Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, wants to hear from residents of Emu Plains, Emu Heights and Leonay about the response from insurers following the severe hailstorm in March.
Ms Templeman will be doorknocking residents in hail affected suburbs to make sure insurers are repairing and replacing damaged cars and homes, and that residents are getting the help they need.
“The storm ripped through on 22 March this year, and I’m keen to follow up how residents are dealing with the aftermath and check on the timeliness of insurers’ responses,” Ms Templeman said.
“Having had my own experience dealing with insurers after a big event, in my case it was the 2013 Winmalee fires where 200 homes, including mine, were destroyed, I have a particular interest in ensuring insurers are looking after customers,” she said.
“I am able to follow up individual cases where there might be a delay and also look for patterns of customer treatment that may be less than ideal.
“I have seen some disappointing responses from insurers during other fires and floods, and I was a member of the inquiry by the Albanese Government into flood insurance in the last Parliament, where our recommendations focused on improving customer care.
“I also Chair the Parliamentary Friends of Insurance and will be providing background to the Insurance Council of Australia about any concerns I see.
“Residents have told me they’ve had significant damage to cars and pergolas, while other homes had water inside due to smashed skylights or roof damage, so those works are more extensive and time-consuming,” said Ms Templeman.
“I’m keen to hear from anyone who feels their insurer is not responding in a timely way and it’s important that residents get the help they need from their insurer to recover from these storm events, and
“Please contact my office on 02 4573 8222 or via email susan. templeman.mp@aph.gov.au.”
r Susan Templeman MP | Image: www.pixabay.com
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: Alan Cooper 0414 155917.
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
Markets 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
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/
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
Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)
SOLiD MEN
Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Football Club is gearing up for one of the biggest events on its calendar as the club celebrates its 60th anniversary with its Annual Sportsman’s Lunch on Friday July 17 at St Marys Band Club.
The much-anticipated fundraiser is expected to draw a packed crowd following the success of last year’s luncheon, with organisers promising an afternoon filled with entertainment, laughter and strong community spirit.
Hosted by MC Anthony Maroon, the event will feature special guest speakers and rugby league greats James Maloney and Andrew Johns, giving attendees the chance to hear stories and insights from two of the game’s most recognisable names.
Club representative Joanne Vella said excitement is already building as preparations continue for the celebration event, which also serves as the club’s major fundraiser for the season.
“After the incredible success of last year’s Sportsman’s Luncheon, we are excited to welcome another packed house for what promises to be a fantastic afternoon of laughter, entertainment and community spirit,” she said.
“The event will once again bring people together to help raise funds that directly support the kids at our club, ensuring they have every opportunity to grow, develop and enjoy the game they love.”
Guests attending the luncheon can expect more than just guest speakers, with a range of fundraising activities planned throughout the afternoon. Auction items, raffles and crowdfavourite games including Heads and Tails will all form part of the entertainment as organisers work to raise valuable funds for junior players and club programs.
The luncheon holds extra significance this year as the club marks six decades of supporting grassroots rugby league in the local community. Over the years, the club has played an important role in developing young players and fostering a family-friendly sporting environment in the Penrith district.
With tickets already on sale, organisers are encouraging supporters, sponsors and members of the wider community to secure their seats early.
“Don’t miss out,” Joanne said.
For more information, visit Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Club on Facebook.
Pumas Promoting Inclusion Through Sport
Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) has continued its inclusive initiative aimed at creating greater sporting opportunities for people with disability, with the return of its All Abilities Netball Program.
The program is held at the Penrith District Netball Courts at Jamison Park, Court 42, and runs on Saturdays from 9:00am to 10:30am across selected dates through to August. Sessions began in May and continue on June 13, 20 and 27; July 25; and August 1, 8, 15 and 22, with Presentation Day also taking place on August 22.
Open to participants aged seven years and older, the program welcomes both males and females of all abilities. Organisers say the initiative has been designed to provide a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where participants can enjoy netball while developing new skills and friendships.
The focus is on building confidence, teamwork and physical activity through modified sessions tailored to suit individual needs and ability levels. By adapting activities where necessary, organisers hope every participant will feel encouraged, included and able to experience success on the court.
Association representatives believe programs like this are vital in strengthening community inclusion and ensuring people with disability have equal opportunities to participate in local sport.
“Programs like this are important because they give people with disability the chance to be included, make friends and be part of a team,” a PDNA spokesperson said.
“They help participants learn new skills, stay active and build confidence, while also creating a welcoming community where people of all abilities feel valued and supported.”
The cost of the program is $60 after the application of a voucher designed to reduce participation fees. All registered players receive a free Pumas singlet.
PDNA says it intends to continue offering the All Abilities Netball Program annually, with hopes of expanding its reach and creating even more opportunities for participants in the future.
For more information about the program, community members can contact the association via email at intermediateregistrar@penrithnetball.com.au to receive registration details and voucher information.
A Good Book and Even Better Company
What started as a simple idea among three friends has blossomed into one of the area’s most vibrant community groups. Bound By Books, the local book club turned community movement, is celebrating just over a year since its founding, and its impact goes far beyond the page.
Created in April 2025 by Caitlin G, Elizabeth W, and Nicola P, the group has grown to nearly 500 Facebook members and a further 220 Instagram followers, with new faces joining all the time.
"It's become more than just your average book club," says Elizabeth. "It's a tight-knit community where people feel safe and comfortable to express themselves through their connection with reading, no matter what stage of reading you're at, or what genre you're into. There's a space for everyone."
Rather than prescribing a single title each month, the group posts a broad theme, giving members the freedom to choose their own books and bring a variety of perspectives to the conversation. Members gather on the first Sunday of each month at the Nepean River, on the Leonay side by the Stephen Oke memorial seat, a scenic and welcoming spot that has become a beloved fixture for regulars.
But the social calendar extends well beyond the monthly meetup. Bookstore visits, escape rooms, and even a trip to a highland cow farm are among the outings that have helped members forge genuine friendships. Events are designed to welcome everyone — men, women, and children of all ages.
"For those who have found it difficult to make friends as adults, the group has opened the door to meaningful, genuine connections," Elizabeth explains. "It's a judgementfree space, a village of sorts where people feel supported and included."
That community spirit was on full display for the group's one-year anniversary, which was celebrated in partnership with local independent bookstore The Forbidden Spine in Emu Plains, a collaboration that brought members together while supporting a small business close to their hearts.
As the group continues to grow, supported by additional admins Caitlin B, Courtney M, Karly P, and Lesley, its founders remain grounded in the original vision: connection, inclusion, and the shared love of a good book.
Locals can find Bound By Books on Facebook or Instagram to stay across upcoming events and join the community. r Bound By Books founders and admins Courtney.M, Caitlin.G, Caitlin.B, Nicola.P, Elizabeth.W, Karly.P (Lesley is missing) | Image Supplied by Elizabeth.W. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Lions Bring Smiles Across Community
The Emu Plains Lions Club has enjoyed an energetic and rewarding year so far, with each month bringing new opportunities to serve the community.
April was especially busy, beginning with a well-supported Bunnings BBQ that brought locals together over sausages, sunshine, and plenty of good conversation. Soon after, members visited the residents of the Emu Plains Edinglassie Aged Care, hosting a cheerful BBQ and delivering chocolate Easter bunnies that brought smiles to many faces. The month concluded with a successful free sausage sizzle at the ANZAC Day memorial service in Lions Park, where the club was honoured to support the community as they gathered to remember and reflect.
May continued the momentum with a heartfelt Mother’s Day raffle at Lennox Shopping Village. Thanks to the generosity of local shoppers and businesses, the raffle was a wonderful success and helped raise valuable funds for future Lions projects. Later in the month, on Friday the 28th and Saturday the 29th, club members will again be at Lennox Shopping Village, this time assisting the Salvation Army by collecting donations for the Red Shield Appeal an effort the Lions are proud to support.
With many more events scheduled throughout the rest of the year, the Emu Plains Lions Club remains committed to making a positive difference wherever possible. From community BBQs to charity partnerships, every activity reflects the club’s spirit of service, friendship, and local pride.
The club would love to hear from residents who have a little free time and are looking to give back to the community, while enjoying the camaraderie of a small but warm and welcoming group. Whether you’re interested in lending a hand at events, sharing ideas, or simply meeting new people, the Emu Plains Lions Club is always ready to welcome new faces.
r Lions Club of Emu Plains members | Images/Article Supplied by Alan Cooper/Lions Club of Emu Plains
LET’S
GET
OUR SCRAPS SORTED
EVERY HOUSEHOLD NEEDS A FOOD SCRAP HERO.
We can all help by p utti ng our waste i n the right bins at home.
You can be a food scrap helper at your house by scraping your leftovers into the kitchen caddy and emptying it into the green-lid FOGO bin outside.
Add a tick to the chart for each day you help with food scraps to become a food scrap hero.
I put my food scraps in the kitchen caddy
I helped to empty the caddy into the green-lid
Help the food scraps find their way to the FOGO truck. Once they are collected in the truck, they get turned into compost which helps grow more food.
FOGO bin
FOOD SCRAP HOME HELPER CHART
FOOD SCRAPS TO FOGO MAZE
Local’s Book Launch a Success
Emu Plains–based writer Karen Hamilton recently launched her book Nightmare on Cromwell Street: My Year Living with Fred and Rose West at Chester Hill Library in New South Wales. It drew a strong local turnout of true crime readers and history buffs.
The launch event was emotionally charged, with attendees visibly moved as Karen spoke about her experiences in 1970s Gloucester, where she lived unawares under the same roof as Britain’s worst modern day serial killers.
A highlight of the evening was a surprise video message filmed by Kathleen Richards, a woman who also lived at 25 Cromwell Street during the same period. In December 2025, Richards published her own memoir, Under Their Roof, about her horrifying experience, and her appearance added a deeply personal touch to the launch.
Karen and Kathleen had previously appeared together on the Hembury Books Podcast, hosted by Jessica Mudditt, where their shared conversation marked an emotional reconnection. The podcast was the first time Karen and Kathleen were reunited in over 40 years. Karen later reflected at the launch that the reconnection had an ongoing impact on both of them, noting that they have remained in daily contact since that day.
In an incredibly exciting development on Sunday 9 May, Karen Hamilton was flown to Gloucester by British documentary makers. Filming took place over three days. Stay tuned for further details on the release.
The book launch also featured a special guest Tasneem Roc, a member of the Karen people in Myanmar and an actor from Mother of the Bride and Heartbreak High. The Karen tribe had saved Karen's father's life, and he later named her Karen after them. Tasneem was kind enough to gift Karen a scarf made by a member of the Karen community.
Overall, the Chester Hill Library launch was widely regarded as a success, blending literary achievement with powerful lived experience and a rare historical perspective from what may be the only Australian to have lived in the ‘House of Horrors’.
History in the Making and Records for the Ages
Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport’s (WSI) historic “Runway Run/Walk” was truly one for the record books with Sydney turning on a glorious autumn day and 20,000 participants experiencing their new 24-hour global gateway while raising funds for sick kids.
Elite Energy Events CEO Mark Emerton said the goal was for the community to come together, have some fun and raise much needed funds for Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) and it evolved into an unmatched organic festival that exceeded all expectations.
“From the arrival of the first participants it was apparent that their happy smiles, infectious enthusiasm and genuine ownership of the day would ensure Runway Run/Walk was not just a truly unique event but also an outstanding success.”
“As the early morning fog lifted, the day unfolded into a magnificent spectacle with wave after wave of runners, joggers, walkers and strollers embracing the opportunity to make some friends, enjoy the celebration and make history,” he said.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the day was a wonderful gathering of diverse communities who came together to experience their new 24-hour airport while fundraising for vital services that support sick kids.
“Thank you to everyone who came and took part in this oncein-a-lifetime event – the excitement of the crowds was almost palpable, and it was terrific to give people a behind-the-scenes experience of Sydney’s new global gateway before we launch passenger services.”
“The event partners and hundreds of dedicated volunteers all helped make this day a terrific success and everyone collectively raised significant funds for such a worthy cause – the amazing work of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network,” he said.
SCHF Chief Philanthropy Officer Colin Allen said Runway Run/ Walk participants had collectively raised more than $200,000 that would support children’s hospitals, hospice services and research.
“The Runway Run/Walk was an extraordinary show of community generosity and joy, and we are incredibly grateful to every participant who turned this once in a lifetime experience into real impact for sick kids.”
“Raising more than $200,000 means we can support the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network through its hospitals, hospice care and vital research, helping children and their families when they need it most, and proving just how powerful a difference a united community can make,” Mr Allen said.
r Runway Run/Walk participants | Image: Courtney Keijzers. Article Supplied by Elite Energy Events
r Karen Hamilton (right) at the book launch | Image/Article Supplied by Hembury Books
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness P: 0418 166 269
Fixing Back and Neck Pain by Removing Pain Biochemicals from your Muscles
Unhealthy muscle contains tight, painful areas ‘trigger-points’, of two types ‘latent’ and ‘active’:
1. a ‘latent’ trigger point is a ‘tight area in a muscle’ that is not painful unless pressed. Pressing leads to pain locally and sometimes also at sites called ‘referral’ points.
2. ‘active’ trigger points produce local and/or referred pain:
a. when using the muscle
b. constantly, even with muscle at rest, Also:
1. trigger-point containing muscles are usually tight, shortened, weaker, with altered nerve functions
2. trigger points arise due to acute or chronic muscle overloading
3. active trigger points with persistent deep ache, allow a
‘myofascial pain syndrome’ diagnosis
By contrast, healthy muscle:
1. contains no trigger points
2. if pressed will yield easily and feel no pain, only pressure. Physiologists use EMG machines to confirm if a muscle is healthy or has a trigger points.
Shah etal (2005) measured levels of 8 different pain upregulating biochemicals: TNFα, IL1β, serotonin, bradykinin, substance P, acid (H+), norepinephrine and calcitonin-generelated-peptide (CGRP) in:
a. healthy muscle
b. muscle containing trigger-points.
They found?
a. muscle with:
i. active trigger-points always contained high levels of all pain biochemicals,
ii. latent trigger-points contained slightly more than healthy muscle
iii. no trigger points (healthy muscle) had low levels
b. at trigger-points levels of CGRP and substance P were:
i. greatest for active trigger points,
ii. much less for latent trigger points
iii. low in healthy muscle
c. Needling a muscle’s trigger point significantly reduced the pain producing biochemicals CGRP and substance P afterward
Overstressing a muscle, damages its muscle cells. The muscle:
a. releases pain biochemicals into the fluid around cells
b. fails to relax,
c. becomes chronically contracted,
d. cannot use alternating contraction/relaxation to clear pain biochemicals via lymph
As pain biochemicals accumulate trigger points occur, and the muscle becomes hard, swollen and pain increases.
Often the worst of chronic back or neck pain occurs via this mechanism. Muscle elongation therapy was developed to gradually rid muscle, ligaments, tendons and bursa of pain promoting biochemicals, and to promote healing. So, if you’re suffering ongoing back, neck or musculoskeletal pain come see us at the clinic.
r ** Refer to submitter for references | Image Supplied
A Warm Hug in a Trying Time
With the cost-of-living crisis so relevant in Australia, there are more people doing it tough than ever before. The Think Outside the Square (TOTS) Blanket Challenge, a registered charity covering the Western Sydney region, has spent the past decade harnessing the power of community to craft blankets for those most in need. Through the dedication of its volunteers, TOTS has delivered thousands of handmade blankets to people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, offering a simple but powerful reminder that they are not alone.
TOTS supports the homeless, domestic violence survivors, youth in crisis and cancer patients. Each blanket provides more than just warmth. It represents kindness, connection and the reassurance that even a complete stranger cares.
In their tenth year, the TOTS Blanket Challenge has set an ambitious goal of donating 1,000 blankets to their charity partners that include Westcare, Penrith Community Kitchen, Platform Youth Services, Westcare, The Haven Nepean Women’s Shelter, Linked Wentworth Housing and Cancer Wellness Support.
Running until the 31st of July, the challenge invites volunteers to knit or crochet 20 x 20 cm squares. These squares are then lovingly joined together, forming beautiful, one-of-a-kind blankets that carry the kindness of a connected community that extends from individuals and schools to retirement villages.
Since its beginnings, the TOTS community has grown into a network of more than 300 volunteers, both locally and across Australia, a testament to the power of a shared purpose.
Last year, Canley Vale Public School generously donated 12 Blankets. “With the principal’s full support, we launched a workshop that ran every Tuesday afternoon,” stated Sally Quan, the Schools as Community Centres Facilitator. “What started as a small idea quickly grew into something beautiful.”
Debbie O’Connor, the president of the TOTS Blanket Challenge, says she is continually inspired by the compassion and dedication of the community behind the stitch. “Every year we meet more and more volunteers who share their stories of why they have joined the challenge. It’s always interesting to hear how the challenge means just as much to them as it does to those who receive the blankets.”
If you would like to participate in helping them reach their goal for 2026, head to www.totsblanketchallenge.org.au.
A peaceful place to honour and remember
From Penrith to Parliament: Local Student Attends National Convention
A Penrith Anglican College student has joined some of the country’s top young minds in Canberra, representing the region at one of Australia’s leading student forums.
Year 11 student Melissa Shaker was one of just 113 students nationwide to attend the 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention, held at Old Parliament House.
“I was incredibly shocked actually,” Melissa said. “I knew it was very competitive, so I went in with a ‘try your hardest’ attitude. I felt incredibly grateful and excited. It felt like my hard work had paid off.”
The annual convention brings together senior students from across Australia to explore the Constitution and debate major national issues. This year, students examined whether Section 53 should be amended to prevent the Senate from blocking supply, a question linked to the 1975 constitutional crisis.
“It was really interesting to see how seemingly minor changes can affect us as a society and community, even when we don’t realise it,” Melissa said. “It was super challenging to think of all the possible outcomes and how it affects all ends of the community.”
Alongside expert presentations from constitutional scholars and former politicians, students worked in groups before voting on the issue.
The vote was conducted as a mock referendum facilitated by the Australian Electoral Commission, with the outcome formally presented to the President of the Senate.
For Melissa, one of the highlights was engaging with students from across Australia.
“Hearing a range of different people share their own personal experiences and perspectives was a standout,” she said.
The program also included visits to Parliament House and Government House, giving students a firsthand look at where key decisions are made. During her time in Canberra, Melissa
also had the opportunity to meet the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, at Government House.
“It was eye-opening and interesting to see where some of the most important country-wide decisions are made,” Melissa said.
Melissa said the experience has encouraged her to think more about her role in the future.
“It definitely encouraged me to be more involved and think about how I can make a difference,” she said. “Because we will be the future of the country, we should work towards being as involved as possible.”
She also encouraged other students to step outside their comfort zones.
“Try your absolute hardest and go for every opportunity, even if you think it’s too far out of reach. Not trying is the only way to know for sure that you won’t achieve anything.”
Penrith Anglican College Principal Felicity Grima said Melissa’s participation was a significant achievement.
“We are proud to see Melissa representing our College and engaging so thoughtfully with issues that shape our nation,” Mrs Grima said.
Melissa was supported at the convention by teacher Ms Angela Streeter, who she thanked for encouraging her to take up the opportunity and helping her prepare to contribute to meaningful discussions.
r [Top] Melissa Shaker at the National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra [Above] Melissa Shaker with Ms Angela Streeter and fellow attendees at the National Schools Constitutional Convention. Images/Article Supplied by Penrith Anglican College
Desexing Your Cat: A Small Step That Makes a Big Difference
Penrith and surrounding areas have seen a dramatic increase in stray and abandoned cats in recent years. Local rescue groups, shelters, councils and veterinary clinics are all feeling the pressure as more unwanted litters are born every month. While cats make wonderful companions, uncontrolled breeding has become a serious animal welfare issue — and desexing remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to help.
Stray and feral cat populations in New South Wales are exceptionally prolific, particularly in warmer urban areas where breeding can occur almost year-round. Female cats can become pregnant from as young as four to five months of age and may produce up to three litters every year. With an average litter size of four kittens — sometimes as many as seven — cat numbers can escalate very quickly. Even more concerning, a female cat can become pregnant again while still nursing her previous litter.
It is estimated that one female cat and her offspring can produce hundreds of thousands of kittens over a seven-year period if breeding is left unchecked. Sadly, many of these kittens will never find permanent homes. Some end up in already overcrowded shelters and rescue organisations, while others survive on the streets exposed to disease, injury, starvation and traffic dangers.
Desexing your cat is not only the responsible choice for the community — it also provides significant health and behavioural benefits for your pet.
Desexed cats are generally less likely to roam in search of a mate, reducing the risk of accidents, snake bites, dog attacks and becoming lost. They are also less likely to fight with other cats, helping to prevent painful abscesses and the spread of serious infectious diseases such
Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)
CONSULTING HOURS
as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), commonly known as Feline AIDS.
There are important long-term health benefits as well. Desexing significantly reduces the risk of reproductive cancers and infections, including mammary cancer and uterine disease in females, and testicular cancer in males.
Many owners also notice positive behavioural changes after desexing. Cats are often calmer, less territorial and less likely to spray urine around the home.
From a financial perspective, desexing is far more affordable than raising an unexpected litter. Kittens require vaccinations, flea treatments, worming, microchipping and ongoing veterinary care before they can legally be rehomed.
The recommended age for desexing is around four to six months, ideally before puberty. In NSW, cats are required to be desexed by four months of age unless a veterinary exemption applies.
By choosing to desex your cat, you’re not only helping your pet live a longer, healthier and happier life — you’re also playing an important role in reducing the growing stray cat population across the Penrith community. Responsible pet ownership helps protect vulnerable cats and kittens from ending up abandoned, injured or homeless.
If you would like more information about desexing, microchipping or registration of your cat, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on (02) 4736 2027. Together, we can make a difference.
For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027
•Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer
•Puppy preschool
•Home visits
•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption
•Secure off leash dog park
Solstice Celebrations Light Up Winter
As Australia prepares for the Winter Solstice, local communities are planning celebrations to mark the shortest day and longest night of the year. The annual astronomical event, which occurs in June in the Southern Hemisphere, has become increasingly popular as people embrace seasonal traditions, outdoor gatherings and cultural ceremonies despite the colder weather.
Interest in solstice-themed experiences is continuing to grow, with more people taking part in sunrise gatherings, bonfires, lantern festivals and stargazing activities across the country. Many attractions are promoting the occasion as an opportunity for people to reconnect with nature and enjoy the dramatic winter skies that appear during the longer nights.
Astronomers say the Winter Solstice occurs when the Earth’s tilt places the Southern Hemisphere furthest from the sun, resulting in fewer daylight hours than any other day of the year. While the event has scientific significance, it also carries deep cultural meaning for many communities. Indigenous groups have long recognised seasonal changes through traditional
FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN
knowledge systems, using shifts in weather, animal behaviour and the night sky to mark important times of the year.
Families and local organisations are also embracing newer traditions inspired by European and Nordic winter festivals. Fire pits, warm food markets and live music performances are expected to draw large crowds as people seek ways to celebrate the midwinter period.
Bookings for winter getaways and travel experiences are popular, reflecting a broader interest in seasonal tourism and outdoor experiences during the colder months. Social media has also contributed to renewed interest, with influencers and photographers sharing images of frosty landscapes, glowing night skies and early morning gatherings.
Weather experts predict cold conditions for many parts of the country during this year’s solstice period, although clear skies in several regions could provide ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts hoping to observe constellations and planetary activity.
The Winter Solstice will also signal the gradual return of longer days, with daylight hours beginning to increase immediately afterward. For many Australians, the event represents not only the peak of winter but also a symbolic turning point toward brighter and warmer months ahead. r Image: www.pixabay.com
Article Written + Submitted by: Senior Minister Roger Cunningham P: 4735 1001 E: roger@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
Turning Lives Around
Have you heard of Nicolaus Copernicus? He’s famous for turning the world on its head by his discovery. Up until the sixteenth century everyone believed the sun and the planets circled around the earth. It was self-evident, and no one ever questioned it. But Copernicus came to an astounding alternative - it’s the other way around - the earth and planets rotate around the sun! Now, until then people’s understanding of themselves, of their world, even of God – put them in the centre of the galaxy. So, this was a revolution. Now, when we talk about something as a ‘Copernican revolution’ we’re capturing the effect it had, harking back to the importance of his world-changing discovery. Maybe somewhere along the way you’ve experienced your own Copernican revolution?
Did you know though back in the first century Jesus brought his own Copernican revolution? When his disciples discovered he was God’s promised King they thought he’d take up his throne in Jerusalem, get rid of the Romans, rule the world, and they’d be caught up in the ride, and bathe in his glory. So, you could imagine how confused they were when he told them that he would rule by suffering, dying and rising. He was turning all their expectations about himself on their heads. He was leading by serving. He was ruling by dying. Yeah right.
Now not everyone has trusted Jesus and evidence around him since, but when we come to grips with how much we need Jesus to die and rise for us - and that he did - he brings an even greater revolution into our lives too, even bigger than the revolution of Copernicus. It’s an everyday revolution – wonderful and much needed. You can share in it too - check out when we meet and more on how to meet Jesus on our website.
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Tanya Nellestein
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
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
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As we move into June, it’s a timely reminder of the quiet strength that holds our community together. Community spirit is built on everyday choices, supporting a local café, recommending a trusted tradie, or simply stopping for a chat on the footpath. These small, consistent moments shape the character of the place we call home.
Our local businesses are more than storefronts. They are run by people who live here, employ locals, and give back in countless ways. Choosing to shop local helps keep that cycle of support alive and thriving, especially as we head into the cooler months.
Equally important are good neighbours. A friendly wave, a moment of understanding, or lending a hand can make all the difference. And while not every interaction is as it seems, or always grounded in goodwill, it is often how situations are interpreted and retold that shifts their meaning. In the end, how we choose to respond says far more about us than the noise around us.
As always, let’s continue to show up for one another and invest in the place we call home.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
