GLENMORE GAZETTE MARCH 2026

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2026 Local Celebration Awards

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

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.

A Community United by Photography

In a quiet corner of Sydney’s west, a small but passionate photography community has been steadily developing its focus for nearly a decade. The Glenmore Park–Regentville Photographers and Videographers Group was established around 2018 by local resident Ben Sharif, with a simple but enduring goal: to bring together people who share a love of photography.

Sharif said the idea for the group came from a desire to create a common interest network for photographers living in Glenmore Park and surrounding suburbs. “It was really about encouraging people who enjoy photography to connect,” he said. “Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, the idea was to help each other improve skills and enjoy the hobby in a social setting.”

Since its creation, the group has grown to around 160 followers on Facebook. However, Sharif notes that the core of the group is much smaller, with approximately 15 active members who regularly engage, share work, and participate in discussions or outings. “Like many community groups, not everyone is active all the time, but the members who are involved are genuinely enthusiastic,” he said.

While Glenmore Park itself has limited photographic locations, Sharif says there are still opportunities close to home. The local wet parklands are a favourite nearby subject, offering changing light, reflections, and natural textures. Beyond Glenmore Park, the wider Penrith area provides numerous interesting spots, from rivers and bushland to urban and industrial scenes, giving photographers a broad range of subjects to explore.

Sharif’s own enjoyment of photography lies less in a single genre and more in the process itself. “Everyone approaches photography differently,” he explained. “Some people are drawn to landscapes, others to flora and fauna. For me, it’s the creativity and the technology that really stand out, experimenting with gear, settings, and new techniques.”

Although the group remains relatively small in active numbers, its purpose remains clear: fostering connection, learning, and shared experiences through photography. Nearly seven years on from its beginnings, the Glenmore Park–Regentville Camera Users Group continues to offer a welcoming space for local photographers to come together, learn from one another, and see their local area through a more creative lens.

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

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, 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.

Glenmore Park Celebrates Strong Season in 30th Anniversary Year

Glenmore Park Cricket Club is enjoying a memorable season, as it celebrates its 30th year, with strong performances across both senior and junior ranks putting several teams on track for finals appearances.

With only a few rounds remaining, the club have a number of senior teams in solid positions on the ladder. Grades 7, 5, 4 and 1 are all pushing towards the postseason, whilst their junior program continues to impress, with the Under 12’s and Under 16-1’s also well placed.

There have been several standout individual performances throughout the summer. Peter Dams’ unbeaten 120 and Allan Hope’s 102 are amongst the season’s highlights.

“For me, the biggest positive has been the involvement of junior players stepping up into senior cricket” said Grant Kean of Glenmore Park Cricket Club.

Young players such as James Schwartzkoff and Chace Linford have consistently put their hands up to support senior teams when needed. Their enthusiasm and willingness to contribute underline the strength of the club at present and point to a very promising future.

“In my first season on the committee, I’ve gained a completely new appreciation for the people who keep the club running. Before joining, I only ever saw the trophies and presentations at the end of the year. Now I’ve seen the tireless work that volunteers and families put in week after week, and it’s clear that their dedication is the reason we have such a strong and welcoming club.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of the season has been seeing former players return to the game. We’ve had people who hadn’t played cricket in decades reach out to the club to rekindle their love for cricket, even halfway through the season. Being part of that community and seeing it from the inside has been incredibly special.

“We’re now looking forward to an exciting finish to the year, with finals on the horizon and a full schedule of end-of-season events planned. Senior and junior presentation nights are locked in, along with a club-wide celebration to mark what is shaping up as a successful season in Glenmore Park’s 30th anniversary year” Grant concluded.

r A season of milestones | Image/Article: Glenmore Park Cricket Club

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

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 co-writes 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

World Champion Sets Sights Higher

Australian tumbler Ethan McGuinness is gearing up for a defining year on the world stage, with major championships ahead and long-term Olympic ambitions firmly in sight.

The Glenmore Park athlete’s journey into elite sport began back in 2009 when he was just eight years old. Originally a rugby league junior, McGuinness’ path changed after seeing an NRL player celebrate a try with a backflip. Inspired, he walked into a newly opened local tumbling club and quickly found his calling. Before long, he made the difficult decision to give up footy and commit fully to tumbling, a choice that has since delivered world-class success.

Now one of Australia’s leading athletes in the discipline, McGuinness is preparing for a huge 12 months of competition. In July, he will compete at the National Championships in Sydney before taking on the world’s best again at the World Championships in November in China, where he will attempt to defend his title.

Last year tested McGuinness both physically and mentally. At the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, often described as the Olympics for non-Olympic sports, he entered the competition in peak condition, only to strain his calf during the finals. Showing resilience, he pushed through the injury to finish fourth against the best tumblers on the planet.

Just months later, injury concerns again threatened to derail his season heading into the World Championships in Spain. Despite limited preparation and lingering issues, McGuinness delivered when it mattered most, winning gold and becoming a two-time World Champion after first claiming the title in 2022.

Looking ahead, McGuinness is also expanding his focus beyond tumbling. This year he will begin training the floor exercise in Men’s Artistic Gymnastics, with the longterm goal of pushing for a place at the LA 2028 Olympic Games, while still aiming to back up his world title in tumbling.

Unlike many elite athletes, McGuinness’ career is entirely self-funded. Competition expenses alone cost around $20,000 annually, with additional costs for training, physiotherapy, nutrition and even national team uniforms. With a combined social media following of 1.5 million, McGuinness uses his platform to share his journey and partner with sponsors, support he says is crucial to keeping his world championship dreams alive.

Tanya Davies Endorsed as the Liberal Candidate for 2027 NSW Election

Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, has been endorsed by the Liberal Party to recontest the seat of Badgerys Creek at the upcoming NSW State Election scheduled for March 2027.

Mrs Davies served as the Member for Mulgoa from 2011 to 2023 and since 2023 has served as the Member for Badgerys Creek. During this time, she has fought to support local jobs and businesses, address cost of living challenges and ensure that essential services are available to residents across the Badgerys Creek electorate.

“Whether I am in Government or part of the Opposition, I always ensure to put the needs of my community first,” stated Mrs Davies.

“My decision to recontest is driven by my desire to have our community take advantage of the opportunities arising from the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and to ensure western Sydney gets the services and infrastructure we deserve,” continued Mrs Davies.

Mrs Davies has been outspoken in her calling of the NSW Government to commit to the construction of stage two of the North South Rail Line, connecting Bradfield to Macarthur, including a station in the growing suburb of Oran Park.

She has remained vocal in her criticism of the current NSW Labor Government, whose term in power is marked by a lack of supply in housing, longer hospital wait times, crumbling road infrastructure and higher electricity bills, just to name a few of their many failings.

“We must reverse the direction that our State is headed in. We can’t afford another term of this failing Labor Government,” concluded Mrs Davies.

“Still a Country Show” – The 2026

Camden Show Returns

Two big days of family fun, come to the Camden Show!

Friday 20th & Saturday 21st March 2026

From 8.00am – 11.00pm Daily

Get ready for the highly anticipated 140th Camden Show 2026, happening on Friday 20th & Saturday 21st March at Onslow Oval, Camden! This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, packed with thrilling new attractions and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or joining them for the first time, the Camden Show is the perfect chance to reconnect with the community, discover the best local businesses, and experience the agricultural heart of Australia. As the birthplace of Australian agriculture, Camden stays true to its country roots, offering a classic country show with all the traditional agricultural favourites.

Wander through the historic Camden Show Hall showcasing the district exhibit, Pavilion exhibitors with their baked goods, handicrafts, sugar art and photography and more. Explore the Poultry Pavilion for a close look at the region’s finest bird specimens, take in the locally grown vegetables in the produce pavilion and keep an eye out for the biggest pumpkin. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Be sure to check out the street parade along Argyle Street on Friday at 4:00pm, featuring the impressive Marlie Stud Wool Wagon, Charlie the Brahman Steer and Friends and much more! Don’t miss exciting events like the Wood Chop Competition, Noah’s Racing Pigs, animal education tent, animal nursery, and the Drovers Camp, where you can enjoy traditional tea and damper. For a little thrill, catch the whip cracker or the snake man in action!

Join in the fun by cheering on local schools in the popular Scarecrow Competition or support emerging talent on the Entertainment Stage.

Need a break? Head over to the Cobbitty by Mirvac Style Pavilion, where you’ll find delicious boutique food and unique local wares. For more thrills, dive into the heart-pounding rides at side show alley.

The show also features a wide range of exciting competitions, including sheepdog trials, ute competition, displays of sheep, goats, alpacas, cattle, a Championship Dog show, wood chopping and show jumping. Watch amazing horse events showcasing everything from adorable mini horses to majestic draught horses.

The excitement doesn’t stop there! On Friday night, get ready for an unforgettable rodeo program from 7:00pm with the Xtreme Bulls. Don’t miss the Saturday Grand Parade from 4:00pm and the action-packed fun during the Night Show, including the dazzling fireworks display at 9:00pm, courtesy of Camden Hire and Foti Fireworks.

The Camden Show is truly “Still a Country Show,” with something for every member of the family. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable weekend filled with entertainment, tradition, and community spirit!

For more information, FAQ and event details, visit www. camdenshow.com

Tickets are available online, and parking is free!

Become a member of the Camden Show Society to enjoy exclusive benefits and support the oldest and largest traditional event in Macarthur.

r Article: Camden Show Society

• Catering for 2-3 year old Children

• Situated in Quiet and Safe Street

• Preschool and School Readiness Specialty Program

• Qualified Early Childhood Staff

• Operational Hours 8am till 5pm Monday till Friday

• Large Outdoor Play Area

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.

HEALTH MATTERS

“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: Kellie Tickner from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital A: 49 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027

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.

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•Radiology

•Visiting

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A: Junction Factory Rd & Loftus St, Regentville Service Times: Sundays 9.30am FAITH - FOOTHILLS CHURCH Member for Mulgoa

Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Paul Marshall W: www.foothillschurch.com.au

The Danger of Herd Mentality

‘Herd mentality’ happens when a group of people don’t think for themselves but instead go with the thinking of the group. This can feel safe but risks making bad decisions.

I have realised this as our children have done the HSC. Some thrive on ATAR scores and conventional careers, but for some this pathway is difficult because their gifts are more practical or creative. Forcing them to think with the crowd could be detrimental to them finding a vocation that lights their fire. When it comes to the different makeup of each of our five children and helping them do well, I need a more balanced view of things beyond what the herd thinks. This offers wider possibilities and makes for better decisions.

Herd mentality does not consider other perspectives or possibilities and is not a well-informed, balanced, and considered view. This is dangerous because the herd can be very wrong! For example, herd mentality paved the way for the disastrous rise of Nazism prior to World War II. Nobody asked, “Is the crowd right, or is it a matter of the blind leading the blind?”

This is also true when it comes to spiritual things. A few generations ago, the general thinking in society became very secular. The focus was on wealth creation, and the herd mentality said that God, and even more so Jesus Christ, were hocus-pocus.

But there has been an upsurge in spiritual curiosity with the latest generations. Our young people are expressing the courage to break from the herd mentality to form a more balanced, well-informed, and considered view of God and Jesus.

One young person said they were curious about God because a friend had discovered Jesus and changed so profoundly for the better that they had to check it out. Our young people see through the secular herd mentality of society and are making decisions that open a wonderful, life-giving world to them.

Our wellbeing depends upon seeing herd mentality for what it is and making our own decisions. Going with the crowd can be safe, but it also has its dangers.

Davies MP Member for Badgerys Creek

Contact Tanya

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Shop 43, 155 Bennett Road, St Clair NSW 2759 (02) 9834 2966 (02) 9834 6291

tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au

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

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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS THE LAST WORD

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

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

Sports Clubs

Cim Sanders

Writer

Tanya Nellestein

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Community News... The Glenmore Gazette welcomes community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements and anniversaries (published free of charge) Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor.

Letters to the Editor...may be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

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

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Explore Penrith Anglican College

Discovery

Evening

5pm - 7.30pm Wed 4th March

Where character is nurtured, learning is celebrated, and students are empowered to grow in a Christ-centred community.

Book Today

Scan the QR or visit penrith.nsw.edu.au/enrol/visit 338-356 Wentworth Rd Orchard Hills, NSW 2748, Australia

Anytime Library

Discover the convenience of borrowing books and DVDs while you shop.

Penrith City Library members can now enjoy the ease of borrowing from our new Anytime Library, located at HomeCo Glenmore Park Town Centre.

With 352 books and DVDs ready for you to browse and borrow, it is your perfect quick stop library, open whenever the centre is open.

Returning your items is just as easy! Simply drop them back to the Anytime Library or at our Penrith, St Marys, or St Clair branches.