2023 In Review – March: Ayres falls, trains plunged into chaos

Former Penrith MP Stuart Ayres. Photo: Megan Dunn.
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We look back on the stories that were dominating the headlines in March 2023…

The Coalition Government is dumped from power in New South Wales as Labor’s Chris Minns becomes Premier. Penrith MP Stuart Ayres is a major casualty, losing the seat to Karen McKeown. Prue Car and Tanya Davies retain their local seats.

An emotional Karen McKeown at Penrith’s Labor event on election night. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Meanwhile, the Independent Commission Against Corruption clears Stuart Ayres of any wrongdoing over the scandal that cost him his Cabinet position in 2022.

Penrith records its hottest March day in 25 years, with the mercury rising to 40.1 degrees on March 6.

A woman in her 20s dies in a tragic crash at Llandilo.

A Werrington woman is charged with allegedly sending more than 32,000 emails over a 24-hour period to the office of a Federal MP.

A major communications issue shuts down Sydney’s rail network, with trains not moving and stations locked across Sydney.

CEO Marlene Shipley celebrates her 30th anniversary at St Marys Band Club.

Marlene Shipley at St Marys Band Club. Photo: Melinda Jane.

UFC Gym in Penrith announces its sudden closure.

Penrith legend Mark Geyer is among those paying tribute to radio great Doug Mulray, who dies at the age of 71.

The 2023 NRL season begins, with Penrith falling to Brisbane in the opening round.

Penrith’s win over South Sydney in Round 2 is overshadowed by an alleged racism incident involving Rabbitohs fullback Latrell Mitchell and a member of the crowd.

Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo signs an extended deal with the club.

Local paddling sensation Jessica Fox is recognised with a permanent plaque at the Penrith Whitewhater Stadium, acknowledging her incredible success and impact on the sport.

Jessica Fox with the new plaque in March. Photo: Melinda Jane.

Penrith’s First Grade women’s cricket team creates a slice of history, taking out the NSW Premier Cricket title. Phoebe Litchfield proves the star of the show.


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