Tanya Davies Celebrates 15 Years in NSW Parliament
With a strong focus on lifelong education, early infrastructure and amenities, we deliver walkable neighbourhoods with a diverse housing mix.
Oran Park is located in the centre of the Camden LGA –approximately 15 minutes from the new Western Sydney Airport.
• Limited land is available, starting from $655,500
• Variety of lot sizes, starting from 375m2
• All land is registered and ready to build on
• Many lots are in close proximity to the Town Centre
Oran Park is a nationally recognised, masterplanned community that delivers sustainable living.
Mulgoa is a Goer: Stage 1 Open, Work Begins on Stage 2
The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are delivering for Western Sydney, with Stage 1 of the jointly funded $226 million Mulgoa Road upgrade now complete and Stage 2 underway.
The newly completed Stage 1 works between Jeanette Street and Blaikie Road have widened Mulgoa Road to three lanes in each direction, improving access to and from the M4 Motorway and delivering safer, more efficient connections to surrounding retail and residential precincts.
Stage 2 of the works will upgrade the section between Jeanette Street and Glenmore Parkway, targeting a key pinch point to further improve traffic flow and reliability for the thousands of motorists who rely on this corridor each day. Work is expected to be completed by late 2028.
Around 52,000 vehicles use this section of Mulgoa Road each day, making it a vital link between Penrith, Jamisontown, Glenmore Park and the wider Western Sydney region.
Despite the challenges of working on a live traffic corridor, construction was carefully staged to minimise disruption, with the project delivered ahead of time and on budget.
Crews put over 743,500 hours of work into Stage 1 of the project, with works completed including:
• Widening the road from four lanes to six lanes to increase capacity
• Constructing or relocating 8 kilometres of underground utilities including water, sewer, gas, electricity and telecommunications
• Installing 2,460 tonnes of steel reinforcement
• Pouring more than 6,750 cubic metres of concrete
• Laying over 12,000 tonnes of asphalt
• Upgrading five signalised intersections to ease congestion
The upgrade will also improve bus travel, with new dedicated bus priority lanes on Wolseley Street and Glenbrook Street. A new 3.5-metre-wide shared path along the eastern side and a pedestrian footpath along the western side will also be delivered.
Environmental outcomes were also a key focus, with more than 130,000 tonnes of material recycled during construction. While some trees were removed, the number was reduced by 20 per cent from initial estimates, with more than 450 new trees planted and measures put in place to support local wildlife, including the installation of habitat structures.
A 560-metre-long noise wall has also been delivered to reduce road noise in nearby neighbourhoods.
Further south at Mulgoa, additional safety improvements are also being delivered, including shoulder widening, minor road realignment, and the installation of safety barriers at the intersection of Mulgoa Road and Roscrea Drive.
r (L-R) Prue Car MP, Jenny Aitchison MP and Karen McKeown MP | Image: Prue Car MP. Article: Catherine King MP/Prue Car MP/Jenny Aitchison 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.
Sydney Gateway Opens First Trans-Tasman Tickets
Sydney siders now have more options to traverse the Tasman – with Air New Zealand tickets connecting Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) and Auckland International Airport now officially on sale.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey welcomed the launch of Air New Zealand’s services, which will be the first international flights to operate from Sydney’s new 24-hour global gateway from 26 October this year.
“We’re delighted to have Air New Zealand as a trusted partner, with the airline significantly advancing its flight schedule to take off from WSI in October
– operating trans-Tasman services three times a week between WSI and Auckland,” he said.
“This route will give Sydney siders greater connectivity to New Zealand’s largest city and main holiday destination, so they can enjoy more choice and flexibility, alongside WSI’s innovative and seamless customer experience in our state-of-the-art terminal.”
Air New Zealand’s services from WSI comprise:
• Three return services per week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, beginning on 26 October 2026.
• Tickets went on sale from 6am (AEST) on Thursday 2 April.
• Flights will depart Auckland at 6.05am (NZT), arriving at WSI at 7.50am (AEST).
• The return service will depart WSI at 9am (AEST), arriving back in Auckland at 2.15pm (NZT).
• Air New Zealand will fly its internationally configured narrowbody jet fleet of A321 (214 economy seats) or A320 (165 economy seats) aircraft into WSI.
Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul and Domestic Lucy Hall said the introduction of the Western Sydney service strengthens the airline’s network across the Tasman and provides customers with another gateway into Sydney.
“Flying directly into Western Sydney opens up a catchment of more than 2.5 million people, including a significant New Zealand community, and supports stronger business, tourism and visiting friends and family links between our two countries,” she said.
“Together with our services to Sydney Kingsford Smith, this new route gives customers more choice and flexibility when travelling between New Zealand and Australia.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King welcomed Air New Zealand to Western Sydney’s new international airport.
“Western Sydney will be connected to our closest neighbours from October; these new flights will grow the connection between our two nations” she said.
The Minister also acknowledged the challenges facing the aviation sector today, but said Air New Zealand’s announcement showed the industry would bounce back, saying, “we can expect demand for Trans-Tasman travel to return and grow again into the future.”
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said getting the first trans-Tasman tickets on sale is another major milestone for Western Sydney International Airport and a clear signal that this new global gateway is opening up fresh opportunities for our visitor economy.
“This new Air New Zealand service will strengthen our already close ties with New Zealand, making it easier for visitors to experience everything Sydney and NSW have to offer, while also giving locals more choice when travelling,” he said.
“Through the Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, we’re backing new routes that will drive visitation, support local jobs and help grow the NSW visitor economy towards our goal of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035.”
Air New Zealand has had a contribution from the Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund. The $16 million fund, jointly funded by the State Government and WSI, is forecast to deliver over 162,000 international visitors to NSW and generate an estimated $530 million of visitor expenditure.
Celebrate your mum, mother figure, grandmother or aunt with a special day of planting a tree for Mother’s Day.
Penrith City Council are celebrating 19 years of Trees for Mum this year — and they couldn’t have reached this milestone without you!
They can’t think of a better way to treat Mum on her special day than planting a tree with her name attached to it. They encourage anyone who wishes to remember or celebrate their mum, grandmother, aunt or mother figure to come along and plant a tree for her. They have biodegradable tree tags you can write a special message on in remembrance.
The event will be divided into 30-minute sessions, with the first session starting at 8.30am and the last session at 12:00pm. Please ensure you register for a time slot as spots are limited!
What to wear
Participants are encouraged to wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
Bring a +1
If you’re intending to come with other family members or friends, please let their friendly Bushcare team so they can provide you with trees to plant.
Parking
There is street parking along O’Connell Lane and surrounding streets.
Register now!
Register your participants and timeslot via Humanitix at https:// events.humanitix.com/trees-formum-2026?c=wo. If you are unwell, please stay at home.
All trees and plants provided on the day are local endemic species and grown by Council’s nursery.
Dates and Times
Sunday 10 May 2026 - 8:30am to 12:30pm
Location
Cadda Ridge Drive Reserve
96 Cadda Ridge Drive, Caddens Caddens NSW 2747
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Talk Your Walk Changing Young Lives
A former professional rugby league player is turning his focus from the field to the community, using his experience to tackle mental health challenges among young Australians.
Jesse Sene Lefao, who retired in 2025 after a 13-year career in the NRL and Super League, is the cofounder of Talk Your Walk Foundation, an organisation dedicated to building resilience, cultural identity and safe spaces for young people. Established in 2021 alongside Quentin Laulu-Togagae and Suaia Matagi, the foundation has rapidly expanded its reach across schools and community programs.
The idea for Talk Your Walk began five years ago in the United Kingdom, when the trio were playing professionally far from their families. During that time, they became increasingly aware of the prevalence of mental health struggles and suicide within communities, as well as the lack of open, supportive conversations.
In response, they launched a podcast aimed at raising awareness and encouraging vulnerability. The six-episode series was well received and eventually secured funding from the UK government, helping lay the foundation for what would become a broader initiative.
“People often think elite athletes are immune to these issues, but that’s not the case,” Jesse said. “We want to create safe spaces that genuinely save lives.”
Today, the foundation delivers programs in 14 schools each week, with an ambitious goal of reaching 20. It also runs sessions in three youth justice centres and hosts four afterschool programs weekly. One of its standout initiatives includes an Oztag competition at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct, attracting up to 60 young participants.
Looking ahead, Talk Your Walk plans to expand into Brisbane next term, with a long-term vision of becoming a nationwide presence in every school across Australia. The organisation is also working to grow its programs specifically for men, recognising the need for targeted support.
With a team of five and growing, he says the mission remains simple: to share the lessons he learned during his rugby league and empower others to navigate life’s challenges.
Community support has played a vital role in the foundation’s growth, with Jesse expressing gratitude to those who continue to back the initiative.
For more information about Talk Your Walk Foundation, visit their website www.talkyourwalk. co.uk or email Jesse at jsl@ talkyourwalk.com.au.
r Jesse Sene Lefao | Image Supplied by Jesse Sene Lefao
Tanya Davies Celebrates 15 Years in NSW Parliament
Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, has joined a small group of State MPs in celebrating 15 years of service in the Parliament of NSW.
Mrs. Davies was officially declared elected to parliament for the very first time on the 5th of April 2011.
She was elected with a swing of 23.2 points, winning the seat of Mulgoa off Labor with 62 per cent of the twoparty preferred vote.
“I am deeply humbled by the ongoing support of my community in not only electing me to Parliament in 2011 but returning me in 2015 and 2019,” Tanya Davies said.
Mrs. Davies quietly marked the 15th anniversary of her inaugural election with cake and a private members statement in which she reflected upon just a handful of the projects she has achieved for her constituents during this time.
As the Minister for Women and Minister for Mental Health under a Liberal Coalition Government, Mrs. Davies delivered the Baby Bundle program for new mothers, and the state’s first public mum-and-baby unit which provides hospital-based services for parents experiencing significant mental health problems in the perinatal period.
Mrs. Davies successfully advocated for the shutting down of the St Marys methadone clinic, opposed the Eastern Creek incinerator, contributed to the implementation of the popular Return and Earn recycling initiative, and secured the establishment of a Service NSW centre in Glenmore Park.
In addition to extensive infrastructure improvements delivered over this time, Mrs. Davies also secured Fernhill Estate in Mulgoa for recreational green space and secured a $290 million commitment to stage one of the Mamre Road upgrade between the M4 Motorway and Erskine Park Road.
Mrs. Davies has held up to 210 mobile offices across the electorate to ensure her constituents have a chance to speak with her face-to-face and has delivered an estimated 37,500 birthday cards – that’s about 2,500 every year for the past 15 years – to people within her electorate.
Another big part of the role for Mrs. Davies has been supporting numerous local grant applications.
Successful applications include:
• $62,000 for Bethany Catholic Primary School in Glenmore Park to refurbish basketball court.
• More than $54,000 for Barramurra Public School to establish dedicated playground space
• $1.66 million for Ched Towns Reserve in Glenmore Park
• $1.285 million for brand new amenities buildings at Mark Leece sporting field.
• More than $20 million for the rebuild of St Clair High School after it was devastated by fire.
• $17 million for Fernhill School that accommodates 160 students with special needs.
Mrs. Davies says whether in government or opposition the priority has always been the health and prosperity of the individuals and families she was elected to represent.
“While it’s rewarding to see the physical improvements in our infrastructure whether that be roads, hospitals, schools and community infrastructure, the most rewarding aspect of my role has been personally engaging with individuals and their families to provide support, advocacy and results.”
Mrs. Davies says her decision to recontest was driven by her desire to ensure the people of Badgerys Creek can take advantage of every opportunity arising from the Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird Walton) Airport and to ensure western Sydney gets the services and infrastructure it deserves.
“There is more for me to do for the community of Badgerys Creek. The development of the aerotropolis to deliver careers and local jobs must be fast-tracked. Securing a commitment to extend the Sydney
Metro Western Sydney Airport to the Macarthur region is also a critical and overdue infrastructure project,” Mrs. Davies said.
“I am so humbled by the love and appreciation my community holds for the work I do for them and for how hard I fight for their best interests.”
r Feature Article: Images/Article: Tanya Davies MP
A
peaceful place to honour and remember
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Choose from traditional burial and cremation options and natural bushland burials.
A place 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 9826 2273 | admin@kempscreekcemetery.com.au kempscreekmemorialpark.com.au
New Era Ahead for Emu Plains Little
Athletics Club
Emu Plains Little Athletics Club has wrapped up another successful season, celebrating strong participation, impressive performances, and the contribution of dedicated volunteers.
The 2025–26 season saw the club welcome 457 athletes, along with an additional 99 Tiny Tots, highlighting the continued growth and popularity of grassroots athletics in the local community. The large turnout reflects the club’s reputation as a supportive environment for young athletes of the local area.
Among the season’s major highlights were the achievements of athletes representing the club at higher levels of competition. Competitors progressed through zone and regional meets to state and even national championships, showcasing the depth of talent within the club and providing inspiration for younger members.
Celebrations to mark the end of the season were recently held at The Orchard, where athletes, families, and volunteers gathered to recognise individual and team accomplishments.
Reflecting on his time as President of Emu Plains Athletics Club, Paul Dukes said the most rewarding aspect of the role had been working alongside a committed group of volunteers and committee members. Their collective effort has been central to the smooth running of weekly meets and special events throughout the season.
“I’ve been lucky enough to be the President of this outstanding club for the past three years,” Dukes said. “Due to work commitments, I’ve decided to step down, but I’ll still be involved with the club in other ways.”
Dukes expressed confidence in the club’s future, encouraging new leadership to bring fresh ideas and energy to the role. He believes this transition will help ensure the club continues to thrive for years to come.
“I hope everyone has enjoyed the past three years as much as I have,” he said. “Now it’s time to bring in new blood with great ideas to keep this fabulous club moving forward.”
Registrations for the 2026–27 season are expected to open in August 2026, with another strong turnout anticipated as the club builds on this year’s momentum.
Bigger Than Ever: Mother’s Day Classic Marks 29
Years
Organisers of the 2026 Mother’s Day Classic (MDC) are encouraging Australians to mark their calendars now for Sunday, May 10, as the iconic event celebrates its 29th year of community action for breast and ovarian cancer research.
From humble beginnings in 1998 with 3,000 participants in Melbourne and Sydney raising $50,000, the Mother’s Day Classic, founded by Women in Super, has become one of the most successful and important fixtures on the fundraising calendar, with up to 100,000 participants expected to walk and run at more than 90 locations nationwide this year.
And for the first time, the Mother’s Day Classic in Melbourne will host a half-marathon event across a picturesque 21.1km course starting at Alexandra Gardens.
In a sign of further growth and awareness, local event bookings in regional and suburban areas nationally for Mother’s Day Classic are up 20 per cent, indicating even stronger community support for 2026.
“We’re thrilled to see so many communities taking the lead and hosting their own Mother’s Day Classic events. It shows that Australians don’t just want to attend, they want to be part of something bigger. They want to turn Mother’s Day into a moment of purpose, standing stronger together in support of those impacted by breast and ovarian cancer.”
Zara Lawless, CEO of the Mother’s Day Classic, said.
“Since our inception, more than 1.8 million Australians have started their Mother’s Day with purpose, and together we have donated $50.8 million to fund research and improve outcomes so far -a legacy of hope that one generation passes to the next. As we look to 2026, our focus is simple: bring more people together, fund more groundbreaking research and move closer to a future where no family loses a loved one to breast or ovarian cancer.”
The impact of that investment is clear. Since the Mother’s Day Classic began, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer has improved from 84 per cent to 93 per cent, thanks in large part to research funding from events like the MDC.
However, the work is far from done. Every day in Australia, 61 women are diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, and 12 die from these diseases.
In 2024, the Mother’s Day Classic expanded its mission to support ovarian cancer research alongside breast cancer research raising an incredible $3.3 million, recognising the urgent need for progress in a disease where the five-year survival rate remains at just 49 per cent and treatment options have seen little improvement over the last three decades.
“The MDC community enthusiastically embraced our extended purpose,” Ms Lawless said. “In 2025, we donated a $3.5 million split between the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, and we’re determined to exceed that in 2026.”
With registrations now open, there’s never been a better time to sign up and make a difference on Mother’s Day 2026.
Register now at https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/ registration
r Emu Plains Little Athletics Club athletes | Image: Jack Chan
Screens Down, Games Up in Glenmore Park
A series of energetic school holiday challenges has brought local children together in Glenmore Park, offering a fun and active alternative to screen time.
Held daily at 4:30pm throughout the recent holidays at Glenmore Park Skate Park, the sessions were designed to create a positive and structured environment in a space where young people already gather. The initiative was led by Robbie Hines, known locally as “The GoPro Ref,” who combines refereeing, coaching and content creation to engage youth in sport.
The challenges featured a variety of activities, from ball sports and passing drills to reaction-based games using specialised equipment such as BlazePods. Competitive mini-games and coordination exercises kept participants engaged, while also helping them build confidence, improve reaction time and develop new skills.
“The focus was to keep it fun, inclusive, and engaging for all skill levels,” Hines said. “It created a high-energy environment where kids could challenge themselves and most importantly enjoy being active.”
Hines said the idea stemmed from a growing concern about the amount of time children spend on screens. By creating something consistent and enjoyable, he hoped to give kids a reason to head outdoors and reconnect with their peers.
As the GoPro Ref, Hines uses his platform to promote respect in sport, particularly towards referees, while highlighting the life lessons that participation can bring. His videos showcase real on-field moments and encourage better behaviour, effort and sportsmanship across all levels of the game.
Looking ahead, Hines has plans to expand the program into local primary schools and develop referee education pathways. He also hopes to grow OzTag opportunities at the high school level, creating clearer pathways for young people to stay involved in sport.
For Hines, the initiative is also deeply personal. As a single parent raising two teenagers, he sees the program as a way to spend meaningful time with his family while giving back to the community.
“If we can get kids off their screens, back outside, and smiling with their mates again, that’s a win for the whole community,” he said.
r Robbie Hines | Image Supplied by Robbie Hines
Glenmore Phantoms Celebrate Big Year
Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club has wrapped up a standout season, celebrating both on-field success and a growing sense of community.
With more than 170 players representing the Phantoms across multiple teams, the club enjoyed one of its strongest seasons in recent years. Success extended beyond local competition, with several players earning selection in association, state and even national-level squads, a reflection of the club’s developing talent pipeline.
Finals season proved especially rewarding. Six Phantoms teams advanced to grand finals, with the Teeball and Ladies Social sides securing premiership wins and bringing home coveted shields.
The achievements highlighted the club’s strength across all age groups and divisions.
End-of-season presentations, held in April, brought players and families together to celebrate. Junior players gathered at Don Bosco’s, where they received trophies and recognition for their efforts, while senior members marked the occasion at the Jamison Hotel. Major honours on the night went to Haylee Blaikee, named Junior Member of the Year, and Lachlan MacPherson, awarded Senior Member of the Year for their outstanding contributions.
Beyond results, the club’s community spirit was a defining feature of the season. An influx of new families, combined with strong volunteer support in areas such as the canteen, barbecues and game-day operations, helped create a vibrant and inclusive environment.
Players also benefited from high-quality facilities at Surveyors Creek, where recent investments by Penrith Council and the local association have upgraded two diamonds to meet national competition standards.
Individual recognition extended to the association level, with four Phantoms members honoured: Samantha Clarke (Volunteer of the Year), Sebastian Ellabban (Junior Umpire of the Year), Haylee Blaikee (Junior Female Player of the Year), and Brodie Jessup (Senior Male Player of the Year).
Looking ahead, the Phantoms are eager to build on this momentum, with registrations for the 2026/27 season set to open soon. The club hopes to welcome new players while reconnecting with returning members for another exciting summer of softball.
Glenmore Park Stars Open Season
Glenbrook Players are launching their 2026 season with the celebrated, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, Christopher Durang’s, sharp, affectionate, and wildly funny play that blends very familiar modern anxieties with classic theatrical references and just a touch of Chekovian angst. Premiering in 2012, the play won the Tony Award for Best Play and has since become a favourite with audiences who enjoy humour that is both absurd and deeply relatable.
The play opens in the pleasant, slightly timeworn, sunroom of a farmhouse in Pennsylvania, where the avuncular, middleaged, Vanya (John Bailey) and his melancholic adopted sister, Sonia (Aleksandra Ford), engage in bickering banter over their morning coffee. Their familiar routine is abruptly interrupted by self-styled psychic housekeeper, Cassandra (Madeleine Sheehy), who bursts in with prophetic warnings of impending doom. A prophesy almost immediately followed by the arrival of Vanya and Sonia’s glamourous movie-star sister, Masha (Dianne Darlington), and her impressively young, and very sexy new boyfriend, Spike (Ashley Benson), who have come for the weekend to attend a costume party.
The siblings’ mutual angst rapidly descends into emotional chaos over the legacy of their departed parents– ten years of aged-care on Sonia and Vanya’s part and earning sufficient funds to pay the mortgage and support them all, on Masha’s.
Director, Jason Darlington, was powerfully drawn to the stylistic lineage and themes of the play, “I love the cultural and theatrical references woven through the text, from Greek tragedy, the popular icons of 1950’s television, to the characters’ namesakes, part of the homage to Chekhov, that hints at deeper themes of regret, change, and looming disruption.”
“Its wit lies not only in clever dialogue, but in the way that it observes and critiques social behaviour, exposing vanity, insecurity, and the quiet absurdities of everyday life. At the same time, it’s softened by a genuine empathy for its characters, allowing even their flaws to feel recognisable and forgivable.”
Even Spike, who at first appears to be a shallow caricature, ultimately contributes to the play’s wider commentary, highlighting the kind of self-absorption that stifles curiosity, dismisses criticism, and fosters ignorance. Young Nina, from next door (Mairead Sheehy), provides his perfect counterpoint with her sincere enthusiasm, optimism and emotional openness.
Director, Jason Darlington and Dianne Darlington who plays Masha, are both from Glenmore Park.
Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike opens on May 15, with performances over two weekends on Friday 15th, Sat 16th, Friday 22nd and Sat 23rd of May at 7.30pm, and Saturday 16th and 23rd of May at 2.00pm; with a matinee on Sunday 24th at 11.00am. Bookings can be made at https://www. glenbrookcinema.com.au/players/ or by calling (02) 4739 0003.
r (L-R) Aleksandra Ford as Sonia, John Bailey as Vanya, Mairead Sheehy as Nina, Dianne Darlington as Masha, and Ashley Benson as Spike, in the Glenbrook Players production of Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike. Image/Article: Ainslie Yardley/Glenbrook Players
• Catering for 2-3 year old Children
• Situated in Quiet and Safe Street
• Preschool and School Readiness Specialty Program
• Qualified Early Childhood Sta
• Operational Hours 8am till 5pm Monday till Friday
• Large Outdoor Play Area
Fernhill Walking Trail
The Fernhill Walking Trail is a 2.6 km walking loop of Fernhill Estate in Mulgoa.
They invite you to have a look at stunning Fernhill Estate, via a 2.6 kilometre Fernhill walking trail open on Sundays only between 10:00am and 4:00pm. Site access will not be provided for visitors arriving after 3:00pm.
Capacity on the trail is limited, so please book ahead. Entry is free, and the walk takes in Fernhill Estate’s green setting and the exterior of the homestead.
Please note:
As the 2.6-km walking trail includes stairs and uphill sections, visitors should wear enclosed walking shoes and have a good
HEALTH MATTERS
level of fitness.
Parking and toilet facilities are limited.
Please bring your own food and drinks - there is no on-site catering - and take away all rubbish. There are 6 picnic tables available for the public to utilise.
No alcohol permitted.
No dogs.
Please access the Fernhill Walking Trail from the Hayshed gate. There is no public access through the main gate.
Guided Walking Tours of Fernhill Estate are available throughout the year.
The site is managed by Greater Sydney Parklands.
For more information, visit https://www.visitpenrith.com.au/ events/exhibitions/fernhill-walking-trail
v Fernhill Estate | Image: Greater Sydney Parklands. Article: Penrith City Council
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
The MRI Or CT of your Back Shows Aortic Calcification – What Does This Mean?
Radiologists frequently report “calcification of the abdominal aorta” as an incidental finding on Back scans, especially in people over 50. The patient is often unaware that this finding has been made nor of its importance. It means patient’s major arteries are losing their normal elasticity, turning into bone.
Research shows that calcification of arterial walls truly ‘resembles bone formation, with the same cells, proteins, cell-cell communication molecules used in bones. Studies demonstrate the presence bone forming cells and bone resorbing cells in vessel walls, new bone matrix proteins in the arterial wall, allowing crystallisation of calcium. In severe cases, fully formed bone is seen.
Such “Cardiovascular calcification is a systemic disease, and is:
1. A marker of generalized vascular disease
2. significantly associated with raised blood pressure (systolic) and (pulse)
3. a likely contributor to calcium loss from bone
4. an independent predictor of cardiovascular events such as
a. heart attack, stroke,
b. bypass surgery,
c. balloon angioplasty, d. stent placement, e. and all-cause mortality in both cardiovascular and renal patients.
A “Coronary Calcium Scan” measures calcification of heart arteries. People with a calcium score over 400 are almost 15 times more likely to have cardiovascular disease than people with uncalcified arteries.
A 2004 double-blind placebo-controlled study looked 181 postmenopausal women divided into three groups, who were given daily for three years either:
1. a placebo
2. minerals plus Vit D (500 mg calcium, 10 mg zinc, 150 mg magnesium 8 μg vitamin D3)
3. minerals plus Vit D, plus 1000 µg vitamin K1
After three years the placebo and minerals plus vitamin D groups had worse arterial stiffness and higher pulse pressure, however arteries of group receiving vitamin-K remained flexible (uncalcified), their pulse pressure normal.
Vitamin-K is found in some greens and fermented foods, and is very important for maintaining cardiovascular as well as bone and dental health. Yet most patients attending the clinic have never heard of vitamin K, nor which foods are good sources, most will not be getting enough. If you’d like to know more about how diet can help keep bones, teeth and blood vessels healthy, feel free to call Andreas at the clinic.
r ** Refer to submitter for references | Image Supplied
Is Pet Insurance Worth It? Navigating the Pros and Cons
Pet insurance remains one of the most debated topics among pet owners, with many questioning whether it truly represents value for money. With a wide range of policies on the market—each offering varying levels of coverage—the choice can quickly become confusing. While pet insurance is generally a sound investment, it’s important to approach it like any financial product: understand the details and read the fine print before committing.
One of the key benefits of pet insurance is the peace of mind it offers. Veterinary care, particularly in emergencies or when managing chronic conditions, can be costly. Insurance helps ease the financial burden of unexpected expenses, allowing owners to focus on what matters most—the health and wellbeing of their pet—rather than the limitations of their budget.
Some policies also contribute towards preventative care, such as vaccinations, parasite control, and dental treatments. This type of coverage can encourage proactive healthcare, potentially reducing the likelihood of more serious and expensive conditions developing later on.
It’s also important to distinguish pet insurance from veterinary wellness programs. While these programs have their place and can offer savings on routine care, they are not a substitute for pet insurance. Loyalty programs are designed to support preventative—they typically do not cover unexpected illnesses, accidents, or major medical expenses.
That said, pet insurance is not without its drawbacks. Premiums can become expensive over time, particularly for households with multiple pets. It’s also important to recognise that not all policies are created equal. Differences in coverage, exclusions, and benefit
Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)
CONSULTING HOURS
limits can significantly impact the value of a policy. Pre-existing conditions are commonly excluded, and some breeds may face specific limitations, meaning not every situation will be covered.
Another factor to consider is the excess—similar to a deductible in human insurance. Many policies require you to contribute a portion of the veterinary bill before benefits apply. Finding the right balance between an affordable premium and a manageable excess is essential to ensure the policy remains practical when you need it most.
For those who prefer not to pay ongoing premiums, an alternative approach is to establish a dedicated pet emergency fund. Setting aside money regularly can provide flexibility and control over how funds are used. However, this strategy relies on consistency and may fall short if a major medical issue arises before sufficient savings have been built.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual circumstances. Your pet’s age, breed, and medical history, along with your financial position, should all play a role in your choice. If you opt for insurance, take the time to compare policies carefully, paying close attention to inclusions, exclusions, and claim limits.
Regardless of the path you choose, planning ahead is essential. If you’d like guidance on navigating your options, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on (02) 4736 2027.
For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au
Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm | Saturdays: 8am - 2pm
Services provided include:
•General Surgery (desexing to orthopedics)
• Vaccinations and in-house pathology
•Radiology and Dentistry
•Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer
•Puppy preschool
•Home visits
•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption
FAITH – GRACE WEST ANGLICAN 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 That Changes Everything
What confidence do you have about the future? In today’s world, the future can feel uncertain. Wars, rising fuel prices, pressure on farmers, and economic instability all contribute to a sense that the future is fragile.
The Bible speaks directly into this uncertainty using the word hope. But this isn’t hope as we often use it today. In everyday language, hope can mean wishful thinking. Like putting roast pork in the oven and “hoping” ten minutes will be enough to cook it. It’s just not going to happen!
Biblical hope is very different. It is grounded in something real. Christian hope is based on the historical reality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Since Jesus rose, hope is no longer fragile; it is secure. This hope cannot be taken away. No circumstance, no hardship, not even death itself can undo it. Death is the ultimate enemy, the great destroyer of human hope. Yet through his resurrection, Jesus has defeated sin and death. Death and judgment are no longer the end of the story.
Because of this, we can have real confidence about the future. Not because life is easy or predictable, but because our future is with God. The promise is not temporary relief, but eternal life with him. This is not wishful thinking. It is a certain, living hope that transforms how we face today and tomorrow.
At Grace West, we would love to help you explore this hope and discover the lifechanging difference Jesus makes.
FAITH - FOOTHILLS CHURCH
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Paul Marshall W: www.foothillschurch.com.au
A: Junction Factory Rd & Loftus St, Regentville Service Times: Sundays 9.30am
The Secret to Finding Happiness and Success
Amidst wars and escalating fuel prices, something that doesn’t change is the deep desire in us to be happy and successful.
There is widespread thinking, back as far as ancient times, that true happiness and success are not generally found by pursuing them.
Viktor Frankl was a psychiatrist who survived the Nazi concentration camps in World War II. He wrote his book Man’s Search for Meaning using his experience of the death camps to encourage his readers that life holds meaning under any conditions—even the most miserable ones.
Frankl wrote the book in nine consecutive days and intended it to be published anonymously until he was convinced otherwise. He had authored dozens of books, but it was this one that has sold over 12 million copies, bringing him worldwide acclaim, success, and (no doubt) wealth too.
Frankl later wrote: “Don’t aim at success—the more you aim at it and make it a target, the more you are going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued. Happiness must happen, and the same holds for success: you have to let it happen by not caring about it but by listening to what your conscience commands you to do and going on to carry it out to the best of your knowledge. Then you will live to see that in the long run success will follow you precisely because you had forgotten to think of it.”
Today, aiming for success and happiness is woven into our culture, but ancient wisdom tells us these are the unintended side effects of one’s dedication to a cause greater than oneself, or to some sort of noble vision and higher truth.
Jesus Christ taught such wisdom—that if we focus our lives on Him, His cause, and His teaching, we would find a higher quality of life and rest for our souls as a by-product. This inner rest reflects satisfaction with our life, or a sense of inner contentment regardless of the outer shape of our life. Is this not true success and happiness? Wisdom worth considering if we desire to live well.
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Fuel Saving Tips
The global fuel shortage is affecting us all and the Australian Government has put in place the 4-level National Fuel Security Plan to ensure Australia’s fuel supply is robust and reliable.
Saving fuel where we can means we leave more for those who really need it, like farmers, truckies and essential services. Every litre saved will build a bigger buffer against future supply uncertainty. Even just a few voluntary actions from the tips below – as simple as emptying your boot or pumping up your tyres – will help Australia to keep moving and stay safe.
Simple actions you can take
• Plan well
• Look after your vehicle’s tyres
• Travel light
• Minimise aerodynamic drag
• Use aircon and heating on low settings
• Only fill up with the fuel you need
• Don’t overfill the fuel tank
Driver behaviour
• Drive in high gear
• Monitor speed and acceleration
• Minimise idling
• Monitor your fuel use
Travel alternatives
• Minimise your vehicle use
For more information, visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/ infrastructure-transport-vehicles/ vehicles/national-fuel-security-plan/ fuel-saving-tips
r Image/Article: Australian Government: Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts
TRADIE PACKAGE
4733 0792
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Churches
Anglican Church
Cnr William Howell Dr Pritchard Pl 4733 1635
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William Howell Drive 4737 9735
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Cnr Mulgoa Rd & Stuart Rd Penrith 4721 1295
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As we turn the page into May, there is a noticeable shift in the air, cooler mornings, changing seasons, and for many, a renewed focus on stretching every dollar just a little further.
Conversations across our community reflect the same theme, resilience, adaptability, and the quiet strength that comes from looking out for one another
While the broader climate continues to fluctuate, from rising costs at the bowser to everyday essentials, what remains steady is the spirit of our region. It is seen in the small acts of kindness, the support for local businesses, and the willingness to lend a hand where it is needed most.
This edition celebrates those moments, the people, stories and initiatives that remind us we are never navigating change alone.
As always, thank you for being part of this community. Stay warm, stay connected, and take care of one another. In the weeks ahead, may we continue to find comfort in shared experiences and strength in unity. Even the smallest gestures can make a lasting difference, reminding us that community is not just where we live, but how we choose to show up for each other every single day.
With Mother’s Day falling on the second Sunday in May, it is also a time to honour the women who have shaped us, and for me, to quietly remember my late mum with gratitude.
“Perspective has a way of revealing more than words ever will.”
BY L. FRANK BAUM
With Music and Lyrics by HAROLD ARLEN AND E. Y. HARBURG
Background Music by HERBERT STOTHART
“The Wizard of Oz” is presented by permission of ORiGiN™ Theatrical on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC, A Concord Theatricals Company
PRESENTS
Come and experience an unforgettable performance of the much-loved classic The Wizard of Oz, brought to life by Penrith Anglican College, in the Lighthouse Theatre.
Orchestration by LARRY WILCOX
Dance and Vocal Arrangements by PETER HOWARD
Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company
Based upon the Classic Motion Picture owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed in all media by Warner Bros.
Performances 5 - 13 June
Tickets on Sale May 4th Visit penrith.nsw.edu.au
