JORDAN SPRINGS GAZETTE MARCH 2026

2026 Local Celebration Awards

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Local Celebration Awards.

The Local Celebration Awards is a community awards program developed by Council to recognise and celebrate the people who are making a difference in Penrith.

It doesn’t matter how big or small their act of kindness is or how young or old they are. They’re looking for people who make Penrith a special place to live and whose spirit of generosity has changed the lives of others.

Do you know someone who has made a positive impact by volunteering or who saves thousands of lives through regular blood donations? Do you know someone who has raised a lot of money for charity or has given up their time or possessions to help others?

Then they want to hear from you!

There are four categories to nominate in:

Citizen of the Year

This award recognises the person who has contributed most significantly to the City of Penrith, demonstrating commitment, involvement in activities and innovation that has led to the betterment of the people within the Penrith community. The recipient needs to be a Penrith resident, aged 18 or over.

Young Citizen of the Year

This is awarded to a young person aged 24 years or younger, who has contributed most significantly to the City of Penrith, providing outstanding community service and/or attaining outstanding achievement in academics, sport, arts, or charity work. The recipient needs to be a Penrith resident.

Mayor’s Local Hero Award

This is awarded to a person who has contributed most significantly to the City of Penrith demonstrating commitment and involvement in activities that have led to the betterment of the people within the Penrith community. The recipient needs to be a Penrith resident, and there’s no age limit.

Making A Difference - Community Service Award

This award recognises a person or group who has shown outstanding dedication and contribution to one or more areas that has led to the betterment of the quality of life of others in the City of Penrith community in areas such as volunteering, charitable work, supported the community during emergencies or natural disasters, championing environmental initiatives, made a contribution in the sporting arena, or provided exceptional community leadership. For this award the recipient does not need to reside in the Penrith local government area. There is no age limit.

Nominations for the 2026 awards close 31 March 2026.

For more information, including the nomination process, visit https://www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/community-library/ community/local-celebration-awards

r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

Submit your Community Notice on/by 10th of the month, to be included in the following edition. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations. E: info@districtgazette.com.au

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/

Seussical Jr Auditions Open

Young performers with a passion for musical theatre are being invited to audition for Kaleidoscope Collective’s upcoming production of Seussical Jr this month.

Auditions will be held on March 5 at Harold Corr Community Hall in Werrington from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. Jordan Springs’ Lynsey Mackay of Kaleidoscope Productions said anyone interested in taking part should complete the registration form via the link available on the Kaleidoscope Collective Linktree page. Updates and further details can also be found on the group’s Facebook and Instagram pages under Kaleidoscope Collective.

The production itself will take to the stage from October 8

to 10 at the Greater Western Sydney Performing Arts Centre in Plumpton, promising a colourful and high-energy theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

Without giving too much away, Mackay said Seussical Jr brings to life some of Dr Seuss’s most beloved characters. “The Cat in the Hat guides us through the Jungle of Nool where Horton the Elephant discovers a tiny speck of dust containing the microscopic city of Whoville, which he promises to protect,” she said. “The show also features many loved characters such as the Grinch.”

Mackay believes the enduring popularity of Dr Seuss lies in the joy and heart woven throughout his stories. “The upbeat energy in the rhythmic pattern of the songs and the underlying messages of positivity, kindness and imagination really resonate with people of all ages,” she said.

For Mackay, one of the most rewarding parts of the process is watching young performers grow in confidence. “I can’t wait to work with the cast, teaching them all the songs and how to sing them in character, and then seeing the finished show on stage,” she said.

Beyond the October production, cast members will also have the opportunity to perform at the Australian Junior Theatre Festival in Newcastle, where they will take part in industry workshops. Last year, the group’s Finding Nemo cast won the Most Outstanding Vocals award. Performers may also take part in a musical theatre showcase at the Easter Show and the Penrith Tree Lighting.

Karate Classes Build Strength and Confidence in Ropes Crossing

Residents of Ropes Crossing looking to boost their fitness, confidence and self-defence skills can step onto the dojo floor each Monday night at the Ropes Crossing Community Hub.

Kyoukei Goju Ryu Karate, led locally by instructor David McClenahan, has been a long-standing fixture in the community, offering traditional Okinawan karate training for children, teens and adults. Classes are held during NSW school terms, with beginners of all ages training from 6:00pm to 7:00pm and advanced students from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Sessions are accessed via Guild Place and do not run on public holidays.

Mr McClenahan has been teaching karate for six years, beginning his journey as an instructor just before the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite his teaching role, he describes himself as “still very much a student,” training twice a week under his own teacher, Sensei Marty.

“In karate, learning never stops,” he said.

Classes cater to students aged around seven and above, with an emphasis on karate as a lifelong discipline that evolves with the individual.

Training is grounded in traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate. A typical class begins with fundamentals such as stances, blocks and strikes, designed to build strong technique and body awareness. Students then practise kata, structured sequences

of movements that preserve the principles and knowledge of the art.

Practical self-defence is a key focus, ensuring techniques apply beyond the dojo floor to real-world situations. For those interested, classes also include kumite, the sport aspect of karate involving controlled and safe sparring. Sessions provide full-body conditioning through functional movement and calisthenics, while maintaining a supportive and family-friendly atmosphere.

Mr McClenahan strongly believes in the value of physical discipline for both children and adults.

“Sport keeps the body strong, but just as importantly, it keeps the mind sharp and resilient,” he said. “Karate is safe, rewarding and challenging, and it can be enjoyed as a family activity or as a personal journey.”

Founded in 1999, Kyoukei Karate has built a reputation as one of Western Sydney’s most inclusive traditional clubs, with additional classes in Glendenning, Quakers Hill, Glenwood and The Ponds. The club offers a free first-class trial, inviting newcomers to arrive at 5.45pm on any Monday during term to get started.

From Shadows to Spotlight

Local author and District Gazette Writer Tanya Nellestein, returns readers to danger, desire, and deepening emotional stakes with the release of Emerging in Shadows, the third instalment in her gripping Townsend & Gray series.

Blending romantic suspense with crime fiction, the series follows investigators Ash Gray and Chad Townsend as they navigate complex cases while fighting just as hard for their relationship. With Emerging in Shadows, the stakes rise both personally and professionally, as buried secrets surface and trust is tested under pressure.

“This book really pushes Ash and Chad,” Tanya says. “They’re no longer just solving crimes — they’re confronting the emotional shadows. For Ash, it’s the arrival of her father whom she believed dead for the last thirty years; and for Chad, it’s his professional integrity coming under unwarranted scrutiny.”

The new release also marks a visual refresh for the entire series. All titles in Townsend & Gray have received a makeover with striking new covers that better reflect the atmospheric tone of the stories. “I wanted the covers to match the emotional depth and suspense inside,” Tanya explains. “They now feel as layered and compelling as the characters themselves.”

Readers can expect the signature elements fans have come to love: slow-burn romance, emotional vulnerability, and tightly woven investigations. But this instalment goes deeper into character psychology, exploring trauma, loyalty, and the cost of truth.

“For me, romantic suspense is about what happens when your heart is on the line at the same time as your life,” Tanya says. “Ash and Chad are strong, but they’re also human, and that’s where the real tension lives.”

The fourth and fifth books in the Townsend & Gray series will be released later this year.

With its blend of crime, intimacy, and high emotional stakes, Emerging in Shadows cements Tanya Nellestein’s place as a compelling voice in romantic suspense — and proves that in the Townsend & Gray world, the darkest places often reveal the most powerful truths.

You can find Emerging in Shadows, as well as all of Tanya’s other novels, on Amazon or purchase via her website: www. tanyanellestein.com or selective bookstores.

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info@districtgazette.com.au

Prue Car MP Returns to Work

I’m pleased to share that I am returning to work to kick off the new school year for 2026.

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me through what’s been a difficult seven months through my breast cancer journey.

I have been incredibly lucky to receive an amazing amount of love and support - from my husband Brad and our children, from my colleagues and from the community I am proud to represent.

Thank you to the incredible team at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. I’m in awe of what they do every single day.

Thank you to NSW Premier Chris Minns. Just as he has supported so many across NSW in tough times, he has

Village Café Llandilo

Come along to Village Café Llandilo to meet your neighbours and chat in a friendly and relaxed environment over a free barista-made coffee.

Take the opportunity to connect with local support services to gain free advice on a range of topics including health and wellbeing.

Attendees can help shape the activities at each Village Café by sharing their interests and concerns. Activities include free health checks, creative workshops and support with using technology. Keep an eye on their Penrith Neighbourhood Renewal Facebook page for more information.

supported me and my family every step of the way through this difficult period.

Thank you to my colleague Courtney Houssos, who stepped in and seamlessly became the Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Acting Minister for Western Sydney. Courtney has done a phenomenal job, and her steadfast support allowed me to focus on my recovery.

The experience of overcoming breast cancer has certainly changed me. What hasn’t changed is my unwavering commitment to deliver for the people of New South Wales, for the beautiful community I represent in Western Sydney, as well as continuing our nation-leading reform program in education across New South Wales.

I can’t wait to get back to work for the people of NSW. To my family and friends. To my colleagues. To the wonderful doctors and nurses.

Thank you so much.

Everyone is welcome to attend, share their stories and meet new people. At each Village Café session, you can expect a free barista-made coffee, colourful tablecloths, flags, music, community and health workers, as well as activities catered to the interests of attendees.

The location of Village Café can change due to wet or adverse weather conditions, please check their Penrith Neighbourhood Renewal Facebook page for updates.

Village Café is proudly delivered by Penrith City Council in partnership with local organisations to support community wellbeing. Regular services who are likely to attend include Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, Penrith Women’s Health Centre, The Benevolent Society, Active Care Network, Digital Literacy Foundation and Nepean Multicultural Access.

For more information, contact Neighbourhood Renewal at neighbourhoodrenewal@penrith.city or 4732 7777.

See you at Village Café!

Location: Wilson Park, Seventh Avenue Llandilo

Dates: Fourth Thursday of the month

Time: 9:30am – 11:30am

r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

From Grassroots to Greatness

Ropes Crossing’s football community continues to grow stronger thanks to the steady rise of West Football Academy (WFA), a locally based program dedicated to developing players of all ages and abilities.

Established in 2017 by Tim Aitken, WFA began with small group training sessions in Ropes Crossing and has since developed into a structured academy offering year-round programs across Western Sydney. While Aitken’s own coaching journey has included roles in the A-League Men’s competition and with Australia’s Young Matildas, the heart of the academy remains firmly planted in the Ropes Crossing community.

WFA provides a complete development pathway, introducing toddlers to basic motor skills and the fundamental rules of football, while also delivering elite training programs for older players who compete in the IFA League throughout the year. The academy’s structure allows young athletes to progress at their own pace, whether they are playing for fun, fitness or aspiring to higher levels of competition.

A key part of WFA’s success has been its strong partnership with Ropes Crossing Strikers FC. The collaboration, which will enter its eighth season in 2026, has created expanded opportunities for local players and strengthened grassroots football in the area. Together, the academy and club have built an environment where families feel connected and young players are supported both on and off the field.

For Aitken, grassroots football is about more than developing elite talent. It is about creating safe, enjoyable spaces where children can build confidence, friendships and a lifelong love of sport. “Grassroots football is about community,” he said. “It’s about supporting passionate players while also making sure every child feels welcome and enjoys being part of a team.”

That community spirit extends beyond the pitch. Volunteers, local sponsors and families all play a role in sustaining the academy’s programs, from helping on match days to easing registration costs for players.

As participation continues to grow, West Football Academy remains committed to nurturing football in Ropes Crossing, developing players, strengthening families and bringing the community together through the game.

For more information, visit westfootballacademy.com. au, contact info@westfootballacademy.com.au or find West Football Academy on Facebook and Instagram.

r 2025 U8s Fulltime Squad after winning the Grand Final | Image: West Football Academy

The History of International Women’s Day

Each March, International Women’s Day (IWD) is marked around the world with rallies, cultural events, and calls for gender equality, recognising women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. While today the day is often associated with celebrations and corporate campaigns, its origins are firmly rooted in protest and the labour movements of the early 20th century.

The story of International Women’s Day begins in the United States. In 1908, thousands of women garment workers marched through New York City demanding better working conditions, shorter hours, fair pay, and the right to vote. The following year, the Socialist Party of America declared the first National Woman’s Day, observed on February 28, 1909.

The idea soon spread internationally. In 1910, at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the creation of an annual international day to advocate for women’s rights. The proposal was unanimously approved by delegates from more than a dozen countries, though no specific date was set.

The first International Women’s Day was observed in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with more than one million women and men attending rallies. Demonstrators campaigned for voting rights, access to public office, and an end to workplace discrimination. The momentum continued over the following years, particularly in Europe.

March 8 became the recognised date, after events in Russia in 1917. Women textile workers in Petrograd went on strike demanding “bread and peace” amid food shortages and World War I. The protests helped spark the Russian Revolution, and the provisional government later granted women the right to vote. That date (March 8) was later adopted as International Women’s Day.

The United Nations officially recognised International Women’s Day in 1975, during International Women’s Year, further cementing its global significance. Today, the day is observed in countries around the world, sometimes as a public holiday, sometimes as a day of activism.

More than a century after its beginnings, International Women’s Day continues to highlight persistent gender inequalities while celebrating progress made. Its history serves as a reminder that the rights many enjoy today were won through collective action and that the work toward equality is ongoing.

r International Women’s Day takes place on March 8 | Image: www. pexels.com

Live Life in Colour at the 2026 Penrith Seniors Festival

Penrith will once again celebrate senior residents with its annual Penrith Seniors Festival, running from Monday 2 March to Sunday 15 March 2026.

This year’s theme, ‘Live Life in Colour!’, invites seniors to embrace joy, creativity and connection through a diverse program of free events and activities designed for those aged 50 years and over.

From craft workshops to movie screenings to health sessions and fitness classes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The festival will launch with two stand out events on Monday 2 March, a Seniors Festival Expo and the Penrith Seniors Comedy Gala, featuring a hilarious line-up of comedians including Chris Radburn (emcee), Cam Knight, Fiona Cox and Bruce Griffiths.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the festival is a highlight on the City’s calendar and a meaningful way to recognise the contributions of older residents.

HEALTH MATTERS

P: 0418 166 269

Exercise

“This year’s theme encourages our seniors to embrace colour in all its forms, through new experiences, friendships and community connections,” Cr Carney said.

“It’s a wonderful chance for people to come together, try something different and learn new skills in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”

“I’d also like to acknowledge the local organisations who support this festival and continue to provide valuable services that promote healthy ageing in our community.”

Events and workshops will be held at accessible locations across Penrith, reflecting the broader themes of the NSW Seniors Festival while catering to the interests of our local senior community.

To explore the full program, visit penrith.city/seniorsfestival

r Article: Penrith City Council

May Help Overcome Bad Genes, Aging And Help Response To Therapy

Research shows your genes don’t determine the person you become. Diet and exercise have huge positive influences, even if you have poor genetics. Illustrating this, ‘mtDNA-mutator’ mice have ‘really-bad’ genes. They accumulate 3–5 times as many mitochondrial DNA mutations as wild type mice in equivalent time. This leads to:

• mitochondrial dysfunction (in biogenesis & fission),

• excessive free radical production

• oxidative stress & damage to cells

• accelerated body cell death rates

• loss of cell reserve (aging).

This loss of cell reserve (stem cells) leads these mice to suffer from ‘progeria’, a disorder with profound premature aging and early death. Like old people, these mice have reduced fertility, muscle loss (sarcopenia), and subcutaneous fat loss, hair loss, curved spines, osteoporosis, anaemia, heart enlargement, and they get all these things very early in life.

Key is that their mitochondria malfunction first, well before the appearance of the actual signs of aging. Can anything delay this onset of mitochondrial changes and thus aging?

Experiments by Safdar et al. in 2011, using ‘mtDNA-mutator’ mice, demonstrated how regular endurance exercise can help even these genetically challenged mice. They showed ‘that 5 months of endurance exercise

1. induced systemic mitochondrial biogenesis,

2. prevented mitochondrial DNA deletions and mutations,

3. increased mitochondrial energy production capacity, 4. restored mitochondrial structure, and 5. blunted pathological levels of’ cell death ‘in multiple tissues of the mtDNA mutator mice’.

Endurance exercise conferred complete protection from progeria, ‘multisystem pathology, and prevented premature mortality in these mice’.

Thus, regular endurance exercise was able to overcome the severe genetic defects that these mice had. The authors concluded that ‘the systemic mitochondrial rejuvenation through endurance exercise promises to be an effective therapeutic approach to mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction in aging and related comorbidities’ (i.e. diseases).

Most of us will not have to overcome such severe genetic defects. For many of us, our lack of exercise will be a key contributor to the mitochondrial dysfunction that occurs in our cells and tissues, well before we see the outer signs of aging, including muscle loss. Appropriate regular endurance exercise seems to be one key preventer of age-related decline, and by keeping you physiologically younger, it may also accelerate your response to remedial therapy.

r ** Refer to submitter for references

Tertiary Scholarship Program

Applications for the 2026 program is now open and will close Friday 1 May 2026.

PLEASE NOTE: you must submit all results for the 2025 study period.

Blacktown City Council will award 15 Tertiary Scholarships in 2026. Each valued at $1500, successful applicants will need to have completed at least one year at a recognised tertiary institution (university, Tafe, college etc) in 2025 and be continuing their studies in 2026.

Judged by a panel of external experts, we also have the pleasure of awarding the Anne Aquilina Award which recognises the work of students studying in the health professions. In 2025, this was awarded to Imaaz Ahmad who is studying a Bachelor of Exercise Science (Medicine) and a Master of Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology at the University of New South Wales.

In 2025, the judges also awarded the inaugural First Nations Scholarship to Grace Valades from Minchinbury is studying a Bachelor of Communication (Social and Political Sciences) / Bachelor of Laws at the University of Technology Sydney.

Applicants must be a resident of Blacktown City and provide a copy of academic transcripts relating to their current studies (including those completed in 2025).

The judge’s decision on successful applicants will be final. Previous recipients of this scholarship are not eligible to apply.

For more information, visit https://www.blacktown.nsw. gov.au/Community/Awards-scholarships-and-competitions/ Tertiary-Scholarship-Program

PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club of Jordan Springs

Despite the summer heatwaves, our intrepid Probus members have been finding interesting ways to enjoy themselves in cool surroundings.

February has zipped by with tasty lunches, Aqua Golf, craft mornings in air-conditioned comfort, plus regular Trivia nights at Brooks—where we have been rather successful, with several prizes coming our way thanks to our combined brain power and shared experience!

Our monthly Guest Speaker sustained our Australia Day thoughts with a fascinating address on Captain Cook.

March will hopefully bring some cooler weather in time for our autumnal visit to the glorious Mayfield Gardens. Seniors Week is also a March feature, with the added convenience of the much-loved Seniors Concert available for online viewing. Trivia, crafts and monthly lunch are all planned—with an extra lunch date—providing numerous opportunities to find the fun, friendship and fellowship at the core of Probus.

We have an exciting and varied year ahead, with many events already in the calendar. Visitors are always welcome at lunches, excursions and monthly meetings, so come along and join in!

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

– 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

Ancient Wisdom for Today: Listening That Leads to Life

The Bible is brutally honest and beautifully hopeful. It tells us that the way we respond to correction reveals the direction of our heart. “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid” (Prov. 12:1). That’s not an insult for shock value—it’s a loving wake-up call. God cares too much about us to leave us unteachable.

In Proverbs, rebuke isn’t punishment; it’s protection. “Wounds from a friend can be trusted” (Prov. 27:6). Wise correction may sting, but it saves. Like a loving parent grabbing a child away from traffic, God uses rebuke to keep us from paths that destroy.

The fool stiffens his neck and blames others. The wise listen and live. “Whoever heeds correction shows the way to life” (Prov. 10:17).

Here’s the deeper truth: none of us naturally welcomes correction. Our pride resists it. That’s why Proverbs doesn’t just call us to better habits—it points us to a better heart. We need wisdom from outside ourselves, and ultimately that wisdom is found in Jesus. Consequently, for those who trust in Him, rebuke no longer threatens our identity—it shapes it.

So, when correction comes—through God’s Word, a trusted friend, or failure—don’t run. Lean in. Ask, “Lord, what are You teaching me?” And if you’ve never turned to Jesus, hear this today: Come to Christ, the wisdom of God, and learn the way that leads to life.

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

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

On February 18th, Ash Wednesday was celebrated, commencing the season of Lent in the Christian calendar. It had its origin in the early second century. Initially lasting one to three days, it slowly developed into the current 40 days of observance. This development was due to the influence of St Athanasius, an early Egyptian Christian. However, it was never uniformly established, with the Eastern churches varying the length of observance.

It was during the Middle Ages that the practice of marking the forehead with ashes became common. The ashes derive from burning the palm crosses from the previous year, which remind us of the entry into Jerusalem by Christ. When the forehead is marked, it is accompanied by the prayer, “Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.” This is a salient reminder that, to all intents and purposes, our lifespan is brief in relation to the ongoing path of history. Indeed, very few live to be older than 100 years. Yet within our lifespan lies the wonderful challenge to utilise our abilities to the best in thought, word, and action, not governed by greed but by a willingness to give, in order that life is enhanced.

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

Dr Joseph Kerious Joins Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital

We’re excited to welcome Dr Joseph Kerious as the newest veterinarian at Orchard Hills Vet Hospital, bringing our team to eight vets led by Dr Camille Brandt.

Joseph is a dedicated veterinarian with an Egyptian background and a genuine passion for compassionate, evidence-based care. He has a strong interest in emergency medicine and orthopaedic (bone) surgery, and enjoys supporting pets and their people through everything from routine check-ups to more complex medical situations.

A big believer in preventive medicine, Joseph is passionate about early intervention and client education as the foundation for long, healthy lives for pets. He enjoys working closely with clients, taking the time to explain options and ensure they feel confident and supported in their pet’s care. Community engagement and animal welfare are also close to his heart.

With a light-hearted nod to his cultural roots, Joseph is known to joke that cats are female — in honour of ancient Egyptian feline goddesses — while dogs are, naturally, just as divine.

When he’s not in the clinic, Joseph can usually be found enjoying specialty coffee, running outdoors, or cycling. He shares his home with Wilson, a Golden Retriever, and Chelsea, a Domestic Long Hair cat. Joseph is proud to be joining the team at Orchard Hills Vet Hospital and looks forward to caring for the pets of the local community.

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

CHECK

CONTACT

4733 0792

editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au PO Box 8254 Glenmore Park NSW 2745

General Enquiries info@districtgazette.com.au

Advertising Enquiries advertise@districtgazette.com.au

Account Information + Enquiries accounts@districtgazette.com.au

Artwork Submissions + Approval design@districtgazette.com.au

Distribution Enquiries wedeliver@districtgazette.com.au

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

Jasmine Stinson

Design

Jade Gregory

Writer / Sales

Cim Sanders

Writer

Tanya Nellestein

Group

Sports Clubs

Baseball Club Penrith

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.

March arrives with momentum, carrying us beyond the fresh start feeling of early year planning and into a season of steady progress and connection. As our next edition for the year, this issue reflects a community that is well and truly back in stride, with ideas turning into action and plans beginning to unfold.

By now, the year has found its rhythm. Classrooms, workplaces, sporting fields, and community spaces are buzzing with activity, and there is a strong sense of purpose in the air. March is often when commitment replaces intention, when routines settle, and when we begin to see the results of shared effort and focus.

What continues to stand out is the spirit of our community. Time and again, we see people showing up for one another, celebrating local successes, and offering support where it is needed most. These everyday moments of care, resilience, and pride are what shape our region and give it its unique character.

As we move further into 2026, we thank you for your continued support and involvement. It is a privilege to share your stories, highlight local voices, and reflect community life in these pages. We look forward to the months ahead and to continuing this journey together.

“The future depends on what we do in the present.” — Mahatma Gandhi

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