2023 In Review – June: High Street Social shutters, Cleary goes down

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As we continue our look back on 2023, here’s the stories that made headlines in June…

High Street Social pours its last beer, with the landlord taking possession of the Penrith CBD venue.

High Street Social. Photo: Megan Dunn.

In a huge hit to mortgage holders, the RBA increases interest rates for the 12th time since May 2022.

Qantas and Western Sydney International Airport reach a landmark agreement that will see both Qantas and Jetstar operating domestic flights from the new airport when it opens in late 2026.

One of Penrith’s most respected doctors, Fred Cunliffe, passes away.

A man has dies after being stabbed at St Clair, prompting a major manhunt. AN arrest is made several days later.

Emu Plains resident Gai Hawthorn and Glenmore Park resident Leisa McGivern are two of the 1,191 Australians recognised as part of the King’s Birthday Honours List.

Gai Hawthorn and Leisa McGivern have been honoured with OAMs. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Plans for a ‘medi-hotel’ in Kingswood are approved by Penrith City Council.

State Penrith MP Karen McKeown delivers an emotional maiden speech to Parliament.

The preliminary flight paths for Western Sydney International Airport are made public, sparking enormous local debate.

Hundreds of smart-thinking Taylor Swift fans go old school, lining up at Panthers Leagues Club for tickets to her Eras Concert – as millions of others go without by battling online sales.

Construction on Australia’s newest city, Bradfield, moves ahead with the pouring of concrete slabs on the First Building.

The construction site at Bradfield.

Legendary boxer and media personality Ray Wheatley, who called Penrith home, has passed away.

Soni Luke signs an extended deal with the Panthers.

A huge scare is sent through Penrith’s Premiership defence after co-captain and halfback Nathan Cleary suffers a serious hamstring injury.

Nathan Cleary leaves the field in the first half against the Dragons. Photo: NRL Images.

The Western Weekender exclusively reveals that long-time sponsor OAK will exit the front of Penrith’s playing strip from 2024.

Penrith defeat Melbourne 34-to-16 in a fiery clash at BlueBet Stadium, as the Panthers get through June with four wins and one loss.

Penrith junior Pat Cummins produces an unbeaten 44 to help Australia to a famous Ashes win over England at Edgbaston.


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