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Indoor Multi-Sports Arena Project Reaches Key Milestone
Penrith City Council, in partnership with NSW Public Works (NSWPW), have invited a select panel of candidates to submit a tender to design Penrith’s new indoor multi-sports arena.
Council’s partnership with NSWPW commenced in July 2025 and is central to ensuring the successful delivery of the project through the use of NSWPW’s specialist expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects.
Once complete, the arena will become a premier destination for local, regional, state and national sporting competitions, events and casual recreation.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the new indoor multi-sports arena project is critical to help address the significant gap in indoor sports facilities in the local government area.
“The arena will be designed to cater to a diverse range of sports and recreation activities with 10 multi-sport courts, 6 squash courts, an undercover outdoor rink, gym, rooms for programs like yoga and martial arts, as well as supporting infrastructure like a café, change rooms and car parking,” Cr Carney said.
“It will be located right next to the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct which will create a transformational hub in the east of the City that will position Penrith as the leading destination for sport and recreation in Western Sydney.”
The indoor multi-sports arena project is funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
NSW Deputy Premier and Member for Londonderry Prue Car said this project will unlock a range of new sporting opportunities in Western Sydney.
“Western Sydney residents deserve access to high-quality sporting infrastructure, and the Minns Labor Government is proud to be delivering this facility alongside Penrith City Council.
“We have seen the success of the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct with our local families, and this indoor multi-sports arena will provide more local sporting opportunities for our growing community.”
The successful design tender will be awarded in late 2025. Construction is planned to begin in mid-2027.
To find out more about this project, visit: yoursaypenrith.com. au/indoorsportsarena. 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 Sip of Sunshine: How Two Kids Are Making a Difference
Maximus (10) and Madeleine (7) may be young in age, but the inspiring siblings are making a big impact in their local community with their heartwarming business – the Glenmore Park Lemonade Stand.
Launched earlier this year in 2025, the stand is set up on Dillwynia Drive and began as a fun weekend activity. “It all started when we were just selling things out the front of our house,” said Maximus. “I did magic tricks, and Madeleine let people have a go on her claw machine. We made $15 and had so much fun, we wanted to do more!”
That fun quickly turned into something more meaningful after they heard about lemonade stands. Their very first one raised $70, and the positive response inspired them to give back. Now, every stand supports a different cause, with Maximus and Madeleine taking turns choosing who to help. “I wanted to raise money for new bubblers at my school,” Maximus said. “Madeleine really likes animals, so I think she’ll choose something like that next.”
“I love the idea of being able to help when I am only 7 years old,” added Madeleine. “It makes me feel happy.”
The stand offers fresh homemade lemonade, lollies, eggs from their backyard chickens, and plants including sunflowers and tomatoes. “We peel the lemons and make a syrup, but we can’t tell you our secret recipe!” smiled Madeleine.
Beyond the sweet treats, it’s the joy of connecting with neighbours that keeps them going. “Meeting nice people and giving back feels so good,” said Maximus. “And I enjoy doing the lemonade stand with Madeleine because she can be really funny.”
With the help of their Mum, they’ve launched a Facebook page and plan to hold events every school holiday. While the products may change, one thing is certain – the lemonade and eggs will always be there.
Both Maximus and Madeleine are thankful for the support. “Every kind word and every person who’s visited really means a lot,” said Maximus. Madeleine added: “Thank you to all the kind and nice people that come to our Lemonade Stand!”
For more information, search ‘Glenmore Park Lemonade Stand on Facebook’.
r Maximus (L), and Madeleine (R), standing in front of their Glenmore Park Lemonade Stand | Image Supplied
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Turning Pages, Chasing Legends
Local resident Matthew Reid has officially stepped up to the plate, not as an athlete but as a first time author. His debut book, Chasing Ichiro: The Baseball Legend, was launched in October to a warm reception from the community at Penrith Golf Club.
The book is a fictional, sports themed story that closely mirrors Matthew’s own journey. Growing up in Western Sydney, Reid spent his early years playing cricket, but it was baseball that captured his heart. Inspired by the grace, dedication, and humility of world renowned Japanese baseball star Ichiro Suzuki, Matthew dreamed of one day playing the sport at the highest level.
Chasing Ichiro follows the story of an Aussie sportsman with a big dream to chase greatness and follow in the footsteps of his idol, Ichiro. Though fictional, the tale is grounded in real emotion and personal experience, something Matthew hopes will inspire readers of all ages.
“This book took me three years to write,” Matthew shared at the launch. “Ichiro was an amazing baseball player, a humble man who is adored by many around the world. This book is about following your dreams, no matter how old you may be.”
The launch event brought out friends, family, and members of the wider community, many of whom praised Matthew’s dedication and passion.
“Thank you to all who helped make this possible,” he added. “Making the book really was a dream come true.”
The book is currently available for purchase at $24.99, plus $10 postage and handling. Matthew encourages anyone interested in baseball, personal perseverance, or simply a good sports story to get in touch.
For more information or to order a copy, email Matthew at: mattreid_saints@hotmail.com
With Chasing Ichiro, Matthew Reid has taken the first big swing in what promises to be an exciting new chapter in his life and possibly a new innings as a writer.
r Matthew Reid with his book | Image Supplied by Matthew Reid
Local Firies Ready to Protect
Regentville Rural Fire Brigade recently held its annual open day for Get Ready Weekend. Get Ready Weekend is setup as the perfect time to come on down and get the information you need to help protect your family and property for the coming bush fire season.
“With a number of members down at the station from the RFS, all the trucks on display, the BBQ fired up and so many activities for the kids, it was a great turnout from the community to come and see what we do, and how they can help us protect them when it matters most. This year we also saw the newly formed Sydney based Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) Squad demonstrate some rescue drills, which a number of our members have also joined to assist even greater across NSW” said Jordan Jobson of Regentville Rural Fire Brigade.
“The local community was engaged with the information provided by first-hand accounts from our firefighters and being able to be taken step by step through how to make a bush fire survival plan” he continued. “With this year’s messaging of ‘One Ember Can End it All’, it was vital messaging for our more urbanised areas where embers can travel up to 20km causing significant risk in our community”.
The brigade itself has also been undertaking some in depth training through the cooler and wetter months, to ensure they are ready to respond as required. Crews have retouched on skills like general pump operations, hose management and non-bush fire related incidents such as structural and vehicle fires, all while giving newly qualified members a chance to work their acquired skills.
As part of their annual requirements, crews also undertook emergency overrun drills, ensuring everyone can safely and effectively get to the safe refuge of a truck should it be entrapped by fire. Not something they ever wish to happen to any crew, but vital for the safety of those on board.
The NSW Rural Fire Service is always looking for members at all brigades. All you need to do is go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs and complete the application.
“Even if you aren’t overly keen on the whole firefighting practice, there are a number of support roles across the state like radio communications, logistics, catering, community engagement and even supporting aviation operations” explained Jordan.
Although the weather remains uncertain for what this fire season will bring, they have already seen some significant fire danger across the state and within the Greater Sydney Basin itself.
“Thank you to the community who has supported us so much in our brigades almost 75 years, which we look forward to celebrating next year!” Regentville will continue to grow stronger as time goes on with additional capabilities for whatever may be required.
A Day of Remembrance: Honouring the Brave at Memory Park
As the nation halts for a minute of silence at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, Australians from all walks of life will recognise and honour the profound sacrifices made by our armed forces throughout history.
At 11:00am on November 11, 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was renamed Remembrance Day after World War 2 to commemorate those who laid down their lives in both global conflicts.
Anthony Eddie, President of the Penrith RSL sub-Branch, perfectly captured the emotion underlying this solemn ceremony. “Remembrance Day to me is a time to reflect on the many sailors, soldiers, and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice and died fighting to protect this great nation of ours. It’s a time to reflect on the hundreds of thousands of men and women who emerged from conflict injured, both physically and mentally. It is a time to remember those that suffered in silence for a lifetime afterwards or endured contempt for their committed service. It is also a time to remember the family members, friends and community members who supported those brave Veterans through thick and thin, whilst they were away and when they game back, Eddie stated.
“Remembrance Day is a day to reflect upon the sacrifices of many so all can understand, to educate those that might not be familiar and to improve how we treat our Veterans in the future. It’s an opportunity to re-visit history, to commemorate the memories of loss and hardship, mateship during impossible times and to learn from our mistakes, said Eddie. “Veterans were not always treated well upon their return to Australia, and we must do better as a society in the future”.
This year, the Remembrance Day service will be held at Memory Park, in Penrith. Attendees are encouraged to arrive before 10:30am for the service that is planned to conclude just after 11:00am. The service will be followed by morning tea and refreshments hosted by the sub-Branch at the Penrith RSL Club.
The Penrith RSL sub-Branch, including the Auxiliary Team, are dedicated to supporting the local veteran community and their families. The sub-Branch is made of volunteers, and they are a busy bunch organising commemorations, funerals and initiatives like the ‘Guitars for Vets’ program, weekly ‘Free Cuppa and Chat’, welfare support, DVA Advocacy, home visits, and care packages. The Penrith RSL sub-Branch plays an instrumental role in keeping the spirit of service alive in our community. “We have a little over 525 sub-Branch members with consistent and energetic growth, Eddie said proudly.
Amidst the formalities and ceremonies, the underlying message of gratitude and honour is clear. And as we stand in silence, honouring the brave souls who fought for our freedoms, we are reminded of the importance of unity, peace, and gratitude.
‘We Will Remember Them’, ‘Lest We Forget’.
r Article: Anthony Eddie
Glenmore Park Cricket Club Celebrates 30 Years
of Community, Cricket, and Camaraderie
Glenmore Park Cricket Club (GPCC) is off to a flying start this season, proudly fielding approximately 200 registered players across its junior and senior teams, as well as the ever-popular Blasters program.
The Blasters initiative, designed for boys and girls aged 4 to 8, is still open for registration and set to begin in November. Families keen to get involved can visit www.gpcricket.com to sign up.
The early rounds have already delivered some standout performances, with Yethum claiming a thrilling hat-trick and Chace making a memorable senior debut with a five-wicket haul. Across all grades, GPCC teams have notched up impressive wins, including a strong start from the first grade defending premiers as they begin their title defence.
More than just the scores, the spirit of the season is alive and well. Players are relishing the chance to be back on the pitch, enjoying the game and the mateship that cricket fosters.
This year marks a special milestone, GPCC’s 30th anniversary. To celebrate, the club has outfitted every player in a newly designed playing shirt at no extra cost, making GPCC not only one of the most spirited but also the best-looking club in the district.
Off the field, GPCC continues to lead the way in community engagement. The club’s social media presence is thriving, with regular updates on Facebook and the exciting return of Redbacks TV, offering members and fans a front-row seat to all the latest happenings.
Looking ahead, anticipation is building for the inaugural Redbacks Cup match, where the Originals will face off against the Wanderers. This special event promises to be a highlight of the season and a fitting tribute to GPCC’s rich history and enduring success.
Here’s to another memorable season of cricket, community, and celebration at Glenmore Park Cricket Club.
r Glenmore Park Cricket Club players | Image/Article: Glenmore Park Cricket Club
Matilda Aiming High on the Road to Paralympic Glory
Glenmore Park’s Matilda Mobbs is making waves on the national and international stage in Para Archery. Matilda was recently named the 2025 AWD Athlete of the Year, a recognition of her incredible talent, commitment, and breakthrough season. The prestigious Western Sydney Academy of Sport Awards were held on 16th September at Wenty Leagues Club.
The award capped off what has been a standout year for Matilda. In April, she claimed two individual gold medals to become the Under 21 Youth Para National Champion. A month earlier, she had already made her mark in the senior ranks, winning bronze in the individual female recurve division and silver in the team event at the Open Para National Championships.
Her achievements haven’t gone unnoticed. In July, she represented the Western Sydney Academy of Sport at the regional athlete talent program in Coffs Harbour. Soon after, she was selected to join Archery Australia’s Under 21 Para Youth team and will represent Australia at the Fazza Para World Championships in Dubai in 2026.
Despite her demanding training schedule, including 5:00am gym starts and regular sessions at Sydney Olympic Park Archery Centre, Matilda is also navigating being a senior in high school. She credits her progress to the support of the Western Sydney Academy of Sport, NSW Institute of Sport Para Unit, Paralympics Australia, and Archery Australia.
Next up, she will compete at the Open National Championships in Canberra this month and attend a Para Archery development camp at the Australian Institute of Sport. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, her sights are firmly set on more international competitions, with the ultimate goal of helping Australia secure quota spots for the LA 2028 Paralympics.
With her determination and talent, Matilda Mobbs is shaping up to be one of Australia’s future stars on the world Para Archery stage.
v Feature Article [Cover + Above] Matilda Mobbs at the Western Sydney Academy of Sport Awards | Image: Luke Fuda Photography
Book Review Your
Don’t Go To
Sleep!
Author:R.L Stine
Don’t go to sleep is a children’s horror book By R.L Stine. Its storyline compromises Matt, a 12 year-old who has a passion for collecting. However, his room is very small, and is always begging his mother for a bigger room to house his collection. The room he has his eye on is the guest room, although it is kept aside for his grandparents, who come to visit once every year. He is also constantly bullied by his older siblings, Pam and Greg. One night, Matt decides to sleep in the guest room, triggering a horrifying reaction…
When Matt wakes up, he finds himself in the same house, yet he has different parents. It is almost if he has travelled to an entire different universe. How, Matt cannot explain. His ‘parents’ in the new universe think he is delusional when he tries to explain it to them. When he goes to school, he meets a girl called Lucy who he thinks about sharing his idea with. However, he is chased by two bullies before he can tell her. That night, he sleeps again in the guest room, and triggers another reaction, waking up to discover horror after horror, such as turning into an old man, the son of a circus trainer and more. However, most involve Lucy and the two bullies. One day, when he wakes up, he has turned into a monster.
After he eats a car, Matt follows Lucy to an abandoned building, where Lucy and the two bullies introduce themselves as the time police. They plan to kill Matt, but he sleeps, and transforms himself into a squirrel. He then seeks out his old home, and sneaks into the guest room, and returns to his normal self. However, there is a twist: Matt’s mother has said he has to move to the guest room. The book was an amazing read, and had me yearning for the next page till the very end.
r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal
A fresh wave of creativity and ambition is set to sweep across Sydney’s markets with the launch of Kids Mean Business, a youth entrepreneurship program designed especially for kids aged 8 to 17. Run by AMA Event Management, this exciting initiative offers young aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to develop, showcase, and sell their own products or services — all while gaining real-world business experience.
The inspiration behind Kids Mean Business comes from years of experience working closely with small business owners and market stallholders. The program’s founder noticed a remarkable trend: many children in these families were already showing an impressive mix of creativity and drive. “I wanted to create a platform where that spark could be nurtured early,” explained Monique Annetts of AMA Event Management. “The goal is where kids could learn resilience, communication, and business skills in a supportive and fun environment. It’s also about giving them confidence and the belief that their ideas matter” she continued.
Launching officially in early 2026, Kids Mean Business will pilot markets and workshops at existing AMA market venues throughout Sydney and its surrounding areas. To make the program as accessible as possible, it will run groups in multiple locations. Families interested in getting involved can register their young entrepreneurs through the AMA Markets website at www.amamarkets.com.au, where they’ll receive guidance on everything from preparing their stall and developing products, to pricing items and engaging with customers.
What makes this program so valuable, according to Monique, is the early connection it fosters between creativity, financial literacy, and community involvement. While traditional classrooms have their place, the program recognises that some children learn best through hands-on experiences. By providing a safe and structured environment to experiment and grow, Kids Mean Business is helping shape confident future business owners and community leaders.
Adding an extra layer of excitement, the program will introduce a seasonal “Kids Mean Business Award” to celebrate outstanding young entrepreneurs for their creativity, presentation, and passion.
With its family-friendly markets already bustling with energy, Kids Mean Business promises to bring a new level of innovation and community spirit, making Sydney’s markets a hub for the next generation of bright young minds.
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• Catering for 2-3 year old Children
• Situated in Quiet and Safe Street
• Preschool and School Readiness Specialty Program
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• Large Outdoor Play Area
The Moustache is Calling
This Movember, the moustache is calling again — and it’s calling on everyone. From humble beginnings in Melbourne 22 years ago, Movember has grown into a global movement that has changed the face of men’s health. In 2025, the charity is once again rallying Australians to unite, grow and take action for men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer - with a renewed focus on supporting men in regional and remote communities who are facing the greatest risk
Since its inception in 2003, Movember has sparked billions of conversations, raised in excess of AUD $1.7 billion and funded more than 1,300 men’s health projects across the world. Its impact has been transformative — from groundbreaking biomedical research to building some of the world’s largest prostate cancer registries and pioneering mental health programs that reach
HEALTH MATTERS
men where they are - in workplaces, sporting clubs, and rural towns across Australia.
And in 2023, the Movember Institute of Men’s Health was launched, backed by an AUD $100 million global investment – uniting experts, communities and partners to accelerate research and translate it into real-world solutions.
“Men’s health still isn’t enough of a priority,” says Movember Co-Founder Travis Garone. “Our healthcare systems often don’t meet men where they are especially in rural and remote areas — and too many fall through the cracks. The moustache is our rallying cry — it gets people talking, laughing, and most importantly, acting. Every Mo grown and every conversation sparked can save a life.”
Australians are encouraged to sign up, donate, or learn more at Movember.com or via the Movember app.
The moustache is calling. Grow a Mo. Raise funds. Save lives. If this story raises concerns for you or someone you know, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for free, confidential support.
r Image/Article: Movember
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Can Stretching Your Hamstrings Help Reduce Back Pain?
Many people suffer back pain with no radiological or other evidence as to cause i.e. disc herniation, osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis and spondylosis, leg length discrepancy, systemic diseases, etc. Among production line workers who stand for long periods, this type of back pain is frequent, difficult to cure, and has a high (60%) recurrence rate. These workers often have tight hamstrings which rotate the upper pelvis backward, reducing the natural inward curve of the lower back (lumbar lordosis).
Researchers recruited 100 automobile production workers with chronic lower back pain, without detectable cause, who worked standing 8 hours/day, and who were unable to complete a ‘straight leg raise’ (SLR) test to more than 800. Workers were randomised to three groups, with each group given different routines to do, 3 days per week, over 6 weeks:
1. Group 1 - 32 people were taught lumbopelvic strengthening exercises and hamstring stretches to be done at-home (Control)
Groups 2 & 3 below, of 34 people were supervised at work and each did 20min of specific lumbopelvic strengthening per session plus:
2. Group 2 – did simple standing hamstring stretches - one leg on table gently pulling torso to knee of the raised leg for 30 seconds, relaxing for 10 seconds, then repeating stretch. 5
min for each hamstring.
3. Group 3 – did simple hamstring stretches as above but with pelvic control – i.e. with:
a. neck and upper back pulled straight, b. shoulder blades pulled together and c. hamstrings pulled tight
Note: Group 3’s stretch-method straightens the back during stretching focusing the stretch fully on the hamstrings. Group 2 was allowed to achieve some stretch by bending their backs reducing hamstring stretch efficiency.
Before and after intervention, the authors measured:
1. Back pain: while working and resting
2. Ability to raise a straight leg
3. Ability to do a seated leg stretch
4. Indexes for ability and disability
They found:
1. no improvements for group 1 in any measure.
2. groups 2 and 3 improved - all measures
3. group 3 significantly outperformed group 2all measures
Authors’ conclusion - regular focused hamstring stretches using pelvic control, lengthened hamstrings and reduced significantly reduced lower back pain.
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
Understanding Dog Park Etiquette
With the arrival of warmer spring mornings, dog owners across Penrith are keen to head outdoors and enjoy the sunshine with their furry companions. Local dog parks offer a great opportunity for dogs to run off-leash, burn energy, and socialise with other pups. But for these shared spaces to remain fun and safe, it’s important that everyone follows a few simple rules of dog park etiquette.
Know before you Go
Not every dog is suited to the high-energy, unpredictable environment of a dog park. Before heading out, be realistic about your dog’s behaviour and comfort levels. Is your dog well-socialised? Do they enjoy the company of other dogs, or do they prefer quieter surroundings? Understanding your dog’s temperament helps prevent stressful or unsafe situations—for both your dog and others.
Dog Park DO’s: Setting Everyone Up for Success
9 Vaccinate and Prevent – Always ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention. This not only protects your dog, but also the entire park community.
9 Leash Until Inside – Keep your dog on-leash until you’re in the fenced play area. It helps prevent misunderstandings or accidents during initial introductions.
9 Respect Park Zones – Many parks separate large and small dog areas for a reason. A respectful division can prevent accidental injuries or fear-based behaviours.
9 Scoop the Poop – It’s a basic but crucial rule: always clean up after your pet. Not only is it courteous, it helps reduce the
Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)
CONSULTING HOURS
spread of disease.
9 Stay Engaged – Your job isn’t done once you’re inside the gate. Stay attentive and monitor your dog’s behaviour to ensure safe and positive interactions.
The DON’Ts: What to Avoid at the Dog Park
² Don’t Use the Park for Behavioural Training – If your dog is fearful, anxious or reactive, the dog park isn’t the place to work on it. Seek support from a trainer or veterinarian first.
² Avoid Taking Young Puppies – Dogs under 16 weeks of age or not fully vaccinated are best kept at home or in safer socialisation settings.
² No Phone Zone – It’s tempting to scroll while your dog plays, but supervision is key. Problems can escalate quickly, and being alert ensures a safer experience for all.
Dog parks can be a great outlet for exercise and enrichment when used responsibly. A little courtesy and common sense go a long way in making sure everyone—on two legs and four— enjoys their visit.
If you’re unsure whether the dog park is right for your pet, or you need advice on vaccinations and socialisation, contact the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 02 4736 2027. Let’s make dog parks a safe and happy place for all dogs.
For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027
For Appointments Call
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
and
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 Steadying Thread
Our lives have many threads, and we hold only one end of the threads. The threads go many ways, linking our lives with other lives.
One thread comes from a life that has had too much of life thrown at it to cope. This thread brings distress. There is a lurking fear that the life will snap. I hold this thread gently. It calls for help. I dare not let it go.
One thread comes from a kite flying high in the sky. It vibrates and pulls my attention to dreams and visions that are bright and exciting, to far-off places that fiercely capture and animate my heart with the wonder of it.
One thread comes from the failing hands of my mum. At some point, the tight line will slacken, and there will be nothing at all.
One thread is a tangled mess that won’t seem to come right. Mistakes, false starts, angry words are all tangled together, and no matter how hard I try, it won’t straighten out, and we feel strangled by its guilt and regret. This thread keeps robbing me of joy and peace.
One thread is strange; it is my steadying thread. When I am lost, I pull it hard and find my way. When I am sad or without hope, I tighten my grip, and an expectation of good things wells up in my soul. Joy comes again. When the worst of me gets the better of me, I find forgiveness. When I feel like I am in a dry, confusing desert, this thread is a channel of fresh water, quenching my thirst for peace and newness.
This final thread is a strange thread, my steadying thread. God’s hand holds the other end.
I didn’t always have this steadying thread. It is not a given. But after opening my heart to Jesus Christ and believing in Him, I found this thread in my hands.
rImage: www.pixabay.com
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 Power of Forgiveness
A few weeks ago, I watched Erika Kirk’s address at the memorial for her husband, Charlie. I can hardly imagine what the past weeks have been like for her. She saw her husband assassinated, stepped into Charlie’s leadership role, and now faces raising their two children without him.
What struck me most was her decision to forgive her husband’s killer. It was clearly a hard thing to say—and a hard thing to hear. In the recording, that moment didn’t draw as much applause as the rest of her speech. Why? My guess is because forgiveness is difficult. It isn’t deserved. It can feel like it lessens the seriousness of what has happened.
Here in Australia, when people suffer injustice, we often hear, “I will never forgive them.” That response can draw cheers, as though withholding forgiveness honours the pain. But Erika chose another way. She wasn’t denying the evil of what happened— she was the one most wronged. Instead, she refused to let anger and bitterness rule her heart.
Her example came from Jesus, who prayed on the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Following Jesus meant choosing forgiveness, even through tears.
Of course, personal forgiveness doesn’t cancel the justice the state administers. But forgiveness frees us from bitterness, helps us respond positively to others, and enables us to move on in life. My prayer is that each of us can forgive those who wrong us, even in life’s smaller hurts.
Contact Tanya
badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au
Discovering Blue Hills Wetlands
Tucked away on Blue Hills Drive in Glenmore Park, Blue Hills Wetlands is a hidden gem that feels like an oasis in the middle of suburbia. Home to local flora and fauna, this tranquil space offers a peaceful escape from the daily rush.
The wetlands won the 2002 UDIA Environmental Award and continue to be a favourite among locals. The large body of water is surrounded by lush parklands, walking tracks, boardwalks, and viewing piers. The 1.12km loop is popular for walking, running, and nature spotting— especially during spring and summer.
Ideal for families and friends, the area includes picnic spots, bushwalking trails, and birdwatching opportunities. Children especially love searching for the famous sandstone sculptures along the track, which represent native animals. The giant frog sculpture, in particular, has become a beloved meeting point and local icon.
During the pandemic, the Wetlands brought joy to the community with painted rocks and hidden “Bluey and Friends” characters tucked into the trees, bringing smiles to young visitors on daily walks.
In 2024, the Wetlands hosted the Penrith City Council ‘Trees for Dad’ event, where locals from Penrith and beyond came together to plant native trees in honour of fathers and father figures for Father’s Day. Each tree was accompanied by a handwritten message, making the event both personal and memorable.
As the plants bloom in the warmer months, Blue Hills Wetlands transforms into a vibrant, living landscape. Whether you’re there for exercise, quiet reflection, or to spot a black swan or pelican gliding through the water, it’s a space that reconnects you with nature in the heart of the community.
Blue Hills Wetlands truly is one of Glenmore Park’s most peaceful and picturesque places to visit.
r Article: District Gazette
4733 0792
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Services
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Penrith Police Station 4721 9444
Police Assistance Line 131 444
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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
Penrith Church
3139
52 Taylor Rd Cranebrook 4577 6555
Elevation Church Penrith
4 Production Place, Penrith
Community Groups
8489
Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 725 317
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Glenmore Park Guides 0400 546 772
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Goshin Ryu
(Soccer)
Swimming Club Nepean 0416 311
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As the year begins to wind down, November invites us to pause, reflect, and look ahead. The days are warmer, the evenings longer, and there is a quiet excitement as festive preparations take shape. Calendars fill with school concerts, community fairs, and end of year gatherings that remind us how vibrant and connected our neighbourhoods are.
It is a month to appreciate how far we have come, acknowledge challenges overcome, and recognise those who have offered support. It is also a time to plan for what is next, setting gentle intentions while finding joy in the here and now.
As towns and villages come alive with colour and celebration, let us support local businesses and community groups. Every purchase, kind word, and act of encouragement strengthens the place we are proud to call home.
Amidst the rush of the season, remember to slow down, breathe, and notice the simple moments that make life meaningful.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” – Aesop
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