A Tight-knit Community Provides Warmth
With a
Oran Park is located in the centre of the Camden LGA –approximately 15 minutes from the
• 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.
‘Pen Man’ Memorialised with Plaque
The passing of John ‘Pen Man’ Boccanfuso OAM in 2024 touched the Penrith community with an outpouring of grief across social media and the establishment of temporary memorials.
Then Penrith Councillor Marlene Shipley expressed her wish for the community to have a plaque which would forever honour the ‘Pen Man’ and the enormous contribution that John gave to his local community.
Last month, Ms Shipley was joined by Penrith Mayor Todd Carney at the unveiling of the permanent memorial in the gardens of the Penrith Civic Centre.
“This is a special moment where our City is able to permanently recognise the incredible contribution that John Boccanfuso made in the lives of many in Penrith and beyond,” Cr Carney said.
“John sold more than one million pens for charity over almost 50 years, but it was his infectious enthusiasm that saw him become a recognisable figure selling pens in Westfield.”
Ms Shipley said John was an icon of Penrith.
“Everyone knew John, and equally John knew everyone,” Ms Shipley said. “There wouldn’t be anyone in Penrith who didn’t know John, or the extraordinary work he did to support the ‘House with No Steps’.
“At the time of John’s passing I felt it was important for Penrith to honour him and provide an everlasting memorial for the impact he had on so many.”
The memorial plaque is situated in the gardens of the Penrith Civic Centre facing Westfield. It bears the inscription:
“John always led by example promoting social inclusion of those living with disability.
Your tireless fundraising for others will always be remembered
The Penrith community will miss you dearly.”
Plant a Tree for Mum
Penrith’s beloved Trees for Mum event is celebrating eighteen years this Mother’s Day.
Penrith City Council’s annual Trees for Mum community tree planting event returns on Sunday 11 May at Caddens Road Park, Claremont Meadows from 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney is excited to celebrate such a significant milestone for the City’s beloved Mother’s Day event.
“The longevity of Trees for Mum is a testament to how important an event such as this one is to our community and I’m proud that our residents remain passionate about conserving our local bushland,” Cr Carney said.
“Penrith is one of the only local government areas that has continued to host this special event and our Bushcare team is excited to not only be running its eighteenth year, but to be celebrating such a meaningful day with community members.
“Planting a tree is such a simple gesture to honour your mum, grandmother, aunt or a mother-figure in your life and can be a very positive and meaningful experience to share with family and friends on Mother’s Day.
“Trees for Mum is not only a great way to gift something special, but it’s an opportunity to learn about our local environment and help restore our endangered bushland by planting native trees or shrubs,” Cr Carney said.
The event will be divided into 30-minute sessions. The first session will start at 8:30am with the last session at 12:00pm. Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and a hat. Sunscreen will be available on the day.
The native trees and shrubs available for planting are proudly provided by Council’s nursery.
To ensure there are enough trees for everyone to plant and so the Penrith Council Bushcare team can coordinate the 30-minute sessions, please book your attendance by registering at penrith.city/ events.
r Articles: 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
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
Markets
Luddenham Country Markets
Held fortnightly on Sundays from 19th March, 9:00am till 1:00pm at Luddenham Showground (Park Road, Luddenham). More details: Search Luddenham Country Market on Facebook
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.
Brooklyn Takes Centre Stage
Glenmore Park’s Brooklyn Kershaw is setting the stage alight, after being selected for the prestigious 2025 Greater Western Sydney Junior Drama Ensemble, a program run by the NSW Department of Education’s Arts Unit. This exciting opportunity brings together standout young performers from across Western Sydney to create and perform an original piece of theatre for the Lights Up Drama Festival, to be held at the Joan Sutherland Centre this June.
For Brooklyn, being selected for the ensemble is a dream come true. “Brooklyn was incredibly excited to be selected,” said her mum, Rebecca Kershaw. “She’s proud to represent Regentville Public School and thrilled to be working with such a talented group of students and mentors.”
The application process for the ensemble is no small feat—it required commitment, talent, and recognition from Brooklyn’s school. “She needed a history of success in Drama, plus endorsements from her teachers and principal,” Rebecca explained. “It’s a huge commitment of time and energy, but Brooklyn was ready for it.”
A seasoned performer, Brooklyn began training in Dance, Drama, and Music at the age of three. Her passion for acting is deeply ingrained. “Connecting with the audience through different character roles has always been her passion,” said Rebecca. “With theatre in her bloodline, it comes naturally—it’s what she loves most.”
Brooklyn isn’t slowing down any time soon. She’s currently awaiting the results of a film audition for the NSW Schools Spectacular Drama Ensemble, where she hopes to be selected as one of the top 20 Drama students in the state. Last year, she took home the Evvy Walker Memorial Trophy at the Penrith City Speech and Drama Eisteddfod and is already preparing new material to compete again in 2025.
She will also appear on stage later this year in the musical Frozen Jnr and continues to work on her craft through workshops and classes.
“In the future, Brooklyn hopes to attend a Performing Arts High School and one day walk the stage on Broadway,” Rebecca said.
With her talent, dedication, and love for the spotlight, Brooklyn is well on her way.
r [Top] Brooklyn Kershaw has a bright future ahead of her [Above] Brooklyn Kershaw on stage performing ‘Matilda’ at the 2024 City of Penrith Speech and Drama Eisteddfod | Images: Rebecca Kershaw. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Being both a business owner and a parent is not for the faint of heart. Glenmore Park local Kelly Hyman hasn’t let this deter her, starting her photography journey, creating Time in a Bottle Photography in June last year.
“I have always loved photography. Both the act of capturing the beauty I see, and having a home filled with emotive images. It brings me immense joy to relive those moments and share them with people who visit our home. I want that for other families too” explained Kelly to the Glenmore Gazette.
“After our daughter was born, I decided that if anything was going to take me away from her for hours at a time it needed to be something I was really passionate about and looked forward to giving my time and attention to. Being a business owner certainly has its challenges, but it affords me the flexibility I needed, and I love a project to get stuck into” she continued.
Time in a Bottle Photography is a boutique portrait business that aims to capture images in a relaxed, fun way, while working with you to produce wall worthy artwork.
From the pre-session consultation and design appointment, to shoot day, to image selection and ordering, to delivery of your artwork – it’s a full-service experience. This includes a range of packages like Mico, Mini, Milestone, Extended Family and Pet Paw-trait sessions, in addition to the signature Deluxe sessions.
So, what are Kelly’s favourite subjects to photograph? “I always aim to tell a story loaded with connection and emotion. That’s what gives me such a kick out of capturing children. Their emotions are always so close to the surface. I was a teacher for 15 years before starting my photography journey, so I like to think I have picked up some tricks for building rapport and getting the best out of even the most reluctant participants.
“I also love to photograph pets, especially dogs. They’re part of the family as far as I am concerned and just as deserving of a spot pride of place on your walls, and in your heart”.
Kelly believes that the beauty of the local area makes it an ideal backdrop.
“I live in Glenmore Park, so I love photographing in the local Penrith/Blue Mountains locations. Not only is it convenient, its beautiful, and its home. The location becomes part of the story when we are creating artwork, so I am always happy to venture to new places and encourage families to suggest locations that are meaningful to them too. I’m pretty flexible. Any photographer will tell you we are always chasing beautiful light!” Kelly stated.
To her, photography is about truly seeing your subject, taking a moment to find the beauty and capturing it in a way that makes it undeniable to the viewer.
“I’m in the business of freezing time. Preserving memories so you don’t forget. If my customers view their images and can’t possibly choose just a few favourites, then I know I’ve done my job” she ended.
r Watch Me Grow Micro Session at Glenmore Park | Image: Time in a Bottle Photography. Article: Julie Lobel
Clothing and Textile Recycling
Free Drop-off Event*
Saturday 10 May, 9am-3.30pm The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington See you at the
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 (TRA) to be made into new items such as blankets, floor rugs and tote bags. New, unworn clothing is welcome at the event, these items will be donated to local charities partnered with Textile Recyclers Australia such as The Haven and WestCare.
*only clean items will be accepted on the day
Brumbies Annual Sportsman’s Lunch Returns this Month
Glenmore Park Brumbies JRLFC will be hosting their Annual Sportsman’s Lunch this month.
One of the major ways in which the Brumbies fundraise is with their Sportsman’s Lunch. This year, it is shaping up to be a fabulous event. It will be hosted by Darryl Brohman and has some amazing speakers including ex NRL player James Maloney plus other guest speakers to be confirmed.
The event provides much needed funds for the operation of the Club, its facilities maintenance, end of year presentations and for the equipment needed to field teams. On top of this, the event is also a wonderful opportunity for sponsors, players, coaches, friends, and families to have a great day out for a good cause.
This year’s luncheon will be held at the Jamison Hotel on Smith Street in South Penrith on Friday 30th May, from 12:00pm to 3:30pm. Tickets are $135 each for Beer/Wine/Soft Drink Beverage package or $150 with Spirit Beverage Package, with 110 tickets to sell. There will be raffles, games, live auctions and ticket prices include a two course meal and 3 and a half hour beverage package. Attendees must be 18 and over.
The Brumbies are a passionate footy club. From their sponsors, players, coaches, and committee members, they provide both a fun and organised environment for all. Coordinating a season of sports is no mean feat and takes hours of time donated by
countless numbers of volunteers who tirelessly work to get the season up and running.
For more information, you can find the Glenmore Park Brumbies JRLFC on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ glenmoreparkbrumbiesjrlfc or at the Facebook event at https://facebook.com/events/s/glenmore-park-brumbiesjrlfc-s/1255343956214137/
Tickets can be booked online at https://square.link/u/ Xhrqv0YR. Afterpay is also available.
Glenmore Phantoms Celebrate a Milestone 25th Season with Outstanding Achievements
The Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club has wrapped up an incredible 2024/25 season, marking its 25th anniversary with strong achievements and performances across all levels of competition.
With 16 teams and 181 members, the Phantoms showcased their sportsmanship throughout the season with teams in every competition. Ten players earned the prestigious opportunity to represent at a State Level, a testament to the club’s longtime commitment to developing top-tier talent.
The Phantoms were thrilled to see seven teams across seven divisions qualify for the Grand Finals, with three teams emerging as champions in the Teeball, Ladies Social, and Men’s Division 2 competitions.
Individual excellence was also on display, with Xavier Lachat (18) earning the Penrith City Softball Association Aaron Ristau Junior Male Player of the Year award, while Sarah Webb (21) was named Penrith City Softball Association Barry Blanchard Senior Female Player of the Year—both incredible achievements reflecting their dedication and skill.
As the season draws to a close, the club looks forward to celebrating its players and teams at the End-of-Year Presentations in April and May, where the club and community will recognise performance, premierships, and the incredible milestone of 25 years of Phantoms softball.
Looking ahead, registrations for the 2025/26 season will open in July 2025, with the new season set to start in September. The Glenmore Phantoms are excited to continue growing, developing players of all ages and skill levels, and building on the successes of this landmark season. New and returning players are always welcome.
For more information or to get involved, visit our website or follow us on social media.
r [L-R] Xavier Lachat - Winner of PCSA Aaron Ristau Junior Male Player of the Year | Sarah Webb - Winner of PCSA Barry Blanchard Senior Female Player of the Year | Image: Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club | Images/ Article: Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club
r Article/Image Supplied by Glenmore Park Brumbies JRLFC
A Slam Dunk for Glenmore Park
Glenmore Park Basketball Club have capped off an amazing Summer 2024/2025 season in the PDBA Competition, strengthening their position as a leading club.
This season, they had 200 players across 28 teams represent the club in the Summer Competition and are forecast to have around the same number of players in the upcoming Winter 2025 term.
“The Winter Competition is traditionally smaller, due to some of our players alternating with other sports. However, this year it has stayed fairly similar, which shows just how popular basketball is at the moment” said Sara Drebber, Secretary of Glenmore Park Basketball Club.
It was a season packed with highlights, with many both on and off the court.
“The club’s highlights included 11 of our teams making it to the semi-finals, with six going head-to-head for a spot in the grand finals. This resulted in 7 of our teams making it to the grand final, with 2 of them going head-to-head with each other. The final result was 4 premiership wins” she explained.
“Another highlight was the club’s youngest players coming out in the purple and gold to support our eldest players in their grand final match by cheering them on. Also, the annual gala day at Inflatable World gave us the opportunity to celebrate our fabulous players and community” Sara smiled.
Registrations ahead of the Winter 2025 season are looking promising. There are still vacancies amongst the girls’ teams.
“All our boys’ teams are now all full, but we have a few spots left on our girls’ teams. We are offering discounted club fees for any new female players joining GPBC for the Winter season” she replied.
The club also invites any members of the public who would like to assist as a volunteer. This includes assistance with coaching or managing teams as well as those who would like to join the Committee.
Looking ahead, the club are positive for another successful season.
“We are looking forward to another great season of basketball full of friendship, challenge, fun, and hard work!” ended Sara.
A Tight-knit Community Provides Warmth
The 2025 Think Outside the Square (TOTS) Blanket Challenge started by local Glenmore Park resident Debbie O’Connor, is back for its 9th year and is set to bigger and better than ever before. Last year the TOTS community made and donated 680 blankets to those most in need in our community. This included the homeless, domestic violence survivors, youth in crisis and cancer patients. The goal this year is 750 blankets, so they need your help!
The challenge is run out of coworking space The Creative Fringe on York Road between 1 April and 31 July every year. Volunteers from across Australia now get involved. Locals come along to the bi-monthly sewing bees where they get to connect and meet other volunteers while others as far as Darwin and Perth post through their squares or finished blankets.
“Thanks to Panthers and their Trees of Hope initiative at Christmas,” states Founder Debbie O’Connor “the TOTS Blanket Challenge was awarded $4000 for our unique community Christmas tree decorating effort. This money will be used to pay for postage of volunteer’s donations from outside of the Penrith area.”
There are over 200 official members (membership is free) while their Facebook page has over 480 followers all supporting the efforts to keep people warm this Winter. Contrary to popular belief, our volunteers range from the age of 10 to the age of 80!
Nicky Alsemgeest, Partnerships and Pathways Coach at St Columba’s Catholic College in Springwood introduced the challenge to the school after personally being a part of it since its inception. “The school values helping and supporting the local community,” commented Ms Alsemgeest. “This is our third year being involved and our school community are now looking forward to it as an event on the calendar. We love how staff, students as well as their parents and grandparents are participating.”
The charities that they partner with include The Haven, Penrith Community Kitchen, Link Wentworth Housing, Westcare, Platform Youth Services and Cancer Wellness Support. These charities ensure that the blankets get to the people in our community that need them the most.
“The TOTS Challenge is a true testament to the power of community and creativity coming together for a greater purpose,” said Gai Hawthorne from Penrith Community Kitchen. “Each knitted square represents warmth, kindness, and the generosity of the volunteers, who tirelessly craft these blankets for those in need. As the demand grows each year, so does the dedication of The Creative Fringe and our incredible network of crafty knitters. Their support is absolutely priceless, ensuring that no one is left out in the cold. We are beyond grateful for this unwavering community spirit.”
If you would like to get involved simply knit or crochet 20x20cm squares, go into their coworking space to help sort squares (there are thousands) or grab a bag of squares and join them together. They also accept fully completed blankets. Head to their website to find out more or to book in for one of their free sewing bees where catering is generously sponsored by Embrace Care.
r Feature Article: [Cover] Handover of 2024 blankets to our charity partners; Cancer Wellness Support, The Haven, Penrith Community Kitchen, Westcare, Link Wentworth Housing, Platform Youth Services [Above] Trees of Hope at Panthers, December 2024 | Images/Article Supplied by Debbie O’Connor
r [Top] GPBC Under 18 Storm [Above] GPBC Under 10 Eagles | Images Supplied by Glenmore Park Basketball Club. Article: Julie Lobel
in Christopher Cartwright’s Sam Reilly series, and it does not disappoint! The book follows Sam Reilly and his circle of adventurous friends who are trying to stop the Relic Hunter from getting her hands on the Elixir of Life. If she succeeds, the Relic Hunter will use the Elixir to raise an army of ancient metallic insects that will wreak havoc on the world at her command. It takes all of Sam and his crews’ combined skills, planning and fancy Bond-like technology as they attempt to protect the unsuspecting tourist who stumbled across the Elixir accidentally while visiting an old church in Ethiopia, and prevent the Relic Hunter putting her plan into action.
The author brilliantly weaves twists and turns into every chapter and you never quite know what is around the corner. There are near misses, faked deaths, gotchya moments and sprinkles of humour as Sam and his crew navigate all the challenges to protect the tourist and foil the Relic Hunter’s plans. I also thoroughly enjoy how the author paints really descriptive pictures of the key locations in the story, which you can tell are the result of having researched those places and the folklore that surrounds them.
This was a highly enjoyable and unpredictable read. After enjoying this book so much I have started to read the Sam Reilly series from the beginning – but this book gives a really good flavour for the style of story you’ll get if you want to embark on the full adventures of Sam and his crew, which I highly recommend!
r Book Review by: Kelly Carn
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The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Penrith is a welcoming and non-judgemental place where you can access free mental health information, services and supports.
They provide caring, calm and inclusive mental health and wellbeing support for people over the age of 18. You don’t need to be an Australian citizen, resident, have a visa or Medicare card to get support.
You also don’t need a referral from a doctor. You can just walk in or call to get support.
Whether you have experienced mental health challenges in the past or this is your first time reaching out for support, everyone is welcome.
The Medicare Mental Health Centre offers immediate support if you’re in distress. The team will work with you to understand what will help right now. And then if needed, they’ll help you find the right support for later.
Many of the staff at the centre have experienced a mental health crisis themselves and understand what you may be going through.
Whether you’re trying to improve your sense of wellbeing, looking for help with something that’s bothering you, or helping someone you care about, Penrith Medicare Mental Health Centre is here for you.
They also offer support for carers and families of people experiencing distress.
If you think you may need support or know someone who does, you can drop in at 111 Henry Street, Penrith or call 1800 595 212.
Penrith Medicare Mental Health Centre is delivered by Neami National and funded by the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network.
For more information, go to: www.neaminational.org.au/ penrith-medicare-mental-health-centre
r Image/Article: Wellmark
A safe place to share what’s on your mind.
No referral or Medicare card needed
Walk-in for free and immediate support.
111 Henry Street, Penrith.
neaminational.org.au/penrith-medicare-mental-health-centre
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Can Simple Stretching Improve Your Cardiovascular Health?
Facilitated stretching is a part of every session of MET at our clinic and we provide stretches for patients to do at home.
Stretching may reduce cardiovascular risk. A 2017 study by Shinno et al., asked healthy women over 40yo to stretch 3 times per week, for 3 or 6 months. They conducted 20-30 second static stretches of 15 muscle groups: ‘trapezius, arm-flexors, deltoids, triceps, upper-back muscles (trapezius/rhomboids), pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, gastrocnemius, soleus, hip abductors, hip adductors, quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, and lower erector spinae. Stretching intensity was participant-rated as “somewhat-heavy” to “heavy”.
To see whether the stretching routine had any long-term effects on blood vessels flexibility (compliance), researchers measured an index called RH-PAT both before and after 3 or 6 months of stretching. RH-PAT is determined by:
1. measuring normal arterial blood flow in the forearm, then
2. inflating an upper-arm cuff to stop blood flow for 5 minutes, then
3. releasing the cuff and measuring blood flow 1 min after cuff release.
4. Calculating the ratio of arm blood flow before cuffing and 1 min after cuff-release
5. This gives a ratio called the “reactive hyperaemia peripheral artery tonometry (RH-PAT) index”
RH-PAT is a “powerful predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality”.
It can predict:
1. endothelial (blood vessel lining cell) dysfunction
2. coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis
3. microvascular dysfunction following sepsis
4. coronary plaque formation
The arteries of healthy people are flexible/dilatable and have a higher HR-PAT index; people with cardiovascular diseases have a low HR-PAT index because their arteries have difficulty dilating.
So how did regular stretching effect participants artery’s ability to dilate (health)?
a. all study participants had an RH-PAT index below 1.67 at study’s beginning
b. both 3 and 6 months of stretching improved RH-PAT index significantly
c. a further 6-months of no-stretching saw RH-PAT index return to pre-intervention values
These results suggest regular stretching can increase the compliance (flexibility) of arteries, reducing cardiovascular risk, and that regular stretching may lead to health benefits beyond increased muscle-flexibility for maintaining a healthy back. Importantly, once women stopped stretching accrued cardiovascular benefits were slowly lost over the following 6 months.
So, the old imperative idiom of ‘use it or lose it’ certainly applies to the cardiovascular benefits of stretching too.
r** Refer to submitter for references
Article Written + Submitted by: Kellie Tickner from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital A: 49 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027
A Thoughtful Mother’s Day: Choosing Pet-Safe Bouquets
With Mother’s Day around the corner, many of us will be picking out beautiful flower arrangements to celebrate the special women in our lives. However, while flowers bring joy, some can pose serious risks to our furry family members. Many plants and flowers can cause mild stomach upset if ingested by pets, but others are far more dangerous— potentially leading to severe illness or even death, even in small amounts. Before selecting a bouquet, it’s important to be aware of toxic flowers that could harm your pets.
Flowers to Avoid:
Lilies – Highly toxic to cats and dangerous to some dogs, lilies (including Peace, Calla, Easter, and Tiger Lilies) can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, kidney failure, and, in severe cases, multiple organ failure. Even a small amount—such as pollen or water from a vase—can be deadly for cats.
Daffodils – These cheerful spring flowers can cause serious heart irregularities, difficulty breathing, and trouble swallowing if ingested. The bulbs are especially toxic, and even skin contact can lead to rashes, itching, and inflammation.
Carnations – While less toxic than some other flowers, carnations can cause stomach upset if eaten and skin irritation upon contact.
Chrysanthemums – Common in floral arrangements, chrysanthemums contain toxic compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, drooling, rashes, diarrhoea, and loss of coordination.
Tulips – Every part of a tulip is toxic, but the bulb is the most dangerous. Ingesting tulips can lead to drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, heart issues, and difficulty breathing.
Ivy – Popular varieties like English Ivy and Devil’s Ivy (Golden Pothos) can cause severe mouth and stomach irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, and swelling of the lips, tongue, and mouth.
If your pet chews, licks, or ingests any of these toxic plants, seek veterinary care immediately. Contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital at (02) 4736 2720 for advice and assistance.
This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate with love and care—by choosing pet-safe flowers that bring joy to both our mums and our pets!
r Image |
www.pixabay.com
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.
Resolving Conflict
Have you ever been in conflict with someone? Of course you have!
Conflict is an inevitable part of life. Whether it’s a disagreement with a friend, a tense moment in a workplace, or misunderstanding in a family, we all face moments of tension. Instead of seeing conflict as only ever a bad thing, I believe most conflict is an opportunity to grow. However, if conflict escalates into some kind of abuse or violence, then a person’s safety is of primary concern.
Recently I have been working on a Conflict Resolution Policy for our church that helps people respond to conflict in a way that reflects the love and grace of Jesus. The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 4:31-32: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger … be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” The good news of Jesus gives us the model of how to respond to conflict - with humility, gentleness, and forgiveness.
We believe conflict should be handled calmly, starting with calm one-on-one conversations where the goal isn’t just to say your bit, but to listen and understand. If needed, a neutral third party can help create space for healing and clarity.
Instead of avoiding one another or lashing out, God wants us to engage with each other in healthy ways - seeking understanding and reconciliation. My hope is that even through conflict, people would not only find resolution, but grow in maturity, strengthen relationships, and experience something of the transforming power of the gospel.
FAITH - FOOTHILLS CHURCH
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Paul Marshall
W: www.foothillschurch.com.au
A: Junction Factory Rd & Loftus St, Regentville Service Times: Sundays 9.30am
Hope Is A Game Changer
Few people would disagree that at times, life can be tough. In our search for a good life, it is also true that we can live a better life amidst what is tough, if we hold hope in something.
Scientists did an experiment placing two rats in separate beakers filled with water. They completely covered one beaker placing the rat trying to stay above the water in complete darkness. The other beaker was also placed in darkness, except for a pinprick at the top letting in a dot of light. What do you think happened? The rat in the beaker with the dot of light swam for 6 hours longer than the other. This is the power of hope, and it’s a game-changer.
In his farewell speech to our Year 12 leaving class my high school principal said, “Always have something to look forward to.” This carries a similar idea – that the human soul functions better when it has the expectation that something good is coming.
A friend recently broke up with her partner after five years together. When I asked what happened she replied, ‘He just seemed to cover everything over with work and stopped expecting good things for us, as if he was escaping from life rather than trying to live it.’
Hope is like fuel in the human soul, powering it to live, to laugh and to love, even when it is tough going. It helps us at least to try! If we look for what is good, we will most likely find it.
We can, of course, place our hope in the wrong things. They are ‘wrong’ because they can’t help us when things get tough, or darkness lurks in our souls.
The Bible teaches that when we hope in Jesus Christ, he shines like a Light in our souls, illuminating the way to what is good. Jesus can bring good amidst everything that is tough about human life, and even death itself. A game-changer at the most critical points.
Where have you placed your hope?
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Churches
Anglican Church
Cnr William Howell Dr Pritchard Pl 4733 1635
Catholic Church
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
Salvation Army
48 Luttrell St 4733 1133
Elevation Church Penrith
4 Production Place, Penrith 4722 8489
Community Groups
Embroiderers Guild Nepean 0466 457 594 Community Centre 4733 1499
Community Health 4732 9400
Glenmore
Probus Club Glenmore Pk 0412 629 945
Probus Club Penrith Sth 4732 1885 Penrith Suicide Bereavement Support Group 0402 627 696
Sports Clubs
Writer
Swimming Club Nepean 0416 311 453
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.
By the time our paper arrives in your letterboxes, with any luck the election is done and dusted, and now we can all hope that our government takes its responsibility seriously and gets on with the business of looking after us and Australia’s interests.
With Autumn here and Winter on the horizon, it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, whether that is sitting in your yard, going hiking, or getting involved with your community – you’ll find lots of info and events here in the Gazette about what’s happening around your area!
We would like to thank all of our helpers, our team, and our advertisers for getting another great issue of the District Gazette out – we cannot do it without you! If you can, please support our advertisers, it means that we can continue to bring all the local news and events right to your letterbox. We hope you enjoy May issue!
Happy Mothers Day to all those that fill such roles, and to my amazing Mum, I miss you more every year.
‘In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” (John Muir)
Belinda
If you would like to have the Glenmore Gazette available for collection at your place of business, please contact us.
02 4736 8100 enquiries@penrith nsw edu au www penrith nsw edu au/enrol/visit
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