JORDAN SPRINGS GAZETTE JULY 2026

Plastic Free Living Workshop

During the session you will hear about the ways to eliminate plastic from your life by using natural or recyclable swaps for common household items. You will also participate in a practical demonstration to make your own safe, beeswax-infused food wraps to take home!

This is a workshop for Blacktown City Council residents only. To book your spot, a fully refundable deposit of $14.60 applies. If the event is showing sold out, please register for the waitlist as more tickets may be released closer to the event.

Please note the refundable deposit will be refunded to attendees only. If you wish to cancel your ticket, please contact them at 9839 6055 or Sustainable.Resources@blacktown.nsw. gov.au at least 48 hours prior to event. Cancellations made within 48 hours of event will not be refunded.

Sign up for Binformed and GreenMoney to get great tips on living sustainably at home and be the first to be notified of upcoming events.

When:

Saturday 11th July 2026

10:00am to 12:00pm

Where:

Ropes Crossing Community Hub

Tickets:

https://blacktown-events.bookable.net.au/#!/eventdetail/ev _5d44def7105f4bd796f5758fc5735de0

Cost:

Refundable deposit of $14.60 applies

r Image/Article: Blacktown 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

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/

Local Charity Delivers Comfort and Care

More than 200 people came dressed as their favourite book characters, decorated their tables with creative flair, and raised funds for equipment that will bring real comfort to patients in their most vulnerable moments, all in a single extraordinary afternoon.

The Our Community Cares Afternoon Tea fundraiser was held on Saturday 6 June at St Marys League Club, drawing 225 guests from as far afield as Brisbane, Cowra, Canowindra, and Port Macquarie for a celebration that was equal parts fun and purpose driven. Games, handmade craft stalls, raffles, giveaways, and lucky door prizes filled the afternoon, alongside beautiful food and the kind of warm community spirit that makes events like this so special.

“It was a fantastic day,” says OCC’s Kris Gauci of the Jordan Springs based charity. “To see people travel from so far to support their community is incredibly moving.”

The funds raised will go toward two meaningful purchases

for local hospital services. The first is nine START Zone recliner chairs for Emergency Departments, replacing the generic seating currently used by patients who can spend hours waiting for test results or an inpatient bed while progressing through the START (Safe, Timely Assessment and Rapid Treatment) model of care.

“These patients sometimes spend hours waiting for results or an inpatient bed,” Kris explains. “We want to be able to provide a comfortable environment for our patients and consumers.”

The second purchase is two digital stethoscopes. This is a deeply thoughtful gift for families navigating end-of-life care. The technology allows loved ones to record and preserve a family member’s heartbeat, creating a cherished keepsake that can be incorporated into memorial projects or comfort objects.

“The process creates opportunities for connection, storytelling, and presence during a deeply emotional time,” says Kris, “helping families hold onto a tangible reminder of love and relationship.”

None of it would be possible without the people behind the scenes. “Our Community Cares is completely run by volunteers,” Kris says warmly. “OCC would be nothing without them, and we would not be able to support our community without the support of the community and local businesses. Thank you all.”

The next OCC event is the annual Catherine’s Cup Golf Day on 4 September at Leonay Golf Club, teams of up to four, or lunch only, for $35. Contact kris.gauci@ ourcommunitycares.org. au to register.

Tanya Hennessy and Craig Foster Give Up Their “Boozy” Last Names For Dry July

Farewell Foster. Hooroo Hennessy.

Two of Australia’s most recognisable surnames are officially going dry this July, with Comedian Tanya and Former Socceroo Craig temporarily giving up Foster and Hennessy to encourage Aussies to ditch alcohol and raise funds for people affected by cancer.

For both ambassadors, the cause is deeply personal, with the pair using the playful hook to spark conversation around the very real impact cancer has on thousands of Australian families every year.

“I love my last name, and I genuinely enjoy a drink too, but ditching Hennessy for a month is well worth it, to get more Australians signing up, donating, or joining my team” Tanya Hennessy said.

“I want to make this year a record breaker in participation and fundraising, because the funds really do make a huge difference in the lives of Aussies going through a cancer journey.”

After 15 years of supporting Dry July since he was first an ambassador in 2011, Craig is motivated to get as many Aussies as possible involved.

“We hear people every year saying they are ‘doing Dry July’ but not signing up to raise funds for people affected by cancer. I want to change that this year and show people that this isn’t just a sobriety challenge that can benefit your health and your hip pocket, it’s a chance to make a real impact” Foster said.

“Dry July isn’t about being perfect or going without. It’s about people coming together and doing something positive. I’m happy to give up my last name to drive more awareness and fundraising.”

Australians can now join Team Tanya and Team Craig as part of Dry July 2026, raising funds to support cancer patients, their families and carers across the country.

The campaign launches amid a broader cultural shift around alcohol, with younger Australians increasingly embracing moderation and alcohol-free lifestyles. New research from Flinders University found Gen Z Australians are significantly more likely to abstain from alcohol than older generations, making Dry July the perfect opportunity for Australians already thinking about moderation to challenge themselves while raising money for a good cause.

Meanwhile, cancer continues to touch almost every Australian family, with one in two Australians expected to be diagnosed by the age of 85.

Dry July Foundation CEO Gillian Odbert said the campaign was intentionally designed to cut through differently this year.

“Dry July has always been about making a small sacrifice to help people going through something much bigger,” Odbert said.

“This year we wanted to bring a little more fun, personality and cultural relevance to the campaign, while still shining a light on the very real impact funds raised through Dry July make.”

“Every dollar raised during Dry July helps fund practical support services that genuinely change lives, whether that’s specialist cancer nurses, transport to treatment, accommodation close to hospitals, wellness programs or services that help make an incredibly difficult time just a little bit easier for patients and their families.”

And beyond helping others, many Australians are discovering Dry July comes with benefits of its own. Previous Dry July participant research found people reported better sleep, more energy, improved focus and feeling healthier overall after taking a break from alcohol.

Since launching in 2008, Dry July has raised more than $100 million for people affected by cancer across Australia and funded more than 1,300 projects nationally.

Whether you’re getting a workplace team together, doing it with friends or family, or challenging yourself, go dry this July and help fund life-changing cancer support services nationwide.

Sign up now at www.dryjuly.com.

Dry July Ambassadors Craig Foster and Tanya Hennessy | Image/Article: Dry July Foundation

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

The results are in. Our “Biggest Morning Tea” was happening as we went to print last month, so finances weren’t finalised. We are delighted to announce we raised $870.00 for Cancer Research. We extend a huge vote of thanks to all our sponsors. Your generous donations of goods and services are so deeply appreciated!

The changeable Autumnal weather of June brought no change to our determination to go exploring in the company of good friends. Our trivia teams had several nights of laughter, plus a few prizes. Other teams even complimented our ability to enjoy ourselves. This enjoyment extended into the Thursday craft morning and a fun night at Penrith Paceway, including another good dinner, as well as two excellent lunch outings.

The highlight of June was the day at the new Sydney Fish Market. The excellent Discovery Tour was very informative, leaving us all with a deeper understanding of fishing and seafood. Lunch choices were numerous (and delicious) and the cooler boxes were well loaded. The homeward journey was definitely dominated by discussion of seafood preparation.

Our momentum will carry on through July, despite the settling in of Winter Trivia and craft continue, and our two biggest events will be Christmas in July and a Mystery Car Trip to a new, but secret, lunch destination. Speculation, guesses and rumours abound. WATCH THIS SPACE and all will be revealed in good time.

Visitors are always welcome at any event, so don’t hesitate to share in our Fun, Friendship & Fellowship!

Jordan Springs Probus is a purely social club catering specifically for semi and 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.

KID’S CORNER July

Fire and Rescue NSW Remind Us To “Check Your BLEEPING Smoke Alarm”

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) are raising public awareness ahead of the busiest home fire season of all: Winter. A recently launched, bold smoke alarm safety initiative, “Check your BLEEPING smoke alarm,” uses blunt and attentiongrabbing language to mark 20 years since the installation of these life-saving devices became mandatory in NSW homes.

Smoke alarms are either missing or not working in almost half the homes (45 per cent) to which firefighters are called.

The initiative coincides with fresh FRNSW-commissioned research that suggests 31 per cent of NSW residents have either not checked their smoke alarm in the last year or never checked it at all, and one in four people report that they are not confident about how to test them.

The survey indicates 37 per cent of respondents weren’t aware smoke alarms needed to be replaced every 10 years, and 45 per cent had no idea that alarms require cleaning every six months.

Offering in-person service, firefighters can visit regional homes to conduct fire safety checks, and if required, install new smoke alarms for free. The survey found around one in two people weren’t even aware the service existed.

FRNSW normally receives 600 bookings for home safety visits a month. This winter, it’s hoping to increase that number. Free home visits can be booked online - https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/visits

“We know that beep can be loud and annoying. But that ‘bleeping’ could be the difference between you and your family waking up to a fire or losing a loved one.

“Almost half the house fires we’re called to have no working smoke alarm. So, if it takes some colourful language to improve that frustrating statistic to keep people safe, then it’s worth it.

“If people hear about this campaign and then take the 30 seconds to test their ‘bleeping’ alarm, then that’s a win.

“We now know that when survey respondents were made aware of our free safety visits, more than half of them said they’d consider booking one. I encourage people to make that booking to help us increase the number of visits” said Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell.

New Era for Ropes Crossing Strikers FC

Ropes Crossing Strikers FC have started the year with a strong season, with record participation numbers, solid performances on the field and a busy calendar of community events highlighting the club’s growth.

Club Secretary Jodie Crawley said the Strikers have more than 530 registered players, coaches, managers and committee members involved across 45 teams in 2026.

“Ropes Crossing Strikers FC continues to grow and thrive within our community,” Crawley said. “We are proud to offer opportunities for players of all ages and abilities, from MiniRoos through to senior football, and our continued growth reflects the incredible support of our volunteers, families, sponsors and wider community.”

Among the early season highlights was the club’s celebration of Female Football Week, a national initiative recognising the contribution of women and girls to the game. Ropes Crossing Strikers remains one of the district’s strongest female football clubs, with participation across all age groups continuing to increase.

The club also hosted its third annual Strikers Sisters Cup, a round-robin event designed to encourage female participation and promote inclusivity throughout grassroots football.

On the field, all Competition Division 1 teams competed in the Football NSW State Cup, with the Under-18 Girls reaching

the quarter-finals for the third consecutive year and again challenging for a place among the state’s best teams.

Community engagement has also been a major focus. The club recently held its “Make It Red” Weekend, raising awareness for heart health through fundraising activities, including a sausage sizzle, with proceeds supporting the Make It Red campaign.

Attention is now turning to the upcoming MiniRoos Gala Day Weekend, where players from Under-5s to Under-11s will enjoy round-robin matches against clubs from across the Blacktown district. This year, Ropes Crossing Strikers FC will host both the Under-10 Mixed Gala Day and the Under-10 Girls Gala Day, welcoming hundreds of players and families to the club’s home ground.

The season has also marked an important leadership transition. In May, Anthony Xerri officially took over as Club President after more than a decade of service in various roles, including General Committee member and Vice President.

Xerri succeeds outgoing President Adam Hartas, whose contribution to the club has been instrumental in its development. A founding member of Ropes Crossing Strikers FC, Hartas first served as Treasurer before leading the club as President for the past six years. During that time, he became a respected leader, mentor, coach and volunteer, helping build the strong community-focused culture that exists today.

Club officials praised Hartas for his vision, commitment and countless hours of service, saying his legacy will continue to shape the Strikers for years to come.

Looking ahead, the club remains focused on player development, community engagement and providing positive football experiences for all members as another promising season unfolds.

Teen Entrepreneurs Turn Gardening Passion into Growing Business

A group of four teenage girls are making their mark in the local community through their gardening business, Three Seeds One Dream.

The business officially launched on May 7 after beginning as a simple way to earn extra money.

According to team member Abby Cotter, the group initially advertised their gardening services through Facebook community groups, offering to help residents with yard work.

“We originally started with just posting on Facebook groups asking if anyone needed any gardening done for some quick money,” Cotter said. “Then on the 7th of May, we made it officially our business and not just a hobby.”

Three Seeds One Dream was founded by three friends and has since expanded to a team of four. All four members are 17-year-old girls who are balancing entrepreneurship with their everyday commitments while working to make a positive

impact in their community.

The business offers a range of gardening maintenance services, including lawn mowing, weeding, removing old plants, and cutting bushes. The team says they are committed to helping residents keep their gardens neat and well maintained.

The inspiration for the business came from a family friend, Rickie. Watching her build and operate a successful landscaping company motivated the teenagers to pursue a similar path.

“We were intrigued to follow in her footsteps,” Cotter explained.

Since launching, the group has been sharing photos and videos of completed projects to showcase their work and attract new customers. Community members interested in learning more about Three Seeds One Dream can visit the team’s Instagram page, @threeseeds.onedream, where service information and updates are regularly posted.

As the young entrepreneurs continue to grow their business, they say their goal remains simple: to have fun, gain experience, and make a positive difference for local residents through quality gardening services.

Penrith Relay For Life Celebrates 25 Years

Penrith Relay For Life is back for 2026. Registrations are now opened for Saturday 12th September 2026 and Sunday 13th September 2026 at Harold Corr Oval, starting at 9:00am on Saturday 12th September and finishing at 10:00pm on Sunday 13th September.

Once again, Penrith Relay For Life will be held at Harold Corr Oval, 32 Herbert St, Cambridge Park.

This year, they will be celebrating 25 years, and the Penrith Community has raised over $4.3 million.

The Rise of Christmas in July

As winter settles across Australia, roaring fireplaces, roast dinners and ugly Christmas sweaters are making an unlikely mid-year comeback. “Christmas in July,” once a quirky novelty celebrated in the Blue Mountains, has grown into a nationwide seasonal tradition embraced by pubs, restaurants and families eager to capture the wintry atmosphere missing from the country’s sun-soaked December festivities.

Unlike the traditional Australian Christmas, often spent at the beach in 30-degree heat, Christmas in July offers a taste of the European-style winter celebration many Australians know from films and overseas travel. Across regional towns and city venues, fake snow machines, mulled wine and turkey feasts now appear every July, drawing crowds looking for a cosy escape.

Historians trace the origins of the celebration in Australia to the early 1980s, when a group of Irish tourists staying at a hotel in the Blue Mountains reportedly celebrated Christmas together during a cold July evening. According to local accounts, the

Penrith Relay For Life will be doing 25 hours for 25 years. It has returned to an overnight event, where relayers will be able to camp out at the venue or continue walking around the oval.

The money raised provides groundbreaking Cancer research, local support programs for Cancer patients as well as Cancer prevention programs in local schools and community groups.

Organised by passionate local volunteers, Penrith Relay For Life gives the community a chance to join forces in support of everyone affected by cancer, have fun at a community festival, and raise vital funds towards Cancer Council’s world-class research, prevention, advocacy and support services.

“We have seen a large spike in demand for our support in the Western Sydney region, but a fall in fundraising to support the cause. With Cancer Council’s services needed more now than ever before, we need our local community to get involved” said Community Fundraising Coordinator, Yvette Haines.

They are also looking for local businesses to sponsor their event or donate prizes.

Penrith Relay For Life 2026 will still have all of the special key relay elements, including opening ceremony, survivors and carers lap of honour, entertainment and their very special hope ceremony. There will also be a number of food vendors in attendance.

Penrith Relay for Life Media/Marketing Co-ordinator Brad See said, “Our aim as a committee is to put on a good event for our community to support one another, this year’s target is $100,000 to support Cancer Council in working towards a cancer free future”.

To join the family-fun, register for Penrith Relay For Life at: https://www.relayforlife.org.au/event/penrith-2026/home

You can also keep up to date with what’s going on by joining the Penrith Relay for Life Facebook Group.

r Image/Article: Penrith Relay For Life

tourists missed the snowy Christmas traditions of home and convinced the hotel to host a festive dinner complete with decorations and hearty winter food. The idea quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors.

The concept itself, however, predates Australia’s version. In the Northern Hemisphere, “Christmas in July” has appeared in literature and popular culture since the 19th century. Some historians believe the phrase emerged from European summer camps and festivals where communities staged mock Christmas celebrations during warmer months. In the United States, the expression became more widely known after the 1940 comedy film Christmas in July.

Australia’s adaptation took on its own identity because of the country’s reversed seasons. For many Australians, July provides the cold weather atmosphere they associate with classic Christmas imagery, woollen jumpers, hot drinks and nights by the fire.

Businesses have eagerly embraced the trend. Restaurants now offer dedicated Christmas in July menus, while tourist regions market winter festivals around the theme. Social media has also fuelled the celebration’s popularity, with themed parties and festive photo opportunities attracting younger Australians.

Though unofficial and largely commercial, Christmas in July has become a cherished winter ritual, proof that Australians are willing to celebrate Christmas twice if it means finally getting the cold-weather version they have always imagined.

r Image:

Tips for Staying Active

As temperatures drop and the couch beckons, it can be tempting to put fitness on hold until spring. But Merinda Husking, personal trainer and founder of Designer Body Mobile Personal Training, has a timely reminder for local residents: winter is no time to go into hibernation.

“Staying active during the cooler months is just as important as it is at any other time of the year,” says Merinda. “Even 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days can make a big difference to your physical health, support mental wellbeing, and help strengthen your immunity during winter.”

The good news is that keeping fit through the colder months doesn’t have to mean forcing yourself through workouts you dread. Merinda’s first piece of advice is simple: find something you actually enjoy.

“The key is finding something you genuinely enjoy, because consistency becomes much easier when exercise feels rewarding rather than like a chore,” she explains. “Exercising with a friend, joining a class, or setting small achievable goals can also help keep you motivated and accountable.”

For those who struggle to get started, Merinda recommends treating exercise the same way you would any other important commitment. “One of the best ways to stay on track is to plan ahead and schedule exercise into your routine like any other important appointment,” she says. It’s a small shift in mindset that can make a significant difference when motivation is running low and the warmth of home feels hard to leave.

She also wants people to know that staying active doesn’t require a gym membership or expensive equipment. Walking, backyard workouts, and home-based sessions all count, and the feeling afterwards is often its own reward.

“Focusing on how good you feel afterwards can be a great motivator, especially during the colder months,” Merinda notes. Her overall message is an encouraging one. “The most important thing is to start small, stay consistent, and choose activities that suit your lifestyle and ability level.”

Designer Body Mobile Personal Training offers flexible, personalised support for people at every fitness level, wherever they are in their journey. To find out more or get in touch, visit designerbody.com.au or follow Designer Body Mobile Personal Training on Instagram and Facebook.

Article: Tanya Nellestein

Sydney Set to get Foamy and Fun: The 5K Foam Fest Returns this December!

Brace yourself Sydney, because the world’s most fun-filled

The 5K Foam Fest has some of the best and most exciting obstacles in the world, including the largest inflatable waterslide, slip and slides, and mucky mud pits. Combine this with 2.5 million cubic feet of foam and you are destined to have an awesome day.

Rock out all day to awesome (family friendly) music, enjoy a FREE kid’s zone for kids aged 6 and under, taste delicious food, shop from local vendors, and celebrate your success in a well-stocked beer garden.

With a variety of obstacles and a ton of foam, the 5K Foam Fest run is an exciting challenge for experienced and beginner runners alike. Walk it, run it, charge it, fun it; this course should be enjoyed

But there's more to it than just fun. The 5K Foam Fest proudly supports Make-A-Wish Australia, an organisation dedicated to granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Your participation not only guarantees a great time but also contributes to a fantastic cause.

Mark your calendars for Saturday 14th December 2024 at When you register, you'll receive a 5K Foam Fest string bag, tattoos,

Your Business Called. It wants this space.

HEALTH MATTERS

Article Written + Submitted by:

P: 0418 166 269

Dynamic Loading - The Secret to Fighting Osteoporosis

Epidemiological data show 200 million osteoporosis cases worldwide, including 210.2 million American and 15 million European men and women over 50. In Australia, researchers estimate 1.2 million people currently have osteoporosis, a further 6.3 million osteopenia (low bone density) (Healthy Bones Australia, n.d.).

A person’s bones adapt to regular mechanical ‘loading’. Animal research shows bone production is determined by the magnitude, and the rate and frequency of loading. Evidence shows dynamic-loading makes more bone than static loading. The optimal exercise prescription for prevention and management of osteopenia and osteoporosis is regular application of dynamic, high-magnitude loads to bones at a rapid rate. What does this mean?

• ‘Dynamic-loading’ - refers to the requirement that the exercise requires motion. Standing will put a static load on leg bones, running provides dynamic load.

• ‘High-magnitude’ – means forces experienced by bones during exercise must be relatively high – e.g. forces on leg & hip bones through jumping 30cm into the air & landing with two feet on a hard floor.

• ‘Applied at a rapid rate’ - means you might complete 5-6 30cm jumps & landings in quick succession.

Combining high-intensity resistance-training with highimpact jumping elicits high strain and strain-rates on bone.

Theoretically this is an optimal exercise protocol for bone strength.

Australian researchers, put women aged 61-71 years on either a low-load home-based exercise program or a supervised highintensity high-impact program (called HiPRT). Participants had lumbar spine T-scores of -2.15 ± 0.72 i.e. osteopenic or osteoporotic lumbar bone densities. Both programs involved 2 x 30min exercise sessions weekly on non-consecutive days, over 8 months. Bone density & strength effects were compared:

HiPRT Program Low Load Program

1. Overhead press

2. Deadlifts

3. Squats

4. Jumping chin ups with drop landings

1. 10-min walking warm-up, 2. 4 stretches, 3. 4 low-resistance lunges, calf raises, standing forward raises

4. a 5-min warm-down walk

Results: There were no reported injuries in either group. Researchers found HiPRT women became faster, fitter, stronger & amazingly GAINED femur & lumbar bone density and increased their overall height. Low-load program women became slower, less fit, shorter and lost bone density. Can the contrast be any starker or the message be any clearer?

r ** Refer to submitter for references

Big Night Planned for Llandilo Community Hall

Residents of Llandilo and surrounding areas are being encouraged to dust off their costumes, gather their friends and support a special fundraising event aimed at preserving a muchloved community landmark.

The Llandilo Community Hall Committee has announced a fun-filled fundraising night on Saturday, August 29, 2026, with all proceeds going towards essential repairs and maintenance of the historic Llandilo Community Hall.

The event promises an evening of entertainment, laughter and community spirit, with tickets priced at just $10 each, and tables of eight available. Doors will open at 6:30pm, with festivities officially commencing at 7:00pm.

Adding to the excitement, popular entertainer MC Elvis will take on emcee duties for the night, guiding guests through

a range of activities and helping ensure the fundraiser is a memorable occasion for all who attend.

One of the evening’s highlights will be the Best Dressed competition, with attendees encouraged to come dressed as someone famous for a chance to win a special prize. A Lucky Door Prize will also be up for grabs, while raffles throughout the night will provide additional opportunities to win.

Guests are reminded to bring cash for raffle tickets and gold coins to participate in the popular “Big Coin Toss”, another fundraising activity expected to attract plenty of interest.

The committee is also calling on local businesses to support the event by sponsoring a round, contributing prizes, or becoming an event sponsor. In recognition of their support, all sponsors will be acknowledged throughout the evening and promoted on the Llandilo Community Hall Facebook page.

Committee members say the fundraiser is not only an opportunity to raise much-needed funds for hall repairs but also a chance for the community to come together and celebrate one of Llandilo’s most important gathering places.

Community members interested in attending are encouraged to book early, with tickets available through Steve from the Llandilo Community Hall Committee on 0409 464 288.

Organisers hope the night will attract strong local support and help secure the future of the hall for generations to come.

r Image Supplied

Western Sydney International Airport Launch Dates Confirmed

After 15 years of planning, seven years of construction and a year of testing; Western Sydney International Airport will welcome its first passengers on 25 October 2026.

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) is Australia’s brand-new full-service airport operating curfew-free to deliver international, domestic and freight services.

With Western Sydney now Australia’s third-largest economy and home to half of the city’s population, the new airport will serve up to 10 million passengers annually, with scalable expansion to meet future demand.

Jetstar will operate the airport’s first ever commercial passenger flight, with an Airbus A320 set to take off from WSI to the Gold Coast at 11am on Sunday 25 October.

From launch, Jetstar will operate up to 14 flights a week between WSI and Melbourne; four weekly flights to the Gold Coast and three weekly flights to Brisbane.

Qantas will commence services from WSI from 28 March 2027, operating four flights per week to Brisbane and four flights per week to Melbourne, using QantasLink Embraer E190 aircraft.

Freight operations will commence earlier on Sunday 26 July, and Qantas Freight will begin regular flights to and from WSI

the following evening.

These regular flights were secured by the Albanese Government in June 2023, as Qantas and Jetstar became the first airlines to announce they would fly in and out of Sydney’s new airport.

They will be joined by Air New Zealand, who will commence flights to Auckland on 26 October and Singapore Airlines, whose daily flights to Changi start on 23 November 2026.

Western Sydney’s new 24-hour airport is the centrepiece of the Albanese Labor Government’s near $18 billion investment in Western Sydney, including the future Sydney Metro Airport rail connection and significant road upgrades to nearby Elizabeth Drive, Fifteenth Avenue and Mamre Road. This investment builds upon benefits already delivered through the recent opening of the M12 Motorway.

The entire WSI project has created over 12,800 jobs, with around half of those jobs going to local workers.

More than $500 million has also flowed to more than 360 Western Sydney based businesses during major construction works at WSI, including local tradies and construction companies, caterers, and security guards.

WSI will begin freight operations in July, however, in line with the Sydney Airport Curfew Act 1995, 1 November 2026 has been determined as the intended gazettal date for WSI to be open for night aircraft movements. This will have the effect of ceasing currently permitted freight flights from taking off or landing at Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport during the overnight curfew period. Exceptions will continue to be made for emergencies or where there is special dispensation.

Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Heath Whiley

A: Jordan Springs Community Hub P: 0402 712 972 W: www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au Service Times: 6:30pm Wednesday

Ancient Wisdom for 21st Century Issues – When (and How) to Answer a Fool

Two of the most intriguing sayings in the book of Proverbs are these: “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him;” and “Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.” (Proverbs 26:4–5)

At first glance, these two statements seem contradictory. Should you answer a fool or not? The wisdom of Proverbs is that the answer depends on the situation.

Not every criticism deserves a response. Not every argument is worth having. Sometimes the wisest course is to walk away. If we allow ourselves to be drawn into anger, insults, or pointless quarrels, we risk becoming part of the problem.

Yet there are also times when silence is unhelpful. A false idea left unchallenged can mislead others. A thoughtful question, a calm correction, or a well-timed response may help expose error and encourage wiser thinking.

The challenge is knowing the difference.

Wisdom is more than having the right answers. It is recognising the right response for the moment. It is knowing when to speak, when to listen, and when to let an argument go.

Today, before reacting to a comment, criticism, or online debate, pause and ask: Will my response bring clarity, or simply add more noise? Sometimes the wisest words are spoken carefully. Sometimes they are left unsaid.

FAITH – 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

Why we believe in something is more important than what we believe. Christian practice arose from the challenge given by Jesus Christ. This generates love and allows us to grow in the presence of God. Essentially, Christ did not come to found an institution but rather to change attitudes. From this, the Christian Church grew and must continually remind us that our spirituality is not based on ‘vague feel-good’ love but on an honest response to Jesus’ challenge: love God, love your neighbour.

Sadly, history has shown that many who profess to believe in and follow Jesus the Christ destroy trust and simply exert their own selfishness to the detriment of others, both individual and community. But alongside this has been the response to the call of Jesus for honesty and service that has achieved much.

Some time back, a national census showed interesting detail. It revealed that the Australian population maintains a healthy attitude in avoiding too much overt religious practice and has avoided much American-style civil religion by keeping clear of religious political rhetoric. Against all such analysis of human behaviour, an important factor to keep in mind is that history has proved religion, as such, to be part of the practice of human beliefs and behaviour, and as such cannot be ignored or avoided, as it has proven to be a very powerful force for good or worse.

Into this scenario, the call of Jesus is a constant. The increase in people declaring that they have no religion is fascinating because, in reality, we all believe in someone or something. That allows for the understanding that why we believe is more important than what is believed.

Saint David’s remains a centre for worship because it is believed that Wisdom is with God and became, in Jesus, a reality, and to those who accept this, we are enabled to give the ‘why’ to belief.

Pet Sitting 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

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Why Preventative Care Saves Lives

At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, preventative healthcare is one of the most important services we provide. While many owners seek veterinary care when their pet becomes unwell, some of the most important veterinary visits happen when a pet appears perfectly healthy. Preventative healthcare plays a vital role in helping pets live longer, healthier lives and can often prevent serious illness before it starts. As a veterinary hospital serving pets and their families across the Penrith region, we see firsthand the difference that proactive healthcare can make.

Vaccinations remain one of the most effective tools available to protect pets from potentially life-threatening diseases. Diseases such as parvovirus in dogs and feline panleukopenia in cats can cause severe illness and, in some cases, prove fatal. Vaccination programs are designed to provide protection against these diseases and help reduce their spread within the community. Even pets that spend most of their time indoors can still be exposed to infectious diseases, making regular vaccination an important part of responsible pet ownership.

Parasite prevention is another essential component of preventative healthcare. Fleas, ticks, intestinal worms and heartworm can all have significant impacts on a pet’s health. Some parasites can cause chronic discomfort, while others can lead to serious disease or even death if left untreated. Regular parasite prevention protects not only pets but also helps reduce the risk of some parasites spreading to people.

Desexing also plays an important role in preventative healthcare. In addition to preventing unwanted litters, desexing can reduce the risk of several serious health conditions. In female pets, it can help prevent potentially life-threatening uterine infections and significantly reduce

Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)

CONSULTING HOURS

the risk of mammary cancer when performed at an appropriate age. In males, desexing can reduce the risk of certain reproductive diseases and may help minimise behaviours such as roaming, which can increase the risk of injury or accidents.

Annual health checks are equally important. Pets age much faster than humans, meaning significant health changes can occur within a relatively short period of time. During a routine examination, veterinarians assess a pet’s overall health, monitor weight, examine teeth, listen to the heart and lungs, and check for any early signs of disease. Many conditions, including arthritis, dental disease, diabetes, kidney disease and some forms of cancer, can develop gradually and may not be obvious to owners in their early stages.

Detecting health issues early often provides more treatment options, improves outcomes and can reduce the financial burden associated with managing advanced disease. In many cases, owners are surprised to learn their pet has a developing health concern despite appearing happy and healthy at home.

At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we encourage pet owners to view preventative healthcare as an essential part of responsible pet ownership. By staying up to date with vaccinations, parasite prevention, desexing and regular health checks, pet owners can make a significant difference to their pet’s wellbeing—because sometimes the care that saves a life happens long before a pet ever becomes sick.

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

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

4733 0792

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PO Box 8254

Glenmore Park NSW 2745

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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

Wednesday Night Community Church: Jordan Springs

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

Probus Club Jordan Springs 9713 9038

Probus Club Penrith Sth 0414 861 390

Prostate Cancer Support Group 1300 13 38 78

Sports Clubs

Baseball

SMALL PRINT

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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.

There’s something about July that encourages perspective.

Halfway through the year, many of us pause to reflect on goals, reset priorities, and look ahead to what the months to come might hold. But while we often focus on big milestones, it’s worth recognising that communities are strengthened through the smaller moments.

A conversation over coffee. Supporting a local business. Attending a community event. Sharing a local success story. Offering patience, encouragement or simply showing kindness.

These everyday actions create connection and shape the places we live far more than we realise.

Local communities continue to evolve, and that growth happens because people choose to contribute in their own way, whether through business, volunteering, supporting neighbours, or helping create opportunities for others.

As winter settles in, let’s continue to look outward, support local and remember that every contribution matters.

Thank you for being part of what makes our communities strong, connected and worth celebrating.

“Success is best when it’s shared.”

Belinda