Nominations are now open for the 2026 Local Celebration Awards.
The Local Celebration Awards is a community awards program developed by Council to recognise and celebrate the people who are making a difference in Penrith.
It doesn’t matter how big or small their act of kindness is or how young or old they are. They’re looking for people who make Penrith a special place to live and whose spirit of generosity has changed the lives of others.
Do you know someone who has made a positive impact by volunteering or who saves thousands of lives through regular blood donations? Do you know someone who has raised a lot of money for charity or has given up their time or possessions to help others?
Then they want to hear from you!
There are four categories to nominate in:
Citizen of the Year
This award recognises the person who has contributed most significantly to the City of Penrith, demonstrating commitment, involvement in activities and innovation that has led to the betterment of the people within the Penrith community. The recipient needs to be a Penrith resident, aged 18 or over.
Young Citizen of the Year
This is awarded to a young person aged 24 years or younger, who has contributed most significantly to the City of Penrith, providing outstanding community service and/or attaining outstanding achievement in academics, sport, arts, or charity work. The recipient needs to be a Penrith resident.
Mayor’s Local Hero Award
This is awarded to a person who has contributed most significantly to the City of Penrith demonstrating commitment and involvement in activities that have led to the betterment of the people within the Penrith community. The recipient needs to be a Penrith resident, and there’s no age limit.
Making A Difference - Community Service Award
This award recognises a person or group who has shown outstanding dedication and contribution to one or more areas that has led to the betterment of the quality of life of others in the City of Penrith community in areas such as volunteering, charitable work, supported the community during emergencies or natural disasters, championing environmental initiatives, made a contribution in the sporting arena, or provided exceptional community leadership. For this award the recipient does not need to reside in the Penrith local government area. There is no age limit.
Nominations for the 2026 awards close 31 March 2026.
For more information, including the nomination process, visit https://www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/community-library/ community/local-celebration-awards
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
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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
Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)
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
Support + Wellbeing
Lung Support Group
Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542
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
Creating a Stage for Rising Authors
When Kate Bonham and Harley Parker set out to create Meet Me in the Mountains, their goal was simple: make space for authors who often go unseen, and they ended up delivering a sold-out event that did exactly that.
“I came up with the idea when Harley spoke to me about being a new author and not getting invited to many signings,” Kate explains. “It’s hard to be a baby author and be noticed. I thought back to my baby author years and remembered just how hard it really was.” From that conversation, a local event was born — one designed to mix emerging voices with established names while spotlighting new talent through months of online takeovers, reader interaction and author features.
For Kate, hosting the event in her local Penrith community made it even more meaningful. “It was everything. I was absolutely blown away with how positive everyone was about it,” she says. “I also wanted to showcase Penrith and bring our local and unknown authors together so they could be seen and heard.”
On the day, the atmosphere exceeded expectations. “We were busy all day,” Kate says. “That’s mind-blowing to us, and everything we could have ever hoped for.” Careful planning played a big role. Kate and Harley divided responsibilities around their busy lives, leaning on trust and teamwork. “We always had each other’s backs,” Kate says. “At the end of the day, it’s about trust. I think we’ve cultivated the most epic dream team.”
Attendee feedback has been overwhelming. Readers praised the venue, layout and organisation, with some calling it the most organised event they’d attended in years. One moment stands out for Kate: a first-time local author nearly in tears after selling far more books than expected. “That’s the entire reason for this book signing,” she says.
Proud of the connections formed, Kate believes the event strengthened the community. “Bringing everyone together is what makes our community strong.”
As for the authors, Kate will be releasing her new Shackled Sons MC series this year, as well as join the illustrious RBMC shared world in August. Harley will be focusing on her Arctic series and her standalone novels within the Mafias of Hollow Grove world. She also has some exciting cowrites on the way that she can't wait to share with the reader community.
Follow Kate at https://www.facebook.com/kate. bonham.2025. Keep up to date with Harley https://www. facebook.com/harley.parker.289405
r [Top] The team behind Meet Me in the Mountains Naiomi Cox, Kate Bonham, Harley Parker, Caitlyn Duncan [Above] Kate Bonham at Meet Me in the Mountains | Images: Kate Bonham. Article: Tanya Nellestein
A New Beat for Emu Plains
Adult hip hop classes are gaining momentum in Emu Plains, offering local women a welcoming space to move, connect and rediscover their love of dance.
The weekly classes are run by Melanie Jackson of Shimmers Dance, who has been teaching hip hop and dance for the past year. While she has danced her entire life, Melanie said stepping into teaching felt like a natural progression after years of working in community-focused roles.
“I’ve always been inspired to teach,” she said. “Now I’ve really focused on bringing dance into the community in a way that feels accessible and supportive.”
The idea for the classes came from her own experience searching for a suitable dance option.
“I was personally looking for a dance class for women my age, something safe, open and non-judgemental,” she said. “I didn’t want anything competitive or expensive, and there’s a huge lack of this genre in Western Sydney for this age group.”
After deciding to trial adult hip hop classes locally, Melanie said the response exceeded expectations.
The classes are held every Wednesday night from 7:30pm to 8:30pm at Melrose Hall in Emu Plains. Each session includes a warm-up, learning new hip hop moves, and gradually building those moves into a longer dance routine that develops week by week. The class finishes with a warm-down, with an emphasis on enjoyment and wellbeing.
“It’s fun, it’s exercise, and it’s an hour to just breathe and be yourself,” Melanie said.
Since launching, the classes have continued to grow, with around 15 women currently enrolled. Melanie said attendance increases most weeks and that the social aspect has been just as rewarding as the dancing.
“New friendships have already been made,” she said. “It’s been amazing to watch women support each other and gain confidence.”
With Emu Plains continuing to expand, she hopes the classes will become a long-term fixture in the local community, providing a creative outlet for adults who may not have danced for years, or ever.
More information about the adult hip hop classes can be found by emailing shimmersdance@hotmail.com or calling 0414 712565.
Say It Out Loud
Through Her Lens
For Chloe Reid, photography didn’t begin as a career plan — it began as a mother capturing fleeting moments she didn’t want to lose. Today, through Chloe Alexis Photography, she’s turned that instinct into a thriving creative enterprise focused on celebrating motherhood.
“I have been a motherhood photographer for four years now,” Chloe says, but the journey started earlier, after the birth of her second child.
“I desperately didn’t want to return to the corporate world doing office work,” she explains. Although she’d loved photography since her teens, she never believed she was creative enough to pursue it professionally. “I’ve realised I was creative; it just was never nurtured enough.”
When her son was six months old, Chloe took a leap of faith, enrolling in a Certificate IV in Photography at TAFE. Juggling study and motherhood as a single mum wasn’t easy, but her passion pushed her forward. She continued on to complete a Diploma in Photography and Photo Imaging, earning a major confidence boost along the way. “At our graduation exhibition I was awarded the Statement of Excellence for best portfolio in the class of 2022,” she says. “That gave me the courage to start my own photography business.”
Today, Chloe’s work centres on helping mothers feel seen. “The thing I enjoy most is helping mothers see their light and worth, which sometimes gets dimmed after you become a mother,” she says. “I find this part the most rewarding.”
Her style is natural, warm and emotionally led. When asked about the secret to the perfect photo, her answer is simple: “Knowing where to find the best light and helping your subject feel comfortable.”
Beyond technique, Chloe’s story carries a deeper message. “If you feel like you have this creative pull inside of you, but you don’t believe in yourself, just go for it. You may just be surprised by what you discover.”
Through Chloe Alexis Photography, Chloe is doing more than taking photos, she’s helping mothers rediscover themselves, one image at a time.
To discover more visit https://www. chloealexisphotography.au/
r Chloe and her son Wolf | Image: @julescostaphotography. Article: Tanya Nellestein
www.emuleonaygazette.com.au
r Melanie Jackson of Shimmers Dance | Image: Melanie Jackson
RAAF Glenbrook
Susan Templeman MP Media Statement
As part of the Albanese Government’s response to the recommendations of the Defence Estate Audit, the RAAF Glenbrook site will be divested.
Importantly, these changes will take place in consultation with people working onsite at Glenbrook, and with the wider community including the NSW Government and Blue Mountains City Council.
Changes are not taking place overnight.
The decision to divest 67 sites is the most significant reform to the Defence estate ever and includes consolidation of underutilised facilities as recommended in the Audit. It ensures the Australian Defence Force estate is fit-for-purpose, and that ADF personnel have the facilities and capabilities they need to keep Australia safe.
Glenbrook RAAF has been an important part of our lower Mountains community for more than 75 years. Over those years it's been the home and workplace for many RAAF personnel and has played an important role in Australia's defence, so this is a big change and there will be mixed feelings.
The decision creates a number of opportunities that will all need careful consultation and consideration.
There are potential opportunities for tourism, additional housing and for public sport and recreational use. The Government is committed to preserving and enhancing public access to historically significant sites and I would expect we would ultimately see greater public access to this unique and iconic site.
I am mindful that there will be many issues to be worked through including highway access, bushfire resilience and the already protected heritage value of elements of this site.
The original Lapstone Hotel, the former service station, and “Briarcliffe” the Air Commander’s residence were heritage listed by NSW in 1991.
I have already raised with the Minister the question of the Airforce Cadets 323 Squadron which has been located opposite the Base since the early 2000s.
The Minister has assured me that the Cadets will remain in the region, with options to be consulted on including relocating to Defence Establishment Orchard Hills or a new lease at a suitable community venue or school.
There are no planned job losses as part of this decision and Defence is consulting with affected personnel on their options for transfer to other sites.
Defence is also working closely with people who work on the Base and providing support to them and their families.
Minister for Finance, Katy Gallagher, will lead the divestment process, with Finance undertaking a further due diligence process to identify properties suitable for early divestment while other properties may take some time to divest due to complexities such as heritage, remediation and personnel relocation.
I look forward to providing further updates to the community on the progress of the divestment, and opportunities for community input.
The full media release from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, is available here: https:// www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2026-02-04/ delivering-future-defence-estate
A copy of the final Defence Estate Audit report and the government’s response is available here: https:// www.defence.gov.au/about/reviews-inquiries/ defence-estate-audit
A full list of sites is available here: https://www.defence.gov. au/about/locations-property/delivering-future-estate
r Images: Australian Government Defence | Article: Susan Templeman MP
Local Teens Drive Diabetes Change
Two young local advocates are leading the charge to bring the Breakthrough T1D One Walk back to Penrith this March, with the aim of raising funds, awareness and hope for people living with Type 1 diabetes.
Emily Klimek, 18, and Sarah Peatman, 14, are the driving force behind the local event, both volunteering as advocates for Breakthrough T1D, the world’s leading charity dedicated to Type 1 diabetes research. In 2024, the pair travelled to Parliament House in Canberra alongside advocates from across Australia, helping secure a record $50.1 million in bipartisan funding from the Albanese Government to support diabetes research.
The Breakthrough T1D One Walk will be held on Sunday, March 15, at 9:00am at Tench Reserve, Penrith, opposite the Eastbank restaurants along the Nepean River. The scenic and accessible location has been chosen to make it easy for families,
r Feature Article [Cover+Above] Attendees at the 2025
friends and community members of all ages to take part.
Emily said the One Walk is much more than just a fundraiser. “The One Walk is a community event to support people and families living with Type 1 diabetes,” she said. “It’s going to be a day full of fun with laser tag, yard games and face painting, a 3km walk, food, drinks, raffle prizes and plenty of chances to talk to others. You can share your own experience, learn more, or just be there to support someone you care about.”
All funds raised go directly to Breakthrough T1D, supporting research into improved treatments, technology and the ongoing search for a cure. Emily, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just two years old, said the charity’s work has already changed lives. “From doing finger pricks eight to ten times a day to now wearing a continuous glucose monitor, the research they fund is bringing real hope,” she said.
For Sarah, who was diagnosed just over three years ago, the walk offers connection and understanding. “Type 1 diabetes completely changed my life,” she said. “The One Walk makes me feel supported. Walking with people who get it means a lot.”
The local community is encouraged to get involved by walking, donating, volunteering or simply showing support on the day. “You don’t have to have Type 1 diabetes,” they said. “You just have to care.”
Both girls hope the event will bring the Penrith community together and remind families affected by Type 1 diabetes that they are not alone, united by hope for a future where the condition is easier to manage, or one day cured entirely.
A peaceful place to honour and remember
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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
Breakthrough T1D One Walk | Images Supplied by Tim Peatman/ Breakthrough T1D One Walk
From Shadows to Spotlight
Local author and District Gazette Writer Tanya Nellestein, returns readers to danger, desire, and deepening emotional stakes with the release of Emerging in Shadows, the third instalment in her gripping Townsend & Gray series.
Blending romantic suspense with crime fiction, the series follows investigators Ash Gray and Chad Townsend as they navigate complex cases while fighting just as hard for their relationship. With Emerging in Shadows, the stakes rise both personally and professionally, as buried secrets surface and trust is tested under pressure.
“This book really pushes Ash and Chad,” Tanya says. “They’re no longer just solving crimes — they’re confronting the emotional shadows. For Ash, it’s the arrival of her father whom she believed dead for the last thirty years; and for Chad, it’s his professional integrity coming under unwarranted scrutiny.”
The new release also marks a visual refresh for the entire series. All titles in Townsend & Gray have received a makeover with striking new covers that better reflect the atmospheric tone of the stories. “I wanted the covers to
FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN
match the emotional depth and suspense inside,” Tanya explains. “They now feel as layered and compelling as the characters themselves.”
Readers can expect the signature elements fans have come to love: slow-burn romance, emotional vulnerability, and tightly woven investigations. But this instalment goes deeper into character psychology, exploring trauma, loyalty, and the cost of truth.
“For me, romantic suspense is about what happens when your heart is on the line at the same time as your life,” Tanya says. “Ash and Chad are strong, but they’re also human, and that’s where the real tension lives.”
The fourth and fifth books in the Townsend & Gray series will be released later this year.
With its blend of crime, intimacy, and high emotional stakes, Emerging in Shadows cements Tanya Nellestein’s place as a compelling voice in romantic suspense — and proves that in the Townsend & Gray world, the darkest places often reveal the most powerful truths.
You can find Emerging in Shadows, as well as all of Tanya’s other novels, on Amazon or purchase via her website: www. tanyanellestein.com or selective bookstores.
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What If?
What if Jesus died and then rose again from the dead? News would spread, wouldn’t it? You can imagine the people who saw it happen telling everyone they met. But then there would be all sorts of reactions. Some, hearing the news, would believe what they were told. Others, for any number of reasons, would doubt it. Maybe there would even be people who actively denied it. When you think about it, the reactions probably wouldn’t be that different from what we see happening again and again today in response to dramatic news.
But if it did happen, what would it mean? Well, we would have someone who could answer the age-old question, “What happens after death?” On top of that, given Jesus predicted his death and resurrection, and it happened the way he said it would, you would be pretty confident that the other things he said would happen would happen too — things about judgement, things about God, things about rescuing you and me from death to life.
In fact, it is Jesus’ words at the graveside of a dead friend that ring in my ears as Easter comes around. He said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25–26). And then he raised his friend Lazarus back to life again.
If Jesus rose from the dead, it could change your life — it even should change your life. I am convinced he did, and this Easter we will be celebrating all that means: celebrating hope, celebrating meaning, celebrating life! We would love you to join us — check out our website for details.
r [Top] Author Tanya Nellestein [Above] The Townsend & Gray series | Image: Amanda Keating. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Burgers, Belief, and Big Dreams
Joshua Abbott’s athletics journey is built on far more than raw speed. It’s built on early mornings, sore legs, careful meals, and a quiet determination that has grown stronger with every season. In April 2026, Brisbane will host the inaugural aligned National Junior Athletics Championships at the Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre (QSAC),
combining the Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships and the Australian Athletics Junior Championships into one historic event. Running from April 12–20 and featuring athletes from Under 12 to Under 20, it’s the biggest junior athletics stage in the country, and Joshua will be right in the thick of it.
Joshua, of Blaxland, will line up in the 100m and 200m sprints, events where his explosive power and consistency give him a genuine chance to shine. There’s also strong belief he could qualify in the high jump, adding another challenge to an already packed championship schedule. But as his father Ben Abbott explains, none of this happens by accident. “It’s not just show up and run,” he says. “There’s the food side, the training, the rest. All of it matters.”
Guiding Joshua through that process is local coach Sarah Luxford, who puts him through his paces with discipline and care, making sure the hard work is matched with smart preparation. At home, the support is constant. Even from across the seas, Joshua feels the encouragement of his mother’s family in the Philippines, a reminder that he’s running with a whole community behind him.
Joshua isn’t chasing this dream alone. He’s doing it for his mates too, other young athletes who are grinding through the same sessions, sharing the same goals. To help get Joshua and those kids to Brisbane, the Abbott family is rolling up their sleeves for a burger drive on March 28. The goal is simple but ambitious: smash out 200 burgers. Ben jokes it’s been a while since he’s picked up the knives, but it’s for a good cause. The event can be found on Facebook under “Burger Drive for Joshua,” and every burger sold helps turn a hard-earned dream into reality.
info@districtgazette.com.au
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r [Top] Joshua in action on the track [Above] Joshua with his brother and some of his medals | Images: Ben Abbott
Live Life in Colour at the 2026 Penrith Seniors Festival
Penrith will once again celebrate senior residents with its annual Penrith Seniors Festival, running from Monday 2 March to Sunday 15 March 2026.
This year’s theme, ‘Live Life in Colour!’, invites seniors to embrace joy, creativity and connection through a diverse program of free events and activities designed for those aged 50 years and over.
From craft workshops to movie screenings to health sessions and fitness classes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The festival will launch with two stand out events on Monday 2 March, a Seniors Festival Expo and the Penrith Seniors Comedy Gala, featuring a hilarious line-up of comedians including Chris Radburn (emcee), Cam Knight, Fiona Cox and Bruce Griffiths.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the festival is a highlight on the City’s calendar and a meaningful way to recognise the contributions of older residents.
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“This year’s theme encourages our seniors to embrace colour in all its forms, through new experiences, friendships and community connections,” Cr Carney said.
“It’s a wonderful chance for people to come together, try something different and learn new skills in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”
“I’d also like to acknowledge the local organisations who support this festival and continue to provide valuable services that promote healthy ageing in our community.”
Events and workshops will be held at accessible locations across Penrith, reflecting the broader themes of the NSW Seniors Festival while catering to the interests of our local senior community.
To explore the full program, visit penrith.city/seniorsfestival
r Article: Penrith City Council
Exercise May Help Overcome Bad Genes,
Aging And Help Response To Therapy
Research shows your genes don’t determine the person you become. Diet and exercise have huge positive influences, even if you have poor genetics. Illustrating this, ‘mtDNA-mutator’ mice have ‘really-bad’ genes. They accumulate 3–5 times as many mitochondrial DNA mutations as wild type mice in equivalent time. This leads to:
• mitochondrial dysfunction (in biogenesis & fission),
• excessive free radical production
• oxidative stress & damage to cells
• accelerated body cell death rates
• loss of cell reserve (aging).
This loss of cell reserve (stem cells) leads these mice to suffer from ‘progeria’, a disorder with profound premature aging and early death. Like old people, these mice have reduced fertility, muscle loss (sarcopenia), and subcutaneous fat loss, hair loss, curved spines, osteoporosis, anaemia, heart enlargement, and they get all these things very early in life.
Key is that their mitochondria malfunction first, well before the appearance of the actual signs of aging. Can anything delay this onset of mitochondrial changes and thus aging?
Experiments by Safdar et al. in 2011, using ‘mtDNA-mutator’ mice, demonstrated how regular endurance exercise can help even these genetically challenged mice. They showed ‘that 5 months of endurance exercise
1. induced systemic mitochondrial biogenesis,
2. prevented mitochondrial DNA deletions and mutations,
3. increased mitochondrial energy production capacity, 4. restored mitochondrial structure, and
5. blunted pathological levels of’ cell death ‘in multiple tissues of the mtDNA mutator mice’.
Endurance exercise conferred complete protection from progeria, ‘multisystem pathology, and prevented premature mortality in these mice’.
Thus, regular endurance exercise was able to overcome the severe genetic defects that these mice had. The authors concluded that ‘the systemic mitochondrial rejuvenation through endurance exercise promises to be an effective therapeutic approach to mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction in aging and related comorbidities’ (i.e. diseases).
Most of us will not have to overcome such severe genetic defects. For many of us, our lack of exercise will be a key contributor to the mitochondrial dysfunction that occurs in our cells and tissues, well before we see the outer signs of aging, including muscle loss. Appropriate regular endurance exercise seems to be one key preventer of age-related decline, and by keeping you physiologically younger, it may also accelerate your response to remedial therapy.
r ** Refer to submitter for references
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
Find Your Voice with Penrith Harmony
Penrith Harmony Chorus is striking a chord with the local community, inviting residents to experience the joy, connection and health benefits of group singing through a free four-week “Learn to Sing in Harmony” course in early 2026.
Founded in 1989, Penrith Harmony Chorus has been a longstanding presence in the local music scene, performing at community events and competing in regional and national competitions. The all-male chorus specialises in a cappella singing in the four-part barbershop style and currently has 15 members, with hopes of growing its ranks in the year ahead.
The group meets every Monday evening from 7:00pm at the John Lees Centre, behind the Fire Station at 15 Evan Street, Penrith, with regular rehearsals for 2026 having commenced on Monday 2 February.
“Our chorus has always been about more than just singing,” said Chorus Member Richard Wadick. “It’s about connection, friendship and the incredible way singing together can lift your mood and your health.”
Inspired by those benefits, Penrith Harmony has launched a four-week “Learn to Sing in Harmony” course, running on Monday nights from 9 March to 30 March 2026, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the John Lees Centre. The course will guide participants through vocal techniques and introduce them to singing a popular song in four-part harmony.
“People are often surprised by how quickly they can learn to sing in harmony,” Wadick said. “You don’t need experience, just a willingness to give it a go.”
The course will be led by a team of five expert facilitators, including Cameron Hinton, Emily Moriarty, Ricky Allan, Peter Fragar and Dr Sarah Powell, who will also share insights into the proven health benefits of group singing. Research shows singing can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and release endorphins, while also building confidence and a strong sense of community.
To make the program accessible, Penrith Harmony successfully secured a Thriving Communities Grant from Penrith City Council, allowing the course to be offered free of charge.
“This project is about sharing what we love with the wider community,” Wadick said. “Singing together has given us so much, and we want others to experience that too.”
The course is open to everyone, regardless of gender, age or singing experience. Registrations can be made at www.penrithharmony.com/ registration by clicking the ‘Buy Tickets’ icon and completing the details.
With a rich musical history and a welcoming approach, Penrith Harmony is inviting Penrith residents to raise their voices and discover the harmony that comes with singing together.
Locals Named in Australia Day Honours List
Penrith City Council has recognised Penrith’s three outstanding residents named on the 2026 Australia Day Honours List.
Penrith Mayor Clr Todd Carney thanked the recipients for their contributions to the City and beyond in a special Mayoral Minute.
• Emu Plains resident Farah
Madon was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to architecture, and to people with disability.
• Regentville’s Michael Allen PSM received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through a range of organisations.
• Penrith local Tony Lackey was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community of Penrith.
Congratulations to these worthy recipients! Council will celebrate their achievements at a civic event later this year.
r Regentville’s Michael Allen PSM with Penrith Mayor Clr Todd Carney | Image/Article: Penrith City Council
r [Top] The Penrith Harmony Chorus performing [Above] Peter Fragar, Music Director of Penrith Harmony Chorus | Images Supplied. Article Tanya Nellestein
Dr Joseph Kerious Joins Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital
We’re excited to welcome Dr Joseph Kerious as the newest veterinarian at Orchard Hills Vet Hospital, bringing our team to eight vets led by Dr Camille Brandt.
Joseph is a dedicated veterinarian with an Egyptian background and a genuine passion for compassionate, evidence-based care. He has a strong interest in emergency medicine and orthopaedic (bone) surgery, and enjoys supporting pets and their people through everything from routine check-ups to more complex medical situations.
A big believer in preventive medicine, Joseph is passionate about early intervention and client education as the foundation for long, healthy lives for pets. He enjoys working closely with clients, taking the time to explain options and ensure they feel confident and supported in their pet’s care. Community engagement and animal welfare are also close to his heart.
With a light-hearted nod to his cultural roots, Joseph is known to joke that cats are female — in honour of ancient Egyptian feline goddesses — while dogs are, naturally, just as divine.
When he’s not in the clinic, Joseph can usually be found enjoying specialty coffee, running outdoors, or cycling. He shares his home with Wilson, a Golden Retriever, and Chelsea, a Domestic Long Hair cat. Joseph is proud to be joining the team at Orchard Hills Vet Hospital and looks forward to caring for the pets of the local community.
•Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer
•Puppy preschool
•Home visits
•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption
•Secure off leash dog park
CHECK
The History of International Women’s Day
Each March, International Women’s Day (IWD) is marked around the world with rallies, cultural events, and calls for gender equality, recognising women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. While today the day is often associated with celebrations and corporate campaigns, its origins are firmly rooted in protest and the labour movements of the early 20th century.
The story of International Women’s Day begins in the United States. In 1908, thousands of women garment workers marched through New York City demanding better working conditions, shorter hours, fair pay, and the right to vote. The following year, the Socialist Party of America declared the first National Woman’s Day, observed on February 28, 1909.
The idea soon spread internationally. In 1910, at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the creation of an annual international day to advocate for women’s rights. The proposal was unanimously approved by delegates from more than a dozen countries, though no specific date was set.
The first International Women’s Day was observed in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with more than one million women and men attending rallies. Demonstrators campaigned for voting rights, access to public office, and an end to workplace discrimination. The momentum continued over the following years, particularly in Europe.
March 8 became the recognised date, after events in Russia in 1917. Women textile workers in Petrograd went on strike demanding “bread and peace” amid food shortages and World War I. The protests helped spark the Russian Revolution, and the provisional government later granted women the right to vote. That date (March 8) was later adopted as International Women’s Day.
The United Nations officially recognised International Women’s Day in 1975, during International Women’s Year, further cementing its global significance. Today, the day is observed in countries around the world, sometimes as a public holiday, sometimes as a day of activism.
More than a century after its beginnings, International Women’s Day continues to highlight persistent gender inequalities while celebrating progress made. Its history serves as a reminder that the rights many enjoy today were won through collective action and that the work toward equality is ongoing.
r International Women’s Day takes place on March 8 | Image: www.pexels.com
editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au PO Box 8254
March arrives with momentum, carrying us beyond the fresh start feeling of early year planning and into a season of steady progress and connection. As our next edition for the year, this issue reflects a community that is well and truly back in stride, with ideas turning into action and plans beginning to unfold.
By now, the year has found its rhythm. Classrooms, workplaces, sporting fields, and community spaces are buzzing with activity, and there is a strong sense of purpose in the air. March is often when commitment replaces intention, when routines settle, and when we begin to see the results of shared effort and focus.
What continues to stand out is the spirit of our community. Time and again, we see people showing up for one another, celebrating local successes, and offering support where it is needed most. These everyday moments of care, resilience, and pride are what shape our region and give it its unique character.
As we move further into 2026, we thank you for your continued support and involvement. It is a privilege to share your stories, highlight local voices, and reflect community life in these pages. We look forward to the months ahead and to continuing this journey together.
“The future depends on what we do in the present.” —
Mahatma Gandhi
Managing Editor
Belinda Pearce
Personal
Assistant
Jasmine Stinson
Design
Jade Gregory
Writer / Sales
Cim Sanders
Writer
Tanya Nellestein
Belinda
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