Jordan Springs Gazette September 2023

Nepean Avenue Pathway Revised Design

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

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

Penrith residents and visitors can look forward to improved safety and connectivity on the popular Great River Walk, with Penrith City Council releasing a revised design for the new pedestrian pathway on Nepean Avenue.

The new 2.6-metre-wide pathway on the western side of Nepean Avenue, between Tench Reserve and Memorial Avenue, aims to address pedestrian safety issues and provide the missing link to the popular Bridge-to-Bridge loop.

The project will also see Nepean Avenue become a two-way quietway with a reduced 30km/hr speed limit to support the safe integration of cyclists on the road and encourage more active transport. More trees will also be planted to improve amenity and provide more shade.

The revised design has been prepared in response to increasing activity around the Nepean River Precinct, due to ongoing improvements stimulated by the Our River Masterplan and a greater appreciation of outdoor recreation following the COVID-19 pandemic.

A survey conducted in November 2022 assessed movements along Nepean Avenue as remaining above pre-COVID levels, with 379 vehicles, 1,025 pedestrians and 67 cyclists recorded within five hours on a Saturday morning.

An independent road safety audit identified pedestrians as being at high risk on Nepean Avenue and recommended a clear separation between the road and the pathway to prevent accidents and injuries.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen says that as pedestrian activity around the Nepean River Precinct continues to increase, so does the need for a permanent solution to address the pedestrian safety issues on Nepean Avenue.

“Temporary safety measures are already in place on Nepean Avenue, but without formal pedestrian infrastructure, pedestrians are still forced to walk on the road, representing a clear safety risk, “Cr Hitchen said.

“Council has listened to previous feedback and investigated many options to ensure the revised design addresses these safety concerns and meets the needs and expectations of residents and the broader community”, Cr Hitchen said.

This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Penrith City Council. Council secured a $1.25 million grant under the Metropolitan Greenspace Program, and a further $2.5 million is allocated from Council’s District Open Space Contributions Plan.

For more information visit: Metropolitan Greenspace Program Planning (nsw.gov.au) at https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plansfor-your-area/infrastructure-funding/metropolitan-greenspaceprogram.

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.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at Emu Sports Club (1 Leonay Parade, Leonay) from 6.30p.m. More Details: www. prostatesupport.org.au or phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on 1300 13 38 78.

Penrith Womens Walk and Talk

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

Penrith Mens Walk and Talk

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

Llandilo Family Fun Day: A Day of Community Amusement

With over 300 sausage sizzles cooked and 500 coffees served, it is safe to say that the recent Llandilo Community Fun Day was a hit!

Organised by the MOSAIC Community Church for its second year in a row, with the help of local Llandilo residents and business owners, the afternoon brought in around 400 locals to Llandilo Community Hall, who participated in a range of activities.

The afternoon consisted of several kids’ arts and craft activities such as cupcake decorating, slime making, face painting, pumpkin rolling, a sausage sizzle, coffee van, giant catapult, the Llandilo Rural Fire Service, a chocolate wheel raffle (with over 30 prizes donated by local businesses), and live music provided by a local Elvis impersonator, Steve Head,” said Heath Whiley, from MOSAIC Community Church.

The event was very well received by the community and saw a lot of locals jump in to help wherever they could. “Several people expressed how great it was to see local residents and families sitting around coffee tables or participating in simple group activities. It was very interactive,” explained Heath.

All donations gathered from the sausage sizzle were contributed to the local Rural Fire Brigade, whilst the money raised from the chocolate raffle was used toward purchasing much needed equipment for the local Friday night ARK Community Kid’s Club. “We would like to gratefully acknowledge the generous support of Llandilo IGA, Llandilo Eggs, Llandilo Fruit & Vegetables, Terry White Chemist, Llandilo Post Office, and the many residents who helped us set and pack up on the day,” Heath added.

MOSAIC Community Church hopes to make this an annual local community event that all nearby residents can enjoy and participate in to help local business. “Next year we expect to build on what we have so far learned by being able to include more local produce, arts and crafts, small business owners, and residents’ stalls,” concluded Heath.

The MOSAIC Community Church meets on Sunday afternoons (4:00pm to 6:00pm) at the Llandilo Community Hall and includes a community meal. The ARK Community Kid’s Club runs on Friday evenings (5:00pm to 7:00pm) for kids aged 7 – 13 and also includes dinner.

For more information about either, please contact Heath Whiley on 0402 712972.

r [L-R] Face painting in the giant marquee; Pearl, Bentley, Zoe, and Brindley getting ready for the “Pumpkin Roll”; Over 400 people came through the hall and surrounding grounds; Kids getting ready for the “Pumpkin Roll”; Pumpkin rolling was a massive hit with both the young and old alike | Images: Heath Whiley/Supplied

St David’s Church Open Day Planned for September

St David’s Church have an Open Day planned for this month, for Saturday 23rd September, 2023.

The historic church was restored in 2006 and has maintained worship since its foundation in 1898, so the invitation is to come and view the interior of the church and to find some ‘treasures’ at St David’s.

The ‘treasures’ are items of memorabilia relating to the church and Llandilo. This includes such items as a map of the original land grants, framed pressed flowers and leaves (simply signed ‘a Digger: Palestine 1917), Bibles dating from 1702, theological writings, memorials and more.

The Church will be opened from 10:00am to 2:00pm on the day, allowing visitors to view at their leisure. Two or three members of the church will be in attendance to answer any questions that may arise.

Enjoy a cup of coffee in the grounds (weather permitting!)

FAITH – ST DAVIDS CHURCH LLANDILO

Article Written + Submitted by: Rev

For more information about St David’s Church Open Day, call 4736 3592 or email jhebblewhite@bigpond.com.

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

Church worship has been a constant throughout the last 2000 plus years. As in the past, so too today, there is variation in acts of worship. These variations have a common denominator; to pray and praise, and more importantly to do what Jesus the Christ expects: ‘the breaking of bread’. In this the life, work execution, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus is recalled, and this remains the spiritual sustenance for the worshipper.

Surround the ‘breaking of bread’ with whatever variety of worship, there still remains four basic requirements. First is preparation: to discipline the self to be still and wind down from everyday thought, simply to wait on God. Second is to practice recognition: we are who we are and in being honest with ourselves we recognise our strength and weakness. The third is trust: it is through the Holy Trinity that we have the freedom to ‘be’. Not in conformity to self but in conformity to living that enhances and to appreciating the wonderful universe in which we live, and the mazing reality of flesh and spirit that constitutes mankind. The fourth is giving: Jesus Christ before his execution did not preach a sermon. He invited his followers to a meal. As such the sacred breaking of bread has been a constant in Christian worship.

It is when we participate in that meal and honestly reflect. The end result is that we are motivated, not by ourselves, but that in all things (thoughts, actions), we do it “In Christ.” Life is short for few reaches being over a hundred years in age. Life in itself is a learning process which cannot ignore the spiritual dimension and that is why the sacred meal will always remain a constant.

Now in the 124th year of worship an ‘open day’: 10am-2pm, Saturday, 23rd September (article above).

Do come and view the “Treasures of St David’s!

FAITH – MOSAIC COMMUNITY CHURCH (LLANDILO)

Article Written + Submitted by: Pastor Heath Whiley

A: Llandilo Community Hall, Seventh Ave, Llandilo P: 0402 712 972 W: www.mosaiccommunitychurch.com.au Service Times: 4pm-6pm Sundays

The Importance of Looking After Our Whole Self: Physically, Emotionally, and Spiritually

BIG IDEA: The Bible begins with two extraordinary truths about all people. The first is that every person has been created in the image of God so that they might reflect God’s image, glory, and likeness (Gen. 1:26-27; cf. Isa. 43:6a-7). The second is that God has created every person with a body, soul, and spirit (Gen. 2:7). Biblically speaking, this means that every person is both a physical and spiritual being who have been endowed with personality, emotions, self-awareness, and mental wellbeing. Little wonder then that Jesus says the first and greatest commandment is to “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength” (i.e., our entire being), whilst the second is to “Love your neighbour as yourself.” Both imply that every person should be motivated by a fundamental commitment to the good of one’s own body, soul, and spirit as a means by which we glorify God … and loving others should be modelled on how we love ourselves (Mark 12:29-31).

SO WHAT? Some people neglect their physical health and well-being, others neglect their spiritual health and well-being, and still others neglect their emotional/mental health and well-being. But God wants us to cultivate and care for every part of our body, soul, and spirit (i.e., seeking its greatest good and well-being) … and so that we might glorify (and serve) Him with every part of our lives.

Over the next few months, we’ll consider what the Bible has to say about how we can promote our best physical, mental, and spiritual health. From exercise, to sleep, to nutrition, to positive messaging, and everything in between. You might just be surprised at ancient wisdom which is just as relevant today.

r St David’s Church | Image/Article: Reverend John Hebblewhite

The Lakes Christian College School Fete Returns

The Lakes Christian College will be hosting their School Fete this month, taking place on Saturday 9th September 2023 from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Entry is free and unlimited ride passes can be purchased on Trybooking (see QR code that takes you to the website for purchasing ride tickets). The cost for unlimited ride passes is $25 per person or $75 for a group of 4.

There will be activities and stalls for the whole family. This includes teacup ride, music trip ride, zoomer ride, rainbow slide, side show games, car show featuring rally cars and classic cars, kids zoo (alpacas, bunnies, lambs and guinea pigs), face painting, market stalls (honey and bees wax products, woodworking, secondhand books, handmade foods and crafts), food (burgers, sausage sizzle, snow cones, coffee, fairy floss, popcorn and snacks), art show, two sessions of student performances (approx. 15 minutes long), two School Tours lead by Principal Darren Dick at 11:30am and 1:30pm, and more.

“With Spring in the air and the weather warming up, we’re looking forward to offering an exciting fun-filled day for our local community. We look forward to meeting new people and opening our school for those interested to look around. Our staff, current students and families are on hand to share their experiences and join in the fun!” explained The Lakes Christian College.

The College is situated approximately seven kilometres north of Penrith in a peaceful bush setting with lots of opportunity for outdoor experiential learning. It is a growing co-educational school, with 300 students from Prep to Year 12.

The Lakes Christian College provides quality, affordable, Christian education for parents looking for a Christian school to enrol their children. They also offer a door-to-door bus service.

For more information, call the school office on 4708 9800, visit their website at www.thelakescc.nsw.edu.au or email office@thelakescc.nsw.edu.au.

The Lakes Christian College is located at 206 East Wilchard Road, Castlereagh 2749.

v The Lakes Christian College students | Images: The School Photographer [Inset] QR code for the purchase of Ride Tickets

SEE YOU AT THE E-WASTE DROP-OFF DAY

The Kingsway Playing Fields, Werrington

Saturday 9 September, 9am-3.30pm

Right now, e-waste is growing three times faster than other waste. And with the way the world is becoming more tech savvy, we need to become more e-waste savvy.

It’s so important to dispose of e-waste properly and responsibly. E-waste can’t go in your household bins.

Recycling at our E-waste Drop-off Day keeps e-waste out of landfill and our community safe. penrith.city/events

NEVER WASTE A CHANCE TO BE GREAT WITH E-WASTE

Celebrating 135 Affordable Homes Built in Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing

BlueCHP was delighted to welcome Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister Julie Collins, and Minister Rose Jackson to mark the milestone of their 135th affordable home built in Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing, as part of the St Mary’s ADI project recently. These homes have been delivered in partnership with Lendlease, the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, and further financed by National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC).

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined BlueCHP CEO Charles Northcote for a tour of the completed two-storey, three-bedroom plus office, duplex homes.

“I’m proud of these homes, they show our commitment to delivering safe, affordable homes, built for the long-term. Our residents enjoy the security they will always have an affordable roof over their heads, and they are living in a home that supports them aging in place,” said Charles Northcote, CEO, BlueCHP.

“We have been able to secure nearly 3,000 development-approved dwellings to be able to initiate and start with the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF), and we are excited to start building.

“Reaching this milestone in Jordan Springs shows what can be achieved through the partnership of Community Housing Providers (CHP), state government and Federal investment into new housing.”

Now in its twelfth year, Stage 1 and 2 of this scheme will deliver 168 affordable homes, with the potential for a further 18 homes in Stage 3. Due to the pandemic, they were unable to celebrate the opening of the 100th dwelling. It’s time to mark the great partnerships with government, the not-for-profit sector, and private providers as they facilitate the delivery of up to 186 affordable and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) homes to the Penrith community.

The family homes, delivered in this project, are a blend of two to four-bedroom standalone homes, house and granny flat combinations, and duplex dwellings spread across Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing. 35 of these dwellings have also been built to the NDIA Improved Liveability SDA standard. Residents will enjoy modern homes with open plan designs and private backyards, in locations close to schools, Western Sydney University, Nepean Hospital, and with easy access to Penrith CBD.

Kitchen Projects NSW provide interior fit-outs & refurbishment with a focus on joinery in both residential & commercial sectors. 

“We are proud to be working in partnership with the NSW state government, NHFIC, Lendlease and our other partners to be able to deliver much-needed affordable housing to Penrith. I want to acknowledge the hard work of Glenn Amanonce and Jimmy Lee in our dedicated NSW Development team who strive to provide accessible, safe, and affordable homes to vulnerable people in our community,” said Charles Northcote, CEO, BlueCHP.

BlueCHP is a not-for-profit, tier 1 Community Housing Provider. Founded in 2008, BlueCHP has grown to deliver over 2000 social, affordable and disability homes to the CHP sector and is noted for its collaborative approach to partnering, development expertise, and ability to deliver pragmatic housing solutions.

Get in touch with

discover how we can bring your next joinery and cabinetry project to life.

0426 444 777 info@kitchenprojectsnsw.com.au www.kitchenprojectsnsw.com.au

Kitchen Projects NSW provide interior fit-outs & refurbishment with a focus on joinery in both residential & commercial sectors.

DESIGN | MANAGEMENT | SUPPLY | INSTALLATION

Are you tired of looking at the same outdated rooms in your home? Do you want to upgrade or create a new bespoke kitchen, bathroom, laundry, TV unit, wardrobe, or BBQ area? Or do you have any other renovations that need attention?

At Kitchen Projects NSW, Tony and his team take pride in their workmanship and are committed to personalising each client’s needs. From large-scale commercial to small home renovators, we are your team. Maintaining the highest standards of quality and offering knowledge in a wide range of areas, our team will go above and beyond throughout your renovation journey. With Tony being the point of contact from start to finish, our clients often end up feeling like family.

Get in touch with us to discover how we can bring

We provide a variety of designed joinery services including large scale kitchens, office and bathroom upgrades, new wardrobes, laundry, TV units, and outdoor entertainment spaces. Whether you are after state of the art or a simple design, Tony can work with you and will make it his mission to bring your vision to life. We believe that custom joinery should serve aesthetic and practical appeal, enhancing a space by becoming an extension of it.

Are you ready to improve your rental property or jazz up your own home? Get in touch with us to discover how we can bring your next joinery and cabinetry project to life. Tony and his team are honest and reliable and would love to hear from you.

Our goal is your happiness.

To check out our previous projects or get some inspiration please head www. kitchenprojectsnsw.com.au or follow us on Instagram @kitchenprojectsnsw.

Make your home or rental property a priority by calling or emailing Tony now for a free quote.

r Feature Article [Cover] Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and BlueCHP CEO Charles Northcote [Above] One of the affordable homes at Jordan Springs. Images: Jamie Hogan | Article: BlueCHP

PARENTS CORNER

Article Written + Submitted by:

Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Less Stress and Tears: Tips for Shopping with Young Kids

Most parents have endured the sheer panic and embarrassment of having a child cry and scream in the middle of the supermarket. The good news is that shopping centre meltdowns can be prevented with a little pre-planning. Follow these tips for a more peaceful shopping experience.

Tip #1: Choose the time of day wisely

Consistent routines support young children to adapt to the rhythm of the day. Hungry or tired children are more likely to struggle with simple tasks. Avoid going to the shops during your child’s regular meal or rest times. If necessary, bring a packed snack to satisfy hungry tummies.

Tip #2: Enrichment, enrichment, enrichment!

Young children are little learning machines always curious to explore. Keep children busy at the shops by giving your child a simple shopping list, having your child pick and count items and/or pack bags at the counter.

Tip #3: Have simple ground rules

Before leaving for the day, give your child 1-3 simple ground rules phrased in the positive. For example, “we’re going to the shops this morning. You need to stay next to Mum/Dad the whole time and walk, not run.” Have your child repeat the rules back to you to check understanding. Afterwards, review the rules together to discuss what went well and what could improve future shopping trips.

Tip #4: Effectively use rewards

Parents fall into three traps when it comes to rewards: Too expensive, too far in the future and too vague. Young children live in the moment and will only connect behaviour to a reward when its immediate. Rewards don’t always cost money; often the best reward we can offer children is our time and attention. In explaining rewards to children, avoid vagaries like “be good”. You must outline which specific behaviours that will attract rewards. For example, “if you stay next to Mum/Dad for the whole shop, we will play at the park afterwards.”

Any young child can turn from a hindrance to a helper when given guidance, age-appropriate responsibilities, and effective rewards for cooperation.

Corpus ChristiCRANEBROOKPrimary

We work in partnership with our parish, families and local secondary schools, Xavier College Llandilo, Caroline Chisholm College (girls) Glenmore Park, to provide quality Catholic schooling from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Enrolling Now

WE OFFER

• Learning environment enriched by faith and values

• Broad curriculum including Religious Education

• Wide range of cocurricular activities

• (sport, creative and performing arts, academic competitions, etc)

• Dedicated and professional teaching staff

• New and integrated technology including interactive whiteboards, laptops and iPads

• Learning support and enrichment programs

• Transition programs (Kindergarten and Year 6 for high school)

• Extensive recreational and sporting areas

• Active and supportive parent community

For more information please contact Corpus Christi’s Principal Mrs Sarah O’Rourke

Helping Learner Drivers Become Safe Drivers Workshop

Sometimes it can be nerve-wracking to be in the passenger seat and supervise your child or younger sibling when they’re logging their hours for their Learners. That’s why Penrith City Council and Transport for NSW have partnered to run a free online workshop to provide you with some of the best tools and tips when it comes to Learner Driver supervision.

The workshop will cover topics such as:

• How to supervise learner drivers

• How to complete the Learner Driver Logbook

• The important role you play in supporting your child or young adult while they learn how to drive

• What the license conditions for Learners and Provisional License holders are

• How to complete 120 hours of supervised driving with a minimum of 20 hours of night driving

• Advice on holding L plates for a minimum of one year before a Provisional (P1) License

You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have and receive advice from a Road Safety expert.

The workshop is best suited for anyone supervising a person under 25 years. You can be a parent, older sibling, or older person supervising a child, sibling, or young adult in getting their Ls.

The workshop will be held on Microsoft Teams on 27th September 2023. You can access Teams via PC, laptop, or mobile phone, and will need internet access.

Limited spots available. Register for the free Helping Learner Drivers Become Safe Drivers Workshop at http://bitly.ws/RQFF.

If the workshop is full, you will be offered a place on the waiting list.

r Article: Penrith City Council

Our Future Engineers: RoboThink Ignites Young Minds

Paving the way for our future engineers and scientists, global STEM Edu-Tainment organization, RoboThink, has introduced its programs to the Penrith area, giving children in Jordan Springs, Glenmore Park, and Kingswood an introduction to the world of computer programming.

With the most extensive STEM education curriculum in the industry, RoboThink offers fun, easy, and engaging classes for Jordan Springs youth to impart children with vital skills in creativity, critical thinking, and problem solving. “We have a very unique program unlike other competitors, we have proprietary software developed by industry experts, and our own manufacturing unit where we design and manufacture our own patented blocks/gears/ switches/motors and hardware,” said Suketu Shah, Centre Head at RoboThink Penrith.

In each class, students are taught to make prototypes that can run with different remotes and sensors and learn coding on tablets, using Bluetooth connection. “We run regular learning centres for STEM (Robotics and Coding) education, deliver Robotics and Coding lessons for kids as part of after school activities, and innovate and ignite young minds by making them take part in our unique themed school holiday workshops/camps,” said Suketu. Students aged 5-15 benefit most from this program, as it instils them with skills that are highly beneficial for their future education.

Classes are run on a term base, where students attend 10 classes from 6:00pm to 7:00pm every Monday or 4:00pm to 5:00pm every Thursday night at Jordan Springs Community Centre. Term fees cost $260, however RoboThink is currently offering an offer of 10% off for new enrolments. “We are also offering early classes for home schooled students every Friday and run camps around Penrith during the school holidays,” he added.

Nurturing STEM education within young children, RoboThink students will not only have fun and make new friends, but they will be prepared for an evolving world through enhancing their analytical abilities and excelling in academics and careers in a technology-driven world. “At RoboThink, kids love to learn, build, code, and finally play with the robots they made by themselves,” Suketu concluded.

To find out more information about RoboThink courses or how to enrol your child, visit penrith.myrobothink.com.au or contact RoboThink via phone on 0484 566 534 or email at penrith@myrobothink.com.au.

v [Top] Student smiling with his robot animal [Below] Students playing with their builds | Images: Suketu Shah

SOLUTIONS

FIND

FOOD 4 THOUGHT Brisket Boys

25/2115 Castlereagh rd, Penrith NsW

Michelle and I had the pleasure of dining at Brisket Boys on Castlereagh Road in Penrith.

When we entered the venue, Mark and his team greeted us with a smile and you could tell that they are enthusiastic about customer service.

While browsing the menu, the aromas coming from the smoker were mouth-watering and we were excited about our meats along with sides. We shared the meat feast for two which consisted of a selection of meats along with some sides.

We chose the following meats.

Pork belly, Beef Brisket, Cheddar and Jalapeno Sausage, Chicken Wings, Pulled Pork Burnt Ends and finally Mac and Cheese and Potato Salad.

Now, let us talk about the food—the main star of any barbecue venue. Brisket Boys certainly did not disappoint in this department. The Pulled Pork was incredibly tender and succulent, bursting with flavour. Each bite melted in my mouth, leaving me craving for more. The Barbecue Beef Brisket was equally exceptional, perfectly smoked and seasoned to perfection. The smoky aroma and the rich, juicy meat were a match made in barbecue heaven.

The Burnt Brisket Ends were amazing and had so much flavour. The secret sauce that accompanied this delight was sweet with a smoky flavour and slightly spicy.

The Cheddar and Jalapeno Sausage was spicy and the cheddar within the sausage gave extra flavour to this delight. I have not experienced this type of sausage previously and I enjoyed the aroma and amazing taste from it.

But the delights did not stop there. The Potato Salad was a delightful accompaniment, boasting a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess. The Mac and Cheese, a classic comfort food, was a cheesy delight that oozed with flavour.

Finally, the Chicken Wings on this platter were juicy, crisp on the outside and had a slightly tangy flavour when I first took a bite. The meat was tender, not too chewy and I enjoyed the wings.

I give Brisket Boys a ten out of ten for customer service, a pleasant selection of music and an experience I will never forget.

The Bigger Picture: Local Fine Art Portraiture

Tara

“Fine Art Portraiture in my opinion is about using your camera like a paintbrush. The camera is my tool to create art and it’s not about what my camera sees but is instead about what I want to make of the scene and how I want to express my artistic vision,” explained Tara, from Tara Jade Photography.

Having a passion for photography since she was young, Tara was first introduced to cameras through her mother, which spiked her curiosity to learn how to use a camera. “Every family outing we had attended, my mother would be crouched down low taking macro shots of a beetle on a leaf or up tall on a bench trying to capture the sun setting,” said Tara.

In her early twenties photography was just a hobby, however, her next inspiration to pursue photography sprouted when she had her firstborn daughter. “Being able to capture all my daughter’s firsts and special moments with her family just brought me so much love and joy that I knew I had to share that with other families,” she added.

With a clear potential market for newborn and family portraiture, she decided to take on photography as a career. “So, off I went on a photography journey with lots and lots of studying, workshops, seminars, courses and much more,” Tara explained.

For 5 years, she has been a member of an international baby and children’s photography association, as well as its sister company for fine art portraiture. In those 5 years she has received numerous certificates in the Maternity, Baby, Children, and Fine Art categories.

“However, my biggest achievement was taking out 2019 Top 10 Award Winning International Baby Photographer of the Year. This was a huge deal, as it reassured me that all my hard work, passion, and determination in keeping my love for photography alive, was worth it,” she ended.

For more information about Tara and her work, you can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and her website, all linked below. You can make session bookings via the shop section on her website.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/tarajadephotography

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tara.jade.photography

Website: https://tarajadephotography.square.site

Drew is an award-winning portrait photographer located in Ropes Crossing, who captures beautiful memories for families that future generations can look back on and admire. She has been a photographer for 12 years and specialises in Fine Art Portraiture for maternity, newborn, children, teens, and families.

r Christian captured by Tara Jade Photography | Image: Tara Drew/Tara Jade Photography

**Restaurants are not privy to reviews taking place, and all meals are fully paid by us.

Pork belly, Beef Brisket, Cheddar and Jalapeno sausage, Chicken Wings, Pulled Pork Burnt ends

PAWS A WHILE

Article Written + Submitted by: Kellie Tickner from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital

A: 49 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027

Springtime Flea Frenzy

Spring is here and it’s time to get the jump on fleas. Have you ever struggled with keeping your pet flea-free? Don’t be alarmed, you’re not the only one. During the warmer months fleas are particularly common. They make our pet’s lives itchy and uncomfortable. The answer to keeping fleas off your pet is simple – prevention.

What are fleas?

Fleas are tiny, dark brown parasitic insects that infest the coat and skin of pets. They can jump up to 150 times their own length, making the transfer of fleas between your pets difficult to prevent. Their remarkable jumping skills also allow them to transit easily from surrounding environments to your pet.

How do I know if my pet has fleas?

One of the first signs of a flea infestation in your pet is itching. On inspection of your pet’s coat, you will likely see one or more fleas moving around on the surface of your pet’s skin. You may also notice tiny black particles that look like dirt; these could be flea droppings. An adult female flea lays an average of 20 to 30 eggs each day.

How do pets get fleas?

Fleas form cocoons which can remain dormant for astonishingly long periods of time and begin to emerge in the warmer months. Fleas inhabit the garden, carpet, and furniture until they are able to hitch a ride on your pet. They jump great distances to find a host and bite both pets and humans.

Why is it important to treat and prevent fleas?

Fleas are the number one cause of skin disease in pets and can cause problems ranging from simple itchiness to weeping sores, scaly skin, and infection. Some animals are allergic to flea bites (a condition known as Flea Allergy Dermatitis), where one bite sets off an auto-immune reaction. All skin conditions require veterinary treatment. Fleas breed at an enormous rate. The fleas you see on your dog represent only 5-10% of the fleas within their environment. The rest of the population is represented in the egg and larval stages found in your carpets, furniture, bedding, and garden.

The lifecycle explained:

Only 5% of fleas live in the environment as an adult and 95% of fleas live as eggs, larvae, or pupae. For effective flea control, it is essential to break the lifecycle in the environment.

Adult Fleas – jump onto your dog or cat, feed on their blood and then start laying eggs.

Eggs – one female lays an average of 30 eggs per day, which drop off into carpets and bedding before hatching.

Larvae – the hatched eggs release larvae which move away from light, deeper into carpets and under furniture before developing into pupae. The larvae feed on organic debris and at this stage can consume tapeworm eggs, allowing them to become an intermediate host for the development of tapeworms.

This lifecycle can take as little as two to three weeks and as long as 12 months. To rid your pet and household from fleas, you must break this cycle.

How do I protect my pet from fleas?

Prevention is the key to flea control. There are many different flea products available to purchase, so choosing the right one for your pet type and age is essential. Preventatives come as

‘spot on’ applications that are easy to use and last three to four weeks or oral tablets that work as an effective ‘birth control’ for fleas, interrupting the lifecycle. It is sometimes necessary to treat both the pet and the environment.

If your pet is scratching or has skin damage, it is best to have them checked by a vet. Our team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital are fully trained in flea management and can assist you in choosing the product most suitable for your pet.

PROBUS CLUB

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Jordan Springs

E: Jordanspringsprobus@gmail.com

W: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/jordansprings

Jordan Springs Probus Group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at Jordan Springs Community Hub, 2-6 Cullen Ave Jordan Springs, at 10am. New members are always welcome.

Each month, apart from our meeting, we have outings either by bus, train, or car, and a monthly lunch at a local venue. Meetings usually have a presentation on various subjects which are usually informative and interesting.

In August, Phil from Scenic Railway in Katoomba enthralled us with the complete history of how it all came about to present day. In the coming months there will be a presentation to assist everyone in planning for the future, youth of the streets, and tracing your family history.

In August we also went to the Prince Henry Hospital Museum and on a mystery train trip. Hopefully we will get a chance to see the newly reopened Zig Zag railway, among many other interesting outings.

October is Probus month, and we are working on something a little special for our meeting and morning tea. In October a group of our members are flying to Tasmania for a 10 day get away. December will see our final event for the year with our annual Christmas lunch with entertainment.

We are a group formed to have fun and meet new people. For more information, contact Judy on 0414 766 763, Tricia on 0414 976 997, and Annie on 0409 230 753, or send an email at Jordanspringsprobus@gmail.com.

HEALTH MATTERS

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

P: 0418 166 269

Could Probiotic Yeast Induce Remission of Ulcerative Colitis?

From my previous articles on ulcerative colitis (UC), it’s clear occurrence of UC is influenced by alterations in intestinal microbiota composition. The human gut doesn’t only contain bacteria, but also other microbes that influence gut health, including probiotic yeasts such as Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii). S. boulardii can be found in our food, on fruits such as lychees, mangosteen, and in higher numbers in probiotic foods such as natural kombucha, and milk-kefir.

Mouse models of UC show that S. boulardii supplementation beneficially alters intestinal microbial composition, to reduce intestinal inflammation, which helps prevent intestinal cancers.

In humans, presence of S. boulardii in our intestines can:

1. Push intestinal microbiota toward a healthier composition.

2. Destroy some of the toxic substances secreted by pathogenic bacteria.

3. Prevent pathogenic bacteria binding to intestinal cells.

4. Kill toxic bacteria themselves.

5. Increase intestinal cell secretion of protective antibodies which can bind and remove pathogenic microorganisms.

6. Stimulate intestinal cell metabolism.

7. Lower intestinal inflammation by:

a. blocking proinflammatory immune responses and

b. promoting ant-inflammatory immune pathways

8. Help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Based on these effects, S. boulardii was studied by Guslandi et al (2000), and found beneficial as a treatment for Crohn’s disease. The same researchers then studied S. boulardii for UC. They took 25 patients on high-dose mesalazine maintenance therapy for UC, who were nevertheless suffering mild-moderate UC flareups. Patients were continued on mesalazine but were given an additional 250mg S. boulardii 3 x daily, for 4 weeks.

After 4 weeks, 68% (17/25) patients achieved clinical remission. Each patient also underwent an endoscopic examination to show that their bowel wall had actually healed.

This study was a small, open-labelled, and not placebocontrolled, so definite conclusions cannot be drawn, and larger controlled trials should be done. However, given S. boulardii was able to restore remission in most patients who had failed to remain in remission on mesalazine alone, the result is highly encouraging.

Given this, the inclusion of appropriate S. boulardii probiotics or probiotic foods into the diet, as an intervention for people suffering from UC seems a simple, low cost, accessible, and sensible intervention, with a reasonable likelihood of beneficial outcomes, and low likelihood of harm.

r **Refer to: www.districtgazette.com.au for expanded version

Together with the Willmot Festival Committee, Blacktown City Council would like to invite the local community to the annual Willmot Festival on Saturday 30th September 2023.

The festival will be held from 10:00am to 3:00pm, with a range of activities and entertainment for the whole family, including stalls, stage performances, face painting and petting zoo.

Come and join them for an exciting family day out at this year’s Willmot Festival, with great company, great food, and a whole lot of fun.

To get involved, please download the Willmot Festival Stall Holder Application at http://bitly.ws/RiGj and return it to willmotcg14@ gmail.com.

For more information, contact the Willmot Festival Committee on 9835 4569 or 0483 186162 or via email at willmotcg14@gmail.com.

v Image/Article: Blacktown City Council

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Welcome to another exciting edition of the Gazette, where we bring you the latest and greatest stories from our beloved community.

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