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Western Weekender

Western Weekender

207 episodes — Page 1 of 5

Tension's Running High E75 - We draft our NSW Origin team!

May 12, 202652 min

Tension's Running High E74 - Crowning the best Panthers song of all-time!

May 5, 202650 min

Weekender Women E01 - The generation gap is real

Apr 30, 202637 min

Tension's Running High E73 - Jarome Luai to the Chiefs, can Panthers stop Fozball?

Apr 28, 202643 min

Tension's Running High E72 - Troy's wild Bunker and Set Restart plan

Apr 21, 202656 min

Tension's Running High E71 - Nathan delivers Ivan Cleary an ultimatum

Apr 14, 202646 min

On The Record Revisited: - One-on-one with Luke Priddis

Luke Priddis joined our podcast in 2024. We go back to the interview and revisit his time at the Panthers - plus he talks about his frosty relationship with Wayne Bennett.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Apr 9, 202656 min

Tension's Running High E70 - Moses Leota joins us and Nathan calls for a mid-season sacking

Moses Leota joins us to talk about Nathan Cleary's 200th NRL game this Thursday night. Plus we dissect the list of players coming off-contract in 2026 and 2027 as Panthers officials desperately try to build the squad from 2028 onwards. And Nathan declares someone must be sacked mid-season!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Apr 7, 20261h 12m

Tension's Running High E69 - Panthers v Storm Preview

Troy and Nathan preview the big clash between Penrith and Melbourne this Friday night. Plus why did Troy miss the Battle of the West? And we launch a new game!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Mar 31, 202650 min

Tension's Running High E68 - Luke Garner joins us

Luke Garner joins us to chat about his new deal with the Panthers. Plus the boys preview the Battle of the West between the Panthers and Eels.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Mar 24, 202644 min

Tension's Running High E67 - Roosters v Westies, Unpacking Izack Tago mystery plus that Alex Johnston moment

In a bumper edition of the podcast, Troy and Nathan preview Friday's Panthers v Roosters showdown. They also try to work out exactly what's going on with Izack Tago, plus the Alex Johnston record and what Penrith moment would see us storm the field? Nathan tries his hand at The Price Is Right with a shock result, plus what excuse does Nathan have for missing the Panthers v Sharks game?Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Mar 17, 202657 min

Tension's Running High E66 - Panthers v Sharks preview, What's doing with Izack Tago?

The boys preview Penrith's clash with Cronulla in Bathurst. Plus Troy talks about last week's big stadium editorial, and what's going on with Izack Tago?Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Mar 10, 202645 min

Tension's Running High E65 - Hitting the roof

Troy and Nathan discuss "that' roof on the new Penrith Stadium. Plus the footy's back and we preview the Panthers taking on the Broncos.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Mar 3, 202651 min

Tension's Running High E64 - Unpacking the season launch, top eights revealed

Troy and Nathan review Penrith's season launch and 60th anniversary dinner. Plus the boys reveal their top eight predictions for the year. And will Nathan finally win The Price is Right?Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Feb 24, 202658 min

Tension's Running High E63 - Board returns, player's shocking act!

Troy and Nathan discuss the new State of Origin rules, the recent Panthers Board Election, and which Panthers star has upset Troy!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Feb 17, 202654 min

Tension's Running High E62 - The pod goes rogue

Troy and Nathan tackle everything from crime to celebrities to plane scheduling dramas. Oh, and there's a bit of footy too.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Feb 10, 20261h 2m

Tension's Running High E61 - Off-season media shifts, Panthers Board election

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Feb 3, 202657 min

On The Record - Nathan Taylor

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jan 23, 202655 min

On The Record - Rich Evans

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jan 11, 202653 min

On The Record - Jim Jones

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jan 4, 202645 min

On The Record: Peter Graham

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Dec 28, 202542 min

On The Record - Anthony Eddie

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Dec 21, 20251h 0m

On The Record - Melissa McIntosh

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Dec 15, 202543 min

On The Record - Warren Bird

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Dec 7, 202547 min

On The Record - Mark Levy

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Nov 30, 202532 min

On The Record - Barry Dukes

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Nov 23, 202545 min

Tension's Running High E60 - Final show for 2025!

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!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Nov 18, 202544 min

Tension's Running High E59 - Round One Revealed plus Panthers Leagues Club memories

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!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Nov 11, 202541 min

Tension's Running High E58 - Loss of the bravest Panther

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Nov 4, 202543 min

Tension's Running High E57 - Is Global Round a winner?

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Oct 28, 202538 min

Tension's Running High E56 - Will Dylan Edwards play rep footy again?

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Oct 23, 202532 min

Tension's Running High E55 - International footy, 10 years since Ivan was tired

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Oct 14, 202536 min

Tension's Running High E54 - Are Panthers fans sore losers?

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Oct 7, 202558 min

Tension's Running High E53 - Mad Monday!

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.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Sep 29, 202540 min

Tension's Running High E52 - Panthers v Broncos Preview, Grand Final Training Session news

Troy and Nathan preview the Preliminary Final between Penrith and Brisbane. Plus we reveal news about a Grand Final week training session should the Panthers make it. And why is Ivan Cleary still lacking the respect he deserves?Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Sep 24, 202536 min

Tension's Running High E51 - Moses Leota joins us, Panthers v Bulldogs preview

Panthers prop Moses Leota joins us ahead of his 200th NRL game. Plus Troy and Nathan preview Sunday's showdown between the Panthers and Bulldogs at Accor Stadium. And what do the boys make of the Preliminary Final schedule?Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Sep 16, 202539 min

Tension's Running High E50 - Blaize Talagi chat + Merv Cartwright Medal wrap-up

In our 50th episode, we chat to Panthers five-eighth Blaize Talagi. Plus Troy and Nathan review the Merv Cartwright Medal, and preview the Finals showdown between Penrith and the Warriors. And the boys give their verdict on Teddy Swims being announced as this year's Grand Final entertainment.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Sep 10, 202548 min

Tension's Running High E49 - Nathan Cleary joins the podcast

We chat with Nathan Cleary ahead of the Finals, and he reveals the future of that much talked about headgear. Troy and Nathan also preview Penrith's clash with the Dragons, and chat about some journalist feuds!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Sep 3, 202555 min

Tension's Running High E48 - Ivan's wild plan, plus the State Government is still pulling our leg over new stadium

Troy and Nathan discuss Penrith's crazy Finals strategy. Plus the State Government has the blinkers on when it comes to the new stadium. And Troy's final thoughts from Mudgee.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Aug 26, 202548 min

Tension's Running High E47 - Nathan's bus ban, Panthers v Raiders preview

Nathan tell us why he nearly turned into a pumpkin after the Panthers v Storm match. We preview the Panthers v Raiders showdown in Mudgee, plus look back at our favourite 90s footy memories.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Aug 19, 202539 min

Tension's Running High E46 - Liam Martin joins us, and the Panthers are in the top four!

Liam Martin joins us to talk about Penrith's showdown with Melbourne. Plus we chat about Penrith staying in the top four, and play a round of 'how much is it on eBay?'Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Aug 12, 202545 min

Tension's Running High E45 - Dissecting trainer-gate

Troy and Nathan discuss all the drama surrounding THAT incident involving a Panthers trainer, plus we preview Friday night's clash between Penrith and Newcastle. And we've run the ladder predictor and reveal our final top eights!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Aug 5, 202534 min

Tension's Running High E44 - Casey McLean joins us

Rising Panthers superstar Casey McLean joins us. Plus we play round three of Panthers trivia!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jul 30, 202552 min

Tension's Running High E43 - Panthers v Tigers Preview, Panthers Trivia Game II

Troy and Nathan go head-to-head in another round of Panthers trivia. Plus the boys preview the big clash between the Panthers and Tigers on Saturday. And a Grand Final prediction!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jul 22, 202539 min

Tension's Running High E42 - Panthers v Souths preview, Introducing Dodds Ball!

Troy and Nathan preview Friday night's showdown between Penrith and South Sydney. Plus Troy reveals the perfect solution to the Origin scheduling dilemma.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jul 15, 202548 min

Tension's Running High E41 - Panthers v Eels preview

Troy and Nathan preview the showdown between Penrith and Parramatta. Plus a final word on Origin III, and we reflect on the passing of former Panthers Director Greg Evans.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jul 8, 202538 min

Tension's Running High E40 - Trading cards from the past & Emily puts the boys to the test

Troy and Nathan go back in time and open trading cards from the past. Plus Emily gives the boys a quiz - and you won't believe the question that stumped Doddsy! And we re-live that epic win by Penrith over Canterbury in Round 17.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jul 1, 202556 min

Tension's Running High E39 - Panthers v Bulldogs preview + A Special Giveaway

Troy and Nathan preview the epic showdown between Penrith and Canterbury this week. Plus one lucky listener will win a bottle of Fourpeat Spiced Rum!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jun 25, 202537 min

Tension's Running High E38 - Matt Eisenhuth joins us, plus our awkward journalism moments

Matt Eisenhuth joins us ahead of Penrith's clash with the Warriors on Saturday. Plus Troy and Nathan discuss some of our most awkward journalism moments - involving the likes of Pat Cummins, Phil Gould, Tim Grant and Luke Lewis!Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jun 17, 202555 min

Tension's Running High E37 - Brian Fletcher quits, Panthers stalk the Top 8

Troy and Nathan offer some insight into CEO Brian Fletcher's decision to stand down from the Panthers. Plus we we recap Penrith's win over the Wests Tigers, as the Panthers chase down an unlikely Finals berth.Visit www.westernweekender.com.au or download The Western Weekender App.

Jun 10, 202538 min