Built, Finished, Opened: Toll-Free M12 Motorway Goes Live
The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments have opened the brandnew M12 Motorway – the driveway to the new Western Sydney International (NancyBird Walton) Airport.
After four years of construction, Western Sydney’s new, state-of-the-art motorway opened to traffic in the early hours of Saturday, 14 March, in time for the commencement of cargo and passenger flights at the new airport later in the year.
The 16-kilometre section of the M12 connects Elizabeth Drive in the east to The Northern Road in the west, delivering an intersection-free, 100 km/h run straight to the airport precinct. It will serve as the key gateway to the new airport and the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, which will become a thriving innovation precinct and create thousands of jobs for the region.
The M12 is designed to seamlessly integrate with the wider road network, improving connectivity for motorists and freight operators across Sydney. The final component – the M7/M12 Interchange at Cecil Hills – remains on track to open mid-year delivering a motorway-to-motorway and intersection-free connection between the M12 and the M7.
The motorway between Elizabeth Drive and The Northern Road will open in the early hours of Saturday morning, because the Albanese and Minns Governments are determined to open the new road to Western Sydney residents at the earliest opportunity.
The $2.1 billion project is funded with a $1.63 billion investment from the Albanese Government and a $408 million investment from the Minns Labor Government. It is expected to take around 25,000 vehicles a day off local roads, taking pressure off suburban streets and improving travel times and reliability across the region.
The Government has applied lessons from other new road corridors to ensure motorists can drive the M12 with confidence from day one. Signage, line-marking and lane guidance have been tested across key connections, with interactive driver animations available online so drivers can familiarise themselves with the route before opening.
Project highlights include:
• Around 181,933 cubic metres of concrete used, equivalent to 73 Olympic pools
• 5,217,117 hours worked
• 10,000 people employed, including 4,900 local workers
• Over 2.6 million m³ of earthworks completed, equivalent to 1,064 Olympic pools
• Construction of 17 bridges
• 461 bridge piles installed
• 637 bridge girders installed
• Over 1,5 million shrubs and grasses planted
• 18,500 trees planted
• 2,320 bridge lineal metres delivered
rCeremony Time’ overbridge artwork depicting the Dharug emu story. Created in co-design by Balarinji Studio with Dharug-connected Aboriginal artists | Image: Transport for NSW | Article: Catherine King MP
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
Hobbies + Interests
Glenmore Park Probus Club
The club provides regular opportunities for retirees to engage in social activities and meets at 10.00am on the third Wednesday of each month at Leonay Golf Club. More Details: Membership enquiries should be addressed to the Secretary: secretaryglenmoreparkprobus@gmail.com
Penrith Physical Culture Club
Great meets at Glenmore Park Youth and Community Centre and Nangamay Public School on Monday and Tuesday nights and Caroline Chisholm High School Dance Studio on Tuesday nights. More details: penrithphysie@outlook.com
“Taste of Everything” Group for Women
Learn something new each week, meet new people, and have a laugh. Meets every Thursday from 9.30am-12.30pm at Floribunda Community Centre (3-4 Floribunda Ave, Glenmore Park). More Details: Martha 0414 557 062
Held fortnightly on Sundays from 19th March, 9:00am till 1:00pm at Luddenham Showground (Park Road, Luddenham). More details: Search Luddenham Country Market on Facebook Markets
Luddenham Country Markets
Penrith Producers
Held on Friday 23rd June, Friday 29th September and Friday 1st December from 5:00pm to 9:00pm at Triangle Park (565-567 High Street, Penrith). More details: https://www.visitpenrith. com.au/www.penrith.city/events
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
Penrith Womens Walk and Talk
Meets 5.30pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ Penrithwomenswalkandtalk
Penrith Mens Walk and Talk
Meets 5pm every Thursday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ PenrithMensWalkAndTalk/
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.
Exclusive and Affordable: Lakeside Lawn Graves Released at Kemps Creek Memorial Park
A unique opportunity has quietly arrived in Western Sydney, and families are beginning to take notice. Kemps Creek Memorial Park has released its highly anticipated Lakeside Lawn Graves - a premium memorial lawn, quickly becoming popular with the local community.
This beautiful area, positioned directly adjacent to the water, has been reserved for many years and is now being released to the community for the first time. With peaceful lake reflections, open lawns and established trees, it offers a calm setting that is deeply comforting for families visiting loved ones.
Despite its premium location, the offering remains remarkably affordable. A complete Lawn Grave package including headstone and inscription is available for $10,200, providing exceptional value compared with other metropolitan cemeteries.
The initial release includes 200 positions, with the most desirable locations closest to the lake. Currently 150 are available for purchase, with 50 already reserved, reflecting strong early interest. Families securing positions now can access some of the most beautiful views in the memorial park.
All graves are open to families of all faiths, cultures and beliefs. Cremation memorial areas will also be available beside the lake from $2,600, offering an affordable option for families seeking a peaceful lakeside setting to commemorate cherished family members.
Kemps Creek Memorial Park is operated by Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria, recognised for their commitment to providing adequate and affordable burial spaces for Sydney’s growing community. Founded in the tradition of social justice, the park serves people of all faiths and beliefs.
One of Sydney’s most beautiful lawn cemeteries, the park features stunning gardens, open spaces and modern amenities, supported by a team dedicated to exceptional care and service.
With limited positions available before future expansion planned for 2027, this lakeside release presents a rare opportunity.
As one family shared:
“The setting is so beautiful and calming, surrounded by nature and water. Knowing our loved one rests in such a tranquil place will bring comfort every time we visit.”
Families interested are encouraged to enquire early to secure their preferred lakeside position.
r Image/Article: Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria
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
Lest We Forget
The City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch will be hosting three major commemorative services in March and April 2026.
This will include:
1. ANZAC School Service – Tuesday 31st March
2. Sunday ANZAC Service – Sunday 19th April
3. ANZAC Day Dawn Service – Saturday 25th April
The Annual ANZAC Day School Service will take place on Tuesday 31st March at the Penrith Showgrounds. Montgrove College in Orchard Hills has volunteered to host the prestigious event in 2026. The event has attracted almost every school in the Penrith region, and they are expecting over 2,000 children and their teachers to attend this year. Local Army, Airforce and Navy Cadet Units will also be supporting the Service. The City of RSL sub-Branch along with CDC Charters will be co-ordinating bus transport for the schools, there will not be any public access to this event.
The Sunday ANZAC Service will be on Sunday 19th April. It is a community commemoration service, designed to enable community members to participate and lay a wreath when they may not be otherwise able too. All Veterans are invited to march with the sub-Branch, starting at 2:45pm and all community members are invited to attend the service starting at 3:00pm. Limited seating will be available; however, the seating will be reserved for those unable to stand, Veterans and invited guests.
The ANZAC Day Dawn Service Commemoration will be on Saturday 25th April. Veterans wishing to march are requested to meet on the corner of Castlereagh and Tindall Streets at 4:30am. The march will step off at 4:45am with 350+ veterans, including current serving ADF personnel and Cadets expected to take part. The Dawn Service will commence at 5:00am at Memory Park in Penrith and will take approximately 45 - 50 minutes. Limited seating will be available; however, the seating will be reserved for those unable to stand, Veterans and invited guests. Breakfast will be served to the public immediately following the service at the Penrith RSL Club, a gold coin donation will be requested.
The City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch are expecting 5,000+ people at the Dawn Service and they anticipate the streets to be full. To assist the public viewing, TV monitors will be placed in strategic locations in the Penrith CBD, allowing people to view the service without accessing Memory Park. Immediate access surrounding Memory Park will be closed off to all traffic from 2:00am on Saturday 25th April, until 7:00am. There will be no traffic in or out of that dedicated area during this time. Seating in Memory Park will be reserved for Veterans and invited guests. This event is fully supported by our local, State, and Federal elected members.
“The RSL Club and the Penrith RSL sub-Branch anticipates a huge turn out from the public in 2026. The sub-Branch Committee and Members are really looking forward to an inclusive ANZAC commemoration period”, said Mr Anthony Eddie, President of The City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch.
r Lest we forget | Image: RSL NSW. Article: City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch
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St Marys RSL sub-Branch
Invites you and your family to join with us in Commemorating
Dawn Service – Saturday 25th April
At our Guns War Memorial adjacent to the Train in the grounds of the St Marys Diggers Club (cnr Hall Street and Mamre Road)
This year, within the theme of ANZAC, our focus is The 75th Anniversary of National Service
We suggest early arrival for parking. The Service will commence at 5.00am, preceded by several related short video clips on the large screens provided.
After the Service, veterans (with medals) and their families are welcome in the club auditorium for breakfast. For all others, breakfast is available for purchase in the Club.
For enquiries: 0414 557 692 Come along and participate in our Service Feel calmer. Think clearer.
Runway Run/Walk – A Runaway Success
Entries for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport’s “Runway Run/Walk” have ‘taken off’, with runners, walkers, strollers and aviation enthusiasts giving the historic one day event a massive tick of approval.
Opening recently, entries for Runway Run/Walk on Sunday, 26 April 2026 have exceeded expectations with more than 17,500 participants already signed up and the remaining entry slots selling like hot cakes.
Elite Energy Events CEO, Mark Emerton said he is delighted by the widespread interest and genuine passion of the whole community to celebrate the nation’s most significant aviation project in more than 50 years and to support Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF).
“The unique Runway Run/Walk, has genuinely captured the imagination of both Australian and international participants.”
“Interest from the Western Sydney community, nationally and internationally has been phenomenal and the enthusiasm and fervour of the aerophiles, plane spotters and aviation enthusiasts from across Australia and overseas has been truly remarkable.”
“The appeal of the walk component of Runway Run/Walk has exceeded expectations, selling out in record time and requiring us to offer a ‘wait list’.”
“The run section of Runaway Run/Walk has also been in extremely high demand, with only a very limited number of highly sought after entry slots still available. For the running community it is a once in a lifetime and historic opportunity to set a personal best on a flat, ultra-fast course, so these are the hottest tickets in town.”
“My advice to anyone contemplating entering the run is to sign up right away. You don’t want to miss out, so don’t hesitate, do it without delay,” he said.
To participate, join the wait list, fundraise or donate to Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) visit runwayrun.com.au.
r Image/Article: Elite Energy Events
Dance Your Way to Fitness
Residents looking for a fun way to stay active are being invited to swap the gym for the dance floor at weekly Zumba classes in Glenmore Park.
Local instructor Karina Ascencio, of Zumba with Karina, hosts classes every Friday evening at Nangamay Public School Hall, starting at 6:30pm.
Karina has been teaching Zumba for six years and now runs 14 classes each week. But her journey began simply as a participant.
“I started attending Zumba classes for about two to three years before deciding to become an instructor,” she said.
“The joy, the energy, the community and connection that I experienced in each class was something special. I wanted to share my love and passion for Zumba and spread that happiness to my own community through dance.”
For newcomers, Karina says the experience is designed to feel more like a party than a traditional workout.
“Zumba is basically a Latin-inspired dance party, just without the alcohol and pickup lines,” she joked.
“When the class starts, the lights go off and the disco lights come on.”
Participants follow simple, pre-choreographed routines set to upbeat tracks from around the world. The moves are intentionally easy to follow so that people of all fitness levels can take part and control the intensity of their workout.
The music playlist takes dancers on a global journey, featuring rhythms such as salsa, merengue, cumbia, reggaeton, afrobeats, soca, bachata, bhangra, mambo and pop.
“We travel the world through music,” Karina said.
What she enjoys most about teaching, however, is seeing the impact it has on people in the room.
“The smiles, giggles and happiness it brings during class is the best part,” she said.
“The tracks are electrifying and the moves are funky. By the end, we don’t want the party to end.”
Karina encourages anyone curious about Zumba to give it a try, even if they don’t consider themselves a dancer.
“You don’t need coordination or dance experience,” she said. “As long as you’re moving, you’re heading in the right direction. It’s literally exercise in disguise.”
More information about classes can be found on the Zumba with Karina Facebook page and Instagram account @ zumbawithkarina.
r [Top] Karina Ascencio [Above] Zumba Group Class | Images Supplied by Karina Ascencio
Youth Advocate Inspires School Community
Last month, Glenmore Park High School proudly celebrated International Women’s Day, a global event dedicated to recognising the contributions, achievements, and rights of women in all walks of life. Their school community came together to reflect on the ongoing journey toward gender equality and to honour inspiring women who continue to break barriers.
Their special guest this year was Bianca Halloran, Youth Action Co-ordinator, who has made an exceptional mark through her work advocating for young people across Western Sydney. Bianca’s role sees her supporting youth empowerment programs, mentoring students, and partnering with schools and local councils to ensure young voices are heard and supported. Her enthusiastic approach and genuine care have led to improved outcomes for many youths in her region, making her a trusted leader and role model.
Bianca was awarded the prestigious Unsworn Police Officer of the Year Award in 2025, recognising her partnership with NSW Police and her leadership in community outreach. She initiated and delivered youth safety workshops, championed anti-bullying campaigns, and supported culturally diverse youth by creating inclusive spaces for all. Her efforts have earned community-wide respect and highlight her deep commitment to a safer and fairer society.
The International Women’s Day assembly was proudly organised and led by Glenmore Park High’s School’s Senior Student Leadership Team, with assistance from staff. The team’s leadership and dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive school environment ensures that occasions like these provide meaningful engagement for all students and staff.
During the assembly, their guest speaker spoke about her experiences, the challenges faced by women in youth and community leadership, and the importance of perseverance and allyship. She encouraged students to challenge stereotypes and embrace their unique identities. Her story was one of determination, empathy, and impactful action.
As they celebrated this important day, they remembered that progress depends on each of them stepping forward, lifting others up, and striving for equality. Bianca’s achievements reminded them of how one voice can inspire many to create positive change.
Congratulations to their Student Leaders on their organisation of such an impactful, thought-provoking assembly.
r Bianca Halloran with Glenmore Park High School students and staff | Image/Article Supplied by Glenmore Park High School
Glenmore Park Basketball Eyes Winter Season
Glenmore Park Basketball Club has wrapped up a successful Summer season, with strong participation and growing community involvement highlighting the continued rise of grassroots basketball in the area.
Club President Charmaine Couszins said approximately 177 players took to the court across 20 teams during the recent competition, representing a broad range of junior age groups.
“It’s fantastic to see such strong participation across our junior teams, and it really highlights the growth of basketball in our community,” Couszins said.
The season delivered several memorable moments both on and off the court. Couszins said player development remained a key focus, with many young athletes improving their skills and confidence throughout the competition.
However, the biggest highlight was the sense of community that surrounded the club across the season.
“From competitive games and team successes to our Gala Day celebration, it was fantastic to see players, families, volunteers and supporters all coming together to celebrate with each other and our award winners,” she said.
Despite the season presenting some unusual challenges, Couszins said the club community rallied together.
“Grassroots basketball and creating strong pathways for our kids is what GPBC is all about,” she said. “This year it’s been inspiring to see players grow not just on the court, but also by moving into referee training, joining representative teams, participating in multiple competitions and even stepping into coaching roles.”
Attention is now turning to the upcoming Winter season, which is scheduled to begin in mid-April. Registrations are closing soon, and Couszins encouraged interested players and coaches to sign up quickly.
“Teams fill up fast, so we encourage anyone interested in playing to get involved as soon as possible,” she said.
As preparations begin, the club is also seeking additional community support. Couszins said players, coaches, team managers, volunteers and local sponsors all play an important role in keeping the club running.
“Local clubs like ours rely heavily on engagement from the community,” she said.
Couszins also thanked the club’s players, families, volunteers and business supporters for their continued backing.
“Glenmore Park Basketball Club is built on community, and it’s great to see that spirit growing each season,” she said. “We’re excited for the upcoming Winter competition and look forward to welcoming both returning and new members.”
r Tahlia McIntosh and Deegan Mcrae coaching at skill-based training sessions | Image Supplied by Glenmore Park Basketball Club
Messy Makers Bringing Creative Play to Glenmore Park
For local families looking for a fun, engaging way for young children to learn and explore, Messy Makers Penrith and Lower Mountains are providing the perfect space for creativity, connection and hands-on discovery.
“Messy Makers hosts Messy and Sensory Play sessions at Daily Break, Glenmore Park on selected Thursdays from 10:00am to 11:00am,” Messy Makers Penrith and Lower Mountains owner, Lina Farrugia explained. “We also run sessions at various venues across the Penrith area, making our programs accessible to more local families.”
Sessions operate throughout the school term, with additional workshops offered during school holidays, providing regular opportunities for young children to explore new activities and experiences.
At the heart of Messy Makers is a belief that children learn best through play, and each session is designed to stimulate curiosity, creativity and confidence.
“Our sessions focus on hands-on sensory and creative experiences designed to support early childhood development,” Lina said. “Activities include themed sensory trays, painting, water play, fine motor skill experiences, seasonal craft workshops and group play.”
The carefully planned activities encourage children to experiment with different textures, colours and materials while developing important developmental skills. Beyond the developmental benefits, Messy Makers also plays an important role in bringing families together.
“Community-based groups like Messy Makers play an important role in supporting families and young children,” Lina said. “They provide opportunities for social connection, developmental play and shared experiences within a supportive local setting.”
“Messy and sensory play encourages cognitive growth, fine and gross motor development, problem-solving skills and emotional regulation, all while allowing children to learn naturally through play,” Lina explained.
For Lina, one of the most rewarding parts of running Messy Makers is watching children grow in confidence as they explore new experiences.
“Watching children immerse themselves in the experience, explore new textures and build confidence is always a highlight,” she said. “It’s equally fulfilling to see families connect, form friendships and become part of a supportive community network.”
Messy Makers continues to grow as a valued part of the local community, offering a space where children can learn through play and parents can connect with other families.
For more information, upcoming session dates and bookings, visit www.messymakerspenrithmountains.com.au, follow Messy Makers Penrith and Lower Mountains on Facebook, or find them on Instagram at @messymakerspenrithmountains.
r Messy and sensory play | Image Supplied by Messy Makers Penrith and Lower Mountains. Article: Tanya Nellestein
The Sydney Royal Easter Show Returns in 2026
The Show is back in 2026, bringing the best of rural Australia to the heart of the city in a celebration of farmers, food, family fun and the unforgettable traditions Australians know and love.
Running from 2 - 13 April, the Show invites visitors of all ages to reconnect with where our food comes from, meet the people who produce it, and experience the mix of familiar icons and new moments that make the Show a must-visit each year.
New for 2026, the Show comes alive After Dark, transforming Sydney Showground into a glowing nighttime spectacular. Visitors can enjoy a brand-new light parade, 70 illuminated animal lanterns, expanded evening entertainment and new food experiences.
A new After 4:00pm Family Ticket offers greater value, giving families entry from late afternoon into the evening. Available pre-Show only until 11:59pm on 1 April 2026, tickets are limited.
With up to 12 hours of entertainment included in a single ticket, the Show remains one of Sydney’s best-value days out over Easter.
Buy tickets at eastershow.com.au.
HEALTH MATTERS
Chronic Shoulder Pain – Cured by What You Eat?
Most people coming to the clinic with shoulder problems respond well to muscle elongation therapy; however, rarely people fail to respond as well. Here, ongoing shoulder pain may not be driven only by the original injury. On such occasions, gut-derived autoimmune or inflammatory processes should be considered as a possible contributor.
Recently a patient presented with two sore shoulders, brought on by workers-comp pre-return-to-work shoulderstrength testing. Ultrasounds showed evidence of bursitis, slight shoulder-tendon “wear and tear”, pain in the front of both shoulders, and extremely limited range of motion, especially of the left.
The patient received physical therapy for several weeks with minimal improvement. She was advised that the inflammatory processes in her shoulders may be being exacerbated by components in her diet. Initially not keen to make the suggested dietary changes, she eventually did so and within one week achieved almost full range of motion.
Why might dietary change sometimes help? The patient’s history showed a previous but unrelated work injury requiring years of pain medication. Long-term intake of such medications may lead to compromised integrity (leakiness) of the intestinal lining. This allows immune-stimulating proteins from foods such as grains and milk (and even whole microbes) to leak across to where immune cells reside. Immune cells see such foreign proteins and microbes as signs of danger and become activated. They enter the bloodstream, migrate to other sites of injury, and produce large amounts of inflammatory mediators that augment local inflammation, increasing pain at those sites.
For this client, her strenuous shoulder-strength tests likely caused some local injury. Once such local shoulder inflammation began, it attracted circulating and activated gut-derived immune cells. These cells then exacerbated the local shoulder inflammation and prevented the shoulder tissues from moving from the “inflammatory phase” into the “repair and resolution” phase of the healing process.
In this case, dietary change likely reduced exposure of gut immune cells to immune-stimulating proteins, resulting in a relatively quick reduction in shoulder pain. So, if you have unresolved shoulder (or neck) pain, you may want to consider the impact of your diet. Feel free to give Andreas a call at the clinic to discuss your issues.
r ** Refer to submitter for references | Image Supplied
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
r Article (edited): Royal Agricultural Society of NSW | Image: Steven Markham/Royal Agricultural Society of NSW
Easter is a wonderful time of year filled with family catch-ups, chocolate treats and long weekends. But while we’re enjoying the celebrations, it’s important to remember that some of the foods and decorations we associate with Easter can be dangerous for our pets.
Chocolate is one of the biggest concerns at this time of year. It contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause serious problems, including vomiting, muscle tremors and seizures. If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, it’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
So how much chocolate is actually toxic for dogs? The simple answer is: none. The level of risk depends on the type of chocolate: dark, milk or white, as well as your dog’s size, weight, age, breed and any existing health conditions. Dark chocolate contains the highest levels of theobromine, making it the most dangerous, but any amount of chocolate should be considered unsafe for dogs.
Hot cross buns are another common Easter favourite, but they can also be harmful to pets. Many contain raisins or dried fruit, which are known to cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. What makes this especially concerning is that symptoms don’t always appear straight away. In some cases, the damage to the kidneys can occur days or even weeks after ingestion.
Easter baskets can also pose a hidden risk. Many lollies and sweets contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, leading to weakness, lethargy, vomiting and seizures. The decorative plastic grass often used in Easter baskets can also cause
Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)
CONSULTING HOURS
serious digestive blockages if swallowed by curious pets.
Flowers are another thing to be mindful of. Lilies are a popular choice in Easter bouquets, but they are highly toxic to cats. Every part of the plant, including the pollen and even the water in the vase, can cause severe kidney failure. If a cat brushes against the pollen or ingests any part of the plant, urgent veterinary care is needed. One of the biggest challenges with many of these toxins is that symptoms may not appear immediately. By the time a pet begins to show signs of illness, serious damage may already have occurred. That’s why prevention is always the best approach.
Here are a few simple ways to help keep your pets safe this Easter:
• Keep chocolate, hot cross buns and sweets well out of reach of pets.
• Avoid using plastic grass in Easter baskets or decorations.
• Make sure guests and family members know not to feed pets Easter treats.
• Keep lilies out of homes with cats.
• If your pet shows any signs of illness, contact your veterinarian straight away.
With a little extra awareness, Easter can be a fun and safe time for the whole family, including our four-legged members.
If you need assistance over the Easter period, contact the 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
•Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer
•Puppy preschool
•Home visits
•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption
•Secure off leash dog park
CHECK
CHURCH
Article Written + Submitted by: Senior Minister Christopher Braga P: 4733 1635 A: 16 William Howell Drive, Glenmore Park
W: www.gracewest.church
Service Times: Sundays @ 8.30am, 10.30am and 6pm. Plus activities for adults + young people right throughout the week.
The Hope Behind Easter
What is Easter really about? And why do Christians call Good Friday “good”? Surely watching someone die on a cross cannot be good. Why not call it Good Sunday instead? These are the kinds of questions many people have about Easter, so let me try to explain.
Easter is special because it is when we remember what Jesus did for us. On Good Friday, he died on the cross for our sins. That might not sound good at first, but it is. Jesus faced the punishment we deserve for the things we have done wrong. The prophet Isaiah put it like this: “But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins” (Isaiah 53:5, NLT). Jesus did not deserve to die, yet he chose to take our place. We deserve God’s judgment, but he took it on himself. That is why it is called good.
But it does not stop there. Three days later, Jesus rose from the dead. His resurrection shows that death has been defeated and that he can give new life to anyone who trusts him. The empty tomb and the people who saw him alive prove that this really happened. It also shows that Jesus is who he said he was — the King of the world — and that we can have certain hope for the future.
If you want to find out more, we would love to welcome you at Grace West this Easter. Come and see what this hope really looks like.
FAITH - FOOTHILLS CHURCH
r Image: www.pixabay.com
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Paul Marshall W: www.foothillschurch.com.au
Easter celebrates the death of Jesus Christ to deal with our sins and establish friendship with God, and the resurrection of Jesus from the dead to defeat death altogether.
Someone said to me, “Hang on! People still die.” True, but the Bible teaches that with faith and trust in Jesus, His work on the cross applies to us. This means that when we die physically, we don’t cease to exist, like “dust to dust and ashes to ashes,” but spiritually we will live forever. Our conscious existence continues with God in a place where there is no pain, crying, or death. And we will have spiritual bodies that are recognizable. In fact, the Bible teaches that those who trust in Jesus will recognize and be reunited with family members, for example, who also trust in Jesus. If you have access to a Bible, you can check that out in 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18.
Humans seem obsessed with staying young and living forever with elixirs of youth and scientific breakthroughs. But the Bible makes a clear promise that when we trust in Jesus Christ and His death and resurrection, we receive immortality as a gift.
I connect with people all the time facing hardship in life and desiring change, but they don’t have any basis for hoping that things can change. They just hope for the best—wobbly fate, perhaps, or a lucky break. But the Bible teaches that because Jesus died and was resurrected, He has been exalted to a place of supreme power and authority over all things. And He has sent His Spirit to exercise His love and power in the lives of all who trust in Him and are open to Him.
When we trust in Jesus, we are not just hoping for the best with no basis. We are connecting with Someone who has victoriously defeated death and is able to do something about the burdens we carry, and the things we are fearful or anxious about in this life and beyond.
What are you hoping for? What is the basis upon which you hope for it? Happy Easter.
Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, has hosted a special morning tea to honour six local seniors who have dedicated their lives to serving the local community.
Mrs Davies presented them with a Local Senior of the Year Award in recognition of the positive impact they have had on the electorate.
Recipients included Ms Josephine Borg and Theresa Quattromani for their outstanding volunteer work.
Together with a small team of ladies, Ms Borg has fundraised more than $400,000 for the Cancer Council through Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea events.
Ms Marie Haining and Mr Sam Vecchio, who have both served as Justice of the Peace for more than 50 years, were also awarded at the ceremony.
Mr Vecchio also serves as the NSW President of the Vietnam Veterans Association and is secretary of the St Mary’s Vietnam Veterans’ Outpost in Sydney’s west.
“This was a wonderful occasion to recognise and honour the immense service and contribution of many of our seniors across the community”, Mrs Davies said.
“Each recipient is making a powerful difference in the lives of individuals and across our community. I am deeply grateful for their sacrifice and service to western Sydney and beyond.”
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Churches
Anglican Church
Cnr William Howell Dr Pritchard Pl 4733 1635
St Padre Pio Parish
William Howell Drive 4737 9735
Uniting Church
Cnr Mulgoa Rd & Stuart Rd Penrith 4721 1295
Foothills Church
Jct Factory Rd & Loftus St, Regentville 4732 3139
Penrith Church
52 Taylor Rd Cranebrook 4577 6555
Elevation Church Penrith
4 Production Place, Penrith 4722 8489 Community Groups
Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 725 317
Community Centre 4733 1499
Community Health 4732 9400
Glenmore Park Guides 0400 546 772
Probus Club Penrith Sth 4732 1885
Penrith Suicide Bereavement Support Group 0402 627 696
Prostate Cancer Support Group 1300 13 38 78 Scouts 1800 SCOUTS (1800 726 887)
Sports Clubs
AFL 0425 202 038
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Managing
Belinda
Jasmine Stinson
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Jade Gregory
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Cim Sanders
Writer
Tanya Nellestein
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glenmorephantoms@hotmail.com
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April arrives with a different kind of energy this year, shaped in part by Easter falling early in the month. It brings with it a sense of pause and reflection, woven through with renewal and hope. Across our community, this season is often marked by small traditions and shared moments, gatherings with family, quiet time outdoors, and the simple comfort of familiar routines.
As the year continues to unfold, many of us are finding our footing. The pace of daily life remains full, yet there is growing value in slowing down where we can, noticing what matters most, and reconnecting with one another. In times when the world beyond our borders can feel uncertain or unsettled, these local connections become even more meaningful.
What endures is the strength found in community. We see it in the way people lend a hand, check in on neighbours, and come together for causes both big and small. These acts, often unspoken and unseen, create a sense of stability and belonging that carries us forward.
As April progresses, may this season encourage reflection, kindness, and renewed purpose. Thank you for being part of a community that continues to show care, resilience, and quiet optimism as we move through the year together.
“Storms pass quickly when you refuse to stand in the rain.”
