Camden Council has launched a new Nepean River Recreational Water Quality Map to help the community stay in the know about the river’s water quality.
Whether you’re thinking of kayaking or fishing, the new map provides a clear, easy-to-read recreational snapshot of water quality of the Nepean River.
Council monitors the Nepean River weekly from November through to the end of March and uses a simple traffic light style to show short-term water quality data on the map.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said Council often receives questions about the safety and suitability of the river for different recreational uses.
“The results of Council’s monitoring, which are uploaded to this new, interactive map, can help you make an informed decision about using the river,” she said.
“Council’s new Nepean River Recreational Water Quality Map is a great place to start to be in the know, but there are other things to consider before using the river recreationally. Residents should avoid contact with the water during and for three days after rain; make sure to look for any visible signs of pollution; and always check for other hazards.
“We’re so blessed to have such wonderful natural resources and landscape, right here in our backyard. We encourage everyone to enjoy what Camden has to offer, but to do it safely and responsibly.”
It’s important to note Council does not recommend or support recreation at the sampling locations indicated on the map. Monitoring has consistently shown that the water quality is almost never suitable for primary contact recreation, such as swimming, so caution is advised.
The new map is part of Camden Council’s wider plan to better connect the community with the Nepean River, including the development of the Nepean River Corridor Study. This project aims to identify ways Council can progressively work towards improving access to and along the river for the community to enjoy safely.
For residents who want to make a splash and jump right in, Council has a number of purpose-built facilities on offer. They include:
• Dawson-Damer Water Play Space in Camden;
• Curry Reserve Water Play Space in Elderslie;
• Oran Park Leisure Centre;
• Mount Annan Leisure Centre; and
• Camden War Memorial Pool.
To access the full interactive water quality map, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/environment/waterways/water-qualitymonitoring/nepean-river-recreational-water-quality
For more information on water quality monitoring, visit bit.ly/ CamdenWaterQuality
For more information, and to stay up-to-date on the Nepean River Corridor Study, visit yourvoice.camden.nsw.gov.au/nepean-river-corridor-study
For more information about Council’s water play spaces, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/parks-and-recreation/water-play-space
For more information about Council’s three leisure centres, visit their individual websites at:
• Oran Park Leisure Centre – oranparkleisurecentre.com.au/
• Mount Annan Leisure Centre – mountannanleisurecentre. com.au/
• Camden War Memorial Pool – camdenpool.com.au/
r 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
Starting School: From First Day Nerves to Confidence
As families across the region prepare for the start of a new school year, award-winning local educational leader Sara Drebber is encouraging parents to take a calm, compassionate approach to one of childhood’s biggest milestones.
Drawing on her experience as both an educator and a parent, Sara says starting school is often underestimated as an emotional transition. “It’s a big shift, not just for children but for families as well,” she said. “My biggest piece of advice is to be gentle with yourself and your child.” Rather than focusing heavily on academic readiness, she urges parents to prioritise helping children feel confident, safe and comfortable in their new environment.
Sara notes that the first weeks of school can be especially tiring for young students, even if they appear settled. Early nights and plenty of rest can make a significant difference. She also recommends practising everyday tasks at home, such as opening lunch containers, managing drink bottles and packing and unpacking school bags. “Those small, practical skills build independence and confidence very quickly,” she said.
After years of working with children in their first year of school, Sara says the most rewarding part of her role is watching students grow into themselves. “Seeing children arrive unsure or overwhelmed, then gradually find their place, form friendships and start to believe in themselves is incredibly special,” she said. “Those moments may look small, but they are foundational and stay with you as a teacher.”
She recalls a scene that perfectly captures the experience of starting school. “You’ll often see children walk in on the first day holding a parent’s hand tightly, barely able to look up,” she said. “Then later that same day, they’re laughing in the playground or proudly showing a teacher something they’ve created.” For Sara, that transformation reflects the mix of nerves, excitement and courage that defines the start of school.
For parents feeling anxious or emotional, Sara offers reassurance. A parent herself, she understands those emotions well. “Your child doesn’t need to have everything sorted on day one, and neither do you,” she said, adding that teachers genuinely care about supporting families through the transition.
She also emphasised the importance of strong partnerships between home and school. “When families and schools work together with trust and open communication, children feel safer, more confident and ready to learn,” she said. “It’s not about perfection, but about connection and helping children feel that they belong from the very start.”
Sun & Swim Safety this Summer
COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!
The rest of this Summer is shaping up to be a hot one!
I’m incredibly excited to announce that Gledswood Hills High School is open!
With a heat wave hitting South-Western Sydney and our surrounding suburbs, it’s important that we practice both sun and swim safety while trying to beat the heat.
After 12 years of delays and broken promises by the former Liberal government, the new temporary high school has been delivered.
If you’re heading outside or making the trek down to the beach in these coming weeks, please remember to slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen, slap on a hat, slide on your sunglasses, and seek shelter in order to keep your skin healthy.
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.
If you’re heading down the coast, please also take care to swim at patrolled beaches – like Sandon Point, Austinmer, Thirroul, Fairy Meadow and Wollongong City Beach. Camden Pools are also open from 5:30am to 9:00pm Monday to Friday, and 7:00am to 7:00pm on Saturday and Sunday. Elderslie Splash Park at Curry Reserve is also open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Land has also been chosen for the permanent site for Gledswood Hills High School.
The Minns Labor Government has committed $6 million to a learn to swim program that will deliver free learn to swim and water safety lessons. Our local provider is Aquabliss, located at 67-77 Lasso Road, Gregory Hills. Check your eligibility and book a swim lesson here: https://www.aquabliss.com.au/free-nsw-government-lessons/
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.
As always, if there are any local or state government issues that you’d like to chat to me about, please don’t hesitate to contact my office on (02) 4655 3333, or at camden@ parliament.nsw.gov.au.
REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAMDEN
I look forward to catching up with all of you in this new year!
r
Article: Sally Quinnell MP
The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering much needed upgrades to 15 schools across Camden.
(02) 4655 3333
camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au
These upgrades are part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education in NSW after 12 years of Liberal Government neglect.
Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567
TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN
Summer Shapes Valentine’s Day Across Australia
Australians are marking Valentine’s Day with a blend of traditional romance and relaxed, local celebrations shaped by summer weather, outdoor living, and an easy-going culture.
Falling on 14 February, the day is often spent under hot skies, with many couples choosing beaches, parks, and waterfront spots over formal indoor dinners. Coastal towns report increased bookings for seaside picnics, sunset swims, and casual fish-and-chip dinners on the sand. In some areas, surf clubs and councils host community events, promoting inclusive and social ways to celebrate connection.
Teacher vacancies have been slashed by over 40 percent in NSW public schools.
January 2025.
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.
Advertise Here
Restaurants and cafés remain popular, particularly in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where venues offer special Valentine’s menus and rooftop dining. Menus are often adapted for the heat, focusing on fresh seafood, light meals, and chilled desserts. Florists continue to see strong demand for roses and native Australian blooms, while chocolate sales remain steady despite warm temperatures.
Retailers note Valentine’s Day is not limited to romantic partners. Friends, families, schools, and workplaces often exchange small gifts or notes, reflecting a broader view of the occasion. Social media campaigns also encourage celebrating friendships and self-care.º
Travel plays a role, with short getaways to coastal regions, wine areas, and regional towns boosting hotel occupancy. Others opt for low-key celebrations, such as movie nights at home or barbecues with friends.
Overall, Valentine’s Day in Australia reflects a preference for low-pressure, informal celebrations. Simple gestures and shared time are often valued more than grand or expensive displays.
Authorised by Sally Quinnell MP, Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567. Funded using parliamentary entitlements,
Land for sale
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.
Rovers Aim to Roam Higher in 2026
Oran Park Rovers FC is preparing for another big year as the club looks ahead to the 2026 football season, building on the success, growth and community spirit that defined last year’s campaign.
While an official start date for the new season has not yet been confirmed, matches traditionally kick off around Easter, and preparations are already well underway. Online registrations are currently open for both new and returning players, with the club encouraging families and football enthusiasts to secure their place early.
The Rovers enjoyed a remarkable 2025 season, fielding an impressive 109 teams and welcoming 1,308 registered players across all age groups. According to committee member Daniel Faulks, the club is hoping to reach similar numbers again in
2026, reflecting Oran Park Rovers FC’s standing as one of the largest and most active football clubs in the Macarthur region.
Last season was highlighted by significant on-field success, particularly in the women’s game. The club was recognised as the best women’s football club in the Macarthur Area, a milestone achievement that showcased the strength of its female programs and commitment to development.
Several teams delivered standout performances throughout the year. The Over 35/1 side was crowned Champions, while the Under 12/3 Boys, Under 13/2 Girls, Over 35/5 team and M League Reserves all finished their seasons as Premiers. Other teams also enjoyed exceptional campaigns, with the Under 12/4 Girls, Under 14 MYL (White) Boys, AAW4 and Over 35/2 (Black) teams finishing as both Premiers and Champions.
Looking ahead, the club’s focus remains firmly on player development and enjoyment of the game. “We are looking forward to watching our players of all ages continue to grow their love of football into the 2026 season, as they improve their skills and sportsmanship on the field,” Faulks said.
Off the pitch, Oran Park Rovers FC is also calling on the local business community to get involved. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to support grassroots sport while promoting their brand within the local area. Interested businesses are encouraged to reach out directly to the club.
With strong participation numbers, proven success and a clear vision for the future, Oran Park Rovers FC is set to enter the 2026 season with confidence and momentum.
r Feature Article [Cover+Top] All Age Women Division 4 team. Premiers and champions for 2025 [Above] Oran Park Rovers FC | Images Supplied by Oran Park Rovers FC
It’s Showtime!
If your New Year's resolution is to dial up the laughs, watch quality content and enjoy your local establishments a little more, Camden Council has just the thing for you!
The recently refurbished and reopened Camden Civic Centre is set to roar to life this year, with a HUGE line up of events set to take the stage.
Whether you’re a music lover looking to enjoy the legendary sounds of the past; a fan searching for a fantastic tribute show; a comedy buff ready for a big belly laugh; or you’re looking to attend one of the fantastic exhibitions scheduled, there truly is something for everyone.
In just the first few months of 2026 alone, Camden Civic Centre will be hosting:
• Unforgettable – A Tribute to the 50s & 60s, a show which will see Nathan Foley take you back to the golden years of crooning, rock ‘n’ roll and sweet soul music, on Sunday 1 February, 2:30pm;
• Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, which is an immersive
comedy and dining show with a three course meal, on Friday 6 February, 7:00pm;
• The Eagles Greatest Hits, a live concert tribute performing greatest hits of the legendary band, on Saturday 14 February, 7:30pm;
• Ross Wilson and the Peaceniks ‘50 Years of Hits’, which is a concert celebrating over 50 years of hits, on Sunday 15 February, 4:00pm;
• Camden Wedding Expo 2026, which is Camden's premier bridal fair, on Sunday 22 March, 10:00am to 2:00pm;
• Camden Wellness Expo 2026, Camden’s FREE community wellness and health-practitioner expo, on Sunday 29 March, 10:00am to 2:00pm;
• Wicked Drag Bingo, a drag-themed bingo night featuring five Wicked bingo games and a live drag show, on Saturday 11 April, 8:00pm; and
• Ross Noble's Cranium of Curiosities, where we welcome back the Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler, live on stage, on Friday 24 April, 8:00pm.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said heading out to the Civic Centre was a fantastic excuse for a lovely night out.
“It’s so fantastic to be able to hold such quality shows, exhibitions and performances right here in our backyard,” she said.
“I hope everyone enjoys the shows they choose to attend. Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.”
For more information, and to secure your tickets, visit https:// www.camdenciviccentre.com.au/events
r Image/Article: Camden Council
Come and Join 1st Cobbitty Scouts
The 1st Cobbitty Scout Group is continuing to build a strong reputation as a hub for outdoor adventure, life skills and community involvement in the local area.
Based at Cut Hill Reserve on Cut Hill Road, Cobbitty, the group enjoys a unique setting shared with cricket fields, an archery club and a large pond. According to 1st Cobbitty Scout Group Leader Ian Franke, the expansive reserve allows scouts to take part in wide outdoor games, navigation exercises and overnight camps close to home. “When there’s no sport, we often have the entire reserve to ourselves,” Ian said. “It really is the best of both worlds.”
The group caters for young people aged 5 to 15 across three sections. Joey Scouts, aged 5 to 8, and Cub Scouts, aged 8 to 11, meet on Thursday evenings, while Scouts aged 11 to 15 meet on Wednesday nights. Each section meets weekly during school terms, combining games, skill development and planning for future camps and hikes.
Planning is already underway for an action-packed 2026, with hikes and camps featuring strongly. Youth members will also have opportunities to join regional events such as canoeing trips and white-water kayaking, supported by skills weekends to ensure safety and confidence. Archery, bushwalking and navigation training are also popular activities, with the group benefiting from leaders trained in specialist outdoor skills.
Beyond traditional scouting activities, the group is expanding into creative arts. Recent interests include paint pouring and leatherwork, with a creative arts weekend camp planned at the Cobbitty hall, supported by parent volunteers.
Ian said the youth-led, adult-supported approach is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a leader. “When young people help plan activities, they become more involved and excited,” he said. “Scouting is about learning skills, building confidence and reflecting on shared experiences.”
Adults are also encouraged to get involved, with a wide range of leadership and support roles available and full training provided by Scouts NSW.
The 1st Cobbitty Scouts are part of the Hume Region and regularly connect with other groups through joint events, regional camps and major national and international gatherings, including future Australian Scout Jamborees.
For more information, visit www.nsw.scouts.com.au or contact the Hume Region office on (02) 4628 4994.
Camden Meals on Wheels: More Than Just a Meal
Do you or someone you know need to get around in the local area or elsewhere and not have access to transport or no longer drive? Is public transport not a suitable option for you? Then let Camden Meals on Wheels help you get there! Camden Meals on Wheels provide convenient transport services to support older residents of the Camden Local Government Area (LGA) to get to where they need to go. Their transport services are not just a ride; they are a lifeline, providing the essential bridge to independence, essential appointments, and social connection.
Subsidised transport services are available for those 65 years and over across the entire Camden LGA receiving a Government funded Commonwealth Home Support Package (CHSP) and under the Support At Home (SAH) program. Their transport services are delivered by their team of friendly volunteers, and they will ensure you get to and from where you need to go safely and promptly, door to door.
Their transport services can help you get to places such as medical and specialist appointments, to the hairdressers and other lifestyle services, to do your grocery shopping, visit your local library, or get to the post office or pharmacy. A single trip within the Camden LGA is $7.50, with a return trip being $15. They can also take you within the Campbelltown LGA and Liverpool LGA, with these costs slightly increased, so get in touch with them to enquire about the costs of transport services beyond the Camden LGA. Their transport services operate Monday to Friday.
If you or someone you know needs transport support, or to discuss eligibility and costs, please contact the office on (02) 4655 6822 or via admin@camdenmow.org.au to find out how they can help you
r Article: Camden Meals on Wheels
Silvana Swims to Support Sick Kids
Oran Park eight-yearold Silvana Vashisht has proven that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference, after completing an impressive swimming and fundraising feat for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) late last year.
In November 2025, Silvana took part in the Swim for Sick Kids Challenge at Oran Park Leisure Centre, pledging to swim 15 kilometres in 30 days while raising $300 to support RMHC Sydney. The charity helps families stay close to their seriously ill or injured children while they receive treatment, at an average cost of $190 per family per night.
Silvana didn’t just meet her goal, she exceeded it. By the end of the month, she had swum an astonishing 15.7 kilometres, completing 314 laps in a 50-metre pool, and raised $618, enough to sponsor three nights of accommodation for families in need.
“She worked it all out herself,” said her mother, Ritika Vashisht. “She calculated that 20 laps would equal one kilometre and set a steady pace for herself. Some days she even pushed through 46 laps. She was incredibly disciplined and determined.”
Fundraising was equally hands-on. Silvana printed flyers
with a QR code, went door knocking in her local neighbourhood, and used her parents’ social media platforms to share videos explaining her cause.
Ritika says Silvana’s motivation comes from a deep sense of community spirit. “She is self-motivated, gritty and passionate about helping others. Whether it’s supporting classmates with maths, participating in choir and public speaking, or taking on challenges like this, she gives everything her best.”
At school, Silvana was recently recognised with a medal and certificate for demonstrating a “love of learning.” Her teacher, Mrs McPhearson, described her as “confident, positive and a wonderful role model for her classmates.”
Believed to be the youngest participant in the challenge, Silvana has been recognised as an RMHC “Swim Hero” and has been invited to tour Ronald McDonald House Randwick on January 16, 2026, where she will meet families her efforts have helped support.
Silvana hopes her story inspires others to get involved. “If I can do it, anyone can,” she said, encouraging local residents and businesses to support RMHC and its vital work supporting sick children and their families.
r Silvana Vashisht | Images: Ritika Vashisht
Book Review Your
Tintin In America
Author |:Herge’
I love Tintin in America because of its simple but exciting storyline. Tintin is a young Belgian detective and journalist who busts criminal gangs, drug smugglers, and corrupt leaders.
In this book, Tintin goes to Chicago, USA, to report for a story. But when he gets there, he is kidnapped by Al Capone! He escapes from Capone and the corrupt Chicago policemen and is taken to an office for a gang which fights Capone, but pushes drugs itself.
The leader, Bobby Smiles, kidnaps him again and tries to kill him. Tintin escapes again with his trusty dog, Snowy. Tintin teams up with the local policeman and they start to take down the gang.
Then Smiles escapes to Native American land where he camps in his private cabin. Tintin, in his quest to find Smiles, escapes a crowd wanting to lynch him. At last, he finds Smiles, who goes to the Indians to ask them to wage war on Tintin.
When Tintin is about to catch Bobby Smiles, Smiles warns the Indians and they capture Tintin. Tintin frees himself and calls the police. Then Bobby Smiles is arrested.
Then Tintin goes back to Chicago and finds out about Al Capone, the leader of the gangsters. Tintin spies on Al Capone while he is in a meeting. Tintin gets caught and runs to the nearest radio and writes an SOS to the police. Al Capone is caught and his gang surrenders and gets arrested too.
In conclusion, Tintin becomes the hero of the city and then returns to his humble apartment for a few days. I highly recommend this book for mystery seekers and people who love suspense.
r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal
Hit Me Up Bro Builds Community
A new grassroots initiative in Macarthur is using boxing, conversation and community connection to help locals tackle stress and mental health challenges in a supportive, judgement-free environment.
Hit Me Up Bro, founded by Peter Rota, held its first session in late August 2025. The idea grew organically after Rota noticed the positive mental impact boxing training was having on members at the gym.
“People were telling me how much better they felt mentally and how boxing helped relieve stress,” Rota said. “It made me realise how many men and women are struggling silently and don’t always feel comfortable talking about it.”
With Savage Boxing Club already built on discipline, accountability and community, Rota said creating a safe space for open conversation felt like a natural next step. Hit Me Up Bro now meets every Sunday morning at 8:00am at the gym, located at Unit 3, 6–8 Bluett Drive, Smeaton Grange.
Sessions are donation-based, ensuring accessibility regardless of financial circumstances. Attendance varies week to week, but Rota said the focus has never been on numbers.
“If we help just one person, we’re doing well,” he said. “Creating a supportive environment speaks louder than how many people turn up.”
Each session combines group discussions, light training, shared activities and a barbecue, with boxing and movement used as tools to release stress rather than the main focus. Members also take part in a 5km walk around Mt Annan Gardens, often followed by coffee, allowing time for one-onone or small group conversations.
Looking ahead, Rota hopes to continue growing the group locally and eventually collaborate with mental health professionals and community organisations, establishing Hit Me Up Bro as a trusted and consistent support outlet.
“Many people struggle to speak up when they’re not okay,” he said. “Groups like this help break the stigma and strengthen the community.”
Hit Me Up Bro is supported by qualified trainers each Sunday, with two registered mental health nurses also available. Rota acknowledged strong backing from local businesses, particularly Amoretti’s in Narellan, and confirmed a second dinner for members and families is planned for late February.
Savage Boxing Club will also host its official opening day on a Sunday in early February, featuring jumping castles, food trucks and activities for all ages. Everyone is welcome.
“You don’t need to be fit or a boxer,” Rota said. “You just need to show up. Sometimes a conversation can change everything.”
r Hit Me Up Bro members | Image Supplied by Brianne Jimenez
Set across 113 hectares of tranquil parkland, Macarthur Memorial Park offers more affordable burial options than many Sydney alternatives, with inclusive spaces for most beliefs and cultures – including dedicated sections for various specific religious communities.
Designed for remembrance and reflection, it brings together landscaped gardens, native bushland and peaceful memorial areas for the whole community.
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 Discover Macarthur Memorial Park, Sydney’s newest cemetery
The Luddenham Show is Back
The 120th edition of the Luddenham Show is back for another year on 28 February and 1 March, with thousands expected to attend the biggest event on the Luddenham calendar.
The Luddenham Show has a range of entertainment for the whole family with organisers expecting to build on the record crowds of previous years. A shift in programming sees the bull ride move to Sunday afternoon, making way for a blockbuster Saturday night of live music and entertainment.
Saturday has something for everyone, with children’s entertainment plus Dennis Dingo Dryden, the dog high jump, horse and coach rides and the MadStyle Moto Show who will perform three times throughout the day. The King, David Cazalet will bring his world-famous Elvis show to the stage at 4:30pm, before passing the reigns to Country music stars Ronnie Judo and the Whiskey Sodas, who will perform until late. A quick intermission at 9:00pm will make way for the fireworks, which follow the fire brigade demonstration in the main arena. Sunday presents the opportunity for crowds to get involved with the strong-arm competition, pumpkin lawn bowls, whip cracking, ice cream eating and Lego building competitions.
PROBUS CLUB
Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com | P: 0410758755
Oran Park Probus Club
Welcome to a new Probus year – a year in which we will celebrate 50 years of Probus in Australia!
Probus Clubs started in England in the 1960s. Rotarian Gordon Roatz heard about Probus from a cousin living in Scotland and thought this might suit retirees on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand, where he lived. His Rotary Club supported the formation of the first Probus Club in New Zealand, which opened on the Kapiti Coast in November 1974.
Soon after this, Jim King from the Rotary Club of Dumbarton, Scotland, visited the Rotary Club of Parramatta North and told members about the success of Probus in the UK. The Rotary District took up this idea and the Probus Club of Hunter’s Hill was formed. The first meeting was held on February 3, 1976. This club continues to thrive today and will start off the Probus 50th Anniversary commemorations with a 50th birthday morning tea on February 3.
Various celebrations will be held throughout the year, especially in the month of October. Probus Day was originally held on October 1 to coincide with the United Nations Day of
For those who prefer to sit and watch, the sheep dog trials will be on in the adjacent paddock whilst woodchopping and the bull ride will occur the main arena. The adrenaline rush continues with MadStyle Moto performing two shows in the afternoon, including a meet and greet with fans.
All of your classic Luddenham Show favourites will be back with the cattle, horse and poultry events occurring across the weekend. The new baby doll sheep demonstration will join the animal nursery, chook washing and milking demonstrations for those who would like to get to know the Show’s farm animals.
The pavilion competitions are free to enter with categories for art, craft, photography, cooking, produce, flowers, scarecrows and of course Lego. Returning this year is the “man cake” competition, designed to encouraged men to enter the baking competition with cash prizes up for grabs.
Luddenham Showground is on the corner of Park Rd and Campbell St. Full programming, schedules and other information can be found at www.luddenhamshow.com.au or on the Luddenham Show Facebook and Instagram pages.
the Older Person. This has expanded to become Probus Month and allowed Probus Clubs more flexibility to plan their events.
Probus is not just about fun and friendship in retirement. It is recognised as a valuable community service, helping retirees adjust to major changes in their lives after work. Making new friendships and keeping active are important factors in maintaining physical and mental health as we age.
With a Management Committee meeting and a mid-January brunch behind us, Oran Park Probus Club is ready for another busy Probus year of fun and friendship.
The first meeting of Oran Park Probus Club this year falls on February 3. The club meets on the first Tuesday of the month, except January and November, at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, Gledswood Hills, at 10.00am in the function room. Each meeting starts with a talk from a guest speaker. 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. See if we’re the right fit for you!
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
r Images/Article Supplied by Luddenham A.H & I Society
New Season, New Energy
Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers Rugby League Football Club (RLFC) are ready to kick off a big year, with pre-season training set to commence on 9 February and excitement building across the club’s growing community.
President Scott Gettings said preparations for the new season are already well underway following a record-breaking 2025 campaign. The Chargers will take part in two away trial rounds towards the end of March, before Round 1 officially kicks off after the Easter break.
Last season proved to be the club’s biggest yet, with 40 teams
fielded across age groups from Under 6’s through to Under 16’s. In total, 384 children pulled on the Chargers jersey in 2025, marking the largest single-season increase in registrations in the club’s history.
“There was an incredible buzz around the club last year, and that growth really reflects the strong culture we’ve built,” Gettings said.
On the field, the Chargers celebrated a number of standout achievements. NRL star and club ambassador Jerome Lui visited the club, spending time with players and even jumping into training sessions. At representative level, 11 male players earned selection in the Wests Development Squad, one Under 16’s player was chosen for the NSW Country team, and three Under 16’s players were selected for the prestigious Andrew Johns Cup. Six Under 14 girls also took part in the Wests Tigers Development Programme.
Finals football was another highlight, with five Chargers teams reaching the postseason. The Under 12 Gold side fought their way to the grand final, while the Under 13 Gold team claimed the premiership for the fourth consecutive year. Off the field, the club’s Under 14’s sports trainer was recognised as Male Volunteer of the Year across all Group 6 clubs.
Looking ahead to 2026, Gettings said the club is excited to welcome players back, particularly with the introduction of the Chargers’ first ever all-girls Under 6 team.
“Seeing the kids enjoy the sport, develop their skills and be part of a family-focused club is what it’s all about,” he said.
Families can find more information via the club’s Facebook page, with registration days scheduled at Oran Park Podium on 31 January and 7 February 2026.
r [Top] Under 13 Gold Premiers | Image: Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC
Camden Athletics Club + Little Athletics http://camdenathletics.org.au/
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Greg McGuiness 0413 257 516
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February marks our first publication for the year, and with it comes a renewed sense of energy, purpose, and possibility. After a well-earned January break, we return refreshed and ready to share the stories that matter most to our community. The start of a new year often brings reflection and quiet goal-setting, and by February those intentions begin to take shape. Schools and workplaces are back into rhythm, routines are forming, and the year ahead starts to feel real and full of opportunity. It’s a time to reconnect, reengage, and look forward with optimism. Our community continues to show its strength through resilience, generosity, and a willingness to support one another. Whether it’s local achievements, small acts of kindness, or people stepping up where help is needed, these are the moments worth celebrating and sharing.
As we move into 2026, we thank you for welcoming us back and for continuing to be part of this community conversation. We look forward to another year of telling local stories, highlighting the good, and standing alongside the people who make our region such a special place to live.
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”
— Seneca
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