Jordan Springs Gazette February 2023

Love is in the Air

Love is in the air, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner. Locals Vickey and Nick Scicluna celebrate an amazing 55 years of marriage this year. The loving couple exchanged vows on the 19th October in 1968 at St Anthony’s Catholic Church in Toongabbie. It was a game of soccer at Quakers Hill in 1965 where they would meet.

The loving couple have called Llandilo home since 1972, when the town was much different.

They have a devoted family that they love and adore, with 2 daughters, 4 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. “Family means having someone to love you unconditionally. Family is loving and supporting one another. They represent the foundation of love and are there for you always. We are family” agreed Vickey and Nick.

Going through life with your partner of over 50 years, there’s bound to be plenty of laughs.

“What makes us laugh is when we both think that we are right. Also, when we both go to say the same thing at the same time and we burst out laughing!” they both said.

What’s the secret to a long and happy marriage?

“Trust, honesty, and love. Always being there for each other, through good times and bad times. We work as a team” they ended. Valentine’s Day is Tuesday 14th February 2023.

v ‘Love Is’: Nick and Vickey Scicluna | Image: Vickey Scicluna

Help Shape Council’s Library Services

After conducting research and extensive consultation with the community, including face-to-face workshops and an online survey in early 2022, Penrith City Library has developed its draft Library Services Strategy for 2023-2028. The Library is inviting the community to provide further feedback before it’s finalised.

The five-year strategy will guide how Penrith City Council will manage and deliver future library services to the community, with a focus on the four domains of public library services, which include facilities, resources, programs and services, and people and culture.

Penrith City Library invites community members to review the draft strategy and provide feedback on the proposed opportunities, improvements, and goals. The Library welcomes feedback online via the survey, in-person at the Civic Centre, or via telephone.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said that this Is a great opportunity for residents who love the Library’s services to provide their feedback on the draft strategy.

“Our Library Services team does a fantastic job providing services to the community, including keeping an updated and diverse catalogue of items available for borrowing, accessible systems, and a robust local history collection such as the beloved Photographic Collection,” Cr Hitchen said.

“I highly encourage residents to review the draft strategy and provide their feedback on what’s been proposed for the next five years as this document will enable Penrith City Library to continue delivering high quality programs and services to the community.”

Residents interested in providing feedback can do so at yoursaypenrith.com. au/library-strategy2023

Council has included a list of ways residents can leave their feedback, including online, email or telephone.

Feedback is open until Tuesday 21 February 2023.

rArticle: Penrith City Council

Have A Laugh With Council’s Senior Comedy Gala

The Seniors Comedy Gala is back for its second year as part of Penrith City Council’s Seniors Festival celebrations for 2023.

Penrith Council’s Comedy Gala is returning on Tuesday 7 February from 10.30am at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, with morning tea at 9.45am before the show. This is a free event and bookings are open at penrith.

city/events

The Seniors Festival commences on Wednesday 1 February and is aimed at residents aged 50 and over and is a celebration of senior community members. It’s a great opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals, experience something new and learn a few different skills. There’s something for everyone at the festival, from cooking classes and informative workshops about aged care costs and using technology such as computers and iPads and interactive activities such as chair yoga, story time with grandparents and a great author talk.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said that the festival is a real opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of the senior members of our community who have helped build the strong and vibrant City we are today. “This year’s Seniors Festival focuses on celebrating together, a theme that I think is very important given that the last two years have made it difficult for us to come together as a community,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Our population is ageing and staying more active and engaged than ever before, and we are fortunate to have several local community organisations who provide experiences, opportunities, and adventure for healthy ageing. We thank them for their valuable contribution in running a range of activities for local seniors.

“This year’s festival has a program of workshops and activities designed to connect people with one another and with local community groups that run incredible activities that promote healthy living, fun, connection and opportunities to learn new skills.”

The activities and workshops are held in easy and accessible locations in the suburbs across Penrith.

Penrith’s Seniors Festival reflects the themes of the NSW State Government’s Seniors Festival and aims to address the interests and needs of local senior residents.

For more information about the festival and to register for the free workshops, visit penrith.city/events

POSITION VACANT

Telesales ConsultantNewspaper Advertising

In this position, you will prospect for new customers by cold calling, using leads, or other means of generating interest from potential customers. Developing and maintaining relationships with current customers across several publications both in an inbound and outbound capacity is critical.

The ideal candidate will have strong ties to the area and a knowledge of local business. A willingness to support our communities and highlight the value of local newspapers to our region’s future is essential.

The Role

The role is casual, working across our entire portfolio.

Up to 12 Hours Per Week | 6-Month fixed term contract, possible ongoing for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

• Calling customers for advertising needs and advocate our products (Warm and Cold Calls)

• Assist advertisers with their advertising solutions in innovative ways.

• Deliver the revenue targets.

Skills and Experience

• You are easy to talk to and have a professional telephone manner.

• Sound Microsoft Office skills and the ability to learn new systems.

• Excellent oral and written communication.

• Accuracy and excellent attention to detail.

• Effective time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.

• A positive work ethic and strong drive for results, with an ability to work well in a team.

• The ability to use initiative to solve a problem.

• An understanding and keen interest in local business and news

• You have gained work experience in sales or customer service in the media industry (ideal but not essential)

About Us

The District Gazette are proudly locally-owned and operated by industry professionals.

For over twenty-five years, publishing 5 Independent Newspapers that are a fresh, modern monthly publication catering to a growing region, with incredible reach into the community.

Apply

Email CV + Cover letter to info@ districtgazette.com.au

Penrith City Council

Jordan Springs’ newest food and entertainment destination, Brooks, will be opening this month. Located on Lakeside Parade, the multimillion dollar project took approximately 12 months to build and is managed by Laundy Hotels. Laundy Hotels other recent local projects include The Log Cabin in Penrith.

Brooks will employ 80 – 100 staff, with the majority so far coming from Jordan Springs. It will operate 7 days a week.

The exciting local venue will have a fun, European beach vibe. The drinks will include Aperol Spritz, seltzers and cocktails with a European twist. The wine list is heavily focussed on Italian wine.

The food menu consists of pub classics with Italian flair. You’ll find such popular dishes as Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti with their signature 24 hour braised Angus Beef Bolognese, 300g Flank Steak, Supreme Pizza, Tiramisu and more. And of course, there is also a kid’s menu.

There is seating for approximately 300 patrons, both indoor and outdoor. The kid’s playground is sure to be a hit with families too.

Entertainment will be offered, with acoustic sets and Sunday sessions adding to the cool and casual feel.

The colour scheme features earthy tones that are consistent both with the interior and exterior décor.

A courtesy bus will operate in Jordan Springs, with a 5km radius.

“The local community can expect a really fun venue. Something outside of the square. It’s a place that is welcoming and accessible that was developed with the community in mind. The perfect destination for the whole family to enjoy” explained Justin Tynan, Chief Operating Officer of Laundy Hotels to the Jordan Springs Gazette.

Brooks’ trading hours are Monday to Wednesday 10:00am –10:00pm, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00am – midnight and Sunday 10:00am – 10:00pm.

They are currently looking for staff. For information, send an email to careers@laundy.com.au.

Search ‘Brooks Jordan Springs’ on Facebook for news, updates and more.

MOSAIC

Community Church

4PM Sundays at the Llandilo Community Hall

Seventh Ave, Llandilo

ph. 0402 712 972

www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au

Families and individuals of all ages welcome

Llandilo, Jordan Springs, Cranebrook, Berkshire Park, Shanes Park, Willmot, Ropes Crossing

CABINETMAKER / INSTALLER WANTED

SPECIALISING IN QUALITY KITCHENS, JOINERY AND BATHROOMS, WE ARE LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED CABINETMAKER / INSTALLER TO JOIN OUR GROWING TEAM.

Requirements for this role:

 Experience in residential installations

 Experience in kitchen manufacturing

 Experience in bathroom renovations not essential

 Ability to operate workshop machinery / equipment

 Ability to read and interpret detailed drawings

 Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines

 Self-motivated and ability to work unsupervised

 Ability to work independently and as a team

 Good communication skills

 Ability to work overtime as required

 Australian drivers licence

 Trade qualification

 Own transport to and from work, work vehicle provided for site installations

 Own hand tools & PPE required

If you are experienced and would like to join our fun and friendly team, then we would like to hear from you. Wages will reflect your experience and capabilities.

Please forward your resume to info@kitchenvision.com.au or contact Katie on 0438 047 887 www.kitchenvision.com.au

No. 236100c

PROBUS CLUB

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Jordan Springs

E: Jordanspringsprobus@gmail.com

W: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings

The Probus organisation has a club in your local area, providing an exciting opportunity to meet with fellow retirees and join in stimulating activities. The club was formed in March 2018, to service Jordan Springs and surrounding suburbs and joins the fray with over 1,700 clubs with more than 125,000 members all over Australia and New Zealand.

Christmas eve saw the passing of our inaugural President and foundation member Brian Embury. Brian had been extremely unwell for the past 3 1/2 years and he lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. He will be missed by all our members. Thoughts and prayers to his wife and family. We started the year with an Australian theme trivia morning for our January meeting. In February, we are going to the seniors’ concert in the city, then closer to home, trying our bowling skills at barefoot bowls followed by lunch at Kingswood. Our meeting will see Peter Plowman give another of his fascinating talks. Later in the year, we are spreading our wings and travel to Tasmania as a group for 10 days of fun and sightseeing.

Apart from attending monthly meetings and getting to know fellow members with a cuppa and biscuit, you will have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of pursuits, travel locally or around the world, enjoy exclusive discounts through the Probus Member Benefits Scheme, have access to exclusive Probus Travel Insurance plans, develop new interests and stay active.

The club currently has a regular lunch at a local venue on the second Tuesday of each month, a monthly outing, and special events such as our Christmas lunch with entertainment hopefully from Ron Ashton. An example of the outings planned for this year are the Postman’s Run on the Hawkesbury River, movie group, car trip to Wollongong, outing to the new Sydney Zoo, lunch on the Hawkesbury Paddle Steamer and many more events. We are always adding new and varied outings.

The Probus Club of Jordan Springs welcomes visitors and new members and meets at the Jordan Springs Community Hub on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 10:00am. For more information, contact Bob on phone 0405 813159 or via email at Jordanspringsprobus@gmail. com. Visit our website at probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings.

FAITH – ST DAVIDS CHURCH LLANDILO

Article Written + Submitted by: Rev John Hebblewhite

A: Lot 257A Seventh Ave, Llandilo P: 4736 3592

Service Times: 10am each Sunday

with additional services held: 2pm on the Third Sunday + 8am on the Fourth Sunday

To everyone: Every good wish for a Happy New Year. As one reflects on so many things that have occurred over the past few years and the reality that what may occur in the future is unknown until experienced, reflection needs a base, a starting point on which to determine our thoughts and life- style.

Three foundations for a purposive base can be found. First, the recognition that since time immemorable the universe and life is by nature seen in the evolutionary process convergent making for a final unity. Second, this unity in formation is by nature spiritual. Not as a withdrawal from the reality in which we find ourselves, but in the involvement in that reality working towards the culmination of all effort. Third, that the centre is to be found in the realization that which gathers all the efforts to its culmination, is conscious and personal. In accepting these three points, the whole of life, including death itself, becomes a discovery and continual seeking of the spiritual dimension. In the long history of that seeking, it is argued that faith in Christ and acceptance of his death and resurrection provides a firm basis from which to grow.

Now the problem. What of so much suffering in history: natural disasters, disease and sickness, wars, and calamities? A reasonable answer is however an explanation attempted, that it is an integral part of the totality of life. Certainly, a lot rests on humanity’s failure to maintain peace, the exploitation of the universe’s resources, the lifestyles of the individual, but a lot also is outside the intervention of humanity. So indeed, suffering and death occurs. A reasonable response is the cost of humanity’s labour and development. St Paul argues in his letters to the early church “creation groans and travails until now”.

FAITH – MOSAIC COMMUNITY CHURCH (LLANDILO)

Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Heath Whiley

A: Llandilo Community Hall, Seventh Ave, Llandilo P: 0402 712 972 W: www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au Service Times: 4pm-6pm Sundays

Hope … Glass Half-Empty, Half-Full, Or Something Better?

Just recently, a survey of 1,000 Australians found that 8 out of 10 Australians are more hopeful now, with an increase of some 33% of women and 25% of men, than they were pre-Covid. Of the 1,000 Australian adults who were polled, 78% were most likely to put their hope in their family, 74% in themselves, and 67% in their friends. What about you?

Hope, it would seem, is a psychological necessity if we are to envisage a future. Even if/where there are no rational grounds for it, we still continue to hope. However, such hope, even when it appears to be justified, is often transitory and illusory. In fact, it’s remarkable how often it is qualified even in much of modern culture by such epithets as ‘faint’, ‘trembling’, ‘feeble’, ‘desperate’, and so forth.

In fact, the majority of secular thinkers in the ancient world didn’t even regard hope as a virtue, but merely as a temporary illusion (delusion?). In some respects, this is still the thinking of many people today. Namely, that ‘hope’ is merely a kind of ‘optimism,’ ‘wishful/positive thinking’ or merely ‘expecting the best.’

However, this is radically different to the Bible’s understanding of HOPE, and in which HOPE itself is a rock solid confidence and a “sure and steadfast anchor for the soul.”

For this reason, we are doing a six week series on “Finding Hope in Unexpected Places” – and in which we will be looking at what the Bible has to teach us about HOPE. What is it? Where can I find it? And what practical good does it ultimately do?

As someone else recently pointed out: Pessimism sees the glass as being half empty; optimism sees the glass as being half empty, but HOPE sees the one who is ultimately holding the glass.

Safety on the Run

We live in a busy world. With everyone out and about and constantly on the move, it’s important to look after yourself should there be an emergency. Local Mum Ivana Klinsic has created a new product that is sure to benefit families.

The Jordan Springs resident launched Travel Aid in January 2022, just over one year ago. Travel Aid produces mini first aid kits that are both small and compact and can be taken anywhere.

“My motivation for creating and starting Travel Aid was simple. It was my kids! They are always hurting themselves and there was never anything useful around to soothe them” explained Ivana.

The Travel Aid mini first aid kits contain medical items such as band aids (medium, large, character and knee/elbow), adhesive wound dressing, Povidone iodine prep pads, burn gel, sting relief, saline solution, lip balm, cotton tip applicators, safety pins, disposable thermometer strips, medical tape, nail clippers, metal tweezers and metal scissors. A snap and go carabiner is connected to the kit to allow for fastening.

Ivana believes it’s important to have first aid kits whilst people are on the go.

“Where do I start? Accidents can happen anywhere and at

any time. As a mother, I’m always hearing other mothers say, ‘I don’t have a Band-Aid around, does anyone have one?’ and I thought that this could be something that everyone could find useful” she said to the Jordan Springs Gazette.

She already has plans in the future to expand on Travel Aid’s range of products.

“We have another product in the pipeline and are just waiting for the right time to start production. Watch this space” Ivana stated.

If you would like to learn more about Travel Aid, visit their website at www.travelaid.com.au or find them on social media by searching Travel Aid on Facebook and Travelaid.au on Instagram.

r [Top] Travel Aid fits in the palm of your hand [Above] Travel Aid contents. Images: Ivana Klinsic

FOOD 4 THOUGHT

SETTLERS MULGOA

1300 Mulgoa Rd, Mulgoa NSW 2745

My sister Kathryn and I recently visited Settlers Mulgoa for lunch.

When I arrived, the staff greeted Kathryn and I and showed us to our table. On the table waiting for us were two glasses of ice water. Once ordering at Settlers, you order at the counter and then the friendly staff bring your food and beverages to you. The service was superb.

Our drinks and food arrived promptly, not long after placing our order.

I ordered the Reuben Sandwich which was excellent. The sandwich contained slow cooked corned beef, melted cheese, fresh watercress, sauerkraut, pickles, and a spicy Russian dressing. This was served on toasted rye sourdough and a side of chips.

The Reuben Sandwich was one of the best I have experienced in an exceptionally long time. The corned beef was thick, had plenty of flavour and along with the pickles gave this sandwich an extra tang. The dressing gave this sandwich extra flavour, and the rye bread completed this mouth-watering delight. If you are a lover of Reuben sandwiches, go and experience this sandwich for yourself.

Kathryn ordered the Battered Fish Tacos which consisted of beer battered flathead fillet, slaw, Pico di galo, cheese, and sour cream. Kathryn was impressed with her tacos. The fish tacos were full of flavour, and she said after finishing these tacos, you really felt like they filled you up.

I ordered an orange juice and Kathryn ordered an iced coffee.

In conclusion, if you are looking for somewhere relaxing to dine out and enjoy some exceptional customer service, Settlers is for you. The Staff were attentive, and I highly recommend Settlers Mulgoa. The selection of music playing in the background was spot on and not too loud. The staff did come and check that we were happy with our food and beverages and asked us for feedback on the new menu, which launched 2 days ago.

I give Settlers a ten out of ten. I thank Sophie and her team for making our experience the best it could be.

Joeys Bound into 2023

#foodie#extraordinaire#reviewer

Jordan Springs Joeys FC are getting ready to take to the field and leap into the upcoming 2023 season.

Registrations for the new season opened on the 4th of January, with the competition kicking off at the end of March.

The local club will cater for age groups from the Under 5’s right through to adults of all ages. Joey’s home ground is at Village Oval in Jordan Springs.

Last season saw excellent growth, with the number of players continuing to grow. 330 players were registered, consisting of 18 junior teams and 9 senior teams.

Success on the pitch produced many highlights in 2022.

“Apart from having the first full season in 3 years, we had success with 7 teams getting through to the finals and 2 of our teams winning their grand finals. The teams that won their grand finals were the All Age Men Division 2 and All Age Women Division 4” explained Stephanie Massie of Jordan Springs Joeys FC to the Jordan Springs Gazette.

The 2023 season promises to be the clubs best yet and there is plenty of excitement in the air.

“We are looking forward to seeing our returning players back and welcoming new ones, but mostly just having another great, full season of fun at Village Oval” Stephanie said.

For more information about Jordan Springs Joeys FC and the season ahead, you can find them on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/joeyssoccer. Alternatively, you can register online through https://registration.dribl.com/club/963.

r [Top] Under 6 Panthers Team after playing a game in the rain [Above] All Age Women Division 4 after their Grand Final win | Images: Jordan Springs Joeys FC

Battered Fish Tacos

**Restaurants are not privy to reviews taking place, and all meals are fully paid by us.

Reuben Sandwich

Our Community Care Says Thank You!

Jordan Springs’ based charity, Our Community Care, would like to thank the local community for helping them raise $50,000 for Nepean Hospital for a vital piece of laser surgery equipment for premature babies in NICU recently.

“Nepean Hospital and Our Community Cares initially discussed the proposed project in August 2022. We then held a special team meeting in early November to discuss our ability to help support them via fundraising activities to raise the $50,000 needed” said Kris Gauci of Our Community Cares.

“The team agreed unanimously. It was clear to us that the comfort and safety of these small babies would be significantly improved if this vital equipment were available here in Penrith” she continued.

Each year, Kris and her team run Gift Wrapping Stalls at both Nepean Village and Westfield Penrith, at Christmas, Father’s Day, and Mother’s Day. They decided that the funds raised would be directed to this special project. With wonderful support from management at both venues, they set about trying to raise as much as possible from gold coin donations for each gift wrapped.

“Following three weeks of intense Christmas wrapping by our amazing volunteers and with outstanding generosity from the community, we raised an amazing $39,692. At the same time, we also benefited from the highly successful ‘Carols on the Course’ event held at Emu Sports Club/Leonay Golf Course in December, being presented with a cheque for $15,000” Kris replied.

Combining these two amazing fundraisers has meant that they reached their $50,000 target and can very proudly say to the people of Penrith, ‘Congratulations... together, we did it!’

“We want to thank every single person who had gifts wrapped, everyone who stopped by and gave a donation, some as high as $1,150, others equally special came from children who donated their pocket money. We look forward to seeing all those friendly faces again this year, when hopefully we will be back with a new project/goal that will benefit the community of Penrith” she praised.

“We also thank the outstanding management of Westfield Penrith, Nepean Village and Emu Sports Club for their generous support and cooperation in making this heart-warming result possible. Finally, and very importantly, we want to thank the volunteers who wrapped with us right across those 3 weeks, their time and efforts were critical to our success, and we appreciate each of them” ended Kris.

To learn more about Our Community Cares and the great work that they do, visit www.ourcommunitycares.org.au.

r [L-R] Andrew Gardner, Emus Sports Club with Cheryl McLaughlin, Julia Parashko and Kristine Gauci from Our Community Cares | Image: Emu Sports Club

PARENTS

Article Written + Submitted by:

Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E:

info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Generation Vape: How to Talk to your Teen about the Risks of E-Cigarettes

Parents are talking to young people about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, but too often these conversations fail to cover the risks of vaping. A Royal Children’s Hospital ‘Child Health Poll’ found that 57% of parents have never discussed e-cigarettes with their teen. Yet around 14% of young people aged 14 – 17 years have tried vaping.

E-cigarettes, also known as ‘vapes’, are electronic devices that heat liquids to create aerosol that users inhale. Aerosol is a fine spray of chemicals and small particles that can lodge in the lungs. As these products are new to the market, there is no quality and safety standards on devices, liquids, and labelling. Vapes contain chemicals and toxins commonly found in bug spray, weed killer and nail polish remover. Short term risks associated with vapes include vomiting, shortness of breath, poisoning, nausea, headaches, lung damage and heart palpitations. Vaping can negatively impact growing bodies and brains and is likely to cause lung and mouth cancers.

The majority of vapes contain nicotine, even if they are labelled otherwise. Nicotine is highly toxic, and the most addictive substance known. Young people who vape are 3 to 5 times more likely to take up smoking later in life.

Here are some tips for chatting with teens about the risks of vaping:

• Know the facts – keep up to date with the latest information by consulting your local GP and organisations such as the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (adf.org.au).

• Keep the conversation open, calm, and non-judgmental –Use a respectful tone of voice and body language.

• Avoid lecturing, judging, or going through your teen’s space looking for evidence – prioritise trust with your teen. We are all more likely to consider information shared with us by somebody we trust.

• Avoid exaggerating the dangers – share the facts simply and calmly.

• Explain your concerns – let your teen know you care about their health and wellbeing.

• Be a positive role model – a young person is about 55% more likely to try e-cigarettes if they have a parent who smokes. Avoid using any nicotine products in front of your children.

Hello School: Avy’s Big Day

The journey is about to begin for thousands across the country. One that will bring laughs, tears, friendships, and lifelong memories. Kindergarten will soon start for the first time for many, including local student Avy Brown.

This year, Avy, who is 5 years old, will start school at Jordan Springs Public School. She will be the first child in her family to attend primary school, with her 2 year old sister still at home.

Avy is all ready for the big day and can’t wait to walk through the school gates for the very first time as a kindergarten student on day one.

“She is looking forward to making new friends and learning about different countries” explained Brooke Brown, Avy’s mother.

The energetic youngster has lots of hobbies and interests that keep her busy away from school. This includes dancing. Avy does ballet, jazz and acro at PAWS in Penrith. She also has an interest in colouring-in and imaginative play.

So, what does she want to be when she finishes school you may ask?

“Avy wants to be a mermaid who saves people in the water when she finishes school” Brooke smiled.

Starting school can be a day of emotions for parents, grandparents, family and friends as they farewell children for their road ahead in kindy.

“Seeing our first child start school is such a mixed emotional experience. We are grateful to have a happy and healthy young girl who has the opportunity to go to school and learn. She is very excited to start school so we are all sharing in her excitement.

“Then we also experience feelings of anxiousness and fear of change as we all embark on this huge new journey. Tears of sadness and joy will most definitely be shed on the first day as we walk through the school gates” she ended.

Best of luck to all the local students starting and returning to school this year.

r Avy in her school uniform getting ready for the big day | Image: Brooke Brown r Image: https://www.pixabay.com

St Paul’s Grammar School 2022 Elite Achievers

RESIDENCE

McGraths Hill

CO-CURRICULAR Combined Independent Schools Football, Bill Turner Soccer Trophy, Piano Tuition, Peer Reading Mentor, Cultural Tour (2019), Futsal Competitions.

I have been at St Paul’s since Pre-kindergarten and had never pictured myself anywhere else, due to the community of kind and outgoing teachers, staff and students.

RESIDENCE Glenmore Park

CO-CURRICULAR Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Peer Reading Mentor, Top End Service-Learning Trip, Bye Bye Birdie Musical, Music Ensembles: Wind and Hypnosis Jazz Band.

At St Paul’s, I really valued the strong friendships I formed! I found the school to be a very warm and welcoming place after moving from interstate in Year 7.

Results as of 16 January 2023, as any re-marks may result in changes.

RESIDENCE Cranebrook

CO-CURRICULAR

Chess Competition, Rowing, Model United Nations, Debating, Creative Writing Camp, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Peer Reading Mentor, Cultural Tour (2019), Top End Service-Learning Trip (2019), Strings Music Ensemble, Bye Bye Birdie Musical

I received a lot of support from my family, friends, and the staff at school which allowed me to achieve a result I was happy with.

RESIDENCE Glenmore Park

CO-CURRICULAR 2022 School Captain, Peer Reading Mentor, Dance Academy: Senior Contemporary and Jazz, Bye Bye Birdie Musical.

The consistent support from my teachers and all of the staff at St Paul’s was definitely a key factor in my overall performance. It was evident how much each and every staff member cared about not only our academic journey but also us as people.

Keira Hastings Dishitha Dasireddy

Emma Hu Abigail Keane

Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival

Corpus ChristiCRANEBROOKPrimary

We work in partnership with our parish, families and local secondary schools, Xavier College Llandilo, Caroline Chisholm College (girls) Glenmore Park, to provide quality Catholic schooling from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Enrolling Now

WE OFFER

• Learning environment enriched by faith and values

• Broad curriculum including Religious Education

• Wide range of cocurricular activities

• (sport, creative and performing arts, academic competitions, etc)

• Dedicated and professional teaching staff

• New and integrated technology including interactive whiteboards, laptops and iPads

• Learning support and enrichment programs

Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival is a whole day event to expand the mind, nourish the body and connect to the soul. On Saturday, March 11th, 2023, they invite the greater Penrith and surrounding community to join them at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club from 9am to 4pm for this immersive wellness festival. With over 20 facilitators guiding through seminars, Yoga, and movement classes, breathwork experiences, meditations, sound baths and wellness workshops, there is something available for everyone.

Wellness is the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health. These are practices that elevate your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. By incorporating wellness into mindset and daily routine, we have the power to drastically improve our quality of life.

Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival is on a mission to guide you into introducing and developing sustainable, accessible wellness practices to integrate into your average daily living. Facilitated by an incredible team of teachers, mentors and coaches, Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival will expand your horizons along your journey of wellbeing.

Why Yoga?

Yoga is one of the oldest forms of holistic wellness practices in the world. The approach of connecting mind, body, and soul through movement, breath, mindfulness and meditation has been used for thousands of years to improve quality of life and all aspects of wellbeing.

The classes offered are friendly to all levels of practitioners, even totally beginner friendly!

This is a practice, and a way of life, accessible and available to all people at all times.

Not just Yoga!

Wellness practices come in a diversity of activities. At Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival, they will include mindfulness, meditation, life coaching seminars, and other modalities of wellness activities to expand your horizons and help you find what you resonate with.

If you're not keen to physically move your body through classes, not to worry!

They have an array of entertainment, activities, and market stalls to indulge in.

Tickets can be purchased on their website www.rywfestival. com.au for $69.95. For more information, visit their website or find them on socials @riversideyogawellnessfestival.

• Transition programs (Kindergarten and Year 6 for high school)

• Extensive recreational and sporting areas

• Active and supportive parent community

For more information please contact Corpus Christi’s Principal Mrs Sarah O’Rourke

r Hayley Ashe (left) and Vicky Bekfi (right), Founders of Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival | Image Supplied by Hayley Ashe | Article: Riverside Yoga & Wellness Festival

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Penrith City Council has completed the final stage of its three-year program to install shade sails and plant trees at 98 playspaces across the city.

Stage Three comprised of 34 playspaces across Caddens, Cambridge Park, Colyton, Erskine Park, Glenmore Park, Jordan Springs, Kingswood, Londonderry, North St Marys, Penrith, South Penrith, St Clair, and Werrington.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the shade improvements will protect residents and their families from the sun’s UV rays and heat through the summer months.

“Shade will continue to be a vital part of the designs for all future playspace upgrades and new playspace projects to ensure we are keeping our city cool,” Cr Hitchen said.

The $2.7 million project was delivered as part of the Council’s commitment to the Shade Facilities and Playspaces Policy that was adopted in late 2019.

Australian Government funding of $510,000 was provided through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program. This program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across Australia.

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh MP said she knows how important sun safety is for families.

“I’m pleased that the shade sails will help our local kids play safely outdoors.”

The shade sails are designed to meet Australian Standards, block out 97 - 99% of UV rays, minimise heat and allow appropriate airflow, while tree planting provides a long-term shade solution, increases biodiversity and habitat, and reduces noise pollution.

Find your nearest playspace, search penrith.city/playgrounds.

HEALTH MATTERS

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein

P: 0418 166 269

r Article: Penrith City Council

Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness

Could Oral Coenzyme-Q10 Supplementation Help Patients with Ulcerative Colitis?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like substance, naturally made by animal cells. It increases cellular energy production. Roediger in 1980 suggested ulcerative colitis (UC) may be a cellular energy deficiency disease.

In 2015, scientists first tested CoQ10 in animal models of UC. They infused vinegar into rat colons to create colitis, and found that animals who had received 8 days of supplemental CoQ10 prior to infusion had:

1. Reduced levels of colon inflammation

2. Higher levels of colon cell:

a. antioxidant protective compounds

b. energy production

3. Better preserved colonic wall architecture

In 2016, scientists infused iodoacetate into rat colons to create colitis. Rats subsequently treated with CoQ10 showed:

1. Near normal colonic wall architecture

2. Reduced levels of inflammation

3. Potent colon cell antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities through significant increases in cell antioxidants catalase and glutathione

In 2017, researchers again infused vinegar into rat colons to create colitis, then gave rats either 10 or 30 or 100 mg/kg oral CoQ10 daily (prior or post infusion). They showed that Co Q10 dose dependently protects against vinegar-induced UC. CoQ10 significantly:

1. Reduced

a. UC related colon swelling

b. improved clinical and macroscopic tissue disease scores

c. inflammatory markers

2. Increased

a. blood antioxidant capacity

b. colonic-tissue antioxidant capacity

3. Preserved microscopic tissue architecture

This study is interesting because it showed that:

1. Oral CoQ10 given either 8 days prior, or 8 days following vinegar infusion protected rats from UC

2. CoQ10 protective effects continued to increase with increasing CoQ10 dose

3. Animals given CoQ10 after vinegar infusion at the maximal dose of 100mg/kg, had almost complete protection from UC, showing virtually no ill-effects from vinegar infusion

In 2021, UC researchers first gave human UC patients 100mg CoQ10 twice-daily or placebo. They found that CQ10 intake:

1. Reduced UC disease severity

2. Markedly improved patient quality of life

3. Lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure

Human experiments clearly show that supplemental CoQ10:

1. Does not accumulate in blood or tissues, and

2. Does not reduce body production of CoQ9/10

And for these reasons, CoQ10 is considered a highly safe dietary supplement, with minimal side effects and low drug interaction potential’. CQ10 supplementation may be something to discuss with your GP if you have UC.

Welcome To Our New Staff Members

We are getting busier and busier and we are still growing in size. Please join me in welcoming 14 new staff members to our team! You will still be seeing all of the previous staff members when you visit. We now have a total of 34 staff! Wow!

Kellie – Veterinary Hospital Administrator

Kellie joined the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary clinic in January 2023 as our Veterinary Hospital Administrator. She brings with her over 30 years of experience in Veterinary Nursing, practice ownership and Practice Management working within the Blue Mountains and Penrith area. Kellie is dedicated to the training and development of our veterinary team to ensure we are providing the best care possible for our pets and their parents.

Samantha – Veterinary Receptionist

Samantha has 7 years customer service experience and a love for animals and was happy to combine the two in our Receptionist role. Samantha joined the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital in May 2022.

Rosalie – Veterinary Nurse

Rosie knew from a very young age that she wanted to work with animals. She grew up on a farm south-west of Sydney and had almost every type of animal you can imagine as a pet (her favourite are pet rats!). Rosie got her first vet nursing job back in 2002, started her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and became a fully qualified veterinary nurse in 2004. There are many things Rosie loves about vet nursing but her absolute favourite thing is giving the patients that extra bit of TLC while they're in our care, as it builds trust and it goes a long way to reduce any anxiety or fears they may have while they're here at the hospital.

Rosie taught Puppy Preschool at another vet before and loved it! She is currently undergoing training so that she can start teaching Puppy Preschool at Orchard Hills as well.

Rosie started work at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital in July 2022.

Madeleine – Veterinary Nurse

Madeleine completed Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2021 and has been working in general practice over the Penrith/Blue Mountains regions for 4 years.

Madeleine joined the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital in January 2023.

Jorgia – Trainee Veterinary Nurse

Jorgia is currently studying Cert IV in veterinary nursing.

Jorgia started working at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital in June 2022. During her studies she's been lucky enough to have consistent hands-on experience and has grown so much as a nurse. Jorgia has also completed her Cert II and III in Animal Studies. After completing her studies, Jorgia eventually wants to go to university, continuing her education to become a Veterinarian.

Elise – Trainee Veterinary Nurse

Elise is currently studying Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing. She started work placement here in July 2022 and joined the team as an Animal Attendant/ Trainee Veterinary Nurse in September.

Her heart has always been set on aiding animals and giving them the same love and care that she does for her own pets.

Zoe – Trainee Veterinary Nurse

Zoe is currently studying the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and joined the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital in October 2022.

Zoe is a mother of 5 beautiful children

Tracy – Animal Attendant

Tracy is from Hong Kong and is currently studying Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at University of Sydney. She joined the team in February 2022 after accepting a job offer from Camille during her University placement here.

Tracy develops her interest in veterinary medicine through various volunteer experiences in clinics, stables and a wild animal rescue centre back in Hong Kong.

Althea – Animal Attendant

Althea was born in Foshan, Guangdong China, and grew up in Singapore. She is currently studying the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Sydney. She began casual employment in March 2022.

Mahum – Animal Attendant

Mahum joined the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital in September 2022.

Growing up, my biggest aspiration in life was to become a vet since I loved being around animals and of course was hooked on shows such as Bondi Vet. 10 years later, I am so grateful to be making steps in achieving my dream – starting with studying Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine/ Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at University of Sydney and now gaining invaluable experience as an animal attendant at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. She has also begun training to teach Puppy Preschool, which has been so interesting and rewarding.

Tayla – Groomer

Tayla joined the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital as a groomer in November 2022.

Tayla has just finished travelling around Australia for the last 8 months, her favourite place to visit was Elliot Falls which is the northernmost point of Australia.

Madeline – Kennel Hand

Madeline is currently in Year 12 and is also completing her Certificate II in Animal Studies at Richmond TAFE. After a short period of work placement, she joined our team in June 2022 as an Animal Attendant. It has always been her dream to have a career working with animals and she is now on her way to becoming a Vet Nurse.

Madeline confesses to loving all animals, big and small but has admitted her favourites are elephants, owls, dolphins and guinea pigs.

Lily – Kennel Hand

Lily lives locally and is a high school student. She loves animals and especially her dog Maggie, who she’s had since 2015.

Lily joined the team in May 2022 and has enjoyed the opportunity to be involved with animals and be surrounded by a welcoming environment.”

April – Kennel Hand

April has always lived in Orchard Hills and has been going to Orchard Hills Vet with her 2 dogs since she was a kid and has now started working here.

April is currently in high school and has always had a passion for animals, so she is looking forward to a career involving them.

April started working in July 2022 and is grateful to be part of the team. Please feel free to pop in anytime and meet the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital.

& Rowena Thring of Jordan Springs welcomed daughter

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Well, there it is! 2022 has been filed and packed away. Good, bad or otherwise - it’s now one for the archives.

Like they say, 2023 offers a blank book full of new and exciting opportunities. The pen is in your hand and the chapters are waiting to be scribed!

One of the best lessons I put into practice last year was to not hold onto things that are weighing you down. Focus on what brings you positive energy and happiness and be sure to surround yourself with the same. Mark my words, you’ll feel empowered by doing so.

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Enjoy this first edition of ‘Your Community News’ for 2023.

‘You glow differently when you have good people with good intentions in your life’.

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