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the western Thursday, August 13, 2026

Celebrating 35 years!

www.westernweekender.com.au

The best places in town to dine and drink! Pages 60-67

Photo: Melinda Jane.

READY TO RESPOND

TO’O QUITS PANTHERS

New facility: Page 3

Chiefs call: Page 41

THE BIG WALK RETURNS

Giveaways: Pages 10-11

Royce Simmons is lacing up his walking shoes, and is ready to raise money. Keely Marsh reports on Page 5.

TRY OUR BRAIN BENDERS Puzzles: Pages 78-80

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YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Ready to respond as airport nears take-off EMILY CHATE

he sod was officially turned yesterday on a $131 million Incident Response Facility in Luddenham. The facility, located on Willmington Road, will have 68 staff (48 based on site) to respond rapidly to crashes, breakdowns and traffic incidents. The facility will be operational at the end of October, in line with the nearby Western Sydney International Airport’s first passenger flights. “Western Sydney International Airport is creating new opportunities for our region, and the Minns Labor Government is making sure local residents benefit from secure jobs along with the infrastructure our rapidly growing communities need,” Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said. “Through this facility, we’re creating local jobs that will help keep traffic moving safely and support the new airport precinct to operate smoothly.” The facility will service the M12 Motorway, The Northern Road, Mulgoa Road, Elizabeth Drive, Fifteenth Avenue, Badgerys Creek Road as well as other roads throughout the airport precinct.

Kristen McKendry from Transport for NSW, Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car, and Luddenham local resident Wayne Willmington. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Labor Spokesperson for Badgerys Creek Bob Nanva said the facility was welcome. “Our local community is at the centre of one of the biggest infrastructure transformations in the country. And it’s important we’re investing not just in new roads, but in the services that support them,” Nanva said. “Having incident response crews based here in Luddenham means faster assistance for motorists and a stronger local presence as the airport precinct continues to grow.” The delivery of the facility will be staged – Stage 1 included establishing the site and enabling works which has now been completed. This morning’s sod turn marked the beginning of Stage 2 which will see the construction of the depot. The Opposition welcomed the facility but said Labor still had questions to answer about timely delivery of infrastructure. “We welcome investment that will keep motorists safe and traffic moving around Western Sydney Airport as the precinct continues to grow,” said Badgerys Creek MP Tanya Davies. “But Labor should explain why the Sydney Metro, a critical public transport connection for the region, will not be ready when passengers start flying.”

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender PO BOX 7105 South Penrith NSW 2750 P (02) 4722 2998

www.westernweekender.com.au facebook.com/westernweekender @westernweekender @westernweekender @wwpenrith @westernweekender.bsky.social @westernweekender Western Weekender Issue 1758 Advertising: Editorial:

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Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Managing Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au Weekender Newsroom: Deputy Editor: Nathan Taylor Journalist: Emily Chate Journalist: Keely Marsh Journalist: Madeline Dantier Photographer: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au or text 0434 986 622 Sales Executives: Andrew Harris, Maria Van Den Broek, Callum Gilbert, Rebecca Vella To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production: Kacey Wilson, Madeline Dantier, Ian Beard

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There’s many ways to get your paper each week – including via email! Visit westernweekender.com.au/getapaper to find out more.

The Western Weekender is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

@troydodds

100 per cent of me thinks the Census is too boring I

sat down on Tuesday night, laptop fired up and glass of wine in hand, to complete the latest Census. Yes, I know I could have done it at any time in the last couple of weeks but it’s like election day – I want to do it on the actual day. It’s not the same otherwise. Remember back in the day people would actually have Census night parties? Like free-to-air TV, they’ve gone the way of the dodo bird. As I plodded along answering each question, with the knowledge that it has a legitimate purpose in regards to the funding of services and the like, I started to realise something: the Census is bloody boring. In fact I’m not sure what that very small group of people who think the Census is some sort of invasion of privacy is actually worried about. I share more information with my barber than I’m forced to hand over to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. I reckon you could make the Census a whole lot more appealing if we spiced it up a bit. Sure, let’s ask all those boring questions about housework, religion and education, but let’s dig a little deeper too. At this point the old Cosmopolitan quiz from back in the ’90s is telling us more about who we are than the Census ever could. Yes, all that stuff in there is important. Let’s keep all of that and then throw in another 20-odd questions so the ABS understands how we actually live. What’s your coffee order? Pineapple on pizza or not? Sauce in the fridge or the cupboard? This is the stuff we actually need to know. Forget surveys that pretend they are an accurate representation of the nation but actually only talk to 1000-odd people. This is our moment to get everyone’s actual opinion on the big issues and settle some core debates. We could settle the parmi v parma conversation once and for all.

INDEX

Does the onion go on top of the sausage or underneath it? And we could get more serious too. How much screen time does your smart phone say you clocked up in the past week? Is Australia Day meaningful to you or not? How many loads of washing did you do on your last work from home day? Let’s really get in there and find out the nitty gritty of what people are doing with their lives. Imagine the snapshot we would get. Oh, and of course we’d need a sealed section of sorts.

“Let’s make it the ultimate social barometer. Let’s make the Census sexy!”

Have you ever cheated on your partner? Ever visited Flamingo on High Street? When was the last time... You get the picture. Not only would adding all of this stuff make the Census more exciting, it’d make the results highly anticipated too. We could do an hour TV special on it. Double page spreads in the papers. People working at the ABS would suddenly emerge from their workstations and be podcast or TV stars. Election analyst Antony Green would be replaced by someone explaining why 63 per cent of Australians apparently have 127 unread text messages.

News..........................................................1-28 Business.............................................29-32 Connection to Country.........33-36

We might not solve the housing crisis, but we’d finally settle the important stuff. I’m saying this with my tongue firmly planted in my cheek, but I admit I’m actually starting to convince myself it’s a good idea. Imagine the debates and disagreements we’d solve. Majority rules! And we could get the message through to people and companies that some of the ridiculous things they do aren’t normal. We could let everyone reverse parking into car spots know that it’s totally unncessary, pointless and not efficient. Perhaps finally settle the debate over reclining your seat on the plane. We could let Microsoft know that we don’t want the “new” Outlook. Not now, not ever. The people have spoken! In all seriousness, the Census is an important snapshot of Australians and how we change through years and generations. But just because it’s serious doesn’t mean it can’t be fun too. Let’s make it the ultimate social barometer. Governments, big companies and even small businesses spend forever pretending they actually understand what people want and need. The Census gives us an opportunity to get a totally accurate reflection of issues big and small. Let’s make the Census sexy. In fact, I want a politician to adopt that line. Let’s get Albo on the case. “Australians deserve a Census that’s not only informative, but has a bit of razzamatazz. We’re looking at adding a section where you rate your neighbour’s lawn out of 10,” Albanese said. He didn’t. But he should. The next Census will happen in 2031. We’ve got five years to sort this out. Let’s make it sexier, let’s make it more engaging, let’s change it up. After all, this snapshot of Australian lives could be much better. Instead of a passport photo, it could be a family portrait!

Extra Time........................................37-52 Entertainment..............................53-59 Brews & Bites...............................60-68

Home & Lifestyle.......................69-82 Motoring...........................................83-84 Sport.....................................................85-88

HOW I CAN ASSIST YOU: • Health and Public Hospitals • State Roads and Public Transport • Education • Public Housing • Emergency Services • Police

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Contact Tanya

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 9834 2966 tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road St Clair NSW 2759 Authorised by Tanya Davies MP, Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road, St Clair NSW 2759. Funded using Parlimentary Entitlements.

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

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LOCAL NEWS

ROYCE HITS THE ROAD The Big Walk returns: Penrith Panthers legend prepares for annual fundraiser KEELY MARSH

Panthers legend is ready to pound the pavement again, with The Big Walk to return for a fifth time. This year’s walk for the Royce Simmons Foundation will honour the late Penrith icon John Farragher, while raising vital funds for dementia research. Founded by Panthers great Royce Simmons, the Foundation remains dedicated to supporting dementia research critical to those living with the disease, their families and increasing community awareness. “There’s close to half a million Australians living with dementia at the moment, and around 30,000 people living with early on set dementia,” Simmons said. “I’m trying to make everyone aware that this is killing more people than you think, and now some people in their 30s, 40s and 50s are getting dementia.”

Royce Simmons flanked by Panthers stars Liam Henry and Tom Jenkins. Photo: Melinda Jane.

The Big Walk kicks off on Monday, August 24, with Simmons explaining the journey’s route. “We’re going to leave Gilgandra where my close

friend Johnny Farrahger was born and walk across places like Dubbo, Parkes, Eugowra, Gooloogong, and then finish in Cowra where I went to school and played first grade

football before coming to Penrith,” he said. Now in its fifth year, the Big Walk continues to be driven by community and determination, with an end goal to

support and raise awareness for those affected by dementia, like Simmons himself. Simmons encouraged the Panthers community to get involved with supporting the

Foundation and its mission, hopeful of them donating to the Royce Simmons Foundation. “It would be great if every Panthers supporter could put just $20 per family into the Royce Simmons Foundation website, that’d be great!” Simmons encouraged. “Now if you’re not a Panther fan, just throw in $10 for the family,” he joked. Simmons reiterated how important this is to him and urges the awareness people should have of the disease but knows Panther fans and the Penrith community will support him on his Big Walk. “I just want everyone to be aware about it,” Simmons said. “They’ve always been fantastic and always got behind me.” Every contribution and act of support counts for this year’s Royce Simmons Foundation Big Walk. To donate and find out more, visit https://www.roycesimmonsfoundation.com.au.

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LAWandORDER Police Snapshot

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Legal Matters

COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

WITH DANIEL MCKINNON

Bateman Battersby Complete Legal | 4704 9991 | 19 Lawson St, Penrith

Penrith: Woman carrying knives on stealing spree

Penrith: Woman spits on store worker over some chocolate bars

A woman will front court next month after she allegedly stole items from several Penrith shops last week. At 2.30pm on Tuesday, August 4 a 20-yearold Penrith woman went into a homewares store inside a large shopping centre in Penrith. While in the store the 20-year-old stole three large knives which valued $250. The 20-year-old then left the store and went into a nearby handbag store. Inside the handbag store, the 20-year-old picked up three wallets and continued moving around the store. She was seen to put a wallet under her arm and attempt to leave the store. A worker tried to stop the 20-year-old from leaving but she struck the worker on the arm several times. Police were called because the 20-year-old was in possession of a knife. At 3pm police found the 20-year-old on Riley Street in Penrith and told her she was under arrest before handcuffing her. Police then searched the 20-year-old and found a meat cleaver in the waist band of her pants. The 20-year-old was charged with five offences. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, September 16.

A woman has fronted court accused of spitting on a retail worker over a chocolate bar dispute. At 4.55pm on Friday, August 7 a woman went into a retail premises on High Street. Inside the shop, the woman grabbed some chocolate bars from the shelf and put them into her bag. The store attendant saw what the woman was doing and asked her to remove the chocolate bars from her bag. The woman then spat on the attendant, removed the chocolate bars from her bag and threw them at the counter in the store. The woman then attempted to leave the store, but staff locked the automatic doors. The woman walked back towards the counter area but at the same time the store attendant approached the exit doors. The doors opened and the woman left the store and again spat on the attendant as she left. Police were called and attended the store where staff provided them with high-quality CCTV. On Monday, August 10 the woman, a 40-year-old South Grafton resident, went to Penrith Police Station in relation to a separate incident. She was recognised by the station’s counter staff from the CCTV that had been provided. The 40-year-old was arrested and charged for the incident. She was bail refused and appeared in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday.

Penrith: Man arrested after carrying six types of illegal drugs A man will front court after his attempts to run from police failed. At 3.25pm on Tuesday, August 4 police were patrolling on Station Street in Penrith when they saw a car that had fraudulent plates attached. Police watched as two men got out of the car and went into a nearby shop. When the men were returning to the car police approached and on seeing the police the two men ran. After a short foot pursuit, a 45-year-old Cambridge Gardens man who is known to police was arrested. The 45-year-old was searched and found inside a bag the man was carrying was two fold out knives. Also found in the 45-year-old’s bag was clear resealable bags containing methamphetamines and containers that had gamma-butyrolactone, cannabis, fentanyl, 10 buprenorphine strips, and Viagra tablets. Checks on the car revealed that the plates were fraudulent. The 45-year-old was charged with eight offences and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, August 19.

Kingswood: Man found carrying drugs A man from Coffs Harbour will have to find his way back to Penrith later this month to front court after he was allegedly found with drugs in Kingswood. At 1.30pm on Friday, August 7 police were patrolling on Santley Crescent in Kingswood when they saw a man riding a bike on the footpath without a helmet. Police stopped the man, a 23-year-old from Coffs Harbour. The 23-year-old’s bag was searched during which police found a glass pipe, ice, and Viagra tablets. The man was charged with possessing a prohibited drug He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, August 25. Breaking crime news: Visit our website at www.westernweekender.com.au.

Generations of Trust.

STORING YOUR WILL IN A SAFE PLACE A common question we get from clients is, “Where do I store my Will once I have made one?”. It is an important question because when it comes time to administer an estate the original Will is critical and will need to be provided to the Supreme Court of New South Wales together with any Application for a Grant of Probate or representation in relation to the estate. At Bateman Battersby Complete Legal we are able to hold your original Will (and other estate planning documents) for you in safekeeping free of charge. We have a database called a “Safe Custody Register” which stores your document electronically and we can keep your originals in our strongroom. This means that you know where your original documents are and you are not at risk of losing them if for example you move house, do a spring clean, or if there is something like a house fire that occurs at your residence. Having access to an original Will when a person dies is critical because in New South Wales if an original Will cannot be found and there is clear evidence that the last person who had the Will was the person who wrote it (the Will maker or testator) then there is a rebuttable presumption that the Will was destroyed. For example, let’s say you go to see your solicitor to make a new Will but instead of leaving the original to be held in safe custody by your lawyer you decide to take it home with you. Your solicitor will likely take a photocopy and keep it on file. A few years later, you decide to move house. In doing a cleanout of some of your documents, you accidentally discard your original Will because it gets caught up in some other paperwork you are getting rid of. Years later, your circumstances have not changed, so you have had no cause to update your Will. On your death, your family starts to go through your paperwork including documents that are held in your safe or a filing cabinet where all of your important documents are. Unbeknownst to you and them, you inadvertently discarded your Will years earlier and they cannot find the original. They know that you have used the same lawyer for many years so they contact your law firm who tells them that their records show that you took the original Will home

with you after you signed it and they only have a photocopy on file. In this case, in circumstances where the Will is recorded as having been in your possession there is a presumption that you have deliberately destroyed it and in doing so revoked it which can mean that your Will is of no effect. This is known as the “rebuttable presumption of destruction or revocation”. There are three potential consequences of such a scenario: 1. Your executor can make an application to admit the photocopy of your Will to probate by rebutting the presumption of destruction/revocation. To do this your executor will need to satisfy the following requirements: • There is another Will or document purporting to embody your testamentary intentions; • The photocopied document operated to revoke all previous Wills that you may have made; • There is other evidence to indicate that even though the Will cannot be found it was not destroyed (for example, an email to a family member close to your death saying, “If anything ever happens to me, the Will I did with my lawyer in 1992 is filed with my paperwork and the law firm has a copy”; • There is other evidence to satisfy the Court that the Will was not destroyed or revoked and that you intended for it to continue as your current Will. 2. The Will is deemed destroyed, and if it cannot be proved that the Will revoked all previous Wills, a former Will, if one exists, becomes your last Will. 3. If the presumption of destruction or revocation is upheld, and you never made a previous Will, you are deemed to have died intestate (without a Will) and your assets are distributed in accordance with the laws of intestacy which essentially create a chain of beneficiaries starting with the spouse, in the absence of a spouse children, and trickling down through other family members (note, the situation is more complex in blended families where a deceased person dies with a spouse and children who are not also children of the spouse). The moral of the story is there a significant chance that your testamentary intentions will not be upheld if the original of your Will cannot be found on your death.

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Connecting the world to western Sydney EMILY CHATE

estern Sydney residents will be able to fly to holiday destinations in Southeast Asia after Vietjet Air signed on to fly out of Western Sydney International Airport (WSI). From Sunday, January 10 next year, Vietjet will operate two weekly services every Sunday and Wednesday to Ho Chi Minh City. The two services will arrive at 10am at WSI and depart for Ho Chi Minh City at 12.05pm. From March, a third weekly service will begin operating between WSI and Ho Chi Minh City. The service will be operated by Vietjet’s A330 aircraft which holds 377 seats. The airline’s joint venture Vietjet

Thailand plans to operate four weekly services between WSI and Bangkok from November 2027, subject to regulatory approvals. Tickets for the Ho Chi Minh City flights taking off in January are now available for purchase online. WSI CEO Simon Hickey welcomed Vietjet to Sydney’s newest airport earlier this week, saying the local community will be delighted to get on board flights to Southeast Asia when services commence in the new year. “Vietnam is an incredibly popular destination for Aussie travellers – in 2025 more than half a million people travelled between New South Wales and Vietnam,” he said. “Add to that, western Sydney is one of the nation’s most diverse and rapidly growing regions that is proudly home to more than half of

Flights from WSI to Vietnam are now on sale.

Greater Sydney’s Vietnamese population – over 70,000 people – who regularly visit friends and relatives.” Vietjet CEO Nguyen Thanh Son said the airline is delighted to launch services to WSI. “Becoming one of the first airlines to operate at this new airport reinforces Vietjet’s strategy of pioneering the expansion of its international network while strengthening connectivity between Vietnam and Australia,” he said. “We believe the new route will further boost tourism, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges between our two countries, creating more jobs and contributing to local economic growth. “It will also provide passengers with more convenient, high-quality, and affordable travel options.” VietJet joins Qantas, Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines and Jetstar as operators who have officially signed on to run flights to and from WSI. The Weekender understands that WSI could be just weeks away from adding to that list, with talks with Fiji Airways believed to be progressing. The Fiji Times reported last week that Fiji Airways was eyeing the possibility of commencing flights to and from the airport in 2027.

A formal announcement regarding the WSI and Vietjet partnership was made earlier this week.

Flood study seeks local input EMILY CHATE

enrith City Council is seeking community feedback as it undertakes an overland flow flood study for Cambridge Park and Jordan Springs. The study includes parts of Cambridge Gardens, Cambridge Park, Jordan Springs, Llandilo, Werrington County and Werrington Downs. The flood study will examine overland flood

behaviour, identify existing flood issues and provide a foundation for future flood risk management planning. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the study reflects Council’s commitment to strengthening community safety and resilience through improved flood management. “This study is about learning directly from the people who live and work in the catchment,” Carney said. “Local knowledge helps Council understand

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

what happens on the ground during heavy rain and where flood impacts are felt most. That insight is critical when we are planning practical solutions that protect people, property and essential services.” Council is encouraging residents and business owners within the study area who have experienced flooding to share their local knowledge and firsthand experience. The information provided will play an important role in improving understanding

of how flooding behaves across the general catchment. Council has engaged Catchment Simulation Solutions Pty Ltd, an independent consultancy specialising in flood modelling, to prepare the study. Community members are encouraged to complete the questionnaire by visiting https://Yoursaypenrith.com.au/CambridgeParkFS. The study closes Monday, August 24.

˂ˡ˟˜ˡ˘ ˕ˢˢ˞˜ˡ˚ ˜˦ ˡˢ˪ ˔˩˔˜˟˔˕˟˘

News

ʻ˔˟˟˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˦ˣˢ˥˧˦˚˥ˢ˨ˡ˗˦

˅˜ˣˣ˟˘˦ ˣˢˢ˟˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˦ˣ˔˖˘˦

Contact Us Administration ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Civic Centre, 601 High Street. ˆ˧ ˀ˔˥ˬ˦ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘ Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street. ʶˢˡ˧˔˖˧ ʶ˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˂ˣ˘ˡ 8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri.

Council Briefs

Congratulations to our 2026 Local Celebration Award Winners!

Have Your Say

Congratulations to ˃˔˧˥˜˖˜˔ ˄˨˜ˡ˟˔ˡ, our Citizen of

ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟ ˜˦ ˨ˡ˗˘˥˧˔˞˜ˡ˚ ˔ˡ ˢ˩˘˥˟˔ˡ˗ Єˢ˪ Єˢˢ˗ ˦˧˨˗ˬ for the Cambridge Park and Jordan Springs area. The study area also includes parts of Cambridge Gardens,

4732 7777

ʿ˟˔ˡ˗˜˟ˢʟ ˊ˘˥˥˜ˡ˚˧ˢˡ ʶˢ˨ˡ˧ˬ ˔ˡ˗ ˊ˘˥˥˜ˡ˚˧ˢˡ ʷˢ˪ˡ˦ʡ

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751

˅˘˦˜˗˘ˡ˧˦ ˪˜˧˛˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˖˔˧˖˛ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˔˥˘ ˘ˡ˖ˢ˨˥˔˚˘˗

council@penrith.city Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at ˠˬʡˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

˧ˢ ˦˛˔˥˘ ˧˛˘˜˥ ˟ˢ˖˔˟ Єˢˢ˗ ˘˫ˣ˘˥˜˘ˡ˖˘˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˖ˢˠˣ˟˘˧˘ our questionnaire at ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢ CambridgeParkFS before Monday 24 August 2026.

Draft Reconciliation Action Plan – Exhibition extended

the Year; Ella Johnson, Young Citizen of the Year; David Conroy and ʾ˔˥˘ˡ ˊ˜˧˛˘˥˦ˣˢˢˡ, recipients of ˧˛˘ ˀ˔˞˜ˡ˚ ˔ ʷ˜˙˙˘˥˘ˡ˖˘ ϝ ʶˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘ ˔˪˔˥˗ʮ ʵ˥˨˖˘ ˇ˨˥ˡ˘˥ ʴˀ, Honoured Citizen; ˀ˨˝˚˔ˡ ˇ˔˛˘˥ˬ, Mayor’s Local Hero; and all King’s Birthday and ʴ˨˦˧˥˔˟˜˔ ʷ˔ˬ ʻˢˡˢ˨˥˘˘˦. Thank you for helping make Penrith a vibrant and caring community. We celebrate your achievements and the positive impact you bring to our city.

Services

Penrith City Council’s draft Reconciliation Action Plan

Development Application

ˊ˔˦˧˘ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦

(RAP) is on public exhibition, marking an important

ˇ˛˘ ˙ˢ˟˟ˢ˪˜ˡ˚ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˛˔˦ ˕˘˘ˡ

milestone in Council’s commitment to reconciliation.

received by Council:

The draft plan focuses on strengthening relationships

• St Marys Warehouse Pty Ltd

4732 7777 ʼ˟˟˘˚˔˟ ʷ˨ˠˣ˜ˡ˚ Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad). ʺ˥˔˙Ѓ˧˜ ʻˢ˧˟˜ˡ˘ Freecall 1800 022 182

˪˜˧˛ ʹ˜˥˦˧ ˁ˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˣ˘ˢˣ˟˘˦ʟ ˕˨˜˟˗˜ˡ˚ ˖˨˟˧˨˥˔˟ ˔˪˔˥˘ˡ˘˦˦ and capability and creating meaningful opportunities ˔˖˥ˢ˦˦ ˧˛˘ ʶ˜˧ˬʡ ʼ˧ ˥˘Є˘˖˧˦ ˧˛˘ ˚˥ˢ˪˜ˡ˚ ˜ˠˣˢ˥˧˔ˡ˖˘ ˢ˙ ʹ˜˥˦˧ ˁ˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˩ˢ˜˖˘˦ ˜ˡ ˃˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʟ ˪˛˘˥˘ ˠˢ˥˘ ˧˛˔ˡ 10,900 residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Meeting Dates

ˁˢ˪ ˜˦ ˧˛˘ ˢˣˣˢ˥˧˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˙ˢ˥ ˖ˢˠˠ˨ˡ˜˧ˬ ˧ˢ ˛˘˟ˣ ˦˛˔ˣ˘

Monday 24 August – 7pm (Ordinary Council Meeting)

Council’s approach to reconciliation and partnership

Online via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ

˜ˡ˧ˢ ˧˛˘ ˙˨˧˨˥˘ʡ ˅˘˩˜˘˪ ˧˛˘ ˗˥˔˙˧ ˅˘˖ˢˡ˖˜˟˜˔˧˜ˢˡ ʴ˖˧˜ˢˡ

DA26/0636

(Lot 181 DP 31911 & Lot 182 DP 31911) 31–43 & 45 Power Street, St Marys Demolition of existing structures on site, tree removal, ˖ˢˡ˦˧˥˨˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˔ ˪˔˥˘˛ˢ˨˦˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˗˜˦˧˥˜˕˨˧˜ˢˡ ˖˘ˡ˧˥˘ ˜ˡ˖˟˨˗˜ˡ˚ ˔ ˡ˘˪ ˖˔˥ ˣ˔˥˞ʟ ˟ˢ˔˗˜ˡ˚ ˗ˢ˖˞˦ʟ ˦˛ˢ˪˥ˢˢˠʟ ˢ˙Ѓ˖˘˦ʟ ˔ˡ ˜ˡ˗˨˦˧˥˜˔˟ ˥˘˧˔˜˟ ˢ˨˧˟˘˧ ˔ˡ˗ ˔ˡ˖˜˟˟˔˥ˬ ˟˔ˡ˗˦˖˔ˣ˜ˡ˚ ˔ˡ˗ ˘˔˥˧˛˪ˢ˥˞˦ ˔ˡ˗ ˜ˡ˦˧˔˟˟˔˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˕˨˦˜ˡ˘˦˦ ˜˗˘ˡ˧˜Ѓ˖˔˧˜ˢˡ ˔ˡ˗ ˪˔ˬЃˡ˗˜ˡ˚ ˦˜˚ˡ˔˚˘

Plan and share your feedback before Friday 28 August,

Contact: Jodie Schembri on 4732 7649

go to ˬˢ˨˥˦˔ˬˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖ˢˠʡ˔˨ʢ˅ʴ˃

Closing Date: Sunday 30 August 2026

penrith.city.council

Trees for Dad returns for its eighth year!

ˉ˜˘˪˜ˡ˚ ˢ˙ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ʴˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡ˦

penrithcouncil

ˊ˘ ˖˔ˡϠ˧ ˧˛˜ˡ˞ ˢ˙ ˔ ˠˢ˥˘ ˣ˘˥˙˘˖˧ ˪˔ˬ ˧ˢ ˥˘ˠ˘ˠ˕˘˥ Dad than planting a tree for him. Join us on Sunday

ˇ˛˘ ˔˕ˢ˩˘ ˗˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˔ˣˣ˟˜˖˔˧˜ˢˡʢ˦ ˠ˔ˬ ˕˘ ˩˜˘˪˘˗ ˢˡ

penrithcitycouncil penrithcitycouncil

6 September from 8.30am–12pm at Berkshire Park

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Recreation Ground for our annual Trees for Dad event! ˊ˘Ϡ˩˘ ˗˜˩˜˗˘˗ ˧˛˘ ˗˔ˬ ˜ˡ˧ˢ ʦʣʠˠ˜ˡ˨˧˘ ˦˘˦˦˜ˢˡ˦ ˪˜˧˛ registrations essential to help our Bushcare team provide enough plants for all participants. Find out more and register at ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬʢ˘˩˘ˡ˧˦

Council’s DA Tracker via ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛˖˜˧ˬʡˡ˦˪ʡ˚ˢ˩ʡ˔˨ʢ ʷʴˇ˥˔˖˞˘˥ ˂˙Ѓ˖˘˥˦ ˢ˙ ʶˢ˨ˡ˖˜˟Ϡ˦ ʷ˘˩˘˟ˢˣˠ˘ˡ˧ ˆ˘˥˩˜˖˘˦ ʷ˘ˣ˔˥˧ˠ˘ˡ˧ ˪˜˟˟ ˕˘ ˔˕˟˘ ˧ˢ ˔˦˦˜˦˧ ˪˜˧˛ ˬˢ˨˥ ˘ˡˤ˨˜˥˜˘˦ʡ ʷ˜˦˖˟ˢ˦˨˥˘ ˢ˙ ˃ˢ˟˜˧˜˖˔˟ ʷˢˡ˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˢ˥ ʺ˜˙˧˦ ʵˬ ˟˔˪ʟ ˥˘ˣˢ˥˧˔˕˟˘ ˣˢ˟˜˧˜˖˔˟ ˗ˢˡ˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˢ˥ ˚˜˙˧˦ ˠ˨˦˧ ˕˘ disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛˖˜˧ˬʡˡ˦˪ʡ˚ˢ˩ʡ˔˨

ˣ˘ˡ˥˜˧˛ʡ˖˜˧ˬ WW59283

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

Joke of the Week

Q: Why didn’t the zombie eat the mannequin? A: It was a no-brainer. Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.

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ooking for an impress i v e addit ion to your kitchen and dining options? The Corelle Laila Piece Dinner Set is a beautifully modern classic inspired by the soft, sun–washed tones of a European coastal escape. Clean bands of Riviera blue wrap each coupe plate, creating a cohesive, contemporary look. Light, fresh and timeless, the Corelle Laila dinner set brings a subtle Euro– summer sophistication to any setting.

It’s available for RRP $149 at Amazon and Global Kitchen brands. The Weekender has a Corelle Dinner Set to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com. au with ‘Corelle’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, August 28 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernw e e ke n d e r. c o m . au or Weekender reception.

PET

iSPY

OF THE WEEK

my name: Frankie my proud owner: Hayley, Mel, Sandra and Jack i live in: St Clair a bit about me:

do you know where this picture was taken? Tell us exactly where this week’s featured I Spy image is located in Penrith and you could win! Email competitions@westernweekender.com.au with your answer for your chance to win two movie tickets. Our winner will be notified by email. Entries close each Wednesday at 5pm. LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

The Rock Community Centre, located on Preston Street, Jamisontown.

We’ve reached our limit on posts about aircraft noise in local community groups on Facebook. Some of the complaints don’t even match up with WSI departures or arrivals. Calm it on down folks!

Congratulations to Colin Henry from Raine & Horne Commercial Penrith who this week celebrated 38 years with the organisation. Imagine the 40th party!

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

I love to body slam, steal socks, give a good side eye, run through the hose, and give the best bum wiggles when my people come home. Email keely.marsh@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.

Dose of Dorin

Autoglym’s ‘Fully Loaded Clean & Gleam Kit’ delivers everything needed for polished perfection inside and out. Because for car enthusiasts, cleaning the car isn’t a chore, it’s part therapy, part relaxation and part obsession.

The limited edition kit is available for a RRP $99.99 at Supercheap Auto, and valued at $226, it is the perfect gift for car enthusiasts, weekend washers or DIY dads. Autoglym

Father’s Day Fully Loaded, Clean and Gleam kit Includes: • Foaming Car Wash 2.5L – Quickly cleans away everyday grime for a streak-free finish. • Rapid Ceramic Spray (500ml) - A spray-on, wipe-off hydro-

phobic finish that repels water. • Instant Tyre Dressing (Big 800ml bottle) – Protective dressing for tyre side walls that’s easy to apply, and lasts. • Fast Glass (Big 800ml) – Streakfree cleaner for crystal clear glass. • Ultrasoft Drying Towel – A super absorbent towel that effortlessly dries in minutes. • High-quality Microfibre Wash Mitt – A super absorbent, microfibre wash mitt designed to lift and trap dirt with ease. • Hi-Tech Microfibre Cloths (2 pack) – Multi-purpose cloths for interior and exterior detailing • The 15L Autoglym Limited Edition Bucket – Because every proper wash starts with a decent bucket. Get it for Dad now at Supercheap Auto and you’ll be the favourite child this Father’s Day. The Weekender has three Fully Loaded car wash kits to give away thanks to Autoglym. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@westernweekender.com.au with ‘Dad’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, August 28 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.

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utoglym is giving dads something they’ll genuinely use this Father’s Day; a proper excuse to spend the weekend looking after his four-wheel pride and joy.

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

SMART MOVE ON BONDS

New government scheme means renters aren’t out-of-pocket when moving homes EMILY CHATE

enrith renters are now able to save thousands when they move under the State Government’s Smart Rental Bonds scheme. The scheme allows renters to transfer their existing bond from one property to the next, removing the need to come up with thousands of dollars upfront each time they move. Progress on the scheme was announced earlier this year but Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong was in Thornton this week, confirming it was now in place. He said it is expected to save renters up to $4,000 each time they move. “From today, it’s going live in Penrith, Parramatta, and the Central Coast Local Government Areas. This is the first phase as part of a statewide rollout of smart rental bonds,” Chanthivong said. “I know that renters across the state will very much welcome this cost-of-living relief. Moving house is stressful, exhausting and expensive – physically, emotionally, and financially and that is why for the

first time renters in NSW will be able to digitally transfer their current bond to their next property as they move home. “It will save them up to $4,000 each time they move home, it will put their hard-earned money back into their pockets.” As part of the phased rollout, renters moving into or within the Parramatta, Central Coast and Penrith Local Government Areas can now use Smart Rental Bonds. “The Minns Labor Government is making renting fairer, so that families in western Sydney can put down roots and build flouring communities,” Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said. “Renters in Penrith can now use Smart Rental Bonds, so it’s important that everyone understands how the new system works to make the most of it.” The scheme will be progressively expanded across the state, with all NSW renters expected to have access by the end of the year. The Smart Rental Bonds Scheme will work by notifying renters when a landlord or agent lodges a bond request online. The renter will then log onto Rental Bonds Online and choose

to pay their new bond upfront or move their existing bond to the new property for a fee of $25. If the new bond is higher than the old one, the renter will need to pay the difference. If the new bond is cheaper, the renter will get the difference back if there is no agreed claim on the bond. If a landlord at the original property makes a finalised claim on the bond, the State Government will pay the landlord up front and the renter will pay the government back. NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones explained the scheme will make the renting process fairer.

“This means they don’t have to raise two bonds at once providing immediate cash flow relief for families and people across NSW,” Jones said. “This is an important reform that gets the balance right, making it easier for renters and keeping things exactly the same for landlords and agents.” There are no changes to the current bonds process; agents will continue to notify renters there is a new bond to pay via Rental Bonds Online. The process for paying agreed bond claims to the landlord

remains the same and the dispute process through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal will not change. “The balance when it comes to renters rights has been out of whack and our government’s been trying to slowly but surely come up with common sense rules to make life easier and fairer for renters in NSW,” Premier Chris Minns said. “Whether its restrictions on lifting the rent more than once a year, the end of no grounds evictions for NSW renters and this one, a portable rental bonds scheme.”

NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones making the announcement in Thornton. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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LOCAL NEWS

Giving youth a voice at the table EMILY CHATE

enrith City Council will establish both a youth forum and committee to give the younger generations a say in their city. At a Policy and Strategy Meeting of Council on Monday evening, Councillors unanimously voted to endorse a hybrid model for youth advocacy in Penrith. The hybrid model will combine the proposed Youth Forum and Youth Committee Action Group to deliver a bi-monthly working group and an annual youth forum. Councillor Libby Austin, Penrith’s youngest ever Councillor, has been advocating for a dominant youth voice since she was elected in 2024. “I am excited that young people in Penrith will have greater oppor-

tunities to consult and contribute to the policies and outcomes that affect them, it is long overdue,” Austin said. “This is a start and there is absolutely more work to be done. I am looking forward to getting on with the job and working hard to make sure everyone in Penrith has a voice at the table where decisions are being made.” The model will run as a pilot project for a two-year period ending in December of 2028 when Council will review it. $22,000 will be allocated for the model as part of the 2026-27 Operational Plan. “The Youth Forum allows us to hear from a broader and more diverse range of young people, and the Youth Committee gives us something equally important:

consistency. It provides an ongoing mechanism for engagement, feedback, and accountability,” Austin said. “I want to highlight the fact that this hybrid model can be predominantly delivered by existing Council staff allocations and resourcing, with low cost to the rate payer. “A two-year trial is sensible, and looking to deliver this through the reprioritisation of existing work is sensible.” Penrith’s Deputy Mayor Garion Thain, who is the youngest Deputy Mayor Penrith has had, supported the hybrid model. “Penrith is younger on average than the rest of Sydney, and we basically have the perfect cross-section of young Aussies, with plenty of students, people entering the workforce, apprentices and young people

Penrith City Councillors Libby Austin and Garion Thain. Photo: Melinda Jane.

setting up their own businesses, and young people putting down roots here and starting their own families,” Thain said. “As Councillors, we’re here to represent everyone, so I was happy to support Councillor Austin here to get what I think is a great result, and

see what works and what doesn’t work over the next two years.” Councillor Reece Nuttall also spoke in favour of the model in Chambers. Councillors will formally adopt the model during the September Council meeting.

Our plan will reward hard work, restore home ownership,

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

Retirement living where all the threads come together.

An innovative new retirement community is being created in Oran Park. The Saxon blends comfort and connection with future focussed retirement living in a friendly, thriving community. Contemporary apartments sit above welcoming spaces; knitted together in a next-generation approach where people of all ages can connect in the vibrant mixed-use precinct. For today’s comforts and tomorrow’s needs, The Saxon weaves first-class retirement living together with the ease of a modern residential address.

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

LOCAL NEWS

Community at heart of new playground

Science gets wild in the west this August EMILY CHATE

his month Western Sydney Parklands will transform into a living laboratory as National Science Week event Science in the Scrub makes its way west. On Sunday, August 23 between 10am and 3pm, Science in the Scrub will be held at the Lizard Log at Western Sydney Parklands. The free event will see life-sized dinosaurs, giant bubble stations, insects, slime experiments, real life robotics and science demonstrations all to encourage the exploration of science outside of the lab. At Science in the Scrub, a dedicated Indigenous Science Village will celebrate the connection between Traditional Knowledge and contemporary science through native plants, seaweed research, traditional medicines and sustainable food systems. Science in the Scrub is an extension of the Greater Sydney Parklands Science in the

Swamp event. Up to 20,000 visitors are expected to attend the free science festivals which will feature more than 40 stalls, demonstrations and interactive experiences designed to engage people of all ages. University of NSW Dean of Science Sven Rogge said Science in the Swamp has become a spectacular celebration of science for the community, and they are delighted to expand into western Sydney this year with Science in the Scrub to share that same enthusiasm for learning. “These events are a chance to bring science into the community, showcase the diversity of science at UNSW and encourage young people of all backgrounds to see a place for themselves in the future of science, innovation and discovery,” Rogge said. For more information about the event, visit https://www.greatersydneyparklands.nsw. gov.au/scienceweek.

The new playground at Pinegrove Memorial Park.

EMILY CHATE

A glimpse at what is on offer.

WW58997

inegrove Memorial Park has unveiled a new playground on site as part of their vision to create welcoming spaces where families can gather and honour their loved ones. Executive General Manager Cemeteries and Crematoria at InvoCare Mark Dubock said the idea behind the playground is to meet the needs of their community. “We’re reimagining what memorial parks can be for the communities we serve,” Dubock said. “While remembrance will always remain at the heart of our memorial parks, we’re evolving these spaces to better meet the needs of today’s families and communities.” Park and Garden Manager at Pinegrove Duncan Pacey said memorial parks play a role in helping families remember their loved ones and more facilities will help enable that. “What we’re seeing today is that people want spaces where they can spend more time together, share stories, reflect and connect across generations,” Pacey said. The new playground at Pinegrove Memorial Park acknowledges that families often visit with children and creates a welcoming

environment that supports meaningful family visits while respecting the purpose of the park. “By creating experiences that encourage visitation and community connection, we’re ensuring our memorial parks continue to be valued places for generations to come,” Pacey said. The playground is the latest addition to the memorial park, complementing existing amenities including the recently completed onsite function centre, florist, café and community events such as the annual ANZAC Day Dawn Service. Across the InvoCare Network, initiatives like community workshops, cafés, florists and events spaces are encouraging people to engage with memorial parks in a new way, said General Manager QLD Cemeteries and Crematoria Richard Runde. “We have even had the opportunity to host weddings at our Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens and Crematorium in Brisbane,” Runde said. “Whether families are visiting a loved one, attending a community event or simply taking time to pause together, our goal is to create welcoming places where people feel comfortable returning throughout their lives.”

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

Housing plan for vacant building

Plant a tree on Father’s Day

EMILY CHATE

enrith City Council is assessing a Development Application (DA) to use the first floor of the old Stafford Street Medical Centre as shop top housing. The DA explains that the medical centre, which has moved to a new location, will remain as is on the ground floor, but should the application be successful, alterations will be made to turn the level above into a two-bedroom unit. The medical centre had been operating out of the site at 128 Stafford Street for four decades before moving. It is currently vacant. The documents attached to the DA say that the shop top housing will benefit the local community. “The change of use from a medical centre to shop top housing remains consistent with the objectives of the zone being that: It provides for the housing needs of the community,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said. “[And] it enables other land uses that provide facilities and services to meet the day-to-day needs of the community, within an existing local centre context.” The housing is expected to seamlessly fit into the area, the DA contends.

A previous Trees for Dad event.

The site of the proposed DA. Photo: Melinda Jane.

“Given the physical separation between the ground-floor commercial premises and the first-floor residential dwelling, no adverse visual or acoustic impacts are anticipated between the two uses,” the SEE said. “Similarly, the proposal is not expected

to result in any visual or noise impacts on adjoining properties, noting that no external building alterations are proposed and the development will operate within an established mixed-use commercial environment.” Council is assessing the proposal.

If you’re looking for something to gift Dad for Father’s Day, Penrith City Council’s beloved Trees for Dad community event returns for its eighth year on Sunday, September 6. Everyone is invited to plant a tree in honour and celebration of their dad, grandfather, uncle or father figure at Berkshire Park Recreation Ground in Berkshire Park. The event is divided into 30-minute sessions, with the first session starting at 8.30am and the last at 12pm. Registrations are essential to ensure that enough trees will be available to plant on the day. Register at http://www. penrith.city/events. “Trees for Mum and Trees for Dad are two very important events our community looks forward to every year,” Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said.

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

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LOCAL NEWS

Help needed as shelters feel squeeze EMILY CHATE

he RSPCA is asking the western Sydney community to put their hand up and foster as shelters approach their capacity this winter. Shelters across western Sydney and the state are seeing more dogs coming into their care. Almost 200 dogs came to RSPCA shelters last month alone. To ease the burden on both the dogs and the shelters the RSPCA is asking the community to consider fostering an animal. “Western Sydney is home to our largest RSPCA NSW animal shelter, located in Yagoona,” RSPCA NSW Foster Care Manager Rebecca Baxter said. “Having foster carers located close to the shelter is ideal, as it makes it

easier for them to collect supplies and attend medical appointments when needed. “It also means we can continue to provide the best possible support to both our foster carers and the animals in their care. “Winter has seen a spike in animals arriving into our care so we are calling on more people to consider fostering if they are able.” Foster carers are given everything needed to look after an animal, including food, bedding and vet care, so they can focus on giving the dog a calm home environment while it waits for adoption. “The community can gain so much from fostering. It helps reduce the number of animals requiring assistance from RSPCA NSW, while also supporting responsible pet ownership and encouraging people

to get involved in helping animals in need,” Baxter explained. “RSPCA NSW covers the required costs associated with caring for foster animals, which can make fostering a great option for people who would love to have an animal in their home but may be mindful of the ongoing costs of pet ownership. “Fostering provides animals with a quiet, safe and loving environment while they wait to find their forever family and gives members of the community the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in an animal’s life.” Penrith local Alison Bamford has been fostering a Staffy named Ghost who had been with the RSPCA for over 500 days. “I thought I’d give it a go and it’s been great!” she said. “You get to meet different dogs,

Alison’s foster dog Ghost.

and it means I can still enjoy a dog without having to worry about the financial side of things. “The shelters do their best, but it is different to a home environment so while this dog is waiting you can

give them a nice place to stay and a bit of love and attention.” In a happy ending, Bamford’s foster dog was adopted into his forever family over the recent weekend.

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As the NSW election approaches, the state of our bridges has become an uncomfortable symbol of a Labor Government far more interested in announcements, media appearances and political spin than delivering reliable infrastructure. At Victoria Pass, the failure of Mitchells Causeway has severed the Great Western Highway and inflicted an economic disaster on communities and small businesses throughout the Blue Mountains and Central West. This was not some new structure that unexpectedly failed. It was a bridge approaching 200 years of age, carrying thousands of vehicles every day. Its vulnerability should have been identified and addressed long before the road was forced to close. Closer to home, the Glossop Street rail bridge at St Marys has been restricted to vehicles under 20 tonnes because engineering assessments found it could no longer safely carry existing loads. However, the most immediate example for local residents is the Eighth Avenue Bridge at Shanes Park. For approximately two weeks, the bridge has been reduced to one operating lane, controlled by temporary traffic lights, with motorists travelling east and west reporting up to 25 minutes being added to already lengthy daily journeys. Residents have been advised that restrictions may continue for at least another two weeks, followed by a 20-tonne load limit because of the bridge’s deteriorating condition (with further closures in the future). This situation did not arise in isolation. Eighth Avenue has been forced to carry a ridiculous increase in traffic partly because the long-promised East-West Connector Road between Ropes

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Crossing and Jordan Springs was not opened by December 2019 as residents were originally promised. That debacle raises serious questions about Council’s willingness and capacity to ensure development conditions and essential infrastructure commitments are delivered by major developers. Western Sydney residents should not be expected to tolerate infrastructure being delivered years after the houses, warehouses and traffic arrive. Before developers are permitted to make hundreds of millions of dollars creating new suburbs, the arterial roads, connector roads and bridges must be funded, constructed, independently certified and opened. The infrastructure must come first. JEFF PEGG, JORDAN SPRINGS

A political contradiction?

The debate over the Mulgoa battery project (Councillors drain Mulgoa battery plan, Weekender July 29) raises a wider issue about consistency, accountability, and fairness in energy policy. Both major political parties at the state level support net zero targets, yet local representatives can oppose individual projects when they are proposed within their own communities. How can a political party support net zero targets while representatives within that same party oppose the infrastructure required to achieve those targets when it is proposed in their own local area? My concern is not directed at one political party. It is about the apparent contradiction between supporting a policy direction while communities are left to debate and carry the consequences of the infrastructure required to achieve it. MARIA CALOKERINOS, VIA EMAIL

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space. For more information, see our public notices section.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

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LOCAL NEWS

How quick action saved Steven’s life EMILY CHATE

local is sharing his stroke story this Stroke Week to remind the community why recognising the symptoms of a stroke is so vital. In January 2024, Penrith resident Steven Baskett was working from home when he began to feel unwell. “I heard this strange buzzing in my ear and then I lost my balance,” Baskett explained. “It felt like the room had tipped and I collapsed. As I was falling, I slurred to my dad, ‘I think I’m having a stroke’.” Baskett’s father acted quickly and he was taken to hospital in an ambulance where CT scans of his brain showed he had experienced a stroke. Baskett required emergency

surgery and clot busting drugs but says his treatment was initially delayed. “Despite all the signs, I wasn’t taken seriously straight away, because of my age,” he said. “Doctors thought my stroke symptoms were mental health related.” Baskett then spent weeks regaining strength in his left arm and eventually was able to achieve his goal of running again. He credits his recovery to his father’s quick action. “My dad saved my life by acting so fast,” Baskett said. “He called the ambulance, stayed calm, and got me the help I needed, he’s my hero.” Baskett’s story is just one of many and he shared it during National Stoke Week to remind others to know the signs. This year’s Stroke Week theme is

F.A.S.T. Heroes which celebrates the everyday people who can recognise a stroke and act quickly. Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy said everyone can be a hero by learning and sharing the F.A.S.T. message.    “You don’t need a cape to be a hero, you just need to know the signs of stroke by learning the F.A.S.T. acronym and calling triple zero (000) when stroke strikes. It can save a life,” she said.    “F is for face – is their face drooping? A is for arms – can they lift both arms? S is for speech – is their speech slurred? And T is for time – time is critical. Call 000 immediately,” “When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute so there’s absolutely no time to waste. You must act fast and call triple zero for ambulance to help.”

Penrith local Steven Baskett survived a stroke.

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LOCAL NEWS

Teacher recognised with prestigious industry honour

Your chance to recognise a deserving local woman

EMILY CHATE

local school teacher has been recognised for his commitment to teaching through a major industry award. Cambridge Gardens Public School teacher Simon Bale was acknowledged with a Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching at the 2026 Public Education Awards, held at Sydney Town Hall on Monday, August 3. Bale is an early career teacher who, following a successful year in kindergarten, sought out the role of classroom teacher in the school’s newly established support class. The Public Education Awards celebrate the achievements, innovative ideas, and dedicated service that are shaping the future of public education across NSW. The awards night came on the opening day of Public Education Week 2026, with public schools across the State already celebrating the year’s theme ‘Inspiring Excellence’. Secretary of the NSW Department of Education

enrith residents are being encouraged to celebrate the positive role women play in the community by nominating them for the 2027 Local Woman of the Year Awards. The Local Woman of the Year Awards is an annual program that provides members of parliament with the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of a local woman in their electorates. “The awards shine a light

on the remarkable achievements and contributions of Penrith’s women,” Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said. “If you know a woman who helps make our community diverse, inspiring, and dedicated to positive change nominate her for the Local Woman of the Year Awards. “Together, let’s honour those whose commitment and passion define the Penrith community.” Penrith’s 2026 Local Woman of the Year was business owner and security

expert Gina Field. The winner of the awards receives a framed certificate signed by the Premier, Minister for Women, and their local MP as well as an invitation to the NSW Women of the Year Awards Ceremony. Nominations are now open for the awards program and will close on Friday, October 16. For more information or to submit a nomination visit ht t p s:// k a r e n mc k e o w n . com.au/nominations/localwoman-of-the-year-2027/.

Cambridge Gardens Public School teacher Simon Bale with Minister for Education Prue Car.

Murat Dizdar said the awards recognised the extraordinary stories of achievement unfolding in public schools every day. “Inspiring excellence starts with the people who show up

for our students every day,” Dizdar said. “Teaching is one of the few professions where success is measured by the success of others. I’m proud these Awards recognise that.”

2026 Local Woman of the Year Gina Field with Member for Penrith Karen McKeown.

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

LOCAL NEWS

CHAMPIONS AGAIN Dynasty reignited as St Clair High School Boccia team win another major title EMILY CHATE

The St Clair High School team after their win.

securing their place among the 24 regional winners competing for State honours. The championship is also a reflection of the commitment of Inclusive Education teacher and Boccia Coach Sijo Sebastian, who together

with team manager Azmul Sahid, worked closely with the students to develop their skills and confidence over several years. Coach Sebastian said the team’s victory was about much more than the final score.

“I am really proud of our team – not just with the win, but with the way they have demonstrated true resilience, commitment, dedication and a positive attitude ever since I started coaching the team five years ago,” Sebastian said.

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local school has produced a remarkable comeback to secure its second Boccia Championship title in four years. St Clair High School reclaimed the NSW State Boccia Championship title after defeating defending champions Wagga Wagga High School 5-4 in the Grand Final at Sydney Olympic Park. The victory is the second title for St Clair High School in four years. The school has consistently remained among the top 10 schools in NSW since 2021. Boccia is an indoor precision ball sport where players aim to roll or throw balls as close as possible to a target ball called the jack. It is a sport played by athletes with physical, intellectual, hearing or vision impairments. St Clair’s journey to the State Finals began with the Western Sydney Secondary Schools Boccia Championships in May at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre. The St Clair team remained undefeated throughout the regional competition, earning the Western Sydney championship and

The students regularly attended after-school training sessions, spending hours developing their skills, competing against staff and other students and learning to adapt to different playing conditions. “They turned up promptly to the training sessions, spent afterschool hours mastering their skills, competed against staff and other students, practised on varied surfaces and worked on different techniques,” Sebastian explained. The championship team consisted of Captain Adam Busuttil, Vice-Captain Rathushaan Muraledaran, Junior Iosua, Marcus Lopez, Muhammad Haris Sohail, and Andre Holmes. St Clair High School Principal Julie Tegart expressed her immense pride in the team’s performance. “I am incredibly proud of our team on their outstanding achievement in being crowned NSW State Boccia Champions for 2026,” she said. “This success is a wonderful reflection of the commitment, determination and teamwork of our students, who have dedicated countless hours to training and preparing for competition.”

LOCAL NEWS

Feast day a huge success H

undreds of people turned out for the St Mary MacKillop feast day earlier this

month. Parents of students at St Mary MacKillop Primary School in South Penrith had the idea to bring the community together to celebrate

the life of patron saint, St Mary MacKillop, whose actual feast day falls on August 8. The school has previously hosted a fete every second year for many years but this year the Parents and Friends Association decided with feast day falling on a Saturday, it

The Men’s Shed kept everyone well fed.

would be a perfect opportunity to change it up and hold a beautiful celebration with a night market. The event was held on the St Mary MacKillop Primary School grounds and organised by the Parents and Friends Association who are all volunteers along with the help of the school’s wonderful community liaison Sam Snow. 50 stall and food truck vendors were on site, which included a stall run by the wonderful volunteers from the Nepean Men’s Shed who also graciously cooked up the fundraiser BBQ. The event was attended by lots of current and former students and their families, local parishioners, teachers, local community members and even Penrith MP Karen McKeown made an appearance. The newly formed community choir also performed at the special event. The feast day was the first night markets ever held at the school in its 43 year history.

Bradfield Bulletin

Attendees check out the stalls at the event.

There were some 50 stallholders at the feast day event.

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

Plans to further enhance our beautiful river

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Bradfield Bulletin is an online news website dedicated to the Bradfield City Centre and Western Sydney International Airport. Bradfield Bulletin was officially launched in 2024. If you’d like to advertise on Bradfield Bulletin, please email us at sales@bradfieldbulletin.com.au or call (02) 4722 2998.

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

Penrith City Council loves hearing from our community and many visitors who tell us how much they enjoy facilities like the upgraded Regatta Park, Tench Reserve and new water access to the Nepean River. These public facilities were part of the vision that came to life through Council’s Our River Master Plan 2013. The Nepean River is an integral part of our City’s identity and our community’s greatest natural asset. Building on the previous plan’s success, Council has developed the Draft Our River Plan 202646, a new strategy that will guide future planning for the entire length of the river in the Penrith Local Government Area. Now on exhibition, the plan recognises the river’s social, recreational and cultural significance and identifies opportunities to unlock further potential in and around the river. Our proposed ideas and projects will take time and resources – including funding - of many to become reality. The plan calls for all levels of government, industry and other stakeholders to continue to work together to realise the next steps. We have seen many tangible community benefits of the projects delivered

to date. The Yandhai Nepean Crossing pedestrian bridge and Nepean Avenue Pedestrian Pathway support active and healthy lifestyles while showcasing the City’s beauty, and the former police cottage revitalisation has given people a great spot to enjoy a coffee or meal with a river view. Our flagship Real Festival, held at Tench Reserve, connects and celebrates our community, attracting around 50,000 attendees. The Nepean River precinct plays a major role in the future wellbeing of our growing City and Council looks forward to collaborating with partners to achieve even more positive outcomes through this aspirational plan. Learn more at https://yoursaypenrith. com.au/ourriverplan. Hard copies are available at Penrith Civic Centre, our libraries and St Marys Business Centre. You can also provide feedback at Council’s pop-up stall at this year’s Real Festival, from September 11-13. I encourage you to read and provide feedback on this plan, to help guide our actions and ensure that we continue to deliver on a shared vision for Penrith and the beautiful Nepean River.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

ingredients. The new range – Protein Pro, Cluck Norris and Big Dill Energy – are each priced at $19.90.

Δ New rug shop: Rug & Rest has opened a new shop at Caddens Corner. The showroom opened its doors in recent weeks and is now up and running. Δ Delicious dessert: KFC has expanded its

dessert menu with the launch of the new Chocolate Lava Brownie. Priced at $4, the limited-time dessert features a rich chocolate brownie with a warm, oozing molten chocolate centre, making it one of KFC’s most indulgent sweet treats to date. The Chocolate Lava Brownie will be available until August 31.

Δ Cheer(io)s to little wins: After nearly

7,000 Aussies called for its return, Uncle Tobys is bringing back its much-loved Cheerios Low Sugar cereal. Uncle Tobys Cheerios Low Sugar will start to return to shelves nationally from this week in Coles and from August 24 in Woolworths, returning a favourite lowersugar breakfast option to families. Known for its vanilla flavour, Cheerios Low Sugar is made with three whole grains (wheat, corn and oats) and has a 4.5 Health Star Rating. With less than 10g of sugar per 100g and key nutrients including fibre, calcium and iron, the iconic O-shaped Cheerios Low Sugar have become a favourite among Australian families.

Δ Mega protein: Burger chain Grill’d has

unveiled its new High Performance Range, introducing three premium burgers designed for customers looking to increase their protein intake without giving up their burger fix. The new range features double-patty burgers, including a chicken burger boasting 81g of protein, alongside new fibre-rich sliders and Grill’d’s existing focus on low sugar and nutrient-packed

Δ New sports shop: Sports Direct will soon open at Westfield Penrith. It’ll be located on Level 2 near The Food Terrace, replacing the Glue store, and will be the place to grab all your sporting needs across shoes, clothing and gym gear. Δ Tasty return: Gelato Messina at Westfield Penrith is currently closed, undergoing a renovation. It’ll re-open in the next few weeks. Δ Calling all dog lovers: Grab the lead, pack the treats and bring your best mate along for one of the Blue Mountains’ happiest days out as Dogs Day Out returns to the beautiful Norman Lindsay Gallery in the Blue Mountains. Celebrating International Dog Day,

this much-loved annual event transforms the historic National Trust property into a dog-friendly festival with family entertainment, expert talks, demonstrations, competitions and plenty of opportunities for both two-legged and four-legged visitors to play, learn and explore. The event is on Saturday, August 29 from 10am-4pm at the Norman Lindsay Gallery.

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PENRITH BALL! Celebrating 10 years of supporting mental fitness across the Penrith community, including local sporting clubs and schools. Join us as we Unmask the Future, with exciting new initiatives and events to be announced on the night. This is an event you won’t want to miss, the night promises epic entertainment, heartfelt stories, and a whole lot of fun.

Your ticket includes: • • • •

A delicious three-course meal Beer, wine, and soft drinks Live music to dance the night away The famous Penrith Ball raffle (you must be there to win!)

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So grab your mates, loved ones, teammates, volunteers, and colleagues, and join us for one of Penrith’s biggest nights - all for an incredible cause.

We can’t wait to see you again this year! BUY TICKETS HERE

We have sponsorship packages starting from $3,000. Please contact Sean Hogan on 0414 637 513 to find out more.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

TURNING BACK TIME This 1988 photograph shows the team from the Amcal chemist at the Lennox Shopping Centre. The Hooker Corporation began construction on the shopping centre in 1977. It opened on September 6, 1978. Originally called the Emu Plains Shopping Village Centre, its named was changed in 1984 to the Lennox Shopping Centre. In 1999 the centre was purchased by the Centro group and renamed Centro Lennox. It was refurbished in 2002. (Photo thanks to Penrith City Library)

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supply the home later, although the economics depend on the battery, the plan and your normal usage. The word “free”, however, should not be the only thing you compare. Daily supply charges still apply, controlled-load electricity may be excluded, free usage can be capped, and electricity outside the free window may cost more than on another plan. Solar owners should also check the feed-in tariff, because some free-power offers provide little or no payment for exported solar. The best plan is therefore not necessarily the plan with the cheapest headline rate. It is the plan that best matches when your household uses, stores and exports electricity. Before changing retailers, gather a recent bill and use

LORENZO TASSONE Director of Good Earth Group Pty Ltd Penrith Chamber Board Member

the Australian Government’s free Energy Made Easy comparison service. Compare the estimated annual cost, not simply one tariff. Then review your results after the first billing cycle. The practical lesson is simple: electricity plans are becoming more flexible, but saving money requires matching the tariff to your household – not changing your household to suit a clever advertisement.

early every week I hear the same excuses. “The ATO is killing us.” “Customers are taking too long to pay.” “Payroll has become impossible.” Sometimes that’s true, but mostly none of those are the real problem. The biggest threat to your cashflow is the person looking back at you in the mirror. I’ve lost count of the number of businesses that tell me they’re struggling to pay their bills, yet their bank account has been quietly funding holidays, cosmetic procedures, designer handbags, online shopping, takeaway every second night, sports betting, and whatever else catches their eye. Success arrives... then the spending begins. Your business becomes your personal

ATM. The scary part is this isn’t usually fraud or greed. It’s something much simpler. You stop keeping score. Then we prepare the financials and review the director’s loan account. $180,000. “I didn’t spend that!” Yes. You did. One swipe at a time. Then comes my least favourite question. “Can we claim some of it as a tax deduction?” No. Checking work emails doesn’t make your holiday tax deductible. Here’s the hard truth: You can build a profitable business and still bankrupt it by taking too much cash out. Financially unshakeable business owners understand this important rule. Just because the money is in the bank doesn’t mean it’s yours to spend. Some belongs to the ATO.

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Some belongs to your team. Some belongs to suppliers. Some needs to stay in the business. This week’s challenge: Print your business bank statements for the last three months and highlight every personal expense. Don’t cheat. Include any cash sales you took too. Total it, multiply it by four, then add your normal wage. That’s roughly what you’ve withdrawn from your business in a year, often without considering the tax or cashflow consequences. If the total shocks you, don’t make excuses. Make changes. Start leading your business like it’s an investment, not a personal shopping account.

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rom July, eligible NSW households can access new “Solar Sharer” electricity plans offering three hours of free electricity each day, generally between 11am and 2pm. Despite the name, you do not need rooftop solar. You do need a smart meter, and the offer is not generally available to homes supplied through an embedded network. This could be valuable for western Sydney households that can move energy use into the middle of the day. Washing machines, dishwashers, clothes dryers, pool pumps, electric hot water systems and electric vehicles can all be scheduled to operate during the free period. A home battery can also be programmed to charge during the window and

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CONNECTION to country

A special supplement focused on local Indigenous affairs and services

Special coin for historic moment T he Royal Australian Mint commemorates two defining milestones in Australia’s journey towards reconciliation, with the release of a new circulating 50 cent coin titled Unity – Gurindji Wave Hill Walk Off 1966 and Birthplace of Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. Marking the 60th anniversary of the Wave Hill Walk Off and the 50th anniversary of the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976, the coin celebrates the courage, resilience and determination of the Gurindji people, whose actions helped change the nation forever. Australians are encouraged to check your change for the new commemorative coin, which will enter circulation nationally from this week. The design will also be available as a collectible coin-in-card and a silver proof coin. The Wave Hill Walk Off, led by

An explainer about the new 50 cent coin.

Vincent Lingiari in 1966, began as a protest against unfair wages and living conditions on Wave Hill Station. What followed became one of the most significant chapters in Australia’s land rights movement. The Gurindji people stood against injustice despite enormous personal risk. They believed that their land, culture and dignity were worth fighting for. Their courage over nine long years changed Australia forever. Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh, said although the story of the Gurindji Strike and the 1975 hand-back had been shared in various ways over the following decades, this coin release told that story in its entirety. “This coin honours a defining moment in Australia’s history and recognises the extraordinary courage

of the Gurindji people. The dual anniversaries in 2026 provide an important opportunity to continue that storytelling. “What resonates most strongly is the human story – the families who walked away from certainty into uncertainty because they believed their land was worth fighting for,” he said. “When holding this coin in their hands, we hope Australians will reflect on the power of unity, resilience and determination, and on the enduring legacy of those who stood up for justice and changed the path our nation was taking.” At the heart of this release is a powerful coin design that captures the journey from protest to recognition. The design depicts the 1966 Wave Hill Walk Off and the path it forged towards the 1975 handover of land, and the Aboriginal Land Rights Act passed a

year later. In the foreground, a gathering of Gurindji people stand together beneath the hot sun, their shadows stretching across the landscape as they set forth on the walk-off. Looking towards distant hills, the horizon transforms into the hand of Vincent Lingiari as he receives the hand-back of land on behalf of the Gurindji people. The merging of hand and landscape symbolises the enduring connection between Traditional Owners and Country. Across the sky, the words of Vincent Lingiari shine as an everlasting reminder of the power of his leadership and vision. The word UNITY is embedded within the overlapping shadows of the Gurindji community, reflecting the collective strength that comes from standing together in pursuit of justice. Gurindji Aboriginal Corporation Director and Traditional Owner Roslyn Frith said the coin was reflective of the historic events she had been part of as a child. “Unity is Gurindji’s strength. This coin design represents the proud Gurindji people’s story, history and legacy. We are commemorating the past while celebrating the present as one. The Gurindji people have come a long way and as Vincent Lingiari said, ‘let us be mates’,” Frith said. Minister for Indigenous Australians, and Senator for the Northern Territory, Malarndirri McCarthy said the Wave Hill Walk Off was a turning point in the Aboriginal land rights movement. “The Wave Hill Walk Off in 1966 laid the foundation for Aboriginal land rights across the Northern Territory and the country. It was a defining moment in history that led to the Aboriginal Land Rights Act. “This coin recognises the bravery of the Gurindji people, led by Vincent Lingiari, and tells a story of collective strength, solidarity and unity.” Check your change from today to find this special commemorative coin. Collectors can also secure the coin as a coin-in-card and a silver proof edition through the Royal Australian Mint or Australia Post.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

Services and community organisations: Your local guide Health Services

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service www.gwahs.net.au One of Western Sydney’s leading Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations. Provides GP services, chronic disease management, mental health support, child and family health services, men’s and women’s health programs, drug and alcohol support, and community wellbeing initiatives.

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service Penrith www.gwahs.net.au Provides culturally safe healthcare and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the Penrith and Nepean region.

Aboriginal Health Unit www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ Aboriginal-Health Part of Western Sydney Local Health District, delivering culturally appropriate health programs, community engagement and support services across Western Sydney.

Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation www.tacams.com.au Provides comprehensive medical, allied health and preventative health services for Aboriginal communities across South Western Sydney.

Mental Health, Counselling & Wellbeing

Marrin Weejali Aboriginal Corporation www.marrinweejali.org.au Offers counselling, drug and alcohol support, mental health assistance, referrals and culturally safe wellbeing programs for Aboriginal individuals and families.

Aboriginal Counselling Service www.wentwest.com.au Provides counselling, therapeutic support and mental health services for Aboriginal people experiencing personal, family or emotional challenges.

Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service – Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program Social & Emotional Wellbeing Program Provides culturally appropriate support for mental health concerns, emotional wellbeing, grief and trauma support, and alcohol and drug issues.

Sydney Aboriginal Family Support Service www.safss.com.au Supports Aboriginal families through parenting assistance, advocacy, family support programs, case management and community development initiatives.

Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation www.baabayn.com.au A highly respected Western Sydney organisation delivering cultural, educational, youth and family support programs while strengthening Aboriginal identity and community connection.

AbSec www.absec.org.au NSW’s peak Aboriginal child and family organisation, advocating for Aboriginal children and families while supporting culturally appropriate child protection and community services.

Legal Services

Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT www.alsnswact.org.au Provides free legal advice, court representation, advocacy and support for Aboriginal and Torres

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

Strait Islander people across Western Sydney and NSW.

Western Sydney Community Legal Centre www.wsclc.org.au Provides free legal and social support services for vulnerable residents, including Aboriginal clients seeking legal assistance.

Education & Youth Services Kimberwalli www.kimberwalli.com.au

Australia’s first Aboriginal-owned and Aboriginalgoverned independent school, supporting Aboriginal students through education, culture and leadership development.

National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy www.nasca.org.au Provides mentoring, education, employment pathways and leadership opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

National Centre of Indigenous Excellence www.ncie.org.au Delivers education, health, leadership, employment and community programs designed to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Community & Cultural Organisations

Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation www.srac.org.au Supports Aboriginal communities through cultural programs, advocacy, community engagement and local initiatives across the Penrith region.

Koori Kulcha Aboriginal Corporation www.koorikulcha.com.au Promotes Aboriginal culture, education, arts and community engagement through cultural programs and events.

Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation www.kinchela.org.au Provides healing, advocacy and support programs for survivors and descendants affected by the Stolen Generations

Gunawirra www.gunawirra.org.au Works with Aboriginal families and children through early intervention, health, education and family support programs.

Emergency & Crisis Support

13YARN 13 92 76 | www.13yarn.org.au Australia’s first national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line, available 24 hours a day.

Lifeline 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention service available nationwide.

Aboriginal Health Services & Local Health District Aboriginal Health Teams Available throughout Western Sydney to provide urgent healthcare support, referrals, mental health assistance and family wellbeing services. This list highlights some of the key Indigenousled and Indigenous-focused organisations supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Penrith, Blacktown, Mount Druitt, Parramatta, Liverpool, Campbelltown and the broader Western Sydney region.

CONNECTION to country

Business success story A

First Nations-owned business is helping shape safer workplaces across Australia, growing from a small start-up into a trusted supplier of safety solutions for government and major industry. Panku Safety Solutions, whose name means “united, together” in the Nyiyaparli language, is an Indigenous-owned business operating in Melbourne and Perth. Drawing on more than 25 years of industry experience, the company specialises in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Site Safety products and related categories supporting hundreds of organisations nationwide. Founder and Chief Executive Officer Jadah Pleiter launched the business after looking for greater flexibility to support her young family while combining her expertise in project management, strategic planning, marketing and first aid. Established just before the COVID-19 pandemic, Panku quickly adapted to unprecedented demand for personal protective equipment (PPE), hand sanitiser and other essential safety products. By working collaboratively with industry partners including businesses that might otherwise have been considered competitors, the

company helped meet critical supply needs during one of Australia’s most challenging periods. One of Panku’s first major opportunities came through a tender to supply first aid products and services for Victoria’s Metro Tunnel Project. At the time, the $13.48 billion project was Australia’s largest public transport infrastructure investment of its kind. Panku successfully secured the first aid supply component of the contract, laying the foundation

for continued growth. Today, the business supplies PPE, Site Safety products and related categories to hundreds of corporate, government and community organisations across Australia. From FY 2020-21 to 2025-26, Panku Safety Solutions has experienced 518 per cent growth in turnover and in FY 2024-25 the business doubled its turnover and employee numbers. Since 2020, Panku Safety Solutions has spent almost $2 million with Indigenous businesses and not-for-profit organisations.

Panku Safety Solutions is now working Australia-wide.

Jadah Pleiter’s entrepreneurial success has earned her recognition as a finalist in the Indigenous Businesswoman of the Year category at the 2026 Supply Nation Supplier Diversity Awards, held this month. The awards will be presented during Connect 2026, Supply Nation’s flagship event. The annual gathering brings together Indigenous businesses, corporate members and government organisations to strengthen commercial relationships, share knowledge and create new opportunities through supplier diversity. Supply Nation CEO Kate Russell said: “Panku Safety Solutions is a fantastic example of a business founded by a proud Aboriginal woman honouring her heritage and creating economic and social impact that will last for generations.” Jadah Pleiter, Chief Executive Officer, Panku Safety Solutions said: “All my great grandmother’s children were taken from her. My grandmother was brought up in a children’s home. She fought, and she created opportunities, establishing both a florist business and an antique shop. So, I thought that’s my heritage, I owe it to them to create something that has generational impact.”

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Improving outcomes A

boriginal organisations from across the North Coast have come together at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre to showcase Aboriginal-led land management and strengthen partnerships through the Visions for Healthy Country project forum. The Visions for Healthy Country project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by North Coast Local Land Services, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel. The forum brought together Local Aboriginal Land Councils, Traditional Owner groups, industry representatives and project partners to share knowledge, discuss project outcomes and explore opportunities to improve environmental and cultural outcomes across the region. Representatives presented on a range of on-Country activities, including weed management, cultural fire management, threatened species conservation, training initiatives and community engagement programs. The gathering marked an important milestone for the Visions for Healthy Country project, coinciding with the halfway point of project delivery. Participants used the forum to evaluate progress, share lessons learned and identify priorities for the next stage of the project. A key topic was cultural fire management. Project partners highlighted both the importance of cultural burning and the challenges associated with implementing these practices across project sites.

Attendees at the forum.

The forum also provided an opportunity for Aboriginal organisations and industry partners to discuss collaborative approaches to land management, capacity building and environmental stewardship. Andy Vinter, Senior Land Services Officer with North Coast Local Land Services, said the forum highlighted the value of Aboriginal-led approaches to caring for Country. “The forum provided a valuable opportunity for Aboriginal organisations to share knowledge, learn from one another and strengthen partnerships that support healthy Country

outcomes across the North Coast,” he said. “It was particularly encouraging to see the strong interest in cultural fire management and the willingness of organisations and partners to work together to support greater implementation of these practices on Country.” The Visions for Healthy Country project supports Aboriginal organisations to undertake on-Country activities that improve environmental outcomes while strengthening cultural knowledge, skills and community connections.

Connection To Country runs across The Western Weekender and Parra News.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

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an the Panthers still win the competition if they lose to the Roosters on Thursday night? Of course they can. Can Eastern Suburbs still win the competition if they lose to the Panthers on Thursday night? Silly question – yes, they can. Despite that reality, there is a significant advantage that goes to the winner of this CommBank Stadium showdown a month out from the Finals. And it’s not just the Minor Premiership, which this match could well decide. There is a big mental benefit to winning this one. For Penrith, it would prove they can win big games without Isaah Yeo, with the Blues and

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Kangaroos captain now in a race against time to be fit for September after suffering a pectoral injury against the Warriors last week. It would also wash away any fears that the Panthers have slipped a little – losing to both your main top four competitors in back-toback weeks would not be ideal. For the Roosters, it would be a monkey off the back. Trent Robinson’s side has struggled to beat Penrith in recent years, defeating them only once during the dynasty era including in Finals matches. For Easts to claim Penrith’s scalp so close to the Finals would give them the confidence they could do it when it matters in a few weeks’ time. Lattes all round. So for a game that actually doesn’t have that much on the line given both these sides are bound for the top four, there’s actually plenty to play for. In reality this is Penrith’s final huge test before

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the Finals. Matches against the Storm, Bulldogs and Tigers follow and with all due respect to those three sides, all of them will likely have their passport stamped and be sunning themselves by the pool by the time the first Sunday in October rolls around. I can’t wait for the battle of the halfbacks in this one. The experienced Nathan Cleary, at the top of his game and with four Premiership rings in the top drawer of his bedside table, up against the dynamic Sam Walker who has proven all of his doubters wrong this year and has the world at his feet – domination of a Finals series could be just around the corner. And what about the fullbacks? James Tedesco and Dylan Edwards, who battled for the Blues Origin jersey earlier this year, both back from injury and ready to prove they’re the best number one on the field. Can’t forget about the forwards. Victor Radley

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will rip in. Moses Leota will storm in from the back fence. Lindsay Smith will be out to prove a point replacing Yeo at lock. Penrith missed the start again last week and as I feared in this very preview, if that happened they were always going to find it difficult to take the crowd and emotion out of the game. By the time they got all of that out of their heads and found their groove, it was too late. But this experienced Panthers team can only benefit and learn from losses. I have a feeling Penrith are going to win this game comfortably. They have a point to prove, that despite all the talk suddenly about the Roosters and Warriors, we should not forget about these old heads at the foot of the Mountains. Just remember: question a champion team at your peril. Tip: Penrith by 18.

UPDATES ON NRL.COM

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

FE ATURE

Plot twist as fave character exits NATHAN TAYLOR

anthers coach Ivan Cleary says it’s hard to imagine Brian To’o wearing any other NRL jersey but that will be the reality in 2028 after the popular winger signed a three-year deal to join new franchise the PNG Chiefs. The rich contract will see To’o link up with best mate and formers Panthers premiership winner Jarome Luai when the Chiefs enter the competition in less than two years’ time.

Penrith announced To’o’s impending departure on Monday morning, sending shockwaves through the community and the rugby league world. While To’o leaving after his current contract with the Panthers was certainly on the cards, no one expected it to be completed so soon, with NRL free agency not officially open until November 1. Speaking with the media on Wednesday morning, Cleary said the club allowed To’o to negotiate with the Chiefs – and the Chiefs only – for one week to

Brian To’o with his friends and family in Mudgee recently. Photo: NRL Photos.

Fan favourite Brian To’o is leaving Penrith. Photo: NRL Photos.

avoid anymore distractions leading into the all-important Finals period. “We had enough evidence that that was a possibility, so we just wanted to get it done,” Cleary said of To’o’s interest in the Chiefs. “This year there’s been a lot of guys off-contract and the sooner we can sort that out the better, and I guess this was one of those instances.” To’o has played 151 games for the Panthers during his decorated eight-year NRL career, which started back in 2019. Cleary said the club would have loved to have re-signed the former Origin winger but that they could never compete with the amount of tax-free dollars the Chiefs were offering. “Of course we wanted him to stay but I think everyone knows with the Chiefs that it’s hard to match that stuff. It’s not your average club but if players want to go there you can’t compete,” he said. “We think we run a pretty good program here [at Panthers] and the boys all know that. But the evidence is there… there’s been enough players that have had to leave or have chosen to leave for bigger and better things and that’s the tax you have to pay for success, and we have to pay it.” Cleary said To’o, who is now a father of two, was emotional when

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telling his coach and teammates of his decision to leave his junior club at the end of 2027. “It was a hard one for him to tell all his mates and even his family. He’s had a fair bit on his plate lately and he probably feels a bit lighter now,” Cleary said. “It’s hard to imagine Bizza playing in any other jersey but there’s a few guys out there where I thought the same.

“It’s hard to imagine Bizza playing in any other jersey” “It’s part of the deal and we’ve had a lot of success over the last seven years and what comes with that is that you can’t keep everyone.” Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, fellow Panthers winger Thomas Jenkins, who recently re-signed with the club until the end of 2029, said he is proud of his mentor and teammate for putting his family first. “As much as it’s emotional and it’s

sad to see him go, he’s got a job to do here this year and next year but I could probably speak for everyone here and say that we’re just so stoked for him and his lovely family. They deserve what’s to come and I’m excited for him,” he said. Jenkins said To’o, who has scored 99 tries for the Panthers and counting, has been pivotal in his development at Penrith. “Bizza’s been massive for me,” he said. “He’s someone I look up to and continue to look up to now and I learn so much from him and so much of my journey is a credit to him. “He’s been massive for me, so influential. I love him!” PNG Chiefs General Manager – Football Michael Chammas said securing a player of To’o’s calibre was another important step in building the club’s inaugural squad. “Brian has performed at the highest level of rugby league for many years and knows exactly what is required to create and sustain a winning environment,” he said. “He brings competitiveness, consistency, and an enormous work ethic, but equally important for us is what he brings culturally. To secure a player of Brian’s quality, character and cultural strength is a huge moment for the Chiefs.”

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FE ATURE

We can do it without him NATHAN TAYLOR

“

No Isaah Yeo, no worries” says the NRL’s leading try scorer, Penrith winger Thomas Jenkins, who is still confident the Panthers can win this year’s competition without their inspirational skipper. On Monday it was revealed that Yeo had suffered a pectoral injury during Penrith’s big loss to the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland last Friday night. Reports at the time suggested that Yeo could be sidelined for the remainder of the NRL season, however a medical update provided by Panthers on Monday morning said Yeo would not require immediate surgery and would commence a rehabilitation program in a bid to return to the field this season. Speaking with Extra Time on Tuesday, Jenkins said the loss of the four-time Premiership winner was a major blow but backed his skipper to return in the coming weeks. “I’m not too sure of the extent of his injury but what I do know is that all of us are backing him to return and we’re confident that he’ll be back,” Jenkins said. “It’s hard to replace someone like Yeoy. You’re always going to feel the void of him there but in saying that there’s a lot of leaders in this club and a lot of boys who can step into his role.” On Tuesday afternoon, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary named prop Lindsay Smith as Yeo’s

replacement in the number 13 jumper for Thursday’s night battle with the Sydney Roosters. Already this year, the 26-year-old St Marys junior has filled in for Yeo at lock on several occasions primarily during the Origin period. “I’m not sure the direction Iv’s going to go with in terms of who’s going to play there,” Jenkins said prior to the team announcement. “But whoever does play, we know they’re going to do a role and do their job for the team and that’s the most important thing.” While many rugby league experts, former players and punters have written Penrith off from winning this year’s premiership due to the Yeo injury, Jenkins simply replied “no” when asked if the Panthers need the NSW Blues and Kangaroos captain to go all the way. Meanwhile, despite the distractions off the field this week, the Panthers are fully focused on bouncing back from last week’s disappointing loss to the Warriors. Jenkins said he was very impressed with the performance of the New Zealanders last Friday. “We obviously knew the kind of side they are and the ladder showed it as well. They’ve been phenomenal this year and it’s actually exciting for the comp when they’re playing well,” he said. “As you would have seen, their home crowd is insane and they get around it. So, as much as it sucks to lose, the Warriors were good and we have to be better.” And the Panthers need to be way better if

they want to beat an in-form Roosters side who have won their past seven matches on the trot. Jenkins said he’s “excited” for tonight’s home game at CommBank Stadium. “You always want to finish the season off with good performances and I guess doing that against teams who are very competitive and who are in the Finals race is going to put you in good stead come September,” he said. “I’m really keen to play them. We haven’t seen them since the start of the season.”

Tom Jenkins. Photo: Melinda Jane.

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PANTHER RUMBLINGS

with The Masked Panther

To’o quick to become a Chief Deal done in days: It took less than a week for Brian To’o to formalise his move to the PNG Chiefs from 2028. The Panthers have known for some time that it was unlikely To’o would remain at Penrith after 2027 and have been comfortable with letting him move on. Recently, the Panthers agreed to give the Chiefs and To’o seven days to get a deal done. They didn’t want it to be an ongoing distraction heading into the Finals. With everything sorted, the Panthers and Chiefs put out press releases within minutes of each other on Monday morning. Not surprisingly, the story didn’t leak beforehand. To’o only told the playing group on Monday morning just before the official news came out. Also of note is that To’o didn’t visit Papua New Guinea as part of the process, instead meeting with Chiefs officials in Brisbane.

Brian To’o.

Spotted: Panthers legend Greg ‘Brandy’ Alexander looking very relaxed during a round of golf at Long Reef Golf Club on Wednesday. Spotted: Some very passionate Nathan Cleary fans at Go Media Stadium last Friday night, cheering as hard as they could for the champion Panthers halfback and going to plenty of effort to show their love.

Panthers celebrate Indigenous Round: Penrith’s clash with the Roosters tonight will continue the Indigenous Round celebrations. Before the game, Glen for Men and Women will deliver a special cultural performance, alongside a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Aunty Julie. Fans can also experience live Indigenous painting at Aisle 120, with everyone invited to join in and contribute.

Where’s Garner? The Panthers are determined to be secretive about what’s keeping forward Luke Garner out of the team, refusing to detail any specific reason as to why he hasn’t played in more than a month. Even going through all the right channels will get you greeted with a brick wall. I’ve been told this week by an insider at the club that it relates to ongoing challenges around a concussion suffered at training. He last played against the Cowboys on June 27. He is expected to return at some point before the Finals. Why the Panthers are determined to keep the details a State secret is anyone’s guess. Panthers add to forward stocks: The Panthers have reportedly signed South Sydney forward Liam Le Blanc from next season. The lock has played a couple of dozen games since debuting for Souths mid-way through the 2024 season.

Yeo hopeful of return: The news that Isaah Yeo won’t require immediate surgery on a pectoral injury suffered against the Warriors last week is terrific, but there’s no certainty he’ll be back on the field this year. The next few weeks will be critical, with Penrith’s medical team hoping that they can rehab the injury and nurse him through the Finals. Yeo was in good spirits arriving at training on Tuesday.

Spotted: Panthers legend Royce Simmons getting his steps in ahead of The Big Walk, completing the river walk in wet conditions on Sunday morning. Always giving back: Well done to Nathan Cleary and the rest of the team, who gave plenty of their time to a young fella doing it tough when he was invited to attend training recently.

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he question was asked and answered by the rugby league media, could Penrith win the title without their inspirational co-captain Isaah Yeo? The answer which came back was a resounding ‘no’. And that’s fine, everyone is entitled to their opinion and so am I. On Monday it was revealed that Yeo would not need immediate surgery after suffering a pectoral injury against the Warriors last Friday. He would instead rehabilitate the injury over the next four weeks and see if he could return for the first week of the Finals series. There’s still no guarantee Yeo will be fit to suit up at all in 2026 but at least the immediate prognosis is not so dire. The narrative going around after Yeo came off injured was so negative against Penrith as a team, that if I were the players, I would use it as motivation to prove each and every naysayer wrong. I’m not minimising Yeo’s injury or impact on the club, as everyone knows how important he is to Penrith, but to rule a whole team out of premiership contention based on his absence is a slap in the face to every other player in the team.

the western weekender • extra time » Thursday, August 13, 2026

Players like Nathan Cleary, Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, Liam Martin, in fact the whole lot of them. It’s like saying, ‘Don’t worry about all the hard work, training and personal sacrifices you’ve made this year, you might as well just forfeit the rest of the season because there’s no point playing on, you can’t win the comp

anyway.’ The frightening thing is that a lot of the naysayers are former champion players themselves. I wonder if they would have the same opinion if it happened to them when they were playing and in pursuit of a championship ring. I get that taking the ‘doom and gloom’ stance makes great headlines and it’s good clickbait but

Isaah Yeo is aiming to return for the Finals. Photo: NRL Photos.

at what point is it just unnecessary negative hyperbole? Fortunately, there were a few in the media who still thought that Penrith could win the premiership but those comments did not follow the general consensus. The Panthers however are no strangers to having key players carrying injury or being out at the business end of the season. In 2021, Nathan Cleary suffered a right shoulder injury, fortunately scans cleared Cleary of severe structural damage, which allowed him to avoid immediate surgery and return for the Finals series. In August 2024, Cleary again suffered a recurrence of a left shoulder injury during a match against the Melbourne Storm, about a month before the Finals. He returned and the rest is history. Finally, five-eighth Jarome Luai dislocated his left shoulder in a Round 26 match against the Parramatta Eels on August 24, 2023. He also avoided immediate surgery and made an unexpected return four weeks later in the Preliminary Final. It’s worth noting that each time there was a problem with a marquee player being out the Panthers went on to win the competition that year. Food for thought hey!

BEHIND THE GAME

Ready to deliver when Emily Chate called on with

Tom Ale. Photo: Melinda Jane.

eserve grade P e n r i t h Panthers prop Tom Ale is a true student of the game. The average Panthers fan may not know exactly who this writer is talking about but let me introduce you. 27-year-old Ale was born in Auckland and debuted in the NRL for his hometown club – the New Zealand Warriors – in 2020. He however grew up as a rugby union player before switching to league. Ale made a mark on the NRL in the 2023 season when he played 19 games and helped his side into a top four finish. The Panthers ultimately took out the title that year. The next year he played 16 games for the club.

In 2025, Ale was an important part of the Warriors’ NSW Cup Grand Final Victory over St George-Illawarra. He then made the decision to uproot his life and sign with the Panthers on a one-year deal to see behind the curtain of a powerhouse NRL club. While Ale has yet to lace up his boots for the Panthers first grade team, he said he takes his role very seriously so should he ever get the call up he is ready. “I watch every weekend,” Ale said. “I just love watching footy and watching how players play, especially in my position. I like to try and learn a few things from them. “It’s more so just how people work and when they are on defence and the way they carry the ball. I just try to add a few things into my game.” When asked about the responsibility of representing his family and country, Ale said hard work will always pay off. “The harder you work the better the outcomes will be for yourself,” he said. “I just try to be to be myself and not come in and be someone else.”

Quick Questions Coffee order: Large flat white with hazelnut Cheat meal: KFC Favourite movie: ‘Remember the Titans’ Favourite musician: Stallyano Who did you support growing up? North Queensland Cowboys Pet peeve: Being late

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender • extra time

THE Y S AID IT. . . “Welcome Nathan... You know you want to. Come to the Wahs pal... bring your dad.”

“The Panthers have been great during this process and they understand what this team will do for rugby league. We are really proud as a club to get him on board.”

Warriors fan Charles Clover on social media after seeing footage of Nathan and Jett Cleary together.

PNG Chiefs GM Michael Chammas on Brian To’o.

“Moses is certainly a quality player. Do I see him here? Most likely not. But we are in the market to bring in a few players to certainly complement the squad that we’ve got right now.”

“Brian has made a decision he believes is best for himself and his family.”

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy on Moses Leota

Panthers GM Shane Elford on Brian To’o

“It’s no surprise to me. We all know he was heading there.”

“I was proud of the way we fought back. It could have been easy to just roll over, but we stuck at it. Unfortunately our best footy came with 20 minutes to go.” Nathan Cleary

Paul Kent on the Brian To’o news

“We made a bit of a run at the end there but the start was definitely a factor.”

“This is a great challenge for Nathan Cleary. He has jumped every hurdle... right now it’s him. Can he carry this side?”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary on the loss to the Warriors last week.

Gorden Tallis on the Isaah Yeo injury

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NRL L ADDER & FIX TURES CLUB

+/-

PTS

Panthers

20 15

593

301

+292

Roosters

20 15

551

394

+157

Warriors

20 14

566

324

+242

Sharks

20 13

584

415

+169

Dolphins

20 13

556

458

+98

Knights

541

475

+66

Rabbitohs

554

488

+66

Cowboys

484

560

-76

Bulldogs

20 10

396

442

-46

Sea Eagles

505

437

+68

Storm

510

514

-4

Raiders

477

542

-65

Eels

389

572

-183

W. Tigers

378

589

-211

Titans

387

531

-144

Broncos

377

541

-164

Dragons

320

585

-265

BYE:

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Friday, August 14 8.00pm Accor Stadium

Saturday, August 15 3.00pm Ocean Protect Stadium

Saturday, August 15 5.30pm CommBank Stadium

Saturday, August 15 7.35pm Suncorp Stadium

Sunday, August 16 2.00pm McDonald Jones Stadium

Sunday, August 16 4.05pm CommBank Stadium

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enrith’s greatest ever period of success has delivered the once struggling club a second straight Premiership and confirmed the Panthers rugby league juggernaut.are an unstoppable It is impossible to argue with James Fisher-Harris’ cheeky claim that this is Penrith team of all-time. They are the best an unpreceden delivering ted sustained period of success and have lost just 10 games three seasons, in the past breaking countless along the way. records Coach Ivan Cleary Nathan have also and his co-captain son entered Panthers tality, creating immorall sorts of history in what one of the greatest Premiership defences was game has ever seen. the Ivan is now the only won dual Premiership Penrith coach to have s with the club, just 24 Nathan while at is on club’s greatest ever his way to becoming the player. But Cleary was overshadowed Final night by on Grand a stunning performanc fullback Dylan e from Edwards, who claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match. Penrith players and fans partied and hard into long the night after Sunday’s 28-12 demolition of Parramatta. It was a definitive game of this incredible Penrith era and proved the club’s dominance of over the past three the competition seasons. It was billed as the the West in history greatest Battle of but kick-off it was obvious almost from the Parramatta were little chance of stopping a switched Penrith. on Eels fans were barely in their seats by time it was obvious the trophy was stayingthe the foot of the Mountains. at Penrith has emerged from an 18-year drought and near title collapse to now more Grand Final have two wins, and show slowing down. no sign of The scenes at Panthers Leagues Club after the game and at a fan Bet Stadium prove day on Monday at Bluethis over the community Penrith team has won . From Bathurst to cially own the west Blacktown, Penrith offi– the result of hard taking a chance and a playing group work, taken the NRL by that has storm.

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Caddens News (Caddens Corner) Woolworths

Cambridge Gardens Coles McDonald's Overlander Hotel

Cambridge Park Cambridge Park Newsagency Cellarbations Friendly Grocer

Jordan Springs

Ampol Service Station

Brooks Tavern Jordan Springs Newsagency Woolworths

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Caltex Service Station Kemps Creek Bowling Club

IGA Claremont Meadows

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Kingswood

Colyton Centre Pharmacy Colyton Friendly Grocer Colyton Hotel Colyton Newsagency Dan Murphy's Hewitt Street Takeaway

Barista Bar Coffee Shop (Nepean Private Hospital)

Cranebrook Aldi Cranebrook Cranebrook Community Health Cranebrook Village McDonald's Plus Pharmacy Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies Woolworths Cranebrook

Country Brewer Hallani’s Kingswood Hotel Kingswood Newsagency Kingswood Sports Club Penrith Gaels Club Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital 7/11 Kingswood

Leonay Emu Sports Club Grow Café (formerly Willow Tree Café)

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Emu Plains Chambers Cellars Lennox Centre Newsagency McDonald's Penrith Regional Gallery Woolworths Lennox Village 7/11 Emu Plains (Great Western Highway) 7/11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

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Coles Mags News McDonald's Glenmore Park McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise Medi Advice Pharmacy Woolworths

Boronia House (Retirement Community) Little Bottler MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt RM Newsagency

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Jamisontown Abcoe Abel Street Café Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym Batt Street Takeaway Grey Gums Hotel

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Oxley Park Morris Care & Advice Pharmacy

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7/11 Henry Street Aldi Astina Atmosphere Gym Australian Arms Borec Road Takeaway (Valley Café) Café Fred Coles Penrith (Nepean Village) Coles (Westfield Penrith) Crescent Mini Mart High Street Pies Hog's Breath Café Hoyts Westfield Joan Sutherland Arts Centre Lemongrove Community Health Centre Liquor Stax Peachtree McDonald's High Street McDonald's Panthers Leagues McDonald's Peachtree Mercure Hotel Museum Of Fire Nepean Aquatic Centre Nepean Motor Group Café Nepean Rowing Club Nepean Village Coffee Club Nepean Village Newsagency Nextra Westfield Office of Karen McKeown MP One Point Health Panthers Leagues Club Peachtree Hotel Penrith Bowling Club Penrith CBD Corporation Penrith City Council Penrith City Library Penrith Hotel Penrith Markets (Thursdays) Penrith Paceway Penrith RSL Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre Pioneer Tavern RE/MAX Sittano’s Restaurant Tattersalls Hotel The Heritage Terrace Café The Log Cabin Westfield Wingstop World Gym

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Blue Cattle ttl D Dog H Hotel t l Foodworks St Clair Library St Clair Shopping Centre 7/11 St Clair

St Marys All Good Newsagency Andrew’s Corner Store Ampol Foodary Astley Pharmacy Cassandra’s On Queen Crystal Café Gloria Jean’s (St Marys Village) Guido’s Hair Care Jayam Supermarket McDonald's St Marys South Monfarville Corner Store Queen Street Newsagency St Marys Band Club St Marys Diggers St Marys Fish Market St Marys Leagues Club St Marys Library St Marys Pharmacy Queen Street St Marys Pizza Hut St Marys Village

Thornton Petramart Thornton Community Centre

Wallacia Wallacia Golf Club Wallacia Hotel Wallacia Post Office Wallacia Takeaway

Warragamba Warragamba Sports Club

Werrington Colonial Hotel Crossroads Convenience Store Dirani’s MFC George’s Charcoal Chicken Henry Sports Club McDonald's Supa IGA The Foodary Werrington Newsagency

7/11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing Coles Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale Choice Pharmacy Mobil Service Station

South Penrith Budget Service Station Fish Fish Friendly Grocer Grose’s Pharmacy Southlands Newsagency South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre Woolworths

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

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Blaxland

ENTERTAINMENT MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND MORE – PENRITH’S LEADING ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

SOPHIE GREEN FINDS A PERFECT FIT KEELY MARSH

estselling author Sophie Green’s new novel The Frock Shop tells tells a sparkling story of the beauty of second hand items, the power of second chances, and becoming who you are meant to be. Green lives in Sydney’s Mosman, and in her story, so do her characters and the iconic charity frock shop. The novel follows the lives of five women, Daphne, Christina, Lucy, Adelaide and Margot who each find transformation and purpose through the store. With the novel based in her hometown, Green gave a sentimental reflection on the choice of having this harbourside suburb as the setting. “Mosman is the reason this story exists, because I couldn’t imagine setting it anywhere else,” she said. “The junction provided the perfect physical and metaphorical location for a shop that deals in transformation.” With the story following themes of friendship and belonging, the author spoke on the importance of those values in her life and the choice to include them in her novel. “Because they’re important to humans generally, we are nothing without our social connections, indeed, we can’t survive without them,” Green said. One quote from the book emphasised the power of a good outfit: ‘Sometimes the clothes do the work we can’t. So we need to pick some-

thing that tells a story we may not be ready to tell ourselves.’ Ironically, Green’s own experience with clothing has been challenging. “My mother has always dressed beautifully, and the book is dedicated to her accordingly,” she explained to the Weekender Weekender.. “I always loved looking at clothes in magazines, and the sketches in the novel are mine, drawing on years of experience as a teenager when I would sketch clothes for fun and relaxation in between lots of homework. “Having said that, my proportions are not those favoured by designers; I’m ‘vertically challenged’, as I like to call it, and curvy.” The writer only began embracing clothing and finding her style when she was unwell in 2011 and wore the same clothes daily. “Fashion is creative play, and we can style ourselves every day,” she said. “Clothes and make-up are an opportunity for women to introduce creativity and play into every single day, and I don’t miss any of those opportunities.” So, don’t miss your opportunity to see Sophie Green at 6.30pm on August 27 to discuss writing, inspiration and her latest novel at Penrith City Library. Tickets are $5 and bookings are essential. Tickets are available online at https://bit.ly/sophie-green-penrith. The Frock Shop is available to purchase from Amazon at https:// link.amazon/B0fdpv6Lw.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

FREE TOTS LIST EVEN

WHAT’ S ON IN TOWN ONLINE GUIDE

COUNTRY CORNER single ‘First Born Daughter’ is being taken to Australian radio. Pairing buoyant guitars with an instantly memorable melody, ‘First Born Daughter’ is an affectionate celebration of the qualities McNown admires most in his wife.

Rising star to drop new album

www.westernweekender.com.au/whatson

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Max McNown has announced his third studio album, ‘Leave On A Light’, arriving September 25 through Fugitive Recordings. The forthcoming 17-track collection channels the whirlwind of McNown’s recent rise into songs grounded in gratitude, love and the relationships that sustain him. Centred on his distinctive blend of indie folk and country soul, the album expands McNown’s sound while maintaining the emotionally direct, lyric-first songwriting that has driven his global breakthrough. Coinciding with the album announcement, McNown’s bright and infectious new

Bella drops new music Australia’s rising country-pop singer-songwriter Bella Mackenzie is forging her own path with a fresh approach to modern country music. Following the success of fan-favourite single ‘Girl’, Mackenzie continues her momentum with the release of her latest single, ‘Second Hand Dust’. She co-wrote ‘Second Hand Dust’ with one of the most sought-after songwriters and collaborators,

Nashville based, Québecborn singer-songwriter Lydia Sutherland, alongside multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Jacky McCormack, who also produced the single. “‘Second Hand Dust’ is a play on the term ‘Second Hand Smoke’. Much like getting someone’s second hand smoke, you might not be the problem, but you are causing yourself harm by being in the situation, in this case a toxic relationship. You know that it will continue to happen because the other person is not ready to change but you don’t want to walk away so you get caught in their Second Hand Dust,” she said. The song is out now on all the usual streaming services.

Track of the Week We’re going really obscure this week and finding you a little-known track from Jara Ward, ‘Slow’. Ward is currently doing the rounds singing in the bars of Nashville, but has released a bunch of great tracks to the usual streaming services. ‘Slow’ is among our favourites.

PENRITH PANTHERS PROUDLY PRESENT

PENRITH BALL!

PRESENTS

Celebrating 10 years of supporting mental fitness across the Penrith community, including local sporting clubs and schools. Join us as we Unmask the Future, with exciting new initiatives and events to be announced on the night.

PENRITH BALL

This is an event you won’t want to miss, the night promises epic entertainment, heartfelt stories, and a whole lot of fun.

Your ticket includes:

CELEBRATING YEARS OF SUPPORTING GOTCHA LIFE, TOMORROW MAN & TOMORROW WOMAN

• • • •

A delicious three-course meal Beer, wine, and soft drinks Live music to dance the night away The famous Penrith Ball raffle (you must be there to win!)

SATURDAY OCTOBER

There’ll also be:

DRESS CODE: MASQUERADE BALL HAT OR MASK VENUE: WESTERN SYDNEY CONFERENCE CENTRE AT PANTHERS

•

• Unlock Your Luck price • Silent and live auctions Plenty more surprises throughout the night!

So grab your mates, loved ones, teammates, volunteers, and colleagues, and join us for one of Penrith’s biggest nights - all for an incredible cause.

JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE YEARS OF CONNECTION, CONVERSATION AND SUPPORTING MENTAL FITNESS IN PENRITH.

We can’t wait to see you again this year! BUY TICKETS HERE YEARS SUPPORTING PENRITH'S MENTAL FITNESS WITH OUR PARTNERS

BUY TICKETS

We have sponsorship packages starting from $3,000. Please contact Sean Hogan on 0414 637 513 to find out more.

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

THINGS TO DO Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase

High energy spectacular in the Mountains

Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here

The Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase is once again touring NSW and rolling into Panthers Leagues Club on Friday, August 21. Check out some of the hottest acts of 2026, including returning favourites and fresh talent, as this program promises a night of non stop laughter. Book your tickets at https://penrith. panthers.com.au.

Celebrate connection, culture and community through the high energy sounds of Lolo Lovina on Saturday, August 15 at the Blue Mountains Theatre. Taking a journey through Romani and Balkan traditions, DRrOM – Balkan Fire is an immersive evening of raw energy, fiery instrumentation, resilience and cultural pride. Head to www.bluemountainstheatre.com.au.

Experience Pink Floyd’s ninth studio album ‘Wish You Were Here’ live and uninterrupted as Pink Floyd tribute band Run Like Hell pay homage to its 50th anniversary at The Joan. A seven piece band including backing singers, saxophone and soaring guitar solos sets the tone for a night of musical magic on Saturday, August 15. Book tickets at www.thejoan.com.au.

BARGAIN BUYS

Op Shop at Kingswood Thursdays and Fridays, 9am to 3.30pm. Kingswood Anglican Church, corner of Bringelly Road and Second Avenue, Kingswood. Morning tea every Friday morning.

BUSINESS

Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce For more information about membership and upcoming events, visit www.penrithchamber.org.au. Penrith CBD Corporation Regular meetings and networking for Penrith CBD businesses. Visit www. penrithcbdcorp.com.au.

CLASSES AND FUN

month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am. All new members welcome.

volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Jordan Springs Probus Club Fourth Tuesday of the month. 9.45am for 10am at Jordan Springs Hub. Call Keith on 9713 9038 for details.

Penrith NASHOS Monthly meeting on the third Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL from 10am. Call 0448 983 399 for details.

Ropes Crossing Probus Club Meets every third Monday of the month at Ropes Crossing Community Hub from 10am. Email ropescrossingprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club Community fundraisers for The Smith Family. Meets the third Monday of the month at Panthers from 7pm, with dinner and interesting speakers. Call 0411 306 150.

South Creek Probus Club Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Seniors Dance Club (Over 55s) Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Call Glenda for details on 0421 322 846.

Penrith Lions Club Second and fourth Monday of the month. Penrith Bowling Club. 4736 1546 for more information.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary Craft stall at Nepean Hospital on the first Tuesday of each month from 9am2pm. Call Trish on 0421 414 012.

Probus Club of Nepean Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club. New members welcome. Call 0417 267 866. Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club Meets on the fourth Monday of the

Red Cross Penrith Meetings held the second Thursday of the month for lunch. Members and

Nepean Food Services Delivered meals available to purchase for those over 65 or with a disability. Call 4733 7200 for details or visit www.nepeanfoodservices.org.au. Free food shop 9am-11am every Tuesday at 51 Henry Street, Penrith. JP service Located in Western Weekender office at 2/42-44 Abel St, Jamisontown.

MUSEUMS

Penrith Museum of Printing Sundays from 10am. Penrith Paceway.

0408 412 708 for more information. Nepean Naval Museum Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700. Arms of Australia Inn Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594. Penrith Carer Support Group First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160. Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River. Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499. Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets third Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club from 6.30pm. Call 1300 13 38 78 for more information.

LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

At the movies... PREVIEW

PREVIEW

The End of Oak Street

One Night Only

1 hour, 40 minutes When a mysterious cosmic event tears Oak Street from suburbia and transports it to an unknown world, the Platt family finds themselves fighting for survival. With dinosaurs roaming their once-familiar

1 hour, 42 minutes neighbourhood, the family must put aside their differences and stick together. Starring Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor, this thrilling sci-fi adventure blends family drama, mystery and prehistoric chaos.

See these movies at...

What if you only had one night a year to find love? In Will Gluck’s latest romantic comedy, recently dumped Owen and hopeful romantic Allie meet in New York on the one night

PENRITH

Independent travel reviews from writers who’ve been there!

when single people can legally have sex. As a series of mishaps keeps them apart, the pair race across the city, discovering that romance rarely goes according to plan.

www.hoyts.com.au

RAW AND POWERFUL ‘SAPLINGS’ COMES TO THE JOAN MADELINE DANTIER

www.suitcasestories.com.au Movie Info & Session Times

Ph: 4739 4433 The Odyssey

The End of Oak Street (M)

Holy Days

Zulu

(PG)

(M)

13 to 23 Aug

Now Showing to 26 Aug

13 to 19 Aug

Classic 20 & 23 Aug

The Blue Trail (M)

Colours of Time (M)

Gone With The Wind (PG)

20 to 26 Aug

21 to 26 Aug

Spider-Man: Brand New Day (M)

Classic 25 Aug

20, 22 & 23 Aug

Direct to your email inbox: Weekly Session Times & Coming Attractions

www.glenbrookcinema.com.au

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

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eartbreaking and hilarious, the acclaimed theatre production ‘Saplings’ makes its debut at The Joan on August 25, after a sold out run at the Sydney Opera House. Written by Yuwaalaraay playwright Hannah Belanszky and directed by proud Kalkadoon woman Abbie-lee Lewis, ‘Saplings’ is a collection of stories told through the eyes of young Australians in the youth justice system, giving an honest and raw look into the adult consequences faced by some of our most vulnerable individuals. Set to a soundtrack of hip-hop and rap music created by those within the youth justice system, ‘Saplings’ tells the tales of young people in conflict, drawn from interviews and workshops with incarcerated youth from Marrickville to Moree, and even some in western Sydney. A talented ensemble of four young actors take on multiple roles in a production that is poetic, personal and leaves the audience asking who’s really to blame.

Actors Nyasha Ogden, Maliyan Blair, Sam Harmon and Danny Howard breathe life into the stories of today’s youth, battling against a system that doesn’t want them to succeed. “In 2022, with Raise The Age, Australia debated whether a child could be held criminally responsible at the age of 10. In 2026, some Australian States have implemented Adult Crime, Adult Time laws. The conversation continues but it’s not happening with the people it directly affects - the young people,” Lewis shared. After premiering at the 2024 Sydney Festival and winning Best Production for Young People at the Sydney Theatre Awards, 2026 marks the show’s first major tour, commencing with a season at the Sydney Opera House in May, before travelling to 10 other venues. Book tickets online at www.thejoan. com.au

Ê Disappointing news for fans of ‘Australian Idol’, with long-time judge Kyle Sandilands pulling the pin. Kyle will no longer sit beside Marcia Hines and Amy Shark after he quit the show to protect it from any potential backlash from advertiser activist group MFW. It will be interesting to see what happens to ‘Idol’ next year, I’m expecting there to be even more changes.

Nathan Taylor

Ê Seven has secured the exclusive rights for the 2026 NFL season. Coverage throughout the full 2026 season includes key weekly matches, the playoffs and the Super Bowl. This historic broadcast agreement includes the first-ever regular season NFL game on Australian soil when the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams meet at the MCG on Friday, September 11. Seven’s coverage will begin with ‘Sunrise’ live from Melbourne before the big game at 9am.

TV NEWS

Ê Fun Shane Jacobson series ‘Oops! I Bought a Pub’, which aired on Seven this year, has been renewed for a second season. The first season is on 7Plus. Ê New legal drama ‘War’ will premiere on HBO Max on Friday, October 2. Created by George Kay and starring Dominic West and Sienna Miller, ‘War’ is a high-stakes legal drama following the lives of London’s

WAR, HBO MAX

most powerful lawyers as firms Cathcarts & Sons and Taylor & Byrne clash over a headline-grabbing legal battle, drawing ambitious young lawyer Jonathan “Johnny” Warren into a ruthless world where ambition is currency, betrayal is strategy and winning is everything. The hopes are so high for this show that season two is already in production.

Ê New unscripted US series ‘The Girls: A Khloé Kardashian Project’ will premiere on Disney+ on Friday, August 21. Step inside Khloé Kardashian’s inner circle as her closest friends navigate the highs and lows of motherhood, marriage, dating, business and life in the spotlight. From career milestones and family challenges to girls’ trips, launch parties and life-changing decisions, these ambitious women come together through their shared connection to Khloé. But as they spend more time together and get to know one another on a deeper level, unexpected tensions, old wounds and clashing perspectives begin to surface – testing whether these friendships can grow as their lives continue to evolve. Gripping television!

Ê Upcoming horror series ‘Carrie’ will premiere on Wednesday, October 7 on Prime Video. Based on Stephen King’s iconic debut novel, ‘Carrie’ is a bold, timely and surprising reinvention of the classic coming–of–age story, adapted as a TV series for the first time. The series follows misfit high–schooler Carrie White who has spent her life hidden away inside the walls of her home with her fiercely protective mother, Margaret. After her father’s sudden, untimely death thrusts her into the unforgiving ecosystem of public high school, Carrie is forced to navigate a viral bullying scandal that tears through her community, the relentless pressure and casual cruelty of the social–media age, and the awakening of mysterious telekinetic powers that rise alongside her adolescence. Ê Adult animated series ‘Ricky Gervais: Alley Cats’ is now streaming on Netflix. The series follows the trials and tribulations of a group of feral British cats from all walks of society, who seek companionship while ruminating on everyday life. The series is packed with Gervais’ signature style of heart and social commentary.

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OCTOBER 7 CARRIE, PRIME VIDEO

OCTOBER 2

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

TV Guide: August 14 - 20

Sunday 16 August

Saturday 15 August

Friday 14 August

Your guide to the week’s television viewing 6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Compass 10:25 Better Date Than Never (PG) 11:00 Race Around The World (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year 1:50 Treasure & Dirt 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:35 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Gardening Australia 8:20 SaintPierre (M v) 9:05 Spicks And Specks (PG) 9:35 Would I Lie To You?

6:00 Sunrise 10:00 Cricket: Pre-Game 10:30 Cricket: Test 1: Day 2: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 12:30 Lunch Break 1:10 Cricket: Test 1: Day 2: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 3:10 Tea Break 3:30 Cricket: Test 1: Day 2: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:00 Movie: “Jerry Maguire” (M l,s) (’96) Stars: Tom Cruise 10:50 The Voice (PG) 12:20 Eyewitness (MA15+) 1:20 Harry’s Practice

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Swimming: Pan Pacific Championships: Day 2 *Live* 2:35 Find My Country House Australia: Tamworth 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: CanterburyBankstown Bulldogs v South Sydney Rabbitohs *Live* From Accor Stadium 9:55 NRL: Post-Match

9:00 The Finish Line 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 David Attenborough’s Parenthood (PG) 11:30 Farm To Fork 12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 TBA 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Love It Or List It Australia 8:30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:05 Great Irish Interiors 11:05 Make Up - A Glamorous History (PG) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Junior Doctors Down Under (M) 2:55 Living Black Shorts 3:00 NITV News - Nula 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:00 Lost For Words (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 The Good Ship Murder (M) 8:30 WWII With Tom Hanks (M)

2:30 Sydney Weekender 3:00 Feel Good Road Trips (PG) 3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 The Americas (PG)

1:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 2:30 Kick Ons 3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Counting Cars (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown

12:00 Revenge 3:00 The Big Adventure (PG) 4:15 Movie: “The Boss Baby: Family Business” (PG) (’21) Stars: Alec Baldwin 6:15 Movie: “Spies In Disguise” (M) (’19) Stars: Rachel Brosnahan 8:30 Movie: “The Whole Nine Yards” (M v) (’00)

3:30 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:30 Dreaming Big 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:25 NITV News: Nula 5:55 Bamay 6:35 Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Hunt For The Wilderpeople” (PG) (’16)

10:30 Building The Dream Home 11:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

2:00 My Lottery Dream 1:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 Home (PG) 3:00 The Frasier (PG) 4:00 Block: Glasshouse (PG) Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30 Becker 4:00 Scott’s Vacation House Rules (PG) 5:00 The Flipping (PG) 5:00 The Inspired El Moussas 6:00 House Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Hunters International 6:30 Theory (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) House Hunters USA 7:30 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M) Barnwood Builders

3:25 Ready, Steady, Wiggle! 4:05 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures 4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:10 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior

3:05 QI (PG) 3:35 12:00 ABC News At Would I Lie To You? Noon 1:00 ABC News (PG) 4:05 MythBusters Day 3:00 ABC News (PG) 4:55 Portrait Artist Of The Afternoons 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Year UK 5:40 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations 6:30 Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News Richard Osman’s House Of 7:30 Kitchen Cabinet 8:00 ABC Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) News Tonight

5:30 Food Safari Water 6:00 The Chocolate Queen 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 No Taste Like Home 8:30 World Eats Bread 9:30 Come Dine With Me UK 10:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw

11:55 DW The Day 12:25 Hoarders (M) 2:50 Finding Satoshi (PG) (In English/ Japanese) 4:00 Worldwatch 6:05 Inside The Huddle 6:35 Over The Black Dot 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits (M l,s)

1:25 IndyCar Series Highlights 2:30 Baywatch (M v) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 Baywatch (M) 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows - Part 2” (PG) (’10) Stars: Alan Rickman

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Grantchester (M v) 1:15 Father Brown (M) 2:00 Saint-Pierre (M v) 2:45 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip 4:30 Kitchen Cabinet 5:00 Australian Story 5:35 Landline 6:05 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Grantchester (M v) 8:20 Father Brown (M) 9:05 Doc Martin (PG) 9:50 Believe Me (M s) 10:40 Little Disasters (M l)

9:30 Frugal Foodie 10:00 Freshly Picked 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise With Simon Toohey 10:30 Luca’s Key 10:00 Cricket: Pre-Game 10:30 Cricket: Test (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Ingredient 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Extra Saturday (PG) 12:00 Drive Reviews 1: Day 3: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* Justine Schofield 11:30 The Traitors 12:30 Lunch Break 1:10 Cricket: Test 1: Day 12:30 NRLW: Gold Coast Titans v St George Illawarra Dragons *Live* 2:30 NRLW Australia (PG) 1:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 3: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 3:10 Tea Break 3:30 Cricket: Test 1: Day 3: Australia Wrap (PG) 3:00 Rugby Union: Wallabies v 1:30 Country House Facelift 2:00 Deal Or v Bangladesh *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Japan *Live* 5:05 Rugby Union: Post-Match No Deal Celebrity Special (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News Better Homes And Gardens 8:00 The Great 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News 6:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 7:30 Outdoors (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Jurassic World: Saturday 7:00 NRL: Brisbane Broncos v Love It Or List It Australia 9:50 Love It Or New Zealand Warriors *Live* 9:25 NRL: Fallen Kingdom” (M v) (’18) Stars: Chris List It UK - Brilliant Builds (PG) Post-Match Pratt 11:00 The Voice (PG)

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 10:00 The World From Above (PG) 11:00 Worldwatch 1:00 Motorsport: HiTec Oils Super Series: Round 4 *Live* 5:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:30 Silent War - The Shadow Of Atomic Bombs (In English/ Kazakh/ Russian) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Diana - The Princess And The Bodyguard (PG) 8:50 The Lost City Of Melbourne (M) 10:25 Genghis Khan’s Mongolia (M v) (In Various)

12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Rosehill/ Caulfield/ Doomben *Live* 5:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet 8:30 Lewis (M v) 10:30 Escape To The Country 11:30 Auction Squad

1:30 The Car Club (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under 3:00 NDRC Nitro Funny Cars 4:00 Deep Water Salvage (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Safe House” (M l,v) (’12)

3:05 Stompem Ground: 2:30 Zumbo’s Just Seaside Drifters 3:45 Desserts (PG) 3:45 Homesteads (PG) 4:20 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Mitchells Faboriginal 4:50 Our Medicine (PG) 6:00 Home, Land & Sea Vs The Machines” (PG) (’21) (PG) (In English/ Maori) 6:30 Stars: Abbi Jacobson 7:30 Movie: “Talladega Nights: The NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Ballad Of Ricky Bobby” (PG) Australia (M l) (’06) Stars: Adam McKay

9:30 The Traitors Australia (PG) 11:00 Roads Less Travelled 11:30 Building The Dream Home 12:30 The Living Room 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Reel Action 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 JAG (PG)

7:00 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 9:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Ridiculousness (M l) 1:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (M l) 10:30 The Traitors Australia (PG)

1:30 The Flipping El Moussas 2:30 Renovation Aloha 3:30 Barnwood Builders 4:30 Home Town: Inn This Together (PG) 5:30 My Lottery Dream Home (PG) 6:30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses 7:30 Bargain Mansions

3:00 Play School 3:25 Tummy Tom And The Lost Teddy Bear 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 The Monster At The End Of This Story 6:05 PJ Masks 6:25 Emerald 6:55 Piripenguins 7:30 Teenage Boss: Next Level

2:00 ABC News 2:30 The Breakfast Couch 3:00 ABC News 3:30 That Pacific Sports Show 4:00 ABC News 4:30 BTN 4:55 Heywire 5:00 ABC News 5:30 Asia News Week 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Australian Story 7:00 ABC National News

2:50 Penn And Teller: Fool Us 3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovation 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG)

5:30 David Rocco’s Eating Dirty 6:00 Searching For Soul Food 6:30 Dinner With Gavin Rossdale 7:30 Jamie’s Ultimate Veg 8:30 Rick Stein’s India 9:35 Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted 10:30 Ainsley’s Great Garden Cook Off

11:45 The Real Stories Of Basketball (M v) 12:40 Hoarders (M) 2:20 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 3:20 Worldwatch 5:25 Mastermind 6:25 Offshore Superstructures (In English/ French) 7:30 Superships Of The Future (PG)

3:30 Outback Opal Hunters (PG) 4:30 The Dog House UK (PG) 5:30 Rugby Union: Blue Crane Capital Shute Shield: Sydney Uni v Eastwood *Live* 7:30 Movie: “Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them” (M v) (’16) Stars: Eddie Redmayne

2:30 Rugby Union: Wallabies v Japan *Live* 3:00 NRLW: Parramatta Eels v CanterburyBankstown Bulldogs *Live* 5:00 NRLW: Brisbane Broncos v Sydney Roosters *Live* 7:00 Customs (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Lethal Weapon 4” (M) (’97)

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:15 Race Around The World (PG) 3:15 The Assembly (PG) 4:10 Grand Designs (PG) 5:00 Back Roads (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG) 8:20 Treasure & Dirt (M) 9:20 Falling (M l)

6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 Cricket: Pre-Game 10:30 Cricket: Test (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Wide World Of Sports (PG) 11:00 NRL: Sunday 1: Day 4: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* Footy Show *Live* 11:45 NRLW: Newcastle 12:30 Cricket: Lunch Break 1:10 Cricket: Test 1: Day 4: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* Knights v Canberra Raiders *Live* 1:30 3:10 Cricket: Tea Break 3:30 Cricket: Test 1: NRLW: Wests Tigers v New Zealand Warriors *Live* 3:30 NRL: Wests Tigers v St Day 4: Australia v Bangladesh *Live* 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Logies Red Carpet *Live* George Illawarra Dragons *Live* 6:00 NINE (PG) 7:30 The 66th TV WEEK Logie Awards News Sunday 7:00 The Block (PG) 8:40 60 Minutes (PG) 9:40 NINE News Late 10:10 *Live* From The Star, Sydney (M) 11:15 Madonna & Graham (M) 12:30 Curfew (M) The First 48 (M l,v)

6:00 Religious Programs 7:30 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass 8:00 My Market Kitchen 8:30 Food Trail South Africa 9:00 MMA: UFC 330 Prelims *Live* From Philadelphia 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 12:30 The Traitors Australia (PG) 2:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 2:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 10 News Plus 7:00 Gogglebox Australia (PG) 8:00 Watson (M) 9:00 FBI (M) 1:00 10 News Plus

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs 9:55 Estonia From Above 10:55 It Takes A Village (M) 12:00 Worldwatch 12:55 Living Black Shorts 1:00 Motorsport: Hi-Tec Oils Super Series: Round 4 *Live* From 5:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 5:30 Silent War - The Shadow Of Atomic Bombs (In English/ German/ Russian) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Alexander The Great - Legendary Conqueror (M)

12:30 The Fishing 12:30 AFLW: Round 1: Show By AFN (PG) Adelaide Crows v 1:30 AFL: Round 23: Sydney Swans *Live* 2:30 Australia’s Best Backyards GWS Giants v West Coast Eagles *Live* 4:30 AFL: Round 3:00 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 4:00 The Great Outdoors (PG) 23: Essendon Bombers v Sydney Swans *Live* 7:30 4:30 AFLW: Round 1: GWS Border Security - Australia’s Giants v West Coast Eagles Front Line (PG) *Live*

2:30 A Moveable Feast (PG) 3:00 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success 5:00 A Year On Planet Earth (PG) 6:00 Puppy School (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order (M v)

12:50 Rugby League: Murri Carnival 4:35 Songrites (PG) 5:50 Bamay 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) 7:30 Earth Oven (In English/ Maori) 8:30 Movie: “Night Parrot Stories” (PG) (’16) Director: Robert Nugent

7:00 Deal Or No Deal 9:30 The Traitors 9:30 The Inspired Australia (PG) 11:00 Unemployed (PG) Escape Fishing With ET 10:30 The Inspired 11:30 Building The Dream Home 1:30 Buy To Build 2:00 Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers (PG) 11:00 Ultimate The Living Room (PG) 3:00 Classroom 1:00 Friends (PG) JAG (PG) 4:00 Pooches At Play (PG) 4:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) NCIS (M)

1:30 Lakefront Bargain Hunt Renovation (PG) 2:30 Renovation Wild (PG) 3:30 Building Off The Grid 4:30 Barnwood Builders 5:30 House Hunters USA 6:30 House Hunters International 7:30 Home Town 8:30 Christina On The Coast

2:00 ABC News 2:30 Australian Story 3:00 ABC News 3:30 Offsiders 4:00 Landline 5:00 ABC News With Auslan 5:30 ABC News Regional 6:00 ABC Evening News 6:30 Foreign Correspondent 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 Insiders

3:35 QI (PG) 4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:35 MythBusters (PG) 5:25 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 6:10 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG)

6:30 Matt Preston’s Plating Locally 7:00 Adam Liaw’s North American Fan Feasts 7:30 Neven’s Portuguese Food Trails 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:30 Prue Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen 10:30 Ainsley’s Great Garden Cook Off

2:05 Movie: “The Fifth Element” (PG) (’97) Stars: Bruce Willis 4:25 Worldwatch 5:50 The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (M) 8:30 Sitting Bull (M v) 10:05 Hudson & Rex (M v)

4:00 The Toys That Built The World (PG) 5:00 Cards And Collectables Australia 5:30 Movie: “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” (PG) (’19) Stars: Chris Pratt 7:30 Movie: “Wedding Crashers” (M l,s) (’05) Stars: Isla Fisher

2:50 Explore 3:00 Getaway (PG) 3:30 Customs (PG) 4:00 Midsomer Murders (PG) 6:00 NRLW: North Queensland Cowboys v CronullaSutherland Sharks *Live* 8:00 David Attenborough’s Asia (PG) 9:10 Paramedics (M)

3:00 Play School 3:25 Superworm 4:15 Stan And Gran 4:30 Little J And Big Cuz 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:20 The Smeds And The Smoos 6:05 PJ Masks 6:25 Emerald 6:55 Piripenguins 7:30 The Inbestigators 8:10 Secrets Of The Penguins

Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

3:30 Movie: “The Night My Number Came Up” (PG) (’55) Stars: Michael Redgrave 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Find My Country House Australia 8:30 Movie: “Ocean’s Twelve” (M l) (’04) Stars: Brad Pitt

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

Thursday 20 August

Wednesday 19 August

Tuesday 18 August

Monday 17 August

Get Macca’s® delivered. 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Landline 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story 8:30 Four Corners (M) 9:20 Media Watch (M) 9:35 Planet America

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Beat The Chasers UK 2:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 The Voice (PG) 8:45 The Rookie (M v) 9:45 The Agenda Setters (M)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:30 Find My Beach House Australia 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:40 100% Footy (M l)

12:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30 Lingo (PG) 4:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 7:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 7:30 Deal Or No Deal - Celebrity Jackpot (PG)

3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Secrets Of Modern Archaeology (PG) (In English/ French/ Polish) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Scandinavia With Simon Reeve (PG) 8:40 24 Hours In Emergency (M l)

3:30 Harry’s Practice 4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Doc Martin

3:00 The Voice (PG) 1:10 Cricket: Test 1: 4:30 Dogs Behaving Day 5: Australia v (Very) Badly (PG) 5:30 Bangladesh *Live* 3:10 Tea Break 3:30 Cricket: Test 1: Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Day 5: Australia v Bangladesh Judy (PG) 7:30 Law & Order *Live* 6:00 Storage Wars (PG) (M s,v)

5:00 Christina On The 5:00 The Inspired 12:45 The Young And 5:25 The 77 Percent Coast 6:00 House Unemployed The Restless (PG) 1:30 5:55 Bamay 6:25 NITV Hunters International (Impractical) Jokers JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull News Update 6:35 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Theory (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) Masters Of Flip 8:30 Holmes Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 7:30 Who Do You Think You 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M) Family Rescue (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) Are? (PG)

4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:45 Kangaroo Beach 6:10 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels

5:40 George Clarke’s 3:10 ABC News Remarkable Afternoons 4:00 Renovations 6:30 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Richard Osman’s House Of ABC News With Joe O’Brien Games 7:00 Spicks And 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG)

5:30 The Travelling 4:30 The Addams 2:30 Inside The Huddle 6:30 Everyday Gourmet Auctioneers 6:30 Family 5:30 Bewitched 3:05 Over The Black 7:00 The Cook Up With Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Baywatch (M v) Dot 3:35 Worldwatch Adam Liaw 7:30 Nigella Kitchen 8:00 Rick Stein’s Food 5:30 Alone Germany (PG) (In 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: 7:30 Death In Paradise (M v) German) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 “Sicario: Day Of The Soldado” 8:40 Agatha Raisin (M v) 10:40 Stories 8:30 Hong Kong Love Rat (PG) (MA15+) (’18) Gourmet With Justine Schofield NITV News Update

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Grantchester (M v) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Foreign Correspondent (PG) 8:30 Kitchen Cabinet 9:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year (PG) 9:50 Compass 4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Call The Midwife (PG)

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Outback Truckers (PG)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:15 Getaway (PG) 1:45 My Way 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG) 8:40 TBA 9:40 NINE News Late

3:00 The Voice (PG) 4:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (M s,v)

5:25 Indian Country Today News 5:55 Bamay 6:35 Mysteries Of The Mekong (PG) 7:30 The Point 8:00 Murder In Big Horn (M l)

3:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo (PG) 3:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 Secrets Of Modern Archaeology (PG) (In English/ French/ Polish) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey (M s) 8:30 Insight (M) 9:30 Dateline (M)

4:00 Scott’s Vacation 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 1:30 Bondi Rescue House Rules (PG) 5:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 2:00 The Traitors Masters Of Flip 6:00 (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) Australia (PG) 3:30 Bull House Hunters International 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 10:30 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Chateau DIY Frasier (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v)

5:30 The Travelling 4:30 The Addams 2:35 Dark Side Of The 5:30 Jamie’s Great 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:10 ABC News 4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 Auctioneers 6:30 Family 5:30 Bewitched 90s (PG) 3:25 Italian Escape 6:00 The Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Baywatch (M v) Worldwatch 5:30 Alone Chocolate Queen 6:30 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Tom Heroes 6:10 7:30 New Tricks (PG) 8:40 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 TBA House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Everyday Gourmet With Justine Germany (PG) (In German) ABC News With Joe O’Brien Spidey And His Amazing 10:50 Seinfeld (PG) 11:50 The Agatha Christie’s Marple (M v) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up Friends 6:30 The Adventures 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 10:40 Rizzoli & Isles (M v) 100 (MA15+) News Update Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) With Adam Liaw

12:00 ABC News 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) 8:30 Spicks And Specks (PG) 9:00 New Zealand Spy (PG) 4:00 RSPCA Animal Rescue 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat (PG)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 The 1% Club UK (PG) 8:30 The Front Bar (M l) 9:30 Unfiltered (M) 10:00 The Agenda Setters (M)

4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 Ski Rescue Down Under (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 The Block (PG)

3:30 My Greek Odyssey (PG) 4:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 5:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 The Rookie (M v)

2:30 Insight (M) 3:25 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 3:55 Michael Mosley - The Truth About Sleep 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Titanic Sinks Tonight (M) 9:40 Six Four (M v) 10:35 SBS World News Late

4:00 Scott’s Vacation 4:00 Everyday Gourmet 1:30 Bondi Rescue 5:30 APTN National House Rules (PG) 5:00 With Justine Schofield (PG) 2:00 The Traitors News 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Castle Impossible 6:00 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 Australia (PG) 3:30 Bull Mysteries Of The House Hunters International The Big Bang Theory (PG) (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Mekong (PG) 7:35 Breaking 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big 6:30 House Hunters USA 7:30 Wild (PG) 8:30 Pro Bull Riding Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) Home Town: Inn This Together Bang Theory (PG) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) Australia

4:30 The Addams 12:55 Figure Skating: 5:30 Jamie’s Great 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:10 ABC News 4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 Family 5:30 Bewitched ISU Highlights 3:25 Italian Escape 6:00 The Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking 6:30 Baywatch (M v) Worldwatch 5:30 Alone Chocolate Queen 6:30 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Tom Heroes 6:10 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 TBA House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Everyday Gourmet With Justine Germany (PG) (In German) ABC News With Joe O’Brien Spidey And His Amazing 10:30 Seinfeld (PG) 11:30 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up Friends 6:30 The Adventures 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 Legacies (MA15+) News Update Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) With Adam Liaw

12:00 ABC News 1:00 Falling (M l) 2:00 Parliament Question Time 3:00 Fake Or Fortune? 4:00 Frankie Drake Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Back Roads (PG) 8:30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe 9:00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job 9:30 Treasure & Dirt (M)

6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Bridge Of Lies (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK (PG) 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG) 8:30 Air Crash Investigations: Running On Empty (PG) 9:30 Ron Iddles - The Good Cop (M)

6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 The Block (PG) 1:00 Space Invaders (PG) 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Melbourne Storm v Penrith Panthers *Live*

4:30 Dogs Behaving 5:00 Storage Wars 4:00 RSPCA Animal (Very) Badly (PG) 5:30 (PG) 5:30 American Rescue 4:30 Better Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Homes And Gardens Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Round 5:30 Escape To The Country Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Father 24: St Kilda Saints v Gold USA (M l) Brown (M) 8:30 Karen Pirie (M) Coast Suns *Live*

3:30 Movie: “Manuela” (PG) (’57) Stars: Trevor Howard 5:30 The Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By

3:00 Such Was Life (PG) 3:15 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 3:45 Beautiful Lakes Of Northern Italy (In English/ Italian) 4:35 Matt Preston’s Plating Locally (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Spain With Michael Portillo (PG) (In English/ Spanish)

5:00 Fix My 5:00 The Inspired 1:30 JAG (M s,v) 3:30 5:25 Te Ao With Moana Frankenhouse (PG) Unemployed Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (In English/ Maori) 5:55 6:00 House Hunters (Impractical) Jokers (M s,v) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) Bamay 6:35 Mysteries International 6:30 House (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang 7:30 NCIS (M v) 8:30 Law & Of The Mekong (PG) 7:30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo Order (M v) 9:25 Boston Blue Theory (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) Hunters USA 7:30 Bargain 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M) Block (PG) (M v) (PG)

3:30 Movie: “Some 2:30 Baywatch (M v) 2:20 Insight 3:20 5:30 Jamie’s Great 5:40 George Clarke’s 3:10 ABC News 4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 People” (G) (’62) Stars: 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 Worldwatch 5:30 Alone Italian Escape 6:00 The Old House New Home Afternoons 4:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Kenneth More 5:30 The The Addams Family Germany (PG) (In Chocolate Queen 6:30 6:30 Richard Osman’s Afternoon Briefing 5:00 Tom Heroes 6:10 House Of Games 7:00 Spicks Everyday Gourmet With Justine German) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 Baywatch Travelling Auctioneers 6:30 ABC News With Joe O’Brien Spidey And His Amazing NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out (M v) 7:30 Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 RBT And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up Friends 6:30 The Adventures 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 (M l) 8:30 TBA Emergency (PG) 9:30 TBA Of 10 Cats Does Countdown Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) With Adam Liaw Programming information correct at time of going to press, changes are at the network’s discretion Prepared by National Typesetting Services

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

MEET ME AT SQ BAR AND GRILL

S P O N S O R E D CO NTE NT

See what all the fuss is about

YOUR NEXT LEGENDARY DINING EXPERIENCE AWAITS AT SQUARE ONE.

NOW OPEN 2 Lord Sheffield Cct, Penrith (02) 4733 1874

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Opening Hours 0pm Sunday – Thursday – 6:30am – 9:00pm Friday – Saturday 6:30am – 10:00pm

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

Taste the difference at Wingstop.

like social media presence. Wingstop in Australia has created something that is becoming part restaurant, part youth-culture hangout – a place where food, music, art and community come together under one roof.

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FROM MOUTH-WATERING PIZZA AND PASTA TO SUCCULENT STEAKS AND DECADENT DESSERTS, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THE SQ.

ingstop has been in Australia for just over a year, serving up its famous wings, sides and fries to the masses. The Penrith store launched in December 2025 to much hype and success. Wingstop’s Australian partners on the ground, Jono Spragg and Locky Paech of JPK Capital, have been busy growing the brand from one to five stores across NSW in just over a year. The focus is an experiential, dine-in-led offering designed to bring customers into the restaurant to experience the vibes. Featuring slick, modern interiors, LED ticker-style screens and lighting typically found in nightclubs, Wingstop plays hip hop music unapologetically loud. Local graffiti artists have playfully decorated concrete pillars, while neon strip lights and signage are everywhere. The chicken is the star of the show, however. Fresh chicken wings are cooked to order, alongside breaded boneless pieces and whole breaded tenders. There are also fries, loaded fries and corn for those looking to round out the meal. All chicken is sauced and tossed in one of Wingstop’s 12 bold flavours in an easy to decipher range of heat level. Everything seems to be dipped and drizzled in the signature house-made ranch sauce - it’s definitely droolworthy. The brand has quickly become a local phenomenon, finding particular success with youth culture, driven largely by its community engagement and work with local music groups, all feeding into its cult-

S P O N S O R E D CO NTE NT

Outback is a winner for Dad relaxed atmosphere and plenty of options for the whole family, Outback Steakhouse Penrith is ready to make Father’s Day one to remember. Don’t leave it until the last minute – book your table now and treat Dad to a Father’s Day feast he’ll be talking about long after the last bite. Visit www.outbacksteakhouse.com.au.

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weekly specials offering great value dishes and limited-time favourites throughout the year. Looking for an affordable midweek catch-up? Outback Penrith also offers a budget-friendly lunch menu Monday to Friday, making it easy to enjoy an Outback favourite without breaking the budget. With generous serves, a

PN52154

his Father’s Day, give Dad the gift of a great meal, good company and a table filled with hearty favourites at Outback Steakhouse Penrith. Located at the Panthers Complex on Mulgoa Road, Outback Steakhouse is the perfect place to bring the family together and celebrate the dads, grandads and father figures who deserve a little extra attention. Known for its quality steaks, Outback butchers its steaks in-house before expertly seasoning and searing them for a flavourpacked dining experience. There’s something for everyone, from the Ribeye, Outback Special and Victoria’s Filet to ribs, burgers and the popular Mixed Grill combining steak, pork ribs and chicken. And, of course, no Outback visit would be complete without sharing a famous Bloomin’ Onion to start, and perhaps a decadent Chocolate Thunder to finish. There’s always something new to discover too, with

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

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CHECK OUT THESE LOCAL BREWS AND BITES

S P O N S O R E D CO NTE NT

A true sense of community

Workers Hubertus is a true community club.

n an era where busy schedules often make quality family time hard to come by, community clubs continue to play an important role in bringing people together. At Workers Hubertus, that sense of connection remains at the heart of everything the club does. Long recognised as a welcoming meeting place for locals, Workers Hubertus has evolved into much more than somewhere to enjoy a meal or a drink. It has become a genuine community hub, where families, friends and neighbours can catch up, celebrate special occasions or simply spend time together in a relaxed setting. A major drawcard is Hub Dining, which combines picturesque views with a menu inspired by the club’s German heritage. Diners can enjoy authentic favourites such as crispy pork knuckle and traditional pork schnitzel, alongside a range of modern dishes that cater to all tastes. Regularly changing chef’s specials also ensure there’s always something new to experience.

Beyond the dining room, Workers Hubertus offers plenty of reasons for families to make a day or evening of their visit. Live music, community events and family-friendly entertainment create opportunities for people of all ages to come together, while regular food and beverage specials add even more value. The club’s welcoming atmosphere has helped it become a place where friendships are formed, milestones are celebrated and local connections continue to grow. It’s this sense of belonging that keeps generations of families returning year after year. As community life continues to evolve, venues like Workers Hubertus remain an important part of the local landscape. By combining quality dining, regular entertainment and a strong focus on bringing people together, the club continues to provide a place where locals can unwind, connect and enjoy the company of family, friends and their wider community. Visit https://workerslifestylegroup.com. au/hubertus.

Got hungry little mouths to feed? Every Monday — Wednesday

KIDS EAT FREE AT HOGS BREATH Each Little Hogs meal comes with your choice of Curly Fries or a kid’s side salad/vegetables, tomato sauce, a FREE drink and a FREE ice cream. Grab your little ones and visit us today!

(02) 4721 4288 Ransley St, Penrith NSW 2750

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

At Percy Plunkett, we believe brunch should be anything but boring. From our flavour-packed Chorizo Muffin with dill mayo and pineapple jalapeno chutney, to our dreamy Cereal Milk French Toast, loaded with vanilla mascarpone, cereal milk custard and crunchy cornflake clusters, every bite is made to put a smile on your face. Top it all off with our nostalgic Paddlepop Iced Latte (or swap it for an iced chocolate or iced matcha), and you’ve got yourself the perfect excuse to treat yourself. Come in and try our new menu today! 146 Station Street, Penrith percyplunkett.com

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

S P O N S O R E D CO NTE NT

Elegance, charm, cocktails

ucked within the grand surrounds of The Carrington Hotel, Champagne Charlie’s Cocktail Bar is one of the Blue Mountains’ most charming places to unwind. Whether you’re catching up with friends, escaping the bustle of Katoomba, or simply taking time to savour the atmosphere, this heritage bar offers a relaxed dining experience steeped in history. Open to the public daily from 11.00am, Champagne Charlie’s is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely light lunch, indulge in the hotel’s famous Devonshire Tea, or share a beautifully presented cheese or charcuterie platter. Sink into one of the elegant lounges, admire the Victorian architecture, and soak up the timeless character that has made The Carrington Hotel an iconic Blue Mountains destination for well over a century. From Tuesday to Saturday evenings, the bar comes alive with an enticing light evening menu complemented by an extensive wine list and an impressive selection of classic and signature cocktails, expertly crafted by the bar team. The bar takes its name from Charles Heidsieck, the legendary French champagne merchant affectionately known as “Champagne Charlie” during the 1850s. The nickname was also fittingly bestowed upon Lord Carrington himself, who was reputed to enjoy a glass of champagne with breakfast each morning. Today, Champagne Charlie’s proudly continues that tradition of refined indulgence. As Katoomba’s oldest cocktail bar, it blends historic elegance with warm hospi-

Something for everyone

A delicious menu is on offer.

tality, making it the perfect place to raise a glass, linger a little longer, and experience the enduring charm of The Carrington Hotel.

The Rocks • Northmead • Beverly Hills • Darling Square

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Áǝƺ !ƏȸȸǣȇǕɎȒȇ ȵȸƺƬǣȇƬɎ ǣɀ Ə ɮǣƫȸƏȇɎ ƳƺɀɎǣȇƏɎǣȒȇ ǔȒȸ ƳǣȇǣȇǕً ƫƏȸɀ ƏȇƳ Ǽǣɮƺ ƺȇɎƺȸɎƏǣȇȅƺȇɎِ Á ǝƺ !ƏȸȸǣȇǕɎȒȇ ȵȸƺƬǣȇƬɎ ǣǣɀ Ə Ə ɮǣƫȸƏȇɎ ƳƺɀɎǣȇƏɎǣȒȇ ǔȒȸ ƳǣȇǣȇǕً ƫƏȸɀ Ə ƏȇƳ Ǽǣɮƺ ƺȇɎƺȸɎƏǣȇȅƺȇɎِ ! ƺǼƺƫȸƏɎƺ ȅǣǼƺɀɎȒȇƺ ȅȒȅƺȇɎɀً ƺȇǴȒɵ Ƭ ƬƏɀɖƏǼ Ƴ ƳǣȇǣȇǕ Ȓȸ ɀƏɮȒɖȸ ƬǼƏɀɀǣƬ ƏȇƳ ɀǣǕȇƏɎɖȸƺ ƬȒƬǸɎƏǣǼɀِ !ƺǼƺƫȸƏɎƺ ȅǣǼƺɀɎȒȇƺ ȅȒȅƺȇɎɀً ƺȇǴȒɵ ƬƏɀɖƏǼ ƳǣȇǣȇǕ Ȓȸ ɀƏɮȒɖȸ ƬǼƏɀɀǣƬ ƏȇƳ ɀǣǕȇƏɎɖȸƺ ƬȒƬǸɎƏǣǼɀِ

¨ 0 z ‫ ( ו‬ç ³ ۴ Ɏ ǝ ƺ Ƭ Ə ȸ ȸ ǣ ȇ Ǖ Ɏ Ȓ ȇ ِ Ƭ Ȓ ȅ ِ Ə ɖ ۴ ‫׏ ׏ ׏ ׏ א ז וג א ׎‬

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK EVERY EVER EV ERY ER Y WE WEDN WEDNESDAY DNES DN ESDA ES DAY DA Y Quizmasters Trivia from 7pm EVER EV EVERY ERY ER Y TH THUR THURSDAY UR RSD SDAY AY

Weekly Meat Raffle from 6pm Cornhole Comp from 7:30pm FRIDAY FRID FR IDAY AY - SUNDAY SUN NDA AY Live & Local Music

4/137 COREEN AVE, PENRITH NSW 2750

WW58821

Authentic Italian, made with love! Experience home style Southern Italian cuisine at Pietro Italian Restaurant, where delicious food meets warm, old-school service. Multi-award winning, Pietro caters for lunches, dinners, corporate events and social functions, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Come and enjoy authentic Italian hospitality and flavours made with love.

R FAT H BOOK NOW FO

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B OOK YO YOUR TA B LE NOW AT PIETR O. COM. AU 754 MU LG OA R OA D, MU LG OA | 4774 1584

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

A gii fromANaked Wines forWines the Western readers...enjoy! gift from Naked for our Weekender readers . . . enjoy! Naked Wines invest directly local winemkaers upfront & sercure Naked Wines investindirectly in local winemakers. wines at wines amazing prices. prices. Upfront exclusive & secure exclusive at amazing

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

CAFÉ SCENE SENIORS DAY 10% OFF ANY PURCHASE

EXCITING NEWS!

SCREAMING BEANS POP UP 118 Stafford St, Penrith

Enjoy our Loaded Spuds and Cobs every Sunday 5pm-8pm Come by and taste the difference

EVERY MONDAY & TUESDAY JUST SUPPLY YOUR SENIORS CARD

8/92-112 Henry St Penrith Mon-Sat: 8am - 3:30pm Sun: Closed

“ For Lovers of Quality Food ‘“ Unit 4/2115 Castlereagh Rd, Penrith BACON & EGG ROLL + SMALL COFFEE FOR $12 FROM 7AM-11AM MON-SAT | 8AM-11AM SUN

Mon-Fri: 7am - 4pm Sat: 7am - 3pm | Sun: Closed

Located inside The Royce Retirement Village. *Members only offer.

We didn’t get into hospitality, we were born into it.

Coffee With Purpose. Community With Heart.

146 Station St, Penrith

34 Preston St Jamisontown Mon- Fri: 6am - 2pm Sat: 8am - 12pm Sun: Closed

Mon-Sun: 7am - 2:30pm

COME AND TRY OUR

NEW BLEND

GOLDEN HOUR

472 High St, Penrith

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Roasted in partnership with

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Snap a pic at one of these local cafés and tag @westernweekender for your chance to win a $100 Rusty Penny Brewery voucher! Conditions apply.

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

THE BIG DECISION TIME TO MOVE? | FRESH PROPERTY LISTINGS INSIDE Western Property

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

THE LATEST FROM OUR PET GURU

WHAT DO THE STARS HAVE IN STORE?

SEE PAGE 68

SEE PAGE 73

SEE PAGE 75

58653

OPPORTUNITY AND SPACE AWAITS!

24/7 Reptile Removal

FEATURE STORY Western Property

LANDMARK SITE ON THE MARKET IN LUDDENHAM B

radfield International Real Estate (BIRE) has launched the sale of Lot 3, 21 Willmington Road, Luddenham, a 25,740sqm corner landholding physically adjoining Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, in a campaign timed to the most significant year in the Aerotropolis’ history. The 2.57 hectare property, offered via Expressions of Interest closing Wednesday, September 2, occupies a landmark corner at The Northern Road and Eaton Road within the Aerotropolis Agribusiness Precinct, with triple

street frontage and a second parcel of 840.2sqm on the western side of The Northern Road. The listing arrives as the infrastructure surrounding the site completes its shift from construction to operation. The toll-free M12 Motorway opened in March 2026, with its on-ramp 3.2km north of the property, and the M7/M12 Interchange at Cecil Hills followed in June, completing the motorway-to-motorway connection into Sydney’s road network. “For 10 years the Aerotropolis was a promise, and in 2026 it became a place that moves

freight, opens motorways and, from October, flies passengers,” said Nick Estephen, Co-Founder and Director of Bradfield International Real Estate. “There are now aircraft being loaded three kilometres from this site. Land that physically adjoins the airport, fronts The Northern Road and connects to Sydney’s motorway network does not come to market often, and rarely at this scale. This is the corridor switching on, and this site sits at the switch.” The property is zoned AGB Agribusiness under the State Environmental Planning Policy

(Precincts, Western Parkland City) 2021, a framework that lists only prohibited uses, leaving all other development capable of being pursued on merit with consent. Uniquely for the precinct, no future roads under the Aerotropolis Street Hierarchy traverse the lot, preserving the full surveyed area for development purposes, with a 24 metre height limit and no flood planning or environmental conservation mapping affecting the site. “Buyers in the Aerotropolis have learned to ask what a site can’t do before they ask what it can,” said Thomas Mosca, Co-Founder and Director of Bradfield International Real Estate.

“THIS IS THE CORRIDOR SWITCHING ON, AND THIS SITE SITS AT THE SWITCH”

“This one is the exception: no internal road dedications, no environmental exclusions, a flexible open zoning and three street frontages. Whether the end use is logistics, food production, QSR or main road commercial, an incoming owner can master plan the full area from day one, subject to the usual approvals.” Recent transactions underline the depth of demand across the corridor, with Aerotropolis land sales in the surrounding suburbs ranging from approximately $475 to $833 per sqm over the past two years, and institutional estates nearby transacting in the hundreds of millions. For more information, call Nick Estephen on 0488 748 186 or Thomas Mosca on 0423 086 593.

PROMOTION OFFER

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02 4732 4566 | info@jandlkitchens.com.au\ 1/61 Jack Williams Drive, Penrith Showroom open Monday- Friday 7am-4pm, Saturday 9am-1pm

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

58699

Terms and Conditions apply. Free sink & tap are in the standard range from our supplier. The quote must be accepted within 30 days of date of issue. 10% deposit required at time of acceptance. Costing applies to J & L Kitchen cost only, trades are excluced.

34-64 WENTWORTH ROAD, ORCHARD HILLS

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

LIVE ON ACRES, EXPLORE THE LONG-TERM POTENTIAL What is so great about this property? Set on five acres of land, 34 -64 Wentworth Road presents a rare opportunity to secure a stake in one of western Sydney’s rapidly evolving areas. This property packs significant future

potential, with opportunities of this scale becoming increasingly difficult to find. Who does this property suit? It appeals to anyone looking to secure a substantial parcel of land with long-term potential.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Orchard Hills is one of western Sydney’s key growth areas, situated on the doorstep of the new Western Sydney International Airport. The suburb combines estab-

lished semi-rural character with infrastructure and transport investments. One of the biggest changes coming to this suburb is the Orchard Hills Metro Station, forming the connection between St Marys and Bradfield.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE AUCTION Thursday, September 3 6.00pm Property Central Office 352 High Street, Penrith CONTACT: Property Central Penrith Lee Waterhouse • 0410 338 040 lee.waterhouse@propertycentral.com.au

Keep your air conditioning maintained with PREFERRED AIR arantee optimal performance all year! ye CONDITIONING to guarantee

0413 421 166

For document witnessing and other JP services, come in during business hours:

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Ask us about Installation, Sales, Maintenance and Service

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Fully Ducted Systems

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Need a Justice of the Peace? We’re here to help!

SALES, SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATION WW59249

Looking to sell your home?

📞📞📞📞 4761 3210 🕒🕒🕒🕒 Monday- Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm � 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown We’re happy to assist you!

Contact one of the Weekender’s preferred agents today. Our Property Partners are ready to help.

0434 400 225

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4760 0812

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.® OFFICE: Suite 1, 235 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750

56 Rugby Street, Cambridge Park

Beautifully Updated Home on a Corner Block with Dual Access

JUST LISTED

OPEN HOME THU 13 AUG 6:53AM - 7:23AM SAT 15 AUG 10:15AM - 10:45AM

• 3 generous-sized bedrooms, 2 fitted with built-in wardrobes • Main with built in wardrobe and ceiling fan • All BRs fitted with ceiling fans • Light-filled living room with split system air cond & ceiling fan • Contemporary bathroom tiled to the ceiling, featuring separate shower, bathtub & toilet • Practical study nook • Separate dining area • Renovated kitchen with brand new cooktop and stylish splashback • External laundry • Secure LU garage with workshop • Spacious backyard • Positioned on a corner block with dual access • Nestled on a 645sqm (approx) • Zoned R2 with granny flat or pool potential (STCA)

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

1/30-32 Albert Street, Werrington

106 Springfield Drive, Lochinvar

JUST LISTED

SMSF VILLAS - BRAND NEW Potential Rent: $590p/w Opposite New Shopping Centre - Coming Soon $650,000 - $715,000

OPEN HOME SAT, 8 AUGUST 3.00PM – 4PM

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

109A Old Prospect Road, Greystanes

This townhouse is great for first home buyers or investors

JUST LISTED

Perfectly suited to first home buyers, investors, or downsizers, this light-filled three-bedroom townhouse offers comfortable, low-maintenance living in a boutique complex of just seven townhouses. Designed for functionality, the home features a spacious open-plan living and dining area, three generous bedrooms with built-in robes, including one conveniently located on the ground floor, making it ideal for guests, extended family, or those seeking single-level convenience.

OPEN HOME SAT 15 AUG 9:30AM - 10:00AM

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Penrith

AUCTION OPEN HOME THU 13 AUG 5:00PM - 5:30PM SAT 15 AUG 1:45PM - 2:15PM

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Hebersham

DUAL OCCUPANCY GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

CONTACT GIZZELLE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

8/59 Park Avenue, Kingswood

SOLD

TESTIMONIAL Another happy Buyer! SHE WAS GREAT TO WORK WITH were responsive, great “ They to work with and patient and very professional.

”

– Sam (Buyer), Kingswood OPEN HOME SATURDAY 9:30AM - 10:00AM

Put our Winning Team to Work

Gizzelle Powell 0428 934 618

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Litsa Meleti 0466 969 164

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

Uzrah Bi 0435 205 061

AGENT OF THE YEAR 11 X Winner Cambridge Park 6 X Winner Kingswood 6 X Winner Penrith 3 X Winner Werrington 3 X National Top 100 Australia

Victor Borg 0439 755 081

Sharol Dolleton 4732 6007

Thinking of Selling, Buying or Investing? Call or SMS Gizzelle on 0428 934 618

Sophie Sheng 0424 823 911

Angela Capistrano 4732 6007

Ed Powell 4732 6007

G I

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Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.

The Residences Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money. • • • • • • •

Spacious, designer interiors Landscaped grounds Two to five-bedroom layouts Private porches and courtyards Family-friendly living areas Premium finishes and inclusions Tranquil locations

The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits. Banksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

58965

Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

A wide range of affordably priced residences now selling.

oranpark.com.au 02 9043 7500

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

HEALTH The Experts

THE BENEFITS OF A PODIATRY HOME VISIT H

PRAISE KHIN OnePointHealth 4732 5188

ealthy feet are essential for maintaining mobility, independence and quality of life. However, for many, attending appointments can become increasingly challenging due to reduced mobility, chronic health conditions, disability, vision impairment, age-related changes or recovery following surgery. Podiatry home visits provide a convenient solution by allowing patients to receive professional foot care in the comfort and safety of their own home. At OnePointHealth, our podiatrists provide home visit services across western Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Ryde and Lindfield, helping patients access essential foot care without the stress of travelling to a clinic. Home visits can benefit older adults, individuals with mobility limitations, NDIS participants, people recovering from illness or surgery, and those whose family members or carers assist with healthcare needs. Regular

podiatry care is about more than maintaining the appearance of your feet. Common concerns such as thickened toenails, ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, dry skin and fungal nail infections can become painful and affect mobility if left untreated.

Early treatment helps maintain comfort, reduce falls risk and prevent complications. A unique advantage of home visits is that your podiatrist can assess your feet within your everyday environment. This provides valuable insight into

your footwear, walking patterns, flooring surfaces and potential trip hazards, allowing recommendations to be tailored to your lifestyle and home. Receiving care at home can also provide a more relaxed healthcare experience, particularly for older adults, people living with dementia or those who feel anxious in clinical settings.Podiatrists bring the necessary equipment to provide comprehensive treatment, including nail care, corn and callus management, diabetic foot assessments, skin care, footwear advice and foot health education. If you have difficulty reaching your feet, struggle to leave home, have diabetes, reduced mobility, painful foot conditions or care for someone who needs assistance, a podiatry home visit may be the ideal solution. Looking after your feet is an important part of maintaining independence. Professional foot care delivered directly to your door makes it easier to stay mobile, comfortable and active.

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

PET HEALTH The Experts

WHEN YOUR DOG’S BOTTOM NEEDS ATTENTION I

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

t is a subject many dog owners would rather not think about, but anal gland problems are surprisingly common and can cause significant discomfort for our pets. These small glands sit just inside the anus at approximately the four and eight o’clock positions and produce a strong-smelling fluid that plays a natural role in canine communication and scent marking. Normally, the anal glands empty naturally when a dog passes a firm bowel movement. The pressure created as the stool passes helps squeeze the glands and release their contents. This unique scent is one reason dogs are so interested in sniffing each other’s rear ends – it provides information about the other dog and is an important part of canine communication. Problems can occur when the glands do not empty properly. This is known as impaction, where the fluid becomes thicker and builds up inside the sacs. Dogs with impacted anal glands may scoot their bottom across the floor, lick or bite around the anus, or appear generally uncomfortable. A veterinary professional can usually relieve the problem by carefully expressing the glands. For dogs that experience repeated issues, increasing dietary fibre may help produce firmer stools and encourage more natural emptying.

An impacted gland can sometimes become inflamed and infected. You may notice redness, swelling, pain or a particularly unpleasant odour around your dog’s rear end. Veterinary treatment may involve emptying and cleaning the glands, along with medication such as antibiotics when an infection is present. If an infection continues to develop, an abscess can form. This can be extremely painful and may appear as a swollen area beside the anus. In some cases, the abscess can rupture, resulting in blood or pus being discharged. An abscess requires prompt

veterinary attention, with appropriate pain relief and antibiotics prescribed. Knowing what to look for can help you catch a problem early. Signs include scooting or dragging the bottom, repeatedly licking or chewing the area, a strong fishy smell, discomfort or difficulty when passing faeces, swelling around the anus, or any blood or discharge. Some dogs are more prone to anal gland problems, particularly smaller breeds. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and providing an appropriate diet with adequate fibre can help. Dogs with recurring problems may also benefit from routine professional expression and having their anal glands checked during regular veterinary or grooming appointments. While anal gland problems can certainly be a pain in the backside, they are usually manageable when addressed early. If your dog is showing any signs of discomfort, it is best not to ignore them. At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we can assess the problem, provide appropriate treatment and discuss ways to reduce the likelihood of recurring issues. For further advice or to book an appointment, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027.

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL! At Orchard Hills ills Veterinary Hospital, we understand d that your pet is a cherished family ily member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pett care services to animals acrosss the Penrith district.

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LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

SHOULD YOU CONSIDER A LINE OF CREDIT? M

STEVEN KORNER The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

ost business owners think about finance when something goes wrong: a big client pays late, a piece of equipment breaks down, or a slow season runs longer than expected. By the time the problem hits, there often isn’t time to shop around for the right loan. This is where a business line of credit earns its keep, not as something you use every day, but as a safety net that’s already in place when you need it. What a Line of Credit actually is Unlike a term loan, which gives you a lump sum upfront that you repay over a fixed period, a line of credit works more like a flexible pool of funds you can draw on as needed, up to an agreed limit. You only pay interest on what you actually use, and as you repay, the available credit resets. It sits there quietly in the background until it’s needed. Why it matters for emergencies Cash flow gaps are one of the most common reasons small

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and medium businesses run into trouble, even when the underlying business is profitable. A line of credit gives you a buffer to cover wages, rent, or supplier payments while you wait on outstanding invoices, without having to make rushed decisions or apply for finance under pressure. It can also cover unplanned costs – a broken-down delivery van, urgent equipment repairs, or a sudden spike in demand that requires extra stock. Having credit already approved means you can act immediately rather than waiting weeks for a new loan application to be assessed. The value of having it ready, not just available One of the most overlooked benefits is timing. Lenders assess applications more favourably when a business isn’t under financial stress. Applying for a line of credit while your business is stable and trading well generally means better terms and a smoother approval process than applying in the middle of a

cash flow crunch. Setting it up in advance is, in effect, cheaper and easier than setting it up in a hurry. Points worth weighing up A line of credit isn’t free money, and it shouldn’t be treated as a substitute for solid cash flow management. Interest rates on credit lines can be higher than secured term loans, and unused limits sometimes come with fees. It’s worth comparing structures, secured against business assets or property, versus unsecured

since the security offered can significantly affect the interest rate and available limit. The bottom line A business line of credit won’t prevent every setback, but it gives owners breathing room to respond to the unexpected without scrambling for finance at the worst possible time. For many businesses, the value isn’t in using it, it’s in knowing it’s there. Contact us to explore your options and future proof your business.

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HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AMANDA JANE Clairvoyant Medium amandajane-xo.com revivalretreats.com.au

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Relationships are showing you something important about yourself this week. Pay attention to where you feel supported, understood and free to be yourself. Honest conversations can deepen a connection significantly, while another situation may require stronger boundaries. You don’t need to chase people for clarity. Sometimes their actions will give you all the info.

Your energy deserves protection this week. You may be more sensitive than usual to other people’s moods, expectations and emotions, so make time to reconnect with yourself. Dreams and synchronicities could feel particularly meaningful. Trust the gentle nudges you’re receiving. A small change to your daily routine may also create a surprisingly positive shift in your wellbeing.

This week brings a renewed sense of motivation, particularly around something you’ve been considering for a while. Stop waiting for everything to feel perfectly aligned before taking the first step. A conversation could reveal things you weren’t expecting, helping you make an important decision. Trust yourself and remember that sometimes courage simply means moving forward.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

You may feel drawn to simplify your world this week. Whether it’s your schedule, relationships or responsibilities, notice where you’ve been giving more energy than you’re receiving. Creating stronger boundaries will bring an immediate sense of relief. Financially, patience works in your favour. Something you’ve been quietly hoping for may finally begin moving.

Your mind is buzzing with ideas, but not every idea needs to become a plan immediately. Give yourself space to explore without putting pressure on the outcome. Communication is highlighted, and an honest conversation could clear up a lingering misunderstanding. An unexpected invitation or connection may also lead somewhere exciting, so leave room for spontaneity.

You’re being encouraged to recognise your own value this week. Stop measuring your progress against where you thought you would be by now. You’ve grown more than you realise. Relationships feel warmer when you allow yourself to receive rather than always being the one giving. Trust the people who consistently show you through their actions that they’re there.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

There’s a powerful confidence surrounding you as you move through the final stretch of Leo season. Make yourself a priority and take action towards something you genuinely desire. You don’t need permission to change direction. An opportunity could appear unexpectedly, reminding you just how quickly life can shift when you believe in yourself.

As your season approaches, you may feel an internal shift beginning. It’s time to clear away anything that feels cluttered, complicated or energetically draining. Your natural instinct may be to analyse every possibility, but your intuition already knows the answer. Give yourself permission to choose what feels right rather than what simply looks sensible on paper.

Your social world brings interesting opportunities this week. A conversation, introduction or unexpected invitation could connect you with someone who shares your ideas or vision. Relationships also benefit from greater honesty, particularly if you’ve been avoiding a difficult subject to keep the peace. Speaking from the heart will create more harmony.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Your ambitions are calling, and you may find yourself thinking seriously about where you want the next chapter of your life to take you. Don’t underestimate what you’re capable of achieving. Career or financial opportunities could begin taking shape, but avoid rushing the process. What is being built slowly now has the potential to become something lasting.

Something inside you is craving expansion. Travel, learning, adventure or simply breaking away from your usual routine could provide exactly the inspiration you need. Follow your curiosity this week, even if you’re not sure where it will lead. A seemingly random conversation may plant the seed for an exciting future plan. Keep your options open.

You’re being asked to release the need to control every outcome. Something you’ve been worrying about may resolve far more easily than expected once you stop trying to predict every possibility. This is also a powerful week for financial planning and emotional healing. Letting go of an old story creates space for a completely different future to emerge.

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Amanda Jane is an internationally recognised Clairvoyant Medium, spiritual teacher, retreat facilitator, and founder of Revival Retreats Australia. With a gift for connecting to the spirit world and over a decade of experience supporting people through healing, transformation, and personal growth, Amanda has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt, accurate, and compassionate guidance.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

Download the Western Weekender App! Av aila ble fro m the Go og le Pla y and

ACROSS DOWN 1. Girls’ short haircuts 1. Baby’s aprons 4. Betrothed men 2. Lacking enthusiasm 8. Non-coms (1,1,2) 3. USA nickname, Uncle ... 11. Clothing tag 4. Tighten (muscle) 13. More charming 5. Makes reparations 15. Censure 6. Natural fi bre 17. Select, ... for 7. Scissor-cut 18. Talented 8. Bushranger, ... Kelly 20. Crack army force (1,1,1) 9. Thin pancake 21. From Lone Star 10. Complete collections state 12. Actress, ... Davis 24. Candle 14. Silent Night is one 27. Blunder, faux ... 16. Wood-turning 28. Touchy machine 30. Joint, mortise & ... 19. Whiter 31. Catwalk beauty 22. Viewing suspiciously 33. Gripes 23. Dined at bistro (3,3) 34. Drug (racehorse) 25. Parka 35. Jeans pioneer, ... 26. Entrenches Strauss 29. Coils 36. Scathing put-down 32. Presentation ball 39. Incurs (debt) (4,2) entrant 42. Lurid 35. Hairspray 44. Knock loudly 37. Alter (rules) 45. Show gratitude to 38. Resilient 46. Wise person 40. Dim 48. Suppress (riot) 41. Tiny bottle 49. Ronald Reagan’s 42. Garden fi gurine widow 43. Pulls with a jerk 50. Unchanged (2,2) 44. Creature 52. Quietens 47. Leggings 54. Slip sideways 51. Smile coyly 55. Of oceanic fl ow 52. Lights, ..., action! 56. Most senior 53. Snow vehicle 57. In proportion, pro ... 54. Embroiderers 60. Walk off stage 58. In vain, to no ... 62. Drank slowly 59. Dead ... dodo (2,1) 65. Of length 61. Fabric insert 67. Banded gemstone 63. Irritating 69. Reorganise 64. Disbands (troops) 70. Subterfuges 65. Kissed (of dog) 72. Respectful address 66. Cars 73. Cosmetic lotion 68. Vine fruit 75. Tea-shipping box 71. Privileged few 77. Sheltered side 72. Fraud 79. Confrontation 74. Happily ... after 81. Acorn bearer 76. Miscalculates 82. Skips 78. Detect 84. Wage recipient (exam) Previous solution80.- Took Medium 85. Readjust 83. Actors 6 8 7 2 3 1 86. Assemble 87. Lodges 8 7 4 5 2 3 6 88. Impose 8 7(tax)6 9 5 4 2 1

Easy

5 2 4

9 5 3 1 6 7 8 5 6 3 4 3 1 4 5 2 6 9 Last 4week’s solution 3 2 1 8 5 7 2 1 4 3 6 4 2 3 9 7

4 2 7 8 6 7 5 8

r8ts.com

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender westernweekender.com.au/digi-subscribe

SUDOKU No. 806

Tough

9 6 9 1

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

8 5 2 7 4 3 9 6 1

4 3 6

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

Previous solution - Medium

3 2 6 1 8 2 4

3 7 9 5 5 6

2 1 4

Crossword

Ap ple Sto re

1 7 6 8 9 2 3 4 5

3 4 9 1 5 6 7 2 8

9 3 4 2 7 8 1 5 6

5 8 7 6 1 9 4 3 2

2 6 1 5 3 4 8 7 9

6 1 3 4 8 5 2 9 7

7 9 5 3 2 1 6 8 4

4 2 8 9 6 7 5 1 3

NEVER MISS AN EDITION

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

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Wordsearch brought to you by Penrith Jobs www.penrithjobs.com.au

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

THEME: BEACHES OF THE WORLD

WHITEHAVEN ENTALULA WHARTON BORA BORA BOULDERS BONDI WAIKIKI MANLY ELAFONISSI MATIRA ONE FOOT ISLAND HYAMS BURLEIGH HEADS COPACABANA COTTESLOE MAYA BAY SANTA MONICA IPANEMA COCOA ISLAND

Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about sea creatures in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. Which sea creature can regenerate body parts? 2. What is the largest species of shark? 3. What is the fastest fish known to man? 4. How many brains does an octopus have? 5. A smack is the name for a gathering of which sea creatures?

6. What is the largest animal alive in the ocean today? 7. Which sea creature uses echolocation to navigate and hunt its prey? 8. Which male sea creature carries and gives birth to babies? 9. How many eggs do green sea turtles lay at a time?

ANSWERS 1. Starfish 2. Whale Shark 3. Sailfish 4. Nine 5. Jellyfish 6. The Blue Whale 7. Dolphins 8. Seahorse 9. Between 100-200

Trivia Quiz

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Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

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TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 806

Easy

4 3

6 8 8 7 9 5

8 7 6 3 5 3 1 4 4 3 7 2 1 4 2

7 6

8 7

8 9

2 3

6 1 5

7 9 7

2 3 4 5 2 9 5 4 1 6 7 8 6 3 4 5 2 6 9 2 1 8 5 4 3 6 3 9 7

1 3 6 2 1 4 2

6 9 1

7 8 6 7 5 8

2 2

5 2 4

Str8ts

6 3 9

No. 806

Previous solution - Medium

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Name the Movie

Hexwords

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

TDGALORA I Previous solution:

Previous solution: HOMEWARD BOUND: THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge

of IT

douBle IT

4. Y ou might say that I have travelled back in time.

of IT

of ThIs

ansWeR

of ThIs

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 163- BEGINNER - 36, INTERMEDIATE - 150, ADVANCED - 9.8. Last week’s answer:

5. I am advocate for people living with Parkinson’s Disease. Last week’s answer: BEYONCÉ

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 164 - BEGINNER - 49, INTERMEDIATE - 4.5, ADVANCED - 42.

+9 +7 ÷8 x5 -3 ÷7 x10 50% -19 5/7 x100 5% -20 5/6 x20 +3 ÷7 +51 x70 4% x1¾ 2% of ThIs

of IT

half of IT

of IT

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of ThIs ansWeR

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ansWeR

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

www.30secondchallenge.com

Plus 20%

ansWeR

TIMes By ITself

1000

1/100 of IT

of ThIs

of IT

3. I was a high school dropout and failed drama class.

5/8 of ThIs

adVanced

of IT

ansWeR

InTeRMedIaTe

douBle IT

TIMes By ITself

half of IT

InTeRMedIaTe

÷10 ÷4 x9 +2 +2 ÷3 +3 4/9 1/6 +19 x10 3/5 -60 5% 25% 7% x15/6 x100 -29 87½%

2. I played a role in ‘Family Ties’ when I was younger.

adVanced

douBle IT

1. I ’m a well-known actor.

331/3 % of ThIs

BegInneR

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge,

HINTS

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Onion, Potato and Blue Cheese Pies Blue Cheese isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you love it like me, this is the recipe for you! What You’ll Need:

Method:

– Muffin Tin – Large pan

1. Heat up the butter in the pan on a low heat, and slice the onion into thin rings (make sure to remove the cores). Add the garlic paste into the pan once the butter has melted, and add the onion rings. These will cook on a low to medium heat until they start to caramelise. Stir occasionally so they don’t burn. 2. Peel and cut the potatoes into thin slices and add to the pan with spices, stirring. Add in the stock water and stir, bringing up the heat to medium- high to reduce the sauce. When the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, the sauce is ready.

Ingredients: – Puff Pasty (cut into quarters – 1 square makes 4 pies) – 1 Brown Onion – 50g Butter (more for greasing the muffin tin) – 1 Tbsp Garlic Paste – 2 Large Potatoes – 1 Tbsp Vegetable Stock (mixed with 2 .5 cups hot water) – 150g Blue Cheese (preferably soft/creamy) – Spices (I use salt, black pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley and a dash of chilli powder) – 1 egg (for egg wash)

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C and defrost your puff pastry if not already. Once defrosted, slice into 4 squares and grease your muffin tin. Place each square into the tin and softly push into the spot with your knuckles. 4. Once the sauce is thick, add the entire blue cheese to the pan, and slowly stir it until it melts into the sauce. Once ready, spoon the filling into each pastry shell. Fold in each corner to seal the pie closed. 5. Whisk the egg with a fork and coat the top of each pie. You can add cheese or pepper here if you want. Cook for 20-25 mins or until puffy and golden brown. Enjoy!

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the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

On the road: Genesis makes Black the new luxury J

ust 41 years ago, a new motoring brand arrived in Australia, when entrepreneur Alan Bond asked us to say ‘Hi, to Hyundai’. Delivering cheap and mostly cheerful driving, Hyundai were seen as budget motoring, nothing special, but a way to get into a new car for significantly less than an equivalent Japanese car. Skip ahead to 2015, and Hyundai announced the Australian launch of ‘Genesis’, the Korean company’s luxury brand, offering its own vehicles from the outset, with very little borrowed from the Hyundai range. This included a big rear wheel drive sedan, the first generation of the G80 limousine, setting the tone for what was to follow, a series of uncompromising luxury models. Fast forward to now, and the latest version arrived in our driveway, the G80 Black, complete with a powerful, refined 3.5-litre V6, all-wheel-drive and pretty much every luxury item you can think of, and a few you probably hadn’t even considered.

“THE G80 DELIVERS A BLEND OF HIGH PERFORMANCE AND LUXURY”

A distinctly European flavour dominates the design language, a number of casual observers asked if this was a new Aston Martin or Audi, and were surprised to learn it was Korean. The G80 is a blend of athleticism and restraint, no wild wings or aero kits, instead there is an air of competence and capability, this is a shape that inspires trust. The shield-like grille is deep, splitting the bumper in two, with a second, lower intake to feed extra air to the cooling system, brakes and underbody aerodynamics. The G80 sits low and wide, unlike others, these are not pumped guards to deliver the broad footprint, this is a classic ‘big’ sedan. Despite its impressive, and imposing, size, the G80 is well-proportioned and never looks bulky or cumbersome. The sense of proportion makes the polished black 20” alloys look right at home, it is only up close you realise how big the whole car is. Unsurprisingly, or perhaps just in line with expectation for a car retailing north of

The Black Hyundai Genesis was a joy to drive.

$120,000, plus on-road costs, fit and finish is outstanding, panel gaps are in the millimetre range, boosted by the ‘soft close’ doors, sensors detect when they are nearly closed, actuators pull them shut with a soft ‘click’. A word of warning: yes, there is anti-pinch technology, but keep fingers clear, no need to put it to the test. The Black version takes its name seriously, everything is painted, coated or trimmed in black, including the G-Matrix grille, badging, even the chrome is black tinted, along with the black-painted brake calipers, although it is stylish, rather than sinister. The Black theme continues inside, seats are quilted black Nappa leather, with 18-way power adjustment and ‘Ergo Motion’ massage functions. Power adjustment extends to the height and reach steering, as well as a retractable rear window privacy blind, for easier entry and exit, seat and steering wheel retract, then return when you close the door. Front seats are heated and cooled, along with the heated steering wheel and centre armrest, but this is a limousine, so, the outboard rear seats also get selectable heating and cooling. While there are plenty of recycled materials in the interior, like fishing nets turned into carpet thread and tyre black used in the leather dyes, the trims are genuine wood grain, Black Ash of course. That is part of the G80’s appeal, the blend of old and new, traditional materials and techniques working hand in glove with the latest electronics. Dimensionally, it is as big inside as out, meaning generous head, leg and shoulder room, front and back, the boot is cavernous and can hold multiple large suitcases, but the bootlip is too high to fit a family-size esky.

Once you are in and the doors have done their thing, you notice a sense of separation, this is your world, let the party begin. Active Road Noise Cancelling does just that, matching sound frequencies cancel out external noise so you can enjoy your choice of entertainment, or even just a sense of calm. In-built options of DAB/AM/FM/CarPlay/ Android Auto and Bluetooth, as well as USB-C ports, allow pretty much every form of modern entertainment to play through the booming Bang & Olufsen audio system. Like the exterior, the inside is all about quality fit, finish and materials, the car has a genuine luxury feel, not just a grab bag of good bits thrown together, instead a well-thought out design delivering on its promises. The 3.5-litre, turbocharged, V6 makes a hefty 279kW/530Nm, enough to launch the

G80 to 100km/h in short order. This drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission with electronic limited-slip differential. Although a limousine, forget thoughts of a soggy, saggy, soft ride, Genesis want a slice of the European market, this means a firm, but supple, ride, it can be pushed hard with a sense of control. It does feel its bulk, you can’t throw two tonnes of metal around without Newtonian physics having some input, but you have to push very hard before it starts objecting. It will understeer at speed through a tightening corner, but crank on a bit more lock and you will make it, thanks to the standard suite of stability systems. Similarly, braking performance will surprise and impress in equal amounts, the four-wheel discs are huge, boosted by ABS and Brakeforce Assistance adding extra hydraulic pressure in emergency conditions. The steering is well-weighted and accurate, there is plenty of assistance, but not vague or sloppy, you always know exactly where you are headed. With Genesis an active participant in the sports car World Endurance Championship, taking on Aston Martin, Ferrari and others, the company is looking to deliver high-end driving experiences in their road cars. This means not just speed, but also ride, handling and braking, and the G80 brings those benefits in a luxury package. While there will be those who don’t believe a Korean car can tackle the top players, the G80 is evidence of how far Genesis have come, and their future direction.

Luxury abounds inside.

Thursday, August 13, 2026 « the western weekender

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NBL dream a step closer NATHAN TAYLOR

ne of the hardest working basketballers in Penrith has his eyes on the NBL. Jamisontown teenager Riley McNulty began playing the sport a decade ago, following in the footsteps of his older brother. From the moment Riley stepped on the court, he fell in love with the game and gave up playing soccer to focus all his time on shooting hoops. “I knew instantly basketball was for me,” Riley told the Weekender. “I’ve put a lot of hard work to get to where I am now, but I’ve loved the journey. I love it!” The Year 11 Jamison High School student has represented the Penrith District Basketball Association through their representative program since 2019 and is a current member of the club’s U18 Boys first team. Riley has consistently featured in NSW programs, having been selected in the BNSW D-League, State Performance Program and NSW Development teams competing at the East Coast Challenge over the past 12 months. Earlier this year, the skilful 16-year-old was rewarded for his hard work and determination by being named in the NSW U18 team.

It was Riley’s second State team honour after representing the NSW U16 team back in 2024. “Making the U18 NSW team was a big opportunity to get my name out there,” the power/ small forward said. “It’s always good putting on the NSW jersey and playing for your state. “We got silver in the end. It was a hard fought competition, with Victoria Metro winning the final.” According to people at Penrith that watch him closely, Riley’s growth on the court has been driven by his own determination. He constantly seeks to improve himself on both sides of the ball. “My biggest strength is scoring,” Riley said. “I go for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA, but Jayson Tatum of the Celtics is my favourite player. I sort of play like him, I reckon. “It’s been a hectic 12 months – a lot of basketball. But it’s been my best 12 months so far.” While the NBA is one of the toughest leagues in the world to crack, Riley is hoping his basketball future is closer to home. The latest Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star recipient said he’d love to play for his country in the coming years and be a member of the NBL.

“I want to put on an Australia jersey one day, of course. And I want to play in the NBL. That’s one of my big goals,” the 6’ 7” star said. “Before that though, I’m going to the Centre of Excellence in Canberra for the National Indigenous Performance Camp in September, and I also plan to trial for the U20 NSW team.” And Riley thought his previous 12 months was busy… Riley McNulty’s PVSF Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club. PVSF Junior Sports Star of the Month winners take home a cool $250 each for their efforts. If you or someone you know has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. Nomination forms are available at Penrith basketball player Riley McNulty. www.pvsf.org.au.

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SPORT GIANTS READY TO IMPROVE Story continued from » p.88

Experienced Giants star Bec Beeson will once again lead the side this season. The 29-year-old said she’s excited to play with her teammates, including Boltz, Tilly Lucas-Rodd and Georgia Clark. “We’ve added some excellent people to the group this year,” Beeson said. “All around we’ve definitely improved our program and I’m looking forward to what we can do this year.” The 2025 AFLW season was a hugely disappointing one for GWS, with the Giants notching up just two wins over 12 games. Giants President Tim Reed said he’s eager for the new season to get underway this Sunday at Engie Stadium. “Just a few sleeps to go and the season begins and what a way it’s going to start with an historic double-header at Engie Stadium,” Reed said. “Many behind the scenes have been working for years to accomplish what’s going to happen on Sunday. They are doing it because of the belief in the players that are here tonight – bigger stages, bigger crowds and bigger expectations. “As we enter 2026, we do it with renewed optimism and with confidence that we’re up to those bigger expectations.” The historic double will take place at Engie Stadium this Sunday, August 16 with the Giants men’s team playing West Coast at 1.40pm, followed by the women’s match at 4.45pm.

END OF AN ERA

Giants brand to go, but Super Netball franchise stays in west NATHAN TAYLOR

he Giants Netball brand is no more. But the franchise is expected to stay in western Sydney under new owners, the Sports Entertainment Group (SEG). Current Giants head coach Nerida Stewart and assistant coach Jen Wright will remain in their respective roles through the 2027 Super Netball season. Netball NSW confirmed last week it was privately selling its second Super Netball Licence, ending a partnership that commenced in 2016. “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved alongside Netball NSW over the past decade and the role we’ve played in building the Giants Netball brand and supporting the growth of elite women’s sport,” Giants CEO, David Matthews said. “We support Netball NSW’s process and decision and believes it’s a positive step in ensuring the team has the resources and structure it needs for continued growth and long-term success. “We thank Netball NSW for its partnership over the past decade and look forward to seeing the team continue to thrive in this next chapter for the benefit of the game and women’s sport.” Debuting in the inaugural Super Netball season in 2017, Giants Netball were one of the game’s leading franchises early on, reaching

The Giants Netball era is officially over. Photo: Narelle Spangher, Netball NSW.

the 2017 and 2021 Grand Finals and winning two minor premierships in 2018 and 2021. Over the past decade, the Giants formed a fierce rivalry with fellow Netball NSW franchise, the NSW Swifts, with both teams playing in the 2021 decider. In recent years, the Giants struggled for form, with their final season ending with just one win and the wooden spoon. “The sale and transfer of the Giants Netball licence represents a new era for the Super Netball competition and the game in this state,” Netball NSW Chair, Sallianne

Faulkner said. “Netball NSW is extremely proud of what has been achieved with Giants Netball and the part this team has played in attracting new fans, encouraging more grassroots participants and providing a pathway to the elite level for many talented athletes.” The Giants and Netball NSW will officially end their partnership on September 30, with SEG taking over on October 1. SEG is an Australian sports media, content and entertainment business with experience across professional sport, including ownership of the Melbourne Mavericks in Super Netball and several professional basketball franchises. “With the new owners and, importantly, future investment, now is the right time to transition to a new team that can build on the strong foundations created by the Giants and expand Super Netball’s fanbase in Sydney’s west,” Faulkner said. “We are excited by the prospect of working collaboratively with SEG to help grow the entire netball ecosystem across NSW, further increasing participation, engagement and visibility for the sport at all levels.” A new team name, logo and colours will be unveiled in the coming months. There is no suggestion the franchise will move from western Sydney and is expected to continue playing games at Sydney Olympic Park.

Can you believe it! The Emus are in the Finals NATHAN TAYLOR

he Penrith Emus will play Finals rugby for the first time since 1994 this weekend when they battle Epping in Earlwood. The historic game will take place at Wills Ground this Saturday afternoon at 3.15pm. If the Emus get the victory, they’ll play the following week in the Meldrum Cup Grand Final against either Georges River or Sydney Harbour. It’s been a huge two years for the Emus since being revived in the NSW Suburban Rugby competition, otherwise known as ‘Subbies’. After missing the Finals by the skin of their teeth last season, the Emus made it their mission to go one better in season 2026. “It’s definitely a cool moment to make the Finals. It’s something we’ve been working towards since we had a bit of a reset,” Penrith Emus President, Adam Fletcher said. “We wanted to build on last year. We bought some new players to the club, and we were able to field a more balanced side this season. “It definitely hurt missing Finals last year. The boys would’ve given anything to be in this position last year and now they want to make the most of it.” The Emus will go into this Saturday’s clash as favourites against Epping after finishing in fifth place (eight wins and six losses) in the combined Division 5/6 competition. Because the division was combined, it was

split in two at the conclusion of the regular season, which resulted in the Emus finishing atop of Division 6. “It was a 12 team comp. Teams 1-4 stayed in the McLean Cup and teams 5-8 will play for the Meldrum Cup,” Fletcher explained. “Since we were the top team in Division 6, we play eighth, which was Epping. We last beat them at home on Back to Penrith Day, so we’re confident. “All things going well on Saturday, I expect the Grand Final to between us and Sydney Harbour, who we have a good rivalry with.” The Emus won’t have it all their way however, with the side currently in the midst

The 2026 Penrith Emus are Finals bound.

the western weekender » Thursday, August 13, 2026

of an availability crisis. Players from Penrith’s second grade team have been called up to fill-in for the all-important final. “We’ve been smashed with availability,” Fletcher said. “Whether it’s FIFO work, injury, suspensions – we’ll just have enough players. “There’s been a handful of season-ending injuries in the last two weeks. We’ll be missing a lot of starters, but we’ve got like for like coming up.” Fans are invited to make the trip to Wills Ground in Sydney’s south-west for this Saturday afternoon’s semi-final between the Emus and Epping. Kick-off is at 3.15pm.

The Emus up against Epping earlier this year.

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Penrith product back to Wildcats

Penrith’s Angus Brandt is a Wildcat again. BASKETBALL: Penrith Basketball junior Angus Brandt has signed with the Perth Wildcats for the upcoming NBL season. The two-time NBL champion returns to west, adding valuable experience and a proven winning pedigree to the Wildcats’ frontcourt ahead of the NBL27 season. Brandt made 94 appearances during his first stint with the Wildcats and was named the club’s Most Improved Player after helping Perth win the NBL17 Championship in his opening season. Speaking to Wildcats Media, Brandt said he was eager to return to Perth and pursue more success with the club. “I’m really excited to come back to the Wildcats,” he said. “I can’t wait to play for the Red Army and fight for another championship.” Before rejoining the Wildcats, the former Australian Boomer spent the past six seasons in Japan. Wildcats coach John Rillie welcomed Brandt’s return to Perth. “It’s terrific to have Angus back in Perth,” he said. “His experience as a championship performer is a valued asset for this roster.” AFL: The GWS Giants’ finals chances are in

tatters after they went down to the Gold Coast Suns 79-77 in Canberra last Sunday afternoon. The Suns snapped a 10-game losing streak in the narrow victory, which left the Giants eight points out of a Wildcard spot with just two games remaining. The only highlight out of the match for the Giants was the performance of western Sydney product Josaia Delana, who snapped a goal with seconds left to cap his breakout game, which featured 20 disposals and two goal assists. With a Wildcard berth

Tegan Bertolissio has signed with the Wanderers. Photo: Getty.

highly unlikely, the Giants will return home to Engie Stadium this Sunday afternoon to battle the West Coast Eagles. The match will form part of a double-header, which will also include the Giants AFLW match against West Coast. AFL: The Penrith Rams have bounced back from last week’s shock loss to pummel the Inner West Magpies 215-0 in Round 16 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. Played at Greygums Oval, the Rams led by 121 at halftime before continuing to pile on the points in the second half. Ben McGovern scored 9 goals in the emphatic win, while Luke Cooke booted 7 in the demolition of the season. Penrith will hit the road this Saturday morning when they take on the UTS Bats at Waverley Oval at Bondi Junction. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes returned to the winner’s circle as well, defeating the Wollondilly Knights 41-17 in Round 16 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes will aim for back-to-back wins when they face-off with the Camden Cats this Saturday afternoon at Fairfax Reserve. FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have been eliminated from the Australia Cup, losing their Round of 16 clash against Melbourne Victory last Saturday. The sold-out match at Marconi Stadium finished 1-1 after extra time before the game was sent to penalties. Unfortunately for Wanderers fans, Victory dominated the penalty shootout to advance to the next round. With their Australia Cup campaign now over, the Wanderers will now turn their attention to their A-League season

opener against Sydney FC on October 16. FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have signed Tegan Bertolissio on a two-year deal. The highly rated defender arrives in western Sydney after making 54 A-League Women appearances for Canberra United across the past three seasons, establishing herself as one of the competition’s brightest young defensive talents. The Young Matildas captain said she was excited to return to the area where she played youth football with Blacktown Spartans. “The Wanderers feel like home to me. I grew up playing my youth football in western Sydney, so coming back to represent this club is incredibly special,” she said. “The history, the culture and, most importantly, the supporters make this club unique. The Wanderers fans are among the most passionate in Australia, and I can’t wait to pull on the jersey and give everything I have in front of them every week.”

the Ron Massy Cup Finals and will battle the Canterbury Bulldogs this Saturday morning at Leichhardt Oval, while Brothers have been eliminated. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys defeated Mounties 48-22 to claim the Minor Premiership, while Penrith Brothers thrashed Blacktown Workers 38-12. After finishing first past the post St Marys will enjoy this weekend off, while Penrith Brothers will clash with the Hills Bulls in the first week of the Finals. The match will be played at Leichhardt Oval at 5pm this Saturday.

St Marys are Sydney Shield Minor Premiers. NETBALL: Round 15 of the Netball NSW

Premier League competition took place at Netball Central last week. Playing against the South Coast Blaze, Panthers Netball’s U23s team went down 53-42, while the Panthers Opens team lost 58-50. Panthers will take on the South West Mountains MAGIC in Round 16. RUGBY LEAGUE: The final round of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys were too good for Mounties 40-28, while Penrith Brothers went down to Blacktown Workers 24-20. St Marys have progressed to

RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers have fallen to Mounties 16-10 in Round 8 of the NSW Women’s Premiership. Penrith led 10-6 at half-time before Mounties clicked into gear in the second half to take the win. The thirdplaced Panthers will return home this Saturday afternoon to play the sixth-placed Central Coast Roosters at Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub. GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au.

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The 2026 GWS Giants AFLW team.

NATHAN TAYLOR

he GWS Giants will kick off the 2026 AFLW season on Sunday afternoon when they battle the West Coast Eagles at Engie Stadium. The opening round match will be part of an historic double-header, which will also see the Giants AFL team play the boys from Perth in the game prior.

Last Thursday evening at Parramatta Town Hall, the Giants held their 2026 season launch event for their AFLW team. It was a spectacular night at the historic venue, which saw the entire 2026 playing squad receive their new Giants guernseys for the upcoming season. One of the game’s foundation AFLW clubs, the Giants have largely struggled over the years, reaching the Finals just

once (2020) in nine seasons. However, with a host of new players on their roster this season, including a premiership winner in Queenslander Poppy Boltz, it’s hoped the Giants can enjoy a successful season 2026 under the coaching of Cam Bernasconi. Speaking at last week’s launch, Bernasconi said he’s been inspired by Apple TV’s ‘Ted Lasso’ heading into his fifth season. “One of my great mentors Ted Lasso talks

about ‘Believe’, and all the players know I’m a Ted man,” he said. “For me, belief comes from hard work and the last six months especially is the hardest we’ve ever worked. “We’ve set ourselves up to have a really strong year and we can’t wait to start the season.” Story continues on » p. 86

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