new playspace at Monfarville Reserve.

“We’re creating a network of modern and inclusive playspaces which give young people in our local government area plenty of options to get outside and be active.”

The playspace will feature a range of exciting equipment designed to appeal to teenagers and older children, including a cliff rider and canoe swing, alongside a variety of play options for younger children.

This project is funded by the NSW and Australian Governments in partnership with Penrith City Council.

Senator for New South Wales Tony Sheldon said the project is an investment into local families.

“Every family deserves a great local park, and that’s exactly what Bennett Park will be, whether your kids are on the swings, the pump track, learning how to ride their bikes or just running around with their mates.

“Investing in spaces like this means local families don’t have to travel far to find safe places for their kids to play and be active.

“The Australian Government will keep backing Western Sydney communities, every step of the way.”

NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Londonderry Prue Car MP said that local families deserve great local parks and open spaces.

“The new facilities at Bennett Park will give local children new and exciting places to enjoy, while creating a welcoming space for families to connect and stay active close to home.

“Working with Penrith City Council and the Commonwealth, we’re delivering the infrastructure that growing communities need and making sure St Marys continues to be a great place to raise a family.”

Landscaping will be undertaken and pathways, seating and shade will also be installed as part of the project. The park is anticipated to be open by early to mid 2027.

Find out more about the Bennett Park project at: yoursaypenrith.com. au/bennettpark

Significant Military Anniversaries in July/August

BY STEPHEN TOLSHER, VICE PRESIDENT, ST MARYS RSL SUB-BRANCH

ON August 15th Victory in the Pacific (VP Day) is commemorated to mark Japan’s unconditional surrender and the official ending of World War 2 in 1945. This followed on from Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) on the 8th May that year, after the defeat of Germany.

In Australia Prime Minister Chifley announced the news of VP Day via a national radio broadcast. This sparked nationwide jubilation, with massive crowds filling city streets in spontaneous celebration.

VP Day serves as a time to honour the service of the thousands of Australian military service people across the three years of the Pacific campaign, in countries such as Singapore, Malaya, Borneo, Papua New Guinea and New Britain. It also acknowledges the hard work and sacrifice of the people in defending the nation. Of the hundreds of thousands of military personnel that served in the conflict, over thirty-nine thousand never returned home – yes, that’s correct … 39,000.

The stress of the war arguably claimed the life of Prime Minister John Curtin, who passed on 5th July 1945 aged 60, after a long illness.

Many people from the St. Marys district served in the Pacific Campaign, with last sub-branch member David Trist OAM passing away last year a few weeks short of his centenary.

Secondly, we should also remember that on July 27th 1953, active hostilities in the Korean War were suspended, an Armistice Agreement was signed and a Demilitarised Zone established – it remains that way today. The two Korea’s remain technically at war as no formal peace treaty has been officially signed.

Two veterans of the Korean conflict remain with St Marys RSL sub-Branch today - Ernie Holden and Jimmy Reardon – we wish them continued good health.

Thirdly, we commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day on Tuesday 18th August. A truly respectful Service will be conducted by the St Marys Outpost of the

Vietnam Veterans Association in conjunction with the St Marys RSL sub-Branch, in the auditorium of the St Marys Diggers Club. All in the community are welcome to attend this early evening Service and reception – please contact Leanne beforehand at the Outpost Veteran Support Centre on 9833 4700 or vietvet@vvaastmarys.org.au for catering purposes.

Finally, take time to look over our popular Veteran Wellbeing Program activities for August below … and choose something for yourself to try – for all veterans and their family. The focus of our Wellbeing Program is participation, camaraderie and simply being active, not so much on competition. The real challenge is … be part of it!

Maintaining readiness for infectious disease threats

WESTMEAD clinicians stay up to date with specialised training to keep patients, staff and communities safe from the global threat of infectious disease.

With outbreaks of high consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs) such as Ebola continuing to make headlines around the world, clinicians across the Westmead Health Precinct are undertaking specialised training to ensure NSW is ready to respond if a serious infectious disease reaches our shores.

The NSW Biocontainment Centre at Westmead training program equips healthcare workers with the skills needed to safely care for patients

with highly infectious diseases while protecting themselves, their colleagues and the wider community.

Infectious Diseases Physician Dr Patricia Ferguson and Nurse Educator Nikki Lennox lead the training, which brings together staff from Western Sydney Local Health District and the Children’s Hospital, Westmead.

For Patricia, preparing healthcare workers to respond safely and confidently is at the heart of the program.

I

Training focuses on infection prevention and control, including the safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE), one of the most important safeguards when caring for patients with an HCID.

“You have to be safe to put on and take off the PPE, and to do that in a very structured way using methods that are well established in similar centres internationally,” Patricia said.

“When we take the PPE off, that’s the time of highest risk for acquiring infection, because of possible contamination.”

She said one of the greatest advances in healthcare has been understanding how infections spread and how to prevent transmission.

“It starts with picking up what the infection is and then making sure you

do the correct measures to prevent it from spreading,” she said.

To gain accreditation, staff complete a series of study days and practical exercises designed to simulate what an activation of the NSW Biocontainment Centre would look like.

Nikki said regular training ensures a skilled workforce is ready to respond when needed.

“It’s ensuring that they know about the safety components in infection control, and physically practicing it over and over again,” she said.

The program includes clinicians from a wide range of disciplines, helping maintain dedicated adult and paediatric teams capable of responding to a public health emergency.

“ “

think we often forget that clinicians are also human. We have families at home who worry about us. We can provide better care if we know we’re going to stay safe and well, Patricia said.

We’re not teaching people how to do their jobs, we’re teaching them how to do their complex jobs safely in an area that has that high level of complexity, infection control, and contamination risk,” Nikki said.

Pink Up Penrith 2026 – Let’s Go PINK!

BY GAI HAWTHORN

We’re Pinking Up for All Cancers

Supporting McGrath Foundation Cancer Care Nurses

We’re excited to launch Year 9 of Pink Up Penrith, supporting the incredible McGrath Foundation Cancer Care Nurses who provide FREE care and support to anyone experiencing cancer.

Thanks to the amazing generosity of our local community, we have helped grow the number of McGrath Cancer Care Nurses supporting our community to seven local nurses. Together, we’re making a real difference to local families when they need it most.

Now it’s time to make Pink Up Penrith 2026 our biggest year yet!

We’re asking businesses, schools, sporting clubs, community groups and individuals to Go PINK!

You could:

❤ Decorate your shop window or workplace.

❤ Hold a fundraiser – big or small.

❤ Hold a mufti day or gold coin fun initiative

❤ Wear pink and encourage your

team or clients to get involved.

❤ Raise awareness throughout October together with Pink Up Penrith

❤ Sponsor one of our major events.

No matter how you choose to support the campaign, every dollar raised helps ensure local people facing cancer have access to the care of a McGrath Foundation Cancer Care Nurse.

Register your fundraiser today by contacting Gai Hawthorn OAM for ideas and support.

Email to: gai@penrithcbdcorp.com. au or phone 0437 506 517 for a chat on ideas or how to get involved.

If you can’t do something perhaps you could still attend one of our two major Pink Up Penrith events this year

Pink Up Golf Day

Friday, 18 September 2026

Whether you’d like to sponsor a hole, enter a team, or simply join us for lunch, we’d love to have you involved.

We are thrilled to welcome Tracy Bevan, Co-Founder and Ambassador of the McGrath Foundation, as our special guest this year at Leonay Golf Club. We are grateful to our Main sponsor “Drummond Golf & Big Swing” who have supported this successful day for many years.

OR Mad Hatter’s Garden Party High Tea

Friday, 9 October 2026

Held at the beautiful Lakeside Restaurant, this fun and colourful High Tea is one of our signature fundraising events and sells out very quickly. Sponsorship opportunities are now available, and tickets will be on sale soon.

Together, we can continue to make a lasting impact in our community. Let’s Go PINK TOGETHER PENRITH ❤

City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch: For Veterans and their

Families

WEDNESDAY Cuppa & Chat 9.30 to 10.30am at ‘Gather Café’, Penrith RSL Club. Just an inclusive social gathering - Free

Penrith Womens Walk & Talk

Defence & First Responder Veterans Shed

Maldinis By The River, for a cuppa & a social walk of your choosing.

- 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

be registered through the Trybooking link emailed to Members, cost $50 each. Accommodation at own cost.

24 JULY Dining In Night Must be registered through the Trybooking link emailed to Members, cost $25 each.

Wives, girlfriends, partners, mothers, sisters and female ADF

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

of Penrith RSL sub-Branch Members & Partners only

AS more Australians invest in solar panels and home batteries, homeowners are often faced with a bewildering number of choices. National brands, online-only retailers and interstate companies all compete for attention with promises of low prices and quick installations. But when it comes to an investment that should last 20 years or more, there is one factor that deserves far more consideration than many people realise – choosing a local installer.

A solar system is not simply

Jim’s Gems

another household appliance. It is a customised electrical installation that must be carefully designed for your home, installed safely and supported long after the installation is complete. While the price is important, the quality of workmanship and the availability of ongoing service are just as critical.

Local solar companies have built their reputation within the community. Their future business depends on satisfied customers, referrals and repeat work. They are more likely to understand local electricity network requirements, council expectations and the environmental conditions that affect system performance in our area.

One of the biggest advantages of dealing with a local business is accessibility. If you have a question after installation, need assistance with monitoring, or experience an unexpected fault, you know where to find them. You are dealing with

people who live and work in your community, not simply a call centre located hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away.

A local installer is also more likely to provide a thorough site inspection before preparing a quotation. Every roof is different, every household uses electricity differently, and every family has unique goals. A tailored design can often produce better longterm savings than a one-size-fits-all package advertised online.

Supporting local businesses also benefits the wider community. Money spent locally helps create jobs, supports apprentices, strengthens other local suppliers and keeps skilled tradespeople employed in the region. Those economic benefits flow through to sporting clubs, schools, charities and other community organisations that local businesses often support.

Before signing any contract, take the time to ask a few important questions.

How long has the company operated locally? Who will actually perform the installation? What warranties are provided, and who will honour them if something goes wrong? Can they provide local customer references?

Solar is one of the best investments many households will ever make, but only when it is installed correctly and supported for years to come. Choosing a trusted local installer is not simply about buying solar panels—it is about investing in quality workmanship, reliable service and the future of your own community.

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

Making the most from Government rebates and loan assistance

• 10kW’s of Solar PV. 25/30-year manufacturer’s warranty. (Federal Gov. SRES Rebate $2,516.00)

• 16kWhr’s of Goodwe battery storage 10-year manufacturer’s warranty (Federal Gov. Cheaper Home Battery rebate $3,708.00).

• Added to this, due to Nepean Solar Solutions being established in 2015 we have decided to now offer an Industry leading 10-year installation warranty with all system installed by us from July 1.

Priced from $14,990.00 on a standard installation or from as little as $57.65 per fortnight interest free, when utilising the NSW Home Energy Savers Loan. This will save you over $8,000.00 from the equivalent

In addition for July acceptances, we are offering a further discount of $120.00 per Goodwe 8.3kWhr battery module selected! That’s another $240.00 from the above package but for July only.

Now there are terms & conditions that apply to this fantastic offer and you can have a larger system installed if you need to but the NSW Home Energy Savers loan is for a maximum of $15,000.00 only and the interest free is a genuine Government supported loan and there are T’s & C’s relating to the loan application.

BUSINESS PEOPLE GETTING TO KNOW THE OF PENRITH

WITH MARK GEYER

In this week’s edition of “Getting to Know” our local business men and women, is a man I’ve known for close on 20 years. His name is Mark Fitzpatrick, and he is involved in not one but two local businesses. He grew up in North St Marys and attended North St Marys primary school, then moving on to attend Penrith High School. He and his wife Loz bought their first place in Cambridge Park, and they have been there for 17 years. @pvpcpen 0430 220 2six3 | @brisketboys_penrith hello@brisketboys.com.au

1. How long have you been doing what you do, and how did you get into it? Penrith Valley Pest Control has been running for 16 years now. I was looking for a career change and came across the pest control course at TAFE. My wife Lauren was a property manager at the time, so some early work through her real estate kicked us off. Brisket Boys has been operating for 4 years now. I’ve had a passion for cooking American BBQ for over a decade. The initial concept was for a bit of a side hustle for weekend catering gigs. This soon escalated, with the addition of business partners to become bricks and mortar restaurants which we now operate out of Panthers Leagues club as well as the Manufactor Precinct.

2. Who is your favourite band, and what’s your favourite song? During high school in the 90’s, my mates and I were all obsessed with Pearl Jam. Every time they tour here, we all get together and go to a few concerts. When they toured here in 2024 we went to shows in Melbourne, the Gold Coast and Sydney. There are so many songs of theirs that I love however, if I had to pick one, it would be ‘Black’.

3. What’s your all-time favourite movie, and why is it? I’m a baseball tragic. I absolutely love the game. So, my favourite movie would probably be Major League.

4. What’s your favourite place you’ve ever been to and what makes it so special? My favourite place I have been to is Fenway Park –home of the Boston Red Sox. Going there was a childhood dream come true. We did the stadium tour and got to walk on the field.

5. What’s your favourite way to spend a FREE day? This is an easy one. A day at the beach with my family. I have loved going to the beach since I was child. Being by the water is good for the soul.

6. What’s your all-time favourite TV series? Eastbound and Down. An absolutely hilarious show.

7. Who are 3 celebrities you’d love to have a night out with? Eddie Vedder, Babe Ruth and Adam Sandler.

8. Who is your favourite sporting team, and why did you start following them? It’s a tie between the mighty Penrith Panthers and the Boston Red Sox. I grew up and Penrith and my parents were Panthers fans so it was inevitable.

9. Who is the most famous person in your phone contacts? My great mate, who I love dearly, current West Tigers CEO Shaun Mielekamp.

10. If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life what is it? And what beverage are you washing it down with? This is where I should say Brisket Boys! And it is a close second. However, I could live on a juicy medium rare steak (preferably sirloin) with fries. Washed down with an icy cold beer – Hahn Super Dry or a Stone & Wood.

Legends of the Nepean ROD NEWELL

BY NOEL ROWSELL

BUSINESS

owners Rod

Newell, Nathan Hooker and Stacey McCartney are well-known faces in the Penrith community, not only for their Drummond Golf and Big Swing Golf operations on Mulgoa Road but also for their ongoing financial and moral support within the local community.

CBD Corporation Chief Executive Gai Hawthorn nominated Rod as a Legend of the Nepean and he is adamant his two business partners share the acknowledgement, as it is definitely a team effort.

“(Through Drummond Golf and Big Swing Golf) Rod and his business partners donate to Pink Up Penrith, NADO, the Luke Priddis Foundation and many more, including Henry Lawson Club soccer, who just did a Pink Up event for us, and Blaxland Redbacks for both soccer and netball. A man (and team) worthy of a mention and a legend(s) in Penrith,” Gai said.

Rod worked for Arnold Palmer Golf in a sales role before moving to Drummond Golf as Store Manager, then taking ownership three years later.

Fast forward another three years and the partners opened Big Swing Golf at the same location, moving both businesses a few doors down the complex four years later to its current location.

Rod, Nathan and Stacey recognised Golf’s declining popularity (pre-Covid 19) and introduced Big Swing into the business to provide a convenient, all-weather golf experience which has not only taken off for the three partners but driven a growing market for indoor golf facilities.

“A big feature is the ability to come in and play 18 holes in an hour,” Rod said.

Big Swing Penrith has been rated the #1 franchise in Australia for the past three years and Drummond Golf Penrith is currently ranked in the Top Ten in Australia of that franchise.

Rod and his partners have introduced

Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood

Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor. We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.

Australia’s first-ever All-Women League, which is run nationally with 17 teams (eight from Penrith) and still growing in popularity, and there is also an Open League (run locally).

The ‘Open League’ runs for eight rounds (weeks), with four weeks of playoffs, whilst ‘Her League’ runs for six rounds (weeks), with two weeks of playoffs.

The Winter League is currently underway, with 28 teams contesting the local (men) and national (women)

competitions, the latter features participation from all states and territories, apart from the Northern Territory.

“It’s like having a whole lot of friends over,” Rod said. “The appeal of Golf for all ages is developing genuine relationships with likeminded people.”

Big Swing also attracts school groups for their Sport competitions from throughout NSW.

“We sponsor many different

Rod Newell was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Gai Hawthorn.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

charities, events, sports and organisations,” Rod said. “We have been supporting the Luke Priddis Foundation since its first-ever event, we have supported ‘Pink Up’ and ‘Little Wings’. We don’t always sponsor the same event each year and we prefer to help out nonGovernment-funded charities and events.

“We’re often touched deeply by

stories from locals and it’s great to be able to make a difference to someone’s day. We always keep our sponsorship decisions local. It is very important to us as a 100% locally-owned and operated business.

“We also teamed up with Lithgow Golf Club to ease the burden of travel following the closure of the Great Western Highway at the Convict Bridge.

ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY

HOSPITAL

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Bird Flu: Awareness Is Our Best Defence

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

WITH recent reports of H5 bird flu being detected in Australia, many people are understandably asking what this means for their families, pets and local wildlife. While the headlines may sound concerning, the current situation should be viewed with awareness rather than alarm.

Australia has confirmed a small number of H5 bird flu detections in wild birds, including one in New South Wales. Importantly, there is currently no evidence that the virus has spread

into commercial poultry farms or the wider agriculture industry, and there have been no reports of mass bird deaths. The risk to human health also remains very low.

Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a virus that mainly affects birds. Some strains have caused significant disease in wild birds and poultry overseas, which is why Australian authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Australia’s surveillance and biosecurity systems are well prepared to identify cases quickly and respond if required.

For most people, the best approach is simply to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds. If you discover one, do not handle it or allow children or pets to investigate. Instead, note the location and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, where trained officers can determine whether further investigation is needed.

Owners of backyard chickens and pet birds should also stay informed but not be unduly concerned. At present,

there is no evidence that the H5 strain has entered Australia’s poultry industry. However, it is sensible to reduce contact between domestic birds and wild birds wherever possible. Keep feed and water under cover, maintain good hygiene around aviaries and coops, and monitor your birds for any signs of illness. If you notice sudden illness or unexpected deaths, contact your veterinarian promptly and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.

Although H5 bird flu has occasionally infected other animals overseas, including cats, dogs and some livestock, these cases have generally followed close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. There is no evidence that pets are spreading the virus in Australia.

Simple precautions can help minimise risk. Keep dogs on a lead in areas where they may encounter dead wildlife, discourage pets from chasing or catching birds, and avoid feeding

Looking for adoptive parents and

FADOPT SKYLAR ~ APPLICATION ONLY

Skylar is a gorgeous 3-month-old Staffy x puppy with a heart as big as her paws! This sweet girl is full of puppy charm and is always ready for fun, whether it’s chasing a toy, exploring her surroundings, or soaking up attention from her people.

Skylar absolutely loves her toys and enjoys interactive playtime. She is a happy, social puppy who is eager to learn about the world and build strong bonds with her future family.

As she continues to grow, Skylar is expected to be a medium to large-sized dog, so she will need a home that is prepared for all the joys and responsibilities that come with raising a bigger breed puppy.

Skylar is looking for a family who understands that puppies require time, patience, consistency, and commitment. Her ideal home will be one that is dedicated to positive reinforcement training and willing to invest in helping her become the best version of herself as she grows.

Adoption Fee: $150 Age: 3 Months Type: Dog

Breed: Staffy Cross Medium Cross Breed Sex: Female

raw poultry products that have not been prepared through approved food safety processes.

If your pet becomes unwell after contact with a sick or dead bird, seek veterinary advice. Many illnesses can cause similar symptoms, so your veterinarian will assess the situation and determine whether further investigation is needed.

Australia has successfully managed previous avian influenza outbreaks, and authorities continue to closely monitor this one. By staying informed, reporting sick or dead birds, and following simple precautions, we can all help protect our wildlife, livestock, pets and community.

ADOPT FLETCH ~ APPLICATION ONLY

If you’re looking for a fun-loving puppy with plenty of personality, Fletch could be the perfect match. This 3-monthold Staffy X is a cheerful young boy who approaches life with enthusiasm and a toy never far from his paws! Fletch loves keeping busy, whether that’s enjoying a game with his favourite toys, exploring new surroundings, or spending quality time with his people. He is at an age where he is learning about the world around him and will benefit greatly from ongoing training, socialisation, and positive experiences.

As Fletch matures, he is expected to grow into a largesized dog, so his future family should be prepared for the commitment that comes with raising a larger breed puppy. He will need guidance, consistency, and plenty of opportunities to learn good manners as he grows into adulthood.

Adoption Fee: $150 Age: 3 Months Type: Dog Breed: Staffy Cross Medium Cross Breed Sex: Male

Meet Shira, a devoted and loving mother who has raised her puppies with the utmost care and is now ready to embark on her own journey to find a warm new home. Shira’s nurturing spirit and resilience truly make her a standout companion as she transitions from caring for her little ones to seeking her own perfect family.

With an affectionate heart and radiant personality, Shira loves being the center of attention and cherishes every moment spent with people. She would be best suited with an adult family as she can become nervous around children. Her happiness is undeniable when she greets you with wagging tails and a gentle nuzzle, showing just how much joy she finds in human company. While Shira enjoys socialising with people, she prefers to be the only pet in her new home, as she thrives on one-on-one interactions where she can shower you with undivided love and loyalty. Adoption Fee: $150 Age: 2 Years Type: Dog

A Terrible Accident

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

ON a Saturday in September 1901 near Cott’s “First & Last” Hotel on Victoria Road at St Marys, five women were more or less seriously injured and a valuable buggy terribly damaged and one of the best horses in the district ruined. It started with a meeting of women belonging to the Rupertswood and St Marys’ Presbyterian churches that was arranged to be held at the residence of Miss Anderson at Colyton. Several of the women from St Marys arranged to attend and Mr George Hope agreed to lend his horse and buggy, with Miss Walker the eldest daughter of Mr Robert Walker of St Marys undertaking to drive the animal. The ladies were Mrs George Hope, Mrs William James Thompson, Mrs K Campbell, Miss Guild and Miss Walker. The five found room in the buggy with three sitting on the front seat and two at the back, all went well on the journey along the Victoria Road to Colyton, but on the return just at the crest of the hill coming into St Marys the animal quickened his pace and a little later on Miss Walker called out that the horse was running away. Mrs Thompson tried to help pull the reins but before reaching Mr Roberts’ house, Miss Walker was either thrown or jumped out. By this time matters looked extremely serious and Mrs Thompson secured one rein but could not get the other, then Miss Guild either jumped or was thrown out between Mr Roberts’ and Mr Lane’s residences and on nearing Mr Lane’s place the animal took to the footpath on the northern side and crossed Queen street cutting Montague James Bennett’s wedding party in two as some of the vehicles had turned the corner while others remained on Victoria road. “Monty” as he was known was the eldest son of George Thomas Bennett and had just married Janet May Haining the daughter of James Stanley Haining of St Marys and the party had just left St Mary Magdalene church. By this time, the pace was a gallop, and as the vehicle passed between Cott’s hotel and the telegraph post. Those onlookers who saw it realised the occupants would be smashed to pieces. The animal rushed at full speed just past the “Park View” hotel of the late Mrs Corry whose fence projected out some feet onto the footpath. The suddenness of the impact threw the ladies in all directions. The buggy at first turned almost at right angles then clean over onto the roadway. Fortunately, the horse got loose with part of the shaft and ran on still on the footpath until he was brought up near Mr Brown’s shop. A large number of townspeople were quickly on the scene and all the ladies were unconscious. Mrs Hope soon regained consciousness and although she sustained a fractured rib, a number of bruises and a great shock, she was conveyed to her own residence. Mrs Thompson’s injuries were apparently more severe and she remained unconscious right through the night. The shock and injuries to her was very great. She had a wound on the elbow and cuts and bruises all over her body. Mrs Campbell’s injuries appeared to be dangerous and like Mrs Thompson remained unconscious all through the night, She had a fractured collarbone, a wound on her head and other injuries and they were taken to Mrs Cott’s hotel where they remained all night, being removed the following day by members of the St Marys’ Ambulance Class (Messrs J T Wood, H Francis, F Bonnard, G Giddy and others), on improvised stretchers. Miss Guild and Miss Walker were taken to their respective homes. Miss Guild had one shoulder dislocated besides being bruised a good deal and was suffering a good deal from shock too. Miss Walker suffering from shock had several abrasions about the face and head and many bruises. As soon as the accident

happened telegrams were sent, first to Dr Higgins who happened to be in Sydney, then to Dr McMasters who was away visiting the sick and immediately on his return he drove as quickly as possible to relieve the sufferers. Dr Higgins only came by the 6.11 pm train from Sydney on being informed and drove from the station at a gallop. Prior to the arrival of the doctors, Mr Pye the local chemist and several members of the ambulance class assisted to relieve the sufferers. Mr Hope’s buggy had been knocked clean out of shape and the first two wheels had been turned pretty well inside out with the dash and back rail also broken as well as the shafts and splinter bar. The buggy was said to be one of the strongest in the district. By the Thursday evening all the patients were doing well and Reverend H S Buntine busied himself among the injured ones. Those who witnessed the crash said they will never forget it. Reverend Buntine had only been inducted to the Presbyterian charge of St Marys and Rupertswood a week before and came with special recommendations from the Port Macquarie district where he resided for eight years. The farewell for Reverend and Mrs Buntine at the Port Macquarie Church prior to the departure was a brilliant affair with several going away presents including a magnificent Past Master’s Jewel by his fellow members of the Lodge Hastings (Masons). The jewel was made of solid gold and had the bar inscribed with the name of the lodge and a clasp bearing the Reverend’s monogram. The jewel, in the form of a T square had the following inscription “Presented to P.M. Bro, H S Buntine by Lodge Hastings in appreciation of past services.”

Source: Nepean Times.

Damien Leith brings classic favourites to Penrith

BY KERRIE DAVIES

AUSTRALIAN music

favourite Damien Leith will return to the stage in Penrith this August, joining acclaimed country artist Jason Owen for an evening of timeless songs and unforgettable storytelling.

The pair will present Classic Favourites at The Joan Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, August 1, promising audiences a heartfelt celebration of some of the greatest songs ever written.

Featuring classics including Unchained Melody, Annie’s Song, Pretty Woman and many more, audiences can expect soaring harmonies, intimate arrangements and the genuine friendship that has made Damien and Jason popular performers across Australia.

Damien first won the hearts of Australians when he claimed victory in the 2006 season of Australian Idol. Over the past two decades, he has established himself as one of the country’s most versatile entertainers, enjoying success as a singer-songwriter, producer, author, playwright and television and radio personality.

I spoke with Damien about the magnificent career he has built over the 20 years since.

“I’ve loved every bit, I have been so lucky,” Damien said.

“I feel so fortunate, first of all to have an audience that has followed me along the way for 20 years - that is a really big thing in itself - and secondly it has given me loads of opportunities.. It started out as one thing but it has given me a lot of other opportunities.”

His remarkable career includes more than 800,000 album sales, platinum-selling records and an impressive collection of awards, including ARIA

Awards, a Golden Guitar and APRA Songwriter of the Year honours. His albums Where We Land and The Winner’s Journey both reached number one on the Australian charts, while his debut single Night of My Life also topped the charts.

Beyond music, Leith has become a familiar face on Australian television, hosting programs including Saving Kids, New Idea Test Kitchen and Great Easter Feasts. He has also appeared as a finalist on Dancing with the Stars and regularly fills in as co-host on The Morning Show.

His creative talents extend to writing, with two adult novels published through HarperCollins and, more recently, his first children’s novel, The Extraordinary Misadventures of Lake and Birdy and Their Remarkable Fortitude, released by Walker Books in 2025. A sequel followed in 2026.

CROSSWORD

Asked whether there was anything still on his bucket list, Damien immediately said he’d love to do a musical.

“I really do like musicals. I started out doing them, it is what got me into music. I do some local stuff where I live but I wouldn’t mind doing a professional show one at some point - that would be a lot of fun,” Damien said.

Despite his many achievements, Leith continues to tour extensively, writing and producing music from his recording studio while collaborating with some of the industry’s most respected artists and songwriters.

Joining him is Jason Owen, whose powerful vocals and authentic country style have earned him a loyal following since finishing runner-up on The X Factor Australia. Together, the duo promises an evening filled with nostalgia, warmth and songs that have stood the test of time.

Damien Leith and Jason Owen present Classic Favourites will be performed at The Joan Performing Arts Centre, Penrith, on Saturday, August 1. Bookings can be made by calling The Joan Box Office on (02) 4723 7600.

WHO AM I?

Prue Car MP

Dampness (8)

Calamity (8)

Look amorously (4)

Overlap (9)

A stand to hold wood that is being sawn (8)

Adolescent (8)

Potato crisp (4)

Windflower (7)

Afire (6)

23 One who uses a computer keyboard (6)

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Placed in folders (5)

Penrith City Choir Harmony of the Spheres

PENRITH City Choir is pleased to present “Harmony of the Spheres”. The choir, led by Musical Director Rowen Fox, will perform at the Lower Mountains Anglican Parish in Glenbrook on Saturday 1st August at 3pm.

The Harmony of the Spheres, also known as the Music of the Spheres, was a philosophy first proposed by Pythagoras. He believed that the rotation of the Sun, Moon and planets created a music physically imperceptible to human ears, but which nevertheless exerted an influence upon them. Later Christian philosophers saw the connection between geometry, astronomy, and music as proof of an ordered creation by a conscious Creator.

Rowen Fox has chosen his own

Mendelssohn and Saint-Saens, and heavenly melodies by Schubert, Fauré and Mozart. Proof, quips Fox, that there are “many musical paths to God!”

The choir will be accompanied by Blue Mountains artist Jane Andino on piano, and Sydney-based soloists Sarah Arnold (Soprano) and Joshua Oxley (Tenor).

Afternoon tea will be served following the performance.

Tickets are available from www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1535643 or at the door (Eftpos available). Admission $35 adult, $30 concession, $10 schoolaged children.

PCC ‘Harmony of the Spheres’ Saturday 1st August, 3pm Lower Mountains Anglican Parish, 1 Wascoe Street, Glenbrook.

Bestselling author Sophie Green coming to Penrith

BY KERRIE DAVIES

AUSTRALIAN bestselling author Sophie Green will visit Penrith Library next month to discuss her latest novel, The Frock Shop, giving local readers the opportunity to hear from one of the country’s most popular contemporary storytellers.

Sophie will appear at the library on Thursday, August 27, from 6.30pm, where she will talk about the inspiration behind her eighth novel, her writing process and the enduring appeal of stories centred on friendship, community and hope.

Known for bestselling novels including The Bellbird River Country Choir and Weekends with the Sunshine Gardening Society, Sophie has built a loyal following with uplifting stories featuring relatable characters and close-knit communities. Every one of her previous novels has reached the Australian Top Ten bestseller list. Her latest release, The Frock Shop, is set in a charity clothing store in

Sydney’s harbourside suburb of Mosman, where donated dresses carry memories and every woman who walks through the door is searching for something, whether it’s confidence, purpose, friendship or a fresh start.

At the centre of the story is Daphne, a long-time volunteer who has spent years watching women find more than just clothes among the racks. Alongside old friends, new arrivals and women facing unexpected challenges, Daphne discovers that the frock shop is a place where lives can be transformed and second chances are always hanging on the next rack.

Sophie describes the novel as “one frock shop in a harbourside Sydney suburb holds a multitude of stories, and not only from the women who work there but the clothes on the racks. This is the place for secondhand clothes and second chances, because it’s never too late for a transformation.”

Whilst the novel explores themes of resilience, friendship and reinvention, Sophie says her greatest hope is

that readers find comfort as well as enjoyment.

“I always set out to write meaningful entertainment, so I hope they are at the very least entertained,” she said.

“Readers often tell me that they feel reassured by my stories, and that they can see themselves in them, so I hope

the same is true of this novel.”

A Sydney-based author and publisher, Sophie also writes about Australian country music through her website, Sunburnt Country Music.

The event is at Penrith Library on Thursday 27th August at 6.30pm: https://shorturl.at/S0y2c

Penrith U14 teams headed to national club championships

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrith Basketball Association’s Boys and Girls Under 14 representative teams have both qualified for the 2026 Under 14

National Club Championships, to be held from 27th September to 2nd October in Willeton, WA.

The Penrith boys team finished the regular season of the NSW Junior Premier League U14 Boys division as minor premiers, with a 15-2 winloss record, whilst the Penrith girls

finished the Girls division in second position, on a count-back, with a 13-4 win-loss record.

The Under 14 Club Championships features the best 48 Club teams from around Australia, with each state nominating its annual quota of teams to participate based on state-

determined criteria.

NSW will be represented by the Penrith Panthers, Sydney Comets, Norths Bears and Sutherland Sharks in the Boys division, and the Penrith Panthers, Sydney Comets, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and Bankstown Bruins in the Girls division.

Ti Fox runner-up in NSW Junior Championship

BY

TI Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) has finished runner-up in the Boys division at the 2026 NSW Junior Championship, which was played at Magenta Shores Golf & Country Club over 13-14th July.

Ti led by two shots following a 2-under-par 70 on Day One and although he followed up with a 1-under-par 71 on Day Two, he was run down by Haohua Sun (Ryde-Parramatta GC), who shot a scintillating 6-under-par 66 in the second round to storm into the lead.

Xavier Stamatakis (Penrith GC) shot 89/77 to finish 59th, whilst Sean Sammons (Stonecutters Ridge GC) shot 84/84 to finish 64th.

Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC) shot 80/83 to finish 13th in the Girls division.

A field of 60 players (50 Boys, 10 Girls) recently competed in the 2026 JNJG Under 12 Tour Age Championships, held at Lynwood CC over 14-16 July.

Western Sydney was represented by Luke Miller (Stonecutters Ridge GC) and Lachlan Foster (Lynwood CC), who finished 4th and 6th respectively in 10 Years Boys; Joel Miller (Stonecutters Ridge GC) 8th place in 9 Years & Under Boys; and Carter Bryant (Lynwood CC) 9th place in 11 Years and Over Boys.

The JNJG Greg Chalmers Junior Masters will be held at Shelley Beach GC over 1-2 August, featuring nine players from Western Sydney clubs, including: James Kilbourne and Mitchell Dewberry (Penrith GC), Ashton Iskandar, Georgia Karagiannis, Nicholas Ni and Zac Christian (Stonecutters Ridge GC),

Three Pennant golf competitions underway

THE Eric Apperly Shield (21 Years & Under), T. L. Warren (B Grade) and W. Gibson (C Grade) Pennant series all began on Sunday, featuring the majority of Western Sydney clubs.

Stonecutters Ridge, Penrith, Lynwood and Richmond are all competing in Eric Apperly, with Stonecutters and Penrith both starting their season with losses away from home.

St Michael’s defeated Stonecutters 4-2 and Manly defeated Penrith 4-2, whilst Richmond and Lynwood had a bye.

Ti Fox (Richmond) is playing for Concord (Gold), which recorded a 5-1 win over Avondale (Silver), whilst Blake Hodges (Erskine Park) is playing for NSW, which had a 4-2 win over Castle Hill.

Next Sunday’s games feature Stonecutters

hosting St Michael’s at 11:06am, Penrith hosting Manly at 11:15am, Richmond away to Northbridge and Lynwood away to Bayview.

Wallacia, Penrith, Leonay, Springwood, Richmond, Stonecutters Ridge, Lynwood and Fox Hills are all contesting the T. L. Warren and W. Gibson Pennant series.

RESULTS - T.L. Warren: Leonay 3-0 over Massey Park, Fox Hills 2.5-0.5 over Wallacia, Penrith 2-1 over Roseville, Palm Beach down 2-1 to Twin Creeks, Stonecutters Ridge down 2-1 to Bondi, Springwood down 3-0 to Moore Park.

W. Gibson: Lynwood 2-1 over Marrickville, Leonay down 2-1 to Massey Park, Fox Hills 2-1 over Wallacia, Penrith tied 1.5-1.5 with Roseville, Palm Beach down 2-1 to Twin Creeks, Stonecutters Ridge 2-1 over Bondi, Springwood down 0.5-2.5 to Moore Park.

Golf NSW announces undefeated player list from The Master Pennant

BY NOEL ROWSELL

GOLF NSW has recognised the players who went through all six preliminary rounds of the 2026 The Master Pennant competition without dropping a match across both the Metropolitan and Regional competitions.

Across the two competitions, 32 players finished the preliminary rounds with a perfect record.

In the Metropolitan competition, 12 players across four divisions went undefeated, including seven from Western Sydney.

Wallacia CC led the way with a clean sweep of Division 4, whilst Division 3 produced the deepest field of unbeaten players across four different clubs.

Division Two: David Quirk (Twin Creeks), Division Three: Andrew Robb (Glenmore Heritage Valley), Shaun Fulton (Fox Hills); Division Four: Chris Holmes (Wallacia), George Simpson (Wallacia), Kevin Chester (Wallacia), Martin Scicluna (Wallacia).

Panthers lose final four games in NBL1 East season

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrith Panthers senior men’s and women’s basketball teams wrapped up their 2026 Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 East season on the weekend with two road trips, playing the Sutherland Sharks on Friday night and the Illawarra Hawks on Sunday.

All three teams contesting the two women’s games were well out of playoff contention, the only prize at stake was finishing as high as possible on the competition ladder at the end of the season.

Sutherland dominated Friday night’s game from the outset, leading 31-18, 60-20 and 83-39 at the first three breaks, before cruising to a runaway 49-point win (104-55).

Sunday’s game followed a similar pattern, with Illawarra leading 31-16, 50-22 and 77-42 before also cruising to a 30-point win (95-65).

Sofia Hunt (19 points), Tatiana Beaumont (14) and Chloe Williams (14) were the best for the Panthers on Friday night, whilst Chanel Bastin (27 points), Hunt (15) and Beaumont (10 points/11 boards) were the best on

test on paper, as both the Sharks and Hawks were headed to the playoffs, irrespective of the weekend’s results.

Sutherland led 22-15, 49-24 and 56-45 at the first three breaks, before winning 74-60.

Illawarra led 23-18, 51-36 and 7461, before surging away to a 25-point win (101-76).

Noah Webb led the Panthers on Friday night with 12 points, ahead of Brodie Schwarzer 11.

Jett Hickson led the way on Sunday with 20 points / 12 boards, ahead of Simun Krpez 12 points, Jonah Pares 10 and Angus Ole 10.

The women’s playoff teams are: Norths Bears, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Bankstown Bruins, BA Centre of Excellence, Albury-Wodonga Bandits, Newcastle Hunters.

Former Panthers representatives Tahlia Tupaea (Bankstown) and Meg Jefferson (Newcastle) are sure to be key players for their respective teams in the playoff series.

The men’s playoff teams are: Norths Bears, Illawarra Hawks, Sutherland Sharks, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, BA Centre of Excellence, Maitland Mustangs.

Yandamonium

Sit down, Donald!

Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final against Argentina this week and their celebrations were, for want of a better word, hijacked by President Donald Trump. The Donald was as awkward as a drunk uncle at the family Christmas party when it’s time for the immediate family members to take family photos. His next big outing is scheduled for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, where the opening ceremony is expected to be a precession of floats down Skid Row after he deports everybody from the area.

Finals on the horizon

How good is this time of the year! The Origin series is over and the Queenslanders are sobbing about whether or not the refs got the calls right or wrong. We are up to round 21 in the premiership as the cream starts to rise to the top. Penrith, New Zealand, Roosters are probably the only sides I’d be confident to say are certainties, while you can throw a blanket over the rest of them, except the Wests Tigers, Parramatta and whoever is below them. Shame that. Anyway, this is the time of the year when the adrenaline gets pumping for the teams on the edge of the top eight. Where a collapse in form can send what looked like a promising season into finals oblivion. The Knights were primed for a big finish to the year and were all over the finals action but they have a difficult draw to finish. Dylan Brown has to drag them with him and his fat wallet if they are going to sneak

into the finals. Manly and the Bulldogs are probably the other sides that can push their way in but it’s going to take a form reversal. Does Manly have a third wind after finding their second with the much-hyped Fozball? The Bulldogs have enough quality players to get there but their run has to start this weekend against the Warriors. Not easy. If your side is a mathematical chance then you might as well tell us all you have the full support of the board. It’s grim.

Dreams can be nightmares

When I was a kid I was obsessed with footy, we grew up watching it and wanting to be like our heroes. Mine was the Penrith sides of the early 90s. Playing junior league was also competitive AF and I soon realised not everybody has the talent, physique or toughness to play at a decent level. I still love the game and have been fortunate enough to cover it in this space. Fast forward 20 years and it’s becoming increasingly apparent that the game, playing it at the elite level, might not be all its cracked up to be. We are learning about the health impacts of concussions. Traditional discussions on battle scars such as busted knees and a dicky shoulder are now discussions about potential health battles that last far longer than the duration of the average NRL career. I don’t know about you, but I’m kind of relieved I was no good at footy.

Seeya.

Penrith knocking on NRLW door

BY

THE Penrith Panthers slugged out a 22-all draw with Wests Tigers at CommBank Stadium last week as the code celebrated the 20th annual Women in League Round. It was the first time Penrith’s women’s side played as a curtain raiser to the NRL as they wait for admission to the National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) competition.

Wests led 18-6 at the break before Penrith fought back in miserable wet conditions to snatch a point and remain in third spot on the ladder heading into the second half of the NSW Women’s Premiership season.

Penrith coach Jamie Szcizerbanik was happy with the fight in the second half.

“We are lucky to take the one point away from it, we did the work during the week, I just thought in the first half we shot ourselves in the foot,” he said. “Unfortunately, we didn’t come away with the win, but for the girls

to show the resilience they did in the second half to get the draw I am very proud of them.”

With five games to go in the regular season Penrith are on track to play finals in just their second year.

“The girls have been building nicely and have been lucky that we have had the consistency over the first five weeks to allow them to start building

some really nice combinations.”

The club remains focused on the longer-term goal of admission to the NRLW as the support for the side grows.

“It’s (admission) a bit of a tough one, the Panthers have put the application in and we have told the NRL a number of times that we are ready to go when they are ready to

have us.” Szcizerbanik said.

“It’s a little bit of a pain being in limbo waiting on them to make a decision. We can’t really focus on that at the moments, what we want to do is focus on making sure our pathways are set up and we are giving the local juniors that are coming through our pathways the best opportunity to represent the Panthers when the opportunity presents itself.”

“The amount of Panthers supporters that turn up and support the girls is outstanding. We appreciate it and it’s a massive part of why we do it.

“We have had a couple of female rugby league clinics in Bathurst, and at the academy last week, and the number of girls that turned up, asking the girls for signatures and telling them they are proud of them, it just shows the community is behind them and they just want to make them proud every week.”

Penrith’s new NSW Women’s Premiership match is against Parramatta Eels on Sunday 26 July at Eric Tweedale Stadium, Merrylands. Kick—off at 2:30pm.

TIPSTERS

BUSINESS PEOPLE GETTING TO KNOW THE OF PENRITH

WITH MARK GEYER

MY BROTHER BIAS

LAST Monday the 20th marked a year since our great friend Toby Hughes left us. I couldn’t think of anything else to write this week that had more importance or emotion than his memory so I’ve decided to ‘republish’ the words I had for “Brother Bias” 12 months ago. We love and miss you lots Tobes xx

This is an extremely hard column to write but I’m going to use it as a tribute to one of the best blokes I’ve ever met or known.

Early Sunday morning on the 20th of July I woke to a call from my mate Coxy that our best friend, our brother, Toby Hughes had passed away after suffering a heart attack. Tobes was 50. We had been together all day the previous day as we all went to the races at Rosehill with members of my gym. Tobes was in great spirits and even backed a few winners. To hear that he was now gone was utter devastation.

I first met Toby in 2018, we had just finished a golf day at Penrith golf club and were heading into the pokie area to donate some dollars. As we sat down, I heard a voice say, “You’re Mark Geyer aren’t you” “I said “yes I am”. “I’m Toby Hughes, dealer principal at Sinclair Hyundai, your daughter Montanna is our ambassador and does our live reads for radio, small world” “Nice to meet you brother, how about getting me into one too (a Hyundai)” I said jokingly. “Come down tomorrow and let’s chat” Toby said. I did and I’ve been driving a Hyundai ever

since. That was 7 years ago. Now all my family and most of our gym members also drive a Hyundai. I quickly realized how generous of a man he was and that he also had an aura, of which I was drawn to. But there was also a tinge of sadness in his demeanor. I found out after our meeting that he had recently ( 3 years before I met him) had a heart attack while shopping with his young son at KMart. He was 40 at the time. If it wasn’t for a paramedic next in line at the checkout line he would have died. In fact he did. As he put it “I did a Jesus Christ, died on the Friday and came back on a Sunday”. We quickly got him started into his “New self”. “I have a small gym at my home where about 10-12 fellas workout each day then we go for a walk, why don’t you join us” I asked. “Gym” he laughed, I’m 135kgs or more, as you can see I’ve never been to a gym”. “Just come and do whatever you can, no pressure” I assured him. So he did. And he never looked back. Within 3 months he’d lost 10 kilos, after another 6 months he’d lost a further 20kgs, and within 12 months had lost an impressive 40 kgs to be just under 100kgs “for the first time in as long as I can remember’ he exclaimed. When we opened our family gym in early 2020 Tobes was there enrolling new members preaching about how fitness had saved his life. He even completed his cert 3 in Fitness to as he said “Help you guys out when you need it”. Toby became an extended

MARK ON THE

WITH MARK GEYER

member of my family. Whenever I had to do a speaking gig, wherever it was, he’d be my wingman. He even had his own ‘lounge’ at my home called “The Tobias corner Lounge”, where he’d often crash after we’d had a few with my houseful of kids and their friends throwing pillows in his direction when he was snoring saying “Go to bed Tobes” ,where he also had a spare bed in our back room for those such occasions. That was until Tobes had recently found love with the lovely Tanya and was as happy as a pig in you know what. He was the only man I’ve ever known that I never saw angry or yell at anyone. He was my wife Meags chatting buddy when we’d have a few wines and Toby

would say “Ive got an idea” Id say ‘Meags, Tobes has an idea” and those two would chat about everything and everyone for hours in their quest to change the world. I still can’t believe I’m never going to see that smile of his or his unmistakable belly laugh again. I’m so sad. Toby leaves behind 5 beautiful kids, 4 daughters Isabelle, Aleksa, Sienna, and Nikita. And his son Phoenix, His mum and dad Ron and Ingrid and sister Sam. As well as his doting staff at Hyundai, his MG Activ gym family, as well as the countless charities and sponsorships in Penrith he supported. My close mates, Myself, Tobes, Bobby, and Coxy had our own text chat group that we spoke to each other daily in.

We are going to miss that lots. We are going to miss the Instagram Reels that he would send at least 5 of them before 6am to us. We are going to miss him punting on 6 horses every race then saying “Yep, just won that”. We are going to miss him never saying No, and when asked if you’d like to go somewhere saying “absolutely”! We are going to miss him fullstop. He was such a major part of our lives everyday for the past 7 years that it feels like forever. We all loved you lots Brother Bias and we know you loved us. Rest in love my man, We’ll never, ever forget you!

MG (random Westie) OAM