Western Weekender June 4 2026

LEADERSHIP PUZZLE COMPLETE AS PANTHERS FINALISE REMAINING BOARD

PETE’S ON BOARD

Peter Tracey has joined the Board of Panthers Group in a move that will add an additional financial skillset to the club’s leadership. Troy Dodds reports on Page 16.

Peggy Roddick is making noise, and plenty of it.

The long-time Penrith resident and former business owner is going public in her quest for justice after she was allegedly sexually assaulted in a Cranebrook home early last year.

The horrifying incident occurred in February 2025, but police say there is not enough evidence to lay any charges against the couple accused to be involved.

It is the police’s response to her case that has infuriated Roddick, who in recent weeks has been extremely vocal on social media and has founded a Facebook page called The FoundHer Collective.

“I’m getting flooded with personal messages and comments by women locally and Australia-wide that have been through the same thing and have felt dismissed by police,” she said. “I would love to think that I could make a difference.”

GROUNDS FOR CONCERN

NSW cafés and hospitality businesses could be facing major changes to the way they hand out coffee as the State Government looks to limit takeaway cup wastage.

Labor’s Environmental Legislation Amendment (Plastic Reduction and Container Recycling) Bill 2026, introduced into NSW Parliament in March, states that cafés and takeaway hospitality businesses will be required to implement reusable takeaway cup schemes by 2030.

While a staged approach has been foreshadowed, cafés will be forced to accept reusable cups brought in by customers from 2028, and must offer a reusable cup system as standard practice from late 2030.

Member for Badgerys Creek Tanya Davies said cafés and small businesses in her electorate are already under pressure from rising rents, insurance premiums, energy bills, and workforce shortages.

“Badgerys Creek businesses are struggling and the last thing they need is the Minns Labor Government introducing unworkable red tape,” she said.

“A café selling around 300 coffees per day would need to manage thousands of reusable cups in circulation.”

introduced the Environmental Legislation

(Plastic Reduction and Container Recycling) Bill 2026 into parliament and said the State Government is taking action to reduce waste.

“As the Government has emphasised many times, New South Wales is facing a waste crisis,” Doyle said.

“Growing waste generation and stagnating recycling rates mean that more of our waste is being sent to landfill year on year. These trends cannot be sustained.

“Greater Sydney is on track to run out of landfill space by 2030. Without intervention, this will result in increased costs to ratepayers for essential waste services, disruptions to the delivery of critical infrastructure projects, and risks of greater illegal dumping and waste stockpiling.

“The New South Wales Government is taking action to make sure there is enough waste infrastructure capacity available in the immediate term for the people of New South Wales to continue to have their red-lid kerbside bins collected.”

Shadow Minister for the Environment Jacqui Munro criticised the lack of consultation, saying industry stakeholders were blind-sided by the proposal.

“Labor is trying to rush through confused reform without engaging the very businesses expected to implement it. There is no clarity about who has to do what, by when,” Munro said.

“We all want to reduce plastic waste. But this reform must be workable. Right now, this proposal simply isn’t and coffee lovers and small businesses will pay the price.”

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said businesses will not survive if governments continue piling on more red tape, regulation and bureaucracy at a time when operators are already under enormous pressure.

“We all want to see less waste and more sustainable outcomes, but now is not the time for changes that unfairly hit small businesses already struggling with soaring energy bills, rising rents, insurance costs and workforce shortages.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and our communities, and they need practical support and certainty, not more compliance costs and administrative burdens that make it harder to stay afloat and grow.”

The bill was due to be discussed yesterday.

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From The Editor’s Desk

Troy Dodds

Pauline Hanson reckons she could be Prime Minister.

And for once, those who have forever scoffed at the concept are starting to wriggle a little in their seats.

Both their literal seats and political ones, that is.

The path to Hanson actually taking up residence in The Lodge is a difficult one and the scenario of One Nation being the dominant political party in Australia is, overall, unlikely.

But one thing we can be certain of is that Pauline Hanson, nor the party she leads, is going away any time soon.

This is no longer a movement followed by a small off-shoot element of the voting public.

And anyone still doubting One Nation’s ability to be the major disruptor in Australian politics over the next few years clearly has their head deep in the sand.

For too long the Labor and Liberal parties have taken for granted that the status quo would be maintained in Australian politics. That is that both parties have their staunch followers, and the vast majority of the rest would continue to swing between the two parties.

The rest were made up of those pesky greenies and the odd independent who may hold sway every now and again but, on the whole, would have little impact on who leads the country.

And to be honest I’m not sure either party has fully grasped One Nation’s surge to popularity in recent times.

They’re still scratching their heads, sure that this whole thing will just be a flash in the pan.

Far from it.

Fresh polling published in the Australian Financial Review on Monday revealed One Nation has surged past Labor with voters.

The Coalition meanwhile is like that Melbourne Cup horse you got in the sweep that is still trying to find the line on Wednesday morning.

The polling does not surprise anyone.

If you’ve been out and about in recent times, the conversations tend to be pretty similar.

There is real anger at the government, particularly from the business sector but indeed from the general electorate too.

And it’s not just about the Budget, though that would certainly be largely responsible for the recent polling numbers.

People are starting to look at their higher electricity bills, their increased mortgage payments and their tighter budgets and realising that life doesn’t look much better under Anthony Albanese compared to before his party took power.

“How serious are the Liberals about reclaiming Penrith if they can’t get their house in order with a candidate?”

The Prime Minister is on the nose.

People aren’t convinced Jim Chalmers could run the books for the local footy club let alone the country.

And Chris Bowen? That smirk is wearing thin. Real thin.

But as people look across the political divide they’re not finding a lot to like about the Coalition.

A bloke I spoke to in the waiting room of my mechanic the other day probably summed it up best.

“The last election result still hasn’t woken them up.”

Despite the very harsh lessons to be learned from the election defeat last year, most still remain unsure about what the Coalition stands for.

The Liberal Party remains deep in an identity crisis with no sign of figuring it out.

And so a glance to One Nation occurs, and that glance becomes a stare.

This party once considered fringe, dangerous and even racist is actually making some sense.

In this mix is a whole generation of voters who would have traditionally moved from the left of politics to the conservative side of the fence as they got older, matured and had a history they consider worth preserving.

Unconvinced by what they are seeing from the Coalition, they are edging towards a party with policies that are simplistic but sensible, at least on the surface.

And in Pauline Hanson they believe they’ve found a politician who says it like it is, is willing to upset the status quo and importantly, is willing to listen.

Western Sydney is about to become the big test for One Nation.

It is without question ripe for the picking. But a real key will be selecting quality candidates. People may like what they hear from One Nation but if a crackpot who colours well outside the lines turns up as the candidate in their electorate, the love affair will fizzle quickly.

In Penrith, the State Election looms as the first big indicator of One Nation’s impact in our area.

In 2023, the One Nation candidate secured 8.2 per cent of first preference votes. That was up a full percentage point from 2019.

Consider now, with momentum behind them, what the party could do at the election next March?

The Liberal Party, apparently desperate to win back the seat from Labor, still hasn’t got a candidate.

How serious are they about reclaiming Penrith, and about fending off One Nation’s quest for the conservative vote, if they can’t get their house in order with a candidate?

One Nation isn’t going away.

And despite all the warnings, the major parties still look like they’re about to get their pants pulled down.

Councillor confirms tilt at State seat

The 2027 State Election is beginning to take shape with another candidate officially endorsed to run for the seat of Penrith.

Current Penrith City Councillor Vanessa Pollak has been approved as the Libertarian candidate to contest the seat of Penrith at the 2027 State Election, to be held next March.

The seat is currently held by Labor’s Karen McKeown who recently announced her intention to run for a second term as State MP.

Pollak cited community disillusionment and distrust with the major parties, Labor and Liberal, as her incentive to run for the seat.

“Over the last few years, I’ve noticed that either major party have

been indistinguishable from one another and I believe they’ve abandoned their principles, both sides of the major parties,” Pollak stated.

“The Coalition doesn’t appear to be a credible Opposition at this point. I’m certainly motivated to step up, I have a lot to say.

“I was sitting on the couch, and I was like I’ve got to do something; I’ve got to get involved and that was the reason I started my Council campaign, which was successful and I’m thoroughly enjoying that role. The State Election was coming up, and I felt like it was a good time for me to put my hat in the ring.”

Pollak explained that she believes there will be major shake-ups in elections across the country as more alternative parties show themselves as options at the polling booth.

“I would like to see true

representation in Penrith. As I said, the major parties have abandoned the community, and I believe a lot of people are feeling that way,” she said.

“We’re starting to see protest votes happening in Albury and with the Victorian Election coming up I think that will be quite telling. We really need a viable alternative to the major parties.”

Pollak believes there is growing support for the Libertarian Party and is giving the community a chance to vote that way.

“I had a lot of support from the Council election,” Pollak reflected.

“I had a lot of volunteers and votes which was lovely. People really supported me and they liked my message.

“I think if people sit down and think about it, Libertarian values

are values that most people share. It’s just they haven’t really put it into context.”

McKeown won the seat of Penrith from Liberal Stuart Ayres at the 2023 State Election, with a swing of about

2.2 per cent after preferences. Labor now hold the seat by 1.6 per cent. The Liberal Party has yet to announce a candidate for the seat, which it believes it is a chance of winning back.

LAW and ORDER

Police Snapshot Legal Matters

Penrith: Man found asleep in car, carrying knives and drugs

A man will front court after an early morning snooze ultimately resulted in a raft of police charges.

At 8.30am on Thursday, May 28 a car was blocking the front entry door of a medical centre on High Street in Penrith.

Staff of the medical centre asked the male driver to move the car, and he reversed back a short distance.

Staff called police who arrived a short time later and located the driver, a 27-year-old Glenmore Park man asleep in the car’s driver’s seat. Police woke the 27-year-old and asked him to step out of the car. At the same time, police were doing checks on the car which showed it was stolen.

As the 27-year-old was taken out of the car he put his hand in his pocket before quickly bringing it to his mouth and swallowing what is believed to be drugs. The 27-year-old looked at one of the police officers before attempting to run but police grabbed a hold of him.

The car was searched and inside police found two large knives. The 27-year-old was searched and police allegedly found Suboxone 8mg strips.

The 27-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was formally charged with five offences. The man was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Thursday, June 11.

Colyton: Residents take down suspicious man

Local residents have come together to stop a man who had engaged in suspicious behaviour on their street.

At 8.30pm on Friday, May 29 a Colyton resident saw a man enter the front gate of his property on Carpenter Street. The resident watched the man walk to the side of his home and urinate. The resident went outside and confronted the man, telling him to leave. About 15 minutes later, the resident’s wife saw the same man attempting to get into a car on the street. The residents were then told by a group some teenagers that the same man was attempting to steal items from their bags.

A short time later, the resident and his brother found the man and tackled him before calling police. Police arrived and arrested the man, a 27-year-old from Lethbridge Park.

He was taken to St Marys Police Station where he was charged.

The 27-year-old will appear in Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, July 8.

Emu Plains: Random assault leaves victim with head injuries

A man was hospitalised after a bizarre assault at a shopping centre last weekend.

At 5.30pm on Sunday, May 31 a 50-year-old man was at a shopping centre in Emu Plains.

As the 50-year-old was walking through the main area of the centre, a 25-yearold Katoomba man was walking a short distance behind him. The 25-year-old made comments at the 50-year-old and words were exchanged between the men. They are both unknown to each other.

A short time later the 25-year-old and the 50-year-old were walking toward each other and as they passed the 25-year-old shoulder barged the 50-year-old. The 50-year-old then pushed the 25-year-old back and words were exchanged again. The 25-year-old shaped up to the 50-year-old, who walked away.

The 25-year-old followed the 50-year-old and struck him twice causing the 50-year-old to fall over. As the 50-year-old was attempting to get up, the 25-year-old was holding an object in his hand, described as a sock with a heavy object inside. The 25-year-old swung the object hitting the 50-year-old in the back of the head.

Police and paramedics were called, and the 50-year-old was taken to hospital with serious deep scalp lacerations to the bone.

Police made enquiries about the 25-yearold, and he was arrested in Mt Riverview later that evening. The 25-year-old was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was formally charged. He was bail refused and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday, June 15.

Cranebrook: Man arrested after attacking ambulance officers

A man has been charged with attacking the very people trying to help him.

At 9pm on Sunday, May 31 a 26-year-old

Cranebrook man was having an asthma attack and called NSW Ambulance who arrived at the Pensax Road address a short time later.

When the two female ambulance officers arrived the 26-year-old was aggressive and was believed to have consumed ice and heroin.

As the ambulance officers were attempting to treat the 26-year-old and administering oxygen he hit one of the officers on the arm and grabbed the sleeves of her shirt.

Without warning the 26-year-old struck one of the officers in the chest. Police arrived and restrained the 26-year-old. He was taken to hospital for treatment before being formally charged.

WHAT PAPERWORK DO I NEED TO FINALISE A DECEASED PERSON’S ESTATE?

When a person dies leaving assets in their sole name, such as real estate, bank accounts or shares, someone usually needs legal authority to collect those assets, pay debts and distribute what is left.

In New South Wales, that authority is commonly given by the Supreme Court through either a Grant of Probate or a Grant of Letters of Administration.

A Grant of Probate is used when the deceased person left a valid will and that will names an executor who is able and willing to act.

The executor is the person chosen by the deceased to carry out the will. Probate confirms that the will is valid and that the executor has authority to deal with the estate. Once probate is granted, the executor can gather in the assets, pay funeral expenses, taxes and debts, and distribute the estate to the beneficiaries named in the will.

A Grant of Letters of Administration is used when there is no executor able to obtain probate. This most commonly happens where the deceased did not leave a valid will. In that situation, the person is said to have died “intestate”. The estate is then distributed according to intestacy laws, which set out which relatives are entitled to inherit and in what shares. The person appointed to

manage the estate is called the administrator, rather than the executor.

Letters of Administration may also be needed even where there is a will. For example, the will may fail to appoint an executor, the named executor may have died, or the executor may be unwilling or unable to act. Where there is a will but no executor available or some other problem with the document, the grant is often called Letters of Administration with the Will Annexed. In that case, the administrator must still follow the will.

The key difference is the source of authority. Probate confirms the authority of an executor appointed by a valid will. Letters of Administration appoint an administrator where there is no valid will, or no executor who can act.

Not every estate needs a grant. Some assets may pass automatically, such as jointly owned property passing to the surviving joint owner, or superannuation paid directly to a nominated beneficiary. Banks and other institutions may also release smaller amounts without a court grant. However, where significant assets are held in the deceased’s sole name, particularly real estate, a grant is often required before those assets can be transferred or sold.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY HURT IN BAD CRASH

A woman was placed in an induced coma at the scene of a horror crash in South Penrith on Tuesday night.

She was rushed to Westmead Hospital in a serious condition after her car crashed into a telegraph pole at high speed.

The incident happened on Evan Street at around 7.20pm on Tuesday.

Emergency services, including a specialist medical team, rushed to the scene.

It is understood only one vehicle was involved in the crash, with the driver trapped inside the wreckage.

Paramedics worked to help

the woman while firefighters freed her from the vehicle, which was heavily damaged. Due to the extent of her injuries, it is understood she was placed into an induced coma at the scene.

She was suffering from chest, head and limb injuries.

A medical helicopter

landed nearby but the woman was taken under police escort by ambulance to hospital. Police are investigating what happened in the lead-up to the crash.

As of going to print on Wednesday, there was no update on the woman’s condition.

READYFOR TAKE OFF

WSI CEO SIMON HICKE

The countdown is on, with the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) (WSI) Cargo Precinct set to launch at the end of July and passenger ser vices taking off in October. And we’re very proud to have reached this very impor tant stage as we enter the home straight to make your new airp or t a reality

This 24-hour global gateway airpor t will continue to bring people together from all walks of life, set amongst one of the nation’s most diverse and fastest growing populations – Western Sydney. Our recent Runway Run/ Walk showcased this best – with over 20,000 people taking part and sharing their excitement for WSI ’s opening, while raising over $20 0,00 0 for sick kids.

As great connectors , airpor ts create great oppor tunities WSI has been the catalyst for billions of dollars of infrastructure investment by our federal and state government s. And communities are already benefiting, with upgraded roads like the Northern Road and Elizabeth Drive and the new toll-free M12, helping people move around the region more efficiently

But without a doubt our airpor t’s most enduring legacy will be as a major driver of jobs. Meaningful, long-term jobs for Western Sydney ’s vibrant communities that utilise locals’ skills and qualifications and ensure they can spend more time at home and less time commuting. Thousands of new jobs will be needed to suppor t WS I’s operations over the years ahead and those opportunities will gro w as the airp or t expands to meet demand.

In recent months we’ve launched ticket sales with Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand. We’ve announced our first global retailer, with Lagardere signing on for a decade JCDecaux has signed on as our advertising par tner, and dnata Cargo has joined our Cargo Precinct Wilson Parking Australia has come onboard to manage carparking and O’Brien has been confirmed as the first Business Precinct anchor tenant.

We’ll be sharing more updates with you each month as we prepare to take Western Sydney to the world. I for one cannot wait to welcome you to your new airp or t.

KAYL A LOW E

Well over 10,000 workers helped build Western Sydney International (Nancy- Bird Walton) Airpor t (WSI), more than half of whom haile d from suburbs across Western Sydney.

WSI will be able to suppor t up to 10 million annual passengers, and by the time it reaches this capacity in the 2030s the airpor t is expec ted to provide direct employment for up to 8, 50 0 people

Right now, it’s gearing up for opening in October with more staf f joining th e team each month

This includes Kayla Lowe, one of four Airpor t Services Managers, who form par t of WSI ’s Airpor t Operations Control Centre that ’s known as the ‘nerve centre of the airp or t’

Kayla grew up in C ampbelltown and now lives in Douglas Park with her husband and three sons and is proud to work at Sydney ’s new 24-hour global gateway

“I ’ve worked in aviation for over a decade, and I grew up hearing about Western Sydney International and knowing it was on the horizon and would offer work closer to home,” she said.

“When I found out about this crucial operational role, it was a no-brainer to apply Being a born-and-bred Western Sydney girl to now have a job at WSI that I love – it feels really special.”

Kayla hopes the opening of the airpor t and the growth of Western Sydney that it ’s helped drive will spark curiosit y in the next generation and inspir e them to take up roles in aviation too

“People often associate aviation with being a pilot or cabin crew – b ut the range of roles is much greater. It’s ever ything from security to border and customs related jobs as well as ground services cargo terminal workers air traf fic controllers or even aviation firefighters,” she said.

“Throw your hat in the ring because, like me, you might find you l e th viation c ff .”

Opening October 2026

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Contact Us

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 15 June – 7pm (Policy & Strategy Committee Meeting)

Monday 29 June – 7pm (Ordinary Meeting)

Online via

penrith.city.council

penrithcouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrithcitycouncil

penrith.city visitpenrith.com.au

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Council Briefs

Have your say on the future of Kingswood and Werrington The draft Kingswood–Werrington Structure Plan and draft Kingswood-Werrington Place Plan are now on public exhibition. Shaped by community feedback, the draft Structure Plan sets a 20-year vision for growth, including housing, public spaces, transport and local jobs. The draft Place Plan focuses on practical actions over

To view the draft plans and provide feedback online by Friday 26 June 2026, visit

Community members are invited to attend a drop-in information session at Kingswood Neighbourhood Centre, Bringelly Road, Kingswood, on Wednesday 17 June 2026, between 3pm and 5pm, to learn more about the project and provide feedback. Hard copies are available to view at:

• Penrith City Council Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith

• Penrith City Library, 601 High Street, Penrith

• St Marys Library, 207–209 Queen Street, St Marys

New playspace at Monfarville Reserve is now open

Students from St Marys South Public School collaborated with Council through the Penrith Mayoral Challenge program to help design a new include joey trampolines, swings, balance play, shade sail, a yarning circle, picnic shelter and new seating, new drink fountain, accessible pathways and landscaping.

This project was funded by Penrith City Council.

For more information, visit Lunchtime Tunes

Take a break and rejuvenate at Lunchtime Tunes. Join us every Wednesday across June between 11am–2pm in City Park, Penrith. Enjoy free live music showcasing talented local performers during your lunch break.

It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, listen to great music and soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant public space. Grab takeaway from a nearby café or restaurant or bring your own lunch and unwind with a side of relaxing tunes.

For more information, visit

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.

• Lendlease C/- Maryland Development Company Pty Ltd Mod26/0074

a wetlands style basin

The proposal is an Integrated Development. The application requires concurrence from the Department of Planning and Environment –Heritage under Section 58 of the Heritage Act and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under Section 91 of the Water Management Act.

The Development Application referred to in this notice and supporting documentation accompanying the subject application may be inspected on Penrith City Council’s DA Tracker at in the period from Monday 8 June 2026 to Sunday 5 July 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 is made by way of an objection, submission is to include Council’s reference number Mod26/0074.

For any queries: James Heathcote on 4732 8378.

Public Notices

The Penrith Local Planning Panel will meet to determine the following:

• DA25/0920

Commercial development comprising 2 takeaway food outlets, a retail building comprising of 4 retail tenancies, associated parking, landscaping and signage and a 3-lot Torrens title subdivision When: Wednesday 10 June 2026 commencing at 2pm Where: The Penrith Local Planning Panel meeting will be conducted in a hybrid environment with opportunity to attend the meeting in person or connect online via zoom.

To attend the meeting or for an opportunity to address the Panel, please register via the Online Form at Penrith Council’s website by 12pm on Tuesday 9 June 2026.

For any person intending to access the meeting remotely, a meeting invitation with log in details will be provided to those who have registered via the online form 28–48 hours before the scheduled meeting date.

Any person joining the online meeting are informed that the meeting will be audio recorded, and a copy of that recording will be made publicly available following the meeting.

Relevant documents will be available on Penrith Council’s website

Roads Act 1993

In pursuance of the provisions of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council has granted a lease over the council public road listed in Schedule 1.

Part Chatsworth Road, St Clair, located on the corner of Explorers Way and Ashwick Circuit St Clair. The location of the road

For all enquiries: Tara Braithwaite, Development Manager on 4732 7777 or

Alcohol-free zone for road leading to popular hotel

Memorial Avenue in Penrith will become an alcohol-free zone after Councillors endorsed the proposal last week.

Investigations into the suitability of establishing an alcohol-free zone on Memorial Avenue began last year after community concerns were raised to Council about alcohol-related anti-social behaviour on Memorial Avenue – the road that leads to The Log Cabin.

“In 2025, the Community Safety team received representations from members of the community expressing concerns regarding recurrent alcohol-related antisocial behaviour occurring on Memorial Avenue, Penrith,” the Council report said.

“These concerns predominantly related to patrons attending the Log Cabin Hotel, located on Memorial Avenue, Penrith.”

Police data was sought which showed there had been 19 alcohol-related incidents on Memorial Avenue in the 12-month period leading up to September 2025.

“This data indicates a prevalence of alcohol–related incidents within the area; however, it is acknowledged that some incidents may involve individuals who became

intoxicated within licensed premises before moving into the surrounding public domain,” the report said.

Council officers met with local residents, The Log Cabin, NSW Police, and Liquor & Gaming NSW to discuss establishing an alcohol-free zone.

Seven submissions were made to the proposal, all in support including one from The Log Cabin.

Alcohol-free zones are enforced by police and any person seen to be drinking in an alcohol-free zone may have the alcohol seized, tipped out or otherwise disposed of.

There are currently 56 Alcohol-Free Zones across the Penrith LGA.

The alcohol-free zone on Memorial Avenue will be in force until June 30, 2029.

Following the endorsement of the proposal, a second public notice will be advertised on Council’s Your Say Platform and relevant organisations and community members will be notified.

Signage will also be placed on Memorial Avenue to indicate the enforceable locations.

Council will also look at nearby areas to extend the alcohol-free zone including Nepean Avenue to Recreation Avenue and Ladbury Avenue to Recreation Avenue.

Situation normal as trains fail to meet on-time targets

Afternoon peak trains on the Western Line fell to their worst on-time running performance of the year in May, figures reveal.

Just 79.9 per cent of afternoon peak trains were considered on time in May, the worst performance since July last year (79.1 per cent). It has been years since the 92 per cent on-time running target has been met in the afternoon peak on the Western Line.

Sydney Trains considers a service on-time if it arrives within five minutes of its scheduled time.

Public Notices (cont.)

Section 47A of the Local Government Act 1993 –Proposed Licence on community land

Under Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Penrith City Council intends to grant a licence as detailed below.

Licensee: Council’s appointed works contractor

Proposed Use: Proposed Stockpile/Site Compound Area to support the Dunheved Road

Upgrade Project

Term: 2 years and 3 months with the option to extend to a maximum of 5 years

Description of Land:

Property 1

(Lot 7 DP 1295641) 176 Richmond Road

Cambridge Park

Property 2 (Lot 8 DP 1295641) 1a Tasman Street

Cambridge Park

Property 4 (Lot 10 DP 1295641) 2b Francis Street Werrington County

Property 5

(Part Lot 12 DP 1295641) 62 John Oxley Avenue Werrington County (Only the Northern section of the Lot directly adjoining Dunheved Road)

Figures in the morning peak were slightly better but still below the target, with 89.8 per cent of services considered on-time. The last two weeks of May in particular were troublesome for the train network, with several incidents sparking long delays on a number of days.

Just 70 per cent of trains ran on-time in the afternoon peak on the Western Line in the final fortnight of the month.

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 council@penrith.city within 28 days of the date of this notice.

June also appears to be off to a rough start for the network, with urgent track repairs at Penrith earlier this week causing some delays on the Western Line.

For all enquiries: Tara Braithwaite on 4732 7777 or tara.braithwaite@penrith.city

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June 4, 2026

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LAST WEEK’S ANSWER

inter has a way of testing even the most disciplined routines. As temperatures drop and darker mornings set in, motivation often follows, with experiences showing a significant number of Australians fall out of regular health and wellness habits during the colder months due to seasonal changes in mood and energy levels.

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Safety worry: Restrictions on bridge

The Glossop Street rail bridge in St Marys, owned and operated by Sydney Trains, has been closed to all vehicles over 20 tonnes due to safety concerns.

Penrith City Council has been advised by Sydney Trains that recent inspections and detailed engineering assessments, as part of asset maintenance, identified that the bridge was unable to safely support the existing vehicle load conditions.

The 20-tonne limit has been implemented immediately, and further investigations will be undertaken.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney confirmed the closure and said Council is seeking timeframes for any restoration work on the bridge.

“Council has installed VMS boards to alert road users of this sudden change,” Carney said.

“Council will continue to liaise with Sydney Trains to understand the investigations and expected timing of rectification works.

“This is a busy area and the temporary closure to heavy vehicles will have a significant impact on both freight and local traffic networks.

“We’re also seeking assurance from Sydney Trains that any rectification works will be completed as soon as possible.”

St Marys resident and Deputy Mayor Garion Thain said the bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure to St Marys and highlighted the importance of it returning to full load bearing capabilities.

“The fact that asset maintenance occurred, the issue was identified

and a load limit was put in place is a sign that the system is working, which is good to see,” he said.

“I just echo the Mayor’s position that where we go from here really relies on clear updates from Sydney Trains, and rectification works being completed as soon as possible – and I mean as soon as possible.

“I cross this bridge most days myself, and St Marys has two industrial precincts plus a freight and logistics hub just down the street from this bridge. I have a background in transport, but you only need eyes to see that this bridge has a lot of heavy freight traffic daily and that’s only set to increase.”

Thain is worried about the impact on businesses and motorists.

“For transport workers and locals, this is a really important bridge, and a long-term load limit could

potentially have a big impact. I’ve been hearing a lot of feedback from locals on my Councillor Facebook page about how this will affect them and the local road network,” he said.

“I think it’s good it’s been identified now instead of down the track when the metro and airport precincts come online, but hopefully we hear more updates soon.”

Sydney Trains is continuing its investigations of the bridge over the Western Railway line and will work with Council to manage the immediate impacts and support a review of temporary alternate heavy vehicle routes. No firm timeline of when works will take place has been indicated at this stage.

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HER QUEST FOR JUSTICE:

ALLY HALL

Peggy Roddick reported her alleged sexual assault in February last year. By September, she had quit her job and left Penrith – the place she was born and lived for 38 years – after losing faith in local police and fearing seeing her alleged abusers in public.

She has now taken to social media to connect with other survivors of sexual assault, seek justice, and share her story.

“I was a real estate agent in Penrith, and I had a female acquaintance through that business. Her partner owns a local business in town, and I was using him as a trade for my real estate work,” Roddick said about her alleged perpetrators, who she had known for over 10 years.

The assault allegedly occurred when Roddick was invited to her friend’s home for ‘girl drinks’ following the death of her grandmother.

She believes she was spiked on this evening.

“He just sat there the whole time. He didn’t talk, he didn’t drink, he just stared at me,” Roddick said.

“I felt awkward, but I didn’t want to be rude, so I just pretended he

wasn’t there and spoke to my friend. To feel less awkward, I did drink a lot, but he was also handing me the

vodka bottle and encouraging me to drink.”

She recalls talking about her own

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partner frequently throughout the night and asked the pair how they first met.

“She said that he had been grooming her since she was 13, and then they both laughed. I don’t know why she would say that, but I assumed it was a joke, so I let it slide,” she said.

“Later on, we were in the lounge room listening to music and I remember seeing him nod to her, and after he nodded, she grabbed my hand and led me to the bedroom.”

Before that, Roddick remembers seeing her friend consume only one drink.

“My head was very slow compared to my body and I was doubting what was going on because you don’t expect to go to a girlfriend’s house and have this happen,” she said.

“So, there I was in her bedroom, and I asked her twice what was going on, and all she did was shrug her shoulders and shut her eyes almost pretending like she was drunk. Then he came into the room, locked the door, and I’ll stop there.”

For Roddick, that experience accounts for half of her trauma – the other half stems from what she says have been frustrating encounters with police.

She attended hospital to undergo a rape kit at 6pm the day after the assault and received a call from a detective at 11.38pm.

The phone call lasted for eight minutes and 30 seconds, and Roddick described the detective as “dismissive”.

“I would love to think that I could make a difference”

“He asked me if my dress stayed on, and I said yes. After that, he said because the dress stayed on it doesn’t sound like sexual assault and it would be my word against theirs,” she said. She was informed that the investigation would not proceed until toxicology and DNA results came back. Then there was silence for five

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REFUSING TO BE SILENT

months.

During that period, she told the Weekender she went to Penrith Police Station three times to ask someone to take her statement. Her statement was not taken until August when she attended St Marys Police Station with evidence.

“The only way I got the detective to take a formal statement was by getting all my evidence together. He didn’t realise at that stage that I had evidence because he never asked if I had any proof of what happened,” Roddick said.

That evidence relates to messages and photos, which Roddick had compiled.

The Weekender is aware of the nature of the photos and messages but has not published them for legal reasons.

In November, Roddick was asked to participate in an unsuccessful covert phone call as part of the investigation, and the detective interviewed the couple in December.

“When I was doing the covert phone call, he did apologise for not listening to me and he admitted that the toxicology results came in at two months, not five months. So, I think it was game over from the start, and

he was just humouring me because I wouldn’t let it go,” she said.

“I think that if I had not complained and contacted him, I never would

have heard from him again.”

Roddick received an email from the detective on April 1 this year to say no further investigation will be undertaken. She is now seeking justice by posting her experience on her Facebook page, The FoundHer Collective.

“I’m getting flooded with personal messages and comments by women locally and Australia-wide that have been through the same thing and have felt dismissed by police,” she said.

“I would love to think that I could make a difference.”

Police have confirmed that the investigation has been suspended.

“On Sunday 23 February 2025, detectives attached to Nepean Police Area Command commenced an investigation following reports of an incident at a home in Cranebrook on Saturday 22 February 2025,” a spokesperson said.

“Following an extensive police investigation, the matter was suspended due to insufficient corroborative evidence.”

For now, Roddick will continue speaking up for victims of sexual assault.

“Based on how coordinated they were, I don’t think I am their only victim, and I don’t think I will be their last,” she said.

“I’m hoping that they won’t hurt anyone else again because they will be too scared that they will be caught because I have spoken out.”

Sexual assault 24-hour helpline: 1800 737 732.

Millions on offer for game-changing projects

Manufacturers in western Sydney will share in $225 million to create more local jobs and help build the products and materials needed for the industries of the future.

The upcoming State Government grants round follows the Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative grants, which are already backing more than 40 projects.

The grants will support commercial and construction-ready projects that can expand local production, attract private investment and create skilled jobs.

“Western Sydney is one of the great engine rooms of manufacturing in NSW, and this funding ensures our region is at the centre of the next generation of industry,” said Deputy Premier Prue Car.

“We have the workers, the businesses and the industrial knowhow to manufacture more of the products and materials needed for a low-carbon future right here in western Sydney.

“This $225 million investment is an invitation to western Sydney manufacturers to bring forward their best commercial, construction-ready projects and help create more skilled local jobs.”

Successful projects will need to attract significant private investment to NSW, with grant recipients required to match or exceed NSW Government funding dollar-fordollar.

The investment will create jobs, further the transformation of the state’s energy system, and support NSW’s legislated targets to cut emissions by 70 per cent by 2035 and reach net zero by 2050.

“Our investment in low-carbon manufacturing has already supported the creation of around one thousand jobs, and this boost will power the next wave of industry and opportunity in western Sydney and across NSW,” said NSW Climate Change and Energy Minister, Penny Sharpe.

“This funding will help ensure NSW does not just import technology but builds more of it locally to

benefit communities and workers.”

Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union NSW/ACT State Secretary, Brad Pidgeon, welcomed the funding.

“NSW manufacturing workers

have the skills and experience to build the products needed for the future, from renewable energy components to low-carbon building materials,” he said.

“This investment is an important

step towards creating secure, skilled jobs in the regions that have powered NSW industry for generations.”

For details, visit www.energy.nsw. gov.au/NetZeroManufacturing.

Accountant appointed to Board of Panthers

The final piece of the leadership puzzle at Panthers Group has come together with accountant Peter Tracey added to the club’s Board.

Tracey joins as an Appointed Director following the Board election earlier this year, which saw the previous Directors retained.

However, the passing of club legend John Farragher last year meant a vacant spot remained –now filled by Tracey, who has a long association with the club as a fan and sponsor.

“It’s an absolute privilege and an honour to sit on the Board of Panthers,” he told the Weekender

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity.”

A Partner in Business Services at BDO Australia, Tracey has significant knowledge of the charity sector as Chairman of the Thorndale Foundation and a Director of the McGrath Foundation and The Royce Simmons Foundation.

But it is his financial and business acumen that made him appealing to Panthers, who approached him in relation to the position.

“I’d always had an interest in joining the Board at some point, but the Board did a skills analysis of the composition of the Board and identified areas they thought they needed to strengthen so that’s how it came about,” he said.

“My background is very much financial based being an accountant for 35 years. I want to bring more of that financial skillset to the Board and contribute that way.”

His knowledge of the charity sector will also be critical given the club’s community ties.

“I see my charity involvement as a way of giving back to the community

that has given myself and my family so much over the years,” he said.

“I always enjoy it. I enjoy being part of the community and helping out.”

Tracey is looking forward to contributing to the future of both the licenced club and rugby league side.

“I think the current Board has done a tremendous job and I’m

really looking forward to working with them and hopefully we can continue on that path,” he said.

“The club is a magnet for Penrith and when that football club succeeds, it has a flow-on effect in the local area. It comes with pressure and responsibility, but I’m really looking forward to it.” Panthers Chairman Peter Graham welcomed Tracey’s appointment.

Horror expo finds a new home

ALLY HALL

RejectaCon, a villains and horror expo, has been rescheduled and relocated following a disagreement with Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre.

The event was originally going to take place at the local venue on June 21, but will now be at Hawkesbury Showground on June 28.

“Hawkesbury Showground have been supportive of the event. They also said they can give us open access to the venue prior for people

to come and film. They are lovely and they are giving us extra days to set up,” said Benjamin Babbage, the event organiser and director of operations for RejectaCon.

He described the event as an untapped market in Sydney.

“We’re going to have paid actors – Ash Sargent and Chris Stanley – who are very big in the cosplay community. They are bringing a lot of props,” Babbage said.

“We also have the House of Screams team who are going to build a horror maze for everyone.

“We will have collectors and all

different types of merchandise for sale. There will be a lot of horror-themed stuff, and we will be celebrating all the villains in pop culture.”

The event will also feature more than 50 vendors, a villain cosplay competition, live wrestling, an arcade gaming zone, a horror artist alley, a kid’s monster hunt, and more.

The convention where villains take over will be at Hawkesbury Showground on June 28 from 10am to 8pm. There is no entry fee and parking is free.

“We’re very happy with the appointment,” he said.

“It was a unanimous decision about Peter. His knowledge, background and understanding of corporate governance is really important as well.”

Tracey’s appointment means Panthers has appointed a new Group CEO, faced a Board election, confirmed a new NRL head coach

and locked in its final Director in the space of 12 months.

Graham said he is now looking forward to a period of stability for the organisation.

“The thing for me has always been building confidence and you only do that with the right kind of continuity over a period of time and I think that’s what we’ve got now,” he said.

CENTRE FACES AXE

Abeloved childcare centre in St Clair is being prepared to close over the next 18 months, leaving families in disbelief.

In a letter dated Wednesday, May 20, families whose children attend the Council-operated childcare centre received notice from Council announcing its intention to close the Strauss Road Children’s Centre.

“Following a comprehensive mid-term strategic review of childcare services across Penrith, and in consultation with the Children’s Services Cooperative Board, we are proposing to consolidate long day care operations in the St Clair area,” the letter read.

“This involves transitioning the current service at Strauss Road Children’s Centre to an enhanced, larger facility at the Cook Parade Precinct.”

St Clair mum Leah Ravnjak, whose young daughter attends the centre, said receiving the letter was devastating.

“We were devastated when we found out because we bought this house four years ago because we

are a young family and had the ambition of starting our own family and we thought it was perfect,” she reflected.

“It’s right across the road, logistically it works well. According to the National Quality Standard, I think four out of seven areas they get assessed on they are exceeding

in 2021 including external building upgrades and landscaping in the front and rear yards.

The letter explained the proposal will be open for a 28-day consultation period beginning May 18 – two days before the letter was dated – during which families are encouraged to provide feedback.

and the others they are meeting. We thought they are doing great in a lot of areas, and our neighbour’s kids went there, and they had a lot of great things to say about them… it’s just devastating because it is an amazing centre.”

The Strauss Road facility was given $200,000 worth of upgrades

The children at Strauss Road Children’s Centre will receive “priority placement” at the existing nearby Cook Parade Children’s Service which will become a 90-place long day care service with dedicated additional spaces in the adjacent community centre.

Ravnjak said she is skeptical about

her child moving from an established 40-place childcare to a brand new 90-place centre.

“What’s great about Strauss childcare is that it feels like home,” Ravnjak said.

“You walk in and it is a bit more established and that’s what we loved about it, that’s what so many families love about Strauss. It feels like you are walking into a house like mine, it feels very homely and inviting.

“I don’t want my child going to a brand-new facility that feels institutionalised or something that’s like a university that’s really structured – you want them to feel like they are going to a home.”

Council said the ageing building was a factor in its decision.

“The proposal by Penrith Childcare Services to close its Strauss Road facility and relocate children is part of a review of early childhood education and care facilities,” a spokesperson for Council said.

“The existing building at Strauss Road is ageing and requires extensive work.”

Ravnjak questioned the reasons behind the closure of the Strauss Road Centre.

“What is the problem? They haven’t actually explained to us what’s wrong with the building,” she said frustrated.

“They are saying it is an ageing asset… so what is actually wrong with the building? If we had to get it fixed how much would it cost? I’d love to know that.”

Council outlined the transition will take place over an 18-month period.

“All children enrolled at Strauss Road Children’s Centre will have a placement available for them at the new Cook Parade precinct which offers the functionality and quality of care which exceeds the National Quality Standard,” a spokesperson said.

“The transition is expected to take 18 months while work to increase capacity at Cook Parade is undertaken.

“Families have been invited to an information session where they will have the opportunity to learn more about the transition and understand how they can have input into the service design.

“Council endorsed the recommended consolidation of services in February 2026.”

Cancer Wellness Support opens new centre in Penrith

Cancer Wellness Support has officially opened its new Penrith Wellness Centre at 15-17 Castlereagh Street, Penrith.

This milestone represents the first tangible outcome of the organisation’s Capacity Building Fund, launched at their Emerald Dinner last year.

Cancer Wellness Support is experiencing rapidly increasing demand, with 452 Australians diagnosed with cancer every day.

The signing of the lease for the new Penrith Wellness Centre was celebrated on Friday, May 8 at the Drive for Wellness Charity Golf Day, with attendees raising over $18,000 in a single day for the Capacity Building Fund.

Over $200,000 has been raised for the

Capacity Building Fund over the last 12 months to help make the expansion of services possible.

The new Penrith Wellness Centre will allow Cancer Wellness Support to nearly double its service capacity in the region, enabling more local people and families living with cancer to access affordable, person-centred care. The new Centre, located in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Penrith, reflects the warmth, compassion and sense of belonging that underpins all of its services.

The Penrith Wellness Centre has been designed to foster connection and comfort, ensuring clients and carers feel welcomed and supported in a space that feels grounded in community.

Hard-working local scores impressive honour

Alocal has been rewarded for her hard work, taking out a prestigious award at last week’s 2026 Western Sydney and Blue Mountains Regional Training Awards.

Cranebrook local Ava Schofield won the Schoolbased Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Award for completing her Certificate III in Retail while working at a local fast-food restaurant and attending Xavier College.

The awards recognise excellence across the vocational education and training sector and celebrate apprentices, trainees, students, teachers, employers and training providers that are helping to build the future of the NSW workforce.

Apprentice of the Year was taken out by Rouse Hill’s Joshua Murray-Fitzpatrick and Trainee of the Year went to Glenwood’s Amelia Gray.

Winners from the ceremony will go on to represent the Western Sydney and Blue Mountains regional community in their categories at the 2026 NSW Training Awards.

The NSW Training Awards recognise exceptional achievement in the vocational education and training sector.

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education

Steve Whan congratulated all winners and wished them in their careers.

“These awards recognise

people who are building valuable skills, contributing to their workplaces and creating strong futures for themselves and their communities,” he said.

“Congratulations to all the finalists and winners for the dedication, hard work and leadership you have shown throughout your journey.”

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Call for blokes to take health seriously

Healthcare habits are a significant contributor to the lifespan gap between men and women, with women living an average of five years longer.

The Australian theme for Men’s Health Week this year is ‘See a GP’, encouraging physical, mental, and emotional check-ups to close that gap.

“When we have a patient who is a man and we can see that they haven’t seen a GP for a while – even if they are just in for a script or a medical certifi-

looking after their health – but men are reluctant to see a GP,” she said.

This is concerning because men are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, especially after 30 years of age.

“There are a lot of young men who suffer from cardiac disease without realising. This can be because of their background, genetics, history of smoking, and stress levels,” she said.

The advice for men aged over 40 is to book a check-up even if they feel like they are in good health.

“What we do is a diabetes risk assessment, and if you are high-risk then you are automatically eligible for what we call a detailed health assessment,”

“In our clinic, it’s half an hour with the nurse, then half an hour with a GP where we do a preventative body systems screening test. You don’t need

to know what is happening – we ask the questions.

“Then when you turn 45 you are eligible for your bowel cancer screening and a big detailed comprehensive health assessment.”

Regardless of age, good mental health is crucial for a long, healthy life.

“Men often don’t present for that; they just suffer in silence. That causes irritation, relationships are affected, and overall work-life balance is affected,” Khan said.

“If they are feeling a little bit of agitation and sleep’s not great and appetite’s not great, or they are trying to medicate with smoking or alcohol consumption, those are indicators that they need to see a GP.”

Use this year’s Men’s Health Week as a prompt to book an appointment. Don’t miss our Men’s Health Week feature in next week’s paper.

MUSIC MATTERS

Local band’s push for more live music in western Sydney

ALLY HALL

Alocal band launched their first album last month at Glenmore Park Community Centre, reflecting their priority to ensure more live music is played in western Sydney.

SilvereyeZ is made up of five band members, including lead singer Anthony Manoukian.

“We’re all originally from St Dominic’s College, so that’s where we all met,” Manoukian said.

“My brother Chris is the drummer of the band, and he was friends with Alex Robinson who is a guitarist. From there, we invited Alex over to our house because we have a home studio and we started playing music and making songs.

“After that, it got bigger and we started getting more boys from the friend group in the band. Lucas Grbin is our bass player, and Jacob Dunn is our piano player.”

The band started writing original music for their first album in the lead-up to a Battle of the Bands competition.

“They wanted original music, so we smashed out about three songs, and since then we set up enough songs to make an album,” he said.

The emotive alt-rock album is self-titled, and the singer described its launch as amazing.

“We had a private event where we invited all our followers; we got a really good turnout and we sold some merch,” he said.

“We played our whole album and a few covers, and we had a big album cover printout that we got people to sign on their way in, so now we have this big album cover with everybody’s signatures on it from the launch party.

“I’m the main organiser and I planned the event, so to see it all happen felt unreal – almost like I was watching it from behind the scenes. When you go on stage and start

singing and you’re with the whole band, it feels incredible.”

Playing their music in Glenmore Park made the event more meaningful.

“Travelling to the city is not the worst thing, but we feel pride in our hometown and in Penrith,” Manoukian said.

“We’ve got something good going for us with our music and we want to keep it in the west. We don’t want to export our music somewhere

else and leave everything behind. Also, all our fans and the people that we love are in the west as well, so we want to keep it here.”

For other western Sydney musicians who want to give it a crack, Manoukian said persistence is key.

“The journey will go up and down, things are going to happen over time, people get busy and something always gets in the way,” he said.

“But if you keep going and keep working towards your goal, it can come true. Don’t let dreams be dreams.”

The band are already working on their next album.

“We want to take this all the way and we’re not going to give up,” he finalised.

Listen to SilvereyeZ on Spotify and follow the band on Instagram at @_silvereyez_.

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Volunteers honoured for compassionate care

Nepean Hawkesbury Supportive and Palliative Care Volunteers were recognised for their efforts last month.

The group were named Volunteer Team of the Year at the 2026 NSW Palliative Care Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) Palliative Care Volunteer Coordinator Kylie Clark said it was the first time a team has been recognised.

“Last year they decided to recognise individuals, but this year they decided to recognise teams which I loved because this really is a teambased effort,” Clark said.

“We have 13 volunteers that have been here for years, we’ve got people who have been here since before COVID, and we have 30-odd new volunteers that have come on board.

“This award really recognises their compassion. They volunteer in a difficult space, but they create

family so they can leave their words after they are gone has extended the impact that volunteers make after clients have passed away.”

warmth for families to experience joy, humour, and connection during a challenging time.”

The volunteer team has been operating in different capacities for around 25 years. They visit clients

at their homes or at their hospital bedsides and provide aid with transport, shopping, and advocacy.

One of the standout offerings is the team’s biography service.

“Almost half the team is made up

of biographers which has extended the legacy section of our volunteering,” she said.

“We’re on track to do more biographies than we did last year. Offering clients legacy and writing letters to

Clark described the biography process as valuable, unique, and special for everyone involved.

“Participants feel like their lives are important when volunteers come to sit with them, and that’s really uplifting,” she said.

“It’s a really human experience to share your story, have a chat with someone, have a hand massage, and have a laugh. That really matters.”

Even before the award was presented, Clark knew her team was priceless.

“We have quite a lot of young volunteers and watching them grow in confidence, sit with people who are unwell, and realise the difference that volunteering makes has been humbling and inspiring,” Clark said.

“It motivates me to come to work every day; I love coming in, seeing my team, and looking at the amazing things they do.”

LOVING THE LAND

The State Government will deliver over $900,000 to fund new environmental projects in Penrith, designed to support innovation and respectful engagement with the land.

11 Landcare networks across NSW will receive two grants, one to support innovation and climate adaption and the second designed to strengthen culturally informed landscape management.

Landcare in NSW supports community-led environmental projects across the state, working with farmers, volunteers, schools and local groups to protect and restore land, waterways and native habitats.

Its work includes tree planting, river restoration, soil conservation, sustainable farming, weed and pest control, and biodiversity projects that help to improve the health of local environments and communities. The grants will be administered by Local Land Services and delivered on the ground by local Landcare Groups over the next 12 months to support collaboration and sustain-

able agriculture and deliver shared outcomes for Country through collaboration with Aboriginal communities.

Greater Sydney Landcare will receive $470,000 for the Urban

Environmental Impact Through Commercial Innovation.

This project strengthens Greater Sydney Landcare’s capability by building business skills, improving systems and processes, and estab-

lishing an Environmental Services model focused on community and priority sites.

Greater Sydney Landcare will also receive $450,000 for the Restoring Country, Strengthening

Partnerships. This project will build Greater Sydney Landcare’s capacity to engage respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal communities through genuine, Aboriginal-led partnerships.

An Aboriginal Landcare Coordinator will lead the project, supported by cultural awareness training and the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan or Working Together Plan.

The funding will support Greater Sydney Landcare to undertake work in the Penrith area including building business skills, establishing a community focussed environmental services model, and strengthening Aboriginal led partnerships.

Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown welcomed the funding saying it will benefit the whole community.

“This funding is a great boost for Landcare in Penrith and the broader area, supporting local groups to deliver practical environmental outcomes and strengthen our community,” she said.

“I’m pleased to see this investment supporting the people on the ground who care for our local Penrith environment.”

Mayor’s News

The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Join Penrith’s Best Gym

Body Beyond Health Club o ers a welcoming and motivating environment for people of all fitness levels. With quality equipment, infrared sauna, strength and conditioning facilities, and a strong community atmosphere, Body Beyond is committed to helping members achieve their health and fitness goals. Memberships are available from just $14.90 per week.

Planning Penrith’s next steps

As our City continues to grow and evolve, Penrith City Council is focused on planning to reflect the true needs and aspirations of the community.

There are many considerations in setting Penrith up for a thriving future. Council’s priorities include creating local jobs along with homes, delivering and maintaining community infrastructure for our growing population, and keeping the rich character of our more established suburbs.

As we do this, your input is embedded in Council’s decision-making processes, and I thank the community for sharing your thoughts and expectations with us.

Our shared goals led to the visionary St Marys Town Centre Master Plan. Approved earlier this year, this strategic 20year plan will transform St Marys, enabling around 9,300 new homes and more than 8,300 new jobs.

We’ll start work on the significant central park project this year. It’ll be the green heart of St Marys, drawing even more investment and helping to bring our vision to life.

We are taking the same evidence-based, place-based approach to planning the Kingswood-Werrington precinct – the cor-

ridor anchored by St Marys and Penrith. It is a hub for major medical and educational facilities, including Nepean Hospital and private practices, as well as Western Sydney University and TAFE. With the City’s population expected to grow by 54,000 people from 2021 to 2041, Kingswood and Werrington are wellplaced to attract new energy, people and investment and evolve into more vibrant places within Penrith’s East-West Corridor.

Last year we asked for your insights and these have helped to shape the draft plans, which are now on public exhibition. Council’s Draft Kingswood-Werrington Structure Plan sets a vision to guide the area’s growth over the next 20 years. The Draft Kingswood-Werrington Place Plan outlines practical actions to improve safety and make these areas more welcoming. It’s an exciting time for this City and I invite you to read these plans and share your feedback by June 26.

View the plans at yoursaypenrith.com. au/kwcplan or access hard copies at the Civic Centre and our Penrith and St Marys libraries.

CR TODD CARNEY Mayor of Penrith

Δ World Menu Heist: McDonald’s has dropped a bunch of amazing new items on their menu that’s got everyone talking! The World Menu Heist range officially launched at Macca’s last week, with The Source being among the very first in the country to try the latest offerings during a spectacular nighttime cruise on Sydney Harbour. The World Heist Menu includes five items that were previously launched in other countries. These countries are the United States, Canada, Japan, and the UK. The items heisted from around the world are the Teriyaki Chicken burger and the Garlic & Black Pepper McNuggets from Japan, the Benny-style Bacon ‘N Egg Bagel from Canada, the Philly Cheese Stack from the UK, and the Special Edition GOLD

sauce from the US. The World Menu Heist range is only in stores for a very limited time – see if you can try them all!

Δ Cheap treats: The Cheesecake Shop has launched a new limited-time in-store promotion, offering Cake Pops for just $1 each every afternoon from 3pm to 6pm daily. The $1 Cake Pops are available in the following flavours: Marble Galaxy, Rainbow Sprinkles and Choc Flake. Each Cake Pop features cake coated in chocolate and toppings, served in a snack-sized format on a stick.

Δ Pie time: Tasmanian Bakeries, the home of National Pies, has announced its cult-classic Cheeseburger Pie is officially landing in Woolworths. For added convenience, the Cheeseburger Pies will be available in twin packs and can be found in the refrigerated or ready-made meals aisles at Woolworths. Ready in just 15 minutes, the pies offer a quick and easy meal solution for customers craving a comfort food fix at home. First introduced in

2022, the Cheeseburger Pie quickly became an overnight sensation and set records as National Pies’ best-performing limited release.

Δ Lunch sorted: Red Rooster has introduced a new value meal deal with the launch of the $10 Chicken Pie Box, giving you a filling combo built around one of its classic pies. Available for a limited time until June 30, the box combines fried chicken, chips, mash and gravy with a Four’N Twenty chicken pie, making it one of the chain’s cheaper combo offers right now.

Δ Clearer skin: For decades, acne treatments have largely relied on the same familiar ingredients. Benzoyl peroxide. Retinoids. Antibiotics. While effective for some, many people continue to struggle with persistent breakouts, inflammation, and skin that becomes increasingly reactive over time. Now, Australian skincare brand ZenCell is taking a different approach. At the centre of its Restore Serum is p-Toluenesulfonamide, a pharmaceutical-grade compound with a foundation in anti-cancer research and recognised for its influence on key signalling pathways involved in inflammation, immune response, and cellular stress. In preclinical studies, the compound demonstrated both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, with controlled cell models showing reductions in inflammatory markers of up to 30 per cent. As the world’s first topical product to utilise the ingredient, ZenCell introduces an entirely new active to skincare, shifting the focus from symptom management to the underlying biological processes that drive inflammation. Visit www.zencell.com.au.

Dance, connect and have fun!

Adult hip hop classes are gaining momentum in Emu Plains, offering local women a welcoming space to move, connect and rediscover their love of dance.

The weekly classes are run by Melanie Jackson of Shimmers Dance, who has been teaching hip hop and dance for the past year. While she has danced her entire life, Melanie said stepping into teaching felt like a natural progression after years of working in community-fo cused roles.

“I’ve always been inspired to teach,” she said.

“Now I didn’t really want anything competitive or expensive, and there’s a huge lack of this genre in western Sydney for this age group.”

The idea for the classes came from her own experience searching for a suitable dance option.

“I was personally looking for a dance class for women my age, something safe, open and non-judgemental,” she said.

“I didn’t want anything competitive or expensive, and there’s a huge lack of this genre in western Sydney for this age group.”

After deciding to trial adult

hip hop classes locally, Melanie said the response exceeded expectations.

The classes are held every Wednesday night from 7.30pm to 8.30pm at Melrose Hall in Emu Plains. Each session includes a warm-up, learning new hip hop moves, and gradually building those moves into a longer dance routine that develops week by week.

The class finishes with a warmdown, with an emphasis on enjoyment and well-being.

“It’s fun, it’s exercise, and it’s an hour to just breathe and be yourself,” Melanie said.

Since launching, the classes have continued to grow, with around 15

women currently enrolled. Melanie said attendance increases most weeks and that the social aspect has been just as rewarding as the dancing.

“New friendships have already been made,” she said.

“It’s been amazing to watch women support each other and gain confidence.”

With Emu Plains continuing to expand, she hopes the classes will become a long-term fixture in the local community, providing a creative outlet for adults who may not have danced for years, or ever.

For more information, email shimmersdance@hotmail.com or call 0414 712 565.

Dance!

Get in touch with Melanie today to start next week!

POSTING MORE IS NOT THE ANSWER

Most businesses are active on social media but still struggle to be noticed. The issue is not a lack of content. It is a lack of communication. Too many brands are posting regularly without a clear reason, message, or outcome in mind.

Posting often gets mistaken for progress. But activity alone does not build awareness, trust, or sales. A constant stream of content without direction quickly becomes noise, and audiences learn to scroll past it.

Every post should start with intention. Before publishing, businesses should be able to answer a simple question: what is this meant to achieve? It might be to educate, build trust, generate enquiries, or strengthen brand awareness. Without that clarity,

content becomes random rather than strategic.

This is where content pillars matter. Instead of chasing daily ideas, businesses should build consistent themes that reflect their expertise, values, and customer needs.

Pillars create structure and help audiences understand what the brand stands for over time.

Engagement also matters more than broadcasting.

Social media is not a noticeboard. It is a conversation.

Businesses that respond, interact, ask questions, and participate in dialogue build stronger relationships than those simply pushing out updates.

Success cannot be measured by likes and follower counts alone. Those numbers can be misleading. What matters more

LISA FINN-POWELL Media, Marketing & Communications Strategist Penrith Chamber Board Member

is whether content drives meaningful actions such as website visits, enquiries, conversations, or conversions.

When social media is treated as a strategic communication tool, it becomes far more powerful. It stops being a daily content treadmill and starts becoming a driver of business outcomes.

The goal is not to post more. The goal is to communicate better.

12th January 1940 - 27th May 2026

Late of Emu Plains, previously Warragamba

Beloved mother of Steven, Scott and Megan & motherin-law of Paul. Doting Nanny Pat of Harrison, Lucas, Claire, Christian, Kieran, Bianca, Jasmin and Harlan.

Sister of Bob and Lyn and sister-in-law of Warren. FurNanny of Keah, Nala, Koda and Moose.

Will be greatly missed by all of her family & friends.

“Forever in our hearts.” Aged 86 years.

Patricia’s family & friends are warmly invited to attend her funeral service to be held at Grace Funerals Chapel, 61 Great Western Highway, Emu Plains on Tuesday, 9th June 2026, to commence at 11:00am.

For those unable to attend Patricia’s service, it can be viewed online at https://gracefunerals.com.au/tributes-livestreams/ Attendees are invited to wear yellow, Patricia’s favourite colour

MATCH PREVIEW

The Panthers and Wests Tigers have built something of a modern day rivalry over the last six or seven years.

But I’m not sure the Tigers have ever really looked forward to playing the Panthers during this period, at least not when Ivan Cleary’s side was sitting at full strength (a couple of Origin-impacted wins at least gave Tigers fans something to crow about).

But with the Tigers sitting on the edge of the top eight and clearly playing their best football, I reckon Benji Marshall’s side would be eager to test themselves against the competition front-runners this Sunday.

In fact, perhaps for the first time in a long time, I think they’d consider themselves a legitimate chance of causing an upset at CommBank Stadium.

And that’s why I’m not convinced this will be a runaway victory for Penrith, despite the fact the side will welcome back the likes of Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and Brian To’o, who were rested last week after Origin I.

Penrith’s performance against the Warriors on Sunday night was absolute first class. It was a high quality game worthy of a Finals match and yet again we saw Ivan Cleary’s ability to turn ‘next man up’ from purpose to execution. Some of the defensive plays when the game was on the line were out of this world.

Meanwhile, the Wests Tigers did it the hard way against the Bulldogs. Their 22-16 victory came despite only having 47 per cent of the ball, a lower completion rate than the opposition and being awarded zero set restarts.

Seriously, Cameron Ciraldo’s email to the NRL should just be marked ‘return to sender’.

The Tigers are far from the finished product but Benji Marshall has them in a great position

for a real shot at returning to the Finals. With games against the Titans and Dolphins at Leichhardt Oval and Campbelltown Stadium to follow this match, this little batch of games will prove crucial in that dream becoming a reality.

Penrith will have to be on alert for the Tigers’ offload game, led particularly by Terrell May and Kai Pearce-Paul who have made keeping the ball alive an important part of the Tigers’ style this year.

And then there is the Jarome Luai factor. Luai left Penrith to make a difference at the Tigers but well before that mission is complete he’s off to Papua New Guinea. He still has a point to prove, of course, and there’s no doubt leading Wests back to the Finals during his time at the club would be a major tick next to his name in regards to his impact on the club.

As much as he has great mates at Penrith, Luai would love nothing better than get one up

boilover. I’d expect him to be really switched on here.

The reality is that the Tigers may take it right up to Penrith but if everything was to go to script, it’s hard to go past Ivan Cleary’s men.

On paper, they just look too strong.

There’s just not a bad player in this Penrith team at the moment. Everyone is in top form, injuries are minimal and the likes of Liam Martin are returning to the fold.

At this point only a serious injury to the likes of Nathan Cleary or complacency could stop this Penrith juggernaut from winning the Minor Premiership and likely being at Accor Stadium on Grand Final day.

Complacency got the Panthers once already this season. I doubt it’ll happen again on Sunday. I’m predicting a healthy win, but not a total blowout.

Tip: Panthers by 12.

Scott’s debut one to remember

Panthers debutant Billy Scott said he felt no nerves as he patiently waited for his number to be called in one of the games of the season last weekend.

The 21-year-old local junior made his longawaited NRL debut last Sunday night during Penrith’s thrilling win over the second-placed New Zealand Warriors at CommBank Stadium.

Scott played an impressive 21 minutes off the bench in the blockbuster encounter, coming onto the field during a crucial part of the match.

Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday afternoon, Scott said he was still buzzing three days later.

“The whole thing’s been unreal. I feel like I’m still on a high especially doing it in those circumstances. To get a win like that against a top two team was unreal,” he said.

With the score close midway through the second half, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary decided to throw the youngster into the action, replacing starting hooker Freddy Lussick in the 59th minute.

“To be honest, I wasn’t actually too nervous. I was just watching the game how I would any other time on the bench,” Scott admitted.

“I was more excited than anything. I feel like the moment didn’t feel too big. I was just keen to get out there.”

A Windsor Wolves junior and Hawkesbury resident, Scott has been part of the Panthers pathways system since he was a teenager, featuring in Harold Matthews, SG Ball and Jersey Flegg.

He represented the NSW U19s in 2023 and was recently rewarded with promotion to the Panthers’ Top 30 squad for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.

“I was more excited than anything. I was just keen to get out there.”

After appearing on Cleary’s six-man bench on four occasions prior to last Sunday’s game, Scott knew that his time was getting close.

“With the new six-man bench, I had to be patient. I knew my time would come if I was patient,” he said.

“Ivan told me during the week that if everything went to plan that I would go on and I was just so excited.

“Heaps of my mates were there… I saw people after the game that I didn’t even know were going. It was so good to see everyone there.”

One person who was very proud to see Scott finally make his NRL debut was injured Panthers hooker and fellow Windsor Wolves junior Mitch Kenny.

Scott said Kenny, who is due back soon from a fractured fibula, has been pivotal in his development since training with first grade.

“Mitch has been unreal, he’s an inspi-

the same position as me,” he said.

“I admire the way he plays. He’s so tough. He’ll do anything for the team. I’d like to be someone like that.”

Signed until the end of next season, Scott is hoping to play alongside Kenny down the track and remain a Panther well into the future.

“I love it here, it’s home. I’d love to extend and stay here,” he said.

“Right now, I need to wait for my next opportunity and hopefully when it comes, I’ll take it

FEATURE

Smith hungry for Origin shot

While Lindsay Smith wasn’t named to be part of Laurie Daley’s NSW Blues team for Origin I, he hasn’t given up on his dream of representing his state one day.

Despite playing a handful of games for his country, the 26-year-old is yet to taste Origin footy with Daley overlooking the Panthers forward for last week’s State of Origin series opener against Queensland.

Speaking with Extra Time on Wednesday, Smith said he won’t give up on his dream of playing for the Blues.

“It’s definitely a goal of mine whether it happens this year or in the future, that’s sort of out of my hands,” he said.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to be part of it but watching State of Origin still brings back so many memories as a kid.”

Smith said sitting down to watch Panthers teammate Nathan Cleary lead the Blues’ comeback against the Maroons last Wednesday night had him jumping off his couch.

“It was super cool to see the boys win especially the way Nathan took the game on at the end there. It was pretty cool to sit back and watch as a fan,” he said.

“You don’t get to watch much footy as a fan,

so it was pretty cool. It’s a dream of mine to put on that Blues jersey but I’m just trying to focus on what I can control and that’s good footy at Penrith.”

Smith had one of his better games last Sunday night when the Panthers won a thriller over the New Zealand Warriors at CommBank Stadium.

In what was one of the games of the year, Smith played at lock while NSW captain Isaah Yeo was getting a well-earned rest.

“I’ve played that position in the past but obviously I’m not Yeoy, so you’ve got to play to your strengths and it’s something I’ve had to learn over the years,” Smith said.

“A couple of years ago when I’ve played that position, they haven’t been my best games but I feel like I’ve learned from them.

“Games like the one against the Warriors are really exciting to be a part of. They’re the moments you cherish as a player.”

The Panthers will aim to make it seven straight wins when they return to CommBank Stadium – this time as the away team – to play the Wests Tigers this Sunday afternoon at 2pm.

Benji Marshall’s Tigers are enjoying a strong season so far, with Smith and the Panthers rather wary of their western Sydney neighbours.

“They’re playing an exciting brand of footy and have been really good to start the year,” he said.

“I can’t wait for the weekend, and hopefully there’s a good turnout on Sunday.”

PANTHER RUMBLINGS

Panthers land new Director

New Director revealed: Long-time Penrith accountant Peter Tracey will join the Board of the Penrith Panthers. A Partner in Business Services at BDO Australia, Tracey is also a Director of the McGrath Foundation, The Royce Simmons Foundation and the Thorndale Foundation, where he is Chairman. He brings extensive corporate, financial and charity knowledge to the Board and will serve as an Appointed Director. His appointment follows the return of the existing Board earlier this year.

Spotted: Former Panther and current Wests Tigers skipper Jarome Luai calling by the Hungry Jack’s drive-thru on the M4 on Sunday night.

Sponsor’s schmooze: Which Panthers sponsor left the Editor of the Western Weekender stranded for a lift after last Wednesday night’s State of Origin so he could cosy up to Panthers Chairman Peter Graham?

Will Cleary get the Blues? The big rumour doing the rounds at Accor Stadium last Wednesday night was that Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is in the sights of the New South Wales Rugby League as next Blues coach. It is widely being tipped that Laurie Daley will move on from the role regardless of whether New South Wales win the series. With Cleary

Peter Tracey.

over to his friends and family who had gathered to celebrate the achievement. They all wore specially themed shirts to mark Scott’s debut, which came in the second half of the match. The hooker becomes Panther #639.

Record breakers: While the slot is not used every week, Penrith’s clash with the Warriors became the most watched 6.15pm Sunday fixture of the season on Fox League. It formed part of a stunning weekend of NRL coverage, with the league reporting its most watched Round 13 in history across Fox Sports and Channel Nine. Amazing what some close games can do!

making it clear he’s still keen on representative coaching when he steps down from Penrith at the end of next season, the timing while not perfect could see Cleary become the ideal replacement. One conundrum could emerge: If Daley does go at the end of this series, would Penrith let Cleary coach the Blues next year? You’d think the answer to that question is yes, while the Blues would deal with Cleary juggling both roles given it’d only be for one year. Watch this space – the people talking about it know their stuff.

Trio behind the mic: Why have one ground announcer when you could have two? Indeed, why have two when you could have three? It was interesting to note that Lyndal Rogers, Glenn Hawke and Josh Mansour all shared the ground announcing duties at CommBank Stadium on Sunday night.

Funds for Foundation: The Nepean Business Network raised almost $50,000 for the Royce Simmons Foundation at its casino night last weekend. Well done to all who attended and helped raise money for a great cause.

Silverware for Ellis: Kaide Ellis, who won the NYC Grand Final with Penrith in 2015 and played nine first grade games for the club across 2018 and 2019, was part of the Wigan team that thrashed Hull KR in the Challenge Cup Final in England last weekend. And Adam Keighran, who never reached first grade with Penrith but played in the NSW Cup in 2017 and 2018, was also part of the winning side.

Girls ready to go: Penrith’s NSW Women’s Premiership side will play as the curtain raiser to an NRL fixture this year. The side will play against the Wests Tigers on Thursday, July 16 at CommBank Stadium prior to Penrith’s clash with Brisbane in the NRL that evening. It’ll be a huge step up for the squad, which will split home games this year between Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub in Rooty Hill and Parker Street Reserve. The new season kicks off next weekend.

Great Scott! There were fabulous scenes post-game at CommBank Stadium on Sunday night when debutant Billy Scott got to head

What an experience: Now that’s what we call work experience! Year 10 student Chloe Maclean from CathWest Innovation College recently undertook a week of work experience at the Penrith Stadium construction site with the John Holland group. A 5.15am start didn’t deter the teenager, who got plenty out of the opportunity.

PANTHERS POSTER

Why Penrith should land Jett

Ithink it’s time to bring Jett Cleary back to play for the Panthers in 2028. I know that comment will create a lot of controversy amongst Penrith supporters but hear me out.

Since Jett moved to join the Warriors at the start of last season he has come a long way as a half back, playmaker and organiser. He was a key ingredient in the dominant Warriors NSW Cup side which won the competition last season and while they are not as strong this year, Cleary is regarded by many as the number one player in the NSW Cup competition.

I don’t want to concentrate too much on statistics as a lot can change with his stats in the next 18 months but there are other reasons why a return to the Panthers makes logical sense.

Jett left the comfort zone of Penrith at the end of 2024 to carve out a name for himself across the ditch. Far removed from the spotlight of being Ivan Cleary’s son and little brother to Nathan Cleary.

Well, a return in 2028 will see at least one of those issues eliminated as a problem with father Ivan set to step down as the Panthers first

grade coach at the end of 2027.

As for brother Nathan, well he’s a 50/50 chance at best to stay a Panther and even if he does, Jett will find himself in no worse a

position then he would at the Warriors as far as playing in the halves at a first grade level goes.

At the Warriors he has Tannah Boyd and Te Marie Martin in front of him while at Penrith it would be Nathan (if he stays) and Jack Cogger whose own contract expires at the end of 2028.

Jett will also come back older and wiser and a different player from the young 19 year-old who left in 2024 and if big brother does end up re-signing, then there’s the carrot of perhaps one day playing alongside him.

A lot of supporters will look at my arguments as to why Jett should return to Penrith and probably poke holes in a lot of my reasoning.

This move feels right, for both Jett and the Panthers. I’m probably romanticising the whole idea just a bit but sport has a habit of doing that. Of making us think and feel things we never thought possible

and that don’t always make logical sense.

So, I’m going to finish my argument as to why Penrith and Jett Cleary belong together this way.

Imagine if you will, Jett Cleary leading the Panthers to a premiership in five years’ time just like his brother did so many times before him.

I’ll go one step further, imagine Jett Cleary and Nathan Cleary in the halves leading Penrith to a Premiership together.

Now wouldn’t that be something.

The replacements While I don’t think there will be the mass exodus of star players from the Panthers as many media scribes are predicting, I would just like to tell you who I would target if the following three players left at the end of 2027.

Now I hope the Panthers re-sign all three players but if for some reason they do move on, here are my suggested replacements.

To replace Liam Martin, I would target Dylan Lucas from the Knights, if Brian To’o left I’d go after Jack Bostock from the Dolphins and if Mitch Kenny were to depart, I’d do everything in my power to bring Wayde Egan back to Penrith. Just my thoughts.

Golf, books but no footy thanks!

Before bed every night, Penrith Panthers hardman

Luke Garner cracks open a book.

Garner does a lot of things to get his mind off the game and settle back into normal life, including getting out on the golf course and reading a good book.

“I’ve been getting into golf a little bit but I’m not very good so it’s a bit frustrating,” Garner laughed.

“I enjoy playing golf, going for walks, coffee, reading my book and listening to podcasts.

“I read just about every day before bed, it’s a good way to wind down. I used to be pretty keen on the non-fiction stuff, self-help type of books but I’ve turned to fiction recently just to mix it up a bit.”

As a professional footy player, Garner tends not to watch much footy in his free time saying footy players who do are “sickos”.

“I watch no games!” he said.

“I shouldn’t say no games, it depends on the weekend, I’ll watch maybe one. It’s like would you want to watch your job on the weekends? If you do watch every game as a player, you are a bit of a sicko! I’ve got other things to do and life to live.”

Garner debuted in the NRL in 2018 for the Wests Tigers under the direction of then Head Coach Ivan Cleary. Cleary would later leave the Tigers and return to the Panthers in 2019.

In 2023, Garner was signed to the Panthers to replace the departing Viliame Kikau.

Throughout his 139 games in the NRL Garner has spent majority of them under the tutelage of Cleary, but with Peter Wallace set to replace the master coach in 2028, Garner is keen to see Wallace step into the role.

“No [it’s not daunting] because I know it is Wal,” he reflected.

“You couldn’t ask for a better replacement with Wal and everyone loves him. I’ll get a year, or at least a year with Wal so I’m really looking forward to that.”

”He’s just always been a good player and each level he goes to, he seems to be able to pick it up pretty quickly.”

THEY SAID IT...

“He’s my Origin hooker. Experience, toughness, creativity. I think you need a little bit more creativity for our yardage early in the game. I think it’s a no-brainer.”

“You know what you’re getting from Mitchell Moses.”

David Riccio on the

“I’m just so happy with the boys, they showed fight and that’s what you want to see.”

“It felt like a nightmare in the first half and then it felt like a dream.”

“The greatest mistake Laurie can make is to ignore the opening 40 minutes.”

“You won’t see that again in forever I reckon.”

“You don’t want to put pressure on him because he’s still young and he’s still got to see all those things. I just thought the way he attacked the game, that can be a tough environment for someone to go into and I was just super proud of how he attacked it, regardless of the outcome.”

Yeo on Casey McLean

NRL LADDER & FIXTURES

Face in the Crowd

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

SEA EAGLES STORM RAIDERS DOLPHINS TITANS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS ROOSTERS COWBOYS

PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS

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SEA EAGLES STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS RAIDERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS RAIDERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS DOLPHINS TITANS PANTHERS DRAGONS EELS

SEA EAGLES STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

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SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS RAIDERS DOLPHINS TITANS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS COWBOYS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS EELS

RABBITOHS STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

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SEA EAGLES STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS DRAGONS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS

PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

BULLDOGS SEA EAGLES STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS

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SEA EAGLES STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS

EELS

PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS DOLPHINS TITANS PANTHERS DRAGONS EELS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES STORM ROOSTERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS ROOSTERS DOLPHINS TITANS PANTHERS DRAGONS EELS

RABBITOHS KNIGHTS RAIDERS DOLPHINS TITANS PANTHERS SHARKS BULLDOGS

SEA EAGLES KNIGHTS RAIDERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS EELS

SEA EAGLES STORM RAIDERS COWBOYS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS EELS

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SEA EAGLES STORM RAIDERS DOLPHINS BRONCOS PANTHERS SHARKS EELS

ENTERTAINMENT

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

SPACELIVE WILL BE OUT OF THIS WORLD

Legendary Apollo Mission Control Flight Director Gerry Griffin will touch down in western Sydney in August for SPACELIVE.

The live space event will launch its audience into current and future developments for human spaceflight, deep space exploration, and an inside look into the ARTEMIS II Mission.

Before looking to the future of the ARTEMIS program at SPACELIVE, Griffin gave the Weekender a glimpse into the past, starting with a friendly softball game on April 13, 1970, after Griffin’s shift at the Mission Control Centre for Apollo 13.

“They came out and got me and said, ‘You better get back to the control centre; they’ve had a problem,’” Griffin recounted.

“So, I went back into the Control Centre, still with my softball outfit on, and I could tell there were a few more people in the crowd, but there was no panic, it was extreme concern.”

An oxygen tank had exploded when the spacecraft was roughly 200,000 miles (321,868 km) from Earth.

“That phrase, ‘Houston, we have a problem’, is kind of embedded in my brain now even though I didn’t hear it in real time because I was outside. It was a gulp moment,” Griffin said.

“Interestingly, we never talked about not getting them back. It never came up. That was because we were trained that way. The feeling was that as long as we had options, just keep plugging, don’t give up, you’ll be okay, we’ll figure it out.

“That theme came through loud and clear and we got it done with some consumables left.”

Although the astronauts and mission control receive a lot of credit for the safe return of the

Apollo 13 crew, Griffin said they had a lot of help from outside of NASA’s doors.

“Everyone in the country who was in the space business were supporting us and running simulations to try and see what we could squeeze out of it,” Griffin explained.

“There was even a report – and I’ve never verified it for sure – that the Soviet Union offered any assistance they might give us in recovery. I don’t know whether that is true, but the Cold War was at its peak, and yet for the space people it’s like danger at sea, and people want to pitch in to try to save the crew of a ship in trouble.

“It was a satisfying experience. I wouldn’t want to go through it again, but it felt good.” Griffin described ARTEMIS as the new guys in town and feels excited about the future of space exploration.

“With the SPACELIVE show, we want to make sure that it’s clear that the torch has been passed,” the 91-year-old said.

“Apollo deserves its place in history – that will never change – but we need to focus on now and the future.

“I don’t know how much we will go into the past at SPACELIVE, but I will represent the Apollo era. I worked on every Apollo mission, and I’m still familiar with them all. I know the idiosyncrasies and the things we had fun with.”

SPACELIVE will be at Coliseum Theatre on August 1. The event will feature active profile di rectors, as well as Mission Leaders from NASA, Lockheed Martin Space, European Internation al Space Station Mission Control, and Texas Space Commission. An active NASA ARTEMIS astronaut will also take to the stage.

Tickets are available online at https://coli seumtheatre.com.au.

THINGS TO DO

Key Clash – Live Piano Party Night

Turn your Friday night into a full-blown party at Key Clash, the live piano experience taking over Squires Terrace Bar at Panthers. Expect crowd singalongs, nonstop party anthems, live song requests, and a high-energy atmosphere where everyone gets involved. Starting at 8pm, enjoy exclusive cocktails, $5 spirits, and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating.

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

Panthers June Long Weekend Carnival

On June 7 from 1pm, celebrate the June Long Weekend with a full day of family fun at The Backyard. Enjoy carnival rides and games, show bags, face painting, a petting zoo, food stalls, desserts, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks finale. You can also catch the Panthers on the big screen before dancing into the night with live music and DJs.

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.

If you’re searching for a pawsome day with your furry friend or need advice on which dog breed fits your lifestyle, Dogs on Show is the perfect event for you! On June 13 from 8.30am to 4pm at The Bill Spilstead Complex for Canine Affairs, the free event includes sporting demonstrations, dog shows, a pageant, and more. Find information on the Dogs NSW website. Dogs on Show is back at Orchard Hills

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.

0408 412 708 for more information.

Nepean Naval Museum

Open Sundays 11am-3pm. 40-42 Bruce Neale Drive. 0411 138 700.

Arms of Australia Inn

Monday and Wednesday 10am-1pm, 4735 4394. 127 Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Penrith Stroke Recovery Group

Third Thursday of the month at 10am, Panthers. 1300 650 594.

Penrith Carer Support Group

First Thursday of the month. Headspace. 8880 8160.

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk Thursdays from 5.30pm. Meet at Coffee Club Nepean River.

Penrith Women’s Health Centre Domestic violence support services. 4721 2499.

ALL

Nathan Taylor

TV NEWS

Ê The new season of ‘Farmer Wants A Wife’ will premiere on Seven on Monday, June 8 at 7.30pm. Filmed in the beautiful Hunter Valley as well as on the farmers’ properties around the country, the series will once again be hosted by Natalie Gruzelewski.

Ê If you’ve ever wanted to be a housemate on ‘Big Brother’, now is your chance. 10 is currently casting for housemates for its upcoming season, which many expect to run longer than last year’s comeback series. If you think you have what it takes, visit eu.castitreach.com/ag/esgau/bigbrother2026/welcome.html to submit your application.

Ê New Australian drama with a paranormal twist, ‘The Killings at Parrish Station’, will premiere on Stan on Wednesday, June 24. The fictional story is set around a brutal massacre of four scientists at a remote Australian desert research station in 1987, which becomes a decades-long mystery. Mia Wasikowska and Xavier Samuel star as detectives investigating the mysterious deaths.

Ê Marvel Animation series ‘X-Men ’97’ will return for a second season on Wednesday, July 1 on Disney+. ‘X-Men ’97’ continues with the heroic mutant team of X-Men, divided

COUNTRY CORNER

Star signs new deal

Rising country artist Belles has officially signed with WME for worldwide representation, marking another major milestone in what continues to be a breakout year for the fast-rising singer-songwriter.

Known for her emotionally honest songwriting, powerhouse vocals, and rapidly growing profile within country music, Belles continues building momentum following the release of her acclaimed collaboration ‘Son of Jolene’ featuring Dolly Parton, her upcoming Grand Ole Opry debut on July 30, growing traction at country radio, and an expanding national touring presence throughout 2026.

and thrown across different eras in time as they struggle to navigate their return home. Meanwhile, back in the 1990s, suspicious foes and new strains of mutant intolerance are on the rise in the wake of the X-Men’s absence. Season two will comprise of nine episodes.

Ê One for the diary… new six-episode Australian thriller ‘Last Seen’, starring Patrick Brammall, will premiere on Wednesday, September 9 on Apply TV. Police detective Ian Ridley’s (Brammall) life fell apart 11 years ago when his young daughter, Maggie, disappeared without a trace. Now working as a police dispatcher, the only thing that has kept him going is his implacable refusal to accept that she might be gone forever. When he receives a distress call from a teenage girl,

he is certain is Maggie, he will stop at nothing to find her and reunite his broken family, whatever the cost.

Ê Exciting news for Australian football fans with Paramount renewing the A-League broadcast rights with the Australian Professional Leagues for three more years. Under the renewed agreement, every A-League Men’s match and every A-League Women’s match will be available live on Paramount+. Network 10 will complement this with free-to-air access, broadcasting one men’s match per week and 10 women’s matches per season, including the Grand Final. Every Women’s match will also stream live and free on 10 Streaming. Marquee men’s games will air on 10’s primary channel. The 2026 / 27 A-League seasons will kick off on October 16.

“Signing with WME feels like an exciting next chapter.”

The signing follows a landmark season for Belles, whose recent single ‘Son of Jolene’ featuring Dolly Parton drew major attention from outlets including People, which described the collaboration as “a musical and generational bridge”.

Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Belles moved to Nashville in 2018 and has steadily established herself as one of country music’s most exciting developing artists.

Barnes on tour

Award-winning Australian country star Casey Barnes is hitting the road for his ‘Made For This Tour’ – an electrifying national run celebrating his eighth studio album alongside the hits that have made him one of the country’s most in-demand live acts.

With a reputation for high-energy, crowd-ready performances, Barnes brings his trademark country-rock showmanship to an

“Touring has always been the heartbeat of this journey for me, and I’m so grateful to the clubs and fans who took a chance on me along the way,” shared Belles.

impressive range of rooms.

The tour arrives just in time to celebrate the release of ‘Made For This’, Barnes’ most defining and confident musical statement to date.

Out Friday, August 7 and available now for pre-order on vinyl, CD, digital and limited-edition bundles, the 10-track album is built on themes of grit, resilience and perseverance – combining his trademark stadium-ready country rock sound with some of his most reflective and emotionally honest songwriting yet.

Barnes also recently collaborated on a track with Pete Murray (pictured).

For tour dates, including details of the Penrith show, visit www.caseybarnes. com.au.

Track of the Week

We can’t get Stella Lefty’s ‘Boston’ out of our heads.

TV Guide: June 5 - 11

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 Restoration Australia (PG) 12:00 ABC News 1:00 The Assembly (PG) 1:45 Bad Company (M l) 2:10 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (M) 2:55 Restoration Australia (PG) 3:55 Murdoch Mysteries (PG) 4:45 Long Lost Family (PG) 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:35 Gardening Australia (PG) 8:35 Shetland (M l,v) 9:35 Gruen (PG) 6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) 12:00 Seven News At Noon 1:00 Movie: “Sinister Cover-Up” (M v) (’23) Stars: Christie Leverette 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: “Angels & Demons” (M v) (’09) Stars: Tom Hanks 10:45 Movie: “Gunpowder Milkshake” (MA15+) (’21) Stars: Karen Gillan 1:10 Quacks (MA15+) 2:00 Home Shopping 6:00 Today 9:00 Today Extra (PG) 11:30 NINE News Morning 12:00 Movie: “The Marry Me Pact” (PG) (’23) Stars: Meggan Kaiser 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: Canberra Raiders v Sydney Roosters *Live* From GIO Stadium 9:55 NRL: Post-Match 10:30 Movie: “Get Shorty” (M l,v) (’95) Stars: John Travolta 9:00 The Finish Line 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 MasterChef Australia (PG) 11:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 12:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 12:30 Family Feud (PG) 1:00 10 News: Lunchtime 2:00 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 2:30 The Finish Line 3:30

Friday

4:05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adventures 4:30 Mojo Swoptops 5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:10 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:30 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Gardening Australia Junior 7:35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures

Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown *Live*

10:30 My Kitchen Rules (PG) 12:00 Chicago Fire (M v) 3:00 First Dates UK (M) 4:00 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) 6:15 Movie: “Dolittle” (PG) (’20) Stars: Robert Downey Jr. 8:30 Movie: “The Bounty Hunter” (M l,s,v) (’10) Stars: Jennifer Aniston

3:05 QI (PG) 3:35

I Lie To You? (PG) 4:05 MythBusters (PG) 4:55 Phil Spencer: Secret

5:40 Grand Designs (PG) 6:30 Claire Hooper’s

3:25 Mysterious Cities Of Gold (PG) 4:35 Motown Magic 5:00 Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward (PG) 5:30 NITV News: Nula 6:00 Bamay 6:40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Sandlot” (PG) (’93) Stars: Tom Guiry

10:30 The Living Room (PG) 11:30 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 12:00 Days Of Our Lives (PG) 12:45 The Young And The Restless (PG) 1:30 JAG (PG) 3:30 Bull (M s,v) 4:30 JAG (PG) 6:30 Bull (M s,v) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 12:00 Family Feud (PG) 12:30 The Neighborhood (PG) 1:00 Friends (PG) 3:00 Frasier (PG) 4:00

Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG) 7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 6:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield 7:00 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 7:30 Instant Italian 8:00 The Hairy Bikers USA 8:30 Paul Hollywood Eats Mexico 9:30 Come Dine With Me: The Professionals 10:30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw 12:15 DW The Day 12:45 Red Flag (M l) 2:00 Who Killed The WCW? (M l) 2:55 Bamay 3:30 NITV News Update 3:35 Worldwatch 5:35 Inside The Huddle 6:05 Over The Black Dot 6:35 Jeopardy! 7:25 NITV News Update

2:30 The Nanny (PG) 3:30 Seinfeld (PG) 4:30 The Addams Family 5:30 Bewitched 6:30 The Nanny (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Zookeeper” (PG) (’11) Stars: Kevin James 9:30 TBA 11:45 Seinfeld (PG) 12:45 Love Island UK: All Stars (MA15+)

Antiques Roadshow 7:30 Escape To The Chateau

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 rage (PG) 10:30 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Death In Paradise (M) 1:30 Shetland (M l,v) 2:30 MSO - 50 Years Of ABC Classic 4:10 Shaun Micallef’s Going For Broke (PG) 5:00 Australian Story 5:30 Landline 6:00 Kath & Kim (PG) 6:30 Hard Quiz (PG) 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Death In Paradise (M) 8:30 The Hardacres (PG) 10:05 Bergerac (MA15+) 11:00 rage Guest Programmer (MA15+) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend (PG) 12:00 Seven’s Horse Racing: Randwick/ Flemington/ Eagle Farm *Live* 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 Oops I Bought A Pub! (PG) 8:30 Movie: “White House Down” (M l,v) (’14) Stars: Channing Tatum 11:10 SAS - Aus Vs. Eng (PG) 12:10 Devils (MA15+) 1:10 Harry’s Practice 6:00 Getaway (PG) 6:30 A Current Affair (PG) 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Today Extra Saturday (PG) 12:00 Destination WA 12:30 Drive Presents 1:00 Explore TVViking 1:30 Let’s Eat With George 2:00 My Way 2:15 Shark! (PG) 4:00 Tasman Trails 5:00 NINE News First At 5 5:30 Getaway (PG) 6:00 NINE News Saturday 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) 7:30 Movie: “Dune: Part Two” (M v) (’24) Stars: Timothée Chalamet 10:45 Movie: “Arrival” (M l) (’16) 9:00 All 4 Adventure (PG) 10:00 Entertainment Tonight 10:20 MasterChef Australia (PG) 11:30 Farm To Fork 12:00 MasterChef Australia (PG) 1:00 Good Food Everyday With Gary Mehigan (PG) 1:30 Frugal Foodie 2:00 Deal Or No Deal (PG) 2:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 3:00 The Finish Line 4:00 Lingo (PG) 5:00 10 News 6:30 Football: Matildas v Mexico *Live* 10:00 Building The Dream Home 11:00 Ambulance Australia (M l) 12:00 Worldwatch 2:00 Yacht

6:30 The Yorkshire Vet (M l) 8:30 Lewis (M v) 10:30 Escape To The Country 1:00 Blokesworld (PG) 1:30 Lady Torque TV (PG) 2:00 Rides Down Under (PG) 3:00 Circuit Boats Drivers Championship 4:00 Duck Dynasty (PG) 5:00 Counting Cars (PG) 6:00 Pawn Stars (PG) 7:00 Storage Wars (PG) 12:50 Yummy Mummies (PG) 1:50 10 Years Younger In 10 Days (PG) 2:50 Instant Hotel (PG) 4:05 Dancing With The Stars (PG) 5:35 Movie: “The Borrowers” (PG) (’97) Stars: John Goodman 7:30 Movie: “Ticket To Paradise” (M l) (’22)

Spicks

Samoan/ Swahili) 9:25 Elizabeth TaylorRebel Superstar (M l) 10:20 Princess

4:20 This Is Indian Country (PG) 4:50 Paid In Full: The Battle For Black Music (PG) 5:55 Our Law (PG) 6:30 NITV News Update 6:40 The Other Side (PG) 7:30 Alone Australia (M l) 8:30 Movie: “The Craft” (M) (’96) Stars: Fairuza Balk 9:30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures 10:30 Navigating The World 11:30 Roads Less Travelled 12:30 Top Gear Australia (PG) 2:00 JAG (PG) 5:00 Escape Fishing With ET 5:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 NCIS (M v) 10:20 JAG (PG) 12:15 Home Shopping 7:00 The Bold & The Beautiful (PG) 9:30 Millionaire Hot Seat (PG) 11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 11:30 Ridiculousness (M l) 1:00 Friends (PG) 6:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 10:30 Ridiculousness (M l) 12:00 Home Shopping

7:30 QI (PG) 8:00 Would I Lie To You? (PG) 5:30 Nigellissima 6:00 Nadiya’s Spices Made Simple 6:30 Jamie’s American Road Trip 7:30 River Cottage Vegetables 8:30 Rick Stein’s Road To Mexico 9:40 Mind Of A Chef 10:30 Getting Grilled With Curtis Stone 11:30 This Tastes Funny

6:00 rage (PG) 7:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 The World This Week 11:00 Compass 11:30 Songs Of Praise (PG) 12:00 ABC News 12:30 Landline 1:30 Gardening Australia 2:30 The Assembly (PG) 3:15 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure (PG) 4:00 Restoration Australia (PG) 5:00 Back Roads 5:30 Antiques Roadshow 6:30 Compass 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Race Around The World 8:30 Ground Up (M l) 6:00 NBC Today 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The

Essendon Bombers v Carlton Blues *Live*

12:00 Out Of Bounds (M l,s) 1:40 Black Comedy In America (M l,s) 2:35 Wine Lovers’ Guide To Australia 3:40 Worldwatch 5:45 Mastermind 6:45 The Mega-Brands That Built The World (PG) 7:35 Abandoned Americana (M) 2:30 Snackmasters (PG) 3:50 Movie: “Ancestry Road” (PG) (’25) Stars: Jodie Wolf 5:40 Movie: “The Pink Panther 2” (PG) (’09) Stars: Steve Martin 7:30 Movie: “Shazam! Fury Of The Gods” (M v) (’23) Stars: Zachary Levi

3:00 Movie: “Outcast Of The Islands” (PG) (’51) Stars: Trevor Howard 5:00 Movie: “The Overlanders” (G) (’46) Stars: Chris Rafferty 7:00 Movie: “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” (PG) (’02) Stars: Nia Vardalos 9:00 Movie: “Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past” (M s) (’09)

2:30 Frogger (PG) 3:30 A Moveable Feast (PG) 4:00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera (PG) 5:00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters 6:00 Puppy School (PG) 6:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) 7:30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent (M v) 3:35 Piri’s Tiki Tour (In English/ Maori) 4:35 Stompem Ground 5:00 UB40 Feat. Ali Campbell Live Concert (PG) 6:40 NITV News Update 6:50 Arctic Secrets (PG) 7:40 Aerial Australia (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Dolly Parton: Here I Am” (PG) (’19) 9:30 Reel Action 10:00 Navigating The World 11:00 Escape Fishing With ET 11:30 All 4 Adventure (PG) 12:30 Camper Deals 1:30 Top Gear Australia (PG) 2:30 JAG (PG) 7:30 Movie: “The Italian Job” (M l,v) (’03)

Cooks Cymru 6:00 Guillaume’s French Atlantic 6:30 Taste Of The Tropics: Foodie Friends 7:00 The Chef’s Garden 7:30 Paddock To Plate 8:30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall 9:30 Mind Of A Chef 10:30 Getting Grilled With Curtis Stone

2:15 Jeopardy! 4:20 Worldwatch 5:45 The Frontier (PG) 6:40 Abandoned Engineering (M) 8:30 Movie: “Monty Python And The Holy Grail” (PG) (’75) Stars: John Cleese 10:10 Dinosaur 11:20 Cycling: Giro d’Italia: Stage 9 *Live* 1:35 Adelaide Equestrian Festival 2:35 The Summit (PG) 5:25 Movie: “200% Wolf” (PG) (’24) Stars: Ilai Swindells 7:30 Movie: “The Hunger Games” (M v) (’12) Stars: Jennifer Lawrence 10:20 TBA 12:20 Gotham (MA15+)

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

4, 2026

1:40 Movie: “The Lavender Hill Mob” (G) (’51) Stars: Alec Guinness 3:20 Movie: “Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d” (PG) (’80) Stars: Angela Lansbury 5:30 Midsomer Murders (PG) 7:30 David Attenborough’s Mammals (PG)

Get Macca’s® delivered.

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:45 Kangaroo Beach 6:05 Spidey And

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00

7:30 7.30 8:00

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroe 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels 4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC

4:50 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 5:40 Grand Designs Revisited (PG) 6:30

5:00 Peppa Pig 5:30 Talking Tom Heroes 6:05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends 6:25 The Adventures Of Paddington 7:05 Batwheels

4:00 Afternoon Briefing 5:00 ABC News With Joe O’Brien 6:00 ABC News Hour 7:00 ABC National News 7:30 7.30 8:00 ABC News Tonight 4:50 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 5:40 Grand Designs Revisited (PG) 6:30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games 7:00 Spicks And Specks (PG)

4:00 Good Chef Bad Chef 4:30 Becker (PG) 5:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG) 6:00 Friends (PG) 8:00 The Big Bang Theory (PG)

4:00 Down Home Fab (PG) 5:00 Escape To The Chateau 6:00

Seinfeld (PG) 8:30 Movie: “Batman” (PG) (’89) Stars: Jack Nicholson 11:05 Seinfeld (PG) 3:40 Movie: “Watch Your Stern” (PG) (’60) Stars: Kenneth Connor 5:30 The Yorkshire

Something for everyone

POOL SOLUTION: LET THE ROBOT DO THE WORK

TROY DODDS

Pool cleaners have come a long way over the years.

And whether you manually vacuum your pool yourself, use a cleaner that connects directly to the filter or have graduated to a robot cleaner, every pool owner knows keeping your pride and joy clean can be a challenge.

We’ve recently been road testing the M1-AI series from iGarden.

This comes with a pretty hefty price tag – you’re looking at around $2,000, about the same as a quality robot vacuum cleaner for inside the home.

I’ve been a convert to robot pool vacuums for a while now. As someone who constantly used to deal with suction pool cleaners getting stuck or coming away from the filter, the ability to have

a robot cleaner do the work while the skimmer box is still collecting leaves and what-not from the top of the water is the perfect experience for a pool owner.

“YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED WITH THE JOB IT DOES”

The M1-AI series is a beauty of a machine. From a cleaning perspective it did a terrific job picking up your classic debris like leaves, while it left a sparkling finish clearing all the dirt after recent rain.

It did find larger items a challenge – some trimmed off-cuts

from the nearby garden fell in the pool and it struggled to pick those up. That’s not to say I’d expect it to – it’s beyond what you’d fairly anticipate a robot cleaner to achieve – but I have had robot cleaners that have achieved it in the past, so that was just a slight disappointment.

The unit itself is fairly easy to operate in terms of getting the basket out and cleaning – in fact there’s no tricks here, just an easy process. It’s also reasonably lightweight so the average person won’t have any trouble getting it in and out of the pool.

Like with most robot cleaners, you use a hook connected to a pole to retrieve the cleaner once it’s done. Getting the hook into place to retrieve the cleaner in this case was really easy (that’s not always the way) and I felt it didn’t hold as much water as other cleaners

so the weight on exiting the pool was not over-bearing. You can run the cleaner without its supportive app, and to be honest I found the app a little confusing and difficult to operate.

I would recommend reading the instructions with great detail – it’s not that the unit is hard to understand or use, but it does have a range of features and options and just trying to guess probably isn’t the right approach.

Overall, I wouldn’t say the M1-AI is the best robot pool cleaner I have ever used, but it is a mighty improvement if you’re using any of the manual pool cleaning options.

And it certainly deserves to be in the conversation when it comes to picking a robot cleaner – you won’t be disappointed with the job it does overall.

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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

STRONG BONES FOR LIFE:

Strong bones are important at every stage of life, and exercise plays a major role in keeping our bones healthy, strong, and resilient. As physiotherapists, we often see people only start thinking about bone density after a fracture or diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis. However, maintaining bone strength should begin long before problems arise.

Bones are living tissue that adapt to the demands placed upon them. Just like muscles, bones respond positively to the right type of exercise. Weight-bearing and resistance-based activities help stimulate bone growth and improve bone density over time. This can reduce fracture risk, improve strength and balance, and help people remain active and independent as they age.

Exercise does not need to be extreme to be effective. Walking, stair climbing, resistance training, and balance exercises can all support bone health when completed consistently

and safely. The key is choosing exercises suited to your ability, medical history, and goals. For some people, especially those

with osteoporosis, certain movements may need to be modified to reduce unnecessary strain or injury risk.

Physiotherapists can help guide safe and effective exercise programs tailored specifically to you. We assess strength, balance, mobility, posture, pain, and overall function to create an individualised plan that supports both bone health and confidence with movement. Exercise can also help reduce falls risk, one of the leading causes of fractures in older adults.

Long periods of inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and poor nutrition can negatively impact bone health. Combining regular exercise with adequate calcium, vitamin D, and healthy lifestyle habits provides the best foundation for maintaining strong bones and reducing injuries and mobility limitations.

If improving your bone health, strength, balance, or confidence with movement sounds useful to you, book in with our team today and let us help you stay strong, active, and moving well for years to come.

UNDERSTANDING COGNITIVE DECLINE

As our dogs grow older, it’s natural to notice changes in their behaviour and daily habits. While slowing down with age is expected, some senior dogs develop a condition known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), often described as canine dementia. This progressive condition affects memory, awareness, and learning, much like dementia does in people.

Recognising the signs early can help pet owners seek appropriate support and make adjustments that improve their dog’s comfort and wellbeing.

Signs to watch for: There is no set age at which canine dementia develops, although subtle changes can sometimes be noticed from around six years of age onwards. Before diagnosing cognitive dysfunction, your veterinarian will need to rule out other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including: diabetes, cushing’s disease, high blood pressure, hearing or vision loss, urinary tract, infections, kidney disease and arthritis. Once other health concerns have been excluded, several behavioural changes may suggest cognitive decline.

Becoming disorientated: Dogs experiencing dementia may appear confused in

familiar environments. They might wander aimlessly, become stuck in corners, stare at walls or into space, or head to the wrong door when wanting to go outside.

Changes in social behaviour: Many dogs become less engaged with family members, other pets, and activities they once enjoyed. Some become withdrawn, while others may seem more anxious, clingy, or dependent on their owners for reassurance.

Disturbed sleep patterns: Changes to sleeping habits are common. Dogs may sleep more during the day and become restless at night, pacing around the house, whining, or barking when everyone else is asleep.

Memory loss and house-training accidents: A dog with cognitive dysfunction may forget previously learned behaviours and routines. House-soiling accidents can become more frequent, and they may not respond to familiar commands as reliably as they once did.

Reduced interest in activities: You may notice your dog becoming less enthusiastic about walks, games, and exploring their environment. Activities that once brought excite-

ment may no longer hold the same appeal.

Supporting a dog with dementia: Although there is currently no cure for canine dementia, there are several ways to help manage the condition and maintain your dog’s quality of life:

• Speak with your veterinarian about medications, diets, and supplements that may support brain health.

• Maintain a predictable daily routine to minimise confusion and anxiety.

• Continue gentle exercise and sensory enrichment through regular walks and safe exploration.

• Avoid making significant changes to your home’s layout. Keeping food bowls, bedding, and furniture in familiar locations can help your dog navigate more confidently.

• Be patient and understanding. Many behaviours associated with dementia are the result of cognitive changes rather than deliberate disobedience.

The team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital is here to help. If you are concerned about your dog’s behaviour or wellbeing, contact us on 4736 2027 to arrange an appointment. Early recognition and supportive care can make a significant difference.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

You’re in the mood to party as the Sun and Uranus (your patron planet) activate your entertainment zone. But Saturn squares Mercury (on Wednesday) so avoid skimming over important details – and remember there’s a fine line between making snap decisions and making messy mistakes. If you don’t pace yourself, then you’ll be exhausted by the end of the week. Astute Aquarians will slow down, enjoy the ride, and practice the gentle art of patience.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Venus (your patron planet) links up with Jupiter (planet of prosperity and joy) on Tuesday and Wednesday, when you’re at your charismatic and generous best. Make the most of it as you turn on the Taurus charm, dazzle the doubters and call in a few old favours! They link up in your neighbourhood zone so prepare to make some lucky connections within your local community. Short trips (especially interstate) are also likely in the weeks ahead.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Tuesday and Wednesday are the best days to relax, meditate and/or contemplate your life and where you are going, as Venus and philosophical Jupiter link up in your spirituality and solitude zone. Then the weekend is the time to mix and mingle, socialise, party and let your hair down when vivacious Venus races into your sign. So your motto for the week is from His Holiness the Dalai Lama “Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.”

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Scorpio style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns so expect power plays, disruptions or delays. Patience and compromise are required. When it comes to work projects and your daily routine, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No one (not even a super organised Scorpio) is indispensable! On Tuesday and Wednesday, dream big dreams and follow your heart.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The planets encourage you to express your compassion and creativity, so don’t undervalue your kind heart and creative talents. It’s a wonderful week to enjoy a romantic interlude with your partner, fix a floundering friendship or find your soul mate. But don’t sit around hoping Lady Luck and Cupid’s arrow will strike. With Venus and Jupiter in your romance and good fortune zone, you need to consciously attract more love and abundance into your life.

GEMINI

22 TO JUNE 21

This week - courtesy of Wednesday’s Mercury/Saturn square – work or finances look rather stressful, and you won’t have the patience to put up with annoying people or tedious explanations. So strive to extricate yourself from negative situations in tactful ways. Communication and conversation are the buzz words on the weekend as you circulate in your local community, discuss current affairs, learn a new skill or share some exciting news.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Virgos love to feel productive, but does it seem as if you’re treading water at work or a close relationship is going backwards? This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations. But lucky Venus also hooks up with prosperous Jupiter, which encourages you to pair up with a creative colleague and make your professional dreams come true. If you are flexible and open to new ideas, then a flash of brilliance could suddenly turn things around.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

This week, if you’re argumentative with a family member, close friend or work colleague, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So – if you want to avoid fiery clashes – do your best to be more tolerant and understanding towards others. Plus try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. The winning formula for smooth Sagittarian communication is conversation + cooperation + generosity = joy.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Rambunctious Rams can appear confident on the outside but - with Saturn and Neptune visiting your sign – the main dangers at the moment are self-criticism and self-doubt. Be kind to yourself this week. Fortunately – on Tuesday and Wednesday – Venus and Jupiter (the two lucky planets) hook up in your home zone. So look out for some good news via a relative, housemate or family friend. And the weekend is wonderful for social events and creative projects.

CANCER

22 TO JULY 22

Lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter join up in your sign, and conscientious Saturn is visiting your career zone. So make sure you have done all the hard work that’s required, so you can take advantage of good fortune when it comes along. Your motto for the week is ‘Preparation + Opportunity = Success.’ There are lessons to be learned on Wednesday (especially at work) so make sure you learn them quickly and don’t keep on repeating the same mistakes.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Many Librans will feel unusually restless, as the Sun and Uranus activate your freedom zone. Exercise and outdoor activities are favoured as you channel energy into physical pursuits, go on a grand adventure or connect with friends from far away. Just make sure you nurture relationships with people who support your aspirations. Tuesday and Wednesday are lucky days (especially at work) as Jupiter (planet of good fortune) links up with your ruler Venus.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Taskmaster Saturn (your ruling planet) squares Mercury on Wednesday, so expect a stressful day of frustrations and challenges (especially involving your partner, a family member or a close friend). And a work colleague could say or do something that makes you gasp. Writer Joyce Carol Oates (who turns 88 on June 16) reminds us, “Sometimes people surprise us. People we believe we know.”

A flexible, philosophical approach will get you through.

RELAXATION IS AIM OF

Every now and again, the desire sets in to head for a holiday that ticks all the ‘no fuss’ boxes – low maintenance, easy for families and no surprises to the back pocket.

Fiji is one of the most popular family destinations for all of these reasons. It’s guilt-free relaxation, and while a little more costly than it used to be it’s a generally affordable overseas holiday with packages that are customisable to your wants and needs.

I’ve been to Fiji twice before – first to the Warwick, located on the Coral Coast, and then Radisson Blu which is located closer to the airport at Denarau.

This time around we split the difference and headed to Momi Bay and the Marriott, which is about a 45 minute drive from the airport.

The drive is actually a highlight in its own right – while you know you’re headed for cocktails, great food and swimming, you get a first-hand look at the realities of Fiji as a country and the very different lives that are lived.

opt for a-la-carte (either at Goji or the Lagoon House).

Thanks to a wristband the staff will be aware you’re on an all-inclusive package and will give you appropriate drinks menus – these were pretty extensive and whether you enjoy beer, wine, cocktails or spirits, there’s a solid list that does vary between the different bars. If there was one slight disappointment in this space it was that on more than one occasion, a certain bar would be “out” of one of the cocktails on the all-inclusive menu. Not the biggest deal in the world, but with no replacements it would perhaps irk you if you were a fan of a particular drink (as an example, the frozen daiquiri was unavailable three of the seven days we were there).

The food is all of great quality. I’m not sure we had a bad meal the entire time we were there.

The only reason I’d advise not going with an all-inclusive option is if you plan to spend plenty of time on day trips out of the resort. Each meal you miss is, at the end of the day, a dropped opportunity to take advantage of what you’ve already paid for.

In our case we only headed out on one day trip to a nearby island – so it remained worth it.

Exemplified best perhaps by the cow we almost hit on the road into the resort – just taking a leisurely mid-afternoon walk.

Like most who head to Fiji, we booked the trip as a package deal through one of the online travel companies.

With a five-year-old in tow and my wife and I both enjoying a cocktail or three while on holidays, we ended up throwing in the kitchen sink and going with an ultimate all-inclusive package.

This meant we knew that all of our meals and drinks were covered, as well as those for our daughter, and that there would be no nasty surprises on checkout. Those margaritas do add up!

The all-inclusive menus are fair and reasonable at the Marriott with no huge limitations. There’s a buffet breakfast daily, the choice between a couple of restaurants for lunch and the same at dinner – where you can partake in the daily buffet in the main Goji restaurant or

Just on those day trips – they can be challenging from Momi Bay given it’s a little more remote than the resorts closer to Denarau. So much so that if your trip to Fiji is about adventure, island hopping and day trips, you might be better off at one of the Denarau-based resorts.

For us, on our third visit to Fiji, relaxation was the order of the day so Momi Bay was perfect.

There’s two pools – the main family pool with a swim-up bar and an adjacent kids’ pool, and the adults only pool at the Fish Bar – which we enjoyed while little-miss-five headed off to the kids club.

While the kids club and nanny service was of high quality and professional, I will note it wasn’t quite as good as the experience we had at Radisson Blu; where our daughter couldn’t wait to go back each day.

There’s a whole range of accommodation options, including over-water bures for couples which certainly allows those visiting without kids to escape the family feel of the resort that is expected in Fiji.

We stayed in a lagoon-facing bure, which was well-sized and comfortable with great views and facilities.

One note to make – the resort is huge, and

THE GAME IN BEAUTIFUL FIJI

unless you get a room reasonably close to the main hub (we did, fortunately) you’ll either be doing a lot of walking or relying on calling golf buggies to get you around. The walk is great though – and I found myself strolling around each morning and making new discoveries along the way, so unless your mobility is

restricted, time is on your side – so just give yourself time and enjoy.

Through the resort you can organise a short visit out to the nearby Tau Village. This gave us an opportunity to show our daughter the true Fiji and how those who live in the villages experience everyday life.

“IT NEVER SEEMED OVERLY BUSY AT THE POOLS OR RESTAURANTS”

The advantage here was that it was a two hour trip all up, so it didn’t take an entire day out of the schedule and also ensured our daughter’s attention span was maintained.

The people in the village do a wonderful job of welcoming you – just make sure you take some cash to donate.

In short, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with great food and friendly staff, look no further than the Marriott at Momi Bay. It has an upscale feel, and its size means that even at full capacity, it never seemed overly busy at the pools or restaurants (in fact, it’s one of the few resorts I’ve been to where you didn’t need to get up at the crack of dawn to reserve a poolside seat).

But I’d lean towards suggesting the Marriott as a second-time visit to Fiji – first-timers may benefit from being closer to the action.

8. Formerly named

9. Alas and ...!

10. Hyperactivity disorder (1,1,1,1)

12. Evil spirit

14. Moan & ...

16. Greased

19. Throws (fishing line)

22. Tempt

23. Fixed (in one’s mind)

25. Value highly

26. Heavy horned animals

29. Lingers

32. Non-governmental organisation (1,1,1)

35. Skating entertainment (3,4)

37. Deplete (3,2)

38. Thumped

40. Adroit

41. Female peers

42. Radio station selector

43. Irritating complainers

44. Tendency

47. Palmed off

51. Union Army combatant

52. Wax taper

53. Formal argument

54. Word comparison

58. Futilely, to no ...

59. ... de toilette

61. Operative

63. Arab religion

64. Offshore drilling platform (3,3)

65. Potent

66. Lettuce meal

68. Old wives’ tales

71. Blood-sucking insect

72. Garbage disposal area

74. Flue

76. Thin cushions

78. Norway’s capital

80. Bloodshot (eyes)

83. ... voyage!

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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!

Maddie’s Meals

Feta-Chickpea

Salad

Fun, fresh and delicious – this salad is a winner as a side or on its own!

What You’ll Need:

– Large Bowl

Ingredients: Salad:

– 1 can of Chickpeas

– 1 Spanish Onion

– A handful of flat leaf Parsley

– 1 block of Feta

Dressing:

– 2 Tbsp Olive Oil

– Salt (to taste)

– 2 Tsp Maple Syrup or Honey

– 1 Lemon

Method;

1. Dice onion and parsley (fine) and add to bowl with chickpeas.

2. Crumble the block of feta and add to bowl.

3. Mix all dressing ingredients together in a bowl and add to salad ingredients. Mix well and enjoy!

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

MOTORING WITH GARY WORRALL

Cannon shoots for big guns

After making big inroads into the Australian passenger car market, Chinese manufacturers have launched their offensive to claim the last bastion of ‘Aussie’ motoring – the ute market.

One of the big players is GWM with its Cannon range, including the top-shelf Alpha Ultra, with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) capability.

The Cannon is big and boxy, there is no pretence of style or form, it is all function, including a flat nose, slab sides and squared-off cabin.

Flared guards push the front and rear track wide, not just stabilising the car’s footprint but adding a more purposeful look to the Cannon.

“CANNON GUNNING FOR THE OPPOSITION”

No shrinking violet, at 5.4 metres bumper to bumper, a touch under two metres wide and 1.92 metres tall – I couldn’t see over the roof! – GWM is clearly stating its intentions.

The cabin dominates these figures, without putting a tape measure on it, I can say this is one of the roomiest cabs on the market.

Bonus points for wide-opening doors, unless you are in a crowded shopping centre car park – you know the one – in which case you go for the remotest, quietest corner of the building.

Less-longlegged occupants (can’t say short!) will appreciate the standard side steps, they don’t need a parachute, but it is a long way down, contributing to the 800mm wading depth.

One area that needs attention on the PHEV is the location of the battery pack, sitting under the tray it takes the spare wheel’s space from the ICE models, resulting in an industrial-looking bracket bolted to the right rear of the tub with the spare standing vertically, eating into the load space.

While 18” alloys are standard, the spare is a painted steel rim, given its location, investing in good antitheft nuts will help keep it there.

The Ultra has a 60-40 split tailgate, the left section swings open, you

can stand at the bumper to load and unload, convenient for us ‘normals’ and the greatest thing since the bread slicer for the less reach-enabled.

Dropping the full tailgate allows bulk loads like soil to be unloaded as usual, climbing in to apply the shovel.

The overall impression is North American, with dimensions that go close, the influences are easily seen.

Fun fact – look at the front and rear emblems sideways, and with a little imagination, you will see a cannon…

As expected from the exterior, the inside is roomy, travelling with my equally wide-shouldered son, we revelled in the available space.

Seats were broad and supportive, front and rear, even with the grandkids in their baby seats, there was still plenty of legroom.

Not only are the leather-accented front seats powered, they include an effective massage function, along with heating and cooling.

The rears are equally equipped, the outboard seats are heated and cooled, with powered fore and aft adjustment, translating into a ‘welcome’ function, sliding rearwards for more entry and exit space.

Pet peeve: Please GWM, can we have height adjustable seatbelt mounts on the B-Pillar? I can raise

the front seats, but that reduces my ability to see the instrument cluster, even with the height and reach adjustable steering column.

While the accommodations are spacious and the centre stack is easily accessed, including dual zone automatic climate control, the big infotainment screen is a mixed blessing.

Standard with AM/FM/Apple and Android, it dominates the space, but adjusting the display brightness is a challenge, despite accessing the vehicle settings menu, including for the cabin ambient lighting, there was not a brightness control.

The result was a retina-burning glare in the centre of the car, reflected in the windows, not helping my night vision.

Thankfully the heads-up display was easily read, projecting above the bonnet line, although like most, it doesn’t fare well against polarising sunglasses in daylight.

Other clever touches include a sliding rear window, although it is more like a ski-port, but it allows additional low-pressure ventilation, as well as a panoramic sunroof that doesn’t impact headroom excessively.

Power for the Cannon comes from a 2-litre, four cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 120kW electric motor, with maxi-

mum outputs of 300kW and 750Nm.

This eyewatering output goes to ground through a nine-speed automatic transmission with the options of 2H/4H/4L, depending on the terrain.

GWM included front and rear diff locks to make the Cannon Ultra a genuine off-road contender, the standard 18” alloys open the door to a range of aggressive tyre options.

Right up to the moment I drove it, I was impressed by the Cannon, it is big and bold, making a powerful statement.

Then I discovered the electronic integration issues we experienced with previous Cannon utes have yet to be resolved.

I support driver assist technologies, I have been rescued from my mistakes on more than one occasion, unfortunately unlike quantifiable tech such as ABS brakes where performance and operation can be set and measured, items including driver monitoring and lane keep assistance are a ‘Yes/No’ fitment, with limited ways to check deployment and efficiency.

The Cannon’s systems are ultra-sensitive and ultra-aggressive in their response, while they can be disabled at engine start, this needs to be done before every drive.

The ‘Emergency Lane Keep’ reactivates when you use the Adaptive

Cruise Control, it cannot be deactivated once you are driving.

The result is a car with seemingly a mind of its own, trying to centre the car if it thinks you have strayed too far in the lane.

For an unwary driver, thinking they have control of the car, this sudden twitch of the wheel can be unsettling to say the least.

GWM has started an Australian-led engineering program, ‘AT1’, to reduce these issues, but these cars will not reach our shores until late 2026 or 2027.

All of this is a shame, because these electronic challenges blunt the appeal of an otherwise good car. Those 300kW, a figure chased by many performance cars, makes the Cannon effortless to drive, with the ability to overtake at will.

Add energy capture that rivals the best in the business, which kept the battery levels well above 50% in more than 750 kilometres of driving, the Cannon is not only sharp, it is frugal.

Offroad, the Cannon shows plenty of promise, yes, the rear is lively when unladen, although the rearmounted EV battery helps anchor the back end.

Throw in the 3.5 tonne towing capacity and all the ingredients are there for the Cannon to take the battle to the established players.

PROUD PARENTS OFF TO CUP

Story continued from » p.80

Following a standout rookie season in the A-League, Pat received a call up to the Socceroos team in November last year, making his international debut against Venezuela in Texas, USA.

Despite the 0-1 loss, Pat played a crucial role on debut and was subsequently named Player of the Match by Football Australia.

Mark said western Sydney has a habit of producing Socceroos goalkeepers and his son is now living proof of that.

“All the major goalkeepers of Australia, pretty much all of them have come out of western Sydney,” he said.

“Jim Fraser, Mark Schwarzer, Matt Ryan, Mark Bosnich, Zeljko Kalac, Ante Covic – they are all from western Sydney and have all been the Australian goalkeeper at some point. Western Sydney is the heartland of Australian goalkeepers.”

Whether 22-year-old Pat plays an on-field role in Australia’s three pool games against Türkiye, USA and Paraguay is up to the coach, but one thing is certain Mark and his sports-mad wife Jo will be at every single game showing their usual, unwavering support.

“As a young player, you just want to be on that bus and be part of that squad. Pat’s happy to play his part,” Mark said.

“Jo and I fly out on Thursday ahead of Australia’s friendly game on Sunday against Switzerland in San Diego. We wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

BACK WITH A BANG

Jessica Fox shines in return to the whitewater

NATHAN TAYLOR

She may have only raced in one event, but Jessica Fox has proven to the world that she’s still a force to be reckoned with on the whitewater.

After nine months off the rapids following surgery to remove a tumour from her kidney, Fox returned to the international stage in impressive style last weekend, winning the silver medal in the women’s K1 final at the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup in Tacen, Slovenia.

Fox qualified fourth fastest for the final with a clean run in the women’s K1 heats. In the final, Fox was on a flying run chasing Slovenia’s Eva Alina Hocevar’s fast time (81.61) and finished only 0.13 seconds behind with an 81.74.

Fox said to finish on the podium in her first race back at the World Cups is an unbelievable feeling.

“This is probably the first time a silver medal has felt like a gold to me,” she said.

“Just getting to the start line today was the biggest challenge. To put down two solid runs – they weren’t perfect, but they were good enough – and make the final made me really happy. Then to back it up with another good run in the final feels amazing. I lost a bit of a time in a couple of gates, but honestly, I can’t complain.

“It’s my first race back. It’s just wonderful to be back racing and to start this way.”

For the 31-year-old, it was important to get back to racing and do the best she could against her international competitors.

“I’m really happy to take this silver medal, and I’m also really stoked for Eva. She looked so happy after her run, and she put down a fantastic performance.”

Something in the water at Mamre

Juggling your studies with your sporting endeavours can often be a challenging task for many teenagers, but one western Sydney school is going out of their way to make sure their students realise their full potential both in the classroom and away from it.

Several students at Mamre Anglican College have been making a name for themselves this year in various sports, in particular football and softball.

Last month, two Year 10 students Zavier Scott and Alex Catania travelled to England to compete in the prestigious Liam Brady Cup, where they went up against youth teams from major Premier League clubs.

Representing the Western Sydney Wanderers, which Mamre Anglican has close ties with, the duo had a ball overseas according to the school’s Head of Sport and Head of Football, Sergio Malfara.

“This was a huge experience for Zavier and Alex getting to play a host of Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Arsenal, as well as a team from Argentina,” Malfara told the Weekender

“It’s been a big month of the football for the pair, who also won the Emerging Socceroos

Championships with the NSW Navy team.”

Also competing for NSW at the Emerging Socceroos Championships was Year 9 student Braxton Pinches, who many believe has a promising future in the round ball game.

Year 11 student Marcus Savic is also doing Mamre’s football program proud, representing Australia on several occasions as a member of the Joeys, the Australian men’s U17 national team. He recently captained his country to a semi-final berth at the 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.

“Marcus is also a Western Sydney Wanderers youth player and recently captained the Australian Joeys team to 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup qualification, which is exciting,” Malfara said.

But it isn’t just the boys who are making inroads on the soccer pitch, with several female students also impressing on the big stage.

Year 12 student Tiana Fuller is currently a member of the Central Coast Mariners A-League Women’s team and also represented the Young Matildas at the recent AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup.

“Tiana is doing wonders juggling professional football and school,” Malfara said.

“Last year Central Coast won the A-League Women’s Championship and Tiana scored a goal in the penalty shootout in the Final.”

Also rising up the ranks of the women’s international football scene is Year 10 student Layla Sawyer and Year 9 student Adriana Tripodi.

“Both students were part of the Emerging Matildas Championships,” Malfara said.

“While both didn’t win, it was a really huge honour for a school like ours to get representation in those teams – it’s a big achievement for us.”

While football dominates at the Kemps Creek-based school, other sports like netball, basketball and softball are also starting to take off.

Year 9 student at Mamre Chloe Dunham was recently selected to represent the Australian U14 softball team in New Zealand later this year.

“We haven’t had representation at that level for softball in the past, so it’s good to see us branching away from football,” Malfara said.

“Football is the main flag we fly over here, but over the last year I’ve made a big push in trying to broaden that to basketball, netball, and I’d like to start our own sports academy to try and create more pathways for students.

“Why can’t we be the leading school in the area for multiple sports?”

With Mamre Anglican College now attracting students from various sporting backgrounds, it’ll be interesting to see how many more talented athletes and international representatives will be produced in the coming years.

LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

Turns out diamonds really are a girl’s best friend. Baseball diamonds, that is.

NATHAN TAYLOR

Some of the best sporting stories aren’t necessarily the ones that end with a team winning the championship, they can also be about a group of people coming together to not only inspire themselves but others.

Earlier this year at Andrews Road Baseball Complex, a group of mums, aunties, sisters, daughters, volunteers and passionate club women decided to stop standing on the sidelines and instead pull together a rag-tag baseball team of their own.

Enter the Penrith Jaguars, a Division 10 team representing the Penrith Baseball Club in the Sydney Metro Baseball League competition. Made up of mostly women who have never played baseball before, mixed with a handful of experienced players, the Jaguars were formed by local mum and baseball wife Stefanie Steele.

“Initially it was my idea! I have sat and watched my husband for many years play and then the last six or seven years I’ve watched my daughter play, and I thought before I get too old, I need to have a go at this,” Steele told the Weekender

Following a discussion with other members at Penrith Baseball Club, interest started to quickly grow and eventually enough players were on board to make this ‘A League of Their Own’ style team a reality.

“All up there’s 13 of us now,” Steele said.

“We even have a 15-year-old boy as well as his mum and sister on the team.”

But like everyone trying a new sport there were a few teething issues early including blowout scorelines and embarrassing moments, but instead of giving up, they kept showing up, learning, laughing and improving.

“You think because you watch your kids play that you might be alright at it, but when you pick up the ball or a bat, it’s not as easy as you thought it would be,” Steele said.

“It took a little while to find our groove, but we are slowly getting there.”

Last month, after weeks of persistence and growth, the Jaguars secured their first-ever victory – a one run win over St Marys.

It was a special feeling for the team that, six months prior, didn’t even exist.

“We’ve only played five games all up but everyone’s turning up each week and is willing to have a go,” Steele said.

“Our coach Shaun Bowen has been amazing, he teaches us like he teaches one of his junior teams, with plenty of patience and

understanding.”

At a time when women’s participation in sport continues to grow, the Penrith Jaguars represent something really powerful – everyday women stepping outside their comfort zone, proving it’s never late to try something new, and building confidence and friendships through community sport.

“I wish I had started earlier,” Steele admitted.

“I was always a bit nervous because everyone says baseball is a tough sport, but I’ve surprised myself at how much I’m enjoying it.”

SPORTS SHORTS

WITH NATHAN TAYLOR

Council hits an ace with upgrade

TENNIS: Penrith City Council has completed a major upgrade to the amenities building at Woodriff Gardens Tennis Complex in Penrith, improving facilities for local sporting groups and the community. The upgrade includes a redesigned floorplan, with extensive improvements to both levels of the building. The lower level now features four new rooms for first aid, office and administration use, two modern change rooms, an adult change facility, upgraded canteen facilities and increased storage. The upper level includes a new kitchenette and accessible toilets. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the upgrade represents a significant investment in local sporting infrastructure and will support the growing demand for high-quality, accessible facilities in Penrith. “Woodriff Gardens Tennis Complex plays an important role in our local sporting network, hosting everything from community competitions to regional and state-level events,” he said. “This upgrade ensures the facility meets modern standards and provides a more inclusive and comfortable experience for players, officials and visitors.” The refurbishment included air-conditioning throughout the building and accessibility improvements, with a new lift providing access between the lower and upper levels. The upgrade was funded by the NSW Government and Penrith City Council. In addition to the amenities upgrade, 10 tennis courts at the complex were resurfaced through joint funding from Tennis NSW and Council, improving the quality and longevity of the facility. Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown, said the upgrade to the Woodriff Gardens Tennis Complex is fantastic for the Penrith community and everyone who uses these courts each week. “These modern, accessible facilities will support local players of all ages and abilities, while also strengthening Penrith’s capacity to host larger sporting events and competitions,” she said.

RUGBY: The Penrith Emus have bounced back from last week’s loss, too good for Epping 32-21 in Round 7 of the McLean Cup. Played at Nepean Rugby Park, the mighty Emus put on a good show for their fans in what was ‘Back to Penrith Day’. Meanwhile, Penrith’s second grade team have won three straight matches, beating Epping 24-7 in the earlier game. The Emus will enjoy a bye this weekend due to the King’s Birthday before returning on June 13 to battle Hills at Nepean Rugby Park.

AFL: The GWS Giants have scored back-toback victories, far too good for the Melbourne Demons 119-70 in Round 12 of the AFL. Played

last Sunday afternoon in picturesque Alice Springs, the two sides were neck and neck for much of the first half before the Giants took things up a notch in the second – powering their way to the huge 49-point victory. The Giants have moved up to 10th place on the AFL ladder and will enjoy a well-earned rest this weekend before going up against St Kilda on June 14 at Marvel Stadium.

AFL: The Penrith Rams have continued their winning ways, defeating the Randwick City Saints 67-41 in Round 8 of the AFL Sydney Men’s Division 2 competition. Played at

Greygums Oval, the Rams’ top goal scorers were Luke Cooke, Ben McGovern and Bradley Gill. The Rams will enjoy this weekend off due to the King’s Birthday before returning to the paddock against Macquarie University on June 13. Meanwhile, the Penrith Ramettes, are back in the winner’s circle, crushing the Randwick City Saints 92-0 in Round 8 of the AFL Sydney Women’s Division 2 competition. The Ramettes will also enjoy a break this weekend before taking on Macquarie University in Round 9 at Greygums Oval.

BASKETBALL: The Penrith Panthers have been mauled by the Sutherland Sharks in Round 9 of the NBL1 East Men’s and Women’s competitions. Played at Minto Indoor Sports Centre, Penrith’s men’s team were no match for the Sharks, losing 102-80. Jett Hickson top scored for Penrith with 22 points, 12 rebounds, four assists and two blocks in a monster effort. Meanwhile, Penrith’s women’s team have also tasted defeat against Sutherland, going down 88-56 last Sunday. Best for the Panthers was captain Tatiana Beaumont, who scored an impressive 18 points. Both teams will enjoy this weekend off due to the public holiday before returning to the court on June 13 against the Norths Bears at Hawkesbury Indoor Stadium.

CRICKET: Panthers Cricket Club held its 70th Anniversary Presentation Night at the Penrith Gaels Club last Saturday. The club acknowledged all 25 Life Members by issuing a special retro playing cap. These were

numbered in the sequence that memberships were awarded. Of the 25, 12 were present to accept their caps. This marks a special milestone for the Panthers Cricket Club, which has been one of the preeminent cricket clubs in the local district.

NETBALL: Giants Netball are staring down the barrel of a winless season, with their latest loss coming at the hands of the Sunshine Coast Lightning 74-54 in Round 12 of the Super Netball competition. Just two games remain on the schedule for the Giants – a home game against the West Coast Fever this Sunday at Ken Rosewall Arena followed by another home game a week later against rivals the NSW Swifts. Meanwhile, in some good news for the struggling club, two players have been included in the 2026/27 Australian Diamonds squad for the Commonwealth Games in July and Constellation Cup later this year. Sophie Dwyer has been named in the main squad, while Amy Sligar has been recognised for the second consecutive year as an invitee, highlighting her continued rise as one of Australia’s most exciting young prospects. Giants head coach Nerida Stewart said the selections were a proud moment for the club. “It’s really exciting to see Sophie and Amy included in the Diamonds program,” Stewart said.

NETBALL: Round 6 of the Netball NSW Premier League competition took place at Netball Central last week. Panthers Netball’s U23s team went down to the South Coast Blaze 51-43, while the Panthers’ Opens team were blown off the court by the Blaze 62-42. Both teams will battle the South West Mounties MAGIC in Round 7.

RUGBY LEAGUE: Round 9 of the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions took place last weekend. In the Ron Massey Cup, St Marys were too good for Mounties 36-24, while Penrith Brothers were smashed by the Canterbury Bulldogs 50-12. In the Sydney Shield, St Marys defeated Mounties 40-26, while Penrith Brothers got the win over the Moorebank Rams 46-28.

SPORT

OUR LOCAL SOCCEROO

ers during Popa’s reign for about three seasons. He was 11 when he first started doing it. He used to love being behind Ante Covic’s goal, watching him dive for the ball. Who could’ve predicted where that would lead in the future?”

Interestingly Covic, who played 78 games for the Wanderers during their glory years, played a huge role in Pat’s development as a burgeoning goalkeeper at Marconi.

Mark believes Pat’s few years with Covic as a teenager were pivotal in his development.

“Pat’s first goalkeeping coach was Jim Fraser, an ex-Socceroo from the 1974 squad and then he fell into the hands of Ante at Marconi,” Mark explained.

“We’ll never forget the influence Ante had on Pat and his ability to connect him to more people.

“It all forms part of the cornerstone for where he is today.

“Those people have played such a pivotal part, and you never forget those people at every level of his journey.”

Following stints in Northern Ireland and Ireland during the pandemic and at the Central Coast Mariners from 2021 to 2023, Pat finally made his A-League debut for Melbourne City in October 2024. That season, Pat played every minute of every game and concluded with City winning the 2024/25 A-League Championship.

“Pat became a ballboy for the Wander-