Penrith City Council Upgrades Online Customer Services with Launch of MyPenrith
Penrith City Council has launched MyPenrith, a major upgrade to its online services platform, delivering a more secure way for the community to connect with Council services.
MyPenrith introduces a single sign-in that gives customers access to a growing range of Council services. The platform currently supports the Online Services Portal and will soon extend to include Council’s upcoming Bookings and Venue Hire Portal.
To improve security, MyPenrith includes multi-factor authentication, requiring users to enter a verification code sent via SMS or phone call when signing in.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney welcomed the introduction of MyPenrith.
“This upgrade to our services positions Council for the future, making it easier for our community to engage with us online, while also strengthening the protection of personal information,” said Cr Carney.
“This upgrade reflects our commitment to putting customers first by delivering simple, safe and accessible services for the people of Penrith.”
Customers who have used the Online Services Portal before 1 July 2025 can register for MyPenrith using their existing email address for a seamless transition. By re-registering with the same email address, previous records and service history will be retained in MyPenrith. Registration is a one-time process and is required for all users, even if they’ve used the previous system.
Once logged in, customers can continue to access a wide range of Council services, including submitting requests related to waste management, community facilities, infrastructure and more.
For more information on how to register with MyPenrith, a how-to guide and video tutorial are available at my.penrith.city to assist with the transition.
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Real Festival
Real Festival is returning in 2025 and will once again transform Tench Reserve into a spectacular fusion of fun.
Featuring fantastic art installations, a pop-up bar, arcade games and performances. Real Festival celebrates the landscape of the Nepean River by day with hands-on workshops and on-water activities and by night, the riverside will become an illuminated playground of fun.
Create unforgettable moments and memories for all ages.
More information coming soon!
Dates & Times:
Friday 12 September 2025 4:00PM – 10:00PM
Saturday 13 September 2025 4:00PM – 10:00PM
Sunday 14 September 2025 10:00AM – 3:00PM
Location:
Tench Reserve, Tench Avenue, Penrith NSW 2750
r
Image/Article: Penrith City Council
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
Nepean Hook & Yarn
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
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.
Glenmore Village Celebrates First Birthday with a
$10,000 Giveaway
Glenmore Village is proud to celebrate its first birthday, marking a year of growth, community connection, and local success in the heart of Glenmore Park.
Since opening, Glenmore Village has become a convenient and welcoming destination for the community, home to favourites like Woolworths Metro, Snap Fitness 24/7, Fitstop, Paragon Physio and a mix of dining, beauty and specialty retailers. The centre continues to evolve as a vibrant lifestyle precinct.
To thank the community for their support, Glenmore Village held a family fun day in July and is currently running a 1st Birthday Giveaway. Shoppers who spend any amount at the centre in participating retailers can enter the draw to WIN their share in $10,000 worth of Glenmore Village Eftpos Gift Cards. The centre has 20 x $500 gift cards to give away. Running since late June, the promotion is open until 14th August 2025, so customers still have time to be part of the celebrations.
Vanessa Sullivan, Marketing Manager for Glenmore Village, said, “We’re thrilled to mark our first birthday and reflect on how much the centre has grown. From new store openings to community events, it’s been a big year. This giveaway is our way of saying thank you to the local community for embracing Glenmore Village.”
To enter, customers simply scan the QR code located throughout the centre or visit the Glenmore Village website. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, 19 August via the centre’s social media pages.
Glenmore Village looks forward to continuing to grow with the Glenmore Park community and has more exciting plans in store for the year ahead.
For more information, visit www.glenmorevillage.com.au or follow Glenmore Village on Facebook and Instagram.
r First birthday celebration | Image/Article: Glenmore Village
Glenmore Park Cricket Club: Celebrating 30 Years of Cricket, Community and Culture
This season marks a proud milestone for Glenmore Park Cricket Club (GPCC), as they celebrate their 30th anniversary—a testament to the passion, dedication, and community spirit that has defined their journey.
As they honour their history, they’re returning to the foundations that have made GPCC a local sporting icon:
• Culture: Built on respect, teamwork, and lifelong friendships.
• Brand and reputation: A club known for excellence, integrity, and pride.
• Community engagement: Strengthening their ties with families, supporters, and partners.
• Safe and fun environment: Ensuring every player enjoys the game in a welcoming and secure space.
Fresh off their 1st Grade premiership win last season, GPCC is ready to build on that success. The experienced committee, who built the club traditions and legacy, return to guide the club with the passion that has made playing at the Home of Cricket in Glenmore Park a memorable experience for all.
This year, they’re enhancing member engagement through better communication, a vibrant social media presence, and unforgettable club events. They want every member to feel connected, valued, and proud to wear the GPCC colours.
Registrations are now open for junior and senior teams across all levels and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s a place for you at GPCC.
Join them as they celebrate 30 years of cricket and community—here’s to the next chapter in the club’s legacy!
r Article: Glenmore Park Cricket Club
GRAND OPENING
Celebration
SILVERDALE SHOPPING CENTRE; A New Shopping Destination for the Whole Family
SATURDAY, 9 AUGUST 2025
TIME
Festivities begin at 10:00 AM
LOCATION
Silverdale Shopping Centre 2316-2320 Silverdale Road, Silverdale
Join us for a spectacular day of family fun, live entertainment, and exclusive offers as we officially open Silverdale’s newest retail and lifestyle destination!
SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE: We are honoured to welcome The Hon. John Howard OM AC, former Prime Minister of Australia, as our distinguished guest for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
ENJOY A DAY FULL OF EXCITEMENT
Live Music: Experience vibrant performances from local artists throughout the day
School Choir Performance: Be moved by the talented voices of our local students
Antique Car Display: Step back in time and admire a stunning collection of vintage automobiles
Interactive Photo Booth: Capture the memories with fun, themed photo moments
Dance Performance: From the amazing and talented In-Motion Danceworks
Petting Zoo: Delight the kids with cuddly animals and hands-on farmyard fun
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
Face Painting and Balloon Twisting for Kids: Let imaginations run wild with colourful face art and professional balloon creations!
Centre-Wide Raffle Draw: Fantastic prizes to be won — don’t forget to enter!
In-Store Promotions and Special Offers: Discover amazing deals and exclusive giveaways at participating stores
Turbo Tubs Are Here! Hold on tight and get ready to spin, giggle, and whirl with the awesome Turbo Tubs ride from Planet Entertainment!
ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES ALL DAY LONG!
Bring the whole family and celebrate the beginning of something exciting in Silverdale! Come for the opening. Stay for the fun. Leave with something special. Proudly supporting the Silverdale community.
Retailer Promotions
ENJOY 25% OFF STOREWIDE!
(Excludes baby formula, incontinence products, pharmacist-only and practitioner-only medicines, prescription and weight loss products.)
• Goody bags for the first 100 customers
• In-store lucky draw
• Free make-up on the day
• Receive a 30% discount voucher with any purchase (valid until 30th August 2025)
$5 OFF ALL HAIRCUTS!
Get a fresh look for less
SAVE 4C/LTR AND ALSO GET A FREE SMALL COFFEE
Come in and explore our range of pool care, car care, and pet food products.
Kindly bring this coupon from the District Gazette Paper to claim your discount. Offer expires 31st August 2025
MORFIT
In-store promotions & giveaways:
• $0 Joining fee
• Variety of fitness challenges run on the day in-house: Winners recieve 7 day free trial or Merchandise packs or supplement packs
15% OFF ALL CAR WASH SERVICES!
Give your car a shine
SPEND $50 IN-STORE AND RECEIVE 6 COOKIES (VALUED AT $8) FREE!
ENJOY A FREE SOFT DRINK OR WATER WITH ANY PURCHASE OVER $13.
GET 20% OFF ANY ORDER
Spice up your day for less!
THE TASTE OF INDIA
Sample the flavours of India with our free tasting tables featuring assorted curries and rice.
To celebrate, we’ll be GIVING AWAY 500 DONUTS AND PASTRIES to the community and offering samples of our in-house items throughout the day. Additionally, we’ll have $10 acai bowls available all day long.
Join the celebration with our Spin-to-Win Pin Wheel!
Try your luck and win fun in-store prizes.
• Supplement company will be offering samples which will be sold in store
Pamper yourself and receive a FREE GOODIE BAG with any service!
Could Indoor Skydiving Be the Olympics’ Next Big Thing?
The 2025 Australian Indoor Skydiving Championships are set to take flight from 8th –10th August at iFLY Downunder in Penrith, home to the largest and most powerful indoor wind tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere.
Now in its ninth year, the event has grown into the nation’s leading showcase of bodyflight performance, community spirit and inclusive sport, with many now calling for indoor skydiving to be recognised on the world’s biggest sporting stage: the Olympics.
“We’re seeing Olympic-level commitment, training and skill in the tunnel,” said Matt Boag, Sports Development Manager at iFLY.
“Indoor skydiving has everything the Games stand for, athleticism, precision, passion and global appeal. It’s only a matter of time.”
Over 150 athletes across more than 100 teams will compete across five competitive disciplines: Formation Skydiving, Vertical Formation, Freestyle, Dynamic and the inclusive All Abilities category.
Spectators are invited to attend free of charge, with the event also streamed globally to an estimated 500,000 viewers.
This year also brings the largest prize pool in event history, $20,000 in cash, made possible through support from Platinum Sponsor Public Safety Training and Response Group, a national leader in emergency training and response services.
“The Championships are more than a competition. They’re a glimpse into the future of sport. Fast, skill-based, visually stunning and inclusive,” said Holly Jaadla, Entertainment Marketing Manager at XRGroup. “If the Olympics is about celebrating human potential, then indoor skydiving absolutely belongs there.”
Among the sport’s stars is Doni Gales of Glenmore Park. Doni is a senior instructor at iFLY and seasoned international competitor, now mentoring the next generation of flyers.
“The most exciting thing about the Australian Open Indoor Skydiving Championships coming to iFLY Downunder in Penrith is the fact that our team is so dedicated to the progression of the sport. We are really going all in to make this next level. We have international judges, an awesome live streaming team, interstate and international teams and of course the best wind tunnel in the country,” said Doni.
The 2025 Championships aim not only to crown champions but to inspire a new generation of flyers and strengthen the growing call for indoor skydiving to take its place on the Olympic stage.
The Australian Indoor Skydiving Championships 2025 8th – 10th August 2025
Dingo Den Animal Rescue began with one man’s lifelong love for Australia’s wild-hearted dingoes. Founder Joshua Said felt a deep connection to these misunderstood animals from childhood. When he adopted his first dingo, Blaze, he set out to learn everything he could to give him the best life possible — but quickly discovered how little accessible, reliable information existed.
In response, Joshua created an online resource in 2014 to help others care for dingoes with compassion and understanding. As more rescues followed, so too did the need for a safe, specialised space. In 2015, Dingo Den Animal Rescue became a registered charity — and the sanctuary was born.
Based locally and run entirely by volunteers, Dingo Den Animal Rescue is dedicated to saving dingoes, supporting carers, and protecting the ecosystems that depend on these apex predators. Through rescue, rehabilitation, sanctuary care, advocacy, and education, the team is building a future where dingoes are no longer feared — but respected and protected.
Dingoes are a vital part of Australia’s ecosystem. As apex predators, they play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. By regulating populations of invasive and overabundant species such as kangaroos, foxes, and feral cats, dingoes help protect native flora and fauna. Their presence promotes biodiversity and supports the survival of many of Australia’s most vulnerable species. Without them, entire ecosystems can begin to collapse.
In June 2025, the sanctuary faced its greatest crisis. With just $6,000 left in the bank and no government funding, it launched an urgent appeal to raise $30,000 — the minimum needed to continue operating. The outlook was grim, but the community responded with heart. Supporters rallied, donated, and helped spread the word. Together, they saved the sanctuary.
Thanks to this incredible generosity, Dingo Den Animal Rescue now has the funds to operate through the coming months. But the future remains uncertain — rising costs and the possibility of emergency medical care for the dingoes mean continued support is crucial.
Here’s how you can help:
• Donate: Every dollar feeds and cares for dingoes in need
• Sponsor a dingo: Support an individual and receive updates
• Volunteer or foster: Hands-on and remote roles available
• Spread the word: Awareness is powerful
• Partner with them: Welcome schools, businesses, and local groups
To learn more, visit www.dingoden.net and join them in protecting Australia’s wild-hearted.
r Glenmore Park’s Doni Gales | Image: Aaron Tate | Article: Missy Mischief PR on behalf of iFLY Downunder
r Founder Joshua Said and dingo | Image/Article: Dingo Den Animal Rescue
Aussie Firies Answer Canada’s Call
In June, two local firefighters from Regentville Rural Fire Brigade, Guy Baddock and Jordan Jobson, were deployed to Alberta, Canada, as part of Australia’s first incident management team sent to assist in the country’s escalating wildfire crisis.
Guy and Jordan joined 94 other Australians from multiple fire and land agencies including the NSW Rural Fire Service, National Parks, Forest Fire Management Victoria, and WA’s Department of Fire and Emergency Services. Since then, over 100 more Australian firefighters have followed, including crews from ACT, SA, Tasmania, and Western Sydney.
“We’re out here for a total of 43 days,” said Jordan, currently halfway through their second 14-day operational rotation. “It’s long days—14 hours straight—with only a short rest period in between. We’re definitely counting the days to be back with our loved ones.”
Having served a combined 40 years with Regentville Brigade, both men are now career firefighters with the NSW Rural Fire Service. “Through experience and training, we were able to register for international deployment,” said Jordan. “When Canada sent out the call, we got just three days’ notice to pack up and fly out.”
Deployed to northern Alberta, Guy serves as Operations Chief, overseeing firefighting efforts and coordinating with crews from Canada and Costa Rica. Jordan is the Resource Unit Leader, managing personnel logistics and helping write the daily incident action plans.
“The fires here are huge—some over 60,000 hectares—and the landscape is incredibly remote,” Jordan explained. “Unlike Australia, there are few fire trails. Fires can burn underground in the pine ‘duff’ (a dense layer of leaf and needle litter) for months, even under snow.”
Much of the work is “dry firefighting,” with no trucks—just hand tools, helicopters, and determination. “It’s hard, dirty work,” said Jordan. “But the camaraderie is amazing. The Costa Ricans don’t use chainsaws—they drop trees with machetes!”
From international cooperation to swapping stories and badges, both men say the experience has been unforgettable. “It’s an honour to represent Australia. The friendships we’ve made and the lessons we’ve learned are something we’ll carry with us—alongside the mosquito bites and sleepless nights under the midnight sun.”
r Feature Article [Cover] The Australian team departing Australia for Canada in June [Above] Jordan Jobson and Guy Baddock of Regentville Brigade. Part of the Australian Incident Management Team in Alberta, Canada | Images: Jordan Jobson. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Silverdale Shopping Centre Grand Opening
Silverdale Shopping Centre are pleased to announce a special celebration to be held this month.
They will be having their Grand Opening on Saturday 9th August 2025, beginning at 10:00am.
This exciting event marks the beginning of a vibrant new hub for retail, dining, and community experiences in our region. It is a significant milestone in the region’s growth and economic development.
The day’s celebrations will include:
• A welcome address from community leaders
• The unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Hon John Howard OM AC
• Ribbon-cutting and formal opening of the Centre
• Live events and entertainment
• Family friendly activities
Silverdale Shopping Centre recently opened its doors on Wednesday 4th June 2025. The opening was attended by Angus Taylor MP (Federal Member for Hume), Judy Hannan MP (Member for Wollondilly), Wollondilly Mayor Matt Gould, Bruno and Maria Lopreiato, as well as Wollondilly Shire Council and Woolworths representatives.
It also marked the opening of Woolworths Silverdale, a major drawcard to the shopping centre.
The Grand Opening celebrations will also feature specials offered by Silverdale Shopping Centre’s retailers. Be sure to check these out.
The event promises to be a great day out for the family, celebrating Wollondilly Shire’s newest shopping centre.
r The entrance to Silverdale Shopping Centre | Image Supplied
A Western Sydney Indie Gem
The heart of Western Sydney beat strong at the recent Starburst Film Festival, held at the Joan Sutherland Centre in Penrith. The evening showcased the critically acclaimed indie film Christmess, supported through Screen NSW’s Opening Night Fund, and highlighted the rich creative talent emerging from the local area.
Written and directed by Glenmore Park native Heath Davis and produced by Daniel Fenech of Brick Studios, Christmess tells the poignant and darkly humorous story of a washed-up actor who takes a job as a suburban shopping centre Santa. There, he unexpectedly encounters his estranged daughter and grandson in the line for a photo — a chance meeting that triggers a journey of reconnection, redemption, and reflection.
During the COVID-enforced lockdown, Heath Davis was inspired to write Christmess as a raw, honest response to the emotional strain, alcoholism, and family tension often hidden beneath traditional Christmas portrayals in movies. The cast includes singer, Hannah Joy in her acting debut alongside Steve Lemarquand (The Dressmaker) and Darren Gilshenan (A Savage Christmas).
Producer Daniel Fenech explained the film’s resonance: “Christmess has heart, pathos and is very Australian in its humour and how it explores themes of overcoming addiction and honouring family. It’s an honest and relatable recount at a time that is joyous for most, but for those who are struggling, Christmas can be a pressure cooker of emotions.”
The film was preceded by the powerful short I’m Here by Penrith filmmaker Brendan Byrne and followed by a Q&A panel moderated by Kirstie Boerst. Fenech and Byrne discussed the challenges and triumphs of making independent films, particularly within the thriving Western Sydney creative scene.
“We were so excited to be invited to premiere the film at the Austin Film Festival — the benchmark for indie writers and cinema — and have enjoyed sell-out screenings in Australian cinemas,” said Fenech. “Now, it’s even more accessible, with screenings on Channel 9 and soon to hit a major streaming platform for Christmas.”
Looking ahead, Brick Studios is again collaborating with Heath Davis on a new project: a documentary on the incredible life story of Rugby League legend Ian Roberts.
Christmess is not just a festive film — it’s a celebration of local talent and the stories that make Western Sydney shine.
r The Starburst Film Festival at the Joan Sutherland Centre in Penrith | Image Supplied by Daniel Fenech. Article: Tanya Nellestein
• 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
FOOTHILLS PANTRY
Are you or someone you know struggling to put food on the table?
FREE FOOD AND VEGIES
Thank You, Penrith – Three Years of Trust, Care and Community
We are incredibly proud to share that Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital has been awarded the Penrith City Local Business Award for Outstanding Pet Care for the third consecutive year.
This honour reflects the heart of who we are – a dedicated team of veterinarians, nurses, and support staff who show up each day not just for the pets we treat, but for the people who love them. From routine check-ups to complex surgeries, our goal is always the same: to deliver expert veterinary care with warmth, compassion, and honesty.
We would like to thank our exceptional team. Their dedication, empathy, and professionalism are the reason so many pets wag their tails (or purr contentedly) when they walk through our doors. Whether it’s providing exceptional medical treatment or offering a comforting word during a difficult time, our team goes above and beyond.
But most of all, we thank the Penrith community. Thank you for trusting us with your family pets, for your continued loyalty, and for being part of our extended Orchard Hills Vet family. It is your support, feedback, and kindness that fuels our growth and inspires us to evolve alongside the changing needs of our region.
We are proud to serve such a strong and connected community—and we look forward to caring for your pets for many years to come.
HEALTH MATTERS
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
So, are Some People Really just ‘Inflexible’?
Folks often try stretching eventually resigning themselves to believing they’re naturally “inflexible”.
The key to their inability to lengthen muscles, comes down to two issues. Poor Stretching:
1. regularity
2. technique
Usually individuals stretch for a few seconds, probably for less than 30. They often ‘push’ their stretches – to ‘feel the pain’ of a good stretch. Stretching-associated pain is often a key reason why they don’t like to stretch and don’t do it for long. Stretching aggressively for short periods is often unlikely to gain effective long-term increases in flexibility.
Little organelles in muscles called ‘muscle spindles’, send signals from muscle to brain indicating muscle length. A bigger stretch sends a stronger signal. A strong-enough signal will elicit a ‘myotatic reflex contraction’ stopping your muscle from stretching further and will be interpreted as painful. In short, flexibility has little to do with actual ‘muscle & connective’ tissue length, but rather with how strongly and at what stretch-length the myotatic reflex elicits a contraction that resists further stretching.
Done correctly over a period of weeks, regular stretching modifies the way the ‘spindle-brain’ system reacts to stretch:
1. It dampens the strength of the signal sent to the brain by muscle spindles,
2. It makes the brain less sensitive to muscle spindle signals,
3. Reduces the likelihood of a stretch being able to elicit pain, and
4. Reduces the likelihood of any stretch being able to elicit a myotatic reflex contraction.
Thus, after regular stretching it takes a much bigger stretch to generate a spindle-signal strong enough to stop you stretching. That is, your body ‘learns to stretch’ further. Hopefully, you can now understand that stretching is simply just a ‘learned skill’! As with any other skill, correct repetition of the skill, improves performance. So, to become flexible, a person must practice stretching regularly and keep stretching to remain good at it. Appropriate stretching can relax and lengthen lower-back muscles too, which can help ease lower back pain. If you have a back or musculoskeletal injury and need help why not give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418-166-269.
r ** Refer to submitter for references
r Dr Camille Brandt and the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital with the award | Image/Article Supplied by Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital
For many pet owners, leaving home each day isn’t just part of the routine — it’s an emotional struggle. As soon as the shoes go on or the keys are picked up, it begins: barking, whining, pacing, or scratching at the door. These aren’t just bad habits — they’re signs of separation anxiety, a condition that can deeply affect our pets.
Separation anxiety occurs when pets, especially dogs, feel intense stress when left alone. While it’s more commonly seen in dogs, cats can suffer from it too — though their signs may be more subtle. The behaviours can be upsetting — chewed furniture, accidents in the house, constant noise — but beneath the frustration is a pet in distress.
It’s a tough situation for many pet owners. We adore our pets, but it’s hard to face the aftermath of even a short absence: damaged blinds, messes on the floor, and unhappy neighbours. It’s important to remember that our pets aren’t acting out to be naughty — they’re anxious, confused, and unsure.
Some common signs of separation anxiety include:
• Barking, whining, or howling before or after you leave.
• Chewing doors, windows, or furniture.
• Soiling indoors, even in well-trained pets.
• Pacing, panting, or drooling more than usual.
• Attempts to escape that can result in injury.
Certain pets may be more likely to develop separation anxiety. Dogs with a close bond to their owners, or those who’ve gone through big life changes — like moving house, a new baby, or a
Camille Brandt BVSc(Hons 1), MVS(SAP)
CONSULTING HOURS
return to office life — may begin to show signs. Rescue pets or those with a history of trauma are also more at risk.
The good news is, there are ways to help. It takes time, patience, and a consistent approach, but many pets can improve with the right support.
Start by helping your pet get used to short periods of alone time. Reward calm behaviour with treats and gentle praise. Provide toys, puzzle feeders, or relaxing background noise to keep them occupied. Keep your arrivals and departures calm — making a big deal can increase anxiety. Sticking to a steady routine also helps build confidence and security.
In more serious cases, it may be best to speak to your vet or a qualified animal behaviourist. They can work with you to create a personalised training plan. Sometimes, medication is recommended alongside behaviour therapy to help ease the process.
Separation anxiety won’t vanish overnight, but with patience, understanding and the right tools, your pet can learn to feel safe and settled — even when you’re not home. Remember, you are not facing this alone. For advice and support, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 02 4736 2027.
For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027
It struck me at the shops recently, that we aren’t just a number in the crowd. We all have a life, filled with joys and sorrows, success and failure, strength and anxiety, bitterness and love, responsibilities and freedom.
But in our own little worlds we can look straight past people to the Vegemite. Live and let live (unless you push into my line).
I felt a strange sense of loneliness, until I came across an old fellow in the chocolate aisle. He looked at me with intention and spoke to me through the kindness in his eyes. They danced like the sparkling sea. He reminded me that we are not just a number in the crowd, and that behind our disengaged faces that hide our true situation, there are lives needing help in some way, and lives that have life to give away too.
I was challenged about whether I normally treated people like a number in the crowd. Am I at times so consumed with my thing that I look straight past people when their eyes are crying for help or friendship? How can I be an instrument of God’s love?
The quality of our relationships depends in some way on us not seeing each other as just a number in the crowd. Instead, to appreciate that we all have a story to tell, and need help from others and from God amidst it all.
The same is true for our life together in Glenmore Park.
When Jesus taught that we should love one another he was saying, “Don’t treat your wife, your kid, or your neighbour as a number in the crowd.” This is the challenge if we want to live well, even if all we can offer is the sparkle of kind, smiling eyes.
The Bible teaches that God doesn’t see us as a number in the crowd. He sees our life with kind eyes, and cares about what’s going on for us. And he invites us to see him as a person with a life too, and to enter a relationship with him.
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.
What’s The Biggest Problem In The World?
What’s the biggest problem in the world today? Ask around and you’ll hear a range of answers: the breakdown of the family, war, climate change, housing, the cost-of-living crisis.
My daughter, joking, said - “Dad, you are”. In the Bible, we are told the fundamental problem in the world is godlessness and wickedness. Wickedness is doing wrong. Godlessness is ignoring God. In short, the biggest problem in the world today is evil that comes from rejecting God. That may sound old-fashioned, but it’s a true and accurate diagnosis.
The problem of evil is too vast and deep for any of us to fix on our own. However, we often deal with its consequences, after the damage has been done. We try to solve it through politics, education, laws and reforms. And while those things can help, they rarely get to the heart of the problem.
God sees the heart of the problem. And he has set a day when he will bring justice to the world. But here is the confronting part: we’re part of the problem. My daughter was right after all! The problem with the world is a problem that starts with me. What’s the biggest problem in the world? “I am.” Evil isn’t just something external - it’s something inside each of us and we all contribute to its effects.
So, if we’re part of the problem, is there a solution? There is. But to understand it properly, we need to look at it more closely - stay tuned for next month!
www.pixabay.com
badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au
tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au
BUILDING SUPPLIES
4733 0792
editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au PO Box 8254
Distribution Enquiries wedeliver@districtgazette.com.au
Emergency
Services
(Police, Ambulance, Fire) 000
Penrith Police Station 4721 9444
Police Assistance Line 131 444
Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114
WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946
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
Penrith Church
3139
52 Taylor Rd Cranebrook 4577 6555
Elevation Church Penrith
4 Production Place, Penrith
Community Groups
8489
Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 457 594
Community Centre 4733 1499
Community Health
Glenmore Park Guides 0400 546 772
Probus Club Penrith Sth
Sports Clubs
Goshin Ryu
(Soccer)
Swimming Club Nepean 0416
Triathlon Club Panthers www.pantherstriclub.com.au
Advertising Policy... Payment on booking secures your space. The Business Directory offers cost effective advertising to businesses in an alphabetical format. Premium Placement may be available, at an extra charge. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion.
Community News... The Glenmore Gazette welcomes community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements and anniversaries (published free of charge) Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor.
Letters to the Editor...may be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.
As we make our way into August, we hope that the flooding rains settle, and the wind chill factors we’ve been experiencing begin to let up, as I know I’m counting my toes to check they’re all still there! We hope all our readers have made it through the record weather safely.
As things start to warm up and we think about getting out and about, there’s plenty happening in our communities this month. The wattle will begin to flower soon, which makes for wonderful bush walking and photography. There’s something good for the soul about just getting out, enjoying a leisurely walk – around your streets, your local park, or one of our beautiful national parks – they’re all right here!
If you want to get involved in your community, check out what’s happening in your District Gazette, as local groups and clubs start getting their outings and events organised. There is something for everyone right here in our own suburbs.
Thank you as always to everyone who works to get your District Gazette out across the suburbs and into your mailbox – we can’t do it without you. Enjoy your Community News!
“Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path.” (Paulo Coelho)
If you would like to have the Glenmore Gazette available for collection at your place of business, please contact us.
