With a strong focus on lifelong education, early infrastructure and amenities, we deliver walkable neighbourhoods with a diverse housing mix. Oran Park is located in the centre of the Camden LGA –approximately 15 minutes from the new Western Sydney Airport.
• Limited land is available, starting from $655,500
• Variety of lot sizes, starting from 375m2
• All land is registered and ready to build on
• Many lots are in close proximity to the Town Centre
Oran Park is a nationally recognised, masterplanned community that delivers sustainable living.
Nepean River Sparkles at Real Festival 2024
Penrith City Council is thrilled to announce that the Real Festival 2024, held on September 20 and 21 at Tench Reserve, drew 45,000 attendees over the two days.
With great weather, the stunning backdrop of the Nepean River and a jam-packed program, it’s no surprise that festivalgoers flocked to Penrith to enjoy this year’s festivities. The grounds were alive with excitement and creativity as families and friends indulged in the food offerings, immersed themselves in a wonderland of sound and colour, shopped from local markets and tried their hand at a host of workshops.
Penrith City Council General Manager Andrew Moore praised the event’s success.
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Council staff, volunteers, and every member of our community who contributed to making this year’s Real Festival a resounding success. Your dedication and support have made a significant impact,” Mr Moore said.
“The success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the support of our wonderful sponsors, and I would like to thank Busways, Blue Mountains Gazette, Western Sydney International Airport and the Western Weekender who helped make this Festival a reality,” he said.
“Real Festival is an important annual event in Council’s calendar, as it provides family friendly activities for residents and visitors of the LGA, for free. We look forward to building on this year’s success in next year’s edition,” Mr Moore said. Keep up to date with the 2025 dates via the Real Festival social pages: Facebook.com/realfestivalpenrith and Instagram.com/ realfestival
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
Hobbies + Interests
Penrith Physical Culture Club
Great meets at Glenmore Park Youth and Community Centre and Nangamay Public School on Monday and Tuesday nights and Caroline Chisholm High School Dance Studio on Tuesday nights. More details: penrithphysie@outlook.com
“Taste of Everything” Group for Women
Learn something new each week, meet new people, and have a laugh. Meets every Thursday from 9.30am-12.30pm at Floribunda Community Centre (3-4 Floribunda Ave, Glenmore Park). More Details: Martha 0414 557 062
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
Luddenham Country Markets
Held fortnightly on Sundays from 19th March, 9:00am till 1:00pm at Luddenham Showground (Park Road, Luddenham). More details: Search Luddenham Country Market on Facebook
Penrith Producers
Held on Friday 23rd June, Friday 29th September and Friday 1st December from 5:00pm to 9:00pm at Triangle Park (565-567 High Street, Penrith). More details: https://www.visitpenrith. com.au/www.penrith.city/events
Support + Wellbeing
Prostate Cancer Support Group
Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.45p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 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/
New Return and Earn Machine Makes it Easy to ‘Return and Earn’ in
Glenmore Park
Glenmore Park residents have a new location to recycle their eligible bottles and cans, with a brand new Return and Earn machine now open at HomeCo. Glenmore Park Town Centre.
The new machine is the 19th return point in the Penrith local government area, making it even easier for the community to redeem their eligible bottles and cans to receive the 10 cent refund.
“Penrith residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 422 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points since the scheme began.” said James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, network operator for Return and Earn.
Local recyclers can print a voucher for the refund amount, which can be redeemed for cash at Coles, or they can opt for an e-voucher or payment directly into their bank or PayPal account using the Return and Earn app.
Locals can also choose to donate their refund to one of over 300 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app or the current state-wide donation appeal for Little Wings. The charity provides free air and ground transport for seriously ill children from regional and remote areas across NSW to access life-saving medical treatments.
Return and Earn has become a key fundraising channel for many charities and community groups in NSW. More than $62 million has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme launched in 2017.
Return and Earn recently celebrated the milestone of 12 billion drink containers returned for recycling across its network of more than 630 return points in NSW, resulting in more than $1.2 billion in refunds to the community.
“I encourage everyone to make Return and Earn a part of your regular recycling routine. Together we can all contribute to a more sustainable future, where the materials that our bottles, cans and cartons are made of are kept in use and out of landfill.
“Not only does it help the environment, but it gives people a great chance to get a bit of extra cash in their pockets.” said Mr. Dorney.
The HomeCo. Glenmore Park Return and Earn machine is located in the car park at 1 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park and will be open daily from 8:00am to 7:00pm.
For more information on Return and Earn, visit: www.returnandearn.org.au.
r Now open | Image/Article: Exchange for Change/Return and Earn
2026 Scholarships at St Paul's Grammar School
St Paul’s Grammar School offers a limited number of scholarships for students entering Years 5, 7, 9, and 11 in 2026, fostering academic excellence and potential across the curriculum.
Are offered to students with significant ability in areas such as academic, performing arts, community service, sport, and leadership.
Scholarships Are offered to students on the basis of their ACER exam results and at the Principal’s discretion. All applicants must sit for the scholarship test in February.
Are offered to students of exceptional achievement in music, dance or drama as well as a commitment to pursuing excellence in other academic studies.
Congregational Scholarships
Are offered to students with a developing understanding of the Christian faith and who are actively involved in a Christian Church.
Are offered to students who are able to demonstrate a commitment to learning and cocurricular pursuits. Applications must include a summary of the financial circumstances of the family. Performing Arts Scholarships
p. 02 4777 4888 e. enrol@stpauls.nsw.edu.au
Redbacks Prepare to Bite
Glenmore Park Cricket Club players have taken to the pitch for the start of the 2024/2025 season, which promises to be one of their biggest and best yet.
The annual Redbacks Cup was a huge success, pitting the Wanderers against the Originals in the preseason intraclub match.
“With a wide cast of playing abilities, everybody stood up to the challenge of playing against cricketers from different grades. It was an amazing effort from all the participants that saw a fantastic day with loads of smiles and laughs” said Luke Phillips, President of Glenmore Park Cricket Club.
“The Wanderers were crowned champions for another season. The match saw Sean Junge taking 4/20 off his overs and scoring 11 with the bat. Samuel Phillips, in his second season of the Originals, took 1/20 with the ball and scored the highest score of the day with 38 off the bat” he added.
This year, the local club will field 5 Senior teams, with 75 players. They also have 11 Junior teams, which consist of 102 players.
“There were many returning as well as a great number of new players. This was not only to our club, but to the game of cricket, which we love to see.
“It is always an amazing sight to see how many junior players are keen to start or continue their cricketing careers. We enjoy watching it grow. This season has already started off well for the club, in terms of individual accolades” explained Luke.
Joshua Bradley, Secretary of Glenmore Park Cricket Club, echoed Luke’s sentiments.
“Our juniors have had mixed results, with a few teams having wins and others searching for their first win of the season. Our seniors had a difficult start to the season, with 1 of 5 teams sealing a win. Amongst these games, there were a few individuals making some great feats including a couple of 5 wicket hauls and a few 50’s” Joshua said to the Glenmore Gazette.
With teams finalised, the club still has some vacancies in the Under 11’s and Under 16’s.
“Over the rest of the season, we will be holding multiple events such as Pink Stumps Day and our Stick Wicket Competition. There are exciting times ahead” ended Joshua.
r An exciting season ahead | Image Supplied by Glenmore Park Cricket Club
Article Written + Submitted by: Minister Steve Gooch
P: 4733 1635 A: 16 William Howell Drive, Glenmore Park
W: www.gracewest.church Service Times: Sundays @ 8.30am, 10.30am and 6pm. Plus activities for adults + young people right throughout the week.
Well done to the Panthers in NRL, Roosters in NRLW, Lions in AFL and the list of winners goes on. Winning isn’t everything, so people say, but no one likes losing. So, if you did lose, my thoughts are with you, and I hope that next year you will come back even stronger.
Losing isn’t fun but it has benefits. Lessons are learned, and determination is grown. Losing develops character, proves our sportsmanship, and toughens our spirit. Both winning and losing therefore have benefits. The biggest arena in which we need to win is life itself, that complex set of relationships which fill our days and drive us forward. I’m talking about the impact we have on friends and family. And the influence for good we have in the workplace, and the opportunity to shape our children. How do we succeed in those fields? By joining the winning side, whose captain is Christ. Christ triumphed over death, conquered sin, defeated Satan and promised victory over sickness. Christians have a living hope through his resurrection from the dead. Why not turn to him and trust in him and so celebrate eternal victory? Something which can never be snatched away, that wonderful hope of heaven, where sin is gone, death is defeated, enemies are vanquished. Come to Christ and be an eternal winner. You’ve got nothing to lose.
Council Welcomes Start of Construction for Mamre Road Upgrade
Penrith City Council has welcomed the start of construction on Mamre Road – an upgrade that is set to enhance job opportunities and safety.
The first stage of works on a 3.8 kilometre stretch of Mamre Road between the M4 Motorway, St Clair and Erskine Park Road, Erskine Park will see the road upgraded to a four lane divided road with a wide central median, and capacity to further expand in the future as needed.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney welcomed the upgrade saying Penrith City Council’s advocacy for improved infrastructure and safer roads is being realised.
“I am immensely pleased that our advocacy has led to this point where we are seeing the road upgraded,” said
“Mamre Road is more than just a connection between the M4 and Elizabeth Drive; it represents a critical transport corridor serving new employment areas of industrial and logistics businesses with access to the Western Sydney Airport.
“Looking ahead, we are eager for the commencement of Stage 2 and the total completion of Mamre Road extending all the way to Elizabeth Drive.
“This extended infrastructure will further cement a commitment to building better infrastructure and safer roads for everyone,” Cr Carney said.
The community is urged to be patient while construction is carried out. The successful completion of Mamre Road Stage 1 will bring long-term benefits and improved connectivity for all.
r Article: Penrith City Council
FAITH – GRACE WEST ANGLICAN CHURCH
E2 Physio & Pilates, led by owner and physiotherapist Megan Gaudry-Weir, offers a range of specialised Pilates classes designed to support fitness, recovery, and wellness. Held every Monday morning at the Floribunda Community Centre in Glenmore Park, these classes cater to all fitness levels, with a particular focus on pre- and post-natal care.
“Our classes are about more than just fitness,” says Megan. “They’re designed to help participants move safely and effectively, with a focus on core strength, stability, and flexibility.” With nine years of experience as a physiotherapist and a background in exercise physiology, Megan ensures that every class is personalised to meet the individual needs of participants.
The popular Bump & Balance class offers expectant mothers a safe and supportive way to build strength, improve posture, and prepare for delivery. For new mums, the Post-Partum Strong class provides the perfect environment to rebuild core strength and pelvic floor health. “In our Post-Partum Strong class, mums are welcome to bring their babies along,” Megan adds. “You can even bring a play mat or toys to keep your little one close while you enjoy your workout.”
Each 45-minute session begins with a warm-up, followed by targeted exercises and a cool-down to ensure a balanced workout. E2 Physio & Pilates offers flexible pricing options, starting at $23 per class, with health fund rebates available. Megan explains, “We have a range of class packs, including Jump In/Jump Out options, as well as our Thrive Membership, so participants can choose what suits their lifestyle best.”
Beyond pre- and post-natal care, E2 Physio & Pilates plans to introduce a Core Start-Up class at the Floribunda Community Centre soon. “This class will be perfect for people at different fitness levels who want to build strength and stability,” says Megan.
With a passion for creating a welcoming and supportive environment, Megan invites the community to try their first class for just $10. “Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to stay fit during pregnancy or postpartum, we have classes designed to meet your needs. We’d love to welcome you to experience the benefits of physiotherapist-led Pilates.”
For more information, visit the Floribunda Community Centre on Monday mornings or contact E2 Physio & Pilates to reserve your spot at www.e2physiopilates.com.au.
r [Top] Room set up for the Post-Partum Strong Pilates class at Floribunda Community Centre [Inset] Owner and Physiotherapist Megan Gaudry-Weir | Images: Megan Gaudry-Weir. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Glenmore Park Light Up the Basketball Court
As the weather warms up and we begin to change seasons, so do sports seasons. The Penrith District Basketball Association (PDBA) Summer season is upon us, with the whistles blowing loudly to signal a new competition commencing.
Glenmore Park Basketball Club continues to go from strength to strength this season, with around 200 players registering to play for the 2024/25 Summer Competition. From the club’s newest Under 10’s through to the Under 18’s, they now have 29 teams on the court.
“All teams are now full, and we have had a great response from our volunteers with coaches and managers for each team” said Kathleen Burke, President of Glenmore Park Basketball Club.
The goal of the club is always to have kids on the court having fun playing basketball, and the Winter season was no exception. Lots of smiling faces, improved skill and friendships were made.
According to Kathleen, the club also had grand final success in the Winter season, with the Under 10 Boys and two Under 18 Boys teams winning their respective competitions.
They are looking forward to the Summer season ahead.
“This season, we have had several of our older players move into coaching roles with the club. We are excited to see the kids develop under them, as well as the young coaches develop their leadership skills” she stated.
The club’s annual presentation day will be held on Sunday 17th November, with all current players invited to enjoy the fun and celebrations.
Follow Glenmore Park Basketball Club on their socials, both Facebook and Instagram, for regular updates and information.
Peaches, Nectarines
r Glenmore Park Basketball Club Under 16 Boys Raptors team | Image: Glenmore Park Basketball Club. Article: Julie Lobel
The Moustache is Calling
Twenty-one years ago, a bristly idea was born in Melbourne Australia, igniting a movement that would transcend borders and change the face of men’s health forever. The movement, known as Movember, united people from all walks of life –sparking billions of important conversations, raising vital funds, and shattering the silence surrounding men’s health issues.
Since 2003, this trailblazing charity has challenged the status quo, shaken up men’s health research, and transformed the way that health services reach and support men. Thanks to their global network of supporters, they have raised over AUD 1.5 billion for men’s health. These critical funds have powered more than 1,300 men’s health projects worldwide, from pioneering biomedical research to developing some of the largest prostate cancer registries globally. Since taking on mental health and suicide prevention in 2006, Movember has advocated for the early recognition of mental health issues and improved clinician responses to men in distress. By fostering better social connections and educating men and their supporters, Movember hopes to ensure that more men know how to act when mental health challenges arise.
Movember is committed to advancing new research, cuttingedge treatments, and healthy behaviours, and advocating for inclusive, gender-responsive healthcare that caters to the unique needs of men, women, and gender-diverse individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. In doing so, they hope to forge a future where barriers to healthy living are overcome, stigmas are removed, and where everyone has an equal opportunity to live a long, healthy life. By improving men’s health, we can have a profoundly positive impact on women, families, and society.
At Movember, they’re driven by a bold mission: to change the face of men’s health. But that mission isn't ours to tackle alone. To truly make a difference, they need to unite their global community of supporters. Growing a moustache is the original Movember method. Start with a shave down, then let your Mo take care of the rest. You can also Move for Movember, running or walking 60km over the month. Each kilometre is for the 60 men lost to suicide globally every hour or Mo Your Own way and make your own rules.
This Movember, the moustache is calling once more. Come Together. Grow Together. Become one with the Moustache. Donate now at Movember.com or via the Movember app.
r Unite to take on men’s health | Image/Article: Movember
A Day of Remembrance: Honouring the Brave at Memory Park
As the nation halts for a minute of silence at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, Australians from all walks of life will recognise and honour the profound sacrifices made by our armed forces throughout history.
At 11:00am on November 11, 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was renamed Remembrance Day after World War 2 to commemorate those who laid down their lives in both global conflicts.
Anthony Eddie, Vice President of the Penrith RSL sub-Branch, perfectly captured the emotion underlying this solemn ceremony. “Remembrance Day to me is a time to reflect on the many sailors, soldiers, and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice and died fighting to protect this great nation of ours. It’s a time to reflect on the hundreds of thousands of men and women who emerged from conflict injured, both physically and mentally. It is a time to remember those that suffered in silence for a lifetime afterwards or endured contempt for their committed service. It is also a time to remember the family members, friends and community members who supported those brave Veterans through thick and thin, whilst they were away and when they game back, Eddie stated.
“Remembrance Day is a day to reflect upon the sacrifices of many so all can understand, to educate those that might not be familiar and to improve how we treat our Veterans in the future. It’s an opportunity to re-visit history, to commemorate the memories of loss and hardship, mateship during impossible times and to learn from our mistakes, said Eddie. “Veterans were not always treated well upon their return to Australia, and we must do better as a society in the future”.
This year, the Remembrance Day service will be held at Memory Park, in Penrith. Attendees are encouraged to arrive by 10:30 am, with the service commencing at around 10:40am. The service will conclude just after 11:00am, followed by a morning tea and refreshments hosted by the sub-Branch for Veterans, comrades and their families at the Penrith RSL Club.
The Penrith RSL sub-Branch and Auxiliaries Team are dedicated to serving veterans and their families with initiatives like Guitars for Vets, the 4WD Club, the Penrith RSL Pipes and Drums and the newly founded Yarramundi Veterans Shed. The sub-Branch plays an instrumental role in keeping the spirit of service alive in our community. “We have a little over 480 veteran sub-Branch members with consistent and energetic growth, Eddie said proudly.
Amidst the formalities and ceremonies, the underlying message of gratitude and honour is clear. And as we stand in silence, honouring the brave souls who fought for our freedoms, we are reminded of the importance of unity, peace, and gratitude.
We will remember them. Lest we forget.
Glenmore Park Markets are Back!
The Glenmore Park Markets are back, bringing handmade goods, artisan crafts, and delicious treats to the local community. Held on the last Saturday of each month at the Glenmore Park Community Hall on Town Terrace, the markets offer a welcoming space for locals to connect, shop, and enjoy family-friendly activities.
Market organiser Monique Annetts says the decision to relaunch the markets was inspired by Glenmore Park’s strong sense of community. “There is a great family community population here, and with Springtime upon us, it was the perfect opportunity to relaunch our foundation market,” she explained.
The markets feature a wide variety of stalls, including handmade crafts, baked goods, artisan products, and interactive activities such as plaster painting, making it a fun outing for all ages. “We wanted to create a space where people can shop for unique items and enjoy time with family and friends,” Monique adds.
This year, locals can also look forward to the Christmas Markets, which will extend into the hall and part of the car park at HomeCo Glenmore Park, spreading festive cheer throughout the community.
“Markets like these provide positive outcomes for the community,” Monique shares. “They not only support local makers and small businesses but also offer a space for people to connect and create lasting relationships.”
For updates and more information about the Glenmore Park Markets, including upcoming events and Christmas market details, visit their Facebook page at www. facebook.com/AMAMarkets.
Whether you’re looking to find unique gifts or simply enjoy a morning out with family and friends, the Glenmore Park Markets are a great way to support local talent and strengthen community ties.
r Feature Article [Cover + Above] Some of the exciting items you’ll find at Glenmore Park Markets. Image: Found & Captured/Supplied by AMA Event Management. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Penrith Garage Sale Trail
Clear out and cash in over two big weekends as over 400,000 Australians host a sale or shop the train as part of the nation’s biggest second-hand treasure hunt.
Thanks to the support of Penrith City Council, it’s free to register to sell and shop at the Penrith regional event on Saturday 9 November.
Sellers hosting a garage sale on the trail make an average of $457, proving preloved is both planet and pocket friendly. And with free registration, how-to guides and promotional resources, its garage sales made easy.
For shoppers, there’s a bargain for everyone. From the everyday essentials you need to the pre-loved gems you want, over 3 million items are going up for sale.
Find out more and register at https://www.garagesaletrail.com.au/sale/penrithsbiggest-garage-sale-trail
Date: 09 November 2024
Time: 08:00 AM- 01:00 PM
Location: The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington NSW 2747
Penrith City Mayor and Deputy Mayor Elected
Penrith Councillor Todd Carney has been elected unopposed as Mayor of the City for a second consecutive term at last month’s Ordinary Meeting of Council, with Councillor Ross Fowler OAM elected as Deputy Mayor.
Cr Carney will serve as Mayor for the next two years, with Deputy Mayor Cr Fowler OAM elected for a one-year term.
“I’m honoured and excited to continue to serve as Mayor, especially at this transformative period for Penrith,” Cr Carney said.
Born and raised in Western Sydney, Cr Carney was first elected to Council in 2016. He was previously the national service manager for a global crane manufacturer. Cr Carney started an apprenticeship at the age of 16 and worked as a heavy vehicle mechanic for 12 years. He was also an electorate officer in the Office of David Bradbury MP for six years, where he advocated for Western Sydney.
Cr Ross Fowler OAM is serving his eighth consecutive term on Council after being first elected in 1991. He served as Mayor in 1995–1996, 2013, 2014 and 2018–2020, and Deputy Mayor in 2015.
The Mayor said that he is looking forward to working closely the Deputy Mayor and the new Council as they hit the ground running.
“We will be working collaboratively to ensure that Council works together for the benefit of everyone in Penrith.”
r Deputy Mayor Cr Ross Fowler OAM and Penrith Mayor Cr Todd Carney | Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Nice November KID’S CORNER
Book Review your
Capote's novel, Breakfast at Tiffany's, defined Audrey Hepburn's career and inaugurated an expression of independent womanhood that defined the 1960s and beyond.
I wasn’t aware that the studio went to incredible lengths to cast Hepburn (who, until then, had always played morally upright "good" girls) as Golightly, and pitched it as a romantic comedy rather than as a faithful adaptation of Capote’s transgressive tale to get the film through Hollywood censorship.
I was surprised to discover that Hepburn despised Danishes and tried to negotiate that Holly be enjoying an ice cream cone in the opening scene instead (a suggestion which was knocked back "because ice cream is not a breakfast food"). I also learned that there were two Givenchy dresses: one made for standing and the other for walking. The dress on the film poster is neither, the risqué leg split being added solely for sex appeal.
Overall, it was Hepburn's portrayal of Golightly, specifically Hepburn's good-girl typecast and the screenwriting that downplayed Golightly's transgressive sexuality, which inspired women that matrimony and financial dependence on men were no longer their only options in life. This cultural liberation fed into the second-wave feminist movements that gathered momentum and from which we trace many of the equalities we enjoy today.
This is an easy and entertaining read. Wasson's writing reflects his skilful storytelling, rigorous research process, and a precision with language that places him among Gay Talese, Pico Iyer and other masters of creative nonfiction.
If you love the dreamy monochrome NYC film aesthetic, Audrey Hepburn, her iconic Givenchy LBD, the Hollywood star system, or exploring the rise of feminism in popular culture, this book is for you!
r Book Review by:
Chloé Steward
Based in Western Sydney, Specialized Carports & Awnings is a family owned and operated business specialising in high-quality home improvement additions and structures.
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Back Inflammation – Many People Have It But How Does It Occur?
Many clinic patients present with back inflammation & pain. Often, they’re taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Examples include:
• ibuprofen - Nurofen
• diclofenac –Voltaren
• naproxen –Naprosyn
• celecoxib – Celebrex
These drugs will alleviate back inflammation/pain in the short term (a few days) but seem to be ineffective longer-term. Indeed, long-term intake may produce negative effects.
How inflammation causes pain
Inflammation is an intricate protective mechanism, the body’s response to tissue damage from physical / chemical trauma or infection. It has distinct stages.
At the microscopic level:
1. a physical or chemical trauma, or microbe damages local tissues and cells.
2. damaged cells secrete chemical mediators to notify surrounding cells there’s a problem.
3. surrounding immune, nerve & tissue cells pick up this signal then release additional chemicals to:
a. bring extra immune cells from the blood and lymphatic vessels
b. stimulate bone marrow to make & release new immune cells
c. hypersensitize local nerve cells to heighten pain
4. immune cells home in on the damaged area, releasing:
a. more chemicals of alarm plus,
b. peroxide, and free radicals to kill any microbes,
c. enzymes to digest damaged tissue & dead microbes
d. antibodies to clean-up dead microbes, body-cells, and tissue fragments
Some of the chemical mediators released by cells after damage include:
a. Histamine
b. Bradykinin & CGRP peptides
c. Cytokines (protein hormones produced by tissues & immune system – e.g. Interleukin-1β & TNFα, substance-P (for pain),
d. Oxygen and nitrogen free radicals, peroxide,
e. Leukotrienes & prostaglandins (fish-oil based hormones)
f. Metalloproteinase enzymes
Note: NSAID’s can only modulate production of fish oil-based “Prostaglandins & Leukotrienes”, but none of the others.
In response to release of the above chemical mediators:
1. Local blood vessels:
a. widen, increasing blood flow & warming the damaged area
b. become leaky increasing fluid flow from blood vessels into tissues
2. Stimulate local pain receptors increasing pain
One reason people have chronic back pain is that chemical mediators of inflammation released acutely after injury have never been cleared from the local tissue. A key goal of muscle elongation therapy as practiced at the clinic is to ‘physically’ reduce the inflammatory chemicals remaining in tissue after injury. This helps de-inflame the tissue, reducing/eliminating accompanying pain, and requirement for medication.
Shaheen Aumeer-Donovan (Practice Manager) & Philip Aumeer-Donovan (Clinical Manager and Podiatrist)
Lower Limb Injuries Part 2
Treating Acute Injuries*
The acute phase of an injury occurs from immediately after the injury and continues for around 2 to 4 days (up to 7 days for severe injuries). During this time, pain and swelling caused by the body’s natural injury response – inflammation - is at its worst. Inflammation’s purpose is to prevent further tissue damage by making it difficult and unpleasant to move or use the injured area.
During the acute phase, follow the RICER protocol to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and start the recovery process:
• Rest – limit weightbearing and reduce activities that involve the injured area. Crutches or a moon boot may help with this in the days or weeks following the injury.
• Ice – apply an ice pack to the injured area for 20min intervals every 2-3 hours. Wrap the ice pack in a wet cloth to improve cold penetration and reduce the risk of burning the skin.
• Compression – firmly apply an elastic compression bandage over the injured area to limit swelling and provide support. Make sure it is not so tight as to cut off blood circulation and cause further damage!
• Elevation – keep the injured area elevated, above the heart if possible, to reduce blood pooling in the lower leg and keep the circulation going.
• Referral – seek further treatment by a medical professional (such as the hospital, GP, podiatrist or physiotherapist), particularly if the injury is severe, persistent, or includes symptoms such as numbness, tingling or loss of movement.
A medical professional may prescribe anti-inflammatory and/ or pain relief medication to assist. In addition to RICER, we want to avoid HARM.
• Avoid Heat – this can increase inflammation, worsening the injury.
• Avoid Alcohol – either by consuming it or applying it to the area, as it can increase bleeding and delay healing
• Avoid Running – any activity that may cause damage
• Avoid Massage – this can cause further damage to the tissue.
RICER should not be used if:
• There is an open wound or bleeding
• The area is numb or has lost feeling
• It is suspected to be worse than a simple strain or sprain
• The person has compromised circulation (such as peripheral arterial disease) as compression can exacerbate this condition.
In these instances, use the most appropriate first aid and report to the hospital as soon as possible for assessment.
r
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
Heartworm Disease in Dogs: A Growing Concern for Penrith
Heartworm disease is a serious and often fatal condition in dogs, and recent positive cases in Penrith and Quakers Hill have raised concerns for local pet owners. With the increase in mosquito activity following heavy rainfall, it’s essential to understand the risks and how to prevent this parasitic infection. What is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm that is transmitted to dogs through mosquito bites. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it picks up microscopic larvae (microfilariae), which it then passes on when biting another animal. These larvae enter the bloodstream and migrate through the organs, taking five to six months to mature into adult worms. The adult worms live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels, where they can cause severe damage to a dog’s health.
Adult heartworms can grow up to 30 cm long and live in a dog’s body for up to seven years, producing more larvae and continuing the infection cycle. In areas like Penrith, where the Nepean River creates an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, the risk of heartworm disease is particularly high.
Recognising the Signs
Heartworm disease progresses slowly, making it difficult to spot in its early stages. Initial symptoms in dogs may include a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and weight loss. As the disease advances, more severe signs such as abdominal swelling and heart failure can develop. Without treatment, heartworm disease is almost always fatal.
Diagnosis and Prevention
Pet Owners
A simple blood test at the vet can detect heartworm infection. Regular testing is especially important if your dog has missed doses of preventive medication, as some preventives can cause life-threatening reactions if adult worms are already present.
Preventing heartworm is much easier and more affordable than treating the disease. Preventive medications come in the form of tablets, chews, spot-on treatments, or injections and should be given year-round, even to indoor dogs, as mosquitoes can enter homes.
If your dog hasn’t been on consistent heartworm prevention, it’s important to have them tested before starting treatment to ensure they’re not already infected.
With rising heartworm cases in Western Sydney, staying vigilant is key. For advice on heartworm prevention, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital at 0247362027 for expert guidance.
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As we start to work our way through November, the countdown to the school holidays and festive season seems to be racing towards us at top speed. It’s no longer possible to ignore the tinsel that’s starting to twinkle in the shops or the online advertisements for every kind of advent calendar you’d like to imagine –that’s my Christmas gift suggestion to all those wanting to get it over and done before December even arrives!
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