JORDAN SPRINGS GAZETTE APRIL 2026

Jordan Springs Monthly Markets are Here

A fresh, new community market has arrived, with organisers promising a relaxed morning of shopping, food and local connection at the Jordan Springs Monthly Markets.

The markets will take place at Jordan Springs Shopping Centre, with the first return event scheduled for Saturday, March 28, from 9:00am to 2:00pm. The next market will follow on Saturday, April 18.

Organised by AMA Event Management, the initiative aims to create a welcoming space where residents of Jordan Springs and surrounding suburbs can gather, explore local products and support small businesses.

Monique Annetts from AMA Event Management said the markets were inspired by a desire to strengthen the local community while providing opportunities for independent makers and producers.

“The idea for the Jordan Springs Monthly Markets came from wanting to create something that brings the local community together, while also supporting small businesses and local makers,” Monique said.

“Markets have always been a great way for people to connect, discover unique products, and enjoy a relaxed community atmosphere, and we felt Jordan Springs was the perfect place for that.”

Visitors can expect between 30 and 40 stalls at each event, offering a diverse mix of artisan foods, handmade goods, plants, crafts and locally made products.

According to organisers, the markets are designed to be more than just a place to shop. Families are encouraged to take a stroll through the stalls, enjoy the atmosphere, and spend time together in their local shopping precinct.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing families come out for a stroll through their local shopping area, discovering the stalls and meeting all the passionate and excited vendors,” she said.

“It’s a great way to bring the community together while supporting local growers, makers and small businesses.”

Organisers also hope the markets will continue to grow into a regular highlight for the area, giving residents something to look forward to each month.

Small businesses interested in becoming stallholders can contact AMA Event Management on 1300 385838. More information about the markets is available at www. amamarkets.com.au.

r Image: AMA Event Management

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

Children + Families

Cranebrook Kids

Meets at 10:00am on Tuesdays at Andromeda Community Hall (Andromeda Drive, Cranebrook). More details: https:// www.playgroupnsw.org.au/Playgroup/Playgroups/ CranebrookKids

Cranebrook PlayConnect

Meets at 9:30am on Thursdays at Koolyangarra Aboriginal Family Centre (1 Kington Place, Cranebrook). More details: https://www.playgroupnsw.org.au/Playgroup/Playgroups/ CranebrookPlayconnect

Hobbies + Interests

Nepean Group – Embroiderers Guild

Meets on the 1st Monday of the month at Panthers Leagues Club, Mulgoa Road Penrith from 6.00pm. More Details: 0466 725 317

Markets

Blacktown Markets

Held weekly on Sundays from 6:30am till 2:00pm at The Skyline Drive-In (33 Cricketers Arms Road, Prospect). More details: www.blacktownmarkets.com.au

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

Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Group

Meets every Tuesday from 7pm at Jordan Springs Community Hub (2 - 6 Cullen Avenue Jordan Springs). More Details: Lauren 0404 666 344.

Lung Support Group

Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.45p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 13 38 78.

Penrith Womens Walk and Talk

Meets 5.30pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 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/

Community Support Changing Lives

Local Jordan Springs based organisation Our Community Cares (OCC) has begun the year with remarkable momentum, delivering practical support and heartfelt connection to people across the Penrith region.

One of the organisation’s most recent initiatives saw volunteers busy packing and delivering 537 backpacks filled with school essentials to primary schools throughout the Penrith Local Government Area, ensuring students could begin the school year with the tools they need to learn and participate confidently in class.

“OCC has been busy packing and delivering backpacks to primary schools around the Penrith LGA,” said Kris Gauci, of Our Community Cares. “This allowed all students to begin the year with the essentials necessary to learn on an equal playing field.”

“We were enormously grateful to Westfields Penrith for providing space and doing a call out to their shoppers to assist us in collecting items to support high school students with their equipment,” Kris said. “We collected many supplies and are now handing them on to those in need in local high schools.”

OCC’s efforts over the festive season were equally significant. Before Christmas, volunteers wrapped and delivered 1,033 gifts to aged care residents, including 106 special gifts for residents who would otherwise have nobody visiting them on Christmas

r

Day. The organisation also distributed 60 hampers to young people living independently and 80 comfort gifts to aged care patients in Nepean Hospital’s aged units.

Beyond seasonal initiatives, OCC provides ongoing support through a range of programs. Their Connect Program brings together high school students and aged care residents, fostering friendships and preserving personal histories.

“We provide friendships to our seniors in aged facilities through our Connect program,” Kris explained. “Students form friendships with residents and at the end of the year write their biography. These are submitted for judging, with scholarships awarded to the students.”

OCC volunteers also assist community members facing serious illness by providing lawn mowing for those referred through palliative care or cancer units and supplying patient comfort items to hospitals when needed.

Looking ahead, OCC’s Annual High Tea will take place on 23 May, welcoming up to 300 guests to raise funds and awareness for the organisation’s work.

“Our goal is simple,” Kris said. “Our Community Cares wants to help as many people as possible with the resources we have. We’re completely volunteer-run and always welcome people who would like to get involved.”

Community members interested in volunteering or attending upcoming events can connect via the OCC website or contact Kris Gauci directly kris.gauci@ourcommunitycares.org.au

The Village Community: Feeding Mothers, Building Connection

In a world where many new parents navigate the early months of parenthood in isolation, The Village Community is quietly rebuilding something many cultures have long understood –that raising a child takes a village.

Founded by Aimee Honess in May 2021, the initiative was born from Aimee’s own experience of becoming a mother for the first time. As she emerged from the early months of motherhood, she discovered the concept of matrescence, the profound emotional, physical and neurological changes women experience after giving birth.

“My brain had literally changed,” Aimee said. “But nobody seemed to be talking about this huge shift or helping women understand what they were going through.”

As she began researching postpartum traditions around the world, Aimee noticed a powerful common theme. “In many cultures, families rally around the new mum. Across so many places, the focus is simple, feed the mother.”

Inspired by those traditions, Aimee created The Village Community to provide practical support for new mums through home-cooked meals. Each month, volunteers gather in a commercial kitchen to prepare meals that are delivered to mothers in the local area.

“Once a month, I invite anyone who would like to join me to bulk cook meals that will be delivered to new mums each week,” Aimee explained.

Local businesses often support the initiative by donating kitchen space or produce, while fundraising events throughout the year help sustain the program and bring the community together. The Village Community also provides small care packages for families, helping mothers feel supported during the demanding early months of parenthood.

For Aimee, the initiative is about more than food.

“It’s important to have groups like this because they bring back a sense of community and remind us of what it means to be part of one” she said.

The response from families has been deeply moving.

“It’s never about the meal,” Aimee said. “It’s about the care and effort you’ve given to support someone during a big life transition.”

Those interested in volunteering or donating items such as pantry goods or self-care products can connect with The Village Community via Instagram @the. village.community, Facebook: The Village Community Kitchen, or email the.village.communitybm@gmail.com.

r [Top] Aimee with a large donation of cooked meals, baked goods, fresh produce and self-care items for new mums [Above] Aimee Honess was nominated for Blue Mountains Citizen of the Year 2025 | Images Supplied. Article: Tanya Nellestein

St Marys RSL sub-Branch

Dawn Service – Saturday 25th April

At our Guns War Memorial adjacent to the Train in the grounds of the St Marys Diggers Club (cnr Hall Street and Mamre Road)

This year, within the theme of ANZAC, our focus is

The 75th Anniversary of National Service

We suggest early arrival for parking. The Service will commence at 5.00am, preceded by several related short video clips on the large screens provided.

After the Service, veterans (with medals) and their families are welcome in the club auditorium for breakfast. For all others, breakfast is available for purchase in the Club.

For enquiries: 0414 557 692 Come along and participate in our Service .

Jordan Springs Netball Club Celebrates 10 Years

Jordan Springs Netball Club is marking a major milestone in 2026, celebrating its 10th anniversary with strong participation numbers, new initiatives and a series of special events planned throughout the season.

Club president Michelle Barnes said the upcoming season will be one of the biggest in the club’s history, with 147 registered players taking the court across 27 teams.

The competition season begins on May 2, with players from a wide range of age groups preparing to represent the rapidly growing community club.

“This is our 10th year, and we have some fun events planned,”

Michelle said. “It’s exciting to celebrate how far the club has come while also focusing on the season ahead.”

One of the highlights for 2026 will be the club’s first mixed team, marking a significant step forward in broadening participation and creating more opportunities for players.

Since its first season in 2017, the club has experienced remarkable growth. It began with just 11 teams but has more

than doubled in size over the past decade, reflecting the increasing popularity of netball in the local community.

The club has also worked to make the sport more inclusive. In 2022, it introduced inclusive uniform options, allowing members to choose items that make them feel comfortable while playing.

Michelle said the club’s growth has been driven by strong community support and the commitment of its members.

Among those members are 16 players who have remained with the club since its first year, a milestone she described as a testament to the club’s culture.

“It’s really pleasing to see many of our older junior members now giving back by umpiring and coaching,” she said.

While the club’s major sponsors for the season are already secured, organisers are still seeking community support in other areas, including sponsors to help provide prizes for anniversary events planned throughout the year.

The club is also looking for a small number of additional players across several age groups.

Michelle said the continued willingness of volunteers to help run the club has been key to its success.

“With each year that passes, we have more and more members wanting to assist with the running of the club,” she said. “It really does take a village.”

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Penrith Prepares For ANZAC Commemorations

The City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch will be hosting three major commemorative services in March and April 2026.

This will include:

1. ANZAC School Service – Tuesday 31st March

2. Sunday ANZAC Service – Sunday 19th April

3. ANZAC Day Dawn Service – Saturday 25th April

The Annual ANZAC Day School Service will take place on Tuesday 31st March at the Penrith Showgrounds. Montgrove College in Orchard Hills has volunteered to host the prestigious event in 2026. The event has attracted almost every school in the Penrith region, and they are expecting over 2,000 children and their teachers to attend this year. Local Army, Airforce and Navy Cadet Units will also be supporting the Service. The City of RSL sub-Branch along with CDC Charters will be co-ordinating bus transport for the schools, there will not be any public access to this event.

The Sunday ANZAC Service will be on Sunday 19th April. It is a community commemoration service, designed to enable community members to participate and lay a wreath when they may not be otherwise able too. All Veterans are invited to march with the sub-Branch, starting at 2:45pm and all community members are invited to attend the service starting at 3:00pm. Limited seating will be available; however, the seating will be reserved for those unable to stand, Veterans and invited guests.

The ANZAC Day Dawn Service Commemoration will be on Saturday 25th April. Veterans wishing to march are requested to meet on the corner of Castlereagh and Tindall Streets at 4:30am. The march will step off at 4:45am with 350+ veterans, including current serving ADF personnel and Cadets expected to take part. The Dawn Service will commence at 5:00am at Memory Park in Penrith and will take approximately 4550 minutes. Limited seating will be available; however, the seating will be reserved for those unable to stand, Veterans and invited guests. Breakfast will be served to the public immediately following the service at the Penrith RSL Club, a gold coin donation will be requested.

The City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch are expecting 5,000+ people at the Dawn Service and they anticipate the streets to be full. To assist the public viewing, TV monitors will be placed in strategic locations in the Penrith CBD, allowing people to view the service without accessing Memory Park. Immediate access surrounding Memory Park will be closed off to all traffic from 2:00am on Saturday 25th April, until 7:00am. There will be no traffic in or out of that dedicated area during this time. Seating in Memory Park will be reserved for Veterans and invited guests. This event is fully supported by our local, State, and Federal elected members.

The Sydney Royal Easter Show Returns in 2026

The Show is back in 2026, bringing the best of rural Australia to the heart of the city in a celebration of farmers, food, family fun and the unforgettable traditions Australians know and love.

Running from 2 - 13 April, the Show invites visitors of all ages to reconnect with where our food comes from, meet the people who produce it, and experience the perfect mix of familiar icons and exciting new moments that make the Show a must-visit each year.

New for 2026, the Show comes alive After Dark, transforming Sydney Showground into a glowing nighttime spectacular. Visitors can enjoy a brand-new light parade, 70 illuminated animal lanterns, expanded evening entertainment and new food experiences — delivering the biggest and most immersive Show yet.

To celebrate, a new After 4:00pm Family Ticket offers even greater value, giving families entry from late afternoon into the evening — ideal for experiencing the Show After Dark. Available pre-Show only until 11:59pm on 1 April 2026, tickets are limited.

Royal Agricultural Society of NSW General Manager, Agriculture and Sydney Royal Easter Show, Murray Wilton said the Show’s role today is to both protect what Australians love and keep it evolving for future generations.

“The Sydney Royal Easter Show is something Australians genuinely care about, and we see ourselves as custodians of that, protecting the traditions people love while continuing to make it exciting, relevant and worth coming back to,” Mr Wilton said.

“For many Aussies, it’s one of the only times all year they’ll meet a farmer, see animals up close or understand how food makes its way from paddock to plate. That connection really matters.”

“This year, bringing the Show to life After Dark gives showgoers a completely new way to experience it, whether that’s families arriving after school and work, or visitors wanting to slow down, explore and stay longer.”

“You might come for the rides or showbags, but you leave with a deeper appreciation for the producers and communities who feed and clothe the nation, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud to continue sharing.”

With up to 12 hours of entertainment included in a single ticket, the Show remains one of Sydney’s best-value days out over Easter, from the farmyard nursery and agricultural competitions to thrilling rides, showbags, live performances, art, food and fireworks.

The Show brings the country to the city with hands-on Australian farming experiences, making it one of Australia’s most iconic events.

“The RSL Club and the Penrith RSL sub-Branch anticipates a huge turn out from the public in 2026. The sub-Branch Committee and Members are really looking forward to an inclusive ANZAC commemoration period”, said Mr Anthony Eddie, President of The City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch. r

Buy tickets at eastershow. com.au.

Dance Your Way to Fitness

The Show is back in 2026, bringing the best of rural Australia to the heart of the city in a celebration of farmers, food, family fun and the unforgettable traditions Australians know and love.

Running from 2 - 13 April, the Show invites visitors of all ages to reconnect with where our food comes from, meet the people who produce it, and experience the perfect mix of familiar icons and exciting new moments that make the Show a must-visit

New for 2026, the Show comes alive After Dark, transforming Sydney Showground into a glowing nighttime spectacular.

Say It Out Loud

Visitors can enjoy a brand-new light parade, 70 illuminated animal lanterns, expanded evening entertainment and new food experiences — delivering the biggest and most immersive

To celebrate, a new After 4:00pm Family Ticket offers even

greater value, giving families entry from late afternoon into the evening — ideal for experiencing the Show After Dark. Available pre-Show only until 11:59pm on 1 April 2026, tickets are limited.

Royal Agricultural Society of NSW General Manager, Agriculture and Sydney Royal Easter Show, Murray Wilton said the Show’s role today is to both protect what Australians love and keep it evolving for future generations.

Or is something in the local area really getting on your nerves?

“The Sydney Royal Easter Show is something Australians genuinely care about, and we see ourselves as custodians of that, protecting the traditions people love while continuing to make it exciting, relevant and worth coming back to,” Mr Wilton said.

www.districtgazette.com.au/submissions

“For many Aussies, it’s one of the only times all year they’ll meet a farmer, see animals up close or understand how food makes its way from paddock to plate. That connection really

Article: Penrith City Council

P: 0418 166 269

Chronic Shoulder Pain – Cured by What You Eat?

Most people coming to the clinic with shoulder problems respond well to muscle elongation therapy; however, rarely people fail to respond as well. Here, ongoing shoulder pain may not be driven only by the original injury. On such occasions, gut-derived autoimmune or inflammatory processes should be considered as a possible contributor.

Recently a patient presented with two sore shoulders, brought on by workers-comp pre-return-to-work shoulderstrength testing. Ultrasounds showed evidence of bursitis, slight shoulder-tendon “wear and tear”, pain in the front of both shoulders, and extremely limited range of motion, especially of the left.

The patient received physical therapy for several weeks with minimal improvement. She was advised that the inflammatory processes in her shoulders may be being exacerbated by components in her diet. Initially not keen to make the suggested dietary changes, she eventually did so and within one week achieved almost full range of motion.

Why might dietary change sometimes help? The patient’s history showed a previous but unrelated work injury requiring years of pain medication. Long-term intake of such medications may lead to compromised integrity (leakiness) of the intestinal lining. This allows immune-stimulating proteins from foods such as grains and milk (and even whole microbes) to leak across to where immune cells reside. Immune cells see such foreign proteins and microbes as signs of danger and become activated. They enter the bloodstream, migrate to other sites of injury, and produce large amounts of inflammatory mediators that augment local inflammation, increasing pain at those sites.

For this client, her strenuous shoulder-strength tests likely caused some local injury. Once such local shoulder inflammation began, it attracted circulating and activated gut-derived immune cells. These cells then exacerbated the local shoulder inflammation and prevented the shoulder tissues from moving from the “inflammatory phase” into the “repair and resolution” phase of the healing process.

In this case, dietary change likely reduced exposure of gut immune cells to immune-stimulating proteins, resulting in a relatively quick reduction in shoulder pain. So, if you have unresolved shoulder (or neck) pain, you may want to consider the impact of your diet. Feel free to give Andreas a call at the clinic to discuss your issues.

r ** Refer to submitter for references | Image Supplied

Blencowe Back With Renewed Purpose

A brief retirement has only strengthened the resolve of Jordan Springs fighter Arlene Blencowe, who recently returned to the boxing ring with renewed purpose at The Star Sydney.

Blencowe competed on the Wanderers Promotion card on February 26, facing Nadia Flahli for the Australasian Welterweight boxing title across eight two-minute rounds.

The bout marked a significant comeback moment for the experienced combat sports athlete, who had initially stepped away from boxing in September 2025 after deciding it was time to retire.

“I decided to retire after my last boxing fight,” Blencowe said. “The fight camp and the night itself just didn’t feel right. I couldn’t switch on, and it felt like a sign that it was time to hang up the gloves.”

However, time away from the sport changed her perspective. After nearly two decades of training and competing, Blencowe realised she wasn’t satisfied with the way her boxing journey had ended.

“After some time away, I realised that after 17 years of training and competing, I couldn’t let that be my final experience,” she said. “So, I decided to step back into camp

and make things right.”

The decision proved to be the right one. Blencowe described the preparation for the February fight as one of the most rewarding training camps of her career.

“I can honestly say it turned into one of my best fight camps,” she said. “The experience on fight night is something I’ll always remember, and it showed in my performance.”

Blencowe, who has competed in both boxing and mixed martial arts, said returning to the ring required a renewed focus on the specific demands of boxing.

“Boxing and MMA are two completely different sports, and each discipline deserves its own respect,” she said. “After my last fight, I made the necessary adjustments and entered this bout as a much more complete boxer.”

The champion athlete is already preparing for her next challenge. She is scheduled to fight Chloe Chaos on April 29 in Melbourne.

Blencowe also credited her team and supporters for helping her return to the sport. She acknowledged her coaches and training partners at Showtime Fighters Academy, along with sponsors including AH Glass Fencing, Rogue Royalty, All 1 Protein, Athletes Nutrition, Optimal Spine Chiropractic, Evolution Medical Centre, Alkapower, Champ Mouthguards, SisFit and Go2Oxygen.

House Visits

Dog Walking

Stuck at work? Going on holidays? Or just need a little extra help with your furry (or feathered) friends?

Whether it’s feeding, walkies, playtime or cuddly overnight stays, we make sure everything is just right for your fur-baby’s unique needs.

We know pets love their routine, and we keep things familiar while you’re away so your pets stay comfy and wagging their tails. We’re here to make tails wag, whiskers twitch, and paws tap with excitement!

0431 195 153 jade@notmydogpetservices.com.au www.notmydogpetservices.com.au NotMyDogPetServices Book Via QR Code

PROBUS CLUB

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Jordan Springs E: probusjordansprings@gmail.com W: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings

Probus Club of Jordan Springs

The rivalry between Summer & Autumn throughout March certainly gave us all a variety of conditions! However, our intrepid Members were not deterred & continued with a busy schedule of exploring & sharing good company.

St Patrick’s Day was anticipated with a large lunch gathering at Gael’s Irish Club; Trivia nights continued with mixed success & lots of laughs; Craft Morning participation grew & so did the range of crafts in evidence.

The highlight of the month was the greatly anticipated tour to the magnificent Mayfield Gardens near Oberon. March finished with the monthly meeting & AGM… enhanced by a fun Easter Hat Parade… a great way to welcome the new Committee team! April is “shortened” for us by Easter & Anzac Day holidays but will still be busy with Craft Morning, Trivia night, monthly lunch plus a day tour of the Sydney Cricket Ground. Beyond April, planning is already underway for Biggest Morning Tea, Christmas in July, tours to the historic Macarthur Farms & the new Fish Market & even Norfolk Island!

Visitors are always welcome to all events… so come along & discover our trademark days of Fun, Friendship & Fellowship in retirement as we also celebrate 50 years of Probus enriching the lives of retired Australians.

Jordan Springs Probus is a purely social club catering specifically for semi- & full retirees, meeting throughout 2026 on the 4th Tuesday of each month, 9:45am for a 10:00am start, at Jordan Springs Community Hub, 2–6 Cullen Ave, Jordan Springs.

For more information contact Keith - 02 9713 9038, Annie – 0409 230 753, or email us at probusjordansprings@gmail.com

– COMMUNITY CHURCH JORDAN SPRINGS

Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Heath Whiley A: Jordan Springs Community Hub P: 0402 712 972 W: www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au Service Times: 6pm Wednesday

Easter’s Question for a Warring World

In my office is a cartoon published a couple of years ago in The Daily Telegraph around Easter and just as another war was beginning. It shows Jesus hanging on the cross. Beneath Him are tanks, soldiers, and explosions. War stretches into the distance and from the cross come these words: “Haven’t you people learned anything yet?”

Of course, real-world conflicts are incredibly complicated. Wars grow out of long histories, political tensions, economic pressures, and deep grievances. They’re rarely simple, and the suffering involved is always real and tragic.

But even while recognising that complexity, the cartoon still asks a confronting question. Humanity keeps repeating the same patterns—pride, power, revenge, violence. We keep hoping the next victory will finally bring peace, yet history often circles back to the same painful outcomes.

And when I look honestly at my own heart, I see the same impulses on a smaller scale—anger, selfishness, the need to be right. The conflict in the world isn’t just “out there.” In different ways, it lives in all of us.

That’s why Easter matters so much. When Jesus hung on the cross, He didn’t come to crush His enemies. He came to forgive them. Instead of calling down judgment, He prayed, “Father, forgive them.” That’s the surprising heart of the gospel. In a world that so often answers violence with more violence, God responds with mercy.

For Christians like me, that calls us to live differently—to forgive, to love, and to resist the pull of hatred. And for anyone still searching, Easter offers real hope: a God who sees our broken world clearly and still offers forgiveness, peace, and a new beginning through Jesus.

– ST DAVIDS CHURCH LLANDILO

Article Written + Submitted by: Rev John Hebblewhite A: Lot 257A Seventh Ave, Llandilo P: 4736 3592 Service Times: 10am each Sunday with additional services held: 2pm on the Third Sunday + 8am on the Fourth Sunday

St Davids Church Llandilo

The Biblical accounts of the Resurrection of Jesus can be read in three ways. There are those who simply reject the narratives on the basis that there is an absence of solid scientific evidence. Some argue to “spiritualise” the event, but this ignores the factor of an event in time which emphasises the inseparability of God, matter, and time. For the Christian, the accounts bring home the reality and take the event within the context of history.

Only a guess can be made to give an understanding as to how old the universe is as we understand it, and indeed as to how old humanity is. The whole of life, not only that of humans, is a fascinating reality, and many questions and much of its full understanding still challenge our comprehension.

Out of all religious development in history, it is of note that Christianity arose from a given situation in which it is based on a person and on a historic event. God was seen in a person, and that person determined a specific task.

It is interesting to note that modern science argues for the ultimate destruction of the universe, either by extreme heat or extreme cold. This event is far away, and no particular time has been argued for. On reflection, the Christian, however, is presented with the hope of a renewed creation and, in particular, humanity freed from the conscription of depreciating life through sin. Sin, being that which deprecates, has, in the execution of Jesus and in his giving of his life in love, lost its ability to deceive.

So it is that the anticipation of a redeemed and renewed humanity, and this wonderful and indeed often mysterious creation, gives the basis for belief and growth. As St Paul argued, “not me, but Christ who lives in me” is the determining factor in our everyday existence.

PAWS A WHILE

Article Written + Submitted by: Kellie Tickner from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital A: 49 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027

Pet-Friendly Easter Holidays

Easter is a wonderful time of year filled with family catch-ups, chocolate treats and long weekends. But while we’re enjoying the celebrations, it’s important to remember that some of the foods and decorations we associate with Easter can be dangerous for our pets.

Chocolate is one of the biggest concerns at this time of year. It contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause serious problems, including vomiting, muscle tremors and seizures. If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, it’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

So how much chocolate is actually toxic for dogs? The simple answer is: none. The level of risk depends on the type of chocolate: dark, milk or white, as well as your dog’s size, weight, age, breed and any existing health conditions. Dark chocolate contains the highest levels of theobromine, making it the most dangerous, but any amount of chocolate should be considered unsafe for dogs.

Hot cross buns are another common Easter favourite, but they can also be harmful to pets. Many contain raisins or dried fruit, which are known to cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. What makes this especially concerning is that symptoms don’t always appear straight away. In some cases, the damage to the kidneys can occur days or even weeks after ingestion.

Easter baskets can also pose a hidden risk. Many lollies and sweets contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, leading to weakness, lethargy, vomiting and seizures. The decorative plastic grass often used in Easter baskets can also cause

serious digestive blockages if swallowed by curious pets.

Flowers are another thing to be mindful of. Lilies are a popular choice in Easter bouquets, but they are highly toxic to cats. Every part of the plant, including the pollen and even the water in the vase, can cause severe kidney failure. If a cat brushes against the pollen or ingests any part of the plant, urgent veterinary care is needed. One of the biggest challenges with many of these toxins is that symptoms may not appear immediately. By the time a pet begins to show signs of illness, serious damage may already have occurred. That’s why prevention is always the best approach.

Here are a few simple ways to help keep your pets safe this Easter:

• Keep chocolate, hot cross buns and sweets well out of reach of pets.

• Avoid using plastic grass in Easter baskets or decorations.

• Make sure guests and family members know not to feed pets Easter treats.

• Keep lilies out of homes with cats.

• If your pet shows any signs of illness, contact your veterinarian straight away.

With a little extra awareness, Easter can be a fun and safe time for the whole family, including our four-legged members.

If you need assistance over the Easter period, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 02 4736 2027.

For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027

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

•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption

•Secure off leash dog park

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TRADIE PACKAGE

CONTACT

4733 0792

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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

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

Corpus Christi

Catholic Church

86-92 Andromeda Dr, Cranebrook 4730 1249

St Davids Llandilo Seventh Avenue, Llandilo 4736 3592

St Mary + St Marina Coptic Orthodox Church 363 Ninth Ave, Llandilo 4777 5577

Wednesday Night Community Church: Jordan Springs 0402 712 972

Community Groups

Breastfeeding Group 1800 686 268

Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 725 317

Scouts 1800 SCOUTS (1800 726 887)

Penrith Suicide Bereavement Support Group 0402 627 696

Managing

Belinda Pearce

Personal

Assistant

Jasmine Stinson

Design

Jade Gregory

Writer / Sales

Cim Sanders

Writer

Tanya Nellestein

Pty Ltd ABN: 65 601 734 472 trading

Probus Club Jordan Springs 9713 9038

Probus Club Penrith Sth 0414 861 390

Prostate Cancer Support Group 1300 13 38 78

Sports Clubs

Baseball Club Penrith 0434

Karate Goshin Ryu 0411 136 237

Swimming Club Nepean 0416 311 453

Triathlon Club Panthers www.pantherstriclub.com.au

SMALL PRINT

Advertising Policy... Payment on booking secures your space. The Business Directory offers cost effective advertising to businesses in an alphabetical format. Premium Placement may be available, at an extra charge. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion. Community News... The Jordan Springs 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.

April arrives with a different kind of energy this year, shaped in part by Easter falling early in the month. It brings with it a sense of pause and reflection, woven through with renewal and hope. Across our community, this season is often marked by small traditions and shared moments, gatherings with family, quiet time outdoors, and the simple comfort of familiar routines.

As the year continues to unfold, many of us are finding our footing. The pace of daily life remains full, yet there is growing value in slowing down where we can, noticing what matters most, and reconnecting with one another. In times when the world beyond our borders can feel uncertain or unsettled, these local connections become even more meaningful.

What endures is the strength found in community. We see it in the way people lend a hand, check in on neighbours, and come together for causes both big and small. These acts, often unspoken and unseen, create a sense of stability and belonging that carries us forward.

As April progresses, may this season encourage reflection, kindness, and renewed purpose. Thank you for being part of a community that continues to show care, resilience, and quiet optimism as we move through the year together.

“Storms pass quickly when you refuse to stand in the rain.”

www.districtgazette.com.au/ pick-up-a-paper

Only household quantities accepted (20L or 20kg), except paint. Up to 100L (in 20L containers) of paint accepted. This service adheres to NSW Government advice and protocols. Before you attend, please place all materials in the rear of your vehicle. For safety reasons, please remain in your vehicle at all times and event staff will collect your items. Waste containers collected cannot be returned. Your next local event: Sunday 26 April, 9am – 3.30pm The Kingsway Playing Fields car park, Werrington penrith.city/events