Council Endorses Key Advocacy Priorities for Wollondilly
Wollondilly Shire Council has endorsed its key advocacy priorities for the State and Federal Government Elections 2025-2027 as part of a fresh approach to advocacy, while acknowledging the progress made so far alongside its partners to achieve positive outcomes for the community.
Wollondilly worked consistently with groups of other councils and allies to secure a bipartisan election commitment for $1 billion towards a rail corridor from Macarthur to the new Western Sydney airport in the lead up to the 2025 Federal election.
The Shire will finally see a second high school, opening at Wilton in 2027, in response to calls made by Council alongside the State member and the community.
A review and health check of Council’s approach to advocacy focused on aspects such as what works well and what can be done better to provide a strong voice on behalf of the Wollondilly community.
The internal review considered a large range of previous community input, including Community Strategic Plan submissions, the Local Strategic Planning Statement, submissions on planning matters pertaining to Wilton and Greater Macarthur, as well as the outcomes of adopted plans and strategies across Council.
Work was carried out to establish a two-tier approach for advocacy to make it clear and strong, and allow it to be matched with appropriate tools, resources and campaigns.
As Council takes this fresh new approach in its advocacy work, it aims to make clear priorities and to explore opportunities for partnerships, lobbying, and building relationships with decision makers.
The key advocacy priorities endorsed at the meeting were:
• Connecting Wollondilly - including delivering the Macarthur Metro, extending the T8 line, commitment to the Macarthur-Illawarra link and proving immediate Rapid Bus
• Wollondilly Roads – including the Picton Bypass, Wilton interchange and reclassification of regional roads to State roads
• Basic Infrastructure to deliver housing during the housing crisis– including building the Upper Nepean Treatment Plant before 2032 and spending Housing and Productivity funds in Wilton
• Schools – including delivery of the Wilton K-12 School and a commitment to a Wollondilly North Public High School
• Access to Health – including a Wilton Integrated Health Care Hub with Urgent Care and land for a future hospital
• Protecting Wollondilly’s unique environment – including a Bargo River Gorge National Park, regional koala strategy and caring for rural lands.
Council will continue to advocate on a range of additional local matters that are also very important to the Wollondilly community and will tailor efforts as needed with the aim of getting as many positive outcomes as possible.
In future updates, an additional priority focused on community cohesion, inclusion, and social infrastructure will also be included.
r Image/Article: Wollondilly Shire Council
Submit your Community Notice on/by 10th of the month, to be included in the following edition. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations. E: info@districtgazette.com.au
Community Groups
Silverdale Probus Club
Meets every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 10:00am at Warragamba Workers & Sporting Club (9-11 Eighteenth Street, Warragamba). We welcome new members. More details: Contact Ethan. Phone: 1300 630 488 Email: membershipsupport@probussouthpacific.org
Children + Families
Wallacia Playgroup
Meets on Thursdays from 10:00am till 12:00pm at Wallacia Christian Church (23 Park Road, Wallacia). More details: https:// www.facebook.com/cpcommunitychurch/
Warragamba Playlinks Supported Playgroup
Meets on Mondays from 9:30am till 11:00am (school terms only) at Civic Park, Warragamba. More details: https://www. facebook.com/wsncinc/
Held fortnightly on Sunday from 19th March, 9:00am till 1:00pm at Luddenham Showground (Park Road, Luddenham). More details: Search Luddenham Country Market on Facebook Markets
Luddenham Country Markets
Luddenham Community Uniting Church Markets
Held monthly on 1st Saturday each month 8am to 1pm in grounds of Luddenham Uniting Church. More details: Search Luddenham Uniting Church Markets on Facebook
Support + Wellbeing
Free Food Fridays
Every Friday from 10:30am till 11:30am at Wallacia Christian Church (23 Park Road, Wallacia). More details: https://www. facebook.com/cpcommunitychurch/
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/
From Spotlight to Director’s Chair
Beloved for her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence, Mulgoa’s Brittanie Shipway is stepping into a new role—this time, behind the scenes. The acclaimed performer is taking on two major directing projects in 2025: Waltzing the Wilarra and Once On This Island, marking an exciting new chapter in her artistic journey.
Shipway describes the shift into directing as something that “wasn’t a choice, really! People just started asking me to direct projects.” At just 32, the transition comes not from a departure from performing—she still loves it—but from a passion for storytelling and a desire to guide narratives in fresh and powerful ways.
First up is Waltzing the Wilarra, a poignant musical by David Milroy, set in 1940s Perth. The story follows Charlie, Elsa, and Fay as they navigate love, friendship, and reconciliation in a shifting political landscape for First Nations communities. “It’s so exciting to see this beautiful work go on a national tour from July to November,” says Shipway. “Metro and regional audiences will get to experience it—including Glen Street Theatre from August 28 to 30.” While the cast remains under wraps, she promises it’s “stacked with national treasures.”
Then, Shipway heads into the colourful world of Once On This Island, running exclusively at The Hayes from August 2 to 31. The show reimagines The Little Mermaid with a Caribbean lens, celebrating love, culture, and resilience through the story of Ti Moune as she pursues Daniel, a wealthy boy from a different world. “It’s a cracker of a show for families,” she says. “Grandparents—bring the kids! You’ll fall in love with the music and story, too.”
Directing, she admits, brings its own challenges. “Performing is more straightforward—you get to play. But as a director, you’re across everything: set, lighting, casting, costumes, scheduling (yes, even spreadsheets!).” Still, she’s eager to be in the rehearsal room again. “I know that space really well, and I’ve got some really smart, talented actors to work with.”
Reflecting on her journey, Shipway gives a heartfelt shoutout to her roots: the Blue Mountains Musical Society. “Community theatre gave me my best memories—and I directed my first show there nearly 10 years ago!”
With two high-profile shows and her feet firmly planted in both artistry and leadership, Brittanie Shipway proves she’s just getting started.
r Brittanie Shipway takes centre stage | Image: Kate Williams. Article: Tanya Nellestein
WE’RE HIRING – FENCING SALES ESTIMATORS
Location: Toongabbie, NSW • Full-Time | Head Office-Based Competitive Salary – Negotiable
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ABOUT THE ROLE
We’re expanding so now is your chance to step into a key role. From quoting and tendering to liaising with contractors, you’ll work on some of NSW’s biggest fencing projects. We’ll support your development every step of the way, with training and mentorship to help you grow into leadership.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Scope, price & quote jobs (on-site & in-office)
• Submit tenders & drawings
• Build client relationships
• Coordinate with teams for smooth delivery
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
2+ years of sales estimation experience (construction ideal)
Essential fencing industry knowledge
Strong measurement and quoting skills
Ability to read plans and manage tenders
Computer savvy (AutoCAD/ SketchUp is a bonus)
Driver’s licence essential
WHY JOIN US?
• Negotiable competitive salary
• Career growth & support
• Supportive culture – Join a tight-knit, experienced team
• Paid overtime
Community Comes Together for Dolly
The people and community of Warragamba came together last month on Friday 9th May at Livvi’s Place in support of Do It For Dolly Day.
The local event saw attendees dress in blue as a show to help end bullying and to raise valuable funds for Dolly’s Dream.
There was a variety of activities that took place, including an ice bath challenge, Dolly Butterfly colouring in and exercises, Creative Arts and Hearts promoting kindness, fundraising raffle, free sausage sizzle, mental health and well-being support services providing conversations, and also utilising park equipment.
“We at Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre (WSNC) are blessed to have the ongoing services, local businesses and community who collaborate with us to bring our monthly What’s On Your Mind? Every Mind Matters! Program. This incorporated Do It For Dolly Day” said Milissa Christian of WSNC.
“These supporters and collaborators include Nick’s Deli, Pietro’s Italian Restaurant, Steins Plumbing, Horse and Harpy Coffee Roasters, Warra Dam Bakery Café, Talk2mebro, Walk It Off Warragamba, Community Links Wollondilly, Wollondilly Shire Council along with the sporting clubs Warradale FC and Warragamba RLFC” she continued.
There will be continued community events promoting positive mental health, with the nest one taking place on Friday 13th June 2025.
“We want to continue to grow and hold monthly opportunities for the community to connect and be supported to access services. We identify we all go through tough times, and we want to support a community approach that helps to identify who to reach out to when things are tough, and it’s outside of the regular 9 to 5 where services are limited and needing a face to face person to talk to, not just a phone call. We are working together to provide these, key community members skills, training and support as a unified approach that is safe for all involved.
“We have common goal as we aim to have zero suicide and bullying in our community. A goal we can achieve together if we work together” explained Milissa.
The kindness and generosity of the community helped to raise $456.90 for Dolly’s Dream with Do It For Dolly Day.
“We would like to thank the community for coming together to support Do It For Dolly Day and those who collaborate with us to achieve this goal together, by giving their time and energy to help deliver the What’s On Your Mind? Every Mind Matters! Program” she ended.
r Do It For Dolly Day in Warragamba | Image Supplied
Fire and Rescue NSW Rolled Up It’s Doors for Annual Open Day
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) recently rolled up the doors for its annual Open Day last month, with firefighters urging the community to ensure they have a working smoke alarm in the lead up to Winter.
Fire stations across the state, including Warragamba Fire Station, opened from 10:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday 10 May with a range of free activities including live demonstrations, station tours and free giveaways.
Families were able to get up close to the fire trucks and rescue equipment, and chat to local firefighters about the simple steps they can take to ‘BE FIRE SAFE’ this Winter.
PAW Patrol™ fan favourites, Marshall and Chase, made an appearance at the Museum of Fire at Penrith, ensuring ‘impaw-tant’ fire safety messages reached some of our youngest community members.
“Open Day was a wonderful opportunity to get behind-thescenes access to NSW fire stations and understand the work our firefighters do to keep our communities safe” said Emergency Services Minister, Jihad Dib.
“Open Day is something our firefighters look forward to each year. It gives us the chance to meet locals and provide vital safety tips to be fire safe.
“This year, we want to make sure that everyone has a working smoke alarm in their home.
“We can’t smell smoke while we’re sleeping, so having a working smoke alarm is so crucial.
“Fire and Rescue NSW offers free home fire safety visits. Local firefighters will visit your home, provide tailored fire safety advice, test your smoke alarm, and will even replace it for free if necessary” said FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM.
OPENING HOURS
Mon-Fri: 9:30am-5.30pm | Sat: 8am-1pm
02 4774 0749
8 Econo Place, Silverdale We sell various types of animal feed including Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed. We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
Mulgoa’s Josh Anderson is ready to take to the track in the 2025 Toyota GR Cup Series this season.
Josh will once again be racing with the Sieders Racing Team, after joining them last year from the Aussie Racing Cars series.
“This year, I’m thrilled to be competing in the Toyota GR Cup Series. It’s a fantastic one-make series supporting the Repco Supercars Championships. It’s my second year racing in this class, after I previously raced in the Aussie Racing Cars in previous years” said Josh to the Mulgoa Valley Gazette.
“I’m really looking forward to being part of their team again this season” he continued.
He will be racing a Toyota GR86 in the series.
The Toyota GR Cup Series season runs from July to November, with a total of 5 rounds. The first of the series will take place from 11th till the 13th July in the NTI Townsville 500. From there, it moves to Ipswich, Bathurst, Gold Coast, before finishing in Sandown.
Josh is hoping to capture the success he had previously in the Aussie Racing Cars series, which saw him crowned the 2022 Champion.
“I’m really looking forward to the close and competitive racing within GR Cup. The level of competition forces you to improve. It’s not the most relaxed hobby, but I certainly enjoy it nonetheless” affirmed Josh.
Anderson is ready to bounce back this year, with the experience of his debut year in the series now under his belt and a stepping stone to finishing on the podium.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my family, sponsors and all my supporters. It took us some time to build up competitiveness in the GR86 last year jumping from the Aussie Car, and it has been a big effort to get back on the grid this year, after a big crash at the Gold Coast last year. I’m looking forward to giving it another crack” he concluded.
To follow Josh’s journey on the track, search Josh Anderson Racing on Facebook.
WARRAGAMBA WORKERS CLUB
11:30AM-10PM
11AM-10PM
11AM-8PM
Ten Hands: Locals Looking After Locals
Ten Hands Air Conditioning is a family owned air conditioning business, located in Mulgoa.
The business was started by Matt Dymock, when his family moved to Mulgoa from Inner Western Sydney 13 years ago.
“There are five of us (ten hands) in the family. This inspired our business name” said Belinda Dymock of Ten Hands Air Conditioning.
They specialise in the supply, installation, repair and servicing of all types of air conditioning. Matt and his team service the residential, business and commercial sectors.
Their regular customers include homeowners, builders, businesses and they do regular real estate rental work.
“Our work is varied and interesting, as we also have regular commercial work in schools, factories, clubs and warehouses” she explained.
Matt has been a HVAC technician for over 35 years and has always run his own business, so it was natural that he would start up a business to service their new area.
Staying true to being a local, family owned business has seen Matt’s son Gus join the team as his apprentice. Gus started late last year, when he finished school. There were no school holidays for Gus! He also starts TAFE in July this year.
So, what has Gus enjoyed so far about being an apprentice for Ten Hands Air Conditioning?
“Being a part of and contributing to the family business is cool. Learning from Dad some of the old school ways of finding faults and leaks is interesting. He’s really good at fixing things” said Gus to the Mulgoa Valley Gazette.
“Matt is looking forward to Gus getting his P’s in a few months, to take over some of the driving” added Belinda.
• Cutting and Colour
• Formal Hair/Weddings
• Eyelash and Eyebrow Tinting
• Men’s Cuts
• Kids’ Style Cuts (All ages)
You can call Matt on 0411 707 583 for any type of air conditioning you or your business needs.
r Gus Dymock (left) and Matt Dymock (right) of Ten Hands Air Conditioning | Image: Belinda Dymock
KID’S CORNER
Book Review Your
The Pumpkin Spice Cafe
Author Laurie Gilmore
On a recent trip overseas, I picked up this sweetly illustrated book and although we should never judge a book by its cover we do eat with our eyes, and I devoured this book during our short time away. It was the perfect cozy autumnal read! For readers that enjoyed the show Gilmore Girls it has the same feeling with some romance, mystery and hayrides!
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore is a romantic, easy read about Jeanie a city girl who has moved to Dream Harbour to take over her aunt’s café and Logan a grumpy, local farmer with a painful past who refuses to fall for her charm.
The story is easy to read with lots of moments to give you butterflies in your stomach. Whether that’s the sweet gestures from Logan, the inviting small-town energy or the love story between two opposites. I found the storyline good with the few twists and turns keeping your interest trying to solve the mystery. The book also finished the way you’d hope with a happy ending.
The book didn’t have too many twists or turns to the main storyline, and some may find this element disengaging, but for a light-hearted read it doesn’t take readers down a winding trail. The book also gets quite steamy in places which might be too racy for younger readers.
In review I would give the book a 3/5. A read for adults who enjoy the romance genre and enjoy a quick, light and uplifting read.
The Dream Harbour series also includes The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, The Strawberry Patch Pancake House and The Ginger Bread Bakery (Book 4) is set to be released in September.
r Book Review by: Alissa Faitele
Securing Our Woodland Environment
Nepean Christian School, recently began a new venture to protect the endangered Camden White Gum, planting ten saplings in conjunction with Mulgoa Landcare Group and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
The school has a proud history of working with local environmental groups to protect the precious heritage value of Mulgoa Valley as one of the few remaining stands of original Cumberland Woodland.
Year 11 student Damien Savic took on the project to work with various agencies to enable the school to plant and care for these endangered species as part of the NSW Government’s ‘Saving Our Species’ program.
The school has partnered with Lisa Harrold from Mulgoa Landcare, alongside Ahamad Sherieff, the Officer for threatened species, and Justine Vella from Penrith Council.
This planting not only enhances the school’s natural environment but also educates students on the importance of preserving native plants.
Ahamad Sherieff noted, “By working together collectively and cooperatively, we can make a meaningful difference and achieve our shared objective of saving and securing the future of a critically endangered species from potential extinction.”
Through this act, the school plays a crucial role in securing the future of the Camden White Gums.
r Dr Cameron Nunn (NCS Principal) and representatives from NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
Image/Article Supplied by Nepean Christian School
• Catering for 2-3 year old Children
• Situated in Quiet and Safe Street
• Preschool and School Readiness Specialty Program
• Qualified Early Childhood Sta
• Operational Hours 8am till 5pm Monday till Friday
• Large Outdoor Play Area
Early Childhood Education Matters
• Boutique service with an offering of only 38 places a day.
• Set on an acre of land with room for children to move freely.
50OPENWEEKS A YEAR
• Nutritional food made fresh and, on the premises, daily.
Winter Solstice Comes to Penrith
Mark your calendars for the June long weekend and join Penrith City Council at Winter Solstice!
Council’s latest event will host a range of activities, including an ice-skating rink, activities for young children and teenagers, entertainment and have a variety of restaurants open along High Street, Penrith with delicious food and live music.
You won’t want to miss this exciting free event that marks the beginning of Winter!
Winter Solstice
Friday 6 June to Monday 9 June
4:00pm to 9:00pm (Friday to Sunday) 10:00am to 3:00pm (Monday)
Ice Skating (booking required, link available soon): 12:00pm to 9:00pm (Friday to Sunday)
HEALTH MATTERS
9:00am to 4:00pm (Monday)
City Park, Penrith
Find out more at penrith.city/events #wintersolstice #penrithcity
r Image/Article: Penrith City Council
Article Written + Submitted by: Andreas Klein Nutritionist + Remedial Therapist from Beautiful Health + Wellness
P: 0418 166 269
Have Lower Back Pain? Then Just Get On The Bottle!
I ask many of my ‘lower-backpain’ patients to get on the bottle! Nothing like a stiff drink to ease back pain, right? Just kidding of course.
Patients lie down on a carpeted floor, place a foam roller (about the size of a standard wine bottle) under one side of the small of their back. The roller is placed either just to the left or to the right of the spine, never over the spine itself, and patients breathe deeply in and out for 5-10 minutes. The idea is to stretch lower back muscles gently but deeply beside the spine (using breaths) without bending the spine itself.
This simple activity helps ameliorate back pain generally and avoids increases in pain that may occur between clinic sessions due to daily activities. Some patients should not do this activity, so it is important to be assessed first. Let us see why such stretching often helps reduce back pain.
Scientists induce lower back pain in animals by injecting carrageenan to damage lower back tissues, causing inflammation, and infiltration of immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils. Immune cells then release further signals that can exacerbate things, leading to ongoing
pain and, eventually, to tissue fibrosis. Fibrosis is the formation of excess fibrous connective (scar) tissue in an organ or area during any repair process that occurs in reaction to tissue injury.
After carrageenan injections, these animals cannot walk properly, and their lower back is much more sensitive to mechanical stimulus. In short, their backs are painful, it hurts animals to move, and so they have shortened stride lengths and lower instra-step distances.
Studies have shown that low-amplitude static (non-cyclical) stretching stops fibrosis and inflammation. To test this in lower back inflammation, half the carrageen-injected animals underwent a stretching program. For 12 days, 10 minutes twice daily, animals did simple sustained back-stretching. Researchers found stretching:
1. lowered tissue inflammatory immune cells
2. decreased scar tissue formation
3. decreased mechanical sensitivity of the back
4. restored stride length and
5. restored intra-step distance,
Appropriately done, stretching is an important therapy for musculoskeletal injuries, and patients who incorporate appropriate daily stretching generally improve more quickly. Have a back injury and need help? Why not give Andreas a call at the clinic on 0418 166 269
rImage:https://www.physiodc.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ lady-using-foam-roller-on-floor-under-her-back.jpg.
** Refer to submitter for references
Finding a Way Forward, Together –the Help you Need to get Through a Tough Time
The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Penrith is a welcoming and non-judgemental place where you can access free mental health information, services and supports.
They provide caring, calm and inclusive mental health and wellbeing support for people over the age of 18. You don’t need to be an Australian citizen, resident, have a visa or Medicare card to get support.
You also don’t need a referral from a doctor. You can just walk in or call to get support.
Whether you have experienced mental health challenges in the past or this is your first time reaching out for support, everyone is welcome.
The Medicare Mental Health Centre offers immediate support if you’re in distress. The team will work with you to understand what will help right now. And then if needed, they’ll help you find the right support for later.
Many of the staff at the centre have experienced a mental health crisis themselves and understand what you may be going through.
Whether you’re trying to improve your sense of wellbeing, looking for help with something that’s bothering you, or helping someone you care about, Penrith Medicare Mental Health Centre is here for you.
They also offer support for carers and families of people experiencing distress.
If you think you may need support or know someone who does, you can drop in at 111 Henry Street, Penrith or call 1800 595 212.
Penrith Medicare Mental Health Centre is delivered by Neami National and funded by the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network.
For more information, go to: www.neaminational.org.au/ penrith-medicare-mental-health-centre
r Image/Article: Wellmark
A
safe place to share what’s on your mind.
No referral or Medicare card needed
Walk-in for free and immediate support.
111 Henry Street, Penrith.
neaminational.org.au/penrith-medicare-mental-health-centre
Badgerys Creek Senior School Leaders Visit NSW Parliament
Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, recently hosted her annual Badgerys Creek Senior School Leadership Forum in NSW Parliament House.
The forum was comprised of student leaders from schools across the Badgerys Creek electorate.
The students had discussions with guest speakers The Hon. Natasha Maclaren-Jones MLC, Shadow Minister for Families and Communities, Shadow Minister for Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Shadow Minister for Disability Inclusion, Shadow Minister for Homelessness, and Shadow Minister for Youth, Stephanie Di Pasqua MP, Member for Drummoyne and Steph Cooke MP, Member for Cootamundra and Shadow Minister for Water, and Shadow Minister for Crown Lands.
The students were very interested in the experience and perspective of rural and regional NSW and asked the Member for Cootamundra many questions in exploring this area.
The students also enjoyed a tour of NSW Parliament House as they examined the history of the institution and they took the opportunity to have their photograph taken on the front steps of NSW Parliament House.
“I thank the students for their strong interest in our Parliamentary process and its history. I was delighted to see their great eagerness to learn and I wish them success in their academic endeavours,” stated Mrs Davies.
r Image/Article: Member for Badgerys Creek, Tanya Davies MP
Warragamba Wombats SRLFC
Sportsman’s Luncheon
Get ready for a massive afternoon of footy, fun, and fundraising as the Warragamba Wombats SRLFC proudly present the 2025 Sportsman’s Luncheon on Friday July 11th at Penrith Paceway!
This is your chance to enjoy great food, cold drinks, and unbeatable company as they welcome a superstar line-up of guest speakers including James Graham, Mark Geyer, and Bryan Fletcher. Expect big laughs, epic stories, and plenty of insight from three of rugby league’s most iconic personalities.
Your ticket includes:
• A two-course lunch
• Tap beer, house wine and soft drink included
• Guest speaker panels
• Live auctions and raffles throughout the afternoon
• Great prizes and memorabilia up for grabs!
Tickets: $175 per person. Tables of 10 available.
Strictly limited spots—this event will sell out!
This is more than just a luncheon—it’s a celebration of local footy, community spirit, and the mighty Warragamba Wombats. All proceeds go directly to supporting their players and volunteers throughout the 2025 season and beyond.
Bookings and Enquiries:
Chris Hinkley – 0418 139 547
Whether you’re a lifelong Wombats supporter or just love a cracking day out, don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the biggest events on our calendar.
Come for the stories. Stay for the laughs. Support your club. We’ll see you at the Paceway!
Warragamba Wombats SRLFC
Sportsman’s Luncheon
Friday, 11th July 2025 Penrith Paceway 12:00pm start
w Come and support your club | Image/Article Supplied by Warragamba Wombats SRLFC
FAITH – GRACE WEST ANGLICAN CHURCH
Words
Article Written + Submitted by: Senior Minister Christopher Braga
P: 47331635
A: 2265 Silverdale Rd, Silverdale NSW 2752
W: www.gracewest.church Service Times: Sundays @ 9.30am
Words. We all use them, think them, see them, and hear them. Words are powerful. A single word can open a bank account, launch a boat or command an army. In our relationships, words can build up or tear down, speak truth or spread lies. Words seem like a nothing, but they can be everything.
All of us can remember moments when words wounded us deeply, and moments when we’ve wounded others with what we’ve said. Parents, especially fathers, must be mindful of how they speak. A harsh or condemning word can crush the spirit of a child, while the words of encouragement from a parent can give a child strength they carry for life. In marriage, kind words breathe life into a relationship, but careless or cruel words can leave lasting scars. It is easy to lash out with hurtful words in moments of frustration, but it takes maturity to speak gently when angry. Words shape hearts, homes, friendships, families, workplaces - even nations.
Yet the most powerful and life-giving words we can hear are those spoken by God. In the Bible, God speaks - not with vague advice or hollow slogans, but with living words that bring life through Jesus Christ. If you want to hear from God, look to Jesus. Listen to his words. We’d love you to visit us, to hear more of these life-giving words.
Wet Weather Workouts: Why Your Dog Still Needs
When the skies open and the rain sets in, it’s tempting to bunker down indoors with a warm drink and a blanket. But while we may relish a quiet day inside, our canine companions still need their regular dose of activity, both physical and mental. Just because it’s wet outside doesn’t mean your dog’s exercise routine should be put on pause.
Regular exercise is crucial to your dog’s health and wellbeing. It not only keeps their bodies fit, but also supports mental stimulation, reduces boredom, and helps prevent behavioural issues like barking, chewing, and restlessness. Dogs thrive on routine, social engagement, and sensory enrichment. If rainy days are keeping you from your usual walks, there are still plenty of ways to keep your dog happy and active inside.
Firstly, you can still walk your dog in the rain, provided it’s safe to do so. A waterproof dog coat and towel by the door can help keep the mess to a minimum. But for those times when outdoor exercise just isn’t practical, there are many fun alternatives you can try at home.
Turn mealtime into playtime by making your dog work for their food. Use puzzle feeders, treat balls, or stuff a Kong with kibble and treats. If you’re after a budget-friendly option, an empty soft drink bottle (rinsed and dried) with a few holes
poked in it makes a great DIY enrichment toy.
Hide-and-seek is another simple but effective game. Kids especially love this one. Have your dog stay while someone hides, then call them. Always reward your dog for coming when called—this also doubles as a great recall training exercise.
Indoor fetch is possible too. A hallway or garage can become a safe play area for a quick energy burn. You can also set up a mini obstacle course with household items like chairs, blankets, and broomsticks, encouraging your dog to weave, jump, or crawl.
Scent games are ideal for mental stimulation. Hide small treats in safe places around the house and let your dog sniff them out. You can even make a homemade puzzle by filling a cardboard box with dry food and poking holes in the sides.
Rainy days don’t have to mean lazy days for your pet. With a bit of creativity, you can keep your dog mentally sharp, physically fit, and emotionally content—rain, hail, or shine.
For more ideas or to ask about your dog’s exercise and enrichment needs, feel free to call us on 0247362027 at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. We’re always here to help you keep your pets happy and healthy.
Monday to Friday: 8am - 7pm | Saturdays: 8am - 2pm
Services provided include:
•General Surgery (desexing to orthopedics)
• Vaccinations and in-house pathology
•Radiology and Dentistry
•Visiting specialist radiographer and ultrasonographer
•Puppy preschool
•Home visits
•Cat boarding and Kitten adoption
•Secure off leash dog park
The Barings Luddenham Industrial Park has been given the green light by the NSW State Government and is set to create 390 construction roles and 250 permanent positions when the site is operational. Described as a gigantic $139 million warehousing estate built on the 19.4 hectare site, on the northern side of Elizabeth Drive, on the corner of Northern Road Luddenham. Construction of the new industrial estate will start in the middle of the year, with the first warehouse expected to be operational by the end of next year.
The Luddenham Resource Recovery Facility has been approved, and work is about to start on construction at 275 Adams Road, Luddenham (behind the Hubertus Club). This facility is designed to process up to 600,000 tonnes per annum of non-putrescible general solid waste, including building and demolition waste, as well as commercial and industrial waste. The facility aims to achieve a recovery rate of 85% from the processing of incoming materials. The development has a capital investment value of $20.4 million and is expected to generate 65 construction jobs and 178 operational jobs.
A rumour is circulating around town that the NSW Fire Brigade have purchased land in Adams Road to build a new full time fire station.
The Hon Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, has written saying, “Please be assured that I remain committed to continuing to work with the Luddenham Village Community on its future”. The Minister was unable to give any valid reasons as to why the Luddenham Village has not been approved; it seems the NSW Government is just trying to push Bradfield (same distance from the second runway as the proposed new housing in Luddenham Village).
Another issue in the Aerotropolis now is the storm water scheme that will be managed by Sydney Water, the amount of stormwater is expected to increase by six times the amount because of new hard surfaces. Sydney Water is organising a briefing on the draft scheme plans for real estate agents who are working in the Aerotropolis and the estimated cost per hectare of development is one million dollars. When you add the State Government and Council contributions, the concern is that the area is pricing itself out of the market.
The Stardust Circus is in town at the Luddenham Showground with shows from the 29 May to 1 June, with array of talent and fun all under one big top! From hilarious clowns, dogs, goats, ponies, incredible aerial performances and everything in between.
A reminder to check for white ants in your home and buildings, as a few nests have been found with damage to some building including the Uniting Church.
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• Coloured Asphalt & Road Base
• Speed Humps & Dish Drains
• Bitumen Sealing & Decorative Sealing
• Coloured Asphalt & Road Base
• Storm Water & Drainage
• Bitumen Sealing & Decorative Sealing
• Civil Design & Excavation
• Storm Water & Drainage
• Concrete & Timber Edging
• Civil Design & Excavation
• Concrete & Timber Edging
• Top Soil & Turfing Service
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4733 0792
editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au PO Box 8254
Glenmore Park NSW 2745
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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS
Emergency Services
(Police, Ambulance, Fire) 000
Penrith Police Station 4721 9444
Police Assistance Line 131 444
St Marys Police Station 9677 7499
Warragamba Police 4774 1105
Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114
NSW Fire Brigade Warragamba 4774 1222
Graffiti Hotline Penrith 1800 022 182
Wollondilly SES 4677 1417
WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946
NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS
Churches
Anglican Church
Silverdale Rd, Silverdale
Catholic Church
Sacred Heart, Luddenham + Warragamba
Uniting Church
Willmington Rd, (Po Box 55) Luddenham
Wallacia Community Christian Park Rd, Wallacia
Mt Schoenstatt Shrine + Retreat Centre
Fairlight Rd, Mulgoa
Elevation Church Penrith 4 Production Pl, Penrith
Community Groups
Sports Clubs
We made it through another Federal Election, and as the Government gets their Ministers and seats in order, we are once again able to look to the future of our wonderful country with hope. In the words of Penny Wong, we are a “nation of courage and kindness”, something we can all aspire to be regardless of our political persuasion or ideology.
As we wave goodbye to Autumn, and the gardeners among us hope for cold and wet weather for the next few months, we find ourselves almost in the middle of 2025, and suddenly it’s time to get out our piles of receipts and invoices to get ready for tax time.
But if that thought doesn’t thrill you, check out all the local events in your area here in the paper – there’s always heaps going on, so find a jumper and get out and get involved!
As always, thank you to our advertisers, who make it possible for us to deliver your copy of the District Gazette directly to your mailbox, and we hope that you consider their businesses if you are looking for goods and services.
For now, find a spot in the warm, and enjoy your District Gazette!
“No Winter lasts forever; no Spring skips its turn.”
Belinda
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