JORDAN SPRINGS GAZETTE NOVEMBER 2025

Indoor Multi-Sports Arena Project Reaches Key Milestone

Penrith City Council, in partnership with NSW Public Works (NSWPW), have invited a select panel of candidates to submit a tender to design Penrith’s new indoor multi-sports arena.

Council’s partnership with NSWPW commenced in July 2025 and is central to ensuring the successful delivery of the project through the use of NSWPW’s specialist expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Once complete, the arena will become a premier destination for local, regional, state and national sporting competitions, events and casual recreation.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the new indoor multi-sports arena project is critical to help address the significant gap in indoor sports facilities in the local government area.

“The arena will be designed to cater to a diverse range of sports and recreation activities with 10 multi-sport courts, 6 squash courts, an undercover outdoor rink, gym, rooms for programs like yoga and martial arts, as well as supporting infrastructure like a café, change rooms and car parking,” Cr Carney said.

“It will be located right next to the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct which will create a transformational hub in the east of the City that will position Penrith as the leading destination for sport and recreation in Western Sydney.”

The indoor multi-sports arena project is funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.

NSW Deputy Premier and Member for Londonderry Prue Car said this project will unlock a range of new sporting opportunities in Western Sydney.

“Western Sydney residents deserve access to high-quality sporting infrastructure, and the Minns Labor Government is proud to be delivering this facility alongside Penrith City Council.

“We have seen the success of the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct with our local families, and this indoor multi-sports arena will provide more local sporting opportunities for our growing community.”

The successful design tender will be awarded in late 2025. Construction is planned to begin in mid-2027.

To find out more about this project, visit: yoursaypenrith.com. au/indoorsportsarena.

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/

Striving, Thriving and Having Fun

With 270 athletes registered this season, Cranebrook Little Athletics Club (CLAC) continues to grow from strength to strength, not just in numbers, but in spirit and success.

Last season brought several memorable moments, none more significant than former club member Toby Camilleri donning the green and gold for Australia at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau. His bronze medal in the javelin was a proud milestone for the club and inspiration for younger athletes.

On the home front, CLAC had three teams qualify for the State Relay Championships: the U9 Girls 4x100m, U10 Boys 4x100m, and the U11 Boys Throws. The season was also boosted by a successful Bunnings BBQ fundraiser and saw 30 athletes qualify for the Regional Championships at Blacktown International Sports Park. From there, five athletes advanced to State, with standout performances including Chase placing 2nd in U10 Long Jump and Sarah Galea finishing 2nd in U14 Javelin, earning her a spot at Nationals in Perth.

This season, Club Captain Charlotte is excited to help her fellow athletes improve and discover the joy of athletics. “It’s going to be an amazing year full of energy, teamwork, and progress!” she says. Vice Captain Sarah is aiming high: “I’m looking forward to breaking records, chasing more PBs, and working towards Nationals 2026 in Brisbane.” Vice Captain Nidhu also said, “I can’t wait to be out there every Friday night, cheering everyone on and being part of all the energy that makes CLAC so special.”

Life Member Brad reflects fondly on how the club has evolved, saying, “It’s great to see kids having fun and the club embracing new ideas while staying true to its purpose.” Club President Damian adds, “Winning is great, but our focus remains on improvement, effort, and having fun.”

CLAC is always looking for new sponsors, athletes, and community volunteers. With strong community spirit and ever-growing ambition, the future is bright at Cranebrook Little Athletics Club.

A beautiful rural setting offering opportunities for children to interact with farm animals and actively participate in caring for the environment and other living beings

Contractor Appointed to Kick Off Early Works on Dunheved Road Upgrade

Penrith City Council has reached a major milestone in the proposed upgrade of Dunheved Road, appointing Georgiou Group to deliver the preliminary works following a competitive negotiation process.

Council endorsed the recommendation for Georgiou Group to complete the Early Works Agreement at the Ordinary Meeting on 22 September 2025. On-site activities are expected to begin prior to Christmas.

This early works phase will run for six to nine months and will prepare the site for the main construction phase. It includes:

• completion of the final civic design

• securing utility approvals and investigations

• site investigations for contamination

• geotechnical investigations

• detailed traffic management planning

• at-home noise assessment investigations for nearby properties

• sewer and drainage work at Orleton Place (subject to EPA approval).

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the appointment was an important step forward for the Dunheved Road project.

“Dunheved Road is vital to our transport network and its role in connecting the Penrith City Centre with our emerging growth centres will only become more important in the future,” Cr Carney said.

The Australian Government is funding the Dunheved Road Upgrade through its Infrastructure Investment Program.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King welcomed the milestone, saying the upgrade would deliver benefits across the community.

“Doubling the capacity of Dunheved Road will benefit everyone from families heading to school and sport to small businesses serving the community. I’m pleased the Albanese Government is working with Penrith City Council to finally deliver it,” Minister King said.

The main construction contract is expected to be awarded after the preliminary works are complete, with construction planned to begin in mid-2026.

To learn more visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/ dunhevedroadupgrade.

A Touch of Malta

Whether you’re from Malta or not, Maltese food is a favourite that is enjoyed by many families in the local area.

Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen is a small business that are passionate about bringing homemade Maltese food to life. It was established in 2018 by Jenny Aquilina.

“I was inspired by the way that the Maltese community embraces the love of food and how they share their family time around the dining table” explained Jenny to the Jordan Springs Gazette.

“Maltese love the traditional way of cooking. With so many people living busy lifestyles, I thought it was time to share my love of cooking Maltese food the way my Nanna showed me” she added.

The name of the food business did indeed come from Jenny’s grandmother, paying homage to her much loved Nanna Clara.

“Nanna Clara is my grandmother’s name. When I was young, I used to watch her cook in the kitchen and, of course, sampling the food as she cooked. So, I named my food van after her” Jenny smiled.

It’s no secret that Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen’s pastizzis are popular.

“What can I say, I have the best pastizzi here in Sydney. I also sell the well-known corned beef pie. I even have the privilege of coming in the Top 5 in Australia for this” she said.

Maltese doughnuts are always a crowd favourite. Baked Macaroni and Baked Rice are on the menu. The Ravioli is all made by hand. She also sells Peppered Cheese.

“The beauty of being a mobile business is that Nanna Clara’s Maltese Kitchen can attend all the Maltese festas in and around Sydney. If you can’t come to me, follow our social media pages and drop me a DM” Jenny replied.

“I am available to do any function you may have. You can even surprise your Nanna or Nunnu with the memories of the good old days back in Malta, with the love of home cooked meals” she ended.

Grazzi!

Llandilo Team Ranks Among Nation’s Best

Dedication, teamwork, and community pride were on full display when members of the Llandilo Rural Fire Brigade competed in the 2025 Australian Fire Cadet Championships, held from 29 September to 2 October 2025 at AGH Camps, Douglas Park, NSW.

Led by Captain Tim Hearn, the team, known as the Llandilo Little Devils, comprised of three junior members from Llandilo, joined by three cadets from Orchard Hills Brigade, with two senior members serving as team manager and coach. Together, they represented the Hawkesbury District in a showcase of the next generation of firefighters.

“The championships brought together 21 teams from across Australia and New Zealand,” Captain Hearn explained. “It was a great opportunity for the cadets to test their skills, make new friends, and enjoy the many fun activities that were available at the AGH Campgrounds.”

Malakai’s Little Cake Stand Adventure

About a year ago, during the school holidays in Jordan Springs, local student Malakai had a simple idea, to earn a bit of pocket money. He dusted off his cardboard “little shop”, baked a batch of sugar cookies, and set up a small stand. What started as a holiday project quickly turned into something bigger.

The stand, run sporadically during school breaks, has grown into a community favourite. Malakai began with just sugar cookies, but his creativity blossomed. Now, he and his growing team, which includes his cousin, a friend, and his little sister Annalissa, offer loaded brownies, loaded cookies, macarons,

Across the four-day event, cadets tackled a range of practical and technical challenges designed to mirror real-world firefighting tasks. “Events included rolling and bowling hoses, spraying water to knock down targets, and operating different pieces of equipment on RFS appliances,” said Hearn.

Beyond the competition, participants enjoyed social and recreational activities at the Douglas Park campgrounds, reinforcing the sense of community and belonging that underpins the Cadet Program.

The Llandilo Little Devils performed exceptionally well, finishing seventh overall, a strong result among a talented field of teams. “Our cadets worked hard in training and gave their best effort at every event,” Hearn said proudly.

Captain Hearn extended his gratitude to those who supported the team’s journey. “I want to thank all the volunteers who put in countless hours training the cadets and preparing them for competition,” he said.

As the cadets return home, they bring with them not only new skills but the spirit of teamwork and service that defines the NSW Rural Fire Service, a promising sign for the future of firefighting in the region.

cake pops, meringues, and even a fun creation cookie, which is a blind-box-style treat with a surprise inside.

It’s more than just selling treats. The stand has become a learning ground for the kids, managing money, talking with customers, and dreaming big. Malakai has taken his earnings and reinvested them into new baking ideas. His ultimate goal?

A food truck or trailer to sell baked goods and milkshakes at markets and shows.

Annalissa, now old enough to join in, is loving her role and already dreaming up her own contributions. Together, they’re not just baking, they’re building something special. With each stall, their confidence and creativity grow, supported by a warm and encouraging community.

While the next cake stand date isn’t locked in yet (being kid-run means it’s a little spontaneous!), they’re hoping to have some spooky treats ready for Halloween. So, keep your eyes peeled, Malakai’s cake stand adventure is just getting started, and there’s no telling how sweet the journey will become.

The Christmas Spectacular

The Christmas Spectacular, starring master illusionist Michael Boyd and special guest Prinnie Stevens, is a dazzling celebration of festive magic, music and glamour touring nationally from 6 to 23 December 2025.

Kicking off in Melbourne on 6 December and heading to Newcastle, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney and Canberra, the show promises a spellbinding experience for audiences of all ages.

This high-energy festive extravaganza blends dazzling circus acts, grand illusions, spectacular dance numbers and timeless Christmas music. Think Radio City Rockettes meets The Nutcracker, with a little Las Vegas sparkle, and plenty of heart.

The shining star of the night is host Prinnie Stevens. Rising to fame on The Voice Australia, Prinnie leads audiences through a musical journey of festive favourites with her powerhouse renditions of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and “Joy to the World”.

Audiences will be entranced by Australia’s Got Talent finalist Michael Boyd, one of the country’s top illusionists. His spectacular illusions, mind-boggling disappearances and captivating stage personality delight viewers of all ages.

Also featured is world-class circus artist Aleisha Manion, who defies gravity with a polished, smooth, and perfectly timed aerial routine. Her breathtaking act adds an extra layer of wonder to a show already brimming with magic, music, and movement.

Joining them is a cast of elite dancers and showgirls, many of whom have graced the stages of Moulin Rouge, the Lido, and other famed international cabarets, delivering glitz, glamour and precision at every turn.

Whether you’re reliving the joy of Christmas or making magical memories with the kids, The Christmas Spectacular is the ultimate family festive experience.

Venue: State Theatre, Sydney

Dates: Friday 19 – Sunday 21 December 2:00pm and 6:30pm

Ticketing: https://www.statetheatre.com.au/show-calendar/ christmas-spectacular/

When Neighbour Disputes Turn Toxic: Standing Together as a Community

For many people, home is a sanctuary – a place to feel safe, relaxed, and connected to the neighbourhood around them. But when relationships between neighbours sour, that sense of security can quickly unravel.

Neighbour disputes are unfortunately becoming more common, and while disagreements about fences, parking, pets or noise are not unusual, some situations escalate into toxic behaviour that goes far beyond a simple misunderstanding. Toxic neighbours may deliberately intimidate, harass, or attempt to control those around them, leaving families feeling trapped in their own homes.

The emotional toll of such disputes is significant. Victims often report heightened stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues as a result of ongoing conflict. Children, too, can

be deeply affected, exposed to an environment of hostility instead of harmony. It is unacceptable that anyone should feel unsafe or harassed where they live.

So how can the wider community respond? Awareness is key. Signs of toxic behaviour can include constant surveillance, loud or abusive language directed at neighbours, intentional damage to property, or manipulative attempts to isolate families from others in the street. If you notice a neighbour experiencing this kind of behaviour, reach out with kindness. A simple check-in or offering a listening ear can provide muchneeded support.

Communities are stronger when they refuse to tolerate intimidation. Encourage open communication where possible but understand that in some cases professional help may be needed. Mediation services, community justice programs, and, if necessary, police or legal intervention are there to ensure people’s rights are respected.

Ultimately, a healthy neighbourhood is built on respect. We all share the responsibility of creating a safe environment where disputes are resolved fairly and no one is left to suffer at the hands of toxic behaviour. By standing together, offering support to those affected, and making it clear that harassment and intimidation are unacceptable, we can protect the peace of our communities and restore the true meaning of “neighbourhood.”

Book Review Your

Don’t Go To Sleep!

Author:R.L Stine

Don’t go to sleep is a children’s horror book By R.L Stine. Its storyline compromises Matt, a 12 year-old who has a passion for collecting. However, his room is very small, and is always begging his mother for a bigger room to house his collection. The room he has his eye on is the guest room, although it is kept aside for his grandparents, who come to visit once every year. He is also constantly bullied by his older siblings, Pam and Greg. One night, Matt decides to sleep in the guest room, triggering a horrifying reaction…

When Matt wakes up, he finds himself in the same house, yet he has different parents. It is almost if he has travelled to an entire different universe. How, Matt cannot explain. His ‘parents’ in the new universe think he is delusional when he tries to explain it to them. When he goes to school, he meets a girl called Lucy who he thinks about sharing his idea with. However, he is chased by two bullies before he can tell her. That night, he sleeps again in the guest room, and triggers another reaction, waking up to discover horror after horror, such as turning into an old man, the son of a circus trainer and more. However, most involve Lucy and the two bullies. One day, when he wakes up, he has turned into a monster.

After he eats a car, Matt follows Lucy to an abandoned building, where Lucy and the two bullies introduce themselves as the time police. They plan to kill Matt, but he sleeps, and transforms himself into a squirrel. He then seeks out his old home, and sneaks into the guest room, and returns to his normal self. However, there is a twist: Matt’s mother has said he has to move to the guest room. The book was an amazing read, and had me yearning for the next page till the very end.

r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal

Shovels in the Ground for High School in Jordan Springs

Construction has officially begun on a new high school for families in the rapidly growing Western Sydney suburbs of Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing – the first ever public high school to be built in the area.

The new high school is located in the Jordan Springs East precinct, on the corner of Armoury Road and Infantry Street. Designed to meet the needs of the growing community, the new high school will feature 51 modern classrooms, three support classrooms, 10 workshops for specialist classes, three sports courts, a large playing field, and a multipurpose hall.

With doors opening to students on Day 1, Term 1, 2027, the high school will accommodate 1,000 students, providing local families with the full local public education offering they have been fighting for over 10 years.

The NSW Government’s Enrolment Growth audit revealed that student enrolment growth skyrocketed under the former Liberal National government. Student enrolment growth in the Jordan Springs – Llandilo area increased by 95 per cent between 2018 – 2023, while recent Census data shows the overall population of Sydney’s North West Growth Area more than tripled between 2016 and 2021.

Jordan Springs was the first new school to benefit from a streamlined planning pathway under recent changes to NSW

planning laws. This approach has slashed administrative red tape, reducing the need for lengthy development applications and enabling more efficient delivery.

These upgrades are being delivered at part of the NSW Government’s plan to rebuild public education, with the 202526 Budget delivering $3.9 billion for new and upgraded schools in Western Sydney.

In addition to building classrooms where they are needed, the Minns Labor Government is also working to ensure each classroom has a qualified teacher.

Since March 2023, the NSW Government has reduced teacher vacancies by 61 per cent across the state, leading to the number of cancelled classes recorded in NSW nearly halving. In the Londonderry electorate, there were 59 per cent fewer vacancies than at the same time in 2022.

The enrolment catchment for the new high school, will encompass the current catchments of both Jordan Springs Public School and Ropes Crossing Public School. The school’s intake area can be viewed at: edu.nsw.link/NewHSJordanSpringsIntakeArea.

“Jordan Springs is one of the top 10 student growth areas in the state, and for more than a decade the former Liberal National government denied our community the infrastructure we deserve.

“The community has been fighting hard for a new high school here for near on a decade - I have been proud to fight alongside them and am now thrilled to be delivering for a community I love.

“The new high school in Jordan Springs will provide local families with the world class, feefree education that they deserve” said NSW Deputy Premier and Member for Londonderry Prue Car.

Youth Building Tomorrow’s Businesses Today

A fresh wave of creativity and ambition is set to sweep across Sydney’s markets with the launch of Kids Mean Business, a youth entrepreneurship program designed especially for kids aged 8 to 17. Run by AMA Event Management, this exciting initiative offers young aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to develop, showcase, and sell their own products or services — all while gaining real-world business experience.

The inspiration behind Kids Mean Business comes from years of experience working closely with small business owners and market stallholders. The program’s founder noticed a remarkable trend: many children in these families were already showing an impressive mix of creativity and drive. “I wanted to create a platform where that spark could be nurtured early,” explained Monique Annetts of AMA Event Management. “The goal is where kids could learn resilience, communication, and business skills in a supportive and fun environment. It’s also about giving them confidence and the belief that their ideas matter” she continued.

Launching officially in early 2026, Kids Mean Business will pilot markets and workshops at existing AMA market venues throughout Sydney and its surrounding areas. To make the program as accessible as possible, it will run groups in multiple

locations. Families interested in getting involved can register their young entrepreneurs through the AMA Markets website at www.amamarkets.com.au, where they’ll receive guidance on everything from preparing their stall and developing products, to pricing items and engaging with customers.

What makes this program so valuable, according to Monique, is the early connection it fosters between creativity, financial literacy, and community involvement. While traditional classrooms have their place, the program recognises that some children learn best through hands-on experiences. By providing a safe and structured environment to experiment and grow, Kids Mean Business is helping shape confident future business owners and community leaders.

Adding an extra layer of excitement, the program will introduce a seasonal “Kids Mean Business Award” to celebrate outstanding young entrepreneurs for their creativity, presentation, and passion.

With its family-friendly markets already bustling with energy, Kids Mean Business promises to bring a new level of innovation and community spirit, making Sydney’s markets a hub for the next generation of bright young minds.

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

October was Probus Month, and all our activities celebrated the Probus ethos of Fun, Friendship, and Fellowship in Retirement! The unusually warm weather provided extra stimulus for our Trivia regulars at Brooks Tavern! A very successful month indeed. One week our two teams finished 2nd and 3rd, but the next week we were the outright winners! The best part, however, was the fun we had sharing our wide-ranging knowledge. Yes, we impressed numerous younger players!

High Tea in Windsor was a delightful afternoon, but so was the scrumptious monthly lunch in Richmond. An extra adventure enjoyed by many was a day trip by train to Lithgow, discovering history, unique shopping, and of course, good food and all shared with good company.

As we go to print, preparations are in full swing for our annual “Games Extravaganza” as our final Probus Month celebration. Watch this space!

Not to be outdone, November will be just as enjoyable with a new venue for our monthly lunch, a brewery visit, the regular Trivia nights, and the growing monthly Craft gathering where the laughter and shared skills leave smiles on all faces.

Visitors are always welcome to any events, so come along and discover the Friendship and Fellowship to be found within our Probus Club. A purely social club catering specifically for semi and full retirees, Jordan Springs Probus Club will meet throughout 2025, at 9:45 for a 10:00 am start, on the 4th Tuesday of each month, at Jordan Springs Community Hub, 2–6 Cullen Ave, Jordan Springs.

For more information, contact Keith: 02 9713 9038, Tricia: 0414 976 997, 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

Doing Justice and Loving Mercy

The Bible speaks of justice not as an optional virtue, but as central to knowing God. “To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice” (Proverbs 21:3). True justice is not merely about laws or fairness, it’s about restoring what sin has broken.

In Generous Justice, Timothy Keller wrote, “If you look down on the poor and stay aloof from their suffering, you have not really understood or experienced God’s grace.” That’s because the gospel, the message of Christianity,is itself an act of divine justice: Jesus taking our guilt so we could be declared righteous. Grace and justice meet perfectly at the cross.

Our modern world cries out for justice, yet often seeks it without God. Social movements can diagnose inequality but cannot heal the human heart that causes it. Biblical justice goes deeper, it flows from a transformed heart that loves mercy, defends the vulnerable, and acts with humility before God (Micah 6:8).

When we grasp that Christ stood in our place, the innocent for the guilty, it changes how we see others. We begin to serve, give, and speak for those without power, not to earn God’s approval but because we already have it. Grace makes justice possible, and justice makes grace visible.

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

Across Time and Tradition: The Story of Demons

Demons, as portrayed in various religions, myths, and cultural traditions, represent hostile entities that span diverse civilizations and historical periods. Accounts of them record a wide range of attributes and roles. The word demon comes from ancient Greek, where in Hellenic traditions it could refer to either benevolent or malicious intermediaries between gods and humans. Over the centuries— especially with the rise of Christian thought—interpretations leaned increasingly toward demons being hostile beings.

Ancient Greek teachings spread across many cultures. For example, ancient Mesopotamian civilizations had numerous stories about demonic activity. In Islamic tradition, the jinn are understood as beings capable of influencing worldly events, echoing certain aspects of the Christian understanding. In the Old Testament, there are references—such as to the shedim—which scholars debate, but which are generally accepted as referring to evil spirits.

Within Christian theology, demons are often identified as “fallen angels” who, led by Satan, rebelled against God and were subsequently expelled from heaven. These exiled beings became adversaries of humanity, reinforcing the destructive power of rebellion against what is good. The New Testament records many encounters between Jesus Christ and individuals possessed or oppressed by demons. These accounts underscore Christ’s divine authority, as He continually exorcises and rebukes them, highlighting the ongoing struggle between good and evil. In modern interpretations, beliefs about demons vary widely. Some scholars view them as symbolic representations of inner human conflicts or broader social struggles, while others maintain a literal belief in their existence and influence. Notably, demons have also been examined through the lens of psychology, and they remain enduring subjects in literature and popular culture. This continued attention underscores humanity’s longstanding fascination with, and struggle to comprehend, the spiritual realm and the unknown.

A Day of Remembrance: Honouring the Brave at Memory Park

As the nation halts for a minute of silence at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, Australians from all walks of life will recognise and honour the profound sacrifices made by our armed forces throughout history.

At 11:00am on November 11, 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was renamed Remembrance Day after World War 2 to commemorate those who laid down their lives in both global conflicts.

Anthony Eddie, President of the Penrith RSL sub-Branch, perfectly captured the emotion underlying this solemn ceremony. “Remembrance Day to me is a time to reflect on the many sailors, soldiers, and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice and died fighting to protect this great nation of ours. It’s a time to reflect on the hundreds of thousands of men and women who emerged from conflict injured, both physically and mentally. It is a time to remember those that suffered in silence for a lifetime afterwards or endured contempt for their committed service. It is also a time to remember the family members, friends and community members who supported those brave Veterans through thick and thin, whilst they were away and when they game back, Eddie stated.

“Remembrance Day is a day to reflect upon the sacrifices of many so all can understand, to educate those that might not be familiar and to improve how we treat our Veterans in the future. It’s an opportunity to re-visit history, to commemorate the memories of loss and hardship, mateship during impossible times and to learn from our mistakes, said Eddie. “Veterans were not always treated well upon their return to Australia, and we must do better as a society in the future”.

This year, the Remembrance Day service will be held at Memory Park, in Penrith. Attendees are encouraged to arrive before 10:30am for the service that is planned to conclude just after 11:00am. The service will be followed by morning tea and refreshments hosted by the sub-Branch at the Penrith RSL Club.

The Penrith RSL sub-Branch, including the Auxiliary Team, are dedicated to supporting the local veteran community and their families. The sub-Branch is made of volunteers, and they are a busy bunch organising commemorations, funerals and initiatives like the ‘Guitars for Vets’ program, weekly ‘Free Cuppa and Chat’, welfare support, DVA Advocacy, home visits, and care packages. The Penrith RSL sub-Branch plays an instrumental role in keeping the spirit of service alive in our community. “We have a little over 525 sub-Branch members with consistent and energetic growth, Eddie said proudly.

Amidst the formalities and ceremonies, the underlying message of gratitude and honour is clear. And as we stand in silence, honouring the brave souls who fought for our freedoms, we are reminded of the importance of unity, peace, and gratitude.

‘We Will Remember Them’, ‘Lest We Forget’.

r Article: Anthony Eddie

The Moustache is Calling

This Movember, the moustache is calling again — and it’s calling on everyone.

From humble beginnings in Melbourne 22 years ago, Movember has grown into a global movement that has changed the face of men’s health. In 2025, the charity is once again rallying Australians to unite, grow and take action for men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer - with a renewed focus on supporting men in regional and remote communities who are facing the greatest risk

Since its inception in 2003, Movember has sparked billions of conversations, raised in excess of AUD $1.7 billion and funded more than 1,300 men’s health projects across the world. Its impact has been transformative — from groundbreaking biomedical research to building some of the world’s largest prostate cancer registries and pioneering mental health programs that reach

HEALTH MATTERS

men where they are - in workplaces, sporting clubs, and rural towns across Australia.

And in 2023, the Movember Institute of Men’s Health was launched, backed by an AUD $100 million global investment – uniting experts, communities and partners to accelerate research and translate it into real-world solutions.

“Men’s health still isn’t enough of a priority,” says Movember Co-Founder Travis Garone. “Our healthcare systems often don’t meet men where they are especially in rural and remote areas — and too many fall through the cracks. The moustache is our rallying cry — it gets people talking, laughing, and most importantly, acting. Every Mo grown and every conversation sparked can save a life.”

Australians are encouraged to sign up, donate, or learn more at Movember.com or via the Movember app.

The moustache is calling. Grow a Mo. Raise funds. Save lives. If this story raises concerns for you or someone you know, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for free, confidential support.

r Image/Article: Movember

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness

P: 0418 166 269

Can Stretching Your Hamstrings Help Reduce Back Pain?

Many people suffer back pain with no radiological or other evidence as to cause i.e. disc herniation, osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis and spondylosis, leg length discrepancy, systemic diseases, etc. Among production line workers who stand for long periods, this type of back pain is frequent, difficult to cure, and has a high (60%) recurrence rate. These workers often have tight hamstrings which rotate the upper pelvis backward, reducing the natural inward curve of the lower back (lumbar lordosis).

Researchers recruited 100 automobile production workers with chronic lower back pain, without detectable cause, who worked standing 8 hours/day, and who were unable to complete a ‘straight leg raise’ (SLR) test to more than 800. Workers were randomised to three groups, with each group given different routines to do, 3 days per week, over 6 weeks:

1. Group 1 - 32 people were taught lumbopelvic strengthening exercises and hamstring stretches to be done at-home (Control)

Groups 2 & 3 below, of 34 people were supervised at work and each did 20min of specific lumbopelvic strengthening per session plus:

2. Group 2 – did simple standing hamstring stretches - one leg on table gently pulling torso to knee of the raised leg for 30 seconds, relaxing for 10 seconds, then repeating stretch. 5

min for each hamstring.

3. Group 3 – did simple hamstring stretches as above but with pelvic control – i.e. with:

a. neck and upper back pulled straight,

b. shoulder blades pulled together and c. hamstrings pulled tight

Note: Group 3’s stretch-method straightens the back during stretching focusing the stretch fully on the hamstrings. Group 2 was allowed to achieve some stretch by bending their backs reducing hamstring stretch efficiency.

Before and after intervention, the authors measured:

1. Back pain: while working and resting

2. Ability to raise a straight leg

3. Ability to do a seated leg stretch

4. Indexes for ability and disability

They found:

1. no improvements for group 1 in any measure.

2. groups 2 and 3 improved - all measures

3. group 3 significantly outperformed group 2all measures

Authors’ conclusion - regular focused hamstring stretches using pelvic control, lengthened hamstrings and reduced significantly reduced lower back pain.

r ** Refer to submitter for references

Understanding Dog Park Etiquette

With the arrival of warmer spring mornings, dog owners across Penrith are keen to head outdoors and enjoy the sunshine with their furry companions. Local dog parks offer a great opportunity for dogs to run off-leash, burn energy, and socialise with other pups. But for these shared spaces to remain fun and safe, it’s important that everyone follows a few simple rules of dog park etiquette.

Know before you Go

Not every dog is suited to the high-energy, unpredictable environment of a dog park. Before heading out, be realistic about your dog’s behaviour and comfort levels. Is your dog well-socialised? Do they enjoy the company of other dogs, or do they prefer quieter surroundings? Understanding your dog’s temperament helps prevent stressful or unsafe situations—for both your dog and others.

Dog Park DO’s: Setting Everyone Up for Success

9 Vaccinate and Prevent – Always ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention. This not only protects your dog, but also the entire park community.

9 Leash Until Inside – Keep your dog on-leash until you’re in the fenced play area. It helps prevent misunderstandings or accidents during initial introductions.

9 Respect Park Zones – Many parks separate large and small dog areas for a reason. A respectful division can prevent accidental injuries or fear-based behaviours.

9 Scoop the Poop – It’s a basic but crucial rule: always clean up after your pet. Not only is it courteous, it helps reduce the

spread of disease.

9 Stay Engaged – Your job isn’t done once you’re inside the gate. Stay attentive and monitor your dog’s behaviour to ensure safe and positive interactions.

The DON’Ts: What to Avoid at the Dog Park

² Don’t Use the Park for Behavioural Training – If your dog is fearful, anxious or reactive, the dog park isn’t the place to work on it. Seek support from a trainer or veterinarian first.

² Avoid Taking Young Puppies – Dogs under 16 weeks of age or not fully vaccinated are best kept at home or in safer socialisation settings.

² No Phone Zone – It’s tempting to scroll while your dog plays, but supervision is key. Problems can escalate quickly, and being alert ensures a safer experience for all.

Dog parks can be a great outlet for exercise and enrichment when used responsibly. A little courtesy and common sense go a long way in making sure everyone—on two legs and four— enjoys their visit.

If you’re unsure whether the dog park is right for your pet, or you need advice on vaccinations and socialisation, contact the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 02 4736 2027. Let’s make dog parks a safe and happy place for all dogs.

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

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10th November

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As the year begins to wind down, November invites us to pause, reflect, and look ahead. The days are warmer, the evenings longer, and there is a quiet excitement as festive preparations take shape. Calendars fill with school concerts, community fairs, and end of year gatherings that remind us how vibrant and connected our neighbourhoods are. It is a month to appreciate how far we have come, acknowledge challenges overcome, and recognise those who have offered support. It is also a time to plan for what is next, setting gentle intentions while finding joy in the here and now.

As towns and villages come alive with colour and celebration, let us support local businesses and community groups. Every purchase, kind word, and act of encouragement strengthens the place we are proud to call home.

Amidst the rush of the season, remember to slow down, breathe, and notice the simple moments that make life meaningful.

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” – Aesop

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