Emu + Leonay Gazette June 2024

Actor and Radio Personality Andrew Daddo to Emcee Penrith’s Mayoral Charity Fundraiser

Well-known Australian actor, author, television, and radio personality

Andrew Daddo will be hosting Penrith’s Mayoral Charity Fundraiser at St Marys Leagues Club on Friday, 21 June 2024. As the community rallies together to show its support and raise much needed funds for the Penrith Community Kitchen, it will be a night like no other. This event will showcase spectacular local entertainment, and touching true stories that recognise the fantastic work the charity is doing to help those in our community doing it tough.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney thanked Andrew Daddo for being a part of and acknowledging the importance of the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser.

“To have Andrew come along and support the Fundraiser means so much to the Penrith community. For him to get behind the Penrith Community Kitchen especially during the current cost-ofliving pressures, I sincerely appreciate it,” Cr Carney said.

“I thank Andrew for wanting to be part of this special event, to raise money and awareness of this wonderful charity that helps people going through the toughest of times,” he said.

“This fundraising event will ensure that people and children get fed, have warm clothing and blankets during the cold winter months and that students are receiving nourishing food whilst at school.”

Andrew Daddo said, “I am extremely honoured to MC this charity evening. The Penrith Community Kitchen is doing vital work for the community, and I hope we raise a lot of much-needed money.”

The Penrith Community Kitchen provides a non-for-profit service to the community that assists the homeless, low-income families and those who are in need. Together, as a community, we can help those who are struggling to make ends meet.

On any given day, the Kitchen provides meals for between 80 and 100 people, indicating the strong need for this service in Penrith. The existence of Penrith Community Kitchen depends entirely on donations and fundraising.

Celebrating their 30-year anniversary in July, the Kitchen is extremely grateful for the ongoing support and donations they have received over this time.

Tickets for the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser are on sale now and include a $30 donation to the Penrith Community Kitchen.

Guests will hear from Andrew Daddo, Cr Carney and the Kitchen’s Secretary, Gai Hawthorn on the night along with circus performances by PAWS Studio, a silent auction, plus a three-course meal and drinks. All funds raised on the night will be donated to the Kitchen.

Businesses, government agencies, community groups and resident are all invited to come along and support this wonderful charity.

“Let’s do our part to ensure that there is always assistance and a safe place where those in need can come, free from judgement. I’d love to see you on Friday, 21 June,” Cr Carney said.

A Galabid page is now live for monetary donations (https://app. galabid.com/penrithfundraiser/items) where guests can bid on various items ahead of the silent auction on the night.

To find out more, visit penrith.city/mayoralcharity. Tickets can be purchased directly via the TryBooking page (https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1194275?embed) for the Penrith 2024 Mayoral Charity Fundraiser.

r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

Submit your Community Notice on/by 10th of the month, to be included in the following edition. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations. E: info@districtgazette.com.au

Community Groups

Lions Club of Emu Plains Inc

Meets 3rd Thursday of the month from 6.30pm at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay). More Details: Cheryl Devine 0417 234 295.

Hobbies + Interests

Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)

Meets on the 4th Friday of the month in Melrose Hall (169 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains) from 7.30 p.m. More Details: 0493 547 794.

Square Dancer Classes

Glenbrook Public School Hall and Surveyors Creek Community Ctre, Glenmore Park. First Lesson is FREE! Square dancing is an art and sport combined into one. Groups of eight with a caller providing all the instructions. No experience is required. Good exercise both physically and mentally. Meet a whole new network of friends! Wear comfortable shoes. No partner required, come alone, as a couple or bring the whole family. All ages are welcome! Inquiries 0411 456 208

Markets

Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club Markets

Held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm. Glenbrook Infants School (10 Ross Street, Glenbrook). More Details: https://www.facebook.com/ glenbrookrotarymarkets

Support + Wellbeing

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.30p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on 1300 13 38 78.

Penrith Womens Walk and Talk

Meets 5pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ Penrithwomenswalkandtalk

Penrith Mens Walk and Talk

Meets 5pm every Thursday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ PenrithMensWalkAndTalk/

Building Community Through

Founded by local Cameron Faico, the Faico & Co Run Club River Run is more than just a regular running club— it's a commitment to community wellbeing.

The club's inaugural meeting took place on May 1st, coinciding with the launch of Faico's new business venture,

Faico & Co Real Estate.

Cameron's motivation behind starting the club was simple yet profound. “I'm passionate about fitness and wanted to show that Faico & Co is not just a real estate agency but is genuinely interested in the wellbeing of the people that make up our local community,” he said. “I wanted to create something positive and thought that, by combining a run around our beautiful river with a nice hot cup of coffee as a reward at the end, it was a great way of bringing people together.”

The Faico & Co Run Club meets on the first Wednesday of every month at Laughin' Boy Café in Emu Plains, where participants embark on a refreshing loop around the river. Upon their return, Faico & Co treat all runners to a complimentary coffee, fostering a sense of camaraderie and reward for their efforts.

The club has been met with enthusiastic support from the local community, with 23 runners participating in the first event alone. One Point Health, a prominent healthcare provider in the area, has also expressed interest in supporting the club, underscoring its value as a community initiative.

According to Cameron, the importance of groups like the Faico & Co Run Club extends beyond just fitness. “It's great to get out and exercise with friends, as well as socialise with others. It's a great way to start your day,” he said.

Cameron extends an open invitation to anyone interested in joining the club, emphasising that the event is inclusive and suitable for all fitness levels. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself or simply enjoy a leisurely jog, the Faico & Co Run Club welcomes you.

The next Faico & Co Run Club River Run is scheduled for Wednesday, June 5th. So, lace up your running shoes, grab a friend, and join Cameron and the local community for a morning of fitness, friendship, and fun.

As your local member in the Australian Parliament, there’s nothing more important to me than representing and supporting our community.

If I can help in any way please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or my office.

 Constant work from over 40 regular commercial and residential real estate agencies.

 Business sale due to pending retirement.

 Sale of the business comes with late model cleaning equipment and van.

 Ideal 2 person operation.

 Business has plenty of upside with potential for growth.

 Training period available.

 Trading figures available for past 3 years.

 Owners open to discuss reasonable offer.

r [Top] Faico & Co Run Club River Run [Above] Members at the first Faico & Co Run Club River Run at Laughin Boy. Image: Cameron Faico. Article: Tanya Nellestein

Royal Revelry: 10 June

In Britain, the monarch’s birthday has been celebrated since 1748, during the reign of King George II. This day has been celebrated with a public holiday in Australia since the First Fleet arrived in 1788. These festivities used to be held on the actual date of the monarch’s birthday, until 1936, with the death of King George V.

The celebration of the sovereign’s birthday now varies around the Commonwealth, but is generally set around the end of May or start of June. This was to coincide with a higher probability of fine weather in the Northern Hemisphere specifically for the “trooping of the colour" ceremony, which is always an impressive display of pageantry in London – and much better viewed in sunny weather.

To any event, most Australian states (except Queensland and WA, who do things differently) celebrate the King’s Birthday on the second Monday in June, this year the tenth, with the ‘Kings Birthday Long Weekend,’ a staple for us all in the middle of Winter.

Of course, Australia has developed its own traditional celebrations of the day, not least of which is the MCG hosting of the yearly AFL game between Collingwood Magpies and the Melbourne Demons (so far 14 games to 7 to Collingwood since the tradition began in 2001, results also include a draw and a no match played due to COVID).

Australia also uses this day to award honours for meritorious, distinguished, and conspicuous service, the “King’s Birthday Honours List.” Recipients gather in Government House, where the King’s representative, the Governor-General, awards those recognised and congratulated. Last year, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), described the awards thus “Recipients have made substantial contributions and had a significant impact at the local, national, or international level. Some are volunteers, others have had a remarkable impact in professional roles – many have done both. They are all inspiring and their service is valued by us all.”

While there remains even more debate than ever after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II about the value of the monarchy, and our attitude to a republic, the history of the Commonwealth, and right now the health of the current monarch, there will be no debate about the AFL game and the long weekend in Australia.

If ever the Kings Birthday was cancelled, I am hopeful that the corresponding ‘Republic Day’ will also land on the second Monday in June, and I don’t think I’ll be alone in that.

NOTE: All Australian voters are eligible to request their very own portrait of the King from their Federal MP, although it may take some time as the Palace has yet to provide Australia with their official portrait for distribution, and an interim is being used for official purposes at the moment.

r First official portrait of the King | Image: Buckingham Palace. Article: Kate Neill

Penrith City Council Sells 16ha of Industrial Land to Boost Local Jobs

Penrith City Council has sold 158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains to Akura and its capital partners (trading as Emu Plains Developments Pty Ltd), who will deliver Council’s vision to boost local employment with an industrial subdivision on the site.

Akura will be responsible for overseeing the future development of the site. Akura is an Australian owned and operated family business with extensive experience in industrial construction and property development.

The 16.29 hectares of industrial land was purchased by Council in 2021 for a future industrial precinct to diversify local job opportunities, attract investment to Penrith and locate businesses close to home. Council’s vision for the site has remained steady with the Sydney Western City Planning Panel approving the Development Application for an industrial subdivision on the site.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the purchaser presented the most advantageous offer for Council and the community, following an independent and competitive sales process conducted by commercial real estate agents, CBRE and PRD Commercial Western Sydney.

“The sale of 158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains is a fantastic outcome which aligns with our strategic vision for the site. The development of the industrial subdivision will provide much-needed space for industrial businesses as well as generating local employment opportunities during and post construction,” Cr Carney said.

“This is a positive outcome for the community as the proceeds from the sale will be reinvested. This will allow Council to continue delivering high-quality services across the local government area as well as projects that will support current and future generations.”

“Akura are ideally placed to continue our vision for the site with those involved having a successful track record of building industrial properties across NSW and Victoria for over 45 years,” added Cr Carney.

Akura’s Development Director, Matt Jordan said, “we applaud Council for its foresight to provide industrial land for its community and we look forward to delivering the vision and helping the community grow.”

“The subdivision provides a range of lot sizes and will include turnkey warehouse and office facilities providing flexible options for occupiers and investors alike. Akura’s unique business offering provides a ‘hands on’ start to finish approach utilising our ‘in house’ precast and structural steel manufacturing, design, construction, and property teams,” said Mr Jordan.

Settlement of the property is expected to be in late June 2024.

To find out more about the site, visit: penrith.city/ oldbathurstroad

To find out more about Akura, visit akura.com.au

r Aerial map of 158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains | Image/Article: Penrith City Council

Local Choir Strikes a Chord

In a small hall in Blaxland, the Basic Pitch Community Choir is making big waves in the Blue Mountains. Founded earlier this year by Emily Pye, the choir has quickly grown to about 20 ongoing members, with more joining each week.

"Our young family moved back to the Blue Mountains last year from the Inner West," said Emily, "and being a part of a choir is a great way to make connections and build community, so it felt like the perfect thing to do after moving our lives back up the mountain."

The choir meets on Tuesday nights between 7:00pm and 8:30pm, during school term at the Sharron Burridge Hall in Blaxland. "The only pre-requisite for joining the choir is that you like singing," Emily said. "Even if you’ve only ever done it in the shower. You’ll never have to sing by yourself and there are no auditions or anything."

The choir sessions are a mix of warm-ups, group exercises, and learning songs. Emily, who directs the choir, chooses songs that are "fun and easy, sound good and are a pleasure to sing," accompanying the group on guitar or piano. "It’s a lot of fun," she added.

Those curious to experience the choir can attend a one-off free trial. There is also a casual weekly rate or a full-term subscription. Emily believes that singing in a choir is not only enjoyable, but also beneficial for health and well-being. "There is so much research that shows group singing is incredibly good for us. It’s good for our emotional, cognitive, and even physical health and wellbeing," she said. "I want to create a space where people can just enjoy the experience of singing together and build a safe little community a few hours a week where we have fun."

As for the future, Emily hopes to continue growing the choir and creating more opportunities for the community to come together through music. "For me, connecting with people and creating moments of joy together is profoundly meaningful and important," she said. "It brings community together and creates connections between people from all walks of life."

To learn more about the Basic Pitch Community Choir and how to join, visit the website at https://www.basicpitch.com.au/ r Emily Pye, director of Basic Pitch Community Choir | Image: Emily Pye. Article: Tanya Nellestein

Mayoral Charity Fundraiser

FRIDAY 21 JUNE 2024

ST MARYS LEAGUES CLUB

Time: 5:30 – 11pm

Dress: Cocktail

Ticket: $110

Enquiries: 4732 7777

events@penrith.city

PARENTS CORNER

Article Written + Submitted by: Narelle Smith

Family Practitioner

E: handsheartsandminds@gmail.com

Blog: https://handsheartsminds.wordpress.com/

Parenting is the longest shortest time isn’t it? While you are in it, it feels unrelenting. When you look on the past year, you think ‘where did that time go?’.

How can we make the best of our parenting days?

“Let me parent out of my best hopes rather than my worst fears”

Sarah Bessey

I think Sarah Bessey has something there – hope trumps fear. Focusing on the positives and hopes has a different energy to focusing on the negatives and everything that is going wrong. It can also be hard to do, because as humans our brains have a negative bias.

As Dr Rick Hanson says (https://youtu.be/jpuDyGgIeh0) …

If your child did 5 great things today, 4 neutral things, and 1 not-so-great thing, what would keep you awake at night?

Now, parents who have been doing the job for quite a while frequently know the benefits of the ‘long game’. Being consistent and persistent. Your kids are not going to learn their manners, to pick up their socks, to speak kindly, to manage their emotions, and to share, any time soon, no matter how quickly you insist they do. Getting frustrated with them just leads to a cycle of frustration – parent gets frustrated, child returns frustration, parent gets more frustrated, and so it goes.

This is what I have noticed about parents (and humans in general) - when they focus on the positives, if they try it once, and the child does not respond, they say ‘it didn’t work’. But when they focus on the negatives, and the child does not respond in the desired way, they keep using it.

Parenting is like a dripping tap. Saying the same thing over and over again with very little emotion. Dr Becky Bailey in the USA says that you generally need to say something 2000 times before the kids will get it.

What is less stressful? Parenting with hope in our hearts and a generous amount of humour? Or parenting out of fear, worry, anxiety, anger, and frustration? How do you want to look back on your parenting days when your eldest is 18 years of age and heading out into the world? (By the way, they don’t have to be complete humans at the age of 18, their brains are still developing into their mid-twenties).

r Image: www.pixabay.com

• Catering for 2-3 year old Children

• Situated in Quiet and Safe Street

• Preschool and School Readiness Specialty Program

• Qualified Early Childhood Sta

• Operational Hours 8am till 5pm Monday till Friday

• Large Outdoor Play Area

Uniting Receives Green Light for Edinglassie Village Redevelopment in Emu Plains

A $99 million seniors’ independent living village in Emu Plains has received Development Approval for the second stage of its site redevelopment, delivering new, high quality independent and retirement living homes, responding to the needs of older people in the Nepean and lower Blue Mountains area.

The redevelopment of Uniting’s Edinglassie Village will deliver 147 independent living apartments, with 43 apartments (29 per cent) available as affordable housing for seniors. The development builds upon the success of the residential aged care home completed in 2021, which won the 2022 UDIA NSW Award for Excellence in the Residential Aged Care category. Together, the homes offer a continuum of care to residents as their needs evolve, including Assisted Living options, which offer in-home support such as cleaning and personal care.

Residents of Edinglassie Village will benefit from an array of on-site amenities that formed part of stage one, including a multi-purpose space, café, hairdressing salon, chapel, and consulting rooms for visiting medical and allied health professionals. Stage two will see the addition of a new clubroom for resident events and activities to help strengthen social connections within the village community.

The existing Uniting Edinglassie retirement and independent living village was opened in the early 1970s and is now in need of redevelopment to provide higher quality housing and a diverse range of contemporary independent living options to meet the needs of Australia’s ageing population.

With Australians living longer, healthier lives, demand is growing for more seniors and affordable housing. According to Penrith City Council’s Demographic Analysis Reports: Older Population, 13 per cent of the population is aged over 65 years, and of those residents, their incomes are 11 per cent lower than the Greater Sydney average.

Uniting Director of Property and Housing Simon Furness said the ageing population and demographic of the area highlights the urgent need for more affordable living options for seniors.

“Uniting has been providing aged care services in the Penrith area for 50 years and we’re proud to be investing in its future through the redevelopment of Uniting Edinglassie Village,” Mr Furness said.

“Our focus is on providing homes and facilities that enhance the quality of life for older Australians so they can age in place and stay connected with their local communities. We’re committed to ensuring seniors continue to have access to quality, affordable living and services within the region and we look forward to seeing them enjoy their new homes upon completion.”

The five buildings included in the development will comprise a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments.

Uniting has partnered with Taylor Brammer, a highly experienced landscape architecture firm to ensure Uniting Edinglassie Village flows seamlessly with the environment and suburb of Emu Plains. One of the village’s stand-out features is the heritage-listed sandstone Church located on the grounds which was built in 1862. Now described as a ‘Chapel’, the Church was integrated within Edinglassie Village when the site was redeveloped as a retirement village and nursing home by the Uniting Church in 1979. Enhancements around the Chapel took place during the recent stage one redevelopment, including new landscaping and an entry driveway, to better integrate the Chapel into the site.

Construction is due to commence in early 2025, and Uniting expects the transformation will see approximately 150-200 jobs created throughout the construction period.

Ancher House Library

Penrith Regional Gallery is delighted to welcome their visitors to the new Ancher House Library.

The library is situated in Ancher House, a modernist home designed by Sydney Ancher in collaboration with interior designer and artist Margo Lewers.

The space reimagines the original design intent, repurposing the existing home into an inviting space for audiences to browse through our collection of art, design, and Australian culture publications.

Children are welcome to actively engage with art books and activities specifically designed for young people to explore their site.

Key works from their Collection are on display with a focus on those by Margo and Gerald Lewers as well as their contemporaries.

Experience this significant example of 1960s Australian Modernist housing as you read, study, collaborate or simply enjoy the unique design of the space.

The library also offers complimentary Wi-Fi and access to their extensive archive upon request. For archive access, please email them your enquiries at gallery@penrith.city

The Ancher House Library is open daily from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

This project has been generously supported and assisted by the Friends of Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest.

Please Note: They are a drop-in browsing library only, so books and other materials cannot be borrowed. Children under 12 must be always supervised by an adult.

r Ancher House Library, Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of the Lewers Bequest Collection. Image: Maja Baska. Article: Penrith Regional Gallery

Book Review your

opinion, should be a “textbook for teachers” available from the Education Department.

Instilling compassionate, careful consideration for each of her students, treating each as special and unique, with humour and imaginative methods.

If some aspect was not understood, there was the incentive to “find another way”, so each student could improve and gain recognition for their efforts.

Each episode relayed brings a smile (or a tear.) Being respectful to her students, they learned respect for others.

My family members all wish they had a teacher like that.

I read it through twice in one day, and return to odd sections at times, just for the delight to continue.

New Cancer Centre Will Make All The Difference

Emu Plains mum, Danielle Smith, whose 8 year old son lost his battle to cancer in 2018, is thrilled to be part of the community funding support driving forward the development of the new Cancer Centre for Children's & Advanced Therapeutics at The Children’s Hospital, Westmead.

On 1 May, Kids with Cancer Foundation – on which Danielle is a board member, as well major fundraiser (organising a Gold Ribbon Ball each September) – pledged a historical $10 million for the redevelopment of Levels 10 and 11 for the Oncology Treatment Centre and the inpatients unit.

The new Cancer Centre for Children at The Children's Hospital at Westmead will offer support for new cancer diagnoses, along with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplants, clinical trials, and long-term follow-up. The space will cater to both in-patients and day treatments, along with a new 24/7 virtual care service for outpatients. There will be dedicated family and parent spaces, increased room numbers and sizes, access to outdoor spaces and even facilities for parents to work from the hospital, to ensure families have the option to stay together during in-patient stays. The $10 million funding pledge from Kids with Cancer Foundation ensures this world-leading Cancer Centre can be created, including individual rooms for all children – with each equipped with a desk for parents to work or children to use, a fold out bed for a carer to stay.

Reflecting on her experience during hospital stays in Westmead with her son, William, Danielle said, “This will make all the difference”.

Kids with Cancer Foundation covered the costs of Danielle’s 8-year-old son William’s funeral when he passed. Danielle and her family were incredibly grateful for this generous act, and in William’s memory wanted to help other families going through this terrible journey. Danielle and her family have held two Gold Ribbon Balls fundraising for Kids with Cancer Foundation in September – Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and are planning a third ball in September 2024.

In 2023, the Gold Ribbon Ball raised over $40,000 dollars, and a similar figure was raised at the inaugural Gold Ribbon Ball.

Kids with Cancer Foundation operates in a way that allows 100% of tax-deductible donations to go towards funding the Foundation’s five charitable programs, including: financial assistance for families of kids with cancer; Care Packs; Wigs4Kids; funding research and supporting children’s hospitals - such as with this $10 million donation to Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation for the new Cancer Centre at The Childrens Hospital Westmead. Kids with Cancer Foundation runs three $2 lotteries each year, and these cover all the Foundations operating costs as well as contributing to the charitable programs.

r Children’s

Review by: Camilla Hubbard

New Bin Buddies Program

Sometimes, getting help with the little things can make a big difference in someone’s life. Being able to put our bins out is something many of us take for granted, but for a lot of people this can be a difficult, or even impossible task.

Belong Blue Mountains Community and Neighbourhood Services have recently launched a new ‘Bin Buddies’ program to help people 65 years or over who may have reduced mobility or need support with daily tasks and have trouble moving their bins for garbage collection each week.

Bin Buddies is a pilot program that matches volunteers with people in their area who need help with their bins. It is a free service for people 65 years and over who live in the Blue Mountains. There are no eligibility criteria for participants, but

HEALTH MATTERS

0418 166 269

the service is dependent on the availability of volunteers near the participants.

Although putting bins out and bringing them in is a simple concept, Belong Blue Mountains is required to meet regulatory obligations when providing any service to the public to ensure it is safe for everyone involved.

Participants are asked to complete a consent form to confirm they want to participate in the program, and volunteers are required to register with the organisation and undergo a National Police Check. The paperwork for this is organised for volunteers by Belong Blue Mountains.

The Bin Buddies pilot program will run until December across the Blue Mountains Local Government Area and has already generated a lot of interest.

Residents of the Blue Mountains LGA who would like to volunteer, or who are 65 or over and need help with their bins, can find out more about Bin Buddies and register online at www. belongbm.org.au/binbuddies or by calling program coordinator Lyn on 0492 830921 or 4872 1117, or emailing info@belongbm. org.au.

r Image/Article: Belong Blue Mountains

Diagnosed Facet Joint Disease – Not a Sentence for Eternal Back Pain

I often see facet joint arthritis on scan reports in the clinic. Research shows 15-45% of neck pain, 48% of thoracic pain and 54-67% of lower back pain can be attributed to facet joint arthritis, while pain may also be referred to areas such as the head, arms, chest wall, buttocks, and legs.

So, what are facet joints and why might arthritis cause pain? Individual vertebra are joined by two types of joints: a disc joint and two facet joints.

Facet joints take only a small amount of your bodyweight. Their main job is to guide and limit movement of spine, preventing excessive rotation and forward bending, protecting vertebrae from sheer (forward-pulling) forces. Facet joints have a good nerve supply. If they become inflamed due to degenerative changes of age-related wear-and-tear, pain can result. But which type of back-pain can such facet joints cause?

Very careful research on back pain sufferers shows that it’s impossible to ‘clinically’ determine any ‘typical pattern’ of pain referral due to facet joint arthritis. Facet joints ‘can’ be established as the source of some chronic back pain, but only via a very complex procedure called a diagnostic block. Otherwise,

it’s difficult to say whether facet-joint arthritis is the source of a person’s back pain or not. The best we can do is say ‘maybe’!

Although anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed as first line treatment when facet joint disease is suspected, radio frequency neurotomy (cutting the nerve to the joint) or a lumbar facet joint nerve block (anaesthetic injection) are currently the only medically validated treatments for true facet joint pain. Importantly, both the diagnosis and the validated treatments are complex, very invasive and not without risk.

The good news? Even when anti-inflammatory drugs have failed, many people with facet joint arthritis and back pain typically respond well to muscle elongation therapy. Specific manual therapy techniques can reduce pain and inflammation, often removing the need for ongoing medications.

If you have a problem with back pain, why not talk to Andreas at BHW on 0418 166 269.

r **Refer to: www.districtgazette.com.au for expanded version.

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness P:

FOOD 4 THOUGHT THE AUSTRALIAN ARMS HOTEL

351 High Street, Penrith

The pub is a stunning old Art Deco building, constructed in 1940, although the hotel itself has been operating since the late 1800’s.

We were pleasantly surprised with table service, which isn’t common at pubs these days.

The menu held the usual favourites – Steak, from Wagyu rump to grain fed scotch fillet, chicken parmi, steak sandwich and a few surprises, including dukka spiced eggplant and a pappardelle pasta with wild mushroom ragu and lemon scented goats’ cheese.

But then we find ourselves back on the old style menu with beer battered fish and chips, bangers and mash, and chicken schnitz. There are sliders and fish tacos, which have cemented their place in modern Australian cuisine, and the menu finishes with really good looking sides, and kids meals of nuggets, burgers, fish and chips and a pasta.

We started with the Salt and Pepper Prawns, an absolute must have for me, and the fastest way to discover the quality of the meal ahead. The dish arrived promptly with sriracha sauce on the side. The prawns were crisp and spicy and went down a treat with a cooling beverage.

Continuing with the sriracha theme, I went for a light main of the southern (fried) style chicken wrap, which was a delightful treat, with the spicy sauce, tender well cooked chicken, and crunchy lettuce contrasting with the soft flour tortilla. A few Spanish onions brought a slight sweetness and more crunch.

My dining companion Michelle was looking for a serious meal and settled on the lamb shanks. The lamb fell off the bone – she told me this after I had already witnessed it happening from across the table – and declared they were delicious, accompanied by the gravy and creamy potato mash.

A decent coffee, which didn’t disappoint, topped off the meal nicely.

The notes vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, and the menu has recently been updated.

The staff were friendly and very helpful, and I’d certainly recommend it when you’re looking for a quality old school counter lunch, with a bit of flair, down at your local. The prices are no surprise at about $18-30, kids and sides $10. Good prices for good food.

#foodie#extraordinaire#reviewer

Navigating the Pros and Cons of Pet Insurance

As our furry companions become integral members of our families, the debate over whether to invest in pet insurance or opt for a dedicated emergency fund for our pets continues to gain traction. Both options have their merits and drawbacks and requires careful consideration and analysis to be fully understood.

One of the primary advantages of pet insurance is the peace of mind it offers. Unexpected veterinary bills can be financially taxing, and pet insurance helps alleviate this stress by covering a portion of the medical expenses. This can be especially beneficial in the case of emergencies, surgeries, or chronic illnesses. Moreover, pet insurance often provides coverage for routine care, vaccinations, and preventive treatments, promoting proactive pet healthcare.

However, pet insurance comes with its share of cons. Monthly premiums can add up over time, especially for owners with multiple pets. Additionally, some policies may have restrictions on coverage, excluding certain breeds or pre-existing conditions. This raises the critical issue of pre-existing conditions, referring to health issues that exist before obtaining insurance. Many policies do not cover these conditions, making it essential for pet owners to thoroughly understand the terms of coverage.

On the other hand, many pet owners are opting to set up a special savings account for their pets to allow greater financial flexibility and control. By consistently contributing to a designated pet emergency fund, owners can tailor their savings strategy to their pet's unique needs. This approach ensures that funds are available when required, without the limitations or exclusions that may come with insurance policies. However, the downside lies in

the discipline required to consistently contribute to and maintain the fund.

Pet insurance policies often come with excess payments, similar to deductibles in human health insurance. This is the amount the policyholder must pay before the insurance coverage kicks in. While higher excess payments may result in lower monthly premiums, they can lead to substantial out-of-pocket expenses during a veterinary visit. Balancing the excess payment and monthly premium is crucial to finding a cost-effective insurance plan.

The decision to invest in pet insurance or create a dedicated emergency fund hinges on individual circumstances and preferences. Pet owners must carefully evaluate their pet's health, breed predispositions, and the financial implications of both options. Whether opting for insurance or a fund, the key lies in proactive planning to ensure the well-being of our beloved fourlegged companions.

If you require any further information regarding Pet Insurance, give the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital a call on 0247262027.

For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au, instagram @orchardhillsvethospitalgrooms or call 02 4736 2027

Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm | Saturdays: 8am - 2pm

Services provided include:

• General Surgery (desexing to orthopedics)

• Vaccinations and in-house pathology

• Radiology and Dentistry

• Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer

• Puppy preschool

• Grooming and hydrobath

• Home visits

• Cat boarding and Kitten adoption

• Secure off leash dog park

Local Over 55’s Group Thrives

The Over 55’s Community Connection Group, a vibrant gathering that has been meeting for about 18 months, continues to flourish at the Christian Community Centre in Emu Plains. The group convenes once a month on Fridays, from 10:00am to 12 noon, boasting a membership of approximately 25.

“Yes, there are even a few men who attend each meeting,” confirmed spokesperson Gillian Spray. “Everyone enjoys playing table games and having morning tea together. We have introduced a gentle chair exercise program for about 15 minutes, and this has meant even more laughter and chatter than usual.”

The group has been fortunate to welcome guest speakers, with an upcoming presentation from a Penrith Library librarian scheduled for the June meeting. The presentation will highlight the various services the library offers for older citizens, providing valuable information to the attendees.

Looking ahead, they anticipate delving into the joys of community singing with a local choir leader later in the year, further enriching their shared experiences.

The group warmly extends an invitation to all community members to join them, encouraging attendees to bring along friends for a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Their previous meeting, on Friday, May 17th, was for a luncheon held at Glenbrook Panthers. “This change was from our regular location, and it offered an excellent opportunity for our members to socialise in a different setting.”

The group will reconvene on Friday, June 14th, back at the Christian Community Centre, for the guest speaker presentation from the Library.

Those interested in seeking further information about the group are encouraged to contact Susan on 0409 391495, Gillian on 0403 821973 or Marion on 0429 492075. r Members of the group together last year | Image Supplied by Emu Plains Over 55’s. Article: Tanya Nellestein

FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN

Article Written + Submitted by: Senior Minister Roger Cunningham P: 4735 1001 E: roger@epac.org.au W: www.epac.org.au

Service Times: Sundays @ 8:00am, 9:45am and 6:30pm

Plus activities for adults and young people throughout the week

It was not very many years ago the headlines read ‘Kangaroo seen on Sydney Harbour Bridge.’ I remember thinking, ‘what are we going to do now?’. After years of telling Americans that kangaroos do not roam the streets in Australia, we have one on the Harbour Bridge! It would have confirmed everything they ever thought they knew - and it was almost true. It was a wallaby, but that is not so exciting in a headline.

An event that people can see can challenge our expectations. It may not have been seen by us, but somebody did, and passed on the news. It can even have happened years ago. But even if it never happened before, you still have to take notice of the time that it did. Have you ever seen a kangaroo on the Harbour Bridge?

Jesus’ life and words certainly challenged people’s expectations. Many explanations have been given, and opinions shaped. You would be forgiven for thinking, from many of these explanations, that he is the creation of a lively imagination, or an ancient figure who has lost his relevance.

But when you read the Bible and hear the reports of those who met Jesus, you may just remember the story of the kangaroo on the Harbour Bridge. You thought it was impossible, or made up, but then discover Jesus is not only real, but he has a crucial place in your life.

Jesus’ followers still believe and love that. They trust other extraordinary things too, like Jesus’ death was a victory over death, and He rose again from the dead, and God loves us and will raise us from death even though we experience suffering in this life. In a time when you would not expect a kangaroo to cross the Harbour Bridge, you might just find Jesus challenges and changes everything you expected about him as well.

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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency Services

(Police, Ambulance, Fire) 000

Penrith Police Station 4721 9444

Police Assistance Line 131 444

Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114 WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946

NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS State Emergency Service 132 500 Churches

Anglican Church St Paul’s, Emu Plains 47351001

Baptist Church Emu Plains Community 4735 1050

Catholic Church Our Lady of the Way, Emu Plains 4735 1041

Uniting Church 7 Green Street, Glenbrook 4739 6295

Blaxland Presbyterian 15a Wilson Way, Blaxland 0491 174 725

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 0438 006 290

Spiritual Church 0439 453 430 Elevation Church Penrith 4722 8489

Community Groups

Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)

547 794

Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 457 594

Girl Guides Glenbrook 4739 6087

Lions Club Emu Plains 4735 5120

Nepean

As I sit here with pen to paper, the bitter cold night air has set in; as we swiftly approach the middle of the year, and Winter slides on in.

I love the crisp morning air, and the wonderful array of soups and stews that grace my dinner table throughout the season.

As usual there’s a wealth of information within these pages across a broad range of topics including, faith, children, pets, and health from our dedicated columnists.

A shout out to our long-standing and newest advertisers found within these pages, they’re responsible for allowing us to continually land in letterboxes. Let them know, you found them in the ‘Gazette’ when you purchase or use their services!

Plenty to read and lots to do in this edition. Why not get warm, enjoy a hot cuppa and have the kids try their hand at our ‘Jazzy June’ Puzzles.

Enjoy your Community News! Be thankful for today, you only see it once.

Belinda

Clubs

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