the western weekender midweek edition 11th may 2012

T H E H E A R T B E A T O F P E N R I T H

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T elevision’s popular ‘Sunrise’ program was bombarded with the new ‘Penrith is Here’ message on Friday morning.! e new brand for the city was

o" cially launched late last week, and is now set to showcase Penrith locally, nationally and internationally.

Council employees and supporters took over Martin Place for the ‘Sunrise’ appearance, with the new logo very visible throughout the telecast.

Penrith City Mayor, Greg Davies, has been spreading the word of the new brand since it was made public on ! ursday.

He’s been conducting media interviews, fronting o" cial functions and consulting with the local community to get their reaction to the new look.

“! e new brand to promote Penrith will drive jobs and economic investment and enhance community pride and change the way people see us,” Councillor Davies said.

“I know it’s already created a lot of interest from people in Penrith and beyond, excited about the potential and opportunities it will bring.”

Whilst ‘Sunrise’ is the # rst national appearance for the new brand, it became very

visible late last week across the Penrith region with banners and $ ags proudly showcasing the new look.

“! e spotlight is now on our community – you, the people of Penrith and we’ve taken the focus o% a geographical place and our previous brand which re$ ected the river, mountains and lakes,” Cr Davies said.

“It’s a new way of thinking for local government and will drive interest and investment, sharing with others what we already know. We’re a community of innovators, we enjoy our lifestyle and have a can-do attitude.

“! e development of the new brand captured the thoughts and ideas of hundreds of people from all walks of life, living and working here and further a# eld and we’re excited about showcasing Penrith’s unique qualities to the world.”

With ‘Penrith is Here’ cards being handed out across the city, locals are being encouraged to take pictures with the brand to be in the running for some great prizes, including an Acer Tablet and a double pass to One Direction’s concert.

For more information, visit www.penrithishere.com.au.

Brand goes nationalNow everyone knows we’re here: ‘Penrith is Here’ concept takes off

OZWAC BALL POWER TO USAnnual charity event on this month

Championships at Regatta Centre

PAGE 14 PAGE 22

Historic ! rst ever Tuesday edition!

TUESDAY, MAY 8 2012ISSUE MW001

PROUDLY INDEPENDENTPHONE: 4722 2998

MID-WEEKEDITION

THE ‘PENRITH IS HERE’ BRIGADE WITH ‘SUNRISE’ PRESENTERS SARAH CUMMING AND MELISSA DOYLE ON FRIDAY MORNING

[email protected]@mediaview.com.au(02) 4722 2998(02) 4731 6255Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Penrith NSW 2750

ADVERTISING:EDITORIAL:PHONE:FAX:ADDRESS:

The Western Weekender (Tuesday)Published by: MediaView Pty LtdPrinted by: Spot Press Pty Ltd

www.westernweekender.com.au

www.facebook.com/westernweekender

www.twitter.com/wwpenrith

JournalistCassandra O'Connor

ProductionAlana Christanga

Senior JournalistEmily Crane

FYi JournalistNathan Taylor

JournalistKatherine Tweed

PhotographerMelinda Jane

Sales ExecutiveJames Miller

Sales ExecutiveSergio Carrasco

Sales ExecutiveLinda Lewis

Sales ExecutiveRebecca Dwyer

Sales ExecutiveCameron Wallace

Production ManagerIrene Adams

ProductionKate Stanford

Special Projects Manager Andrew Komoder

Sales ExecutiveAli Elali

Sales ManagerSimon Gould

Sales ExecutivePaulette Adams

EditorTroy Dodds

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www.hixgroup.com.au

Hix Group is proud to be a dedicated local Penrith business.

We are proud to say “Penrith is here” with an exciting new brand for the city, Hix Group stands proud as a long-standing local operation employing local people.

Hix Group – we work, live and do business here.

For all your Electrical & Data, Plumbing, Gas & Hot Water, Solar, Carpentry & Maintenance & Essential Fire Services

P enrith’s young business community gave a resounding thumbs up to the new-look Penrith brand at its monthly GenYQ meeting last

! ursday evening.! e meeting, held on location at the

Penrith City Council Chambers, saw the brand introduced to members and the background story explained.

Penrith City Mayor, Greg Davies, spoke to the group about the importance of spreading the word and of the consultative approach Council is taking on the brand’s implementation.

GenYQ coordinator, Michael Todd, said the brand and the young business networking group was a perfect " t.

“Young business people are enthusiastic and # exible, and I’d expect to see many of our members utilising the brand in their business or at least spreading the word about the new look and logo,” he said.

“Our members reacted with great positivity to the brand and we’re excited about seeing it around Penrith and beyond.”

Proving that the youth market is important to the brand’s implementation, the ‘Penrith is Here’ concept is being well promoted on Facebook and Twitter, vehicles that are set to be crucial in getting the message out beyond Penrith.

Meanwhile, the new website associated with the new branding was launched on Friday.

Logon to www.penrithishere.com.au to " nd out more about the story behind the brand and what it means for Penrith and its future.

Mayor spreads the messagePenrith is Here brand gets the thumbs up from young business people Local N

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eekender | Tuesday, May 8, 2012

PENRITH MAYOR, GREG DAVIES, ADDRESSES THE GENYQ GROUP ON THURSDAY NIGHT. INSET: MEMBERS OF GENYQ SHOW OFF THE PENRITH IS HERE BRAND

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S o, Penrith has its new ‘brand’ and it has certainly divided public opinion.

I’ve been a little surprised at how quickly some in the Penrith community have jumped down the throats of Council and given the thumbs down to the new look for the region.

It was always going to be tough to sell the message behind the new brand in the initial stages, as the vast majority of locals have not had the bene! t of seeing the presentations and strategies that many in the business community have.

Hopefully, with lots of hard work and plenty of orange, the message will start to get out to everyone." e cries of “how much did this cost”

have been loud, particularly on social media and in general conversations with readers over the past few days.

But the reality is that if you think Councils are all about roads, rates and rubbish, you’re sadly mistaken.

Yes, there was a cost associated with what is a monumental re-branding of the city, but that cost is set to be returned over and over again via the immense publicity and marketing the brand will attract.

Already, the ‘Penrith is Here’ brand was splashed across ‘Sunrise’ on Channel Seven on Friday morning, a national program." e Penrith Panthers have been the

number one vehicle for promoting Penrith for the best part of 50 years.

But it should not be up to the local footy team alone.

Council believes that this re-branding will see growth in Penrith.

Before we start crying about the money being spent, let’s realise and accept that the money is being spent not on long lunches and overseas jaunts, but on promoting the region in which we live, work and play.

Whether you like the actual look of the logo or not, let’s let history determine the ultimate success of the concept and not our thoughts on day one.

From The Editor’s Desk

Let’s let history determine the

ultimate success

by Troy Dodds

Dear Weekenderemail : [email protected] : Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown 2750. Have your say:

write to the editor

! e Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space

Priest is inspiringFr Kevin has the most inspiring strength and courage, which we admire and will respect forever. Both my Fiancé’ and I are going to miss Fr Kevin Lee so much (Priest reveals stunning secret, Western Weekender May 4). Fr Kevin is such a respectful and delightful person and Priest, he was one that made us want to go to church even though that Padre Pio was not our Parish Church. Fr Kevin always had our utmost intrigued attention throughout the entire service, mass was never boring to attend especially when his furry friend (Fr Kevin’s Dog) would join us. He brought so many people, even outside of his Parish into the Church on every occasion. Fr Kevin should be proud of the beautiful Church he had built. We are so upset to hear that he has been excommunicated, as my Fiancé’ and I grew a very close and special bond with him in preparation for our marriage due in September this year, it was one of our wishes for Fr Kevin to be our celebrant and that’s why we had chosen to get married at Padre Pio Catholic Church. We wish Fr Kevin all the happiness that him and his wife deserves and we respect and support his decision, as you can’t help falling in love with someone. We are now in 2012 it’s about time that the celibacy should change. Natasha Scerri, via email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Let priests marry" ey should be able to get married. It amuses me no end that he is being persecuted by people who claim to be caring and forgiving. Time to do away with the antiquated rules.

Kev Booth, via Facebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

New brandingIf they really want to build the image and improve things (A brand new Penrith, Western Weekender May 4), build some damned o# ce towers in the CBD for more corporate jobs. Some apartment towers would be good too. It’s odd that Penrith calls itself a city when most of its suburbs have three times the population of Penrith. Like St Clair and Glenmore Park. Todd Sachs, via Facebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

More coming?‘Penrith is here’ says nothing about what Penrith can o$ er, does nothing to improve the reputation. Not convinced. Hope there’s a lot more coming.

Bec Jarrett, via Facebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Getting the name out thereNot a big fan but I guess with branding it’s about getting the name out there and not so much selling the location.

Rory Kelly, via Facebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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W ith the number of people diagnosed with dementia in Penrith set to increase by 400 per cent by 2050, local carers

have been concerned by population projections and the looming burden on the health system.! ere are about 1800 people in the

Penrith region currently diagnosed with dementia, a broad term describing illnesses that cause a progressive decline in a person’s memory, intellect, rationality, social skills or physical functioning.

By 2050, this number will increase to 8400 people locally.

Christine Atkins coordinates the Dementia Advisory Service for the Nepean Region and said that both carers and people with dementia face many challenges.

“Unpaid carers may be forced to give up work, loss of " nancial security, lose contact with family or friends, must assume full responsibility for the physical and emotional wellbeing of the person with dementia and are totally responsible for the running of the household,” she explained.

Ms Atkins hosts dementia cafes that enable carers and su# erers to join a group of supportive people going through the same problems, as well as carer support groups.

“Carers often express that the loneliness, isolation and assuming all responsibility are some of the most di$ cult issues to overcome. As the dementia and care needs

increase, the carer’s physical and emotional health will be more at risk than that of the person with dementia,” she said.

“! e true " nancial, social and health impact of dementia on the individual, the community and the country is only now being realised.”

But recently the Federal and State Governments both committed landmark funding to tackle dementia and support the estimated 1.2 million people around the country currently caring for dementia su# erers.

As part of the Federal Government’s Aged Care Reform Package, $268.4 million will be provided over " ve years to help the process of diagnosis, treatment and care.

According to the Department of Health and Aging, it can take more than three years from the time a person " rst notices symptoms of dementia to when they receive a diagnosis.

Roughly $39 million will be provided to improve hospital services for people with dementia and $123 million for eligible home care package recipients who either have dementia or are caring for a person with dementia.

John Watkins, CEO for Alzheimer’s Australia NSW, said he hopes the commitment will raise awareness of dementia and the need for people to contact their GPs if they are concerned about it.

“Many people ask what they can do to prevent dementia. It is all about staying physically, mentally and socially active through the middle years of life. People tend to slow down and close up shop after retirement but staying mentally active

and leading a brain healthy lifestyle is so important,” he said.

Sadly, many people do not lead brain healthy lifestyles, and younger onset dementia is also set to be a problem – with 16,000 people diagnosed nation-wide under the age of 65.

Graeme Hockley, a wills and estate specialist with Lamrocks Solicitors, said he has seen all too often the di$ culties families face when there has not been appropriate planning for people su# ering

from dementia.“I have had people call from the hospital

because a family member has been ill and diagnosed with dementia, asking for power of attorney or enduring guardianship, but by that point it is already too late,” he explained.

Stuart Ayres, MP for Penrith, said that the State Government has a number of resources dedicated to end of life care and planning. He advised people to look at planningaheadtools.com.au.

Dementia is a hidden crisisFunding package set to relieve some of the tragedy associated with illness

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DEMENTIA IS A MAJOR CONCERN IN THE LOCAL AREA

CASSANDRA O’CONNOR

Phone: 0419 738 484

Ross Fowler

Member for Mulgoa

Phone: (02) 9833 2913Address: Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys 2760Email: [email protected]: PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790

TanyaDavies MP

I congratulate Penrith City Council on their daring, strong and positive rebranding of Penrith City. The city of Penrith is a rich and vibrant city that is now equally matched by the new branding.”

Liberal Councillor

We’re proud to be representing Penrith.

We’re here for all local residents to answer your concerns, queries and issues.

PENRITH IS HERE

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Congratulations to Penrith City Council on the launch of the Penrith is Here promotional Campaign, promoting economic growth, tourism and investment for the Penrith and Nepean Region.

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Flashing lights: Boost to safety at local schools

P olice investigating an arson attack on a factory in North St Marys earlier this year have released an image that they hope will assist

the investigation.Detectives from St Marys Local Area

Command formed Strike Force Trentwood to investigate the suspicious blaze that destroyed the factory on Christie Street in North St Marys in the early hours of Monday, January 23 this year.

St Marys Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Daryl Jobson, said the ! re was deliberately lit and required a signi! cant

emergency response.“Our investigation has identi! ed an

image which shows a male entering a Subaru in the factory complex shortly after the ! re started,” Det Insp Jobson said.

“We found the car used and have seized it for forensic examination.

“At this stage, the male depicted has not yet been identi! ed and we think he holds vital information about the incident.

“We are also urging anyone who might have seen the silver 2003 model Subaru Impreza in the area to contact us.”

P enrith MP, Stuart Ayres has announced that " ashing lights have been installed at Jamison High School and York Primary

School to increase school zone pedestrian safety in the South Penrith area.

“# ese new lights are a part of the installations announced in March 2012,” Mr Ayres said.

“Flashing lights slow motorists down around schools and warn them they are approaching a school – this is great news for Jamison High School and York Primary School.

“# e lights have been installed on Evan Street and will operate automatically between 8am and 9.30am and 2.30pm and 4pm on school days during term time.”# e lights operate automatically when

school zone speed limits are in force and increase drivers’ awareness of school zones.

Flashing lights are linked to a central computer system which operates lights across the state. # e lights use LED (light-emitting diode)

technology, which provides brighter light and is more energy e$ cient.

Trials of " ashing lights have found " ashing lights helped to slow motorists by an average of seven kilometres an hour when they enter a school zone.

By the end of June 2012 there will be more than 820 " ashing light school zones across the state covering more than 990 schools.# is is more than a quarter of all the

schools in NSW.# e NSW Government has committed

$13 million to deliver " ashing lights to an additional 540 school zones across four

years.# e full list of installed sites is available

on the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) website, and is regularly updated.

Flashing lights are one component of the NSW Government’s school road safety program.

Other measures include marked foot crossings, dragon’s teeth markings, tra$ c lights and pedestrian refuges.

RMS will contact local residents and schools a% ected by the installation of the lights.

Do you know more? Grainy image may hold the keyLo

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POLICE HAVE RELEASED THIS IMAGE IN RELATION TO A FIRE IN NORTH ST MARYS

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T he lines have been drawn, terms of debate outlined and now prominent business and community leaders are emerging

from the sidelines to weigh-in on the second Sydney airport quandary.

And whilst NSW Premier, Barry O’Farrell, has declared his preference for a second airport to be based in Canberra, the Commonwealth-owned site at Badgerys

Creek remains the talking point for politicians, business representatives and aviation experts.

On March 2, Federal Transport Minister, Anthony Albanese, released the ! ndings of the Joint Study on Aviation Capacity for the Sydney Region." e study declared that Badgerys Creek,

“remains the best site for an additional major regular public transport airport” and catapulted the quiet rural suburb back into contention as the front runner for Sydney’s second airport.

Mr Albanese has said that the Federal

Government will not consider Badgerys Creek.

“" e Government’s view is that Wilton should be further examined as the site for the second Sydney airport,” he said.

Local MPs Tanya Davies and Stuart Ayres have also avowed war on any proposal for an airport in the local area, whilst Lindsay MP, David Bradbury, has gone so far as to say: “for as long as I represent the people of Lindsay an airport will not be built in our region”.

But there is increasing support for Badgerys Creek Airport from several

sectors of the community. QANTAS CEO, Alan Joyce, recently wrote

an opinion piece for the Daily Telegraph, declaring that the company agrees Badgerys Creek is the best option." ere is also backing from the business

community, with the Sydney Business Chamber keen to “keep all options open”.

And former Prime Minister, Paul Keating, who during his leadership set aside funding 17 years ago for the Badgerys Creek airport has stated that: “In this race, there is only one Black Caviar – and it is Badgerys Creek.”

Airport debate rages onNever-ending saga for Badgerys Creek locals who simply want a ! nal answer

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The Western Weekender is Penrith’s truly local newspaper, delivered each and every Friday across the LGA.

The Weekender delivers more copies each week than the Penrith Press (Tues), Penrith Press (Fri) and Penrith Star, according to the September 2011 report of the Circulations Audit Bureau.

Our journalists break and investigate Penrith’s biggest stories, keeping the community informed with the best news coverage in town.

Plus, our lifestyle, business and property sections add to a truly complete publication with something for everyone.Wake up to the Weekender every single Friday.News Tips: Email [email protected] Queries: Email [email protected] or call 4722 2998

DID YOU KNOW

Important forum: Seniors raise concerning issues

H ousing security and cost of living are the main challenges facing senior citizens in Penrith, according to a community

consultation hosted by Shadow Minister for Seniors, Bronwyn Bishop.

Over 100 invited guests expressed their concerns about increasing rental prices, the cost of living including electricity prices as well as international issues such

as asylum seekers and Julian Assange.Ms Bishop said that she was personally

motivated to help the elderly who face becoming the future poor because they have no superannuation or income to help with costs and housing in later life.

Ms Bishop said that the opinions gauged at the meeting would be used in the process of developing the Coalition’s policies.

“! e thing that impresses me about these forums is how well informed people are and the sorts of issues they raise are valid,” she said.

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LOCALS GATHER AT A COMMUNITY CONSULTATION LAST WEEK


LABORIS HERE

Your local Labor representatives are proud to declare that we’re here for you!

The new Penrith brand represents our city perfectly as an industrious, dedicated and hard-working region.

Penrith is here – and so are we.

Greg Davies

Karen McKeown John Thain

Todd Carney

Prue GuillaumeKath Presdee

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PENRITH ANGLICAN COLLEGE

YEAR 11, 2013 INFORMATION EVENING

HIGHER SCHOOL CERTIFICATE AND INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA COURSES

Year 10 students and their parents are invited to come and hear about next year’s course options and subject choices at PAC.Monday 28th May, 7.30pmVenue: Lighthouse Theatre

Penrith Anglican CollegePhone: 02 4736 8100www.pac.nsw.edu.au

338-356 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills NSW 2748

Email: [email protected] giftedness is nourished!

Find out why PAC is such a wonderful learning environment. ! Outstanding academic results! Experienced IB and HSC teachers! Strong Christian ethos! Affordable fees

O ver the past 11 years, Relay for Life teams have been running, jogging and walking around Howell Oval, raising over $1.6

million for cancer research and as this year’s event comes closer, more and more locals are getting involved.

! is year will be the 12th year of Penrith’s Relay for Life involvement and Penrith

Relay for Life co-ordinator, Nathan Dart, believes that this year has the potential to be Penrith’s biggest.

“Each year we see more and more people get involved in Relay for Life in Penrith. It is still early on and we already have over 100 teams registered including 40 new teams and we are well on our way to reaching this year’s goal,” said Mr Dart.

! e goal for Penrith Relay for Life 2012 is $230,000 all of which will be donated to the Cancer Council and through them, on to valuable cancer research and back to the

community. “Relay for Life is more than just

fundraising. It is about a community of people who support each other through hardships,” said Mr Dart.

“! e event is a great opportunity for survivors and carers to be recognised for their e" orts, it gives locals access to important health information and most importantly it acts a milestone for those who have been a" ected by cancer in themselves or a loved one.”

Participants have a chance to enjoy

camping out together, taking part in the candlelight hope ceremony and enjoying the 24 hour entertainment that will be provided as sponsors, supporters and team members take turns to walk, jog or run around the oval while raising money for the NSW Cancer Council.

! is year’s Relay for Life begins early on Saturday, May 19 and continues o" into the night.

To register a team, support or sponsor the event, visit relay.cancercouncil.com.au/2012/penrith_2012.

Relay provides hope and joyIt’s on again: 2012 Relay for Life to be held at Howell Oval on May 19Lo

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PLENTY OF PEOPLE WILL SLEEP OUT AT THE RELAY FOR LIFERELAY FOR LIFE 2012 IS YOUR CHANCE TO SHOW OFF SOME COLOUR

KATHERINE TWEED

For further details, application and prospectusplease contact Mrs Biermann 9670 4588

or visit www.emmaus.kempscreek.catholic.edu.au

EMMAUS CATHOLIC COLLEGE

Emmaus Catholic College is a Catholic, dynamic, learning community where parents,staff and families “Walk with Jesus”:

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Every aspect of the College meets the needs of students, giving them the best preparation for modern life in the 21st Century. We are committed to providing unique and enriching learning experiences for all students. Students and Parents at Emmaus experience:• a College with strong traditional values and high expectations of all its students• a place where prayer and sacrament are valued and nourished• a place where life-enhancing relationships are characterised by respect and authenticity • a learning environment of challenge, discovery and innovation, where each student is

expected to personally excel • an exciting transition Year in Year 7• a broad choice of courses in Years 9 – 12• advanced technology enriching the learning environment with extensive vocational

courses and university and TAFE linked courses in Years 10 - 12• a wide variety of sports played at a representative level and cultural opportunities

including Visual Arts, Digital Photography, Dance, Drama, Rock Eisteddfod, Mock Trial and Music recitals

• a highly qualifi ed and committed teaching staff• a community where personal responsibility and justice are valued and expected• a peaceful and beautiful rural environment

“Its All About Learning”Emmaus Catholic College

Applications for 2013 need to be lodged as soon as possible

L ocals are invited to join Karelle Life Enrichment Services as they showcase their work in an evening of fun, entertainment and celebrity

guests. On Friday, May 25, Karelle is holding

a cocktail fundraiser, ‘Taste of Karelle’, at Penrith Gaels Club, in the hopes of educating the public of the work that they do within the local community.

Karelle gives back a quality of life to their clients, who have a mild to moderate intellectual disability through providing an avenue for them to contribute to society through employment and activities.! e team at Karelle are thrilled to show

the results of their e" orts and launch three main productions.

“We are so excited to have Scott Cam, host of ‘! e Block’ on Channel Nine, launch our ‘Kare by Karelle’ Party Plan on the night. ‘Kare by Karelle’ is the medium that will be used to bring to market the high quality timber products made by our employees with an intellectual disability and is an extremely innovative marketing strategy for a charity to take!” said Karelle executive o# cer, Trish Martin.! e evening will also feature the $ rst

screening of a $ lm created by clients called ‘Day Dreamers’ which has been submitted to ‘! e Other Film Festival’ in Victoria and the release of two books for people with an intellectual disability.

For more information call 9623 1999.

Big night ahead for KarelleCocktail fundraiser on May 25 will create a buzz for St Marys organisation Local N

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SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN BY KARELLE LIFE ENRICHMENT SERVICES IN ACTION

KATHERINE TWEED

Awnings

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ABN: 66 151 156 133 LIC NO.: 238312c

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WE WILL BEAT ANY WRITTEN QUOTEConditions apply

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I n mid 1998 Professor Brian Spurrett, the Head of Women and Children’s Health at Nepean Hospital, recognised a need for a research foundation based in

western Sydney. Together with Dr Chris Kohlenberg

and Greg Allchin he gained community

and business support and formed the Australian Women and Children’s Research Foundation (OZWAC).

Nearly 15 years on, OZWAC is holding its annual Charity Ball on May 12 to support medical research in western Sydney.! e theme of this year’s Ball is ‘Breaking

News’ with Seven News presenter, Mark Ferguson, and ‘Better Homes and Gardens’ guru, Tara Dennis, hosting the evening.

OZWAC Chairperson, Lea Hicks, said

it is a great opportunity for locals and businesses to be involved in a fun night and contribute to important medical research.

“Five grants will be announced on the night as part of our ‘breaking news’ theme and once again we have fabulous prizes including a ride in a " ghter jet, as well as great entertainment by our resident band – Xparte,” she said.

Some of the research projects funded by OZWAC this year include the e# ects of

Vitamin D levels on a mother’s immune system during pregnancy, treating delivery-related pelvic $ oor trauma, a study of pregnant women needing intensive care and the important lessons of tolerance learnt from pregnancy to treat immune diseases.

Tickets are $100 per person.For more information or to make a

booking for the event please visit www.ozwac.com.au.

Your chance to have a BallAnnual fundraiser for OZWAC announces ‘breaking news’ theme for 2012 event

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THERE’S ALWAYS PLENTY OF FUN TO BE HAD AT THE OZWAC BALL THERE’LL BE PLENTY OF WINNERS ON THE NIGHT, TOO


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BUSINESS IS HERE

ph: 4722 5556www.penrithcitycentre.com.au

Everything you need is right here in Penrith CBD

I SHOP HERE

I EATHERE

We value our customers everday

001MWWD3609

001MWWD3583

POLLET’S MARTIAL ARTS CENTRES

6/69 York Rd, South Penrith

Give yourself and your family the leading edge - to be the best you must train with the best!

Our friendly, professional team of instructors off a variety of classes for your whole family

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS• MUAY THAI• KARATE• KEMPO JIU JITSU• BOXING• TRADITIONAL OKINAWAN WEAPONS• CHILDREN’S CLASSES & PERSONAL TRAINING•

YOUR FIRST CLASS IS FREE

4731 65555

D arren Flanagan, hero of the Beacons! eld mine rescue, knows all too well the importance of workplace safety.

He is supporting WorkCover as they roll out new work health and safety legislation across NSW.

In partnership with WorkCover NSW, the Penrith, Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains Business Enterprise Centres will be educating local employees, sole traders and sub contractors on the changes to the OH&S legislation.

Mr Flanagan will share his moving and inspirational story about the rescue operation that saved the lives of Beacons! eld miners, Todd Russell and Brant Webb.

He received a phone call late on the Sunday night that Beacons! eld miners, Todd and Brant, were discovered to be still alive.

How that one phone call changed his life from that of an ordinary family man to a real hero of the great escape is an emotive, dramatic and inspiring story.

Mr Flanagan, an expert in low energy explosives, was " own by private jet from his hometown in Nowra in NSW, to work with hundreds of rescuers to get the job done.

He was nicknamed “# e Gun” by Todd and Brant because he was the one that charged and ! red the explosives that eventually released them from their tomb 925 metres underground.

# e world-! rst operation using explosives never designed to be used near human beings was a last resort in order to free the pair from their desperate position

925 metres underground following a mine collapse in April 2006.

Mr Flanagan spent a week after his emergency midnight " ight to the site underground test blasting at 630 metres.

His mission was to blast within 300 millimetres of Todd and Brant’s bodies.

In claustrophobic and freezing conditions, Mr Flanagan blasted his way closer to the trapped men with 65 explosives, as the distraught families watched on.

Even though one more explosion could have been the one that killed them, Todd and Brant encouraged Mr Flanagan to carry on.

# e rest was history as Mr Flanagan ! red the ! nal shot, which reached the mark – less than 300 millimetres from Todd and Brant and freed them from the mine.

Mr Flanagan has since received hundreds of letters from right across the world recognising him as the man who blasted the miners to freedom.

But his most treasured letter is from Todd that reads: “# anks for saving my life”.

He now uses that life-changing experience as a platform to raise the pro! le of the importance of workplace safety and mental health issues, which a$ ect one in four Australian men.

# e local Business Enterprise Centres will be hosting a free luncheon on May 21 at Penrith RSL with Darren Flanagan as the guest speaker.

Numbers are strictly limited and only one representative from each business can attend.

RSVP by May 14 to 4721 5011.

Hero comes to PenrithMan who saved trapped miners to speak to local businesses at Penrith RSL

DARREN FLANAGAN WILL BE ADDRESSING BUSINESSES AT PENRITH RSL

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THE WEEKENDER IS HERE FOR PENRITH

Weekender journalist Cassandra O’Connor interviews David Bradbury

Weekender entertainment journalist Nathan Taylor and Jnr News Journalist Katherine Tweed

James Miller, part of Penrith’s biggest and most experienced sales team

Weekender Sales Manager Simon Gould hands Dave O’Neill a $2000 cheque for OZWAC

Penrith’s best & most comprehensive coverage of Rugby League

Ross Sinclair shows the Weekender through the destroyed Log Cabin

HERE FOR NEWS

LOCAL STORIES ARE HERE

ADVERTISING SOLUTIONS ARE HERE

HERE WHEN BIG STORIES HAPPENHERE FOR FOOTY

HERE FOR COMMUNITY

Send your news stories to [email protected]

Want to advertise? Call us on 4722 2998

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001MWWD3416

Playing the Music You Grew Up With

Penrith and proud of itPh 47311876

www.vintagefm.com.au

Talented Jack: Young singer sure to sell out at Panthers

Writers in town: Literary double bill hits Penrith

H e’s incredibly talented and boasts an endearing combination of sincerity and purity. It’s absolutely no surprise that he

went on to win ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ in 2011 and he is coming to Penrith Panthers on June 15, 2012!

Shortly after Jack Vidgen was signed to Sony Music Australia, he released his debut album ‘Yes I Am’, which has since gone platinum.

With the release of his second album ‘Inspire’, Jack will showcase a bunch of inspirational songs we all know and love.

He’ll continue to entertain us all with his incredible voice and you can be sure that Jack Vidgen will amaze you!

Tickets are on sale at Penrith Panthers Club Reception for $39 including booking fee for show only or $68.95 including dinner at Osso.

Doors open at 7pm, support commences at 7.30pm and Jack Vidgen commences at 8.30pm. ! is is a great chance to see the

heartthrob himself in action!For further information contact Penrith

Panthers on 4720 5555.

P enrith City Library will play host to a literary double bill in May as Peter FitzSimons and Dr Karl unpack their latest books for the

Sydney Writers Festival.First, follow in the footsteps of Antarctic

explorers with Peter FitzSimons on Wednesday, May 16 before digesting how we process food with Dr Karl on Friday, May 18.

Penrith City Mayor, Greg Davies, said the authors could expect an animated audience for the library’s ninth Sydney Writers Festival.

“Penrith’s many readers will delight in talks by two of Australia’s best non-" ction writers and personalities,” he said.

“In his latest work ‘Mawson’, Peter FitzSimons will transport you to the frozen climes traversed by the great Australian explorer Sir Douglas Mawson and his contemporaries.

“Later that week, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki will share the fascinating science behind how the body responds to what we eat in his recently released book ‘Brain food’.”

Book your $5 ticket for the events by calling Penrith Library on 4732 7891.

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JACK VIDGEN IS COMING TO PENRITH PANTHERS

DR KARL WILL BE APPEARING IN PENRITH THIS MONTH

Property


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* Prices current as at 21/3/2012

Enjoy village living with town convenience.Mulgoa Rise is a brand new master planned community, designed as a family-friendly parkland neighbourhood with easy direct access to the Northern Road.

• Community parks, active sporting fi elds, cycleways and walkways• Feature entry and quality landscaping• Adjacent to Mulgoa Reserve • Just 6km from the Penrith CBD • 1km from Glenmore Park Shopping Centre

• Range of schools located nearby

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500m2 + lots from *$285,000

# Conditions apply. NSW Government’s Home Builders Bonus expires June 30, 2012.

Visit www.osr.nsw.gov.au for details.

Don’t miss the

at Mulgoa Rise fi rst prestige land release

Surveyors CreekPublic School

PenrithGolf Club

GlenmorePrimary School

Mulgoa NatureReserve

Nature ReserveExtension

Caroline ChisholmCatholic GirlsHigh School

Bethany CatholicPrimary School

Glenmore Parkway

Bradley Street

M4 Western Motorway

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R opes Crossing residents have established a mothers group to assist in forming new friendships in the local community and o! er a forum

for sharing advice to help in the transition of becoming a parent.

Established in early March with only two mums, the group now has a regular attendance of more than seven mums with babies ranging from six weeks to " ve.# e group, which meets every Tuesday

from 10am-12pm, provide support to one another as each mum experiences their babies’ various milestones. And it’s not just mothers that take something away from the group, the babies are also bene" tting.

Every week the group engages in a series of activities designed to strengthen and develop muscles in children. # ese activities help the babies to develop social skills and improve motor skills.

Ropes Crossing, Project Director, Lorraine Sarayeldin explained how thrilled she was at the success the mothers group was experiencing and hoped new mothers would join and reap the bene" ts.

“At Ropes Crossing we pride ourselves on community living. # e mothers group is just another example of where Ropes Crossing residents have come together to bene" t the local area,” she said.

“It’s great to see assistance from the Ropes Crossing Community Initiatives Fund Scheme going towards such a great cause.”# e Ropes Crossing mothers group was

successful applicants of the Ropes Crossing Community Initiatives Fund Scheme.

It is a scheme that o! ers one-o! small grants to new organisations or groups to

support their establishment and enable them to develop new services, programs or activities for residents.# e money received by the mothers

group was used to purchase equipment, which encourages safe and fun activities

along with developmental toys, books and items to ensure mums and babies are comfortable such as blankets and pillows.

When completed the Ropes Crossing project, which covers 132ha, is expected to contain up to 2,200 homes and 16 parks and

playgrounds connected by 25 kilometers of walking and cycling paths.

For further information regarding the Ropes Crossing project contact the Sales and Information Centre on 1800 18 22 11 or visit www.ropescrossing.com.au.

A true community feelAt Ropes Crossing, it’s all about the people and the community relationships

THE ROPES CROSSING MOTHERS GROUP

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Jordan Springs, just seven kilometres from Penrith City Centre, brings a beautiful new address to this popular area.

This will be a community where you can live, learn, work and play.

Call us today on 1800 08 66 56 or visit our new Sales & Information Centreto find out more about making the move to this great new community.

PENRITH’S NEWEST ADDRESS

IS HERE

Sales & Information CentreOpen 7 days, 8.30am - 5.30pmLakeside Parade, Jordan Springs NSW 2747

1800 08 66 56jordansprings.com.au

001MWWD

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Club Paceway, Cnr Station & Ransley Sts, Penrith www.clubpacewaypenrith.com.au 4721 2375

FOR ENTERTAINMENT

Horses are here

social events are here

fun is here

functions are here

markets are here

Live Entertainment Every Saturday Night

Showground markets Wednesday 8.30am - 1.30pm

Thursday night Harness Racing

Keno & platinum TAB Facilities

Bistro for lunch & dinner

3 x function rooms for up to 300 people

Economy buster Mondays - $2.50 Morning tea 10.30am – 11.30am with mini raf! es

New kids playground area

001MWWD3820

T he Sydney International Regatta Centre is hosting the world’s fastest circuit boats later this month as they compete in the 2012 UIM World

Circuit Powerboat Championship. ! e event features Unlimited Class

boats, which are powered by Supercharged

Engines not too di" erent from a top class Drag Car and can reach speeds of up to 150mph on the water.

With over 20 years of “ups and downs” in the industry, local Glenmore Park Resident, Dean Barry, has been preparing his new boat ‘She’s the Culprit II’ for the event and is keen to take on the world’s best.

“! is is my # rst entrance into a World Championship run by FASTWATER and although I am not cocky, I am con# dent

about the competition. It will be great to compete in an event that is close to home and I am looking forward to seeing many locals out there,” he said.

! is is the # rst time that the UIM World Circuit Powerboat Championships, or an event like it, has been held in Penrith and Dean believes that it is a “must-see” for locals.

“If you haven’t seen this before, you have to get out and watch the UIM World Circuit

Powerboat Championships this month. ! e Regatta Centre is the perfect place to take the family, watch the high speed racing and support a local competitor,” he said.

! e 2012 World Circuit Powerboat Championships will be brought to Penrith by FASTWATER promotions on Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20.

More sport: Check out www.westernweekender.com.au for all the latest sports news and information.

Powering to Regatta CentreGlenmore Park resident con! dent of good showing at championships

DEAN BARRY FROM GLENMORE PARK WILL BE ON THE WATER AT THE 2012 WORLD CIRCUIT POWERBOAT CHAMPIONSHIPS ON MAY 19 AND 20

KATHERINE TWEED

Spo

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nrl.com/ticketsWELCOME TO OUR HOUSE.

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MONDAY NIGHT

MAGIC MONDAY NIGHT

MAGIC MONDAY NIGHT

MAGIC#NRLPENSTI

7PM MONDAY CENTREBET STADIUMV

Some of the NRL’s big stars will be on show Monday night. Panthers stars, Luke Lewisand Michael Jennings will be out to weave their magic against Jamie Soward and BrettMorris from the Dragons. It’ll be a Monday night thriller. Don’t miss it, book now.

001MWWD3611

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the western weekender midweek edition 11th may 2012

Documents

new penrith

e new brand

people of penrith

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new look

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