Emu + Leonay Gazette August 2022

WYCLIFFE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Find your place, find your purpose Preschool to Yr12

Preschool to Yr12

Wycliffe Hope School is a Christian school for students with mild to moderate ASD or moderate intellectual learning needs.

(02) 4753 6422 www.wycliffe.nsw.edu.au

AUGUST 2022 | Issue 179

wycliffe.nsw.edu.au/ wycliffe-hope-school/

A League Of His Own See Article Pg 11

Discover our

Pre-Kindergarten Program

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KEY SPACE AVAILABLE

HURRY! Before it’s goooone!

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August 2022 1

NEWS + MEDIA

Winter Isn’t Time To Hibernate With New Programs From Ripples

While the weather may have cooled down, Council’s fitness and aquatics team are ramping up their operations with a suite of new service offerings to the community.

Ripples Penrith Aquatic Centre is trialling winter opening hours this year, providing year-round access to the outdoor pools for the first time in recent history.

Instead of closing for the winter season, Ripples Penrith will continue to operate from 6am to 9am Monday to Friday on a trial basis.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen highlighted the multiple upgrades undertaken at the facility over the last two years that has made this extended opening possible.

“Council has invested in the complete retiling of the main pool, the installation of a new balance tank, and a range of other measures that means the centre operates more efficiently during the colder months,” Cr Hitchen said.

To complement its growing Aquatic programs, Ripples launched an adults Squads program at Ripples St Marys.

Ripples' Squads training program transitions Learn to Swim participants and young swimmers into the world of competitive swimming. The program improves overall fitness, technique and creates social connections for swimmers.

Penrith City’s talented swimmers will now be able to continue their love of swimming into adulthood with Ripples new Adult Training Program of Swimming.

Perfect for those who want to improve their fitness, train for triathlons, or just simply have a genuine love of the sport!

Ripples Hydrotherapy Centre has expanded its operating hours by introducing Quiet Time sessions. Quiet Time is for individuals or very small groups to use the hydrotherapy pool in a less noisy environment. This time will provide a more comfortable environment for those with sensory needs so they too can improve their health and wellbeing at Ripples.

Quiet Time operates 9am – 12pm Monday to Friday in the hydrotherapy pool which is located opposite Ripples St Marys Fitness and Aquatic Centre. Previously, the hydrotherapy pool was only open for booked appointments during this time.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen remarked on the improved access the three new

initiatives will provide to the community.

“It is fantastic to see the investment Council has made into improving community facilities such as Ripples Penrith, translating into more opportunities for our residents to make use of them,” Cr Hitchen said.

“We know our community is passionate about its sporting pursuits and enjoying the outdoors. These new programs and initiatives will provide a broader section of the community with the chance to better their health and wellbeing right through the year which I’m really proud of.”

For more information about Ripples Leisure Centres, including membership, fitness, aquatics, and health programs visit ripplesnsw.com.au r

Image/Article: Penrith City Council

Australian Premiere Of Madagascar – The Musical Secured For Western Sydney Western Sydney is set to ‘move it move it’ with Madagascar – The Musical to bring to life the classic DreamWorks animated movie at the Sydney Coliseum Theatre in Rooty Hill from 16 – 31 December 2022.

The NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW has secured the Australian premiere of the international touring production, which has already performed to sold-out audiences across the UK and New Zealand.

Minister for Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said securing the nation’s premiere season of Madagascar – The Musical was a treat for Sydney audiences and a major coup for the Western Sydney visitor economy.

“I am delighted the Australian premiere of Madagascar – The Musical will be brought to life at the spectacular, state-ofthe-art Sydney Coliseum Theatre,” Mr Ayres said.

“This is a world-class production in a world-class Western Sydney venue with spectacular and colourful sets, masterful puppetry, action-packed adventure and delightful new songs that will inspire audiences to ‘move it move it’ in the aisles.

“Western Sydney is going through a renaissance, building a reputation as a dynamic hub for the arts, culture and creative industries, as well as a destination for hosting major international cultural events.

“In addition to other ground-breaking cultural events secured by the NSW Government for Western Sydney this year, such as HallyuPopFest and SoundWest, Madagascar – The Musical will be a major drawcard for the city providing a significant boost for the Western Sydney visitor economy.

2 August 2022 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

“Securing world-class Australian premiere productions like Madagascar – The Musical for Western Sydney is a key pillar in achieving our goal to make NSW the premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific and cement Sydney’s reputation as the nation’s capital for arts and culture.”

The Australian premiere of Madagascar – The Musical is performing for a limited season at the Sydney Coliseum Theatre from 16 – 31 December 2022. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.madagascarthemusical.com.au. rArticle: Stuart Ayres MP

Selective School Changes Ensure Fair Access For All

More gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds will be able to reach their potential thanks to changes to the selection process for opportunity classes and selective high schools.

The change follows the NSW Government’s 2018 review of access to opportunity classes and selective high schools. The review found that certain groups of high potential students were missing out on places because of their low socio-economic background, Aboriginal background, because they had a disability, or because they lived in a rural or remote area.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the new process will reserve up to 20 per cent of places for students from these four equity groups.

“A student’s academic potential should not be determined by where they live, their background, or their disability,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We are helping to address the unintended barriers that prevent gifted students from having fair and equitable access to opportunity classes and selective high schools.

“Every student who gains placement in an opportunity class or selective high school will deserve their place and have the academic talent to fulfil their potential.”

The combination of current acceptance rates of students from identified equity groups and the new reserved places will ensure selective schools are more reflective of the proportions of equity groups enrolled in NSW public schools.

If there are not enough applications to a particular school from students from under-represented groups or if these students do not meet the minimum performance requirements, the held places will be offered to general applicants based on their highest performance on the placement test.

The changes will be implemented this year for 2023 enrolments. r Article: Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell

PROACTIVE PETS

New Craft Group in Emu Plains

WANTED - PET CARERS Do you LOVE pets?

Would you like to have a dog or cat stay with you in YOUR home and be paid an incentive for their companionship?

Covid-19 restrictions are at last easing and lots of people are looking to get away. As a result, we are looking for kind-hearted, responsible, trustworthy people to assist in caring for pets when their pet parents are on holidays.

Some dog walking opportunities are also available.

If this sounds like you, please contact Proactive pets Now!

CALL Tracey NOW on 0419 813 620

or EMAIL tracey@proactivepets.com.au VISIT www.proactivepets.com.au

BATHROOM &

www.austileceramics.com.au

TILES CENTRE With You Every Step Of The Way

The local community is invited to join a new craft group that meets every fortnight in Emu Plains.

Hosted by Emu Plains Community Baptist Church, the group meet at Emu Plains Christian Community Centre every second Friday from 10:00am to 12:00pm. There is a small charge of $2 for morning tea.

“This is a bring-your-own craft group. Our motivation for starting this group was to bring together people from Emu Plains and the local area who enjoy various crafts and would like to socialize with others. We wanted to provide a safe place for people to enjoy their craft, meet new people, develop friendships with others as well as building a sense of community” said Margaret Hewitt, Group Organiser.

Crafts can vary, depending upon the interests of the participants. This includes knitting, crochet, scrapbooking, paper crafts, sewing, patchwork, quilting and painting.

Margaret’s main craft is patchwork and quilting and she also enjoys knitting.

“Local groups like this provide an opportunity to build friendships. Some people may feel isolated and lonely, especially after the lockdowns of the past two years. The group may also give people who are new to the area an opportunity to meet others. I’m hoping that this group will create new friendships for people” she smiled.

If you would like more information, you can contact Margaret on 0431 635274 or Ethel on 0411 968784. All are welcome.

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Address: Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 Phone: (02) 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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August 2022 3

Local Community Welcomes New Firefighting Recruits

Since the 2019/20 Black Summer Bushfire Season, Regentville Rural Fire Brigade has welcomed 22 new members. The 12 most recent have just been assessed in their Basic Bush Firefighter qualification and are hitting the ground running with the latest impacts of flooding in the Western Sydney area.

Firefighters Amelia, Isaiah, Brandon, Alex H, Michael, Thomas, Ainsley, Alex N, Lew, Abbey, Kai, and Jamie are all keen to continue learning and develop with the fast approaching “fire season”.

“I decided to join the RFS to experience new things and challenge myself in a welcoming team environment. Being able to help others in the community when they need it most is an honour and doing that with a team of dedicated and friendly members is an amazing opportunity” said recruit Isaiah.

“I have always wanted to join the RFS since I was a kid growing up and thought it was time to put myself out there and join the brigade to help my local community” added recruit Jamie.

To be deemed competent, the members had to undertake multiple training days and nights with the rest of the brigade and as a cohort. This included a theory assessment with a pass mark of 100% followed by a series of practical skills-based scenarios such as portable pumping skills, the use of hand tools to create fire breaks and trails, general firefighting, and truck maintenance duties as well as emergency overrun drills for in the event of the fire truck being stranded and surrounded by the impacts of fire.

“The course went very well! The trainers knew what they were teaching and explained it very efficiently and were easy to understand” explained recruit Amelia.

These crews are now able to attend a wide variety of incidents across the state (even interstate and internationally) with many of them having already done so within the week of being qualified.

“Some of the new members have been out assisting with road closures, evacuations and assisting the public with the current flood situation with most of them already putting their hands up to assist in the clean-up once all the water has gone” said Jordan Jobson of Regentville Rural Fire Brigade.

With these new members, Regentville now has a membership base of around 95 members including Life Members, Reserve Membership and Community Engagement Team with around 40 being active on the front lines when called upon.

Regentville RFB is always recruiting, particularly if you have Monday to Friday daytime availability. Visit NSW RFS – Regentville Brigade on Facebook to stay up to date with all their brigade activities and events. r Regentville RFB’s newest firefighters ready to tackle the upcoming season | Image/Article: Regentville Rural Fire Brigade

4 August 2022 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Funding Available to Natural Disaster Declared Communities Disaster assistance is now available in 23 local government areas (LGAs) following severe storms and flooding from 27 June 2022, which continue to impact large areas of Sydney and the New South Wales coast.

The LGAs are Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Camden, Canterbury Bankstown, Campbelltown, Central Coast, Cessnock, Fairfield, Georges River, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Kiama, Lithgow, Liverpool, Northern Beaches, Penrith, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Sutherland, The Hills, Wingecarribee, Wollondilly and Wollongong.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Murray Watt, said the flooding has led to a large number of evacuations throughout Metropolitan Sydney, the Hawkesbury, and the Central Coast, with major flood operations still ongoing.

“We have seen some of these impacted communities being hit by floods for a third and fourth time in 18 months, which is extremely distressing to the residents of these communities,” Minister Watt said.

“The Australian and New South Wales governments have worked very cooperatively through this latest flood emergency, to ensure defence and other resources were deployed early and fast.

“Similarly, we’re now working hard together to make sure that impacted communities get the financial and other assistance they need as soon as possible.”

New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery, Steph Cooke, said significant recovery support would be required to help support communities once the major weather event passes.

“This announcement will ensure immediate assistance is available to impacted communities, including assistance for people who have lost or had damage to their homes,” Ms Cooke said.

Assistance available under the DRFA may include: • Help for eligible people whose homes or belongings have been damaged (eligibility criteria apply); • Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged road and essential public assets; • Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers, and non-profit organisations; and • Freight subsidies for primary producers.

For information on personal hardship and distress assistance, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88.

To apply for a concessional loan or primary producer grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au.

Information on disaster assistance can be found on the National Recovery and Resilience Agency’s website at www. recovery.gov.au.

r Image: National Recovery and Resilience Agency | Article: Murray Watt MP/Steph Cooke MP

Back to Nature Through Art

Winter Reads Combining nature with art, NatureArt Lab classes are now being offered locally at Glenbrook in the Blue Mountains.

Classes at NatureArt Lab are focused on environmental education and engagement with nature through art. They often combine classes with field trips or small bushwalks to foster that connection and put the theory learnt in the class into practice.

They’re accessible for beginners and more experienced artists, over a range of mediums.

Local tutor Freia Noss is an artist and environmental scientist.

“I have been making art and exploring the bush my whole life, but professionally I have been working in the climate sector for 7 years. I started more seriously pursuing my art practice in early 2020. The additional time at home during lockdown really helped me to dedicate time to art and try out many different techniques” explained Freia to the Emu and Leonay Gazette.

Freia specialises in highly detailed ink and watercolour paintings of Australian native birdlife. She is also skilled in printmaking and alternative photography processes such as cyanotype photography.

“We have a cyanotype photography course coming up, which is a fantastic cameraless photographic process that uses sunlight to develop prints. NatureArt Lab have been running a few pilot programs in the area and are now looking to work with local artists to set up additional classes in watercolour painting, drawing, nature journaling and more” she ended.

Visit NatureArt Lab Blue Mountains on Facebook or online at https://natureartlab.com.au/collections/blue-mountains-newsouth-wales. Freia’s work can be found @wollemiwatercolours on Instagram, or Wollemi Watercolours on Facebook. r Freia holding her painting of two Rainbow Lorikeets, with the Blue Mountains bush behind her | Image: Freia Noss

Looking for a reason to get back into reading? Enter Penrith City Library's Winter Reads Read Rate Review Competition! You can enter from now until Sunday 7 August!

All you have to do is: 1. Use your library card at any one of the Library's three branches and borrow a great read 2. After you've finished reading, give it a rating out of 5 stars 3. Download your entry form or pick one up from one of the Library branches 4. And write a review and return it on your completed entry form to the Library.

All entries go in the draw to win 1 of 6 QBD Books vouchers and a bookish winter prize pack!

You can download your entry form and read more about the terms and conditions at: https://bit.ly/3RHBtid (Look under "Adult").

r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

August 2022 5

PARENTS CORNER

Article Written + Submitted by: Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Penrith – Do You Have What It Takes to Change a Child’s Life?

How to Say “No” to Your Child Limits and rules keep children safe and help them grow into responsible, moral, and thoughtful adults. They also help children develop behavioural and impulse control. There are absolutely times when you have to say “no” to your child, but as every parent knows, this is not always simple or pleasant.

Every child needs to work out who they are as a unique individual. This is called ‘autonomy’ and it’s about deciding what you want and don’t want, like and don’t like, and making choices accordingly. Children aged between 18 months and 3 years especially need to flex their ‘autonomy’ muscles and that’s why we often hear a whole lot of “NO” from toddlers!

At the same time, everything in a child’s life is largely decided for them – when and what they eat, what activities they do, who they see, when they sleep, and so on. As adults, we can sometimes forget this. This is not to say that children should be left to their own devices, there’s a good reason why responsible adults are in charge. But what we can do is support children to make choices where appropriate and safe.

Consider your child’s age and stage of development when offering choices. For younger children, open-ended choices can be overwhelming, so start with offering 2 or 3 options.

For example, we can offer a 2-year-old girl the option to wear her hair out or in a ponytail. For older children and young people, you will need to offer some ‘brain storming’ to support their decision-making process. Sit down together, identify all options, discuss the pros and cons of each, and then allow your child or teen to pick the best solution.

Balance out your “no”s with “yes”s. Imagine if all you heard was “no”, you would feel pretty fed up too! We can get in a habit of automatically dismissing a child’s requests. Instead, try using a ‘yes with conditions’, for example, “yes, we can read a story after you’ve brushed your teeth”.

When children are given plenty of developmentally appropriate opportunities to make decisions about the things that affect them, they don’t need to fight us on every “no”.

Are you the type of person who is empathetic and supportive towards people who’ve had a tough life? Particularly young people who might have had a traumatic experience?

Are you dedicated, nurturing and compassionate? Do you have a sense of humour?

If so, Department of Communities and Justice NSW would love to hear from you, because there is a real and urgent need for foster carers in the Penrith area – and your personality would be a perfect fit!

If you become a foster carer, you can make a positive difference to the life of a child by providing them with the safety and stability everyone needs to thrive.

You can be married, single, rent or own your home. Foster carers are supported with numerous financial support packages to help with the child’s education, medical needs, food costs and other daily costs of living.

They need people who can provide emergency care, shortterm care, care for Aboriginal children, care for siblings, or care for children with a disability.

Visit https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/families/carers and click on ‘enquire about fostering’ to register your interest. r Image/Article: Department of Communities and Justice NSW – Facebook

Need a Real Gardener? (one who prunes, weeds weeds and andfeeds feeds one who your yourgarden, garden, but butcan can also also mow?) mow??

THEN CALL JOHN 0423 019 053 Winter’s sleep has come

r

Image: www.pixabay.com

6 August 2022 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Autumnisbrings falling leaves come over, Spring Time to prune and cleanfor up has your gardensleep TimeWinter to get sleep your garden ready Winters’ full of colour and new life ready for Spring’s awakening and plant your bulbs for Spring’s awakening

Living Intentionally - Learning and Thankfulness

Having reached the halfway point of 2022, and looking back on the year so far, we have certainly covered a lot of ground together and there is much to be thankful for. As a learning community, we have been blessed with student growth. With new classes have come new families, new staff, and new stories to share. It has been a delight to see the faces of students on campus, both new and returning, excited to share in each other’s lives.

As learning rhythms have settled into more consistent spaces, it has been a joy to see the students engaging deeply with a wide range of learning opportunities. Some of the highlights have been: our Kindergarten students studying living things, going hunting for bugs and designing their own pet houses as they learned about habitats and animal needs; some of our Junior School students taking part in coding classes - where they have learned to program their own robot cars; Year 7 students applying their design skills to create their own Tiny House plans; Senior School students performing as part of the Australian Youth Theatre Festival; and Stage 6 students able to participate in offsite excursions again, further enriching their learning journeys.

Alongside this has been the ongoing challenges faced by school communities across the state. The easing of restrictions has been wonderful, however the spread of COVID-19, the return of the common flu and repeated flooding events has resulted in the continued disruption of life. In the midst of this, we can only deeply admire the resilience of our students, parents, and staff.

The perseverance and team spirit of our community has been constant. We are thankful for the way staff have consistently gone above and beyond to care for our students and nurture them in learning; our students who have been intentional and successful in engaging with their learning; and our parent body who have extended generous and abundant partnership time and time again.

It has been a delight to seek to live out the truth of the gospel together and see the gracious presence of God in our midst.

We are looking forward to seeing what the rest of the year will hold, anticipating that it will be equally full of exciting and engaging opportunities.

r Wycliffe Christian School drama students at The Joan | Images/Article: Wycliffe Christian School

WYCLIFFE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Enrolling now for

2023

Information Evenings for 2023 Year 7 for 2023

Tuesday 9 August, 2022

Kindergarten for 2023

Monday 22 August, 2022

Year 11 for 2023

Wednesday 10 August, 2022

Hope School for 2023

Wednesday 24 August, 2022

Year 9 for 2023

Wednesday 17 August, 2022

The evenings will start at 7:15pm in the school café.

(02) 4753 6422

www.wycliffe.nsw.edu.au

133 Rickard Rd, Warrimoo

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August 2022 7

Amusing August

KID’S CORNER 1

2

HELP LUCY FIND HER BOWL AND SPOON

SPOT THE 8 DIFFERENCES

SOLUTIONS

Puzzle 2 Puzzle 1

8 August 2022 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Racing for a Good Cause

Local motorsports team, Silver Service Racing are competing in the MotorEvents Budget Endurance Racing Series this year.

Team members Ben Gibbins, Tim Cooling, Damien Carlson, Jacob Cameron, headed by Crew Chief Paul Robinson race a 1999 BMW 323i in the budget category of the grass roots, competitive racing series. The series also supports and raises funds for Rare Cancers Australia.

“We formed the team in late 2019. With the advent of the pandemic, we competed in one race. After a layoff, a new team name and theme, Silver Service Racing, was born. Our five man team has remained the same and we have been mates since school” explained Jacob Cameron of Silver Service Racing.

With a common love of motorsport, the keen car enthusiasts have nicknamed their race car, “Notorious E46” and they enjoy their time behind the wheel as a team.

“This series offers a safe, fun, and welcoming environment whilst racing on some of Australia’s premier racetracks, just like Peter Brock and Dick Johnson. It’s a dream. On top of this, the fact that participants give back to the community through raising much needed funds for Rare Cancers Australia makes it more rewarding” he said.

The team have already raised close to $3,000 through generous donations and hope to raise more this series.

“We can’t thank people enough for their support and big hearts. Collectively, fellow teams and participants have raised over $50,000, which is incredible” Jacob stated.

Preparation for their third race, The War on Winter, a 12-hour endurance event at Sydney Motorsport Park was well underway.

“The accomplishment of building a race car from scratch, taking it to the track, racing hard and fair, finishing a race and taking the chequered flag after racing for sometimes 24 hours whilst your family and friends are cheering you on from the grandstand is an amazing feeling” he smiled.

“Plus, the internal banter is fun. No one wants to be captain slow between the four of us” Jacob added.

They wish to thank AGAT Superannuation Specialists and ALLPRO Trades and Services for their support to both Silver Service Racing and Rare Cancers Australia. Team sponsorship is welcomed. To follow the team, visit https://www.facebook.com/ silverserviceracing. r Silver Service Racing team (L-R) Paul Robinson, Jacob Cameron, Ben Gibbins, Tim Cooling and Damien Carlson | Image Supplied by Jacob Cameron

The International Baccalaureate AT S T PA U L ' S

POSITIVE, RIGOROUS AND CONTEMPORARY EDUCATION From Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 Start your child’s International Baccalaureate (IB) journey at St Paul’s Grammar School and set them on the path to personal growth and development, intellectual curiosity, and excellence in all areas of their school life.

SCHOLARSHIPS NOW OPEN, YEAR 11 2023 & 2024

stpauls.nsw.edu.au

p. 02 4777 4888 e. enrol@stpauls.nsw.edu.au

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August 2022 9

FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN Article Written + Submitted by: Roger Cunningham | Senior Minister | P: 4735 1001 | E: roger@epac.org.au W: www.epac.org.au Service Times: Sundays @ 8:00am, 9:30am and 6:30pm | Plus activities for adults and young people throughout the week

Do You Know What You’re Missing?

Watching the footy on a screen is great, but it’s not the same as the experience of being there. Buying online is great too, but there’s something more many find they love about going into a shop in the plaza.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the similarities with church. It’s safe to say you couldn’t watch church on a screen until recently, and not until COVID for most churches. I think livestreaming church is great for people if they’re isolating, or stuck at home for some other reason, or simply because you can check it out without the stress of going somewhere you haven’t been before. We livestream church for just those reasons.

And even if you’ve been to church before, things can be quite different to how you remember them. I used a website this week I hadn’t used for years and got a pleasant surprise. It was very different from last time and it made a big difference – I’ll be going back. Church can be the same. I hear all sorts of experiences and feelings people have had from going to churches or church run schools - good and bad.

But like my experience online, the same church years later, or a different church, or just me at a different point in time in my own life, can reveal I’ve been missing out on something that I now really value.

I think the message of good news and certain hope that Jesus brings is something you don’t want to miss hearing. Why not visit a church that loves, lives out and lives by that message this month?

And like the footy or another event, it’s even better when you’re their shoulder to shoulder with each other. If you haven’t checked out church recently, you might discover you’ve been missing out. Check us out online at www.epac.org.au, or even better, come and join us.

HEALTH MATTERS

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness P: 0418 166 269

Is There a Food That Could Help Avoid and Possibly Even Help Clear Blood Clots?

Blood clotting is vital to stopping blood loss. Inappropriate clotting can produce DVTs and pulmonary embolism, as we saw last month. Blood clots are formed from strands of a protein called fibrin, which is laid down then cross-linked to form an even stronger meshwork.

Inappropriate clots occur when the balance between blood clot formation (clotting/anticlotting) and blood clot dissolving pathways are disturbed i.e., when factors leading to clot formation are inappropriately increased, and/or those leading to clot breakdown are decreased. In this way, 17,000 Australians suffer venous blood clots (VTE) annually. Regularly eating natto could help these people avoid and possibly aid resolving VTE. Natto is a tradition cheese-like food eaten by Asians for over 2,000 years. It contributes to the high life expectancy of Japanese people eating traditional diets. Natto is made from soybeans fermented with bacillus subtilis (variety natto) bacteria.

In a 1990 Japanese study, researchers gave patients 200g of Natto, and showed clearly that eating natto significantly increases a person’s ability to break down blood clots for up to 8 hours after natto ingestion.

During the soybean fermentation, bacteria produce large

10 August 2022 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

amounts of an enzyme called ‘nattokinase’ (NK), a potent clotbreaker.

Rat studies show that NK is 5 times better at blood clot breaking than the body’s own clot breaking enzyme called plasmin. Once in the blood stream, NK helps dissolve blood-clots by: 1. breaking up cross linked fibrin directly 2. generating plasmin 3. degrading blood factors that stop plasmin formation NK also lowers plasma levels of factors that promote blood clot formation including fibrinogen, and clotting factors VII, and VIII, and it does all this with little to no side effects.

Eating regular natto maybe a cheaper and better option as natto also contains significant levels of: 1. vitamin K1 - optimises blood anticlotting enzymes 2. vitamin K2 - keeps blood vessel walls flexible reducing atherosclerosis and VTE clot formation (these are linked) Finally, people eating natto including post-menopausal women, have been shown to improve bone strength. Here again, we see how important “eating the right foods” is to health and avoiding disease. If you have a health issue and would like to see how dietary change could benefit you, please give us a call at the clinic.

A League Of His Own

Local teenager Adrian Jones has experienced the opportunity of a lifetime, making his debut as a boundary umpire in a Victorian Football League (VFL) game recently.

The Penola Catholic College student was the boundary umpire for the Sydney Swans and Williamstown Seagulls VFL game, held in June at Blacktown International Sports Park.

VFL is an Australian rules football league that serves as one of the second-tier competitions underneath the Australian Football League (AFL). Teams from New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria make up the league.

“I got the late call up on the Friday before the game, asking if I was available to do it. I was in such shock that I had been given the opportunity to umpire in the VFL” explained an excited Adrian.

“The quality and speed of football was so different to what I had umpired before. It took a little bit of getting used to and adapting, but once I got it, I felt like I really fit in. Everyone on the umpiring panel were great. They were supportive, helped one another out and the atmosphere was amazing” he continued.

Adrian’s feat as a boundary umpire in an VFL game was made even more impressive, considering he only took up umpiring just five years ago.

“When I first started umpiring, I took it up because I didn’t really enjoy playing, but I loved the sport and thought it was a great opportunity to increase my fitness levels. Beginning as a field umpire in junior footy, I soon moved to boundary umpiring.

After meeting some of the other umpires who were doing it, it motivated me to push myself to where I am today,” said Adrian.

Now that he has tasted officiating at this level, Adrian hopes to one day become a boundary umpire in the AFL. “Being listed to the AFL is a long-term goal that I have set myself and it is definitely achievable. I still have a long way to go because everyone at the VFL/AFL level is at such a high standard from skills to fitness. After the VFL games I have done and the feedback that I have received, I am going to use that to develop my umpiring” he stated.

He believes that umpiring is for anyone that enjoys sport and keeping fit.

“There is a discipline for everyone, whether it’s field umpiring, boundary umpiring or goal umpiring. You get to meet great people, increase your fitness level, and focus on a job whilst earning money” he ended.

To learn more, you can visit Dukes Oval in Emu Plains at 6:45pm on Monday nights during the season. r Feature Article [Cover] Adrian at Dukes Oval in Emu Plains [Above] Adrian at Sydney Swans vs GWS Giants VFL practice match at Tom Wills Oval | Images: Adrian Jones

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PAWS A WHILE

Article Written + Submitted by: Camille Brandt from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital A: 49 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027

RSPCA Cupcake Day

Monday 15th August to Saturday 20th August 2022 Start salivating now – Cupcake Week is returning on Monday 15th August through to Saturday 20th August 2022.

Pop in to donate and enjoy a cupcake (or two!) and even a ‘pupcake’ for your beloved pet. We have made ‘pupcakes’ which are dog friendly and do not contain any chocolate which is toxic to dogs.

The RSPCA is the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a non-profit, community based charity that works to prevent cruelty to animals by actively promoting their care and protection.

Each year, more than 124,000 animals turn to the RSPCA looking for help.

The RSPCA is not an agency of the Australian Government and therefore relies on the generosity of the community – through animal adoptions, volunteering, event participation, donations, fundraising, corporate partnerships, corporate support, bequests and grants – to support its vital daily work.

Thank you for your support.

Go to the RSPCA website for more information, https://www. rspcacupcakeday.com.au/

PAWGUST by Guide Dogs Australia PAWGUST is a fundraiser that challenges dog owners and their pooches to walk or run every day in August to raise funds for the Guide Dogs.

The funds you raise during PAWGUST will go towards helping breed, raise and train Guide Dogs, so that they can create a world where everyone who needs a Guide Dog, has a Guide Dog. It costs in excess of $50,000 to breed, raise and train just one Guide Dog puppy and with hundreds being trained each year, every dollar raised throughout PAWGUST counts.

PAWGUST participants (and their dog/s) will experience physical and mental health benefits from the challenge leading to happier, healthier lives.

Go to https://www.pawgust.com.au/ for more information.

Check us out on Facebook, contact us by phone on 4736 2027 or online at www.orchardhillsvet.com.au r Images Supplied

For Appointments Call

4736 2027

Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)

CONSULTING HOURS Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm | Saturdays: 8am - 2pm Services provided include: • General Surgery (desexing to orthopedics) • Vaccinations and in-house pathology • Radiology and Dentistry • Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer • Puppy preschool • Grooming and hydrobath • Home visits • Cat boarding and Kitten adoption • Secure off leash dog park CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or Join us on Facebook

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills – 4736 2027 12 August 2022 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Essential Care for our Furry Friends Local Samantha Fonti knows how important it is to look after our cherished fur babies, particularly those with itchy, irritable skin. So much so that she created a range of skincare for sensitive dogs called Essential Dog. Essential Dog is a certified Australian Made and family-owned business passionate about creating healthy dog skincare and health products that won’t irritate your dog's skin.

Utilising a rich and complex combination of Australian cellular plant extracts, precious oils, and ultra-gentle ingredients, their products effectively clean and nourish all skin types from puppies to seniors.

“I started the brand back in 2012, as there were no natural or quality products on the market for dogs and so many dogs have skin issues” explained Samantha to the District Gazette.

“As a dog owner, I knew it was important for dogs with itchy skin and skin issues to have access to high quality, natural products” she continued.

Samantha met with chemists, veterinarians, aromatherapists and naturopaths to develop these products, with the development phase taking two years of research.

“I funded the business myself. I wanted to formulate the products on my own terms and not have investors trying to maximise profits as the sole purpose of having higher quality products, for the benefit of dogs would be lost” Samantha stated.

Since launching Essential Dog, Samantha has increased the range of products to further assist our four-legged friends.

“We've branched out from shampoos, conditioners and deodorisers to a Dermal Itch Range, and a hemp seed oil supplement range for dogs with skin and mobility issues” she replied.

To discover Essential Dog’s products, find them on Facebook or visit their website at www.essentialdog.com.au. v Samantha and her pooch ‘Bunny’ | Image: Samantha Fonti

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AUTO ELECTRICAL - A/C

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• Automotive Air Conditioning (ARC#AU13315) • Century & Super Start Batteries • Repairs to Cars, 4WDs, Light Trucks, Caravans & Trailers

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EXCELLENCE IN GARAGE DOORS SINCE 1977 Sales, Service, Installation and Repair of, Roller Doors, Panel Lift Doors, Tilter Doors and Remote Control Openers 24 Hour Emergency Service VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT 1/25 PEACHTREE RD. PENRITH

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- No more kennels or catteries! - Act NOW! -

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7 Year Warranty onJUST Merlin Auto operators QUALITY COSTS A LITTLE MORE

Melina 0412 971 110 or 4733 2453 www.dialaminder.com.au

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ARGYLL Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Tile & Grout Cleaning Water Damage Restoration Specialist Quality work at competitive prices

1300 557 548 or 4733 5290 CLEANING - WINDOWS

Your local renovation specialist servicing the Penrith and Blue Mountains district  Complete Kitchen Renovations  Complete Bathrooms Renovations  Make-Overs - Replacing Doors, Benchtops, Splashbacks  Detailed Custom Joinery  Personalised Service  Quality Workmanship Guaranteed  Over 30 Years of Industry Experience  Fully Licenced to Project Manage all Trades  Designs to Suit your Lifestyle and Budget

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Gardens, Decks, Retaining Walls, Turfing, Irrigation, Paving & Garden Maintenance Call Ben

0448 844 314

JIMBO'S ELECTRICAL 0414 300 033 Residential & Commercial üLicensed Local Electrician üFully Insured & Reliable üQuality Workmanship üExperienced & 100% Guaranteed Lic No 400677C

ELECTRICIAN

NO JOB TOO SMALL

 Blocked drains cleared with electric eel  Taps and Toilets  Hot water services quoted and guaranteed  Water jetter services  Camera inspections

Contact Paul – 0405 184 516

Renovators Licence No. 236100c

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PLUMBING License No Dan’s Your Man 221268c Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

PLUMBER - DRAINER - GASFITTER  New homes and Granny flat construction.  Bathroom, laundry and kitchen renovation. 15 Years experience  Hot water repairs and replacements. in the trade  Natural & LP gas.

Call Dan 0410 602 502 dymplumbing@bigpond.com.au

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Paul’s Tiling • Domestic and Commercial • Interior and Exterior ask • Wallpapering our t about • Decorative Finishes guaren year ante • Roof Restoration e • Fully Insured • Clean and Professional Service Phillip Pyliotis

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In memory of the late, courageous, strong and determined, Wendy Frame

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THE LAST WORD FROM THE EDITOR

Last month I travelled interstate, and judging by the hustle and bustle at the airport - I wasn't alone in doing so. While I thoroughly enjoyed my time away exploring a new city; after a cancelled flight and all the ensuing chaos, I must admit there was no better feeling than to return home to my own neighbourhood. There's a certain level of comfort that comes with the familiarity of local people and places.

A number of families within our community are still cleaning up after the devastation of the most recent floods.

With the unpredictable and extreme weather events we have experienced of late, I know many will be pleased to see Winter behind us.

Here at the District Gazette we're always on the lookout for interesting stories about local people doing local 'things'. If you have an interesting story idea, reach out - we'd love to hear from you!

Enjoy this month’s read!

'Be happy with the little you have.

There are people with nothing that still manage to smile'.

Belinda

4735 4982

Baseball Club Penrith BMX Penrith Panthers Junior AFL Cricket Club Hockey Junior Rugby Union Junior Rugby League Karate Goshin Ryu Little Athletics Emu Plains Little Athletics Glenbrook Netball Rugby League Self Defence Emu Heights Tennis Club Glenbrook Soccer BMFC Swimming Club Nepean

0434 116 940 0434 267 785 0412 579 061 0418 209 105 0419 226 698 4736 3912 0404 116 226 0411 136 237 0438 039 913 0438 357 478 0419 357 165 4736 3912 0422 648 206 4739 1675 4739 5121 0416 311 453

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SMALL PRINT Advertising Policy... Payment on booking secures your space. The Business Directory offers cost effective advertising to businesses in an alphabetical format.

Premium Placement may be available, at an extra charge. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion.

Community News... The Emu+Leonay Gazette welcomes community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements and anniversaries (published free of charge) Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor.

Letters to the Editor...may be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request.

Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

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T N A T R O P M I UPDATE

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