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
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
Markets
Blacktown Markets
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
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.
Lung Support Group
Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Emu Sports Club from 10.30am. Visitors & New Members welcomed. Contact John on 4735 1542
Prostate Cancer Support Group
Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.45p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 13 38 78.
Penrith Womens Walk and Talk
Meets 5.30pm every Wednesday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 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/
A Hive of Artists
Are you looking for a local, creative group activity for your child or children? Do you they love art, and would they like to learn how to draw?
Welcome to The Palette Hive – a place where children can gather and gain skills in artwork, while socialising with others.
For Chandana a young mum who moved to Jordan Springs, she noticed how many parents—herself included—were juggling drop-offs, pick-ups, and trying to find the right activities for their children. Chandana says, “As a mum of an only child, I was also looking for ways to support my son’s social development. He was often reluctant to join group sessions, and I didn’t want to push him into situations that made him anxious”.
That’s when the idea of starting an art class began to take shape; “I thought, why not create a gentle, creative space for children like mine, and for parents who might be facing the same challenges I was? I saw it as a way to give back to the community, build new relationships, and make Jordan Springs feel more like home”, said Chandana.
At The Palette Hive, children 6 and over learn the elements of art through fun and meaningful subjects, like drawing their
favourite insects or everyday objects. They explore a wide range of materials, from charcoal and pastels to mixed media, encouraging both creativity and experimentation.
“Parents receive regular updates after each session, so they can follow along with what their child is learning and creating. I also focus on helping kids recognise their own mistakes and guide them in how to improve, building their confidence and artistic thinking along the way” said Chandana to the Jordan Springs Gazette.
Chandana’s passion lies in portrait art, and she enjoys working across various mediums—especially mixed media. Van Gogh is one of her top favourites, as she admires his bold use of colour and expressive brushwork. She says she is “also deeply inspired by Caravaggio, especially his dramatic play of light and shadow, which brings such intensity and emotion to his work”.
For more information about classes or to book, search ‘The Palette Hive’ on Facebook.
r [Top Left] Chandana painting [Top Right] A hive of activity [Above] Some amazing artwork | Images Supplied by Chandana/The
Palette Hive. Article: Julie Lobel
The art of beekeeping or apiculture is the practice of maintaining honeybee colonies, primarily in artificial beehives, for the purpose of collecting honey and other hive products like beeswax, propolis, and royal jelly.
Locals Gabrielle and Aaron Guttek became beekeepers in the Autumn of 2024; they had often spoken about keeping hives and their interest was greatly sparked by reading about the challenges of bees and their decline in numbers. Gabrielle said, “There has been a dramatic decline in honeybees and natives’ bees in Australia, this loss has significant consequences for agriculture and ecosystems, as these incredible winged insects play a vital role in pollination. We wanted to do our part to help the winged insects and pollination for our local area”.
Bees face several challenges, including loss of habitat, parasites, pesticides sprayed on gardens and moulds to name a few. Australia’s biosecurity laws have managed to keep a beetle at bay that has caused significant carnage to bees’ colonies in other countries around the world.
“We did our first honey harvest in October of 2024, and we currently sell 500-gram squeeze plastic bottles and glass jars. We also do honey gift jars which can be ordered on request for seasonal holidays,” said Gabrielle Guttek.
Bottlebrush Farm has already achieved success, with 2nd place in the ‘Light Category’ of the 2025 Hawkesbury Show. Honey is judged on flavour, colour, density, aroma, clearness and brightness and Gabrielle said, “that this was really exciting for us”.
By mid to late Spring, Bottlebrush Farm will be introducing 1kg tubs, and they have a teacher gift range coming for the end of year. They are also looking at doing a range of bombardier gifts for special occasions.
For more information or to order, you can contact Bottlebrush Farm through their Facebook or Instagram pages on social media. They can also meet people at Llandilo shops.
Goals to Success for Jordan Springs
Jordan Springs Netball Club continue to show that they are the pride of the local sporting community, both on and off the court, with another big year in the 2025 Penrith District Netball Association (PDNA) Competition underway.
This season has seen 24 teams take to the court for the club, consisting of 220 players. An impressive show of growth, with the club beginning with just 11 teams in 2017.
With the season still not over, the popular club already has some highlights to add to their resume.
“This season, we have had several new umpires badged. We also raised $360 for the Mark Hughes Foundation, with a Wear Your Beanie to Training event. With the success of this, we plan to do this next year as well” said Michelle Barnes, President of Jordan Springs Netball Club to the Jordan Springs Gazette.
With the rise in popularity of mixed netball, the club hopes to capitalise on this in the future.
“We are hoping to get a mixed team together for next year’s Winter Competition” she explained.
An exciting addition to the club this year has been the introduction of a training shirt for each of the players, made possible with thanks to the generous support of their sponsors.
“Thanks to our sponsors this year, we were able to supply each player with a fully funded training shirt” smiled Michelle.
“A big show of appreciation to Everything Concrete, Synergy Fundraising, Nick Rigas - The Agency, Hoppa’s Automotive, Abbey Shutter’s & Blinds, J Wyndham Prince, Advance Taxation Management, Brewed Bestie’s” she continued.
The finals series is due to begin soon, and the club are ready for the challenge ahead.
To follow Jordan Springs Netball Club, find them on Facebook, Instagram or visit the website www.jordanspringsnetballclub. com.au.
r Jordan Springs Netball Club players with the new training shirt. Images: Rebecca
Cardozo
r [Top] Bottlebrush Farm Honey [Above] Bottlebrush Farm’s 2nd place ribbon from the 2025 Hawkesbury Show | Images: Gabrielle Guttek. Article: Julie Lobel
YOUR LOCAL Family CONVENIENCE STORE
At IGA Cranebrook, we’re more than just a convenience store – we’re family.
Proudly run by three generations of locals and an extension of the Shell service station next door, we’re here to bring friendly, reliable service to the Cranebrook community.
Family-owned and operated
A wide range of niche items and everyday essentials
Super competitive prices
Excellent customer service from a happy, helpful team
A healthy, supportive workplace our staff love to be part of
Whether you’re on the go or doing the weekly top-up, you’ll find everything you need; served with a smile.
IGA Cranebrook – locally owned, family operated, and always here for you.
Llandilo RFS Welcomes New Captain
The Llandilo Rural Fire Brigade has ushered in a new era of leadership, appointing longserving member Tim Hearn as Captain during its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Tim steps into the role following the dedicated service of outgoing Captain Josh Gow, whose leadership has helped guide the brigade through numerous deployments and local emergencies.
For Tim Hearn, the appointment is more than just a new title—it’s the culmination of a lifelong commitment to the brigade and his community.
“Being elected as captain is an incredible honour and a major personal achievement,” said Tim. “I’ve been a part of this brigade since I was 12 years old and have had the privilege of serving in nearly every role over the years. To now be entrusted with leading the team fills me with immense pride and gratitude.”
Tim Hearn’s journey with the RFS began as a cadet in 2008, and over the past 17 years, he has steadily progressed through the ranks, serving as Deputy Captain and most recently as Senior
Deputy Captain. He has been actively involved in numerous major fire campaigns both in New South Wales and interstate, bringing extensive operational knowledge and steadfast dedication to his new role.
Tim’s 17 years of service with the Llandilo RFB includes dedicating countless hours to training, callouts, community events, and mentoring younger members. His leadership style reflects the values he’s lived since childhood: dedication, integrity, and a deep-rooted passion for helping others.
“What I enjoy most is the deep friendships I’ve built, the continuous opportunity to develop new skills, and above all, the privilege of supporting and protecting members of our community when they need it most.”
As Captain, Tim is committed to furthering the brigade’s tradition of excellence while encouraging new members to join their ranks. The brigade is actively seeking junior members (ages 12–15) and senior recruits (16+), and interested individuals are encouraged to get in touch.
For those ready to take up the challenge and become part of this vital community service, expressions of interest can be emailed to info@llandilobrigade. com.au.
With Tim Hearn at the helm, the future of the Llandilo Rural Fire Brigade looks bright - fuelled by experience, community spirit, and a new generation of volunteers.
Llandilo RFS now recruiting | Images: Llandilo RFS/ New South Wales Rural Fire Service. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Upgrade Underway for Cranebrook Sport Facilities
The latest stage of work to upgrade the sport and recreation facilities in Andromeda Drive Reserve, Cranebrook, is complete.
Additional storage space in the amenities building and drainage improvements on the eastern field have been undertaken, as part of an upgrade funded by the NSW Government through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program ($1.7 million) and the Australian Government’s Investing in Our Communities Program ($450,000), in partnership with Council.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said there are more improvements to come later in the year.
“The next stage of work will include more car parking, and resurfacing and line marking the sports courts,” Cr Carney said.
“Council is also going to construct new pathways, install seating and plant trees throughout the reserve to boost our City’s green canopy.
“This project will provide those who use Andromeda Drive Reserve with the infrastructure they need for training and game days, while also giving residents more opportunities to get outside and enjoy recreation.”
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said that this is a much-needed upgrade for Cranebrook and the wider Penrith community.
“It is funding dedicated to improving facilities that deliver sports and recreation,” Ms McKeown said.
“I look forward to seeing local sporting clubs and Penrith residents enjoy the improved recreational and sporting facilities.”
The Andromeda Drive Reserve project was identified through Council’s Sport and Recreation Strategy, which is a 15-year road map for the future provision of sport, play, recreation and open space facilities across our City.
Find out more at: yoursaypenrith.com.au/andromeda.
r Feature Article [Cover + Top] Outgoing Captain Joshua Gow and newly appointed Captain Tim Hearn [Above]
Book Review Your
How to Kill a Monster
Author:R.L Stine
How to Kill a Monster is a children’s horror book by R.L Stine. The story revolves around Wendy and her stepbrother Clark being dropped off at their grandparent’s house in the swamp as their parents are going on a business trip to Atlanta (in the USA). However, Wendy and Clark soon realise all is not what it seems. Their grandparents are acting strangely, and they aren’t what they used to be. One day, Wendy stumbles upon a room which contains a swamp monster.
The swamp monster chases them, and Wendy and Clark rush to tell their grandparents. But they have barricaded Wendy and Clark in the house, and have gone away. Meanwhile, the monster starts wrecking the house in an attempt to kill them. Wendy and Clark rush around the house, hiding, until they have an idea. They pour poison into pies their grandmother had made, and put them in the kitchen and make noises. When the monster came, it ate all of the pies, but survived unharmed! But Wendy noticed two letters on the fridge from their grandparents. On one, it said that the monster had come uninvited to the house, and they had to feed it to keep it peaceful. Before they could read the second one the monster came after them. Wendy then led it to a gaping hole in the floor, and it fell down a three-story drop and was killed.
Wendy and Clark then smashed their way out of the house, and waded into the swamp to look for civilization. But when they opened the second letter, it said that the monster had brothers and sisters in the swamp, and if they defeated it they must never go into the swamp, or they will be killed by its siblings. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and was very suspenseful.
r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal
Blacktown City Medieval Fayre
Head back to the middle ages at the spectacular Blacktown City Medieval Fayre.
Watch knights clad in shining armour compete in epic battles of strength, skill and bravery in both standup battles and incredible jousting competitions, which features riders from all over the country fighting for the prestigious title.
Be immersed in the medieval culture through the feathered friends show, medieval displays, combat artillery, handmade arts and crafts, a working Blacksmith and Woodturners village, and medieval-themed food. Even better when you come dressed in medieval garb and compete in the Best Dressed competition.
Experience the excitement and pageantry of a bygone era in a truly authentic way. This event should not be missed.
Tickets are $10 per person per day including booking fee. Children 3 years and under are free.
Tickets available at: https://blacktown-events.bookable.net. au/#!/event-detail/ev_f162c969c5ff44cc986768aa4cf8bf64
When:
Saturday, 30 August 2025 10:00AM - 4:00PM Sunday, 31 August 2025 10:00 AM - 4:00PM
Location:
Nurragingy Reserve, Knox Road, Doonside, 2767
Blacktown Mayoral Fun Run
Journey through the serene bushlands of Nurragingy Reserve on Sunday 17 August for the Blacktown Mayoral Fun Run.
Starting at Boronia Reserve, the fun run will have you winding your way through the stunning natural landscapes, the Aboriginal heritage garden and the Chang Lai Yuan Chinese gardens.
There will be a 5km at 7:15am and a 2.5km at 8:00am with prizes for best dressed and finisher medals for each race participant!
Registrations open.
Categories:
Kids $5 (3 years to 15 years)
Adults $10 (16 years and over)
Family $25 (2 adults and 2 kids)
There will be activities at the finish line and lots of fun to have along the route including:
• Chalk art
• Cultural drumming
• Bubbles
• Pop Up music
• Chinese flute
• Didgeridoo
• Fun tunnel
• Obstacle course at the finish line Register at: https://blacktown-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_a3c666bc98144484b77f792d51b107f8
When:
Sunday, 17 August 2025 6:30AM - 10:00AM
Location:
Nurragingy Reserve, Knox Road, Doonside, 2767 r Image/Article: Blacktown City Council r Image/Article: Blacktown City Council
Starting Wednesday 6th August JORDAN
Doors open at 6pm …
Coming straight from work or home and want to eat first?
Bring dinner and eat with others before we begin 6.30pm - 7.30pm
Local community gathering … ph. 0402 712 972
WOULD YOU BE INTERE STED IN:
Meeting other Christians in your local community and making new friends?
Praying with and for one another?
Praying for our local community?
Reading the Bible with others?
Learning more about Jesus?
Receiving encouragement, pastoral care, and practical support mid -week?
You’re invited to be part of a loca l, Chr ist-centred gathering mid-week, in your neighbourhood
No pressure. No need to leave your current church. Just real community, real faith, and real hope in Jesus C
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
Dingo Den Animal Rescue: Saving
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.
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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 Founder Joshua Said and dingo | Image/Article: Dingo Den Animal Rescue
PROBUS CLUB
Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Jordan Springs E: probusjordansprings@gmail.com W: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings
Jordan Springs Probus Club
The warm glow of Christmas shared with friends is the best antidote to Winter! In fact, it’s so enjoyable we shared not one but TWO Christmas in July celebrations! Good food, delightful entertainment, hearty sing-a-longs and a dance floor all shared with good friends - what more do we need?
Our combined wisdom and experience continued to impress at the regular Wednesday Trivia Nights at Brooks Tavern. A fun music night was also enjoyed, held in a local club. In a different vein, we are discovering the many interesting experiences on offer in our own Penrith “back yard”. In July, we discovered our own Naval Museum, followed by a delicious lunch. In August, we will investigate the Penrith Printing Museum, and in September, The Radio Museum.
Our monthly Guest Speakers are always varied and specialists in their field, illustrating the wide ranging interests of our members. Visitors are always welcome so come along and discover some of these gems with the Friendship and Fellowship to be found within our Probus Club.
A purely social club catering specifically for semi and full retirees, Jordan Springs Probus Club will meet throughout 2025, at 9:45 for 10:00am start, on the 4th Tuesday of each month, at Jordan Springs Community Hub, 2-6 Cullen Ave, Jordan Springs. For more information contact Keith - 02 9713 9038, Tricia – 0414 976 997, Annie – 0409 230 753, or email us at probusjordansprings@ gmail.com.
r Christmas in July fun & friendship | Image: Sandra Griffin
– COMMUNITY CHURCH JORDAN SPRINGS
Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Heath Whiley
A: Jordan Springs Community Hub P: 0402 712 972 W: www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au Service Times: 6pm Wednesday
Finding Wisdom in a Noisy World
The Bible’s teaching on wisdom and foolishness is not just about smart choices versus bad ones, it’s about the path you’re walking and the person you’re becoming. In the book of Proverbs (within the Bible), wisdom is deeply relational. It begins with “the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7), a posture of awe, humility, and trust toward God. Foolishness, by contrast, is not ignorance but arrogance: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes” (Proverbs 12:15).
In The Road Less Travelled, M. Scott Peck opens with this line: “Life is difficult.” The question is not if life will be hard, but how we will walk through it. The wise person doesn’t avoid hardship but walks through it with the grain of God’s design, seeking His voice and obeying His word. The fool resists correction, builds life on personal opinion, and ignores eternal realities.
Wisdom is not merely a set of principles; it’s a person. The Bible says that Christ is “the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24). To follow Him is to walk the path of wisdom — even when it looks foolish to the world.
In the end, the Bible shows us that the wise build their lives on God, while the foolish build on themselves. One path leads to life. The other, to ruin.
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
St Davids
In the calendar, there is the celebration of the Transfiguration of Christ. The celebration goes back to the early fourth century in the Eastern churches, and after the ninth century in the West. It is interesting that in the Anglican prayer book of 1561 it was held as a minor celebration, but in many revisions, particularly in the American prayer book of 1892, it was restored and remains a major celebration. In the Gospel record both St. Matthew and St. Luke utilise St. Mark’s record of the event. Total comprehension is difficult and even in the Gospel records St. John, St Peter and St. James, who joined Jesus in prayer before the event, were at a loss to fully understand what they had experienced.
Looking back from our perspective, its meaning can only begin to be understood within the final ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ. One of the most telling of the interpretations is found in the New Testament written by St. Paul in the 3rd chapter of his 2nd letter to the Corinthians. But even this does not exhaust contemplation and meditation on its meaning.
Reaction to the life and work of Jesus culminated in his execution. The Apostles remained supportive, yet even they did not fully understand what Jesus was on about. The Transfiguration can now be placed in the context that Jesus had to make a decision to either go on to complete his work, resulting in suffering and humiliation, or to give up. In the transfiguration came the recognition that God the Father was effective in the Son through the Holy Spirit of God, to complete the promise of the Law received through Moses, and the promise of the Prophets through Elias, to obtain the continual reconciliation between the created and the Creator.
FAITH
FAITH – ST DAVIDS CHURCH LLANDILO
Helping Pets Cope with Separation Anxiety
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
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
TRADIE PACKAGE
4733 0792
editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au
PO Box 8254
Glenmore Park NSW 2745
General Enquiries info@districtgazette.com.au
Advertising Enquiries advertise@districtgazette.com.au
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Emergency Services
(Police, Ambulance, Fire) 000
Penrith Police Station 4721 9444
Police Assistance Line 131 444
Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114
WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946
NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS
Churches
Corpus Christi
Catholic Church
86-92 Andromeda Dr, Cranebrook 4730 1249
St Davids Llandilo Seventh Avenue, Llandilo 4736 3592
St Mary + St Marina Coptic
Orthodox Church 363 Ninth Ave, Llandilo 4777 5577
Penrith Church – Strong Nation Churches (LTD)
Coming soon Shop 2, 56 – 66 Lakeside Parade, Jordan Springs 4577 6555
Community Church: Jordan Springs 0402 712 972
Community Groups
Breastfeeding Group 1800 686 268
Scouts 1800 SCOUTS (1800 726 887)
Writer
Julie Lobel
Personal
Jasmine Stinson
Penrith Suicide Bereavement Support Group 0402 627 696
Probus Club Penrith Sth 0414 861 390
Prostate Cancer Support Group 1300 13 38 78
Sports Clubs
SMALL PRINT
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 Jordan Springs 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) Belinda
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