Oran Park Gazette December 2023

oran park

Enjoy living in the Park with easy access to the conveniences Oran Park is known for.

Ph. 02 4604 5550 X-ray | Ultrasound | CT | MRI www.oranparkradiology.com.au

Better Care, Better You

Land for sale

DECEMBER 2023 | Issue 90

oranpark.com.au oranpark.com.au/work

Local Firies Welcome Santa and his Elves

See Article Pg 4

HARRINGTON PARK MEDICAL PRACTICE & SKIN CANCER CLINIC Dr Debbie Le Dr David Sor

OPEN 7 DAYS

Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 6:00pm Saturday: 8:30am – 12:00pm

BULK BILLING PRACTICE

Dr Roy Abi Hanna Dr Ahmed El Ayoubi

Dr Kavitha Sathiyanantha Dr James Lam

02 4648 1666

Suite 1, 23 Fairwater Drive, Harrington Park NSW 2567 www.oranparkgazette.com.au December 2023

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NEWS + MEDIA

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Nominations Open for Australia Day Awards

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 Harrington Park Over 55's Social Club

Meets the first Monday of the month from 10:00am at Harrington Park Community Hall (Fairwater Drive, Harrington Park). More details: 0413526307

Macarthur Art Group

Meets the second Saturday of each month from 9.30am2.45pm at Narellan Library (1st floor - Queen Street, Narellan).

More details: 0404 229 498

OAK - Over 55's Social Group

Meets the second Tuesday of each month from 10am to 11.30am at New Life Anglican Church Oran Park. Morning Tea is provided and there is no charge. More details: jmcbest@ hotmail.com Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for the Camden community and deserves recognition?

Now is the perfect time to shine the spotlight on them with Council’s 2024 Australia Day Award nominations now open.

The annual awards recognise the outstanding efforts of residents who dedicate themselves to making a positive difference in our community.

Applications are now open for the following five categories: • Camden Citizen of the Year – open to Camden residents aged 18 years or over at 31 December 2023, who have made a noteworthy contribution during 2023 and/or given outstanding service to the Camden community in a non-workrelated capacity over several years; • Young Citizen of the Year – open to Camden residents aged under 18 years as at 31 December 2023, who have given outstanding service and made a positive impact on the community in 2023 and/or longer; • Sports Achievement Award – recognises a committed sportsperson, sporting team, coach, volunteer or official, whose actions inspire and encourage others whilst enriching the Camden community through sport, healthy living or physical activity. This category has no age restrictions; • Community Group Award – recognises groups whose tireless work and close contact with the community encourages inclusivity and continues to make Camden an even better place to live; and • Arts and Cultural Award – a person or group who have made an influential or valuable contribution to the Camden area through any art form, including drama, visual art, music, verse, dance, cultural heritage, expression, literature, film and multimedia.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, encouraged residents to nominate someone they admired. “Earning an Australia Day

award is a fantastic way for someone to have their name etched in history and recognised for their contributions to the Camden area,” she said.

“If you know someone who deserves that kind of recognition, make sure you pop in a nomination.” Nominations close on Friday 5 January 2024.

To make a nomination, visit www.camden.nsw.gov.au/whatson/annual-signature-events/australia-day-2024/australia-dayaward-nomination-form. r Image: https://www.facebook.com/camdencouncil. Article: Camden Council

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December 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

Children + Families PlayTime @ NewLife Anglican Church Meets every Wednesday (During School terms) at 10am - 12pm.

PlayTime is for Mums and Carers with kids 0-5. NewLife Anglican Church (Cnr Marcus Loane Way + Central Avenue, Oran Park).

More Details: www.newlifeanglican.org.au/wp/playtime.

Hobbies + Interests Library Movie Club Meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 6:00pm at Narellan Library (Corner Queen and Elyard Street, Narellan).

More details: 02 4645 5039

Storytime (2-5 years) Held weekly on Wednesdays from 11:00am till 11:30am at Oran Park Library (72 Central Avenue, Oran Park). Family Storytime (all ages welcome) is the 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:00pm, during school term only. More details: 02 4645 5645

Markets Camden Fresh Produce Market Held weekly on Saturdays from 7:00am till 12:00pm at Camden Town Farm (40 Exeter Street, Camden). More details: camdenproducemarket@hotmail.com or www. camdenproducemarket.com.au

Cobbitty Village Markets Held on the first Saturday of the month (excluding January and February) from 8:00am till 1:00pm at Cobbitty Public School (Cobbitty Road, Cobbitty). More details: www. cobbittymarkets.com.au

Support + Wellbeing Australian Breastfeeding Association CamdenWollondilly Group Come along and meet new friends. Chat with mums who have 'been there' and connect with their local breastfeeding counsellors and educators. The group meets monthly at Spring Farm Community Centre (275 Richardson Road, Spring Farm).

More details: camden_wollondilly_aba@outlook.com

Everything RV Announces Exciting Location Move to Smeaton Grange Everything RV, Sydney’s leading caravan and leisure and lifestyle destination, specialising in caravan retail sales, is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated relocation to a larger and upgraded location in Smeaton Grange. This move comes as a result of the remarkable success and consistent growth of the business, and it is aimed at providing an enhanced and more convenient experience for their valued customers.

The new Everything RV dealership, now situated at 36 Dunn Road, Smeaton Grange is a testament to their commitment to delivering top-quality products and unparalleled customer service. This strategic move reflects their dedication to meeting the evolving needs of their customers, who have made Everything RV their trusted partner in the world of recreational vehicles.

The upgraded Smeaton Grange location offers a host of benefits for their customers, including: 1. Expansive Outdoor Showroom: Their spacious showroom will allow customers to explore a wider selection of the latest caravan and camper models from Australia’s leading brand names. You can now browse, compare, and make informed decisions in a comfortable and accommodating environment.

2. Ample Parking and Accessibility: The new location features ample parking space and improved accessibility, making it easier than ever for customers to visit and explore their range of products.

3. Convenient Location: Smeaton Grange is a prime location with excellent connectivity, making it easily accessible for customers from all over Sydney and regional locations.

4. Customer-Centric Approach: Everything RV remains committed to providing personalised assistance and expert guidance to help you find the perfect caravan or camper that suits your lifestyle and needs.

Chad Kanj, CEO at Everything RV, expressed excitement about the move, saying, "This relocation represents a significant milestone in the Everything RV journey. We are truly grateful to our loyal customers who have supported us throughout our growth. Our new facility in Smeaton Grange allows us to better serve you and offer an even greater selection of products and services. We can't wait to welcome you to our new location and continue helping you create unforgettable adventures."

Customers can visit Everything RV's new showroom at 36 Dunn Road, Smeaton Grange 2567. They look forward to sharing this exciting new chapter with you and invite you to stay updated with the latest news and updates on their website and social media channels.

Your local corporate + commercial lawyers

As proud club sponsors, we wish the Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers JRLFC a fantastic ‘23 season!

0493 153 053 info@parkandhills.com.au

Office 7, Suite 3.02, TRN House 90 Podium Way, Oran Park

PARKANDHILLS.COM.AU Gaz.advert.artwork.qxp_Layout 1 14/9/20 10:55 am Page 1

r Article: Everything RV

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Servicing All Areas P: 4655 2800 M: 0400 995 640 A: 17 Hill Street, Camden F: 4655 2833 www.oranparkgazette.com.au December 2023

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PM Joins Dr Freelander in Marking Bulk Billing Increase

Local Firies Welcome Santa and his Elves

From 1 November, the Albanese Labor Government has made it easier and cheaper for more than 11 million Australians to see a doctor.

This means that local patients can access healthcare services, such as their GP, simply by presenting their Medicare Card.

For Dr Mike Freelander MP, the Federal Member for Macarthur, this is a major achievement in fighting for better healthcare services for Macarthur residents.

“I am proud to be part of a government that has delivered the largest investment in Medicare bulk billing in 40 years. I began practicing in Macarthur when Medicare was first rolled out and I have seen firsthand the importance of this scheme in securing better healthcare outcomes in our communities.

“We are just under one and a half years in government; however, we have delivered the most significant investment in Medicare for four decades whilst the Coalition spent a decade neglecting this vital institution.

“This, along with the reduction in the cost of PBS medication from $42.50 to 30 earlier this year and introducing 60-day dispensing, greatly helps Macarthur residents of all ages access an affordable healthcare system and ease the cost-of-living pressures they are facing”.

The Prime Minister, the Hon. Anthony Albanese MP, joined Dr Freelander in Macarthur to celebrate this achievement.

Together with Mrs Sally Quinell, the NSW Member for Camden, they toured the Our Medical Gregory Hills medical clinic where they met with enthusiastic patients, GP’s, and clinic staff.

Both the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) & the Australian Medical Association (AMA) have welcomed this investment as a way of improving access to GP’s and helping more GP’s remain financially viable, as well as providing cost-of-living relief to patients.

Santa season is upon us! If you are a resident of Harrington Park, Oran Park, Elderslie, or Spring Farm, then look out for the RFS Santas and Elves coming to you on Saturday 9th December 2023 with the Santa Run. Starting at 10:00am (all times approx.), they will begin at Harrington Park Reserve Youth Play Space (Waterford Way).

This will be followed by Oran Park Skate Park (Peter Brock Drive) at 10:30am, then Dawson-Damer Park Splash Park at 11:15am, before heading to Elderslie and Spring Farm.

As far as we can tell, the first Santa Run was run by Belrose Fire Station in 1960. The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is the lead combat agency for bush fires in NSW. For over 100 years, they have been a significant part of the history and landscape of NSW. Working closely with other agencies, they respond to a range of emergencies including structure fires, motor vehicle accidents and storms that occur within rural fire districts.

Christmas is typically the RFS Narellan Brigade’s favourite time of the year. They said that they all love Christmas and the Santa Run, as well as seeing the smiling faces when the kids see Santa and the truck. Most of the brigade members have young children, and so they appreciate that they can give back to the community who are so generous to the RFS during the year.

Santa and the Elves will be handing out lollies for the kids.

You can grab a photo with them and also next to the RFS trucks.

Aside from the RFS Santa Run, you can catch up with the local Brigade at the Cobbitty Christmas Markets on December 2nd and at the Bunnings Christmas Markets on December 7th. You may have already seen them at the Camden Christmas Festival last month too.

Narellan Rural Fire Brigade is a volunteer fire station in the Macarthur Zone, and they are always looking for new members.

If you have been thinking about joining, then get along to the Shed on a Monday night or check them out on Facebook. See more at: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nswrfs The NSW RFS is the world's largest volunteer firefighting organisation, with over 70,000 volunteers and more than 2,000 brigades. Members of the NSW RFS are trained to very high levels of competence to ensure they know what to do in an emergency.

The NSW RFS aims to reduce the likelihood and consequence of fires occurring. This involves comprehensive risk management programs to reduce bush fire hazards, reduce fire ignitions and the development of regulations for bush fire prone areas.

r Dr Mike Freelander MP with Prime Minister, the Hon. Anthony Albanese MP at Gregory Hills | Image/Article: Dr Mike Freelander MP

r Feature Article [Cover] Elves of fire | Image: RFS Narellan Brigade

MERRY CHRISTMAS MACARTHUR! I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe, Happy New Year!

As 2023 draws to a close, I hope you are able to take some time to spend with your loved ones this festive season!

My office is available to help with any community & federal government matters you may have, so please do not hesitate to contact me via mike.freelander.MP@aph.gov.au or on (02) 4620 0293 if I can be of any assistance!

37 Queen St, Campbelltown mike.freelander.mp@aph.gov.au

DR MIKE FREELANDER MP MEMBER FOR MACARTHUR

Authorised by Dr Mike Freelander MP, ALP, Campbelltown

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December 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

Land for sale Enjoy living in the Park with easy access to the conveniences Oran Park is known for.

No matter where you live in Oran Park, you’re only moments from a great range of amenities including The Podium Shopping Centre, a wide array of schools, parks and facilities.

Set in one of the fastest-growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master-planned community of new homes and expanding dining and retail precincts.

Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer.

Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.

oranpark.com.au

@oranparktown www.oranparkgazette.com.au December 2023

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Wests and Big Yellow Umbrella Launch 2023 Giving Tree Wests Group Macarthur has once again partnered with local charity Big Yellow Umbrella to support families in need over Christmas, with the 2023 Giving Tree Appeal running from Wednesday 1st November through to Thursday 7th December.

Wests Group and Big Yellow Umbrella are encouraging the community to donate new, and unwrapped Christmas gifts for children of all ages underneath the Giving Trees, set up across all Wests Group Macarthur venues, including Wests League Club Leumeah, Country Club Gledswood Hills, Lakeside Golf Club Camden as well as Narellan Town Centre.

Big Yellow Umbrella works across the Macarthur region through expressions of interest to ensure the Giving Tree initiative delivers to those connected to community services in the lead-up to Christmas. These services include but are not limited to the Tharawal Brighter Futures program, NSW Police, We Are Community, Baptist Care Narraling Centre, and other clients connected to food relief services in the region.

People interested in donating will not need to pre-label or gift tag items as these will be allocated based on where the need is greatest around the time of gift wrapping and distribution. Gifts for teenagers and adults, including Mums and Dads, are also welcome and items that can help create a lovely Christmas Day experience, including tableware and decorations. With consideration of the additional financial pressure felt by many families, a suggested gift limit of $20 applies. There will also be a cash donation option available via Wests Group Reception tills up to $20 should anyone wish for the BYU team to purchase a practical gift for the appeal on their behalf.

Kim Landouw from Big Yellow Umbrella shares, “The state of the national economy is impacting families like never before, we are seeing a greater demand for our Yellow Hampers food relief services, mental health supports, and youth outreach programs. The cost of living is far beyond the reach of many local Macarthur families and the financial stress is being felt by many. A small gesture from a complete stranger could be the lift someone needs to let them know they are not alone. If you can give during this hard time, please know your kind donation will go toward putting a smile on the face of a local Macarthur-based family this Christmas.”

Following the gift collection period, Wests invites community volunteers to join them for the Giving Tree Gift Wrapping Day, taking place at Country Club Gledswood Hills on Monday 11th December and whereby all donated gifts will be labelled, wrapped, and presented to Big Yellow Umbrella for distribution in time for Christmas Day. On partnering with Big Yellow Umbrella, Wests Group Chairman Alan Buxton commented, “We recognise that many families are really feeling the pinch and we hope that through running this appeal once again, we can offer disadvantaged families and children in Macarthur the chance to experience the excitement and joy of Christmas.”

Last year, the initiative delivered just under 1,000 presents to some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged families in the region and we hope to achieve a similar result in 2023. r Wests staff with one of the Giving Trees | Image/Article: Wests Group Macarthur

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Tennis NSW Awards Local Coach

PARENTS CORNER Article Written + Submitted by: Sussan Omar | Parenting Facilitator Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Family Getaways: Navigating Holidays with Kids Through Routine, Planning, and Playful Adventures As the holiday season approaches, one thing is certain – keeping the kids entertained is a top priority. So, how do you ensure a smooth holiday experience? It's all about planning, being flexible, maintaining some routine and some good fun for the

little ones.

Planning: The first step is to sort out your leave and budget. If you haven't locked in your leave dates, do it now. Check out travel and accommodation options, including online deals and vouchers. Consider family-friendly destinations with onsite activities. Involve your children as much as possible to plan a holiday with activities that everyone will enjoy. When booking accommodation, consider if you need extra cots or cooking facilities and how close you are to the sites you wish to see.

Consider budget-friendly alternatives like camping trips, road adventures, or day trips to the beach, mountains, parks, and pools. Pack your snacks and occasionally treat the kids to a special lunch or ice cream – budget-friendly and delightful!

The Importance of Routines: Holidays are a break from the norm, a time for fun and relaxation. Yet, maintaining some routine is key. Start adjusting meal and sleep times a week before your departure to ease the transition. Children tend to sleep later and sleep in on holidays.

Consider creating a holiday schedule that balances planned and spontaneous activities. It can be a fun task for creative kids to take charge of. Let them craft it with paints and markers or on a whiteboard, detailing the day's adventures.

Staying Active: Whether you're staying local or going away, planning healthy activities like swimming, bushwalking, outdoor games, skating, biking, and other sports is a good idea. Staying active is key to both physical and mental health, especially during holidays, as it helps release excess energy and aids bedtime.

Plan outdoor activities either early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat. When outdoors, remember to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide. https://www.cancer.org.au/save-your-skin/five-sunsmartsteps Ending Holidays: If you are travelling back by car or plane, make sure you pack snacks and activities, particularly for younger children. If driving, take breaks every two hours.

As the holiday winds down, take the time to talk to children to get back into routine and give them 1-2 weeks to readjust.

Gradually wind back meal and sleep times, and don't forget to be patient. r Image: www.pixabay.com

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December 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

John Thompson, the head tennis coach at Harrington Grove Country Club, recently won the Tennis NSW Development Coach of the Year Award in a ceremony hosted by tennis great Todd Woodbridge, in Lidcombe, this past October.

“It’s a massive achievement and I’m thrilled and proud to have been awarded this honour”, he said.

His whole family were tennis players, which inspired him to take up the game himself. From there, he went into coaching, which he loves.

Harrington Grove Country Club is a residential community situated in Harrington Park and contains 4 tennis courts as well as a swimming pool and fitness centre for residents. John has been coaching the residents there now for 12 years.

“I love helping people to enjoy the game and reach their potential, and live their dreams of playing tennis overseas”, he said.

John and fellow tennis coach Kelsey Lewis run the coaching business Elite Personal Development, and coach at both the Harrington Grove Country Club and South Camden Tennis Club. John has been coaching now for 25 years in total, 12 of them at the Country Club.

In October this year, they took a group of 10 of their young players over to the United States of America to train at the famous John Newcombe Tennis Academy in Texas. While they were there, they went on a tour of 10 USA colleges, to let them experience what it might be like to study and play tennis there if they wanted to in the future.

Now back from their trip, John and Kelsey are holding some tennis camps for kids wanting to experience tennis for the first time, or just come and enjoy continuing to play. The camps are at South Camden Tennis Club on 20th and 21st December, then at Harrington Grove on 22nd December, which is open for members and their guests.

If you’d like more information about John, his coaching, and the upcoming camps, check the Elite Personal Development website www.elitepersonaldevelopment.com.au.

r John Thompson and Kelsey Lewis in the John Newcombe Tennis Academy in Texas / Image: John Thompson

New Oran Park University Study Centre Strengthens Ties with South-West Sydney

The University of Notre Dame Australia is providing more education and training opportunities to South-West Sydney residents, with the opening of their new study centre in Oran Park.

At a special event attended by local leaders from the community, education, and the Wollongong Diocese recently, Bishop Brian Mascord from the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong blessed the new facility and celebrated Mass at St Mary Mackillop Catholic Parish to mark the occasion.

Notre Dame’s Chancellor, The Hon. Christopher Ellison, said the University was committed to providing more opportunities for people living in this rapidly growing part of Sydney to access the benefits of higher education.

“The population growth in this part of Sydney is astonishing, which will only increase with future developments in the area, including the new international airport,” Mr Ellison said.

“As a national university, we believe we are ideally placed to support the Government’s mission to grow access to education in critical skills areas. We also recognise the need to build diversity and increase opportunities to access education and employment across our communities.”

“Just as importantly, this facility provides an opportunity to strengthen the ongoing relationship between Notre Dame, the Diocese of Wollongong, and local Catholic school communities.”

The new facility features a reception area, kitchenette, 40 seat open learning space, and audio-visual equipment to assist with remote learning.

Bishop Mascord said the opening had been a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Mass and to welcome Notre Dame to the Diocese of Wollongong.

“Our vision for Catholic education is to provide high quality centres of learning, where faith is experienced and lived out as an integral part of the student experience,” Bishop Mascord said. “Notre Dame’s new facility will have a transformative effect on our ability to realise this ambition, both during and beyond the K-12 years.”

Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong Director of Schools, Peter Hill, said the new facilities would provide students, teachers, and Catholic education leaders with the chance to undertake further study and professional development from a campus located right on their doorstep.

“The first physical presence by a Catholic university in the Diocese of Wollongong is an historic moment,” Mr Hill said. “This study centre not only greatly expands the professional learning opportunities for our dedicated Catholic school teachers, but also provides an attractive and accessible path to higher education for our students, many of whom may be the first in their family to attend university.” r [Left] (L-R) Bishop Brian Mascord, Catholic Diocese of Wollongong, The Hon. Christopher Ellison, Notre Dame Chancellor, Mr. Mark Perich, Director, Greenfields Development Company, Mr Peter Hill, Director of Schools, Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong and Professor Francis Campbell, Notre Dame Vice Chancellor [Right] Bishop Brian Mascord, Catholic Diocese of Wollongong | Images/Article: The University of Notre Dame Australia

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Dashing December

KID’S CORNER 1

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DO YOU KNOW THE NAMES OF THE CHRISTMAS CHARACTERS AND ITEMS?

SPOT THE 12 DIFFERENCES

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Wishing all our readers and advertisers a happy and safe Christmas and New Year!

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December 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

The Real Magic of Christmas Trees As the festive season descends upon us, there is a time-honoured tradition that weaves an extra layer of magic into our homes—a real Christmas tree. Michelle, also known as the Christmas Tree Lady, based locally, supplies the community with stunning real Christmas trees guaranteed to bring joy to your holiday celebrations.

“You can’t beat that fresh pine scent,” said Michelle.

“They simply smell like Christmas!”

In a world characterised by hustle and bustle, there is something inherently bewitching about the fragrant boughs of a freshly cut pine tree adorning our living spaces. Beyond the twinkling lights and glistening ornaments, these evergreen guardians hold the power to infuse our homes with a unique sense of tradition.

“The nostalgia of growing up with a fresh tree in your home and continuing that family tradition each and every year, as well as being able to pick its unique shape and size is all part of the fun,” Michelle continued.

“Not to mention they're bio-degradable and you don't have to find storage for it once Christmas is over.”

About 98% of all Christmas trees are grown on farms as sustainable crops. For every tree harvested, Christmas tree growers’ plant one to three new seedlings the following Spring, to ensure a constant supply. Close to 350 million trees planted by farmers are growing now and will end up in homes across the country.

Michelle and her family have been selling fresh Christmas trees straight from the tree farm for 3 years, supporting local, Aussie farmers. The business covers South West Sydney, Macarthur, Wollondilly, Penrith, and surrounding areas, and includes a delivery service for $30.00.

“Our 6ft Christmas trees are $100 each. We run our service based off pre-order customers only, as we sell out fast and have limited tree supplies each year. We can’t accommodate walk-ins,” said Michelle.

Pre-orders were until November 24th or until sold out.

The Christmas Tree Lady also holds a tree stall in Harrington Park on selected weekends leading up to Christmas.

Treat your tree like you would with a fresh bunch of flowers. Lots of water and placed away from direct sunlight. If cared for correctly, a fresh tree should last for approximately 5-6 weeks.

For more information, including availability, visit The Christmas Tree Lady on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Christmastreelady2021 or email christmastreelady@ outlook.com. r Some of their amazing trees | Image Supplied by Christmas Tree Lady

Christmas is Merry and Bright at The Podium Christmas is Merry and Bright at The Podium, where festive spirit comes alive with enchanting experiences for the whole family.

Gaze in awe at the stunning 8 metre Christmas tree that graces the heart of Centre Court, radiating warmth and cheer.

Santa will arrive for Santa photos on Saturday December 25th, with bookings now open for sessions up until and including Christmas Eve. For an extra special treat, mark your calendars for Saturday December 9th, when The Podium hosts the famous Breakfast with Santa event. Children have the unique opportunity to dine with Santa, enjoy a delightful Storytime session, and receive a special gift to cherish. It's an experience that adds a sprinkle of magic to the festive season.

Whether you're capturing the perfect Santa photo, savouring breakfast with Santa, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, The Podium is the place to be. Let's come together to share in the spirit of Christmas and create lasting memories that will twinkle in our hearts for years to come.

The Podium is located at 351 Oran Park Drive in Oran Park.

rSanta greets his many fans | Image: Greenfields Development Company

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and SALLY QUINNELL MP a Happy New Year.

STATE MEMBER FOR CAMDEN

(02) 4655 3333 camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567 PO Box 1084 Narellan NSW 2567 Authorised by Sally Quinnell MP, Member for Camden funded using parliamentary entitlements.Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567

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FAITH – ST MARY MACKILLOP CATHOLIC PARISH ORAN PARK Article Written + Submitted by: Parish Priest Fr David Catterall MTh P: 02 4648 2226 W: www.marymackillopparish.org.au A: 94 Oran Park Drive, Oran Park NSW 2570 Facebook: www.facebook.com/oranparkparish Twitter: www.twitter.com/oranparkparish As we know, Christmas 2023 means different things to different people. For some, it is a time to spend with family and friends; whereas, for others it is a time to spend another Christmas alone without the presence of those they love most. For some, Christmas this year will be filled with emotions of grief and sorrow; whereas for others this day is the start of a hope filled future as they witness children and grandchildren celebrating their first Christmas.

For some, Christmas 2023 is a year to start new traditions that can be passed on for years to come. Whereas for others, like the parish community of St Mary MacKillop Oran Park (that I am blessed to serve as Parish Priest), this Christmas is a time to continue faith traditions – that have been handed on from one generation to the next, as we once again gather for worship and prayer to celebrate Christmas 2023.

Though no matter what Christmas 2023 means to us, and no matter what emotions and feelings, hopes, and fears we bring to this Christmas; I invite you and your loved ones to come and celebrate Christmas 2023 at St Mary MacKillop Church, Oran Park.

Our Christmas Mass program for our two Mass centres of St Mary Mother of God Church at Leppington and St Mary MacKillop Church at Oran Park can be found on the parish website at: bit.ly/2023christmasmass May the events of the first Christmas - when a small, poor child that Christians name as ‘the Son of God’ was born, remind all of us that Christmas is not simply about the presents and the parties (however special these may be), but an opportunity to strive to promote amongst our families, friends and our neighbourhoods those values that are so central to this special time of year – like love, peace and goodwill to all. Merry Christmas to one and all.

FAITH – NEWLIFE ANGLICAN ORAN PARK Article Written + Submitted by: Lead Pastor Stuart Starr A: Cnr Central Avenue + Marcus Loane Way, Oran Park NSW 2570 W: newlifeanglican.org.au E: stuart@newlifeanglican.org.au

Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room Christmas can be a hard time to fit everything in. There are relatives to see, presents to be bought, food to be cooked, children on holidays, and regular work still to be done.

Do you remember the account of the first Christmas about the birth of Jesus in, “the little town of Bethlehem?” You’ll recall that Mary and Joseph had travelled for the Roman census and were seeking lodging with a mother, “heavy with child.” What luck did they have? Very little, as it appears in the Bible that there was famously, “no room for them in the Inn.” It’s actually astonishing when we consider who Jesus is. Mary is told to name this child ‘Jesus’ which means, “God saves,” but she is also told that He is ‘Immanuel’ - “God with us.” You could imagine a scenario where the God of the Universe stepping into human history might have a room reserved! And yet, that’s not how He came. Jesus was praised by angels - but it was to shepherds in a field. He was visited by Kings - but it was as He lay in an animal food trough. And yes, when He was to be born the ‘no vacancies’ sign was hung out - instead of worshipful welcome.

The Hymn ‘Joy to the World’ opens with the line, “Let every heart prepare Him room.”

It would be a great shame if we managed to fit in our shopping and present wrapping but couldn’t find a spot for Jesus this Christmas. As a start, can I invite you to join us at our Carols on the lawn from 6pm on Saturday 16th? We’re also running two services on Christmas Eve - 9:30am and 11pm, before celebrating Jesus’s birth on Christmas Day at 9am. I think you’ll find it a blessing to fit in a little more Jesus this Christmas your house might be full, but every heart has room. r Image: www.pixabay.com

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December 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

Talented Photographers Recognised

The snappers of striking photographs of the Macarthur region have been honoured in this year’s Macarthur Nature Photography Competition.

The annual competition, which is run by Camden, Campbelltown, and Wollondilly Councils, encouraged people to submit their most striking, engaging and enticing images of local native flora, wildlife and natural scenery taken from within the Macarthur area.

Entrants submitted photographs into one of three categories: Caring for Country, Threatened Species and Australian Native Plants, Animals and Pollinators.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said the entries were of an incredibly high standard this year.

“We’re incredibly blessed to have such beautiful nature all around us in the Macarthur region and sometimes the snap of a camera can capture that like nothing else,” she said.

“That was definitely the case with our entries this year. Congratulations to all of the winners but also well done to everybody who entered.” rMayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, with People’s Choice winner Asnika Sutharjan from Oran Park | Image/Article: Camden Council

Tanya Davies MP

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PROBUS CLUB Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com P: 0410758755 At this time of year, our thoughts are turning to Christmas and family celebrations. But, what if one of your family members was lost or missing?

At the November meeting of Oran Park Probus Club, we welcomed the founder of Search Dogs Sydney.

He brought along one of the dogs in training and his handler. This organisation is 100% self-funded. It receives no government funding and relies on donations, fundraising, and volunteers. The dog handlers undergo a rigorous training in canine handling, search strategies and lost person behaviour. Volunteers are always needed to be a ’lost person’ or as IT support. Dogs are trained in urban search and rescue, land and water search and the search for human remains. They work for reward only, play time with a special toy or an edible treat. When a dog picks up a scent, he barks and waits for the handler to arrive with his reward. One dog can cover the same amount of ground it would take about 30 humans to cover. In Australia, a person goes missing every 15 minutes and 2,800 families have waited longer than 3 months for news of a missing person. If you have concerns about someone’s safety and welfare and their whereabouts are unknown, you should first file a missing person’s report with your local police.

The police may then contact Search Dogs Sydney, or you may do so yourself. What an amazing resource to have on our doorstep.

This was one of the many wonderful talks our members have enjoyed this year. They are always a highlight of our general meetings.

Oran Park Probus Club will hold its last meeting of the year on December 5, but we still have a pub lunch, coffee and chat, a show, trivia, a bus trip to a winery and a Christmas lunch to enjoy, before we break until February next year.

If you would like to know more about Probus - it’s all about fun and friendship, or you’d like more details about Oran Park Probus Club, please email the Secretary at secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com. r

Last month, Search Dogs NSW Presentation | Image Supplied

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And that’s a wrap!

Welcome to our final publication for the year.

2023 has seen the team at the District Gazette reporting on many highs and lows across our community.

We have shared numerous ‘feel-good stories’ and reported on several events, much like the stories we bring to you in this jam-packed edition.

It has been a brilliant year of delivering local businesses to your door, and it’s no secret that ‘We Love Local’ and thank you for supporting local business too.

Christmas is almost upon us! Spare a thought for those that are entering this Festive Season with emptiness and a heavy heart, whether it’s the first year or a repeat of many without that special someone, the pain seems to remain the same.

Dr Seuss once said ‘Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory’. Share many special moments with those close to you this Christmas.

Time for a cuppa, take a break, you deserve one!

Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud. We’re back in February, enjoy Your Community News.

Police, Ambulance, Fire 000 or 112 mobile Narellan Police Station 4632 4499 Police Assistance Line 131 444 Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114 WIRES (Wildlife Rescue) 4754 2946 NSW Rural Fire Service 1800NSWRFS St. Vincent de Paul Society 8250 1484 e: Socialjustice.Wol@vinnies.org.au Camden SES 4647 0319 (For emergency help in floods and storms call NSW SES – 132 500) General OPT information, Contact: Sales & Information Office 9043 7500

Health Services Camden + Campbelltown Hospital Switchboard 4634 3000 After Hours Medical Clinic (Campbelltown) 4634 3290 Heathdirect Australia 1800 022 222 Get Healthy 1300 806 258 Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36 MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 Karitane Careline 1300 22 74 64 Breastfeeding Helpline (NSW) 1800 686 268 (1800 MUM 2 MUM) Pregnancy Birth + Baby 1800 882 436

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Sports Clubs Camden Athletics Club + Little Athletics http://camdenathletics.org.au/ Camden Cats Senior AFL Club Greg McGuiness 0413 257 516 Camden Netball www.camdennetball.com.au Macarthur District Softball Association Lesley Darby 0401 740 023 Narellan Physie Club narellanpcc@hotmail.com Mount Annan/Currans Hill Knights Softball Club Jennifer Tadros 0404 629 710 Camden RSL Youth Club Boxing Ron 4646 1658 Macarthur Bushwalkers Ken 4628 2528 Narellan Jets Junior Rugby League Cindy Morley 0413 086 601 Camden District Cricket Association Kyle Malcolm - President 0411 371 115 Cobbitty Narellan Cricket Club Mark Bush - 0497 555 071 - mbush@hvg.net.au Oran Park Cricket Club Karl Bennett coaching@oranparkcricket.com.au Oran Park Rovers Football Club Nathan Hawthorne 0422 139 993 Oran Park Junior Rugby League Dave Gabriel 0451 440 661 Oran Park Hockey Club Michelle Brennan 0400 050 078 Camden Junior AFL Club Naomi Porter 0417 683 768 Camden Junior OZTAG camdencobras@oztag.com.au Harrington Park Scorpions Softball Club Greg Trevena and MB: 0417 257 385 Mets Baseball - Catherine Field Kim O'Grady 0412 081 144 Camden Valley Wildfire Basketball Club www.wildfire.org.au Matt McKenna 0410 503 684 play@wildfire.org.au

Community Groups Gledswood Toastmasters David Johnson 0417 423 458 Rotary Club of Gregory Hills Next-Gen President 02 9136 6349 or facebook.com/ rcgregoryhills

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merry and bright.

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December 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au