ORAN PARK GAZETTE APRIL 2026

Saddle Up for Boots n’ Beats

Mark your calendars, round up your mates and get ready to boot-scoot – Boots n’ Beats is back!

Camden Council’s barn-burnin’ country musical festival will be held on Saturday 13 June, 2:00pm-8:00pm, at Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park.

The event will be headlined by leading Australian contemporary country artist, James Johnston. Known for his raw vocals and down-to-earth storytelling rooted in regional life, James was the first independent Australian country artist to achieve an ARIA Platinum single. With millions of streams, multiple Golden Guitar wins and a chart-topping debut album, James has quickly cemented his place as a powerful voice in modern Australian country music.

In addition to James, the event will feature other local and nationally renowned country music artists, delicious country-style food and drinks, local craft beers and ciders, kids’ entertainment and activities, Boots n’ Beats branded merch, amusements and so much more.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said she couldn’t wait to welcome everyone to the much anticipated event.

“We’re finalising the talent and food and drink lineups now, but you can expect big-name acts and local legends sharing the stage, as well as a full spread that’s as good as the music,” she said.

“It’s an event filled with laughter, dancing, good vibes and plenty of memories to take home.

“There will be something for everyone. It’s the kind of festival you’ll be talking about long after the dust settles.”

More event details will be unveiled soon, so residents are encouraged to keep an eye on Council’s website and social media for the latest updates. Council’s dedicated Facebook event page can be found at facebook.com/BootsnBeatsCamdenAU

In the meantime, tickets are on sale now and moving quickly. To ensure you don’t miss out, visit www.bootsnbeats.com.au

r The popular event returns in June | Image/Article: Camden 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

Community Groups

Macarthur Art Group

Meet every third Saturday at Narellan Library 1st floor from 9.30am - 1.30pm. Tea coffee biscuits for a gold coin donation. More details: 0404 229 498

Children + Families

PlayTime @ NewLife Anglican Church

Meets Wednesdays (During School terms) at 10.00am -11.30am. PlayTime is for Mums and Carers with kids 0-5. NewLife Anglican Church (Cnr Marcus Loane Way + Central Avenue, Oran Park). More Details: www.newlifeanglican.org.au/wp/playtime.

Markets

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Held weekly on Saturdays from 7:00am till 12:00pm at Camden Town Farm (40 Exeter Street, Camden). More details: camdenproducemarket@hotmail.com or www. camdenproducemarket.com.au

Cobbitty Village Markets

Held on the first Saturday of the month (excluding January and February) from 8:00am till 1:00pm at Cobbitty Public School (Cobbitty Road, Cobbitty). More details: www. cobbittymarkets.com.au

Support + Wellbeing

Australian Breastfeeding Association CamdenWollondilly Group

Come along and meet new friends. Chat with mums who have 'been there' and connect with their local breastfeeding counsellors and educators. The group meets monthly at Spring Farm Community Centre (275 Richardson Road, Spring Farm). More details: camden_wollondilly_aba@outlook.com

Macarthur Crafter Keeps Easter Tradition Alive

For more than 15 years, Macarthur resident Joy Kumar has been helping families celebrate Easter with colourful, handcrafted hats.

What began as a small favour for family and friends has grown into a seasonal tradition, with Joy now creating between 40 and 60 Easter hats each year for local children.

Her passion for craft first sparked while working in a shop, where customers frequently asked for help making Easter hats. Seeing the demand, she began designing her own creations, offering them to parents who either didn’t have the time or confidence to make the hats themselves.

“I’ve always loved craft,” Joy said. “It started with people asking if I could make one for them, and it just kept growing from there.”

Each hat takes about an hour to complete, from start to finish. She says the key to a great Easter hat is patience and focus.

“You need to concentrate and take your time,” Joy said. “No distractions. I also like to make sure the hat has big items that stand out.”

She keeps up with changing trends to ensure her designs remain popular. At the moment, hats decorated with plush toys, especially bunny rabbits, are the most popular choice for girls. For boys, themes featuring cars or trains are in high demand.

Alongside following trends, she also offers customised hats tailored to each child’s interests, as well as her own ready-made designs.

The hats are often worn in school Easter parades, a tradition celebrated across many Australian primary schools.

For busy parents, Joy says her service helps keep the tradition alive without adding extra stress.

“I know a lot of parents are time poor,” she said. “This way the kids can still have a fun hat for their parade.”

Parents interested in ordering a hat can contact Joy on 0433 884722 or search “Joy’s Easter Hats” on Facebook for more information.

r Some of Joy’s amazing creations | Image: Joy’s Easter Hats - Facebook

COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!

Gledswood Hills High School Welcomes Year 8 Students!

I’m incredibly excited to announce that Gledswood Hills High School is open!

Last year, the Minns Labor Government opened a fast-tracked temporary campus for Gledswood Hills High School.

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au

This ensured Gledswood and Gregory Hills students had a local public school to learn at while the new Gledswood Hills High School is being built.

After 12 years of delays and broken promises by the former Liberal government, the new temporary high school has been delivered.

In 2025, a Year 7 cohort was accepted to the state-of-the-art purpose-built temporary facility for the first time.

Gledswood Hills High School will be operating out of Gregory Hills Primary School until 2027, when the permanent site for the high school is expected to open.

This year, Gledswood Hills High School has welcomed back Year 8 students and another busload of Year 7 students – definitive proof that a local school was desperately needed.

Land has also been chosen for the permanent site for Gledswood Hills High School.

I want to thank the community and parents again for their continuous support in helping me to get this project off the ground. In the 2023 election, I committed to delivering a school for the families of Gledswood and Gregory Hills – and thanks to their support over these past three years, we’ve achieved just that.

As a former teacher, I know how important it is to have access to a great education at a local school, and I’m working hard to ensure that every child in our area is able to receive the best schooling experience they can.

I also want to thank Principal Belinda Guidice and all the new teachers at Gledswood Hills High School, who are doing an excellent job establishing what has already become such an amazing educational hub.

REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAMDEN

If you’re driving through past Gregory Hills Drive in the coming weeks, check out the new permanent high school site! Construction is well on the way, and the space is already looking incredible.

The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering much needed upgrades to 15 schools across Camden.

If you have any other state or local issues you need my assistance on, please don’t hesitate to give my office a call on (02) 4655 3333, or send me an email at camden@ parliament.nsw.gov.au. I’m always here to help.

These upgrades are part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education in NSW after 12 years of Liberal Government neglect.

r Article: Sally Quinnell MP

tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au

Runway Run/Walk – A Runaway Success

Entries for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport’s “Runway Run/Walk” have ‘taken off’, with runners, walkers, strollers and aviation enthusiasts giving the historic one day event a massive tick of approval.

Opening recently, entries for Runway Run/Walk on Sunday, 26 April 2026 have exceeded expectations with more than 17,500 participants already signed up and the remaining entry slots selling like hot cakes.

TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN

(02) 4655 3333

camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley

Teacher vacancies have been slashed by over 40 percent in NSW public schools.

Way, Narellan NSW 2567

When the Minns Labor Government says that we want to ensure every student has access to a world class education, we mean it – and that’s proven right here in Camden.

Authorised by

Elite Energy Events CEO, Mark Emerton said he is delighted by the widespread interest and genuine passion of the whole community to celebrate the nation’s most significant aviation project in more than 50 years and to support Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF).

“The unique Runway Run/Walk, has genuinely captured the imagination of both Australian and international participants.”

“Interest from the Western Sydney community, nationally and internationally has been phenomenal and the enthusiasm and fervour of the aerophiles, plane spotters and aviation enthusiasts from across Australia and overseas has been truly remarkable.”

“The appeal of the walk component of Runway Run/Walk has exceeded expectations, selling out in record time and requiring us to offer a ‘wait list’.”

“The run section of Runaway Run/Walk has also been in extremely high demand. For the running community it is a once in a lifetime and historic opportunity to set a personal best on a flat, ultra-fast course, so these are the hottest tickets in town.”

“My advice to anyone contemplating entering the run is to sign up right away. You don’t want to miss out, so don’t hesitate, do it without delay,” he said.

To participate, join the wait list, fundraise or donate to Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) visit runwayrun.com.au.

r Article: Elite Energy Events

Enjoy living in the Park with easy access to the conveniences Oran Park is known for.

No matter where you live in Oran Park, you’re only moments from a great range of amenities including The Podium Shopping Centre, a wide array of schools, parks and facilities.

Set in one of the fastest-growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master-planned community of new homes and expanding dining and retail precincts.

Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer.

Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.

Camden RSL Sub-Branch Prepares for 2026 ANZAC Day March and Commemorative Service

The Camden RSL Sub-Branch invites the community to once again come together to commemorate ANZAC Day 2026, honouring the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women who have served our nation.

Following the overwhelming community support seen in recent years, including record attendance at last year’s commemorations, the Sub-Branch is preparing for another meaningful day of remembrance in Camden.

The day will begin with the Dawn Service, held at the Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park Memorial Site, commencing at 5:15am. The Dawn Service remains one of the most powerful moments of ANZAC Day, offering a quiet and respectful opportunity for reflection as the community gathers in the early morning light to remember those who gave so much in service to our country.

Later in the morning, Camden’s town centre will once again become the setting for the ANZAC Day March, beginning at 10:30am. Veterans, current service personnel, community

groups, and descendants of those who served will march through the streets of Camden in a proud display of remembrance and respect. The march is a long-standing tradition that continues to unite the community in acknowledging the sacrifices made by generations of Australians.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to line the streets and show their support as the march passes through the heart of Camden.

Following the march, the ANZAC Day Commemorative Service will take place, featuring addresses from community representatives, the laying of wreaths, and musical tributes. These moments provide an opportunity for the community to pause, reflect, and honour the ANZAC spirit, the values of courage, mateship, endurance, and sacrifice that continue to shape our national identity.

The Camden RSL Sub-Branch warmly welcomes everyone to take part in these important commemorations. Whether you attend the Dawn Service, support the march, or participate in the community service, your presence helps ensure the legacy of our servicemen and women is remembered and respected for generations to come.

For further information about the Dawn Service, ANZAC Day March, or Community Service, please contact the Camden RSL SubBranch via email at admin@camdenrsl.org.au.

Join them this ANZAC Day as the Camden community stands together to remember, honour, and reflect.

Lest We Forget.

r Feature Article [Cover + Above] 2025 Camden ANZAC Day | Images: Brett Atkins. Supplied by Camden RSL Sub-Branch. Article: Camden RSL Sub-Branch

Built, Finished, Opened: Toll-Free M12 Motorway Goes Live

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments have opened the brand-new M12 Motorway – the driveway to the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport.

After four years of construction, Western Sydney’s new, stateof-the-art motorway opened to traffic in the early hours of Saturday, 14 March, in time for the commencement of cargo and passenger flights at the new airport later in the year.

The 16-kilometre section of the M12 connects Elizabeth Drive in the east to The Northern Road in the west, delivering an intersection-free, 100 km/h run straight to the airport precinct. It will serve as the key gateway to the new airport and the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, which will become a thriving innovation precinct and create thousands of jobs for the region.

The M12 is designed to seamlessly integrate with the wider road network, improving connectivity for motorists and freight operators across Sydney. The final component – the M7/M12 Interchange at Cecil Hills – remains on track to open mid-year delivering a motorway-to-motorway and intersection-free connection between the M12 and the M7.

The motorway between Elizabeth Drive and The Northern Road will open in the early hours of Saturday morning, because the Albanese and Minns Governments are determined to open the new road to Western Sydney residents at the earliest opportunity.

The $2.1 billion project is funded with a $1.63 billion investment from the Albanese Government and a $408 million

investment from the Minns Labor Government. It is expected to take around 25,000 vehicles a day off local roads, taking pressure off suburban streets and improving travel times and reliability across the region.

The Government has applied lessons from other new road corridors to ensure motorists can drive the M12 with confidence from day one. Signage, line-marking and lane guidance have been tested across key connections, with interactive driver animations available online so drivers can familiarise themselves with the route before opening.

Project highlights include:

• Around 181,933 cubic metres of concrete used, equivalent to 73 Olympic pools

• 5,217,117 hours worked

• 10,000 people employed, including 4,900 local workers

• Over 2.6 million m³ of earthworks completed, equivalent to 1,064 Olympic pools

• Construction of 17 bridges

• 461 bridge piles installed

• 637 bridge girders installed

• Over 1,5 million shrubs and grasses planted

• 18,500 trees planted

• 2,320 bridge lineal metres delivered

r 'Ceremony Time’ overbridge artwork depicting the Dharug emu story. Created in co-design by Balarinji Studio with Dharug-connected Aboriginal artists | Image: Transport for NSW Article: Catherine King MP

Big Numbers For Chargers In 2026

Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC are heading into a big 2026 season, with registrations already nearing 500 players across more than 40 teams.

Melissa Takacs, Secretary of the Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC, said the club has experienced remarkable growth leading into the 2026 season.

“We are currently sitting at 485 registered players across 40-plus Chargers teams, which is incredible considering we’re heading into April,” Melissa said. “The growth of the club this season has been amazing.”

With numbers rising quickly, the club is already nearing capacity across several divisions.

“We are very limited in a number of age groups, with some already closing registrations after reaching capacity,” she said.

The strong turnout reflects the continued popularity of junior rugby league across the rapidly growing Oran Park and Gregory Hills communities.

This season also marks a leadership change at the club, with Shannon Takacs stepping into the role of President of the Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC.

Melissa said the new president is eager to see the club’s young players return to the field for the upcoming season of grassroots rugby league.

“Shannon is looking forward to seeing all of the kids back out on the field playing the game they love,” she said.

The excitement around the club extends beyond the playing numbers, with players preparing to debut their new look this year.

“We can’t wait to see everyone in their new 2026 gear, get behind the players, and cheer all of our teams on.

“We are all excited to see how every Chargers team performs this season.”

For families interested in learning more about the club or following team updates throughout the year, Melissa said the club’s Facebook page remains the main hub for communication.

“We have a Facebook where we provide all of our club communication,” she said.

With Round 1 fast approaching, the Chargers committee and volunteers are eager to see the season officially begin.

“We are looking forward to a great season and can’t wait to kick off Round 1.”

Gregory Hills Netball Club Builds For The New Season

The new season is fast approaching for Gregory Hills Netball Club, with players and families preparing for another year of competition, development and community spirit.

Club secretary Naomi McNeill said the 2026 season will begin on Saturday, March 28, with round one matches to be played at courts in Minto. After the opening round, the competition will pause for two weeks due to the Easter break before resuming regular fixtures. The season is expected to run through to the end of August.

McNeill said the club will field six teams this year, made up of a mix of returning players and new recruits.

“We have a Net Set Go team, an under-10s team, two grads teams and two ladies teams registered for the season,” she said.

Among the returning squads are two teams that claimed grand final victories last season. Both sides have moved up divisions this year, presenting a new challenge.

“They’ve stepped up into higher divisions, which will really test their skills and teamwork,” McNeill said. “We’re hoping they can continue building on their success and come away with some great results.”

While registrations are largely complete, the club still has a small number of openings. Young players aged five to eight are invited to join the Net Set Go program, while the Grad C team is seeking a few more players aged 14 to 17 to round out its roster.

The club is also appealing to local businesses for sponsorship support. As a small community-based organisation, the club relies heavily on fundraising initiatives and community backing to support its teams.

Earlier this year, members hosted a successful Bunnings barbecue fundraiser and are planning several more throughout the season.

Looking ahead, McNeill said the club is most excited about welcoming new families and strengthening the positive culture that has become central to the organisation.

“We pride ourselves on promoting fun, friendships, skill development and confidence building,” she said. “It’s not about winning at all costs.”

She also thanked the volunteers who keep the club running, including coaches, managers, umpires and committee members, as well as players and their families.

“We wish all our members a fun and exciting season and look forward to celebrating every success, big and small.”

Camden’s Local Woman of the Year 2026

and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.

This year, a total of 94 inspiring women were nominated by their local Members of Parliament as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March) - a week-long celebration that empowers women and promotes gender equality across the state.

Award recipient Jo O’Brien was nominated by Sally Quinnell, Member for Camden in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the community as a volunteer.

Jo moved to Camden when her eldest son started school in 2003 and immediately began volunteering as a parent volunteer. Since 2014, she has worked with Dr. Deidre Tronson OAM to run the Superior Scientist program at Camden Public School -- a great event that teaches Stage 3 students science and guides them in the preparation of projects for the annual Science Expo at the school. Jo's Bachelor of Science degree and background as an analytical chemist makes her a perfect fit for this role.

But Jo didn't stop there. She joined Camden Area Family History Society, volunteering even more of her time to preserve Camden's vast history. From 2019-2022, she was the Secretary, taking up the roles of President and Editor from 2022. She joined the Camden Historical Society committee in early 2021 and became Vice-President in 2022.

ANZAC Day 2026

She is on the Council's Heritage Advisory Committee and is member of the Friends of Belgenny Farm and Spirit of Camden groups. She writes for both Societies' journals regularly and leads guided heritage walking tours through Camden.

All Local Women of the Year were recognised during the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March.

Women who volunteer and reside in regional, rural, and remote areas of NSW will also be honoured through inclusion in the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll - a public tribute acknowledging the countless women who generously give their time and energy to support others.

For more information about the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, visit www.nsw.gov.au/departmentsand-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/ hidden-treasures-honour-roll.

“I’m incredibly proud to see Jo O’Brien recognised as a role model in our community.

“Jo is dedicated to helping and encouraging others. The countless hours she has selflessly invested have greatly improved our area, and the support she gives to our past and present generations guides the future of Camden.

“I am eternally thankful for Jo’s work and commend her for everything she has done and continues to do” said Member for Camden Sally Quinnell.

r (L-R) Joanne O’Brien with Sally Quinnell MP | Image/Article: Sally Quinnell MP

Camden R.S.L Sub-Branch ANZAC Day

Camden R.S.L Sub-Branch ANZAC Day

Commemoration Services

Commemoration Services

Saturday 25th April 2026

Saturday 25th April 2026

within the Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Memorial Site, Cawdor Road, Camden Dawn Service - 5:10am

ANZAC Day March - 10:30am Main Service - 11:15am

All enquiries please email admin@camdenrsl org au

New Life Brews at Macarthur Memorial Park Cafe

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee now drifts across the lakes at Macarthur Memorial Park, marking a new chapter not just for the park, but for one local family with a heartfelt story behind the counter.

Ashley and Daniel, the owners of the newly opened Riri’s Cafe, have taken over the park’s café space with a clear vision: to create somewhere welcoming, relaxed and community focused. For Ash, who brings more than 16 years of hospitality experience and 14 years as a chef, the opportunity felt like the right fit at the right time.

The cafe is named after their four-year-old daughter, River — affectionately known as Riri. Her name symbolises life’s journey, change and flow. She is their “rainbow baby”, born after the

loss of their youngest son, and the name represents a new beginning for the family. In many ways, Ash and Daniel say, the space at Macarthur Memorial Park carries similar meaning: a place of reflection, renewal and connection.

Locals familiar with their Willowdale café will recognise the emphasis on fresh, thoughtfully prepared food and friendly service. Ash has crafted a seasonal menu designed to be enjoyed slowly, whether you’re meeting friends or simply taking in the peaceful outlook. There’s a tempting selection of house-baked goods, along with specialty coffee from White Horse Roasters — a small touch of indulgence in a serene setting.

The cafe’s opening also highlights the evolving role of Macarthur Memorial Park itself. Spanning more than 113 hectares, the park is more than a place of remembrance. Open daily during daylight hours, its landscaped gardens, lakes and bushland walking tracks have become a quiet haven for birdwatchers, families and those seeking space to think.

While the park provides burial and cremation options for people of all faiths and cultural backgrounds — delivered with dignity and care — it has also been thoughtfully designed as a shared civic space that honours the region’s Indigenous and colonial heritage.

With the addition of Riri’s Cafe, there’s another reason to stop by. Whether for a stroll, a moment of reflection or simply a good cup of coffee, Macarthur Memorial Park is worth a visit.

r Images/Article: Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria

Macarthur Memorial Park, Sydney’s newest cemetery

Set across 113 hectares of tranquil parkland, Macarthur Memorial Park offers affordable burial options, with inclusive spaces for most beliefs and cultures.

Designed for remembrance and reflection, it brings together native bushland, peaceful memorial areas and a cafe and function centre the whole community can enjoy. Visit us, take a tour, or speak with our team today.

166–176 St Andrews Road, Varroville 1300 086 689 | info@mmpark.com.au www.mmpark.com.au

Article Written + Submitted by: Keira Noble | Clinical Psychologist The Anxiety & Depression Clinic W: www.anxietydepressionclinic.com.au P: 0424 263 577 | 02 46266932

Anxiety

Did you know that 3 million Australians are living with anxiety? Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in Australia, with 3 million Australians affected and 1 in 4 people experiencing anxiety at some stage in their life. Anxiety occurs when the fight or flight system is activated in response to a perceived threat, causing bodily responses such as rapid heartbeat, increased breathing rate, sweating, and a reallocation of attentional resources. This promotes the survival of a person under threat. These symptoms help us to run away from or fight stressors that endanger us. Furthermore, a certain level of stress (eustress) can provide the optimum level of arousal that helps us to perform tasks. The fight or flight system is critical to our survival; however, if activated continuously over minor situations that do not actually compromise our safety, it can rob us of our time, energy, and concentration, impairing our ability to focus and complete tasks, connect with our loved ones, and may lead to acting in an aggressive manner, as well as feelings

PROBUS CLUB

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com | P: 0410758755

This year, all Probus members are celebrating the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia, and many clubs around Australia will be planning special events and outings, BBQs, picnics, lunches, dinners, day trips, and longer tours. There’s no better time to join a Probus Club and join in the fun!

Probus is a social club for members of the community who are retired or semi-retired and want to go out and enjoy life with like-minded people, have fun, and make some new friends. There is no fundraising involved. Come to a meeting and see if Probus is what you’re looking for.

Oran Park Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of the month, except January and November, at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, Gledswood Hills, at 10.00 am in the function room. Each meeting starts with a talk from a guest speaker.

of exhaustion and burnout. Seeking professional psychological treatment with someone who provides evidence-based treatments can lead to better management of the symptoms and/or cessation of symptoms.

Behaviour Changer – How to Seek Help

• Ask yourself how often you feel keyed-up, on edge, or suffer physical symptoms of anxiety, including rapid heartbeat and breathing, sweating, feelings of panic, agitation, or nervousness, or gut-related symptoms such as diarrhoea.

• Notice whether you worry excessively to the point of causing distress or impairing executive function, such as memory or concentration, or impacting sleep.

• See your GP to discuss your symptoms and whether a Mental Health Care Plan to attend a treating psychologist would be suitable.

For general information only — seek professional psychological assistance for tailored

At our March meeting, we were lucky to have two very dedicated volunteers from Sydney Wildlife, whose volunteers rescue, foster, and rehabilitate native animals before releasing them back into the wild. As urban sprawl continues, we all need to be mindful that dogs and cats can cause injury and death to many of our native species.

It was inspiring to hear how two retirees have dedicated so much time to caring for sick and injured wildlife, and the joy it brings them when they can release the animals back into the wild. One of our members very enthusiastically offered to make pouches for the injured animals. Perhaps it will become a new project for other members of our craft group too!

March also saw the election of the new management committee, assistants, and activity leaders for 2026–2027

— lots of members who will work together to make this an active and enjoyable year for all members.

Visitors and prospective new members are very welcome to attend a meeting to find out more about the club and the activities and outings we offer. Perhaps stay for lunch after the meeting and chat with our members.

If you would like to learn more about Oran Park Probus Club or have any queries, please contact the Club Secretary.

Email: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com

rGM & AGM Induction of new President | Images Supplied

Sunnyfield Lifestyle Hub in Gregory Hills Provides More Opportunities for People with Disability

Sunnyfield has officially opened its new Gregory Hills Lifestyle Hub, expanding support services for people with disability in the local region.

With more than 73 years of experience, Sunnyfield has a long history of empowering people with disability to live fulfilling and independent lives. The Gregory Hills Lifestyle Hub is

designed to be a welcoming, community-based space where clients can learn new skills, build meaningful connections, and actively engage with their local community.

Clients at the hub will participate in a wide range of activities, including swimming, creative arts, photography, and local community events and activities. Programs also focus on practical life skills such as money handling, community access, and daily living skills to support independence and confidence.

The Gregory Hills hub is one of 26 Sunnyfield lifestyle hubs across NSW, each with its own unique personality. This modern space features a sensory room, ping pong table, library and resource hub, along with plenty of areas to relax, socialise, and unwind.

“We are so excited to now be offering services in the Gregory Hills region. This hub is a place to grow and belong,” said Amira Salama, Regional Manager, Greater Western Sydney.

“We are delighted to bring our services into this community and provide innovative, inclusive support for people with disability and their families.”

Sunnyfield is currently welcoming new clients to the hub, to arrange a private tour and check out the facilities contact us.

Phone

1300 588 688

Email enquiries@sunnyfield.org.au

Address

Suite 5b/1 Gregory Hills Drive, Gledswood Hills, NSW 2557

r Image/Article: Sunnyfield

Gregory Hills Community Services

oran park

4733 0792

editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au

PO Box 8254

Glenmore Park NSW 2745

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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency Services

Police, Ambulance, Fire 000 or 112 mobile

Narellan Police Station 4632 4499

Police Assistance Line 131 444

Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114

WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946

NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS

St. Vincent de Paul Society 8250 1484 e: Socialjustice.Wol@vinnies.org.au

Camden SES 4647 0319 (For emergency help in floods and storms call

NSW SES – 132 500)

General OPT information, Contact: Sales & Information Office 9043 7500

Health Services

Camden + Campbelltown Hospital Switchboard 4634 3000

After Hours Medical Clinic (Campbelltown) 4634 3290

Heathdirect Australia 1800 022 222 Get Healthy 1300 806 258

Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36

MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

Karitane Careline 1300 22 74 64

Breastfeeding Helpline (NSW) 1800 686 268 (1800

Pregnancy Birth + Baby

Sports Clubs

Camden Athletics Club + Little Athletics http://camdenathletics.org.au/

Camden Cats Senior AFL Club

Greg McGuiness 0413 257 516

Camden Netball www.camdennetball.com.au

Macarthur District Softball Association

Lesley Darby 0401 740 023

Narellan Physie Club narellanpcc@hotmail.com

Mount Annan/Currans

Hill Knights Softball Club

Jennifer Tadros 0404 629 710

Camden RSL Youth Club Boxing

Managing Editor

Belinda Pearce

Personal

Assistant

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Design

Jade Gregory

Writer / Sales

Cim Sanders

Writer

Tanya Nellestein

Ron 4646 1658

Macarthur Bushwalkers

Ken 4628 2528

Narellan Jets Junior Rugby League

Cindy Morley 0413 086 601

Camden District Cricket Association

Kyle Malcolm - President 0411 371 115

Cobbitty Narellan Cricket Club

Mark Bush - 0497 555 071 - mbush@hvg.net.au

Oran Park Cricket Club

Karl Bennett coaching@oranparkcricket.com.au

Oran Park Rovers Football Club

Nathan Hawthorne 0422 139 993

Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC

Melissa Takacs 0491 644 812

Oran Park Hockey Club

Michelle Brennan 0400 050 078

Camden Junior AFL Club

Naomi Porter 0417 683 768

Camden Junior OZTAG

camdencobras@oztag.com.au

Harrington Park Scorpions Softball Club

Greg Trevena and MB: 0417 257 385

Mets Baseball - Catherine Field

Kim O'Grady 0412 081 144

Camden Valley Basketball Association (Wildfire) www.wildfirebasketball.org.au

Email: info@wildfirebasketball.org.au

Community Groups

Gledswood Toastmasters

David Johnson 0417 423 458

Rotary Club of Gregory Hills Next-Gen President 02 9136 6349 or facebook.com/rcgregoryhills

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

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

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

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

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

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Oran Park • Harrington Park

• Harrington Grove

• Gregory Hills

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