ORAN PARK GAZETTE JUNE 2026

Nature Takes Centre Stage with New Competition

A new era of creativity and environmental awareness is set to bloom across the Macarthur region, with the launch of the newly rebranded Macarthur Nature Competition in 2026.

Bringing together two much-loved initiatives, the Macarthur Nature Photography Competition and the Threatened Species Art and Writing Competition, the refreshed program will now run under one banner to create a bigger and more impactful celebration of the region’s natural beauty.

The competition sees Camden Council joining forces with Campbelltown City and Wollondilly Shire Councils, inviting residents of all ages to explore, capture and interpret the unique landscapes, plants and wildlife of Macarthur through art, creative writing and photography.

The competition is open now and closes on Friday 26 June, with winners to be announced at an awards ceremony on Thursday 3 September at the Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre.

The Macarthur Nature Competition is open to primary and high school students, adults and professional artists, with categories including Australian native plants and landscapes, native animals and pollinators, and caring for Country.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the new-look competition was an exciting opportunity to both showcase local talent and deepen the community’s connection to the environment.

“This competition is about more than just creativity – it’s about encouraging our community to really take notice of the incredible natural environment we’re lucky to have here in Camden,” she said.

“Whether it’s through a camera lens, a paintbrush or the written word, we want people of all ages to share their perspective and tell our story.

“This competition also is an opportunity for people to learn more about local biodiversity, think about their role in protecting it and express that in a meaningful and personal way.”

For more information, competition guidelines and to submit your entry, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/environment/ environmental-programs/macarthur-nature-competition.

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

Camden Musical Society Presents Joseph

Camden Musical Society is set to dazzle local audiences this June with its vibrant new production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the beloved family musical packed with unforgettable songs, infectious energy and heartwarming storytelling.

Running at the Camden Civic Centre from 12 – 21 June 2026, the production promises a colourful theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

Featuring a cast of more than 40 performers, this communitydriven production truly celebrates the spirit of local theatre, with cast members ranging in age from just 7 years old to 71.

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has captivated audiences around the world for decades with iconic songs including “Any Dream Will Do”, “Go Go Go Joseph” and “Close Every Door”.

The high-energy production follows the biblical story of Joseph, a dreamer gifted with visions of the future whose jealous brothers sell him into slavery. Filled with pop, rock, calypso and country-inspired musical numbers, the show blends humour, emotion and spectacle into a joyous theatrical celebration. Plus, Camden Musical Society adds its own groovy twist to the tale, too.

Head of Marketing for Camden Musical Society, Inge Marais, said the production reflects the organisation’s passion for creating affordable, family-friendly community theatre that brings people together both on and off the stage.

“This show is pure joy. From the incredible music to the vibrant choreography and the heartwarming message of hope and resilience, Joseph is a musical that truly has something for everyone. We’re especially proud that this production brings together performers across generations, from young children stepping onto the stage for the first time to seasoned performers sharing their love of theatre.”

Founded in Camden, NSW, Camden Musical Society has become known for delivering high-quality community productions while fostering local talent and creativity.

Tickets for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat are on sale now and can be purchased via camdenmusicalsociety. com.au.

FROM ANZAC REFLECTION TO NEW BEGINNINGS IN CAMDEN

It was great to be part of one of my favourite ANZAC Day services at Warragamba again this year. It’s always a moving service and well supported by the community.

ANZAC Day reminds us of who we are, what we value, and the price paid for the freedoms we enjoy. It’s important we

continue to support our servicemen and women — not just on the day, but long after they return home. Lest we forget.

On a different note, it was also great to attend the official opening of Powder Monkey Brewery in Camden, just down the road from my office on Hill Street.

Congratulations to Director Ben Twomey and his team — they’ve done a great job bringing this new space to life. With onsite brewing, a relaxed beer garden and a solid range of beers, it’s a welcoming place for locals to catch up.

It’s also a real positive for Camden, creating local jobs and bringing more life into the town centre.

There’s a nice historical link too, with Camden’s farming past connecting back to Britain, where Powder Monkey has its roots.

I encourage locals to get down and check it out.

Road Safety Week 2026

COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!

Road Safety Week recently ran from 17 – 24 May.

Contact Tanya

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

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

This year, the theme was “Drive So Others Survive” – an important message I know we all emulate here in Camden. I encourage everyone to continue to use our roads safely.

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.

I am always focused on delivering for every suburb of our Camden community – especially when it comes to road safety. It’s imperative that commuters and pedestrians remain safe while travelling to work, school, or back home.

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

That’s why I’ve rolled out interim safety upgrades on Remembrance Driveway in Camden and have secured funding to plan for the installation of traffic lights across Remembrance Driveway. This will keep our roads much safer.

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.

In my first three years as Member for Camden, I have delivered two school crossings – one outside Camden South Public School, and one at Spring Farm Public School. Both have ensured our children are protected on their walks to and from school.

REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAMDEN

After speaking with residents over the past couple of weeks, however, I know that the Currans Hill community is also facing significant safety challenges due to the lack of a safe pedestrian crossing.

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

I’m asking for your support to petition Camden Council to prioritise the building of a pedestrian crossing on Currans Hill Drive.

Buskers Asked To Help Council Make Music

Camden Council is inviting local buskers to help bring the streets of Camden, Narellan and Oran Park to life, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Local musicians of all styles and experience levels are encouraged to apply via Council’s website to be considered for busking opportunities across the Camden area.

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

Scan the QR code to sign the petition on my website – and check out the other upgrades I’m working on throughout the community!

I know there’s more to do, and I’ll keep working hard to build a better Camden for all of us.

TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN

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

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.

r Article: Sally Quinnell MP (02)

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.

Council’s busking initiative is all about bringing people together while shining a spotlight on emerging artists. It offers performers a chance to share their talent, build confidence, test new material and connect with the community, all while adding energy and character to everyday public spaces.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said busking played an important role in creating vibrant, engaging town centres.

“We’re really keen to see more local performers sign up and take part in our busking program across Camden, Narellan and Oran Park,” she said.

“There’s something special about turning a regular trip to the shops into a moment of live music or street performance. It brings a sense of life, creativity and connection to our public spaces, and that’s exactly what we want in our local centres.

Council is encouraging buskers to register now and be part of the movement.

For more information, and to register your details, visit camden.nsw. gov.au/payments-and-forms/forms-

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.

History in the Making and Records for the Ages

Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport’s (WSI) historic “Runway Run/Walk” was truly one for the record books with Sydney turning on a glorious autumn day and 20,000 participants experiencing their new 24-hour global gateway while raising funds for sick kids.

Elite Energy Events CEO Mark Emerton said the goal was for the community to come together, have some fun and raise much needed funds for Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) and it evolved into an unmatched organic festival that exceeded all expectations.

“From the arrival of the first participants it was apparent that their happy smiles, infectious enthusiasm and genuine ownership of the day would ensure Runway Run/Walk was not just a truly unique event but also an outstanding success.”

“As the early morning fog lifted, the day unfolded into a magnificent spectacle with wave after wave of runners, joggers, walkers and strollers embracing the opportunity to make some friends, enjoy the celebration and make history,” he said.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the day was a wonderful gathering of diverse communities who came together to experience their new 24-hour airport while fundraising for vital services that support sick kids.

“Thank you to everyone who came and took part in this oncein-a-lifetime event – the excitement of the crowds was almost palpable, and it was terrific to give people a behind-the-scenes experience of Sydney’s new global gateway before we launch passenger services.”

“The event partners and hundreds of dedicated volunteers all helped make this day a terrific success and everyone collectively raised significant funds for such a worthy cause – the amazing work of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network,” he said.

SCHF Chief Philanthropy Officer Colin Allen said Runway Run/ Walk participants had collectively raised more than $200,000 that would support children’s hospitals, hospice services and research.

“The Runway Run/Walk was an extraordinary show of community generosity and joy, and we are incredibly grateful to every participant who turned this once in a lifetime experience into real impact for sick kids.”

“Raising more than $200,000 means we can support the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network through its hospitals, hospice care and vital research, helping children and their families when they need it most, and proving just how powerful a difference a united community can make,” Mr Allen said.

Boots n’ Beats Boasts Star-studded Talent,

Food and Drink Lineup

This year’s talent lineup proves that, when it comes to country music, Camden doesn’t just talk the talk –they walk the walk. Sharing the stage with headline act James Johnston at

Camden Council’s highly anticipated Boots n’ Beats event this year will be:

• Carly Mozsny, a proud Camden local with a strong passion for country music;

• Hayden Phillis, who released his debut album in 2025 and is quickly gaining attention as an emerging artist;

• Jamie Preston, a Sydney South-West talent who first busked at the original Boots n’ Beats event in 2022 and has since soared, releasing his own music and now taking to the main stage;

• Mak and Shar, one of Australia’s most refreshing new country-pop duos, known for their tight sibling harmonies, dynamic live shows and modern, catchy sound;

• Ronnie Joudo, a former The Voice contestant whose deep vocals and story-driven songwriting blend traditional country roots with a modern edge; and

• Tori Darke, a local favourite returning for a second time after performing in 2022, who has since appeared on The Voice and continues to rise in the country music scene.

In the food, drink and product space, attendees will be able to visit more than 40 stalls, including:

• Cholito Empanadas;

• Yummy Time Dumpling;

• That’s Amore Italian Woodfire Pizza;

• The King and His Q with barbeque meats;

• Lush Berries;

• Mr Puff Loukomades;

• G-Free Donuts;

• Old School Ice Cream;

• Le Petit Fromage with artesian charcuterie boxes;

• Artisan Delish Salami; and

• Serving Up Country, selling apparel.

Council’s boot-scootin’ Boots n’ Beats will be held on Saturday 13 June, 2:00pm – 8:00pm, at Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said this year’s talent, food and drink lineup would deliver a great time in spades.

“From our headline act right through to our local legends, every artist was handpicked to deliver great music, create an incredible atmosphere and have you buzzing about the country experience for weeks to come,” she said.

“We’re incredibly proud of the talent, and food and drink offerings, we’ve rounded up this year.

“In terms of food, I can assure you that no one is going home hungry. From smoky barbecue to crowd-favourite classics, the food and drink on offer will be just as amazing as the music.

“We poured a lot of love into this event, and we can’t wait to share it with you all.”

Tickets are on sale now and they’re movin’ faster than a buckin’ bronco – so make sure you don’t get left in the dust! Round up your crew and secure yours at bootsnbeats.com.au.

r Image: Brett Atkins | Article: Camden Council

Local Butcher Carves Global Success

Local butcher Brett Laws has built a career on precision, speed and creativity, which has taken him from a local meat counter to the global stage of competitive butchery.

The Oran Park resident, who has lived in the fastgrowing south-west Sydney suburb for the past decade, recently placed third in the world at the World Butcher Wars competition held during the Meatstock festival in Sydney.

Laws, who works at Pryde Meats in Narellan Town Centre, competed against 28 elite butchers from around the globe in one of the industry’s most demanding contests.

Competitors were given just 30 minutes to break down half a lamb and a middle pork cut, while also creating unique valueadded products and presenting a final display for judging. Contestants were scored on speed, creativity and presentation.

“It is a very fast competition, and I was super happy to come third in the world and represent Australia in butchery,” Laws said.

The latest achievement adds to an already impressive international resume for the award-winning butcher, who has spent the past four years immersed in competition butchery.

In 2025, Laws represented Australia at the World Butchers’ Challenge in Paris, where the Australian team finished third overall. His innovative value-added products also earned him selection in the prestigious All-Star team, a group recognising the six best butchers in the world.

Among his long list of achievements, Laws said he was the first butcher in Australia to win five Butcher Wars titles in a row. He has also claimed Master Butcher titles in New Zealand twice and was crowned a world champion butcher in 2024.

The competitions have taken him across the world, including appearances in the United States, Paris and now Sydney’s international showcase.

But despite the travel and accolades, Laws said his passion for the craft remains at the centre of everything he does.

“Butcher competition has changed my life in every way,” he said.

“I now travel the world promoting butchery and showcasing the art of butchery.

“If you have a passion for anything, just chase your dreams and you too could be living out your dream.”

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

Designed for remembrance and reflection, it offers 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 Discover Macarthur Memorial Park, Sydney’s newest cemetery

Biggest Ever Badgerys Creek Student Leaders Forum

Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, has hosted the largest ever Badgerys Creek Senior School Leadership Forum in NSW Parliament House.

A total of 72 students and teachers from 11 schools across the Badgerys Creek electorate attended the annual forum held on Thursday, May 14th 2026.

The students enjoyed a tour of NSW Parliament House including a very rare opportunity to sit on the benches of the Legislative Council and receive a brief history on the parliament from the attendant.

Special guest speakers who shared their backgrounds before politics and what they hope to achieve as Members of Parliament included Kellie Sloane MP, Leader of the Opposition; the Honourable Paul Toole MP, Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads; and the Honourable Aileen MacDonald OAM MLC.

In what was a first for the majority in the group, the students watched a rowdy Question Time from the Legislative Assembly gallery. Their presence in the gallery at one point drawing the attention of a Labor Minister who attempted to engage the students in debate, which was against the rules of question time. This prompted the Speaker to issue a warning to the Minister.

Mrs Davies has been hosting the forum since being elected to parliament in 2011 and says it’s a great opportunity for students to gain insight into how Parliament runs, learn about the qualities of a good leader, and challenge their perceptions of politicians.

“The leadership forum is a highlight of my year as a local member. I am always so impressed by the questions asked by the students and thrilled when, at the end of the day, some students' minds have been opened up to a possible career in public service," Mrs Davies said.

Oran Park High School Prefect Afra Butt says the experience has changed her perception about politics. “It was an eye-opening experience, really getting on the inside of state politics. It’s not as easy as it looks on social media. I am appreciative of state politics now,” Miss Butt said.

To mark the occasion, the large group gathered on the front steps of NSW Parliament House with Mrs Davies for a photo.

Schools attending included:

• Caroline Chisholm College

• Emmaus Catholic College

• Glenmore Park High School

• Irfan College

• Mamre Anglican School

• Nepean Christian School

• Oran Park Anglican College

• Oran Park High School

• St Benedict’s Catholic College

• St Clair High School

• St Narsai Assyrian Christian College

v Oran Park High School Group Photo featuring Afra Butt (front right). Image/Article: Tanya Davies MP

Solstice Celebrations Light Up Winter

As Australia prepares for the Winter Solstice, local communities are planning celebrations to mark the shortest day and longest night of the year. The annual astronomical event, which occurs in June in the Southern Hemisphere, has become increasingly popular as people embrace seasonal traditions, outdoor gatherings and cultural ceremonies despite the colder weather.

Interest in solstice-themed experiences is continuing to grow, with more people taking part in sunrise gatherings, bonfires, lantern festivals and stargazing activities across the country. Many attractions are promoting the occasion as an opportunity for people to reconnect with nature and enjoy the dramatic winter skies that appear during the longer nights.

Astronomers say the Winter Solstice occurs when the Earth’s tilt places the Southern Hemisphere furthest from the sun, resulting in fewer daylight hours than any other day of the year. While the event has scientific significance, it also carries deep cultural meaning for many communities. Indigenous groups have long recognised seasonal changes through traditional

knowledge systems, using shifts in weather, animal behaviour and the night sky to mark important times of the year.

Families and local organisations are also embracing newer traditions inspired by European and Nordic winter festivals. Fire pits, warm food markets and live music performances are expected to draw large crowds as people seek ways to celebrate the midwinter period.

Bookings for winter getaways and travel experiences are popular, reflecting a broader interest in seasonal tourism and outdoor experiences during the colder months. Social media has also contributed to renewed interest, with influencers and photographers sharing images of frosty landscapes, glowing night skies and early morning gatherings.

Weather experts predict cold conditions for many parts of the country during this year’s solstice period, although clear skies in several regions could provide ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts hoping to observe constellations and planetary activity.

The Winter Solstice will also signal the gradual return of longer days, with daylight hours beginning to increase immediately afterward. For many Australians, the event represents not only the peak of winter but also a symbolic turning point toward brighter and warmer months ahead.

r Image: www.pixabay.com

For more than a century, St Gregory’s College has been a place of connection, tradition and shared experience, and nowhere was that more evident than at this year’s Back to Greg’s Day, the College’s first major celebration of its Centenary year.

Set on the College’s expansive 300 acre campus, Back to Greg’s Day welcomed Old Boys, families, past staff and members of the wider community back to the place many still affectionately call home. The event was a reminder that St Gregory’s is not just a school, but a community built on relationships that span generations.

The return of two much loved traditions, the rodeo and the College art show, was a highlight of the day. These events reflected the College’s proud history as a “farm school” while celebrating the creativity, talent and spirit that continue to shape St Gregory’s today. Visitors enjoyed reconnecting with old friends, exploring the art displays and sharing stories across the grounds.

Adding to the sense of occasion, a dramatic storm rolled through just before the rodeo began. Rather than dampening spirits, it created a moment that made the day even more memorable.

For Old Boys, Back to Greg’s Day offered an opportunity to reconnect with familiar spaces while seeing how the College has grown and evolved. For current families and community members, it was a chance to witness the strength of the St Gregory’s network, one that continues to support students well beyond their school years.

As Centenary celebrations continue throughout 2026, the College warmly invites the community to take part in upcoming events, including the Centenary Mass on Friday 4 September 2026.

Together, these celebrations honour the past, celebrate the present and look confidently to the future of St Gregory’s College.

For more information about St Gregory’s College and our Centenary celebrations, visit our website at www.stgregs.nsw. edu.au

KID’S CORNER

Harrington Park Playgroup Thrives

Families across Harrington Park are finding friendship, support and fun through the long-running Pixies and Munchkins Playgroup, a welcoming community group that brings parents and children together each week.

The playgroup meets every Friday from 10:00am to 11:45am at the Harrington Park Community Centre, catering for children of all ages from newborns through to school-aged kids. According to group representative Mel, the group regularly attracts between 10 and 15 families each week and is always eager to welcome new members.

Designed to be affordable and accessible, Pixies and Munchkins offer casual visits for $7 per family or a full-term membership for $45, working out to just $4.50 a week. Importantly for larger families, the fee remains the same regardless of how many children attend, and first-time visitors can try the group free of charge.

Each session offers a variety of engaging activities aimed at entertaining and educating children while giving parents a chance to connect. Activities regularly include free play, story time, craft sessions and themed events that change week to week.

Throughout the year, the group also organises excursions to family-friendly destinations such as the train museum and

occasionally hosts special visitors. Mel said children particularly enjoy craft activities run by guest presenters, including local Bunnings team members.

Special celebrations are another highlight on the calendar, with themed sessions recognising occasions such as Harmony Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

While the activities are designed with children in mind, Mel said the playgroup’s biggest strength is the sense of community it creates for parents.

“Groups like ours are about more than just the children, they’re also about supporting parents,” she said.

“Parenting can be overwhelming, so having a welcoming space each week where your child can play, learn, and make friends while you enjoy a chat and connect with others is incredibly valuable.”

Mel described the group as completely judgement-free, with supportive parents who often become “like a little family”.

Pixies and Munchkins has continued to thrive thanks to its dedicated members and strong community spirit. Parents interested in joining or learning more can contact the group through its Facebook or Instagram pages.

r Members enjoying the weekly craft activity | Images Supplied by

Council Issues Dangerous Waste Warning

Camden Council is reminding residents not to dispose of gas canisters in household or public bins, following a concerning increase across the local government area.

CO₂ and N₂O canisters pose a serious safety risk to waste collection workers, the community and waste facilities, as they can explode or ignite when compacted.

Gas canisters must be taken to an approved recycling facility and disposed of safely. Council’s Community Recycling Centre (CRC), located at 5 Millwood Avenue in Narellan, is open Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am-2:00pm, and can accept household quantities of CO₂ and N₂O canisters. Commercial operators are required to arrange disposal through an appropriately licensed commercial waste service.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the behaviour was dangerous and unacceptable.

“Putting gas canisters in bins is extremely hazardous and puts our waste workers and community at serious risk,” she said.

“There are safe and accessible disposal options available, and we are urging everyone to take responsibility and do the right thing.

“Council is investigating this issue and will continue to increase education and awareness to keep our community safe.”

Residents are reminded that hazardous items should never be placed in bins.

For more information, contact Council on 13 22 63 or email mail@camden.nsw.gov.au

For more information on the CRC, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/ waste/community-recycling-centre-crc

Article

Written + Submitted by:

Keira Noble | Clinical Psychologist

The Anxiety & Depression Clinic W: www.anxietydepressionclinic.com.au

P: 0424 263 577 | 02 46266932

People Pleasing

Feeling exhausted and upset with yourself for, once again, over committing to one too many tasks in order to help your family, friends, or work colleagues? People pleasing is a common behaviour in which many of us feel compelled to engage. We too often find ourselves ‘yesing’ instead of declining. Whilst this seems like a fairly benign behaviour, it can significantly impact one’s mental health, time, and energy, and its root causes can run quite deep.

When we agree with someone or say yes to a request, the typical response we receive is reinforcing. The other person often smiles and showers us with compliments, with phrases like, ‘Thank you so much, you are a legend’ being shared. Alternatively, when we decline a person’s request or disagree, we are often met with expressions of disappointment or irritation and comments that evoke guilt, such as, ‘Oh no, I don’t know what I’m going to do now’.

Whilst helping out and being altruistic can be beneficial, like most things, it should be done in moderation, with consideration given to one’s own commitments, needs, and wants. Neither ‘yesing’ nor ‘noing’ should ever become a rule, and if yesing becomes your default, it is likely that you suffer from a low sense of self-worth, with pleasing people being one of the few transient, superficial ways to give your self-esteem a quick boost.

However, as people continue to reinforce us for all of our people pleasing at the expense of ourselves, we do more of it and begin to wonder: do these people really like me for me, or for what I do?

Behaviour Changer – Ceasing People Pleasing

• Start small — think of someone with whom you share a close relationship and pick a smaller, insignificant topic on which to disagree.

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. This month’s guest speaker was James Gardner, stone mason extraordinaire. His history was very interesting, as he had worked on a wide variety of Sydney’s prominent buildings and landmarks, including Cockatoo Island, the Sydney Observatory, the Chinese Gardens, statues in Centennial Park, and countless war memorials. The techniques used today are identical to those used thousands of years ago. He has worked on limestone, marble, bronze, and timber. Oyster shells from the Sydney Fish Markets are cleaned, fired in a kiln, and ground into powder to make plaster, as would have been done in the 1800s. If you have the opportunity to listen to him speak, I highly recommend that you do so.

This month, many of our members are attending a 5 day/4 night tour of the Northern Victoria High Country, centred around Bright. I hope to share some of the photos and stories next month.

As a social club for retired and semi-retired members of the

• Sometimes saying no is hard after ‘yes’ has become the default — start by delaying your response, e.g. ‘I’m not sure, I’ll get back to you’ or ‘Yes, but not right now’.

• Continue to practise declining requests and learn to sit with the discomfort, which will become easier with practice.

• Remember, declining does not mean being aggressive. Be assertive, which means being respectful at all times.

community, Probus connects people from all walks of life. New friendships are forged whilst Probus members benefit from the social, physical, and intellectual activities that Probus Clubs offer. Oran Park Probus Club’s 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 your knitting or crochet, as well as the monthly movie visits and bi-monthly pub lunches.

Come to one of our monthly meetings and see if Probus would suit you. Visitors are always welcome. Oran Park Probus Club meets at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, 50 Raby Road, Gledswood Hills, commencing at 10.00 am on the first Tuesday of every month, except November, when the meeting would clash with Melbourne Cup events. There is no meeting in January. You may find this is the first step to making some great friendships. Please contact the Club Secretary for further details at: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com

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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

MensLine Australia

Kids Helpline

Karitane Careline

Breastfeeding Helpline (NSW) 1800 686 268 (1800 MUM

Pregnancy Birth + Baby 1800 882

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

As we move into June, it’s a timely reminder of the quiet strength that holds our community together. Community spirit is built on everyday choices, supporting a local café, recommending a trusted tradie, or simply stopping for a chat on the footpath. These small moments are what shape the places we live.

Our local businesses are more than storefronts. They are run by people who live here, employ locals, and give back in countless ways. Choosing to shop local helps keep that cycle of support alive and thriving, particularly as we move into the cooler months.

Equally important are good neighbours. A friendly wave, a moment of understanding, or lending a hand can make all the difference. And while not every interaction is as it seems, or always comes from a place of goodwill, how we choose to respond ultimately defines the kind of community we create.

As always, let’s continue to show up for one another and invest in the place we call home.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Belinda

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