No Room for Cowboys on Camden’s Shared Paths
Camden Council is reminding residents about responsible E-bike and E-scooter use, aiming to ensure shared paths, parks and public spaces stay safe and welcoming for everyone.
Council is focusing on a clear message for its residents, and one they’re already familiar with – ‘See Something. Say Something.’. The existing campaign, which is in partnership with Wollondilly Shire Council and Camden Police Area Command, encourages residents to speak up and report suspicious activity promptly to their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000.
Council is reminding E-bike and E-scooter riders of the E-Bike Code, which sets out rules and responsibilities to help keep everyone safe on shared paths. Some of these key responsibilities include:
• Slowing down to walking pace when others are nearby;
• Ringing the bell and calling out “on your right” when passing people; and
• Being alert to sudden changes, with people, pets and prams often unpredictable
Riders should also be aware that E-bikes and E-scooters are prohibited areas such as parks, playgrounds and other signed locations.
Mayor of Camden Council, Cr Therese Fedeli, said E-bikes and E-scooters were becoming an increasingly popular way to get around Camden.
“With convenience comes responsibility,” Mayor Fedeli said.
“While many people ride safely and respectfully, unsafe behaviour, confusion around the rules and damage to public spaces can put others at risk and takes the fun out of shared community areas.
“The See Something. Say Something. campaign aims to contribute to safer public spaces for the Camden community, reduce anti-social behaviour and crime in the local area and help improve reporting of crimes and anti-social behaviour. This now includes irresponsible and dangerous E-bike and E-scooter use.
“By riding responsibly, looking out for one another and being respectful of those around us, we can all play a part in helping to keep Camden’s shared paths, parks and public spaces safe, accessible and enjoyable for all.”
For more information on road safety, visit camden.nsw.gov. au/community/communityinformation/crime-preventionand-road-safety/road-safety
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
40-Love: IWD Keynote Announced
Australian broadcaster, tennis analyst, former professional player and public speaker, Jelena Dokic, will be the keynote speaker at Camden Council’s International Women’s Day Gala.
Dokic, also a bestselling author and mental health advocate, has inspired millions worldwide through sport, advocacy and her powerful voice.
She will take attendees on a journey through the peaks and pits that helped shape her career and build her into who she is today.
The tennis superstar said she was exciting to be part of Council’s much-loved event.
“I am looking forward to joining you all and sharing my story at the Camden Council IWD Gala event, it is going to be a special evening.”
The sixth annual Camden Council's International Women's Day Gala will be held on Thursday 5 March, 5:30-9:00pm, at Camden Civic Centre. In addition to a speech by Jelena Dokic, the event will feature:
• A two-course meal and drinks;
• A Mayoral address;
• Presentation of the Camden Woman of the Year Award; and
• Networking opportunities throughout the night.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said she was looking forward to seeing everyone come together to celebrate International Women’s Day.
“Our International Women's Day Gala has really become an event that people look forward to and gain a lot from,” she said.
“It’s incredibly special to be in a room full of strong, powerful and inspiring women. To hear their stories, to network and bounce ideas off the people around you and to make connections that really blossom is fantastic.
“I am so proud to celebrate the incredible women we have in our community and to acknowledge all the important and powerful roles the women around us play.”
The event has been made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, including:
• Platinum Sponsor – Baba’s Milk;
• Gold Sponsors – Camden Golf Club, Momenta Books and White Lady Funerals; and
• Silver Sponsors – Fox & Co Finance and Politech Air Conditioning Services Pty Ltd.
For more information, visit www.camden.nsw.gov.au/whatson/annualsignature-events/international-womens-day-gala
r Jelena Dokic | Image/Article: Camden Council
Welcome back to 2026!
COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!
Last year, I was able to deliver more for Camden, including:
I’m incredibly excited to announce that Gledswood Hills High School is open!
• Beginning the construction of Gregory Hills High School
• Delivery of Spring Farm School Crossing
• Planning for Spring Farm Parkway Stage 2
After 12 years of delays and broken promises by the former Liberal government, the new temporary high school has been delivered.
• Secured funding for a new shaded area and upgraded façade at Camden Public School
• Secured funding for a new shaded area at Elizabeth Macarthur High School
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.
• Upgraded sub-acute palliative care ward and new renal dialysis care unit at Camden Hospital
• Connection of residents at Ettlesdale Road to Sydney Water
Land has also been chosen for the permanent site for Gledswood Hills High School.
• Secured funding for traffic lights at Camden South intersections
This year, I will continue to work hard to connect Camden to health, education and industry. I want to thank everyone who has called or written to my office – I am dedicated to delivering on your needs, and I appreciate everyone who has let me know what Camden requires to be a safer, happier area to live in.
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.
If there’s anything you’d like me to fight for or believe I should be aware of this year, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact my office on (02) 4655 3333, or at camden@parliament. nsw.gov.au.
REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAM
The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering much needed upgrades to 15 schools across Camden.
Scan the QR code to fill out my community survey for 2026.
r Article: Sally Quinnell MP
These upgrades are part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education in NSW after 12 years of Liberal Government neglect.
(02) 4655 3333 camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au
TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN
Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567
Teacher vacancies have been slashed by over 40 percent in NSW public schools.
Authorised by Sally Quinnell MP, Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567. Funded using parliamentary entitlements, 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.
Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies MP
Tanya Davies MP Member for Badgerys Creek
Contact Tanya
badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au
(02) 9834 2966 (02) 9834 6291
tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au
Tanya Davies Endorsed as the Liberal Candidate for 2027 NSW Election
Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, has been endorsed by the Liberal Party to recontest the seat of Badgerys Creek at the upcoming NSW State Election scheduled for March 2027.
Mrs Davies served as the Member for Mulgoa from 2011 to 2023 and since 2023 has served as the Member for Badgerys Creek. During this time, she has fought to support local jobs and businesses, address cost of living challenges and ensure that essential services are available to residents across the Badgerys Creek electorate.
“Whether I am in Government or part of the Opposition, I always ensure to put the needs of my community first,” stated Mrs Davies.
“My decision to recontest is driven by my desire to have our community take advantage of the opportunities arising from the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and to ensure western Sydney gets the services and infrastructure we deserve,” continued Mrs Davies.
Mrs Davies has been outspoken in her calling of the NSW Government to commit to the construction of stage two of the North South Rail Line, connecting Bradfield to Macarthur, including a station in the growing suburb of Oran Park.
She has remained vocal in her criticism of the current NSW Labor Government, whose term in power is marked by a lack of supply in housing, longer hospital wait times, crumbling road infrastructure and higher electricity bills, just to name a few of their many failings.
“We must reverse the direction that our State is headed in. We can’t afford another term of this failing Labor Government,” concluded Mrs Davies.
r Article: Tanya Davies MP
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.
“Still a Country Show” – The 2026 Camden Show Returns
Friday 20th & Saturday 21st March 2026
From 8.00am – 11.00pm Daily
Get ready for the highly anticipated 140th Camden Show 2026, happening on Friday 20th & Saturday 21st March at Onslow Oval, Camden! This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, packed with thrilling new attractions and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Whether you're a returning visitor or joining them for the first time, the Camden Show is the perfect chance to reconnect with the community, discover the best local businesses, and experience the agricultural heart of Australia. As the birthplace of Australian agriculture, Camden stays true to its country roots, offering a classic country show with all the traditional agricultural favourites.
Wander through the historic Camden Show Hall showcasing the district exhibit, Pavilion exhibitors with their baked goods, handicrafts, sugar art and photography and more. Explore the Poultry Pavilion for a close look at the region’s finest bird specimens, take in the locally grown vegetables in the produce pavilion and keep an eye out for the biggest pumpkin. There's something for everyone to enjoy.
Be sure to check out the street parade along Argyle Street on Friday at 4:00pm, featuring the impressive Marlie Stud Wool Wagon, Charlie the Brahman Steer and Friends and much more! Don’t miss exciting events like the Wood Chop Competition, Noah’s Racing Pigs, animal education tent, animal nursery, and the Drovers Camp, where you can enjoy traditional tea and damper. For a little thrill, catch the whip cracker or the snake man in action!
Join in the fun by cheering on local schools in the popular Scarecrow Competition or support emerging talent on the Entertainment Stage.
Need a break? Head over to the Cobbitty by Mirvac Style Pavilion, where you’ll find delicious boutique food and unique local wares. For more thrills, dive into the heart-pounding rides at side show alley.
The show also features a wide range of exciting competitions, including sheepdog trials, ute competition, displays of sheep, goats, alpacas, cattle, a Championship Dog show, wood chopping and show jumping. Watch amazing horse events showcasing everything from adorable mini horses to majestic draught horses.
The excitement doesn’t stop there! On Friday night, get ready for an unforgettable rodeo program from 7:00pm with the Xtreme Bulls. Don’t miss the Saturday Grand Parade from 4:00pm and the action-packed fun during the Night Show, including the dazzling fireworks display at 9:00pm, courtesy of Camden Hire and Foti Fireworks.
The Camden Show is truly “Still a Country Show,” with something for every member of the family. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable weekend filled with entertainment, tradition, and community spirit!
For more information, FAQ and event details, visit www. camdenshow.com
Tickets are available online, and parking is free!
Become a member of the Camden Show Society to enjoy exclusive benefits and support the oldest and largest traditional event in Macarthur.
Two big days of family fun – come to the Camden Show!
r Feature Article [Cover] Still A Country Show | Image: Stonemeadow Photography. Article: Camden Show Society
From Shadows to Spotlight
Local author and District Gazette Writer Tanya Nellestein, returns readers to danger, desire, and deepening emotional stakes with the release of Emerging in Shadows, the third instalment in her gripping Townsend & Gray series.
Blending romantic suspense with crime fiction, the series follows investigators Ash Gray and Chad Townsend as they navigate complex cases while fighting just as hard for their relationship. With Emerging in Shadows, the stakes rise both personally and professionally, as buried secrets surface and trust is tested under pressure.
“This book really pushes Ash and Chad,” Tanya says. “They’re no longer just solving crimes — they’re confronting the emotional shadows. For Ash, it’s the arrival of her father whom she believed dead for the last thirty years; and for Chad, it’s his professional integrity coming under unwarranted scrutiny.”
The new release also marks a visual refresh for the entire series. All titles in Townsend & Gray have received a makeover with striking new covers that better reflect the atmospheric tone of the stories. “I wanted the covers to match the emotional depth and suspense inside,” Tanya explains. “They now feel as layered and compelling as the characters themselves.”
Readers can expect the signature elements fans have come to love: slow-burn romance, emotional vulnerability, and tightly woven investigations. But this instalment goes deeper into character psychology, exploring trauma, loyalty, and the cost of truth.
“For me, romantic suspense is about what happens when your heart is on the line at the same time as your life,” Tanya says. “Ash and Chad are strong, but they’re also human, and that’s where the real tension lives.”
The fourth and fifth books in the Townsend & Gray series will be released later this year.
With its blend of crime, intimacy, and high emotional stakes, Emerging in Shadows cements Tanya Nellestein’s place as a compelling voice in romantic suspense — and proves that in the Townsend & Gray world, the darkest places often reveal the most powerful truths.
You can find Emerging in Shadows, as well as all of Tanya’s other novels, on Amazon or purchase via her website: www. tanyanellestein.com or selective bookstores.
r [Top] Author Tanya Nellestein [Above] The Townsend & Gray series. Image: Amanda Keating. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Local Filmmaker Launches Sci-Fi Saga
Momento Hospitality Breaks Ground on Their Second Oran Park Venue
Independent filmmaker and vlogger James Peniata will premiere his ambitious new web series, Atomic Kingdom, at the Oran Park Hotel’s Crush Bar cinemas on March 28.
The event will take place across both Cinema 1 and Cinema 2, with Peniata working closely since early January with Benjamin Nasser and director of events Anya Hulland at Oran Park Hotel, to bring the screening to life. “They really have been going above and beyond to help make my independent and locally produced series premiere event fantastic,” he said.
The premiere will feature a screening of “Volume One,” comprising the first three episodes of the 12-episode saga. In total, audiences can expect a 125-minute cinematic experience introducing viewers to Peniata’s expansive postapocalyptic world.
Set in a future Australia that survived World War III by sealing itself behind a powerful energy forcefield, Atomic Kingdom imagines a nation reorganised into isolated island states governed by political councils. For generations, the barrier is believed to be immovable, until an outcast, Isiah Cloud, is discovered to possess the ability to manipulate it. His power transforms him into both a strategic weapon and a moral dilemma.
As rival factions compete for territory, resources and control, secret operations, betrayals and shifting alliances unfold, exposing the cost of survival in a system where human life is treated as an asset. At its core, the series explores themes of power, identity and loyalty.
Peniata said the project was born out of a desire to see more ambitious genre storytelling in Australia. “I didn’t see enough space for stories like this in our industry,” he said, arguing that despite Australia’s strong genre filmmaking history, rising costs and shrinking budgets have narrowed creative risk-taking. With filmmaking tools now more accessible than ever, he hopes to help bridge the gap between what is possible and who feels empowered to tell those stories.
Following the March premiere, Peniata plans to host two additional events for Volumes Two and Three and pursue festival entries and distribution opportunities. He also credited the Oran Park community, whose donated styrofoam boxes were transformed into a spaceship cockpit set piece, proof, he said, that local support can help build entire worlds.
A beer-first, characterdriven pub is coming to Oran Park, offering a warm, intimate alternative to the scale and buzz of the Oran Park Hotel.
Momento Hospitality, together with Archebiosis Architects and Kela Building, recently broke ground on their second Oran Park venue (name to be announced) - a new local pub designed for the Oran Park community. Having recently opened the Oran Park Hotel, Momento Hospitality is now creating a second venue that offers something distinctly different - a smaller-scale, more intimate and character-driven pub experience that encourages easy, spontaneous catchups and casual encounters.
“With this venue, we’re deliberately building something that feels like a true local, the kind of place where you can stop in for a beer, naturally run into neighbours, and settle in without any fuss,” said Marcello Colosimo, Executive Chair, Momento Hospitality. “It’ll be warm, familiar, reliably good - and it’s made for Oran Park.”
Designed by award winning Archebiosis Architects, the venue draws inspiration from the timeless appeal of old corner pubs reminiscent of the English and Irish pubs, and closer to home, the kind of neighbourhood venue locals love. At the same time, the venue is designed to feel authentically Australian and connected to Oran Park, blending the intimacy of a traditional pub with architectural cues from rural and agricultural structures - open barn forms, robust materials, and simple, honest detailing as a nod to the area’s farming history.
The result will be a contemporary Australian pub that feels grounded, familiar and genuinely local: easy to drop into, always lively, and reliably great.
Organised into distinct areas, each with its own character and purpose:
• Sports Bar - A modern take on a traditional corner pub: cosy, character-filled, warm lighting, rich details and joinery, varied seating, and a lively mix of sport and music with classic pub charm with TAB facilities.
• Locals Bar - An extension of the main pub experience: intimate nooks, stools and standing room, curated details and artworks, with a visual connection to the Sports Bar while still feeling cosy on a quiet night.
• Bistro Dining - Open-plan with high barn ceilings, exposed structure and services, concrete floors, and flexible furniture layout; light-filled with operable doors and windows connecting to the rear garden.
• Beer Garden - Simple, open-plan outdoor space designed for all-weather use, with garden lighting, colourful umbrellas, an outdoor bar, flexible large-format furniture, and plenty of greenery.
• Street Terraces (Dick Johnson Drive) - A street-facing activation zone with an open fireplace, umbrellas and awning - a place to settle in for a relaxed afternoon.
Kela Building have commenced early works on site, located on the corner of Porter Street and Dick Johnson Drive, Oran Park. With construction scheduled over approximately 18 months, with the venue anticipated to open in mid-2027 (subject to construction timelines and approvals).
Breaking ground in Oran Park | Image/Article: Momento Hospitality
r
r [Top] Director, writer, and producer James Peniata, actor Jacob Pallone and actor OJ Dela Cruz, filming a scene for the series [Above] Atomic Kingdom cast poster | Images: James Peniata
St Gregory’s College – Creating Young People with Strong Minds and Gentle Hearts
For nearly a century, St Gregory’s College has been a place where young people grow academically, spiritually, and personally. Set on more than 300 acres of land, the College offers a calm and inspiring environment for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 to learn, explore, and thrive.
Since 1926, St Greg’s has welcomed families from across New South Wales and beyond, proudly upholding a Marist tradition built on humility, service, and community. Their mission of “Creating Men and Women with Strong Minds and Gentle Hearts” shapes the way they teach, care for, and guide their students.
Their co-educational Primary School (Kindergarten to Year 6) provides a nurturing and future focused start to learning. Recent growth has delivered 16 new contemporary classrooms, purpose built STEM and Music spaces, a larger library, and a new multi-purpose hall to be completed in 2026. These facilities create a vibrant and engaging setting where curiosity and confidence can flourish.
Across the College, students benefit from passionate educators, modern learning environments, and strong academic support. High expectations and personalised guidance help each learner reach their full potential, with
many graduates progressing to excellent university and career pathways. Sport also remains an important part of life at St Greg’s, offering opportunities that build resilience, teamwork, and school pride while reflecting the commitment and spirit of their students.
With deep historical roots as a “farm school,” St Gregory’s remains a leader in agricultural education, offering practical learning experiences in sustainable farming and agribusiness.
As part of their commitment to preserving history while preparing for the future, the Senior Boys School. Year 7 to 12, Heritage Building (built in 1940) has been carefully renovated. These upgrades respect the integrity of the original structure while transforming the space into a modern learning hub for future generations.
Celebrating 100 Years of St Gregory’s College
Their Centenary in 2026 marks a milestone of tradition, community, and excellence.
Join them at their Back to Greg’s Day on Saturday 21 March 2026 and explore more at www.stgregs.nsw.edu.au/ centenary 2026.
r St Gregory’s College celebrates 100 years | Images/Article: St Gregory’s College
Discover Macarthur Memorial Park, Sydney’s newest cemetery
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
Article Written + Submitted by: Keira Noble | Clinical Psychologist The Anxiety & Depression Clinic W: www.anxietydepressionclinic.com.au P: 0424 263 577 | 02 46266932
Do you feel as though you have very little drive for something you once found easy and were excited to do? Are you suffering with low motivation? I hear so many people saying that they are really struggling to get motivated and that they feel “meh” about completing tasks in their life.
Unfortunately, we often have unrealistic expectations of ourselves and our motivation levels, which are often perpetuated by viewing countless posts of people stating how they are reaching their goals, completing task after task, and showing they are whizzing through their day like James Bond, with no sign of a sigh.
In reality, no one has continuous high motivation, as motivation ebbs and flows. One day we may feel driven to complete a task, and the next day we may feel unmotivated to complete even the most basic of tasks. Often, we respond to low motivation by making ourselves tighter schedules, setting more tasks, and engaging in critical self-talk, which can make the issue worse.
It is important to be realistic and acknowledge that our motivation will rise and fall, and to be kinder to ourselves when this occurs. Furthermore, focusing solely on the goal rather than the process and journey toward the goal can reduce our motivation.
Ryan and Deci, two prominent leaders in self-determination theory, state that there are three core needs at the heart of motivation. These are autonomy (“I choose this”), competence
PROBUS CLUB
Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com | P: 0410758755
Oran Park Probus Club
Have you recently retired from work and feeling a bit flat now the Christmas and New Year celebrations are over? Are you starting to wonder how you’ll fill the hours in your day? It’s time to think about joining a Probus Club. Why not visit a few in your local area and find one that’s a good fit for you. Yes, Probus is about fun and making new friends, but more than that, the activities you can participate in will be beneficial to your physical and mental health as you age.
Many Probus Clubs, like Oran Park Probus, will be planning their AGMs and changes to their Management Committee positions, assistants, and activity coordinators. A few people cannot do everything needed to run a successful club. Many volunteers are needed to run all the activities that make a club successful. With a new committee comes fresh ideas and enthusiasm.
As this is the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia, many clubs around Australia will be planning a special event to celebrate.
Oran Park Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of the
(“I can do this”), and relatedness (“This matters to me and others”). Cultivating these needs can assist with motivation.
Behaviour Changer – Tips to help reduce procrastination
• Identify feelings of low motivation and engage in kind selftalk, e.g. “I’m noticing I’m feeling this, and it’s okay that this feeling is here.”
• Imagine how you will feel once you complete the task.
• When feeling overwhelmed by a task, break it down to the smallest action to start. For example, if completing an assignment, the first action may be to commit to writing one sentence.
• Start with the easiest task or component of the task first.
• Think about a reward you will give yourself for completing the task.
• Identify that you don’t have to do anything — sure, there might be consequences, but no one is controlling you, and you can ultimately choose whether you engage in the task or not.
• Think about times you have completed similar tasks and the outcome.
• Connect with why completing the task is important to you (e.g. a neat home adds to my feelings of enjoyment when I’m at home).
For general information only — seek professional psychological assistance for tailored
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.
At our February meeting, our guest speaker’s topic, ‘AI for Seniors’, was both very interesting and informative. ChatGPT, in its first two months, had the fastest ‘take-up’ in history — 100 million users! To hear that this is currently a free service should be welcomed by seniors. I am looking forward to trying out some of the recommendations we received. Who knows? We may all have a novel in us that ChatGPT could help us write!
A word of warning to us all, though — don’t share sensitive information. Coincidentally, a future guest speaker will talk to our members about ‘Scamming’.
Visitors and prospective new members are very welcome to attend a meeting to find out more about the club and the activities and outings we offer. Perhaps stay for lunch after the meeting and chat with our members.
If you would like to learn more about Oran Park Probus Club or have any queries, please contact the Club Secretary.
Email: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com
The History of International Women’s Day
Each March, International Women’s Day (IWD) is marked around the world with rallies, cultural events, and calls for gender equality, recognising women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. While today the day is often associated with celebrations and corporate campaigns, its origins are firmly rooted in protest and the labour movements of the early 20th century.
The story of International Women’s Day begins in the United States. In 1908, thousands of women garment workers marched through New York City demanding better working conditions, shorter hours, fair pay, and the right to vote. The following year, the Socialist Party of America declared the first National Woman’s Day, observed on February 28, 1909.
The idea soon spread internationally. In 1910, at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the creation of an annual international day to advocate for women’s rights. The proposal was unanimously approved by delegates from more than a dozen countries, though no specific date was set.
The first International Women’s Day was observed in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with more than one million women and men attending rallies. Demonstrators campaigned for voting rights, access to public office, and an end to workplace discrimination. The momentum continued over the following years, particularly in Europe.
March 8 became the recognised date, after events in Russia in 1917. Women textile workers in Petrograd went on strike demanding “bread and peace” amid food shortages and World War I. The protests helped spark the Russian Revolution, and the provisional government later granted women the right to vote. That date (March 8) was later adopted as International Women’s Day.
The United Nations officially recognised International Women’s Day in 1975, during International Women’s Year, further cementing its global significance. Today, the day is observed in countries around the world, sometimes as a public holiday, sometimes as a day of activism.
More than a century after its beginnings, International Women’s Day continues to highlight persistent gender inequalities while celebrating progress made. Its history serves as a reminder that the rights many enjoy today were won through collective action and that the work toward equality is ongoing.
r International Women’s Day takes place on March 8 | Image: www.pexels.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
Heathdirect Australia 1800 022 222 Get Healthy 1300 806 258
Beyond Blue
MensLine Australia
Kids Helpline
Karitane Careline 1300 22 74 64
Breastfeeding Helpline (NSW) 1800 686 268 (1800
Pregnancy Birth + Baby
Sports Clubs
Camden Athletics Club + Little Athletics http://camdenathletics.org.au/
Camden Cats Senior AFL Club
Greg McGuiness 0413 257 516
Camden Netball www.camdennetball.com.au
Macarthur District Softball Association
Lesley Darby 0401 740 023
Narellan Physie Club narellanpcc@hotmail.com
Mount Annan/Currans
Hill Knights Softball Club
Jennifer Tadros 0404 629 710
Camden RSL Youth Club Boxing
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
March arrives with momentum, carrying us beyond early-year planning and into a season of steady progress and connection. This edition reflects a community well and truly back in stride, with ideas turning into action and plans taking shape.
By now, the year has found its rhythm. Classrooms, workplaces, sporting fields, and community spaces are alive with activity, and a strong sense of purpose fills the air. March is when commitment replaces intention, routines settle, and the results of shared effort begin to show. What continues to stand out is our community spirit. We see people supporting one another, celebrating local successes, and stepping up when it matters most. These everyday moments of care, resilience, and pride define our region and give it its character.
As we move further into 2026, we thank you for your ongoing support. It’s a privilege to share your stories and highlight local voices, and we look forward to the months ahead and continuing this journey together.
“The future depends on what we do in the present.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Belinda
facebook.com/districtgazette facebook.com/oranparkgazette
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