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.
Mamre Road Upgrade Moving Ahead
Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek is pleased to report that the Mamre Road Stage 1 project is moving ahead with Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd being announced as the contractor for this stage of the major upgrade between the M4 Motorway at St Clair and Erskine Park Road, Erskine Park.
“Stage 1 will see 3.8 kilometres of Mamre Road widened to a four-lane divided road with six intersection upgrades that will ease congestion along this key transport corridor,” Mrs Davies said.
“The project will also enhance safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists with a dedicated shared pathway.”
Mr Paul Tarlinton, President of the St Clair Men’s Shed said “Not having to turn right across a busy road will make it much safer for the men attending our shed and our visitors. Tanya has supported us from the beginning and continues to support us.”
The former NSW Liberal Government committed $248 million to upgrade Mamre Rd between the M4 Motorway and Erskine Park Road. Mrs Davies said she has been a relentless advocate for this upgrade which will benefit the local community now and into the future by reducing travel times and improving road safety.
“I look forward to seeing construction on this critical project commence later this year,” added Mrs Davies.
Features of Stage 1 Include:
• A wide central median, allowing for six lanes in the future, if required
• Changes to intersections with Mamre Road including:
- An upgrade to the existing signalised intersection at Banks Drive including a new western stub for access and a U-turn facility
- A new signalised intersection at Solander Drive with a new western stub for access and a U-turn facility
- A new signalised intersection at Luddenham Road with new turning lanes
- An upgrade to the existing signalised intersection at Erskine Park Road with new turning lanes
- Modified intersection arrangements (left in, left out only) at McIntyre Avenue and Mandalong Close, St Clair
• A new shared path along the eastern side of Mamre Road, with provision for a future shared path on the western side
• Reinstatement of bus stops near Banks Drive with provision for additional bus infrastructure in the future
• Changes to property access at Mamre House, Erskine Park Rural Fire Service and other private properties
• Drainage and flooding infrastructure upgrades
• New traffic signals and relocation of existing electronic signage
• New roadside furniture and street lighting
• Noise walls along the eastern side of Mamre Road, St Clair
Additional details on the upgrade may be found at: https://www. transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/mamre-roadupgrade-between-m4-motorway-st-clair-and-erskine-park-road
r Image/Article: Tanya Davies, Member for Badgerys Creek
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 6.30p.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/
It’s a Big Deal: Dino’s Pizza Introduce
30 Inch Pizza
Local restaurant Dino’s Pizza, have some BIG news to share. The Glenmore Park icons have created something so big; it’s bound to get tongues wagging. They have created a 30 inch pizza! Yes, you heard it right, a pizza that is quite possibly the biggest you have every seen. This has even included the small business remodelling their kitchen to prepare this gigantic delight.
“With the new outdoor dining area coming close to completion, we decided that we needed to come up with something new and exciting as well as being family friendly and affordable” explained Denise Hodge of Dino’s Pizza to the Glenmore Gazette.
“It comes with a few challenges. We have had to remodify our kitchen area to be able to prepare it. We’ve also just completed developing a new 30 inch box with a local packaging supplier, so that we are now able to supply it as a takeaway option so customers can also enjoy it in their own homes” she continued.
Dino’s Pizza is able to do two flavours (half and half). Toppings can be selected from their Basic and Traditional range. It excludes the Gourmet range. Its only available from their Glenmore Park store, something for the local community.
It is available for dine in at a price of $120 and includes 2 garlic breads and 2 x 1.25 litre soft drinks. It is also available for takeaway, for $130 with 2 garlic breads and 2 x 1.25 litre soft drinks included (due to the high cost of producing the box). Bookings are essential for both dine in and takeaway.
“It will feed 10 adults, leaving them feeling quite satisfied,” said Denise.
The jury is out as to what the most popular flavour is with the 30 inch pizzas, that locals just can’t get enough of.
“Probably a combination of Pepperoni and BBQ Meat Lovers” she smiled.
So, get to Dino’s Pizza ASAP for your 30 inch pizza today. Make sure you’re hungry and bring a crowd.
Dino’s Pizza is located at Shop 16, HomeCo Glenmore Park Town Centre, Town Terrace in Glenmore Park.
For more information, visit their website www.dinospizza. com.au or find them on Facebook.
The Woodcrafter
Glenmore Park’s Steve Gault has had an amazing year with his woodcraft. The talented local tasted success after entering and exhibiting his work at this year’s Hawkesbury Show.
He began making furniture, before focusing his attention on scroll sawing. “My craft keeps me busy and its very rewarding, I don’t let my vision impairment define me” said Steve to the Glenmore Gazette.
Steve’s work has enabled him to showcase his talents through various wood crafting competitions and exhibitions.
When he entered two projects in this year’s Hawkesbury Show, through the encouragement of family and friends, Steve entered these projects in the disability category. A Labrador inlay box achieved first place, best in Show and Champion in Show.
Steve entered a Boxer Bone Plaque, with the result highly commended. He has also entered projects into the Australian Scroll Saw Network Competition. The 32nd Wood Show and Scroll Saw Exhibition in Shepparton in October is his next focus.
Some of his completed projects have included personalised names, dog breed bones, a marble game, puzzles, jewellery, light switch covers, and Christmas sled ornaments.
“My most satisfying are my inlay boxes, such as the Labrador inlay, Greyhound inlay, Lion inlay and a Kookaburra inlay, as well as Panthers figurines, and Chinese symbols” he explained.
Steve has done projects for numerous charity organisations and local businesses.
What does he enjoy most about woodcraft?
“I enjoy the challenge of tackling a particularly complicated piece. I enjoy the social aspect. I have met many friends within the various clubs. I also enjoy gifting my pieces to my friends and family and the joy it brings them” Steve smiled.
To see his projects or enquire about custom pieces on social media, search ‘Steven Gault Woodcraft’ on Facebook.
r [Top] A variety of crafts Steve has made [Above] Labrador box that was entered in the 2024 Hawkesbury Show | Images: Steve Gault. Article: Julie Lobel
r Local customers with the 30 inch pizza | Image Supplied by Dino’s Pizza. Article: Julie Lobel
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Paul Marshall
We feel lifted or energised in our souls when we do something that ‘matters’. For example, those helping at our street BBQ for disadvantaged families feel connected somehow to what they were doing for others. They feel ‘in their skin.’ Alive.
The question is how we define what ‘matters’.
We might say that earning money ‘matters’ because having a house and food to eat is important. Addressing basic needs does matter. But we can think about ‘what matters’ in a different sense, and it is on this different level that we feel lifted or energised. Think about it this way: eating a good meal can satisfy our hunger and delight our taste buds, but we wouldn’t go on to say that this makes us feel that our lives are meaningful. There is a deeper type of joy that lifts our souls and spirits.
Doing something that ‘matters’ is more about doing things that are noble in the sense that they make a difference for others. For our community, for the disadvantaged, for the world. Doing what matters is more in the zone of things that are part of the legacy of our life, the things that we are remembered for doing.
No one remembers a person for meeting their own needs. We are remembered when we serve others, doing things that improve the collective good of our family or community. We feel lifted in our souls or spirits when we do these things, because we are created by God to do them. What we are experiencing is an inner consistency with our sacred design. But when we just live for ourselves, invariably at some point we experience an inner flatness. What we are doing loses its meaning, its point, and its joy. This is why doing something that matters…matters.
It is also why the teaching of Jesus Christ centres around the call to love God and others. The Bible teaches that God is love – that he is wired in his being to make better the lives of those he has created. Food for thought in terms of our own ideas about God.
r Image: www.pixabay.com
FAITH – GRACE WEST ANGLICAN CHURCH
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.
Gold Medal Family
Now that the Olympics are over, we can reflect on them. One of the best moments for me was the tennis doubles final, won by Australia with John Peers and Matthew Ebden. It was an outstanding performance and our first tennis gold medal since ‘The Woody’s’ in 1996. After shaking hands at the net with their opponents, our pair ran over to the spectator stand where their families were sitting. Kim Ebden reached over the rail and passed her son, 15-month-old Harvey, to his father. He already had a replica gold medal hanging around his neck. Matthew took Harvey in his arms and threw him into the air. It was a classic photo opportunity: Harvey squealing with delight, gold medal flying high; dad beaming, with his arms up, ready to catch Harvey; audience cheering. In an age when many families are not what they should be, it was something special.
God’s family is also special, close knit. Not by blood-ties but by love-ties. Brought together by Christ and his love for us, demonstrated when he gave up his life for us. A lady has recently joined our church. She ‘found’ God by reading the bible and now wants to meet God’s people. She has found a close community and is starting to make friends. Why not visit your local church this Sunday and meet God’s family yourself. We would love to have you at Grace West Anglican Church, Sundays at Glenmore Park and Silverdale. Come along and meet God’s Family. It is as good as winning gold.
Davies Celebrates Completion of New School Hall Door at Regentville Public School
Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, visited Regentville Public School recently and inspected the new, single, cantilever door at the front of the school hall, which replaced 4 individual swing doors and 3 brick pillars.
This project was jointly funded by the former NSW Liberal and Nationals Government through the Community Building Partnership (CBP) Program to the amount of $60,000 and Regentville Public School P&C’s fundraising efforts.
Mrs Davies spoke with Principal Jennifer Thompson and P&C President Anthony Boros and heard about the safety behind the functioning of the door. She also got to experience the increased air circulation now available for attendees of the hall.
Mrs Davies stated, “I’m thrilled that the school community and visitors alike will be able to use this school hall with greater comfort and accessibility. I commend the school’s P&C for their contribution through fundraising.”
Principal Thompson stated, “the new door makes such a difference to our school community. Parents can now easily participate in school events in the hall. Thank you to our P&C and to Tanya Davies for making this possible.”
Mrs Davies concluded by stating, “I’ll continue working hard to ensure positive outcomes for our local community.”
r (L-R) Jennifer Thompson (Principal, Regentville Public School), Tanya Davies MP, and Anthony Boros (P&C President, Regentville Public School) | Image/Article: Tanya Davies MP
Care, Connection and Comradery: the Secret Ingredient of National Meals on Wheels Day
National Meals on Wheels Day took place last month on Wednesday 28 August, which saw thousands of volunteers serving up care, connection and camaraderie to Australians in need, a key ingredient of the iconic, essential service.
For thousands of older Australians, a delicious, nutritious meal delivered to their door by a friendly volunteer not only keeps them well-nourished and able to live independently and well in their own home but also enables them to remain socially connected.
While, for some 35,000 volunteers Australia-wide, Meals on Wheels provides a meaningful opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills and feel good about making a real and tangible difference in their local community.
Chair of Meals on Wheels™ Australia, Paul Sadler says Meals on Wheels has and always will be “more than a meal”, going deeper in combating social isolation and malnutrition - two prevalent public health issues faced by older Australians.
“The positive impact of Meals on Wheels goes beyond the delivery of the meal itself,” he says.
“The dual benefit to both customer and volunteer truly shows how Meals on Wheels has been making a difference in almost every Australian community for over 70 years.
Nepean Food Services General Manager, Ditte Kozak says National Meals on Wheels Day, which fell on the last Wednesday in August, was an opportunity to recognise the irreplaceable efforts of volunteers, who without, Meals on Wheels’ valuable work would not be possible.
“At Nepean Food Services, care, connection and camaraderie really is the secret ingredient in every meal we deliver,”, she explains.
“Our volunteers are critical to ensuring we can continue to deliver our life-changing service as cost-effectively as possible, which is particularly important given the escalating cost of living crisis.”
“Meals on Wheels’ important work would simply not be possible without them.”
“There are several volunteer opportunities available right now and we would welcome anyone who would like to join in the fun and support the health, independence and connection of more than 600 people within our community.”
Nepean Food Services recently hosted a daily morning tea service to celebrate National Meals on Wheels Day from Monday 26 August until Friday 30 August. Call 4733 7200 for more information.
r Nepean Food Services team | Image/Article: Nepean Food Services
Time out in Mulgoa Nature Reserve
As the weather begins to warm up after a long cold wet Winter, there’s inspiration everywhere to get out into nature and recharge our batteries. One of the most beautiful outdoor spaces is right on our doorstep, the Mulgoa Nature Reserve.
Created in 1994 and rambling over an area of 213ha (2.13 square kms), it’s the perfect place to shake off the winter hibernation, and spend some time in the outdoors with nature, and possibly a hiking buddy, and explore the 22km of hiking trails which are well signposted and graded for difficulty. While the National Parks provide maps for download, www.trailforks. com have more detailed maps and information.
There are a couple of trails marked “very easy”, including the aptly named “Roo Run Trail”, take your camera.
If you’d like to take the difficulty up a notch, you will find the likes of the “Road to Nowhere”, “Flatout Flats Trail” and “Mayhem Anarchy”, all of which are marked intermediate difficulty and feel just a little bit edgy.
Should you really want to suffer, we have the “Look Mum” trail, presumably hands not required, the “Wipe Out” trail, which sounds somewhat dangerous, or the ominous “What goes up must come down trail” which includes the 30m shale cliffs.
Regardless of your hiking expertise or ability to suffer, there are trails for everyone through this wonderfully picturesque bushland. If you’d like to dawdle along and take in the sights and sounds of nature, it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, a space where you can take a breath and relax.
For those of us not interested in hiking, but looking for a meander through the bushland, there are many things to see. Mulgoa Nature Reserve is an important remnant of the Cumberland Plain vegetation, a native vegetation that once dominated much of the Sydney Basin, containing a variety of native animals including the endangered land snail and a highly diverse bird community.
Birdwatching is popular in the reserve, and ebird.org has a page on the reserve, with all the details to identify any local bird. Be warned though, ‘twitching’ is addictive, and you may spend many happy hours quietly in the bushland hoping to spot a rare bird, or just watching tiny wrens flitting from bush to bush doing their daily rounds.
For the historians, within the reserve lies the ruins of Regentville, a grand regency style country property dating from the early 1800s. The foundations of the house and associated farm buildings remain.
While we are living within easy reach of the biggest city in Australia, we are fortunate to have such a wonderful remnant bushland on our doorstep, which will be protected into the future for our children and their children. So please remember the adage of bushwalkers everywhere: take nothing but photographs and leave nothing but footprints.
Ngoonungi Season (Spring)
Springtime is a special time of the year for most of us. It’s a time to get moving again after Winter, the time we start to thaw, our gardens burst with colourful bulbs like daffodils, and we have a flush of roses. Who among us hasn’t felt the need for a Spring Clean, to brighten our houses and gardens up with the optimism the season brings?
Our four seasons are taught at school, following the seasons that were established throughout Europe and the northern hemisphere, and are based on measured temperatures and rain or snow fall. But Australia is a complicated place, and those seasons, although a good guide, are not as comprehensive as our D’harawal seasons.
In Australia, ancient indigenous knowledge has given us 6 seasons, and these, albeit with different names and languages, flow right across our country. Across the Sydney basin, we live on D’harawal Country, an area that runs from Port Jackson (Sydney Harbour) to the northern shores of the Shoalhaven River, and from the eastern shores of the Wollondilly River system to the eastern seaboard.
The indigenous seasons are more than temperature and rainfall. They encompass the behaviour of the native animals, the nesting of birds, the behaviour of snakes and lizards, the insects, the fishing opportunities, the availability of building materials, the ripening of fruits, and much more.
This time, Springtime, is known as Ngoonungi, and like all the six seasons, there is no set date where Wiritjiribin (the season before) ends, and this one begins. We do not step from one, on the 31 August, into the next on the 1 September. It is a more gradual process, as we watch the cool weather beginning to warm, and the flying foxes gathering, coming in from across the north, east and west, to swirl over the Sydney area in a wonderful sky-dancing display just after sunset, before they fly to their night-time feeding grounds in the south where their favourite trees are fruiting. Another sign of the beginning of Ngoonungi are the splashes of bright red Miwwa Gawaian (Telopea speciosissima, or waratah) in the remnant bushland areas in the Sydney basin.
Some areas of Australia, and Perth springs to mind immediately, have embraced their indigenous ‘Noongar’ seasons, recognising that thousands of years of knowledge really does hold true, and the European seasons just don’t seem to fit the sandy plains and escarpments where Perth (Boorloo) sits. With climate now sitting at the centre of our quest for understanding our changing seasons, there is a lot to be gained from the ancient knowledge, we just need to learn, listen, observe, and strive to understand.
r Telopea Speciosissima, or Waratah | Image: Nathan Andrew, Pexels.
Article: Kate Neill
r Mulgoa Nature Reserve is found in Glenmore Park | Image Supplied
Angela is Making a Difference
The word “hero” conjures up so many images of people wearing costumes, with weapons and superpowers, saving the day in any given situation.
But what about the everyday heroes? The single mums and dads, the police officers putting themselves on the line day in day out, or the firemen running into or away from fires? There are so many heroes out there, doing great deeds to help others that you may not know about.
Local Angela Lambros is one of them. Making changes that help many, by bringing light to a subject or struggle and helping others along the way.
Inspired by the positive impact of the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk initiative, Angela was moved, and supported by them to create a similar support network for women in our community. Angela says, “I am grateful for the opportunity to support others through the Penrith Women’s Walk and Talk. Our aim is to provide a compassionate and inclusive environment where local women can connect, build friendships, and support each other’s physical, mental, and social wellbeing”.
Throughout her life, she has faced significant challenges and loss. Despite the hardships, she found the strength and resilience to seek support from others. Angela is proud to work in the mental health sector, witnessing firsthand the positive impact of reaching out for help.
Angela was recently honoured at the 2024 Local Celebration Awards, receiving the Making a Difference Community Service Award for her efforts in serving the community. The award ceremony took place on Thursday 25th July at St Marys Leagues Club.
“It was a humbling experience to see the incredible individuals who were also commended for their acts of kindness and service. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the anonymous person who nominated me for this award, as their gesture means a great deal to me” said Angela, who was initially nervous and a little anxious at receiving this recognition.
When discussing Penrith Women’s Walk and Talk, Angela said, “All women are welcome to join our free and supportive community for a weekly walk and talk gatherings that take place every Wednesday evening, starting and finishing at Maldini’s By the River”
“Recognising that it’s okay to not be okay, our goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for women to come together. Additionally, kind-hearted members of our community generously donate free tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for our gatherings”.
Prepare for Bush Fire Season with Get Ready Weekend 2024
The NSW Rural Fire Service is hosting its annual Get Ready Weekend over the weekend of Saturday 21 September and Sunday 22 September 2024. Local RFS Brigades are opening their doors to assist residents to review bush fire survival plans and provide information to better prepare for the upcoming bush fire season.
Brigades across the Cumberland and Macarthur areas, incorporating the local government areas of Penrith, Blacktown, Fairfield, Camden, Liverpool, and Campbelltown, will be opening their doors for residents and landholders to meet local volunteer firefighters, and offer the opportunity to discuss bush fire survival plans and also learn about the new Fire Danger Rating System which has been rolled out across NSW.
Of particular concern this season will be the heightened risk of grass fires, and it is important for landholders to ensure that land is prepared to mitigate the risk of fast-moving grass fires. Grass fires move three times faster than bush fires which makes them particularly dangerous.
Brigades will be hosting events at local Brigade stations, shopping centres, and other public areas. Information regarding what your local RFS Brigade has planned will be posted in advance of Get Ready Weekend on the NSW Rural Fire Service website.
A list of events can be found at www. rfs.nsw.gov.au.
r Feature Article [Cover] Angela Lambros | Image: Penrith City Council [Above] Penrith Women’s Walk and Talk | Images: Tracy. Article: Julie Lobel
Plant a Tree for Father’s Day
If you’re looking for something to gift Dad for Father’s Day, Penrith City Council’s annual Trees for Dad community tree planting event returns for its sixth year on Sunday 1 September at Blue Hills Wetland in Glenmore Park.
Everyone is invited to plant a tree in honour and celebration of their dad, grandfather, uncle or father figure.
The event will be divided into 30-minute sessions, with the first session starting at 8:30am and the last session at 12:00pm.
Registrations are essential to join the day and help Council’s Bushcare team to ensure they have enough trees and tags for participants to plant and write on. Register at penrith.city/ events
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said he was excited that the event was returning for its sixth year after Trees for Mum welcomed an impressive 500 participants earlier this year.
“Trees for Dad is becoming bigger and bigger every year — and it’s quickly become an important event our community looks forward to — we had an impressive turnout last year with 320 people attending,” Cr Carney said.
“Planting a tree is such a simple gesture to honour your dad, grandfather, uncle or a father figure in your life and can be a very positive and meaningful experience to share with family and friends on Father’s Day.”
“When we held our biggest Trees for Mum event on Mother’s Day this year, it was touching for the Bushcare team to hear beautiful stories from participants about why they had come to celebrate and honour their mum, and I hope that Trees for Dad continues to provide such a space to remember Dad.
“Trees for Dad is not only a great way to gift Dad something special, but it’s an opportunity to learn about our local environment and help restore our endangered bushland by planting native trees or shrubs.
“Council’s Bushcare team is looking forward to another great day planting trees and celebrating our local dads,” Cr Carney continued.
Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and a hat. Sunscreen will be available on the day.
Council’s Nursery proudly provides the native trees and shrubs available for planting on-site.
To ensure there are enough trees for everyone to plant and so Council’s Bushcare team can coordinate the 30-minute sessions, please book your attendance by registering at penrith.city/ events.
r Article: Penrith City Council | Image: www.pixabay.com
YOUR OUTDOOR AREA SPECIALIST
Based in Western Sydney, Specialized Carports & Awnings is a family owned and operated business specialising in high-quality home improvement additions and structures.
• Carports & Awnings
• Insulated Roofs
• Composite Decks
• Outdoor Enclosures
• Aluminium Privacy Slats & Gates
• Gutter Cleaning
Backed with 15 years of experience and knowledge in the construction trade, we’re here to guide you in the right direction.
All sessions will be held at Unit 1, 88 Batt Street, Jamisontown
To book your FREE spot please email us aanddinhomecare@gmail.com, or call (02) 4707 6176
Tired of Dating Apps? Discover a Fresh Alternative with Merge Dating
Are you single and feeling exhausted by the endless swiping on dating apps? Merge Dating, a new and exciting solution, is making its mark across Sydney and in Penrith, offering singles a refreshing alternative.
Merge Dating has been hosting a series of natural singles events at The Elk Bar in Penrith, specifically designed for different age groups. These events are unique because they provide a space where everyone in attendance is genuinely single and looking to meet new people in real life. It’s not about speed dating, filling out lengthy questionnaires, or adhering to a strict format—Merge Dating is all about creating a safe and organic environment where singles can connect in person.
The events offer a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging attendees to engage in meaningful conversations without the pressure often associated with more traditional dating setups. This approach provides an excellent opportunity for people to meet face-to-face, enjoy great company, and possibly find that special someone, all while avoiding the repetitive and often impersonal nature of dating apps.
Merge Dating’s upcoming events include a gathering on Thursday, September 6th, for those aged 25-35, followed by another on Thursday, September 19th, for the 35-45 age group. Additionally, there are plans to host an event for singles aged 45 and over in the near future.
For anyone tired of staying home and endlessly swiping on dating apps, Merge Dating offers a refreshing alternative. Join an event and experience the joy of meeting new people in a fun, relaxed, and genuinely organic environment.
r Image/Article: Merge Dating
• 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
Pty. Ltd.
Local School’s STEM Night a Success
Glenmore Park High School hosted its first STEM Open Night on August 7th, with the aim of showcasing and inspiring students of all ages, and community members to engage in and consider future career pathways STEM provides. The night coincided with both Education and Science Weeks. The event featured engaging, hands-on experiences, showcasing the exciting opportunities offered within STEM fields at GPHS.
The night was a collaborative effort involving staff, students, community members, and industry partners. Special guests included representatives from Western Sydney University, who set up a planetarium, and the Western Sydney Astronomical Society, offering stargazing through powerful telescopes.
Local primary schools were actively involved, with students from Surveyors Creek and Regentville Public Schools participating. Their involvement emphasized early engagement in STEM and celebrated accomplishments from the STEM Transition Program, led by Mr. Abraham Choukair.
Industry partners, organised by Mr. Nathan Fryer, played a significant role, with Sydney Science Park, CSIRO, and Sydney Metro contributing to the night’s success. The presence of Penrith Council and Regentville NSW Fire added further value. The evening featured a variety of STEM experiences for all ages, including green screen technology, virtual reality, 3D printing, electric vehicle technology, and firefighting demonstrations. The event also included a BBQ, student prizes, and more.
The success of this event was a result of the collaborative efforts of the Science, TAS, CAPA, and Mathematics faculties. Their combined expertise highlighted the importance of STEM education, evolving it into STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—acknowledging the role of the arts in fostering creativity and innovation.
“The success of Glenmore Park High School’s first STEM Night reflects the school’s commitment to a broader, more inclusive vision of education. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all special guests, staff, students, and community members who made the event a resounding success. We look forward to next year’s event, which promises to be even more exciting” said Lisette Gorick, Principal of Glenmore Park High School.
r STEM Open Night at Glenmore Park High School | Image: The School Photographer | Article: Glenmore Park High School
Discover Holistic Learning at St Paul's
At St Paul's Grammar School, our Pre-Kindergarten programme nurtures curiosity and creativity, setting a strong foundation for your child's educational journey.
Book Review your
always just around the corner.
Aliese Coleson drops off some documents to Hollenbeck on her way home from work. The building's closed, but the documents were supposed to be on his desk hours ago, so she goes in through the back to deliver them. Inside, she witnesses his bloody murder - and she saw who did it.
While fleeing the crime scene, she’s spotted by Kellen Reid, who is caught by police and blamed for the murder. As soon as he is released on bail, he sets out to find Aliese, the only person who can prove his innocence.
But Aliese is determined to stay hidden. Her address was on the documents she delivered, so she flees into the night with her young son, Jonathan, mere minutes before the killers come knocking.
Aliese will do anything to keep Jonathan safe, but his fragile immune system makes him her biggest liability. If he gets sick, she can’t risk taking him to hospital because the killers have eyes and ears everywhere.
The novel takes place over a few wild days, transporting readers from suburban Adelaide to a remote cabin in the Tasmanian bush, to a motel, to a hospital, to a ferry in the middle of the Bass Strait.
Target In Sight is a high-speed suspense novel about the lengths a parent would go to keep their child safe. It's about the risks and rewards of trust and the emotional turmoil and triumph that love entails.
Hester is an expert at putting her characters in impossible situations that make you wonder how, or if, they'll escape.
r Book Review by: Chloe' Steward
BOOK REVIEW and receive a $50 GiftCard if your review appears in print!
EMAIL: info@districtgazette.com.au
SUBJECT: Book Review
Please include: (1) Name (2) Postal Address (3) Phone Number (4) Book Review (250-300 Word limit) and a clear (4) Book Cover Photo to qualify.
Little A’s is Back for a New Season
Emu Plains Little Athletics Club are set to take on the 2024/25 season, returning to the track later this month.
The local club is looking forward to having a successful season ahead, with the Paris Olympics no doubt inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Registrations are now open for the 2024/25 season. The competition runs from September, through until March, with a 4 week break over Christmas.
With Emu Plains being one of the biggest clubs in the area, they anticipate that they could have 400 plus athletes this season.
“We had 430 athletes in 2023/24. The 2024/25 season will be big” explained Paul Dukes, President of Emu Plains Little Athletics Club.
They will be running their popular Tiny Tots program (3 and 4 years) and competition for Under 6’s to Under 20’s. Tiny Tots starts at 5:30pm, whilst the Under 6’s to Under 20’s starts at 6:20pm. Competition is held every Friday evening during Summer at Leonay Oval.
Paul Dukes returns as the President, after completing his first season in 2023/24. He said there were many highlights from last year.
“It was great to see how many athletes made it to representative levels in zone, regional and state” he said to the District Gazette.
Together with the committee, Paul is looking forward to the new season.
“We had a fantastic season last year, and we welcome new sponsors to the club, as well as the sponsors that have been there for many, many years. We are always looking for volunteers and local sponsors to help out and assist this wonderful club.
“We also want to acknowledge the prior history and thank all the prior volunteers, committee members and previous presidents. With their assistance, we have forged a great longstanding and strong club” stated Paul.
To register for the new season, visit the Emu Plains Little Athletics Club website at https://emu-plains.lansw.org.
You will find more information and regular updates on their website, as well as their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Come and join them for some Summer fun!
r Emu Plains Little Athletics Club athletes | Images: Emu Plains Little Athletics Club
Council Election
The Local Government elections will be held on Saturday 14 September 2024!
If you live in Penrith and are on the electoral roll, you must vote in the Local Government elections on or before Saturday 14 September 2024. Voting is compulsory, and fines apply if you don’t cast your vote.
Local Government elections do not allow absentee voting, so if you are not going to be in Penrith on election day, you will need to request a postal vote or make a pre-poll vote. Applications for a postal vote are available from 6 August 2024 to 9 September 2024. Pre-polling will be available from 7 September 2024.
It is important to remember that Penrith is made up of three wards – North, South and East. If you are voting on the day, you must vote in your ward. Find your closest polling booth on the
HEALTH MATTERS
NSW Electoral Commission’s find my electorate webpage.
The polls will be open from 8:00am to 6:00pm on Saturday 14 September 2024 at various locations across the Penrith LGA.
The 2024 Local Government elections will be managed by the NSW Electoral Commission. Helpful information as well as questions from voters and candidates can be accessed via the FAQ page at https://elections.nsw.gov.au/faqs.
To find out more information, such as how to apply for a postal vote and where you can go to vote, visit the NSW Electoral Commission 2024 NSW Local Government elections webpage. Enrol to vote
If you are over 18 and haven’t yet registered to vote, now is your chance. You can enrol to vote by visiting the Australian Electoral Commission’s enrol to vote website.
You can also check your enrolment or update your details on the Australian Electoral Commission’s website. Translated information
Information about the NSW Local Government elections is available in 24 different community languages.
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness P: 0418 166 269
So you have a Slipped Disc and Back Pain – What Does this Mean?
‘Intervertebral discs’ have a hard outer connective-tissue (anulus fibrosus) and a ‘gelatinous’ interior (nucleus pulposus). At the top and bottom are endplates, the transition tissues between disc and bone.
Discs have several important functions. They act as:
1. shock absorbers for the vertebral column
2. ligaments that tie the vertebra above and below the disc together
3. spacers between vertebra to allow appropriate nerve-exit from the spine
4. Movement-enablers for vertebrae relative to each other allowing us to bend and twist
As we age, disc tissues may begin to deteriorate and weaken, showing progressive signs of disc disease. This weakening may eventually lead to herniation of one (or more) discs, which we colloquially call a “slipped disc”.
Disc herniation often occurs gradually but significant trauma can also lead to disc extrusion or sequestration. If a herniated disc contacts a nerve, this may result in significant nerve compression (occlusion) and pain in the lower back and down the nerve course. Compression may also lead to ‘radiculopathy’,
i.e. pathological changes in nerve function resulting in one of several ‘neurological deficits’ including:
1. sensory changes such as tingling, altered sensation or numbness
2. motor changes such as muscle weakness or reflex loss
Any/all such symptoms, often referred to as sciatica, may be experienced by patients with a slipped disc.
MRIs (involving no radiation exposure) are the best scan for enabling physicians to see the soft spinal tissues unseen with conventional x-ray.
Things are, however, a little more complex than this. A study by Luoma et. Al. (2000) showed that many patients may have both lower back pain and sciatica yet have no disc bulges. A further study by Livshits in 2011 showed that degeneration of the discs alone, whether or not a bulge was present, was highly associated with lower back pain. It may be that the chemicals of inflammation released from degenerating disc (or muscle tissue) become a key factor in generating lower back pain, possibly sciatica and that cleaning muscles of inflammatory infiltrate while lengthening them may be a key driver toward tissue healing and remediation of symptoms.
r **Refer to: www.districtgazette.com.au for expanded version.
Article Written + Submitted by:
Repairs Afoot Podiatry, Wallacia
P: (02) 4773 8071
W: www.repairsafoot.com.au
Shaheen Aumeer-Donovan (Practice Manager) & Philip Aumeer-Donovan (Clinical Manager and Podiatrist)
Nail Fungal Infections Part 2
Prevention
• Avoid contamination – it can be difficult to eradicate fungal infection, especially if it is long-standing or deep under the nail. Avoid infection by ensuring nail salons have good hygiene and proper sterilisation of instruments. Do not share towels with infected people or walk barefoot in public areas.
• Keep feet dry – if you have sweaty feet, change socks regularly and dry moisture with antiperspirants or methylated spirits to avoid the optimum conditions for fungal growth.
• Stop the spread – if you have an infection, wash socks with antifungal laundry treatments and avoid going barefoot.
Treatment
• Over the counter antifungal paints – these do not kill fungal infections, but rather stop their growth. It can take 12-18 months of regular applications to halt growth and allow the infection to grow out. Different preparations require different application protocols, such as daily or weekly application, or filing off the residue before reapplication to ensure the paint penetrates the nail. If a paint hasn’t produced improvement after several months, it may be worth changing preparations.
• Antifungal tablets – the best results are obtained with oral medication (up to 76% success rate), however, there can be significant side effects. A blood test and monitoring from your GP will be required to ensure liver and kidney function is optimal, and side effects manageable.
• Podiatry treatment – a podiatrist can help improve the nail shape, reduce thickness and help with pain associated with poor nail growth. For severely affected nails, removing the nail without cauterisation could be considered if other treatments have been ineffective. However, there is no guarantee that the nail will grow back perfectly.
• Laser – there have been varying reports on the effectiveness of laser treatments, and results can depend on the severity of the infection. Note that most research was conducted by the manufacturers of the laser machines. The huge cost of treatment should be factored into the decision to go with this treatment option.
Remember – there are no guarantees that a particular treatment is going to work for you, so our recommendation is to start with the cheapest, least detrimental technique first (antifungal paints), consider tablets if your health is good, and keep the most invasive (nail removal) and expensive (laser) options as a last resort. Please note: There are no tested treatments for people who are pregnant or breast feeding. As there is no safety data on this, we recommend treatment only after pregnancy and breast feeding has ceased.
THIS SPACE HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK FOR
Introducing Dr Omnia Youssef
We are thrilled to introduce our new veterinarian, Dr. Omnia Youssef, to the Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital family!
Dr. Omnia Youssef brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to her role. Originally from Egypt, Omnia's journey in veterinary medicine began at Cairo University, where she earned her degree in 2011. Her commitment to advancing her expertise led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Veterinary Microbiology, which she completed in 2017. This strong academic foundation is a testament to her deep understanding of animal health and her drive to excel in her field.
In 2020, Omnia made the bold decision to move to Australia with her family in search of new challenges and opportunities. Since then, she has fully immersed herself in the veterinary community, working in various practices across the country. Her dedication to providing the best care for animals drove her to undertake the rigorous Australian National Veterinary Exam, which she successfully passed in December 2023, earning her registration as a veterinarian in Australia.
Dr. Omnia is eager to continue her professional journey, where she can further enhance her skills and provide the highest standard of care to our clients and their beloved pets. Omnia’s approach to veterinary medicine is characterised by her compassionate nature and her commitment to personalised care, ensuring that each pet receives the attention and treatment they deserve.
Outside of her professional life, Omnia enjoys exploring the vibrant Australian community with her husband and their three children. Whether it’s discovering new places or spending quality time together, Omnia cherishes these moments with her family. Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Dr. Omnia Youssef! We are confident that she will be an invaluable asset to our team and a trusted partner in your pet’s health and well-being.
Distribution Enquiries wedeliver@districtgazette.com.au
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
Churches
Anglican Church
Cnr William Howell Dr Pritchard Pl 4733 1635
Catholic Church
William Howell Drive 4737 9735
Uniting Church
Cnr Mulgoa Rd & Stuart Rd Penrith 4721 1295
Foothills Church
Jct Factory Rd & Loftus St, Regentville 4732 3139
Penrith Church
52 Taylor Rd Cranebrook 4577 6555
Salvation Army
48 Luttrell St 4733 1133
Elevation Church Penrith
4 Production Place, Penrith 4722 8489
Community Groups
Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 457 594 Community Centre 4733 1499
Glenmore
Probus Club Glenmore Pk 0412 629 945
Probus Club Penrith Sth 4732 1885 Penrith Suicide Bereavement Support Group 0402 627 696
Sports Clubs
Swimming Club Nepean 0416 311 453
Triathlon Club Panthers www.pantherstriclub.com.au
Advertising Policy... Payment on booking secures your space. The Business Directory offers cost effective advertising to businesses in an alphabetical format. Premium Placement may be available, at an extra charge. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion.
Community News... The Glenmore Gazette welcomes community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements and anniversaries (published free of charge) Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor.
Letters to the Editor...may be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.
With Winter giving us it’s last hurrah with a scattering of snow in some places, the Wattle is out and Spring has sprung. With it, opportunities to get out and about. We’ve got lots of options for you to choose from this month.
Our regular community contributors have brought us their latest events and celebrations, along with local stories and information about the things that affect you in your community.
Thank you to all our advertisers, who also make our paper possible, please consider using their goods and services. Supporting them supports us, and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in the District Gazette!
Finally thank you to all our wonderful readers, without you we just wouldn’t do what we do. We love to get our local events and milestones out to your letterbox every month, and we hope you take the opportunity to find a moment to relax, soak up some spring sunshine (don’t forget your SPF), and read how you can get involved!
“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’”
Belinda
If you would like to have the Glenmore Gazette available for collection at your place of business, please contact us.
