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WYCLIFFE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Find your place, find your purpose Preschool to Yr12

Preschool to Yr12

Wycliffe Hope School is a Christian school for students with mild to moderate ASD or moderate intellectual learning needs. (02) 4753 6422 www.wycliffe.nsw.edu.au

SEPTEMBER 2026 | Issue 224

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

Community Champions Honoured at 2026 Local Celebration Awards

See Article Pg 7

0am 9.00-10.0

Friday 11 Sept

Pre-K 2027

Taster Mornings

Join our Pre-K class for a morning of play-based learning in a warm, nurturing environment. Bookings essential.

Book Today Scan the QR or visit penrith.nsw.edu.au/enrol/visit www.emuleonaygazette.com.au September 2026

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

NEWS + MEDIA

REAL Festival 2026: At a Glance

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: Alan Cooper 0414 155917.

Hobbies + Interests Blue Mountains & Penrith Districts Orchid Society (BMPDOS)

REAL Festival returns to Tench Reserve from 11-13 September 2026, transforming the Nepean River foreshore into a three-day celebration of light, entertainment, food and culture. The 2026 theme, Flight, celebrates imagination, connection and the opportunities emerging across Western Sydney. This year's program places a stronger focus on young people, with local bands, emerging artists, youth-focused performances and creative experiences. What's New in 2026 • Debut of Monsters Can't Fly, a large-scale interactive installation by The Beautiful & Useful Studio. • Expanded youth programming showcasing local creative talent. • More opportunities for visitors to engage with interactive art, music and hands-on activities throughout the festival. Returning Festival Favourites • The popular Laser Show returns, illuminating the night sky above the Nepean River throughout the weekend. • More than 20 food and beverage vendors serving global flavours and local favourites. • Family-friendly activities, workshops and entertainment across the festival site. Youth & Family Highlights • Youth Stage featuring local bands including 4 Leaf Clover and other emerging artists. • DJ Rodriguez bringing evening energy to the festival. • Creative workshops and interactive activities for younger children. • Resource Recovery Team's Find the Ibis challenge. On the River • Free rides on the iconic Nepean Belle on Sunday. • Paddleboarding and dragon boat experiences available for adventurous visitors. Getting There • REAL Festival is proud to welcome back Busways as a major sponsor. • Busways will operate free shuttle buses between Penrith Station, Emu Plains Station, Jamison Park and Tench Reserve throughout the festival. Event Details • When: 11-13 September 2026 • Where: Tench Reserve, Jamisontown • Cost: Free • Website: realfestival.com.au r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

September 2026 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

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 Panthers Leagues Club, Mulgoa Road Penrith from 6.00pm. More Details: 0466 725 317

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

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

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/

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

SUNDAY

6TH SEPTEMBER

Thousands Experience Lapstone Hill Tunnel

The overwhelming success of the Lapstone Hill Tunnel Open Days has strengthened Blue Mountains City Council’s call for government investment to permanently reopen the historic tunnel and surrounding precinct. Thousands of people walked, ran and cycled through the 134-year-old tunnel recently, experiencing one of the Blue Mountains’ great hidden heritage treasures. Bookings were snapped up for Council’s free Open Days in July and August, following around 1,500 people attending the first community Open Days in December 2024. Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said the public response demonstrated strong demand for permanent access. “The community’s message could not be clearer—they want Lapstone Hill Tunnel opened permanently,” Cr Greenhill said. “Thousands of people seized this rare opportunity to experience the tunnel, and many more missed out. The vision is clear, the benefits are compelling and the community support is undeniable. What we need now is government investment to complete the job. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform a dormant heritage asset into a landmark gateway destination for the Blue Mountains and Western Sydney.” Council is seeking approximately $15 million in further

government investment to complete the infrastructure, and remediation works required for the tunnel and precinct to open safely and sustainably. The proposed works include tunnel remediation, shared pathways, improved accessibility, drainage and floodresilience measures, lighting and safety treatments, car parking, visitor amenities, pump track, landscaping, signage and heritage interpretation. The project would create a safer active-transport connection between Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, helping to remove cyclists from the Great Western Highway and linking Glenbrook, Lapstone, Knapsack Reserve, the Nepean River precinct and broader walking and cycling networks. “This is much more than a tunnel project,” Cr Greenhill said. “It will protect an important part of our railway heritage, support healthier lifestyles, improve cycling safety, strengthen our visitor economy and create new opportunities for recreation, cultural experiences and managed events. “Importantly, it will help establish the Lower Blue Mountains as a destination in its own right, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and spreading the economic benefits of tourism more widely across our City.” “Council has completed detailed studies, cost planning and demand modelling, and the Open Days provide powerful realworld evidence of public demand,” Cr Greenhill said. “We have brought the tunnel closer than ever to reopening. I am calling on the NSW and Australian governments to work with us and invest in a project that will deliver lasting benefits for the Blue Mountains, Western Sydney and the wider region. “Together, we can turn Lapstone Hill Tunnel from a hidden treasure into a safe, accessible and unforgettable public destination.” While Council is planning more Open Days in the future, the tunnel will remain closed to the public until the infrastructure and remediation works required for permanent public access are funded and completed. r Image/Article: Blue Mountains City Council

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au September 2026

A New Season Takes Flight

Exciting

News! The Sewing Squad is opening in

Leonay

Emu Plains Little Athletics Club is looking forward to another season of family, fun and fitness, with registrations now open and a new president at the helm. Registrations for the 2026–27 season opened on August 1, with the local club welcoming athletes from Tiny Tots aged three and four through to Under 20s. For President Sandra Giampietro, the new season is particularly special as she begins her first year in the role, after 12 years of involvement with the club. Sandra said that she was looking forward to seeing athletes of all abilities continue to challenge themselves, build confidence and enjoy their athletics journey. Last season provided plenty of memorable moments, including athletes competing at the Zone Championships, supporting one another and celebrating their achievements. Several athletes also progressed through the representative pathway, moving from Zone to Region and State competitions, with some going on to compete at National Championships. But for Sandra, the club’s success is not measured solely by results. “Watching our athletes grow in confidence, achieve personal goals, and enjoy their athletics journey is what makes our club so special,” she said. This season, she is particularly excited to watch the club’s youngest athletes take part in the activities planned for the Tiny Tots and to see the excitement on an athlete’s face when they achieve a new personal best. As the largest Little Athletics Club in the Outer West Zone, Emu Plains prides itself on its welcoming and supportive community, built by athletes, families, parents and the committee. “Family, fun and fitness are at the heart of everything we do,” Sandra said. With registrations now open, the club hopes the coming season will provide athletes with opportunities to develop their skills, make friendships, build confidence and, most importantly, enjoy being part of the Emu Plains Little Athletics community.

for kids aged 10 to 13 years. Learn the art of sewing, make friends and create. Small class sizes taught by experienced teacher, Donna.

Hurry, classes will fill quickly. Donna Woodward Donna@sewingsquad.com.au www.sewingsquad.com.au

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r Emu Plains Little Athletics Club athletes | Images: Jack Chan, Supplied by Emu Plains Little Athletics Club

September 2026 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

info@kitchenvision.com.au 0418 433 868 Renovators Licence No. 236100c Renovators Licence No. 236100c Renovators Licence No. 236100c

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New Apartments Now Selling

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au September 2026

A New Chapterfor forPenrith Retirement Living in theCare Heart of Oran Park New Location Medicare Urgent Clinic Since 1 July 2026, the Penrith Medicare Urgent Care has been operatingwhile at a new location. As OranClinicPark community enjoying an active lifestyle.” Now located at Octa Medical Centre incontinues the NepeantoHealth Hub at 13 Barber Avenue Kingswood, Penrith of Medicare grow, At the heart of The Saxon is athe collection shared Urgent spaces Care Clinic is open extended hours, sevena days a week. new generation of designed to encourage residents to come together. A dedicated No appointment is needed, patients can walk in and all services are bulk billed. residents is helping concierge provides a warm welcome in the grand entrance hall, The highly trained doctors and nursesshape are equipped to treat conditions and offers injuries need urgent what the area a range whileofthe club lounge a that relaxed setting forattention catchingbut up aren’t life threatening, including cuts, viral infections, or ainsprained ankle. will look like the with neighbours over a coffee, a game of billiards or a drink at the The Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Cliniccoming will continue help to ease pressure on the busy Nepean Hospital, where around 35 per years. to Among stylish bar. There’s also an elegant wine room, boutique cinema cent of presentations in 2024-25 were forthem semi-urgent or non-urgent conditions. will be older and a rooftop garden. Parking for patients using the Penrith Medicare Urgent CaretoClinic is free in the underground Nepean Health Hub carpark below Australians looking The choice extends to the residences themselves, with the clinic. It isthe extended through validation for the duration of your consultation and treatment at the Clinic. stay close to places, people and lifestyle they love. thoughtfully designed apartments and luxurious Signature Federal Member Macquarie, Susan Templeman says “This new Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will continue to provide The Saxon, a newfor community being developed nearMP, Oran Park Collection residences. Residents can choose a home that reflects the urgent care as an alternative to fronting up at the Emergency Department. Town Centre, is people bringingneed an innovative approach to retirement their lifestyle and what matters most to them. With on-site, undercover, free parkingwith for Medicare UCC patients, and access to scans and pharmacy, it should be the first port of living. It combines independence connection and Saxon is where retirement living is heading,” Tim says. “It’s call for urgentcommunity but not life-threatening matters the region.“The ” sophisticated living with themedical convenience offor having contemporary, connected and designed around how people everything close by. want to live today.” “The Saxon is an important development for Oran Park because On Thursday 24 September, from 2pm, The Saxon is holding it recognises that retirement living needs to evolve alongside the a launch event with a celebrity guest speaker, at the Oran Park communities it serves,” says Tim Grover, National Sales Director. Hotel, 81 Central Avenue. You can RSVP on 0460 862 012 or live@ “It’s not simply about providing somewhere to live; it’s about thesaxon.com.au. To find out more, visit thesaxon.com.au creating a place where people can remain connected to their v Image/Article: Susan Templeman MP

r Image/Article Supplied

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

Is Core Strengthening Good for Lower Back Pain? From previous articles, you’ve probably gleaned that tight/ inflamed lower back muscles and connective tissue are the cause of most chronic back pain, either directly or indirectly. If you’ve suffered from chronic back pain, then you may have come across the conventional wisdom which: 1. attributes ‘poor core strength’ as a cause of back pain … and 2. promotes ‘core strengthening as the solution’. I regularly see clients who have come in with long-standing ‘chronic’ back pain, many of whom have been doing prescribed core-strengthening exercises religiously. In some cases, these exercises helped for a while; in others, they did not. Either way, their back pain has remained. This is because the core-strength theory is fundamentally flawed. Here’s why: Although an inflamed back can be due to many causes, let’s look at an acute injury such as a ruptured disc. When a person has such an injury to the spine, the back muscles and connective tissue swell, become inflamed, and lock up around the injury. It’s a standard protective mechanism that’s described in any standard medical text. Once the muscles become inflamed and tighten, in most cases (unless work is done to de-inflame and lengthen the muscles), they’ll remain tight and inflamed. If disc

protrusion exists, it will likely remain protruded. Doing strength work will build muscle but will also lead to muscles shortening and reduced range of motion unless regular stretching of the same muscles occurs. Doing religious corestrengthening exercises will tighten the core muscles. In the case of a back injury involving a slipped disc, where the back is already tight and maintaining a disc in the protruded position, this is exactly the last thing one should normally do. Key to remediating this type of back injury is to do the following: 1. Stop doing core-strengthening exercises for now. 2. Get remedial deep-tissue therapy to de-inflame/lengthen the muscles. 3. Perform daily core stretching. 4. Start core strengthening only once the injured disc tissue has healed. 5. Carry out core strengthening only with concurrent core stretching to guard against re-injury. If you have a problem with a back injury, why not come and talk to us at BHW – see our ad for contact details.

www.glenmoregazette.com.au September 2026 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

r ** Refer to submitter for references

September 2026

Community Champions Honoured at 2026 Local Celebration Awards Penrith City Council has proudly celebrated the remarkable achievements of its 2026 Local Celebration Awards recipients and the newest Honoured Citizen, Bruce Turner AM. Bruce Turner of Emu Plains has dedicated more than 50 years of service to the Penrith region and beyond, chairing and serving on audit committees for over 40 organisations spanning multiple sectors, many of which directly support our local community. A lifelong Penrith local, he was awarded Penrith’s City’s highest honour for serving as an unofficial ambassador and continuously championing the interests of the City, and our community. Several other outstanding individuals were also recognised for their significant contributions to Penrith. The award recipients included: • Citizen of the Year - Patricia Quinlan has been an active volunteer throughout her entire life. She is known for her can-do attitude, infectious smile, warm hugs, listening ear and friendly disposition. • Our Mayor’s Local Hero - Mujgan Tahery through her role as CEO of the Uniting Circle Multicultural Community Centre, has created a safe, inclusive and empowering space for

individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds. • Young Citizen of the Year - Ella Johnson is particularly interested in improving the health system as she has had her own experiences accessing health services over many years and wants to see change in this area. • Making a Difference Community Service Award winners David Conroy and Karen Witherspoon have made a difference to the lives of others through their passionate leadership of the Nepean Dragons Soccer. They have provided a safe, welcoming and empowering environment for players of all abilities, so they can enjoy the game they love. At the award ceremony, Council also recognised locals who have received Australia Day Honours and King’s Birthday Honours in 2026. This included: 2026 Australia Day Honourees   • Farah Madon AM • Michael Allen PSM OAM • Tony Lackey OAM 2026 King’s Birthday Honourees • Sergeant Sally Cox APM • Michael Kovacs AFSM Penrith City Mayor Todd Carney praised the honourees, acknowledging the lasting difference they have made to the community. “These awards are a testament to the generosity and unwavering commitment of our local heroes,” Cr Carney said. “Their dedication not only strengthens the fabric of our City but also sets an example for all of us. We are grateful for their passion and the positive change they bring to Penrith every day.”

r Feature Article [Cover] L – R: Sergeant Sally Cox APM, Michael Kovacs AFSM, Patricia Quinlan, Bruce Turner AM, Penrith Mayor Todd Carney, Karen Witherspoon, Ella Johnson, Mujgan Tahery, David Conroy, Farah Madon AM, Michael Allen PSM OAM [Above] Bruce Turner | Images/Article: Penrith City Council

Wednesday 25 November Sunday 29 November 2026

Write Out West

Western Sydney Libraries and Literature Festival

Five days of literary fun for all ages!

ets k c i ! T ale s n o

Author Events Panel Discussions Workshops

Family Fun

Tickets at penrith.city/library

penrith.city

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au September 2026

Celebrate the launch of The Saxon with us.

The Saxon is an innovative new retirement community in Oran Park and we’re excited to announce its upcoming launch. We’re creating a friendly, thriving community that weaves first-class retirement living together with the ease of a modern residential address. And we’d love you to come and discover it for yourself at our launch event. Join us and our celebrity guest speaker at the Oran Park Hotel, 81 Central Avenue.

September 2026 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Join us on Thursday 24 September from 2pm

RSVP today on 0460 862 012 or live@thesaxon.com.au thesaxon.com.au Display suite now open — Ground Floor, LPC House, 3 Fordham Way, Oran Park. A Tulich Community.

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au September 2026

September

National Meals on Wheels Day Celebrated

KID’S CORNER 1

SPOT THE 10 DIFFERENCES

2 CONNECT THE DOTS AND COLOUR ME IN

SOLUTIONS

National Meals on Wheels Day was celebrated on Wednesday 26 August 2026, which saw communities across Australia including Nepean Food Services recognise the extraordinary impact of Meals on Wheels in delivering not only essential nutrition, but also connection, dignity and care to older Australians and people in need. National Meals on Wheels Day shines a light on the thousands of volunteers, staff and supporters who form a nationwide movement of care that has supported communities for more than 70 years. Chair of Meals on Wheels™ Australia, Paul Sadler, said the day was an opportunity to acknowledge the enduring importance of human connection in community care. “Meals on Wheels is one of Australia’s most trusted and enduring community services, but at its heart it is something even more powerful, it is neighbours caring for neighbours,” Mr Sadler said. “Every meal delivered represents more than nutrition. It is a check-in, a conversation and a moment of connection that can quite literally change someone’s day, and sometimes their life.” Mr Sadler said for over seven decades volunteers remain the backbone of the organisation and a vital part of Australia’s social fabric. “They are not simply delivering meals, they are delivering reassurance, dignity and connection.” At the recent National Conference in Adelaide, Moira Were AM, Mayor of the City of Onkaparinga and Civic and Social Impact Leader, spoke powerfully about the role of community as a practice and care as a movement. “Community is only as strong as the care that pumps through it,” Ms Were said. Addressing the growing issue of social isolation, she noted, “Loneliness isn’t a choice; it’s a public health issue. It kills quietly, often in the houses you or I drive by every day.” She said Meals on Wheels cannot be replicated by technology or artificial intelligence. Locally, Ditte Kozak, General Manager of Nepean Food Services, said the service continues to play a vital role in supporting the local community. “At Nepean Food Services, we see every day how important these small moments of connection are for our clients and volunteers.” National Meals on Wheels Day was a chance to reflect on the essential role of human connection in building healthier, more resilient communities. “When people show up for one another, communities thrive,” Mr Sadler said. “This is what Meals on Wheels represents every day, a movement of care, powered by volunteers and strengthened by the community.”

Puzzle 1

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r Image/Article: Nepean Food Services

September 2026 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

Australian Canoe Slalom Team Caps Off World Championships Campaign and Noemie Fox reunited for the first time since their team’s gold in London in 2023. The trio held off France by just 0.64 seconds to take the title. Day 4: A Fifth K1 World Title for Jessica Fox Day four delivered the standout moment of the championships, with Jessica Fox claiming her fifth Women’s K1 World Championship title and her third gold medal of the week. Fox produced a flawless run of 92.06 seconds to beat the USA’s Evy Leibfarth by 1.31 seconds, completing a remarkable comeback since her kidney surgery twelve months earlier.

The Australian Canoe Slalom Team has wrapped up its campaign at the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in Oklahoma City, with six days of racing across kayak, canoe and kayak cross disciplines on the LA 2028 Olympic course. Highlights from Leonay’s Jessica and Noemie Fox included: Day 1: Fox Opens With Gold in Kayak Cross Time Trial Jessica Fox kicked off her championships campaign in style, winning the Women’s Kayak Cross Individual Time Trial in a time of 51.05 seconds. Coming just a year after undergoing surgery, the win set the tone for the week ahead. Noemie Fox (11th) and debutant Ada Mackie (30th) both progressed through to the heats. Day 2: Gold for the Women’s Kayak Team Australia’s second gold of the championships came in the Women’s Kayak Teams event, where Kate Eckhardt, Jessica Fox

Day 6: Silver for Noemie Fox in Kayak Cross Finale The championships wrapped up with a thrilling Kayak Cross program. Noemie Fox fought through the rounds to reach the final, finishing second behind Switzerland’s Alena Marx. The silver medal secured her first individual World Championship medal. Merle Long backed up his time trial performance with sixth place overall in the men’s event making it a debut to remember. Final Australian Medal Tally Gold – Jessica Fox, Women’s Kayak Cross Individual Time Trial Gold – Jessica Fox, Noemie Fox and Kate Eckhardt, Women’s Kayak Teams Gold – Jessica Fox, Women’s K1 Silver – Noemie Fox, Women’s Kayak Cross It was a championship to remember for the Australian team on the LA 2028 Olympic venue, with Jessica Fox’s three gold medals and remarkable comeback story matched by breakout performances from World Championships debutants Lachlan Bassett and Merle Long, and a career-defining silver for Noemie Fox. r Image/Article: Paddle Australia

See you at the

Clothing and Textile Recycling Free Drop-off Event*

Saturday 19 September, 9am-3.30pm The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington Help keep valuable resources out of landfill by bringing your unwanted clothing, accessories (belts, scarves, handbags) and linen to Council’s free textile recycling drop-off event! Items dropped-off on the day will be recycled with Textile Recyclers Australia to be made into new items such as blankets, floor rugs and tote bags. *Only clean, dry items accepted. Find the full list of accepted items on the website below.

penrith.city/textiledropoff

www.emuleonaygazette.com.au September 2026

Four Years of Community Trust for Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital The award recognises the dedication of the entire team, whose commitment extends beyond consultations and surgery to include puppy preschool, community education and outreach programs that promote responsible pet ownership and improve animal welfare. Winning the Outstanding Pet Care Award for a fourth consecutive year is a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the trust the Penrith community has placed in Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. The team sincerely thanks every client who has supported, nominated and voted for the practice and looks forward to continuing to provide exceptional care for local pets and their families for many years to come.

Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital is celebrating an incredible milestone, after being named Outstanding Pet Care at the 2026 Penrith Local Business Awards for the fourth consecutive year. For owner and veterinarian Dr. Camille Brandt, the recognition is particularly meaningful because it begins with the support of clients who nominate the practice before finalists are assessed against a rigorous set of judging criteria by the awards committee. "To know that our community continues to support and believe in what we do is incredibly humbling," Dr. Camille said. "This award belongs to every member of our team, whose compassion, dedication and commitment make a difference to the lives of pets and their families every single day." As a proudly family-owned and independent veterinary hospital, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital has earned a reputation for personalised care, honest advice and treating every patient as though they were one of the family. Since relocating to its purpose-built hospital in 2019, the practice has continued to grow while maintaining the welcoming, countrystyle atmosphere that clients value. r Images/Article Supplied by Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital

FAITH - EMU PLAINS ANGLICAN 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

How to Be Great ... Not everyone wants to be Prime Minister, or don the baggy green cap. But in our own way, we each want to do well for ourselves; we each want to find our own greatness. Some people look for it in what they accomplish, others in what they earn, and others still in how their friends and neighbours view them. Jesus’ disciples knew it – hey, they were no different! So, when they heard Jesus talking about God’s kingdom – that he was the King – they asked him how they could get in on the action, how they could be great. What he said challenged everything they held dear: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3). Huh? What can little children show about greatness? Little children don’t have anything they can offer people. In fact, they rely on the adults in their lives to provide for them. They come with empty hands. They have to accept what’s done for them rather than proudly boast of what they’ve done. But that’s Jesus’ point. True greatness isn’t something we can earn. It’s accepting that we depend on God. It’s the opposite of pride. Greatness is trusting Jesus and his great work. It’s relying on that first Easter rather than anything we have done. Greatness is being humble before God and saying, “Nothing in my hands I bring, simply to your cross I cling.” That’s a relief, really, because the things we so quickly rely on for security and power and greatness are, at the same time, our insecurities – the quicksand under our feet. “Will I have accomplished enough? Will I get enough stuff? Will I know the right people to get me through when I’m in a bind?” Jesus offers a whole new way to look at life – and so, with it, a whole new life! Have you found greatness?

September 2026 www.emuleonaygazette.com.au

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

Zoonotic Diseases: Protecting Your Pets and Your Family

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

For Appointments Call

4736 2027

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

CONSULTING HOURS Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm | Saturdays: 8am - 2pm Services provided include: • General Surgery (desexing to orthopedics) • Vaccinations and in-house pathology • Radiology and Dentistry • Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer • Puppy preschool • Grooming and hydrobath • Home visits • Cat boarding and Kitten adoption • Secure off leash dog park

49-63 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

L BUSINE CA

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2024

2023

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CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or Join us on Facebook SS

16 September 2026

v Image: www.pixabay.com

Our pets are cherished members of the family, providing companionship, comfort and unconditional love. While sharing our lives with animals brings countless benefits, it’s also important to understand that some diseases can be passed between animals and people. These are known as zoonotic diseases. The good news is that the risk of catching a zoonotic disease from a well-cared-for pet is generally very low. With regular veterinary care, good hygiene and a few simple precautions, you can help keep both your family and your pets healthy. One of the most common zoonotic concerns is intestinal worms, including roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. These parasites can be transmitted through contaminated soil, water or contact with infected animals. While infections in people are uncommon, they can cause stomach upset, skin irritation and other health problems. Keeping your pet on a regular worming program is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce this risk. Another condition people often hear about is ringworm. Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm at all. It’s a fungal infection that affects the skin, producing red, itchy, circular patches in both animals and people. It spreads through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. If your pet develops areas of hair loss or skin lesions, it’s important to have them examined by your veterinarian promptly.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals, including rodents and wildlife. People and pets can become infected through contaminated water or soil, particularly if bacteria enter the body through cuts or the eyes, nose or mouth. Vaccination is available for dogs and plays an important role in reducing the risk of this potentially serious disease. Some skin conditions can also be passed between pets and people. Sarcoptic mange, often called scabies, is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching. Prompt veterinary treatment not only helps your pet recover but also reduces the chance of the mites spreading to other animals or family members. Cat owners should also be aware of Cat Scratch Disease, a bacterial infection that can occasionally develop after a scratch or bite from an infected cat. Most cases are mild, but washing any scratches or bites thoroughly with soap and water and avoiding rough play can help minimise the risk. Another well-known zoonotic disease is toxoplasmosis; a parasite commonly associated with cats that hunt prey. Although many people have heard of it, the risk of infection from household cats is often lower than people think. Good litter tray hygiene, wearing gloves when gardening and thoroughly cooking meat all help reduce exposure. Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should take extra precautions and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. Fortunately, preventing zoonotic diseases is straightforward. Wash your hands after handling pets or cleaning up after them, dispose of pet waste appropriately, keep vaccinations and parasite prevention up to date, and schedule regular veterinary health checks. These simple measures go a long way towards protecting everyone in the household. If you have questions about parasite prevention, vaccinations or protecting your family from zoonotic diseases, speak with the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. We’re always happy to help. For more information or to book an appointment, call 02 4736 2027.

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