Western Weekender January 22 2026

It’s time to fix this mess

“Nothing is getting done”: Torton Place residents remain frustrated and fearful

It is the infamous social housing complex some residents have dubbed “Torture Place”, and there are calls for officials to clean it up once and for all.

Torton Place residents are again voicing their concerns about the complex – the latest in a string of complaints taken to the media after believing their calls are falling on deaf ears.

One resident, Shane, who has lived at the housing commission complex for nearly a decade, said that the anti-social behaviour, constant graffiti and rubbish has left him with serious mental health issues.

Shane has been put on a priority transfer list but remains living at Torton Place for now.

The site, which holds 83 units, was designed to be a haven for over 55s but has now become a breeding ground for unsafe behaviour, feral animals, drug use and rubbish.

“It’s always been like this,” Shane said.

“The anti-social behaviour, non-tenants walking around and the common room has been broken into numerous times.

“No one wants to speak up because they are scared of repercussions. I don’t give a shit, if someone wants to have a go at me so be it. There is so much anti-social behaviour going on in this joint and it’s shit.”

The state of the complex and the anti-social behaviour has led to a lot of people’s families refusing to visit them at home.

“Family, friends and relationships don’t want to come here because of the stuff that has happened previously,” Shane explained.

“They drive in and go, ‘no I’m not staying here.’”

One of the main concerns for Shane is the graffiti, which is littered around the complex.

Two years ago, when the Weekender visited the site, there was purple graffiti on the main mailbox, and nearly two years later that same purple graffiti can be seen on the mailbox, only now its sits underneath other graffiti.

A spokesperson for Homes NSW, which is responsible for the unit blocks, said that they take maintenance concerns seriously.

“Homes NSW continues to work with the tenants at Torton Place, Penrith to address property care

Penrith Beach

concerns at the complex,” the spokesperson said.

“Servicing of the common areas are completed weekly, with the removal of any dumped rubbish conducted when required. The next clean-up is scheduled for Wednesday 21 January.

“While over the past 12 months the

condition of the common areas has improved, we will continue to take action where issues are identified or reported.

“If any residents have maintenance concerns, they can call the Maintenance Hub on 1800 422 322 which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They can also log repairs and track repairs via the MyHousing Repairs app.” Shane had just one message for his landlords.

“Just fix the joint. You promised us this and this has been going on for four to five years of stuff being promised and nothing is getting done,” he said.

Penrith Beach is back for another summer, giving locals a great way to cool off close to home.

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Comeback of Australia Day

The debate over whether to change the date of Australia Day is done and dusted.

At least if feels that way.

If you would have asked me five years ago I would have told you that eventually the date would change. Just a matter of time until the movement grew big enough that it was impossible to ignore.

Now I’m not sure it’ll change in the next 10 or 20 years. Maybe even longer.

And I don’t say that as a gloat. As I have noted in this column over the last few years, my views on this often divisive subject have somewhat softened in recent times, to the point where if we changed the date, I’m happy enough with the outcome.

There would be no faux outrage from these fingers on the keyboard.

But I also think that’s the point.

Australians have become so weary of this debate now that for most it has been buried.

The legitimate chances of the date actually changing have come and gone.

Indeed, things seem to be going in the other direction.

Polls constantly tell us there is renewed backing of Australia Day, and growing support for it to be on January 26.

Part of the reason for all of this is the weariness over the obsessive box ticking that corporate Australia and the major sports have taken to over recent times in an effort to make themselves feel good about their contribution to Indigenous affairs.

Now recognition is important, and it’s a somewhat separate issue to the Australia Day debate, but things got blurred along the way and now it’s understandable why people just feel everything has gone too far and it all gets lumped into one issue.

I’m familiar with companies in Australia who start every single meeting with an acknowledgement of country. For some, that’s five or six meetings per day they’re attending with the same acknowledgement.

Events must have welcome to country ceremonies, websites need acknowledgements, podcasts need disclaimers.

Some let their employees work on Australia Day and take the public holiday on another

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day, which has been one of the more stupid concepts to come from this whole debate in recent times.

If you asked many of these companies what they actually do to improve the lives of Indigenous Australians, there would be crickets at the other end of the conversation.

It is also worth noting that some of the loudest voices in the Australia Day debate were indeed not people with Indigenous backgrounds and they’ve simply moved on.

Many who were in their 20s a decade ago so loudly pushing the move are now in their 30s. Life has become more real, priorities have changed.

Some, I dare say, have become more conservative and actually see the benefits of protecting something like Australia Day and celebrating the country we live in.

“We have come through the darkest days of this debate”

Some have probably realised changing the date doesn’t achieve much at all.

None of the above is to doubt that for some in the Indigenous community, January 26 is a difficult date.

That’s why I’ve been more and more open to at least shifting the public holiday to become a permanent long weekend in January, making it more about celebrating so many of the things we love about Australia instead of what happened on January 26 in particular.

But the hijacking of the legitimate debate by companies and sporting organisations determined to force Indigenous recognition down people’s throats has ensured that will never happen.

People don’t want to get told what they should feel, that they’re wrong by having an alternate view or that they’re somehow a horrible person because they’re happy to enjoy a public holiday on January 26, don

the Aussie colours and celebrate what’s great about our country.

The debate about changing the date of Australia Day started on the fringes of the left, entered the national conversation, and has now returned to where it came from.

As I said at the top, it’s done and dusted.

That does not mean we should stop our efforts as a country to close the gaps that still exist for many Indigenous Australians.

But it does mean that we should get on with celebrating Australia Day for what it is: a day to cheer for what we love about this country.

We saw in the wake of the Bondi terror attack how we as a nation have the ability to come together regardless of race, religion or background and celebrate Australia.

Some of the scenes at Bondi in the weeks after the attack made you so proud to be Australian.

And it made you realise just how fickle some of the debates we have, like the date of Australia Day, really are.

We have come through the darkest days of this debate.

We seem to be coming out the other side of supermarkets refusing to utter the words Australia Day and people being afraid to hold any sort of event on January 26 for fear of offending someone.

For many, there seemed to be a belief that on January 26 we should sit in a room somewhere and ask forgiveness for the events of centuries ago.

But more and more, Australia Day is making a comeback.

This weekend, events will be packed to capacity right around Australia.

Holiday spots will be booked out, restaurants and cafes will be full and the beaches will be heaving.

Full of people just proud to be Australian. Over the last decade or so we made January 26 way more complex and complicated than it needed to be.

We need a reset, one that combines acknowledgement and respect of the harder part of the issues, but one that also allows us to celebrate and be proud of our nation. Maybe then, with the pressure released, we can have a more sensible conversation.

New servo plans revealed

Plans have been lodged seeking approval to demolish a service station in Londonderry to make way for an upgraded centre.

A Development Application (DA) has been lodged to Penrith City Council outlining plans to demolish the existing service station at 370-372 Carrington Road to then build a $2 million Pearl Energy service station at the same site.

“Consent is sought for the demolition of the existing Ampol service station brick building, removal of shipping container, water tank, concrete hardstand, fuel pumps, refuelling canopy, and ice storage, as well as the removal of the existing underground fuel tanks,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said.

“Remediation of contaminated land surrounding the existing fuel tanks is also proposed.

initiate the site's emergency procedures.

“An under-canopy catchment area is to be installed, draining to a treatment system designed to contain and manage spillages in accordance with site-specific emergency response protocols.

“Highly visible warning signage and clear operational instructions are to be provided at each dispenser to guide appropriate responses in the event of a spill.”

The proposal is expected to have a positive impact on the local community, the DA documents contend.

“Consent is also sought for the construction of a new service station and associated convenience store, refuelling canopy, fuel dispensers, underground fuel tanks, associated earthworks, drainage works and signage.”

More specifically the works, if approved, will see construction of a car canopy,

a convenience store building, bin yard and the installation of two underground fuel tanks, four double sided fuel dispensers for general fuel and one double sided dispenser for diesel.

Also included in the DA is the relocation of the price board, installation of Pearl

Energy signage, construction of four car parking spaces and landscaping works.

Safety has been prioitised in the DA’s plans.

“An emergency spill kit is to be held outside main building for any small spills on the forecourt area,” the SEE said.

“The console operator is

responsible for monitoring all forecourt activity and must promptly clean up any minor spills using the spill kit, which is to be kept readily accessible from the dispenser.

“In the event of a major spill, the operator must immediately shut down the site and

“The proposal will have positive social impact in that it will introduce an enhanced essential service for local people and provide activation and passive surveillance of local roads,” the SEE said.

If approved the new Pearl Energy service station will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The plans outline the demolition and construction will cost $1,927,915.

Penrith City Council will now assess the application.

Police Snapshot Legal Matters LAW and ORDER

Penrith: Man arrested after over 30 break and enter offences

On Monday, January 12 a 24-year-old Shalvey man was identified by police as a suspect responsible for numerous break and enters as well as other property offences across Penrith, which occurred between Friday, January 2 and Monday, January 12.

At 6am on Tuesday, January 13 police responded to a break and enter incident at a major shopping centre in Penrith where the 24-year-old was located and arrested.

The 24-year-old was charged with 31 offences. He was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, February 6.

St Marys: Teenager caught carrying scissors and balaclava at station

At 10.55am on Sunday, January 18 police were patrolling St Marys Train Station when they saw a teenager pass through the ticket barrier without tapping an Opal Card.

The 14-year-old Cranebrook teenager was stopped by police and spoken to. Police searched the teenager and found a large pair of scissors and a black balaclava.

Police arrested the 14-year-old and charged him. He will appear in a Children’s Court at a later date.

Penrith: Man refuses to leave hotel, later arrested

On Sunday, January 18 a 36-year-old St Clair man had booked a room at a hotel in Penrith. The 36-year-old did not vacate the room when required and was asked to leave by hotel staff.

The 36-year-old threatened the staff member and refused to pay for food items. The man then damaged the TV remote, lamps, cupboards and other furniture items.

Police arrived at the hotel and gave the 36-year-old a move on direction and he left.

The 36-year-old then re-entered the hotel through another door while police were still at the scene.

The 36-year-old was then arrested and charged. He was bail refused and appeared in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, January 20.

Orchard Hills: Man caught drink driving, crashes into another car

At 7.35am on Saturday, January 17 a 26-yearold Kingswood man was driving his car on the M4 westbound at Orchard Hills. The 26-year-old was seen swerving over the road, not staying within his lane and tailgating at least three other cars.

Roughly 500 metres east of the Kent Road

EXPLAINER: DIFFERENT WAYS TO BUY OR SELL A BUSINESS COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE

exit, the 26-year-old accelerated and collided with the rear of the car in front of him causing all parties to stop. Passing police stopped and checked on all parties involved. Both drivers were then breath tested.

When the 26-year-old completed his breath test it returned a positive result. The 26-yearold was arrested and taken to St Marys Police Station for the purpose of a further breath analysis which returned a positive reading of 0.097.

The 26-year-old’s licence was suspended on the spot, and he was charged with mid-range drink driving. He will appear in Penrith Local Court on Tuesday, February 3.

Penrith: Man caught stealing from store he is banned from

At 2.15pm on Friday, January 16 a 43-yearold Penrith man who is subject to a banning notice has attended a department store inside a major shopping centre in Penrith.

Police saw the 43-year-old and noticed that he left the store through the self-serve area and on his way out caused the security alarm to sound.

Police spoke to the 43-year-old and searched him during which they found two power packs in the waist band of the man’s pants and an audio cable in the man’s pants pocket.

The 43-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, February 9.

Penrith: Woman found carrying drugs and knife in popular car park

At 2.30pm on Thursday, January 15 police were patrolling a shopping centre car park on Woodriff Street in Penrith. Police saw a car that did not have a front registration plate in a parking space. Police approached car and had a conversation with the driver, a 36-yearold South Penrith woman.

Checks were made on the 36-year-old and the status of her driver’s licence which revealed that the woman was disqualified from driving.

Police searched the car and found a glass drug pipe in the front driver’s side door and on the front seat was a bag of methamphetamine.

Police also searched the woman’s bag and inside police found drugs that require a prescription. A backpack was also searched and inside police found a multi-tool and a pocketknife.

The 36-year-old was charged and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, January 29.

Helping people start, buy and sell businesses is one of the main things we do at Bateman Battersby Complete Legal.

If you are starting a business from scratch we can help you with things like the legal structure of your business, partnership or shareholders agreements, your commercial or retail lease, and drafting your terms of business.

If you are acquiring or selling a business we can also help.

There are three main ways that a business transitions to new ownership.

The most common is in the form of a business sale agreement pursuant to which the business is sold with everything it needs to keep running to ensure continuity.

The second is an asset sale agreement pursuant to which there is a contract where the buyer only buys specific assets as opposed to buying a business as a whole.

The third most common structure is a share or unit sale in a company or unit trust that runs a business.

We often get asked what the difference between each transaction structure is.

Business Sale Agreement

This is a contract where the buyer buys the actual business operation including everything it needs to keep running in the same way it ran before. The contract usually includes the purchase of key business assets including goodwill, the business trading name (registered business name), customer or client lists, stock, plant and equipment, intellectual property, and often involves the transfer or assigning of important arrangements like a commercial or retail lease for the premises from which the business is run, transfer of supplier or customer contracts, and sometimes transfer of employees.

In the case of a business sale agreement the seller is usually the entity that operates the business. That can be an individual or number of individuals or, most commonly, a company. In this scenario the shares in the company are not sold, rather the assets of the company being the business and all of the associated assets listed above are sold.

Usually, if a business is sold in this manner and includes all the things that are necessary to keep running the business it constitutes the “supply of a going concern” meaning there is no GST payable in addition to the purchase price.

Asset Sale Agreement

An asset sale agreement is much more narrow than a business sale agreement. An asset sale agreement is a contract where the buyer buys only specific assets that are listed in the contract. For example, the owner of an existing equipment hire business might be looking to expand. The buyer might already have its own premises and trading name and so rather than buying a competitor’s entire business it only purchases its plant and equipment to constitute its existing fleet. In this case, the buyer essentially cherry picks the assets it wants and does not acquire everything required to run the business. There is no transfer of shares in the company or units in the unit trust. It may be harder to treat an asset sale agreement as a going concern for GST purposes so buyers need to factor this into their plans.

Sale of Shares in a Company (or Units in a Unit Trust)

A company or trust is an entity unto itself capable of owning assets, buying and selling property, running a business and entering into contracts. A share or unit sale agreement is a contract where the buyer purchases the shares in the company or unit trust that owns and operates the business. The business does not “move” to a new owner, rather, the buyer takes control of the same company or trust that has always run it.

The upside of this is that usually the parties do not need to worry about things like transferring customer contracts, transferring employees and dealing with employee entitlements, transferring or establishing new supplier agreements, and things like that.

The potential downside for the buyer is that acquiring shares in a company means you also acquire the company’s history. For example, if the company is carrying tax debt or other liabilities or may be the subject of some kind of claim or litigation in the future this is a risk that the buyer essentially assumes. In almost all cases, if a person or entity buys shares in a company or unit trust they will also need to become or nominate a director of the company or the corporate trustee of the unit trust.

Financial and accounting advice and due diligence is critical in any business acquisition but is particularly important if you are contemplating buying shares or units in an existing entity.

Measles scare sparks alert

People who visited a pharmacy in St Clair last Wednesday and Nepean Hospital’s Emergency Department over the weekend have been told to be on the lookout for symptoms of measles.

It has been confirmed a person with a confirmed case of measles visited the Priceline Pharmacy at St Clair between 3pm and 4pm on Wednesday, January 14.

And the same person was at the Nepean Hospital Emergency Department from 7.50pm on Friday, January 16 until 7.40pm on Saturday, January 17.

The locations pose no ongoing risk.

People who were in the locations during the above times are being told to watch out for symptoms until early February.

“If symptoms develop, see your doctor or health service (including emergency department). Call ahead to let them know that you may have come into contact with measles, so you don’t spend time in waiting rooms with other patients,” said Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Public Health Specialist, Dr Alvis Zibran.

“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, runny nose, sore eyes and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body.”

Milestone for Return and Earn

ALLY HALL

Penrith’s Return and Earn Depot has hit a major milestone. The facility –operated by St Vincent de Paul Society NSW – has processed 100 million containers and returned $10 million in refunds to the community since opening in 2017.

“Reaching 100 million containers recycled at our Penrith depot is an outstanding achievement for the local community,” said Phil Coyte, Executive Director of Commercial Enterprise, Retail and Fundraising at St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.

“That’s $10 million going straight back into people’s pockets and countless containers kept out of landfill."

For each item processed, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW receives a handling fee, which is funnelled into community support programs, including food assistance, financial aid, and homelessness support. In the past year alone, more than 5,000 people in the Nepean region have benefited from those programs.

State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown praised Penrith’s Return and Earn facility, saying it has exceeded expectations.

“The fact that Vinnies are here in Penrith and giving money back to our community

makes me proud. It almost closes the whole sustainability loop,” McKeown said.

“I’m so happy this is here; it’s a little gem in Penrith that not enough people know about. I’d like to get the

message out there that you can come here, securely drive in, back your car up, and someone will help you with sorting your containers.

“The fact that the government plans to extend the scheme next year to include items

like milk containers,

Fears of more crashes

Councillor frustrated at slow progress of upgrade to dangerous intersection EMILY

ACHATE

dangerous local intersection has upgrades looming, but with no start date announced fears grow of further accidents occurring.

The corner of Richmond Road and Llandilo Road in Berkshire Park is a notorious intersection that has seen many crashes, including the tragic loss of Liam Carr.

19-year-old Carr was killed at the intersection just three days before Christmas in 2022.

Carr was on his way home to Campbelltown after spending the day at work bricklaying.

A car was stopped at the intersection waiting to turn right, Carr didn’t see the stopped car, causing him to hit the van, go over the top and land on the opposite side of the road where a truck fatally struck him.

Independent Penrith City Councillor Glenn Gardiner, in the months before Carr’s accident, had been lobbying the State Government to carry out safety upgrades at the intersection.

Gardiner later moved a motion to write to the NSW Minister for Transport and the Member for Londonderry for a review of a series of dangerous intersections in Berkshire Park, Llandilo and Londonderry.

Gardiner highlighted that at the time there had been 55 accidents with serious injuries and three fatalities between 2016 and 2020 in the rural north part of Penrith.

One of the intersections he mentioned was the intersection at Llandilo and Richmond Roads. Gardiner remains frustrated at the lack of urgency in upgrading the intersection.

“TfNSW (Transport for New South Wales) announced in December that they are doing investigation works on that section of road, but there is no indication of timing for a completed project, not even a mention of a proposed start date,” Gardiner said.

“Meanwhile, TfNSW will progress with upgrading Richmond Road from the M7 to Elara which was upgraded just 10 years ago.

“This raises a number of concerns for me, none less than TfNSW’s self-demonstration of inadequate planning and lack of foresight.”

TfNSW confirmed to the Weekender that they are working to make improvements to the intersection, but upgrades are based on a priority basis.

“Transport for NSW is progressing planning the development of safety improvements at the intersection of

Richmond Road and Llandilo Road, Berkshire Park under the Towards Zero Safer Roads Program.

“The strategic study for safety improvements at this intersection was recently submitted for consideration under future rounds of the Towards Zero Safer Roads Program.

“Outcomes will be based on priority and we will provide further updates once this is known.”

Australia Day 2026

Monday 26 January | 8AM-6PM Ripples Leisure Centre – Penrith & St Marys

Contact Us News

Administration

Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Queen Street Centre, 207-209 Queen Street.

8.30am-4pm. Mon-Fri. 4732 7777

PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 council@penrith.city

Council’s services are accessible via the online portal at

Services 4732 7777

Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

Freecall 1800 022 182

Meeting Dates

Monday 2 February – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting)

Monday 9 February – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting) Online via

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

Council Briefs

● Celebrate Australia Day with a free pool party!

Where:

When: Monday 26 January 2026, 8am–6pm

Join us for a day of summer fun with free entry, circus performances, and plenty of entertainment and workshops for all ages.

Attendees can purchase food from the Kiosk, enjoy a poolside picnic, or indulge in a classic Aussie sausage sizzle. We encourage visitors to arrive early to secure their spot and make the most of the day’s festivities.

This event is hosted by Penrith City Council and assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

For more information visit

● Culture Fusion is back, bigger and better than ever! Join us on Saturday 21 February and Sunday 22 February in Queen Street, St Marys, to celebrate Penrith’s diverse multicultural community.

This two-day street festival will feature a fashion show, powerful cultural performances, curated market stalls, interactive workshops, and delicious cuisine from across the globe.

You won’t want to miss Queen Street come alive with a festival of colour to celebrate the UNESCO Observance of International and our multicultural community.

We’d love to see you there!

• Saturday 21 February, 4–10pm

• Sunday 22 February, 10am–4pm

For more information visit

● AJC Architects has been appointed to design Penrith’s new indoor multi-sports arena following a competitive tender process.

The design will cater to a range of sports and recreation activities, with some of the features to include:

• A variety of sport courts

• Flexible spaces for community use and recreation programs

• Supporting amenities such as change rooms and storage space

The arena will become a premier destination for local, regional, state and national sporting competitions, events and recreation once it is complete.

This project is funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.

Find out more at

● Residents and visitors can once again enjoy walking the lower pathway of the Great River Walk at River Road, Emu Plains with a section now open following repair and rehabilitation.

Council has reopened approximately 500 metres of pathway opposite Penrith Regional Art Gallery, heading south towards the M4 bridge. This area was previously closed due to the

Work to reopen this section has included mowing and vegetation clearing, repairing damaged picnic tables and replacing picnic tables that were beyond repair.

Walkers, families and visitors are now encouraged to explore this scenic riverside area, enjoy a picnic using the new facilities and take in the stunning river view.

To learn more visit:

Public Notice

Property Act 1900

Real

The above mentioned Application has been made under Section 81A of the Act to cancel the recording of covenant J660737 (‘Restrictive Covenant’).

The Applicant is applying to have the Restrictive Covenant extinguished on the basis that it:

• is a fencing covenant;

• has been in effect for more than 12 years; and

• is the type of covenant likely to lose any practical value after 12 years of operation.

The Restrictive Covenant sought to be cancelled:

• Emu Plains NSW 2750 owned by the Applicant; and

• 34–42 Great Western Highway Emu Plains NSW 2750; Emu Plains NSW 2750.

We intend to register the Application and extinguish the recording

within one (1) month from the date of this notice you lodge pursuant to section 74F(4B) of the Act, a caveat prohibiting the granting of the Application, accompanied by the prescribed fee (currently $175.70).

Enquiries:

Phone: 8776 3575

Email:

Date: Thursday 22 January 2026

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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

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The dilapidated house surrounded by a construction fence is located at Tennant Road and Water Street, Werrington. my name: Georgie ‘Porgie’ Pie my proud owner: Kat i live in: Penrith

Email alison.hall@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. a bit about me: I like car rides, being a menace, the mining sector, eating, toys and cardboard boxes. I dislike water, sharing and being perceived. My weakness is that I can only sleep if my mama is in the room.

Green light for next stage of new suburb

Penrith City Council has approved plans for the Stage 5 and 6 subdivisions of Orchard Hills North.

Orchard Hills North is a master planned community, currently being built to deliver an influx of new homes as the once rural area undergoes a massive transformation.

The estate will offer a village centre with shops, a lake, and a proposed primary school.

The suburb will also have parks, playgrounds, nature trails and sporting fields, a central lake and a community centre, which will include facilities for indoor sports and social gatherings.

A Development Application (DA) was approved by Penrith City Council to continue the suburb’s subdivision and development.

“The site forms part of the Orchard Hills North precinct which was subject to a Planning Proposal (PP) finalised by the Department of Planning and Environment on 28 June 2023,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said.

“The PP sought the rezoning of the precinct to align with the medium-term housing targets set by the NSW Government.

“The intent of the precinct is to create a new residential development, which protects the

existing riparian corridor, whilst also creating new infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and employment opportunities, to support the new community.”

The recently approved DA is for the next stages of subdivision, which will create a total of 194 lots split into 118 lots in Stage 5 and 76 lots in Stage 6.

The Development Application will also see civil works including the re-construction of Castle Road and Kingswood Road North, new roads, stormwater management works, and landscaping.

The residential lots across both stages will range from 300m2 to 496 m2 with single frontage lots provide lot widths of 10m or greater.

Corner lots with dual street frontages are typically larger and range in width, a maximum of between 17m to 21.31m.

Stage 5 and 6 form part of Stage 4, which is currently on public exhibition.

“[The Stage 4 DA] includes the proposed widening of Kingswood Road, and the creation of residue Lot 43, where this DA is proposed,” the SEE explained.

“Residue Lot 43 is a proposed 14.85-hectare lot, which will accommodate stages 5 and 6 in the northern portion of the site, and a future stage in the southern portion of the site.”

Master planned suburb applications can be approved out of order given the Planning Proposal’s overall approval.

It is anticipated that upon the completion of the development of land, the Orchard Hills North precinct will provide 1,729 dwellings for an expected population of 5,400.

For more information on Orchard Hills North, visit www.orchardhillsnorth.com.au.

Thursday 12th February | 11am-2pm 25 Sparrowhawk Circuit, Jordan Springs

• Tour the new apartments now selling

• Attend a presentation to find out more on retirement living Scan to RSVP today! kingfishergrove com.au

Hurley able to hit the right note sagain

A locallymade natural supplement is giving people relief from arthritis pain.

He’s known as Australia’s King of Country Rock, and Jade Hurley –together with other octogenarian legends Digger Revell, Dinah Lee, Lucky Starr and 70-something youngster Little Pattie– are currently touring the country with the live stage show The Good Old Days of Rock ’n’ Roll l Hurley is still putting on an energetic show, with one glowing review commenting that “it was impressive that, at age 81, he effortlessly managed to get that right boot up onto the keyboard”

Theshow, whichhe’s written and produced, represents a triumphant return to form. After spending years “battling with the excruciating pain 24 hoursaday” caused by arthritis in his hands, Hurley was facing the devastating consequence that his long and successful career was over

“Playing the piano in my shows became almost impossible,” the OAM recipient says emphatically. Having visiteddoctors andprescribed medications, whichhe laments were “no good, made me depressed and really didn’t help all that much”, he felt he had nothing to lose whena friend suggested he try Arborvitae Joint Health

That was three years ago and Hurley gratefully acknowledges Arborvitae, a

family owned and Australian-made supplement business which has been operating for more than 10 years, as beinga“life and career saver”

Hurley was not alone in his pain

Data from Arthritis Australia shows that 3.6 million people (or one in seven of us) are living with arthritis, a leading cause of chronic pain and the second most common cause of disability and

early retirement due to ill health

Made in Australia from natural ingredients Aloe Vera, Papain enzyme and honey,plus a French pine bark extract, technically known as Pycnogenol, Arborvitae Joint Health is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplement that can enhance healthy joint function, supporting mobility and flexibility

It can also provide relief from the symptoms of mild osteoarthritis, mild joint pain and stiffness

The main ingredient, Pycnogenol, has been widely studied for decades, with more than 160 clinical trials. The results ofa recent study on Arborvitae Joint Health, published in September 2020 in the journal Minerva of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, showed a66 per cent decrease in pain test scores,a50 per cent increase in walking distance without pain and a56 per cent decrease in inflammation in blood tests. All of which lead to an impressive 78 per cent reduction in use of on-demand medications and a50 per cent improvement in quality of life scores

Available in liquid form, stocked in over 2000 chemists and health food stores Australia wide, including Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite Chemmart and Blooms The Chemist, Hurley saysit took about a month to ‘‘really kick in” and he now has “absolutely no problems and almost no pain”.

“First thing in the morningI take it out of the fridge, takethe top off the bottle and havethree to four mouthfuls onan empty stomach,” he explains

While arthritis affects many in older generations, it can begin causing trouble for people as young as 35. Regardless of your age, Hurley advises anyone suffering from the acute pain it causes to give Arborvitae atry “You have absolutely nothing to lose,” he says For Hurley,who’s now back on stage where he belongs, he says Arborvitae has “given me a new life and given me my career back”

I couldn’t believe it! The pain all but disappeared.

sore hands for years due to repetitive injury’s from my work as a cake maker

A friend suggested I try Arborvitae Joint Health. After the first bottle I wasn’t

“A Clinical Study was completed and published in the journal Minerva Orthopedics. Key results from the Arborvitae Joint Health Study showed a: DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

66% DECREASE in pain test scores

And yes! I couldn’t believe it! The pain all but disappeared. The relief that I get isn’t usually met with any other treatments I’ve tried. It is worth every cent! I highly recommend it!”

50% INCREASE in walking distance without pain (100m increase)

56% DECREASE in inflammation in blood tests (CRP/C-reactive protein)

78% REDUCTION in use of on-demand medications

50% IMPROVEMENT in quality-of-life scores

and the clinical study

"Running a forklift business and keeping up with my grandson requires mobility. Arborvitae Joint Health reduced my knee pain and swelling in two weeks — I take it before big days in the yard, and it keeps me moving!"

Buses to fill Metro gap

The State Opposition says after promising a worldclass rail link to the new international airport at Badgery’s Creek, the Government is instead “delivering a shuttle bus”.

The rebuke from Shadow Transport and Infrastructure Minister Natalie Ward comes after the State Government confirmed it would provide free public transport to connect Western Sydney International Airport (WSIA) to the rest of the transport network when it officially opens its doors this year.

The free bus service will take passengers and airport workers to and from the new airport and St Marys train and bus interchange.

The billion-dollar Metro will not open in line with the airport, with the 23km line expected to be operational at some point in 2027.

“This government was supposed to deliver a Metro line and is instead delivering a minibus. They knew this project was in trouble, they hid it, and commuters are paying the price,” Ward said.

“The Minns Government’s handling of the transport port-

folio has been an abject failure. Everything is delayed, they can’t tell you when projects will open, they can’t deliver consistently reliable trains, and there is no new investment.”

Minister for Transport John Graham said it was important to have a public transport service ready for passengers.

“Australia’s newest international airport is going to be transformational for western Sydney, and it is important to have connectivity to our public transport network from the moment the first bit of airline rubber hits the tarmac,” Graham said.

“Free interim buses will give passengers and airline operators the certainty that an onwards journey on public transport is in place alongside the new M12 motorway for road access, taxis and rideshare, as we complete the equally transformational metro line between the airport and St Marys.”

The free airport buses will run every 30 minutes between 4.30am to midnight Sunday to Thursday and 4.30am to 1am Friday and Saturday, with an expected journey time of 30 minutes in normal traffic.

“These services will offer an additional, essential transport connection for workers and passengers using Sydney’s new 24-hour international gateway, and complement the toll-free M12, ride share, taxis, tour buses and other private transfer services available, all of which will be supported by more than 6,000 car spaces at our precinct,” WSIA CEO Simon Hickey said.

The interim buses will be phased

out when Metro services begin. That could be as late as December next year.

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown welcomed the interim transport service, saying it was important to provide access for local residents.

“I applaud this public transport link that will enable the community to reach the new Western Sydney International Airport from day one,” McKeown said.

“This free interim bus service will complement the comprehensive bus plan for western Sydney, linking Penrith residents to the airport.” Once complete, the new Metro line will feature a rail and bus interchange at St Marys, with stops at Orchard Hills, Luddenham, Airport Business Park, Western Sydney International Airport and Bradfield. Track laying on the Metro line is now 70 per cent complete, the government says.

Iconic barber edges closer to retirement

At 15-years-old, barber Guido

Piccirilli picked up his first clipper and draped his first cape, not realising that he would become an icon of the St Marys community over the pursuing 64 years.

Now, the legendary barber is look-

ing at retirement and has started taking a step back from Guido’s Hair Care on Queen Street.

“When I was young, I got told what to do. I didn’t have a choice.

My father said I had to be a barber because one day I would make a lot of money,” Guido recounted.

“We all came from Italy in 1962, and I started work straight away. I

was 15-years and four-months-old when I started.

“My boss was named Hackett, so it was called Hackett’s,” Guido said, referring to Jim Hackett Hairdresser and Tobacconist.

“I changed it to my name when I bought it around 44 years ago.”

For now, Guido will be working at the barber shop on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until a new hairdresser is found – someone who can step into their passionate predecessor’s shoes.

“This is an old barber shop, and all the new ones are different. If we do what the new ones do, then we lose our clientele. They have theirs and we have ours,” Guido explained of the importance of finding a suitable replacement.

“We have old music and old photos that date back to the ‘50s. Even our

chairs! The chairs we have here stopped being made in 1964. My till also goes back to 1947 – it’s still in pound and pence.”

Guido’s semi-retirement was announced on social media earlier this month, and the comment section is full of memories and gratitude for his service.

One commenter remarked that Guido has cut three generations of his family’s hair, and another wrote

that he is a true gentleman and character.

“Ever since it was advertised that I was going to finish working here, I got hundreds, thousands of messages from all over Australia and even overseas. I love it!” Guido said.

When Guido officially places the trimmers, shears and pomade down for the last time, he plans to devote his retirement to his grandchildren.

DEAR WEEKENDER

NEWS@WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU

SUITE 2, 42-44 ABEL STREET, JAMISONTOWN 2750

Government should back papers

The NSW Government now spends an estimated $10–$22 million a year on paid social media advertising, tucked inside an $80 million annual advertising budget and labelled vaguely as “digital”. Yet local papers see almost none of it. Penrith is growing fast. We deal with floods, road closures, hospital pressures, planning decisions, housing density battles and major infrastructure works. These are exactly the kinds of issues local journalism exists to cover – clearly, locally and with accountability. Social media ads don’t do that. Instead, government advertising money is being funnelled to global platforms like Meta and Google, sending public dollars offshore while local papers that actually serve western Sydney are left to wither. During emergencies, Penrith residents don’t need algorithm-driven feeds or sponsored posts. They need reliable local reporting and clear public information in places people already trust. Local papers still reach older residents, families and communities who aren’t living on social media. If the NSW Government can justify spending millions chasing clicks online, it can justify directing a fair share of advertising to local outlets that support civic life in Penrith. Local journalism isn’t a luxury. It’s basic community infrastructure – and right now it’s being starved.

MARIA DESTRADA, PENRITH

Kayak concerns

Just wanted to voice my opinion about the new kayak/canoe launching area on River Road. The small jetty with the two step platform is excellent for launching, however the

path down to the area is very steep and has a number of steps at various points. While this may not present a problem for people with lightweight kayaks to navigate while carrying them, most people transport their kayaks/canoes on small two-wheel trolleys due to their weight and it’s impossible to take them down or up the steps. Trying to drag your kayak up the steep incline while dragging it over cement steps is impractical.

MICK SMITH, VIA EMAIL

Connector road crisis

Here in Jordan Springs East, thousands of residents remain exposed to a completely foreseeable disaster: we still have only one exit in and out of the suburb, despite the need for three. The Connector Road – promised to open in 2019 – remains six years overdue. In the meantime, the only functioning exit, Wianamatta Parkway, has been reduced to a single lane due to a sinking bridge. To make matters worse, the so-called emergency bus lane, which residents have been told would operate as a secondary route in emergencies, has never been opened during real crises. Jordan Springs East has become a community trapped behind a single point of failure. If fire enters the Wianamatta corridor, residents will have no safe evacuation route. It is horrifying to think that we could face devastating and fatal consequences if this happens. Until the overdue Connector Road is finally delivered, we are living in unacceptable danger. We cannot wait for tragedy to prove that our warnings were justified.

JEFF PEGG, JORDAN SPRINGS EAST

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

What happens when...

When we think of the life of a professional athlete, it seems pretty glamorous right? Events, press, being a public figure, all while getting to play the sport you love and get paid for it. But what happens once these stars retire from the fame and lights? What happens to them once they’ve slipped through the minds of the public?

To find out, The Western Weekender spoke to former NRL star Dave Simmons about what it was like to be a professional athlete, and what he’s been up to since retirement.

A former player for both the Cronulla Sharks and Penrith Panthers, Simmons’ career spanned over a decade. The intense training schedule and ample recovery time afforded by the NRL gave Simmons the work-life balance most wouldn’t expect of a full time football career.

“I was having kids when I was playing, so I got to spend heaps of time with my kids growing up which is fantastic, and time with my wife at home, so it was really excellent,” Simmons said.

As the end of his career loomed,

and seeing the challenge retirement was for those around him, Simmons began thinking about what was next, and turning to his faith to provide meaning outside of football.

“I think I was just surprised by how much it did affect me emotionally, kind of in ways you can’t control,” Simmons said.

Having been already studying part-time at a Sydney theological

college during his stint with the Panthers, shortly after retiring Simmons took up his studies fulltime and completed his degree.

Initially undertaking study to better read and understand scripture, his passion for his faith led to a full-time role at Emu Plains Anglican Church (EPAC), which he serves today as both Assistant Minister and Youth Minister.

“For us, obviously youth is really important, to be discipling the youth and trying to grow them in number, but also in their maturity as Christians,” Simmons said.

The youth ministry program at EPAC has reportedly grown significantly over the last 12 months with Simmons at the helm.

The need to find meaning outside of sport is something former MMA

fighter and boxer Arlene Blencowe focuses on heavily, and tries to instil in others.

“The last 12 months, I guess I became at peace with the idea of life after fighting and just saw how beautiful my life is and that it’s not solely based around being a fighter,” Blencowe said.

With a career spanning over 17 years, part of that as a single mother working during the day and teaching at a local gym, Blencowe’s schedule was chaotic to say the least.

Recently retired, Blencowe is turning her passions into reality, working with school-aged girls as a mentor, pushing them to work towards their dreams and plan for the future.

“It’s very rewarding...it’s just a little reminder to see how far I’ve come in life,” Blencowe said.

As for her future plans, Blencowe endeavours to become more involved with female sporting teams, speaking about life after competition and preparing them for life after retirement.

“We have so much more to give as a person than just, you know, the athlete,” Blencowe said.

MP remembers Bondi victims

“Behind every one of the 15 lives lost was a person whose story mattered deeply,” McIntosh said in her condolence statement.

“Among them were parents, grandparents and great grandparents; volunteers who delivered meals to the vulnerable; musicians whose creativity enriched their communities; people of deep faith and service; and ordinary Australians simply walking along the beach with those they loved.

“Some died shielding their families. Some died trying to stop the gunmen. Some died protecting strangers. They were people who gave, people who created, people who served. They were all in all good, everyday Australians.”

She paid particular tribute to 10-yearold Matilda, the youngest victim of the December attack.

“She will not be known only as the youngest victim of an act of terror that devastated our country. She will be known as the light, the hope, and the love that will inspire change for the better,” she said.

“May her memory be a blessing. May her light guide us.

“And may we honour her by choosing love over fear, unity over division, and hope that carries us forward in peace.”

Win for walkers as work finishes

EMILY CHATE

Arepaired section of the lower pathway along the River Walk has been officially reopened following flood damage in 2022, while other sections remain under construction.

The reopened section is located opposite Penrith Regional Gallery and extends south towards the M4 bridge.

Work in this area focused on clearing vegetation, mowing and repairing picnic tables.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney was excited to reopen sections of the walk, saying it is an important thing for the community.

“The Great River Walk is a much-loved part of our city, and we know how keen the community has been to see access restored,” Carney said.

“We acknowledge it has taken some time for this to happen, and we thank the community for their patience.

“There is still more work to be done along the riverbank, but reopening this section allows people to reconnect with the river where it is safe to do so, while we continue planning the next stages of repair.”

Nearby some sections of the riverbank remain closed while further repair work is being completed.

A

of pathway near the M4

is expected to reopen in late January.

The viewing deck opposite Penrith Regional Gallery remains closed due to vandalism and is expected to reopen in the near future.

The northern section of the riverbank and lower pathway, from opposite the Penrith

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Australia Day events in the City Every year, this City comes together for Australia Day to celebrate our diversity and strong sense of community spirit.

Council is set to host two citizenship ceremonies on January 26, when I will proudly welcome 368 new citizens to Penrith. It’s incredible to have so many people choosing to call this City their home – and it is telling of how special Penrith really is. We are fortunate to have our newest citizens bring their experiences from different backgrounds that enrich and strengthen our growing multicultural community.

Whether we are citizens through birth or by choice, citizenship of our great country is a chance to embrace shared identity, the common bond that unites Australians, while respecting our differences.

I invite you to join our Australia Day community celebrations at Ripples Leisure Centre St Marys and Ripples Penrith. Enjoy free entry to your closest pool party and make a splash with family and friends.

There is something for everyone, with live circus performances, a mermaid experience, garden games, giveaways and a range of family-friendly activities. First Nations–led cultural experiences including boomerang painting will provide learning and engagement opportunities. Our youngest residents will love the

Regional Gallery to Regatta Park, will remain closed as extensive stabilisation and remediation works are required in this area, which will take some time.

Planning and design development is now underway.

More information is available at yoursaypenrith.com.au/flood-recovery-projects.

Ripples Leisure Centre St Marys and Ripples Penrith will be open from 8am to 6pm. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot and make the most of this free community event. Find out more at penrith. city/australiaday.

To keep everyone safe and ensure it’s an enjoyable experience for all, Ripples will implement capacity restrictions. Keep an eye on socials for updates. Council looks forward to celebrating with our community and we thank the Australian Government for supporting these events through the National Australia Day Council.

However you choose to celebrate Australia Day, I encourage you to embrace our beautiful environment, connection to nature and what we value most about living in this wonderful City.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Get into financial shape

ALLY HALL

Saving money and managing budgets is a top priority for many people at the beginning of a new year, but it can be an overwhelming resolution if you approach it with the wrong mindset.

The Weekender spoke with financial advisor Alex McKenzie from Future Financial Services to uncover how locals can reach their financial goals with less stress and without compromising their lifestyle.

“The main saving goals we see include setting up for retirement, buying a house, reducing debt, and saving for a holiday,” McKenzie said. The financial advisor set the scene by giving an example of a client’s success story.

“A client of mine bought a house over Christmas. They first came to me in the middle of COVID five years ago and said their goal was to buy a house. At that stage, they had credit card debt, and they were spending more than they realised,” McKenzie said.

“The first thing we looked at was how much they were paying off their

debt and whether they could afford to pay more. We decided he could do more, and we worked out a budget for him.”

The first thing to do when creating a budget is make it sustainable.

“Everyone has set expenses that they can’t get away from, and from there, we try and reduce discretionary spending,” McKenzie detailed.

“When we do that, we focus on reducing meaningless spending, so then you can redirect those funds to a goal.

“For my client, we discussed his meaningful and meaningless expenses, and we were able to increase his debt repayments by a couple of hundred bucks a week.”

By analysing your meaningless spending and understanding where your money is going, you gain power over your finances.

“Death by a thousand cuts of meaningless spending is the problem. It’s not about what something costs you, it’s about whether it adds value to your life,” McKenzie put in perspective.

That’s where the Good Month Spending Matrix comes in.

“We ask clients for the four or five things they like to do every day,

whether it costs money or not. Then we ask for the four or five things they like doing most weeks, and then the four or five things they like doing each month,” McKenzie elaborated.

“If you’re doing those four or five things every week, fortnight, and month, then you’re living a pretty good life.

“If you find out what that’s going to cost you, and then direct your money towards those things, then you’re focusing on the meaningful spending.”

For example, McKenzie has breakfast at a café with his wife and daughter on the weekend – a meaningful spend. During the week, he chooses to have breakfast at home because buying a $20 meal to eat at his desk doesn’t hold value to him –a meaningless spend.

“One thing that holds people back is the thought that having a budget will cut back on their lifestyle,” McKenzie concluded.

“In reality, it should improve your lifestyle because you will be redirecting spending from things that have no value to things that are adding value to your life, whether it be now or in the future. A budget can be good with that balance.”

Δ El Maco returns: McDonald's has brought back the El Maco range with some familiar flavours and new additions. The classic El Maco Beef burger makes its return, packed with two 100 per cent Aussie beef patties, fresh tomato, lettuce, cheese, chunky El Maco salsa and sour cream, all on a sesame seed bun. For those wanting something different, you'll now find two new additions: the El Maco McCrispy and the El Maco Chicken McWrap. The McCrispy version features a 100 per cent Aussie RSPCA Approved chicken breast fillet with all the El Maco toppings on a soft bun. Meanwhile, the

McWrap variation takes those same ingredients and wraps them in a tortilla for a different kind of bite. Sounds delicious!

Δ Milo x Macca's collab: The popular Milo McFlurry has officially returned to McDonald's. The returning favourite has long held a place in the hearts of dessert lovers thanks to its classic blend of vanilla soft serve and Milo pieces. Macca's has also dropped the brand-new Milo Shake for the first-time ever! While similar in spirit to the McFlurry, this new offering is a chilled, drinkable version made to satisfy cravings on hot days.

Δ Krispy’s goes Matcha: Krispy Kreme is turning heads with a limited-time Matcha Moments collection that blends the distinct flavour of matcha with the brand’s classic sweetness. This seasonal range is now available both in-store and online, offering customers a fresh way to enjoy their doughnuts and drinks. The line-up includes matcha-flavoured doughnuts, iced and hot matcha drinks, and convenient combos designed for sharing or solo indulgence.

Δ Orchard rings in changes: The Orchard in Penrith has announced changes to its offerings starting from this week. The primary cafe and restaurant will no longer operate in The Farmhouse. Bakery Brothers will become the daily coffee and bakery go-to for the venue, opening at 7am every day for premium coffee, delicious croissants, pies, and innovative treats. Freddy’s Pizza, which recently opened

at the venue, will operate from Wednesday to Sunday from Midday. Spanian’s Kebabs will continue to operate seven days a week. And the venue has confirmed it will launch Taproom on Tench in the Farmhouse, featuring home-style lunch and dinner options. It will open in the coming weeks.

Δ Ripper Reuben: Penrith cafe Percy Plunkett has dropped a Reuben sandwich onto its summer menu featuring smoked Wagyu pastrami, pickles, sauerkraut, American cheese and hectic house sauce.

Δ Sunday session: Long’s House is bringing back its Sunday Sessions with the first for the year taking place this Sunday, January 25 from 2pm-5pm. It’s a relaxed afternoon with live music, great food, drinks and good vibes. Book a table now on 4747 1075.

This photo of Station Street in Penrith was taken in November 1995.

It’s the view looking south from Penrith Railway Station.

The Red Cow Hotel and Borec House can be seen on the right, with what is now City Park on the left.

In the distance the overhead bridge providing access to a car park can be seen.

This was removed from the streetscape some years ago.

At this time Station Street was one way, as evidenced by the sign on the right and the cars parked in one direction on both sides of the road.

G’DAY MATE

Family fun the focus at Luddenham

Afamily of eight are the driving force behind a massive Australia Day affair coming up at Luddenham Showgrounds.

The Weekender spoke to local mother-of-six and events expert Jade Gardner about Aussie Big Day Out.

“It’s amazing to be Australian and to have such a great country,” Gardner said.

“We haven’t really had an event here for Australia Day, so we wanted to put something together for families to come and have an affordable and amazing day.”

The event will feature gourmet food and dessert trucks, fireworks, live music, market and craft stalls, show bags, a sausage sizzle fundraiser, Aussie-themed contests, rides and jumping castles, and carnival games.

“There has been a lot of planning happening behind the scenes for months,” Gardner recounted.

“We first had the idea to do this last Australia Day when we were looking around the area for something to do, and there wasn’t a lot in the area.

“It’s a public holiday and a lot of people around here probably

didn’t do much last year, so I’m hoping this year they come to our event! Not everyone wants to drive half an hour to go somewhere and pay for parking. Here, you can park for free and there’s lots of it!”

The event will run from 2pm to 10pm on January 26, and fireworks will light up the sky around 9pm.

“Our number one goal is to have a value event. We have rides starting from $5, entry at $2, the sausage sizzle is going to be $3. Everything is affordable for families because we understand the cost of living,” Gardner stated.

Deputy Mayor Garion Thain

I hope everyone in Penrith has a great Australia Day on Monday.

It’s a good time to remember how lucky we are to be living in the best countr y on Earth.

Deputy Mayor Garion Thain

I’m always making representations to Council on behalf of community members, if you need one made for you, please send me an email with the details at garion.thain@penrith.city @garion.thain

“My whole family is here – my six children are helping and being a part of it – and we have some volunteers and other community members helping too. That’s the whole sense of it; it’s about the community.”

The family hope to run the event every year. Find out more about Aussie Big Day Out online at www. ticketebo.com.au/ace-attractions/ aussie-big-day-out-luddenham.

If you want to explore more events, you can celebrate Australia Day at Ripples in Penrith or St Marys from 8am to 6pm. The aquatic

centres will have free entry, circus performances, and plenty of entertainment and workshops.

St Marys Rugby League Club is also hosting a free family fun day from 12pm to 3pm including face painting, a petting zoo, a thong toss, yard games, and live music by Tim Pringle.

Panthers Leagues Club will host Australia Day antics from 12pm to 6pm. They will have a kids’ disco, a reptile encounter, food trucks, a lamington eating contest, a splash zone, carnival rides, and live music by Hype Boys from 3pm.

HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY

Splash into Australia Day at pools G’DAY MATE

Penrith City Council is hosting two pool parties to celebrate Australia Day.

Ripples Aquatic and Leisure Centres at Penrith and St Marys are inviting the community to the biggest Australia Day pool party on Monday, January 26 from 8am to 6pm.

With a free, fun-filled program, visitors will enjoy interactive workshops, be captivated by circus performances, and participate in a range of fantastic giveaways. There is something for everyone this Australia Day. By beating the summer heat at Ripples, attendees can purchase food from the kiosk, enjoy a poolside picnic, or indulge in a classic Aussie sausage sizzle.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said everyone’s welcome to bring their friends and family to join Council for a day of summer activities,

swimming and celebration at Ripples.

“This free inclusive event is a wonderful way for our community to come together, cool off, and celebrate Australia Day with fun activities for the whole family,” Carney said.

“Council is again hosting this popular pool party, which has been a much-loved community favourite over the past few years.”

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, Ripples will implement capacity restrictions as numbers increase at the venues. They encourage visitors to arrive early to secure their spot and make the most of the day's festivities.

The event is hosted by Penrith City Council and assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

Woodstock offers huge weekend

Good times are set to roll at The Woodstock this Australia Day long weekend.

Rooty Hill’s local legend is serving up a jam packed line-up of free family friendly entertainment from live music, kids workshops and community fun from Friday, January 23 to Monday, January 26.

Making family time easy,

The Woodstock is offering kids eat free all weekend with every adult meal order. Guests can tuck into their favourite pub classics, enjoy a wide selection of beers, wines, cocktails and soft drinks, while soaking up live entertainment and a relaxed Rooty Hill community atmosphere, all under one roof.

On Friday, live music

kicks off the weekend in the Garden Bar, setting the tone for relaxed after work drinks and casual catch ups.

On Saturday, Messy Makers kids craft sessions give little ones the chance to learn through play and create fun souvenirs to take home. From 7pm, it’s time to turn up the volume with live Aussie bands taking the stage, delivering classic hits and crowd favourites with cold drinks on tap.

On Sunday, expect more Messy Makers kids craft workshops, the perfect school holiday experience. The long weekend wraps up with an interactive reptile show on Monday, offering the chance to get up close with snakes, lizards and other incredible Aussie wildlife while learning all about these fascinating creatures. Walk-ins are welcome, subject to capacity.

Whether out with friends, family or simply wanting to

G’DAY MATE

A message from Melissa McIntosh Affordable pub feed is on the menu

Australia Day is all about celebrating the country we’re proud to call home and doing it the Aussie way. It’s a day for some barbecued lamb chops, backyard cricket, time with family and friends, and soaking up the summer sunshine.

It’s also a chance to stop for a moment and appreciate what makes Australia such a great place to live: the people around us, the values we share, and the sense of belonging that brings us together. It’s the opportunity to celebrate being Australian. Australians are known for pitching in, looking out for one another and giving everyone a fair go. Whether it’s lending a hand to a neighbour, volunteering locally, or coming together in tough times, that spirit of mateship is something we can all be proud of.

Australia Day is also about celebrating the many people who choose to make this country their home. Our communities are made stronger by people from all walks of life, each bringing something unique to the

story of modern Australia. That mix of backgrounds and experiences is one of our greatest strengths. Here in Lindsay, Australia Day citizenship ceremonies are one of the happiest parts of the day. Families and friends gather to welcome our newest Australians as they proudly pledge their commitment to this nation. With big smiles, lots of applause and a real sense of belonging, it’s a wonderful community moment and the beginning of many great Aussie stories. It’s also a time to give a quiet thank you to the everyday legends, the volunteers,

small business owners, teachers, emergency service workers and community leaders who help keep our towns and suburbs strong.

Australia Day is about pride – pride in our country, pride in our communities, and pride in the Aussie spirit that unites us all. It’s a day to celebrate being Australian, together.

In honour of Australia Day, I have some free Australian flag stickers and hand wavers to help you celebrate. Perfect for kids, families and anyone keen to show a bit of Aussie pride. Swing by my office, pick some up, and wave your flags proudly!

AHappyustralia

If you’re craving a trueblue pub feed, The Prospect Hotel’s Pub Classics menu is your answer.

The new menu has taken five of the most popular meals that people know and love and made them more affordable.

“All five Pub Classics are just $15, and the range includes rump steak, chicken schnitzel, cheeseburger, Caesar salad and fish and chips, all served as full meals with sides and your choice of sauce,” explained publican Simon Robinson.

“It’s genuine value. You’re getting a full-size, satisfying pub meal for just $15, available for lunch and dinner, seven days a week.

“We haven’t cut corners on portion size or quality, which is really important to our locals.”

Big portions at a small cost means you can catch up with your mates or bring the whole family along for an easy, affordable meal without worrying about breaking the bank.

Robinson explained that bringing people together is an ability he treasures.

“Hospitality has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Robinson reminisced.

“My family has always been involved in the industry, and growing up I saw the enjoyment it brings to people. Seeing customers

genuinely enjoy the experience we create is what still drives me.”

Continuing his family legacy of putting smiles on dials with great food and service, the publican is proud to be part of The Prospect’s story.

“The Prospect Hotel is a

great western Sydney pub with a real country feel. It’s known for strong customer service and offers something for everyone, whether that’s families, sports fans, people staying in our accommodation, live entertainment, functions, or simply great pub food and drinks,” Robinson noted.

“It’s welcoming, relaxed, and brings people together in a friendly, stress-free environment where everyone feels comfortable – whether they’re a regular or visiting for the first time.”

This has all been emphasised by a recent renovation.

“The renovation has allowed us to refresh the venue and welcome more customers through our doors,” Robinson explained.

“The pub feels brighter, more open, and full of atmosphere. Locals want great food and strong value, and we’re proud to be delivering that consistently.

“The area has been crying out for a pub like this.”

Visit The Prospect Hotel at 3 Great Western Highway, Prospect. Visit www. prospecthotelmotel.com.au.

G’DAY MATE

Sydney ready to put on a show!

Sydney will deliver an actionpacked Australia Day celebration that reflects NSW’s shared values and rich diversity.

From sunrise to nightfall, communities will come together with friends and families to enjoy a program filled with free events curated for all ages, and wrapping up with a special Australia Day Live concert at the Sydney Opera House forecourt.

Australia Day Live will feature an all-star Aussie line-up, including Cody Simpson, Kate Ceberano, William Barton and Jude York, alongside supergroup The Fabulous Caprettos, composed of Wendy Matthews, Rai Thistlethwayte, Dave Gleeson and Joe Camilleri.

The concert will include a tribute to the families and communities affected by the terror attack in Bondi last month and a performance by Sydney based band SHIR – Australian Jewish Music Festival, who performed their moving rendition of ‘I Am Australian’ at the Bondi vigil last month.

The concert will feature a unique fireworks display and a spectacular aerial show over Circular Quay, delivering a memorable celebration for locals and visitors.

Sydney will mark the day with a series of major celebrations across the state, including via the Australia Day Ambassador Program featuring more than 100 inspirational Australians and a series of moving ceremonies in NSW.

From dawn and into the night on January 26, Circular Quay and Sydney Harbour will be the focal point of activity, with events across

land, water and sky, designed for people of all ages.

The Sydney Opera House sails will be illuminated for the Dawn reflection at sunrise with a striking artwork by Garry Purchase, a proud Aboriginal man, which will be followed by the WugulOra Morning Ceremony at Barangaroo’s Walumil Lawns .

The free program of events

the world’s oldest annual sailing event, 190th Australia Day Regatta.

Surf Life Saving NSW will host its Fun in the Sun activation at First Fleet Lawn, offering free activities and games where children can engage with volunteers and learn how to stay safe in the water.

The return of the popular Mega Kidz Zone at the Overseas Passenger Terminal will offer giant games, inflatables and arcade action for families.

“As we approach Australia Day, there is an opportunity to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us – a shared belief in freedom, respect and a fair go," Premier Chris Minns said.

continue around Circular Quay with Midday Salute, celebrating the contributions of many Australians through a tri-forces display spanning Sydney Harbour; Ferrython, where four of Sydney’s beloved Emerald Class ferries race to the Sydney Harbour Bridge; the Harbour Boat Parade, where vessels are dressed to impress with a dazzling day of national spirit; and

“This year, we are hosting the largest Australia Day celebration anywhere in the country, with free events from sunrise to nightfall that bring people together across Sydney Harbour and right around NSW.

“Throughout the day, Sydney Harbour will come alive with activities that celebrate the Australian spirit, showcase our vibrant multicultural communities, honour our First Nations history, and provide moments of reflection as we stand with those affected by the vile antisemitic Bondi terror attack.”

Chris Smith Across Australia 9am - 12 Noon

Blaxland

McDonald's

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Dan Murphy's

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

Penrith Regional Galler y

Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Height s

Super Save Compounding Chemis t

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s IGA

Erskine Park CTC

G lenbrook

Glenbrook Newsagency

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Takeaway

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y 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 C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo

IGA

Londonderr y Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t

IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Little Bottler

MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt

RM Newsagency

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Ca fé Fre d

Au stralian Arms

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hog's Bre ath C afé

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Markets (Thursdays)

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern RE/MAX

Sittano’s Restaurant

Ta s tify

Tattersalls Hotel

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Choice Pharmacy

Mobil Ser vice Station

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys All Good Newsagency

Andrew s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Queen

St Mar ys Diggers

Monfar ville Corner Store

McDonald's St Mar ys South

SPENDING WITH SENSE IS VITAL

Running a business isn’t just about making money – it’s about making the right choices with your money. As business owners, we’re constantly faced with decisions on where to spend, where to save, and what really matters for long-term success.

The temptation of “treat yourself”

Let’s be honest: it’s easy to justify a little personal splurge when your business is doing well. Maybe it’s that new gadget, a designer bag, or an upgraded car.

But here’s the reality – those personal treats rarely move the needle for your business.

In fact, they can distract you from your bigger goals.

The power of investing in your business

Every dollar you put back

into your business is a step toward growth and security.

Whether it’s professional development for your team, better technology, or marketing that brings in new clients, these investments pay dividends far beyond the instant gratification of a personal purchase.

Key areas worth spending on:

• Staff training: Upskilling your team makes your business more efficient and resilient.

• Automation tools: Investing in software (like Xero or Dext) saves time and reduces errors.

• Marketing and branding: A strong online presence and clear messaging attract the right clients.

• Customer experience: Small touches – like fast response times or

personalised service

– build loyalty and wordof-mouth referrals.

The risks of mixing business and personal spending

Blurring the lines between business and personal expenses can cause headaches at tax time, muddy your financial reporting, and even put your business at risk. Keeping things separate isn’t just good practice –it’s essential for compliance and long-term planning.

URGENT NOTICE SEEKING WITNESSES

to a motor vehicle accident that occurred on 12 March 2023 at the intersection of Rhodes Avenue and Salisbury Roads, Guildford NSW

The accident involved a 29 year-old male who was operating an excavator, when a black Holden sedan travelling on Salisbury Road ran a stop sign and collided with a silver vehicle which caused it to smash into the excavator the male was operating.

If you have any information as to the identity of the black Holden sedan or driver of that vehicle, please contact: CMC Lawyers PH: 9267 5199

We’re happy to assist you! Visit during business hours: 4761 3210 2/42 ABEL ST, JAMISONTOWN

MON-WED: 9AM-5PM THU: 9AM-3PM FRI: 8AM-4PM

ENTERTAINMENT

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

I’m not sure anyone loves the sound of laughter as much as Samoan comedian Tofiga Fepulea’i.

But, according to the New-Zealandborn king of comedy, that comes with the territory of being Samoan.

“It’s part of our DNA,” Fepulea’i told the Weekender

“Every Samoan is funny and enjoys a good laugh and taking the mickey. That’s one of the joys of being Samoan.

“You could go to a funeral and be laughing the whole time – we just love to laugh.” Fepulea’i feels proud to bring his rich her-

itage and boundless joy to stages around the world.

“My comedy is about me being Samoan; everything that I do stems from the Samoan perspective,” the comedian stated.

The comedian is known to share stories about his upbringing and how it shaped him into the person he is today.

“My mum and dad bought a three-bedroom house, and it was just the three of us at first, and then we ended up with 12 people in this three-bedroom house. We had to sleep standing up,” Fepulea’i described.

“Growing up, everything was Samoan –the people were Samoan, the culture was Samoan, our food was Chinese,” he said,

earning a surprised laugh – something he’s become used to.

Although laughter has always been his calling, Fepulea’i worked a 9-5 job for some time before forming a comedy duo with his cousin Eteuati Ete called The Laughing Samoans.

“The first moment I heard people laughing at my jokes, it felt like time froze,” Fepulea’i reminisced.

Now Fepulea’i is one of the most recognisable Samoan voices in the world. He appeared as a contestant in the latest season of 'Taskmaster New Zealand' and lent his voice to Disney film ‘Moana 2’ as Nalo, God of Storms.

His next undertaking is a comedy tour called ‘Shuuush Your Mouf’.

“With this show, it’s mainly about me being in my 50s,” the comedian stated.

“I have three teenage boys now, and I reflect on how life has come full circle, and I have some really funny stories to tell.”

At The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Friday, February 13, listen to Tofiga Fepulea’i muse about crossing half a century of life, discuss the things that are important to a man in his 50s, and reminisce about his joyful Samoan family.

Tickets cost $59.90 and are available online at www.thejoan.com.au/whatson/tofiga-fepuleai-shuuush-your-mouf.

THINGS TO DO

Paddling Pool Workshop

On January 23 at Penrith Regional Gallery, little artists will have the opportunity to make a big artwork in a workshop inspired by current exhibition, The Pool Show. The giant paddling pool painting workshop will start with a tour of the exhibition before getting messy in the studio creating a painting inside a plastic paddling pool. Buy a ticket now!

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

Free weekly Tai Chi & Qiqong

Saturdays 4.30pm, WSU Kingswood Campus. Outside the Food Hub. Guan 0422 120 738.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Glenmore Park Probus Club

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Leonay Golf Club. New members welcome. Call 0439 323 103.

Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club

Meets on the fourth Monday of the

Comical Cartoons Workshop

Kids – get creative and have a laugh as you draw your own funny characters and silly scenes at Penrith Regional Gallery! In a playful workshop called Comical Cartoons on January 29, kids will explore cartoon drawing with big expressions, bold shapes and bright colours. This is perfect for young artists aged between 5-8 who love to use their imagination.

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

Probus Club of Nepean

First Wednesday of the month at Emu Sports Club, Leonay from 10.30am. Visitors and new members welcome. Contact Faye on 0417 267 866.

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.

St Clair Probus Club

Meets on the third Monday of the month at St Barys D&B Club. Email secretarystclairprobusclub@hotmail. com for more information.

Penrith Lions Club

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

Penrith Hospital Auxiliary

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

Red Cross Penrith

Meetings held the second Thursday

be

on

24 to light up the stage at

With his unmistakable voice, explosive stage presence, and a powerhouse catalogue of hits, the singer is gearing up for a night filled with pure Aussie energy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this is the perfect way to celebrate the Australia Day weekend.

of the month for lunch. Members and volunteers knit teddies for trauma victims. Call 0438 244 414.

Penrith NASHOS

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

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.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

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. 0415 625 573 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.

22 December - 30 January

Fleet announces new album Larry Fleet has announced his new album ‘Another Year Older’, available for pre-save now and out February 13.

Alongside the announcement, Fleet has released the album’s first single, ‘American Made’, a proud, soul-driven anthem rooted in the lessons, values and work ethic passed down through generations.

‘American Made’ sets the tone for ‘Another Year Older’, an album that finds Fleet reflecting on growth, gratitude and staying grounded as life moves forward.

This marks Fleet’s debut release under his new partnership with global independent record label EMPIRE. The partnership signals a new chapter for Fleet as he continues to expand his reach while maintaining creative authenticity. EMPIRE’s recent success with genre-defying artists like Shaboozey underscores its ability to amplify culturally resonant music while honoring

the artist’s voice.

On the single, Fleet says: “It feels fitting to release ‘American Made’ on the 250th anniversary of America, but this song is so much more than that to me. It’s about the morals, values and lessons passed down from one generation to the next… guiding them to live a life worth livin’ and I hope people across the world connect with the song in that way.”

If you haven't discovered Larry Fleet, now’s the time to start listening.

Track of the Week

Our Track of the Week this week is from country music icon Vince Gill, who has just dropped ‘Brown's Diner Bar’.

The song is an ode to a famous, albeit rundown Nashville cafe and bar which is around 100-years-old.

Not only is it a great listen, but it'll make you think of your favourite place to eat or drink – that one you always go back to.

KINGSWOOD

At the movies...

As a lover of horror (and big snakes), I was immediately interested when a remake of ‘Anaconda’ was announced. A remake of this film in 2025 could reach horror-tastic heights the 1997 film couldn’t even dream of. However, when I found it was pitched as a buddy comedy starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd, my hopes of a gory thriller were slightly dashed. That said, I’m happy to say I was pleasantly surprised with the final product.

Centring on a group of old friends facing a mid-life crisis, this gang of amateur filmmakers sets out to recreate one of their favourite childhood films, ‘Anaconda’.

Paying homage to the original, the group travel to the Amazon River and begin filming, with chaos and calamity following them at every step.

Did this film have the same tension and thrill as the original?

For me, no, but that doesn't mean it’s not enjoyable. While the original is set as a thriller, this remake is more of a horror-comedy, heavily relying on the comedic styles of its two leads (Black and Rudd). Yes, there were moments of tension, but they were often broken with a well timed, but pointless joke. The story is engaging enough, with a B plot flowing seamlessly underneath the main plot, resulting in

some minor twists and turns for the viewer.

If I put my dashed hopes for an intense, gut wrenching remake aside, this film is well made and genuinely enjoyable. Black and

Rudd play well together, using the same likeable and non-threatening style of comedy that’s seen them succeed in many projects before. The supporting cast is reasonably funny, and the surprise

cameos are a nice nod to the original cast.

If you like action-adventure films with a good laugh along the way, this one’s for you!

–Madeline Dantier

See these movies at... PENRITH

www.hoyts.com.au

Nathan Taylor

TV NEWS

Ê After a four-year wait, the third season of hit HBO Max teen drama ‘Euphoria’ will premiere on Monday, April 13. Created, written, directed and executive produced by Sam Levinson, the eight-episode season centres around a group of childhood friends who wrestle with the virtue of faith, the possibility of redemption, and the problem of evil. The third season also moves away from its previous high school setting.

Ê The 10th and final season of ‘Queer Eye’ has finally dropped on Netflix. Rebooted by the streaming service back in 2018, the series features food and wine expert Antoni Porowski, grooming guru Jonathan Van Ness, culture and lifestyle specialist Karamo Brown, fashion connoisseur Tan France and interior designer Jeremiah Brent who joined last year. The final season was filmed in Washington D.C.

Ê The second season of ‘NCIS: Sydney’ is now enjoying its free-to-air run on 10 on Sunday nights after ‘I’m a Celeb’. For subscribers of Paramount+, season three of the hit action drama will resume in late February.

Ê The new season of ‘9-1-1’ will premiere on Seven and 7Plus this Monday, January 26 at 8.30pm. After saving Los Angeles from

STREAMING NOW QUEER EYE, NETFLIX

hundreds of emergencies over the past eight seasons, the 118 Fire Department is facing its biggest challenges yet, as some of their own are in trouble in outer space… what the?!

Ê Stan will stream the 2026 Grammy Awards, live from Los Angeles on Monday, February 2. Nominees for this year’s awards include Kendrick

will once again host.

Ê New mystery comedy series ‘The ‘Burbs’ will premiere on Foxtel and Binge on Sunday, February 8. Inspired by the 1989 horror-comedy film of the same name and set in present-day suburbia, the eight-part series follows a young couple who have reluctantly relocated to the husband’s childhood home. Their world is upended when a new neighbour moves in across the street, bringing old secrets of the cul-de-sac to light, and new deadly threats shatter the illusion of their quiet little neighbourhood. It stars Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall.

Ê The new season of ‘Australian Idol’ will premiere on Seven on Monday, February 2 at 7.30pm. I’ve been lucky enough to catch the first episode already, and once again the talent is off the charts! I’m tipping another successful season for this beloved franchise.

TV Guide: January 23 - 29

Your

9:00 ABC News 10:00 Solar System With Brian Cox 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now 1:45 Goolagong (M) 2:40 Classic Countdown Extras 2:55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 3:25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat 3:55 Grand Designs - House Of The Year (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 All Creatures Great And Small (PG) 8:20 Art Detectives (M) 9:05 Hard Quiz 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Movie: “You May Kiss The Bridesmaid” (PG) (’21) Stars: Tori Anderson 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 Cricket: BBL: Teams TBA *Live* 10:30 The Spin: Seven’s Cricket 11:15 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under Highlights 12:15 Travel Oz (PG) 12:45 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters (PG) 2:00 Home

Santos

Custom

(PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30

Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Road Wars 8:30 Movie: “Stripes” (M) (’81) Stars: Bill Murray

12:00 The Amazing Race (PG) 3:00 Dodger (PG) 4:00 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:35 Movie: “Babe” (G) (’95) Stars: James Cromwell 8:30 Movie: “Fifty Shades Darker” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Jamie Dornan

Saturday 24 January

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 Living Black 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Arabian Inferno (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Rabbit-Proof Fence” (PG) (’02) Stars: Everlyn Sampi

Vera (M v) 10:05 Goolagong (M) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00

7:30

(PG)

9:00 The Living Room (PG) 10:00 JAG (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 A Million Little Things (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 All 4 Adventure (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M) 10:20 FBI: International (M) 2:00 Friends (PG) 3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:00 Becker (PG) 10:30 Frasier (PG) 11:30 Entertainment

Adam Liaw 7:30 Beyond Bali With Lara Lee 8:30 Buddy Valastro’s Cake Dynasty 9:30 Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations 12:30 Dark Side Of Comedy (M l,s) 1:25 WWE Legends (M l,s,v) 2:30 Mastermind 3:30 Worldwatch 5:35 If You Are The One (PG) (In Mandarin) 6:40 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 7:35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s)

3:00 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:00 Bewitched 5:30 WIN News 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Speed” (PG)

Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield/ Sunshine Coast *Live* 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Movie: “The Sound Of Music” (G) (’65) Stars: Julie Andrews 10:40 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 11:40 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under Highlights 12:40 Movie: “A Job To Die For” (M v) (’22) 6:00 Let’s Eat With George 6:30 Drive Safer (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Pre Show *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 4:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Late Night Session *Live* 12:00 Chicago Med (MA15+) 1:00 The Gulf (M l,s,v) 2:00 Religious Programs 2:30 Home Shopping 8:00 I Fish 8:30 On The Fly 9:00 Pat Callinan’s 24/7 Adventures 10:00 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! (PG) 1:00 Cook With Luke 1:30 The Yes Experiment (PG) 2:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 2:30 Farm To Fork 3:00 My Market Kitchen 3:30 The Brighter Side 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) 7:30 Love It Or List It Australia 8:40 Sort Your Life Out (PG)

2:00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer 3:30 Wildlife ER (PG) 4:30 Dog Patrol (PG) 5:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield/ Sunshine Coast *Live* 6:00 Luxury Escapes 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (PG) 11:30 Cycling: Santos Tour Down Under: Men’s Stage 5 *Live* 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Great Wall” (M v) (’16) Stars: Matt Damon 9:35 Movie: “Tears Of The Sun” (M l,v) (’03) 1:00 Starstruck (PG) 2:30 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 4:00 Make You Laugh Out Loud (PG) 5:00 The Conners (PG) 5:35 Movie: “Turbo” (G) (’13) Stars: Ryan Reynolds 7:30 Movie: “Meet Joe Black” (PG) (’98) Stars: Brad Pitt

4:05 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 4:40 MythBusters (PG) 5:30 Car S.O.S (PG) 6:15 Portrait Artist Of The Year UK 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? 8:35 Richard Osman’s House Of Games Night

4:50 Unsettled (PG) 5:50 The Barber (PG) 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Occupation: Native (PG) 7:30 Big Backyard Quiz (M l,s) 8:30 Movie: “Primal” (MA15+) (’10) Stars: Zoë Gameau 10:00 Sing About This Country

5:30 Toast The Host: How To Entertain At Home 6:00 Audra’s Eat, Roam, Relish 6:30 Hairy Bikers Go West 7:35 Secret World Of Snacks: Cereal 8:30 Rick Stein’s Mediterranean Escapes 9:40 Anthony Bourdain: A Cook’s Tour

10:00 Always Was Tonight (PG) 10:30 New Leash On Life (PG) 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now (PG) 3:15 The Assembly (PG) 4:00 Poh’s Kitchen On The Road 4:30

& Alan’s Italian Jobs 5:00 Antiques Roadshow 6:00 Grand Designs

(PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30

9:30 On The Fly 10:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 14: Brisbane Roar v Adelaide United *Live* 7:00 Football Tonight 7:35 Football: Isuzu UTE A-League: Round 14: Macarthur FC v Melbourne City *Live* 10:00 NCIS (M v) 9:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 10:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00 Farm To Fork 11:30 Deal Or No Deal 12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) 2:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Frasier (PG) 1:30 Rock Solid

12:00 The Rap Game UK (M l) 3:00 Heroines 3:30 Worldwatch 5:45 Mastermind 6:45 The Legend Of Bigfoot (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Americana (M) 8:30 Icons Unearthed (PG) 10:20 Marcella (MA15+) 12:10 WWE Legends (M l,s,v) 1:40 Football: Premier League: Man United v Man City *Replay* 3:40 Seinfeld (PG) 4:10 Cards And Collectables Australia 4:40 Lego Masters (PG) 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 7:00 Seinfeld (PG) 9:30 Home Shopping 10:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Pre Show *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 6:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00 Movie: “9 To 5” (AKA ‘Nine To Five’) (PG) (’80)

Of The Year 2026 *Live* 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Movie: “City Slickers II” (PG) (’91) Stars: Billy Crystal 2:30 Air Crash Investigations (PG) 3:30 Better Homes And Gardens Summer 4:30 Cows For Cambodia (PG) 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Sydney Weekender 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Cricket: BBL: Teams TBA *Live* 10:30 Cricket: Post Game 11:00 7News Spotlight: Destiny Rescue (M) 6:00 Hello SA (PG) 6:30 Explore TV 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Pre Show *Live* 11:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Day Session *Live* 4:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Afternoon Session *Live* 6:00 NINE News Sunday 7:00 Tennis: Australian Open: Night Session *Live* 11:00

Key Ingredient 9:30 I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! (PG) 11:00 UFC 324: Lightweight Interim Title: Justin Gaethje v Paddy Pimblett *Live* 1:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 1:30

5:30 The Conners (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU (M v) 4:20 Sing About This Country 6:20 NITV News Update 6:30 Lagau Danalaig - An Island Life 7:30 The Idea Of Australia (M v) 8:30 Movie: “Kindred” (PG) (’20) Stars: Tamara Lawrance 10:10 Movie: “History Bites Back” (M) (’21) 8:00 Tough Tested 9:00 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 9:30 Camper Deals 10:00 Navigating The World 11:00 JAG (PG) 4:00 I Fish 4:30 NBL: Round 18: Perth Wildcats v Melbourne United *Live* 6:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 6:00 Deal Or No Deal 8:00 Frasier (PG) 11:00 The Neighborhood (PG) 11:30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG)

Get Macca’s® delivered.

Monday 26 January

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30

(PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Fireman Sam 6:05 PJ Masks

4:00 Medical Emergency (PG) 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens 5:30 Escape To The Country 6:30 Bargain Hunt 7:30 Heartbeat (PG)

5:00 Peppa

American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:30 Highway Patrol (PG) 12:00 The Amazing Race (PG) 3:00 Dodger (PG) 4:00 Lopez Vs. Lopez (PG) 4:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 6:30 Judge Judy (PG) 7:30 House (MA15+) 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Coastal Africa (PG) 7:30 Our Medicine (PG) 8:40 Earth Oven (In English/ Maori) 9:30 Movie: “Kiss The Girls” (MA15+) (’97)

12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 A Million Little Things (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 4:30 The Living Room (PG) 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v)

(PG)

3:30 Becker (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork 4:30 Frasier (PG) 5:30 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:30 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

8:30

7:30

DOWNSIZE WITHOUT COMPROMISE!

Kingfisher Grove, a Keyton retirement community nestled beside Wianamatta Regional Park in Jordan Springs, is buzzing with excitement as new residents settle into the recently completed Banksia and Coolabah Apartments. They’re joining a vibrant village with over 120 residents where friendships are already flourishing and life feels full. This milestone is more than the addition of homes, it’s about growing connections and enriching an already lively community.

Kingfisher Grove’s heart lies in its welcoming spirit and

exceptional amenities. At its centre is the Clubhouse, a lively hub designed for connection and wellbeing. Residents enjoy a heated indoor pool, cinema, gym, bar, dining room, outdoor terrace and BBQ area. From morning gym sessions to movie nights and casual coffee catch-ups, the Clubhouse is where the community thrives.

A strong social and activity calendar ensures there’s always something to look forward to, with activities like the walking group, Poker nights, Sunday Happy Hour, Ladies Craft group and Aqua Aerobics. It’s where

neighbours become friends and every day offers an opportunity to belong.

Greg and Deborah, who moved into their new apartment in early December, couldn’t be happier.

“Since moving into Kingfisher Grove, we’ve settled in well and are enjoying our new lifestyle. Greg has started playing bowls again after a back operation and is looking forward to joining the new men’s workshop. We love that there’s no more home maintenance to worry about. We’ve met new people at Sunday drinks and started using the pool. The people here are so friendly – it’s

very relaxing in these beautiful, quiet surrounds.”

The new apartments, available in spacious two- and three-bedroom layouts, have been thoughtfully designed with comfort, accessibility and lifestyle in mind. Wide doorways, step free entries and high-quality finishes create homes that are both beautiful and practical. A calming, neutral palette complements the natural surroundings, offering a peaceful retreat with views of the park and nearby lake.

“THE PEOPLE HERE ARE SO FRIENDLY”

As new neighbours settle in during January and February, there’s still time to secure your place at Kingfisher Grove. These architecturally designed apartments offer a rare chance to downsize without compromise and become part of a community where life feels full. Step inside our display apartments and see for yourself the quality, comfort and care that define Kingfisher Grove.

With nature on the doorstep, shops across the road and a community that feels like family, Kingfisher Grove offers a lifestyle that balances independence with connection. It’s a place where happiness grows every day, in every shared moment.

To join the Open Day on Thursday, February 12, find out more by calling 1800 550 550 or visit kingfishergrove.com.au

Discover exclusive townhome

living in Oran Pa rk .

Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a back yard and the low-maintenance qualities of apar tment living

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved at tractions.

Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences of fer excellent value-for-money.

• Spacious, designer interiors

• Landscaped grounds

• Two to five-bedroom layouts

• Private porches and cour tyards

• Family-friendly living areas

• Premium finishes and inclusions

• Tranquil locations

Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfor t and practicality. A beautiful lifest yle in one of Au stralia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.

LUXURY AND RELAXATION

What is so great about this property?

A unique lifestyle property on nearly an acre of park-like grounds, featuring a character-filled federation-style home, expansive shed and office, dual street access, and versatile spaces for living, working, or generating income.

Who does this property suit? Ideal for families, home-based business owners, creatives, or those seeking extended family living, extra space, and flexible income or lifestyle opportunities in a peaceful setting.

Tell us more about the suburb this property is in?

Set in the tranquil and highly desirable village of Kurrajong, known for its quiet streets, scenic surroundings and strong community feel, offering a peaceful lifestyle within easy reach of local amenities and the Hawkesbury region.

WHAT EXACTLY IS “NORMAL”? HEALTH

There’s no shortage of nutrition advice online, but how do you separate fact from noise? One question I hear constantly from people in clinic and on our ‘What the Health?’ podcast is: What does “normal eating” actually look like? It’s a simple question with a surprisingly complex answer, largely because our culture has taught us to overthink every bite we take.

Normal eating isn’t a strict meal plan, a perfect diet, or a specific set of “good” and “bad” foods. In fact, trying to follow rigid rules around food is often what leads people away from a healthy relationship with eating in the first place.

At its heart, normal eating is flexible and responsive. It’s about nourishing your body regularly throughout the day, including a variety of foods without guilt or judgement, and honouring hunger and fullness in a way that works for you. This includes eating when you’re

hungry, and eating even when hunger cues aren’t obvious, because sometimes life, stress, medications or busy days can affect how we experience hunger.

Importantly, normal eating also allows for enjoyment, spontaneity and social connection.

Food isn’t just fuel, it’s part

of celebrations, traditions, shared moments with friends and fuel for your body. A flexible approach means you can enjoy that birthday cake, a takeaway dinner with friends, or a family BBQ without guilt, and still meet your body’s needs.

Rather than aiming for

The Experts

LAUREN DAVIDSON

OnePointHealth 4732 5188

perfection, we encourage building a supportive “scaffold” – regular meals and balanced plates, that gives your body what it needs without trapping you in rigid rules.

This helps reduce stress around eating and rebuilds trust in your body’s own signals.

If food feels stressful, confusingoroverlycontrolled, you’renotalone,anditispossible to redefine what eating normally looks like for you. Catch our episode on ‘What Is Normal Eating?’ on Spotify orYouTubethroughthe‘What the Health?’ podcast, where Emma and I explore this topic in more depth and help you reclaimconfidencewithfood.

SWIMMING AND KEEPING FIT

With lots of us going back to work this week, it’s time to get back into good routines, and for many, back to regular exercise to combat the after effects of the festive celebrations! Water exercise is a perfect place to start for many of us.

Regular exercise is incredibly important for both physical and mental health and wellbeing, but running, going to the gym or group sport isn’t for everyone, particularly if you have mobility issues of any type. Water is 15 times more resistant than air, so many people use water resistance training when injured to maintain their cardiovascular fitness with less impact and stress on joints, bones and muscles

due to the buoyancy of water. The support provided by the water also makes it an ideal environment for post workout recovery and stretching, and provides relief for sufferers of many health conditions including arthritis, back pain, heart disease, obesity, fibromyalgia, or multiple sclerosis.

Aquarobics is not just for seniors as it has sometimes been perceived and can be a highly challenging and effective workout. Aquatic exercise is one of the most effective ways to train whilst putting less stress on the body and increasing your range of motion, regardless of your age, gender or fitness level!

We offer a range of classes for all fitness levels, including gentle classes for seniors or rehab, and options for pre and post natal women, with a group of fun and friendly instructors.

If you prefer a solo workout, lap swimming is the ultimate all-in-one exercise, working most muscles in the body with every stroke,

increasing flexibility and muscle endurance. Muscles are strengthened and toned as a result of water resistance, core strength is improved, and the nature of breathing whilst swimming promotes greater lung capacity.

We also offer squad swimming, or Kids Swim 4 Fitness as an alternative for children and teenagers who like to swim purely for fitness, without the training schedule and competitive aspect that comes with squads.

Joining a local swim club is a great way to swim to swim, race and socialise with other fans of swimming, and membership is open to both competitive and social swimmers.

BACK TO SCHOOL – FOR PUPPIES TOO!

With children heading back to the classroom, it’s the perfect time to think about schooling for another important family member – your puppy. Just as early education helps set children up for success, puppy training lays the foundation for a confident, well-adjusted adult dog.

Our Puppy School classes provide a safe, structured environment where puppies can socialise with other dogs of a similar age while learning essential life skills. These classes are carefully designed to support your puppy’s emotional and behavioural development, while also giving owners the knowledge and confidence to guide their puppy through these formative months.

Led by our trained instructors, Puppy School covers a wide range of practical topics including socialisation, dog communication, veterinary and pet care, child and dog safety, and how

to manage and troubleshoot undesirable behaviours. Over a five-week period, you and your puppy will gain hands-on experience and practical information that will set you both on the path to long-term success.

Our Puppy Pre-School classes are specifically designed for puppies aged eight to 14 weeks. This is a critical developmental period in a dog’s life, where experiences – both positive and negative – can have a lasting impact.

Using positive reinforcement techniques, puppies quickly learn that training is fun and that good behaviour is rewarded, creating a strong foundation for future learning.

Before six months of age, puppies are naturally curious and more accepting of new situations. This is when they begin exploring the world around them and learning how to cope with unfamiliar or slightly scary experiences. It’s the perfect time to introduce your puppy to the “big wide human world” – from funny

sights like cars, bicycles, balloons and hats, to unfamiliar sounds such as thunder, lawn mowers and vacuum cleaners, and even new smells including foods, perfumes and cleaning products.

Puppy School also teaches puppies about each other – that dogs come in all shapes and sizes, with short legs, long tails, floppy ears and everything in between. Missing this important window of opportunity can, for some dogs, lead to fear and anxiety later in life.

While ongoing exposure

remains important, this early period is often considered the most influential.

Our puppy classes aim to give owners realistic expectations by helping them understand natural puppy behaviour.

The program equips you with the tools to build a strong, positive relationship with your puppy, allowing them to grow into a confident and valued member of the family.

For more information, contact our friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

There are five planets transiting through your sign. The Sun increases creativity, Mercury boosts communication, Venus invites consultation, Mars encourages being proactive and Pluto improves focus. So use these planetary powers to supercharge a personal project that’s been languishing in the wings. Your motto is from Oprah Winfrey, who turns 72 on Thursday, “You are different, your gift is special – own it and unapologetically share it with the world.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

You’ll be in the public eye as the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Pluto all stimulate your reputation/career zone. So you could shine at work, at school or in a volunteer position. When it comes to your job, do you need to up-skill? Are you looking for employment or is it time to change vocation? The winds of change are blowing so prepare to pivot, Bulls! And with Neptune moving back into your solitude and spirituality zone, it’s also time to dream.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

This week the planetary focus is on love, marriage, platonic relationships, a joint venture or a business partnership as you communicate and cooperate with family, friends and/or work colleagues. When making future plans, put others first (for a change). With Neptune transiting back into your adventure and aspirations zone (until 2038) start visualising (and planning) a heavenly holiday, a spiritual odyssey or a glamorous adventure sometime in the next few years.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Five planets shine a bright spotlight on your domestic zone. The Sun and Mercury boost communication and lively conversation, especially with family members and/or housemates. Peacemaker Venus encourages you to patch up a troubled relationship with a relative, as you demonstrate endless patience and hold out the olive branch of peace. Plus Mars and Pluto demand that your voice is heard amongst the competing voices, in a firm but fair way.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

This week Neptune (your patron planet) transits back into dynamic Aries – where it stays until 2038! So it’s time to become a more daring, dynamic, fiery Fish as you display confidence, initiate projects and spend more time living in the present. It’s also important to take off your rose-coloured glasses and be more realistic about money matters. If your finances need fixing, then be proactive and do something about it. Plan to have fun with a friend on the weekend.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Travel, communication and education are all highlighted this week as you embark on a trip, connect with friends (especially from foreign shores) or start a new course of study. With Neptune back in your hopes and wishes zone, it’s also time to dream big dreams and visualise magical things coming true in the future. Your motto is from Oprah Winfrey (who turns 72 on Thursday), “The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.”

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Get your body moving in 2026! The Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Pluto highlight your health and wellbeing zone, so strive to be the fittest and most vibrant Virgo you can be. Reinvention is the name of the game, as the planets encourage you to reboot your daily routine with innovation and determination. The best way to manage stress is with relaxing indoor pursuits (like meditation or yoga) and vigorous outdoor activities (like running, cycling or hiking).

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

The planets inspire you to contribute your versatile talents to a worthy cause within your local community. Plus Jupiter is jumping through your intimacy and manifestation zone, which is terrific for romantic and platonic relationships as your humour and generosity charm the birds out of the trees. Be brave, dream big dreams, ask for what you want, and you shall receive! Be inspired by birthday great Oprah Winfrey, “You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.”

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

This week Neptune transits back into Aries, plus five planets light up your peer group and networking zone. So you could meet a fabulous new friend or a work colleague from the past could boomerang back into your world! Whatever happens, aim to surround yourself with positive people who encourage your talents and support your dreams. As birthday great Oprah Winfrey observes, “Surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher.”

CANCER

22 TO JULY 22

Crabs are sentimental creatures and you can spend too much time in the past. Resist the urge to brood over a relationship gone wrong. This week’s stars help heal your hurt feelings so you can finally let go and move on. The planets also signal a major shift in the areas of intimacy or money. Perhaps a passionate new affair or the start of a promising financial partnership? With Neptune moving back into your career zone, be more creative and intuitive at work.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

This week the Sun, Mercury, Pluto and Venus (your power planet) all activate your creativity and good fortune zone. So it’s time to connect with your inner child, express yourself, and make the most of any fortuitous opportunities that come along. Plus – with diligent Saturn visiting your daily routine zone – work hard. Your motto for the moment is from Oprah Winfrey (who turns 72 on Thursday), “Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

With five planets stimulating your cash zone, take stock of your financial situation and initiate some smart strategies. And don’t forget to do an inventory of your inner wealth, which includes your self-esteem and core values. Remember – you are more than your job, what you earn and what you own. Positivity-planet Jupiter is jumping though your partnership zone until June 30. So – the more generous and optimistic you are – the better your relationships will be.

65.

72.

74.

76.

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.

SNAKES TORAH

Last week’s solution

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

What year did the first fleet arrive in Australia?

What is the name of the world’s biggest coral reef?

What is the name of the massive rock formation in the Northern Territory? 7. Which ocean is on Australia’s east coast?

What Australian animal is

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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

A RITE OF PASSAGE STILL

It was January 30 last year and I was feeling a little down. Over the past five years, I had asked some of my friends if they were interested in doing a trip to Scotland and Ireland. A few of them said yes but later said it wasn’t something that they wanted to commit to. After this happened a few times, I began to feel like I would never make the trip because I had no one to go with. But on Thursday, January 30 2025, something happened. I spontaneously paid a deposit for a Contiki tour through Scotland and Ireland, and I decided I would make the trip by myself.

Once the thrill of booking my first solo overseas trip died down, I must admit I began to feel some nerves. This is pretty normal for anyone who is deciding to travel solo. I had nerves about the small things like, ‘What if I don’t make friends?’ or ‘If I don’t drink will I be forced to?’, so I am here to answer all things solo travelling on Contiki to encourage you to take the leap and book a trip.

“I CANNOT RECOMMEND SOLO TRAVEL ENOUGH AND I THINK EVERYONE NEEDS TO EXPERIENCE IT”

What is Contiki? They are a global tour company that offer organised group trips for people aged between 18 and 35-years-old that handle all transport, accommodation and activities. Once you arrive at the beginning everything is sorted for you (well, the only decision you will need to make is what restaurant to go

to for dinner a few nights). For solo travellers, I think this is a great option as you have a safety net to fall back on when travelling through foreign countries. What are the activities like? When you book a Contiki tour they send you a thorough itinerary of what will be happening each day on the trip. This outlines all included activities that are part of the cost of the trip meaning you do not have to pay any out-of-pocket expenses. On my trip some of the included activities were a cruise across Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands, entry into Blarney Castle and a guided walking tour through Belfast. The rest of the activities are called ‘Free Time Add Ons’ (FTAs), which are not included in the price of the Contiki, and you will have to pay an additional fee. Before the trip this really wasn’t something I knew much about, which was my own fault, so I got an expensive surprise when the bill for my FTAs came. I did all the extra activities, and my additional bill came out to nearly $1,000 AUD. Make sure you budget for this before you leave because, as my Trip Manager said, “It is more expensive to come back to the country than do the activity now”. You don’t want to regret not doing something on the trip, so make sure you budget additional money. Some of my FTAs included the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery, exploring the island of Inishmore, a traditional Scottish and Irish evening and doing a

bike tour through Kilkenny.

How social is the trip? I was nervous ahead of the trip as a solo traveller because I was worried I wouldn’t be able to make friends. In hindsight this was a silly concern. I ended up making friends within the first five minutes of meeting everyone. You end up spending so much time with the people on your trip that you become a large family and will always have someone around to do something with. The other thing I was worried about was the drinking aspect of the trip. I was concerned because, as I have gotten a little older, I stopped drinking as much as I used too. I will say, there was a lot of drinking and going out but there was never any pressure at all to drink or to go out if it wasn’t something you wanted to do. Most of the travellers just want to have a good time with everyone.

How do you travel around? Most of your time between stops will be spent on a coach. You will form a strange sort of connection with the coach and be sad to see it go on the last day. We also got a ferry between Scotland and Ireland, and other trips will use flights to go between countries. All of this will be organised by your Trip Manager and is paid for prior to the start of the trip.

Is it expensive? Any overseas trip will be expensive, but I think a Contiki is a good way to go. There are ways to make the trip cheaper,

GOING STRONG

but it depends on the traveller. For example, I spent more money on booking a solo room. It is nearly $1,000 cheaper if you are happy to share a room with another traveller on the trip. Travellers can choose not to do all the FTAs, which will save a chunk of money. In the end, make decisions based on your own budget and desires and you will have a great time.

Should I do the Scotland and Ireland Contiki? If you are like me and are amazed by the history, architecture and landscape of Scotland and Ireland than doing a Contiki was the perfect way to do the trip.

I was able to see 17 cities including Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Scottish Highlands, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny and Belfast over 13 days. On my own I don’t think I would have been able

to see so much. There was a moment when we were doing the cruise across Loch Ness where I thought to myself, ‘is this real life?’. That moment has made me recommend the trip to everyone!

Should I book one? 1000 per cent yes! I cannot recommend solo travel enough and I think every person in their 20s needs to experience it. Bite the bullet and book your trip now!

Maddie’s Meals

Thick American Cookies

What you’ll need:

– Mixing bowl

– Spatula or mixing spoon

– Measuring cups

– Electric mixer (handheld)

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

– 3/4 cup brown sugar

– 1/4 cup white sugar

– 1 large egg

– 1tsp vanilla extract

– 2 cups plain flour

– 1/2 tsp salt

– 1/2 tsp baking powder

– 3/4 cup chocolate chips

Optional:

– 3/4 cup pretzels

– 3/4 cup dark chocolate (or any other kind you like!)

Method:

1. Line a large baking tray with baking paper.

2. Cream (mix until smooth) butter and sugars with the electric mixer.

3. Add vanilla and egg and mix until combined.

4. Add the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix with spatula until combined. The mixture may become crumbly – add a dash of milk if not combining.

5. Add chocolate chips and mix through with hands until combined.

6. Divide the dough into small balls and place onto baking sheet with

roughly 5cm between each cookie.

7. Chill cookies for 30 mins. During this time, preheat oven to 180°.

8. Once preheated, bake cookies for 18 minutes or until golden.

9. Enjoy!

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Forester remains fun and fabulous... as you’d expect!

In the interest of honesty, I am a Subaru fan, and have owned a few over the years, so it was a case of ‘when’ not ‘if’ I would drive the new Forester SUV.

The edges might be rounder and the grille sloped for aero effect, but the Forester remains a ‘two box’ design, one for the engine and a bigger one for the cabin and luggage area. This is one of my likes about the car, despite being in its sixth generation, it still looks like a Forester, retaining a core design that continues from model to model.

Yes, I do love the pumped guards, front and rear, pushing the track wider for better handling and stability, as well as looking a little bit tough.

There are plenty of bumps and bulges around the front end for headlamps and fog lights, with a

“FUN, CAPABLE AND WITH JUST ENOUGH QUIRKS TO CAPTIVATE”

tidy black plastic under-bumper working as a skid guard, it isn’t really a bash plate, when playing off-road. This is backed by a traditionally clean underbody, with exhausts, drive shafts and steering all tucked into the floor for improved off-road ability.

One complaint was the tailgate, while it opens high, the curved shape does take a bit of height out of the luggage space.

As one of Japan’s early automotive manufacturers, experienced in building aircraft, Subaru’s build quality, fit and finish is outstanding, with tight panel gaps that hold up even under extreme use.

The Forester gets two separate displays, one for the driver, with a 12.3” touch screen in the centre stack infotainment unit, accessible by the passenger and with so many available options it is best to leave it to the co-driver, or ‘set

and forget’ before driving off. This includes controlling the 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, with amplifier and sub-woofer, as well as satellite navigation and the vehicle set-up screens covering driver assistance, vehicle modes and personal preference settings.

The driver’s unit is set deep into a pod, framed by the small diameter steering wheel, with the advantage of reducing glare and reflection, making it easy to read in all light conditions.

Subaru were early adopters of digital dashes in the 1980s, this continues today with a display that would be home in the latest Airbus.

Menu buttons on the steering wheel face scroll between displays, providing full control of the Forester’s functions, including the SI Drive for Sport and Intelligent transmission modes.

With multi-zone automatic climate control also in the centre stack, it was easy to set the cabin at 23C, relax and enjoy the drive.

Lower down is the transmission selector, twin cup holders, e-brake switch and drive mode controls, everything is functional, but unobtrusive.

Despite being a small-medium SUV, I was comfortable, with plenty of headroom despite the opening glass roof, and decent shoulder and leg room.

Height and reach adjustment of the steering column, along with eight-way power adjustable front seats, allowed me to slide into position, helped by wide-opening doors and good ride height.I had a pair of 16-year-olds in the back for a few trips, with no crowding complaints, the hand-holding might have helped, but two modern child seats for the grandkids certainly filled the space.

Similarly, their pram and stroller needed careful packing to fit the same space that easily held a week’s groceries.

The Forester has the familiar boxer beat, the characteristic rumble of the 2.5-litre petrol turbo motor, just muted, with hybrid drive providing a combined total of 145 kilowatts.

Like most hybrids, the Forester defaults to EV mode on start up, the petrol engine coughs into life

momentarily before going into standby mode until needed.

This is where Subaru has made big gains, their first hybrids struggled with power management, the switch between energy sources abrupt and easily detected.

The new generation is a smooth and flexible unit, you can still pick the transition, but it feels more controlled.

Subaru retained the previous CVT, with inherent pros and cons, but the improved driveline works well to overcome the challenges of stop-start traffic, aided by the selectable SI transmission modes, Sport provides an aggressive set of preset ‘ratios’, making the Forester fun to drive.

For highway driving, the CVT cannot be beaten, the Forester lopes along, with increased use of EV mode during constant speed work, while a quick push of the accelerator brings the ICE into play, boosting power for overtaking, hillclimbing or just plain fun.

Inclement weather stopped us going too far off road, but previous experience says in showroom spec, with standard highway-biased tyres, the Forester goes a long way up your favourite track.

Regulations require fitment of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including a driver attention monitor, the idea is good, but in practice it is too easily triggered by even a glance at the instruments or checking blind spots.

The system can be deactivated on each drive, along with equally agressive lane keeping intervention, while it feels counter-productive, the alternative is a car that is frequently leaping and jumping or flashing warning signals, where none are required.

After a week of the Forester AWD Hybrid Sport, I was ready to park this in my driveway long term, all I had to do was pay for it!

It has its foibles, particularly the aggressive driver assist measures, but it was also a fun machine that proved CVTs can work in traffic, with enough quirks to separate it from the mainstream.

Panther pride in the

Representing your country is the highest honour for any sportsperson. Wearing your nation’s colours and singing the national anthem is what dreams are made of for sportspeople everywhere.

To celebrate Australia Day next week, the Weekender is counting down the Top 10 Penrith Panthers players to represent Australia. In total there have been 26 Panthers players to play for Australia between 1986 and 2025. Here are the 10 best…

1. Brad Fittler: While a member of the Penrith Panthers, the Cambridge Park junior played a whopping 43 games for Australia between 1990 and 1995. Until Israel Folau made his Australian debut in 2007, Fittler was the youngest ever Kangaroos representative (18 years and 247 days). Throughout his incredible representative career as a Panther, Fittler played in the 1990 and 1994 Kangaroo Tours, the 1989-92 and 1995 World Cups, and the 1992 and 1994 Ashes Series’. He played a range of positions including centre, lock and five-eighth, scoring a mesmerising 20 tries.

2. Greg Alexander: Brandy’s time with Australia may have been short but it was very sweet. Alexander

made his Australian debut in October 1986, and his last game was in 1990 against France. All up Alexander played an impressive 32 games for Australia, including the 1986 and 1990 Kangaroo Tours and 1990 Ashes Series against Great Britain. Alexander only tasted defeat twice throughout his Australian career, scoring an eye-watering 29 tries and kicking 55 goals for a total of 226 points.

3. Ryan Girdler: Girds only played 11 games for Australia between 1993 and 2003, but he made a huge impact during that time. Girdler played in the 1999 Tri-Nations, the 2000 World Cup and 2003 Kangaroo Tour. During a World Cup match against Russia in 2000, Girdler scored three tries and kicked 17 goals. From that 110-4 victory, Girdler still holds two rugby league records – for most points in a game with 46 and for most goals in a game with 17.

4. Isaah Yeo: The decorated Panthers co-captain made his Australian debut at the 2022 World Cup in England and has so far played 13 games for his country. In 2024, ahead of the Pacific Championships, he was bestowed the highest honour in representative footy – named captain of the Kangaroos. That same year, he also went on to win the coveted Golden Boot Award. In 2025, Yeo captained Australia to a 3-0 clean sweep of England in the Ashes.

5. Royce Simmons: A rugby league icon, Simmons is the first-ever Penrith Panthers player to represent his country when he was chosen to make his Australian debut against New Zealand in July 1986. In total, Simmons played 15 games for Australia, including the 1986 Kangaroo Tour and the 1985-88 World Cup. Simmons played every game at hooker, scoring a lone try against France in 1986.

6. Craig Gower: The Panthers premiership-winner and proud local junior made his Australian

green and gold

represented Australia and made their community proud

debut during the 1999 Tri-Nations and went on to play 22 games for his country. Gower played in the 2000 World Cup, the 2003 Kangaroo Tour, the 2003 Ashes Series, and the 2004 and 2005 Tri-Nations.

Gower played hooker, half-back and fiveeighth, scoring seven tries in total.

7. Nathan Cleary: The current Panthers co-captain has only played eight games for his country, but he’s never lost. Cleary made his Australian debut at the

2022 World Cup against Scotland where he scored a try on debut and racked up an impressive tally of 28 points. Cleary recently played in the 2025 Ashes at halfback, which saw the Kangaroos defeat England in straight sets. The two-time Clive Churchill Medallist has scored a whopping 94 points in the green and gold.

8. Petero Civoniceva: While the legend ary forward made his Australian debut with the Broncos, Civoniceva played 15 games for the Kangaroos while he was a member of the Panthers. The former Penrith skipper contested the 2008 World Cup as well as the 2009 and 2010 Four Nations tournaments. His

last game with the Kangaroos was an ANZAC Test match against New Zealand in 2011.

9. Luke Lewis: A Penrith great, Lewis played 14 games for Australia (while with the Panthers) after debuting with the national team during the 2003 Kangaroo Tour. Lewis played the majority of his games in the backrow, while at the

start of his Kangaroos career he was a fixture on the wing. Lewis also played in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 Four Nations tournaments as well as several ANZAC Test matches.

10. Trent Waterhouse: Another Panthers premiership winner, Waterhouse made his Australian debut following the Grand Final in 2003. The backrower/lock played 14 games for the Aussies including the 2003 Kangaroo Tour, 2003 Ashes Series, 2005 Tri-Nations and 2009 Four Nations. Waterhouse scored four tries in Australian colours.

“My goal this season is to get a few games under my belt in first grade, but I’ve obviously got a lot of stuff to work on with my fitness being at the top.”

Ale wasn’t the only Warriors NSW Cup player to join the Panthers in time for the 2026 NRL season, with Toby Crosby, Kalani Going, Patrick Moimoi and Freddy Lussick also jumping ship.

Ale said the decision for five Warriors players to move to the Panthers this season “wasn’t planned”, but he admitted that he felt special that he was one of them.

“I felt honoured for such a great club to want me here as part of their team,” he said.

“It makes me feel good and I’m keen to rip in and let my hard work do the talking.”

Why tennis is primed for growth in Penrith

The team at Nepean District Tennis Association (NDTA) is hoping the hype of the Australian Open coupled with the opening of its new clubhouse in the coming months will set them up for an ace of a 2026.

NDTA Club President Mick Ensor and Centre Manager/Head Coach Carey Sinden have been around the game for many years, witnessing tennis’ evolution on a local level.

While it’s true more people play tennis in summer because they are inspired by the feats happening down at Melbourne Park, the popularity does drop off in the cooler months due to the weather and lack of tennis on mainstream TV.

“It’s prevalent on TV at the moment, so everyone’s interested in it, which is probably what drives our summer,” Sinden told the Weekender

“Around this time of year, court hire is up, coaching is up, and then it’s just about keeping them interested. We often see that when

winter sports kick in, the interest declines before picking back up again in summer.”

Despite people’s hesitation to play tennis when it cools down, NDTA is confident that 2026 could defy the trend. With its stunning blue hardcourts recently resurfaced for the first time in 10 years and with its new clubhouse finally due for completion in the coming months, the local association has its fingers crossed for a massive year.

“During Easter, our annual Easter Open will be held and this will be our 60th year, so that’s a big one for us,” Ensor said.

“We’re hoping our clubhouse is open by then, so we can really celebrate 60 years of the Easter Open.”

If the clubhouse, which has been funded by all levels of government, does open sooner rather than later, it could pave the way for more major competitions to be held at the Woodriff Gardens facility across the year.

“If the clubhouse is finished by June, we will have a professional tour event through UTR (Universal

Tennis Rating) and we’ll also have an international tennis event for juniors in August,” Sinden said.

“Both of those events are pending the clubhouse being finished, but our courts are ready for them now.”

In the meantime, to capitalise on the fantastic summer of tennis, NDTA will be holding a Pride Event on Sunday, February 1 to celebrate inclusion and diversity in tennis as well as the conclusion of the Australian Open. The evening is also set to feature free tennis and pickleball games as well as the Australian Open Men’s Final live on the big screen.

“Tennis Australia and Tennis NSW like to promote the initiative of the Pride Event and then we thought we would tap into that by giving free tennis to the community, an opportunity for people to come and try,” Sinden said.

“We also plan to have our very own ‘drive-in cinema’ experience where we will run a projector to the back of the fences and have camp chairs set up in the car park for people to watch the Men’s Final.”

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Local link to NFL’s business end

AMERICAN FOOTBALL: Penrith’s Jeremy Crawshaw is just one win away from a Super Bowl appearance in his rookie season in the NFL. The punter’s Denver Broncos defeated the Buffalo Bills 33-30 in overtime last Sunday to set up a mouthwatering clash against the New England Patriots next Monday morning (January 26). The former Nepean Christian School student booted four punts for 188 yards during the thrilling win over the luckless Bills.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers and Brisbane Roar have battled out a 1-1 draw at Wanderers Football Park last Friday night. After 83 minutes of action, the Wanderers got on the board first through Ella Buchanan. The home side were closing in on a rare win before Brisbane equalised in the 95th minute – leaving the two sides to share the points. The Wanderers will travel to Gosford this Saturday to tackle the Central Coast Mariners.

FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have sacked Men’s coach Alen Stajcic mid-way through their A-League campaign. The Wanderers have won just three of 13 matches this season and sit last on the A-League ladder.

FOOTBALL: With their season in turmoil, the Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the signing of Japanese striker Hiroshi Ibusuki on a contract until the end of the 2026/27 season. Ibusuki brings a wealth of experience from a career spanning Japan, Spain, Belgium, Australia and India. He began in the Kashiwa Reysol youth system before moving to Europe, where he featured for clubs including Girona FC, Sevilla FC, CE Sabadell and K.A.S. Eupen, gaining top-level experience and developing his reputation as a strong and versatile forward. Returning to Japan, Ibusuki excelled in the J1 and J2 Leagues, playing for Albirex Niigata, JEF United Ciba, Shonan Bellmare and Shimizu S-Pulse. The forward went on to make a significant impact in the A-Leagues, starting with Adelaide United

where he scored 28 goals in 71 appearances, including 15 goals in 26 matches in the 2023/24 season. He then moved to Western United for the 2024/25 campaign, adding 10 goals in 27 appearances to his name. Ibusuki said he was thrilled to be joining the Wanderers.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have announced that former skipper Ben Kearins has re-signed with the club for the 2026 NBL1 East competition. A Penrith junior since 2004, Kearins averaged 9.2 ppg, 4.4 apg and 3.6 rpg last season. With a keen eye on the court and a soft touch to finish his shots, Kearins contributed greatly to Penrith’s performances,

and said he’s looking forward to what 2026 will bring under a brand-new coaching staff. “I'm most excited about the ability to play with a new group, anytime there’s significant change over within a group, it’s always exciting to see how the new group of players mesh,” he said. “My goal to achieve this season is to stay healthy and get back to my previous season production wise and continuing the improved wins totals over the past two seasons.” The Panthers will face off against the COE in Canberra for the first match up of the season on March 28. More signings will be announced in the coming weeks.

CRICKET: Penrith’s Round 12 Belvidere Cup match against St George was abandoned last Saturday due to rain. Playing in a One-Day match at Howell Oval, Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl. Only 13 overs were played before the wet weather kicked in, with St George recording 3/51. Penrith bowler Kaine Balgowan did most of the damage, taking 2/20. Penrith will hope for better conditions this weekend when they take on UTS North Sydney this Saturday morning at North Sydney Oval. The Cats currently sit in last place on the first grade ladder.

CRICKET: Penrith’s Round 5 Ruth Preddy Cup match against St George-Sutherland was abandoned last Sunday due to wet weather. The One-Day match was due to be played at Harold Fraser Reserve, however a rainy weekend saw all matches abandoned. The Lady Cats will battle Campbelltown Camden this Sunday morning at Raby Sports Complex.

ICE HOCKEY: The Penrith Phantoms will hold tryouts for their Division 3 and Division 4 squads ahead of the upcoming 2026 Ice Hockey NSW season. The tryouts will be held at Liverpool Ice Arena on Monday, February 9 from 7pm. Players of all skill levels are invited to attend. Cost is $30. To register your attendance, email admin@penrithphantoms.com.au.

BOXING: Former Jordan Springs MMA fighter Arlene Blencowe has announced she’s getting back into the ring next month. Following her retirement late last year after a sensational career, Blencowe is doing somewhat of a backflip and will now take on Nadia Flalhi in a boxing match at Bella Vista Hotel on February 26. “I’ve been at peace with retirement, but my last performance has lingered in my mind – so many things felt off and just didn’t fall into place. I’ve faced plenty of losses over the years, but only a few have really stuck with me. Ending my career on that note would have overshadowed all of my accomplishments and eaten away at me. If you’ve competed at the highest levels, you probably get what I’m saying. So here we are, back in training for another crack,” Blencowe said. Tickets to the fight are on sale now at www.wandererpromotions.au.

GET IN TOUCH: To make a submission to ‘Sports Shorts’, email Nathan@westernweekender.com.au. You can also direct message the Weekender on Facebook or @wwpenrith on X.

SPORT

TOM MAKES IT COUNT

New Penrith recruit Tom Ale says a conversation with a former Panthers superstar put him at ease about not just moving clubs but moving countries as well.

The 26-year-old forward said a chat with four-time Panthers premiership winner and current New Zealand Warriors captain James Fisher-Harris helped alleviate any worries he had about moving from Auckland to Penrith this past off-season.

Ale admitted it was a tough decision to leave his hometown club, but he said that Fisher-Harris couldn’t have been more complimentary about the Panthers when speaking with him.

“When I let the boys know that I was making the move over here, Fish and I had a talk and I asked him how it was over here and he said I would enjoy it, and

I am so far,” Ale told the Weekender

“It was a pretty big decision to come here – I’ve been at the Warriors since I left high school – but I felt like the opportunity to come to such a great club was pushing me towards making the move over. I know it’s a big sacrifice, but it’ll definitely be worth it.”

While they were only teammates for one season, Ale said Fisher-Harris was the “ultimate professional” and someone the whole club looked towards for inspiration last year.

“He was definitely a role model for us boys,” Ale said.

“Just his work ethic, he’s always the first in the gym or the first on the field and the last one to leave. All his extras and one percenters is something I try to take on with my training. Being the ultimate professional –that’s Fish!”

After debuting in the NRL in 2020, Ale has played 41

first grade games so far. However, after a roller coaster year with injuries in 2025, Ale didn’t feature in any NRL matches last season. Instead, he played a pivotal role in the New Zealand Warri ors NSW Cup team, who were crowned Premiers and State Champions last September/October.

Ale said he’d love to return to first grade again and he’s hoping that opportunity comes as soon as this season at the Panthers.

“The goal is always to play first grade, but I had a bad run with injuries last year,” he said.

“We had such a great Cup squad and the coach over there was good. I felt like we were playing like an NRL side – that’s how enjoyable it was.”