New Driver Knowledge Test Online Launched for Learner Drivers
People wanting to get their learner licence will now have the option to take their Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) in the comfort of their home or anywhere with internet access with the launch of Transport for NSW’s Driver Knowledge Test online.
A commitment in the 2026 Road Safety Action Plan, the Driver Knowledge Test online has been developed by Transport for NSW in conjunction with Service NSW and comes with a host of benefits, including supporting a broader, deeper understanding of the road rules and safe driving practices.
Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary, Safety, Environment and Regulation Sally Webb said the new DKT online delivers a modern learning experience and an accessible path for learner drivers.
“We know that learning has changed over the years and this new digital, accessible and interactive product is a reflection of how people learn today,” Ms Webb said.
“It gives easier access to the test to people who are in regional or remote locations who may not live close to a Service NSW Centre, and it also has text to speech functionality which makes the product accessible for people with low literacy or dyslexia.
“It provides a cost benefit because the test can be taken as many times as needed to pass and a fee of $55 is only paid when you come into the Service NSW Centre to apply for your learner licence and have your photo taken.”
“Most importantly, it is an engaging way for people to learn about the road rules and safe driving behaviour, which forms the foundation of how they drive once they are on the road,” Ms Webb said.
Service NSW A/Executive Director Partnerships, Projects & Insights, Lauren Nagel, said the DKT online provides several other benefits.
“Service NSW is all about making it easier for the customer to interact with Government and by simply offering the Driver Knowledge Test online, aspiring drivers can complete the course and test at a time and place with internet access that suits them,” Ms Nagel said.
“By going online, this means students don’t need to miss out on school or extra-curricular activities to visit a Service Centre to complete the test. They can do this in the comfort of their own home and at any time. The Driver Knowledge Test online is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
“If customers are unsuccessful passing, learners won’t have the hassle of organising another visit to a Service Centre and trying to find a time that works with parents or guardians to drive them there, they can simply try again at home.”
“Within 12 months, we’re expecting about 200,000 customers to complete the DKT online so this will also free up our Service NSW team members to dedicate their time to other critical transactions,” Ms Nagel said.
DKT online also allows young people to get a head start as it can be accessed at 15 years and 11 months. When it is passed, they can visit a Service NSW Centre on their 16th birthday to apply for their learner licence.
The DKT online will initially launch in English and Simplified Chinese. Additional languages will be added in the future.
Similar products for learners have already had success in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. The statewide launch in NSW comes after a successful 6-week pilot in metro and regional locations with 94 per cent of participants giving the product four or five stars.
To enrol in DKT online or for further information, visit https:// www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/driver-knowledge-testonline
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
Children + Families
Cranebrook Kids
Meets at 10:00am on Tuesdays at Andromeda Community Hall (Andromeda Drive, Cranebrook). More details: https:// www.playgroupnsw.org.au/Playgroup/Playgroups/ CranebrookKids
Cranebrook PlayConnect
Meets at 9:30am on Thursdays at Koolyangarra Aboriginal Family Centre (1 Kington Place, Cranebrook). More details: https://www.playgroupnsw.org.au/Playgroup/Playgroups/ CranebrookPlayconnect
Hobbies + Interests
Nepean Group – Embroiderers Guild
Meets on the 1st Monday of the month at CWA Rooms, 1 Tindale Street Penrith (opposite RSL) from 6.00pm. More Details: 0466 457 594
Held weekly on Sundays from 6:30am till 2:00pm at The Skyline Drive-In (33 Cricketers Arms Road, Prospect). More details: www.blacktownmarkets.com.au Markets
Blacktown 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
Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Group
Meets every Tuesday from 7pm at Jordan Springs Community Hub (2 - 6 Cullen Avenue Jordan Springs). More Details: Lauren 0404 666 344.
Prostate Cancer Support Group
Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.30p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on 1300 13 38 78.
Penrith Womens Walk and Talk
Meets 5pm 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/
Acclaimed Author Deborah Abela to Visit Jordan Springs Public School for Book Week
Children’s book author Deborah Abela is set to ignite the imaginations of students at Jordan Springs Public School this August during Book Week. With a career spanning over two decades, Deborah has written 29 books that have taken young readers on countless adventures. Her visit promises to be an inspiring event for both students and staff.
Deborah’s journey as an author began in 2002, motivated by her lifelong passion for reading and storytelling. “I’ve always loved the way books take me on great adventures with amazing characters and I wanted to see if writing felt the same. It does!” Deborah said. This passion has driven her to create beloved works that resonate with children across the globe.
When asked about her extensive body of work, choosing a single favourite proves challenging for Deborah. “It’s too hard to pick! It takes at least a year to write a book and I can only write stories I really love,” she explained. For her readers, some of the favourites include the Grimsdon trilogy, The Book of Wondrous Possibilities, The Kindness Project, and The Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee.
Her latest book, The Kindness Project, is already garnering attention and excitement. “The Kindness Project is about four kids who are given a class project to make the world a better place. Trouble is, they don’t like each other…until they realise they have lots in common, including some pretty big worries, and they create the most brilliant kindness project of all,” Deborah said. This heartwarming story underscores the importance of empathy, cooperation, and friendship.
For Deborah, being an author offers numerous joys, not least of which is the opportunity to engage with her readers. “I LOVE talking about books with friends and librarians and kids. I also get to travel all over Australia and the world talking about books, which makes me very lucky!”
Her forthcoming visit to Jordan Springs Public School is highly anticipated. “I can’t wait to meet the staff and kids and get excited about books and stories!” Deborah said. Her presence during Book Week is expected to kindle a love for reading among students and show them the endless possibilities that books can offer.
r Deborah Abela and The Kindness Project | Image: Todd Decker. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Local Ballet Dancers Win in Sydney
Last month, a group of seven young dancers from Glenbrook Ballet Theatre competed in the prestigious Sydney Eisteddfod. The Sydney Eisteddfod is renowned for its exacting standards and fierce competition, and competitors come from right across Australia and New Zealand to compete.
The local dancers, who come from Jordan Springs, Penrith, Glenbrook and Leonay, are aged from 14 to 16. Willo Judson, Nishelle Nagaretnam, Alicia Weir, Beatrix Johannessen, Cadence Horner, Elise Mackay, and Tatum Summers placed first in the Any Age Classical Ballet Small Group, with a Balanchine inspired piece with quirky, technical choreography and a fun sense of performance.
Glenbrook Ballet Theatre Principal Jessie Garbellini is proud of her students’ accomplishment, stating, “Winning at the Sydney Eisteddfod is a dream come true for our dancers. This achievement reflects their hard work and the unwavering support from their families and our entire teaching staff.”
The dancers have more competitions to look forward to this year, with a trip to Bathurst in September for their Eisteddfod, which is a favourite with everyone, then they sit their Royal Academy of Dance Exams, before finishing the year with their full-length production of “Wonderland – a re-telling of the Adventures of Alice in Wonderland”.
Many of these dancers have set their sights on a professional career in dance and will be auditioning for pre-professional programs both nationally and internationally over the next few years.
In addition to the excitement of competitions like this, ballet is more than just steps for these dancers. Other benefits include physical fitness, improved posture and balance, and creativity and expression. The dancers learn the benefit of self-discipline, teamwork and resilience, and often form lifelong friendships.
Glenbrook Ballet Theatre has been working for the past 17 years, to encourage their students to follow their own passions both within themselves and the art form that is ballet.
“It’s been an honour to work with so many young people, to share my love of dance, and to watch them blossom into dedicated and positive individuals,” said Jessie. “It’s a real privilege to be able to work with such a wonderful team of teachers and community of students and families.”
r Classical Group - Back row: Willow Judson, Alicia Weir, Madeleine Bernuetz (injured on the day of performance), Cadence Horner, Beatrix Johannssen. Front Row: Nishelle Nagaretnam, Tatum Summers, Elise Mackay | Image: Jessie Garbellini. Article: Kate Neill
Engage, Explore, Create: Fingerprints STEM Programs Ignite Curiosity
A local educational initiative, which recently featured a school holiday program in Jordan Springs, is making waves with its innovative approach to engaging young minds in STEM education. Fingerprints, founded in September 2023 by Swertha Rajagopalan, offers a unique range of STEM-based creative learning programs tailored for primary school-aged children.
“Our prime focus is to keep children away from screens and help them explore their areas of interest while stimulating their curiosity,” said Swertha.
STEM is an approach to learning and development that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Through STEM, students develop key skills including problem solving, creativity, and critical analysis.
The Fingerprints STEM School Holiday Program takes place in community centres or home-based locations and aims to provide an enriching experience for children through a variety of hands-on activities. Swertha is also in discussion with schools for after-school programs.
“Children will have the opportunity to stretch their imagination through handiwork crafting skills, engaging in try-it-out experiments, and participating in brain-flexing mathematical game-building activities,” said Swertha.
When asked about the importance of programs like Fingerprints, Swertha emphasised the need to equip children with essential life skills for the future. “We have to prepare our children for jobs that do not yet exist. Skills such as resilience, adaptability, problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork are crucial for a bright future,” she explained.
The workshops at Fingerprints focus on non-digital, hands-on experiences that encourage creativity and mental stimulation. Furthermore, the program’s alignment with STEM concepts ensures that children stay engaged with schoollearned principles while also promoting sustainability through conscious reuse and recycling practices.
With its commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and sustainability among young learners, Fingerprints continues to offer innovative education and holiday activities in the local community, empowering children to explore their potential and shape a brighter future for themselves.
To find out more about STEM activities, visit the Facebook page STEMAustralia, or to get involved locally email fingerprintsau@ gmail.com.
r Summer Mela Workshop at Mount Adventist College, Doonside. Image: Swertha Rajagopalan
PROUDLY PRESENTED BY DEMENTIA AUSTRALIA
TUES 6TH AUG 2024 10am - 12pm
Topic Understanding Dementia and what it is
TUES 3RD SEP 2024 10am - 12pm
Topic Understanding Younger Onset Dementia
TUES 20TH AUG 2024 10am - 12pm
Topic Understanding changes in behaviours
TUES 17TH SEP 2024 10am - 12pm
Topic Communication and Dementia
All sessions will be held at Unit 1, 88 Batt Street, Jamisontown
To book your FREE spot please email us aanddinhomecare@gmail.com, or call (02) 4707 6176
Corpus ChristiCRANEBROOKPrimary
We work in partnership with our parish, families and local secondary schools, Xavier College Llandilo, Caroline Chisholm College (girls) Glenmore Park, to provide quality Catholic schooling from Kindergarten to Year 12.
Enrolling Now WE OFFER
• Learning environment enriched by faith and values
• Broad curriculum including Religious Education
• Wide range of cocurricular activities
• (sport, creative and performing arts, academic competitions, etc)
• Dedicated and professional teaching staff
• New and integrated technology including interactive whiteboards, laptops and iPads
• Learning support and enrichment programs
• Transition programs (Kindergarten and Year 6 for high school)
• Extensive recreational and sporting areas
• Active and supportive parent community
For more information please contact Corpus Christi’s Principal Mrs Sarah O’Rourke
Jordan Springs Netball Club Courting Success
Netball is alive and well in the local community, with Jordan Springs Netball Club thriving both on and off the court this season.
Jammers, Junglecats and Jaspers! They were all there at the 2024 Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) Opening Day and March Past earlier this year.
This season has seen 22 teams take to the court for the club, consisting of 209 players and 22 non-playing members (coaches, executives and umpires).
“We have had an influx of members who have stepped up to coach teams, and our biggest number of learner umpires to date (15)” said Michelle Barnes, President of Jordan Springs Netball Club.
“This will allow us to potentially register more teams in the future. We welcomed 42 new to netball players across our junior age groups. We currently have 11 out of 19 teams sitting in the top 4 of their divisions” she continued.
The club is looking to include more male players in the future. Any male, young or old, that is interested in playing, Michelle encourages to “please reach out to us”.
With sponsorship from Everything Concrete, The Agency and Synergy Fundraising, the club is very grateful for their continued support. They would also like to thank World Burger - St Marys for sponsoring the Player of the Week awards.
This season has seen training for all, bar three of their teams, at the Jordan Springs courts on Tuesday to Thursday evenings.
“There is usually at least one executive member there each night, if anyone would like to come and have a chat. I would also like to thank the basketballers in our community for being so understanding with us needing to use the basketball court on our training nights” she stated.
Netball is in the top 15 most registered sports in Australia, with over a whopping 703,000 registrations in 2023. The game has become faster, tougher and more tactical. But technology has evolved over time, too. The days of waterlogged leather netballs and woollen box pleats are long gone.
Certainly, for Jordan Springs Netball Club, things are looking stronger and brighter.
Locals Support Brooks Social Charity Bike Ride
The people and local community of Jordan Springs came together recently to support the 2024 Brooks Social Charity Bike Ride.
Taking place on Sunday 23rd June 2024, the ride began at 10:00am at Brooks Jordan Springs, before making its way to the Plough & Ale, located at Calderwood. Soon after, it then returned back to Brooks Jordan Springs.
There were just under 40 riders who registered to take part in the Brooks Social Charity Bike Ride event on the day.
Upon their return to Brooks Jordan Springs, a raffle took place, with generous donations from local businesses.
“We raised just over $2,000 with the Brooks Social Charity Bike Ride. Thank you to everyone who helped contribute to the success of the event” explained Rebecca Passlow of Brooks Jordan Springs to the Jordan Springs Gazette. The successful community charity event was in aid of Black Dog Ride Australia.
Black Dog Ride first began in 2009, as a ride that would raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention. Since then, it has evolved into a national charity involving thousands of Australians who have raised millions for mental health programs and fostered mental health awareness around the nation.
“Through the kindness of the community, valuable funds were raised for Black Dog Ride Australia, all whilst creating awareness about their important cause” she said.
Rebecca has another two charity events planned for the future.
“Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support to Brooks Jordan Springs” Rebecca ended.
For more information, visit their website www.brooksjordansprings. com.au or find them on Facebook –Brooks Jordan Springs.
r Feature Article [Cover] 2024 PDNA Opening Day and March Past | Image: Karia Hawke [Above] Jammers | Image: Karia Hawke [Top-L] Jaspers | Image: Karia Hawke [Top-R] Junglecats – Crazy Hair and Sock Day | Image: Rebecca Cardozo. Article: Julie Lobel
r Brooks Social Charity Bike Ride participants. Image: Justin/Skyvision Productions
FOOD 4 THOUGHT
Nonna Maria’s Busy Bees
Masala Kitchen
78-80 tench ave,
This month, we embarked on a delightful culinary adventure at Masala Kitchen, an Indian restaurant in Penrith that she highly recommended from previous visits.
On our arrival, the staff’s attention to dietary requirements and allergies was commendable, ensuring a worry-free dining experience for both of us.
We decided to share a variety of dishes, making our meal a true tasting experience, and paired them with a refreshing Mango Lassi, which is a thick and creamy Indian yogurt drink.
Chicken Biryani: This was a new experience for me. The chicken, infused with a medley of spices, combined perfectly with the flavourful Basmati rice. The accompanying creamy yogurt sauce balanced the spiciness, adding an extra layer of flavour to the dish.
Butter Chicken: As a fan of this classic, I was delighted by the tender, roasted chicken enveloped in a rich tomato and butter sauce. Mild yet flavourful, it was a hit for both of us.
Lamb Korma: This dish was pure comfort. The tender lamb melted in my mouth, and the slightly tangy sauce made from cottage cheese gravy was super tasty.
Cheese and Garlic Naan: This naan was a delightful surprise. Unlike the thicker versions I've had before, this one was thin and reminiscent of a crepe, generously filled with cheese and garlic, it was very Moorish!
Jamisontown Scott
Nonna Maria’s Honey began in 2009 by chance, when the Vella family found bees coming out of a vent in the brickwork of their garage.
Mother Maria started feeding them with melted sugar every day. Trying to find the hive, the family looked behind some old cupboards which were used for storage, and they couldn’t see anything. Still quite determined to find the source of the humming, they pulled the cupboard out and tipped it over and found a perfectly formed hive in the kickboard. They harvested the honeycomb, and this honey was the first produced. To their surprise, they were able to get one big cooking dish of the delightfully sunny gold liquid, and such Nonna Maria’s honey was born.
The honey can be harvested every 3 months or so, however in the colder months, the bees will need some honey there for them to eat to keep the hive strong.
Michelle and I thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Masala Kitchen, good food paired with good service made for a lovely afternoon. **Restaurants
#foodie#extraordinaire#reviewer
“It’s not so much the process that we enjoy, as it gets quite messy and painful when you get stung. It’s the reward you get once the honey is strained from the impurities, which is very rewarding. There’s nothing like seeing the honey getting poured into the jars. There’s no comparison to the honey you buy from the shops, as you know it’s pure and isn’t tampered with, and has medicinal purposes when you’re sick” explained Patrick Vella.
Maria said that she “loves to go out and see the bees going in and out of the boxes”. It brings her satisfaction, knowing that the bees are making that honey. Patrick said that his Mum’s inspiration came from childhood memories from her Dad processing honey from his own hives, and it remained as a bit of a passion whilst helping him with it.
Nonna Maria’s Honey is available in 500g jars and 500g squeeze bottles for $10 each.
They are located in Llandilo, right next door to Wilson Park, and you can pick up directly from the farm. Call 0401 442524 for more.
r Nonna Maria’s Honey | Image Supplied by Patrick Vella. Article: Julie Lobel
Millions Inspired by the 'One Community, Many Abilities' Campaign
The stories of five inspiring Penrith residents living with disability have reached more than 1 million people across social media, as people from around the world embrace Penrith City Council’s 'One Community, Many Abilities' campaign.
The campaign, which aims to raise awareness about the valuable contributions people living with disability can make, includes a series of online videos from five inspiring individuals.
Closer to home, the five stars of the 'One Community, Many Abilities' campaign gathered at Penrith’s Civic Centre recently to share their compelling stories with Council staff.
Mayor Todd Carney expressed his admiration of the stars of the campaign.
“It is truly inspiring to hear the stories of Julian, Lauren, Marley, Madeleine, and Jesse. Their resilience and contributions highlight the incredible diversity and strength within our community,” Cr Carney said.
“I encourage everyone to get behind the 'One Community, Many Abilities' campaign. You can show your support by going to our website, reading the stories, and watching the videos about these people in our community.
"The campaign is a testament to the inclusive spirit of Penrith," Mayor Carney continued. "We are committed to making our city a place where everyone is celebrated and valued for their unique contributions."
Don't miss your chance to learn more about the lives of people living with disabilities and the incredible contributions they make to our city. Together, let's make Penrith a place where EVERYONE is celebrated.
Visit penrith.city/manyabilities and get involved today.
r First row: Jesse and Julian. Second Row: L-R Lauren, Madeleine, and Marley | Image/Article: Penrith City Council
HEALTH MATTERS
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Is Core Strengthening a Good Idea for Slipped Disc Back Pain?
Back pain sufferers may have heard the conventional wisdom that ‘poor core strength leads to back pain’ and that ‘core strengthening may solve back pain.’
I have no objection to patients trying to improve their core strength. It is more a question of:
1. whether lack of core strength is indeed a cause of back pain, and
2. when’s the right time for a back pain patient to commence improving core strength.
I regularly see clients with long-standing back pain, though they’ve been doing prescribed core strengthening exercise religiously. In some cases, exercises have helped for a while, in others not, and either way the back pain has remained. This may be because (in my opinion) ‘core strength’ theory as a cause for back pain is incorrect.
Let’s look at back pain due to an acute injury such as a ruptured vertebral disc. Here damage to a disc causes release of inflammatory chemicals. These cause back muscles and connective tissue to swell, become inflamed, painful, and shorten/tighten around the area of injury. This is a standard protective mechanism, described in many standard medical texts.
Once inflamed and tight, in most cases such tissues will
remain that way, unless work is done specifically to de-inflame and lengthen them. Short muscles are a problem because they can keep a disc under excess pressure, meaning the disc may:
1. remain protruded
2. be less likely to heal
3. be more easily reinjured
4. remain occluding (pushing against) nerves – the cause of sciatica.
Strength work builds muscle, but can also cause muscles to shorten and tighten, unless regular stretching occurs concomitantly. Thus, core strengthening exercise will tighten core muscles around a back injury, and possibly delay or prevent appropriate healing for reasons just listed.
The key to disc-related back injuries is to:
1. delay core exercises until the disc is healed,
2. use manual therapy to lengthen and de-inflame affected tissue,
3. only when injured disc-tissue has healed should careful core strengthening occur with
4. concurrent stretching exercises to maintain muscle length to guard against re-injury.
If you have a problem with a back injury why not come talk to us at BHW on 0418 166 269.
r **Refer to: www.districtgazette.com.au for expanded version.
Time’s Up, Buckle Up: Cameras Begin Enforcing Seatbelt Use
Motorists and their passengers are reminded to buckle up or face the consequences, with mobile phone detection cameras to begin enforcing seatbelt offences from Monday, July 1.
After months of testing, existing mobile and stationary cameras positioned across the NSW road network are ready to snap drivers and passengers flouting the 50-year-old seatbelt law.
While the vast majority of the 6.9 million drivers in NSW and their passengers buckle up properly every trip, a small percentage still refuse to obey the law.
Not wearing a seatbelt has been shown to double the risk of death if involved in a crash.
Drivers are reminded there will be no grace period of warning letters for seatbelt offences, with fines in place from day one as the NSW Government continues to add new measures to combat road fatalities.
Fines of up to $410 and at least three demerit points will be issued to the driver if they or their passenger are caught by camera not wearing their seatbelt or not wearing it correctly. Every dollar raised by seatbelt cameras will go back into road safety.
Data shows 150 people died while not wearing a seatbelt in the five years between 2019 and 2023.
On average, 15 per cent of deaths on NSW roads every year still involve people not wearing a seatbelt.
To help communicate the change, the NSW Government launched a fresh advertising campaign on May 19 across radio, television, and social media platforms, demonstrating the correct way to wear a seatbelt and reminding drivers that cameras will be switched on for enforcement from July 1. This campaign and images of offences can be viewed here.
The implementation of seatbelt enforcement via camera will be closely monitored by Transport for NSW and Revenue NSW staff as the program is rolled out over the next few months. This will include daily monitoring to ensure that if any issues arise, they are quickly identified and dealt with.
Seatbelt enforcement by cameras follows a string of new road safety measures launched by the NSW Government, including:
• Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months
• The demerit return trial that rewarded more than 1.2 million drivers for maintaining a spotless driving record during the initial 12-month period up to 16 January 2024
• Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the same
• Hosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local experts
“To the vast majority of the 6.9 million drivers on NSW roads it will seem unthinkable that some fellow drivers still do not make the simplest and safest decision when getting in a car: Putting on a seatbelt.
“The fact is that five decades since it became law, there are people still dying as a direct consequence of not wearing a seatbelt.
“It is horrifying to think that 15 per cent of all deaths on the road in NSW are due to someone not buckling up.
“Seatbelt cameras will help us get the message through to these drivers.
“World-first mobile phone detection cameras have had great success in changing that behaviour and we expect seatbelt cameras to do the same” said Minister for Roads John Graham.
r Transport for NSW | Article: John Graham MP/Jenny Aitchison MP
Western Sydney Airport Metro Tunnels Complete
Greater Western Sydney is now home to landmark new 9.8-kilometre twin metro railway tunnels, with major tunnelling officially complete on the city-shaping Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport project. These tunnels are set to become the transport spine of the Greater West.
The historic milestone was reached after tunnel boring machine (TBM) Marlene arrived at the St Marys Metro Station site and achieved the final tunnel breakthrough for the project.
The mega machines spent 14 months building two separate sets of tunnels at either end of the alignment. The job required the excavation of 1,863,460 tonnes of material, enough to fill 300 Olympic pools, and the installation of 69,966 concrete segments to line the new tunnel walls.
TBMs Marlene and Catherine carved out the 4.3-kilometre tunnels from Orchard Hills, under the M4 Motorway and the Great Western Highway to reach St Marys. TBMs Eileen and Peggy constructed the 5.5-kilometre tunnels from Airport Business Park, underneath the new Western Sydney International Airport, to Aerotropolis.
The final TBM breakthroughs occurred in quick succession:
• TBM Catherine completed the first tunnel at the St Marys site on 20 May 2024.
• TBM Eileen broke through at the Aerotropolis site on 29 May.
• TBM Peggy made the penultimate breakthrough for the project and arrived at the Aerotropolis site on 7 June.
• TBM Marlene made the final breakthrough at the St Marys site on 20 June 2024.
With tunnelling complete, the TBMs will be dismantled, washed and lifted by tower cranes onto trucks to travel to a storage location, before they are shipped back to the TBM manufacturer.
Work inside the tunnels will continue and involves completing the construction of 39 cross passages and preparing for tracklaying to begin.
For more information on the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport project: sydneymetro.info/westernsydneyairportline
PROBUS CLUB
Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Jordan Springs
E: Jordanspringsprobus@gmail.com
W: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings
After our May Madness, Jordan Springs Probus Club jumped straight into June with various events reflecting the diverse interests of our lovely members.
Recently we have held several walks in various locations, which members enjoyed so much, they will be continued through July by popular request. Our walks are a wonderful way to combine gentle exercise with getting to know new friends.
Friendships continued to grow with the monthly lunch and regular Trivia nights, where the varied knowledge and skills of our members create a formidable and fun team.
As well as these regular events, July will extend the range of social choices even further with a fabulous “Christmas in July”. We are also holding a bespoke tour of the historical Castlereagh Conference Centre, complete with a delicious morning tea, and an intriguing Mystery Tour! Will it be a Magical Mystery Tour?
Specifically catering for semi and full retirees, Jordan Springs Probus meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month at Jordan Springs Community Hub, 2-6 Cullen Ave, Jordan Springs. For more information, contact Keith on 9713 9038, Judy on 0414 766 763, Tricia on 0414 979 997, Annie on 0409 230 753.
FAITH – ST DAVIDS CHURCH LLANDILO
Article Written + Submitted by: Rev John Hebblewhite
A: Lot 257A Seventh Ave, Llandilo P: 4736 3592 Service Times: 10am each Sunday with additional services held: 2pm on the Third Sunday + 8am on the Fourth Sunday
The History of the Gospels
Unlike Moses or Muhammad who, according to tradition, were involved in the writing of the Old Testament and the Koran, Jesus the Christ, wrote none of the Scriptures that have come down in the Christian tradition. The four Gospels, Mark, Matthew, John, and Luke, based on the accounts of the early Apostles, were written some seventy or eighty years after the death of Jesus. As such, the Gospels were a new form of literature. They are distinct and quite different from that which follows in the writings of the New Testament, which comprise letters written to the early followers and the apocalyptic writings. The Gospels, literally “the Good News”, are not biographies in that they do not tell us the full story relating to Jesus’ life, but concentrate on his birth and the very brief period (traditionally held to be of three years duration) of his public ministry.
Through textual analysis, most scholars believe that Mark was the first Gospel. Matthew’s is considered to be directed to Jewish readers of his day, shown by his reluctance to use the name of God unnecessarily. For example, where Mark and Luke speak of the “Kingdom of God”, Matthew writes of the “Kingdom of Heaven”.
Of interest, some scholars argue that the New Testament was written to be read aloud, rather than silently as we read a book. They argue that at the time in the Middle Eastern countries, reading letters and writings aloud was common practice.
Critical to reading the Scriptures is the practice of exegesis. Dieter Georgi, a Lutheran theologian best explains this practice. Exegesis is what we already do when we read a text. We draw on things which we have read widely to assist understanding, in particular the context in which Scripture was written.
FAITH – MOSAIC COMMUNITY CHURCH (LLANDILO)
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Heath Whiley
A: Llandilo Community Hall, Seventh Ave, Llandilo P: 0402 712 972 W: www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au Service Times: 4pm-6pm Sundays
Why LIFE Should be Both a Journey and a Destination
Someone once remarked that ‘Life is a journey, not a destination.’ I like that. It reminds me of a father and son who were crossing a snow-covered paddock together. Reaching the other side, the father had his son look back over their footprints. The little boy noticed that whilst his father had walked in a straight line, his own footprints had meandered all over the field. When asked what lesson could be learned from this, the little boy concluded that unlike his father, he was resolved to not miss out on life’s beauty by obsessing over the destination and failing to enjoy the journey.
But who says you can’t have both? For example, imagine leaving for a holiday in which you, your pilot, or ship’s captain have no idea of where they are headed, and no idea of what they are heading into. Of course, this might appear romantic to some. But consider the potential for driving, flying, or sailing into an impossible difficulty or danger. Does any person really jump off a cliff in blind hope that it might be interesting? Even sadder, think of the wonderful sights and experiences you might miss by ultimately arriving at a dump of a destination!
By all means, enjoy the journey, but consider also that sooner or later every journey must end, and when it does, you will have reached a destination of some sort. The question is, ‘will you have settled merely for the good rather than the best when journeying through the life that God has gifted you with?’ And will the destination you arrive at, be the one that you would have chosen, had you had the foresight to plan better?
Life is a journey, but it is also a destination. Therefore, plan for both!
v Probus Members compete in trivia competition | Image: Sandra Griffin
Winter Warming Tips for your Pets
As temperatures begin to drop, we find ourselves bundling up with warm jackets, scarves, and extra blankets to keep cozy at night. But what about our pets? They too need protection from the Winter chill. Our furry companions are as accustomed to the warmth and shelter of our indoor homes as we are, making it essential to consider their well-being during the colder months. Here are some simple yet effective tips to ensure your pets stay warm and healthy this Winter.
Warm and Comfy Bedding: Now is the time to reconsider where your pet sleeps overnight. Elevate your pet’s bed off the floor to provide extra comfort and warmth. For outdoor dogs, ensure their sleeping area is protected from the elements and filled with warm, comfortable bedding.
Dress to Impress: Dog coats and vests are not just fashionable accessories; they provide essential warmth and comfort. Just as a jumper helps us stay warm, a well-fitted coat can shield your dog from the Winter chill. When choosing a coat, make sure it fits well and does not restrict your pet’s movement.
Maintain Grooming Regime: Grooming is just as important in Winter as it is in Summer. Some pet owners let their dogs’ and cats’ coats grow longer during Winter, thinking it will keep them warm. However, this can lead to skin problems, matting, and timeconsuming grooming sessions to remove knots. Keep your pet’s coat at a manageable length and ensure regular grooming to prevent these issues.
Diet: Be mindful of your pet’s diet during the Winter months. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain, which can strain your pet’s joints and mobility. Monitor their food intake and ensure they get
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balanced nutrition to maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise and Play: Regular exercise is crucial for your pet’s physical and mental health, even in Winter. Keep them active with plenty of exercise and fun games. This helps prevent weight gain and keeps them engaged and happy. Indoor play sessions or shorter, more frequent outdoor walks can be beneficial during colder weather.
Regular Health Checks: Don’t forget to schedule a Winter health check-up for your furry friend. Older pets are particularly susceptible to the cold and may slow down during the Winter months. A visit to the vet can help identify any health concerns early and ensure your pet stays in top condition..
Love and Care: Finally, never underestimate the power of love and care. A good belly rub or cuddle session can go a long way in making your pet feel secure and loved. They offer you unconditional love, so return the favour with extra attention and affection during the colder months.
For more information on keeping your pets warm this Winter, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital at 0247362027. By following these tips, you can ensure your pet stays warm, healthy, and happy throughout the Winter season. For more
TRADIE PACKAGE
4733 0792
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Corpus Christi Catholic Church 86-92 Andromeda Dr, Cranebrook 4730 1249
St Thomas’ Anglican 29 Callisto Dr, Cranebrook 4730 3434
St Davids Llandilo Seventh Avenue, Llandilo 4736 3592
St Mary + St Marina Coptic Orthodox Church 363 Ninth Ave, Llandilo 4777 5577
Jordan Springs Anglican Church 0422 504 157
Penrith Church – Strong Nation Churches (LTD) Coming soon Shop 2, 56 – 66 Lakeside Parade, Jordan Springs 4577 6555
MOSAIC Community Church (Llandilo) Seventh Ave, Llandilo 0402 712 972
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Baseball Club Penrith 0434 116 940
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Swimming Club Nepean 0416 311 453 Triathlon Club Panthers www.pantherstriclub.com.au
SMALL PRINT
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Well Winter, is nearly behind us. Despite the icy cold mornings and chilly evenings, the days have been surprisingly pleasant. You know Spring is around the corner when the sun is peeking through the frost.
What a hive of activity it has been. Many wonderful events and milestones have taken place in the last month, with many more on the cards for the months ahead. We are so very fortunate to work with members of the community compiling each edition, without our valued community contributors, local advertisers and YOU our readers, we wouldn’t be able to continue delivering community news direct to the letterbox. We THANK you!
As always, there’s plenty to read, see and do, outlined in this month’s edition, take the opportunity to put your feet up and revel in all things local, if only for an hour! Sometimes, when things are falling apart; they may actually be falling into place.
Enjoy your Community News!
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