JORDAN SPRINGS GAZETTE DECEMBER 2025 by District Gazette

Platforms on Notice to Comply with Social Media Minimum Age

eSafety has informed Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Kick and Reddit of its view they are age-restricted platforms required to comply with Social Media Minimum Age restrictions from December 10.

eSafety has also informed the broader online industry all platforms are obliged to continually assess whether they meet the definition of an ‘age-restricted social media platform’, in particular when they introduce new features or their primary usage changes.

If they do meet the definition, they must take reasonable steps to ensure users under 16 do not hold an account.

On available information, eSafety considers all nine services named, currently meet the criteria for ‘age-restricted social media platform’, in particular the key requirement that their “sole or a significant purpose is to enable online social interaction”.

eSafety has informed the following platforms it considers they are not subject to age restrictions on the basis they do not currently meet the criteria for ‘age-restricted social media platform’ including falling within an exclusion in the legislative rules: Discord, GitHub, LEGO Play, Roblox, Steam and Steam Chat, Google Classroom, Messenger, WhatsApp and YouTube Kids.

From 10 December, eSafety expects all nine services currently assessed as meeting the criteria for age restriction to take reasonable steps to prevent Australian children under the age of 16 from having accounts. eSafety remains in ongoing discussions with these services around their compliance obligations and our planned approach towards enforcement.

Any age restricted platforms which fail to do so may face enforcement action, including civil penalties of up to $49.5 million.

Due to the fast-changing nature of technology, eSafety has been clear there will not be a static list of companies that are age-restricted.

Instead, eSafety will provide updated advice to the public on current assessments and its approach to compliance and enforcement on its website. When new platforms emerge or existing ones evolve to the extent that their purposes change, eSafety may reassess those services. eSafety will assess (and reassess) services when considering exercising its powers.

To help Australians understand better and prepare for the changes that are coming, eSafety recently released a comprehensive package of resources and webinars to answer questions from the public and provide additional details.

Informed by extensive consultation and feedback from key partners including mental health and support organisations, such as headspace, Kids Helpline, Beyond Blue, Raising Children and ReachOut Australia, all resources are available for free at eSafety.gov.au.

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 Panthers Leagues Club, Mulgoa Road Penrith from 6.00pm. More Details: 0466 725 317

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 Blooming Idea

In Jordan Springs, one local florist has taken the idea of convenient, heartfelt gifting and added a fresh, floral twist. Burford’s Blooms, a much-loved home-studio florist run by Hayley Sabjan, has introduced a floral vending machine concept, bringing ready-to-go bouquets to the community on weekends.

The vending fridge, located at 16 Bethany Circuit right outside Hayley’s home studio, first launched in October 2025. While Burford’s Blooms continues to offer its full range of services Monday to Saturday, including same-day delivery, click-andcollect, weddings and events, Hayley wanted to add something a little playful and accessible for her neighbours. “It’s a fun weekend add-on to complement our full-service studio,” she explained. “You simply walk up the driveway, and you’ll see the fridge lights shining, stocked full of beautiful options ready to go.”

The idea came from wanting to maintain the quality and joy of fresh flowers, while offering a flexible option for those spontaneous moments when a thoughtful gesture matters most. Whether someone is popping by after sport, on their morning walk, or on the way to see a friend, the vending machine provides easy access to fresh blooms without needing to pre-order. “I wanted to introduce something light-hearted and accessible, a way for people to grab fresh blooms over the weekend when we might be busy with deliveries or event work,” Hayley said. “It’s a fun extension of what we do, built on the same quality and care that define our everyday work.”

Here’s how it works: each weekend, the fridge is stocked with Burford’s Blooms’ signature arrangements in different palettes and sizes. Customers simply open the door, choose the bouquet they love, and pay via the PayID displayed. It’s entirely trust-based, an honesty system that has resonated beautifully with locals. “The response has been wonderful,” Hayley shared. “People love the convenience and the surprise of it. It’s been heart-warming to see how respectfully and enthusiastically the community has embraced it.”

The initiative has already become a small local delight, a bright floral moment tucked into the rhythm of everyday life in Jordan Springs.

For updates on what’s stocked each weekend, residents can follow @burfordsblooms on Instagram and Facebook or visit www.burfordsblooms.com.au.

“We’re so grateful to this community for their continued support,” Hayley said. “This little idea has blossomed thanks to them and we’re excited to keep spreading floral joy.”

r The floral vending machine in Bethany Circuit | Image: Hayley Sabjan. Article: Tanya Nellestein

Your 2026 Bin Collection Calendar is Now Available

It’s easier than ever to stay up to date with your bin collection days with our electronic calendars.

You can get yours by either:

• Downloading our Penrith Waste Champion app where you can get real-time notifications in the palm of your hand

• Requesting a printed copy to be sent to you by visiting The Waste Spot at penrith.city/thewastespot

• Downloading a copy of the calendar from...

Drop Off Your Recycling!

Have a lot of recycling that won’t fit into your yellow-lidded recycling bin?

Bring it to our free recycling drop-off point from Monday 22 December 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026* between 3pm and 6pm at The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington.

/bincalendars

Additional Kerbside Bin Collections for Christmas and New Year’s

Thursday 25 December 2025 to Wednesday 7 January 2026

We’re providing extra bin collections to help with the additional waste and recycling produced over Christmas and New Year’s.

We’re accepting items such as wrapping paper, cardboard boxes and other household recyclables.

Please remember that polystyrene can’t be dropped off, but it can be placed in your red-lidded residual bin or taken to Penrith’s Community Recycling Centre. *Event excludes public holidays and weekends.

During the weeks highlighted, place all bins on the kerbside the night before your normal collection day.

Collections may run early in the morning and late into the night, so please do not bring your bins in until they have been emptied.

Recycle Your Christmas Tree!

We’re collecting real Christmas trees for free on Saturday 10 January 2026.

Bring your real tree to The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington between 8am and 12pm and we’ll turn it into mulch. Please make sure to remove all decorations from your trees before bringing them down on the day.

Artificial trees can be disposed of by booking a bulky waste collection at The Waste Spot or by breaking it down and placing it in your red-lidded residual bin.

Learn more at penrith.city/christmasservices

2026 Australia Day Concert and Fireworks

Enjoy all the festivities of Australia Day 2026 at Blacktown City Council’s Australia Day Celebrations at The Rooty Hill in January 2026. Grab the family and enjoy a family-friendly day out while Rooty Hill plays host to live stage performances, amusement rides, food stalls and concludes with Western Sydney’s best fireworks display!

Australia Day Concert is a licenced event and strictly no BYO alcohol. Alcohol must be purchased and consumed within the licenced area.

Headliner announcement: Australia Day headliner DIESEL

With over thirty five singles, sixteen albums, 6 ARIA awards and record sales edging 1 million, DIESEL is a journeyman of music. With blues music in his DNA, an influence largely from his Father’s record collection, DIESEL has blended styles to come up with a truly unique sound, punctuated with his distinct guitar playing and vocals.

Proudly presented by Blacktown City Council and supported by Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park. Assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

Free kids activities

Cricket NSW Cricket clinic and rides

When

Monday, 26 January 2026 | 4:00pm - 9:30pm

Location

The Rooty Hill, Eastern Rd, Rooty Hill, 2766

For more information, visit: https://www.blacktown.nsw. gov.au/Events-and-activities/2026-Australia-Day-ConcertFireworks

r Image/Article: Blacktown City Council

First Boeing 737 Lands at Western Sydney International Airport

Decades of planning, thousands of workers and more than 22 million work hours have led to another milestone moment for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) as the first Boeing 737 touched down on their 3.7km runway recently.

The RFS ‘Marie Bashir’ Large Air Tanker 737 was met with rapturous community applause upon arrival to Sydney’s soonto-open 24-hour gateway and marked the start of WSI’s largest ever multiagency emergency exercise.

The 737 played an important role in their staged simulation that saw about 300 volunteers, NSW Police and other emergency services and federal agency partners descend on their freshly minted airfield where they were put through their paces to ensure they’re fully prepared to respond in the unlikely event of an emergency.

The 737 landing is the first of many. The Boeing 737 is the most common aircraft in Australian skies and will be coming in for landing more frequently at Sydney’s new domestic, international and cargo airport when they begin welcoming their first commercial customers in the second half of 2026.

With major construction complete, domestic and international airlines signed and more talks with other airlines underway, their opening day preparations are now shifting to focus on operational readiness and live trials, with exercises providing opportunities to train staff and test systems.

This includes dozens of technology systems that will give customers a simple, seamless, and stress-free experience, all while taking in the architecture of their beautiful airport terminal that pays homage to First Nations communities and the nearby Blue Mountains.

The arrival of the first Boeing 737 represents a significant milestone on the journey to becoming Australia's newest 24hour airport. WSI's operational readiness program will continue throughout 2025 and 2026, ensuring all systems, staff and airport partners are ready and raring to go ahead of opening.

r Image/Article: Western Sydney International Airport

Sydney-based technology start-up BellBots is set to launch their world-first G1Humanoid Robot application developed for everyday assistance across retail, education, transport and emergency service sectors.

BellBots are set to revolutionise the retail sector with shopper-focused, practical assistance like bag carrying and store finding, while also delivering effective in-store advertising and promotional services to retailers.

Standing 5 feet tall and with a human-like form, the core robotics platform within the robotic shells manufactured by Unitree, are powered by a custom AI software stack that integrates motion control, vision recognition, and conversational intelligence. The system uses reinforcement learning and advanced motion planning to mimic human-like movement while adapting to different environments.

The launch of the robots will also coincide with a custom shopper engagement software suite that turns each robot into an interactive advertising channel for retailers. The platform will have the ability to connect shoppers, store owners, and centre management through a custom app and cloud dashboard.

BellBots Founder Andrew Bell shared, “inspiration came from a clear vision that technology should make everyday life simpler, more efficient, and more engaging for both individuals and communities. We saw a gap between cutting edge robotics research and practical, real world applications. The driving force has been to bridge that gap bringing futuristic technology out of laboratories and into public spaces, schools, and workplaces in ways that genuinely benefit people.”

The robots will be designed for multi-sector human interaction across multiple environments such as airports, schools, events and even the emergency services sector, with a core focus on the technologies’ accessibility and engagement within the community. r Image/Article: Local Edge Marketing

Penrith Wild Photo Competition

Penrith City Council’s popular Wildlife Wednesday Photo Competition is back under a new name! “Penrith Wild Photo Competition" is what they felt best represented their community of photographers.

Aspiring photographers can enter the draw to win one of 10 Nature Packs, including one “A Guide to Native Bees of Australia” by Terry Houston, one Biodiversity Pack of 10 preselected native plants supplied by Council’s Nursery and the opportunity to be featured in the Bushcare Calendar 2027.

How long is the competition running?

The competition is open from Saturday 1 November 2025 and closes 5:00pm Sunday 1 February 2026.

How do you enter the competition?

They have 3 different ways you can enter the competition:

• On Instagram: Post on Instagram including the hashtags #penrithwild and #wwcomp2025, a brief description of what your photo is and where it was taken. Entries without #wwcomp2025 and/or posted on private accounts will not be considered. Accounts must be public for photos to be entered.

• On Facebook: Post your photo as a reply to their photo competition posts on Facebook. Photos shared in posts that are not dedicated to the photo competition will not be considered entered.

• Via email: Email bushcare@penrith.city with the subject “Penrith Wild Photo Competition Entry” and a high-quality version of your photograph.

If possible, when you enter, please provide a description of what you photographed and where you captured it.

How many times can you enter?

As many times as you like! You will only have the chance to win one Nature Pack per household. They will only select one of your photos as the winning entry.

What are the prizes?

Each pack includes one “A Guide to Native Bees of Australia” by Terry Houston, and one Biodiversity Pack of 10 pre-selected native plants supplied by Council’s Nursery.

Winners’ photos will be displayed for a month at Penrith City Library and have their photograph featured, with full credit, in Council’s free Bushcare Calendar 2027, which is given to over 200 volunteers every year.

Terms and conditions

Please ensure you read the terms and conditions at: https:// www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/images/waste-environment/ bushcare/2025-2026_penrith_wild_photo_competition_ terms_and_conditions.pdf before entering.

If you have any questions, please email bushcare@ penrith.city

A Symphony of Lights

Every evening in December, as twilight settles over Ropes Crossing, Lawler Street comes alive. The quiet suburban road transforms into a wonderland of colour and music, a place where over 5,000 lights dance in perfect harmony to festive tunes. From December 1st to New Year’s Day, between 8:00pm and 10:00pm, the house becomes a beacon of joy, its radiance spreading through the community like Christmas spirit itself.

Visitors arrive in steady streams, with anticipation flickering in their eyes. Some tune their car radios to a special FM channel, marvelling as the lights shimmer in time with the carols. Others step out into the cool evening air, pressing a button that triggers a nearby speaker to play the same joyful music for five magical minutes. The synchrony of sound and light feels almost enchanted, an orchestra of colour conducted by one family’s devotion to the season.

This display has been a tradition since 2019, born from a simple desire to bring happiness to others. Over the years, it’s

grown brighter, more intricate, more loved. Yet for the creator, it isn’t about the number of lights or the hours spent wiring them together, it’s about the smiles. Watching children’s faces glow with wonder, seeing families gather and laugh together, fills him with a quiet contentment that no gift could match.

“I love the down time with family,” says Christopher Hemmings, “and seeing the children’s faces when they see the lights, it makes all the effort worthwhile.”

For the people of Ropes Crossing, the display at 44 Lawler Street has become more than a neighbourhood attraction, it’s a symbol of community, generosity, and the simple magic that defines the festive season. Each twinkling bulb and every beat of music reminds them: joy shines brightest when it’s shared.

Merry Christmas

FESTIVE SEASON CLOSURE: 8th December 2025 - 4th January 2026 from our team to you and yours

r The amazing lights display | Images: Christopher Hemmings

Book Review Your

Elevator to Nowhere

Author:R.L Stine

Elevator to nowhere is a choose your own adventure book written by R.L Stine. The storyline follows you and your friend Jamie getting a science assignment for your school science fair. Jamie’s uncle Darius, an inventor, says he can help you, and you travel to his house and find him in the middle of testing his “Transuniversal Transvator”

Although it appears as a normal elevator to untrained eyes, uncle Darius says it can transport people to alternate universes. To prove it, he says he will travel to a headhunting universe (where people hunt people for heads to shrink) and bring back a shrunken head. When he comes back, there’s good news and bad news: The elevator worked perfectly, but uncle Darius’s headhunting self in the other universe has come back instead of the normal uncle Darius. And he’s out to shrink yours and Jamie’s heads!

The ways you can defeat the headhunting uncle Darius vary. You can either battle him on Earth, assisted by the countless quirky devices he has scattered around the house, or sneak into the Transvator and travel to alternate universes to search for the real uncle Darius, some of which include a world where children are banned to a world where humans are entirely governed by bugs, and bring him back. No matter which path you choose, Thrills and fun are guaranteed through dozens of choices.

However, there is a twist. You must accomplish all this without dying, either by headhunting Darius with his long Machete or the beings of the universes you travel to. There are over 20 different endings, but some are good. Overall, I would highly recommend this to all, and it was a captivating read from start to finish.

r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal

Christmas Cheer Arrives with Llandilo RFS Santa Run

Christmas is coming early to Llandilo and Jordan Springs as Santa trades in his sleigh for a shiny red fire truck, joining the Llandilo Rural Fire Service (RFS) for their popular annual Santa Run.

Captain Tim Hearn and his crew are busy preparing the trucks, polishing the chrome, and stringing up tinsel as they get ready to bring festive cheer to local streets once again. “It’s one of our favourite times of the year,” Captain Hearn said. “The smiles, the excitement, and the sense of community make all the effort worthwhile.”

This year’s Santa Run will see Santa and his firefighting helpers visiting Jordan Springs on December 20, before returning to Llandilo on Christmas Eve for their final stop before Santa heads back to the North Pole. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the Llandilo RFS Facebook page for times and route updates.

During the Santa Run, the brigade’s trucks will roll slowly through local streets, stopping at parks and gathering spots where children can meet Santa, snap a photo, and even receive a small goodie from his helpers. It’s a heart-warming tradition that has grown each year, with more families coming out to wave, laugh, and share in the Christmas spirit.

“The Santa Run really brings the community together,” Captain Hearn said. “We’ve watched kids who once came running out in their pyjamas now bring their own children along. It’s a beautiful reminder of how connected our community is.”

For the volunteers, it’s also a chance to show the community a different side of their brigade, one filled with laughter and lights instead of sirens and smoke.

Families who wish to support the Llandilo RFS can also contribute on the day, as Santa’s helpers will have donation boxes available.

So, when you hear the distant jingle of bells mixed with the rumble of a fire truck engine, step outside and wave, Santa and the Llandilo RFS crew will be coming down your street to spread joy, smiles, and a little bit of Christmas magic.

House Visits Dog Walking

Stuck at work? Going on holidays? Or just need a little extra help with your furry (or feathered) friends?

Whether it’s feeding, walkies, playtime or cuddly overnight stays, we make sure everything is just right for your fur-baby’s unique needs.

We know pets love their routine, and we keep things familiar while you’re away so your pets stay comfy and wagging their tails.

r Feature Article [Cover + Top] Santa with Llandilo RFS’ truck in Jordan Springs [Top L&R] Jordan Springs/Llandilo Santa Run Maps | Images: Llandilo RFS

PROBUS CLUB

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Jordan Springs E: probusjordansprings@gmail.com W: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings

Probus Club of Jordan Springs

An increase in our active social life is heralding the approach of both Summer and Christmas! Throughout November we have had successful Trivia Nights, stimulating Craft Mornings, a glamorous Melbourne Cup Day, plus a few more group lunches than usual discovering a different range of venues... including a local brewery! In our last full meeting for the year (just before this goes to print) we will be excitedly planning for 2026… always providing fun and friendship in retirement.

Our very special Christmas lunch, complete with professional entertainment and Kris Kringle adventures, will celebrate our year with much laughter, dancing and friendship! It’s been a great year for us all, and we are looking forward to enjoying next year even more!

Our Christmas wish for all… “May the best of your 2025 be the worst of 2026!”

Visitors are always welcome to any events, so come along and discover 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 a 10:00 am 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

FAITH – 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

Faith for Today: “Silent Night”

Every year, Australians gather outdoors under warm summer skies, candles glowing, voices united in “Silent Night.” It’s one of the simplest and most beautiful carols ever written and perhaps that’s why it endures. Beneath its calm melody lies a profound truth that our restless hearts still long to hear.

“Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright.” The world on that first Christmas was anything but calm; oppression, poverty, uncertainty. Yet into that darkness came light. Into that chaos came peace. Christianity is not sentimental escapism; it’s the story of God entering the brokenness of our world in the person of Jesus.

When the carol moves to “Son of God, love’s pure light, radiant beams from Thy holy face,” it points us to something staggering; that the infinite God became vulnerable. The Creator became a baby. Love itself took on flesh. In Jesus, God didn’t merely send advice or comfort; He came Himself to redeem us through His grace.

That’s why “Silent Night” still resonates in Australian hearts today. It speaks to our longing for peace, for love that doesn’t fail, for light that cannot be overcome. The night was silent not because the world was safe, but because the Saviour had come.

This Christmas, let that truth sink in: the calm our souls crave is found not in our circumstances, but in the God who came near; Jesus, love’s pure light.

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

Early Days, But to Everyone, a Holy and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

It’s that time of the year again, and on Christmas Eve at 11 p.m. the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols will be held at St David’s, followed by the Christ Mass at midnight. The Lessons and Carols outline the long history of Semitic religion, which culminated in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus the Christ. In attempting to come to a full understanding of the implications of His resurrection, the study of history through the sciences and the disciplines of theology, anthropology, astronomy, psychology, etc., is a lifetime exercise, and no one can really claim to be a master in the totality of learning in these.

To the Christian, our understanding of life’s evolution, redemption, and recognition that in life’s ups and downs, within our own strengths and weaknesses. the reality of forgiveness as won in Christ is still a powerful force in everyday living, while sanctification is the recognition that, in the words of St Paul, “the whole creation groans within ourselves, waiting for our adoption.”

So, as we contemplate through the Lessons and Carols, we often fall back onto a Platonic concept of a deity “out there,” who somehow created the universe and the life we share. But the Lessons and Carols emphasise a deity who is among us, contemporary in the process of history, who absorbed humanity in the person of His Son. In His humanity, Jesus the Christ attracted people to Him by the example of His life. He taught and showed people how to live. Some who were attracted to Him, however, after a while withdrew. This withdrawal was often based on the unwillingness of people to give of themselves, to see that life means to give and not to take, and to walk honestly.

Christmas Carols Carnival Brings

Festive Fun and Community Spirit to TOMS

TOMS Anglican Church is inviting the local community to celebrate the season at its annual Christmas Carols Carnivala joyful evening that combines the fun of a local fair with the heart of the Christmas story.

Designed as a safe, welcoming space for all ages, the Carols Carnival will feature family-friendly entertainment, live music, food stalls and, of course, plenty of carols. It’s an opportunity for everyone to come together, relax, and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas.

“We want to create a space where families can have fun and be reminded of the hope and joy at the heart of Christmas,” said organisers from TOMS Anglican Church. “Everyone is welcome, whether you regularly attend church or are simply looking for a positive community event to be part of.”

Alongside the carols and activities for children, there’ll be a play performed about the meaning of Christmas and the hope it brings. The event is part of TOMS’ ongoing commitment to being a church that serves and connects with its local community - a place where people can find friendship, faith and belonging.

TOMS holds Sunday services at 10:00am and 6:00pm each week, with a warm invitation extended to all. The church will also hold a special Christmas family service at 10:00am on 21 December and a Christmas Day service at 9:00am on 25 December.

Looking ahead to 2026, the congregation is excited to welcome its new Senior Minister, Keith Baker and his family, who will be leading TOMS into the next chapter of community life and mission. The Carols Carnival is the perfect time to come along, sing, and share in the joy of Christmas together.

r Image/Article: TOMS Anglican Church

TOMS Anglican Church Invites You To:

Jumping Castle l Arts and Crafts l Live Music

Face Painting l Teen Zone l Buffet Dinner

Carols By Candlelight With Live Drama FREE!

For tickets and more information, be wise and scan the QR code below:

The Moustache is Calling

This Movember, the moustache is calling again

This Movember, the moustache is calling again — and it’s calling on everyone.

Say It Out Loud

— and it’s

From humble beginnings in Melbourne 22 years ago, Movember has grown into a global movement that has changed the face of men’s health. In 2025, the charity is once again rallying Australians to unite, grow and take action for men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer - with a renewed focus on supporting men in regional and remote communities who are facing the greatest risk

registries and pioneering mental health programs that reach men where they are - in workplaces, sporting clubs, and rural towns across Australia.

Since its inception in 2003, Movember has sparked billions of conversations, raised in excess of AUD $1.7 billion and funded more than 1,300 men’s health projects across the world. Its impact has been transformative — from groundbreaking biomedical research to building some of the world’s largest prostate cancer

HEALTH MATTERS

registries and pioneering mental health programs that reach men where they are - in workplaces, sporting clubs, and rural towns across Australia.

And in 2023, the Movember Institute of Men’s Health was launched, backed by an AUD $100 million global investment – uniting experts, communities and partners to accelerate research and translate it into real-world solutions.

www.districtgazette.com.au/submissions

“Men’s health still isn’t enough of a priority,” says Movember Co-Founder Travis Garone. “Our healthcare systems often don’t meet men where they are especially in rural and remote areas — and too many fall through the cracks. The moustache is our rallying cry — it gets people talking, laughing, and most importantly, acting. Every Mo grown and every conversation sparked can save a life.”

Australians are encouraged to sign up, donate, or learn more

r Image/Article: Movember

Australians are encouraged to sign up, donate, or learn more

Movember

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness

P: 0418 166 269

Can Regular Slump Stretching Improve Recovery From Lower Back Pain?

Many people suffer from “non-radicular low back pain” (NRLBP), i.e. lower back pain without the pain, numbness, or tingling that may be felt in the glutes, thighs, calves, or feet, which are symptoms “referred to areas” served by a “pinched nerve.” In these NRLBP patients, physical therapists often prescribe spinal mobilization and stabilization exercise protocols to help reduce back pain.

Nerve restrictions and overall nerve length can limit how far someone can stretch. When nerves, such as the sciatic nerve, are:

1. shortened, or

2. can’t slide smoothly through surrounding tissues due to entrapment by scar tissue adhesions or compression by surrounding muscle, everyday movements can put excess mechanical stress on nerves, compromising nerve function and causing back pain.

Thus, NRLBP may, in part, be due to restricted nerve movement, and neural mobilization exercises (NME), like slump stretches, may be of benefit. NME “are combinations of joint movements that promote either:

1. nerve tensioning (by displacing nerve endings in opposite directions), or

2. nerve sliding within its bed (by displacing nerve endings in the same direction),” to stretch nerves and reduce restrictions, possibly lowering nerve stress and thus back pain.

In a 2012 study by Nagrale et al., researchers randomized 60

patients to receive two sessions per week for three weeks of either a normal spinal mobilization and stabilization exercise protocol:

1. 5 min stationary bike warm-up

2. 2 or 3 x 40 sec front-back oscillations to mobilize “stuck” vertebrae

3. 10 wall squats

4. 10 bridges

5. 10 pelvic tilts

6. 10 quadruped arm and leg lifts

or the normal protocol plus 5 x 30 sec slump stretches.

Slump stretching involved patients sitting with knees straight, feet flat against a wall, then flexing their trunk and neck/head toward their feet, with overpressure on the head/neck from a therapist to increase stretch until the onset of stretch symptoms, then holding for 30 seconds.

The authors found that the addition of slump stretching led to greater improvements in:

1. overall disability

2. pain scores

3. levels of fear and avoidance

Specific stretching is almost always helpful to aid patient recovery from lower back pain. Suffering lower back pain? Give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418 166 268.

r ** Refer to submitter for references

The Twelve Holiday Hazards for Pets – Christmas 2025

Christmas is a time of joy, laughter, and celebration—but for our pets, it can also bring a few unexpected risks. Between the tempting aromas of festive feasts, the glitter of decorations, and the excitement of visitors, it’s easy for curious paws to find trouble. To keep your pets safe and happy this holiday season, here are twelve common Christmas hazards to watch out for:

1. Decorations and Tinsel - Shiny ornaments, fairy lights, and tinsel are irresistible to curious cats and playful pups. Unfortunately, they can cause serious injuries if chewed or swallowed. Tinsel and ribbon can lead to dangerous intestinal blockages, while chewing on cords can cause electric shocks or burns.

2. Christmas Dinner and Leftovers - While pets love to be part of the family feast, fatty meats, gravies, and salty foods can cause digestive upsets or pancreatitis. Avoid sharing table scraps—especially ham, pork, and turkey skin—and stick to their regular treats instead.

3. Chocolate, Sweets, and Alcohol - Desserts are another danger zone. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats, and xylitol (a common sweetener) can cause sudden drops in blood sugar or even liver failure. Alcohol can also make pets dangerously ill. Keep all treats and drinks well out of reach.

4. Ribbons and Gift Wrap - Once the presents are opened, those colourful ribbons and bows can become tempting playthings. But if swallowed, they can twist and tangle in the intestines, requiring emergency surgery. Collect and dispose of wrapping materials promptly after gifts are unwrapped.

5. Heat Stress and Hot Cars - The holiday season coincides with hot summer weather, putting pets at risk of heatstroke. Never leave them in the car, even briefly—temperatures can soar in minutes. Make sure they always have access to shade, fresh water, and a cool place to rest.

6. Snakes - With more outdoor gatherings and warm weather, snake sightings are common, particularly in grassy or bushy

areas and along walking tracks like the Nepean River. Keep pets close and on a lead, and seek urgent veterinary care if you suspect a snake bite.

7. Lilies and Toxic Plants - Beautiful but deadly, lilies are extremely poisonous to cats, even a small amount of pollen or a single leaf can cause kidney failure. Choose pet-safe plants and flowers for your home and gifts.

8. BBQ Skewers and Cooked Bones - Cooked bones can splinter and cause painful internal injuries, while discarded skewers can puncture the digestive tract. Dispose of leftovers carefully and keep rubbish bins secure during outdoor celebrations.

9. Grapes, Raisins, and Festive Fruits - Many Christmas treats like puddings, cakes, and fruit salads contain grapes, raisins, and sultanas—all toxic to pets and capable of causing kidney failure. Keep these dishes well away from hungry noses.

10. The Christmas Tree - Whether real or artificial, trees can be a source of fascination for pets. Cats may climb them, while dogs might chew on decorations. Pine needles can irritate the stomach, and water in live tree stands may contain toxic preservatives. Secure your tree and supervise curious pets.

11. Guests and Gatherings - Holiday visitors and noisy parties can be overwhelming for some pets. Set up a quiet, comfortable room with their bed, water, and favourite toys so they have a safe retreat when things get hectic.

12. Fireworks Frenzy - Fireworks may be fun for us, but they can be terrifying for pets. Loud noises and bright flashes often trigger panic, leading to escape attempts or injury. Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays, close windows and blinds, and make sure your pet’s microchip and ID details are up to date—just in case they bolt in fear.

From all of us at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we wish you and your pets a very Merry Christmas and a safe, happy holiday season!

If you need advice or emergency care, please call us on 02 4736 2027.

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December is a month of celebration, reflection, and connection. It is a time when the year gently comes to a close and our community shines in its best light. Streets sparkle with festive decorations, the sound of carols fills the air, and families gather to share meals, laughter, and memories. School graduations mark new beginnings, while community events bring neighbours together in the warmth of summer. It is also a time to pause and reflect on the months gone by, to appreciate milestones reached, lessons learned, and the people who have supported us along the way. Amid the busyness, remember to rest, recharge, and find joy in the simple moments that make this season special.

Thank you for being part of our community and for sharing your stories, spirit, and kindness throughout the year. Here is to a wonderful festive season filled with love and laughter, and to a bright, hopeful year ahead.

“What is done in love is done well.” –Vincent Van Gogh

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