• Limited land is available, starting from $655,500
• Variety of lot sizes, starting from 375m2
• All land is registered and ready to build on
• Many lots are in close proximity to the Town Centre
Oran Park is a nationally recognised, masterplanned community that delivers sustainable living.
New Service Centres for Western Sydney
Western Sydney communities will be the first to benefit from a $27.4 million investment into Service NSW centres, with a new location confirmed for Penrith.
As part of the investment, the Minns Labor Government will deliver two new Western Sydney service centres and upgrades to other locations.
An enhanced Penrith service centre at 61-79 Henry Street will replace the existing dated centre and an entirely new service centre will be delivered in Campbelltown at Macarthur Square Shopping Centre.
Work on the Penrith centre is expected to begin in the coming months. Driver testing will be available from the new centre as well as from the nearby Glenmore Park and St Marys Driver Testing Centre.
In 2015, the Liberals and Nationals closed the former Campbelltown centre, leaving residents inconvenienced by having to travel to neighbouring areas. The new Campbelltown Service Centre will feature a modern design where customers can access more than 1,300 NSW Government transactions and services.
Service NSW also provides cost of living support to customers online and through face-to-face appointments in centres. More than $4.7 billion has been returned to NSW residents since 2023 through vouchers and rebates including Toll Cap payments, Active and Creative Kids vouchers, the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme and the Seniors Energy rebate.
Communities are also invited to access the latest round of Toll Cap claims which are now open through the Service NSW account.
Service NSW also provides cost of living support to customers online and through face-to-face appointments. More than $4.7 billion has been returned to NSW residents since 2023 through vouchers and rebates including Toll Cap payments, Active Kids and Creative Kids vouchers, the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme and the Seniors Energy rebate.
This relief continues through further cost of living measures announced in the 2026-27 NSW Budget, including reducing the toll cap to $50 for October claims and a $100 rego discount for private vehicles as we continue to support families.
The infrastructure investment builds on Service NSW centres upgraded over the past three years, delivering residents more accessible layouts, new seating and flooring, additional meeting spaces for customers who book appointments with staff, and new counters and self-service touch screens for staff to assist customers.
More than $20 million has been invested refurbishing and upgrading more than 36 Service NSW Centres since 2023, including 23 in regional communities, providing customers with an enhanced and modern experience and ensuring ongoing face-to-face support.
Upgraded centres have been delivered at Ryde, Liverpool, Springwood, Revesby and Silverwater, while the Marrickville centre has also been relocated.
New Service NSW Centres have been delivered in Eastgardens, Glenmore Park, Tallawong and a new driver test centre at Macquarie Fields, with construction on the new Campbelltown Service Centre commencing in the coming months.
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
Glenmore Park Probus Club
The Club welcomes visitors and applications for membership from retirees who wish to meet new friends, hear from guest speakers, and enjoy activities and outings.
We meet at 10.00 on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at Leonay Golf Club. Just turn up for a meeting. More details: 0426055629
Penrith
Physical Culture Club
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
“Taste of Everything” Group for Women
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
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
Luddenham Country Markets
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
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 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/
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.
Stinson Accelerates Towards Championship Dream
Local motorsport competitor Brock Stinson is proving that determination, family support and hard work can take on Australia’s biggest racing teams as he competes in the 2026 Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia GR Cup.
Driving for his own team, Stinson Family Racing, Brock lines up against some of the country’s most established outfits, including Supercars powerhouse Walkinshaw Andretti United. Despite the fierce competition, the family-run team has already made a remarkable start to the season.
The opening round at Sydney Motorsport Park could hardly have gone better. Brock claimed pole position before completing a clean sweep of all three races, giving him an early lead in the championship standings.
“We’re looking to build on that momentum at Round 2 on the streets of Townsville,” Brock said. “It’s been an exciting start to the season, and we’re focused on extending our championship lead.”
Brock’s journey into motorsport began a decade ago when he first climbed into a go-kart at the age of 12. While he tried his hand at soccer, basketball and cricket as a youngster, it was racing that captured his imagination.
His passion was sparked by his father, Mark, who raced cars as a hobby. Growing up around the family shed and spending weekends at the racetrack gave Brock an appreciation for both driving and the technical side of the sport.
“I wanted to try go-karts and as soon as I had a taste, I was hooked,” he said. “What keeps me racing is the pursuit of winning and trying to be the best in such a technical and challenging sport.”
After progressing into car racing at 18, Brock has steadily climbed the ranks and now has his sights firmly set on winning the 2026 Toyota Gazoo Racing Australia GR Cup championship. Looking further ahead, his ambition is to secure factory backing and become a professional driver for prestigious international brands such as Mercedes, Porsche or Ferrari.
Behind every race weekend is a dedicated support crew. Brock credits engineer Aaron Grech, mechanic and close friend Brayden Taylor, Luke Sieders and the entire Sieders Racing team, along with his parents, Mark and Julie Stinson, for making the family operation competitive against some of Australia’s largest race teams.
“We’re a family team going toe-to-toe with some of the biggest teams in the country, and I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who helps make it possible,” he said.
Brock also acknowledged the vital support of his commercial partners, whose contributions help keep the team on the grid throughout the season.
This includes Westview Frames and Trusses, Endless Belt Service, AGM Engineering, CC Tyres Penrith, Top Marks Windscreens, Manvell Design & Performance, Borger Cranes, Sydney Plant Services, Australian Crusher Repairs, Repco, Orange, Kyle’s Hire Services, Exclusive Switchboards, Pavis Cafe Deli, Sieders Racing, and AnytimeFinance.com.au.
r Brock Stinson in action on the track | Image Supplied by Brock Stinson
A peaceful place to honour and remember
Last Chance to Join PAWGUST as the Beloved Challenge Returns for Its Final Year
After raising more than $7.8 million over eight years, Guide Dogs’ much-loved PAWGUST challenge is back for one final year, inviting Australians to walk or run 60km (or more) throughout August to help fund the training of life-changing Guide Dogs and Therapy Dogs across the country, including New South Wales and ACT.
Since launching in 2018, thousands of Australians have laced up, leashed up and stepped up for Guide Dogs, raising vital funds and awareness to help people with low vision or blindness live life their way.
Like the loyal Guide Dogs it celebrates, PAWGUST is retiring after its ninth year, making 2026 the final opportunity for Australians to be part of the iconic challenge before Guide Dogs evolves its community fundraising program.
Guide Dogs is calling on Australians to give PAWGUST the send-off it deserves by making every step count. Whether participants walk, run, go solo or bring along their four-legged friend, every kilometre helps support the training of Guide Dogs and Therapy Dogs that transform lives.
Participants who fundraise throughout the month can also unlock a range of prizes and rewards while improving their physical and mental wellbeing.
What: PAWGUST 2026: Guide Dogs’ final fitness and fundraising challenge
When: August 2026
Who: Australians of all ages, with or without a dog
Register now: Register now and join thousands of Australians taking one last walk for Guide Dogs at https://www.pawgust. com.au/register/pawgust/individual
Rewards: Earn PAWsome rewards while stocks last, at https:// www.pawgust.com.au/rewards26
r Image/Article: Guide Dogs
A Voice for Positive Change
A local organisation is working to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health and domestic violence in multicultural communities through education, awareness and open conversations.
Founded just over a year ago by Aman Singh of Glenmore Park, Noor Pathways delivers educational programs designed to help young people, community organisations and frontline workers better understand issues that are often considered taboo.
Aman said his inspiration for establishing the organisation came from both his personal and professional experiences.
After playing semi-professional rugby league with the Penrith Panthers system and later training with the Melbourne Storm, his sporting career was cut short by a serious head injury. The experience led to his own struggles with mental health and exposed the stigma that often surrounds seeking help within the Indian community.
“That journey showed me firsthand how difficult it can be for people to speak openly about mental health,” Aman said.
While studying psychology at university and working in child protection, he also witnessed the challenges faced by multicultural families experiencing domestic violence.
“I saw significant disparities in how domestic violence is addressed in multicultural communities, where stigma and shame can often prevent people from seeking support and may even enable harmful behaviours to continue,” he said.
Today, Noor Pathways partners with youth services, sporting clubs, schools, councils and multicultural organisations to deliver workshops and one-off education sessions for both young people and staff.
Aman said the programs help communities recognise issues they may not previously have identified and encourage people to seek support before problems escalate.
“Many people think they’re alone in what they’re experiencing,” he said. “Our programs act as ice breakers, creating safe conversations and connecting people with professional services that can continue supporting them.”
Looking ahead, Noor Pathways hopes to expand its reach across Western Sydney by working with more youth organisations and multicultural workplaces.
The organisation is also aiming to deliver more staff training sessions, equipping workers with practical tools to discuss mental health and domestic violence with the young people and families they support.
For more information or to connect with Noor Pathways, visit the organisation’s Instagram page, @noor_pathways.
r Noor Pathways team with Senator David Shoebridge (centre) | Image: Noor Pathways
Celebrating Australia’s Next Generation
Communities across Australia are preparing to celebrate International Youth Day on August 12, joining millions of people worldwide in recognising the achievements, voices and potential of young people.
Established by the United Nations in 1999, International Youth Day highlights the important role young people play in shaping communities, driving innovation and tackling global challenges. Each year, the event centres on a different theme, encouraging governments, organisations and communities to engage with issues affecting youth.
Across Australia, schools, universities, youth organisations and local councils mark the occasion with a variety of activities designed to inspire and empower young Australians. These include leadership workshops, cultural performances, career development sessions, environmental projects, sporting events and volunteer initiatives.
Many communities also host youth forums where young people can share their ideas on topics such as mental health, education, employment, climate action and social inclusion. These discussions give young Australians an opportunity to influence local decision-making and advocate for positive change.
Youth centres and community groups often use the day to recognise outstanding young volunteers, entrepreneurs, artists and athletes who have made significant contributions to their communities. Awards and public recognition celebrate the achievements of young people while encouraging others to become active participants in civic life.
Social media also plays a major role in Australia’s celebrations, with young people sharing stories, achievements and community projects using International Youth Day hashtags. Online campaigns encourage conversations about the challenges facing today’s youth while promoting resilience, diversity and inclusion.
The day serves as a reminder that investing in young people benefits the entire nation. Australia’s youth bring fresh perspectives, creativity and innovation across education, business, science, technology, the arts and sport. By providing opportunities for education, employment and leadership, communities help build a stronger and more inclusive future.
As International Youth Day approaches, organisations across the country are encouraging Australians of all ages to support and celebrate the next generation of leaders. Whether through volunteering, mentoring or simply listening to young voices, the annual event reinforces the message that empowering youth today helps create thriving communities for tomorrow.
New Factory Road Shared Path is Open!
Penrith City Council has made it easier for residents to get to the Nepean River with the completion of a new shared path along Factory Road, Regentville.
The 3-metre-wide path starts from Mulgoa Road and runs the length of Factory Road before connecting to Tench Reserve. The project also includes:
• connecting pathways and two new crossings with lighting along Loftus Street and Spencer Street
• two new crossings with lighting along Factory Road
• kerb, guttering, drainage and road pavement improvements
• tree planting and landscaping
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the path completes the missing link between Glenmore Park and the Nepean River.
“I’m happy that we’ve been able to give people a much safer way to walk, run and cycle along Factory Road,” Cr Carney said.
“Making sure people can easily travel around the local government area is a focus for Council as part of our community strategic plan.
“I’ve already seen quite a lot of people using the path and hope that it encourages residents to leave their cars at home and enjoy a stroll or bike ride to the river instead.”
The project was funded by a $4.46 million grant through the NSW Government’s 2024-2025 Get NSW Active Program, in partnership with Council.
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP said the NSW Government is thrilled this new shared path will benefit the community.
“It is exciting to see this project come to life thanks to a $4.46 million Get NSW Active grant that means locals and guests now have easier and safer access to the beautiful Nepean River.
“Walking and riding are healthy, clean and cost-effective ways to travel and the NSW Government is committed to improving active transport infrastructure.
“The completion of this path in partnership with the council and local community will support a healthier, more connected Penrith for years to come.”
Member for Badgerys Creek, Tanya Davies MP says following her strong advocacy she was pleased to have secured funding for the Factory Road shared path at Regentville.
“The construction of the Factory Road Shared path was made possible by the funding I secured for Penrith Council through the Get NSW Active program, and it’s completion is a win for better health and a win for reducing congestion on local roads,” Mrs Davies said.
“Critically, the path will improve the safety of local pedestrians and cyclists wanting to make their way from Glenmore Park and Regentville down to the beautiful Nepean River, all while encouraging an active lifestyle.”
This project was identified as a priority in Council’s 2021 Penrith Green Grid Strategy and the Penrith Accessible Trails Hierarchy Study (PATHS) Implementation Plan 2022-2032, which focuses on delivering and improving bicycle and shared paths for a liveable, active and accessible Penrith.
Find out more at: yoursaypenrith.com.au/factoryroad.
r Feature Article: [Cover] Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM, Penrith Mayor Todd Carney and Member for Badgerys Creek Tanya Davies celebrate the completion of the Factory Road shared path [Above] Member for Badgerys Creek Tanya Davies, Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM and Penrith Mayor Todd Carney at one of the new pedestrian crossings at the Factory Road shared path | Images/Article: Penrith City Council
Bus Boom Arrives as New Western Sydney Routes Commence
Western Sydney communities including Narellan, Oran Park and Mt Druitt are now connected by five new permanent bus routes launched recently, bringing the total number of new services installed by the Minns Labor Government to 5,910.
The new routes from Liverpool (825 and 860), Campbelltown (845 and the enhanced 840), Penrith (790) and Mount Druitt (772) will connect communities that have been underserviced by public transport with train stations, shops, hospitals, jobs and the new Western Sydney International Airport.
These services will run every 30 minutes from 5am to 10pm, seven days a week, totalling 2,626 services across the week.
This $302.7 million investment is part the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild and expand bus services in NSW, after the 2024 Bus Industry Taskforce found buses had
been “neglected” and “underfunded” under the former LiberalNational government.
In the recent budget the Minns Labor Government announced an additional record investment of $6.5 billion for hundreds of new electric buses and electric bus depots to reduce our reliance on foreign fuels, meet the needs of the growing community and underpin a revival of domestic bus manufacturing.
To support the new services, the NSW Government is also investing in bus infrastructure. This includes upgrading driver facilities at some of the busiest interchanges in the state such as Mt Druitt, Blacktown, Bankstown, Parramatta and Fairfield and installing new signs at bus stops across Western Sydney.
The NSW Government is also partnering with selected Western Sydney councils to deliver more than 30 new bus shelters along the new routes as part of the $1.5 million trial Bus Shelter Program.
Since coming to office, the Minns Labor Government has:
• Added nearly 6000 new bus services, the majority in Western Sydney.
• Restored the popular M52 Parramatta to CBD via Ryde service and the 301 Rosebery to Eastgardens service.
• Reduced the bus driver shortage down from over 500 to under 200.
• Ordered 923 new buses including 50 new articulated (bendy) buses and 10 new decker buses.
• Increased local content to over 50% of over half the buses ordered.
For important travel advice and to plan your trip on public transport visit https://transportnsw.info/trip-planner
r Article: Prue Car MP/John Graham MP. Image: www.pixabay.com
The Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club is excited to announce that registrations are now open for the 2026/2027 season, welcoming players of all ages and abilities to join one of Western Sydney’s most family-friendly sporting communities.
Whether you’re picking up a glove for the very first time, returning to the diamond after a break, or looking to continue your softball journey, Glenmore Phantoms has a place for you. The club caters for players aged 3 to 99, with programs designed for young beginners through to experienced senior players.
Softball is a fantastic way to stay active, build confidence, make lifelong friendships, and enjoy being part of a supportive team environment. With opportunities for children, teenagers, adults, and families to play together, and an upcoming Olympics to look forward to, Softball has something for everyone.
All training sessions and games are held at the Surveyors Creek Softball Fields in Glenmore Park, making it easy for local families to participate in a welcoming and community-focused atmosphere.
The Glenmore Phantoms are proud to be an Active Kids Voucher provider, helping make sport more affordable for families. Players of all skill levels are encouraged to register, with experienced coaches committed to developing skills while ensuring everyone has fun.
Club representatives encourage anyone who has been thinking about trying a new sport to come along and experience everything softball has to offer.
Whether your goal is to learn new skills, stay active, meet new people, or simply enjoy some weekend fun with family and friends, we’d love to welcome you to the Phantoms family this season.
Registrations are now open online at https://www. revolutionise.com.au/glenmorephantoms. For more information, season updates, or to get in touch with the club, visit the Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club Facebook page.
• 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
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Paul Marshall
Beyond the shenanigans of world events, politics, and sport, our life makes its way—a sacred and valuable thing worth thinking about.
An ordinary sort of bloke came across some birds quarrelling as they pecked at a partially opened paper bag to get to the crumbs mostly hidden inside.
The man sent the birds scurrying away to a respectful distance from the footpath as he turned the bag over with his foot to examine its contents. He then tipped out all the crumbs. He resumed his walk and, without looking back to feast on the results of his efforts or congratulate himself for being kind, disappeared into the distance.
The birds returned to find that a miracle had taken place. Instead of just the few crumbs they could see through the rip in the bag, there was now before them an abundant pile of crumbs.
We have all been in the predicament of the birds, where something we needed was just out of reach. We try and try, using all our resources to access what we need. Then, in a moment, a stranger, a comment from someone, a ‘coincidence’, or a generous act provides what we need.
We are all, in different ways, indebted to anonymous people without whom some need would not have been met, or some good would not have come to us. This speaks of the truth that living itself is an act of interdependence. However strong we may be, or think we are, we are constantly leaning on others. Our strength is always being supplied by others, unknown to us, who happen to be in our proximity when we need the light they can give.
All of us are the birds, and all of us are also the man. It is the way of life, and the way God makes himself active in the texture of human life to provide for us because he loves us.
God is closer to us, and we lean on him, more than we sometimes think. Simply acknowledging God opens the door to friendship with him. We can come as we are and be a friend of God.
FAITH – GRACE WEST ANGLICAN CHURCH
Article Written + Submitted by: Senior Minister Christopher Braga P: 4733 1635 A: 16 William Howell Drive, Glenmore Park W: www.gracewest.church Service Times: Sundays @ 8.30am, 10.30am and 6pm. Plus activities for adults + young people right throughout the week.
A Sky Full of Questions
Recently, I was camping with some of my family at Coonabarabran. It was the night of the third State of Origin, and I had data, so I was able to watch the game! Besides the stars on the field, I was struck by the number of stars in the sky. There I was—in this vast universe—watching a game on the tiny screen of my phone.
Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered, “Where has it all come from?” How did it all come to be? And even more importantly, why am I here?
Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
When we look at the night sky, we should be profoundly confronted by the reality that there is something, or someone, beyond us. The existence of the universe points us to a Creator.
When we open the Bible, we discover an even bigger picture. The Creator isn’t a distant being but is personal and living—a God who made the world and loves the world.
The message of the Bible is that God loves each one of us despite our rebellion. Our meaning and purpose are found only in him.
At the centre of this is Jesus Christ. Through his resurrection from the dead, Jesus shows that he is the one who rules the universe and brings us forgiveness and new life. We don’t have to search for meaning. Meaning has come to us in the person of Jesus!
Contact Tanya
Applications Now Open for 2027 NSW Seniors Festivals Grants
Member for Badgerys Creek
Tanya Davies MP is encouraging eligible councils and community organisations to apply for funding through the 2027 NSW Seniors Festival Grants Program.
Grants of $2,000 to $10,000 are available to support local events as part of next year’s NSW Seniors Festival, which will run from 1 to 14 March 2027.
Mrs Davies said the grants provide a valuable opportunity for local organisations to celebrate our local seniors and strengthen their connections in the community.
“From Glenmore Park to Oran Park our local seniors make an incredible contribution to our community every day, and these grants provide an opportunity to bringing people together and celebrate these achievements,” Mrs Davies said.
“Whether it’s a community celebration, health and wellbeing activity, cultural event, educational workshop or recreational program, I encourage organisations across Badgerys Creek to consider applying.”
Applications close at 4:00pm Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
You can find more information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply at: https://www.nsw. gov.au/grants-and-funding/nswseniors-festival-grant-program-2027
New Location for Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
Since 1 July 2026, the Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic has been operating at a new location.
Now located at Octa Medical Centre in the Nepean Health Hub at 13 Barber Avenue Kingswood, the Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is open extended hours, seven days a week.
No appointment is needed, patients can walk in and all services are bulk billed.
The highly trained doctors and nurses are equipped to treat a range of conditions and injuries that need urgent attention but aren’t life threatening, including cuts, viral infections, or a sprained ankle.
The Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will continue to help to ease pressure on the busy Nepean Hospital, where around 35 per cent of presentations in 202425 were for semi-urgent or non-urgent conditions.
Parking for patients using the Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is free in the underground Nepean Health Hub carpark below the clinic. It is extended through validation for the duration of your consultation and treatment at the Clinic.
Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman MP, says “This new Penrith Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will continue to provide the urgent care people need as an alternative to fronting up at the Emergency Department.
With on-site, undercover, free parking for Medicare UCC patients, and access to scans and pharmacy, it should be the first port of call for urgent but not lifethreatening medical matters for the region.”
Pars Defect Pain – Rest is Not the Only Answer
The ‘pars interarticularis’ are two bony bridges that connect the upper and lower facet joints. One pars interarticularis bridge is on the left the other right side of each lumbar vertebra. They are the weakest part of the vertebral arch and highly vulnerable to injury. A pars defect (termed spondylolysis) is a break or weakness (see diagram) in one or both bridges. It can be due to: 1. a congenital abnormality (present at birth) called an ‘attenuated pars’, or 2. a stress fracture.
The vertebrae usually affected are L5 (85 - 95%), and L4 (5 –15%), but rarely higher lumbar vertebrae. It can be diagnosed by plain X-ray, CT or MRI. 50 - 81% of people with spondylolysis end up with the bilateral fractures of the pars interarticularis, resulting in forward slippage (spondylolisthesis) of the vertebra.
Most pars defects are asymptomatic, but some present as lower back pain. Typically, when the patient stands on one leg and leans backwards, pain results. When the defect is on one side only, standing on the opposite leg elicits the pain. Pain typically gets worse with sports and better with rest
About 6% of the general population have a pars defect.
However, the injury is more common in adolescents participating in high-risk sports (gymnastics, diving, weightlifting, wrestling, rowing, figure skating, dancing, volleyball, soccer, tennis). Up to 30.4% experience lower back pain often due to a pars defect. No optimal treatment plan exists in the literature; pain relief medications may be used but nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided as they slow down the bone growth and healing. Some authors state that ‘only rest’ can heal a pars defect, with acupuncture and massage having no benefit. This is incorrect.
Rest is vital, however stiff lower back muscles increase the forces on the vertebrae to which they are attached and so the likelihood of re-injury. Inflammation reduces the ability of tissue to heal. Muscle elongation therapy helps address both issues, and (along with rest) often reducing long standing back pain in people with pars defects.
If you have unresolved pars-defect related back pain call Andreas on 0418 166269.
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
0418 166 269
v Image/Article: Susan Templeman MP
Why Lifelong Socialisation is a Game-Changer for Your Dog
When you hear the word “socialisation,” what comes to mind? If you are like most pet parents, you probably picture an adorable room full of puppies at preschool, learning how to play and greeting everyone they meet. There is no doubt that early experiences are absolutely crucial for setting puppies up for success. However, a common misconception we see at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital is that once a puppy graduates, the job is done. In reality, socialisation is a lifelong journey.
Dogs are naturally social creatures, much like us. Their interactions with the world shape their confidence, behaviour, and mental well-being. It is also important to remember that socialisation isn’t just about making doggy friends. It means gently introducing your dog to different environments, noises, people, and objects in a positive, stress-free way.
While the first few months of a puppy’s life are the most critical for building a foundation, these skills can fade if they aren’t practiced. A dog that used to love visitors or busy streets can easily become anxious, fearful, or reactive if they spend months isolated from those situations. Regular, positive exposure keeps their confidence high and prevents old fears from creeping back in.
The good news is that ongoing socialisation is easy to weave into your normal routine. It can look like exploring a new walking track, hanging out at a dog-friendly café, or simply sitting on a
bench watching the world go by. These simple outings provide incredible mental enrichment that keeps your dog’s brain active.
Continued socialisation is especially powerful during big life transitions, such as moving houses, welcoming a new baby, or recovering from an illness. Gently guiding them through these changes ensures they don’t lose their footing. Even our senior dogs benefit immensely. They might prefer a quiet stroll over a chaotic dog park, but that gentle mental stimulation keeps their aging minds sharp and happy.
Just remember: socialisation never means forcing your dog into scary situations. It is always about quality over quantity, ensuring your dog feels safe and comfortable at their own pace.
Every day, we see firsthand how much easier life is for well-socialised dogs. They handle vet visits, grooming, and unexpected adventures with absolute ease. Think of socialisation not as a puppy phase, but as a lifelong investment in your best friend’s happiness. By keeping their world full of positive experiences, you are helping them stay resilient, calm, and ready for whatever life throws their way. For more information, contact our friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 0247362027.
r Image | www.pixabay.com
Celebrating World Lizard Day
World Lizard Day is celebrated annually on August 14. It is a day dedicated to raising global awareness and appreciation of these amazing animals, while promoting responsible pet care and supporting conservation efforts for these remarkable reptiles. It has a strong focus in Australia, which is home to well over 800 lizard species. Lizards are vital animals in the ecosystem around Glenmore Park, serving as natural pest controllers by eating insects in their native environments, and even in your own backyard, where a blue-tongue lizard will happily feast on snails.
You can encourage lizards into your garden by creating a chemical-free, lizard-friendly habitat. Simply ditch the toxic snail pellets, build a sheltered environment with a hiding spot such as a hollow log, and provide a sunny basking area. It really is that simple, your lizards will thank you for it!
The unofficial animal emblem of Penrith City is the Eastern Water Dragon. Our local mascot goes by the name Echo (short for ecosystem), and it is easy to see why this magnificent creature was chosen.
Eastern Water Dragons are native to the Penrith Valley, living along the mighty Nepean-Hawkesbury River system. You can spot these wonderful native lizards along the famous Nepean River Great River Walk. It would be wonderful to see such a beautiful animal adopted as a mascot for a local football team, netball team, or community organisation.
You can celebrate World Lizard Day through a number of ways:
• Set up a small lizard-friendly habitat in your garden
• Visit the Hawkesbury Herpetological Society, dedicated to the study of frogs and reptiles, which holds local area meetings on the second Friday of each month at 7:30pm at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, 30 Herbert Street, Cambridge Park. It is one of the oldest wildlife societies in Penrith
• Go for a walk in the bush and enjoy the local wildlife
• Visit a zoo
There will be a free lizard walk along Schoolhouse Creek in Regentville on Saturday 15th August. Meeting on Loftus Street in Regentville at Schoolhouse Creek Bridge at 10.30am. See if you can spot the Eastern Water Dragon or other wildlife along the Creek. Happy World Lizard Day from Matthew “Bluey” Vella.
r Matthew Vella with the Eastern Water Dragon | Image/Article: Matthew Vella
TRADIE PACKAGE
4733 0792
editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au PO Box 8254
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Emergency Services
(Police, Ambulance, Fire) 000
Penrith Police Station 4721 9444
Police Assistance Line 131 444
Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114
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NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS
Churches
Anglican Church
Cnr William Howell Dr Pritchard Pl 4733 1635
St Padre Pio Parish
William Howell Drive 4737 9735
Uniting Church
Cnr Mulgoa Rd & Stuart Rd Penrith 4721 1295
Foothills Church
Jct Factory Rd & Loftus St, Regentville 4732 3139
Penrith Church
52 Taylor Rd Cranebrook 4577 6555
Elevation Church Penrith
4 Production Place, Penrith 4722 8489
Community Groups
Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 725 317
Community Centre 4733 1499
Community Health 4732 9400
Glenmore Park Guides 0400 546 772
Probus Club Penrith Sth 4732 1885
Penrith Suicide Bereavement Support Group 0402 627 696
Prostate Cancer Support Group 1300 13 38 78
Sports Clubs
AFL 0425 202 038
Baseball Club Penrith 0434 116 940
Basketball glenmoreparkbasketball@hotmail.com
BMX 0407 497 606
Cricket 0410 416 692
Hockey 4737 8420
Junior Rugby Union 0425 351 715
Karate Goshin Ryu 0432 615 836
Netball 0407 234 360
Rugby League 0430 049 189
Football (Soccer) 0447 001 107 Softball
glenmorephantoms@hotmail.com
Swimming Club Nepean 0416 311 453
Triathlon Club Panthers www.pantherstriclub.com.au
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One of the greatest privileges of producing these newspapers each month is seeing just how much is happening across our local communities. While national headlines often focus on challenges, we have the opportunity to highlight the people, businesses and organisations making a positive difference right here in our own backyard.
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