Statement from Susan Templeman MP
I’m delighted and grateful to have been elected as the Member for Macquarie for the fourth time.
With nearly 90 percent of the votes counted there has been an increase to my majority and I thank every person who has put their trust in me to represent this vast and diverse community.
I am particularly appreciative of the support from the new parts of the electorate - Emu Plains, Emu Heights and Leonay. I am eager to work with Penrith Council to deliver the promised sporting and playground improvements to the area.
We ran a positive campaign about better services and building a better future for Australians, and I am so excited to start the work including delivering a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic to the Hawkesbury, an Endometriosis and Menopause clinic for the Nepean-Blue Mountains, see work begin on the new Richmond Bridge, and create a koala refuge in our world heritage area.
The result also reflects the ongoing efforts of many elected Labor State and Council representatives including State Members Trish Doyle and Karen McKeown, and Mayors Mark Greenhill and Todd Carney, and I thank them for their support and cooperation as we work together for the region.
It demonstrates the power of individual community volunteers who selflessly, for no personal gain other than to make a difference, give so much of their time to support me and the Labor Party. Whether union members, retirees or youth, there were hundreds of people who helped get our positive message out. A special thank you to the teachers across Macquarie who were on polling booths to inform parents about our historic agreement to fully fund public education.
I acknowledge the efforts of the five other Macquarie candidates. After six elections, I know the challenge you and your families have just undertaken, and our democracy is stronger for your willingness to engage. I look forward to working with Councillor Creed as Hawkesbury Council continues to fulfil the 2022 election funding that I delivered to them.
This is a very precious victory for my hard-working, committed and exceptional electorate team. We’re going to savour it today and then it’s back to work tomorrow for the people of Macquarie.
r Article: Susan Templeman MP
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
Netball Without Limits
The Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) is proud to launch its first All Abilities Netball Program, offering children and adults with physical, intellectual, and sensory disabilities the chance to participate in an inclusive, supportive netball experience.
Running over nine weeks from Saturday, May 17 to September 20 (excluding school holidays and long weekends), the program will be held fortnightly on Courts 41 and 42 at Jamison Park Netball Courts, from 10:15am to 11:30am. A special Bring a Friend Open Day is scheduled for July 26, welcoming new faces to join the fun.
“This is a program built around inclusion, joy, and growth,” says Meighan Ellul, Intermediate Registrar of PDNA. “We wanted to
create a safe and fun environment where everyone, regardless of their ability, can experience the magic of netball.”
Open to participants aged 7 through to adults, the program is tailored to individual needs. Qualified coaches will adapt activities and games to suit varying physical and cognitive abilities, focusing on basic skill development, confidencebuilding, and social interaction.
“No netball experience is necessary,” Meighan adds. “It’s all about having fun, trying something new, and being part of a team.”
At a cost of just $50, participants receive full insurance and a medal at presentation day. A voucher code is available by emailing intermediateregistrar@penrithnetball.com.au.
PDNA’s vision doesn’t stop with this first program. “We plan to run the All Abilities Program annually and hope to expand it over time,” Meighan says. “One day, we’d love to have a representative team to compete in the NSW State Titles.”
The impact of inclusive sport goes beyond the court. “Programs like this are vital,” says Meighan. “They promote social inclusion, independence, and improve overall quality of life for people living with disability. They also strengthen our community by building empathy, connection, and participation for everyone.”
To learn more, contact Meighan Ellul by email at intermediateregistrar@penrithnetball.com.au or visit the lower control station at Jamison Park Netball Courts on Saturdays between 9:00am and 2:00pm.
“Whether you’re learning a new sport, making friends, or just having fun, this program is about more than netball,” Meighan says. “It’s about belonging.”
r Participants from the 2024 All Abilities program | Image supplied by Penrith District Netball Association. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Sharing a Love of Art
Local artist Cheryl Simpson is sharing her artistic talents with the local community, now offering art classes at the Nepean Art Society in Emu Plains.
Inspired by her father, who was a watercolour artist, Cheryl has been a practicing artist for the last 8 years and has been teaching for 4 years.
“My style is a fusion of abstract realism, blending the two to create pieces that add a bit of mystery. I adore working with all art mediums and enjoy sharing my love of art through teaching” explained Cheryl to the Emu and Leonay Gazette.
Born and raised in Yorkshire in the United Kingdom, she has spent the last 12 years living abroad in New Zealand.
“Art has been a lifelong passion of mine. It is something I loved from a very young age” she said.
When viewing her work, you are struck by the beautiful bright colours and forms. Between the mute but vibrant strokes of the watercolours, the elements are brought to life in a subtle yet very expressive and captivating way.
Cheryl currently teaches her mixed media classes at the Nepean Art Society on Friday mornings. She also facilitates classes for children aged 5 to 18 years on Tuesday evenings from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, which focus on the fundamental elements of art.
Additionally, she conducts charcoal portrait workshops. Her most recent being on Saturday 24th May at Springwood Community Arts Centre.
You can view Cheryl’s artwork for sale on Instagram at https:// instagram.com/cherylsimpsonart/. To stay updated on her upcoming workshops and classes (including costs), find her on Facebook by searching Cheryl Simpson Art Classes.
“I look forward to creating and inspiring in this vibrant community” ended Cheryl.
r [Top left] Beneath the Gaze of Fading Chords (mixed media on artist panel) by Cheryl Simpson [Top right] The Quiet March of Forgotten Streets (mixed media on artist panel) by Cheryle Simpson | Article: Julie Lobeln
Strong Steps for Men’s Health
The local men’s health movement SOLiD MEN is calling on the community to lace up, show up, and stand strong together at the upcoming Check 6 Challenge, taking place on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Regatta Park, Emu Plains.
Timed to coincide with Men’s Health Week, the event aims to raise awareness and support for men’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Participants are encouraged to run, walk, or ride up to six laps of the Nepean River Bridge loop—each lap covering approximately 6.5km.
“We’re inviting the whole community to come down, whether it’s for one lap or all six,” said Lance Rogers, founder of SOLiD MEN. “It’s about showing up, checking in with your mates, and taking action for your health.”
The day will also feature a free SOLiD MEN workout session, a community sausage sizzle, and a series of short men’s health talks designed to encourage open conversation and connection.
“We’re hoping to see over 50 participants this year,” Lance said. “And every person who shows up makes a difference— not just to the cause, but to the men in their lives.”
Funds raised from the event will go directly to SOLiD MEN, a registered not-for-profit dedicated to strengthening men through weekly workouts, mentoring, and community support. With over 50 new members joining in the past year and five weekly workout locations now operating across the region, SOLiD MEN is growing rapidly—and so is its impact.
Founded to tackle isolation and foster stronger connections between men, SOLiD MEN now hosts free weekly group workouts at locations in Penrith, Glenwood, Glenbrook, Richmond, and Newcastle, combining fitness with meaningful conversation and peer support.
“Our mission is to build stronger men—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually,” Lance explained. “The funds raised will help us expand our programs and reach even more blokes who need support. And yes, all donations over $2 are tax deductible.”
To register or donate, visit: https://solid-men.grassrootz.com/ check-6-challenge-2025
Whether you're running a lap or flipping a sausage, Lance says the goal is simple: “Let’s check in with each other and make men’s health a priority—one lap at a time.”
r
Nellestein
Bowel Cancer: Early Detection Can Save Your Life
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the fourth most common and second most deadly cancer in Australia. Sadly, over 15,000 Australians are diagnosed with this disease each year. 1 in 20 Australians will be diagnosed by bowel cancer by age 85. But the good news is, we can make a real difference through early detection.
Most cases of bowel cancer begin as small, non-cancerous growths called polyps. Detecting and removing these polyps early is a key part of preventing the cancer from developing. Smoking, eating a large amount of red or processed meats, drinking alcohol, and being overweight can contribute to the development of bowel cancer. Genetic factors increase the risk of bowel cancer, but most people diagnosed do not have a family history. Regular physical activity and fibre rich diet can reduce the risk of bowel cancer.
For a long time, bowel cancer was primarily diagnosed in Australians over 50, but that’s changing. Over the last 25 years, the incidence of colorectal cancer has almost tripled in those aged 30-39 despite reducing rates in those over 50. In response to this, the Australian Government has reduced the starting age of national bowel cancer screening from 50 to 45 years old. All Australians over 50 years are mailed out a free bowel cancer screening kit, and those 45 years and older can opt-in (National Bowel Cancer Screening Program).
Bowel cancer screening works by detecting microscopic amounts of blood in the faeces. This is not detectable by the human eye. Colon polyps can develop over years or decades before becoming bowel cancer. A colonoscopy is the gold standard, and can detect pre-malignant polyps and remove them, preventing the development of bowel cancer.
If you have had a positive screening test, you should undergo a colonoscopy to detect, diagnose, and treat colon polyps to prevent bowel cancer.
Written by
Dr Kieran Longley Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist FRACP, MSc
r Dr Kieran Longley Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist FRACP, MSc. Image Supplied. Article: Dr Kieran Longley Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist FRACP, MSc
[Top] The runners at 2024's Check 6 Challenge [Above] SOLiD MEN members Gunner and Loaf taking a rest between laps at last year’s event. Images: Lance Rogers. Article: Tanya
Struggling with Digestive Symptoms?
You’re Not Alone.
Relief and answers start here with Dr Kieran Longley
Bloating, discomfort, irregular bowel habits, or liver concerns can be disruptive. Dr Kieran Longley provides thorough, compassionate care to help you find answers and feel better, sooner. Consultations are available at Gregory Hills, Blaxland, or via Telehealth for added convenience.
Special Interests
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Bowel Cancer Screening Liver Disease Diagnosis & Management
Polyp Detection & Removal
Why Patients Choose Dr Longley
No-Gap Billing (for eligible patients)
Advanced Endoscopic Techniques
Fast-tracked Appointments & Diagnosis Personalised, Evidence-Based Treatment Plans
Dr Kieran Longley
Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
FRACP, MSc
Dr Longley is a Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist committed to providing high-quality, accessible care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. His approach is holistic and patient-centred—he takes the time to listen, explain and guide, helping patients feel confident in their care.
From diagnosis to ongoing care, Dr Longley partners with you to improve your gut health and overall well-being.
• 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
Local Completes 100 Marathons
Glenbrook’s Michael Wholohan has achieved an amazing milestone in his running career, completing his 100th marathon recently.
Taking place on Saturday 19th April (Easter Saturday), Michael participated in the 2025 Newcastle Marathon at Newcastle Foreshore. The 42.195km run was made even more special, with his daughter Emma running in the half marathon, where they would see each other on the course.
“I was battling injuries for the last 6 weeks leading up to the race. My daughter lives in Newcastle, so the decision to complete number 100 in the Newcastle Marathon was to join Emma. I'm thankful for the support of my wife, son, daughter as well as family and friends" explained Michael.
The 59 year old schoolteacher ran his first marathon, the Canberra Marathon, in 2007. The inspirational feat of reaching 100 was achieved in 18 years.
“I finished playing cricket and I began running early Saturday mornings. The journey evolved from there. Somewhere along the way, I got the bug” he said.
Michael’s initial goal was to run in 50 marathons by the age of 50. Once completing the Canberra Marathon in 2019, he decided to go for 100.
Training has been 4 times a week, consisting of one long run a week from 90 minutes to 2.5 hours. His favoured runs are around Emu Plains, which has flat and wide terrain. The Lower Blue Mountains have also been utilised. “With older legs, training includes weights and swimming, which I have been doing for more than 10 years” added Michael.
Wholohan has travelled the world, participating in marathons in places like London, New York and Salt Lake City.
“The New York Marathon in 2017 was great. 55,000 people finishing in Central Park was phenomenal. The 3 Lands Marathon was unique, taking in a course through Germany, Switzerland and Austria” he reflected.
Now that he has achieved his goal, Michael hopes to continue running.
“I’ll listen to my body. I’m 60 in February. If the body holds up, I’ll head to Caen in France on 15th June. Then Melbourne, Gold Coast and Sydney to follow.
“I’d like to run a marathon at the age of 70. My long term goal now is to run for as long as I can” ended Michael.
Journey to Better Health for Men Continues
Created by local resident David Newton in February 2023, The Journeyman Collective is a group focussing upon men’s health and fitness in the community.
The group meet on Sunday mornings at 8:00am at Dukes Oval Cricket Pavilion in Emu Plains. They meet rain, hail, or shine and it is a free event.
Each session is generally an hour in duration.
Beginning with 8 members, they have now grown to 25 members, with 10 – 15 men coming together on a regular basis.
With a background in boxing, David is pleased to be able to share his experience with local residents.
The group activities include a boxing cardio workout.
“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,” said David.
“I am a big believer in community and started the group 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” he added.
David believes the group’s future is positive and it is something that brings together and strengthens the local community.
“My future plans are to continue to do what we do for the community. I believe that fitness has a 2 fold effect; it not only improves the physical wellbeing but also improves mental health. I also see the importance in creating stronger community ties and this is a great way of doing this” he ended.
If you would like more information about The Journeyman Collective, you can contact David on 0408 554533. You can also find regular group updates on the community pages for Emu Plains on Facebook.
r Image: www. pixabay.com. Article:
r Feature Article [Cover + Top] Michael and daughter Emma at the Newcastle Marathon [Above] Michael with his custom made Budgy Smugglers. Images Supplied by Michael Wholohan
Julie Lobel
Book Review Your
The Pumpkin Spice Cafe
Author Laurie Gilmore
On a recent trip overseas, I picked up this sweetly illustrated book and although we should never judge a book by its cover we do eat with our eyes, and I devoured this book during our short time away. It was the perfect cozy autumnal read! For readers that enjoyed the show Gilmore Girls it has the same feeling with some romance, mystery and hayrides!
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore is a romantic, easy read about Jeanie a city girl who has moved to Dream Harbour to take over her aunt’s café and Logan a grumpy, local farmer with a painful past who refuses to fall for her charm.
The story is easy to read with lots of moments to give you butterflies in your stomach. Whether that’s the sweet gestures from Logan, the inviting small-town energy or the love story between two opposites. I found the storyline good with the few twists and turns keeping your interest trying to solve the mystery. The book also finished the way you’d hope with a happy ending.
The book didn’t have too many twists or turns to the main storyline, and some may find this element disengaging, but for a light-hearted read it doesn’t take readers down a winding trail. The book also gets quite steamy in places which might be too racy for younger readers.
In review I would give the book a 3/5. A read for adults who enjoy the romance genre and enjoy a quick, light and uplifting read.
The Dream Harbour series also includes The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, The Strawberry Patch Pancake House and The Ginger Bread Bakery (Book 4) is set to be released in September.
r Book Review by: Alissa Faitele
The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Penrith is a welcoming and non-judgemental place where you can access free mental health information, services and supports.
They provide caring, calm and inclusive mental health and wellbeing support for people over the age of 18. You don’t need to be an Australian citizen, resident, have a visa or Medicare card to get support.
You also don’t need a referral from a doctor. You can just walk in or call to get support.
Whether you have experienced mental health challenges in the past or this is your first time reaching out for support, everyone is welcome.
The Medicare Mental Health Centre offers immediate support if you’re in distress. The team will work with you to understand what will help right now. And then if needed, they’ll help you find the right support for later.
Many of the staff at the centre have experienced a mental health crisis themselves and understand what you may be going through.
Whether you’re trying to improve your sense of wellbeing, looking for help with something that’s bothering you, or helping someone you care about, Penrith Medicare Mental Health Centre is here for you.
They also offer support for carers and families of people experiencing distress.
If you think you may need support or know someone who does, you can drop in at 111 Henry Street, Penrith or call 1800 595 212.
Penrith Medicare Mental Health Centre is delivered by Neami National and funded by the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network.
For more information, go to: www.neaminational.org.au/ penrith-medicare-mental-health-centre
Halls and Community Centres: Emu Heights Neighbourhood Centre
Opened in 1991 and located behind the Blue Emu Child Care Centre, this facility has 2 air conditioned rooms for hire each with a secure yard. There is play equipment and a shade structure attached to the hall making it ideal for children's activities and parties.
Capacity
70 people maximum (Hall)
20 people maximum (Meeting room)
Room sizes
Hall - 10m x 7.1m
Meeting room - 6.3m x 5m
Contact
Call Penrith City Council on 02 4732 8021
Address
38A Wedmore Road, Emu Heights
Curfews
Monday - Sunday 10:00pm
Other Information
The facility has a white and purple decor and a baby change room available for use.
Kitchen facilities include a single door drinks fridge, pie warmer, microwave, standard domestic floor oven with cooktop, and a continual hot water urn.
Tables and chairs are available for use and are included in the cost for hire.
The meeting room is not available for private function hire unless booked in conjunction with the hall. Additional fees will apply for use.
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
r Images/Article: Penrith City Council
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
Making it Count
Does anyone in your place dislike maths? It’s common – and there is plenty of maths that can sap the will to live straight out of you. But there are some benefits. You can add up how much you’ve saved for a holiday. You can count down to a special occasion. You can celebrate turning a year older.
In fact, in the song book of the bible – the book of psalms - did you know the bible had a song book? In Psalm or song ninety, the songwriter asks God ‘Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12). It’s not that God commands us to celebrate birthdays – though we’re very welcome to – it’s a prayer that God would help us to live each day wisely.
Now each of us will come up with different answer to what is wise. Some will say, ‘play hard’, others ‘make sure you stop and smell the roses’, and I imagine you have your own answer. But when you read the rest of this song it offers its own brand of wisdom. What can we learn from them? The song writer remembers the greatness and awesome power of God, as our maker. They recognise our responsibility to live as he intended, but without some change we don’t, and then - then he prays this prayer – asking for forgiveness, asking for God to draw near to us, asking for each day to count.
And the thing is, it’s a prayer the songwriter asks, knowing how God will answer it. He had already asked on behalf of God’s people then. He still is through the Lord Jesus today, and it is a prayer that each of us may pray. Why not check out the rest of the Psalmsand grow wise! r Image: www.pexels.com
When the skies open and the rain sets in, it’s tempting to bunker down indoors with a warm drink and a blanket. But while we may relish a quiet day inside, our canine companions still need their regular dose of activity, both physical and mental. Just because it’s wet outside doesn’t mean your dog’s exercise routine should be put on pause.
Regular exercise is crucial to your dog’s health and wellbeing. It not only keeps their bodies fit, but also supports mental stimulation, reduces boredom, and helps prevent behavioural issues like barking, chewing, and restlessness. Dogs thrive on routine, social engagement, and sensory enrichment. If rainy days are keeping you from your usual walks, there are still plenty of ways to keep your dog happy and active inside.
Firstly, you can still walk your dog in the rain, provided it’s safe to do so. A waterproof dog coat and towel by the door can help keep the mess to a minimum. But for those times when outdoor exercise just isn’t practical, there are many fun alternatives you can try at home.
Turn mealtime into playtime by making your dog work for their food. Use puzzle feeders, treat balls, or stuff a Kong with kibble and treats. If you’re after a budget-friendly option, an empty soft drink bottle (rinsed and dried) with a few holes
poked in it makes a great DIY enrichment toy.
Hide-and-seek is another simple but effective game. Kids especially love this one. Have your dog stay while someone hides, then call them. Always reward your dog for coming when called—this also doubles as a great recall training exercise.
Indoor fetch is possible too. A hallway or garage can become a safe play area for a quick energy burn. You can also set up a mini obstacle course with household items like chairs, blankets, and broomsticks, encouraging your dog to weave, jump, or crawl.
Scent games are ideal for mental stimulation. Hide small treats in safe places around the house and let your dog sniff them out. You can even make a homemade puzzle by filling a cardboard box with dry food and poking holes in the sides.
Rainy days don’t have to mean lazy days for your pet. With a bit of creativity, you can keep your dog mentally sharp, physically fit, and emotionally content—rain, hail, or shine.
For more ideas or to ask about your dog’s exercise and enrichment needs, feel free to call us on 0247362027 at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. We’re always here to help you keep your pets happy and healthy.
•
•Visiting
Winter Solstice Comes to Penrith
Mark your calendars for the June long weekend and join Penrith City Council at Winter Solstice!
Council’s latest event will host a range of activities, including an ice-skating rink, activities for young children and teenagers, entertainment and have a variety of restaurants open along High Street, Penrith with delicious food and live music.
You won’t want to miss this exciting free event that marks the beginning of Winter!
Winter Solstice
Friday 6 June to Monday 9 June
4:00pm to 9:00pm (Friday to Sunday)
10:00am to 3:00pm (Monday)
Ice Skating (booking required, link available soon): 12:00pm to 9:00pm (Friday to Sunday)
HEALTH MATTERS
9:00am to 4:00pm (Monday)
City Park, Penrith
Find out more at penrith.city/events #wintersolstice #penrithcity
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Have Lower Back Pain? Then Just Get On The Bottle!
I ask many of my ‘lower-backpain’ patients to get on the bottle! Nothing like a stiff drink to ease back pain, right? Just kidding of course.
Patients lie down on a carpeted floor, place a foam roller (about the size of a standard wine bottle) under one side of the small of their back. The roller is placed either just to the left or to the right of the spine, never over the spine itself, and patients breathe deeply in and out for 5-10 minutes. The idea is to stretch lower back muscles gently but deeply beside the spine (using breaths) without bending the spine itself.
This simple activity helps ameliorate back pain generally and avoids increases in pain that may occur between clinic sessions due to daily activities. Some patients should not do this activity, so it is important to be assessed first. Let us see why such stretching often helps reduce back pain.
Scientists induce lower back pain in animals by injecting carrageenan to damage lower back tissues, causing inflammation, and infiltration of immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils. Immune cells then release further signals that can exacerbate things, leading to ongoing
pain and, eventually, to tissue fibrosis. Fibrosis is the formation of excess fibrous connective (scar) tissue in an organ or area during any repair process that occurs in reaction to tissue injury.
After carrageenan injections, these animals cannot walk properly, and their lower back is much more sensitive to mechanical stimulus. In short, their backs are painful, it hurts animals to move, and so they have shortened stride lengths and lower instra-step distances.
Studies have shown that low-amplitude static (non-cyclical) stretching stops fibrosis and inflammation. To test this in lower back inflammation, half the carrageen-injected animals underwent a stretching program. For 12 days, 10 minutes twice daily, animals did simple sustained back-stretching. Researchers found stretching:
1. lowered tissue inflammatory immune cells
2. decreased scar tissue formation
3. decreased mechanical sensitivity of the back
4. restored stride length and
5. restored intra-step distance, Appropriately done, stretching is an important therapy for musculoskeletal injuries, and patients who incorporate appropriate daily stretching generally improve more quickly. Have a back injury and need help? Why not give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418 166 269
rImage:https://www.physiodc.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ lady-using-foam-roller-on-floor-under-her-back.jpg.
** Refer to submitter for references
Ten Hands: Locals Looking After Locals
Ten Hands Air Conditioning is a family owned air conditioning business, located in Mulgoa.
The business was started by Matt Dymock, when his family moved to Mulgoa from Inner Western Sydney 13 years ago.
“There are five of us (ten hands) in the family. This inspired our business name” said Belinda Dymock of Ten Hands Air Conditioning.
They specialise in the supply, installation, repair and servicing of all types of air conditioning. Matt and his team service the residential, business and commercial sectors.
Their regular customers include homeowners, builders, businesses and they do regular real estate rental work.
“Our work is varied and interesting, as we also have regular commercial work in schools, factories, clubs and warehouses” she explained.
Matt has been a HVAC technician for over 35 years and has always run his own business, so it was natural that he would start up a business to service their new area.
Staying true to being a local, family owned business has seen Matt’s son Gus join the team as his apprentice. Gus started late last year, when he finished school. There were no school holidays for Gus! He also starts TAFE in July this year.
So, what has Gus enjoyed so far about being an apprentice for Ten Hands Air Conditioning?
“Being a part of and contributing to the family business is cool. Learning from Dad some of the old school ways of finding faults and leaks is interesting. He's really good at fixing things" said Gus to the Mulgoa Valley Gazette.
“Matt is looking forward to Gus getting his P’s in a few months, to take over some of the driving” added Belinda.
You can call Matt on 0411 707 583 for any type of air conditioning you or your business needs.
Susan Templeman MP Re-Appointment as Special Envoy for the Arts
I am deeply honoured to be reappointed as Special Envoy for the Arts by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Over the past three years, it has been my privilege to meet with artists and arts workers across Australia, to advocate for their interests, to celebrate their accomplishments and to better understand the challenges that they face.
I look forward to continuing to support Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke as he continues to implement our national cultural policy, Revive, which has already had a profound impact on the vitality of the arts sector. We know that there is much more work to do, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it.
I will work hard every day to ensure that the voice of our arts community is heard and that our government is responsive to its needs.
I will continue to fight for the people of Macquarie – a community that is renowned for its creative spirit and puts arts and culture at the heart of social life.
I’m proud to be part of a government that respects the contribution that our artists make, supports their ambitions and understands the value that creativity adds to our everyday lives.
r Gus Dymock (L) and Matt Dymock (R) of Ten Hands Air Conditioning | Image: Belinda Dymock
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We made it through another Federal Election, and as the Government gets their Ministers and seats in order, we are once again able to look to the future of our wonderful country with hope. In the words of Penny Wong, we are a “nation of courage and kindness”, something we can all aspire to be regardless of our political persuasion or ideology.
As we wave goodbye to Autumn, and the gardeners among us hope for cold and wet weather for the next few months, we find ourselves almost in the middle of 2025, and suddenly it’s time to get out our piles of receipts and invoices to get ready for tax time.
But if that thought doesn’t thrill you, check out all the local events in your area here in the paper – there’s always heaps going on, so find a jumper and get out and get involved!
As always, thank you to our advertisers, who make it possible for us to deliver your copy of the District Gazette directly to your mailbox, and we hope that you consider their businesses if you are looking for goods and services.
For now, find a spot in the warm, and enjoy your District Gazette!
“No Winter lasts forever; no Spring skips its turn.”
Belinda
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