Major Construction
Wraps and Terminal Unveiled for Western Sydney International Airport
Sydney's new 24-hour airport is one step closer to welcoming its first passengers, with major construction works across Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI} now complete and the state of-the-art terminal formally unveiled last month.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey was joined by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King as well as senior executives from some of WSl's key partners including Qantas Group, Singapore Airlines, Menzies Aviation and dnata Catering & Retail to celebrate this major milestone event.
Mr Hickey thanked WSl's design and construction partners that have worked over many years to help bring WSl's terminal to life from the initial design concepts by COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects to the design and construction by Multiplex and Woods Bagot; with overall project delivery alongside WSI by Bechtel.
He also acknowledged the tremendous efforts of CPB Contractors/ACCIONA Joint Venture that led works on the Airside Civil and Pavement Works, including WSl's 3.7km runway, as well as AeroWest, a Joint Venture between BMD Constructions and Seymour Whyte Construction that completed the Landside Civil and Building Works, including the design and construction of carparks, roads, bridges and utilities.
Drawing on the region's natural beauty, WSl's new terminal marries sustainable-by-design principles and innovative technology to deliver a seamless experience for airlines and passengers at Australia's first new greenfield international airport in more than 50 years.
The terminal has a climate-responsive facade, and more than 6,000 solar panels affixed to its roof to provide energy efficiency and renewable electricity, reducing the airport's carbon footprint. In addition, it will collect and recycle rainfall for use in airport operations such as bathrooms, irrigation, and cooling towers.
Passengers flying out of WSI will experience a streamline departure with access to next generation technology to help them move through the airport at speed, while both domestic and international gates are under one roof, making travellers connections simple and efficient.
While major construction of the WSI terminal is complete, the fit-out of the terminal's retail precinct and airline lounges will take place closer to the airport's opening as commercial tenders and final contracts continue to progress over the months ahead.
WSI is on track to open for domestic, international and air cargo services in late 2026.
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 6.30pm at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay). More Details: Cheryl Devine 0417 234 295.
Hobbies + Interests
Meets on the 4th Friday of the month in Melrose Hall (169 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains) from 7.30pm More Details: 0493 547 794.
Nepean Group – Embroiderers Guild
Meets on the 1st Monday of the month at CWA Rooms, 1 Tindale Street Penrith (opposite RSL) from 6.00pm. More Details: 0466 457 594
Square Dancer
Classes
Glenbrook Public School Hall and Surveyors Creek Community Ctre, Glenmore Park. First Lesson is FREE! All ages are welcome! Inquiries 0411 456 208
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
Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542 Support + Wellbeing
Lung Support Group
Prostate Cancer Support Group
Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.45p.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 5.30pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6.00pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ Penrithwomenswalkandtalk
Penrith Mens Walk and Talk
Meets 5.00pm every Thursday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6.00pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ PenrithMensWalkAndTalk/
Every Saturday at 5.45am, meet in Glenbrook Visitor Centre Carpark for a free boot camp for men followed by coffee and chat. More Details : www.facebook.com/solid.men78
Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)
SOLiD MEN
Matilda a Rising Star of Women’s Rugby League
In the highly competitive world of women’s rugby league, few stories shine as brightly as that of 18-year-old Matilda Vella. In 2025, the Emu Plains JRLFC and Penrith Panthers talent added a new chapter to her growing list of accolades— becoming the youngest player selected for the inaugural NSW Universities Women’s Rugby League team and going on to earn a coveted spot in the firstever Australian Universities Women’s side.
Matilda’s journey to this milestone began in early March, when she submitted an expression of interest to play for NSW Universities. By late March, she received the news that she had made it into the first training squad—selected from over 80 high-calibre applicants including NRLW, Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership and junior elite pathway players.
“It was such a competitive field, and for Matilda to be one of 25 selected for the initial squad, and then make the final 18, was a huge achievement,” said her mother, Joanne Vella. “She was the youngest in the squad, and to be awarded her preferred position of dummy half was just incredible.”
Matilda didn’t just participate—she excelled. Her impressive performance in the number 9 jersey helped NSW secure a hardfought 10–6 victory over Queensland at North Sydney Oval on
Heroes on the Wall
Students at Emu Plains Public School are now greeted daily by an inspiring new mural celebrating some of Australia’s most accomplished athletes—many with strong local ties. Designed and installed by Edugrafix, a division of the Grafix Group, the vibrant installation is already making waves for its bold design and powerful message.
Edugrafix specialises in transforming educational environments through custom-designed murals, signage, and installations. “We work with schools across Australia to bring learning environments to life with bold, inspiring visuals that reflect school values, support educational outcomes, and celebrate local identity,” said Leanne Warwick, Managing Director. “Our designs combine illustration, photography, and even AI-generated elements to tell powerful visual stories that resonate with students and communities.”
18 May. The win not only marked a historic match for the new state universities program, but also served as a showcase for Matilda’s talent, determination, and leadership on the field.
“It was an honour to wear the NSW jersey and represent my state,” Matilda said. “Being part of the inaugural NSW Universities team was a proud moment—setting the pathway for future female athletes coming through. The match against Queensland marked a significant milestone in women’s university rugby league.”
Her standout display caught the eyes of national selectors, earning her a place in the maiden Australian Universities Open Women’s team, set to compete on the international stage later this year.
But 2025 hasn’t only been about representative honours. Earlier in the year, Matilda captained the Penrith Panthers Tarsha Gale Cup side to a top four finish, leading with maturity well beyond her years. She’s now continuing to develop her skills in the Open Women’s competition for Emu Plains and has been named a development player in the foundational Penrith Panthers Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership (HNWP) squad.
“Matilda’s commitment, work ethic, and leadership are being recognised at every level,” said Joanne. “She’s focused on continuing to grow and is determined to make her mark in the senior ranks. It’s exciting to see where this journey will take her.”
The new mural, titled the “Sporting Hero Wall,” was completed over a six to eight week period, and showcases a lineup of elite Australian athletes including cricket captain Pat Cummins, Olympic gold medallist Jess Fox, Australian netball star Paige Hadley, NRL player Nathan Cleary, and Olympic canoeist Noemie Fox.
“The mural aims to inspire students by showcasing champions who have excelled at the highest level,” said Warwick. “It demonstrates that hard work, dedication, and community spirit can lead to great success.”
The artwork’s background includes dynamic elements such as water, fire, and sporting textures, symbolising movement, passion, and strength. A native bird is also featured prominently, representing pride and identity—adding a unique local touch that connects with the school’s values.
According to Warwick, one of the most rewarding aspects of the project was its purpose. “Creating something that will uplift, motivate and connect with students every day made the creative process especially meaningful,” she shared. “Seeing how the mural celebrates local heroes and encourages students to dream big and work hard was truly special.”
The use of AI-enhanced design techniques also brought a modern edge to the mural, blending technology with creativity in a way that sets this project apart.
“We’d like to thank the Emu Plains Public School community for their trust and vision,” said Warwick. “This mural is more than just a piece of art—it’s a daily reminder for students that greatness can start from anywhere, including right here in their own school.”
r A vibrant tribute inspiring students to dream big and aim high | Image: Leanne Warwick. Article: Tanya Nellestein
r [Top] Rising star Matilda Vella makes her mark in rugby league [Above] Matilda Vella playing for NSW | Images Supplied by Joanne Vella. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Halls and Community Centres:
Melrose Hall
Built in 1934, this facility is visible from the Great Western Highway and is part of the Penrith Valley Heritage Drive. It is a popular local icon and offers a good sized hall with a large stage and generous meeting room. There is a public park with play equipment next door.
Capacity
140 people maximum (Hall)
40 people maximum (Meeting room)
Room sizes
Hall - 19m x 9.3m
Meeting room - 9.2m x 8.8m
Stage (Hall) - 9.3m x 5m
Contact
Call Penrith City Council on 02 4732 8021
Address
Corner Great Western Highway and Park Street, Emu Plains Curfews
Friday and Saturday 11:00pm
Sunday - Thursday 10:00pm
Other information
The meeting room is not available for private function hire unless booked in conjunction with the hall. Additional fees will apply for use.
Kitchen facilities include a double door drinks fridge, pie warmer, microwave, 90cm floor oven with cooktop and a continual hot water urn.
Please be advised that this facility has an induction stove and requires cookware that has an iron or steel bottom in order to work. If you plan on using the cooktop, please check that your pots and pans are suitable for the purpose.
Tables and chairs are available for use and are included in the cost for hire.
Download information about the tables and chairs supplied at:
https://www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/images/documents/ facilities-recreation/halls-centres/Table%20and%20Chair%20 Specs.pdf
Life of Blaxland Waste Management Facility Extended as New Landfill Cell Opens
The new landfill cell at Blaxland Resource Recovery and Waste Management Facility has officially finished construction and the first stage is open for business.
Council recently completed a multi-million-dollar development of the Blaxland landfill expanding the current landfill to support the management of our community’s nonrecyclable waste in an environmentally responsible way.
Blue Mountains Mayor, Mark Greenhill said that hard work and ingenuity had driven the creation of this new cell which significantly extends the life of the city’s only and crucial landfill.
“This is the final extension of the Blaxland landfill site, and we expect it will provide enough capacity to manage waste locally for the next 15 years, and importantly to do that in an environmentally responsible and affordable way.
“Of course, we want to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, and we are on track to do that. In fact, over the last 20 years we’ve already decreased the amount of material going to landfill by 60 per cent.
“But the reality is that we do still need a landfill, and having one in our LGA is the most financially and environmentally sustainable way to manage our landfill.
“If we had to ship our waste to another area, the cost and carbon footprint would be astonishing, so it’s important that we retain a local landfill while we work towards our zero-waste goal,” Mayor Greenhill said.
Council endorsed the Towards Zero Waste strategy 20222031 in 2022, which focusses on the work Council has already done to reduce waste and provides a detailed action plan presenting clear and practical strategies for continuing to reduce waste to landfill and transition to a zero-waste city.
The objectives of the strategy are: embed a circular economy by focusing on avoid, reuse, recycle then landfill; comply with legislation including a focus on environmental management; maintain ongoing value for money; ensure flexibility to respond to emerging opportunities; ensure local landfill capacity beyond 2034; and engage with the community.
Council is also working towards implementing a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) bin service, when the current waste contracts are renewed. This will divert more than 30 per cent of household waste from landfill by allowing food waste to be collected via green bins and composted.
Find out more about Council’s waste management services: bmcc.nsw.gov.au/waste.
r Mayor Greenhill and Waste Management Facility Coordinator Kevin Heeley discussing the newly completed landfill cell | Image/Article: Blue Mountains City Council
Time for Some Country
It’s time to get your Country on, with Emu Plains playing host to the popular Play Something Cxtry event returning this month.
Taking place at O’Donoghues in Emu Plains on Friday 4th July at 9:30pm, Play Something Cxtry will feature a country music DJ, line dancing, free bull ride, market stalls (such as Wilde Gypsy) and a live artist opening up the night!
“I think that country music has always been popular. The industry has always been huge, and to quote Lainey Willson “Country’s Cool Again”” said Jessie Davis, Event Organiser of Ecclectic Events.
“Artists like Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs have helped to capture a newer/younger audience, who are much more public about their love and support of country, which has helped the genre grow. I also think that country is a super diverse genre- you’ve got Classic Country, Pop Country, and Rock Country” she continued.
Jessie enjoys organising these events and bringing the local community together, “It’s a bit selfish, but I love playing songs I love and learning to line dance. I run events based on what I’d enjoy going to and I’m thankful there are other people who want to go too. I think it’s such an amazing thing to be able to create a space for people to have fun and meet other fans with common interests. It’s also great to see people step out of their shells and try something new”.
When asked if she plans on continuing these events locally, Jess said “We definitely plan to! It’s a bit tough in Emu Plains and Penrith at the moment since there’s a lot of competition so we’ve been focusing on other sites, but I love these events and running them in the city I grew up in”.
She’s thankful for the support in bringing these shows to life.
“I’m super thankful to O’Donoghues for taking a chance on some random girl who’d just moved back from Melbourne and helping me bring my dreams to life. Sharron Bowman for her ongoing love and support as our booking agent. Isabella my business partner who reminds me that I need to make enough to pay myself and also Mum and my sister Emma who help me and hype me up!
“I’m also thankful to my door staff and friends in the industry who help me learn new things and gain experience. These events wouldn’t be possible without the support of those who buy tickets and show up to set such a welcoming and fun vibe” she concluded.
r Kristen Flood (Apple Jax Dance Fitness) and attendees of CXNTRY at O’Donoghues Emu Plains | Image: Liam @seenbyyou_photography. Article: Julie Lobel
Glenbrook Players Celebrate 50th Anniversary
Glenbrook Players are proud to have been performing for local audiences for 50 years and are planning to celebrate their 50th anniversary this month in style, with a three-day line up of events including a showcase of some of their all-time favourite and most successful productions.
This once-only performance on the Glenbrook Theatre stage on Thursday 3rd July is open to the public. The gala event will include a series of excerpts from La Cage Aux Folles, Auntie Mame, Wyrd Sisters, Blythe Spirit, Midsummer Night’s Dream, The 39 Steps, A Comedy of Errors, Cloudstreet, A Cheery Soul, and Sherlock Holmes and the Call of Cthulhu among others.
A multi-skilled ensemble group, Glenbrook Players formed in 1975 as the Lower Mountains Repertory Theatre (LMRT), in the old Glenbrook School of Arts, before renovations created the current Glenbrook Cinema and proscenium stage. Glenbrook Players have enjoyed a close relationship with the Cinema, and the Curran Family, in this shared space for all of those 50 years.
“Theatre is a collaborative and a collective experience,” says John Bailey, Glenbrook Players President, “We are marking that important relationship by sharing some of the memories that live on, with audience members and loyal supporters who have been on the journey with us over the years.”
Go Dry This July
Dry July is a fundraiser that encourages you to go alcohol-free in July to raise funds for people affected by cancer.
In 2025, Dry July is on track to reach its biggest milestone yet – $100 million raised since 2008 to help people affected by cancer.
This year, they’re calling on Aussie’s to pour their generosity as they aim for 30,000 sign-ups to help reach this incredible milestone.
Reaching this point is only possible because of the everyday Australians who’ve gone dry, donated, and supported the cause year after year.
Known in the early years for its “boo and hiss” music hall style melodramas, which invited plenty of audience participation, the intervening years have seen the repertoire of Glenbrook Players change and develop as new members with new skills have joined and become part of the Glenbrook Players family. “It is this continuity of lifelong members welcoming new blood with new skills and talents, who then stay with us, that has ensured the groups’ flourishing for half a century,” explains Robyn Pope, treasurer, chief archivist, and early member of the Players, “We are celebrating our achievements with members ranging in age from 15 to 85. It’s really great to be a part of.”
The three-day celebration will include ‘Cocktails and Canapes’ on Friday July 4th (anniversary of LMRT’s first performance) for members, past members and invited guests, and an exhibition of costume, set, posters, props, photographs and memorabilia, chosen to reflect five decades of Glenbrook Players theatremaking. The exhibition in the Glenbrook Theatre Side Hall will be free to the public on Glenbrook Market Day, Saturday July 5th from 10:00am to 3:30pm. Tickets for the Showcase Performance are on sale now at https://www.glenbrookcinema. com.au/players/ or by phone on 02 4739 0003.
One Australian is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes, and more than 15,000 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with cancer this July. With rates continuing to rise, the job doesn’t stop at the $100M mark. Every dollar counts and helps raise funds for vital cancer support services across the country.
Since 2008, over 377,000 Aussies have taken part in Dry July, funding more than 1,200 projects across 80 cancer organisations that have helped to provide comfort, care, and support services for those affected by cancer.
This year, funds raised will support 40 cancer organisations across Australia, including major beneficiaries Cancer Council, Bowel Cancer Australia, and Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia to help make the cancer journey easier for people and their families.
People can participate in Dry July as individuals or as a workplace team and seek sponsorship. To sign up or donate head to www.dryjuly.com.
r Feature Article [Cover + Top Left] (from left) Cassandra Strasiotto, Gabriel Pope, Tom Oriti, and Alexander Smith, in The 39 Steps [Above] Margaret Bell with Ben Curran and cast of A Cheery Soul [Top Right] Sophie Seaborn and Geoff Hacker in A Cheery Soul | Images/Article Supplied by Ainslie Yardley/ Glenbrook Players
KID’S CORNER July
Book Review Your
Time After Time
Author Karly Lane
This is a story of a teenager and her family living in a small country town in rural NSW. She has passion, hopes and dreams and a flair for designing and making gowns. With limited options with work prospects, it is pretty much a given that she will marry, settle down and have a family, as she has been dating her long time sweetheart, Finn from school for a number of years. They have even bought a small cottage together and are happily living in it.
After leaving school, Alice was lucky enough to gain employment in a local clothing store, and she enjoyed her work. The French shop owner Antoinette Bonnaire prided herself on only stocking gowns from well-known labels as she felt her little store was special.
Alice was so passionate about her creations, she approached her boss and asked if she could display her gowns in the store for others to buy. She was soon shut down. The owner thought it was rude of her to try and promote her gowns over the store bought ones. Antoinette made it uncomfortable for Alice to
Alice’s grandparents had been married for 60 years. At her grandmother’s birthday party, her grandmother Meryl decided to drop a bombshell, and let all know that she was leaving her hubby. Alice invited her to come as stay at her little cottage, until she sorted herself out her She enjoyed her grandmother’s company and was still thinking about her
Alice attended fashion week in Sydney, where she was approached by a designer. She was asked if she wanted a career as a designer, and would she like to join Frankie’s team of international talent and designers, going abroad. As much as she loved the idea, she was torn between marriage to her long-time boyfriend and an exciting career. She chose to stay where she was. A year later at fashion week, someone had sent a picture of her wedding gown to Frankie, and she was approached again to work in the exciting world of fashion. This again put Alice in a quandary, and she had to decide on country life or an amazing career as a fashion designer.
It was a joy to read, and I was kept interested till the very end.
r Book Review by: Christine Fish
• Catering for 2-3 year old Children
• Situated in Quiet and Safe Street
• Preschool and School
Readiness Specialty Program
• Qualified Early Childhood Sta
• Operational Hours 8am till 5pm Monday till Friday
• Large Outdoor Play Area
Finding and Applying for Jobs with Nepean Community College
Join Nepean Community College for an 8-week course covering essential skills for finding and applying for jobs.
This course is best suited for people aged 16 years and over. This is nationally recognised accredited training with Nepean Community College (RTO: 1223). BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills.
Learn to set goals for work, find job advertisements, how to apply for jobs (covering written communication and verbal communication), role plays of interviews to prepare and brush up on communication skills, identifying requirements for job applications, drafting documents such as cover letters and resumes, receive feedback on application documents and interview skills to build on skills.
Booking for the first session confirms attendance at all 8 sessions. The courses are free, but bookings are essential. Bookings can be made at: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ finding-and-applying-for-jobs-with-nepean-communitycollege-tickets-1353024415449?aff=oddtdtcreator
Tea, coffee and light refreshments provided. Please advise them on 02 4732 7891 if you have accessibility requirements
for this session.
The course will be held on the following Wednesdays: 30 July, 6 August, 13 August, 20 August, 27 August, 3 September, 10 September, and 17 September.
Dates & Times
Starts: 30 July 2025 - 02:00PM to 4:00PM
Location
Penrith City Library: 601 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750
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
Arrogant or Confident?
It’s not the first time it’s happened. My friend was mid conversation when the person he was talking to pulled him up. And do you know what they said? ‘That’s pretty arrogant - to say you’re sure God loves you and you’re going to heaven’. And you know, I can understand them saying so. But what’s the difference between arrogance and confidence?
I guess arrogance is when someone thinks they are better than you – more practical, or smart, or wealthier or something. It is very much about comparing ourselves with each other and finding ways to make ourselves feel bigger by viewing others as smaller. And you know what I’ve noticed? Lots of us think about God and life after death in a similar way – and that is - what I’ve done (or not done) will see me make the grade or fail. Then when someone speaks confidently rather than with uncertainty – well, they must have tickets on themselves!
But there is another way of viewing them. When someone trusts God based on what someone else has done rather than on how they have acted. They have heard about Jesus and his promises - the life he lived in our place, the death he died so we need not die to God, and his rising to life so we might live forever with him - and they’ve decided to trust him. Sure, they haven’t been able to confirm life after death yet for themselves, but based on what they’ve seen of God through Jesus – their confidence is in him! That’s not arrogant, is it?
We read in the bible, ‘If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.’ (Romans 10:9) That’s confidence, a confidence we can share.
r Image: www.pexels.com
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Understanding Responsible Pet Ownership Under NSW’s
From May 19, 2025, tenancy laws in New South Wales have been updated to make it easier for renters to welcome pets into their homes. These reforms reflect what many of us already know—pets are more than animals; they are family members. For tenants, this marks an important shift toward being able to share their homes with their furry companions without unnecessary restrictions.
Under these new laws, tenants must still request permission from their landlord before bringing a pet into the property. However, there is now a clear and transparent process in place. Landlords are required to respond to written pet requests within 21 days. If they fail to do so, permission is automatically granted. A landlord may only refuse consent for specific, valid reasons—such as inadequate fencing, insufficient space, or where keeping a pet would be unsuitable or inhumane. Broad “no pets” policies and advertising rentals as pet-free are no longer permitted.
Landlords can set reasonable conditions related to pet ownership. These may include professional carpet cleaning at the end of the tenancy or repairs for any pet-related damage. Open and respectful communication between tenants and landlords remains key. Any conditions imposed must be appropriate and proportionate to the pet and the property.
While these reforms make it easier to have pets in rental homes, they also underscore the importance of responsible pet ownership. Under the Companion Animals Act 1998, all cats and dogs in NSW must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age and registered by six months. This is a legal requirement and vital in helping reunite lost pets with their families.
Desexing is strongly encouraged and is often required for full lifetime registration. It not only helps to reduce the number of unwanted litters but also supports better health outcomes for pets and reduces the burden on animal shelters.
Tenants are responsible for ensuring their pets are well cared for and do not cause issues for neighbours or the property. This includes managing noise, preventing damage, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring pets receive appropriate nutrition, hydration, exercise, mental stimulation, and veterinary care.
It’s also important to note that tenants with recognised assistance animals are not required to seek permission under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. However, landlords should still be notified of the animal’s presence and provided with any accreditation where available.
These new laws are a welcome step forward in recognising the special role pets play in our lives. With a foundation of compassion, communication, and responsibility, we can ensure pets remain an integral part of our homes and communities—regardless of whether we rent or own. Pets are family, and these changes honour that truth while reminding us that keeping pets requires a shared commitment between tenants and landlords.
For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027
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
•Home visits
•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption
•Secure off leash dog park CHECK
Be Fire Safe: Winter 2025
Emergency Services Minister, Jihad Dib, and Fire and Rescue
NSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, were joined by the survivor of a devastating house fire recently to launch the 2025 ‘Be Fire Safe’ Winter Safety Campaign.
Montana Adams and nine other people were asleep when a fire broke out in a Macquarie Fields home in Sydney’s southwest on May 28 last year.
They were alerted and their lives saved by a pair of smoke alarms, fitted only 10 days earlier by Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW).
On the first day of Winter, FRNSW acknowledged Smoke Alarm Action Day, urging households to test their detectors to kick off the Winter safety campaign.
Last Winter, 12 people died in residential fires in NSW and 107
HEALTH MATTERS
others were injured.
There were 1,039 residential fires during that period. In 44 percent of cases, there was not a working smoke alarm.
Winter is a critical time for fire prevention and education due to the spike in home fires, fire-related fatalities and injuries. They want to reduce these incidents to zero.
Complacency and inaction around smoke alarms are the biggest risk factors when it comes to home fire safety. Why? Because smoke is the greatest cause of injuries or fatalities.
To help combat those behaviours, their Winter campaign will continue to focus on the tagline ‘Be Fire Safe’, supported by supplementary messages.
By using this tag repeatedly, they aim to increase recall, understanding of the risk and the desire and purpose for action.
r Article: Fire and Rescue NSW
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Why People Who Exercise May Respond Better To Back Pain Treatment
Often, patients with sedentary jobs have more painful muscles and respond more slowly to therapy, than those whose jobs involve exercise i.e. back muscle soreness reduces more rapidly in those who exercise regularly. That doesn’t mean ‘people who don’t exercise don’t respond’, they just often respond more slowly.
Why? One reason is tissue detox efficiency via lymphatics. Lymph vessels take muscle tissue waste products to the blood stream for excretion via the liver and kidneys. Lymph vessels don’t have a heart to pump fluid as does the blood. Rather, they have tiny muscles surrounding each lymph vessel which all contract in a coordinated way to pump lymph. But muscle contraction from exercise makes this lymph flow much more efficient. Being sedentary reduces lymph flow.
At rest, approximately 1/3 of lymph transport in the human leg results from skeletal muscle contractions (extrinsic pump) while 2/3 results from active pumping by the lymph vessels themselves (intrinsic pump). But standing and exercise significantly increases lymph flow and tissue detoxification.
Studies show that when a person is:
1. asleep, has very low ankle lymph flow, just 0.24 ml/h.
2. standing, increases ankle lymph flow 13 times.
3. fast walking, increases ankle lymph flow 15 times.
These effects are partly due to increased:
1. heart rate
2. blood pressure
3. capillary widening
4. contracting skeletal muscles
Standing and exercise leads to increased tissue blood flow which:
1. increases muscle nutrient and oxygen delivery and muscle repair and maintenance,
2. is more energy efficient (fitness),
3. flushes tissue waste material into lymph vessels,
4. muscle contraction (exercise) improves flushing process.
Sedentary people have a reduced rate of nutrient and oxygen supply, lower fitness and tissue repair capacity, still produce waste, but do not have the exercise-related flushing benefits, and thus may accumulate waste, which can irritate muscle nerves leading to pain. In people who exercise (within reason) the reverse is often true, improving their response to treatment.
If you have a back or musculoskeletal injury and need help why not give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418-166-269.
www.freepik.com.
New Campaign Shows Sydney is so Much More than our Icons
The Minns Labor Government has unveiled the next chapter of the ‘Feel New’ campaign that showcases Sydney beyond the postcardperfect icons and asks Australians to rediscover the city and experience a new side of Sydney.
According to the Destination NSW Brand Engagement Monitor in April 2025, 79% of all Australian travellers have visited Sydney before. Sydney is currently ranked third for consideration to travel amongst domestic travellers in the next 12 months.
Qualitative research undertaken by The Lab has showed that people know Sydney for its incredible icons. But there’s a sense that once travellers have seen the wellknown icons, Sydney doesn’t offer anything significantly different from other cities. They couldn’t be more wrong.
The next chapter of the ‘Feel New’ campaign targets ‘new experience seekers’ from around the country who want busy, full days when travelling.
The new campaign showcases the unique offering our city has to offer beyond the icons. World class food offerings, stunning natural beauty, exhilarating adventures, international sporting events and a vibrant arts and music culture.
The campaign showcases the depth and breadth of experiences on offer to visitors, from oyster farms to rooftop bars, hot air balloon rides to snorkelling in Sydney’s unique coastal locations like the Great Southern Reef at Shelley Beach.
Backed by ongoing investment in aviation, events, and experiences, the campaign is just one of several initiatives to grow domestic visitation and grow the local visitor economy.
Research has shown that audiences who have engaged with the Feel New brand are more likely to book a trip or extend their stay and have injected an additional $323 million into the NSW visitor economy to date.
Destination NSW has also partnered with six NSW ‘icons of culture’ who have curated their own emotion-led personal itineraries to help visitors live like a local. The NSW ‘icons of culture’ all live in Sydney or were born in NSW and include Olympian Jess Fox, celebrated chef Dan Hong, writer, broadcaster and comedian Lucinda Price (Froomes), ultra-marathon runner Nedd Brockmann, award winning musician Budjerah and comedic duo The Inspired Unemployed.
The campaign will roll out across TV, outdoor, radio, digital and social channels until 30 August 2025.
r [Top] Leonay’s Jess Fox [Above] Olympian Rock in the Blue Mountains | Images: Destination NSW. Article: Steve Kamper MP
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As my family and I rug up through the chilly Winter days and warm our toes by the heater, I find I am thinking back to my childhood –warming my toes by the heater and shivering as I got dressed for school, dawn barely broken. Some things just don’t change – the shivery mornings, the lazy winds that go through you rather than around you and knowing that your Bata Scouts – remember with the wolf prints on the soles - will soak up the dew from the lawns on your walk to school and go straight through to your socks if you weren’t careful.
Despite the chill, there is still plenty happening in our area, as clubs and organisations celebrate the Winter with outings and get togethers, sharing the joy of warming food and drink, and great company. There is always something going on in your community, and you will find lots of ways to get involved here in your District Gazette.
A shoutout to our readers and supporters, as we work together to get the July Issue out. If you’re looking for goods or services, please consider our advertisers- they make it possible for us to put your District Gazette in your mailbox every month!
“To keep a warm heart in Winter is the real victory.”
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