EMU + LEONAY GAZETTE OCTOBER 2025 by District Gazette

Cinema in the Park: Harry Potter

Join Council for a free screening of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’.

They’re planning for a magical, spellbinding evening! Make sure you plan your evening in advance as they have free popcorn for the first 2,000 people to arrive for the movie. Admission for the movie is free.

They have some fun activities for the kids, including:

• Face painting

• Harry Potter themed craft

• Roving performers

On-site:

• Free popcorn for the first 200 people

• Bean bags and deck chairs to lounge in to enjoy the movie (although they highly recommend bringing your own just in case!)

• An ice-cream truck where you can purchase some delicious snacks

If you’re unsure of where to start with your planning, here’s what’s on your checklist:

• Pack blankets or lawn chairs to sit on

• Setting the alarm early so you can be one of the cinemagoers to get free popcorn (they’re giving it to the first 200 people!)

• Decide which local restaurant to have dinner there are a lot of delicious options!

• Get dressed in your Hogwarts house.

• Plan for some time for the kids to enjoy some of the free activities they have face painting and arts and crafts.

‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ (2001) is a family/ fantasy film that runs for 2 hours and 32 mins and is rated PG.

Dates and Time:

Saturday 11 October 2025

6:00pm – 9:00pm

Location:

City Park, Station Street, Penrith NSW 2750

r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Submit your Community Notice on/by 10th of the month, to be included in the following edition. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations. E: info@districtgazette.com.au

Hobbies + Interests

Community Groups

Lions Club of Emu Plains Inc

Nepean Hook & Yarn

Meets 3rd Thursday of the month from 6.30pm at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay). More Details: Cheryl Devine 0417 234 295.

Meet twice a month, 1st Fridays & 3rd Wednesdays of the month at Mocca Cafe Penrith Homemaker, near Domayne escalators. 10am-1pm. More details visit their Facebook or instagram pages @nepeanhook&yarn

Hobbies + Interests

Penrith Physical Culture Club

Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)

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

Great meets at Glenmore Park Youth and Community Centre and Nangamay Public School on Monday and Tuesday nights and Caroline Chisholm High School Dance Studio on Tuesday nights. More details: penrithphysie@outlook.com

Nepean Group – Embroiderers Guild

“Taste

of Everything” Group for Women

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

Learn something new each week, meet new people, and have a laugh. Meets every Thursday from 9.30am-12.30pm at Floribunda Community Centre (3-4 Floribunda Ave, Glenmore Park). More Details: Martha 0414 557 062

Markets 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

Luddenham Country Markets

Held fortnightly on Sundays from 19th March, 9:00am till 1:00pm at Luddenham Showground (Park Road, Luddenham). More details: Search Luddenham Country Market on Facebook 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

Penrith Producers

Held on Friday 23rd June, Friday 29th September and Friday 1st December from 5:00pm to 9:00pm at Triangle Park (565-567 High Street, Penrith). More details: https://www.visitpenrith. com.au/www.penrith.city/events

Support + Wellbeing

Lung Support Group

Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542 Support +

Lung Support Group

Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542

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 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ Penrithwomenswalkandtalk

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

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/

Prostate Cancer Support Group

SOLiD MEN

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

Penrith’s iconic Turn the River Pink event is set to return on Saturday, 18th October 2025, bringing the community together for a cause that touches many lives. Registration opens from 7:00am at Tench Reserve, 128 Factory Road, Jamisontown, with the 5km walk commencing at 8:00am.

Now in its second decade, the event has become a cornerstone of local fundraising efforts for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). “This year, we are celebrating that we have all surpassed 10 years of fundraising for NBCF through our Pink events,” said Angie Harris from Tanti Financial Services in Emu Plains, who has proudly supported the initiative since its inception.

The day is designed to maximise awareness and community spirit. “To create maximum awareness, we request that participants come dressed in their brightest and craziest Pink outfits,” Harris explained. Walkers then enjoy a 5km stroll

along the Nepean River before returning to Tench Reserve for a BBQ breakfast.

Over the years, the event has welcomed everyone, from solo walkers to families, groups of friends, and local workplaces. “It’s a fantastic morning seeing participants come together to remember loved ones, celebrate those that are currently fighting or have won the cancer battle, and help NBCF’s vision of Zero Deaths from Breast Cancer,” Harris said.

Getting involved is simple. “Register now at www.ttrp.com. au, prepare your outfit and invite your friends and family to come along,” Harris encouraged. For those unable to attend in person, donations can also be made via the event website.

More details and updates are available through the event’s Facebook page or website. Harris added a final call to action: “We’d love the Penrith community to spread the word and take action by helping NBCF’s vision of Zero Deaths from Breast Cancer.”

With over a decade of history and countless lives impacted, Turn the River Pink is more than a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and hope.

r [Top] The event is proudly sponsored by Tanti Financial Services [Above] Dress in pink and raise funds for breast cancer | Images: Angie Harris/Tanti Financial Services. Article: Tanya Nellestein

Emu Plains JRLFC Wraps Up a Landmark 2025 Season

Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Football Club (JRLFC) continues to go from strength to strength, celebrating an incredible 2025 season both on and off the field. With a recordbreaking 52 teams taking to the field in the club’s iconic red, white, and blue, Emu Plains saw more than 1,000 members registered, including over 600 male and 200 female players.

A major highlight of the season was the surge in female participation, allowing the club to proudly field eight femaleonly teams across age groups ranging from Under 10’s to Open Women’s. In a historic moment for the club, the Open Women’s side made it to the grand final for the first time.

Other season highlights included:

• The club’s first-ever team in the inaugural Weight for Age competition.

• An increase in players being selected to trial for Panthers development squads.

• Every competitive team making it into the finals series.

• Notable grand final wins for the Under 12/1’s, Under 16/1’s, Under 13 Girls, and Under 15 Girls in their respective divisions.

With such achievements, there’s plenty to celebrate at the upcoming club presentations. The Senior Presentation (Under 17’s to Opens) will be held at St Marys Band Club on October 25, while the Junior Presentation for Under 5’s to Under 16’s will take place at Leonay Oval on Sunday, November 9.

Moving forward, registrations for the 2026 season open on December 1. It’s a special year ahead, Emu Plains JRLFC celebrates its 60th anniversary, with exciting activities and events planned throughout the season. The club also encourages all life members to message their updated contact details via the Emu Plains JRLFC Facebook page.

Reflecting on the season, families and volunteers agree: the joy of watching kids make friendships, grow in confidence, and have fun is what makes Emu Plains truly special. “We’re a community club with a familyfriendly atmosphere,” said Jo McDonald, Secretary of EPJRLC.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the club’s volunteers, committee members, and loyal sponsors, without whom none of this would be possible.

Bring on 2026!

[Top] EPJRLFC Under 12/1's celebrating their Division 1 grand final win [Above] Little legends celebrating and having fun after their game | Images:

Please note that this is a ticketed event. For full event information, and to secure your tickets visit,

Kids clothing

(for ages 3 to 12 years old)

Parents and guardians bring up to five quality items of kids clothing that they have outgrown or no longer wear to swap for ‘new-to-you’ goodies!

Check-in

10am – 10:30am

Swap opens 10:30am – 11:15am

Adult clothing swap

Open to adults of all ages, shapes, sizes and genders. Bring up to 5 quality items to swap as part of their participation in this fun and sustainable exchange.

Check-in

11:30am – 12:15pm

Stylist presentation 12:15pm – 12:30pm

Swap opens 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Jimi Campbell/ EPJRLFC

Book Review Your

The Curse of the Cave Creatures

Author:R.L Stine

The Curse of the Cave Creatures is a choose your own adventure book by R.L Stine. The storyline bases about you (the reader) visiting your relatives in the Arizona Desert. However, when you go hiking, you spot a cave and go inside. You find an ancient animal skull, and drop it, thus upsetting an evil entity, the cave spirit. Because of this incident, he wants to turn you into a painting on his cave wall! However, you can combat him by either becoming a spell caster or a hunter. Once you have chosen, you get your pick of three magical spells or weapons to defeat him… Or become a cave painting!

You set off home with your three magical weapons/ spells to defeat the spirit. When you get home, the story path branches into 2 ways: one for spellcasters, and one for hunters. You find animals that the cave spirit has commanded to kill you! From there, you face multiple challenges, from being attacked by a stuffed lion, a giant snake, or dinosaurs to being thrown into a poisonous bug pit by a crazed scientist or being locked up in a police station by a ghostly sheriff of a ghost town.

With over 20 different endings, all carefully written. The choices are carefully written and assist you in defeating the cave spirit. Summarising, this book fascinated me with its plot, and I would highly recommend it to others. Finally, the best part is that no matter how many times you read it, there will always be a part which you haven’t read.

r Book Review by:

Mustafa Faisal

Two New Venues on the Nepean

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Nepean River, Regatta Park Functions and Regatta Park Kitchen are the newest projects from Shane, Belinda, Charlie and India Simpson, the team behind 2773 Glenbrook, Laughin’ Boy, Conservation Hut Café, and Brightside Bowls. With a passion for creating places where people can meet, eat well, and celebrate, they’re thrilled to bring this fresh new offering to the community.

Regatta Park Functions is a purpose-built undercover outdoor venue designed as a blank slate that’s entirely yours to style. With room for up to 110 guests, open green lawns, and uninterrupted views of the Nepean River, it’s the perfect setting for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and community celebrations. A custom-built bar setup, optional hire furniture, and plenty of nearby parking make it practical, while the riverside setting ensures it feels

truly special. With the experienced local team on hand, every event is cared for with warmth, attention to detail, and genuine passion.

Just a few steps away, Regatta Park Kitchen is the everyday heart of the precinct, a vibrant new café offering 7-days-aweek breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Serving Allpress Espresso coffee alongside fresh, seasonal dishes, it’s a welcoming space for families, friends, and visitors alike. With undercover seating, a nearby kids’ play area, dog-friendly zones, and leafy green lawns, it’s as versatile as it is inviting.

For Shane, Belinda, Charlie, and India, Regatta Park Kitchen and Regatta Park Functions are more than venues, they’re a continuation of the family’s story and their enduring commitment to the community. Doors officially open October 2025.

r Feature Article [Cover + Top Left] Arial view of Regatta Park Functions and Regatta Park Kitchen [Top Right] The new venue will cater for functions Above Left] Regatta Park Functions and Regatta Park Kitchen at night [Above Right] Regatta Park Kitchen | Images: Glascott Landscape & Civil/ Neaton Photography/ EYESHA Photography. Article: Sophie Miller/Berri Marketing

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

Adopting Senior Pets: A Second Chance

When most people think about adopting a pet, the focus is often on lively puppies and playful kittens. While they’re undeniably appealing, older pets in shelters are often overlooked. Unfortunately, this means many miss the opportunity to enjoy the stability and comfort of a home in their later years. Senior pets can make excellent companions, offering calmness, predictability, and loyalty that younger animals don’t always bring.

Why Consider a Senior Pet?

A key benefit of adopting an older pet is that much of the groundwork has already been done. Many senior dogs are lead-trained, know the basics such as sit and stay, and are well accustomed to household life. Older cats are typically littertrained and less likely to engage in destructive behaviour. This makes integrating them into your home generally easier and less demanding than raising a young animal.

With maturity also comes predictability. Senior pets have established personalities, energy levels, and routines, so you’ll know what to expect from the outset. You won’t be left guessing about how large a puppy might grow or whether a young cat will become an escape artist.

A Good Lifestyle Match

Older pets often suit people who prefer a steady pace. They’re usually content with gentle walks, quiet evenings, and regular routines. If your lifestyle doesn’t allow for the high energy and constant attention a young pet requires, a senior pet may be a

much better fit.

Health is an important factor to consider. With senior animals, many existing conditions are already identified, which gives you clarity about any ongoing care they may need. Some adoption organisations may even offer support with medications or treatment costs to make adoption more accessible.

The Value of a Second Home

Adopting a senior pet is about more than convenience. It’s also about providing an animal with comfort and care at a time in life when they need it most. Older pets often form strong bonds quickly, and many owners describe them as especially loyal and appreciative companions.

By welcoming a senior pet, you’re giving them a safe and supportive home for their remaining years. In return, you gain a companion whose calm and steady presence can be deeply rewarding.

Thinking of Adopting a Senior Pet?

At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, our team can help you understand the needs of an older pet and guide you in providing the best care. If you’re considering adopting a senior animal, talk to us—we’re here to support you in giving them the best possible years ahead,

For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027

For Appointments Call

Historical Festival and Open Day

The Nepean District Historical Society will be holding its Annual Historical Festival and Open Day at the Arms of Australia Inn Museum on Sunday October 26th, 2025, at Emu Plains, NSW from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Admission is free.

There will be displays of unique cars and there will also be several unique displays in the Inn.

The NSW Corps of Marines will be at the festival and will be in charge of keeping law and order, helped by members of a Light Horse Regiment from Windsor.

The Marines will have displays, drills and floggings of miscreants and re-enactments from the life and times of the early colony.

As in previous years, there will be activities for the young and old - including the animal farm, amusement rides, the old fashioned school room where you can write on slates, plus plenty of stalls including bonsai, face painting, Pioneer Timbers Cutters Club, the Nepean Family History Group, and food.

Entertainment will include the Tall Timbre Country and Western Band.

The Arms of Australia Inn is on the corner of Great Western Highway and Gardenia Avenue, in Emu Plains.

For more information, call 02 4735 4394 during their opening hours on Monday and Wednesday, between 10:00am to 1:00pm or email info@armsofaustraliainn.org.au.

r Arms of Australia Inn Museum | Image/Article Supplied by Nepean District Historical Society

Mayor Michael Long’s Walking Stick Donated to the Society

The Nepean Historical Society recently received a generous donation of a walking stick that once belonged to Michael Long, a former Mayor of Penrith Council. Long served multiple terms –1886-1888, 1891, 1899 and again from 1903 to 1906. The walking stick has been passed on to Penrith Council for public display.

On 6 February 1904, following his re-election, Mayor Long was presented with a silver-mounted walking stick by the officers of the Council. The stick was handcrafted by Mr Fuller, the Council’s water engineer, using timber sourced from a wooden viaduct that once connected Penrith Station to the Nepean River. This viaduct, built in the 1860’s, was a significant piece of local infrastructure that was replaced in 1902, making the walking stick not only a personal gift, but also a meaningful artefact of both local and Council’s history. And if his name seems familiar, Long’s House at Castlereagh, was once his home.

The walking stick and documentation will be on display at the Nepean District Historical Society’s Open Day to be held on Sunday 26 October 2025 at the Arms of Australia Inn, Great Western Highway, Emu Plains.

r Article Supplied by Nepean District Historical Society

The Arms of Australia Inn Museum

Cnr Great Western Highway and Gardenia Ave, Emu Plains

Amusement Rides Old Fashioned Schoolroom

Face Painting Animal Farm Display

Displays Refreshments

For more information contact the Museum 02 4735 4394 email info@armsofaustraliainn.org.au

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COSTS JUST A LITTLE MORE

From Backyard to Bushland

For Blaxland based photographer Merryl Watkins, birds are not just subjects for her lens, they are a source of joy, peace, and connection with nature. Known for her striking bird photography across the Blue Mountains, Merryl has developed a loyal following through her social media, cards, and her much anticipated A Year of Birds calendars.

Her 2026 calendar is now available both online and in local outlets, featuring a collection of images captured in her backyard, at Glenbrook Lagoon, and further afield across the region. “A lot of the photos were taken in my backyard in Blaxland—like the Eastern Spinebill and Scarlet Honeyeater, or at Glenbrook Lagoon where I photographed Red-browed Finches, Variegated Fairy-wrens, and Wood Ducks,” Merryl explained. “Other images, like the Glossy BlackCockatoo, Musk Lorikeets, Barn Owl, and Red-rumped Parrots, were taken a little further away, but all are birds you can find in or near the Blue Mountains. We have such an amazing number of birds here!”

When asked to choose a favourite, Merryl admitted it’s nearly impossible. “It’s usually the one I’m looking at! However, I have loved owls since I was a child, so if I had to choose that’s what I’d say.”

Photography, for Merryl, is more than an artform, it’s a way of recharging. “To me photographing birds is about stepping away from what we see on the news and the pressures of everyday life. It’s a way of recharging my batteries and finding peace and joy. I share my photos on social media and make cards and my calendar to try to encourage others to get out in nature too.”

Above all, Merryl values the connections her work has brought. “I’ve met some truly lovely people, often someone will stop me when I’m out with my camera and ask, ‘Are you Merryl?’ It’s a great reminder of the wonderful community we live in.”

Merryl Watkins’ A Year of Birds 2026 calendar and greeting cards are available now. You can order through her online store https://madeit.com.au/collections/photos-and-cards-by-merryl and Blaxland Post Office and Foothills Eco in Glenbrook. You can also message Merryl through her Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/MerrylWatkinsPhotography. Each calendar showcases the vibrant birdlife of the region, perfect for bird lovers or as a thoughtful local gift.

FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN

Limelight Showcase 2025 Brings the Spotlight to our Local Students

The inaugural LIMELIGHT Performing Arts Showcase dazzled audiences at the Evan Theatre, Panthers Penrith recently, with hundreds of students from across Western Sydney performing in a spectacular celebration of music, dance and drama.

Over four vibrant nights, students from local public schools took to the stage in front of packed audiences. The program featured a dynamic mix of dance ensembles, drama companies, instrumental groups, circus acts, and even original student choreography and compositions. The highlight each evening was the Combined Primary Schools Choir, a massed ensemble of over 600 voices, with around 150 students taking to the stage each night to close the show in spectacular fashion.

Festival organisers said the event was a resounding success, bringing together the community in a new venue while building on the 30-year tradition of the Penrith Valley Performing Arts Festival.

“Our aim with LIMELIGHT has always been to celebrate the creativity and talent of local students while giving them the thrill of performing in a professional venue,” remarked Alison Tapuska, Creative Director of the festival.

“The energy, dedication, and creativity of our students was inspiring, and we couldn’t be more proud of the way they represented their schools and our region,” added Laura Curran, Technical Director.

Audiences were captivated by highlights including the Combined Choir opening each show with Dare to Dream, highlighting the talents of soloists from the high schools, a highenergy hand balancing ensemble, and rock bands bringing technical precision and stage presence to the stage. The festival also gave students the rare opportunity to perform in a professional theatre with full sound, lighting, and staging support. Parents, families, and community members filled the Evan Theatre each night, showing their support for the next generation of artists.

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

Hungry Thirsty

I ate breakfast this morning, but I got hungry again. Actually, I ate lunch too, and it’s happened again. Dinner surely isn’t far away, but I have a suspicion...

Have you ever thought about no matter how often we come back to eat, we always get hungry again? And have you ever added up just how much time a day you spend getting a meal ready? It doesn’t matter how often, or how long, it always comes around again. Now don’t hear me wrong, it’s not that I don’t enjoy eating. Roast pork and crackling, yum! Thai green curry, tasty. Fresh bread and, well, anything, delicious. We eat to live, and it tastes fantastic into the bargain. What’s more, we know we can’t live if we don’t eat. So, it’s no surprise that Jesus was the man of the moment the day after he fed a huge crowd. Free food, it’s not just teenagers who get excited about that. But if the crowd thought they were on a winner, Jesus didn’t want them to lose sight of the main game. So, he put this challenge to them, ‘Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life’ (John 6:27). With a bit more explanation it becomes clear he isn’t talking ultimately about what we put in our mouth, but who we rely on to satisfy our deepest hunger. Could it be possible for anything or anyone to meet that need? He thinks so, and gives us this promise, ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.’ (John 6:35)

Jesus thought of the Oak ad before they did. Jesus ‘Kills hungrythirsty dead’. It doesn’t matter how old or how young we are. It doesn’t matter where we’ve come from, or where we’re heading. Jesus puts his finger on our deepest need and then offers Himself to fill it.

r Musk Lorikeets photographed in the Blue Mountains | Image: Merryl Watkins. Article: Tanya Nellestein

r SNAP! Students from Glenbrook Public School performing 'Crocodile Rock' at LIMELIGHT 2025 | Image/Article: Laura Curran/LIMELIGHT Production Team

A Milestone Moment: College Celebrates the Opening of New Learning Spaces

Penrith Anglican College recently celebrated the official opening of its new Exhibition Centre and C & D Block Extension, held on Tuesday 3 September last month.

The $10.5 million project is part of the College Master Plan and delivers eight new Primary classrooms, support spaces, and a multi-purpose Exhibition Centre. These modern, flexible learning areas will cater for growing enrolments and enhance educational programs including incursions, examinations, Year and House meetings, and staff professional learning.

The buildings were officially opened by Mr Philip Bell OAM and dedicated to two foundation Primary leaders, Mrs Sue Kennedy and Mrs Sharyn Jackson, in recognition of their lasting contribution to the College.

Attendees included School Council members, Anglican

Schools Corporation Board members, representatives from Steve Watt Construction and Midson Project Management, former staff members, and the families of Mrs Kennedy and Mrs Jackson.

For the College community, the development carries a deeper meaning. By dedicating the Exhibition Centre to these long-serving staff members, Penrith Anglican College honours their years of faithful service and commitment to students. Their legacy of care, dedication, and encouragement continues to shape the character of the school.

“This opening is not just about new facilities, it is about honouring two remarkable women whose contribution to Penrith Anglican College has left an indelible mark,” said Mrs Felicity Grima, Principal of Penrith Anglican College.

“We hope that every student who walks into these spaces will be reminded of the values of service and faithfulness that Mrs Kennedy and Mrs Jackson lived out each day.”

The project was delivered on time and on budget, thanks to strong collaboration between the College and its building partners. A plaque featuring Psalm 115:1 – “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness” – will be unveiled at a Thanksgiving Service, with a curtain reveal marking the official opening.

r[Top] (L – R) Felicity Grima, Sue Kennedy, Sharyn Jackson, and Phillip Bell at the unveiling [Above] The new facility | Images/Article: Penrith Anglican College

Cirque Nouvelle: A New Evolution of Circus

After a sellout regional tour earlier this year, the internationally acclaimed CIRQUE NOUVELLE is back by popular demand— bringing its thrilling blend of worldclass circus artistry to audiences across New South Wales this spring.

Presented by Cameo Rascale Entertainment, Cirque Nouvelle kicks off in Wyong on Friday 27 September and will tour to Taree, Port Macquarie, Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Penrith, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Albury, Sutherland, and concludes in Nowra on Saturday 12 October.

“Cirque Nouvelle is the perfect concoction of nostalgia, comedy, and sophistication. By blending subtle burlesque with dry, slapstick humour and eye-opening wonder, (dynamite husband-and-wife duo James and Rebecca Capener) have crafted the perfect all-ages, modern circus.” Review, The Scoop.

“A visually stunning show that held both adults and children in awe.” Stage Whispers

From aerial artistry and cyr wheel choreography to high-

HEALTH MATTERS

energy juggling and breathtaking acrobatics, this heartpounding, family-friendly spectacle showcases an extraordinary cast of multitalented international performers.

Cirque Nouvelle explores the dynamic evolution of circus— transitioning from the nostalgic ‘Big Top’ era to today’s cuttingedge theatrical experiences, complete with dazzling technology, dramatic lighting, and striking costumes.

James Capener, acrobatic juggler and Artistic Director of Cameo Rascale Entertainment, says: “This show is designed to entertain, inspire, and create special moments for families. We can’t wait to share it with audiences all over the state.”

Whether you’re five or ninety-five, Cirque Nouvelle promises a captivating and uplifting live entertainment experience for the whole family.

Tour date and location: Sunday 5 October 2:00pm and 6:00pm

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith Bookings: www.cameorascale.com/cirquenouvelle

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

P: 0418 166 269

Can Stretching Your Calves Help Reduce Back Pain?

A system called a ‘kinetic chain’ links your lower back muscles to your calf muscles. It includes all the joints, muscles, and tendons that work together to correctly move your body. Altered kinetic chain function can cause injury and pain.

The cause of back pain is multifactorial, but the kinetic chain of the lower limb, and particularly the tightness of the calves, can “play a crucial role in the development and persistence of” lower back pain. Tight soleus & gastrocnemius muscles can lead to compensatory changes in the kinetic chain that alter the way you stand and walk, eventually producing lower back pain.

Haffeez et al. (2024) studied 22 patients (18–65 yo) with calf tightness and chronic lower back pain. Participants were asked to:

1. Stand for 1 minute on a 45° inclined wedge, 3 times daily, for 4 weeks to stretch their calf muscles.

2. Rate their:

a.pain

b.physical health status, & c.level of disability before & after the intervention.

Results show that after 4 weeks of calf stretching, patients: a.pain reduced by ~4.5/10

b.physical health status improved by ~13/100 c.disability level dropped by ~4.5/10

How do tight calves cause lower back pain?

1. Tight calves restrict a person’s normal ability to lift (dorsiflex) their feet.

2. Good foot lift is required to walk & stand normally.

3. To maintain balance while walking or standing with poor foot lift,

4. Thigh, gluteal, and lower back muscles compensate,

5. Changing from their normal alignments and load patterns.

6. This increases forward tilt of the pelvis,

7. Exaggerates the bend in the lower back,

8. Leading to increased stress on lower back muscles, 9. Causing lumbar pain and tightness.

Calf stretches help reverse this process, normalising pelvic tilt to reduce back pain. Study authors suggest incorporating calf stretching and manual therapy into treatment plans.

At the clinic, appropriate remedial work and stretching of key areas is integral to treatment. If you or someone you know has lower back pain, please feel free to give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418-166-269.

r ** Refer to submitter for references

r Image/Article: Cirque Nouvelle

From Penrith to the Nationals: Audrey’s Basketball Journey

At just 13 years old, Emu Plains’ Audrey Edwards is already making a name for herself on the basketball court. Since picking up the sport in 2019 at age 7, Audrey has shown a natural talent, fierce determination, and a love for the game that has taken her from the local courts of Penrith all the way to the 2025 Under 14 National Club Championships.

Audrey currently plays in the Penrith local competition for CPSM (Cambridge Park St Marys), and is a key player for the Penrith Under 14 Girls JPL representative team, where she plays the position of Power Forward or ‘4’. Her strength, agility, and strategic mind make her a force on both ends of the court.

This year, Audrey’s team earned a major accomplishment, finishing 2nd in the NSW State Championships, which secured them a coveted spot at the 2025 Under 14 Club Championships, set to take place in Willetton, Western Australia, from September 28 to October 3. The team’s qualification is no small feat, as only the top 24 clubs in Australia earn the right to compete at nationals.

Selection to the representative team is based on performance at open trials, and Audrey’s standout play during the Penrith competition secured her spot. “It was my personal goal, and our team goal, to qualify for Nationals this year,” Audrey says. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to play against the best girls my age from all over Australia.”

What Audrey enjoys most about basketball is more than just the competition. “It’s the friendships, with my teammates and even girls from other clubs,” she shares. “And I love working on improving my game every single week.”

In addition to her club and rep commitments, Audrey was also selected this year for Basketball NSW’s TAP (Talented Athlete Program) and the upcoming D-League competition, held in Penrith this October 25–26, for Under 14 to 15 age groups — opportunities reserved for high-performing young athletes.

Audrey Edwards is clearly just getting started, and the future of Australian basketball is looking bright with players like her leading the way.

r [Top] Audrey Edwards [ Above] Audrey and her Under 14 Girls JPL team. Images: Penrith and District Basketball Association

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Police Assistance Line 131 444

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Anglican Church St Paul’s, Emu Plains 47351001

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As I look around our towns this October, I can’t help but notice how alive everything feels with colour, activity, and community spirit. Spring is in full swing, and those longer, warmer days seem to draw us all outdoors. From festivals and sports finals to school fetes, markets, and family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For me, October always feels like a time of renewal—a chance to pause, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with the people and places that make our community special. It’s also the perfect month to discover something new: maybe that hobby you’ve been curious about, a class you’ve been meaning to try, or simply supporting a local business that adds so much character to our neighbourhoods.

Let’s make the most of these bright days and warm evenings by celebrating one another and everything our community has to offer. “The more you celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” –Oprah Winfrey

Let’s keep building a community we’re proud to call home.

Belinda

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