PULL OUT AND KEEP! PENRITH’S NUMBER ONE ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

ISSUE 142 05.07.13

JIMEOINFUNNYMAN’S OZ TOUR

WHAT’S ON THEHOME ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

GIVEAWAYTHE HOTSHOTS ARE BACK

LEE KERNAGHAN HAS PLENTY TO BE PROUD OFGOOD AS GOLD

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02

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Cnr Glebe Pl & Richmond Rd Kingswood

phone 4722 8180www.penrithgaels.com.au

Wallabies vs Irish &

British Lions

Deciding game of the series

This Saturday 6th July

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From all of us at the

Western Weekender

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TROY

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Editor Troy DoddsTroy.Dodds@mediaview.com.au

FYi Advertising ManagerPaulette AdamsPaulette.Adams@mediaview.com.au

Phone: 4722 2998Fax: 4731 6255

Suite 2, 42-44 Abel SteetJamisontown, NSW 2750

ContentShannon CochraneNathan Taylor

ProductionIrene AdamsMaddy Searle

Printed at Spot Press Pty LtdFYi Issue 142

You are only as good as your last show for me

I usually have a couple of hundred of ideas to work from... most of them are rubbish but hopefully there’s a little bit of gold amongst it all.”

The country singer has also demonstrated his devotion to his country through his charity work, helping drought-affected families in rural areas.

His efforts earned him the prestigious title of Australian of the Year in 2008, but Kernaghan has remained humble about his accolade.

“For me, that Australian of the Year award was not so much of an award for me but more of a recognition of the country people and I’m glad to have played just a small part in all of that,” he said.

Despite all the records he’s sold and awards he’s received, Kernaghan refuses to rest on his laurels and instead tries to give his best at every performance.

“You know there’s just been so many highlights over the years but you’re only as good as your last show so for me, I want to put on the greatest show that I can,” he said.

I n the Australian country music scene, you’d be hard-pressed to fi nd a bigger name than Lee Kernaghan – he’s got 33 number one singles under his belt,

28 Golden Guitar Awards and even won Australian of the Year in 2008.

Yet despite the stratospheric levels of success Kernaghan has achieved himself, he is more than happy to make way for the next generation of country superstars and is currently on the road with The Wolfe Brothers.

Kernaghan surprised the up-and-coming Tasmanian band by inviting them on his Beautiful Noise tour, which will be coming to Penrith’s Evan Theatre on Friday, August 9.

“It was their performance on ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ that really knocked me out and when I got to have a bit of a jam session with the guys, we just connected musically in a really great way and I invited them to join me on the 2013 tour as special guests,” Kernaghan said.

While he may be mentoring younger musicians now, once upon a time it was Kernaghan who was receiving advice from a seasoned expert – the late, great Slim Dusty.

Kernaghan met the country music legend in a chance encounter over a decade ago, and was inspired to write his song ‘Flying with the King’ about it.

“I wrote that one about a real life experience I had back in the late 90’s, I got on a fl ight from Sydney bound for Western Australia and when I got to my seat I realised I’d be sitting next to the king of country music, Slim Dusty. So for fi ve or six hours, we fl ew across Australia together and told yarns all the way and the memories of that fl ight have now been turned into that song, ‘Flying With the

King’,” Kernaghan said.He has also paid tribute to Dusty with his

recently released version of the 1972 song ‘Lights on the Hill’, a rockier cover that he recorded with The Wolfe Brothers.

Fans know Kernaghan as a straight talking, guitar slinging country boy but would be surprised to know that the fi rst instrument he learnt was actually piano, which he took up on the advice of his mother.

“I started learning piano and before too long, I started writing songs and singing and then I had a band... by the time I got to 17, I realised that the only thing I was qualifi ed to do was play music, so it became my career,” he said.

His style also changed, from his early songs that were heavily infl uenced by American music to the patriotically-themed lyrics he has become famous for.

“I had a pretty strong twang in my voice because I grew up loving American country but when I made my fi rst album ‘The Outback Club’, my producer Garth Porter said, ‘Lee, you know you should be proud of who you are and proud of your country and where you come from so I want you to write songs about Australia and your upbringing and way of life’,” he recalled.

His producer’s advice put Kernaghan onto a winning formula, and it is one that he has stuck with over the years, with his song-writing methods inspired by stories he hears from everyday Australians.

“The inspiration really comes from Australia and our people and our way of life,” he said.

“On my iPhone I keep a list of songwriting titles and I’m always writing out another title and when I start songwriting for an album,

LITTLE BIT OF GOLD GOES A LONG WAYSHANNON COCHRANE discovers that Lee Kernaghan’s search for mean-ingful and soulful lyrics has put the country music legend into the history books as one of Australia’s best...

Lee Kernaghan will bring his Beautiful Noise tour to the Evan Theatre, Penrith Panthers on Friday, August 9 at 8pm. Tickets are $49.50. For bookings or more information, visit www.penrith.panthers.com.au.

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E njoy a great night of entertainment when talented fi ve-piece band Akinga get the crowd up on their feet with catchy tunes and a party atmosphere.

The New Zealand born musicians will be blazing up the stage at St Marys Leagues Club on Saturday, July 5.

With loads of electrifying stage presence, there is never a dull moment with Akinga, as the performers not only play music on stage but also put on a high-energy show with amazing dance and choreography and awe-inspiring gymnastics routines.

Each member of Akinga puts all of their energy into their performance and their upbeat attitude rubs off on the audience and creates a fun, party vibe.

Completely devoted to their music, Akinga rehearses four to fi ve hours a day, three times a week and also pitches in with the local community by spending one day a fortnight teaching children musical skills.

All fi ve performers sing lead vocals and

experiment with stunning harmonies, while also showing off their musical talents as multi-instrumentalists who often swap instruments during shows.

They have played at numerous pubs and clubs throughout Sydney and had a three year residency at the prestigious City Tattersalls Club.

On top of that, they have also won the 2000 ACE Award for Best Dance Band and received a MO award nomination for Best Show Band.

Akinga has a strong following throughout Sydney and the rest of the country, and their spot on rendition of classic songs have made them one of the city’s best cover bands.

They specialise in blasting out beloved hits from the 80’s, 90’s and current Top 40 charts but are also able to play tunes from the 50’s to 70’s, Latin songs and jazz classics.

Their set list features a diverse range of popular artists including The Beatles, Bee Gees, The Eagles, Boyz to Men, Men in Black,

Shaggy, Will Smith, Robbie Williams, Ricky Martin and many more.

Don’t miss this great band and what is sure to be a fun and entertaining night out for

the whole family. Akinga will play at St Marys Leagues Club

on Saturday, July 5 at 9.15pm. Entry is free. For more information, call 9677 7777.

KINGS OF ENERGY AND DANCING

H ailing from Northern Ireland, comedian Jimeoin has become a true blue household name. And the beloved funnyman will be coming to Rooty

Hill RSL on Saturday, July 6 and to the Evan Theatre, Penrith Panthers on Friday, July 19.

Ever since he fi rst came onto the international comedy scene, Jimeoin has been popular with audiences who appreciate his well-written and delivered wit and observations on the absurdities of everyday life.

His Australian tours have been wildly successful in the past, attracting sell-out advance bookings. Jimeoin also has a high profi le internationally and has performed to packed out venues across the globe, from New York to New Zealand, Aspen to Amsterdam, The Middle East to the Far East.

Of course, the Irish comic is a beloved star in his native Europe and United Kingdom and has also been privileged to be regularly invited to the prestigious comedy event, Montreal’s ‘Just for Laughs’ Festival.

Throughout his travels, Jimeoin has also made television appearances on top-rating programs including ‘Des O’Connor’ in the UK and ‘Late Night with Conan O’Brien’ in the United States.

He has also lit up the silver screen in Australia, with his one-hour ‘Tea Towel Tour’ of Ireland documentary in 2001, which was a quirky travel special inspired by his upbringing and constant touring.

That year he also hosted two one-hour documentaries that showcased Montreal’s ‘Just for Laughs’ Comedy Festival.

He has also written and starred in a debut feature fi lm ‘The Craic’, which became the second highest grossing box offi ce movie in Australian-produced fi lm history and had highly successful video releases.

The multi-talented comedian has even forayed into recording, producing three top-selling CDs – ‘Goin Off’, ‘The Craic’ and ‘Forklift Truck’, while his DVDs ‘All Over the Shop’, ‘Third Drawer Down’ and ‘Jimeoin and

Bob’s Cooking Show’ have been best-sellers.Jimeoin will perform at Rooty Hill RSL

on Saturday, July 6 at 8pm. Tickets are $39. For more information, call 9625 5500 or visit

www.rootyhillrsl.com.au. He will also appear at Penrith Panthers on Friday, July 19 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $40.50; for more information, visit www.penrith.panthers.com.au.

FUNNYMAN JIMEOIN’S DOUBLE ACT

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FULL $10 LUNCH MENU

SUNDAY RAFFLE

Starts at 6.30pm Tickets on Sale from 5pmA variety of prizes including Meat Trays

Complimentary beer, wine or soft drink (members only). 7 to choose from.

Monday-Friday Only

FREE Entertainment

Schmidy's catering - the Best Food in PenrithSchmidy’s have introduced a stylish, contemporary menu,

delivering a high standard using fresh produce.

Taste the difference, open daily for Lunch 12noon – 2.30pm and dinner from 5.30pm

Cnr Glebe Pl & Richmond Rd Kingswood

phone 4722 8180www.penrithgaels.com.au

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VENUS 2

BLACKWATERFriday July 12th - 8pm

Friday July 5th - 8pm

Saturday July 13th - 7pm

Come watch the State of Origin on the

BIG SCREENJuly 17th

Wallabies vsIrish & British Lions

Deciding game of the seriesThis Saturday 6th July

RAFFLE TICKETS $2 each or 3 for $5Drawn Tuesday Evening July 16th

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Win VIP LOUNGE SEATS for you &3 Friends and be catered to during the Game

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M ulti-platinum British quartet Bastille is heading down under for an amazing live show in Sydney this August.

The popular band will be touring Australia, with a concert in Sydney at the Metro Theatre on Wednesday, August 14.

After rising to fame in their native United Kingdom, Bastille has also become a success in Australia where their current double platinum smash single ‘Pompeii’ sits at number fi ve on the National ARIA Singles Chart.

They have also recently released a follow up single ‘Laura Palmer’, which has hit the Australian airwaves.

Both of their singles were taken from Bastille’s debut album ‘Bad Blood’, which debuted at number one on the Offi cial UK Albums Charts and has had nearly a quarter of a million sales in the UK alone.

Bastille began as an alternative identity for musician Dan Smith, and although he is the driving force behind the music, his fellow band

mates are also a vital source of collaboration and inspiration.

The other members of Bastille – bassist Will Farquarson, keyboard player Kyle Simmons and drummer Chris Wood – demonstrate their musical talents on the album while Smith’s close friend and producer Mark Crew is effectively the band’s ‘fi fth member’.

While the music on ‘Bad Blood’ may sound lush, it was recorded in a small room on limited equipment, except for a day when they recorded strings in the legendary Abbey Road.

“We basically made the album in a studio the size of a cupboard, so it was one extreme to the other. Producing the record, I wanted to off-set epic sounding instrumentation with lyrics that combine intimate stories or conversation. The contrast was something that appealed to me,” Smith said.

Bastille will be joined on stage by special guests, Sydney-based fi ve piece Tigertown who have recently supported Bob Evans on tour and played headline shows of their own.

Their sophisticated dream pop has earned them plenty of fans, with their songs ‘Go Now’, ‘Lions and Witches’ and ‘Morning Has Finally Come’ getting airtime.

Bastille will play at Sydney’s Metro Theatre on Wednesday, August 14. For bookings or more information, call 132 849 or visit www.ticketek.com.au.

BASTILLE’S AMAZING AUS DEBUT

S eize the chance to see up-and-coming alternative band Monks of Mellonwah when they play their acclaimed songs live in Windsor.

The band, who has played to amazing audience reaction across the globe, will bring their Ghost Stories tour to Windsor’s Fitzroy Hotel on Saturday, June 29.

The Sydney-based rock band has had a phenomenally successful year so far and are currently celebrating the signing of a new partnership with American company A&R Worldwide, which has also been involved with blockbuster bands Muse and Coldplay.

They have also recently released ‘Ghost Stories’, the fi rst of three installments in their debut album ‘Turn The People’.

With a strong progressive rock tinge and soaring string arrangements, the music on ‘Turn The People’ demonstrates Monks of Mellonwah’s amazing talents as songwriters as instrumentalists.

On top of their musical prowess, the band

also has a knack for intelligent story telling and beautiful vocal melodies and harmonies.

This innovative new band has been described as a combination of the styles of Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, with their music having touches of numerous genres.

Monks of Mellonwah’s most recent EP ‘Sky and the Dark Night’ explores aspects of classical and fi lm music, citing Hans Zimmer as a primary inspiration behind the record.

The band was also selected to participate at Singapore’s prestigious Music Matters Festival 2013, where they performed and built up an international profi le.

Acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, Monks of Mellonwah won the respective awards for Best International Rock Band at the LA Music Awards and AIM Music Awards in 2012 and they have also done an East and West Coast tour of the United States.

With their music getting international attention, it’s only a matter of time before Monks of Mellonwah break through to

mainstream success so don’t miss the opportunity to see this talented band before they become big stars.

Monks of Mellonwah will play at the Fitzroy

Hotel in Windsor on Saturday, June 29 at 8.30pm. Entry is free.

For more information, call 4577 3396 or visit www.fi tzroyhotel.com.au.

DON’T MISS MONKS OF MELLONWAH

Live 07

DAVID WILLIAMSON’S THE CLUB

THE BOOTLEG EBATLES

Friday, July 6

Penrith Panthers

$47

Saturday, July 6 Penrith Panthers$47

FRIDAY, JULY 5

David Williamson’s The ClubVenue: Penrith Panthers$47, 8pm4720 5555Hit MachineVenue: Rooty Hill RSLFree entry, 8.30pm9625 5500AkingaVenue: St Marys Leagues ClubFree entry, 9pm9677 7777MA30+Venue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 8.30pm9623 1211Live Band KaraokeVenue: St Marys RSLFree entry, 8pm9623 6555FunkstarVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 9pm4728 5200Honey StonesVenue: Fitzroy HotelFree entry, 8.30pm4577 3396The Bowles BrothersVenue: Penrith PanthersFree entry, 8.30pm4720 5555

SATURDAY, JULY 6

The Bootleg BeatlesVenue: Penrith Panthers$47, 8pm4720 5555JimeoinVenue: Rooty Hill RSL$39, 8pm9625 5500Celebration MixVenue: Rooty Hill RSLFree entry, 8.30pm9625 5500Creedence and BeyondVenue: St Marys Leagues ClubFree entry, 9pm9677 7777Rock and RollVenue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 8.30pm9623 1211Duo Lounge AreaVenue: St Marys RSLFree entry, 7.30pm9623 6555Cirque du MasqueVenue: Blacktown Workers Club$7.50 members/$10.50 visitors, 8pm9830 0600The Power of TwoVenue: Blacktown Workers ClubFree entry, 8.30pm9830 0600The FrocksVenue: Blacktown Workers ClubFree entry, 9pm

9830 0600Errol BuddleVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 2pm4728 5200Cavan Te and the FussVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 9pm4728 5200Imogen ClarkVenue: Fitzroy HotelFree entry, 8.30pm4577 3396Matt JonesVenue: Penrith PanthersFree entry, 9pm4720 5555

SUNDAY, JULY 7

Sunday KaraokeVenue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 6pm9623 1211Live MusicVenue: St Marys RSLFree entry, 4pm9623 6555Kids Club Disco Venue: St Marys RSLFree entry, 11.30am9623 6555Rockin MustangsVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 2pm4728 5200

A lternative rockers Cloud Control are going to be heading out on a massive national tour of Australia throughout August and September.

The acclaimed band will be touring in support of their forthcoming sophomore album ‘Dream Cave’.

They will stop at a number of venues on their two month tour, with Sydneysiders able to catch their gig at The Metro on Thursday, September 12.

After they received overwhelmingly positive reviews for their recent sold out performance at Sydney’s Vivid Festival, Cloud Control will be returning to their home country where they will wow audiences with new tracks from their latest album.

Fans of the talented band will also get to hear all their old favourite songs from Cloud Control’s popular debut album ‘Bliss Release’.

They will be supported by another fabulous Sydney band, Palms, who have been steadily building up a following due to their

beautifully written indie-pop music such as their current single ‘This Last Year’.

This upcoming tour is also the perfect opportunity for devoted Cloud Control fans to catch the band in live performance before they begin their tours of the United Kingdom and United States.

Cloud Control will also be performing at the Splendour in the Grass music festival, which is sold out.

Earlier in the year, they holed themselves up in the stunning English countryside of Kent with their producer Barny Barnicott (who has worked on music from The Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian and Spiritualized) to record the 11 amazing tracks on ‘Dream Cave’.

The result of their work is a record that stays true to Cloud Control’s unique brand of elegant psychedelic pop but also explores a range of new infl uences and has a progressive direction.

With their fi nely written, catchy music and rousing stage presence, Cloud Control is one

of Australia’s hottest bands so don’t miss the chance to see them live on stage before they head overseas and crack the international scene.

Cloud Control will play at The Metro in Sydney on Thursday, September 12. For bookings or more information, visit www.ticketek.com.au or call 132 849.

LAST CHANCE BEFORE THEY HEAD TO UK

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K ids will be delighted when renowned children’s entertainer and former yellow Wiggle Sam Moran performs live at Westfi eld Penrith.

The television star will be performing in ‘Play Along With Sam Live’, a free, 20 minute interactive show that is sure to have little ones entertained.

This high energy, musical show is based on the hit Nick Jr television series ‘Play Along With Sam’ and will debut brand new songs written by Moran and also give children and their families the opportunity to meet Sam in person after each performance.

Ever since Moran began his interactive weekday morning music block on Nick Jr in May, he has had the attention of preschoolers and now they will be able to see him live on stage.

The show, which showcases Moran’s fabulous musical talents, is highly educational and has a curriculum-based format that satisfi es both children and their parents.

Donning his colourful, signature safari suit, Moran takes viewers on a musical journey and sings 20 new original songs that are as educational as they are catchy.

This star of children’s entertainment has managed to build a rapport with his preschool aged viewers and playfully encourages them to explore his colourful world through music and movement.

Moran has had musical talent since he was young and fi rst began taking vocal lessons at a school in Wagga Wagga, studying singing and opera when he was 14.

His love of performing triggered him to begin getting involved in musicals and eventually he met John Field, a songwriter for popular children’s band The Wiggles and the brother of band member Anthony.

After six months, Moran successfully auditioned to host a spin-off, Dorothy the Dinosaur Show and also began fi lling in for yellow Wiggle Greg Page, eventually taking over after he left due to illness.

Moran’s role as a yellow skivvy-clad Wiggle earned him plenty of adoring young fans and after he left the band, audiences followed him with his own TV show.

Sam Moran will be performing in ‘Play Along With Sam Live’ featuring songs from the TV show at Westfi eld Penrith on Thursday, July 11 at 10.30am.

PLAY ALONG WITH SAM LIVE SHOW

PSYCHIC SALLY ON THE ROAD

FLEETWOOD MAC SHOW

Friday, July 12

Penrith Panthers

$44.50

Saturday, July 13Rooty Hill RSL$10 members/$12 visitors

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Psychic Sally On the RoadVenue: Penrith Panthers$44.50, 8pm4720 5555Brad JohnsVenue: Penrith PanthersFree entry, 8.30pm4720 5555Cabaret Lunch – Buddy, the Buddy Holly SpectacularVenue: Rooty Hill RSL$15 members/$20 visitors, 11am9625 5500Millennium BugVenue: Rooty Hill RSLFree entry, 8.30pm9625 5500Cover AgentsVenue: St Marys Leagues ClubFree entry, 9pm9677 7777MA-30+Venue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 8.30pm9623 1211BacklashVenue: Penrith Gaels ClubFree entry, 8pm4722 8180Monks of MellonwahVenue: Fitzroy HotelFree entry, 8.30pm4577 3396

SATURDAY, JULY 13

DrewVenue: Penrith PanthersFree entry, 5.30pm4720 5555Red AlertVenue: Penrith PanthersFree entry, 9pm4720 5555Fleetwood Mac ShowVenue: Rooty Hill RSL$10 members/$12 visitors, 8pm9625 5500Mesa GrooveVenue: Rooty Hill RSLFree entry, 8.30pm9625 5500Rock n RollVenue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 8.30pm9623 1211TriviaVenue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 3pm9623 1211Vintage Saturdays Venue: Kellys Lounge, Penrith PanthersFree entry, 8.30pm4720 5555Saturday Night PartyVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 9pm4728 5200

Saturday Afternoon JazzVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 2pm4728 5200Mad Cow the BandVenue: St Marys Leagues ClubFree entry, 9pm9677 7777Motown the ShowVenue: Blacktown Workers Club$8 members/$12 visitors, 8pm9830 0600BlackwaterVenue: Penrith Gaels ClubFree entry, 8pm4722 8180ZounisVenue: Fitzroy HotelFree entry, 8.30pm4577 3396

SUNDAY, JULY 14

Caitlin HarnettVenue: Penrith PanthersFree entry, 2pm4720 5555Sunday KaraokeVenue: St Marys Band ClubFree entry, 6pm9623 1211Sunday Afternoon CountryVenue: Penrith RSLFree entry, 2pm4728 5200Fun for all ages!

Live 09

SMALL SCREENBIG SCREEN

I n another, more female oriented twist on the classic genre of buddy cop movies, ‘The Heat’ pairs up Sandra Bullock and Melissa

McCarthy as a formidable odd couple. Bullock stars as the uptight,

sophisticated Yale graduate who previously worked in the prestigious halls of the New York City FBI offi ce. She has to come down to earth to work with the tough as nails, street smart Shannon Mullins, a police offi cer with the Boston Police Department.

The incompatible duo have been thrown together to try to crack a tricky case – a string of grisly murders are plaguing Boston and the perpetrator has yet to be caught.

With their opposing backgrounds, personalities and interrogation styles, working together is a major learning curve and one that provides many laughs along the way.

As always, McCarthy is laugh-out-loud hilarious and is the true standout star of this fi lm, although Bullock contributes to the humour as the straight, uptight sidekick.

T he latest screen adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens novel, ‘Great Expectations’ is a star-studded affair, with Oscar

nominee Ralph Fiennes and quirky British actress Helena Bonham Carter stepping into the roles of two very eccentric characters.

Director Mike Newell has created a visually impressive fi lm that stays true to the words of Dickens’ novel. Young actor Jeremy Irvine plays in a part that is mature beyond his years as Pip, the plucky protagonist who rises from the depths of poverty to become a gentleman thanks to some fi nancial help from an anonymous benefactor.

He falls in love with the beautiful yet cold-hearted Estella, who is under the guardianship of Miss Havisham, an unusual spinster with whom she has a cruel and bizarre relationship.

While ‘Great Expectations’ follows the personal journey of Pip as he grows up and interacts with others, it also portrays the important social issues of Dickens’ time such as class divides and poverty, that are still relevant today.

THE HEAT [Rated MA15+]Starring: Sandra Bullock

& Melissa McCarthy

GREAT EXPECTATIONS[Rated MA]

Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter & Jeremy Irvine

CONSOLE STEREO

A llow yourself to be transported to another world with Project X Zone. The game is set in a realm where a rift in time and

space has suddenly appeared out of nowhere and created a doorway to various alternate universes.

With the universe open, a host of different characters travel through the rift and both heroes and villains cross paths with somewhat disastrous results.

The aim of the game is to work out what has caused the rift and put a halt to evil characters coming through and wreaking havoc on the world.

Players are able to take control of a selection of paired heroes, including previous gaming favourites such as Jin and Xiaoyu from the classic ‘Tekken’ series, Toma and Cyrille from ‘Shining Force EXA’ and X and Zero from ‘Mega Man X’.

Other characters come from franchises Darkstalkers, Valkyria Chronicles, Street Fighter and Resident Evil. The fi ghting is tactical and engaging, with players able to create a range of combos and plan defi ned strategies to

beat the baddies. While ‘Project X Zone’ isn’t the most original release in gaming history, it is fun for anyone who likes tactical fi ghting and wants to see their old favourite video game characters in action again.

U p-and-coming band Glass Towers have become one of the most promising musical groups on the scene right now, with

their songs being a staple of alternative rock station Triple J.

Now, they are set to cement their reputation for great music with their debut album ‘Halcyon Days’, an 11-track CD that is both unique and thoughtful, and catchy as hell. The band has previously released two highly acclaimed EPs – ‘What We Were, When We Were’ in 2011 and ‘Collarbone Jungle’ in 2012, which spawned singles.

Amazingly, their earlier songs were written during the band’s teenage years as they were going through their fi nal days at high school. Since then, they have played at a number of prestigious music festivals including Spendour On the Grass and toured with bands such as Look Lake, Papa Vs Pretty, Dappled Cities and major international bands Maximo Park and The Kooks.

Their latest album promises to keep their distinctive pop style paired with a more mature atmosphere and lyrics.

The album explores the band’s journey from youth into the world of adulthood and captures perfectly the feelings of joy, wonder and adventure. Songs such as the title track ‘Halcyon’ and the lustfully themed ‘Tonight’ demonstrate Glass Tower’s excellent songwriting skills and musical prowess.

PROJECT X ZONENintendo 3DS

GLASS TOWERSHALCYON DAYS

What’s On The...10

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Why not come in and try our fantastic

$16 LUNCH MENU

(includes a selected beer, soft drink or house red or white wine. Valid Wednesday to Friday)

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O P E N I N G H O U R S LUNCH: Wednesday to Friday & Sunday | DINNER: Tuesday to Sunday.

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EATING OUT

AKIRA TEPPANYAKI

E ating in at Akira Teppanyaki is not your average dining experience, it is a culinary delight – one that you are not likely to forget.

Mouthwatering, freshly prepared Japanese cuisine is just the start of what you can expect; prepare yourself for dinner and a show because if your experience is anything like mine, you will have front row seats to the best entertainment in town.

The moment you step inside Akira Teppanyaki, the smell of teriyaki sauces tingles your senses, friendly staff members are constantly smiling, chefs are twirling knives in their hands and diners are laughing together, enjoying a unique night out.

You take a seat in front of a giant hot plate and watch as your chef cooks up your meal before your eyes, adding the toss of a pepper shaker or the twirl of a knife to show their expertise and dexterity.

I spent my evening laughing as I failed to catch the bowls of rice that were thrown to me by the chef (don’t worry, most people don’t catch it so it’s nothing to be embarrassed about), and I watched the other diners try to catch slices of omelette in their mouths – no hands allowed.

The entertainment is very hard to beat but the dishes do just that. Choose an option from the Teppanyaki set menus, ranging from $32.50 per person to $79.50 per person, and

feast on the Japanese style entrees, seafood, meats and desserts.

I began my meal with a fresh salad, fl avoursome miso soup, salmon sashimi and some of the best spring rolls that I have tasted.

I then watched as my chef cooked up scallops, prawns and salmon fi llets, all to perfection with fl avours that would tantalise anyone’s tastebuds.

The tender teriyaki beef fi llet, cooked just the way that I like it, did not last long on my plate and neither did the succulent chicken, cooked with mushroom, onion and capsicum.

To fi nish off a perfect evening I was treated to a delightful green tea icecream; something that I can’t wait to have again!

If you are one who loves fabulous food and tantalising fl avours but prefers a quieter sitting, Akira Teppanyaki offers an A La Carte menu that would please even the toughest of critics.

Arrive at Akira Teppanyaki a little earlier than your booking to also take advantage of the fully stocked bar services and outdoor seating.

Akira Teppanyaki is open for lunch from Tuesday to Friday as well as on Sunday and dinner from Tuesday through to Sunday.

A new takeaway pick-up lunch menu is perfect for teppanyaki lovers on the go and offers tempura prawns and teriyaki beef. Bookings are essential, call (02) 4721 0305.

- Reviewed by Katherine Tweed

by David Ellis

2 012 proved lucky for Cumulus Estate Wines in the Orange region of Central Western NSW, with its Rolling label seeing its fi rst-ever red using grenache

and mourvedre fruit from vineyards planted back in 1999.

Until then the two varieties had been used in the making of rosé wines under Cumulus’ Luna Rosa label, with winemaker Debbie Lauritz saying that while she had great faith in the quality of the grenache and mourvedre, neither somehow quite hit the mark for the quality she was seeking for red wine production.

But that changed dramatically in 2012 with everything coming together perfectly, and Debbie blending the two with shiraz into Rolling’s fi rst-ever GSM – 48 per cent grenache, 40 per cent shiraz and 12 per cent mouvedre, a wonderfully fruit-driven wine with more-ish cherry and dark fruit fl avours and nice notes of spice.

GSM is becoming increasing popular in

Australia as a gutsy yet easily quaffable wine, and this 2012 Rolling at $18.95 is interesting in that it did not undergo any oak maturation, allowing the pure fruit fl avours to come to the fore. A nice one to enjoy this time of year with braised lamb shanks over potato mash.

One to note: If you are one who likes to embrace a good semillon sauvignon blanc over a long and leisurely seafood lunch, Western Australia’s Killerby has released a classic Margaret River example under its Killerby Merchant Trader label.

Although purchased in 2008 by Ferngrove Wines – Western Australia’s third largest maker – Killerby has maintained its small winery philosophies and techniques, and its 2011 Merchant Trader Semillon Sauvignon Blanc is full of fresh Margaret River varietal passionfruit and grassy fl avours, zesty lemon and a long cleansing fi nish.

At a recommended $20, a great drop to match with barbecued seafoods or a cold seafood platter.

2012 PROVES LUCKY FOR CUMULUS ESTATE

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IN THE PAST WE HAVE HAD A UNBELEVABLE GROUP OF PEOPLE THAT HAVE HAD EXTRODINARY RESULTS AND A LOAD OF FUN ALONG THE WAY.THIS WINTERS BEST TRANSFORMATION WINS ALL THEIR FEES BACK FOR THE THREE MONTH PROGRAM AND HAS THE OPTION OF BEING A SENIOR MENTOR AT THE CARL RICHARDS PERSONAL TRAINING FACILITY IN GLENMORE PARK.

Carl Richards has been a leading Trainer in both the Nepean and Hawkesbury areas for the past 11 years. Carl Richards has changed the lives for thousands of people who have tried various different weight loss programs over their lives and had only disappointment. Carl’s advice to everyone looking to change their body’s AND LIVES is don’t search for the easy answer because unfortunately there is none. The secret is the correct training program for you, the right eating plan for you and last of all a bit of hard work. Carl Richards prides himself in giving you all those things without disrupting your lifestyle too much.

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H e was one of my favourite characters growing up, now Australian TV icon Humphrey B. Bear is back on our screens via community TV channel

TVS. “Humph” can now be seen every night at 7.30pm on TVS saying goodnight to kids. It’s been four years since Humphrey was last seen on TV after his owners went bankrupt. Now to bring back Fat Cat and Mr Squiggle and all will be good in the world!

Following the departure of Melissa Doyle from ‘Sunrise’, attention now turns to what she does next. There’s some chatter that she and former ‘Today Tonight’ host Matt White could present Seven’s 4.30pm News together.

Doyle is also tipped to host her own primetime current affairs show on 7TWO.

Former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting is fi nally retiring from all forms of cricket in October but he won’t be lost to the game because he’s just signed on as a commentator for the Big Bash League on Channel Ten. Ponting is one of the game’s all-time greats, so there’s no doubt he’ll do a fi ne job behind the mic.

In a somewhat strange move, Channel Ten has announced News Limited columnist Joe Hildebrand as their latest host of their upcoming morning show. Hildebrand will join

the already named Ita Buttrose. Now that’s one random line-up!

It ended on Monday night with Team SA getting the chocolates but it will be back next year after Seven’s ‘House Rules’ was commissioned for another series. If you want to be part of the season two visit: go.mycastingnet.com/Apply/Show/HouseRules2.

There are plenty of shows returning to Seven starting with ‘Winners & Losers’. The Aussie comedy/drama will air on Tuesday, July 9 at 8.45pm. Also, returning that same night is hit comedy ‘How I Met Your Mother’.

One of Foxtel’s better reality shows is back on our screens from this Tuesday, July 9. The latest series of ‘Australia’s Next Top Model’ will air exclusively on FOX8 at 7.30pm. New series host Jennifer Hawkins, returning judges Charlotte Dawson and Alex Perry, and new model mentor Didier Cohen join IMG Models as they search the country for Australia’s Next Top Model.

Lastly, Channel Nine has fi nally announced the date for brand new cooking show ‘The Great Australian Bake Off’. The new series hosted by Shane Jacobson will air at 8pm on Tuesday, July 9. I must admit I do like the sound of this one and will tune in.

CHATTER ONTHE BOXwith Nathan Taylor

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Fill in all squares so each row, column and each of the nine3 x 3 squares contain all digits from one to nine.

ACROSS

1. Swedish pop group4. Natural seasoning (3,4)8. Gangster11. Idiotic (remark)13. Musical, The Phantom

Of The ...15. Clock pointers17. Toast spread18. Leotard fabric20. Easter gift21. Projector photo24. Ill-suited27. Trick28. Cowboy show30. Earthy pigment31. Lift33. Guide34. Weather feature (2,4)35. Fervour36. Scotland’s famous loch39. Removes errors from42. Gin & ...44. Take leading role45. Eye-watering vegetable46. Stride48. Cove49. Cured pork50. Thought52. Arabian republic54. Tartan garment55. Ban56. Aping silently57. Manufacturers’ labels60. Actor, ... Bates62. Lengths of wood65. Gentle67. Expect69. Pixies70. Veneer72. Magnetic resonance

imaging (1,1,1)73. Crowd brawl75. Anaesthetic77. Hamburger, Big ...79. Wing it (2-3)

81. Weir82. Tunisia’s neighbour84. Screwdrivers &

wrenches85. Flavouring herb86. Record87. Meeting schedules88. Baby carriage

DOWN

1. Feel pain2. Lotto game3. Also4. Match before fi nal5. Despicable6. Respect7. Roman dress8. Strive9. Chops roughly10. Spur12. Horse-like animals14. Singer, ... John16. Concur19. Religious customs22. Small cupboard23. Fabled land of gold, El ...25. ANC hero, ... Mandela26. Queen’s husband,

Prince ...29. Struck out32. Charged particle35. Craziest37. Opt38. Understudy (5-2)40. Paired (with)41. Derisive smile42. Spiritual carving, ... pole43. Ship’s room44. Broken-arm support47. Alberta city51. Carbonate52. US Civil War soldier53. Most pleasant54. Ignite58. Prize59. Health spring

61. Line-up63. Back-bending dance64. Snow vehicle65. Bucketed down66. Too soon68. Droops71. Glowing coal72. Cleaning girl

74. Painting, Mona ...76. Shacks78. Quiet80. International Olympic

Committee (1,1,1)83. Little devil

Solution to last week’s mind benders

Relax 15

FYI has three Hotshots prizes to give away that include a double pass and an exclusive five minute meet and greet session before the show. For your chance to win, email the code word ‘HOT’ to competitions@mediaview.com.au with your name and phone

number. Entries close Wednesday, July 10. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPM/12/01138. Terms and conditions at www.

westernweekender.com.au.

G et ready because Australia’s wildest men, The Sydney Hotshots, are set to return to the stage with their ‘Funtasia’ show.

The show features a scorching hot line up of performers and will show at St Marys Band Club on Saturday, July 20.

In what promises to be a fabulous night of entertainment, the Sydney Hotshots will rock the crowd and make an eye-grabbing entrance, dancing in an opening that is choreographed to the music of Nickelback.

These talented performers will strut their stuff on stage in a range of skits – from dressing up as fi remen and Roman Spartans to putting on a 60’s themed Grease Lightning show, the men of Sydney Hotshots have what it takes to get the audience’s hearts racing.

The sculpted bodies of the Hotshots will be on full display for the crowd’s viewing pleasure as they dance, do acrobatics and perform hilarious comedy routines.

Experienced in thrilling their female audience members, the Sydney Hotshots are dedicated to their work and have performed all over the country to rave

reviews.“We love touring because it means we get to

share the fun and excitement of our show with hundreds of ladies all over Australia, from small towns to big cities,” performer Andy said.

“I think the best thing about the show, and the reason I’m so proud to be a part of it, is that whether you’re 18 or 80 there’s something for everyone.”

Ladies in the crowd can also expect to have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the stars of the show, who often bring lucky audience members up onto the stage with them for some spontaneous fun.

“One of our favourite things is having the ladies up on stage, whether it’s for a competition or as part of our routine, it’s so much fun and really makes the show interactive and intimate,” Andy said.

The Sydney Hotshots are experts in putting on a great show and are perfect for every occasion, from hen’s nights and birthdays to girls nights out.

The Sydney Hotshots will perform at St Marys Band Club on Saturday, July 20 at 8.30pm. Tickets are $25 or $30 at the door. For more information, call 9623 1211.

GIVEAWAY: HOTSHOTS TICKETS

L iving in the modern world and trying to balance a career, relationships and family can sometimes be stressful and lead to anxious and upsetting thoughts.

While it’s diffi cult to counter distressing thought patterns, it is possible to handle your feelings in a positive way as outlined in Dr Sarah Edelman’s book Change Your Thinking.

The book is a best-selling guide to controlling and handling upsetting emotions that teaches readers how to think in a healthy, balanced way.

Based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy, a psychological method that has been adopted by many therapists, Change Your Thinking provides practical tactics to overcome negative thoughts and behaviours.

Anyone struggling with negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, frustration, anger and guilt should be able to benefi t from the techniques in this book, which helps to enhance self-esteem and improve social skills to develop personal happiness.

While many psychological books are

written in highly technical language, Dr Sarah Edelman writes about cognitive behavioural therapy in a clear and compassionate manner that will strike a chord with readers.

Since it was fi rst published, Change Your Thinking has enriched the lives of thousands of readers and now this updated third edition has even more content with a new chapter on ‘Mindfulness’ that demonstrates how mindfulness techniques can be used alongside cognitive behavioural therapy.

Dr Sarah Edelman is a clinical psychologist, author and trainer who conducts training programs for psychologists, industry members and the general public.

She has previously worked at the University of Technology Sydney as a lecturer and researcher and has articles published in professional and mainstream journals.

Her book explains in a clear and concise way how to tackle distressing feelings and put an end to negative thought patterns and can help turn life around for those who are struggling with their emotions. It is well worth the read.

CHANGE YOUR THINKINGBy Sarah Edelman PhD

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A n authentic slice of Viennese culture in the heart of Sydney, the Johann Strauss Ensemble are back for one night only at the Joan Sutherland

Performing Arts Centre.Following the resounding success of

their sell-out 2011 tour, The Johann Strauss Ensemble returns to Australia to present ‘Vienna on Fire’ featuring the captivating waltzes and polkas of Austria’s founding romantic composer Johann Strauss and others from the Strauss family cannon of music.

This distinctive and timeless Austrian sound, one that has captivated audiences throughout the world for nearly 200 years, is brought to Australian audiences in defi nitive style by the Johann Strauss Ensemble – the most authentic performers of Strauss music in the world.

Established in 1985 by musicians of the famous Bruckner Orchestra, the Johann Strauss Ensemble performs in the traditional Stehgeiger style adopted by Johann Strauss himself where the leader is both the

conductor and soloist at the same time. Inheriting that role today is Australia’s

own Russell McGregor, a brilliant violinist who has established himself as Vienna’s foremost stehgeiger during his 20-year residence in Austria.

‘Vienna on Fire’ sees Russell McGregor leading the Johann Strauss Ensemble’s 21 world-class musicians through a collection of the Strauss family’s most famous and archetypal works, including ‘Wiener Blut’, ‘Bandit’s Galop’ and ‘Thunder and Lightning’.

The concert will even see this modern day waltz king playing an anvil as percussion during the ‘Fire-Proof!’ Polka – a piece Josef Strauss was commissioned to write in 1869 with the instrument in mind.

Don’t miss the Johann Strauss Ensemble present ‘Vienna on Fire’ at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday, July 17 at 8pm.

Tickets are $75. To book or for more information call 4723 7600 or visit www.jspac.com.au. Discounts are available on request.

AUTHENTIC VIENNESEVIOLINIST

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O n June 14, hundreds of members of the Penrith community gathered at Penrith Panthers for the Music for Live charity dinner, raising money to help

fi nd a cure for brain cancer. There was great food on offer as well as

great entertainment including by The Boys in the Band and MC Ken Sutcliff from Channel 9.

The night raised a total of over $62,000 to be handed over to the Cure for Life Foundation.

The Foundation was founded by Dr Charlie Teo, who was also a special guest on the evening.

There were many sponsors on the night who opened up their wallets and donated generously to the cause.

Congratulations must be passed on to Ann and Wayne Willmington of Vintage FM for their courageous efforts in organising the charity dinner, which was hailed by all who attended as a successful evening.

In the last three years they have raised over $150,000.

MUSIC FOR LIFE DINNER BRINGS OUT THE BEST

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3/36 Woodriff Street PenrithCall Amanda 02 4761 6930www.themediationcentre.com.au

The Mediation Centre … for mediation with heart. Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and Solicitor

You have a dispute? - Regardless of your situation, we can help.FAMILY BREAKDOWN - DIVORCE - CHILDREN - PROPERTY SETTLEMENT...

The Mediation Centre is a team of experienced and qualifi ed mediators that offer a cost-effective, confi dential and timely alternative to resolving a dispute without having to go through the Court system.

Facilitating mutually-benefi cial resolution for any type of dispute, specialising in: • Family Law• Children’s disputes • Child support disputes • Will and estate disputes

With extensive experience in Family Law, we also specialise in family matters, with the Principal Mediator Amanda Little selected as a designated provider of Family Dispute Resolution Services by the Attorney General’s Department.

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