JORDAN SPRINGS GAZETTE OCTOBER 2025 by District Gazette

Cinema in the Park: Harry Potter

Join Council for a free screening of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’.

They’re planning for a magical, spellbinding evening! Make sure you plan your evening in advance as they have free popcorn for the first 2,000 people to arrive for the movie. Admission for the movie is free.

They have some fun activities for the kids, including:

• Face painting

• Harry Potter themed craft

• Roving performers On-site:

• Free popcorn for the first 200 people

• Bean bags and deck chairs to lounge in to enjoy the movie (although they highly recommend bringing your own just in case!)

• An ice-cream truck where you can purchase some delicious snacks

If you’re unsure of where to start with your planning, here’s what’s on your checklist:

• Pack blankets or lawn chairs to sit on

• Setting the alarm early so you can be one of the cinemagoers to get free popcorn (they’re giving it to the first 200 people!)

• Decide which local restaurant to have dinner there are a lot of delicious options!

• Get dressed in your Hogwarts house.

• Plan for some time for the kids to enjoy some of the free activities they have face painting and arts and crafts.

‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ (2001) is a family/ fantasy film that runs for 2 hours and 32 mins and is rated PG.

Dates and Time:

Saturday 11 October 2025

6:00pm – 9:00pm

Location:

City Park, Station Street, Penrith NSW 2750

r Image/Article: Penrith City Council

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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

Hobbies + Interests

Cranebrook Kids

Nepean Hook & Yarn

Meets at 10:00am on Tuesdays at Andromeda Community Hall (Andromeda Drive, Cranebrook). More details: https:// www.playgroupnsw.org.au/Playgroup/Playgroups/ CranebrookKids

Meet twice a month, 1st Fridays & 3rd Wednesdays of the month at Mocca Cafe Penrith Homemaker, near Domayne escalators. 10am-1pm. More details visit their Facebook or instagram pages @nepeanhook&yarn

Cranebrook PlayConnect

Penrith Physical Culture Club

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

Great meets at Glenmore Park Youth and Community Centre and Nangamay Public School on Monday and Tuesday nights and Caroline Chisholm High School Dance Studio on Tuesday nights. More details: penrithphysie@outlook.com

Hobbies + Interests

Nepean Group – Embroiderers Guild

“Taste of Everything” Group for Women

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

Learn something new each week, meet new people, and have a laugh. Meets every Thursday from 9.30am-12.30pm at Floribunda Community Centre (3-4 Floribunda Ave, Glenmore Park). More Details: Martha 0414 557 062

Markets

Blacktown Markets

Luddenham Country 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 fortnightly on Sundays from 19th March, 9:00am till 1:00pm at Luddenham Showground (Park Road, Luddenham). More details: Search Luddenham Country Market on Facebook Markets

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

Penrith Producers

Support + Wellbeing

Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Group

Support + Wellbeing

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

Penrith Womens Walk and Talk

Prostate Cancer Support Group

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

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 Mens Walk and Talk

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

Meets 5pm every Thursday (for Guest Speaker) and walk from 6pm outside Coffee Club Nepean River (78-88 Tench Ave, Jamisontown). More details: www.facebook.com/ PenrithMensWalkAndTalk/

Prostate Cancer Support Group

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/

Our Community Cares Gets Festive

The Sweet Joy of Christmas

Jordan Springs based charity, Our Community Cares invites the community to start or continue a tradition with their family and friends in creating a wonderful Gingerbread house.

It’s a fun night and if you need a hand, it’s available. There are two sessions annually and all you need to bring is sweets to adorn your personal house.

The kit comes in Gingerbread, Chocolate and Gluten Free, and everything needed to complete your project is included.

Dates: 25th November, and 2nd December

Venue: Claremont Meadows Community Centre

Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm

Cost: $50 per house

Bookings essential. Contact kris.gauci@ourcommunitycares. org.au

Wrapping Up Christmas

Christmas is such a busy time for Our Community Cares. They have their annual gift-wrapping stalls at Westfields Penrith Plaza and Nepean Village and wrap thousands of gifts over the weeks before Christmas. They are constantly on the lookout for volunteers who enjoy that side of Christmas and who love wrapping, to donate some time to help out. They love meeting new friends and old while wrapping up Christmas for the community.

OCC uses the funds to purchase equipment for the community or help in the programs to benefit the aged and children in the greater Penrith area.

Last year, they packed and delivered 552 backpacks for primary students doing it tough, and additionally more than a thousand gifts for the aged in care. They also helped Platform Youth Services with their Christmas Hampers and gifts for those in aged care at the hospital.

Wrapping starts on the 1st of December and continues until Christmas Eve. Shifts are only 4 hours, and everyone works alongside at least one other volunteer. Email kris.gauci@ ourcommunitycares.org.au to find out more about volunteering or to see what they do in the community. Our Community Cares is working with Penrith for Penrith.

Commemoration of ADF Middle East Area

of Operations 2001-2021

Australia had a long-term presence in both Afghanistan and Iraq. More than forty thousand Australian Defence Force personnel served directly or indirectly in those areas between 2001 and 2021. Fifty-one of that number were killed on active service, and hundreds more were wounded or subsequently suffer as a direct result of their Middle-East experience.

On October 10th this year, St Marys RSL sub-Branch will hold their second annual commemoration for veterans of the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) including their family as well as other interested members of the local community. The service will honour those ADF personnel who served in the Afghanistan and Iraq during the period 2001-2021.

There will be a particular focus this year on the role of women in MEAO. Australian women played diverse and vital roles in MEAO, in military and civilian roles. Such military roles included combat support in logistics, transport and communications, often alongside combat troops. They played active roles on health and welfare and intelligence. Women also had roles in other support roles essential for the success of military operations.

The event will be held in the auditorium at St Marys Diggers Club, in Hall St. St Marys.

The sub-Branch believes that many MEAO veterans live in the local district. The overall focus of the service will be remembrance and veteran camaraderie. The sub-Branch sees the service as an opportunity to support each other and families through the challenges that a veteran may face from their experiences. Veterans from earlier conflicts or operations are encouraged to join in the event to support the MEAO Veterans. Veterans can contact the sub-Branch Secretary Tony Fryer for further information (st-marysSB@rslnsw.org.au or 0414 557 692). The service will commence at 6.15pm in the auditorium –dress is smart casual (veterans with jackets and medals).

r Article: Steve Tolsher, Vice President, St Marys RSL sub-Branch

Middle East Area of Operations

A Social Event for the local Community Honouring Our MEAO Veterans and Their Families

St Marys RSL sub-Branch invites Veterans from Middle East conflicts 2001 2021, together with their family and all veterans generally, to join together in a local commemorative and networking event at

St Marys Diggers Club auditorium

(cnr Hall St and Mamre Road, St Marys)

Friday 10th October 2025, 6.15pm (1815hrs)

Including a Commemorative Service, this is a ‘family’ event, providing ...

 reflection paid to those who served, or were casualties of this period of conflict

 appreciation to veterans’ family for their ongoing support

 local advocates and wellbeing officers available

 networking opportunities

 activities for the children

 buffet finger-food

St Marys RSL sub-Branch

Dance Your Way to Fitness

When Rania Haidar launched Raqs Fitness in March 2024, she wanted to create more than just a workout. She wanted to build a space where people could move, laugh, and feel good about themselves.

Before starting her own business, Rania spent five years helping instruct dance fitness sessions in Emu Plains, where she gained the skills and confidence to step into the spotlight. “I’ve always had a passion for dance, movement, and making people feel good through fitness,” she explained. “I wanted to create a space where women, mums, kids, and people of all ages could come together, have fun, and feel confident in their bodies while getting a great workout.”

Rania’s Lebanese heritage plays an important role in shaping her classes. “My background is a big part of who I am, so I love to bring that influence into my classes by mixing in Arabic songs, dancing with hip scarves, and embracing the energy of Middle

Eastern movement,” she said. “Even the name Raqs comes from the Arabic word ‘dance,’ which connects me back to my roots and allows me to share my culture with others. For me, Raqs Fitness isn’t just about exercise—it’s about joy, community, and expressing ourselves through the beauty of dance.”

Classes run every Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at the Jordan Springs Community Centre’s Kookaburra Hall. “If you’re new to Raqs Fitness, your first class is completely free,” Rania said. “After that, it’s just $10 per class, and children 15 and under can join for free. All you need to do is show up, we’ll take care of the rest!”

Each session is a 45–60 minute, non-stop dance workout that combines high-energy music with fun, easy-to-follow moves, giving participants a full-body workout without it feeling like hard work. Rania welcomes all ages and fitness levels.

“What I love most is seeing the smiles, energy, and confidence that people walk out with after class,” she said. “The friendships, the laughter, and the fact that we all show up for each other makes it so rewarding.”

For updates and class info, visit raqsfitness. com.au or connect on Facebook and Instagram at Raqs Fitness.

r Rania and Raqs Fitness members | Images:

Rania Haidar. Article: Tanya Nellestein

Get Ready to Be Spooked at Brooks Jordan Springs This Halloween!

With Halloween creeping around the corner, it’s time to dust off your costumes and prepare for some frightful fun right here in Jordan Springs! A local favourite for family dining and entertainment, Brooks Jordan Springs is once again transforming into ‘The Haunted Pub’ for a night of spooky surprises on Friday, 31st October.

This popular annual event promises thrills and chills for all ages. Trick-or-treaters, brace yourselves, the venue will be decked out in Halloween style, making even the bravest souls feel a shiver or two. Think cobwebs, and creepy props, that sets the perfect spooky scene.

“We can’t wait to bring back the Haunted Pub,” said Rebecca Passlow, Venue Manager of Brooks Jordan Springs, speaking to

the Jordan Springs Gazette. “This event was a hit last year and it’s sure to be just as popular again. Get ready to be spooked!”

Young guests can look forward to face painting from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, plus free lolly bags to sweeten the experience. Even better, kids eat free with every main meal purchased, making it a great night out for the whole family.

And don’t forget to come dressed to impress – will you be Dracula, Frankenstein, or maybe the mysteriously gothic Wednesday Addams?

Looking ahead, Brooks Jordan Springs has more community fun on the horizon. Country Nights kick off in November, with monthly events featuring boot-scootin’ and country hits played late into the night. Plus, The Teddy Bears Picnic will return in February 2026, followed by the Brooks Social Charity Bike Ride in March 2026.

For more details and updates about The Haunted Pub, just search Brooks Jordan Springs on Facebook as Halloween approaches.

Lola Remy’s Brings a Taste of the Philippines to Jordan Springs

Since opening its doors on March 2, 2024, Lola Remy’s has quickly become a beloved local gem in Jordan Springs, offering a unique fusion of Filipino grocery goods and comforting takeaway meals inspired by the traditional Carinderia – a staple of everyday Filipino life.

Run with heart and heritage at its core, Lola Remy’s operates with a rotating menu of hot foods available Wednesday through Sunday, and grocery-only service on Mondays. The shop is closed on Tuesdays, allowing the team time to prepare for the week ahead.

Their trading hours are:

Monday: 10:00am – 6:00pm (Grocery only)

Tuesday: Closed Wednesday to Friday: 10:00am – 6:00pm

Saturday: 9:00am – 7:00pm

Sunday: 10:00am – 5:00pm

Lola Remy’s serves up a warm, nostalgic experience for Filipino locals and curious food lovers alike. Their hot dishes are the true stars, with crowd favourites like Beef Kare-Kare, Crispy Sisig, and Bistek Tagalog regularly selling out. Sweet treats also shine, including Halo Halo, Leche Flan, and Ginataang Bilo-Bilo.

Beyond the takeaway menu, the store boasts a well-stocked grocery section filled with Filipino staples, from dried fish, noodles, and sauces to iconic snacks like Chicharon, Nagaraya, and Skyflakes. Each item is a little piece of the Philippines brought to local shelves.

“What we enjoy most is the connection with our community,” said Ronaldo Bermudez of Lola Remy’s. “Whether it’s preparing a regular’s usual order or helping someone discover a new dessert, we love the relationships we’ve built.”

The heart of Lola Remy’s is not just the food, but the mission behind it. “What drives our business is sharing our rich and vibrant culture. Every dish and product tell a story of tradition and home.”

For weekly menus and updates, customers are encouraged to follow Lola Remy’s on Facebook. Whether you’re Filipino or simply a food lover, a visit to Lola Remy’s is more than a meal, it’s an experience of culture, community, and comfort. r

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.

Book Review Your

The Curse of the Cave Creatures

Author:R.L Stine

The Curse of the Cave Creatures is a choose your own adventure book by R.L Stine. The storyline bases about you (the reader) visiting your relatives in the Arizona Desert. However, when you go hiking, you spot a cave and go inside. You find an ancient animal skull, and drop it, thus upsetting an evil entity, the cave spirit. Because of this incident, he wants to turn you into a painting on his cave wall! However, you can combat him by either becoming a spell caster or a hunter. Once you have chosen, you get your pick of three magical spells or weapons to defeat him… Or become a cave painting!

You set off home with your three magical weapons/ spells to defeat the spirit. When you get home, the story path branches into 2 ways: one for spellcasters, and one for hunters. You find animals that the cave spirit has commanded to kill you! From there, you face multiple challenges, from being attacked by a stuffed lion, a giant snake, or dinosaurs to being thrown into a poisonous bug pit by a crazed scientist or being locked up in a police station by a ghostly sheriff of a ghost town.

With over 20 different endings, all carefully written. The choices are carefully written and assist you in defeating the cave spirit. Summarising, this book fascinated me with its plot, and I would highly recommend it to others. Finally, the best part is that no matter how many times you read it, there will always be a part which you haven’t read.

r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal

Let It Rainne: A Rising Star of Basketball

At just 13 years old, Rainne Acuña of Ropes Crossing is proving herself as one of Sydney’s brightest young basketball talents, earning her place in the Penrith Panthers Under 14 Girls team for the 2025 Nationals.

Rainne’s journey with basketball began during the pandemic, when she started training at home and attending local camps to build her skills. “Rainne started playing basketball around the pandemic period five years ago,” her father, Alain Jasper Acuña, explained. “She joins basketball camps and trains at home to improve her basketball skills.”

That dedication has paid off. Rainne now juggles commitments with three clubs across Sydney—St Clair Wolves in Penrith, Dragons in Blacktown, and G5 Basketball in North Sydney. She mainly plays point guard but is versatile enough to step into shooting guard or small forward roles depending on her team’s needs.

Her hard work and adaptability helped her earn selection for the Penrith Panthers Under 14 Girls team after a tough threeday trial in October last year. The Panthers secured their spot at Nationals by finishing in the top four of the Basketball NSW Junior Premier League ladder. They’ll now head to Willeton in Western Australia, from 28 September to 3 October 2025 to compete against the nation’s best.

For Rainne, the selection was both exciting and rewarding. “I was very excited to be part of the team going to the Nationals, as I love travelling, food and hanging with my friends,” she said. “I also felt proud being at the Nationals for the Under 14’s for the second year in a row.”

What she enjoys most, though, goes beyond the competition. “I mostly enjoy connecting with my friends and enjoying their company. I’m also excited to showcase the skills I practice every day,” Rainne explained.

Basketball is also a family affair for the Acuñas, with Rainne’s brother Mathieus and sister Teischa often joining her in the backyard or garage to shoot hoops and refine skills.

With her passion, family support, and growing list of achievements, Rainne Acuña is a name to watch on the Australian basketball scene.

r Feature Article [Cover + Top] Rising basketball star Rainne Acuña [Above] 2025 Penrith Panthers U14 Girls team | Images: Penrith and District Basketball Association. Article: Tanya Nellestein

Please note that this is a ticketed event. For full event information, and to secure your tickets visit,

Kids clothing (for ages 3 to 12 years old)

Parents and guardians bring up to five quality items of kids clothing that they have outgrown or no longer wear to swap for ‘new-to-you’ goodies!

Check-in

10am – 10:30am Swap opens 10:30am – 11:15am

Adult clothing swap

Open to adults of all ages, shapes, sizes and genders. Bring up to 5 quality items to swap as part of their participation in this fun and sustainable exchange.

Check-in

11:30am – 12:15pm

Stylist presentation 12:15pm – 12:30pm Swap opens 12:30pm – 1:30pm

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

The importance of regular activity, movement, and friendship can never be underestimated, and throughout September we upheld all these maxims in various ways. Enjoying a delightful lunch while watching golfers getting their own exercise was good “research” for our own attempts at golf… Mini-Golf that is! Yes, there were more laughs than holes-in-one… but laughter is good exercise for both the body and soul. Some true exercise was enjoyed on the dance floor after a night of excellent entertainment. All was sweetened by the delicious honey products from our Guest Speaker, and the month was rounded off with a thoroughly entertaining theatre production.

Can we keep the flow going through October? Yes, we can! Looking to enjoy the development of Spring while celebrating Probus Month, October activities will be just as varied, with a scrumptious afternoon tea, a day exploring the history past and present of Lithgow, and a companionable lunch at a local bistro.

The biggest event, however, will be our “Probus Games Day.” The monthly meeting on 28th October will be a day of sharing fun games and activities. Last year was declared “the most fun I’ve had in ages”… this year will be “the most fun we’ve had since last Games Day!”

Visitors are always welcome at 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.

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

The God Who Bends Low

Compassion in the Bible is never just a feeling—it’s love that moves toward action. Proverbs 19:17 says, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” To ignore the suffering of others is to misunderstand the very heart of God.

In The Brothers Karamazov, Dostoevsky wrote, “Love in action is a harsh and dreadful thing compared to love in dreams.” That’s strikingly close to the biblical idea of compassion. It’s easy to imagine ourselves as caring people, but compassion means entering into the mess, inconvenience, and cost of another’s life.

Jesus models this perfectly. When He saw the crowds, “he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). His compassion didn’t stay at the level of sentiment—He healed, fed, taught, and ultimately gave His life.

For those who believe in the God of the Bible, the good news of Jesus ought to create a unique humility. As Timothy Keller once put it: “You are more sinful than you could ever dare believe, and yet more loved and accepted in Christ than you ever dared hope.” When that truth grips us, compassion stops being optional. It becomes the overflow of grace—God’s mercy in us, moving outward. Who around you needs that mercy today?

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

Two Saints Noted in the Calendar for September are St Matthew and St Michael

Saint Matthew was also known as Levi and lived in Galilee, being employed as a tax collector and, as such, was considered a collaborator with the Roman occupiers. Matthew was a witness to the Ascension, and the Gospel in the New Testament is named after him. However, uncertainty exists among some scholars as to whether he was the author, arguing that ‘according to Matthew’ was not added until sometime in the 2nd century.

St Michael directs our thoughts in being reminded that our knowledge of so many things, particularly relating to God, is not exhaustive. During the time of Jesus, popular belief amongst the Jewish people included that of angels. Michael (which means ‘like God’) is considered to be the chief angel in charge of the ‘heavenly hosts’. The major post-New Testament teaching on angels is found in the writings of a Syrian monk, Dionysius, who lived in the fifth century. He attributed to angels aspects of their power and knowledge. Later it was St Thomas Aquinas who, among other works on the Faith, is remembered for his discourses on angels, in which he developed Dionysius’ teaching. Down through the centuries, imagination has played an interesting role in the depiction of angels. Much can be classified as fantastic and not given to demonstration of reality. However, the search for the meaning of life itself and existence has not ruled out reality. As St Thomas argued, they exist but not within the parameters we know as ‘existence’.

FAITH – COMMUNITY CHURCH JORDAN SPRINGS

FAITH – ST DAVIDS CHURCH LLANDILO

the Opening of New

A Milestone Moment: College Celebrates

Learning Spaces

Penrith Anglican College recently celebrated the official opening of its new Exhibition Centre and C & D Block Extension, held on Tuesday 3 September last month.

The $10.5 million project is part of the College Master Plan and delivers eight new Primary classrooms, support spaces, and a multi-purpose Exhibition Centre. These modern, flexible learning areas will cater for growing enrolments and enhance educational programs including incursions, examinations, Year and House meetings, and staff professional learning.

The buildings were officially opened by Mr Philip Bell OAM and dedicated to two foundation Primary leaders, Mrs Sue Kennedy and Mrs Sharyn Jackson, in recognition of their lasting contribution to the College.

Attendees included School Council members, Anglican Schools Corporation Board members, representatives from Steve Watt Construction and Midson Project Management, former staff members, and the families of Mrs Kennedy and Mrs Jackson.

For the College community, the development carries a deeper meaning. By dedicating the Exhibition Centre to these long-serving staff members, Penrith Anglican College honours their years of faithful service and commitment to students. Their legacy of care, dedication, and encouragement continues to shape the character of the school.

“This opening is not just about new facilities, it is about honouring two remarkable women whose contribution to Penrith Anglican College has left an indelible mark,” said Mrs Felicity Grima, Principal of Penrith Anglican College.

“We hope that every student who walks into these spaces will be reminded of the values of service and faithfulness that Mrs Kennedy and Mrs Jackson lived out each day.”

The project was delivered on time and on budget, thanks to strong collaboration between the College and its building partners. A plaque featuring Psalm 115:1 – “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness” – will be unveiled at a Thanksgiving Service, with a curtain reveal marking the official opening.

r [Top] (L – R) Felicity Grima, Sue Kennedy, Sharyn Jackson, and Phillip Bell at the unveiling [Above] The new facility | Images/Article: Penrith Anglican College

Cirque Nouvelle: A New Evolution of Circus

After a sellout regional tour earlier this year, the internationally acclaimed CIRQUE NOUVELLE is back by popular demand— bringing its thrilling blend of worldclass circus artistry to audiences across New South Wales this spring.

Presented by Cameo Rascale Entertainment, Cirque Nouvelle kicks off in Wyong on Friday 27 September and will tour to Taree, Port Macquarie, Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Penrith, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Albury, Sutherland, and concludes in Nowra on Saturday 12 October.

“Cirque Nouvelle is the perfect concoction of nostalgia, comedy, and sophistication. By blending subtle burlesque with dry, slapstick humour and eye-opening wonder, (dynamite husband-and-wife duo James and Rebecca Capener) have crafted the perfect all-ages, modern circus.” Review, The Scoop.

“A visually stunning show that held both adults and children in awe.” Stage Whispers

From aerial artistry and cyr wheel choreography to high-

HEALTH MATTERS

energy juggling and breathtaking acrobatics, this heartpounding, family-friendly spectacle showcases an extraordinary cast of multitalented international performers.

Cirque Nouvelle explores the dynamic evolution of circus— transitioning from the nostalgic ‘Big Top’ era to today’s cuttingedge theatrical experiences, complete with dazzling technology, dramatic lighting, and striking costumes.

James Capener, acrobatic juggler and Artistic Director of Cameo Rascale Entertainment, says: “This show is designed to entertain, inspire, and create special moments for families. We can’t wait to share it with audiences all over the state.”

Whether you’re five or ninety-five, Cirque Nouvelle promises a captivating and uplifting live entertainment experience for the whole family.

Tour date and location: Sunday 5 October 2:00pm and 6:00pm

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith Bookings: www.cameorascale.com/cirquenouvelle

Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness P: 0418 166 269

Can Stretching Your Calves Help Reduce Back Pain?

A system called a ‘kinetic chain’ links your lower back muscles to your calf muscles. It includes all the joints, muscles, and tendons that work together to correctly move your body. Altered kinetic chain function can cause injury and pain.

The cause of back pain is multifactorial, but the kinetic chain of the lower limb, and particularly the tightness of the calves, can “play a crucial role in the development and persistence of” lower back pain. Tight soleus & gastrocnemius muscles can lead to compensatory changes in the kinetic chain that alter the way you stand and walk, eventually producing lower back pain.

Haffeez et al. (2024) studied 22 patients (18–65 yo) with calf tightness and chronic lower back pain. Participants were asked to:

1. Stand for 1 minute on a 45° inclined wedge, 3 times daily, for 4 weeks to stretch their calf muscles.

2. Rate their:

a.pain

b.physical health status, & c.level of disability before & after the intervention.

Results show that after 4 weeks of calf stretching, patients: a.pain reduced by ~4.5/10

b.physical health status improved by ~13/100 c.disability level dropped by ~4.5/10

How do tight calves cause lower back pain?

1. Tight calves restrict a person’s normal ability to lift (dorsiflex) their feet.

2. Good foot lift is required to walk & stand normally.

3. To maintain balance while walking or standing with poor foot lift,

4. Thigh, gluteal, and lower back muscles compensate,

5. Changing from their normal alignments and load patterns.

6. This increases forward tilt of the pelvis,

7. Exaggerates the bend in the lower back,

8. Leading to increased stress on lower back muscles, 9. Causing lumbar pain and tightness.

Calf stretches help reverse this process, normalising pelvic tilt to reduce back pain. Study authors suggest incorporating calf stretching and manual therapy into treatment plans.

At the clinic, appropriate remedial work and stretching of key areas is integral to treatment. If you or someone you know has lower back pain, please feel free to give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418-166-269.

r ** Refer to submitter for references

r Image/Article: Cirque Nouvelle

Article Written + Submitted by: Kellie Tickner from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital A: 49 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027

Adopting Senior Pets: A Second Chance

When most people think about adopting a pet, the focus is often on lively puppies and playful kittens. While they’re undeniably appealing, older pets in shelters are often overlooked. Unfortunately, this means many miss the opportunity to enjoy the stability and comfort of a home in their later years. Senior pets can make excellent companions, offering calmness, predictability, and loyalty that younger animals don’t always bring.

Why Consider a Senior Pet?

A key benefit of adopting an older pet is that much of the groundwork has already been done. Many senior dogs are lead-trained, know the basics such as sit and stay, and are well accustomed to household life. Older cats are typically littertrained and less likely to engage in destructive behaviour. This makes integrating them into your home generally easier and less demanding than raising a young animal.

With maturity also comes predictability. Senior pets have established personalities, energy levels, and routines, so you’ll know what to expect from the outset. You won’t be left guessing about how large a puppy might grow or whether a young cat will become an escape artist.

A Good Lifestyle Match

Older pets often suit people who prefer a steady pace. They’re usually content with gentle walks, quiet evenings, and regular routines. If your lifestyle doesn’t allow for the high energy and constant attention a young pet requires, a senior pet may be a

much better fit.

Health is an important factor to consider. With senior animals, many existing conditions are already identified, which gives you clarity about any ongoing care they may need. Some adoption organisations may even offer support with medications or treatment costs to make adoption more accessible.

The Value of a Second Home

Adopting a senior pet is about more than convenience. It’s also about providing an animal with comfort and care at a time in life when they need it most. Older pets often form strong bonds quickly, and many owners describe them as especially loyal and appreciative companions.

By welcoming a senior pet, you’re giving them a safe and supportive home for their remaining years. In return, you gain a companion whose calm and steady presence can be deeply rewarding.

Thinking of Adopting a Senior Pet?

At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, our team can help you understand the needs of an older pet and guide you in providing the best care. If you’re considering adopting a senior animal, talk to us—we’re here to support you in giving them the best possible years ahead,

For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au or call 02 4736 2027

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