EMU+LEONAY GAZETTE FEBRUARY 2026

Helping Learner Drivers Become Safe Drivers Workshop

Is supervising your child or younger sibling during their Learner Driver hours making you feel a bit nervous? You're not alone! That’s why Penrith Council and Transport for NSW have partnered to offer a free online workshop designed to equip you with the best tools and tips for Learner Driver supervision. This workshop will cover essential topics, including:

• How to effectively supervise learner drivers and keep them safe on the road.

• Completing the Learner Driver Logbook with ease and accuracy.

• Your vital role in supporting your child or young adult as they learn to drive.

• Understanding Licence conditions for both Learners and Provisional Licence holders.

• How to complete the required 120 hours of supervised driving, including a minimum of 20 hours of night driving.

• Guidance on holding L plates for at least one year before progressing to a Provisional (P1) Licence.

• Plus, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and receive expert advice from a Road Safety specialist. This workshop is perfect for anyone supervising a person under 25 who is either working towards their Learner Driver's Licence or currently logging their hours. Whether you’re a parent, older sibling, or any adult with a full Australian Licence, this session is for you.

If you are supervising a learner driver, we encourage you to sit the free online practice learner driver knowledge test, which you can find at https://driverpracticetest.transport.nsw.gov.au/ pages/practice-tests?init=true

The workshop will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, accessible through PC, laptop, or mobile phone, with an internet connection required.

Spots are limited, so be sure to register for the Helping Learner Drivers Become Safe Drivers Workshop on Humanitix https:// events.humanitix.com/helping-learner-drivers-become-saferdrivers-2025-26/tickets. If the workshop is full, you can join the waiting list.

Dates & Times

Wednesday 25th February 2026 - 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Location

Zoom

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

Community Groups

Lions Club of Emu Plains Inc

Meets 3rd Thursday of the month from 6.30pm at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay). More Details: Cheryl Devine 0417 234 295.

Hobbies + Interests

Meets on the 4th Friday of the month in Melrose Hall (169 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains) from 7.30pm More Details: 0493 547 794.

Nepean Group – Embroiderers Guild

Meets on the 1st Monday of the month at Panthers Leagues Club, Mulgoa Road Penrith from 6.00pm. More Details: 0466 725 317

Square Dancer Classes

Glenbrook Public School Hall and Surveyors Creek Community Ctre, Glenmore Park. First Lesson is FREE! All ages are welcome! Inquiries 0411 456 208

Markets

Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club Markets

Held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm. Glenbrook Infants School (10 Ross Street, Glenbrook). More Details: https://www.facebook.com/ glenbrookrotarymarkets

Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542 Support + Wellbeing

Lung Support Group

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.45p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 13 38 78.

Penrith Womens Walk and Talk

Meets 5.30pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6.00pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ Penrithwomenswalkandtalk

Penrith Mens Walk and Talk

Meets 5.00pm every Thursday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6.00pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ PenrithMensWalkAndTalk/

SOLiD MEN

Every Saturday at 5.45am, meet in Glenbrook Visitor Centre Carpark for a free boot camp for men followed by coffee and chat. More Details : www.facebook.com/solid.men78

A New Chapter for Book Lovers

A new independent bookstore dedicated to romance readers has opened its doors in Emu Plains, offering a welcoming, judgementfree space for book lovers to connect, browse and escape into fictional worlds.

The Forbidden Spine officially opened on 13 December 2025 and has already been embraced by the local community. Owner Kate Alleaume says choosing Emu Plains was an easy decision.

“Being a Western Sydney girl, Emu Plains felt like the perfect fit,” Alleaume said. “I truly love the sense of community here, and I wanted a location that was easy to access with plenty of parking, so visiting the shop feels effortless.”

The idea for the store grew out of a personal turning point. After spending 21 years in her previous role, Alleaume stepped away to focus on her mental health, and discovered the comfort of romance novels along the way.

“Romance books allowed me to escape to a fictional world when I really needed it,” she said. “I started having conversations with friends and other readers, and that’s when I realised there was a need for a space like this, somewhere safe, inclusive and welcoming for people who love romance novels.”

The Forbidden Spine offers an ever-growing collection of romance and dark romance titles, alongside a curated range of bookish gifts including stickers, bookmarks and drinkware. Drawing on her background in interior decorating, Alleaume

has also added candles, diffusers, vases and home décor pieces designed to complement book collections.

“My goal was to create a space that feels just as good to be in as the stories feel to read,” she said.

Alleaume’s personal favourite authors include Tate James, Sara Cate, H.D. Carlton, Rebecca Yarros and Penelope Douglas, with romance and dark romance topping her reading list.

She believes the renewed interest in physical books reflects a desire to disconnect from technology.

“Social media has definitely helped bring books back into the spotlight,” she said, “but reading a physical book lets people step away from screens and fully immerse themselves in another world.”

The store’s opening came together in just three weeks ahead of Christmas, thanks to the support of local businesses. Alleaume paid tribute to Flooring Xtra Penrith, Local Tradez and Signarama Penrith for working around the clock to meet the tight deadline.

Behind the scenes, Marketing Manager Lauryn Wrightson has also played a key role in shaping the shop’s branding and community engagement, helping The Forbidden Spine quickly find its place among local readers.

Visit the store at 89 Great Western Highway, Emu Plains or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Thanksgiving Service & Afternoon Tea SATURDAY 21ST FEBRUARY

3pm Afternoon tea at the Wycliffe café 4:30pm Service in the hall

All welcome

Visit www.wycliffe.nsw.edu.au/50th

Preparations Already Underway for 2026 Emu Plains Community Anzac Day Service

Although April might feel a long way away during the heat of summer, preparations are already underway for the Emu Plains Community Anzac Day Service for 2026.

With Emu Plains, Emu Heights and Leonay now part of the Federal electorate of Macquarie, Susan Templeman MP is proud to be involved in organising the service at the Emu Plains War Memorial, having worked with Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh for the 2025 service.

Once again, representatives from local organisations are stepping up to be involved, including volunteers from City of Penrith RSL Sub-branch, Nashos, Emu Plains Lions Club, Emu Plains Girl Guides, the Nepean District Historical Society, Nepean Valley Trefoil Guild and Emu Plains Anglican Church.

“I also welcome the involvement of NSW State MP for Penrith, Karen McKeown, who is joining the organising committee, as well as the support of Penrith Mayor Todd Carney and local Councillors serving on Penrith Council,” said Ms Templeman.

“It is clear how important it is for our community to come together with their neighbours on Anzac Day, to honour and reflect on the service and sacrifice of defence personnel, veterans and their families, with hundreds of people turning out to the 2025 ceremony.

“I am proud to be part of making sure this event will continue.

“Like I did last year, I am looking forward to marking Anzac Day with our community here at Lions Park in Emu Plains, to show our respect for the military personnel who put themselves in harm’s way to keep our country safe, and to remember all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Additional volunteers are needed to assist with the preparations, and local businesses can also get involved in supporting the service.

To register your interest, please contact Susan Templeman MP susan.templeman.mp@aph.gov.au or Karen McKeown MP penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au.

2025 Emu Plains Community Anzac Day Service | Image/Article: Susan

Where Penrith Starts its Weekend

Every Saturday morning, just before 8:00am, a familiar and friendly ritual unfolds along the banks of the Nepean River at Tench Reserve. Locals gather for Nepean River parkrun, a free, timed 5km event that has become a cornerstone of community life in Penrith.

With parkrun flags fluttering and volunteers in red vests ready to welcome participants, the atmosphere is relaxed and inclusive. The course is a mostly flat, scenic out-and-back along the river, offering fresh air, stunning views and plenty of conversation. For many, it is the perfect way to start the weekend.

Co–Event Director Tim Peatman has been part of parkrun since 2014, first as a participant, then a volunteer, and for the past three years in a leadership role. He says the longer people are involved, the more parkrun becomes part of their lives. “The community starts to feel like family,” he said. “It’s where I know my friends will be every Saturday morning. parkrun isn’t just something you do, it’s something you belong to.”

Tim’s own journey began after advice from his doctor to improve his health. Nervous and convinced everyone would be elite athletes, he was surprised to find a welcoming group of everyday people. “The simplicity of parkrun is what makes it powerful,” he said. “There’s no cost, no pressure and no expectations. You just turn up and move at your own pace.”

Nepean River parkrun is described as “a run, not a race”. While some participants run, many jog or walk, and walkers are an increasingly important part of the community. Before the start, first timers are welcomed, milestones are celebrated, and a short safety briefing is held. Everyone starts together, supported by cheering volunteers, with a dedicated Tail Walker ensuring no one is left behind.

Although the event is timed, Mr Peatman says it is far more about encouragement, smiles and shared experiences than speed. Because parkrun is entirely volunteer run, there are also many ways to be involved without walking or running.

Nepean River parkrun recently celebrated its ninth anniversary, reinforcing a message that remains central to its success: parkrun is for everyone. Runner, walker or volunteer, first-timer or regular, young or old, all are welcome.

More information can be found on the Nepean River parkrun website and Facebook page, but organisers say the best way to understand parkrun is simply to turn up and experience the community spirit for yourself.

St Paul’s Grammar School Class of 2025 High Achievers

Livia’s outstanding achievement is a testament to her commitment and disciplined approach to learning. She attributes her exceptional results to a steady, continuous study routine throughout her two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma, supported by the strong relationships she built at St Paul’s.

Learning requires a step-by-step and down-to-earth approach.

Julian’s success reflects not only his academic dedication but also his ability to balance a wide range of commitments. Alongside his studies, Julian actively participated in cocurricular opportunities, including the RFS Cadets programme, where he developed valuable skills and contributed to his community.

A dedicated member of the Sport Academy at St Paul’s, Alexander combined his passion for competition and community with a consistent and disciplined study routine. He credits his achievements to this balanced approach, along with the invaluable support of his teachers and family.

KID’S CORNER February

Book Review Your

Tintin In America

Author |:Herge’

I love Tintin in America because of its simple but exciting storyline. Tintin is a young Belgian detective and journalist who busts criminal gangs, drug smugglers, and corrupt leaders.

In this book, Tintin goes to Chicago, USA, to report for a story. But when he gets there, he is kidnapped by Al Capone! He escapes from Capone and the corrupt Chicago policemen and is taken to an office for a gang which fights Capone, but pushes drugs itself.

The leader, Bobby Smiles, kidnaps him again and tries to kill him. Tintin escapes again with his trusty dog, Snowy. Tintin teams up with the local policeman and they start to take down the gang.

Then Smiles escapes to Native American land where he camps in his private cabin. Tintin, in his quest to find Smiles, escapes a crowd wanting to lynch him. At last, he finds Smiles, who goes to the Indians to ask them to wage war on Tintin.

When Tintin is about to catch Bobby Smiles, Smiles warns the Indians and they capture Tintin. Tintin frees himself and calls the police. Then Bobby Smiles is arrested.

Then Tintin goes back to Chicago and finds out about Al Capone, the leader of the gangsters. Tintin spies on Al Capone while he is in a meeting. Tintin gets caught and runs to the nearest radio and writes an SOS to the police. Al Capone is caught and his gang surrenders and gets arrested too.

In conclusion, Tintin becomes the hero of the city and then returns to his humble apartment for a few days. I highly recommend this book for mystery seekers and people who love suspense.

r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal

Six Decades of Pride, Passion and Community Spirit

Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Football Club is gearing up for what promises to be one of its biggest and most memorable seasons, as the club prepares to celebrate 60 years of rugby league in the local community.

Preseason training for all age groups is set to begin over the coming weeks. Training schedules and key information will be shared through the club’s Facebook page. Trial matches are planned for March, ahead of the official season kick-off in April for most teams. The Under 19’s and Open Men’s competitions will begin slightly earlier, commencing in the final week of March.

Emu Plains JRLFC continues to be one of the largest grassroots clubs in the region. In 2025, the club fielded an impressive 52 teams, ranging from Under 5’s through to Open Age. This included eight all-female teams and participation in

the inaugural weight-for-age competition. Club Secretary Jo McDonald said the club is aiming to maintain and strengthen those numbers in 2026, with registrations now open.

“Players of all ages and abilities are always encouraged to join,” she said. “We also welcome community members who would like to volunteer and help create a safe, fun and supportive environment for our players.”

The 2025 season delivered plenty of success on the field. Highlights included the Under 12 division one team claiming the premiership, along with grand final wins for the Under 16 division one side and the Under 13 and Under 15 girls’ teams. The club also celebrated significant off-field milestones, including its first ANZAC Day game day and Indigenous Round, with senior teams wearing specially designed jerseys to mark both occasions.

All eyes are now on 2026, which marks the club’s 60th anniversary. Celebrations will run throughout the season, with all players wearing a commemorative jersey to honour six decades of pride, passion and community spirit. Life members are encouraged to reconnect with the club and take part in anniversary events.

Beyond results, Emu Plains JRLFC remains committed to developing the whole player. The club continues to invest in coach education and online training programs, while mental fitness initiatives will again be offered to players and team staff this season.

Jo paid tribute to the club’s sponsors, saying their ongoing support is vital. “Without our sponsors, we simply couldn’t provide the extensive programs we do,” she said. “With their backing, 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet.”

r Feature Article [Cover+Above] The proud club celebrating 60 years | Images Supplied by Emu

A peaceful place to honour and remember

Set in Sydney’s west, Kemps Creek Memorial Park offers a beautifully landscaped and affordable resting place, thoughtfully designed to serve people of all faiths, cultures and traditions.

Choose from traditional burial and cremation options, natural bushland burials, and personalised services held in our serene outdoor pavilion.

A place where compassion, choice and respect guide every step - and where families are supported with care during life’s most important moments.

Contact our caring team today to explore your memorial options.

230–260 Western Road, Kemps Creek p: 9826 2273

e: admin@kempscreekcemetery.com.au w: kempscreekmemorialpark.com.au

Let’s Make Lapstone Hill Tunnel a Place Everyone Can Enjoy

Blue Mountains City Councillors recently voted to seek State and Federal Government support to bring the historic Lapstone Hill Tunnel back into public use.

Lapstone Hill Tunnel (also known as Glenbrook Tunnel) is a state heritage-listed railway tunnel on the former Main Western Line. It was built from 1891-1892 and was previously used in World War II to store mustard gas and later as a mushroom farm.

FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN

The state-owned tunnel is a significant historic structure with great potential for adaptive re-use and to contribute to the economy, visitor experience and liveability of the lower mountains.

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said urgent funding is needed to remediate and revitalise the tunnel precinct so it can be accessed by the public.

“Council has undertaken extensive remedial works on the tunnel including the remediation of 1,700 tonnes of waste and 1,200 tonnes of sediment, contamination management and overgrowth of vegetation,” Cr Greenhill said.

“But a substantial program of works remains unfunded. Without this investment, visitors and locals will not have the opportunity to explore and enjoy this significant part of our local heritage.”

Council hosted an open weekend at the tunnel in December 2024 which was attended by more than 1,500 people from across the Blue Mountains and beyond.

“Councillors want to see this precinct open and accessible to the public as a matter of priority, and we call on State and Federal Governments to contribute,” Cr Greenhill said.

Article Written + Submitted by: Assistant Minister, Youth Co-ordinator David Simmons P: 4735 1001 M: 0438 672 484 E: david@epac.org.au W: www.epac.org.au Service Times: Sundays @ 8:00am, 9:45am and 6:30pm

Plus activities for adults and young people throughout the week

New and Old

It’s a New Year! And with it, you may be starting a new job, know someone starting at a new school, or still be enjoying the new gift you were given at Christmas.

We love new things. They offer new opportunities and bring new hopes. They can also mark a break with old ways, or an era we’d like to put behind us.

But at the same time, I also remember an older, wiser person telling me, “Not all that’s new is better, and not all that’s old is worse.” I’ve experienced that myself. Sometimes it’s the older appliances that are still kicking along after 30 years, when their new equivalents kick the bucket in half the time. The same can be said for friendships forged a lifetime ago, that outlast the others that come and go.

What about the news about Jesus Christ? What do you make of it? In many ways, it’s old news now. After all, He lived and died nearly 2,000 years ago. People have talked about Him, written about Him, and changed their lives because of Him. Surely, we’ve moved on, though? Except He didn’t just live and die—the eyewitnesses saw Him risen again (1 Corinthians 15:1–8 in the Bible summarises those events for us). That was new! The news that came with it was just as earth-shattering—we can be made new again by Him.

Whatever else is new for you this year, there is something you may have thought of as old, even outdated, that you should ask yourself as the year gets under way: How will the news of Jesus’ new life affect your life? Maybe this year you’ll accept new life from Him yourself. Imagine what that would be like, and what new hope it would bring. It may be an old message, but maybe it’s time to embrace something new!

If you’d like to dig a little deeper, we’d love to help you. Why not come to church any Sunday this month or join a group we call Discover? Just contact us on the web or on 4735 1001 for more details

Local Kindness Powers Community

A small act of compassion has grown into a vital community lifeline in Emu Plains, with the Community Pantry continuing to quietly support locals facing food insecurity.

Located outside The Day Spa at 37 Sheppard Road in Emu Plains, the Community Pantry is a free, 24/7 food pantry operating on a simple principle: Take what you need, leave what you can. Established just over two years ago in December 2023, the pantry offers immediate support to people struggling to put food on the table, while also helping connect them with community services and resources when needed.

Community Pantry organiser Sam Oraya said the idea was born after a confronting experience behind her business. She noticed a very elderly couple searching through bins for food after paying an electricity bill left them without enough money for groceries.

2/129 Russell Street EMU

“It was deeply upsetting,” Sam said. “Emu Plains is an assetrich community, but many people, especially older residents, are cash-poor. One unexpected bill can push them into hardship, and many don’t have the digital literacy to find help.”

After sharing what she had witnessed on a local Facebook page, the response was immediate. Within 20 minutes, community members were dropping off food outside The Day Spa. That spontaneous show of kindness became the foundation of the Community Pantry, which has continued to run in the same grassroots spirit ever since.

The pantry relies entirely on community generosity. Residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items such as long-life milk, tea and coffee, rice, pasta, tinned goods, cereal and cooking oil, as well as personal care items including toiletries, toilet paper and sanitary products. The Day Spa team helps facilitate the pantry day-to-day on behalf of the wider community.

While not a long-term solution to food insecurity, Sam said the pantry plays an important role in helping people in the moment and guiding them towards further support. She also acknowledged the support of local groups and businesses, including Gai Hawthorn from Penrith Community Kitchen, Souls Of Exile, RSL, Rotary Club, Mama Lanas, and Match Mortgages to name a few.

The Community Pantry remains open 24/7, with donations and collections welcomed at any time. For more information, people can contact Sam Oraya on 0431 919914 or follow The Community Pantry – Emu Plains on Facebook.

Summer Shapes Valentine’s Day Across Australia

Become a Volunteer in the Blue Mountains

Thinking about getting more involved in your community this year?

Australians are marking Valentine’s Day with a mix of traditional romance and distinctly local celebrations, shaped by summer weather, outdoor lifestyles, and a relaxed cultural approach to the occasion.

The New Year is a great time to give something back –and volunteering in the Blue Mountains is a rewarding way to do just that. There are so many ways to get involved, from environmental programs like bush and waterway regeneration, to community events, cultural activities, and practical initiatives such as graffiti removal that help keep our towns welcoming and cared for.

Falling on the 14th of February, Valentine’s Day in Australia is often celebrated under hot skies, with many couples choosing beaches, parks, and waterfront venues over candlelit indoor dinners. Coastal towns report increased bookings for seaside picnics, sunset swims, and casual fish-and-chip dinners shared on the sand. Surf clubs and local councils in some areas host community events, encouraging people to celebrate connection in a social, inclusive way.

Restaurants and cafés remain popular, particularly in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where special Valentine’s menus and rooftop dining experiences attract couples. However, many venues adapt their offerings to the heat, focusing on fresh seafood, chilled desserts, and light meals rather than heavy cuisine. Florists continue to see strong demand for roses and native Australian flowers, while chocolate sales remain steady despite warm temperatures.

Volunteering is a chance to meet new people, learn new skills and make a real, visible difference in the place you live. Local volunteer programs support both the social and environmental wellbeing of our region and simply couldn’t run without community support.

Now’s a great time to think about how you’d like to get involved this year.

Retailers note that Valentine’s Day is not limited to romantic partners. Friends, families, and even workplaces often exchange small gifts or cards, reflecting a broader interpretation of the day. Schools commonly allow students to share notes of appreciation, while social media campaigns encourage people to celebrate friendships and self-care alongside romantic relationships.

• Give back to your local area

• Build confidence and new skills

Travel is another major feature of the day. Short getaways to coastal regions, wine areas, and regional towns are popular, with hotels reporting increased occupancy around mid-February. Some Australians also use the day as an opportunity to relax rather than celebrate formally, opting for movie nights at home or barbecues with friends.

• Be part of a positive community team

Despite commercial influences, surveys suggest many prefer low-pressure celebrations. Simple gestures, such as spending time together or enjoying shared activities, are often valued more than expensive gifts.

Whether you have a few hours or want to volunteer more regularly, there’s a place for you. Make this the year you connect, contribute and make a difference.

Overall, Valentine’s Day in Australia reflects the country’s easy going culture. While love and appreciation remain central themes, celebrations tend to be flexible, informal, and shaped by the outdoors, making the day less about grand displays and more about connection in everyday settings.

HEALTH MATTERS

r Image: www.pexels.com

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness

P: 0418 166 269

Don’t Let Your ‘Back Scans’ Define You!

One of the most often run examinations for back pain is a radiological scan—an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. All these scans are excellent in certain circumstances, and they can add valuable information to a clinical picture.

I see patients’ scans and the accompanying reports almost every day. Scans reveal many things, such as vertebrae with fractures, trophic or Modic changes, vertebrae with altered shapes, fused vertebrae; many bulging or protruding discs, loss of disc height, osteophytes (bony outgrowths from vertebrae), stenosed (blocked) spinal canals and nerve exits, facet joint arthritis, etc. All these are possible causes of back pain, and proper diagnosis is vital.

Often what is revealed on a scan is very important and helpful regarding the cause of back pain, the preferred treatment, and the likely response. In some cases, scans may show a patient’s spine is in excellent condition and thus say little about the cause of their pain.

Sometimes patients come into the clinic having been told,

based on scan results, that they’re just getting old and that there is little that can be done about their pain or their state of debility. Often such folk then simply put up with the pain, which is often quite high even when on multiple medications, when help may be available. This is definitely where you shouldn’t let your back scans define you!

While not every case of back pain will be fixed with manual therapies, and indeed some people may need surgery or other treatments, simple intervention with appropriate muscle elongation therapy can often have surprising results. Using specific techniques, we remove inflammatory fluids from back tissues, lengthen back muscles, allowing back tissue function to normalise. With regular treatment over a few weeks or months, depending on the severity of the problem, in most cases chronic back pain goes completely, even in many long-standing cases.

If you have a problem with a back injury or back pain and you’d like to know more, call Andreas on 0418 166 269.

r ** Refer to submitter for references

The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington Saturday 7 March, 9am-3.30pm

Dispose of your unwanted, broken, or old electronic items correctly at our E-Waste Drop-off Day! If you have any of the items below, it’s your perfect opportunity:

For a full list of accepted items and more information, visit penrith.city/e-wasteday

penrith.city/events

Back to School – Puppies Included!

As children settle back into the classroom, it’s a great opportunity to think about education for another important family member — your puppy. Just like early learning helps children thrive, early training plays a vital role in shaping a happy, confident adult dog.

Our Puppy Pre-School program offers a calm, supportive setting where young puppies can safely interact with others of a similar age while learning important life skills. These classes are thoughtfully structured to nurture your puppy’s emotional and behavioural development, while also empowering owners with the knowledge and confidence needed to guide their puppy through these early stages.

Run by our experienced instructors, Puppy Pre-School covers a wide range of essential topics including socialisation, canine communication, veterinary and everyday pet care, child and dog safety, and managing common puppy behaviours. Across five weeks, you and your puppy will take part in hands-on learning designed to set you both up for long-term success.

Puppy Pre-School is tailored for puppies between eight and fourteen weeks of age — a crucial developmental window when experiences can have a lifelong influence. Using positive reinforcement methods, puppies quickly discover that learning is enjoyable and that good behaviour is rewarded, creating a

CONSULTING HOURS

strong foundation for future training.

Before six months of age, puppies are naturally inquisitive and more open to new experiences. This is the ideal time to introduce them to the wider human world — from unusual sights like cars, bicycles, balloons and hats, to new sounds such as thunder, lawn mowers and vacuum cleaners, as well as unfamiliar smells including foods, perfumes and household cleaning products.

Puppy School also helps young dogs learn about one another, recognising that dogs come in many shapes and sizes — with short legs, long tails, floppy ears and everything in between. Missing this early socialisation period can increase the risk of fear or anxiety later in life. While continued exposure remains important, these early weeks are widely recognised as the most impactful.

Our puppy classes also support owners by setting realistic expectations and helping them understand normal puppy behaviour. The program provides practical tools to build a positive, trusting relationship, allowing your puppy to grow into a confident, well-adjusted and much-loved family member.

For more information, please contact our friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 02 4736 2027.

For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027

Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm | Saturdays: 8am - 2pm

Services provided include:

•General Surgery (desexing to orthopedics)

• Vaccinations and in-house pathology

•Radiology and Dentistry

•Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer

•Puppy preschool

•Home visits

•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption

•Secure off leash dog park

New Kayak Launch Deck Opens in Leonay

Residents and visitors are invited to discover a new way to enjoy the Nepean River with the opening of a new kayak launch deck on River Road in Leonay, between Buring Avenue and Urbane Street.

The new launch deck is the first to be built on the southern side of the M4. Its prime location on the western riverbank offers kayakers closer access to the stunning Nepean Gorge, a popular and picturesque destination for paddlers on the Nepean River.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the construction of the new launch deck reflects Penrith City Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to the Nepean River for residents and visitors.

“Since it was identified as a priority in the Our River Masterplan (2013) we’ve been working hard to deliver projects that improve our connection to the Nepean River,” Cr Carney said.

“With the support of the Australian and NSW Governments we’ve already delivered kayak launch decks as part of the Regatta Park Upgrade, along with the Tench Reserve boat ramp, viewing decks on both sides of the river and fishing platforms.

“Our existing launch decks at Tench Reserve and Regatta Park are already popular and this new facility in Leonay is another step towards improving our connection to the Nepean River and supporting people to have an enjoyable river experience.”

In addition to the new launch deck which includes an upper and lower platform, the project has also delivered a boardwalk to the water’s edge and access path connecting to the existing footpath on River Road.

This project was jointly funded by Penrith City Council and the NSW Government. Council secured a $250,000 grant under the NSW Government’s Boating Now Program to go towards delivering this project and matched this funding.

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP said, “This addition to Penrith is a result of the collaborative work of the NSW Government and Penrith City Council to make it the hot-spot and tourist attraction that it deserves to be.”

“The new launch deck will allow for people of all ages and skills to access the river, making it something that the whole family can use with safety and comfort.”

“I’ve been excited to work towards the development of the Nepean River, both during my time as a councillor and now as the state member, it’s great to see projects like these delivered for our community, just in time for the summer heat.”

To find out more about the project, please visit yoursaypenrith. com.au/launchdecks

Images /Article: Penrith City Council

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Benchtops, Splashbacks

Joinery

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

Box 8254 Glenmore Park NSW 2745

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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency Services

(Police, Ambulance, Fire) 000

Penrith Police Station 4721 9444

Police Assistance Line 131 444

Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114

WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946

NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS

State Emergency Service 132 500 Churches

Anglican Church St Paul’s, Emu Plains 47351001

Baptist Church Emu Plains Community 4735 1050

Catholic Church Our Lady of the Way, Emu Plains 4735 1041 Uniting Church 7 Green Street, Glenbrook 4739 6295

Blaxland Presbyterian 15a Wilson Way, Blaxland 0491 174 725

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 0438 006 290

Spiritual Church 0439 453 430 Elevation Church Penrith 4722 8489 Community Groups

Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)

Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 725 317

Girl Guides Glenbrook 4739 6087

Lions Club Emu Plains 4735 5120

Lung Support Group 4735 1542

Probus Nepean www.probussouthpacific.org/microsites/nepean

Prostate Cancer Support Group 1300 13 38 78 Rotary Club 0419 725 302 Scouts

Sports Clubs

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 Emu+Leonay 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.

February marks our first publication for the year, and with it comes a renewed sense of energy, purpose, and possibility. After a well-earned January break, we return refreshed and ready to share the stories that matter most to our community.

The start of a new year often brings reflection and quiet goal-setting, and by February those intentions begin to take shape. Schools and workplaces are back into rhythm, routines are forming, and the year ahead starts to feel real and full of opportunity. It’s a time to reconnect, reengage, and look forward with optimism. Our community continues to show its strength through resilience, generosity, and a willingness to support one another. Whether it’s local achievements, small acts of kindness, or people stepping up where help is needed, these are the moments worth celebrating and sharing.

As we move into 2026, we thank you for welcoming us back and for continuing to be part of this community conversation. We look forward to another year of telling local stories, highlighting the good, and standing alongside the people who make our region such a special place to live.

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” — Seneca

PICK UP POINTS

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Blaxland Tavern

Leonay Golf Club

Glenbrook Panthers Bowling Club

Leonay Cafe and Kitchen

Lennox Newsagency

LOC Highway Hot Bread and Cafe

Nourishmint Café (temporarily closed)

TSG Tobacconist Lennox Village

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