Oran Park Gazette December 2022

Nominate A Local Hero For Annual Award

Now is the perfect time to recognise the outstanding contribution a community member has made in the Camden area, with nominations open for the 2023 Australia Day Awards.

The annual awards recognise the outstanding efforts of residents who dedicate themselves to making a positive difference in our community.

Applications are now open for the following five categories:

• Camden Citizen of the Year open to Camden residents aged 18 years or over at 31 December 2022, who have made a noteworthy contribution during 2022 and/or given outstanding service to the Camden community in a non-work-related capacity over several years;

• Young Citizen of the Year open to Camden residents aged under 18 years as at 31 December 2022, who have given outstanding service and made a positive impact on the community in 2022 and/or longer;

• Sports Achievement Award recognises a committed sportsperson, sporting team, coach, volunteer or official, whose actions inspire and encourage others whilst enriching the Camden community through sport, healthy living or physical activity. This category has no age restrictions;

• Community Group Award recognises groups whose tireless work and close contact with the community encourages inclusivity and continues to make Camden an even better place to live; and

• Arts and Cultural Award a person or group who have made an influential or valuable contribution to the city through any art form, including drama, visual art, music, verse, dance, cultural heritage, expression, literature, film and multimedia. This category has no age restrictions.

Camden Citizen of the Year 2022, Brooke Murray, said it was important to recognise the hard work and dedication of volunteers.

“Not only does this thank the special people around us for everything they do for our community, but it gives a greater platform to promote this work and spread the word for others to support and join in,” Ms Murray said.

“I was incredibly honoured to be named Camden Citizen of the Year for 2022. I am incredibly passionate about the work that I do within the community, and to have that recognised was so special.

“To anyone thinking of nominating someone around them who is making an incredible effort in our community, I would highly encourage it. Not only does

it celebrate their amazing work and show appreciation for everything they do, it also shines a light on all the positive things happening in the Camden region and where and how others can get involved.”

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said thousands of residents volunteer their time and efforts each year to make Camden a better place.

“The Camden community has shown time and time again how supportive they are of each other, putting others before themselves and the awards are a great chance to pay tribute to them,” Cr Fedeli said.

“I know these people generally do not look for the recognition which makes them very humble, however it is important to recognise those who contribute to the lives of others.

“I encourage residents to nominate their local hero and give them the recognition they deserve this year.”

Australia Day Award applications will be open until Wednesday 14 December.

For more information, including eligibility, and to nominate a local hero, bit. ly/ausdaynominationform

Donate To Help Others This Christmas

Bring your generosity to the fore and make a family’s wish come true by donating to the Mayor of Camden’s Christmas Giving Appeal this year.

Council has partnered with Macarthur Salvos Christmas Appeal and is asking residents to dig deep and buy toys, nonperishable grocery items or donate money to help those in need this Christmas.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said Christmas is about spreading love and joy and helping those in need at the most important time of the year

“The Camden community is one of the best in supporting each other and I call on residents to do what they can to help this year’s Christmas Giving Appeal,” Cr Fedeli said.

“We will have Christmas trees located at Camden, Narellan and Oran Park Libraries, as well as Camden Civic Centre, where you can drop off non-perishable grocery items and new toys for children aged up to 17 that are unwrapped.

“Online donations will also help Macarthur Salvos support and provide clothing and goods with the hope of putting a smile on their faces this Christmas.”

The Mayor’s Christmas Giving Appeal is now open, with items to be accepted until Friday 16 December.

Online donations can be made at https:// www.salvationarmy.org.au/donate/makea-donation/donate-online/

Article: Camden Council

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

r Article: Camden Council

The local community has bid farewell to an inspirational sporting committee member, with Renato Cocchietto stepping down as President of Gregory Hills FC.

Mr Cocchietto was at the helm of Gregory Hills FC for four seasons, from the local club’s inaugural 2019 season until 2022.

He oversaw the club’s entry into the Macarthur Football Association Competition, transition to their current home ground Cunningham Park and huge growth, with player and team numbers expanding every year.

“I feel very proud to be the founding President of Gregory Hills FC since 2019. I have been involved with grassroots sport for over 30 years” said Renato to the Oran Park Gazette.

In just a few short years, he has many favourite memories of his time at the club as President.

“I have so many great memories with Gregory Hills FC. Watching the club build and grow from 0 players to over 500 players this season, despite COVID and bad weather. I have loved how the community have supported and continues to support the club. I would like to thank our many sponsors. When we started, we only had Mini Roos. Now, we have Mini Roos, Junior, and Senior teams with ages from 4 years to 70 years. We also have many female players” he reflected.

Renato doesn’t see the club slowing down anytime soon. In fact, he sees it as being one of the biggest in the future.

“I see the club continuing to grow and we estimate that we will become one of the largest clubs in the area, whilst still holding our family values” Renato smiled.

His hard work and dedication to local sport was recognised last month, with Renato receiving a 2022 Appreciation Award for consistent and valuable service to football in Macarthur from Macarthur Football Association.

For now, he will he handing over the reins to Tim Waller, who has been announced as the new Gregory Hills FC President for 2023.

“Tim Waller is our new President, who has been part of the club since the start. He has been involved with soccer for more than 20 years himself” he finished.

When you think about the magic that the festive season brings, it’s hard not to think about Christmas lights. Lots of colourful Christmas lights! South Circuit Christmas Lights are back, bigger, and brighter than ever before.

Each year in December, local Travis Carstens and his dedicated neighbours decorate their street in Oran Park for all to see, whilst raising much needed funds for charity organisation, Lights for Kids.

“This year, we will have 8, possibly 9 houses lighting up South Circuit. This will be our biggest year ever with not only the number of houses, but also the number of lights and decorations displayed,” said Travis.

Travis’ own display is quite impressive and it’s sure to take the breath away from many.

“My light display will be bigger than ever with over 300,000 LEDs alone. There are a few new display items as well as bringing back the 8 metre Christmas tree with more lights. I will also be bringing back the Christmas village in my garage. There’ll be photo opportunities including in Santa's sleigh, with our inflatable Santa, in the face cut outs, with our Christmas Angel or with the sparkling Christmas tree. You may even find the Grinch or a dinosaur hiding in the display” he explained.

“As always, I will have a walkthrough display on my driveway and carols playing every night too” he added.

The planned celebrations will feature Christmas helpers handing out lollipops and candy canes, and a variety of food vendors. These include ice cream, dessert, and coffee vans and even a Greek food truck.

Travis delights in the joy that South Circuit Christmas Lights bring to the local community, “Seeing the smiles on the faces of our visitors makes it all worthwhile. It is great to see how Christmas lights can brighten people’s days, and it doesn't matter what age”. You

donating through the charity box out the front of the

r Some of the amazing lights | Image: Travis Carstens

Merry Christmas

can support the Sydney Children’s Hospital through Lights for Kids by

light’s display or by visiting online at https://www.lightsforkids.org.au/fundraisers/southcircuitchristmaslights/light-for-kids.

out more by searching South Circuit Christmas Lights on Facebook.

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Back to his Roots for Matt Roffe

It's funny how life comes full circle, but that is exactly what has happened with successful RE/MAX real estate agent and business owner Matt Roffe.

The name Roffe is recognisable throughout Macarthur and surrounds with Matt having grown up on his family property of 400 acres, his family well respected in the community.

“This is a great area and one I’ve always wanted to come back to,” Matt says.

“I bought land here; I built here, and I live here. It’s great to return to my roots as the area holds a special place in my heart."

Matt shared that as a kid, he and his brother would spend all day on the Camden Bike track it is one of his favourite memories of his childhood.

“My brother and I would spend all day on our BMX’s heading to the infamous ‘Devils Ditch’,” he shares.

“It was when I had a child of my own and went for a walk on the track with my wife, the familiarity of it all made me want to come back and allow my family the same opportunity that I had.”

Following a passionate career in real estate and successfully operating two real estate businesses in Sydney RE/MAX and RE/MAX Commercial Alliance which Matt also with Gary and Ana Kelly, the opening of RE/MAX Oran Park last month has offered Matt the opportunity further grow business by returning to his grassroots.

"To be able to grow expand my business with the opening of RE/MAX Podium is fantastic."

Matt says RE/MAX Podium's focus and concentration remain in Oran Park, where his office is currently Matt's experience in both residential and commercial estate, coupled with his personal affiliation and knowledge the area places him in good stead offering a range tailored to his clients' needs.

Currently located at Suite 12/208, 351 Oran Park Park Matt shares plans are in the works for a permanent during stage 2 of the area's commercial development next year.

"Oran Park is Sydney’s fastest growing suburbs, be the next mega city in Sydney,” Matt says.

“From what was once farming land a mere decade ago, to now accommodating a changing demographic in this masterplanned and built city, it’s allowing fantastic growth in a great community sought by many.

"I'm pleased to be back and to be welcoming many families and individuals to this great region."

RE/MAX Podium has support from the RE/MAX group, as well as the backing of the global RE/MAX community, with RE/MAX Australia’s managing director Joel Davoren sharing his enthusiasm for the opening of RE/MAX Podium.

“Matt, Ana and Garry are the calibre of business owners and agents RE/MAX Australia proudly aligns with,” he said, “so I am delighted and excited to see the RE/MAX brand expand to one of Sydney’s fastest growing regions.”

Alternatively, contact us at: 0493 153 053 or info@parkandhills.com.au Park & Hills - City expertise: Local focus www.parkandhills.com.au

r Matt Roffe | Image/Article: RE/MAX Australia

Was it a bird? Was it a plane?

It was Santa Claus! The jolly old man in the big red suit landed at The Podium in Oran Park in a spectacular way on Saturday 26th November.

Arriving by helicopter (giving the reindeers some much needed time off), he was met by his adoring fans awaiting to catch a glimpse of the man in red in our skies as he approached The Podium.

Guided by The Podium’s glistening 8 metre tall Christmas Tree, Santa landed at his hideaway an interactive walk-through set which is where he will be until December 24th.

Just some of the amazing things you will find at Santa’s hideaway include a Christmas sleigh which visitors can sit on and take pictures, face-in-the-hole elf, Christmas tree forest, glistening reindeer and of course, Santa’s spectacular throne!

The popular Breakfast with Santa event is back again this year on Saturday 3rd December.

In this kid’s event, attendees are invited to enjoy a supplied breakfast with Santa before joining him for a Christmas story. Following story time, kids will be treated to a gift from Santa. There are two sessions on Saturday 3rd December, which are at 8.00am and 9.30am. Tickets are limited, and bookings are essential.

Information and booking links for all Christmas activities including Santa photos at The Podium can be found by visiting thepodium.au.

A wonderful way to end the year at The Podium as they prepare the countdown to the launch of Stage 2 in 2023!

r Feature Article: [Cover] Santa arriving in the helicopter [L] Santa on his spectacular throne [R] Santa greets his many fans |

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Keep Watch: Always Supervise Children near Water

With Summer holidays fast approaching and families gathering at local beaches and swimming pools, it is a timely reminder to keep watch whenever children are near water. Unfortunately, around 22 children lose their lives to drowning in Australia each year. These deaths are preventable with active adult supervision.

Toddlers aged 1-4 years are most at risk because they are fast moving, adventurous and do not understand water safety. Parents think that children will splash and yell when they are struggling but drowning occurs quickly and silently. A child’s airway can fill with water in less than 20 seconds, preventing capacity to call out.

Active supervision requires you to have your full attention on your child when they are near, around or in water. Avoid distractions like smart phones. Always ensure you are within an arm’s length of toddlers, so you can intervene quickly. Flotation devices or leaving small children in the care of older children does not replace adult supervision. Older children also require your full attention when near, in or around water.

Other steps you can take to ensure your children’s safety around water:

1. Restrict children’s access to water. Ensure gates to pools or spas are securely closed and meet NSW Standards (visit swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au for more information). Make sure there are no chairs or pot plants nearby for children to climb and gain entry. Empty all buckets, containers, and wading pools immediately after use as young children can drown in as little as 5cm depth.

2. Learn and regularly refresh your cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. You can access a free online course at kidshealth.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/cpr-resuscitation. You can also download, print, and display resuscitation posters to keep as a reminder around pools and spas.

3. Enrol your children in water familiarisation or swimming lessons so they can start to develop their understanding of water safety from an early age.

For more information on water safety, visit kidsafensw.org or royallifesaving.com.au. Keep safe this Summer. Keep watch.

Planning Lodged For New Gregory Hills Public School

The State Significant Development (SSD) application for the permanent Gregory Hills Public School has been lodged with the Department of Planning and Environment, bringing the school one step closer to being delivered for the community.

The new permanent primary school will include 44 learning spaces, four support learning spaces, administration and staff facilities, a canteen, multi-purpose hall, library, Covered Outdoor Learning Area (COLA), landscaped outdoor learning areas, outdoor play areas including a sports court and a playing field, and car parking and amenities.

Member for Camden Peter Sidgreaves MP said he was excited that this important project had reached another milestone. "Each milestone we reach brings us closer to seeing the delivery of the new school for students in the community. The NSW Government funded this project and will deliver this project for the community of Gregory Hills." Mr Sidgreaves said.

The school will cater for students from Kindergarten to Year 6 and meet enrolment demand in the area to support the growing South West Sydney population. Minister for Education the Hon. Sarah Mitchell MLC said after the SSD is approved, the next step will be the start of construction.

"I am pleased that we are making good progress with the establishment of Gregory Hills Public School. We will continue to share updates with the school community so that students can start their education journey next year with zest and excitement," Ms Mitchell said.

The school will start operating from Day 1 Term 1 2023 in temporary facilities while the permanent school is being built. Site establishment works for the temporary school on the site commenced last month, while the schematic design for the permanent school is nearing completion.

An information session was held on 24 November at Gregory Hills Town Centre where the community learnt more about the new school, including temporary facilities, and how to enrol students.

Community members living within the intake area can enrol their children in the new school via School Finder.

The NSW Government is investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 160 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This builds on the more than $9.1 billion invested in projects delivered since 2017, a program of $17.7 billion in public education infrastructure.

r Artist’s impression |

Article Written + Submitted by: Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

Bumps, Babies & Beyond Macarthur is a group created by first-time mum Bethany Zinghini for local mums. In less than six months, it is fast proving to be a popular group assisting motherhood.

Bethany started the group in June 2022, and it already boasts close to 1,000 members.

“I gave birth to my first child at the end of last year, on NYE 2021. I spent 15 weeks of the pregnancy in the COVID lockdown and gave birth while restrictions were still in place and cases were at a record high. Due to this, the only mother's groups that were offered to me were ones that were virtual/online. I was not satisfied with this” Bethany explained to the Oran Park Gazette.

She soon set up a Facebook group with the aim of connecting to other local mums with babies her son's age.

“The aim was to create a safe space, where mother's felt supported by one another, where they could share their joys, their struggles, and their day-to-day achievements. It's been an incredible tool in helping to curb post-natal depression and mental health struggles. The group has played a vital role in giving mother's an outlet, a place where they are all welcome, where their children are all welcome and where life-long friendships have been made” she stated.

The group has a local weekly catch up, ranging from walks, picnics, bushwalks, indoor play centres, gym sessions, and lunches. They have also created special experiences such as the Father's Day events where the babies did artwork and photo shoots.

“I may have started the group, but the mothers that attend are what make the group so special. They are the nicest group of mums I have ever met. They are encouraging, supportive, happy and bring such a positive influence to our catch ups. They are the reason behind the success of the group” smiled Bethany.

Bethany has plans to grow Bumps, Babies & Beyond Macarthur and would like to one day see more formed in different areas.

“It would be lovely to create play groups for all ages to attend so the mothers can meet other mothers with the same aged children and be able to experience what we have experienced with the baby age group. I would like to watch that happen and to introduce what we have in Macarthur to other local government areas also” she ended.

If you would like to be a part of this inspirational group, search Bumps, Babies & Beyond Macarthur on Facebook.

r Group members enjoying a catch-up and time together | Image: Bethany Zinghini

Gregory Hills

Dazzling December KID’S CORNER

We have some breaking news from the North Pole, with Santa joining Gledswood Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) for their Annual Santa Run this month.

The popular festive season event will see Santa and Gledswood RFB visit the community on Saturday 10th December and Saturday 17th December.

On Saturday 10th December, at 10:00am they will visit Willowdale Children’s Playground (Baden Powell Avenue, Denham Court), 11:30am at Buckingham Park (Killara Terrace, Gledswood Hills), 1:00pm at Howard Park (Wallarah Circuit, Gregory Hills), and 2:30pm at Gregory Hills Hotel (Central Hills Drive, Gregory Hills).

Whilst on Saturday 10th December, at 10:00am they will visit Catherine Park Estate Sports Field (Catherine Park Drive, Catherine Field), 11:30am at Oran Park Skate Park (South Circuit, Oran Park), 1:00pm at Ingall Loop Reserve (Ingall Loop, Catherine Field), and 2:30pm at Oran Park Splash Park (O’Toole Avenue in Oran Park). Please note that all times are an estimated time and will be roughly indicative of where the fire truck and Santa will be on each day.

“Given the privileged position we hold in the community, Santa has selected us to assist him in visiting many of the boys and girls. On these days, we escort Santa around the neighbourhood in the fire truck. He normally carries with him some little presents for the kids as he passes by in the fire truck. We then will normally stop at an allocated park in each of the suburbs so that the kids can take photos with Santa!” said Gledswood RFB.

Gledswood RFB also have some other Christmas celebrations planned for the community. They will be participating in the Bunnings Warehouse Christmas Night Markets on Thursday 8th December from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Gregory Hills. You can drop by for a sausage sizzle and a look inside the fire track. Additionally, they will be making multiple ad hoc trips to Walseley Crescent in Gledswood Hills during December to visit the multiple award-winning street for best Christmas light decorations.

“The last couple years have certainly been tough on all of us, especially the kids. As such, we take pride in knowing that children that get to see Santa/take with have another small thing to look forward to and often brings them a lot of happiness and joy. We enjoy serving the community as best we can, and this is another avenue through which we endeavour to do so” they ended.

up-to-date information about the Gledswood RFB Santa Run, visit their Facebook page.

r (L-R) Steve Marriott, Bala Dayaram, Rob Johinke, Lidia Beer, Santa, Sydney Brooksby, Rosendo Binay, Ryan Rennie, and Greg Waddell|

Let’s Build a Brighter Future for Western Sydney

The future of Western Sydney is indeed bright. With the construction of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis well underway, affordable preschool being delivered and providing more support for first home buyers, Western Sydney families have a lot to look forward to.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said that with all the incredible infrastructure going up across Western Sydney, the jobs boom and cost of living support being delivered for hard working families, it is clear that a Liberal and Nationals Government will deliver a brighter future for Western Sydney.

“I am so proud of the work we have been able to achieve as a government over these past 12 years. But there is so much more that needs to be done,” Mrs Davies said.

“At the next state election in March 2023, Oran Park will form part of the newly named Badgerys Creek electorate for which I am the Liberal candidate. I want to hear from you about your issues, your concerns and what a Liberal and Nationals Government can do to help build a brighter future.”

“It is essential that families are at the centre of any government’s priorities and as a Member of Parliament.”

Since coming to Government, the Liberal and Nationals Government has delivered great improvements for the community including:

• The $632 million upgrade of Campbelltown Hospital Redevelopment Stage 2,

• A $4.4 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan which helped to deliver upgrades to Bringelly Road and The Northern Road,

• World class education facilities at Oran Park High School, Oran Park Public School, and Barramurra Public School and

• The $6.19 million Oran Park Fire Station to keep people safe.

For the community to have their say, please visit https://forms.gle/yTkd8andYdAx9s5dA

Christmas Together Around Jesus

Jesus. That was the first Christmas, even before there was such a word. Christmas was a gathering. In the Bible and across a thousand Christmas cards we see three groups: a mum, dad, animals, and a newborn in a shed. We see that amazed family joined by a group of shepherds. Lastly, we see the holy family greeted by kingly men bringing gifts from afar. That tells us most of what we need to know.

Christmas is about family. The wonder of Christmas is that God came to live with us in human form as a baby boy. One of the names given to Jesus is Emmanuel. It means God with us. Of course, our family gatherings can be far less than holy, but where they are good, we can give thanks for a small echo of that first Christmas morning.

Christmas is about unexpected guests. I’m pretty sure that Mary and Joseph didn’t know that a bunch of wide-eyed shepherds would be joining them soon after the birth. But there they were. And of course, that’s often our story too. Welcoming graciously, putting up with patiently, and generally extending hospitality speaks of the welcome God is holding out to each of us this Christmas.

Christmas is about gift giving and receiving. Those three kings from the orient brought extravagant gifts that recognised (before anyone else did) that Mary and Joseph had a King in their midst. The best gift by far at Christmas is of course God’s His Son given to us freely to bring us to Himself.

We’d love to see you join us together around Jesus. Firstly, for our Carols on the lawn outside our church on Central Avenue at 6pm on December 17th. Then, on Christmas Eve in the building at 5pm. And lastly, on Christmas morning a celebration of Jesus at 9am. Find out more via our website and bring a gift to share, and a family to enjoy it together with.

As we know, Christmas 2022 means different things to different people. For some, it is a time to spend with family and friends; whereas, for others it is a time to spend another Christmas alone without the presence of those they love most. For some, Christmas this year will be filled with emotions of grief and sorrow; whereas for others this day is the start of a hope filled future as they witness children and grandchildren celebrating their 1st Christmas.

For some, Christmas 2022 is a year to start new traditions that can be passed on for years to come. Whereas for others, like the parish community of St Mary MacKillop Oran Park (that I am blessed to serve as Parish Priest) this Christmas is a time to continue faith traditions that have been handed on from one generation to the next, as we once again gather for worship and prayer to celebrate Christmas 2022.

Though no matter what Christmas 2022 means to us, and no matter what emotions and feelings, hopes and fears we bring to this Christmas; I invite you and your loved ones to come and celebrate Christmas 2022 at St Mary MacKillop Church, Oran Park. Our Christmas Mass program for our two Mass centres of St Mary Mother of God Church at Leppington and St Mary MacKillop Church at Oran Park can be found on our website www.marymackillopparish.org.au.

May the events of the 1st Christmas, when a small, poor child that Christians name as ‘the Son of God’ was born, remind all of us that Christmas is not simply about the presents and the parties (however special these may be). It is also an opportunity to strive to promote amongst our families, friends and our neighbourhoods those values that are so central to this special time of year, like

peace and goodwill to all. Merry Christmas to one and all.

r Tanya Davies MP | Image/Article: Tanya Davies MP

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 Hours Medical Clinic (Campbelltown) 4634 3290

Heathdirect Australia 1800 022 222

Get Healthy 1300 806 258

Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36

MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

Karitane Careline 1300 22 74 64

Breastfeeding Helpline (NSW) 1800 686 268 (1800 MUM 2 MUM)

Pregnancy Birth + Baby 1800 882 436

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

Oran Park Physical Culture Club Mandy Weiling 0417 020 549

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

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

Gledswood Toastmasters

David Johnson 0417 423 458

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

‘This year, I lost, won, failed, cried, laughed, loved, but I didn’t fold.’

A relevant quote that not only echoes the year many have experienced, but ironically also here at the District Gazette.

We’re proud to still be delivering local news across our portfolio of 5 publications, reaching 28,000 letterboxes spanning 20 suburbs and a readership of 83,000.

Unlike some, we have not ‘folded’ but stand stronger than ever.

We wouldn’t be here without all of our supporters, both readers, contributors and advertisers. Not to mention all of the people who’ve taken time out of their busy lives to chat with us, to tell their stories and keep us up to date with what’s happening right here; and let’s not forget those who walked the streets delivering papers be it rain, hail or shine in 2022.

Remember to support local, small business and especially those that you see advertising within these pages. Without their support we wouldn’t be able to deliver ‘your community news’ to you.

We wish you a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year. Cherish friends and family, those both here and in our hearts. Stay safe and well. We’ll be back from February next year! Find us on Facebook

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.

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.

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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.

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