Oran Park Gazette April 2023

Are you ready to be Live ‘n’ Local?

Are you a local musician, performer, creative or business and feeling ready to rock ‘n’ roll?

Look no further than Council’s much-loved celebration of homegrown talent and businesses – Live ‘n’ Local. The program sees local Camden businesses open their doors to musicians by hosting performances in their premises for their customers to enjoy. This year’s program will be accompanied by Art in Business again, where local artists showcase their works in local businesses.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the program was a highlight for many locals.

“There’s nothing better than popping down to your local café for a coffee after a long week at work and being able to enjoy your morning listening to an amazing performance by someone who may live just down the road from you,” Cr Fedeli said.

“There’s something so incredibly special about the atmosphere Live ‘n’ Local brings and I can’t wait to enjoy it for another year. I’m excited to announce this year’s program will also include busking and performances on the streets, which just allows for an extension of that beautiful atmosphere.

“Live ‘n’ Local has been tried and tested around the country with great success and has proven to lead to employment opportunities for musicians. I would encourage local musicians to throw their hat in the ring and be part of this incredible initiative because you never know where it might take you!”

This year’s Live ‘n’ Local will be held each Saturday and Sunday from 6 May to 25 June, as well as Wednesday 21 June which is Make Music Day.

For more information, and to express your interest in being involved in Live ‘n’ Local as a musician, performer, artist or local businesses, visit https://bit.ly/Live-n-Local Council will release a calendar of scheduled performances and artworks in the coming weeks.

rArticle: Camden Council

Camden Swirls

It’s time to get that creativity swirling with the return of an exciting program of events for our young people.

Camden Swirls is a line-up of a creative activities for residents aged between 10 and 14 years who live in the Camden area. Each event will invite up to 30 tweens to attend and will be free.

The program includes the below activities, all held at Julia Reserve Youth and Community Centre in Oran Park:

• Card and bookmark making session on Friday 14 April, 4-7pm, which can be booked at https://www.trybooking.com/CFGMS;

• Wet felting workshop facilitated by staff from Alan Baker Art Gallery on Friday 19 May, 4-7pm, which can be booked at https://www.trybooking.com/CFGNA; and

• Canvas bag creations on Friday 16 June, 4-7pm, which can be booked at https://www.trybooking.com/CFGNC.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said Camden Swirls was a great way for young residents to unleash their creative side.

“Whether it’s something they’re already interested in or maybe it’s something they’d like to explore a little more, getting our kids involved in creative activities can have so many benefits,” Cr Fedeli said.

“It’s a great way for them to unwind and bring about a positive mindset, connect with peers across the Camden area and, who knows, we might see the start of an acclaimed artist in our midst!

“Bookings for each activity will open as they get closer so, if there’s something that tickles your little one’s interest, make sure to keep an eye on it to avoid disappointment.”

For more information on what other events are coming up for your children to get involved in, visit https://www.camdenkids. com.au/whats-on/

Camden

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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

Children + Families

Camden Playgroup

Meets on Thursdays from 10:00am at Harrington Park Community Centre (33a Fairwater Drive, Harrington Park). More details: camdenplaygroup@gmail.com

Harrington Park Pixies and Munchkins

Meets on Fridays from 10:00am at Harrington Park Community Centre (33a Fairwater Drive, Harrington Park). More details: pixiesandmunchkins@gmail.com

PlayTime @ NewLife Anglican Church

Meets every Wednesday (During School terms) at 10am - 12pm. PlayTime is for Mums and Carers with kids 0-5. NewLife Anglican Church (Cnr Marcus Loane Way + Central Avenue, Oran Park).

More Details: www.newlifeanglican.org.au/wp/playtime.

Hobbies + Interests

Library Movie Club

Meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 6:00pm at Narellan Library (Corner Queen and Elyard Street, Narellan). More details: 02 4645 5039

Storytime (2-5 years)

Held weekly on Wednesdays from 11:00am till 11:30am at Oran Park Library (72 Central Avenue, Oran Park). Family Storytime (all ages welcome) is the 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:00pm, during school term only. More details: 02 4645 5645

Markets

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Held weekly on Saturdays from 7:00am till 12:00pm at Camden Town Farm (40 Exeter Street, Camden). More details: camdenproducemarket@hotmail.com or www. camdenproducemarket.com.au

Cobbitty Village Markets

Held on the first Saturday of the month (excluding January and February) from 8:00am till 1:00pm at Cobbitty Public School (Cobbitty Road, Cobbitty). More details: www. cobbittymarkets.com.au

Support + Wellbeing

Australian Breastfeeding Association CamdenWollondilly Group

Come along and meet new friends. Chat with mums who have 'been there' and connect with their local breastfeeding counsellors and educators. The group meets monthly at Spring Farm Community Centre (275 Richardson Road, Spring Farm). More details: camden_wollondilly_aba@outlook.com

Camden Police Crime Prevention team are inviting parents and carers of young people to attend an information seminar this month.

The hour of power will take place on Tuesday 18th April 2023 from 7:00pm to 8:00pm at Julia Reserve, Oran Park Community Hall in Oran Park.

One of Camden Police Area Command’s biggest priorities is domestic violence. The hour of power is a pro-active strategy to engage with young people and their parents about a number of topics related to domestic violence.

It is hoped that the event will enable people in our community, through awareness, to be better informed on the issue.

For parents, it also provides them valuable information so that can have informed conversations with their children.

It also enables them to ask questions and get answers directly from the Police serving their local community. These topics are the most requested topics the Police are asked to speak on by schools.

If this event is successful, they will seek to expand the concept into a number of different areas across the Camden Police Area Command.

They encourage people to attend. They look forward to seeing you there.

proud club sponsors, we wish

r Julia Reserve Community Centre | Image: Camden Council | Article: Camden Police

Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen is a small business that are passionate about bringing homemade Maltese food to life. It was established in 2018 by Jenny Aquilina.

“I was inspired by the way that the Maltese community embraces the love of food and how they share their family time around the dining table” explained Jenny to the District Gazette.

“Maltese love the traditional way of cooking. With so many people living busy lifestyles, I thought it was time to share my love of cooking Maltese food the way my Nanna showed me” she added.

The name of the food business did indeed come from Jenny’s grandmother, paying homage to her much loved Nanna Clara.

“Nanna Clara is my grandmother’s name. When I was young, I used to watch her cook in the kitchen and, of course, sampling the food as she cooked. So, I named my food van after her” Jenny smiled.

It’s no secret that Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen’s pastizzis are popular.

“What can I say, I have the best pastizzi here in Sydney. I also sell the well known corned beef pie. I even have the privilege of coming in the Top 5 in Australia for this” she said.

Maltese doughnuts are always a crowd favourite. Baked Macaroni and Baked Rice are on the menu. The Ravioli is all made by hand. She also sells Peppered Cheese.

“The beauty of being a mobile business is that Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen can attend all the Maltese festas in and around Sydney. If you can’t come to me, follow our social media pages and drop me a DM” Jenny replied.

“I am available to do any function you may have. You can even surprise your Nanna or Nunnu with the memories of the good old days back in Malta, with the love of home cooked meals” she ended.

Grazzi!

The One to Watch Award Winner Crowned

An Oran Park high school student has been awarded the NSW Advocate for Children and Young People The One to Watch Award at the 2023 NSW Women of the Year Awards.

Haniya Syed, an emerging artist, and technology enthusiast, has been recognised for her participation in multiple national and international robotics championship competitions over the past two years, culminating in a silver medal with Team Australia at the FIRST Global Robotics Challenge in Switzerland last year.

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor congratulated Ms Syed and said it is important to recognise our rising young stars, particularly in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

“I’m delighted to announce this award has been presented to a young person who demonstrates such remarkable courage, talent and hard work, and represents the bright future and potential of all young women throughout NSW,” Mrs Taylor said.

The Advocate for Children and Young People The One to Watch Award recognises girls and young women aged 7 to 17 who demonstrate a single act or ongoing acts of courage, strength, determination and/or kindness to help and support those around them.

Inspirational women run in the Syed family with big sister Daniya a 2021 finalist of this award and a 2023 finalist of the NSW Young Woman of the Year Award.

The 2023 NSW Women of the Year Awards Ceremony was held last month at the International Convention Centre as part of 2023 NSW Women’s Week.

There were seven award categories in the 2023 program, including the Premier’s Award for NSW Woman of the Year, which is selected from the pool of category winners.

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to supporting women’s economic opportunities, health and wellbeing, and participation and empowerment.

r [Top] Some of the amazing Maltese food on offer [Above] Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen food van | Images: Jenny Aquilina

r [Top] Haniya Syed with Bronnie Taylor MP [Above] Haniya Syed and family | Image/Article: Bronnie Taylor MP

ORAN PARK

FINALAPARTMENTS NOW SELLING ACT NOW!

This is your last opportunity to secure a luxury apartment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the heart of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, these 3-bedroom apartments feature ample floor space, sophisticated style and the finest finishes.

Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction, the residences are completed to a high standard with:

• Miele oven, gas cooktop, rangehood, built-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

Apartment G.03

Interior 111sqm

Exterior 33sqm

Total 144sqm

Apartment 3.10

Interior 108sqm

Exterior 23sqm

Total 131sqm

Price $819,500

Camden ANZAC Day 2023

Camden RSL Sub-Branch will be hosting the ANZAC Day Dawn Service this month.

The ANZAC Day Dawn Service will be conducted on Tuesday 25th April 2023, within the Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park Memorial Site, located on Cawdor Road in Camden. It will commence at 5:15am sharp. There is no parking in the Park. This is a section for disabled parking, with the appropriate authority attached to the vehicle.

Cawdor Road from Camden Sports Club to Barsden Street will be closed from 4:00am until 7:00am. They request that everyone be seated by 4:50am.

The ANZAC Day March and Community Service will take place after the Dawn Service. Marchers will assemble in Elizabeth Street, between Mitchell and Elizabeth Streets, from 9:30 am. The March will commence at 10:30am and marchers will move from Elizabeth Street, down Argyle Street, following Cawdor Road to the Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park.

“We are expecting nearly 25,000 for the Anzac Dawn Service on Tuesday April 25. The magic in the air as the sun rises from the mist cannot be explained” said Iain Richard-Evan JP, President of Camden RSL Sub-Branch.

“About 20 years ago, I conducted my first ANZAC Day Service, and I had 300 people attending. Years later with a great deal of sweat and determination and the incredible assistance from Camden Council, it is now the biggest ANZAC Day Dawn Service outside of Sydney Metro”.

“I am very grateful for the people in the Camden LGA and beyond who have supported the Camden RSL Sub-Branch. Thank you to the schools for their support. For us to deliver the services, I am very appreciative to our sponsors whose financial help enables us to produce a great result” Iain explained.

Current COVID Safe rules at the time will be in place. For more information, please visit Camden RSL Sub-Branch on Facebook.

r Camden RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Wall with artwork by David Thomas. Image: Annette Clissold | Article: Iain Richard-Evan

City Expertise: Local Focus

Australian Air League

In 1934, a gentleman by the name of George Robey, along with other local parents, decided to form an organisation for the youth of Australia to encourage them with their love of aviation. This organisation was called the Australian Air League.

Since this time, the Australian Air League has been teaching young boys and girls nationwide all about aviation, while helping them develop important life skills like leadership, discipline, self-confidence, and teamwork.

The Australian Air League started with a small Squadron of 30 Cadets in Manly NSW. Since then, membership has expanded throughout NSW by the thousands. They currently have Squadrons in areas as far north as Maitland and as far south as the Southern Highlands. There are also Squadrons in the ACT, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia.

NSW Group has its own Air Activities Centre at Camden Aerodrome. This centre is run by volunteer pilots and mechanics who help educate their future pilots and teach them to fly. Squadrons also attend joy flights with their members at the centre.

Park & Hills has a motto, City Expertise: Local Focus, which neatly encapsulates both the experience of its team as well as its aspirations and belief in Oran Park and the South Western Sydney suburbs, where it’s based.

“I often get asked whether I’m Park or Hills,” laughs James Nguyen, the firm’s Principal Lawyer. “Truth is, our name is derived from our focus areas from Oran Park, Harrington Park, Edmondson Park to Gregory Hills, Emerald Hills and Gledswood Hills, where I live with my family.”

The city expertise stems from James’ 20 years’ experience as a Lawyer practicing in the Sydney CBD. Earning his stripes in the early 2000s at DLA Piper and Gilbert + Tobin, James moved in house at the National Australia Bank in 2009 and has gone on to roles like Head of Legal, which owns Ticketek. He’s also won a number of awards like being named in Australasian Lawyers Magazine In- House Leaders List and the Legal 500’s GC Power List.

Having worked in-house, James intimately understands the client’s perspective. “As a cost to the company, you either add value or you’re an obstacle,” said James. “At Park & Hills, we really strive to earn the role of trusted business adviser to our clients.”

In focussing locally, Park & Hills is building its presence in the community, from providing free business law seminars as part of Small Business month to coming on board as a club sponsor to the Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers JRLFC. “I honestly get as much of a kick out of helping our private equity clients on multi-million dollar acquisitions as helping two sisters fulfil their mother’s long term wish of them going into business together in buying a fashion business.”

Where to next? James’ response, “Sky’s the limit, literally! Once they open up Nancy-Bird Walton, we’re not only opening up our area to the rest of Sydney, but we’ll also open up to the world. It’s great to see bipartisan support for the Bradfield to Macarthur Metro extension. We are the local corporate and commercial law firm, leveraging off our experience and delivering the sort of legal service clients would expect from the city, all from our offices here in Oran Park. If you operate in the area, let’s connect.”

r James Nguyen and family

James Nguyen (Park & Hills)

Each week, their members attend their local Squadrons, where they will learn valuable skills and take part in fun and interesting activities and classes. Some of their classes include meteorology, navigation, photography and community service. Squadrons also attend training camps, recreational camps, sport days, ANZAC parades, local parades, and group reviews where competitions are held.

The organisation is entirely self-funded. It is also staffed by adult members who are volunteers. These volunteers give their time to help encourage and educate its members about aviation and life skills. All adult members and volunteers are Working with Children checked.

They welcome boys and girls from the age of 8 years old from all different cultures and backgrounds. Parents and families are welcome to support or even join their local Squadron as a volunteer.

When you join the Australian Air League, you will make new friends and take part in fun and exciting activities, on the ground and in the air.

The Australian Air League is running both a fun and educational program that is making fine citizens out of our young Australians.

For more information of the Australian Air League and your nearest Squadron, please visit their website at www.airleague. com.au or email them at info@airleague.com.au.

r NSW Flying Camp, Australian Air League | Image Supplied by Australian Air League | Article: Australian Air League

PARENTS CORNER

Article Written + Submitted by:

Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Responding to Children’s Good Behaviour

Many parenting articles talk about dealing with difficult behaviour and yet, the ways we respond to children’s positive behaviour is just as important.

Due to an inbuilt negativity bias, we pay more attention to the bad than the good. The human species has survived for over 200,000 years in part because of our capacity to be alerted early to potential threats. While a focus on the negative would be useful for survival in the Savannah, it can greatly harm a parent’s relationship with their child when left unchecked.

For children with behavioural difficulties and their parents, a vicious cycle can develop over time. When a child behaves in a manner which elicits a punitive, angry, or hostile response from the parent, this often provokes the child to behave in an even more disruptive manner, and then the conflict escalates and continues.

Conversely, we build more positive relationships with children when we notice and remark on behaviour we appreciate. It helps children learn social and other life skills, it builds children’s confidence and sense of self, and it re-connects us to our love for our children.

The first step is to notice when you feel good (e.g., relief, comfort, pride, delight) in response to something your child has said or done. For specific behaviour concerns, look out for the exceptions. For example, if you are concerned about your child swearing, look out for times when your child speaks politely.

Focus on conveying genuine feelings, rather than providing an evaluation of the child’s behaviour. Avoid vague platitudes like “good boy/good girl”. Praise that feels mechanical or disingenuous can feel manipulative for the child.

Talk about how your child’s action positively affected you. Impacts might be concrete (e.g., in time, energy, money) or relate to your values (e.g., honesty, integrity, respect). Specifically describe the behaviour that you appreciated and why. For example, “I appreciate it when you wash up your cup, because now I have less dishes to do later.”

Sharing appreciation is one of the most powerful ways of building your bond with your child, so it is worth taking the time and effort to do it well and often.

Luddenham Easter Festival Returns

The Luddenham Easter Festival is returning this month, taking place on Friday 7th April (Easter Friday) till Monday 10th April (Easter Monday) at Luddenham Showground.

It will be open from 12:30pm to 8:00pm from Good Friday to Sunday and 12:30pm to 6:00pm on Easter Monday.

There will be a $2 entry fee, which will include a free circus at 2:00pm and 5:00pm each day.

Rides coupons are $2 per coupon or $55 for 30 coupons (save $5). Coupon numbers vary for each ride/display.

This year’s awesome rides will feature dodgems, ferris wheel, kamikaze, hurricane, sizzler, ghost train, bungees, ponies, super jet coaster, midnight madness, gravitron, mirror maze, matterhorn ice jet, merry go round, wild west swinger, tea cups, space jam, giant slide plus children’s rides!

If that’s not enough, they’ll be carnival games like catch a fish, laughing clowns and shooting gallery.

And of course, showbags! All your favourites will be on offer.

Delicious food will tickle your tastebuds with dagwood dogs, hot chips, fresh corn on the cob, twisted chip on a stick, homemade German sausages, fairy floss, Dutch pancakes, super sippers, snow cones and lollipops.

The Harrington Circus Show will amaze the whole family, with free entry and two shows daily.

You’ll also find roaming shows throughout the day, coloured hair braiding, and face painting.

The Easter Festival would not be complete without an Easter Hat Parade! The Parade will take place at 4:00pm on Sunday. Best of all is that there will be some wonderful prizes for the best decorated Easter Hat. First prize will be a new mountain bike. If you would like to take part in the Easter Hat Parade, please call Karren on 0437 108026.

“Come and visit us. It’s always good to put a smile on your face and make some good memories with the whole family” said Karren Blades of Luddenham Easter Festival.

Check out their Facebook page for more information and updates.

See you there this Easter!

r A fun and fulfilling family day out | Image: Luddenham Easter Festival Facebook

Exploring Tree Podium Coming Soon

Bakers Delight Loyalty Program Makes Earning ‘Dough’ a Breeze

In Oran Park Podium, you’ll soon find a little piece of magic… Exploring Tree Podium, which is coming in 2024.

They are inspired to bring excellence in Early Childhood Education to the Camden LGA, and their latest Christian Early Learning Centre is absolutely stunning.

The moment you walk through their doors, you will experience early childhood education as you have never seen it before. The facilities and attention to detail in their centres are unsurpassed. There is an open, relaxed atmosphere where they cater for each child's intellectual, aesthetic, moral, social, emotional, and physical development, for the best start to education with Christian values.

Their Podium early learning centre is going to blow your mind. The design of the playground includes an Italian inspired piazza and enchanted garden. The courtyard brings the natural world in. The playground is a perfect combination of play, function, and beauty.

What sets them apart is the love, heart, and soul their children get every day, their passion and commitment to their chosen profession, their exuberant and passionate team, their Christian foundations, and their strong family relationships.

The genuine connection between teachers, educators, families, children, and management gives everyone that ‘a place to call home’ feel and a place of support for our children, families, and staff.

Their learning environments are aligned with children’s interests and act as the third teacher, evoking new opportunities for children to delve deeper into their learning and appreciate new ways of thinking as they learn through play, inquiry, and coconstruction.

Creativity is a key area of their curriculum and is the source and essence of everything they teach. By learning through and appreciating the arts such as visual arts, music, movement, drama, sculpture, loose parts play, mindfulness, they awaken the soul and potential within.

As Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia Approach – “nothing without joy”, our days are filled with Love, Laughter, and Learning.

They can’t wait for you to see Exploring Tree Podium for yourself in 2024!

It’s Easter time and what better way to celebrate the season than with a FREE six pack of Bakers Delight Hot Cross Buns?

It might sound too good to be true, but that’s exactly what Bakers Delight is offering its customers between now and Easter Sunday, just for joining their loyalty program, Dough Getters.

Dough Getters is a new and easy way for customers to earn rewards for every dollar and cent they spend on daily fresh baked goods from their local Bakers Delight. Until 9 April, new members will receive a FREE Hot Cross Bun six pack of their choice with their next purchase.

Becoming a member is easy and can be done online through the Bakers Delight website or on the spot when next visiting a Bakers Delight bakery.

Once registered, Dough Getters can start earning dough instantly and continue to enjoy the many other benefits of the program, including:

• Earn $5 to spend in-bakery every time your spend balance reaches $55

• A FREE treat on your birthday

• Exclusive offers to keep you delighted throughout the year

• An easy-to-use app

To find out more, visit www. bakersdelight.com.au/doughgetters or ask in-store for details.

r Happy Easter | Image/Article: Bakers Delight

r Artist impressions of Exploring Tree Podium | Image: Foster and Associates/RP Design Studio. Article: Exploring Tree

Amusing April KID’S C ORNER

SOLUTIONS

New Fire Station Opens in Oran Park

Sydney’s newest fire station at Oran Park is now fully operational with the $6.1 million facility significantly enhancing emergency response capability in the south west growth corridor.

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke joined Member for Camden Peter Sidgreaves, Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies, Camden Mayor Therese Fedeli and Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter recently to officially open the new station.

“This state-of-the-art station will have a permanent crew of firefighters operating 24 hours a day to protect the people of one of the fastest growing regions of our State,” Ms Cooke said.

“It includes separate amenities and rest areas for both female and male firefighters, designated ‘clean firefighter’ areas to eliminate carcinogen contamination, training areas and fitness facilities.

“It also has two firefighting appliances with specialised HAZMAT capability which are able to respond to dangerous chemical, biological or other toxic incidents.”

Mr Sidgreaves said Oran Park Fire Station has been strategically positioned to protect growing communities.

“This new station is going to stand communities of the south west in good stead for years to come, joining Fire and Rescue NSW stations at Narellan and Camden to provide a strong network of protection,” Mr Sidgreaves said.

“We’ll also see the addition of 32 permanent firefighting jobs which will be a huge boost to our local economy and I’m thankful that despite the pandemic and wet weather impacts, we now have a fantastic facility to make our community safer and stronger.”

Commissioner Baxter said the station’s engine bay caters for a Hazmat fire pumper as well as a heavy Hazmat appliance.

“The inclusion of major Hazmat capability here provides an added layer of protection for the people of south west Sydney,” Commissioner Baxter said.

“The layout includes environmentally friendly measures including a solar-power array, LED lighting and it was designed to face the north-west to lower the total cooling load on its air conditioning system. I’m certainly impressed seeing this project come to life and it will provide firefighters with a station they can be proud of for decades to come.”

PROBUS CLUB

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park

E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com P: 0410758755

Probus is a social group for retired and semi-retired people in the community, offering the opportunity to get together with like-minded people, make new friends and have some fun.

The Annual General Meeting of Oran Park Probus Club was held early in March. The 2023-2024 Management Committee will meet soon to discuss activities and events being planned for the year ahead. Regular coffee and chats, pub lunches, cultural dining, craft sessions, movies, family history, barefoot bowling, trivia and other special events are already planned. This includes a tour of Sydney Harbour with the Naval Historical Society at the end of March, a bus trip to the Blue Mountains in May and a ‘Queen’ Tribute Show in July.

Oran Park Probus Club meets at 10.00am on the first Tuesday of the month (except January and November) at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, Camden. Meetings commence with a talk from a ‘speaker’. A recent topic was the ‘Rum Rebellion’, a humorous account of a history that might have been very different if a majority of the population had remained sober!

Fun, Fellowship and Friendship is what Probus is all about. If that’s what you’re looking for, please come to a meeting. Visitors are always welcome. Perhaps join members for lunch and a chat at the Club afterwards.

r 2023-2024 Committee | Image Supplied

If you would like to find out more about Oran Park Probus Club, please contact the Secretary on 0410 758755 or email secretary. oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com.

Article Written + Submitted by: Lead Pastor Stuart Starr

A: Cnr Central Avenue + Marcus Loane Way, Oran Park NSW 2570

W: newlifeanglican.org.au

E: stuart@newlifeanglican.org.au

The God Who Died For You

Australians love straight talk. We hate spin. So, let’s talk about Easter. For lots of us, it’s about Easter eggs, long weekend camping, and a bunch of rabbits. That’s all fine as it goes, but it’s not why we celebrate. Easter is about the God who died for you.

Let me explain.

In the Bible, we read this incredible description of the Easter event; “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” What does it mean?

Firstly, the “Christ” bit is easy - that’s Jesus. We know He died on the cross because otherwise why would we have hot cross buns and necklaces? But what was that death about, especially when generally speaking, most people figure Jesus was a good guy who taught us to love one another?

The reason Jesus died was for sin. No, not His sin, but ours. God tells us Jesus, “died for sins once for all.” Some of us know about repeated sacrifices at a temple or offered in your living room, over and over again. Jesus’s sacrifice of Himself stopped all that. His death was once on behalf of every sinner (that’s you and me). The exchange is put like this, “the righteous (the totally good Jesus) for the unrighteous (totally bad - us!) to bring you to God.” Jesus took our place.

At Easter, we see that God’s Son literally loved us to death. That’s what we call Good Friday. Then, on Sunday He rose from the grave to conquer death. It’s great news and we’d love you to celebrate it with us. Join us for more real talk about that first Easter on Good Friday April 7th 9:30am at Church and Easter Sunday April 9th 8am at Oran Park Anglican College. Details at www.newlifeanglican. org.au.

Article Written + Submitted by: Parish Priest Fr David Catterall MTh

P: 02 4648 2226 W: www.marymackillopparish.org.au A: 94 Oran Park Drive, Oran Park NSW 2570

Facebook: www.facebook.com/oranparkparish Twitter: www.twitter.com/oranparkparish

For Christians, “Easter is not so much a day, or even a Season, but it’s a way of living”. While some may not realise or acknowledge the link, the call to live as ‘Easter People’ is reflected in the sharing of Easter eggs and Hot Cross buns. Both these “symbols of Easter” find their origins in the Easter story. For example, the Easter egg is a symbol of new life. When a traditional chocolate Easter egg (not like those fancy ones today that contain trinkets and lollies) is broken open and the owner finds nothing inside the egg, this is a symbol of the tomb that was found empty on that 1st Easter Sunday, because Jesus had risen from the dead. The Hot Cross bun also finds its origin in Christian symbolism as the cross made of dough is a reminder of the cross upon which Jesus died.

Once again during this Easter Season, here in the parish of St Mary MacKillop, that is still one of Australia’s newest Catholic parishes, we will be having a number of celebrations and events. This includes Masses (church services) at our northern Mass centre of St Mary Mother of God Church, (cnr Ingleburn and Dickson Rds) Leppington, and at our southern Mass centre (94 Oran Park Dr) Oran Park. More details about these Easter Season events can be found on our website www.marymackillopparish.org.au. Whatever Easter 2023 means to us, and whatever the joys and struggles we are facing, I pray that this time of year will be another opportunity for all of us, both individually and with family and friends, to celebrate the great gift of life.

FAITH – ST MARY MACKILLOP CATHOLIC PARISH ORAN PARK

FAITH – NEWLIFE ANGLICAN ORAN PARK

oran park

4733 0792

editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au

PO Box 8254

Glenmore Park NSW 2745

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Account Information + Enquiries accounts@districtgazette.com.au

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NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE

12th April 2023

NEXT ISSUE DISTRIBUTION

Online: 1st May 2023

Letterboxes: 2 + 3 May 2023

HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency Services Police, Ambulance, Fire 000 or 112 mobile

Narellan Police Station 4632 4499

Police Assistance Line 131 444

Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114

WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946

NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS St. Vincent de Paul Society 8250 1484

e: Socialjustice.Wol@vinnies.org.au

Camden SES 4647 0319

(For emergency help in floods and storms call NSW SES – 132 500)

General OPT information, Contact: Sales & Information Office 9043 7500

Health Services

Camden + Campbelltown Hospital Switchboard 4634 3000 After

Sports Clubs

Camden Athletics Club + Little Athletics http://camdenathletics.org.au/

Camden Cats Senior AFL Club

Greg McGuiness 0413 257 516

Camden Netball www.camdennetball.com.au

Macarthur District Softball Association

Lesley Darby 0401 740 023

Narellan Physie Club narellanpcc@hotmail.com

Mount Annan/Currans

Hill Knights Softball Club

Jennifer Tadros 0404 629 710

Camden RSL Youth Club Boxing

Ron 4646 1658

Macarthur Bushwalkers

Ken 4628 2528

Narellan Jets Junior Rugby League

Cindy Morley 0413 086 601

Camden District Cricket Association

Kyle Malcolm - President 0411 371 115

Cobbitty Narellan Cricket Club

Mark Bush - 0497 555 071 - mbush@hvg.net.au

Oran Park Cricket Club

Karl Bennett coaching@oranparkcricket.com.au

Oran Park Netball Club

Rachael Cecil 0433 994 591

Oran Park Rovers Football Club

Nathan Hawthorne 0422 139 993

Oran Park Junior Rugby League

Dave Gabriel 0451 440 661

Oran Park Hockey Club

Michelle Brennan 0400 050 078

Camden Junior AFL Club

Flynnko Pty Ltd

ABN: 65 601 734 472 trading as:

Naomi Porter 0417 683 768

Camden Junior OZTAG camdencobras@oztag.com.au

Harrington Park Scorpions Softball Club

Greg Trevena and MB: 0417 257 385

Mets Baseball - Catherine Field

Kim O'Grady 0412 081 144

Camden Valley Wildfire Basketball Club www.wildfire.org.au

Matt McKenna 0410 503 684 play@wildfire.org.au

Community Groups

Gledswood Toastmasters

David Johnson 0417 423 458

Rotary Club of Gregory Hills Next-Gen President 02 9136 6349 or facebook.com/ rcgregoryhills

The cooler weather of Autumn begins to set in after those very (unusually) warm days in late March.

The month starts with April Fool’s Day, and the endless opportunities children have in pranking their parents for that one day of the year.

The excitement of Easter fills the air. Chocolate Easter Eggs, Hot Cross Buns and, of course, much needed time with family and friends awaits.

ANZAC Day takes place on Tuesday 25th April. A day to remember our armed forces and the sacrifices that they have made for us.

Thank you to our valued readers for continuing to be a part of the District Gazette community and for supporting us and our advertisers. It means a lot to us to know that we have been a part of your lives for almost three decades.

Whether it’s News and Media, Faith, Parenting, Health, Pet advice or anything in between, we’ve got ‘your community news’ covered.

Don’t forget to leave some carrots and water out for the Easter Bunny. Go on, hop to it!

Remember, you never fail until you stop trying.

Belinda

facebook.com/districtgazette

PICK UP POINTS

Delivered MONTHLY to homes in Oran Park + Harrington Park + Harrington Grove + Gregory Hills

or PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY from...

The Grid Café Unit 2 No.5

Cnr Peter Bock Dr & Oran Park Dr Oran Park

Due to the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses, and with the health and safety of our extended team in mind, copies at pick up points during this uncertain period may vary.

Sweet 4 U Patisserie

Shop C6

Oran Park Podium, Oran Park

Oran Park News Agency

Oran Park Podium, Oran Park

Your Community News will continue as we adapt to these challenging times. All/any events published, will proceed in-line with Government Covid guidelines at the time. All/any images published have been supplied with permission and in-line with Government Covid guidelines at the time.

Harrington Park News Agency

Now more than ever, small business needs your support!

Shp8/ 23 Fairwater Drv, Harrington Park

If you would like to have the Oran Park Gazette available for collection at your place of business, please contact us.

This is a great time to follow us on FACEBOOK and SUBSCRIBE to receive a DIGITAL EDITION directly to your inbox monthly:http://eepurl.com/gpmIQ5

SMALL PRINT

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 Oran Park 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.

Managing Editor Belinda Sanders

Writer / Sales Cim Sanders

Advertising Sales Michele Collins