Emu + Leonay Gazette June 2023

Visitor Pay Parking to be Rolled Out in Blue Mountains During 2023

Visitor pay smart parking is to be implemented in the Blue Mountains, after the Blue Mountains City Council adopted the Parking Strategic Plan 2023.

The smart parking project is to be rolled out in stages, the first being existing time restricted parking locations in Blackheath, Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls and Glenbrook town centres. The second rollout will be at high demand visitation sites.

The resolution followed community consultation about the Citywide Parking Scheme, where 71% of respondents agreed that Council should charge visitors to park in the Blue Mountains to help pay for services, facilities, and infrastructure.

Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said: “We had strong agreement with the proposition that visitors should pay to park in key locations in the Blue Mountains. Many people responded by saying they were surprised Council had not done this earlier.

“Five natural disasters since 2019 have left an extraordinary damage bill for our City. A visitor pay parking scheme will help generate income that our City needs to recover and continue to renew services, facilities, and infrastructure. It will also take this burden off ratepayers.”

All residents of the Blue Mountains local government area will be able to apply for Resident Permits when smart parking commences in July 2023, which will enable them to park without paying throughout the City. These permits will be validated through the verification of a NSW Government approved license, that displays the place of residence. Residents will have to adhere to time restrictions in each location.

Employee and Business Permits will provide free parking within town and village centres to enable individuals to park for free near their workplaces but will exclude tourist visitation sites.

“Most other Councils provide permits for residents at a cost, generally more than $100 each, and cap the amount of permits to two per household,” Mayor Greenhill said. “BMCC will not be implementing either condition, allowing each household to receive permits for every individual’s vehicle at no cost.

“We want to make this as easy as possible for residents, businesses and employees of the Blue Mountains, while at the same time generating income that our City desperately needs and managing the influx of visitor parking that continues to increase.”

Smart parking will be rolled out in existing time restricted parking locations at Blackheath, Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls and Glenbrook over the coming months, and be operational by July 2023.

Get more information at: bmcc.nsw.gov.au/parking-strategicplan

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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

Lions Club of Emu Plains Inc

Meets 3rd Thursday of the month from 630pm at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay). More Details: Cheryl Devine 0417 234 295.

Hobbies + Interests

Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)

Meets on the 4th Friday of the month in Melrose Hall (169 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains) from 7.30 p.m. More Details: 0493 547 794.

Markets

Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club Markets

Held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm. Glenbrook Infants School (10 Ross Street, Glenbrook). More Details: https://www.facebook.com/ glenbrookrotarymarkets

Support + Wellbeing

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.30p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 13 38 78.

Penrith Womens Walk and Talk

Meets 5pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ Penrithwomenswalkandtalk

Penrith Mens Walk and Talk

Meets 5pm every Thursday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ PenrithMensWalkAndTalk/

Emu Heights resident Kaitlyn Finn may have only started her new pet business, Finn’s Treats, in March this year, but it has already got tails wagging.

The idea for the small business all came from a simple chat amongst the family about their beloved dogs.

“We were discussing how our two puppies were turning one. Thinking my family would be away at that time and miss out on celebrating, I said “Why don’t I go down to the shops and buy a birthday treat and some party hats and I will send you a photo”” explained Kaitlyn.

“My dad said, “That would be a good business - selling dog treats”. There I was, for hours each day, doing all the research and finding out what was around, what was safe for dogs and then I started planning” she continued.

Next step was creating a logo for her brand and looking at recipes for the pet treats.

“I wanted to create a meaningful logo, where I could include my longest four-legged love. My darling Staffy, Doug, who sadly isn’t with us anymore. We now have two energetic Labradors in our lives; our inspiration. Natural, human grade recipes is how we make our treats” Kaitlyn stated to the Emu and Leonay Gazette.

Finn’s Treats range of products include their cupcakes, or as Kaitlyn likes to call them, “pupcakes”. Available in different flavours such as Peanut Butter and Banana and Apple and Cheddar, they come in two sizes: regular and mini. You can purchase them in singles, 2, 4, 6, 12 and 24 packs.

Doughnut biscuits in a variety of four flavours in regular and mini sizes are soon to be launched, as well as 4” birthday cakes.

“And more to come. Can’t give away all my secrets” she smiled. Currently, their products can be purchased through Facebook, Instagram, and email. A website and business cards with QR codes will be up and running soon.

They offer free pick-up services from their location in Emu Heights. Delivery to all suburbs within a 60km radius from Emu Heights cost $10 for 10kms to 30kms and $15 for 31kms to 60kms.

“We hope to continue thriving and get our name out there. We’re always finding the best ingredients and recipes for our furry friends. Maybe one day, we will grow from our home kitchen. Wait and see!” ended Kaitlyn.

Search Finn’s Treats on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

Do

r [Top] Kaitlyn with her one year old Labradors [Above] Some of Finn’s Treats “pupcakes” | Images: Kaitlyn Finn

Journey to Better Health for Men

Local David Newton has started a new group, focussing upon men’s health and fitness in the community.

The Journeyman Collective meets on Sunday mornings at 8:00am at Dukes Oval cricket nets in Emu Plains. They meet rain, hail, or shine and it is a free event.

The group already boasts 8 active members in just a short period of time.

“The Journeyman Collective has been an idea of mine for some years but has only come into reality in the last few months,” said David.

With a background in boxing, David is pleased to be able to share his experience with local residents.

“The motivation behind starting this group is in how I have seen the benefits of physical activity in my own life, with the pursuit of self-improvement in my chosen sport of Master's Boxing. Whilst the obvious health benefits of a good cardio workout are important, the mental health aspects are just as vital” he described.

“I am a big believer in community and want to share this with other men in our community who may be looking for a way forward. As it takes a village to raise a child, it also takes a village to lift up our men” David added.

Each session at Dukes Oval cricket nets is usually an hour in duration.

A typical session consists of a shadow boxing warm up, some body weights exercises and interval sprints, punchout drills on the pads, followed by a more technical pad workout. They wind up the session with warm down stretches.

“There is always time for a chat and a good laugh” he replied.

David believes the group’s outlook will evolve naturally, with the community and it’s needs.

“In talking future plans, I want the group to remain a very organic entity. The future should be shaped by the community it serves.

“Let's see where it takes us, along the path of better health and social interaction for all” concluded David.

Look for ‘The Journeyman Collective’ on Facebook to learn more about the group.

Power On: Blaxland’s Electric Vehicle Charging Stations are Now Live

Blue Mountains City Council continues to support a more sustainable and accessible Blue Mountains with new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations now ready to use at Blaxland.

The six new Tesla Superchargers have been installed in the Hope Street carpark (12-24 Hope Street), Blaxland, for the convenience of EV owners from both near and far.

It is the second public charging station in the Blue Mountains, with the first EV charging site installed and managed by Australian EV charging station operator, Evie Networks, at the Council-owned car park off New Street in Lawson Town Centre.

The provision of the new superchargers aligns with Council’s strategic vision to build a more sustainable future for the region and to support tourism, by encouraging visitors with electric vehicles as their uptake increases.

Blue Mountains Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said: “As a world class visitor destination, and one that’s committed to green values, we need to make it as easy as possible for EV owners to visit the Mountains.

“EV numbers are expected to increase significantly in the next few years across Australia and are likely to become a mainstream transport choice. As a major regional attraction, we need to be prepared for this technology so we can take part in this major technological transport shift.

“With charging stations now at Blaxland, at the foot of the Blue Mountains, together with those already installed at Lawson, we are committing to a more connected, sustainable, healthy, and liveable City.

“These are also great stop-off points for visitors as they make their way up the mountains to any one of our amazing natural attractions. Stop-off, charge up, grab a coffee, duck in to pick up some shopping – it’s a boon for local business.

“I would also like to thank the many users of the Hope Street carpark at Blaxland for their patience as the installation of the chargers and associated electrical work was completed.”

r The new Tesla Superchargers at Blaxland | Image [Above]/Article: Blue Mountains City Council [Top] Image: District Gazette

r Dave and Chris on the pads, as Simon watches on | Image: Rebecca Minney

Have you ever wanted to try Square Dancing? Square Dancing classes are held weekly at Glenbrook in the Blue Mountains.

Hosted by Mountain Devils Square Dance Club, the classes take place every Friday night at 7:30pm at Glenbrook Public School Hall.

The current cost is $12 per person per class. When doing a new dancer class, the first night is free.

“Square Dancing is done in groups of 8. The starting formation is a square, so the dance is called square dancing. New dancers are introduced to basic steps. Dancers do not need to remember complicated routines, as they learn movements which the instructor calls in a variety of different formations” explained Ros Todd of Mountain Devils Square Dance Club.

“Existing dancers continue with a mainstream program, or for more advanced dancers, a Plus program. Our group has been running for 27 years with caller David Todd in the Blue Mountains” she continued. The classes are not structured around terms and are held all year round.

“We have a break from the weekly dance when there is a large state or national event taking place, which experienced dancers attend” Ros stated.

Square Dancing has been described as ‘fun and friendship set to music’ and it is through this that Ros first met her husband, David.

“David and I met square dancing many years ago, married and had children and are still dancing 50 years later. We have met and still have good friends that we travel with to square dances and enjoy holidays with them. I have always danced; ballet, tap, jazz, in younger years, and dabbled in ballroom and Scottish dancing” she reflected. It caters for a variety of age groups. Families are encouraged to attend, come with a friend, or come alone. Everyone is welcome. There are opportunities to make a new circle of friends.

r State Convention held in Milton | Image: Ros Todd

PARENTS CORNER

Article Written + Submitted by:

Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Infant Mental Health Awareness Week: Can You Spoil a Baby?

The short answer is “no”! Even though this has long been a worry for new parents, the current science reassures us that there is no way to spoil baby. Babies who receive warm, sensitive, and responsive care from their parents get a much better start in life.

You may have been told it’s wrong to give “too much attention” to a crying baby. You are not the first parent to receive this advice! In 1894, a popular guide to parenting instructed its readers that “Babies under six months should never be played with: and the less of it at anytime the better for the infant.” But, as the science of attachment and child development has advanced, this myth has been totally de-bunked.

To the contrary, the more a child can rely on the emotional and physical availability of caregivers, the more independent they become in the long run. A child who knows their parent ‘has their back’ is unburdened to explore their world with full curiosity, tenacity and zeal. Exploration and play support children’s emotional, physical, social, and cognitive development.

On a physiological level, separation from a primary caregiver triggers a stress response in the baby’s nervous system. This stress response occurs not only in situations of physical separation. When a caregiver is close by physically, but their attention is elsewhere (e.g. staring at a screen), a baby’s stress hormones will naturally spike. Babies can withstand some separation, but pro-longed exposure to stress without recovery is toxic to a growing body and brain.

When distressed or uncomfortable, crying is a baby’s way of reconnecting with a safe adult who can attend to their needs. These needs may be physical (e.g. hunger, tiredness) or emotional (e.g. the need for safety, security, comfort). Beyond having immediate needs met, a baby needs consistency in knowing their needs will be met in the future. That’s why the current advice is to respond to your crying baby as much and as often as you can.

Infant Mental Health Awareness Week runs every June to highlight the importance of babies' emotional wellbeing and development. Find out more at aaimh.org.au.

Little Ghost Hunters Launches

Ghost Territory Tours have introduced Little Ghost Hunters, a local event just for children.

Little Ghost Hunters caters for kids from the age of 8 years through to 12 years, with wiggle room either side on request.

Taking place on Saturday 3rd June, Saturday 1st July and Saturday 5th August from 6:00pm to 7:00pm at historic Mamre Homestead in Orchard Hills, it is exclusive to this location. It will soon be offered at their other locations including Rose Cottage at Wilberforce and Winbourne at Mulgoa.

“Little Ghost Hunters is a very affordable and different activity for those children that have an interest in history and the paranormal” explained Rob Wilson of Ghost Territory Tours.

“In this exciting and spooky hour, attendees will become honorary members of team PACT (Paranormal and Cryptid Taskforce), having their very own ghost hunting kit to use during this exciting Aussie Afterlife Adventure, to help validate or debunk some of the claims of paranormal activity in some of Sydney’s most haunted locations” he continued.

The introduction of the children’s event is in response to the popular Ghost Territory Tours for adults, which are often sold out.

“These special children’s events were created due to popular demand by parents that have attended the adult tours. I also believe that exposing and educating youth to history and these precious heritage locations is vital. Hopefully, igniting some passions that will ensure that these significant historic properties are still standing and flourishing for generations to come” Rob pondered.

Rob started Ghost Territory Tours on Halloween in 2020.

For tour information, videos, and other content, visit www. ghostterritorytours.com. You can also find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ghost.territory.tours.

Emus Starting the Conversation

Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Club came together recently for an important cause, hosting a Youth Mental Health and Fitness Event.

The local workshop, which was organised by Emu Plains JRLFC Under 17’s Darren Wills, was held at Emu Sports Club last month, with over 100 people in attendance.

Representatives from Gotcha4Life and Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk were on hand to present and give their insights into mental health and fitness. They were joined by Emu Plains JRLFC Under 17’s and Under 16’s players, coaches and guests who attended the workshop for an important cause.

The room hire for the event was generously donated by Emu Sports Club.

Emu Plains JRLFC Under 17’s Darren Wills, who also previously organised the event in 2021, described the night as a valuable experience for the sporting club and local community.

“It’s extremely important to have events like ours, as you just never know who needs this in their life right now. To break down the stigma and talk about mental health and fitness is vital in this day and age and to know how to start those conversations is critical” stated Darren to the Emu and Leonay Gazette.

The Emu Plains JRLFC Under 17’s later joined the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk that week, with their Thursday evening get together of participating in the Great River Walk.

Darren has plans for his team to take part in future workshops.

“As a team, we have another mental health and fitness program specifically aimed at helping everyone to be more open and is designed for athletes with Tomorrow Man’s More Than a Game workshop” he replied.

He has this message when tackling mental health and fitness.

“Have those conversations and don’t be afraid to open up and talk to each other. You never know whose life you might save just by starting a conversation” ended Darren.

Local Students Complete Active Volunteering Course

To coincide with National Volunteer Week, 17 Year 11 students were presented with their Certificate I in Active Volunteering (CHC14015) attained during 2022. This Certificate is a vocational course and nationally recognised qualification.

Mrs Fiona Wright, Director of Students 10-12 said: “Year 10 students at the College are given the opportunity to enrol in the course and complete five units of work across the year.

- Be an Effective Volunteer

- Communicate in the Workplace

- Work with Diverse People

- Use digital technology for simple workplace tasks

- Participate in Work Health and Safety

Students participate in set days (Incursions) for each unit of work and, also, complete at least 20 hours of volunteer work over the year.”

Student Ava Toland completed all the components of the course and received her Certificate 1 with 16 of her fellow students.

“Throughout the year we participated in practical activities such as role-playing situations we might face as volunteers and how to deal with them.”

“While the course was aimed at teaching us how to be good volunteers, a lot of the content crossed over with the how to be good employees. Every student took something from the course that they will use throughout their lives.”

“The College provided many ways for students to achieve their 20 hours of volunteer work. I chose to complete my twenty hours outside of school. I helped coached a netball team outside of school hours for a whole netball season. It was heaps of fun and helped me develop many new skills such as organisation, and time management.”

Mrs Wright said: “Serving others is something which we believe strongly in at the College. We want to extend our students beyond academics and offer ways in which they can develop their character and go into the community to make a difference for Christ.”

r Year 11 student, Ava Toland being presented with her Certificate by Principal, Mrs Felicity Grima | Image/Article: Penrith Anglican College

r [Top] Gotcha4Life were on hand at the workshop [Above] Emu Plains JRLFC Under 17’s Darren Wills | Images Supplied by Darren Wills

Lions Celebrate 35 Years with Donations to Local Charities

Emu Plains Lions celebrated 35 years of helping the local community and charities last month, by holding an Anniversary Dinner at Emu Sports Club in Leonay.

The Dinner was kicked off by Jessy McKinless of Nulunga Dreaming, who organised a group of young dancers to perform indigenous dancing before 76 guests and dinner on the night. The Kooly Deadly Kids Dance Group entertained the guests before dinner.

The Lions Club distributed $18,000 in donations from their various activities; proceeds from the sales of Christmas cakes, puddings and Christmas trees, raffles, Bunnings and other BBQ’s, Chocolate Wheel in Westfield Plaza, and other charitable work. The charities who benefited on the night were local charities; Westcare, The Haven, Paying it Forward, Little by Little (Kurambee School), Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy, Sailability, Australian Lions Foundation, Nepean Room of Ronald McDonald House, and the Cancer Care Centre at Nepean Hospital. President, Cheryl Devine commented, “These donations couldn’t be achieved without the support of the local community”.

The Club also awarded Ian West with a Melvin Jones Award, the highest recognition of local service, presented by John Choma, a Founding Member of Emu Plains Club, and 49 years in Lions overall. The Club is ‘sporting’ a new look BBQ, with a trailer gifted by Jim Aitken + Partners.

See you at the

Clothing and Textile Recycling

Free Drop-off Event*

Saturday 10 June, 9am-3.30pm

The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington

Help keep valuable resources out of landfill by bringing your unwanted clothing, accessories (belts, scarves, handbags) and linen to Council’s free textile recycling drop-off event! Items dropped-off on the day will be recycled with Textile Recyclers Australia (TRA) to be made into new items such as blankets, floor rugs and tote bags. New, unworn clothing is welcome at the event, these items will be donated to local charities partnered with Textile Recyclers Australia such as The Haven and WestCare. *only clean items will be accepted on the day

r Feature Article [Cover] Ian West (left) presented with Melvin Jones Award by John Choma [Left] Jessy McKinless and the Kooly Deadly Kids Dance Group. Image: Steve Wallace [Right] A great night of celebrations | Image: District Gazette | Article: Emu Plains Lions Club

Article Written + Submitted by: Senior Minister Roger Cunningham

P: 4735 1001 E: roger@epac.org.au W: www.epac.org.au

Service Times: Sundays @ 8:00am, 9:45am and 6:30pm

Plus activities for adults and young people throughout the week

The Wisdom of Solomon

Have you heard of King Solomon? Many have. He’s famous for his wisdom. When the Queen of Sheba visited him and saw his great buildings, and his kingdom and heard his answers to all her questions she said, ‘the reports I heard didn’t tell the half of it’.

So, how did he become so wise? How can we be wise like him? Well, Solomon was the new king of Israel when God made him an extraordinary offer, ‘Ask for whatever you want me to give you’. You can read it in the Bible in 1 Kings chapter three. Solomon’s answer? Please give me a hearing heart. Now, we tend to think of our ‘hearts’ as the core of our emotions and our minds the core of who we are. The Israelites spoke of their hearts as the core of who they were. The other thing to notice - God throughout the Bible is the speaking God. So, Solomon’s asking God to give him ears to hear what God has already said.

God was so pleased with Solomon’s request; he gave him a hearing heart and all the other things he could have asked for as well.

We live in a world where a greater king has arrived. The one Solomon pointed to. He is called the Word of God and the Wisdom of God. It’s no accident. Jesus heard and obeyed God’s word totally it’s at the heart of who he is.

So, how can we be wise – be truly wise? Ask God for a hearing heart. Ask for a heart that not only listens to God’s word revealed in Jesus, and found in our bibles, but humbles itself to do what he says. It’s not asking God to say something new to you, but to hear and be transformed by what he’s already said. And it’s the gift God loves to give and does give, through Jesus.

HEALTH MATTERS

P: 0418 166 269

Could Stool Transplants Cure Ulcerative Colitis?

Generally Ulcerative colitis (UC) is considered incurable. Regular medical approaches to UC involve ongoing sometimes extensive medical or surgical intervention with antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and/or immunosuppressive drugs. These interventions are supportive rather than curative and can themselves have side effects.

Treatment with antibiotics can improve UC symptoms, as well as UC colonoscopy and histological disease scores, suggesting gut microbes may help cause UC.

Animal colitis models show:

1. germ free animals get little intestinal inflammation, while

2. adding microbes heightens colitis.

Human UC patients have alterations in gut microbial composition.

Faecal microbial transplantation (FMT) tries to correct gut microbial composition.

Doctors taking stool from healthy stool-donors which is then transplanted into the bowels of UC patient.

A recent study looked at a specific method of FMT called ‘short duration FMT’ (SD-FMT) to determine if this newer method could induce remission more successfully. Stool was prepared/

processed without oxygen present, to minimise loss of oxygen sensitive donor microbes maximising transfer of beneficial organisms.

73 patients were randomised to receive either, 200 mL of faecal suspension from healthy donors (38 patients) or autologous (their own) stool (35 patients) as control. each group then received two further 100-mLs of their respective faecal suspensions, via enema In the following 7 days.

Researchers monitored disease activity, of patients in weeks 4, 8, and 52 and found that by week 8, steroid-free remission* was achieved by:

1. 12 of 38 participants (32%) donor SD-FMT; 5 of these maintained remission at 12 months,

2. 3 of the 35 (9%) receiving autologous SD-FMT; none maintained remission at 12 months,

Clearly FMT is not a cure all, but for the 13% of people in whom remission was maintained, it would be a god send. The interesting thing here is that no attempt was made in this study to determine the effects of or manipulate patient diet or micronutrient intake, both of which may have significant effects on disease, host health and bacterial health and diversity.

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness

FOOD 4 THOUGHT Fibonacci

Shop 13, Southlands Shopping centre

2 birmingham Road, South Penrith nSW 2750

Mum and I visited Fibonacci in South Penrith for Lunch. Fibonacci is at Southlands Shopping Centre on Birmingham Road in South Penrith.

For my meal, I chose the Fibo Big Brekkie. This big breakfast consisted of eggs your way, bacon, smoked salmon, avocado, spinach, mushroom, tomato, and toast. I modified this breakfast and swapped the smoked salmon for sausage and swapped the spinach for haloumi. The sausages and bacon were crisp, full of flavour along with the cherry tomatoes and mushrooms and the haloumi was cooked right and flavoursome. The avocado was fresh and was an excellent addition to this breakfast. I enjoyed the hot buttered toast and together this breakfast was filling and complete.

I also enjoyed a mug of flat white coffee. The coffee at Fibonacci is always superb. The coffee was fresh, creamy, and contained so much flavour. I really enjoyed how smooth this coffee was and can highly recommend this coffee to anyone who visits this venue. Mum also enjoyed a flat white coffee and felt that the coffee was creamy and had plenty of flavour.

Mum chose the Avocado Chicken with Salad, which consisted of grilled chicken breast cooked in creamy garlic avocado sauce served with chips or salad. She said that the avocado garlic sauce was full of flavour and the chicken was moist and tender. The salad had a tasty dressing and the whole meal was very filling. Very enjoyable.

If you are after a quick lunch and excellent coffee, I can recommend Fibonacci.

I wish to thank Allie for looking after Mum and I. Allie and the team did take in to account my sesame allergy and Allie did say that they take allergies very seriously.

The service we received was quick, efficient and Allie treated all the customers with a smile and greeted them as they entered the venue. When you are greeted this way, you feel welcome, and looking after your customers is very important.

Penrith Charity Pays it Forward

Paying it Forward Homeless Services Inc. (PIF) are a small group of volunteers, 25 in total, who form a registered not-forprofit organisation. They are a local charity that hosts a Sunday evening dinner service each week at Jamison Park on York Road in Penrith at 5:30pm.

PIF have been operational since 2013 in the Penrith area. They are one of very few local charities that provide a hot, sit-down meal including a refreshment and dessert.

When donations are available, they distribute warm clothing, towels, blankets, bathroom, and sanitary items and have an open food pantry for the needy. PIF is not associated with any religious groups or political parties.

“Our mission statement is to work alongside many likeminded local charity groups to provide support, comfort and dignity to those living on the streets and doing it tough without judgement or bias” said Gabriele Seidel-Wynne of Paying it Forward Homeless Services Inc.

They were granted a government grant for capital items two years ago, and this was used to purchase a trailer and other nonconsumable items to allow them to continue and improve their dinner service. This also allows them to move to various locations when requested/needed. PIF have no building that they operate from. They operate under the eaves of the sporting facility in Jamison Park, in Penrith. They rent a storage unit to hold their supplies, which is paid for from their fund raising.

“We have been supported by local businesses and volunteers, who make up meals for each service. PIF has previously been able to raise funds by way of sausage sizzles and cake stalls at Bunnings and the like. However, since COVID-19, fundraisers are harder to secure and all but one of our supporting businesses have closed. Some of the PIF volunteers have fallen away due to job loss, health, age, and safety concerns” she explained.

PIF have become members of Foodbank and Good360. While this offsets some of the costs involved, there is growing concern as their funds are depleting, whilst the need for their service is on the rise.

“To continue to support the vulnerable who are in need, homeless or in DV situations, PIF would greatly appreciate donations for our Annual Winter Appeal. The monies raised through this allow us to provide much needed requests from our patrons. These things include but are not limited to, blankets, sleeping bags, coverlets, warm winter clothing, towels, sanitary and hygiene products. Many of the things we take for granted” Gabriele stated.

For more information about Paying it Forward Homeless Services Inc., call 0459 262637 or find them on Facebook.

r [Top] Dinner being served at Jamison Park [Above] Some of the volunteers at their dinner service at Jamison Park | Image/Article: Paying it Forward Homeless Services Inc. (PIF)

**Restaurants are not privy to reviews taking place, and all meals are fully paid by us.

Fibo Big Brekkie

Children & Dogs

Having children and dogs together can be a great experience. Most dogs end up bonding strongly with children in the family and the love between a child and a dog can be a wonderful thing. However, many people assume that dogs should be willing to tolerate absolutely anything a child does. Some parents will allow their children to chase, poke, pull tails and annoy the family pet! While some dogs can tolerate this, this puts the child in immense risk if the dog decides it has finally had enough.

The best way to avoid a potentially dangerous situation is to supervise all interactions between your dog and your kids. Even if your dog is friendly & gentle, remember that it only takes a few seconds for a child to accidently hurt a dog and for the dog to react. If you supervise diligently, you can step in when necessary to avoid bad experiences for both your dog and your children.

What signs are you looking for as a parent? If a dog shows their teeth or growls at a child, obviously they are feeling overwhelmed and reacting. But there are subtle signs that you can pick up before such dramatic behaviours occur. It is much safer to learn and recognise early warning signs that a dog is feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed or uncomfortable.

The first signs that a dog is getting uncomfortable is often a 'freeze' or a hard stare. Some dogs will simply run away and some dogs will also prick their ears back when they are feeling anxious. If these signs fail to deter the action that is making the dog uncomfortable, the signs may escalate to snarling, growling and biting.

If you aren't able to supervise the interaction between your dog and children, it is best to confine the dog in a safe area away from the kids. If you teach your dog to be comfortable in a crate, you can easily put them away when necessary. A crate also provides a safe place for your dog to sleep & eat without worrying about children bothering them. Make sure that children cannot access your dog's confinement area as this needs to be the dogs 'safe space'.

To accomplish a good relationship between pets and children, there should be frequent positive interactions for the young pup to meet children during its early months of life. Puppies are most social and receptive to learning up to 16 weeks of age; the experiences and interactions they have during this time can make a lifelong impression. This means that if a young child accidentally hurts a young puppy, the puppy may be scared or act inappropriately towards children all its life. Ongoing positive experiences between children and puppies are essential to maintain healthy social relationships.

Puppies should be introduced to children when they are calm, and treats should be used to facilitate introductions; this allows the puppy to build a positive association with children. Positive interactions at a young age help prevent the development of fear, avoidance behaviour and aggression when the pet becomes older.

All family members should make a point of gently and positively handling the puppy in ways that a child might touch it. This may mean that you give the puppy treats while touching the tail, ears, body as well as during grooming, nail trimming and teeth brushing. This will allow the puppy to become used to handling and not become fearful. Any type of physical punishment, threats with the hand or forceful interactions should be avoided. Pets must learn that the human hand is friendly and not to be feared; if pets associate hand movement with threats or discomfort, they can bite when a child moves a hand towards them as they may associate it with a previous negative interaction.

Puppy Preschool classes that encourage family attendance can be a great way for puppies to interact with other dogs, people and children in a controlled environment. However, it is important that puppies are not overwhelmed so they do not develop fear or avoidance behaviour towards other animals or people.

For further information about integrating a new puppy into the family call Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 0247362027.

v Image: https://www.pixabay.com

If you’re looking for a fun dog sport to enjoy with your dog or want some advice on what dog would suit your lifestyle, then look no further than Dogs on Show! This free and fun event is held at DOGS NSW grounds at Orchard Hills.

Dogs on Show will feature a Championship Dog Show, a colourful Pageant of Breeds (a showcase of different breeds and information about their origins) and sporting demonstrations which include Agility, Drafting, Dances with Dogs, Junior Handlers, Herding, Trick Dog, Scent Work, Earthdog Trials and Retrieving. Come and see which sport you and your dog could try a paw at!

Besides a showcase of dog products and services stands, ‘Dogs on Show’ will also have many breed clubs in attendance as well as a DOGS NSW Information stand to provide expert advice on all the Dogs Australia recognised breeds. This will be a fabulous day out for any dog enthusiast, or simply a fun FREE day out for the entire family. There is something for

everyone, so why not come along and enjoy in the festivities.

When: Saturday 17 June 2023

Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm.

Where: The Bill Spilstead Complex for Canine Affairs

44 Luddenham Road, Orchard Hills NSW

This event is brought to you by DOGS NSW and proudly sponsored by Royal Canin.

Be a part of all the FREE fun sports and activities at Dogs on Show!

Bring your dog, bring your family, and have FUN!

This event has FREE ADMISSION & PARKING!

For further information go to: https://www.dogsnsw.org.au/ upcoming-events/dogs-on-show-championship-show-openday/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ DOGSNSW/ and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ dogsnsw/

r Ffire Photography | Article: DOGS NSW

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