Oran Park Gazette March 2023

Local Charity To Benefit From International Women’s Day Gala

Local organisation, Big Yellow Umbrella, has been selected as the main beneficiary of Council’s 2023 International Women’s Day Gala.

The organisation was selected as part of Council’s recent expression of interest process, which invited local charities and not-for-profit organisations to apply to receive the funds raised from ticket sales of the event.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the local organisation did incredible work for the community.

“Big Yellow Umbrella provide services, programs and activities and work closely with women-focused services to focus on empowerment, self-development, opportunity and building skills,” Cr Fedeli said.

“The organisation has indicated the funds will go towards supporting five local playgroups, helping mothers who have a small business at home to promote their services and products and inviting expert speakers to the playgroups to educate the mothers on issues and topics of interest to women, delivered by professionals.

Council’s annual International Women's Day Gala will be held on Wednesday 8 March, 5.30-9pm, at Gledswood Homestead and Winery. The event will celebrate local women’s achievements, raise awareness of women’s equality and contribute to the gender parity journey.

For more information and to stay up to date with announcements for the event, visit https://www.camden.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/ major-events/international-womens-daygala/

New Park’nPay Accessibility Portal Goes Live

It is now easier for motorists with disabilities to find accessible parking across Sydney streets and carparks, thanks to a new nationleading Park’nPay Accessibility Portal, giving drivers the power to search for hundreds of accessible spots with the tap of a button.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the Accessibility Portal is an easy-to-use webbased platform, allowing people to search for accessible parking at their desired location, and filter for the time and day the space is needed as well as by parking type.

“We are continuing our journey to improve the accessibility of services for the more than 400,000 people with mobility parking permits and want to offer them an easy way to find parking before they leave their driveways,” Mr Dominello said.

“It can often be time-consuming for drivers with a disability to find a suitable parking space especially if they are unfamiliar with

the area they are travelling to.

“Motorists will be able to use the Accessibility Portal to find a spot which best suits their needs, the number of accessible spaces at a location, get directions and realtime availability for accessible spaces.”

The NSW Government has already integrated 383 accessible parking spots across four Sydney councils. When completed, the program will cover roughly 3600 accessible parking spots across 30 Sydney Metro councils.

Mr Dominello said users would be able to select a spot with the recognisable wheelchair icon to indicate it is an accessibility bay with the spot being green if it is available to use or red if occupied.

“This is a great example of using technology to be more inclusive and this enhancement will make it easier than ever to plan a journey and find a parking spot,” Mr Dominello said.

“Instead of spending time and wasting petrol driving around looking for an accessible park, we have an innovative solution which gets drivers where they need to go.

“The Park’nPay app will also have an accessibility mode option where customers with a mobile parking permit can customise their experience to search for accessible parking, start a parking session and receive notifications.”

Vice President of Google Cloud – Australia and New Zealand Alister Dias said the NSW Government and Google share a vision for a strong and inclusive digital future for all Australians, and technology can play a pivotal role in helping deliver improved outcomes.

"Working closely with the Department of Customer Service and Physical Disability Council, Google Cloud is optimising the Park'nPay experience by analysing parking sensor data to provide real time parking and travel information, ensuring motorists with disabilities can better plan trips and park with ease,” Mr Dias said.

Physical Disability Council NSW CEO Serena Ovens said: “The Accessibility Portal further enhances our member’s capacity to source accessible parking information easily including the ability to check the streetscape they will be parking in.”

“Any information that assists people with mobility needs to better understand their parking options is welcomed. PDCN applaud Google’s involvement in the Park’nPay app as an important innovation that supports the inclusion of the disability community.”

Real-time parking data will come online in the app as each council area is onboarded and will be completed in 2023.

The Portal is a joint initiative between the NSW Government, Google and the Physical Disability Council of NSW.

For more on the Accessibility Portal visit: https://accessibility.parknpay.nsw.gov.au/

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

rArticle: Camden Council

rArticle: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello .

Shark Swimming Down to Camden

Renowned businessperson, entrepreneur, podcaster, blogger and Australian ‘shark’, Naomi Simson, is ready to share her experiences as the keynote speaker at Council’s International Women’s Day Gala this month.

The Gala, which is taking place on Wednesday 8 March, 5.309pm, at Gledswood Homestead and Winery, will celebrate local women’s achievements, raise awareness of women’s equality, contribute to the gender parity journey, and raise funds for a local charity.

Ms Simson said she was excited to attend the upcoming event.

“I’m really looking forward to sharing my thoughts, experience and insights on leadership for Camden Council,” Naomi said.

“It will be a thought provoking yet entertaining session calling on my variety of business experiences including my time on Shark Tank.”

Eleven local businesses have also joined in supporting International Women’s Day as sponsors for the event. They are:

• Gold sponsors – Macarthur BMW and Sprouts Consultancy;

• Silver sponsor – Politech Air Conditioning Services; and

• Bronze sponsors – Books by Katrina, Century 21 Pereira Group, Jones XL Pty Ltd, McDonald’s, Stone Real Estate Macarthur, Taylor’d Funerals, The Greater Narellan Business Chamber and The Mindful Collective Macarthur.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said this year’s theme, #EmbraceEquity, put the spotlight on gender equity in all facets of society and, in particular, within our own sphere of influence.

“The notion of embracing equity is so important because it not only talks about gender – when we embrace equity, we embrace diversity and we embrace inclusion,” Cr Fedeli said.

“We acknowledge it’s okay to be different, we come together in harmony and unity, and we help everyone achieve the success they deserve.

“We all know being included and having a sense of belonging feels good and is so important to our sense of self. As a woman myself – a mother, a grandmother, an aunty, a friend – this is something I want for all the people close to me. I want them to feel they can be, do and achieve whatever they want – free from the constraints of gender stereotypes, discrimination, and bias.

For more information on the event, visit https://www. camden.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/majorevents/internationalwomens-day-gala/

Friendship, Fellowship and Fun

Oran Park Probus Club (OPPC) is a local group for retirees that meet regularly in a fun and friendly environment. Probus provides retirees with the opportunity to connect socially through a variety of activities and excursions with one another.

The groups latest adventure was to the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) and the Australian Aviation Hall of Fame at Shellharbour Airport, in Albion Park. The venue is dedicated to keeping Australian aviation history "in the air". One weekend a month, they hold ‘Tarmac Days’, where visitors are able to climb in and out of the aircraft on display that day.

“It was a great day out that began with a tour of the QANTAS jumbo jet, where our knowledgeable guide was able to give us many details about the aircraft and some amusing anecdotes about various events in the life of this aircraft” said Tony Law, President of Oran Park Probus Club.

“We had three very experienced guides to give us details of the aircraft in the various hangars and another to show us the Hall of Fame, so much history. One might think this trip was one for the boys, but the ladies who joined us thoroughly enjoyed it too. “We had a fun day good company great history of the aircraft and a brilliant cafe on site” was a comment that was posted on our Facebook page” he added.

Forming in March 2014, Oran Park Probus Club currently has 72 members. They are hoping to raise their member numbers this year to around 100. Aging and COVID have taken a toll over the last three years.

Tony has enjoyed being a part of the group for the past 9 years.

“Retiring just before joining Probus has enabled my wife and I to make so many new friends, over the years. We look forward to attending the activities arranged by the committee and their assistants. This includes meetings (with interesting speakers), dining out, trivia, day trips, coffee and chat, just to name a few” Tony replied.

He believes that groups like this are integral for local communities.

“It is very important to have groups such as ours in the community, because those transitioning to retirement or fully retired will suddenly find time on their hands. Without their work connections, they need another outlet to be able to meet people in a friendly and fun environment. The Probus Mantra is Friendship, Fellowship and Fun. OPPC believes we should add Food to that!” he finished.

Your local corporate + commercial lawyers

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90 Podium Way, Oran Park 2570

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www.parkandhills.com.au

Suburban Heroine

With International Women’s Day returning this month, it’s the perfect time to shine the spotlight on some of the inspiring women in our community. Harrington Park Mum and small business owner, Melissa Breuer is one such woman.

Melissa is the owner of Suburban Closet, a boutique business that sells women's fashion and accessories from casual wear to formal wear.

Creating Suburban Closet on 21st January 2021 and initially working part-time in the business, she also had a part-time job as a Scientist at Westmead Hospital. “A year later, I gave up my scientific job and threw myself into my business fulltime and have never looked back!” smiled Melissa.

When finding clothing for herself, she could never find anything she liked or that fit properly in shops.

“So, I thought if I started my own boutique business, I could get different things in” she reflected.

“The other reason was the fact that I was to return to my scientific job fulltime in January 2022, as my youngest son was to start Kindy. Since I'm a mum of 4, it meant before and after school care for my youngest 2 boys and no after school activities for them or my daughter” Melissa added.

Since working as a Hospital Scientist in Molecular Diagnostics at Westmead Hospital for 20 years, Melissa is now relishing her new career as a boutique owner.

“By far my favourite thing about my business is meeting all my beautiful clients. I am so blessed to have such amazing, caring, and supportive women that come to shop in my humble, little boutique. I have made some really good friends since opening my boutique. We laugh, we cry and just support each other” she said to the Oran Park Gazette.

For more information, visit Melissa’s website at www. suburbancloset.com.au, Facebook (Suburban Closet) and Instagram @suburbanclosetau. She also has a Suburban Closet VIP Group on Facebook, where members can get exclusive discounts, first choice on items and to help decide what to stock.

r [Top] Crawling through a Lockheed P2V-7 Neptune [Above] OPPC members recent visit to HARS on the steps to visit the QANTAS Boeing 747. Images: Tony Law r Melissa in her boutique | Images: Melissa Breuer

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 Show Returns

We’re back. The award-winning Camden Show is back for 2023 on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th March.

The birthplace of Australian agriculture, Camden really is the country near the city and with its motto of …’Still a Country Show’. It showcases all the traditional Agricultural Show favourites from the classic baking, handcrafts, artwork, and photography competitions in the historic Show Hall, to the vegetables and cheeses in the Produce Section and then to the Poultry Pavilion, where some of the best examples of birds from the district are on show.

The Heritage Lane showcases life in the past with steam machinery and tractors next to examples of today’s tractors and farm implements. The Drovers Camp offers up traditional tea and damper and, if you are interested in our cold-blooded friends, the Snake Man is always entertaining, and you can’t go past the Racing Pigs!

Our local schools compete in the Scarecrow Making Competition and the Entertainment Stage is a great way to see up and coming performers show off their talents. The Camden Show Committee has worked hard to ensure we provide various displays where learning and fun go together as well as this, we have an animal nursery for all ages, not just the little ones.

When Mum and Dad need to take the weight off, the Camden Style Pavilion showcases some of the best boutique food and wares in the region. If you are still looking for excitement, don’t forget the sideshow alley and incredible rides.

Other competitions include the sheepdog trials, ute show, sheep, goats, alpacas, beef and dairy cattle, dogs, wood chopping, show jumping and horse events on both days showcasing our many different equine friends from the gorgeous mini horses to the big clumping draught horses in all their finery.

Friday night has one of the best rodeo programs from Xtreme Bulls. This year, we welcome the Aussie FMX Team to the main arena on Saturday night, along with a jampacked Night Show program including a special tribute to our Emergency Services. All finishing with a big bang, thanks to the famous Foti Fireworks display and Pandora Macarthur and Narellan.

The Camden Show really is …’Still a Country Show’ with entertainment and something for the whole family to enjoy!

For more information and event details, go to www.camdenshow.com.

The Camden Show is run almost entirely by volunteers. It is run by the community, for the community!

Camden Show … ‘Still a Country Show’

Friday 24th & Saturday 25th March 2023

From 8.00am – 11.00pm Daily

r Some of the amazing activities you will see | Images:

Article: Camden Show Society Inc.

Brett Atkins (+ Imageology as indicated).

Article Written + Submitted by:

Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Harmony Week: Supporting Kids to Understand & Accept Diversity

Australia is home to one of the oldest continuous cultures, as well as Australians who identify with over 270 ancestries. Our cultural diversity is one of our strengths and an important source of national identity. However, racism remains a destructive force in Australian society. Research shows that social attitudes first take root in early childhood. Children learn prejudice from the grown-ups around them in the same way that they develop language.

Children learn the most by observing the behaviour of adults around them. Children listen carefully to how parents and caregivers speak about different groups in society and may adopt similar attitudes accordingly. Likewise, observing how parents and caregivers interact with different members of society teaches children how to behave around people who are different to them. Parents and caregivers who model kind words and actions set a valuable example for children to follow.

It is important to respond to children’s questions with matter of fact and age-appropriate explanations. Young children are naturally curious and often notice physical differences between people early on. For example, a child may notice that another child at her day care has a darker skin tone and asks you about this. An appropriate response might be, “some people have different skin colour and different eye colour and different hair colour.”

When discussing differences between people, point out and highlight the similarities as well. You can talk about how even though people look different, we all have similar feelings. Encourage children to seek out common interests or likes/ dislikes with children who might appear different to them. Sharing something in common, no matter how small, can bring different groups together.

Join in multicultural family events and experiences to learn more about the different cultural or religious groups in your community. Find out how your child’s school or early education centre is celebrating Harmony Week. For details on community events for the whole family, see harmony.gov.au.

As parents and caregivers, you can play an important role in helping children understand, respect, and appreciate cultural diversity.

Five Top Performing Macarthur Catholic School Graduates Awarded Scholarship

Five dedicated students, from Catholic secondary schools across the Macarthur region, will take their first step towards fulfilling a career in teaching, receiving a $20,000 scholarship from Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) last month.

The Step into Teaching scholarship program was introduced in 2020 to encourage more high performing CEDoW secondary school graduates to consider a career in teaching. Now in its third year, the program will award five 2022 HSC graduates each with:

• $20,000 towards the cost of their tertiary studies in primary or secondary education

• the option of part-time employment as a school support officer while they study; and

• a three year conditional permanent teaching position in a CEDoW school after they graduate

The worthy recipients are:

• Antonius Siutz - Magdalene Catholic College graduate, will study a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) at the AustralianCatholic University (ACU)

• Paula Zaballero - Mount Carmel Catholic College Varroville, graduate, will study a Bachelor of Education (Primary andSpecial Education) at Notre Dame

• Abbey Newtown - St Benedict’s Catholic College graduate, will study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at ACU

• Rainer Smith - John Therry Catholic College Rosemeadow graduate, will study a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) University of N.S.W

• Courtney Marek - Magdalene Catholic College graduate, will study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at ACU.

Recipient Courtney Marek believes the scholarship will open many pathways into her teaching career. “This scholarship is going to be an amazing opportunity, and I am looking forward to being supported throughout my studies, as well as being able to develop skills and experience that will allow me to be a better teacher."

Director of Schools, Peter Hill, said teachers have a unique opportunity to transform students’ lives.

“Teachers make positive and meaningful differences every day—educating, supporting and inspiring the children and young people in their classrooms, on sports fields, and everywhere by offering the great gift that is learning,” he said. “The scholarship recipients have each been inspired by the teachers in their lives, and it gives me great confidence to know that future generations of students will have their lives transformed for the better by the likes of Abbey, Paula, Courtney, Antonius and Rainer.”

r Step into Teaching recipients | Image/Article: Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW)

Full Steam Ahead for 2023 Thirlmere Festival of Steam

It’s full steam ahead for the 2023 Thirlmere Festival of Steam, which will bring the village of Thirlmere to life on 18 and 19 March. The festival is once again being delivered by Wollondilly Shire Council and Transport Heritage NSW, operators of the NSW Rail Museum.

Visitors can look forward to steam train rides aboard the State’s rail heritage collection, demonstrations from local artisans, and the colourful annual street parade.

The iconic Huff n’ Puff race is making a long-awaited return to the festival this year, giving runners the opportunity to race against the beautifully refurbished 3001 engine.

In 2023, there will also be an expansion of the Saturday activities, an even bigger Family Carnival, local performers as well as the headline act Chris Sebastian, winner of The Voice 2020.

Wollondilly Mayor Matt Gould said, “We’re proud to be able to host the state’s premier steam event here in Wollondilly once again. I hope that everyone can get on board to take part in the fun.”

Transport Heritage NSW CEO Andrew Moritz said, “We’ll have at least six historic engines in steam throughout the weekend at the NSW Rail Museum, including Locomotive 3001; a 120-year-old steam locomotive that’s recently been restored by THNSW volunteers and staff.”

“In addition to steam train rides, visitors can enjoy cab visits, steam machinery, live steam models and more all weekend at the NSW Rail Museum.”

On Saturday 18 March, the NSW Rail Museum will be open with a variety of steam train rides, driver’s cab visits, a steam and vintage park, mini-train rides and more. The Family Carnival will take place at Thirlmere Sportsground, with carnival rides and activities from midday.

On Sunday 19 March, the whole village will come to life with market stalls, a street parade including the Campbelltown Camden District Marching Band, live performances, as well as steam rides and other activities at the NSW Rail Museum.

To find out more about the event and book tickets for the train rides, head to https://www.thirlmerefestivalofsteam.com.au.

r An exciting weekend for all |

Image/Article: Wollondilly Shire Council

Small Club with Big Ambitions

The anticipation is building for the 2023 Campbelltown District Netball Association Winter Competition to begin this month, as Gregory Hills Netball Club are looking to show their dominance on the court once again.

The new season begins on 25th March, with Grand Finals slated to be played on 26th August. Preparations are now well underway.

This year marks their 9th season in the local competition, after it was established in 2015.

2022 saw 8 teams, consisting of juniors and seniors, represent the local club. It is hoped that these numbers will grow with more teams and players this year.

Despite the club having less than 100 players last year, they were able to achieve some big results that they can be proud of.

“There were many highlights last season for Gregory Hills Netball Club” said Sussan Jamett, Gregory Hills Netball Club Secretary.

“We had 4 out of 8 teams make Grand Finals. Our Under 14’s made the Grand Final, after having a difficult season before. Their hard work and commitment were amazing. Our Division 3 team won the Premiership against an Under 14’s representative team. The Under 13’s were Joint Premiers and won the Gala Day, which was such an achievement. Our Under 15’s were also Runners-Up.

“Overall, the season was great, hardly any interruptions compared to 2021 season, due to COVID. All teams/players and spectators were happy to play a full season. The Executive committee organised the annual presentation day at Aquatopia too. It was such a fun filled family day to celebrate all our players and family’s commitment throughout the year” she continued.

Looking ahead to the 2023 season, the club can’t wait for the whistles to start blowing.

“We’re looking forward to seeing our members develop in their netball pathway whether that be coaching, playing, administrating, and umpiring. We are always looking for new players and sponsors join our club. Everyone is always welcomed to join Gregory Hills Netball Club!” Sussan ended.

To know more about the club, they can be contacted via email at ghnc1@outlook.com or on Facebook by searching Gregory Hills Netball Club.

r Gregory Hills Netball Club Gala Day 2022 | Image: Sussan Jamett/ Gregory Hills Netball Club

1ST YEAR ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE

DAGS electrical is a fully licensed and professional business providing a diverse range of services predominantly in the Blue Mountains Region, Penrith, Western Sydney suburbs and metropolitan Sydney. DAGS has been operating in Western Sydney for over 20 years.

DAGS is one of Penrith’s leading antenna installation companies. We remove and replace antennas and troubleshoot.

We have an opportunity for an individual who is interested in completing an Electrical Apprenticeship (not yet commenced, or 1st Year) to become a qualified electrician. An Electrical Apprenticeship is a four-year program which is a combination of structured training and on the job experience.

DAGS Electrical is a local family business we have built our reputation on providing superior customer service, competitive pricing, and rigorous safety protocols.

What do you learn and what qualifications will you gain?

Through this apprenticeship, you will have access to the latest training to ensure your skills and knowledge are at the forefront of the industry, completing Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, comprising of subjects in Work, Health and Safety, learning to install, test and repair electrical systems and be equipped with skills needed to join this growing industry.

Safety is the number one priority at DAGS Electrical, and to ensure you are kept safe you will be supervised in every aspect of your work while being mentored and taught safe work practices.

What skills will you acquire?

 Drive to succeed

 Correct use of power tools

 Safe use of test equipment

 Practical skills in Electrical Operations

 Manual skills in using hand tools

 Be comfortable with working at heights

What you ideally need:

 An enthusiastic and can-do attitude, with a willingness to learn

 The ability to take direction and show initiative

 Strong attention to detail

 Be punctual, organised, trustworthy and reliable

 Strong physical fitness, be able to work at heights and enjoy working outdoors

 Have a genuine interest in a career in the electrical industry

 Current NSW Drivers License

 Good understanding of safe work practices

 White Card & Working at Heights training preferred

 Clean police record

 Demonstrate a high level of communication both verbal and written

 Enjoy working in a team

 Be motivated to learn a trade.

Pty. Ltd. Pty. Pty. Ltd.

To apply, please submit your application and covering letter to: DAGS Electrical – info@dags.tv

LOOKING FOR A CARPENTER

WORK IS BASED IN WESTERN SYDNEY

All aspects of building, majority New builds, Stick Framing, trusses, all types of cladding, soffits, decks, patios, fencing, the list goes on...

Something different everyday.

Ideal for someone looking to complete their certificate 4 in building and requires experience working for a builder.

Required:

 Basic tools, tool belt, drills, framing gun and fixout gun

 White Card

 Must have a reliable car and license

 Reliable and trustworthy

 Hard worker

 Driven

 Good attitude

 Attention to detail

 Willing to learn

 Available to work Monday to Friday and sometimes Saturdays

Learner Log Book Run Events

In addition to the Drivers for Learners in Macarthur booklet, a Day Time Log Book Run event is offered to the community four times each year.

The Log Book Run event is an organised drive based on a route from the booklet which learner drivers and their supervisors are invited to attend.

The Learner Log Book Run provides:

• A structured day including orientation, breath testing, license, registration and vehicle checks, pit stops, check points, morning tea and lunch;

• Map and instructions;

• Covert and overt speed monitoring;

• Police involvement;

• Window mounted flags and window mounted car numbers for easy identification of participants

• Staggered start to avoid large groups of learners in one place;

• Emergency contact numbers and Tail Vehicle for added safety; and

• The opportunity for participants to meet, talk with and learn from other Learner Drivers and Supervisors.

One month following each Learner Log Book Run (except those that occur during daylight savings months) a Night Time Learner Log Book Run event is held.

With the added difficulty of reading and driving at night, the night time event is only offered to participants that have previously attended a Day Time Log Book Run event as they already have an understanding of the structure and running of the event and know how to use the route guides and maps. A different route to the Day Time event is used for the Night Time Log Book Run.

The next event scheduled for 12 March 2023. To register your interest, call 4654 7777 or email: mail@camden.nsw.gov.au.

r Article: Camden Council

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

Meeting the Jesus Who’s Really There

Who’s Jesus to you? “I like to think of Jesus as a good teacher.” Or “I like to think that he’s a good man.” Of course, some might retort, “I don’t think he lived at all.”

But we all know that our thinking doesn’t create reality. I’d like to think that I can have a three day work week, or that fish would find my bait every time I dropped a line in, or that I’m a perfect Dad. Just thinking it won’t make it so. There’s a real work week waiting for me each Monday, a real empty line when I cast out, and... well the verdict on my parenting is still in process, so perhaps there’s hope for that yet.

It’s the same with Jesus. We can imagine Him however we’d like, but the Bible assures me there’s a living reality out there beyond my wishes. And what’s He like? Better than you might think.

He’s angry about religious hypocrites, concerned for the poor and forgotten, and often speaking truth to the powerful. He’s also quick to challenge sin, eager to lift up the holiness of His Father, and ready to ruffle the feathers of those of us who think that trying our best to work our way to heaven is the key to eternal life.

Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” At NewLife each Sunday, this term we’re looking at Jesuswe’d love you to meet Him as the Bible portrays Him. I’m convinced you’ll be surprised - you might even like what you find. Join us at 9:30am or 6pm or YouTube - search for “NewLifeOranParkLive”.

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

While the shelves of our local supermarkets are already filled with Easter eggs and Hot Cross Buns – symbols we associate with Easter – for many Christians the lead up to Easter (known as Lent) is super important. It is a time that calls us to be people of prayer, fasting and works of charity.

As a reflection from Caritas Australia, that coordinate PROJECT COMPASSION (an annual campaign to raise funds that Caritas can use to support communities living in poverty) says “Last year was filled with emergencies and crises that many of us could have never imagined happening in our lifetime. For many vulnerable communities across the world, 2022 proved to be even more challenging and devastating than 2020 and 2021. Yet, despite everything we have endured in recent times, I have faith that together, as one human family, we can continue to work to make the world a more just and better place for all. Each year, Project Compassion comes as a timely reminder of the importance of solidarity and how a single act of kindness – whether big or small, can make a lifechanging impact in the lives of those who need it most.”

The theme of Project Compassion 2023 is For All Future Generations. It reminds us that what we do today can have an impact For All Future Generations. This message invites us to step up for those who do not have the essential resources they need for their survival and those whose needs at this time are far beyond ours. By putting compassion into action, we can make a difference today, For All Future Generations.

May Lent 2023 be an opportunity for all of us, no matter our faith background, to reach into the lives of others so that they might know the joy of true partnership and solidarity. For more information on PROJECT COMPASSION and to support this year’s 2023 campaign, go to: https://www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion/

FAITH – ST MARY MACKILLOP CATHOLIC PARISH ORAN PARK

FAITH – NEWLIFE ANGLICAN ORAN PARK

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oran park

4733 0792

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NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE

15th March 2023

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Online: 1st April 2023

Letterboxes: 4 + 5 April 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 Hours Medical Clinic

The new year is now upon us, as routines set in. School, work, and sports have all returned and the pace of life speeds up.

March is the month of International Women’s Day. Taking place on Wednesday 8th March, it’s a time to celebrate the social, political, and economic achievements of women around the world.

Community events are in full swing and are the perfect opportunity to get together with your family and friends.

The 2023 New South Wales State Election will be held on Saturday 25th March. A day to exercise your right to vote and enjoy a democracy sausage whilst you’re at it!

Keep continuing to support the local, small businesses you see in the District Gazette. They really are the lifeblood of our community.

Enjoy the stories of those who inspire our lives each and every day. It’s just as compelling for us to write about them as it is to read.

‘Take a chance, because you’ll never know how absolutely great something can turn out to be’.

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

facebook.com/districtgazette

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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.

Belinda

Managing Editor Belinda Sanders

Writer / Sales Cim Sanders

Advertising Sales Michele Collins