On-time running during the PM peak on the T1 Western Line fell to its worst reliability of the year last month, figures reveal.
Frustrated rail commuters faced delays and cancelled services throughout June, with just 76.5 per cent of services running on time during the PM peak, the worst figures in 12 months.
It was the worst performance of the year for Sydney Trains, which has not met its on-time running target of 92 per cent in the PM peak once this year.
And things aren’t looking much better for July, with signal problems at Penrith
resulting in delays on both the T1 Western Line and Blue Mountains Line on Tuesday afternoon.
But while getting home from work may be a struggle, getting there isn’t such a pain.
93.9 per cent of AM peak services on the Western Line were on-time in June, the best performance since February.
Sydney Trains figures show that on average, the annual 92 per cent on-time running target for the PM peak hasn’t been met since the 2021 financial year, when COVID lockdowns were in force.
New location for Urgent Care Clinic
Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is now operating at a new location with extended hours.
The clinic, formerly located at the Penrith Homemaker Centre, can now be found at Suite G01, 13 Barber Avenue in Kingswood and will be open from 8am to 10pm seven days a week.
No appointment is needed for the clinic, and all services are bulk billed.
The doctors and nurses are equipped to treat a range of conditions and injuries that need urgent attention but aren’t life threatening including cuts, viral infections and sprained ankles.
“The Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will continue to support locals seven days a week from the new location, for extended hours and most importantly patients will be bulk billed,” Federal Minister for Health Mark Butler said.
The Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will continue to help ease pressure on the nearby Nepean Hospital where around 35 per cent of presentations in 2024-2025 were for semi-urgent or non-urgent conditions.
Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said the clinic should be the community’s first stop for non life-threatening injuries.
“This new Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will continue to provide the urgent care people need as an alternative to fronting up at the Emergency Department,” she said.
“With on-site, undercover, free parking for Medicare Urgent Care Clinic Patients, and access to scans and pharmacy, it should be the first port of call for urgent but not life-threatening medical matters for the region.”
There have been over 23,000 presentations to the Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic at the previous location.
Senator Tony Sheldon said so many residents in Lindsay utilise the clinic.
“I’ve spoken to so many families across my duty electorate of Lindsay, and I know how much peace of mind it gives people to have somewhere nearby they can turn to when something unexpected happens,” Sheldon said.
“There were more than 23,000 people presentations to the Penrith clinic at its previous location, showing just how important it has become for families across our community.”
The Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is commissioned by the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network.
The GP clinic at the former location will remain but will operate without the Medicare Urgent Care Clinic function.
– Emily Chate
Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman at the new site of the Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.
Delays are common for train commuters.
PM: OUR BEST AIRPORT
Anthony Albanese says impact of new airport will be bigger than anyone imagines
TROY DODDS
Western Sydney International Airport will be “more successful than anyone envisages” according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has declared it will be the best airport in Australia.
The Prime Minister spoke at last Friday’s Airport City Summit, where some 400 guests gathered to hear about the impact the airport will have on western Sydney.
“This is the first airport for western Sydney, not just a second airport. It will be the best airport in Australia when it opens on day one,” Albanese said.
“I think this is going to be far more successful than anyone envisages, that in five years’ time... we’ll be talking about how we underestimated how successful it has been.”
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car, told the summit that the new airport has
become a vision for western Sydney.
$15 billion off the cost of the High Speed Rail project, it would be delivered at least two years earlier, and better reflect the city’s demographic and economic future.
“We call on the Prime Minister to direct the High Speed Rail Authority board to spend the allocated $660 million for the scoping report to be broadened to include the viability of both options to determine which approach is best – not just for the West but the whole of NSW and beyond,” said Dialogue Chairman Christopher Brown.
“Decisions made today will inform how Sydney moves, grows and connects for generations. This is a project decades in the making and one that will impact us for many years to come. We can’t afford to get this wrong.”
“This is going to be a city built around innovation, advanced manufacturing, research and enterprise. A city powered by one of the youngest, most diverse, most talented workforces in the country,” she said.
ing the proposed Newcastle to Sydney High Speed Rail.
have Parramatta as its final destination, not Central.
But the focus also became about future projects, includ-
The Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue, which hosted last Friday’s Summit, believes the project should
Modelling undertaken by the Dialogue shows focusing on Parramatta instead of Central would slash at least
The Federal Government continues to fund the early stages of planning the project, with the hope that it may be ready for construction in 2028.
Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue Chairman Christopher Brown with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
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From The Editor’s Desk
Troy Dodds
Remember back in 2009 when ‘Today’ host Karl Stefanovic appeared on TV the morning after the Logies clearly still impacted by the celebrations of the night before?
Negative coverage at the time aside, it became an iconic moment in Australian television.
In the end, it was harmless and if nothing else it endeared him even more to the Australian public.
But if it had happened today, he likely would have been fired.
Some activist group would have claimed it sent a bad message. A corporate advertiser would have got in a tizzy and threatened to pull their ads. An executive at Nine would have asked how high when told to jump.
Last month, it was a much lesser crime than showing up to work drunk or hungover that got Stefanovic fired.
Instead, it was an interview on his podcast with the controversial UK figure Tommy Robinson that sparked concerns for his main employer and ended up being the last straw after months of strained relations.
That’s despite the fact that Nine had approved Stefanovic’s side-gig as podcast host, where he has interviewed a host of figures from the conservative side of politics on ‘The Karl Stefanovic Show’.
The Robinson interview, and Stefanovic’s chummy demeanour with him on the streets of London, was enough for Nine to call time on his decades-long career with the free-toair TV network.
Like with Kyle Sandilands and KIIS FM earlier this year, the network saw it as an opportunity to cut ties with someone who cost them too much money and caused the odd publicity headache.
It took the easy and you could even say weak way out.
And it is another example of mainstream or legacy Australian media losing its edge.
You can say consumer habits have changed and the glory days of television and radio are gone, and that is true, but legacy media is doing itself no favours by desperately trying to rid itself of the one advantage it has – star power.
No matter what spin ARN and KIIS put on it, breakfast radio without Kyle Sandilands will be the very definition of ‘meh’.
Boring fodder, topics that have been done a thousand times interspersed with songs and ads from advertisers all very happy that the content is ‘brand safe’, whatever that means.
Boring as batshit, but brand safe.
And what will breakfast TV be without Karl Stefanovic?
It will be less edgy. Less open to those magic, unpredictable moments Stefanovic could deliver.
In other words, less watchable.
Deeper than that, Nine will suffer without Stefanovic’s reporting from big news events and tragedies.
He was among the best in the business in those moments, able to turn off from his larrikin vibes to be the serious news man.
“The next Karl or Kyle isn’t coming any time soon. Neither Nine or KIIS will let that happen.”
In the past you could argue that the next Karl Stefanovic or Kyle Sandilands was just around the corner.
That Nine and KIIS will recover, nobody is bigger than the network.
But the next Karl or Kyle isn’t coming any time soon.
Neither Nine or KIIS will let that happen.
No longer prepared to ride out the odd controversy, scandal or complaint, legacy media will put to air bland, same-same programming and then scratch their heads when nobody is watching it.
Because the audience has been forgotten in all of this.
Atrocious television as it is, ‘Married at First Sight’ is one of the top rating television shows of the year for Nine.
In other words, Nine knows edgy and naughty works. It knows its audience craves that little bit of outside the lines content.
Just like KIIS knew the same, given Kyle Sandilands topped the ratings for years.
Nine, KIIS and other legacy media outlets are willing to go all in on a pair of twos.
They are walking away from what their audience wants, purely to please... I don’t actually know who.
Some advertiser who will likely pull their ads anyway when the ratings aren’t there?
Some activist group that networks and companies should actually stand up against rather than submit to?
Yes, the golden age of television and radio is gone.
But it’s only partly because of the audience and society changing.
A big part of it has been created by the media outlets themselves; forgetting or ignoring what their audience would actually want in a mission to please people who don’t actually watch or listen to their content.
And another thing...
I’m no apologist for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese but the furore over the whole Kylie Minogue ‘shag, marry, date’ issue is utterly ridiculous.
The fact Albanese issued an apology, or felt he had to, is bizarre to say the least.
If you’ve watched the clip from the Nikki Osborne podcast Albanese was appearing on, he was clearly uncomfortable with the question and the very notion of playing out the ‘shag, marry, date’ scenario. In fact, he tried to dodge answering.
I’m surprised there hasn’t been more criticism of Osborne for even asking the question of a sitting Prime Minister.
One could argue Albanese made his own bed here. If you want to appear ‘cool’ and you’re going to front up for these off-Broadway podcasts, you’re probably not going to get questions about foreign policy.
But the criticism of Albanese this week is unfair, and misplaced.
troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au
@troydodds
Police Snapshot Legal Matters LAW and ORDER
Penrith: Woman found with 18 stolen items
At 1.20pm on Thursday, July 2 police saw a man and woman who are known to them in Penrith. Police made checks on the woman, a 28-year-old from Erskine Park, which revealed the woman was breaching her AVO.
Police stopped and spoke with the 28-yearold before placing her under arrest. The woman was then searched during which police found numerous items of clothing with the security tags still attached in her bag. In total there were 18 items found in the bag with security tags totalling a sum of $535.
The 28-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where she was charged. She will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, July 15.
Penrith: Man driving stolen car leads police on foot chase into toilet block
At 7.30pm on Thursday, July 2 police were patrolling Henry Street in Penrith when they saw a Honda Civic travelling in the opposite direction at a high speed.
Police recorded the car’s registration and made checks which revealed the plates had been stolen.
Police did a U-turn and activated their lights and sirens to stop the car while it turned onto Doonmore Street. The driver accelerated harshly and a pursuit was initiated.
The car drove around the suburb of Penrith at a high speed before stopping briefly on Lethbridge Street where a woman got out of the car.
The car then entered Judges Car Park before exiting onto Union Lane. The car continued at speed before stopping at an alley way on Union Lane where the driver got out and ran.
Police pursued the man on foot into a nearby major shopping centre. Police lost sight of the man and security were contacted who directed police into a toilet block inside the shopping centre. Police arrived at the toilet block and the man refused to open the door.
The door was forced open, and the man was told he was under arrest.
The man then refused to be handcuffed or comply with any police direction.
The man continued to wrestle with police until he was removed from the toilet block.
Checks were then made on the man, identified as a 35-year-old from Penrith, which revealed he was a disqualified driver. Checks on the car’s VIN revealed it to have been stolen.
The man was taken to Penrith Police Station
COMPILED BY EMILY CHATE
where he was charged with six offences. The 35-year-old was bail refused.
St Marys: Man arrested after found breaching bail conditions
At 8.10pm on Friday, July 3 police were travelling on Bringelly Road in Kingswood and saw a 38-year-old St Marys man who was known to them. At the time the 38-yearold was riding a bicycle and not wearing a helmet. Police were not able to stop and speak with the man at the time.
At 9.10pm that same night police were patrolling Queen Street in St Marys when they saw the 38-year-old man again. Police stopped and spoke with the man. Checks revealed that the 38-year-old was breaching his bail conditions.
The 38-year-old was searched and found in the man’s bag was speakers, tools, jewellery, a driver’s licence in another person’s name as well as a Medicare card in a different name.
The man was charged, bail refused and will appear in Mt Druitt Local Court on Wednesday, July 15.
Emu Plains: Man’s licence suspended after being caught drink driving
At 2.35am on Saturday, July 4 police were patrolling the Great Western Highway in Emu Plains when they stopped a car for a random breath test.
The driver, a 20-year-old Valley Heights man, was submitted to a breath test which returned a positive result.
The 20-year-old was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station for a second breath analysis which returned a positive result of 0.194.
The 20-year-old’s licence was suspended, and he will appear in Penrith Local Court on Friday, August 7.
St Marys: Man found high range drink driving
At 11.10pm on Saturday, July 4 police were patrolling on Queen Street in St Marys when they pulled up behind a car that was travelling very slowly.
Police stopped the car and had a conversation with the driver, a 47-year-old St Marys man.
The 47-year-old was submitted to a breath test that returned a positive result.
The man was arrested and taken to St Marys Police Station for a secondary breath test that returned a positive reading of 0.154.
The 47-year-old’s licence was suspended, and he will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, July 23.
DISCLOSURE IN FAMILY LAW MATTERS
Disclosure in family law means giving the other party all information and documents that are relevant to the issues in dispute. In simple terms, each person must be open and honest about the matters that affect the case. This is especially important in property settlements, parenting disputes, spousal maintenance and child-related matters.
Disclosure is compulsory in family law proceedings in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. It applies in both financial/property cases and parenting cases. The duty usually starts before court proceedings begin, when parties are following the pre-action procedures, and it continues until the matter is finalised. This means disclosure is not a one-off task. If circumstances change, updated information must be provided.
In financial and property matters, each party must give full and frank disclosure of their total financial position. This includes information that helps show what they own, what they owe, what they earn, and what financial resources they may have. A person cannot simply hide assets because they are held in a company, trust, business structure or another person’s name. The duty can extend to property, income or financial resources held through corporations, trusts, companies or similar structures.
The types of financial information commonly disclosed include:
• payslips and income records;
• tax returns and notices of assessment;
• bank account statements;
• credit card and loan statements;
• mortgage documents;
• superannuation statements;
• details of shares, cryptocurrency and investments;
• details of motor vehicles, real estate and valuable personal property;
• business records, including business activity statements and financial statements;
• company and trust documents, including trust deeds and company financial records;
• details of debts, liabilities and money owed;
• details of assets sold, transferred or gifted before or after separation.
For property cases, parties may also need to exchange recent tax returns, superannuation information, business activity statements, and financial statements for any company, partnership or trust in which they have an interest. They must also disclose assets disposed of in the 12 months before separation and since separation, if those dealings may affect the property settlement
Disclosure is also compulsory in parenting cases. In these matters, the focus is not usually on money, but on information relevant to the child’s best interests and safety.
Relevant documents may include medical reports, school reports, family violence documents, criminal records, photographs, letters, diaries, and other material that helps explain the parenting issues in dispute. Failure to provide proper disclosure can have serious consequences. The Court may stop a party from relying on undisclosed documents, order costs, stay or dismiss part of a case, draw adverse conclusions, or treat serious non-disclosure as contempt of court. The best thing you can do if you are going through a relationship breakdown is get good advice early, so you know what to expect.
PENRITH FIRST TO TEST NEW BOND SYSTEM
Renters in Parramatta, the Central Coast and Penrith will be first to experience Smart Rental Bonds with a phased rollout across NSW starting in August.
Smart Rental Bonds will allow the 2.3 million renters across NSW to digitally transfer bonds between properties, eliminating the need to fork out thousands of dollars for another bond. This is expected to save renters up to $4,000 each time they move home.
Paramatta, the Central Coast and Penrith Local Government Areas have some of the state’s highest rates of daily bond lodgement,
with Smart Rental Bonds delivering crucial cost-of-living savings to renters in metropolitan and regional NSW.
“Smart Rental Bonds is the latest way the Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to make renting fairer – and Penrith is at the forefront,” said Penrith State MP Karen McKeown.
“This is a major win for renters in our community that will put hard-earned money back in their pockets.”
The system is expected to be rolled out across the state by the end of the year.
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 13 July – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting)
Monday 27 July – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting) Online via
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Communit y Funding Program Grant Opportunities
Apply now, applications close 31 July
Council Briefs
Factory Road shared path is open!
The new shared path along Factory Road, Regentville, is now open! Stretching from Mulgoa Road to Tench Reserve, it’s a great way to safely walk, run or bike ride to the Nepean River.
The project includes new lit pedestrian crossings at Factory Road and Spencer Street, upgraded road pavement and drainage, connecting pathways to surrounding streets and new trees that will provide shade as they mature.
This project was funded by the NSW Government and Council.
Find out more at
Creative Hoardings Program
Six new artworks are turning construction sites into public art galleries, transforming blank hoardings into vibrant masterpieces. These creative displays not only support our talented artists but also make our city a more inspiring and lively place for everyone.
A huge shoutout to artists Elin Anderson, Henry Li, Michael Black, Adam Hollingworth, Keorattana Luangrathrajasombat and Madeline Mason for transforming our city’s construction hoardings into vibrant works of art.
Keep your eyes peeled for bursts of art popping up around Penrith – our streets have never looked so good!
Magnetic Places Grants open for applications
Artists and cultural practitioners with creative ideas for co-authoring and magnifying residents’ stories are encouraged to apply for Magnetic Places funding. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for creative projects that bring our key neighbourhood’s residents together.
Applications close Friday 31 July 2026 at 11.59pm AEST.
Find out more about what’s eligible and apply at:
Public Notices
Penrith City Council is currently inviting nominations from the community for membership to the Heritage Advisory Committee. The Heritage Advisory Committee promotes conservation of the heritage of Penrith Local Government Area, acting in an advisory capacity to the Council on cultural heritage.
There are currently community representative positions available for a four-year term. The Committee meet approximately six times per year, with additional meetings held as required.
Please refer to Council’s website for more information on the Heritage Advisory Committee including membership criteria under: Heritage Conservation.
Nominations for membership as a community member which includes representatives of heritage groups are to be submitted to Council by Thursday 23 July 2026. Submissions along with any supporting documentation can be lodged by email via
Please contact
Development Services on 4732 7991.
Local Government Act 1993
Under Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to grant a lease as detailed below.
Nepean Naval and Maritime Museum Incorporated Naval Museum (Lot 8 DP 583415) 42 Bruce Neale Drive, Penrith
Five years
All affected parties are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal. Submissions must be received in writing addressed to the General Manager, Penrith City Council to PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751 or , within 28 days of the date of this notice.
Please contact Ruma McCracken on 4732 7777 or
RIVER PLAN REVEALED
More than a dozen projects on Council’s Nepean River wish list for next 20 years
Penrith City Council’s two-decade vision for the Nepean River Corridor will be placed on public exhibition to receive community feedback.
The Draft Our River Plan 20262046 outlines Council’s vision to activate and enhance the river precinct over the next 20 years following on from Council’s Our River Master Plan 2013, heralded by then Councillor Mark Davies.
“Over the past decade, delivery of the Our River Master Plan 2013 has enabled significant progress and investment in and around the river,” the Council report said.
“More than $459 million of public investment and improvement in Penrith has been possible with support from the Australian and NSW Governments, together with significant private investment valued at around $1 billion. Included in this, Council has welcomed an estimated $50 million of investment in dining options alone, which have enhanced both sides of the river.”
Major achievements in the precinct to date include the Regatta Park upgrade, Yandhai Nepean
Crossing pedestrian bridge, the Police Cottage restoration, the kayak launch deck at Leonay, the Nepean Avenue Pedestrian Pathway, and a major upgrade to Tench Reserve.
The draft Our River Plan 2026-46 develops a guide to unlock potential in and around the river over the next 20 years including currently unfunded projects.
“The draft plan provides a strategic framework for Council to call for collaboration with partners
Development Application
The following Development Application has been received by Council:
• ArkExpress Design
(including government and external stakeholders), ensure objectives are aligned, and support purposeful efforts to attract investment, including through grant applications,” the Council report said.
“Council will require support from others including further public and private investment for it to be realised.”
The draft plan is intended to be a strategic guide and deliver a longterm framework for planning and decision making while prioritising
potential projects to guide investment.
It also seeks to identify and secure resources for the plan’s vision, foster collaboration, and promote the river as a cultural, recreational, tourism, and economic resource to benefit Penrith.
14 priority projects have been identified in the plan including:
– Enhanced river access in Agnes Banks and Castlereagh
– Master plan and expanded public access at Penrith Lakes
– Permanent opening for Penrith Beach
– Upgrades at Weir Reserve
– Upgrades on Jamison Road
– Connections to Peach Tree Creek
– Extension of the Great River Walk
– A pedestrian crossing at the M4
– Connections in Emu Plains
– Upgrades at Factory Road reserve
– Additional water play
– Improved public transport
– Enhanced river access in Wallacia
– Increased public access and activations at Fernhill Estate
Councillor Reece Nuttall spoke in support of the draft master plan.
“I want to acknowledge former Councillor Mark Davies whose vision helped drive the original 2013 Our River Masterplan,” he said.
“More than a decade ago Mark recognised something that is now obvious to all of us, the Nepean River is not just an environmental asset it is one of Penrith’s greatest competitive economic advantages.
“The significance of this plan is that it is deliberately not a list of projects for Council to deliver, it is a vision for what we want the river corridor to become over the coming decades.”
Demolition of existing structures and construction of 2-storey and 98-place child care centre including basement level car parking and associated site works
Contact: Alexandra Pearce on 4732 7757
Closing Date: Sunday 26 July 2026
Nominated Integrated Development
Penrith City Council have received a Development Application in respect of the subject property. The consent authority for the Development Application is Penrith City Council.
• Mirvac Homes (NSW) Pty Ltd
DA26/0484
(Lots 1–6 DP 29081, Lot 2 DP 1240361, Lot 3 DP 1240361 & Lot 5001 DP 1312559) 2183, 2265–2307 & 2337–2339 The Northern Road, Mulgoa
Torrens title subdivision into 109 residential lots, 4 rural-residential lots, 4 residue lots & public roads including road works, stormwater management works and related site works (Stage 3, Glenmore Park Stage 3)
The proposed development is Integrated Development. The development application seeks concurrent approval from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under Section 91 of the Water Management Act 2000, NSW Rural Fire Service under Section 100B of the Rural Fires Act 1997 and NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (Fisheries) under Section 201 and Section 219 of the Fisheries Management Act 1994
The development application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/datracker in the period from Monday 13 July to Sunday 9 August 2026.
Any person may, during the exhibition period, make a submission in writing to Penrith City Council in relation to the development application. Where a submission submission. The submission is to include Council’s reference number DA26/0484. For any queries relating to the proposal: Jacquleine Klincke on 4732 8391.
A draft plan for the river precinct will be put on public exhibition in the coming weeks. Photo: Melinda Jane.
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.
WEEK’S ANSWER
your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au.
utella is turning the everyday breakfast ritual into a celebration of art, unveiling a limited-edition Good Morning collection designed by local Australian artist Dave Homer. A simple pantry staple is getting a winter refresh, as Nutella leans into the growing trend of cosy at-home mornings. The brand has launched a new limited-edition Good Morning collection, featuring four illustrated jars by Australian artist Dave Homer – each capturing familiar morning scenes from across Australia and New Zealand, from sunlit coastlines to alpine landscapes. It comes as more Australians embrace slower starts during the colder months, swapping rushed breakfasts for simple,
comforting rituals at home. To tap into this shift, Nutella has also released easy breakfast recipes designed for winter mornings – including Tropical Overnight Breakfast Oats and a warm Brekkie Bread Pudding. Nutella’s limited-edition jars are now available at Coles, Woolworths, and local supermarkets nationally.
The Weekender has five Nutella prize packs to give away. For your chance to win one, send an email to competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Nutella’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your contact details. Entries close Friday, July 24 and the winners will be notified by email. Terms and conditions are available at www.westernweekender.com.au or Weekender reception.
The Peppermint Reserve signage is located along Peppermint Crescent in Kingswood. my name: Ernie my proud owner: Logan and Hunter i live in: Werrington County
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’m a mini poodle who loves food and playing with my brother, Alfie. I’m a vacuum in the kitchen and I love watching everyone cook.
Making a noise about fairness
Alocal advocacy group is fighting to have their voice heard in the airport noise battle after confirmation that overnight freight flights will be directed to western Sydney.
The Luddenham Progress Association (LPA) has slammed the decision to move overnight freight flights that currently go over Botany Bay at Sydney Airport to the curfewfree Western Sydney International Airport (WSI).
LPA President Wayne Willmington said the decision is “deeply unfair and completely unnecessary”.
“For decades, these flights have operated safely and quietly over water at Sydney Airport. There is absolutely no justification for shifting them onto western Sydney
residents, who will now be forced to absorb noise that the east has been protected from since 1995,” he said.
“This is not about safety. It’s not about efficiency. It’s simply noise dumping moving a problem from the east to the west because the government thinks western Sydney won’t fight back.”
The Sydney Airport Curfew Act 1995 permits 74 freight flights per week during curfew hours (11pm to 6am) at Sydney Airport and that these flights must operate over water to avoid noise impacts.
The Act also explained that once WSI is gazetted for night operations – set to begin on July 26 – these flights are to be shifted to the new airport.
“This is a 30-year-old rule written long before western Sydney had a major airport,” Willmington said.
“It was never intended to punish western Sydney residents. Yet that’s exactly what is happening.”
The LPA is calling on the government to keep the freight flights at Sydney Airport and to review the Act.
“Western Sydney deserves fairness, not forced noise transfers,” Willmington said.
“We will continue to fight for a sensible, community-first approach.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King acknowledged the impact the flights will have but said the government is implementing measures to reduce noise impact.
“In 1995, the Sydney Airport Curfew Act designated Western Sydney International Airport (WSI)
as the future airport to be used for night aircraft movements. Flights into and out of Sydney Airport between 11pm and 6am will end after November 2026,” a spokesperson for the Minister said.
“As a result of the Act, Western Sydney International Airport was designed to operate curfew-free international, domestic and freight services.
“Landowners in parts of Luddenham, Greendale, Silverdale, Wallacia and Kemps Creek are invited to apply for free noise treatment works, with applications open until April 2028 for residents most impacted by aircraft noise.”
The spokesperson said the Government “understands this is a big change”, and is implementing a number of measures to reduce the impact of noise on the affected community.
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President of the Luddenham Progress Association Wayne Willmington. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Penrith City Councillors have requested more information about a proposed mega battery facility in Mulgoa Valley.
The mega battery facility is proposed with the capacity of storing up to 900 megawatts and has been endorsed by the NSW Investment Delivery Authority (IDA).
The IDA’s endorsement is not an approval, the project will still need to go through full merit-based assessments and comply with relevant legislation and policies, both at the State and Commonwealth level.
The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is effectively a giant rechargeable battery designed to store electricity for the power grid. It can help reduce the risk of blackouts and provide electricity during peak demand periods.
At a recent Council meeting, a Notice of Motion was brought forth by long-term Councillor Ross Fowler asking Council officers to request information from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure on the IDA’s endorsement of the project and that a report be brought before Councillors.
Fowler requested the report consider the constraints and appropriateness of the proposed site of the
BESS including its location, its C2 Environmental Conservation and C3 Environmental Management zoning, the risk of bushfire, limited/ no access to reticulated water, and its compatibility with the cultural and natural heritage constraints of Mulgoa Valley.
Councillor John Thain said he was
concerned about the environmental effects of the BESS.
“It’s hard to get some solid information about what is actually proposed there apart from a mock up at just how big the site’s going to be,” Thain said.
“But the fact that it is in a C2 and a C3 environmental area that is right
next to a world heritage area and the size of it... concerns me greatly.
“Even though it is not a data centre, it still has its issues.”
South Ward Councillor Hollie McLean also spoke in chambers about the proposal.
“I support renewable energy, I support the renewable energy
transition, I support big batteries where they are needed because they are necessary to our transition away from a predominantly coal energy market and I think, in general, they’re a good thing,” she began.
“I do support the IDA’s aim to simplify and coordinate the planning processes for significant development, and I note this project has only been endorsed for assessment through that authority not actually endorsed to be built, however, it is a sign that it is under serious consideration.
“When we are talking about development in the Penrith LGA, I’ve spoken often in this chamber about the right development in the right place and at the right time. For me this kind of feels like the right development and the right time but I think what Councillor Fowler, Councillor Thain and I are really questioning is, is it the right place for this kind of development?
“Mulgoa Valley isn’t just empty land that we can use because it’s there, it’s convenient, and it’s next to a substation – it’s one of the most distinctive and sensitive landscapes in our city.”
Council officers will now prepare a report on the matter, which will be brought to Councillors at a future Ordinary Meeting.
Vinyl Records
Vintage Watches • Diecast Cars
• CDs • Record collections
• Digital Cameras
• Nintendo/ Playstation
• Guitars/ Microphones
• SEGA
• Vintage clothing
• FOB Watches
• Nintendo Games
• Old Tools
• Coins & Stamps
• Vintage Cameras
• Vintage and Antique Jewellery
• Old Tins
• Carpentry Tools
• Quirky Old Stuff
The site of the battery facility on Mulgoa Road. Photo: Melinda Jane.
VIENNA TO PENRITH
Milestone: First train for Western Sydney Airport Metro Line arrives from overseas
The first of 12 trains for the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport Line have arrived in Sydney, marking an important step towards first services.
The three-carriage train travelled 23,000km from Vienna and was unloaded in Port Kembla on June 29 before being trucked to Sydney Metro’s new stabling and maintenance facility at Orchard Hills, where the train was assembled.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King was excited to see the first train arrive.
“It’s great to see Metro trains arriving, which will serve western Sydney’s new international airport,” King said.
“With room for bags and flight information, these will be among the most advanced trains in the country.
“Today’s delivery gets us a step closer to connecting another Australian airport with a rail link.”
The trains will feature wide, accessible aisles through the centre
of the train, approximately 30cm wider than those on M1 Line trains to allow for easy movement for passengers travelling with luggage. There will also be room for luggage storage below seats, high resolution
displays showing real-time flight information via a direct feed from the airport, and multiple seating choices in each carriage including front and rear facing seating for groups, plus traditional sideways
seating. The trains will have designated wheelchair spaces and accessible areas, hearing loops in all carriages, and four bicycle spaces on every train.
The remaining 11 trains are due
to arrive over the coming months, with dynamic testing on the 23km, six-stop line expected to commence later this year.
The Metro will not open in line with the airport itself, with no firm date on its opening confirmed at this stage.
NSW Minister for Transport John Graham said the trains will be the most technologically advanced in the world.
“Western Sydney is getting the most technologically advanced driverless trains in the world to service the new international airport and that growing part of the city,” Graham said.
“We are excited to see the first train unloading at the docks.
“These trains will be unique to the Western Sydney Airport Metro line, providing wider aisles for travellers with luggage, digital screens showing real-time flight information and all modern accessibility features.
“Platforms and gates at the new airport station will be wider to make it a first-class experience when services begin.”
The journey time from St Marys Metro Station to Airport Terminal Station will be around 15 minutes.
The first of the 12 new metro trains for the new Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line has been unloaded from a cargo ship at Port Kembla.
Dry July with a twist: Let the man drink!
This month, Penrith local Braiden Williamson will be raising his glass for the loved ones he’s lost to cancer.
This is Williamson’s fifth year fundraising for cancer support through Dry July, but he’s added a twist in honour of his mate, Dayton.
“When he was going through chemo trying to battle cancer, every time he would come out on the better end of it, we would have a party – and every time we partied with him, it meant we were staying up until 5am,” Williamson said.
“His form of cancer was bloody aggressive, so credit to him for partying and carrying on with us the whole time. Towards the end when we thought we were going to lose him – and when we did lose him – my mum suggested I do Dry July.
“Then I said, ‘Hold on, why would I stop drinking for him? I’ll drink for him instead.’”
And that was how Bender July was born. To participate, people can donate to Williamson’s Dry July page and request a specific drink and a time for him to consume it, and he will then film himself completing the request.
For example, one donator requested Williamson drink a midi of Alize Bleu during the State of Origin decider while chanting ‘Go the Blues’.
“I’m a chatterbox – I’ve been a chatterbox since kindergarten; you can’t shut me up half the time. I try and keep the video short and sweet, but on July 1 I do a longer video to explain to new people watching what I do and why I do it,” Williamson explained.
Since starting Bender July, the local also lost his mother-in-law Sam.
“We lost her in May this year to another very aggressive form of cancer,” he said.
“Even though she was alive last year, I started shouting her out in all those videos as well. This year onwards, everything that I do will be for Dayton and Sam.”
Over the past four years, Williamson has raised over $11,000.
“When I started this, I didn’t really have a fundraising goal, I just wanted to do something to celebrate the life of my mate that passed, and now for my mother-in-law as
well,” he said.
“It’s good that the funds go to Dry July, but for me it’s more of a celebration.”
Adding to the celebration is a bottle of Sour Monkey – a randomly selected drink that was brought along to a party before Dayton passed away.
“It wasn’t his birthday, but for some reason we started saying ‘Happy Birthday’ after every swig. It became the centrepiece of all our parties from that point on,” Williamson reminisced.
“When I started doing Bender July, after I finish the requests, I’ll then say thanks for the request, give a shoutout to my mate, wish him Happy Birthday, and end the video after taking a swig of Sour Monkey.”
You can donate to Braiden Williamson’s Bender July online at https://www.dryjuly. com/users/braiden-williamson and you can find the drink request videos on his personal Facebook page.
Cheers to Dayton and Sam!
Smoother path to government jobs
After seeing too many capable applicants miss out on Government jobs, a Penrith local has founded a new service to simplify the process.
Team 3Thirty was founded by Sam Peake, a former government hiring manager, recruiter and NSW public sector leader who has reviewed thousands of applications through shortlisting, interviews, hiring panels, and bulk recruitment campaigns.
Peake says the new service is designed for everyday applicants who want to start or build a career in NSW Government but find the process confusing.
“Early in my career, I found government applications hard even though I was already inside government,” Peake explained.
“I had a better idea than most people of how the process worked because I had already applied successfully, but it was
still nerve-wracking. You are dealing with capability frameworks, targeted questions, selection criteria and pages of responses.
“It can feel like you are being asked to write about everything but the job itself.”
Team 3Thirty helps non-executive applicants across the full NSW Government recruitment journey, including finding suitable roles, writing applications, developing capability aligned examples, maintaining CVS, preparing for interviews and building relationships in government over time.
Peake said western Sydney applicants are often strong candidates for government roles, but the process can filter people out before their skills are properly considered.
“A lot of great candidates are not missing out because they cannot do the job,” Peake said.
“They are missing out because their documents are not put together in the way government panels expect, or their examples do not show the level of depth the panel is
looking for. This is the part I want to make clearer. If we can make the process easier, the competition improves, government gets better candidates, and the public gets better outcomes.”
Team 3Thirty is currently focused on NSW Government roles across administration, project support, customer service, compliance, policy, operations, emergency services, health support, justice, transport, and other non-executive public sector pathways.
Peake said Penrith and western Sydney are full of people with transferable skills who could build strong public sector careers if the process was easier to navigate.
“Government recruitment should not feel like a private language,” he said.
“Team 3Thirty exists to translate the process so capable applicants get a fair shot.”
For more information or to reach out for assistance in applying for government jobs, visit https://team3thirty.com.
Braiden has put his own twist on Dry July. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Braiden’s mother-in-law Sam.
Dayton and Braiden.
ALLY HALL
Team 3Thirty Founder Sam Peake.
Baking a recipe for success
Our Choice Disability Services and Bakery Brothers have partnered to deliver the Bake and Grow Program – a six-week initiative for people with disabilities to learn baking and hospitality skills.
The program culminates in a community day where participants use their new skills to serve customers at Bakery Brothers within The Orchard.
“Over the last six weeks, we’ve been working on making pastries and developing independent living skills,” said Our Choice Disability Services Founder, Aden Perry.
“The participants are working on how to interact and be sociable with people in the community; they’re working behind the till, making coffees and playing games.”
Perry has noticed a difference in participants over the six weeks.
“They’re more comfortable, especially coming into restaurants and cafes. They want to get involved and they want to talk to people,” he said.
“I think this has really benefitted them socially and we’ve seen real progression when
we can see what they can do, and to have someone that believes in them and lets them showcase what they can do is great.”
Teaching participants baking and hospitality skills is Rama Pattison, the co-owner of Bakery Brothers.
“The whole thing was about having fun. We took it step-by-step making coffees and pastries, and there wasn’t a single day where they didn’t throw themselves into it,” Pattison said.
“Sometimes they were a bit nervous to try something new, but they always gave it a crack. Seeing how happy they were when they came through every week was amazing.”
The pastry chef told the Weekender that he never anticipated he would teach people with disabilities.
“I never thought I’d being doing anything like this, but I’m so happy I am. It’s such a good thing for the Penrith community,” he said.
“It’s also important right now while there are people abusing the NDIS system and there are bad companies out there; it’s awesome to see companies like Our Choice doing good things.”
As Penrith locals gathered at Bakery Brothers last weekend for the Bake and Grow Program’s second community day, Perry said it was a rewarding moment for participants and their families.
“I’m really proud of the Penrith community for getting behind them and supporting them,” Perry said.
“I think we’ve had 100 people come down over the last two community days and interact with participants and help create memories.”
Our Choice Disability Services and Bakery Brothers plan to continue the Bake and Grow Program for as long as participants enjoy it.
ALLY HALL
Aden Perry and Rama Pattison.
HSC success a sign of new era at Kingswood
Last year’s HSC results were a triumph for Kingswood High School.
The local school had a record result as one of the most improved HSC schools in 2025 for the Sydney metropolitan area.
“This is public education at its best: lifting outcomes and delivering on the promise of opportunity for every child in every community,” said NSW Department of Education Secretary, Murat Dizdar.
“These schools are proof that great teaching changes lives.”
The Weekender reunited five of last year’s top achieving students to find out what they are doing now, including Stacey Buckley who is studying a Bachelor of Science majoring in Zoology.
“The teachers here pushed me to be my best. That really helped me – especially in science classrooms,” she said.
“I really connected to the teachers and I think that helped me discover the direction I wanted to go.”
me in awe of what I can do, how I can contribute, and what I want to do with my life going forward after high school.”
“My goal is to be a civil engineer. After I complete my degree, I’d like to get experience in the workplace, help deliver projects, and use all my knowledge from high school and uni to help contribute to society.”
Also hoping to make a difference in the world is fellow former Prefect Bella-Rai Hall.
“Social work is something I’ve had in mind because there are so many different paths,” Hall said.
said Vernon, who is now studying a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Secondary Education.
“There was a lot of stigmas about public schools, and parents would wonder if sending their kid to public school was the right choice academically.
“My parents ultimately decided to send me to Kingswood, and they continue to say that was the best choice they have made for me. Kingswood has always had the resources and the passion to really put time and effort into every one of their students.”
Buckley was a Prefect at Kingswood High and came third in the state for VET Entertainment.
“We’re a direct reflection of what Kingswood High School is capable of. This is such an incredible school, and the result really reflects that,” she said about the HSC outcome.
“My teachers really drove my passion for STEM subjects like science, technology and engineering,” he said.
“They inspired me – especially my science teachers – with their understanding of how things work. It put
Another student who enjoyed science was former Prefect Bray Coghlan.
Handcrafted Gifts That Leave a L asting Impression.
Baked Flores Box c reates beautiful floral cupc ake bouquets for EOFY gifting, client appreciation, events, weddings and special occ asions.
“Throughout my degree, I can do my work placement and look at different fields like case working, a mental health support worker, and disability support. I’m just going to see where I go. I want to help and give back.”
Leah Vernon, who was Vice Captain last year, said her cohort is a testament to public education.
“In Year 6, my parents were struggling to decide whether to put me in private education or public,”
Mayor’s News
The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor
Celebrating and strengthening First Nations connections
Penrith City Council is excited to bring thousands of people together this week for our popular NAIDOC event, celebrating the history, cultural richness and achievements of the City’s First Nations communities.
Last year’s School Captain Chet White – who is now studying dietetics – was not surprised by the HSC result.
“Our cohort, and the school in general, had the potential to begin with,” he said.
“But it was great to see so many of us succeed in every area of the school.
“It shows what public schools are capable of, and it shows how great the teachers and the leadership at the school is.”
We are celebrating this year’s theme, ‘50 years of Deadly’, which marks five decades of NAIDOC Week, reflecting Australia’s shared commitment to honouring culture, history and reconciliation.
Trusted by leading Sydney businesses and hotels, they also offer beginner-friendly workshops and bulk pricing for businesses and events across Sydney s, s d Limited bookings available!
On July 10, Jamison Park will come alive as we partner with local organisations to deliver cultural performances, talks and workshops, market stalls, a free community BBQ, and activities. There will also be free access to health services to support the wellbeing of residents and visitors. Learn more at www.penrith.city/naidoc.
Council is passionate about cultural diversity as it unites our growing community. The mix of cultures in our City today begins with more than 60,000 years of First Nations cultural heritage and we acknowledge the richness this brings to Penrith.
Council is strengthening First Nations connections through various initiatives, and I am pleased to share that Council recently endorsed our Draft Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for exhibition.
Developed to guide our reconciliation efforts, Council’s Draft RAP has been informed by years of listening and strong engagement with First Nations people and services. It will help us build and extend our relationships, increase cultural awareness in our organisation to better inform decision-making, and provide more meaningful opportunities across our City. I encourage you to read and provide feedback on this important plan, which is now on public exhibition and available at yoursaypenrith.com.au.
Council continues to deliver our Caring for Country program in partnership with Darug and Gundungarra Traditional owners and local First Nations services, with support from the NSW Government and the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils.
Through this program, we have engaged local students out of the classroom, providing meaningful experiences on Country and strengthening cultural connections to people and place.
We also continue to provide access to services through the Muru Murak Interagency and at our regular Village Café sessions. Learn more at www.penrith.city/ villagecafe.
CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith
Stacey Buckley, Leah Vernon, Chet White, Bray Coghlan, and Bella-Rai Hall.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
ALLY HALL
This photo from 1999 was taken at Penrith, as a special initiative called Active Australia Day was launched.
The initiative was promoted by the Australian Sports Commission to encourage physical activity and community recreation.
Rob de Castella, Jackie Kelly and Evonne GoolagongCawley are pictured at the launch on July 7, 1999 –promoting Active Australia Day in October.
(Photo thanks to AAP)
Δ New restaurant: There’s a new entrant on the Penrith dining scene, with Gill’s Bar & Grill (pictured above) opening last week. The new restaurant on Woodriff Street replaces Griddle, which recently closed permanently. Gill’s offers an extensive menu featuring steaks, ribs, burgers, pastas, salads and desserts. The restaurant is open for dinner Wednesday through to Sunday, and for lunch Friday through to Sunday.
Δ Menu shake-up: Exciting new menus have landed across three of our local area’s favourite cafe destinations: Laughin’ Boy in Emu Plains, 2773 Cafe Glenbrook and Conservation Hut Cafe in Wentworth Falls. With brand new dishes (pictured above) like the French Toast Croissant, Californian Omelette, Fish Tacos and Korean Chicken Sandwich there is sure to be something to tantalise every taste bud! There’s never been a better time to visit.
team by releasing three limited-edition collectible coins (pictured top right). From July 15 Woolworths customers paying in cash will be able to collect the exclusive $2 coins in their change. New coin designs will be landing in cash tills each week across a threeweek period. The coins focus on gymnastics, wheelchair basketball and athletics.
Δ Sub me! Popular Penrith cafe Percy Plunkett has launched a new meatball sub as part of its winter menu refresh. There’s also a new Greek salad and a range of new drinks.
Δ Chicken tonight: Red Rooster is helping ease the cost-of-living crisis, offering its Whole Roast Chicken for $10 every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday until August 18.
Δ Bakery change: After more than a quarter of a century in charge, the current owners of Mulgoa Bakery have called it a day and hung up their aprons. New owners have taken over, and some of the previous staff are staying on board. We wish Mark and Lisa all the best for their next chapter.
Δ
version and a twin pack. It’s available in stores now.
Δ Going for gold: Woolworths and the Royal Australian Mint are celebrating the 2026 Australian Commonwealth Games
Australian Poetry Slam
Thursday 23 July | 6.30pm
Δ Got some Source? Email news@westernweekender.com.au with your submissions. We want to hear about new products, store openings, menu shake-ups and more!
Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre
Penrith City Library is proud to partner with Australian Poetry Slam and Word Travels to present the Penrith APS Heat. Be part of the national search for the People’s Poet as local poets take the mic for two electrifying minutes, competing for a place in the Sydney Final at Australian Poetry Slam 2026. Just words, a mic, and fearless honesty—who will rise?
Hosted by Defne, Creative Director and host of West Side Poetry Slam, Parramatta.
Flavour boost: The ever-popular Mars Bar has been given a shake-up with a Raspberry Smash version released. There’s a full size
PENRITH CITY LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS
The Penrith City Local Business Awards presentation evening is right around the corner and tickets for this year’s event are selling fast.
This annual event, to be held at Western Sydney Conference Centre on Wednesday, July 15, is the night of nights for businesses.
Awards Founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe, said the presentation evening grants an opportunity for local businesses to come together and celebrate each other’s achievements, as the winners of each category are announced live.
“It’s a glamorous occasion that gives finalists a chance to dress up and enjoy an evening out with local entertainment, spectacular food, and networking with colleagues and other businesspeople from the Penrith City area,” he said.
“Of course, the highlight of the evening is the presentation of the award winners in each category.
“It’s heart-warming to hear the authentic cheers from the crowd as everyone celebrates the achievements of all the
businesses in the room.”
The Penrith City Local Business Awards is made possible only through the generous support of Presenting Partner Commonwealth Bank; Major Partners NOVA Employment and Western Sydney Conference Centre; and Support Partners: Southlands Shopping Centre, Penrith Homemaker Centre, Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Bx Networking. The Western Weekender is the event’s media partner.
Loe would like to congratulate all the finalists on their achievements and thank the Penrith City community for the huge support that they continue to show for their local businesses through the Awards every year.
“Without them, these outstanding businesses wouldn’t receive the recognition they deserve,” he said.
Presentation Evening tickets are strictly limited and can be purchased by calling Precedent Productions on 8363 3333.
For more information, visit www. thebusinessawards.com.au.
Winners announced on Wednesday 15th July at Western Sydney Conference Centre Congratulations to all the Finalists in the Penrith City Local Business Awards!
Nepean Regional Security’s Gina Field at last year’s event.
Liam Higgins from Pixite accepts an award last year.
Antiques, Art, Crafts & Gifts
Chateau de Poterie
DIY CRAFTS
Happyfunplasterpaint
Heirloom Body Care
Hello Lovely! Workshops
L&R Creations
Twinkle Toes Baby Hands and Feet SculptureBlue Mountains and Penrith
Automotive Services
Angus Car Service
BYD Penrith
Dent Ezy Fix
Eddie’s Workshop (ZIC Service Centre Pty Ltd)
Lamby’s Mechanical
Penrith City Tyres & Automotive
Penrith EFI Specialists & Mechanical Repairs
Truracks Western Towbars and BullbarsIronman 4x4 Penrith
Ultra Tune - Penrith
Walkers Automotive
Western Sydney Mobile Mechanics
Bakery/Cake Business
Bakery Brothers
Crotty’s Bakery
CUSTOM EDIBLE PRINTS
Huong Bakery
Mrs C’s Cupcakes
Nishee Cakes
Paris Diana Cakes
Poles Patisserie - Nepean Village
Spot On Cakes
Beauty Services
Beauty Begins With You
Beauty Room Penrith
beautygirl & co
Blush Beauty Spa
C.A Cosmetic Studio
Fempire Beauty and Hair
Lash Cloud Studio
Melissa Peters Beauty - Medi Spa, Beauty & Laser Clinic
Michal Gabriel Beauty and Brow
Pearl Spa (Pearl Nails)
PENRITH
Cafe At Lewers
Fibonacci Co ee - Southlands Shopping Centre
High St Depot
Parx Co ee House Cranebrook
Percy Plunkett - Nepean Village
Settlers Mulgoa
The Heritage Terrace Cafe - Westfield Penrith
The T-Spoon Cafe - Kingswood
The T-Spoon Cafe - Penrith
Two Sisters Deli
XS Espresso Jordan Springs
Dental Services
Avira Dental
Bella Dental Penrith
Bright Dental Group - Glenmore Park
Emu Plains Family Dental
Smile Dental Team
Smith Street Dental Surgery
Wallacia Dental
Disability Support Services
Ability Hub Services
Abstract Supports
Buddied Up
Collaborative Disability Care
Eloma Care Penrith Day Program
Empower U Today
Holistic Care Aus
Mumma’s Move and Fitness
Our Choice Disability Services
Sunhubs Care Services
Early Childhood Centre
All 4 Kids Kindergarten
Empower Early Learning Group
Little Zak’s Academy - Cambridge Park
Little Zak’s Academy - Erskine Park
Little Zak’s Academy - Penrith
Little Zak’s Academy - South Penrith
Meek’s Preschool & ELC
The Learning Jungle
Education Service
Dive In Swimming Academy
EduFlare
Top Juice - Westfield Penrith
Fitness Services
24-7 Fitness Penrith (Westfield)
Anytime Fitness - Jordan Springs
Anytime Fitness - Lennox Village
Anytime Fitness - Werrington County
Atmosphere Health & Fitness
Crawl Fit
Cruz Fitness
SILK Laser Clinics Penrith
Thread In Shape
Butcher/Delicatessen
Chop Butchery - Penrith
Fat Boys Quality Cuts
Gourmet Meat Company
K & A Quality Meats - Southlands Shopping Centre
KIEREN & CO QUALITY MEATS
Sutcli e Meats - Nepean Village
Cafe
H & I Safety and Training
Unity Studios
Fast Food/Takeaway
Cold Rock Ice Creamery Penrith
El Jannah - Penrith
Kiki’s Pizza and Kebabs
Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Sav’s Pizza Pasta & Ribs Southlands
Southlands Takeaway - Southlands Shopping Centre
Subway - Southlands Shopping Centre
The Costi’s - Fresh & Cooked - Nepean Village
F45 Training Glenmore Park
GKR Karate Penrith
OM Yoga
Omnis Academy
The Y NSW Penrith
Florist
Beautiful Blooms Floral Boutique
Burford’s Blooms
Kingswood Florist
Petals n Blooms
The Flower Pursuit
West Flowers - Southlands Shopping Centre
Your Floral Indulgence
Hairdresser
Blitz Hairdressing
Cut and Colour Co
Glam N Glow
Hair By Laurente
Hair By Sarah
Hairline - Mulgoa Shopping Centre
High On Hair
Imperial Hair Studio
Insignia Hair & Day Spa
Itz All About Hair Westfield Penrith
MANE by Rebecca Jayne
Midges The Salon
MP Hair Studio
Health Improvement Services
AJ Chiropractic & Health Clinic
Associated Psychology Practice
Connect Hearing Penrith
Elements Float Wellness Centre - Penrith
Everybody Physiotherapy Penrith
Exact Hearing Services
JB Physiotherapy
MPower Physical Therapy
Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre
SummitCare - Penrith
The Healthy Body Company
Unbound Minds Psychology
Western Sydney Physiotherapy and Allied Health
Home Based Business
BeMakin’ Events
Box Divvy Emu Plains - Short Street
LB A FINALISTS 2026
De.Dazzlingkreations
National Locksmiths
Pawz and Relax Pet Spa
Pixel & Palette Marketing
TAG Proactive Marketing
The Pupwash
Home Furniture & Furnishings
Deco Rug - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Fantastic Furniture - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Forty Winks - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Harvey Norman - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Harvey Norman Lighting
OZ Design Furniture - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Prestige Floor
Provincial Home Living - Penrith Homemaker Centre
New & Used Motor Vehicles
Great Western Honda
Great Western Kia
Penrith Mazda Centre
Penrith Toyota
New Business
Balanced Bliss Therapeutic Massage
Courtney Dobusch Aesthetics
DriveHer Transport
Einstein Kidz Abacus Jordan Springs
Full Scope Finance
Gold Snapper Glenmore Park
Holistic Coordination
Kissed by Co ee
LTV Cleaning
NeuroSpicy
Performing Arts
Abirami Natya Shestra
Alina W Music
All Star Dance and Entertainment Studios
Future Stars Media
PAWS Studio
Penrith Physical Culture Club
Sally K Dance
Pet Care
Animal Wellness and Behaviour
Dandy Dog Training
Family Pets
Direct Chemist Outlet Kingswood Compounding
Grose’s Pharmacy
Priceline Pharmacy - Penrith South
Super Save Compounding Chemist Emu Heights
TerryWhite Chemmart - Caddens Corner
Professional Services
A ordable Mortgage Solutions
Astute Seager Enterprises
Beneficial Brokers
DreamStone HR
Great Southern Bank
Hive Media Group
Local Are Marketing
Local Edge Marketing
Pixite
Q Agency
Sara Louise Photography
The Finance Korner
VRS Realinvest
Westside Conveyancing
Real Estate Agency
Dukes Estate Agents
LJ Hooker Penrith
Morton Real Estate - Penrith
Ovi Property Buyers & Consulting Agents
PRD Nationwide - Penrith
Real Homes Realty
Remax Lifestyle Marketing - Penrith
Southlands Estate Agents - Southlands Shopping Centre Restaurant
Cooks Castle
Emu Hall
Fratelli Pizzeria & Cafe Penrith
Happy Inn Chinese Restaurant
Himalaya Pakistani & Indian Restaurant Penrith
Leonay Golf Club
Maldini’s By The River
Mr Watkins
Mulgoa Thai Restaurant
Osso Steak and Ribs - Penrith Panthers
Pietro Italian Restaurant
Product Of Italy Penrith
Mirila Electrical group
Phoenix Studios Window Tinting Penrith
Proficient Air
Stevo’s Plumbing Services
Sydney Poolscapes
Sydney Prestige Metal Roofing
The Best In The West Lawn Care
Sole Operator
Adam Egan
Blades & Blooms Lawn Care
Blissful Babies
Clare’s Captured Moments
Crazy Digital Creative
GForce Demolition
Jess Pet Care Services
Mark’s Handy Home Services
MrFone Repairs
Nalani HQ
The Colour Blue Hairdressing
The Woodland Fairy
Specialised Business
A and D In Home Care
ADVS Sydney
Balloons by Kate & Ross
Ivory Stone Collective
Jack Ham Imagery
NU Nursing Agency
Party Paradise
Patios Wholesale
Schools Industry Partnership
Lil’ Rascals Pet Services
Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital
Peachie Perfect grooming
Pooch Pawfection Nepean
Sam’s Pampered Pooches
The Paw Behaviour Project
Pharmacy
Cambridge Park Pharmacy
Chemist Warehouse - Penrith Homemaker Centre
Cincotta Discount Chemist - Penrith
Sushidake Service and Trade
A Bonnie Braw Clean
Better Built Homes
Black Buck Plumbing & Gas
Brilliant Coatings Painting & Decorating
Diamond Building Group
Dream Flooring Penrith
Harkai&Co Plumbing and Excavations
Just Power Group
KDLR Group
Lollipops Playground & Cafe Penrith
Specialised Retail Business
ABCOE Food + Clearance Outlet - Penrith
Costi’s Fresh Seafood Nepean Village
CTC Erskine Park
For Keeps
Koala Mowers
Legacy medals
Mobile Phone Hospital
Out West Country
Sari Palace
Think Water Western Water Systems
Tourism & Experiences
Castlereagh Conference Centre
Flight Centre Penrith Plaza
Helloworld Travel - Penrith
I Love Cruising With Amanda
Narrow Escape Rooms
Rig A Shuttle
Scram Escape Rooms x Prison Island
The Cruise & Travel Store
Zone Bowling Penrith
CHA TEA U DE PO TERIE
2026 FINALIST
ANTIQUES , ART, CRAFT & GIFTS
I am extr emely honour ed t o hav e been named a Finalist in the P enrith City L ocal Business Aw ar ds I am gr at eful t o e ve ry one who vo t ed f or me and suppor t ed m y journe y. Meeting so man y w onderful people thr ough t eaching has been a privilege, and having m y har d w ork r ecognised in this w ay is both h umbling and r ewar ding F or y ears I dr eamed of having m y o wn studio and aft er being made r edundant fr om m y corpor at e job I t ook the leap and st ar t ed m y o wn business – the best decision I’ v e ev er made. Being able t o shar e m y passion f or pott er y is incr edibly r ewar ding, especially helping students build conf idence and cr eativity thr ough the jo y of pott er y.
My studio cat ers f or gr oups of up t o six people, with mobile classes av ailable f or lar ger gr oups of up t o f ift een. W ith 17 courses on of fe r, ther e is something f or e ve ry one, fr om complet e beginners t o those w anting t o fur ther dev elop their skills
A: 14 EMERALD STREET, EMU PLAINS
P: 0468 991 172
W: CHA
ANTIQUES , ART CRAFTS & GIFTS
T OMO TIVE
At Eddie’s W orkshop w e pride ourselv es in pr o viding quality ser vice t o our cust omers W e ar e extr emely thankful that w e hav e been nominat ed as a f inalist in this y ear’s L ocal Business Aw ar ds and w ould lik e t o sho w
GOURMET MEA T COMPANY
2026 FINALIST B UTCHER/DELI CA TESSEN
We ’r e honour ed t o announce that Gourmet Meat Compan y has been named a f inalist in this y ear’s L ocal Business Aw ar ds!
Nestled in Em u Heights since 1996, w e pride ourselv es on deliv ering pr emium gr ass-f ed meats meal kits fr esh pr oduce and mor e – av ailable in-st or e or deliv er ed locally with car e.
Our experienced t eam, back ed b y m ultiple past “Best Butcher” aw ar ds also supplies caf és r est aur ants pubs and clubs acr oss W est ern Sydne y.
Fr om w eekly specials t o comm unity sponsorships lik e junior rugb y and soccer it’s a privilege t o be r ecognised among the best – and t o contin ue ser ving our cust omers with quality and passion.
A: 116 OLD B ATHURST RO AD , EMU HEIGHTS
P: 4735 1400 | W: GOURMETMEATCOMPANY.COM.A
2026 FINALIST UTCHER/ DELI CA TESSEN
e incr edibly pr oud and h umbled o be nominat ed f or the L ocal Business
amily-run Butcher shop , this ecognition means the w orld t o us e built our r eput ation on tr aditional butchering t echniques t op- quality ed beef and good old-f ashioned omer ser vice.
Being ackno wledged b y our comm unity is uge honour – it r eminds us wh y w e l ove e do
om the early mornings t o the friendly chats at the count er, it’s all w or th it. ou t o our l oy al cust omers f or y our ongoing suppor t.
A: SHOP 19, 2 BIRMINGHAM RD SOUTH PENRITH P: 4732 4474 | W: KA QU ALITYMEATS .COM. AU
THE HERI TAG E TERRA CE C AFE
2026 FINALIST
C AFÉ
T he Herit age Terr ace Caf é is pr oud t o be one of the original r est aur ants in P enrith, holding it’s spot and ser ving the best f ood and be ve r ages f or 30 y ears
W e ar e appr eciativ e t o the comm unity f or their l oy alty thr oughout di ff icult y ears , and ar e gr at eful w e ar e still her e t o pr o vide the best t o the best!
Ali and his cr e w ar e av ailable t o y ou 7 days a w eek. Br eakf ast and lunch e ve r y day with dinner on Thursdays until 9pm. Come in and t ast e some of the best f ood P enrith has t o of fe r.
A: 585 HIGH STREET, PENRITH (INSIDE WESTFIELD)
P: 02 4721 8142 | W: THEHERIT A GETERRA CE.COM.A U
PARX COFFEE HOUSE
2026 FINALIST
C AFÉ
Being nominat ed f or the L ocal Business Aw ar ds again is something w e’r e incr edibly gr at eful f or It’s a r ef lection of the amazing suppor t fr om our l oy al cust omers and the comm unity that contin ues t o back us We ’r e pr oud t o be r ecognised alongside so man y outst anding local businesses that contribut e so m uch t o our comm unity
No matt er the outcome, w e’r e thankful f or the oppor tunity and truly appr eciat e e ve ry one who has suppor t ed us and P arx thr oughout this journe y.
A: 13 RENSHA W ST, CRANEBROOK
W: PARX COFFEEHOUSE.COM.A U
IG: PARX COFFEE HOUSE
SMITH STREET DENT AL
2026 FINALIST
DENT AL SER VICES
Smith Str eet Dent al is a f amily-f ocused dent al actice in South P enrith, dedicat ed t o viding gentle, honest and high-quality al car e t o our local comm unity Our t eam is passionat e about helping patients f eel or t able, inf ormed and conf ident at e ve ry fr om r outine check-ups t o mor e complex al tr eatments
e ar e truly honour ed t o be nominat ed as a f inalist.
It means a lot t o be r ecognised among local businesses and w e ar e gr at eful t o our patients t eam and comm unity f or their ongoing suppor t.
A: 180 SMITH STREET, SOUTH PENRITH
P: 4732 1244 | W: SMITHSTREETDENTAL.COM.A U
AVIRA DENT AL
2026 FINALIST
DENT AL SER VICES
We ’r e incr edibly honor ed t o be nominat ed within 9 months of opening! T his r ecognition r ef lects the trust of our patients , the dedication of our t eam, and the passion that driv es e ve r ything w e do Being consider ed alongside so man y outst anding businesses is both h umbling and inspiring
At the hear t of our success is a commitment t o deliv ering exceptional patient car e, building meaningful r elationships , and contin ually striving f or excellence . T his nomination is not only a celebr ation of what w e’ v e achiev ed so f ar, but also motiv ation t o k eep inn ov ating and exceeding expect ations .
W e ar e gr at eful t o e ve ry one who has suppor t ed our journey— our patients , par tners , and our t eam members . T heir conf idence and encour agement mak e achiev ements lik e this possible. W e’re pr oud of this milest one and excit ed f or what the futur e holds as w e contin ue t o gr o w and mak e a positiv e impact in P enrith. A: 2/54 HENR Y STREET, PENRITH
B UDDIED UP
2026 FINALIST DISABILITY SUPPORT SER VICES
Buddied Up w as f ounded with a simple vision - t o cr eat e a disability suppor t ser vice wher e people gen uinely f eel v alued, emp owe r ed, and connect ed. W e pride ourselv es on deliv ering high-quality person-centr ed suppor ts that help par ticipants achiev e their goals while building conf idence, independence, and meaningful r elationships within the comm unity
Our t eam is passionat e about going ab ov e and bey ond, cr eating experiences that enrich liv es and mak e a lasting impact on the people and f amilies w e suppor t. Being nominat ed f or a L ocal Business Aw ar d is an incr edible honour As a locally o wned and oper at ed business this r ecognition means so m uch because it comes fr om the comm unity w e pr oudly ser ve It r ef lects the dedication of our amazing t eam, the trust of our par ticipants and their f amilies and our commitment t o making a positiv e dif fe r ence e ve r y day W e ar e truly gr at eful f or the nomination and r emain committ ed t o deliv ering compassionat e, inn ov ativ e, and exceptional suppor t thr oughout our comm unity
P: 0422907585 | W: B UDDIEDUP.COM
SOCIALS: B UDDIEDUP
2026 FINALIST
EMPO WER U TO DAY
OUTST ANDING DISABILITY SUPPORT SER VICES
Empo we r ing P eople Suppor ting Rec ove ry
Cr eating P ositiv e Change
Being named a f inalist in the 2026 L ocal Business Aw ar ds f or the second consecutiv e y ear is a pr oud and h umbling achiev ement f or Emp ow er U Today
F ounded b y Mar y Bugeja, Emp ow er U Today pr o vides
Psychosocial Rec ove r y Coaching, Suppor t Coor dination and personalised suppor t f or people living with ment al health challenges psychosocial disabilities and complex lif e cir cumst ances
W ith ov er 13 y ears of experience acr oss the ment al health, disability and comm unity sect ors Emp ow er U Today is built on compassion, adv ocac y, liv ed experience and a gen uine commitment t o helping people achiev e meaningful outcomes
T his r ecognition r ef lects the trust and suppor t of par ticipants , f amilies car ers and the local comm unity W e ar e gr at eful t o ever y one who has been par t of our journe y
A: SER VICING PENRITH, BLUE MOUNTAINS , H A WKESB UR Y & GREATER NEPEAN
P: 0400 033 759 | W: EMPO WERUT OD AY.COM.A U
LB A 2026
2026 FINALIST
FITNESS SER VICES
Omnis Academ y is a high-perf ormance f acility cat ering t o athlet es and individuals of all ages , abilities and spor ting backgr ounds W e pride ourselv es on our div ersity and commitment t o helping y oung athlet es pursue excellence while cr eating a saf e and suppor tiv e en vir onment f or e ve ry one.
F ounded b y Zachar y Ry an, curr ent Head of F emale
P erf ormance at the P enrith P anthers Omnis Academ y combines high-perf ormance coaching with a gen uine passion f or dev eloping the next gener ation. Mor e than ph ysical perf ormance, w e f ocus on building conf idence, r esilience and char act er cr eating a place wher e e ve ry one has the oppor tunity t o gr ow belong and thriv e.
A: 3/19 HICKEY S RO AD , PENRITH
P: 0452 413 138 | IG: OMNIS AC ADEMY
W: OMNISA C ADEMY.COM.A U
OMNIS AC ADEMY
2026 FINALIST
EDU CA TION
SER VICE
Since 2014 H&I Saf ety & Tr aining has been the leading pr o vider of W orkplace Health and Saf ety Tr aining f or Tier 1-5 w ork ers acr oss civil, construction, building maint enance, f acilities , and asset management industries
W e maint ain a highly experienced and fully accr edit ed t eam of industr y tr ainers ser vicing NSW QLD, VIC , and the AC T. H&I specialises in Civil Construction ear thmo ving High Risk , T r anspor t tr aining, Plant machiner y inspections plant specif ic Risk Assessments and Saf e W ork Method St at ements f or machiner y.
W e underst and the impor t ance of pr actical f acet o-f ace tr aining and pr o vide our cust omers with r eal on-sit e experience at y our location, or w e can accommodat e y our t eam at our f acility Deliv ering ov er 50 tr aining courses , all of which ar e nationally r ecognised.
A: 18-20 CO X AVENUE, KINGSW OOD P: 8610 5937 | W: HISAFETYANDTRAINING .COM.A U
EXA CT HEARING SER VICES
Ex act Hearing Ser vices is truly honour ed t o be named a f inalist f or tw o y ears in a r ow
T his r ecognition r ef lects the dedication, compassion, and pr of essionalism of our entir e t eam, who ar e committ ed t o pr o viding exceptional hearing car e. It inspir es us t o contin ue striving f or excellence and making a meaningful dif fe r ence t o the health and w ellbeing of our clients and their f amilies
To celebr at e this achiev ement with our comm unity, we ar e of f ering $30 of f all appointments and ear w ax r em ov al ser vices thr oughout July 2026. Simply bring a har d cop y of this newspaper issue with y ou t o y our appointment t o r edeem the of fe r.
A: SUITE 203/68 DERBY ST, KINGSW OOD P: 0422 655 331 | W: EXA CTHEARING .COM.A U
PENRITH CITY LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS
A proud partnership: Weekender and Local Business Awards are a perfect match
The Western Weekender is proud to be the official media partner of the Penrith City Local Business Awards, as well as the Mt Druitt St Marys Local Business Awards.
This is a long-term partnership between the Weekender and Precedent Productions, which produces the awards.
The Weekender is Penrith’s leading media brand.
“The one thing we love about this concept is that it celebrates hard-working local businesses – most of them independent operators born here in Penrith and contributing significantly to our city,” said Western Weekender Managing Editor, Troy Dodds.
“On the night we see so many familiar faces. Many of the businesses nominated have been long-time, proud clients of The Western
Weekender. It’s great to see businesses that we help market and promote recognised in such a way.”
The Weekender produces special finalist and winners features around both the Penrith and Mt Druitt St Marys Local Business Awards.
“We love these features because it just hits home how many businesses there are doing such great things in Penrith,” Dodds said.
“This year we will present our Penrith winners feature as a wraparound, to truly and properly recognise the businesses who walk away with trophies on the night.”
But Dodds said even being nominated is cause for celebration.
“What’s awesome is that most of the time, all the nominees in the categories put their arms around each other and show so much support,” Dodds said.
“That is what the business community here in Penrith is all about. Yes, there is competition, but it is largely healthy. And we see that in full force on the awards presentation evenings.
“Steve Loe and his team at Precedent should be congratulated on putting these events on. You see how much it means to the businesses when you walk around town and see trophies and certificates from across many years still being displayed.”
Precedent Productions Managing Director, Steve Loe, thanked all the sponsors of the events, which he has been producing for many years.
“Without them, these outstanding businesses wouldn’t receive the recognition they deserve,” Loe said.
Precedent Productions Managing Director, Steve Loe.
Weekender Sales Executive Maria Van Den Broek presenting at the awards.
2026 FINALIST
HOME FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS
A ustr alian o wned and f amily-run since 1979, OZ Design has been cr eating beautiful furnitur e and home wa re s t o help A ustr alians l ov e the w ay they liv e. At OZ Design P enrith, our experienced t eam is her e t o help y ou cr eat e a home that r ef lects y our style, with exper t advice and personalised ser vice e ve r y st ep of the w ay
Explor e quality furnitur e and home wa r es acr oss a r ange of styles , fr om r elax ed coast al t o cont empor ar y, all designed t o suit y our lif estyle and budget. Whether y ou’r e furnishing a single r oom or y our entir e home, visit OZ Design P enrith and disc ov er thoughtfully cr aft ed pieces designed f or lif e.
A: SHOP 220, PENRITH HOMEMAKER CENTRE, J AMISONT OW N
P: 8834 4660 | W: OZDESIGNFURNITURE.COM.A U
LB A 2026
BYD PENRITH
2026 FINALIST
AU T OMO TIVE SER VICES
BYD P enrith is a leading aut omotiv e dealership deliv ering inn ov ativ e electric and h ybrid v ehicle solutions t o the W est ern Sydney comm unity Our business specialises in the sales ser vicing f inancing, and suppor t of BYD’s cutting-edge r ange of electric and plug-in h ybrid v ehicles combining adv anced t echnology with sust ainable mobility solutions
W ith a str ong f ocus on cust omer experience, our dealership pr o vides exper t pr oduct kno wledge, t ailor ed f inance options tr ade-in ser vices gen uine par ts and pr of essional aft ersales suppor t thr ough f act or y-tr ained t echnicians W e ar e committ ed t o helping cust omers tr ansition t o cleaner, smar te r, and mor e e ff icient driving, while deliv ering exceptional ser vice, r eliability, and long-t erm v alue t o both priv at e and business v ehicle o wners thr oughout the P enrith r egion.
A: 87/103 GREA T WESTERN HWY, KINGSW OOD
P: 02 8805 9500 | W: PENRITHCITYAU T OMO TIVE.COM.A
PENRITH T OYO TA
2026 FINALIST
NEW & USED M OT OR VEHICLES
P enrith Toyo ta : Pr oudly Ser ving the Comm unity Since 1980
F or ov er 30 y ears P enrith Toyo t a has been a trust ed name in the P enrith r egion and surr ounding ar eas Since opening our doors in 1980, w e’ v e r emained committ ed t o deliv ering exceptional ser vice and quality acr oss e ve r y par t of our business
Whether y ou’r e in the mark et f or a br and-new Toyo ta a demonstr at or model, or a r eliable pr e-o wned v ehicle, our experienced t eam is her e t o help y ou f ind the right car t o suit y our needs W e also of f er a full r ange of ser vices including gen uine par ts and accessories exper t ser vicing and r epairs f lexible f inance and insur ance solutions and friendly cust omer suppor t fr om st ar t t o f inish.
At P enrith Toyo ta our mission is t o mak e e ve r y st ep of y our journey as smooth and enj oy able as possible —and w e’ ve pr oudly done so f or gener ations of local driv ers
A: 87/101 GREAT WESTERN HIGHW AY, KINGSW OOD P: 4778 0099 | W: PENRITHT OYOT A.COM.A U
GREA T WESTERN HOND A
2026 FINALIST NEW & USED M OT OR VEHICLES
Gr eat W est ern Honda: Driv en b y Tr anspar enc y, Built on Tr ust
At Gr eat W est ern Honda, w e’r e her e t o mak e y our journey smooth, honest, and enj oy able fr om st ar t t o f inish. W ith tr anspar ency and int egrity at our cor e, y ou can count on clear, t ailor ed advice — no jar gon, just r eal suppor t.
Fr om exploring new models and accessories t o f inance and tr ade-ins our friendly t eam is with y ou e ve r y st ep of the w ay Plus w e of f er exper t ser vicing, gen uine par ts and aft er -sales car e t o k eep y our Honda at its best.
Pr oudly local t o P enrith, w e’r e her e t o suppor t our comm unity with ser vice y ou can trust.
A: 95 GREAT WESTERN HIGHW AY, KINGSW OOD
P: 4778 0086
W: HOND A.COM.A U/HOND A-CENTRE/GREAT-WESTERN-HOND A
LB A 2026
GREA T WESTERN KIA
2026 FINALIST
NEW & USED M OT OR VEHICLES
Gr eat W est ern Kia: Your L ocal Kia Exper ts
At Gr eat W est ern Kia, w e do things dif fe r ently — with honesty, clarity, and a gen uine f ocus on y ou. St ep int o our br and-ne w, st at e-of-the-ar t sho wr oom and enjo y a modern, w elcoming space designed t o mak e y our carbuying journey smooth and str ess-fr ee.
Whether y ou’r e exploring the lat est Kia models tr ading in, choosing accessories , or discussing f inance, our friendly t eam of f ers clear pr essur e-fr ee guidance e ve ry st ep of the w ay W e also pr o vide exper t ser vicing, gen uine par ts and ongoing car e t o k eep y our Kia at its best. Pr oudly local t o P enrith, w e’r e her e t o suppor t our comm unity with trust ed ser vice and r eal connection.
A: 87-101 GREAT WESTERN HIGHW AY, KINGSW OOD P: 4778 0097| W: GREATWESTERNKIA.COM.A U
W: ALLST ARD ANCESTUDIOS .COM.A U ALL ST AR D ANCE & ENTERT AINMENT STUDIOS
All St ar Dance and Ent er t ainment Studios is a leading perf orming ar ts studio of f ering high-quality dance tr aining in a fun, w elcoming, and suppor tiv e en vir onment. W ith ov er 35 y ears of experience, the studio pr o vides classes in v arious dance styles cat ering t o all ages and abilities
Led b y Principal Rhonda Sheens a highly experienced perf ormer and t eacher the studio f ocuses on helping ever y student gr o w in conf idence and ability
A: UNIT 1/L O T 17, RICHMOND RD , KINGSW OOD
P: 0415 101 000
2026 FINALIST PERFORMING ARTS
Sally K Dance is a f amilyo wned dance studio dedicat ed t o building conf ident, capable, and kind y oung people thr ough dance. W e ar e incr edibly honour ed t o be nominat ed f or a L ocal Business Awa r d and gr at eful f or the suppor t of our amazing dancers , f amilies and wider comm unity who mak e SKD so special
ARE
We ’r e incr edibly pr oud t o be nominat ed in the 2026 L ocal Business Aw ar ds—it’s a hear tf elt r eminder of the str ong connection w e shar e with our comm unity
At Or char d Hills Ve t erinar y Hospit al, w e’ v e gr ow n alongside the f amilies and pets w e car e f or, evolving with purpose while st aying true t o our f amily v alues
Being a f inalist is mor e than r ecognition—it’s a celebr ation of trust, t eamw ork, and the suppor t of our amazing clients
T hank y ou f or allo wing us t o be par t of y our pet’s journe y. W e f eel honour ed, gr at eful, and inspir ed t o k eep giving our v er y best.
in this y ear’ s L ocal Business Aw ar ds! As a P enrith-based f inance br ok er age, w e’ v e built our business on helping local f amilies and business o wners navigat e home loans , car and asset f inance, and business lending with honest advice and a personal t ouch.
HAPPY INN CHINESE
REST A URANT
Est ablished since 1984, the most w ell kno wn Chinese r est aur ant in P enrith, seats up t o 120 people, priv at e function r oom (no hir e char ge), excellent Chinese cuisine, w ell kno wn f or specialities such as Empr ess f illet st eak, Cant onese chick en, sliced pork with pine n uts , seaf ood & san choi bo w. Cat ering f or all functions , of f ering int ernational cuisine f or childr en t oo
Open 7 days lunch & dinner discount on t ak e-aw ay & home deliv er y (limit ed ar ea). All major cr edit car ds accept ed, r ecently expanded and fully r efurbished..
A: 401 HIGH STREET, PENRITH P: 4731 5352 W: HAPPYINNCHINESEREST A URANT.COM.A U
Fr at elli Pizzeria P enrith is pr oud t o be par t of a comm unity that contin ues t o suppor t local, f amilyf ocused businesses
Being nominat ed is a r eal honour and w e’r
2026 FINALIST
REST A URANT
Relocating fr om W ollondilly Shir e 3 x time Outst anding r est aur ant winner Pietr o It alian Rest aur ant no w calls P enrith home. Recently r elocating t o the hist oric Glenmor e Herit age Valley Golf Club in Mulgoa.
Of f ering Home style cooking ar ound It alian origins the mandat e of F amily ser vice and quality dishes has cement ed Pietr os as the go t o f or quality pr oduce and personal ser vice not just in P enrith LG A but Sydney wide.
Open f or lunch and dinner Pietr os is perf ect f or intimat e dinners , f amily gathering, or lar ge gr oup functions Whether its pizza or past a, wine fr om our locally sour ced wine listing or enjo ying a seasonal meat dish Pietr os of f ers nothing but quality fr om ther e fr esh cook kitchen.
W e ar e honor ed t o be Finalists in the P enrith LG A Outst anding r est aur ant cat egor y and thank our new and r eturning cust omers f or ther e l ov e and suppor t. Pietr o It alian, come as guests leav e as F amily
VICE & TRADE
W e ar e incr edibly gr at eful t o be nominat ed f or the L ocal Business Aw ar ds W ith our head o ff ice in Cr anebr ook, this comm unity is mor e than wher e w e w ork, it’s wher e our st or y contin ues t o gr o w and wher e our passion f or helping local f amilies cr eat e their dr eam homes began.
Bett er Built Homes w as f ounded on a simple belief building home’s a bett er w ay By combining pr emium cr aftsmanship , honest comm unication, and a cust omer -f irst appr oach, w e hav e cr eat ed a building journey that helps homeo wners f eel suppor t ed e ve
y st age of the
A night for celebrating the best
The Local Business Awards is one of the year’s biggest nights for Penrith businesses.
It’s an evening full of celebration, winners, emotions and so much more.
Here’s some of the best photos from last year’s awards night...
2026 FINALIST
SOLE OPERA TO R
I’m Mark Lewis o wner and oper at or of Mark’s Handy Home Ser vices I pr oudly pr o vide handyman and home maint enance ser vices thr oughout P enrith, the Blue Mount ains Hawk esbur y and surr ounding ar eas helping homeo wners with e ve r ything fr om r epairs and maint enance t o painting, plast er r epairs , pr essur e w ashing, lawn car e and home impr ov ements
When I st ar t ed Mark’s Handy Home Ser vices m y goal w as simple, t o build a business that people could trust and r ely on, while contin uing t o help members of the comm unity in a dif fe r ent w ay
What I enjo y most is meeting people, solving pr oblems and helping homeo wners impr ov e and maint ain their pr oper ties I t ak e pride in tr eating e ve r y home as if it w er e m y o wn and pr o viding honest advice, quality w orkmanship and dependable ser vice. Much of m y business has gr o wn thr ough r epeat cust omers and wo r d of mouth r ef err als , which is something I am incr edibly gr at eful f or
Being named a f inalist in the L ocal Business Aw ar ds is a gen uine honour It is a r ef lection of the suppor t I hav e r eceiv ed fr om m y cust omers f amily friends and the local comm unity I am pr oud of what I hav e built and look f orw ar d t o contin uing t o ser v e the comm unity while gr o wing a business f ounded on trust, quality and gen uine cust omer car e.
businesses in Penrith
Sydney Solv ents is a f amily-o wned and oper at ed business based in Sydne y, A ustr alia, specialising in high-quality solv ents and chemicals F ounded y Dean and K ylie Douglas , w e identif ied a mark et need f or solv ent sizes lar ger than those ailable in supermark ets but smaller than bulk quantities
er the y ears , our commitment t o excellent cust omer ser vice and comm unity suppor t has driv en our gr o wth fr om one w ar ehouse t o thr ee, with ov er 93,000 cust omers ser v ed.
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ABCOE FOOD & CLEARANCE OUTLET
2026 FINALIST SPECIALISED RET AIL BUSINESS
We ’r e gr at eful t o be a f inalist at the L ocal Business Aw ar ds! It means so m uch t o be r ecognised b y the comm unity w e’ ve ser v ed f or y ears her e in P enrith.
ABCOE F ood & Clear ance Outlet w as built on of f ering gr eat v alue, friendly ser vice and quality pr oducts t o local f amilies and businesses
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A h uge thank y ou t o our l oy al cust omers and har dw orking t eam — w e couldn’ t hav e done it without y ou.
Her e’ s t o celebr ating local business t ogether!
A: UNIT 4-8, 69 Y ORK RO AD SOUTH PENRITH
P: 1300 122 263 | W: ABCOE.COM.A U
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2026 FINALIST SPECIALISED RET AIL BUSINESS
K oala M ow ers is so thankful t o our comm unity f or making us f inalists again 2 y ears in a r ow W e w ouldn’ t be her e without y ou . T he t eam ar e so passionat e about what w e do and striv e t o deliv er quality machiner y and r epairs
W e also ar e so pr oud of K ayden who is a f inalist in the y outh aw ar d cat egor y. W e hope t o win and again w e can’ t thank y ou enough f or y our suppor t
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OW ORLD TRAVEL
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PENRITH CITY LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS
Make the most of your nomination
Anomination in the Local Business Awards is far more than a moment of recognition – it’s a valuable marketing opportunity that can help build trust, attract new customers and strengthen your brand. The businesses that make the most of their nomination are often those that don’t keep it quiet.
If you’ve been nominated, tell everyone. Share the news across your social media channels, add a banner to your website, include it in your email signature and let your customers know when they visit your business. People love supporting businesses that are recognised by their local community, and a nomination provides valuable third-party credibility that money simply can’t buy.
Your nomination also creates the perfect reason to reconnect with past customers and remind existing ones why they chose you in the first place. Celebrate the achievement with your staff, encourage them to share the news, and thank your customers for their ongoing support. Recognition like this belongs to everyone who has contributed to your success.
While a Local Business Awards nomination is a fantastic endorse-
ment, it’s important to remember that marketing works best when it’s consistent. A nomination might put your business in the spotlight for a short time, but ongoing promotion ensures that momentum continues long after the awards season is over.
where
plays a vital role. Advertising in The Western Weekender allows businesses to stay front of mind with thousands of engaged local readers week after week. Combining the credibility of a Local Business
Awards nomination with regular advertising creates a powerful marketing mix that builds familiarity, trust and long-term customer loyalty.
Whether you’re aiming to convert your nomination into new custom-
ers or simply reinforce your reputation, don’t let the opportunity pass quietly.
After all, awards may last for a season, but a consistent local marketing strategy delivers results all year round.
Scr am Escape Rooms x Prison Island
P enrith is all about bringing people t ogether thr ough immersiv e, unf or gett able experiences
Fr om pr emium escape r ooms t o the exciting challenges of Prison Island, w e l ov e cr eating moments of fun, t eamw ork and connection f or f amilies , friends and corpor at e gr oups alik e.
Being nominat ed f or a L ocal Business
Aw ar d is an incr edible honour and a re f lection of our passionat e t eam and the amazing suppor t fr om our comm unity
We ’r e truly gr at eful t o e ve ry one who has visit ed, cheer ed us on and helped mak e this r ecognition possible.
A: LEVEL 1/535 HIGH STREET, PENRITH
P: 02 7813 5320
W: SCRAMESC APEROOMS .COM.A U
That’s
trusted local media
Winners from a previous Local Business Awards evening.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Fresh menu and new favourites
If you haven’t visited 2773 Glenbrook, Laughin’ Boy in Emu Plains, or Conservation Hut in Wentworth Falls lately, now is the perfect time. These cafés have just launched brand new menus, and from the early response, locals are already finding new favourites.
Shane, Belinda, Charlie and India Simpson, the family behind these three iconic businesses, have always prioritised good food, quality ingredients, and inviting venues where guests genuinely want to spend time.
The new menus are a reflection of that same commitment, and in a time when people are being more conscious of how they spend and where they choose to dine, these venues continue to offer something worth going out for.
The French Toast Croissant is a decadent breakfast indulgence with caramelised banana and butterscotch sauce; the Californian Omelette is a satisfying, vegetable-packed brunch option served with sourdough toast;
and the Fish Tacos bring a fresh, tropical twist on lunch with flathead fillets, mango, avocado and chipotle mayo. Additionally, there are plenty
dishes to discover, alongside all the favourites you know and love.
longest-operating cafe in the village and the heart of the Glenbrook community, is a genuine hub for locals
and visitors to the Blue Mountains. With Locals’ Night every Thursday, Kids Eat Free every Friday night, Bottomless Dinner on Satur-
days, and Sunday Sessions every week, plus an undercover kids’ play area and woodfire pizza oven. There are so many great reasons to visit!
Laughin’ Boy is positioned high on the banks of the Nepean River in Emu Plains, where their High Tea, Bottomless Brunch and Bottomless Dinner have become some of the most sought-after dining experiences in the area. Meanwhile, perched high up in the mountains, Conservation Hut in Wentworth Falls delivers breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley, exceptional food and wine, plus direct access to a range of bushwalks, including the iconic Valley of the Waters trail.
Three venues, one family, and a shared commitment to great food and genuine community. Each venue brings something unique to the table, but all three share the same dedication to quality that has made them such an integral part of the local community. New menus are available now.
On the Nepean River High Tea available every day, Bottomless Brunch and Bottomless Dinner every
The best cafe view in the Blue Mountains, exceptional food and wine, and direct trail access to the Jamieson Valley.
hear t of Glenbrook. Locals’ Night Thursdays, Kids Eat Free Friday nights, Bottomless Dinner Saturday nights
A LOGO IS JUST THE BEGINNING BUSINESS MATTERS
You probably already have a logo that you like for your business. But a logo on its own can only do so much. A brand system documents what you stand for and how you communicate it. Your philosophy and voice. Your colours and fonts. The way your team talks about the business when you’re not in the room. When these elements are written down, something shifts. Marketing decisions become easier with guardrails in place. Customers experience
something consistent whether they’re reading your website or sitting across from your team. Without this documentation, every touchpoint becomes improvised. Your website uses one colour palette, your proposals another. Social posts drift in tone. Signage feels disconnected from your digital presence. The cumulative effect is a business that feels fragmented.
A brand manual that captures your visual identity and voice in a format your
BRADLEY SILK Projects Manager at Simple Media Penrith Chamber Board Member
team can use is the solution. It brings alignment, where everyone from the director to the newest hire understands what makes you different and how to express it.
What you can do this week: Ask three staff members to describe what your business stands for in one sentence. Then ask them to name your brand colours. If you get different answers, you’ll know where to start.
HIDDEN COST OF LATE INVOICING
One of the first things I look at when reviewing a business’ cashflow is the list of completed jobs waiting to be invoiced.
More often than you’d expect, there’s weeks of work sitting there.
Thousands of dollars have already been earned, yet none of it can reach the bank account until someone presses “Send”.
The money has already been earned, but until the invoice is sent, it can’t strengthen your cashflow.
Many business owners believe their biggest challenge is getting paid. Often, the real problem is sending
invoices too late.
Every day an invoice sits unsent is another day before your payment terms even begin. A seven-day delay can easily become a 37-day wait for cash if your terms are 30 days. Across multiple jobs or clients, it’s easy to see why profitable businesses can still experience cashflow pressure.
Prompt invoicing isn’t just good for your business – it’s good for your customers too.
When a customer says “yes”, they expect a professional experience from start to finish, including receiving their invoice promptly. A delayed invoice can create confusion, disrupt their budgeting, and make your business appear less organised.
There’s another hidden cost. The longer you wait to invoice, the more your customer forgets the value you’ve delivered. The excitement of the completed work fades, making your invoice feel less like the natural step in a great experience and more like an unexpected bill. This week’s challenge is simple: could every completed job be invoiced within 24 hours? One small improvement to your invoicing process can improve cashflow, reduce debtor days, reinforce your professionalism, and help you get paid sooner.
Financially unshakeable businesses don’t wait for the perfect time to invoice. They invoice while the value they’ve delivered is still fresh in their customer’s mind. How much cash is sitting in your business today?
The Penrith Valley Chamber — where good business meets great people. We connect, support and celebrate the businesses driving Penrith’s growth, shaping a thriving, future-focused economy for the west. Business is Community. Don’t do Business Alone — Come Join Us!
Milestone deal for rugby league
Rugby league has landed the biggest broadcasting deal in the history of Australian sport.
The NRL has confirmed that Fox Sports and Channel Nine have retained the rights to broadcast matches through until the end of the 2034 season.
It is a $5.3 billion deal, 95 per cent of which is cash and five per cent contra. It exceeds any other sports media rights deal previously undertaken in Australia.
“This hasn’t been an accident.
This has been achieved by some very hard work,” said ARLC Chairman, Peter V’landys.
“In the last five years we have changed the game, effectively doubling the audience.”
Under the terms of the agree-
ment, Fox Sports through Foxtel and Kayo will broadcast every NRL match every weekend, except for the Grand Final.
“It is the result of years of planning, discipline and execution”
That includes a ninth game in standard rounds next year.
State of Origin remains exclusive to Nine.
Nine will broadcast three matches on free-to-air TV each week, as well as additional select matches through the year such as ANZAC Day.
“As our partnership with the NRL enters its fourth decade, this agreement reinforces Nine’s long-term strategy of investing in premium live sport and the moments that matter most,” said Nine CEO Matt Stanton.
“The next era presents an extraordinary opportunity for rugby league. Nine brings together an unmatched breadth of media capabilities and a proven track record of growing audiences, deepening fandom and creating cultural moments around the game’s biggest occasions. This year alone, the top two highest-rat-
ing television programs across any Australian broadcaster have both been NRL, demonstrating the enduring strength of the game and the opportunity that still lies ahead.”
In a major win for fans, the season structure including scheduling and draws will be fully under the NRL’s control – not determined by broadcasters.
NRL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Abdo described the deal as a reflection of the unprecedented growth of rugby league and the confidence the market had in rugby league’s future.
“This agreement reflects the strength of rugby league today and confidence in where the game can go next. It is the result of years of planning, discipline and execution
by the Commission as we positioned the game to maximise its value in a rapidly changing media landscape,” he said.
“The outcome gives us the certainty, flexibility and resources to pursue ambitious growth opportunities across every level of the game.”
Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany said: “This renewed NRL partnership is a great outcome for the game, fans and our subscribers and maintains Kayo Sports and Foxtel as the home of NRL and live sport in Australia well into the next decade.”
Delany said it was “aligned” with the NRL on making access to Foxtel and Kayo affordable for fans, however there was no specific details relating to this.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo and ARLC Chairman, Peter V’Landys. Photo: NRL Photos.
New deal looms for Kenny
Kenny set to stay: Despite heavy suggestions that Mitch Kenny was extremely interested in exploring options with new NRL franchise Papua New Guinea, it appears the hooker is set to remain at Penrith. In fact, a new long-term deal could be announced within weeks, securing the 28-year-old at the foot of the Mountains until he’s well into his 30s. There’s been a few positive things happening in Kenny’s personal life of late and word is he’s feeling very settled at Penrith. The Panthers became confident Kenny would stay some time ago, and of course didn’t put up much of a fight when back-up hooker Freddy Lussick signed with Canterbury from next season.
Leota deadline passes: Penrith will soon meet with forward Moses Leota to discuss his future at the club after allowing him to explore his options in the market. Leota’s management was given just a few weeks to test his value on the open market, and it’s understood several clubs have expressed interest. Penrith would be keen to keep Leota – their forward stocks are actually thinning a little – but it’ll come down to the kind of money being put in front of him from elsewhere.
Spirits kept low: Remember when the State Government trumpeted earlier this year that full strength beer would now be available at CommBank Stadium, to ensure parity with the likes of Allianz Stadium? Well that promise has certainly been fulfilled, but we can’t help but notice we’re still stuck with mid-strength spirits like Jim Beam and Bundy Rum. When will we be treated like adults and be able to buy fullstrength spirits?
Landscapers at work: There’s been an interesting new introduction over at the Panthers Rugby League Academy. A new garden (pictured above) has been built outside CEO Matt Cameron’s office, complete with some nice new plants and mulch. The reason for the garden? We can only guess he got tired of journos using the outside of his office as their interview space with players week after week.
Seats get new life: Remember those famous
as the CEO of Wests Tigers.
cut his teeth at the Panthers, spending several years at the club in a commercial role before heading elsewhere in the NRL and then to the A-League, where he had success at the Central Coast Mariners. He’s a good operator and will be a brilliant leader at the Tigers.
time: Liam Henry’s best game of the season last weekend came at the
time.
had a bunch of family in the crowd watching on at CommBank Stadium.
Girds back in town: 2003 Premiership hero Ryan Girdler is heading back to Penrith as he continues to focus on wellbeing and health. He’s running a breathwork workshop on Friday, July 17 at MG Activ in Penrith. Head to www. reconnectproject.au for more information.
Spotted: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at CommBank Stadium last Friday night watching his beloved Rabbitohs get whacked by the Panthers. Nothing sweeter!
Trainer’s new gig: Corey Bocking, the former Panthers trainer involved in that infamous on-field incident on the Gold Coast last year, is heading overseas. He’s been appointed the Head of Athlete Health and Development at Harlequins Rugby Union in the United Kingdom. Bocking left Penrith at the end of last year for what in the end was a short stint at South Sydney.
Shaun’s big leap: Congratulations to Shaun Mielekamp who has been officially appointed
Doing what he does best: It was great to see Liam Martin back in a sky blue jumper this week, and I’m told he was straight back into his role as chief pest during the Blues’ camp in the lead-up to Origin III on Wednesday night.
red seats at Penrith Park? Those that weren’t purchased by nostalgic fans were either donated elsewhere or given a unique new life thanks to recycling. Many ended up being turned into either plastic piping for drainage systems or plastic pots.
Family
perfect
He
Spotted: Panthers hooker Mitch Kenny having a blast at Winterfest in the Hawkesbury last weekend.
Mielekamp
Mitch Kenny.
THEY SAID IT...
“It was a good result tonight. We’ve had some tough losses but I’m proud of the boys for coming back.”
“They never looked at the double movement... his right arm touches the ground. It’s a double movement. The Bunker didn’t even mention it.”
“Penrith had a lot of leadership out of the side. The fact that they were able to be so methodical... they just stuck to their suffocating style and found 36 points. It’s a big win.”
“It just wasn’t good enough. As a senior player I’ve got to be better in those moments.” Souths five-eighth Cody Walker
“Penrith have walked this course many, many times. They are the team to beat.”
“I was pretty happy. They don’t come around often for me. Any time I can jag one I’m pretty happy.”
“We knew we needed a response after the last two weeks.”
Michael Ennis on Penrith’s win over Souths
Phil Gould on Channel 9
Panthers winger Brian To’o
Braith Anasta on Tom Jenkins’ controversial try last week.
Forward Lindsay Smith
Liam Henry on last week’s try
Tries: T Jenkins 3, L Henry, B Phillips, D Edwards Goals: P Alamoti 6/6
Tries: J Edgar 2, J Vailalo 2, S Fonua, P Moimoi Goals: Z Clarke 5/7
Tries: S Hanrahan 2, T West,
NRL LADDER & FIXTURES
POINTS: PANTHERS VS
PANTHERS POSTER
Cleary will be NRL’s $2 million man
with Peter Lang Lang on League
The NRL salary cap is expected to rise to anywhere between $18-20 million in 2028 under the new TV rights deal but you can take it to the bank that Nathan Cleary will be the first and only $2 million per season player in the competition that year.
That’s if he decides to stay in the NRL of course.
Obviously, I hope that he re-signs with Penrith on a long-term deal but looking at all the figures being bandied about for other NRL players in 2028, he is the only one who can command that type of money.
Don’t get me wrong, in 2028 I expect there to be at least 20 players on over a million dollars a season, at least half of them will even crack $1.5 million.
No wonder Cleary is waiting before making his next move, for even Nathan Cleary can only receive that sort of salary if the cap rises to a level close to $20 million, which a lot of good judges expect it to.
I’m not even going to list the reasons why Cleary can command that sort of money, we all know what he is worth on the open market.
We all know what he’s worth to Penrith.
No wonder he’s in no hurry to re-sign because the Panthers need him more than he needs the Panthers.
Penrith are just lucky that he is such a calm, level-headed and dignified person, not motivated by money or the price tag would be even higher.
Ok that’s enough compliments from me, let’s take a look at some of the other player sala ries and I’ll show you how I came to my $2 million ‘Clez’ Cleary hypothesis.
The only player who may come close to the $2 million mark is Cameron Munster who will finish his 2027 contract on $1.1 million.
But he could only get to $2 million a season, if he left Melbourne and joined either the Perth Bears or the Papua New Guinea Chiefs.
Both moves are highly unlikely and given his advancing age (he’ll be 34 in 2028), the Storm will probably jack up his money to around $1.5 million a season for however long he chooses to re-sign with
Now let’s look at some other current top earners and what they Dylan Brown is stuck on $1.4 million for the next 10 years, Mitch Moses, Harry Grant and Kalyn Ponga all earn around $1.3 million, next we have Jarome Luai, closely followed by Payne Haas, Reece Walsh, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Tom Trbojevic and Latrell Mitchell who are all on between $1.1 to $1.2 million a season.
None of these players are off contract at the end of 2027 either and even if all of them had a ‘ratchet clause’, where their contract money would go up as the salary cap rises, none could possibly bridge the gap to $2 million. There is a player named Isaiya Katoa who one day may reach the level Nathan Cleary is currently at. One day maybe... but not today.
Nathan Cleary. Photo: NRL Photos.
BEHIND THE GAME
Billy Scott. Photo: Melinda Jane.
Billy is living out his footy dreams
Growing up locally, Billy Scott never thought he would play in the NRL, but this year with three games under his belt, Scott has seen his dream come
21-year-old Scott made his NRL debut this year for the Penrith Panthers in Round 13 against the high-flying New Zealand Warriors.
It was a game that many had tipped the Panthers to lose; the Warriors were in red hot form, and the Panthers were resting their Origin players.
Scott, a hooker, came on in the second half to see his side triumphant in the 20-18 victory.
Since then, Scott has played another two games in the top grade, the most recent a win against the Rabbitohs.
While he hasn’t played alongside modern NRL great Nathan Cleary yet, that remains the next box to be
ticked.
“I got a photo, I think, when I was in the U13s Grand Final for Windsor and he presented my jersey,” Scott recalled.
“Now to be training with him and possibly playing with him, it’s been a bit of a dream.”
Growing up in the nearby Hawkesbury, Scott said it has been a dream come true to play for Penrith.
“It’s home,” he said.
“It means everything and I was so proud to run out for this great club and hopefully it is the first of many!
“I love it here, I love Penrith and I couldn’t think of being in any other place.”
Scott has signed with the Panthers until the end of the 2027 season and said footy has given him much more than a just a job.
“I would say resilience,” Scott said.
“There is so many good things involved with this job, but a lot of people don’t see the dark side of things. It teaches you a lot of resilience.
“You have to keep turning up every day.”
with Emily Chate
Quick Questions
Coffee order: Doesn’t drink coffee
Cheat meal: KFC
Favourite movie: ‘Focus’
Favourite musician: Luke Combs
Who did you support growing up? Parramatta Eels
Pet Peeve: When he is cooking and his girlfriend takes food before it is ready
A special supplement focused on local Indigenous affairs and services
The power of art in bringing us together
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) together with the AOC Indigenous Advisory Committee recently launched its ‘Stretch’ Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and unveiled a powerful new Team artwork that together represent the next chapter of its commitment to reconciliation through sport.
The ‘Stretch’ RAP builds on the foundations of the AOC’s ‘Reflect’ and ‘Innovate’ plans. It acknowledges the work done so far and carries forward a commitment built on genuine partnership with First Nations peoples, celebrating the value of heritage, culture and contribution, giving practical support to the journey of reconciliation through sport.
The new Team artwork, titled ‘Doonch-doonch, Kaymelan, Together’ is a collaborative piece created by three
artists, Peter Farmer Senior and Peter Farmer Junior from Noongar Country in Western Australia and Alick Tipoti from the Torres Strait.
Meaning ‘coming together’ in Noongar and ‘together’ in Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) the artwork is woven from these Indigenous visual languages and honours the 66 known Indigenous Olympians, carried together as a wave, an expression of unity across land, sea and sky. Across generations, communities and cultures it represents one shared story.
The artwork will feature on the Australian Olympic Team uniforms in Los Angeles in 2028 and the French Alps in 2030.
“I’m extremely excited to be part of this project. As an artist for the athletes, I want them to feel proud and strong knowing this artwork was designed
with thought and care when it comes to culture,” Peter Farmer Junior said.
Chair of the AOC Indigenous Advisory Committee, Patrick Johnson OLY, said the ‘Stretch’ RAP reaffirms a commitment to working alongside First Nations peoples to advance a reconciliation journey, and the artwork sends a powerful message that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture is not separate from Australia’s Olympic story – it is central to it.
“The AOC ‘Stretch’ RAP makes clear that reconciliation is not something we acknowledge only on special occasions – it is something we embed in our decisions, our sport, our workplaces and our communities,” Johnson said.
“The commitment is simple, to keep listening, learning and moving forward together. We’ve seen what’s possible through our 66 known Indigenous
Olympians whose achievements have contributed to a legacy of excellence, resilience, pride and inspiration that continues to shape Australian sport.”
Johnson and one of Australia’s most celebrated Olympians, Catherine Freeman AC, are founding directors of the Australian Olympic Community Foundation, the newly established philanthropic arm of the AOC created to give back to the community.
The Australian Olympic Indigenous Athlete Scholarship is a new initiative from the ‘Stretch’ RAP and the inaugural program of the Foundation. It will provide emerging First Nations athletes with financial support for living costs including education expenses and access to Indigenous led mentoring and career support.
“For too many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes, the pathway to high performance has been more difficult than it should be. The Scholarship will help create clearer pathways for the next generation of First Nations athletes and leaders,” Johnson said.
Speaking at the launch, Freeman described why she wanted to make a difference with the Scholarship.
“It’s like a full circle moment. I wanted to be part of an opportunity for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes who have potential to thrive and really contribute to Australian society,” Freeman said.
AOC President Ian Chesterman AM said the AOC’s ‘Stretch’ RAP demonstrates the AOC’s commitment to a future where reconciliation is realised through action, partnership and practical support.
“We are committed to this journey, to work together, to walk together, to make a meaningful contribution. Our ‘Stretch’ Reconciliation Action Plan is not simply a statement of intent. It is a stronger commitment to action, in the leadership of our Indigenous Advisory Committee, in the voices of our Olympians, in the unveiling of this remarkable artwork and in our shared belief that the path to Brisbane 2032 and beyond must also be a path of truth, respect, opportunity and unity,” Chesterman said.
An AOC Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan And Indigenous Artwork Unveil Event at Bangarra Dance Theatre in June.
Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for AOC.
Health Services
Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service
www.gwahs.net.au
One of Western Sydney’s leading Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations.
Provides GP services, chronic disease management, mental health support, child and family health services, men’s and women’s health programs, drug and alcohol support, and community wellbeing initiatives.
Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service Penrith
www.gwahs.net.au
Provides culturally safe healthcare and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the Penrith and Nepean region.
Aboriginal Health Unit
www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/
Aboriginal-Health
Part of Western Sydney Local Health District,
Aboriginal Counselling Service
www.wentwest.com.au
Provides counselling, therapeutic support and mental health services for Aboriginal people experiencing personal, family or emotional challenges.
Greater Western Aboriginal Health Service – Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program
Social & Emotional Wellbeing Program
Provides culturally appropriate support for mental health concerns, emotional wellbeing, grief and trauma support, and alcohol and drug issues.
Sydney Aboriginal Family Support Service www.safss.com.au
Supports Aboriginal families through parenting assistance, advocacy, family support programs, case management and community development initiatives.
Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation
Strait Islander people across Western Sydney and NSW.
Western Sydney Community Legal Centre
www.wsclc.org.au
Provides free legal and social support services for vulnerable residents, including Aboriginal clients seeking legal assistance.
Australia’s first Aboriginal-owned and Aboriginalgoverned independent school, supporting Aboriginal students through education, culture and leadership development.
National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy
www.nasca.org.au
Provides mentoring, education, employment pathways and leadership opportunities for
Koori Kulcha Aboriginal Corporation www.koorikulcha.com.au
Promotes Aboriginal culture, education, arts and community engagement through cultural programs and events.
Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation www.kinchela.org.au
Provides healing, advocacy and support programs for survivors and descendants affected by the Stolen Generations Gunawirra www.gunawirra.org.au
Works with Aboriginal families and children through early intervention, health, education and family support programs.
Emergency & Crisis Support 13YARN 13 92 76 | www.13yarn.org.au
Australia’s first national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line, available 24
CONNECTION to country
Tackling cervical cancer
The State Government is partnering with Aboriginal communities to address inequities in cervical cancer outcomes through initiatives which focus on closing the cervical screening gap for Aboriginal women across the state.
New modelling shows while Australia is on track to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035, without urgent action, elimination targets will not be reached for Aboriginal women until 12 years later.
The world-first study, supported by the Cancer Institute NSW, demonstrates that boosting access to screening, including accessible self-collection could significantly shorten the 12-year gap.
NSW Health, in partnership with Aboriginal organisations and local community members, is supporting these targeted initiatives, with more than $500,000 invested to help close this gap and increase cervical screening rates among Aboriginal people.
Key new initiatives include the roll out of a first of its kind cervical screening campaign, and additional funding for women’s health nurses and Aboriginal Medical Services.
Delivered by Cancer Institute NSW in partnership with Aboriginal creative agency, Blackfisch, The Cervical Screening for Mob campaign was informed by Aboriginal community members and aims to motivate Aboriginal
women aged 25 to 74 years to screen for themselves and their mob.
There will also be increased workforce education with a suite of new resources and training initiatives are available to support the Aboriginal health workforce to offer culturally safe cervical screening and education to Aboriginal communities. This includes the Yarning about women’s health business: Cervical screening flipchart and facilitator manual, to help plan and deliver cervical screening yarning sessions.
The NSW Government is committed to the equitable elimination of cervical cancer in NSW, guided by the National Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Australia.
Alongside the recently released NSW Aboriginal Cancer Strategy,
these initiatives highlight NSW’s commitment to improving cancer outcomes in Aboriginal communities.
A Cervical Screening Test every five years is the best way to prevent cervical cancer. It is recommended for people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active.
The Cervical Screening Test is a quick and simple procedure that looks for a common infection called human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes almost all cervical cancers. Women can do the test themselves in private at their local Aboriginal Medical Service or health service (self-collection) or choose to have a doctor or nurse do it for them. The screening test is recommended for all eligible women, even if they’ve had the HPV vaccination.
“Cervical cancer is one of the
most preventable cancers when regular screening is undertaken, yet we know screening rates are lower in Aboriginal communities,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.
“Closing this unacceptable gap in cervical screening rates is a priority, we are focused on working hand in hand with community to ensure Aboriginal women have access to community-led screening services that are culturally safe and supportive.”
Mel Fernando, an Aboriginal woman diagnosed with a precancerous condition of the cervix, said screening saved my life.
“After having my routine cervical screen, I was diagnosed with a serious precancerous change in my cervix, and I had to urgently have surgery to avoid developing cancer. It was scary. I was anxious. But I know that cervical screening saved my life,” Fernando said.
“I’m sharing this for Mob because if my story helps even one of us get screened, it’s worth it. We need to look after ourselves, our bodies, and our futures to be here for our kids and grandkids.
“Regardless of whether you’re Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander or non-Indigenous, please stay up to date with your cervical screening, because the alternative is far worse.”
Acelebration of NAIDOC will return to Jamison Park in Penrith on Friday, July 10.
The NAIDOC event, run by Penrith City Council, was developed in consultation with First Nations people paying respect to the Dharug and Gundungarra Traditional Owners, as well as First Nations people who call Penrith home.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said this year’s event will be bigger than last year’s, with plenty on offer from local organisations, performers and stallholders.
“We worked closely with our NAIDOC Planning Committee to create a program of activities and performances that represented our First Nations communities and culture,” Carney said.
“We have a lot in store for this NAIDOC Event – from performances from local Traditional Owners and First Nations artists, the return of the Caring for Country corridor, artisan market stalls, cultural workshops and much more.
“I encourage everyone to come along as we celebrate and recognise our First Nations communities. We can’t wait to celebrate NAIDOC Week with our community.
“We also thank the many local services who assist to make this day a truly unique and special event.”
The beloved cultural event will also have
Deadly Touch Tag, a health precinct, a free community BBQ lunch, First Nations food trucks, and more.
The theme for this year’s NAIDOC event is “50 Years of Deadly” and encourages the
community to see NAIDOC as more than a week.
The theme is about looking back and celebrating the people who built the movement, find out more about at www.naidoc.org.au.
Health Minister Ryan Park.
NAIDOC events will take place in Jamison Park in Penrith.
CLASSIC FAVOURITES
ALLY HALL
Two veterans of Australian reality TV singing competitions have come together to ensure the greatest classics of all-time continue to transcend generations.
Damien Leith and Jason Owen will deliver a powerful night of iconic songs and unforgettable stories at The Joan on Saturday, August 1.
“The classics that we’re performing are by artists that we want to see continue their reign over the music industry,” Leith said.
“Young musicians get so much inspiration from some of these older artists because of the way they wrote their songs and the way they found their lyrics. It’s really important for the next generation.”
Owen told the Weekender that this show means the world to him.
“The joy these songs bring to people across the country is really special,” he said.
“You see people smiling from ear to ear when you’re singing songs from The Righteous Brothers, Bobby Darin, John Denver, Roy Orbison – you name it.
“To be teamed up with Damien is great. He’s a phenomenal singer and we have such a great time on the road performing these songs.”
One artist that Leith enjoys highlighting on-stage is Roy Orbison.
“I recorded an album with his wife 10 years ago over in Nashville, so I have a really strong connection to Roy Orbison and his family. He was definitely a role model and he was so unique,” Leith said.
Meanwhile, Owen’s role model is John Denver.
“I grew up in a little village called Albert about 140 kilometres west of Dubbo where there’s only about 10 people in the town,” he recounted.
“When I used to come home from school, I spent a lot of time with my pop who turns 98 in November this year. He introduced me to John Denver’s music, and I remember him saying to me once that if I could sing John Denver, I could sing anything.
“Now here I am at 32 touring his music, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
During the Classic Favourites 2026 tour, the musical mates make time for a yarn between songs.
“The show includes classics, but Jason and I love to have a chat,” Leith said.
“This is a fun show; we don’t take ourselves too seriously. For people coming out, it’s not just for the music, it’s for a fun night.”
The pair consider it an honour to bring the classics to the nation.
“The songwriters that we had in the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s – you don’t get better than them. The stories were real and the melodies were genius,” Owen said.
“To be able to bring them back to life these days in our own arrangement – whether it’s up close and personal or with an orchestra – is something special.”
Book a ticket to see Damien Leith and Jason Owen perform Classic Favourites 2026 at www.thejoan.com.au/whats-on/ damien-leith-and-jason-owen-classic-favourites-2026.
CAFÉ SCENE CAFÉ SCENE
THINGS TO DO
Museum of Fire Winter Family Day
The Museum of Fire is bringing back Winter Family Day these school holidays! Visit the venue at 1 Museum Drive and enjoy historic and modern firefighting displays and demonstrations. The free outdoor event is great for the whole family. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful grounds on July 12 from 10am to 2pm.
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
Seniors Dance Club (Over 55s) Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Penrith Senior Citizens Centre. Call Glenda for details on 0421 322 846.
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Probus Club of Nepean
Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club. New members welcome. Call 0417 267 866.
Kingswood-Caddens Probus Club
Meets on the fourth Monday of the
On July 12, The Tay Tay Tribute Show will bring the music of Taylor Swift to life in a high-energy, family friendly performance at Panthers Penrith. Backed by a full band of top touring musicians, this show celebrates every era of Taylor’s career with hit songs spanning pop, country and rock. Book a ticket at penrith.panthers.com.au/event/the-tay-tay-tribute-show. The Tay Tay Tribute Show
month at Kingswood Sports Club at 10.30am. All new members welcome.
Jordan Springs Probus Club
Fourth Tuesday of the month. 9.45am for 10am at Jordan Springs Hub. Call Keith on 9713 9038 for details.
Ropes Crossing Probus Club
Meets every third Monday of the month at Ropes Crossing Community Hub from 10am. Email ropescrossingprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.
South Creek Probus Club
Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at St Marys D&B Club. Email southcreekprobusclub@gmail.com for more information.
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 of the month for lunch. Members and
Enjoy an evening of stargazing at Fernhill Estate on July 18. From $17.50 per person, view the night sky through a telescope, watch layers of the evening sky develop on an iPad, and explore projections taken from a telescope. It will be a night of science, nature and exploration. Book at www.greatersydneyparklands.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/stargazing-fernhill-estate. Stargazing at Fernhill Estate
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.
0408 412 708 for more information.
Nepean Naval Museum
Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.
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.
JOIN THE WOLFE PACK AT PANTHERS DISCOVER
With a career that has grown from breakout stars to country music royalty, The Wolfe Brothers have become one of Australia’s most celebrated live acts.
Since first capturing the nation’s attention on ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ in 2012, Tasmanian brothers Tom and Nick Wolfe have built an incredible career on powerhouse songs, relentless touring, and a live show that wins over crowds everywhere they go.
Known for their high-energy performances, huge songs and authentic country rock spirit, they’ve spent years winning over audiences across Australia, the USA, and Canada.
Their latest album, ‘Australian Made’, debuted at number one on the ARIA
Aussie Country Chart and snagged a whopping five Golden Guitars, including Album of the Year and Group of the Year. This brought their career total to 15 Golden Guitars, making The Wolfe Brothers the most awarded country rock group in the history of the awards.
Their recent full tilt, high octane performances at major Australian festivals this year – including Meatstock, Better Days, AlphaFest, and Country Fest – showed that The Wolfe Brothers have developed into a world class outfit that continually delivers shows that turn audiences into members of the ever-growing Wolfe Pack!
The Wolfe Brothers will perform at Panthers Penrith on July 24 with special guest Abbie Ferris. Tickets are available online at penrith.panthers.com.au.
ALLY HALL
At St Finbar’s Catholic Church in Glenbrook on August 16, Bach Akademie will present ‘Weddings & Parties Over Coffee’.
The five-city national tour brings together two of Australia’s finest vocalists, including award-winning soprano Miriam Allan and her father acclaimed baritone Christopher Allan.
Australia’s premier Baroque ensemble will bring to life heartwarming works by J.S. Bach, including his poignant ‘Wedding Cantata’ and miniature comic opera ‘Coffee Cantata’, alongside a striking Sinfonia from his eldest son, Wilhelm Friedemann Bach.
Under the direction of Bach Akademie Australia’s Artistic Director Madeleine Easton, ‘Weddings & Parties Over Coffee’ is an exhilarating continuation of the ensemble’s 2026 season.
“It is my greatest joy to bring Australian soprano Miriam back to Australia in a program celebrating her voice through the music of Bach and his family,” Easton
said.
“To have her father Christopher Allan join us on stage for the ‘Coffee Cantata’ will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to hear this great work with a real father-daughter team!”
Miriam Allan pointed out that her father is a coffee addict, while she prefers tea.
“Living 10,000 miles from my father prevents catching up over coffee. But this fun series presents us with the perfect opportunity to catch up and do what we love to do – sing together,” she said.
Tickets for ‘Weddings & Parties Over Coffee’ are on sale now at https:// www.bachakademieaustralia.com.au/ events.
ALLY HALL
Until November 1, Penrith Regional Gallery is presenting acclaimed artist Leanne Tobin’s first survey exhibition, ‘Ngalawan: We Live. We Remain.’
In this exhibition, Tobin reflects on more than 40 years of defending her country, her environmentalism, and her personal journey to reconnect with her Dharug ancestry.
She spent her adolescence growing up in Emu Plains and only discovered her heritage and Aboriginality in the 1980s, including her connection to Bulunggayi (Maria Locke).
“I grappled with that, trying to work out where I fit in. It took a long time to understand my role is an important one because this is a first contact place, and my mum’s family had a lot of firsts – first marriage between white and black officially in a church, and Maria Locke being the first female landowner,” Tobin said.
“Also, because mum’s story had been hidden away, my grandmother kept it
secret. I knew my grandmother and suddenly I could see her as Aboriginal –we never saw it before.”
The exhibition traces three distinct themes across two gallery spaces: Water Country, Defending Country, and Historical and Personal Portraiture.
“Leanne Tobin is one of the most significant Dharug artists working today. I think of her practice as quietly radical; beautiful works that articulate the tensions and complexities for communities – First Nations and recent settlers – living on Dharug country today,” said exhibition curator Toby Chapman.
“Leanne shows us a way forward that does not shy away from the past but is equally focused on a future where our shared history can be learnt from rather than overlooked.”
COUNTRY CORNER
Stars out for Taylor
She may have walked away from country music, but Taylor Swift still has plenty of friends in the genre.
A host of country stars were on the guest list at Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding last week, including Maren Morris and Kelsea Ballerini (pictured), who have both well and truly blurred the country genre lines in recent years.
Also there was Zac Brown, Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town.
CMA Fest on Stan
If you love your country music, make sure you fire up Stan and check out the CMA Fest special, which is now available on the streaming platform.
It features performances from the recent festival in Nashville, with the likes of Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Florida Georgia Line and Riley Green all featured.
New from Jelly Jelly Roll has released ‘Hands Up’, his newest single. Written by Jelly Roll, Michael Hardy, Chase McGill, Joe Fox, and Rocky Block, the up-tempo, deeply personal song has held a lasting impact across live audiences this American summer, both on Jelly’s headlining Arena Little Ass Shed Tour and in stadiums nationwide on the BIG ASS STADIUM TOUR with Post Malone. His unyielding, authentic audience connection continues to capture the attention of critics and fans.
The song is out now on all the usual streaming platforms.
Track of the Week
It may be freezing here in Australia but the American summer is heating up and Kelsea Ballerini’s new track ‘Another Drink’ is leading the way.
A collaboration with Mashmello, it’s an up-tempo jam and deserves a spot on your playlist – and get it cranking up when the weather warms up here!
Chris Smith Across Australia 9am - 12 Noon
Packed with slapstick comedy, classic cinema references and heartfelt teamwork, the adventure
Get ready for more Minion mayhem! Set in 1920s Hollywood, the Minions chase movie stardom by creating their own monster film. But, after unleashing real monsters, they lose everything and must reunite to stop the chaos threatening the world.
celebrates filmmaking while delivering the franchise’s signature mischievous fun for audiences of all ages.
‘Minions & Monsters’ is in cinemas now.
Disney’s live-action Moana reimagines the beloved animated adventure for a new generation.
Starring Catherine Laga’aia as Moana, the epic story follows the fearless Wayfinder as she answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, journeys beyond the reef of her island home, Motunui.
Joined by the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson), Moana embarks on an unforgettable voyage to restore balance and prosperity to her people.
‘Moana’ is in cinemas now. Perfect for the school holidays.
www.hoyts.com.au
Ê Foxtel and Binge have announced that the third season of ‘Colin from Accounts’ will premiere on Monday, July 27. Season three of the hit Aussie series reveals the aftermath of Gordon’s ill-fated proposal, but while he and Ashley are determined to move on from past embarrassments, they can’t seem to shake their collective baggage. And even as life moves relentlessly on, with challenges at work, ongoing family battles and new friendship dramas, something keeps pulling this flawed, funny pair back into each other’s orbits. Do Gordon and Ashley belong together – or is their beloved dog Colin the only thing keeping their futures intertwined? ‘Colin from Accounts’ is definitely one of Australia’s best shows!
Ê New Netflix competition series ‘Wonka’s The Golden Ticket’, which was filmed on the Gold Coast, will drop on Wednesday, September 23. 12 lucky Golden Ticket winners, each with a partner of their choosing, will step through the gates of Wonka’s Chocolate Factory and into a world of pure imagination, delicious mischief, and unexpected challenges. Once inside, contestants must navigate a
series of Wonka’s games, tests and temptations designed to challenge them physically, mentally and morally. In this high-stakes social experiment, players will journey through the factory’s wondrous and unpredictable landscape, adapting, strategising, and withstanding the unknown while proving they have the instincts, resilience and character to thrive in chaos. In the end, only one contestant will have what it takes to earn Wonka’s life-changing prize. As part of the series it has even recreated the voice of Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka – with the blessing of the Gene Wilder Estate – which I think is a nice touch.
Ê If you’re not sold with what’s on the box these days, every episode of classic comedies ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ and ‘Bewitched’ are now available on Binge and Foxtel.
Ê SKY News Australia will rebrand as News24 from Monday, July 27 across all its broadcast and digital platforms. SKY announced its rebrand to News24 due to
a licensing deal with Comcast-owned SKY News expiring later this year.
Ê Huge news in the Eurovision world with Canada set to enter the monster singing competition from next year. Canada will become the first new country to join the contest since Australia in 2015.
Ê The third season of ‘Teenage Boss: Next Level’ will premiere on ABC iview on Friday, July 31 and ABC Family on Saturday, August 1 at 7.30pm. In season three, host Emma Watkins meets a brand-new group of teens from across NSW who will take control of their family’s budget for an entire month.
Ê The new season of ‘Inside Selling Houses Australia: New Beginnings’ will premiere on Wednesday, July 22 on Lifestyle and Binge. The six-part series sees Andrew Winter, Wendy Moore and Dennis Scott revisiting 18 homeowners whose homes were featured in ‘Selling Houses Australia’.
TV Guide: July 10 - 16
Your guide to the week’s television viewing
6:00 News Breakfast 9:00 ABC News 10:00 Compass 10:30 Stuff The British Stole (PG) 11:00 Race Around The World (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 Portrait Artist Of The Year 1:45 Ground Up (M l) 2:20 The Assembly (PG) 3:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 4:00 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:25 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Monty Don’s British Gardens 8:30 Saint-Pierre (M) 9:15 Gruen (PG) 9:55 Would I Lie To You? 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Your Money & Your Life (PG) 1:30 Border Security - International (PG) 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 Better Homes And Gardens 8:00 Movie: “Where The Crawdads Sing” (M s,v) (’22) Stars: Daisy Edgar-Jones 10:35 Farmer Wants A Wife (PG) 12:15 Movie: “Out Of Line” (M) (’01) 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “Love Is A Dog’s Best Friend” (PG) (’25) Stars: Arielle Kebbel 2:00 Pointless (PG) 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) 4:00 NINE News Afternoon 4:30 Tipping Point Australia (PG) 5:30 WIN News 6:00 NINE News 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 NRL: Wests Tigers v New Zealand Warriors *Live* 9:55 NRL: Post-Match 10:45 Tennis: Wimbledon: Day 12: Semi Finals *Live* 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 MasterChef Australia (PG) 11:30 Farm To Fork 12:00 Everyday Gourmet
2:30
3:00 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 3:30 Tougher In Alaska (PG) 4:30 American Restoration (PG) 5:00 Storage Wars (PG) 5:30 American Pickers (PG) 6:30 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown *Live*
12:00 Holey Moley Australia (PG) 3:00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special (PG) 3:30 Malaysia Kitchen 4:00 Starstruck (PG) 5:30 Movie: “The Karate Kid” (PG) (’10) Stars: Jaden Smith 8:30 Movie: “Angels & Demons” (M v) (’09)
3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Dreaming Big 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Guardians Of The Wild (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Yolngu Boy” (PG) (’01) Stars: John Sebastian 8:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 8:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 9:30 The Living Room 10:30 Building The Dream Home 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 Bull (M s,v) 11:00 Frasier (PG) 12:00 Lingo 1:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 4:30
9:30
Dine With Me: The Professionals
Qualifying & Supports/ Pre-Race & Race: Day 1 *Live* From Reid Park Street Circuit 5:00 Seven News At 5 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:00 The Great Outdoors (PG) 8:30 Movie: “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” (PG) (’97) Stars: Jeff Goldblum 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra
11:30 GetOn Extra
12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Caulfield/ Doomben *Live* 5:00 Dog Patrol (PG) 5:30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (PG) 6:30 Bondi Vet (PG) 7:30 The Yorkshire Vet (M l) 8:30 Lewis (M v)
12:30 STIHL Timbersports (PG) 1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 The Car Club (PG) 2:00 NDRC Nitro Funny Cars 3:00 Night Thunder 4:00 AFL: GWS Giants v Geelong Cats *Live* 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Apollo 13” (PG) (’95) 1:00 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings (PG) 2:00 This Is Your Life (PG) 3:30 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 5:25 Movie: “The Boss Baby: Family Business” (PG) (’21) Stars: Alec Baldwin 7:30 Movie: “Spider-Man: Homecoming” (M v) (’17)
3:35 The Frontier (PG) 4:30 Faboriginal 5:00 Larapinta 6:00 Home, Land & Sea (PG) (In English/ Maori) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “Emu Runner” (M) (’18) Stars: Rhae-Kye Waites
6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Monty Don’s British Gardens 2:30 Race Around The World (PG) 3:30 The Assembly
12:05 DW The Day 12:35 Dark Side Of The 90s (M l,v) 1:30 The Grudge (M l) 2:00 Cycling: Tour de France Highlights 4:00 Worldwatch 6:05 Inside The Huddle 6:35 Over The Black Dot 7:05 Jeopardy! 7:30 NITV News Update 1:35 Snackmasters (PG) 3:00 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban” (PG) (’04) Stars: Emma Watson 10:20 TBA 12:00 Poirot (PG) 3:00 Movie: “It Always Rains On Sunday” (PG) (’47) Stars: Googie Withers 5:00 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:00 Antiques Roadshow 7:00 Escape To The Chateau 8:00 Movie: “Monster-In-Law” (M s) (’05)
9:30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures 10:30 Navigating The World 11:30 Pooches At Play (PG) 12:00 So Help Me Todd (PG) 1:00 The Living Room (PG) 3:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 7:00 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 9:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 11:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 11:30 Ridiculousness (M l) 1:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Ridiculousness (M l)
9:40 John And Lisa’s Food Trip Down Under 10:35 Eating Inn 12:30 Hairy Bikers Go West 1:00 Cryptoland (M l,s) 2:00 Cycling: Tour de France Highlights 4:00 Worldwatch 6:00 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista (PG) 6:10 Mastermind 6:40 The MegaBrands That Built The World (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Americana (M) 10:30 Big Rigs Of Oz 11:00 IndyCar Series Highlights 12:10 Formula E Highlights 2:30 Rugby Union: Warringah v Easts *Live* 4:30 Rugby Union: Wallabies v France *Live* From Suncorp Stadium 7:30 Rugby Union: Post-Match 12:45 Movie: “My Brother Jonathan” (G) (’47) Stars: Michael Denison 3:00 Movie: “Pacific Destiny” (PG) (’56) Stars: Denholm Elliot 5:00 NRLW: Sydney Roosters v Newcastle Knights *Live* 7:00 Customs (PG)
Bull (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 Guardians Of The Wild (PG) 7:30 Blue Water Empire 8:30 Movie: “Emily - I Am Kam” (PG) (’25) 11:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:30 All 4
Vika &
Get Macca’s® delivered.
4:35 SuperKitties
6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (M)
4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30
4:35 SuperKitties 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:10 Spidey And
(M
12:00 ABC News 1:00 The Capture (MA15+) 2:15
(’08) 5:30 The Yorkshire Auction House 6:30 Antiques Roadshow 7:30 As Time Goes By 8:40 Midsomer Murders (PG) 10:40 Rizzoli & Isles (M v)
BELLE PROPERTY ARRIVES!
BELLE PROPERTY LANDS ON HIGH STREET, PENRITH!
The team at Belle Property is bringing its brand to Penrith with the opening of a new Belle Property office on High Street.
Directors Chris Rayner and Kate Spence said they are excited to become part of the city’s continued growth and evolving property market.
“We have watched the area grow for a long time, and we’ve seen all the new cafés, shops, precincts, amenities, schools and infrastructure appear,” Rayner said.
“It’s great for us to be able to offer local clients a level of service that we felt the area was lacking. We’re bringing a national real
estate brand to Penrith.” Spence said Penrith’s popularity continues to grow as more buyers are drawn to the area.
“WE’RE A WELL-ESTABLISHED AGENCY SUPPORTED BY AN EXPERIENCED TEAM”
“Penrith is becoming increasingly vibrant and highly sought-after, particularly with the new apartment developments being built,” she said.
“We’re noticing many of the buyers are people downsizing from larger homes in the lower Blue Mountains, where our other office is located.
“They are looking to make the move to a lower-maintenance lifestyle.”
The pair bring more than 30 years of combined industry experience to their new Penrith office.
“We’re a well-established agency supported by an experienced team,” Rayner said.
“Some of our staff have worked alongside us for 10 to 15 years, so it’s not just Kate and I – we have an incredible team who we adore with extensive local sales experience.”
Spence said building strong relationships with clients is central to the agency’s approach.
“We like to think that we offer our clients a relationship or partnership built on open communication and honesty,” she said.
“We make sure every home we sell is treated as unique – there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Every client has different needs, and we tailor our strategy to achieve the best possible outcome. We also feel the Belle brand provides a strong network of support.”
Rayner said helping clients through what can often be a stressful process is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.
“When you genuinely care about people, you can guide them through the process,” he said.
“We’ve had some challenging sales recently as the market has changed, and being able to support people through difficult situations and help them achieve a positive outcome is something we’re very proud of.
“For us, it’s more about the people than the houses. Kate and I are passionate about helping people through an important stage of their lives.”
In addition to its local service, Belle Property offers vendors access to national marketing opportunities through its Sitchu magazine and shared database.
“Around 20 people pick up a copy from the front of our office every day, giving us the opportunity to promote properties through Sitchu at Belle Property offices across Australia,” Spence said.
“Penrith Pulse is the latest feature in the Sitchu magazine available from our office in the magazine stand out the front.”
Belle Property Penrith is located at Shop 2, 459 High Street, Penrith.
Chris and Kate. Photo: Melinda Jane.
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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
Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomesB anksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The ResidencesTypical example of Oran Park townhomes
LIMITED SPACE DOES NOT MEAN NO GARDEN!
Nothing quite compares to having a touch of greenery at home – settling into a quiet corner with a favourite book, or simply unwinding after a long day surrounded by
plants offers a sense of calmness.
When outdoor space is limited or traditional garden beds are not an option, creating a peaceful garden retreat can be challenging. The good news is that with a bit of creativity, even the smallest balcony, patio or outdoor nook can be transformed into a lush sanctuary.
According to Deborah Holtschlag, founder of Plant Traps, a balcony gardening speciality brand, the key to creating a thriving balcony garden is often simpler than people think.
Her award-winning innovation, RailScapes Vertical Plant Hooks, allows plants to be elevated along balcony railings, utilising underused vertical space, to create a layered garden without taking up valuable floor area.
“Greenery can completely change how a space feels,” Holtschlag said.
“Even a small balcony can become a calming outdoor retreat when plants are lifted into view and layered vertically.
RailScapes are designed to fit securely onto balcony railings with vertical spindles, providing a stable bracket for plants.”
With a few thoughtful choices around plant selection, placement and care, even the smallest outdoor space can be transformed into a stunning floating garden.
Start by making the most of vertical space
Greenery can really elevate the entrance to your home, so a front balcony with cascading florals could improve its street appeal, a green oasis on your back balcony can create the perfect indoor-outdoor feel, or if you are planning a small nursery for vegetables and herbs, an outdoor nook or fence could be suitable.
Let sunlight and climate guide your plant choices
Flowers such as jasmine, freesia, and marigolds add vibrant colour and a delightful fragrance, and can really set the scene.
Let your plants create texture and flow
Gardens are designed to bring a sense of relaxation, improve mood and create a stronger connection with nature.
Choosing plants that suit your environment and naturally create movement and layering is key to achieving this effect.
Varieties such as dichondra ‘Silver Falls’, trailing petunias, ivy geraniums and mandevilla can help build a lush, layered look that brings life and depth to the space.
Create simple care routines for your garden
Good drainage is important for balcony gardening, so use pots with drainage holes, quality potting mix and saucers where needed. Vertical containers can dry out, particularly in breezy areas, so group those with similar watering needs to keep things easy to manage.
Let your garden grow naturally
The beauty of a vertical garden is the sense of possibility it creates.
RailScapes Vertical Plant Hooks are available at Bunnings.
BLINDS PLAY KEY ROLE IN MODERN HOME DESIGNS
In today’s homes, good design has moved well beyond appearances. As energy bills climb and comfort takes on greater priority, homeowners are increasingly expecting more from their design decisions.
Window treatments are no exception, and interiors are quietly stepping up, shifting from decorative extras into hardworking elements that contribute to both style and performance.
It’s a shift that makes practical sense. The right window treatments can help address this directly, regulating indoor temperatures year-round and reducing reliance on heating and cooling, without forcing homeowners to choose between comfort and style.
“With the cooler weather settling in, it is easy to simply turn up the heater for a few months, but insulation plays a bigger role in home comfort than most people realise, and window treatments are one of the simplest places to
start,” said Diana Altiparmakova, Head of Product and Marketing, Luxaflex Window Fashions.
“Small changes at the window can have a meaningful impact on how a home feels day to day, and on what you’re paying to heat and cool it.”
Recognising which types of window shades are insulating, sustainable and beneficial for long-term use will assist when making window covering decisions.
Honeycomb blinds are one of the most effective window treatments for helping retaining warmth inside the home. Luxaflex Duette Shades combine contemporary style with advanced functionality using specifically engineered honeycomb-shaped air pockets to trap air and help moderate temperatures. By reducing heat transfer through windows, they can help reduce the average home’s heating costs by up to 54 per cent during winter.
The move toward smarter window treatments reflects broader shifts in how Australians are designing and living in their homes.
Open-plan layouts, floor-toceiling glazing, and north-facing aspects are all desirable, but they come with trade-offs. Managing the heat and glare that comes with generous natural light is a real challenge, and one that many homeowners are approaching more deliberately. Rather than defaulting to air conditioning or heavy drapes, a growing number are integrating window treatments into their design strategy from the outset, considering light control, privacy, and thermal performance alongside furniture and finishes.
“Good window furnishings can soften harsh afternoon glare, reduce UV exposure that fades furniture and flooring, and give occupants genuine control over how a space feels at different times of day,” said Altiparmakova.
INGROWN TOENAILS: DIY IS NOT THE ANSWER! The Experts
An ingrown toenail can be extremely painful, making it tempting to reach for nail clippers and try to remove it yourself. While this may seem like a quick solution, attempting to cut out your own ingrown toenail often causes more harm than good.
At OnePointHealth, we frequently treat patients whose ingrown toenails have become more painful, infected or difficult to manage after repeated attempts at home.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This commonly affects the big toe and can cause:
• Pain and tenderness
• Redness and swelling
• Infection and drainage
• Excess tissue (hypergranulation tissue) around the nail
If left untreated, symptoms can progressively worsen and make everyday activities such as walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable.
Why cutting it out yourself can make it worse
Many people try to dig down the side of the nail with nail clippers, scissors or other sharp objects. Unfortunately, this often creates
additional problems, including:
• Injury to the surrounding skin
• Increased risk of infection
• Leaving a sharp piece of nail behind that continues to grow into the skin
• Increased inflammation and bleeding
• Delayed healing and recurrent ingrown toenails
Repeatedly cutting the nail yourself may also alter the way the nail grows, making future episodes more frequent.
What causes ingrown toenails?
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing an ingrown toenail, including:
• Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners
• Tight or narrow footwear
• Trauma to the toe
• Naturally curved or thick nails
How a podiatrist can help Podiatrists can safely assess and treat ingrown toenails while minimising pain and reducing the risk of complications. Treatment may include:
• Conservative nail trimming and removal of the offending nail edge
• Management of infection where required
• Advice on proper nail-cutting techniques
and footwear
• Permanent nail surgery (partial nail avulsion) for recurrent ingrown toenails
Although it may be tempting to treat an ingrown toenail yourself, doing so can often worsen the problem and increase the risk of infection. Seeking treatment early is usually simpler, less painful and helps prevent recurring issues.
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling or signs of an ingrown toenail, the team at OnePointHealth can provide safe, effective treatment and help prevent it from coming back.
The Experts
BIRD FLU: STAY INFORMED ON DEVELOPMENTS
You’ve probably seen recent headlines about bird flu being detected in Australia, and it’s understandable that many people are wondering what it means for their family and their pets.
The recent Australian detections have all been in wild birds, including one confirmed case in NSW. This highlights the importance of remaining vigilant, particularly if you spend time around waterways, beaches or
The good news is that while Australia has now confirmed a small number of H5 bird flu detections in wild birds, there is currently no evidence that it has spread to poultry farms or the wider agriculture industry. There has also been no mass mortality event, and the risk to human health remains very low. So, should pet owners be worried? The answer is no – but we should all be informed and take sensible precautions.
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a virus that primarily affects birds. While certain strains have caused significant outbreaks overseas in poultry and wild bird populations, Australia’s surveillance systems are working hard to detect cases early and respond quickly.
then assess whether testing is required.
Although H5 bird flu has occasionally infected other animals overseas – including cats, dogs and some livestock – these cases have generally occurred after
parks where wild birds gather.
If you come across a sick or dead bird, the most important thing is not to touch it. Instead, keep children and pets away from the area, note the location, and report it by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. Trained personnel can
close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
There is currently no evidence that pets are playing a role in spreading the virus in Australia.
As pet owners, a few simple precautions can help reduce any risk. Keep dogs on a lead if they are likely to investigate dead
wildlife, discourage pets from chasing or catching birds, and avoid feeding raw poultry products that have not been prepared through approved food safety processes.
If your pet has had contact with sick or dead birds and later becomes unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice. Remember that many illnesses can cause similar signs, so bird flu is just one possibility that veterinarians will consider based on the circumstances.
Australia has successfully managed previous avian influenza outbreaks, and veterinary authorities continue to closely monitor the current situation. Early reporting is one of the most effective tools we have to protect wildlife, livestock and our pets. For now, there is no reason to panic. By staying informed, avoiding contact with sick or dead birds, and reporting anything unusual, everyone can play a small but important part in helping keep safe.
SUPER CHANGES BUYERS MUST BE AWARE OF The Experts
If you’ve been thinking about using your self-managed super fund to buy an investment property, there’s a new deadline you need to know about and it’s landed much faster than most people expected.
What’s actually changed
For almost two decades, Australians running a self-managed super fund (SMSF) have had the option of borrowing money inside their fund to buy property, using something called a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement, or LRBA. In plain terms, it let your super fund take out a loan, much like a regular mortgage, to purchase a property, with only that one property at risk if things went wrong.
That option is now closing for residential property. On June 23 2026, the Federal Government struck a deal with the Australian Greens to secure their support in the Senate for a broader package of tax reforms covering negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount. The price of that support was an amendment banning SMSFs from entering new LRBAs to buy residential property. The bill has since passed both houses of Parliament and received Royal Assent on June 26 2026.
The cut-off date that matters
Here’s the detail that’s causing the scramble: the ban doesn’t start the day the law is signed. It kicks in 45 days after Royal Assent, which puts the practical start date at around August 10 2026.
Crucially, what protects you isn’t your loan approval or your settlement date, it’s whether you’ve exchanged contracts before that cut-off. If you sign a contract to purchase before the ban commences, your arrangement is grandfathered, even if the loan is formally approved or the sale settles afterwards. Miss that window, and a new LRBA for residential property is no longer available to you.
Who isn’t affected It’s worth being clear about what this change does not touch:
• Existing arrangements are safe. If your SMSF already has an LRBA in place for residential property, nothing changes. It won’t be unwound.
• Refinancing is still allowed. You can refinance an existing SMSF property loan on normal commercial terms.
• Property owned outright is unaffected. If your fund holds residential property without any borrowing, this change doesn’t apply to you at all.
• Business premises are carved out. SMSFs
can still use an LRBA to buy “business real property”, broadly, premises used for running a business, including your own and lease it back at market rent.
• Super’s tax treatment is unchanged. Earnings inside an SMSF are still taxed at the concessional 15 per cent rate in accumulation phase, and at 0 per cent in pension phase for members over 60.
Why the Government made the change
The Greens pushed for the ban as a condition of supporting Labor’s wider tax package, arguing that SMSF borrowing for residential property let wealthier investors sidestep tougher tax rules being introduced elsewhere in the property market. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the change is expected to raise around $50 million over the forward estimates, and has described SMSF lending as a small slice of the market.
What this means if you’ve been considering it
If a residential property purchase inside your SMSF has been on your radar, the message from advisers is consistent: the timeline has compressed from months to weeks. If you want to proceed under the current rules, you need to work fast.
SNAPDRAGON LAPTOPS: NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
I’m looking for a new laptop. I mostly use it for browsing the web, working in Microsoft Office, online banking, social media and streaming. I stick to mainstream software and don’t play games. There is a new name next to the usual Intel and AMD logos: Snapdragon. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors used to be found mainly in smartphones, but now they’re starting to appear in laptops and changing things up.
Most laptops from Intel or AMD use the x86 architecture, which is the design most Windows programs were built for. Snapdragon chips use ARM architecture instead, which is more common in phones and tablets. Apple’s MacBooks also use ARM architecture.
The benefits: Why people are excited
Long battery life. Snapdragon chips are made for great battery life, and many new laptops promise to last all day or even longer. These processors use less power,
so you don’t have to worry about charging as often.
Instant-on performance. Snapdragon laptops usually wake from sleep immediately, just like a smartphone.
Cool and quiet. Snapdragon processors stay cool and quiet, so many laptops don’t need noisy fans. With less heat, laptops can be thinner and lighter.
AI smarts. Many new Snapdragon chips have built-in artificial intelligence features, so things like noise cancellation and
video call improvements work smoothly.
The drawbacks: What to watch out for
Not all apps work perfectly. The main issue is that Snapdragon uses a different architecture (ARM), and some older Windows programs don’t run directly. Microsoft has added an emulation system so you can still use many apps, but it doesn’t always work flawlessly.
Gaming. If you’re a serious gamer, Snapdragon laptops prob-
ably aren’t the best choice. Many top games are made for Intel or AMD processors and need dedicated graphics.
Not always cheaper. Snapdragon-powered laptops are positioned as premium devices, especially the newer models.
The good news is that compatibility is getting better fast. Microsoft and other developers are working to update apps for ARM-based systems, and the latest Snapdragon chips handle emulation better than older ones.
If you want a laptop that lasts all day, stays connected, and handles everyday tasks easily, Snapdragon laptops are a strong choice. But if you rely on special software, or you’re a gamer or power user, it’s still safer to stick with a traditional Intel or AMD machine for now.
So, what did I decide?
I’ve ordered a Snapdragon MS laptop. Check back soon for my follow-up article, where I’ll share what it’s really like to use Snapdragon every day.
Relax & Unwind
AMANDA JANE
Clairvoyant Medium
amandajane-xo.com
revivalretreats.com.au
@ amandajaneclairvoyant
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
Your unique way of seeing the world is exactly what’s needed right now. Don’t water yourself down to fit someone else’s expectations. A creative idea or sudden inspiration deserves your attention. The more authentic you are, the more opportunities seem to find you.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
You’re craving more peace than pressure, and that’s exactly what your soul needs right now. This is a beautiful week to simplify your schedule and reconnect with what truly matters. Don’t feel guilty for protecting your energy. The right people will understand your boundaries.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
You naturally inspire others, but remember you don’t always have to be the strong one. Allow yourself to receive support instead of carrying everything alone. This week shines a light on friendships and connections that genuinely fill your cup. Let yourself be seen for who you truly are.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Transformation is happening beneath the surface, even if it doesn’t look like much is changing. Don’t rush the process. You’re quietly letting go of old patterns that no longer fit the person you’re becoming. Give yourself credit for how far you’ve already come.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Your sensitivity is a gift, not a weakness. This week you’re likely to pick up on things others miss, so trust those subtle feelings. Spend time near water or in nature if you can, it will help clear your mind and restore your energy. What you’ve been hoping for may be closer than you realise.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Your words carry extra power this week, so be mindful of what you’re speaking into existence. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation, a new idea or an exciting invitation, don’t underestimate where one small moment could lead. Stay curious – you never know who’s about to enter your world.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Not everything needs fixing. Some situations simply need time to unfold. If you’ve been overthinking a decision, step back and let life reveal the next step naturally. Your practical nature is one of your strengths, but your intuition deserves an equal seat at the table this week.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Adventure doesn’t always require a passport. Sometimes it’s simply saying yes to something new. This week encourages fresh experiences, meaningful conversations and stepping outside your comfort zone. Follow what excites you, you’ll discover more than you expected.
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
You’ve been pushing forward for a while, but this week asks you to slow down long enough to check whether you’re still heading in the direction your heart wants to go. A conversation or unexpected opportunity could shift your perspective. Trust your instincts rather than forcing an outcome.
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Your intuition has been whispering to you for some time. This week it’s asking you to listen instead of second-guessing yourself. Emotional clarity arrives when you stop seeking reassurance from everyone else. You’ve already got the answers within you. Choose what brings you peace.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Balance returns when you stop trying to keep everyone else happy. Your own needs matter too. This week encourages you to make decisions that feel aligned rather than simply keeping the peace. Trust that the people meant for you will respect your honesty.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
You’ve been carrying a lot of responsibility lately, and it’s time to remember that rest is productive too. This week offers an opportunity to create better balance between work and your personal life. Success feels sweeter when you have the energy to enjoy it.
Amanda Jane is an internationally recognised Clairvoyant Medium, spiritual teacher, retreat facilitator, and founder of Revival Retreats Australia. With a gift for connecting to the spirit world and over a decade of experience supporting people through healing, transformation, and personal growth, Amanda has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt, accurate, and compassionate guidance.
NASHVILLE IS DISNEYLAND
Off the top let me make clear that there is much more to Nashville in the United States than country music, although the city is where the genre lives and breathes.
But if you’re heading to Nashville from Australia, it’s highly likely country music has brought you here. So, here’s the top 10 country music experiences in Nashville...
10. Backstage Nashville
Running every Saturday at 12.30pm, Backstage Nashville is a songwriters show that runs for about two hours and features talented writers who have penned some of country music’s biggest songs.
Not only is it a great way to take break from the hustle and bustle of Nashville, but you really get to sit back and take in the extraordinary talent before you.
There will always be a mix of rising stars and long-time hit-makers. On my most recent visit, those on stage had written for the likes of Tim McGraw, Chris Stapleton and Luke Combs.
Troy’s Tip: Even with a booking, get there early – it’s a first come, best dressed scenario for seating.
“DON’T PLAN TOO MUCH. HAVE A STARTING POINT BUT THEN BAR-HOP”
9. Johnny Cash & Alan Jackson museums
Located just off Broadway, these two museums are a great nod to a couple of icons of country music – and they’re right next door to each other.
The Johnny Cash Museum features some iconic items from one of the all-time country greats, while the Alan Jackson museum only just opened – and also features a whisky distillery inside.
Troy’s Tip: Pre-book your tickets to avoid any lines and guarantee your experience.
8. Music City Walk of Fame
I love grabbing a coffee just as the sun rises and clearing the head with a walk through the Music City Walk of Fame, which is a free public park downtown across from the Country Music Museum.
It’s always fun spotting the stars honouring some of your favourite country singers, and it gives you a real sense of history.
Spend as little or as long as you like here, but it’s a great way to kick-off a day in music city.
Troy’s Tip: See if you can find the only Australian with a star!
7. Broadway at night Broadway is wild, but boy is it fun. You’ll read a lot about there being “more to Nashville than Broadway”, but honestly if you’re there for live music and a unique experience felt in only a few places in the world, Broadway is where it’s at. I suggest going really early in your trip, this will help you discover whether you’re a “one and done” type person with Broadway or if you’re keen for more. Don’t plan too much – have a starting point but then bar-hop! My favourite night-time bars are Tootsies, This Bar, The Stage and Layla’s.
Troy’s Tip: Try to get to Broadway on a Monday or Tuesday night. It’s a lot quieter, but just as fun.
6. The Listening Room
The Listening Room is walkable from downtown or a short Uber ride, and is well worth the experience. It’s a writers round type show, full of extraordinary talent. On the night we were there, the extraordinary Lee Thomas Miller (who wrote ‘In Colour’) was on the bill.
The great thing about these writers round experiences is that the tickets are often really affordable, but you’re getting top tier talent and extraordinary stories.
Troy’s Tip: Go to the 6pm show, it’ll be out by 8pm and give you plenty of time to do something else that same night.
5. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
If you’re a country music buff, a visit to the Museum is a must. Over multiple levels, you’ll be taken back to country music’s roots for an extraordinary look back at how the genre evolved and how Nashville became music city.
You can spend as little or as much time as you like here, but if you’re a true country music fan you’ll want at least half a day.
The great thing is that they’re always changing the displays and exhibits and often have an ‘American Currents’ display, which features some more modern country artists.
Troy’s Tip: Add on the Studio B tour, it’s a great peek into an historic studio and a perfect way to see Music Row.
4. Bluebird Cafe
It’s where the likes of Taylor Swift and Garth Brooks first raised eyebrows, and for newer country fans where the TV show ‘Nashville’ based some of its most special moments.
The Bluebird is a Nashville icon, and if you’re a true country music fan it will already be on your list.
The Bluebird is notoriously difficult to get tickets to, so you’ll need to be well researched and set an early alarm back here in Australia to secure your spot. There’s also a line outside that forms a few hours before the show, but it doesn’t guarantee a ticket.
Troy’s Tip: Use a Gmail address when booking tickets, the system doesn’t like much else!
3. Ryman Auditorium
Often called the “mother church” of country music, the Ryman Auditorium was built in 1892 and has an extraordinary history in Nashville. Make sure you book a tour and learn about how and why it was built, why music city almost lost it and the extraordinary woman who made it her life’s work.
You can do self-guided tours but I’d highly recommend a VIP tour, it’s not all that expensive and you get speedy access to various elements as well as a tour guide who can
You will find live music at every turn.
The Alan Jackson Museum recently opened in Nashville.
The iconic Ryman Auditorium.
Backstage Nashville is an excellent songwriters round and should be on your list.
FOR A COUNTRY MUSIC LOVER
explain each part of the experience. You can also use your ticket to come back at any stage and see more.
Troy’s Tip: If it works out, see a show here too – it’s an amazing experience.
2. Broadway during the day
There’s something special about Broadway during the day and bar-hopping through
downtown. It’s less messy, not as busy and a much calmer experience – but not too calm.
This is a great way to sit and enjoy the music more, versus at night where it’s more about dancing (and the bachelorettes are out and about).
It’s also a great time to explore some of the rooftops, especially Chiefs and Category 10 which have some of the best in town.
1. Grand Ole Opry
For more than 100 years, the Grand Ole Opry has brought country music to the world.
While you may be lucky enough to see a huge star, the line-up doesn’t really matter –this is an extraordinary show no matter who is on the bill. Originally a radio show (in fact,
it still is) the Opry has had an unbroken run of Saturday evening performances for more than a century (including during COVID, where it went ahead without an audience) but now has plenty of mid-week shows too that operate in the same format.
I assure you, you will not be disappointed.
Troy’s Tip: Do a backstage tour – it’s an awesome add-on.
Troy’s Tip: Tip the band!
The iconic Tootsies in Nashville.
Broadway is a vibe. Emily Ann Roberts performs at the Grand Ole Opry in June.
9. Built-up (zone)
10. Saintly radiance
12. Aladdin’s magical helper
14.
16. Noosed
25. Phrases
26. Queasiness
29. Food-lover
32. Bullfight cheer
35. Defrosting
37. Ants’ homes
38. Substitute (5-2)
40. Monstrous giants
41. Steam-room
42. Greek fable writer
43. Come up
44. Walked through country
47. Portable light
51. Nabbed
52. Receding
53. Elaborate
54. British celebrity chef, ... Blumenthal
58. Allow entry to 59. That lady
61. Of hearing
63. Ellipses
64. Actor, Liam ...
65. Levels
66. Jugs
68. Physics particles
71. Not full
72. Curls
74. Copies
76. Loan contracts (1,1,2)
78. Category
80. Set down
83. Slippery fish
Word Search
THEME: NAIDOC WEEK 2026
NAIDOC WEEK
COMMUNITY
CULTURE
COUNTRY
RECONCILIATION
CELEBRATION
ABORIGINAL
ISLANDER
YARN
DREAMING
HISTORY
AUSTRALIAN
FIRST NATIONS
ANCESTRAL LANDS
WATERWAYS
SKIES
ELDERS
How to beat Str8ts –
Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.
COLOUR ME PENRITH!
Meals
Tiramisu
What You’ll Need:
– Square or rectangle dish
– Electric mixer
– 2 large bowls
– Spatula
Ingredients:
– 4 Eggs (separate whites and yolks)
– 1/2 cup Caster Sugar
– 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
– 250g Mascarpone
– 1 cup Black Coffee (hot)
– 2 Tbsp Kahlua (optional)
– 300g Lady Finger Biscuits
– Cocoa Powder (to top)
Method:
1. Crack yolks into a large bowl and place egg whites to the side in the other large bowl. Beat the yolks with sugar on me-
dium speed until they are thick and the colour is pale yellow.
2. Add vanilla extract and mascarpone, mixing until just combined (don’t over mix!). Set aside and beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
3. Add roughly half the cream mixture to the egg whites, gently folding through with a spatula. When mixed, add in the remaining mixture and fold gently.
4. If using liquor, mix that and the coffee together, then dip the biscuits into the coffee, lining the bottom of the dish.
5. Spread half the cream on top then add another layer of biscuits and top with the remaining cream.
Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm
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
Plus Pharmacy
Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies
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 Glenmore Park
McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise
Medi Advice Pharmacy
Woolworths
J amisontown
Abcoe
Abel Street C afé
Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym
B att Street Takeaway
Grey Gums Hotel
Har vey Norman
New On York Takeaway
Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen –
(Penrith Homemaker)
S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)
S hell Ser vice Station
Taproom On Tench
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
7/ 11 Henr y Street
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
Tattersalls Hotel
The Heritage Terrace C afé
The Log C abin
We stfield
Wingsto p
World Gym
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
Gloria Jean s (St Mar ys Village)
McDonald's St Mar ys South Monfar ville Corner Store
Queen Street Newsagency
St Mar ys Band Club
St Mar ys Diggers
St Mar ys Fish Market
St Mar ys Le agues Club
St Mar ys
MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL
KIA has the S-tonic for daily life: A sweet modern drive
Ring the bells and roll out the welcome mat, KIA has brought the turbo triple back!
One of the rortiest little engines to grace Australian roads is back, in the updated KIA Stonic.
A 998cc three cylinder petrol engine, with the added boost of a turbocharger, this was a dynamic unit in the previous KIA Picanto mini-car.
After disappearing from the market with the Picanto’s last update, the turbo triple makes a welcome return in the Stonic, with the addition of a 48V mild hybrid system.
I always liked the Stonic, a fun town car able to handle longer road trips, and this upgrade improves the package further.
We scored the range-topping GT-Line in Adventurous Green, an almost grey colour with the flat finish that is all the rage currently, but it works well here.
The front end is a bit ‘love it/hate it’, KIA’s ‘tiger face’ look – I don’t see it, myself – is a bit like a pair of eyebrows framing the grille section, with headlights nestled in the top corners.
There is a blunt nose cone, not as bad as the EV ‘heat shield’ look, but still fairly bluff, the main air intake sits below the bumper line, picked out by a chrome surround, with the cruise control’s radar module mounted in the middle.
Scalloping on the bonnet’s outer edges push air around the black mirror pods (body coloured on the lower spec versions), while the lower door sections bulge outwards to align with the flared wheel arches.
Despite a relatively short 2,580mm wheelbase, the Stonic’s ‘wheel at a corner’ design maximises usable space, with the rear doors making half of the rear wheel arches, all four corners are heavily pumped, pushing the guards out wide and gifting it a stable footprint.
The windscreen A-pillars are thin, reducing driver blindspots, this is helped by the low mounted door mirrors.
The GT-Line rides on 17” polished ‘X’-shaped alloys, shod with 205/55
tyres, providing a good compromise between ride quality and cornering ability.
Inside, the Stonic is somewhere between austere and funky, with a two-tone black and light grey colour scheme across the doors, seats, steering wheel and centre console, trimmed with black cloth and artificial leather.
Interestingly, the driver sits lower than the passenger, my son reported rubbing his hair against the power sunroof surround each time he got in.
No surprise, put two big units together and we were almost rubbing shoulders, but when my more elfin partner rode with me, the
space was fine.
That said, the cabin is comfortable, four adults would do fine on a longish trip, although more than four or five hours might be a stretch. While the infotainment system supports Apple and Android, as well as AM/FM/DAB and Bluetooth, it is a cable connection, although there is wireless phone charging.
Climate control is single zone automatic, the temperature dial is on the passenger side, I kept changing the fan speed when muscle memory said it should be on the driver’s side.
The single layer control panel, a KIA signature piece, uses a touch key to alternate between climate
control and infotainment buttons, clever packaging as well as looking cool.
The instrument panel and central screen sit in a single widescreen housing, with slimline air vents mounted underneath.
An oval shaped, flat top and bottom, steering wheel frames the instrument panel, with driver-selectable displays you can choose your own layout, the panel is clear and easily read at a glance, white and green elements are easy on the eye.
The wheel face has the usual controls for audio, cruise, telephone and screen displays, as well as a switch for the multi-stage steering assist, a five-second press hands full control back to the driver.
I found the seat-wheel-pedal relationship worked well, there was plenty of legroom, and my hands sat easily at ‘9 and 3’.
The heated seats and steering wheel were appreciated on early winter nights and mornings, before the air-con caught up.
Despite the modernistic funkiness, the gear selector is straight out of the ‘80s, a simple and easy to use T-bar shifter, with Drive engaged, it can be pushed sideways for manual shifting of the dual-clutch transmission (DCT), interesting KIA didn’t include paddle shifters, perhaps in the next upgrade?
This summed up the Stonic’s interior: modern, with an aesthetic driven by neatness, firmly rooted in traditional design and function.
Under the bonnet, a sight for sore eyes, the return of the turbo triple!
KIA has built some powerhouse drivelines – twin-turbo V6 Stinger, anyone? – this engine is a blend of minimalist power and design efficiency, very much less is more.
In this era, that is not a bad thing, instead of big power, KIA delivered an engine that is fun to drive, a raspy, snarly, angry chipmunk that loves to rev.
With 88kW/172Nm, this is like the original Cooper S Mini, yes, the soccer Mum Sorrento will dust you at the traffic lights, but that two-tonne behemoth won’t know the joy of bouncing from corner to
corner on a winding road.
That squat, wheel at a corner, low-line roof, profile is the key, with a low centre-of-mass, the Stonic is flatter than many other cars during hard cornering.
Quick acting steering allows for rapid, and accurate, changes of direction, letting you flick the car side to side, following the line of the road.
This is helpful, because without paddle shifts, you need to drop your left hand to the sequential shifter to complete changes.
Like all DCTs, you don’t use the accelerator and brake at the same time, this is not an automatic you are trying to preload, it cuts the clutch in and out, causing premature wear, this is operator error, so unless you want to change clutches regularly, engage the Auto Hold function.
“STONIC PUTS THE FUN BACK IN CITY DRIVING”
The downside of DCTs is you have to use every gear, up and down, but for the cafe racers, that is hardly an imposition.
The seats do a good job of holding you in place while you’re having fun, they aren’t full-on sport seats but do have adequate side bolsters to stop you sliding too much.
Those 55-Series tyres are a good compromise, stiff enough sidewalls for enthusiastic driving, but with enough flex and compression to deal with small bumps and corrugations.
As expected, the Stonic’s brakes do a good job, there is good bite and pedal feel, but they also work well in stop-start traffic.
You might get the feeling I like the Stonic, yes, you are spot on!, I think it is a fantastic little car.
Not just good as a city runabout, it is comfortable and composed on a highway trip.
The KIA Stonic has had an upgrade. It’s very spacious inside.
We got behind the wheel of the new KIA Stonic.
Honesty and reliability are two traits hard to find in a business these days but you can expect all that and more from the team at Mobile One Auto Repairs.
your new car warranty. They offer a limited pick up and drop off service, are flexible with appointments and very competitive with their prices.
Located at Forrester Road in St Marys, Mobile One Auto Repairs has been in business for an amazing 28 years, and has the reputation to go along with it.
“We’ve been here for a long time and have a very loyal customer base,” co-owner Debbie Bartolo said.
Mobile One Auto Repairs offers a range of high quality services including general mechanical repairs such as brakes, lubes, exhausts and tune-ups, plus registration checks and log book servicing without losing
But perhaps the best aspect of Mobile One Auto Repairs is their incredible customer service ethic. No longer will you leave the mechanic not knowing what repair work your pride and joy has undertaken and why.
“If a part is no longer working we’ll show the customer what is wrong with it and they are even welcome to take the part home,” Debbie said.
“We try and educate customers because there’s nothing worse than not knowing what you’ve paid for.”
They are at 6/176 Forrester Road, St Marys.
BIG NAMES IN TOWN FOR EVENT
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“Once again we have Scott Ernst coming from America to do some of the announcing and he’s also racing too. Scotty loves our club and loves the sense of community we have amongst our members,” Firth said.
“We also have Australia’s best RC commentator, Chris Mitchell from Perth, making the trip.”
And there’s more than just racing wins up for grabs.
“There will also be a massive raffle, with close to $10,000 worth of prizes up for grabs,” Firth said.
“We’ve got some great support for the event through sponsorship.”
If you can’t make it along to this weekend’s Winter Champs, PDNR hold racing nights every Tuesday evening at the Regatta Centre, with kids that have their own RC car racing for free.
The 2026 PDNR Winter Champs will be held from 8am-5pm on July 10-12 at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith.
Entry is free for spectators. For more information, visit pdnr.org.au/winterchamps.
BACKING NERIDA
Giants Netball extends coach’s contract despite horror year
NATHAN TAYLOR
Despite a wooden spoon season, Giants Netball have thrown their support behind coach Nerida Stewart, extending her contract until the end of the 2027 Super Netball season.
Stewart inked a new one-year deal last week alongside assistant coach Jen Wright, that’s despite a shocking season that saw the Giants win just one game.
However, Giants bosses prioritised stability and continuity when making the call to re-sign the pair for next season.
According to the club, Stewart impressed with her leadership, strategic direction and strong connection to the playing group, earning the confidence of the club to continue building into next season.
Stewart, who was in her first year as coach, said she was excited to continue building with the group.
“I’ve always believed that strong programs are built on genuine partnerships, and that’s exactly what Jen and I have
developed,” she said.
“From the beginning, we were aligned in how we wanted to lead and what we wanted this environment to look like.
“We both care deeply about this group, not just as players, but as people, and the growth
we’ve seen, particularly in terms of connection and resilience, is something we’re incredibly proud of.
“There’s something special within this program, and I’m really excited to continue building that alongside Jen.”
Wright joined the club ahead of the 2026 campaign, bringing fresh perspective and a strong coaching background to the Giants environment.
Giants Netball Executive General Manager Tim Underwood said retaining both coaches was a priority for the club.
“This has been our 10th season and one of the most challenging we’ve faced, but it’s also reinforced why extending Nerida and Jen was so important for our club,” he said.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the culture and connection this group has built under their leadership. Ned has borne the brunt of public criticism alongside the players, but what she has built and continues to build, particularly in terms of connection, has been outstanding.
“We have every confidence that, with Ned and Jen leading this program, something bigger is waiting for us in the future.”
The Giants will begin recruiting players for the 2027 Super Netball season when CPA negotiations are complete.
Giants coach Nerida Stewart. Photo: Ryan Jones/GWS GIANTS.
Racing at the Regatta Centre.
Wanderers dressed for success
The Western Sydney Wanderers will be kitted out by sports performance brand Asics next season, the club has announced.
As the club’s new kit supplier, Asics will provide a full collection of on-field and training apparel and footwear for its 2026/27 A-League season for both the men’s and women’s games.
The partnership marks a pivotal moment for football in Australia and a significant step in Asics’ growing commitment to the sport.
From home, away and third jerseys through to training apparel, warm-up and outerwear, the full range has been designed to reflect the unique identity of Western Sydney, using Asics’ performance
apparel technologies to support athlete performance on the pitch.
The head-to-toe partnership will also see Asics provide the club with access to its range of football boots and performance runners to support training needs both on and off the field.
The home jersey heroes the club’s iconic nine-hoop design, in the club’s true brand colours, representing the nine football associations across the western Sydney region.
Accented with clean white lines and a solid black upper back, the jersey draws on a touch of Asics’ own heritage, with Japonism through its side panel graphic, tying together breathable mesh panelling for unrestricted movement.
“Partnering with the Western Sydney Wanderers is an important moment for Asics as we continue to
grow our commitment to local football,” said Mark Brunton, Managing Director at Asics Oceania.
“Since arriving in Australia, Asics has always called western Sydney home – our offices are here, our people are here – so there is something genuinely fitting about partnering with a club that represents this community so deeply.
“This kit has been designed with both performance and identity in mind. Every detail speaks to the character and heritage of western Sydney, and we’re proud to see it on one of the A-League’s most recognised clubs.”
Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson said it was a landmark partnership for the club.
“To welcome a global performance brand like Asics as our official kit supplier is a significant moment
for the Wanderers and a strong endorsement of our vision for the future,” he said.
“What excites us the most is that this partnership goes beyond the kit. It is about representing our region on the biggest stages, creating memorable experiences for our members and fans, and working with a brand that genuinely understands and values the community we represent.
“The Wanderers jersey carries
enormous meaning for our community. Asics has done a fantastic job creating a kit that honours our identity, our history and our connection to western Sydney, and we can’t wait to see our teams wear it with pride this season.”
The new Wanderers kit will be seen on the world stage, set to be worn in the historic 2026 Sydney Super Cup at Accor Stadium on Tuesday, July 28, when Western Sydney face Chelsea Football Club.
Dylan Scicluna in the new Asics kit.
NATHAN TAYLOR
CARNIVAL ON AGAIN
Popular harness racing series to return to Penrith Paceway early next year
Major harness racing event the Carnival of Cups is returning to Penrith next January.
Now entering its fourth season, the Carnival of Cups has firmly established itself as one of regional NSW’s premier sporting and entertainment events, attracting more than 100,000 patrons to racecourses across the state since the new format was introduced.
The 2026/27 series will once again bring together elite harness racing, major live entertainment, family-friendly attractions and community celebrations across five iconic regional destinations, including Penrith Paceway.
Patrons can look forward to performances from some of Australia’s biggest bands, extensive all-ages entertainment, children’s rides and activities, and free admission at every event.
The Carnival of Cups on-track program will continue the highly successful integration of the TAB Regional Championships Finals, while Fast Pass qualifying races at Leeton, Maitland and Dubbo will again provide connections with opportunities to automatically secure their place in the $150,000 state final at Club Menangle.
In a major boost for participants and racing fans alike, Harness Racing New South Wales has increased the feature race at each Carni-
val of Cups stop to $100,000, ensuring the country’s best horses and participants are attracted to the series while showcasing elite racing in front of the Carnival’s large crowds.
This season will also feature a revised schedule, strategically aligned with the national racing calendar and local events program to maximise participation and further strengthen the Carnival of Cups as a major community event.
Harness Racing NSW Chief Executive Peter Buckman said the continued growth of the
Carnival of Cups had cemented its place as a cornerstone of the sport’s engagement strategy.
“When we re-launched the Carnival of Cups in this new format three years ago, our vision was to create major regional events that brought communities together while showcasing the very best of harness racing. The response has exceeded all expectations,” Buckman said.
“More than 100,000 people have attended Carnival of Cups events to date, many experi-
encing harness racing for the first time. We’ve seen tremendous growth in attendance, wagering, participation and community engagement right across the series.”
Buckman said the decision to return with an expanded fourth season reflected the enormous success of the concept.
“The Carnival of Cups has become much more than a race meeting. It’s now a genuine regional event series that combines elite sport, live entertainment and family fun in a way that resonates with local communities,” he said.
“By increasing each feature race to $100,000, we’re ensuring the country’s best horses are competing at our regional venues while giving local communities the opportunity to experience top-class racing up close.
“The revised schedule also provides stronger alignment with the national racing program, helping us attract the best possible fields while continuing to grow the Carnival’s reputation as one of the premier regional sporting and entertainment series in Australia.
“Whether you’re a lifelong harness racing fan or someone attending for the first time, the Carnival of Cups offers something for everyone. We can’t wait to welcome communities back to Wagga, Bathurst, Newcastle, Penrith and Albury for another unforgettable season.”
The Penrith Carnival of Cups event, which will includes the Renshaw Cup and Metropolitan Final, will be held on January 30, 2027.
NATHAN TAYLOR
The Carnival of Cups was held in Penrith earlier this year. Photo: Brett Atkins.
SPORTS SHORTS
WITH NATHAN TAYLOR
Upset win puts Giants back on track
AFL: The GWS Giants have pulled off one of the upsets of the season, defeating competition leaders Fremantle by 21 points in Canberra last weekend. The 109-88 win down in the nation’s capital snapped a three-game losing streak for the Giants, who were quickly falling out of the Finals’ race. Giants captain Toby Greene delivered for the home team, putting together a masterclass with 27 disposals and three goals, while Jack Stringer was hot in front of the goal, booting a career-high seven majors to power his side to an unlikely victory. The Giants will look to capitalise on their sudden form reversal when they return home to Engie Stadium to play the seventh-placed Geelong Cats this Saturday afternoon.
AFL: The Penrith Rams have extended their winning streak, too good for the East Coast Eagles 88-45 in Round 12 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. Ben McGovern top-scored for the Rams with three goals in the huge 43-point win. The Rams remain on top of the ladder and will play the North Shore Bombers when the competition resumes next weekend at Greygums Oval. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes enjoyed a 25-13 win over the Parramatta Goannas in Round 12 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes will also have this weekend off before playing the Bombers on Saturday, July 18.
FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers have locked in a number of new signings in recent weeks. The Wanderers will welcome home midfielder Miguel Di Pizio on a two-year deal. A graduate of the Wanderers Academy, the 20-year-old returns to the Red & Black after establishing himself as one of the A-League’s most promising young talents during his time with the Central Coast Mariners. Also arriving in Western Sydney is dynamic New Zealand attacker Liam Gillion, signing a two-year deal. The 23-year-old arrives at Wanderland after making 24 A-League Men appearances across the past two seasons, where he established himself as one of the competition’s promising young attacking talents. Finally, defender Panashe Madanha will be a Wanderer for the next two seasons. At just 21 years of age, Madanha arrives at Wanderland with valuable A-League Men experience already
under his belt, having made 35 appearances in the competition since making his professional debut in 2022. More signings are set to be announced by the club soon.
RUGBY: Following last weekend off, the Penrith Emus will return to the pitch this Saturday to battle Sydney Harbour in Round 11 of the McLean Cup. The fixture will take place at Woollahra Oval at 3.15pm. The Emus currently sit in fourth place on the ladder with six wins and four losses.
BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have had a mixed weekend in Round 13 of the NBL1 East Men’s and Women’s competition. Up against the Bankstown Bruins on Saturday, Penrith’s men’s team lost 104-93, while Penrith’s women’s team went down 83-57. Up against the Albury-Wodonga Bandits on Sunday, Penrith’s men’s team enjoyed a 98-91 win, while Penrith’s women’s team suffered a disappointing 97-66 defeat. The Panthers will go head-to-head with the Hills Hornets at Minto Indoor Sports Centre this Friday night.
NETBALL: Round 10 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition took place at Netball Central last week. Panthers Netball’s U23s team went down to the ERNA Hawks 46-41, while their Opens lost to the Hawks 58-49. Both teams will hit the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre court this Friday night when they lock horns with old foes the GWS Fury in Round 11. The crosstown rivals will battle it out for the coveted Mayor’s Cup. Entry is $15, with tickets available at https://www. stickytickets.com.au/QZ7Z27.
RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 12 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys were too good for the Glebe Dirty Reds 32-24, while Penrith Brothers beat Manly Leagues 32-14. In the Sydney Shield, the Saints thrashed the Dirty Reds 56-12, while Brothers had the bye.
RUGBY LEAGUE: The Penrith Panthers have risen to fifth on the ladder, hammering the South Sydney Rabbitohs 38-6 in Round 4 of the NSW Women’s Premiership. The Panthers recorded their third straight win in the seven tries to one blowout. Penrith will look to keep their winning streak alive when they battle the Wenty Magpies this Saturday afternoon at Blacktown Exercise and Technology Hub in Rooty Hill.
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.
The GWS Giants shocked the AFL world last weekend with a win over the Dockers. Photo: Brendon Thorne/AFL Photos.
Liam Gillion.
Panthers won the Mayor’s Cup in 2025.
Penrith are on a winning streak.
READY TO RACE
Radio-control enthusiasts from around the state and country are currently in town preparing for one of their favourite events on the year, the 2026 Winter Champs.
Penrith District Nitro Racing (PDNR) will once again host their popular Winter Champs event, taking place at the Sydney International Regatta Centre car park from tomorrow, July 10 to Sunday, July 12.
The Winter Champs has been an annual event since 1997, with PDNR enjoying the hosting duties for the past 18 years.
Speaking with the Weekender, PDNR
Competition Secretary Tony Firth said this year’s Winter Champs has everyone talking.
“Preparations are going really good. Our numbers are equal to last year, maybe even a little bit higher. We’re just shy of 200 entries,” he said.
“I want to say an amazing thank you to all the racers for their support. The Winter Champs has become a real bucket list event, particularly over the last few years where it’s really gone from strength to strength. A lot of our racers are travelling from interstate and regional areas.”
One local racer who will be competing at her very first Winter Champs is 10-year-old Ava from Glenmore Park. The youngster developed a passion for the hobby a year ago after reading an article in the Western Weekender
“Ava and Mark, her father, saw the Winter Champs article in the newspaper last year and came down to the event to have a look, and she’s been racing every week since,” Firth revealed.
“Ava loves it and even did a school project on PDNR. She’ll be making her debut this weekend in the Junior class.”
The Winter Champs is one of the longest
running RC events in Australia and has grown to be the pinnacle non-sanctioned RC event. More than a dozen race classes are once again on offer, with people racing everything from nitro cars to electric trucks.
Starting in the late 1990s, the Winter Champs has a rich history and legacy in Australia and is still widely considered the “big daddy” of radio control events.
This year’s Winter Champs is expected to be no different with plenty on offer for both spectators and participants to enjoy.
Story continues on » p. 100
Preparations are underway for the PDNR Winter Champs.
