ORAN PARK GAZETTE JULY 2026

Camden Bypass Extension For Growing South-West

The Minns and Albanese Labor Governments will take the first steps towards a much-needed extension of the Camden Bypass, improving connectivity and easing congestion for families across South-West Sydney.

Following 12 years of inaction from the former LiberalNational Government, communities in South-West Sydney have been calling for better road infrastructure and reduced traffic congestion.

With planning now underway, the new extension will include a flyover connecting the Camden Bypass to Camden Valley Way, helping motorists avoid two major intersections and Narellan Town Centre.

This project forms part of the $65 million South West Sydney Roads Planning Program, which focusses on seven critical road corridors across Greater Macarthur and the South-West Growth Area. These include the Hume Motorway, Cowpasture Road, Camden Valley Way, Campbelltown Road, Menangle Road, a future extension of Jersey Road, and a bypass of the Appin town centre.

As thousands of new families continue to move into the region, this program represents a decisive investment in delivering the road network needed to support growth and ease congestion. It will help people spend less time stuck in traffic and more time with their family, friends and local communities, while ensuring South-West Sydney is not left behind.

After years of neglect from the former Liberal–National Government, too many communities in the South-West were left behind, with bumper-to-bumper traffic, longer travel times and overcrowded roads becoming part of daily life

The Minns Labor Government is turning that around through a record $7.4 billion investment in roads across Western Sydney, including the South-West Sydney Roads Planning Program. This targeted investment is focussed on delivering the infrastructure needed for one of the fastest growing regions in the country.

Transport for NSW is now progressing planning for the extension of the Camden Bypass. GHD have been awarded a contract to develop a concept design and Review of Environmental Factors for widening two other sections of Camden Valley Way:

• 3.5 kilometres from the M5/M7 interchange to Cowpasture Road

• 1.8 kilometres from Oran Park to Anderson Road Transport for NSW will keep the community updated as the plans progress.

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

Social Sisters Club: Bringing Women Together

Founded just over a year ago by local resident Karen Seymour, Social Sisters Club was created with a simple goal: helping women build genuine friendships and meaningful social connections. What began as a small social group has quickly grown into a thriving community, welcoming women from across the Macarthur and Wollondilly regions, including Camden, Narellan, Oran Park, Gregory Hills, Campbelltown, Picton and surrounding areas.

The club offers women the opportunity to meet new people, enjoy new experiences and develop lasting friendships in a friendly and supportive environment. In an increasingly digital world, Social Sisters Club focuses on bringing women together face-to-face. While social media helps members stay connected, the group’s true purpose is creating real-life friendships through shared experiences, laughter and companionship.

Many women are hesitant to attend social events alone, but Social Sisters Club encourages members to take that first step. Time and again, women arrive feeling nervous and leave having made new friends. Members come from a wide range of ages and life stages, including working women, retirees, mums and grandmothers. This diversity creates a unique environment where women from different generations can connect, support one another and form meaningful friendships.

Beyond organised events, members stay connected through a private chat group where they share everyday life, celebrate milestones, exchange recipes and offer support during difficult times. For many, the sense of belonging and friendship has become one of the most rewarding aspects of membership.

The club hosts a diverse calendar of activities, including walking groups, coffee catchups, lunches, shopping days, high teas, wine tastings, theatre outings, concerts, book clubs, weekend getaways and city events. Family-friendly school holiday outings and partner-inclusive social events are also held throughout the year.

Run entirely by volunteers, Social Sisters Club is led by Karen, supported by two dedicated administrators and a team of welcoming members. Karen says the greatest reward has been watching friendships grow.

“As Social Sisters Club enters its second year, we look forward to welcoming many more women and continuing to create opportunities for friendship, fun, support and connection throughout our community.”

r Image: Social Sisters Club (Facebook) | Article (edited) Supplied by Karen Seymour

Winter Health Update

COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!

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

The Minns Labor Government and I have been working hard to make accessing healthcare easier than ever. Here’s how we’re improving our healthcare system: Urgent Care Centres to take the pressure of Emergency Departments

Contact Tanya

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

If you need treatment quickly for an illness or injury that isn’t life threatening, head over to your local urgent care centre.

Our local urgent care is My Family Health Medical Centre, located at 2/3 Rodeo Road, Gregory Hills. They’re open from 8am-8pm and can be contacted via phone at (02) 7200 7100.

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.

Healthdirect 1800 022 222

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

Healthdirect is a free hotline open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call up to speak to a registered nurse, who can make an assessment and refer you to either an urgent care service, or recommend an alternative treatment option for you.

Influenza Vaccine

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.

The Minns Labor Government has expanded the eligibility for the free nasal spray flu vaccine to include all young people from 2 to 17 years of age, providing more options to parents and helping to make vaccinations a less stressful process.

The 2026 flu vaccine is available and free for:

REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAMDEN

• Children aged 6 months to 5 years

• Pregnant women

tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au

Davies Secures Changes to Secondary Dwelling Rules

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

• Aboriginal people aged 6 months and over

• Anyone aged 65 and over

• People with serious health conditions.

For more information including on how to book your free flu vaccine, scan the QR code.

Pay Rise for Nurses

TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN

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

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

Our nurses have now started receiving their backpay after the Minns Labor Government delivered the largest pay increase in over two decades. That means before we came into government, an 8th year Registered Nurse’s salary was $94,568. After the pay increase is completed, their new salary will be $118,216.

Following the consistent advocacy of Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, the NSW Government has amended the Western Parkland City State Environmental Planning Policy to allow small secondary dwellings such as granny flats and studios in areas within the Australian Noise Exposure Concept (ANEC) 20-25 contour of the Western Sydney International Airport. The change reverses the ban on secondary dwellings in key locations near the airport and applies to eligible land in the local government areas of Penrith, Camden, Fairfield, Liverpool and Wollondilly.

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.

All of this has been achieved through careful economic management while putting people at the centre of decisions and comes at an important time: helping to recognise our hardworking nurses during some of the busiest month of the year.

r Article: Sally Quinnell MP

(02) 4655 3333 camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way,

The secondary dwellings require development consent, will be capped at 85 square metres and are required to include aircraft noise attenuation measures.

Mrs Davies recognised the many locals who had contacted her in recent years with concerns about the restrictions. “I thank everyone who reached out and am relieved that locals in our community have the opportunity to put their land to reasonable use and allow extended family members to reside closer together.”

“I will continue to advocate for flexibility and options which provide greater housing supply for people to reside in close proximity to infrastructure and employment,” continued Mrs Davies.

Mrs Davies acknowledged her Parliamentary colleague Judy Hannan MP, Member for Wollondilly, stating, “I thank Judy for her leadership and advocacy on this important matter.”

For more information on the changes, you may visit the following website: www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plans-foryour-area/priority-growth-areas-andprecincts/western-sydneyaerotropolis

Article: Tanya Davies

Local Celebrates Prestigious Hockey Award

A founding member of Harrington Park Hockey Club has been recognised for more than two decades of dedication to the sport, receiving one of Hockey NSW’s prestigious community service honours.

Andrew “Panda” Parker was presented with a Hockey NSW Community Distinguished Long Service Award at a ceremony held in Wollongong on Saturday, June 6, alongside the Open State Hockey Championships.

The award acknowledges more than 25 years of service to hockey and the wider community, recognising Parker’s significant contribution as a coach, mentor and administrator.

Parker has been involved with Harrington Park Hockey Club since its formation in 2007 and remains one of its most influential figures. A life member of the club, he currently serves as coaching co-ordinator and has played a key role in developing young players and strengthening grassroots hockey across the region.

Club representatives said they were extremely proud to see Parker receive the award, describing him as a passionate advocate for junior development and a driving force behind the club’s success both on and off the field.

“Andrew always puts junior development first and has helped create opportunities for countless young players,” a club spokesperson said.

His achievements extend beyond the local level. Parker has coached at a national level and is a national champion in both indoor and outdoor hockey, further highlighting his expertise and commitment to the sport.

The recognition comes during a positive season for Harrington Park Hockey Club, which has continued to expand its focus on junior development and female participation.

The club has fielded complete girls’ teams in the under-10 and under-12 mixed competitions this year, an initiative that is helping to strengthen pathways for young female players and grow the game locally.

Another milestone has been the return of an under-16 team competing on Friday nights, the first time the club has had a team in that age group for many years.

Club officials say these achievements reflect the long-term vision that leaders such as Parker have helped establish.

“Andrew’s commitment to developing players and supporting the hockey community has had a lasting impact on our club,” the spokesperson said. “This award is a fitting recognition of everything he has contributed over the years.”

Gledswood Hills Public School to Showcase ‘50 Years of Deadly’ Exhibition

More than 1,000 students at Gledswood Hills Public School will celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through a major school-wide art exhibition as part of NAIDOC Week 2026.

The school’s “50 Years of Deadly” Exhibition will be held on Wednesday, July 1, transforming classrooms and learning spaces into a vibrant gallery of student-created artworks and displays. The exhibition is inspired by the 2026 NAIDOC Week theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” which commemorates five decades of NAIDOC Week and recognises the achievements, histories, cultures and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Every class across the school will create its own unique “Deadly Display,” reflecting students’ learning and creativity while exploring the significance of the milestone theme. The exhibition is expected to involve all 1,008 students, making it one of the largest collaborative projects undertaken by the school.

The event will provide students with meaningful opportunities to engage with and celebrate First Nations cultures through hands-on learning and artistic expression.

“Participating in activities like this helps students deepen their understanding of the histories, stories and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” a school spokesperson said.

“The exhibition also encourages students to reflect on the Elders, trailblazers and change-makers who have contributed to positive movements and lasting change across Australia over the past 50 years.”

The event is expected to bring together students, staff and members of the wider community to celebrate learning, creativity and cultural understanding.

The exhibition follows a busy year for the school, which has already hosted a successful Harmony Week celebration and a range of sporting events. Following the NAIDOC Week showcase, students and staff will turn their attention to another milestone event, the school’s first-ever Kindergarten to Year 6 Athletics Carnival.

The school are eager to see the creativity that emerges from each class’s contribution and hope the exhibition will strengthen respect, understanding and connection within the school community.

“This exhibition is not only a celebration of NAIDOC Week but also an opportunity for students to honour the strength, resilience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” the spokesperson said.

Western Sydney International Airport Launch Dates Confirmed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Run Camden Brings Country Charm

The historic streets and scenic country landscapes of Camden are set to come alive this winter as the town hosts the inaugural Run Camden running festival on Sunday, 19th July 2026. Organisers are expecting an enthusiastic turnout of over 2,000 participants for what promises to be a spectacular celebration of community, fitness, and local heritage.

Designed to be highly inclusive, Run Camden caters to all ages, fitness levels, and abilities. The event offers four distinct race distances starting outside the Camden Showground:

• 21.1km Half Marathon – A scenic endurance challenge pushing deep into the local parklands.

• 10km Run – A fast, flat, and highly achievable route taking in the local polo and equestrian fields.

• 5km Run – The perfect distance for beginners, intermediate joggers, and active families.

• 2km Fun Run – A short, accessible dash with no minimum age requirement, ideal for first-timers and young children.

All courses provide a unique mix of smooth pavements and quiet trail sections alongside the Nepean River before concluding with a truly legendary finale. Runners will experience a triumphant final lap inside the Camden Showground Oval, crossing the finish line directly in front of the historic grandstand, a cinematic backdrop famously featured in the Angelina Joliedirected film Unbroken.

Elite Energy Events Founder and CEO, Mark "Emo" Emerton, says the overwhelming response to the region’s recent active events highlights a massive appetite for fitness festivals in the area.

"Organising the Runway Run at Western Sydney with 22,000 participants has proven the demand for running events in Western Sydney is really strong," said Emerton. "When a friend told me to check out the course at Camden where the event will be held, I was completely taken away by the area's beauty. Heritage buildings meet incredible nature here, making it the absolute perfect home for a premier community running festival."

Every participant who crosses the finish line will walk away with an official Run Camden finisher medal, with age group podium finishers receiving custom place medals. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to secure their spot on the starting line, join one of the runs or line the streets to cheer on the runners.

To look over the full course maps, check out scheduling information, or register for an event, visit the official website at runcamden.com.au.

Council Responds to Community Concerns Regarding Flying-fox Camp

Camden Council is actively responding to community concerns following the emergence of a significant Grey-headed flying-fox camp within the bushland surrounding Narellan Creek and Harrington Park Lake.

Since becoming aware of the camp in April 2026, Council has been working to understand the scale of the issue and determine appropriate management responses, with the latest estimates indicating approximately 50,000 flying-foxes are currently within the area. It is unknown whether the camp will remain over winter, as the camp may form part of the species’ seasonal migration along the east coast.

The increase in flying-fox numbers has led to concerns from some residents and businesses regarding noise, odour, droppings and impacts on local amenity, particularly around nearby homes, schools, childcare centres and public spaces.

While all native wildlife is protected, Grey-headed flyingfoxes are also listed as a vulnerable species under both NSW and Commonwealth legislation, meaning Council must comply with strict legal requirements and obtain relevant approvals before any management actions can occur.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said Council understood the impacts being experienced by the community and wanted residents to know work was already underway.

"We understand this situation is causing frustration and concern for residents and visitors, particularly for those living and working close to the camp," she said.

"Council is actively working with NSW Government agencies, specialist ecologists and neighbouring councils to investigate appropriate management options and understand what actions can be taken.

"While we recognise the impacts on our community, Council also has legal responsibilities that guide how these situations must be managed. This is a complex issue and there are strict processes that need to be followed."

Cleaning and maintenance resources are being redirected to the areas in and around the camp to help reduce impacts where possible.

For more information, visit yourvoice.camden.nsw.gov.au/ flying-foxes.

Residents are also encouraged to follow the page to stay informed when new updates are provided.

The Rise of Christmas In July

KID’S CORNER

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

Unlike the traditional

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

Historians trace the origins of the celebration in Australia to the early 1980s, when a group of Irish tourists staying at a hotel in the Blue Mountains reportedly celebrated Christmas together during a cold July evening. According to local accounts, the tourists missed the snowy Christmas traditions of home and convinced the hotel to host a festive dinner complete with decorations and hearty winter food. The idea quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors.

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

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

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

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

Community Book Retreat Brings Readers Together In Gregory Hills

A new community book library is helping to foster a love of reading and neighbourly connection in Gregory Hills, with the recent launch of Fleet Street Book Retreat.

Created by local resident Vikki Uriarte in midMay 2026, the charming street library has quickly become a popular stop for book lovers of all ages. The idea grew from her long-standing passion for reading and a desire to share that passion with others in the community.

“I’ve always loved books and I really wanted to share that with the community instead of just keeping them at home,” Vikki said.

Wanting the library to feel inviting and unique, she spent time designing it to be attractive and eye-catching. The effort appears to have paid off, with residents regularly stopping by to browse, borrow and swap books.

“It’s been really nice seeing people enjoy it,” she said.

Fleet Street Book Retreat offers a diverse range of reading material, ensuring there is something for everyone. Visitors can find thrillers, fiction, children’s books, novels and, at times, non-

fiction titles. The selection is constantly changing as community members donate and exchange books.

The concept of community book libraries has gained popularity in recent years, encouraging reading while promoting sustainability through sharing and reusing books. For Vikki, the benefits go beyond literature.

“I think it’s important because it gives people free and easy access to books and encourages sharing within the community,” she said. “It’s lovely seeing books being passed on and enjoyed by others, and it’s also nice seeing neighbours stop by and make use of the library.”

The initiative has already become a small but meaningful gathering point for local residents, providing opportunities for connection while making books more accessible.

Those interested in learning more about the retreat or keeping up with new additions can follow the Fleet Street Book Retreat Facebook page, where Vikki regularly shares updates and photos.

As the library continues to grow, Vikki remains thankful for the positive response it has received.

“I’m just really grateful for the support from the community,” she said. “It’s been really nice seeing people use the book retreat and enjoy it.”

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

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

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) are raising public awareness ahead of the busiest home fire season of all: Winter.

A recently launched, bold smoke alarm safety initiative, “Check your BLEEPING smoke alarm,” uses blunt and attentiongrabbing language to mark 20 years since the installation of these life-saving devices became mandatory in NSW homes.

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

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

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

PROBUS CLUB

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

Guest speakers are an integral part of our meetings. Our guest speaker in June was Susan Lewis who is renowned for her Pressed Floral Art designs. She has been a speaker at many flower shows and enjoys passing on knowledge about her craft and its many applications.

In May, many of our members are attending a 5 day/4 night tour of the northern Victoria High Country centred around Bright. All travellers enjoyed their tour.

As a social club for retired and semi-retired members of the community, Probus connects people from all walks of life. New

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

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

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

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

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

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

friendships are forged whilst Probus Members benefit from the social, physical and intellectual activities that Probus Clubs offer. Our day trips and tours attract a lot of interest from our members but so do the cheaper options such as the craft group where you can bring along any craft, as well as the monthly boys’ lunches and bimonthly specialty dining lunches.

Our July meeting is on Tuesday 7th and in August we meet on the 2nd. Visitors are always welcome. You can attend three of our meetings and/or events before joining. Oran Park Probus Club meets at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, 50 Raby Road, Gledswood Hills. The function room opens at 9:30am for a prompt 10.00 am start.

You may find this is the first step to making some new friends.

Please contact the Club Secretary for further details, email secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com

Smart Work Hub

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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

022

Heathdirect Australia

Get Healthy

Beyond Blue

Kids Helpline

Karitane Careline

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

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 Country Women’s Association of NSW - Camden Branch camdencwa2570@gmail.com

July is often seen as the midpoint of the year, a chance to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re heading.

It’s also a reminder that progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like businesses opening their doors each morning, volunteers giving their time, neighbours supporting one another, and communities continuing to show up despite challenges.

Local communities are built through consistency rather than moments. Choosing local, offering encouragement, attending events, and celebrating the achievements of others all contribute to something bigger than ourselves.

Winter brings a slower pace, but it also creates opportunities to reconnect and appreciate the things that matter most, relationships, resilience and the shared pride we have in our local area.

Thank you for continuing to support local stories, local businesses and local people.

“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”

Belinda

Grove

Gregory Hills

current free pickup locations, visit www.districtgazette.com.au/ pick-up-a-paper