Western Weekender

Troy and Nathan discuss the new State of Origin rules, the recent Panthers Board Election, and which Panthers star has upset Troy!

Troy and Nathan tackle everything from crime to celebrities to plane scheduling dramas. Oh, and there's a bit of footy too.

Troy and Nathan are back for another year. They have a quick look at the year ahead including discussing what a pass mark is for the Panthers. The boys also discuss Phil 'Buzz' Rothfield's retirement and Michael Chammas apparently heading to PNG. Plus the latest on the Panthers Board Election and the random situation with the club's NSW Cup coach.

Ahead of his 15th anniversary with The Western Weekender, we catch up with Deputy Editor and Sports Journalist Nathan Taylor. He talks to us about his passion for Penrith, why he's still with the paper after all these years and shares some recent personal challenges.

Born and bred in Penrith, Rich Evans was at the forefront of Penrith's digital evolution in the 1990s and early 2000s, before moving to the Central West. Rich speaks about growing up in Penrith, connecting with the community in his new home and details the enormous health challenge he's been facing in recent years.

Jim Jones played more than 40 first grade games for Penrith, but it is as the club's recruitment officer where he has made his name. He's recruited the likes of Penrith and Australian captain Isaah Yeo, and has his fingerpints all over the club's run of Premiership success. Jim speaks about his life in rugby league, and reveals when he may give it all away.

Panthers Group Chairman Peter Graham talks to us about his 60-year love of the Penrith Panthers, and Penrith as a city. He takes us through his career, the future of Panthers and the changes he's seen in Penrith over the years. Peter also opens up about the Penrith Stadium redevelopment, and guiding the club through the challenges of the COVID lockdown.

Penrith RSL Sub-Branch President Anthony Eddie speaks about his career in the Army, serving in Afghanistan and adjusting to life after discharge at 50. It's a fascinating chat about the mental and physical scars serving your country can bring. Anthony also speaks about the great work being done by the Sub-Branch in Penrith.

Federal Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh talks about getting started in politics, her three election victories and the challenges that her career presents. She also opens up about future leadership aspirations.

Warren Bird shares stories of growing up in Penrith in the 1960s and 1970s. From a famous milk bar to the early days of Kingswood High, and then a long career in finance and economics, Warren has plenty of interesting stories to share.

Mark Levy talks about his career in rugby league, including playing with the Panthers during the early 1980s. He takes us through his time as Panthers CEO during the 1990s, and about life after rugby league. Now retired, Mark still has a strong connection to Penrith.

Barry Dukes was born in Emu Plains in 1943 and has spent his life in Penrith. He speaks to us about his career in the motor industry, the people who has had an impact on his life and his family. He opens up about the history of the Dukes name in Penrith, and the significant role it has played in the area. Barry also talks about his recent health battles.

Troy and Nathan discuss the 2026 NRL draw, and reflect on the year that was. They've got a few shout-outs, a few thoughts on the future structure of the NRL and some big news about the podcast next year. Join us for one last hurrah in 2025!

The boys discuss Round One after Penrith's 2026 season opener was revealed. Plus we talk about potential new rule changes, the wildcard weekend and reminiscence about the old Panthers Leagues Club. And we answer questions from the listeners!

Troy and Nathan pay tribute to John Farragher following his passing at 68. The boys also discuss Nathan Cleary's future, and what Jaxen Edgar's signing means for Dylan Edwards.

Troy and Nathan debate the merits of Global Round. Plus we pay tribute to Cliff Cartwright, and talk about all the footy. And we prove we have no idea what we're talking about when it comes to the international game.

We discuss what Dylan Edwards' future looks like when it comes to rep footy. Plus we respond to listener topic suggestions, and chat about international footy.

It's been a decade since Gus Gould sacked Ivan Cleary for sleeping on the job. Can you believe what's happened since then? Plus the boys discuss international footy and play a round of a new game.

Troy and Nathan chat about the Grand Final, plus why are some Panthers fans such sore losers? We also ponder the next TV deal, and the future of the Dally M Awards.

Troy and Nathan unpack the end of Penrith's season following the loss to the Broncos. The boys look back on the year that was, and hear from Ivan and Nathan Cleary. Plus looking ahead to Sunday's Grand Final.