Platforms on Notice to Comply with Social Media Minimum Age
eSafety has informed Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Kick and Reddit of its view they are age-restricted platforms required to comply with Social Media Minimum Age restrictions from December 10.
eSafety has also informed the broader online industry all platforms are obliged to continually assess whether they meet the definition of an ‘age-restricted social media platform’, in particular when they introduce new features or their primary usage changes. If they do meet the definition, they must take reasonable steps to ensure users under 16 do not hold an account.
On available information, eSafety considers all nine services named, currently meet the criteria for ‘age-restricted social media platform’, in particular the key requirement that their “sole or a significant purpose is to enable online social interaction”.
eSafety has informed the following platforms it considers they are not subject to age restrictions on the basis they do not currently meet the criteria for ‘age-restricted social media platform’ including falling within an exclusion in the legislative rules: Discord, GitHub, LEGO Play, Roblox, Steam and Steam Chat, Google Classroom, Messenger, WhatsApp and YouTube Kids.
From 10 December, eSafety expects all nine services currently assessed as meeting the criteria for age restriction to take reasonable steps to prevent Australian children under the age of 16 from having accounts. eSafety remains in ongoing discussions with these services around their compliance obligations and our planned approach towards enforcement.
Any age restricted platforms which fail to do so may face enforcement action, including civil penalties of up to $49.5 million.
Due to the fast-changing nature of technology, eSafety has been clear there will not be a static list of companies that are age-restricted.
Instead, eSafety will provide updated advice to the public on current assessments and its approach to compliance and enforcement on its website. When new platforms emerge or existing ones evolve to the extent that their purposes change, eSafety may reassess those services. eSafety will assess (and reassess) services when considering exercising its powers.
To help Australians understand better and prepare for the changes that are coming, eSafety recently released a comprehensive package of resources and webinars to answer questions from the public and provide additional details.
Informed by extensive consultation and feedback from key partners including mental health and support organisations, such as headspace, Kids Helpline, Beyond Blue, Raising Children and ReachOut Australia, all resources are available for free at eSafety.gov.au.
Submit your Community Notice on/by 10th of the month, to be included in the following edition. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations. E: info@districtgazette.com.au
Community Groups
Macarthur Art Group
Meet every third Saturday at Narellan Library 1st floor from 9.30am - 1.30pm. Tea coffee biscuits for a gold coin donation. More details: 0404 229 498
Children + Families
PlayTime @ NewLife Anglican Church
Meets Wednesdays (During School terms) at 10.00am -11.30am. 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.
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
Oran Park Dad Spreads Christmas Cheer and a Splash of Mango Magic
An Oran Park dad is lighting up his street and the spirit of giving with a tropical twist on Christmas tradition.
Local resident Alex Mangos has become well known across Oran Park for his spectacular Christmas light displays that draw families from near and far. Each year, his glittering home becomes a beacon of joy and generosity, helping raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital, a cause close to his family’s heart.
This year, Alex kicked off the festive season early with something a little different: a special mango-inspired light display celebrating both his surname and his favourite fruit. From 12th till the 19th of November, his home at 12 Bourne Ridge glowed in shades of orange and gold, with giant mango decorations and hundreds of twinkling lights creating a warm, tropical spectacle.
“We’ve been doing this for years to bring smiles to people’s faces and to support the Sydney Children’s Hospital,” Alex said. “This year we thought we’d add a bit of fun to start the season early and with a name like Mangos, it just felt right! It’s our family’s way of spreading some cheer and giving back.”
The ‘Tis the Season for Mangoes' display ran for just one week, offering locals a taste of sunshine before Alex switches gears into his much-loved full Christmas lights display, which he promises will be “bigger and brighter than ever” this December.
“It’s not just about the lights. It’s about lighting up lives and giving back to something that means a lot to me and my family” Alex added.
Mr. Mangos is reminding Aussies to grab some Australian mangoes from the local grocers this festive season and stop at his home in Oran Park to see his lights and support a great cause.
r Images/Article: Thinkerbell
Community Cabinet Recap
COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!
Contact Tanya
I’m incredibly excited to announce that Gledswood Hills High School is open!
Thank you to everyone who attended the Community Cabinet with Premier Chris Minns and Ministers!
After 12 years of delays and broken promises by the former Liberal government, the new temporary high school has been delivered.
It was fantastic to see so many local businesses chatting with the Ministers. I know those conversations were of great help to our small businesses here in Camden, who were able to ask questions and receive immediate answers that they might normally have to wait for.
Gledswood Hills High School will be operating out of Gregory Hills Primary School until 2027, when the permanent site for the high school is expected to open.
We had over 300 attendees for the Community Forum – and so many great questions asked. We had questions on transport, roads, education, environment, health and more – all of which I will continue to fight hard here for in Camden.
Land has also been chosen for the permanent site for Gledswood Hills High School.
It’s so great to see everyone so involved in the future of Camden. Thank you all for letting me represent you, and for coming out to engage in such important conversations with our Premier and Cabinet.
I also want to wish you all happy holidays, and a prosperous New Year. Enjoy the time off with your families!
As a former teacher, I know how important it is to have access to a great education at a local school, and I’m working hard to ensure that every child in our area is able to receive the best schooling experience they can.
If you didn’t get a chance to ask a question to the Premier, me, or any of the NSW Cabinet, please reach out to my office, and I can pass your message on. You can contact my office on (02) 4655 3333, or at camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au.
REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAMDEN
r Article: Sally Quinnell MP
Christmas at the Podium Oran Park
(02) 4655 3333
The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering much needed upgrades to 15 schools across Camden.
camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au
These upgrades are part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education in NSW after 12 years of Liberal Government neglect.
Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567
Authorised by Sally Quinnell MP, Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567. Funded using parliamentary entitlements, January 2025.
TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN
Teacher vacancies have been slashed by over 40 percent in NSW public schools.
When the Minns Labor Government says that we want to ensure every student has access to a world class education, we mean it – and that’s proven right here in Camden.
Merry Christmas
FESTIVE SEASON CLOSURE: 8th December 2025 - 4th January 2026 from our team to you and yours
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Podium Oran Park! The centre has transformed into a festive wonderland. The perfect place to shop, dine, and celebrate the season.
Whether you’re ticking off your Christmas list or searching for that special gift, you’ll find it all right here. Discover fashion favourites at Best & Less, Cotton On, and Skechers, pamper yourself with W Cosmetics and Body & Co Wellness, explore the magic of Toys and Tales, or refresh your home with stylish finds from Adairs and Wileaway, all in one convenient location.
When it’s time for a break, enjoy a delicious meal or coffee at Caffé & Co, Banksia, or Piada, grab lunch from Camy’s Chargrill Chicken, Cali Burger, Subway or Soul Origin, or cool off with a refreshing juice from Boost Juice or Top Juice. With twinkling decorations, festive music, and joyful displays, Oran Park Podium makes every visit feel merry and bright.
Make your Christmas shopping simple, local, and stress-free and discover all the festive fun happening this season at oranparkpodium.com.au!
Shop local. Celebrate together. Experience Christmas at the Podium. r Enjoy Christmas at The Podium | Image/ Article: Greenfields Development Company
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.
Ho Ho Hose! Santa’s Coming to Town
Christmas cheer will be spreading across the community this month, as Narellan RFS Brigade prepares for its popular Annual Santa Run. On Saturday, 13 December 2025, the brigade will hit the streets with Santa on board, visiting Harrington Park, Harrington Grove, Oran Park, Spring Farm, Mount Annan and Camden.
Each year, the Santa Run brings excitement to local families as fire trucks adorned with tinsel and lights make their way through the community. The event features designated stops
where children can meet Santa, snap a photo, and see the fire truck up close. This year, Narellan RFS Brigade will be joined by Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police, adding even more sparkle to the celebration. And for a cheeky twist, rumour has it the Grinch might make an appearance too!
For the members of the Narellan RFS Brigade, the Santa Run is a highlight of the year. “We really enjoy interacting with the community and spreading festive cheer,” a brigade spokesperson said. “Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces makes it all worthwhile.”
The Santa Run isn’t the only festive activity the brigade has planned this season. Locals can also catch the team at several upcoming community events, including the Bunnings Narellan Christmas Night on 4 December (6:00pm–8:00pm), and the Cobbitty Markets on 6 December (8:00am–1:00pm). These appearances give residents another chance to meet their local firefighters, learn about fire safety, and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Beyond the festive season, Narellan RFS Brigade remains dedicated to community engagement throughout the year. “We do community events year-round,” the brigade added. “It’s all about connecting with the people we serve and being part of the community.”
For full details on the Santa Run route and stop times, visit the Narellan RFS Brigade Facebook page.
r Feature Article [Cover] Narellan RFS Brigade Santa Run are ready for Santa’s visit [Top] Santa and one of his elves [Above] Narellan RFS Brigade Santa Run route and times | Images Supplied by Narellan RFS Brigade
Sydney-based technology start-up BellBots is set to launch their world-first G1Humanoid Robot application developed for everyday assistance across retail, education, transport and emergency service sectors.
BellBots are set to revolutionise the retail sector with shopper-focused, practical assistance like bag carrying and store finding, while also delivering effective in-store advertising and promotional services to retailers.
Standing 5 feet tall and with a human-like form, the core robotics platform within the robotic shells manufactured by Unitree, are powered by a custom AI software stack that integrates motion control, vision recognition, and conversational intelligence. The system uses reinforcement learning and advanced motion planning to mimic human-like movement while adapting to different environments.
The launch of the robots will also coincide with a custom shopper engagement software suite that turns each robot into an interactive advertising channel for retailers. The platform will have the ability to connect shoppers, store owners, and centre management through a custom app and cloud dashboard.
BellBots Founder Andrew Bell shared, “inspiration came from a clear vision that technology should make everyday life simpler, more efficient, and more engaging for both individuals and communities. We saw a gap between cutting edge robotics research and practical, real world applications. The driving force has been to bridge that gap bringing futuristic technology out of laboratories and into public spaces, schools, and workplaces in ways that genuinely benefit people.”
The robots will be designed for multi-sector human interaction across multiple environments such as airports, schools, events and even the emergency services sector, with a core focus on the technologies’ accessibility and engagement within the community.
First Boeing 737 Lands at Western Sydney International Airport
Decades of planning, thousands of workers and more than 22 million work hours have led to another milestone moment for Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) as the first Boeing 737 touched down on their 3.7km runway recently.
The RFS ‘Marie Bashir’ Large Air Tanker 737 was met with rapturous community applause upon arrival to Sydney’s soon-to-open 24-hour gateway and marked the start of WSI’s largest ever multiagency emergency exercise.
The 737 played an important role in their staged simulation that saw about 300 volunteers, NSW Police and other emergency services and federal agency partners descend on their freshly minted airfield where they were put through their paces to ensure they’re fully prepared to respond in the unlikely event of an emergency.
The 737 landing is the first of many. The Boeing 737 is the most common aircraft in Australian skies and will be coming in for landing more frequently at Sydney’s new domestic, international and cargo airport when they begin welcoming their first commercial customers in the second half of 2026.
With major construction complete, domestic and international airlines signed and more talks with other airlines underway, their opening day preparations are now shifting to focus on operational readiness and live trials, with exercises providing opportunities to train staff and test systems.
This includes dozens of technology systems that will give customers a simple, seamless, and stress-free experience, all while taking in the architecture of their beautiful airport terminal that pays homage to First Nations communities and the nearby Blue Mountains.
The arrival of the first Boeing 737 represents a significant milestone on the journey to becoming Australia's newest 24-hour airport. WSI's operational readiness program will continue throughout 2025 and 2026, ensuring all systems, staff and airport partners are ready and raring to go ahead of opening.
HomeWorld Oran Park Officially Opens
HomeWorld, Australia’s largest new home building cooperative, has officially opened its newest display village at Oran Park – the largest in South West Sydney and second only to HomeWorld Box Hill as the biggest in NSW.
Representing a major milestone for both HomeWorld and the region, the new HomeWorld Oran Park brings together over 100 display homes from 33 of NSW’s leading Building Companies. The village offers families, first-home buyers, and down-sizers the opportunity to explore the latest in new home design, compare builders, and find inspiration for their homebuilding journey…all in one convenient location.
HomeWorld CEO Phil Jones said the opening reflects HomeWorld’s strong and ongoing commitment to Sydney’s South West and the growing Oran Park community.
“HomeWorld Oran Park marks a new era for us, one that embraces the incredible growth and opportunity across South West Sydney,” Mr Jones said.
“Our purpose has always been simple: to help people who are thinking about building a new home in NSW. This new village is a place where visitors can discover new designs to suit every lifestyle, from family homes and duplexes to multigenerational living and knockdown rebuild options.”
Mr Jones also acknowledged the partnership and vision of Greenfields Development Company, the developers behind Oran Park.
“Oran Park is an outstanding example of thoughtful, sustainable community development, and we’re proud to be part of its continued evolution. At HomeWorld Oran Park we’re creating a destination that supports the next generation of home builders and local families.”
HomeWorld’s Board, Management, and Builders officially celebrated the village opening with a VIP event on 22 October 2025.
They thank Elder Aunty Glenda Chalker from the Dharawal/ Cubbitch Barta Clan, for the Welcome to Country and acknowledge the Dharawal people as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
Their Community Grand Opening, held on Sunday, 26 October, was a fantastic celebration of community spirit. They also thank everyone who came along to enjoy the live music, great food, and entertainment.
Located in the heart of Sydney’s rapidly growing South West, HomeWorld Oran Park is set to become a key destination for anyone thinking about building – whether you’re planning a knockdown rebuild, exploring home design ideas, or simply looking for inspiration.
Say It Out Loud
r [Top] HomeWorld Oran Park – Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on 22 October 2025 [Bottom L]: Left to right (front): Mike Scott AM – HomeWorld Chairman. Therese Fedeli – Mayor, Councillor. Sheron Sultan – Founder, Yatimba and Mark Perich – Director of Greenfields Development Company. Back: Philip Jones – CEO HomeWorld [Photo 3]: Elder Aunty Glenda Chalker – Dharawal/Cubbitch Barta Clan | Images/Article: HomeWorld
Book Review Your
Elevator to Nowhere
Author:R.L Stine
Elevator to nowhere is a choose your own adventure book written by R.L Stine. The storyline follows you and your friend Jamie getting a science assignment for your school science fair. Jamie’s uncle Darius, an inventor, says he can help you, and you travel to his house and find him in the middle of testing his “Transuniversal Transvator”
Although it appears as a normal elevator to untrained eyes, uncle Darius says it can transport people to alternate universes. To prove it, he says he will travel to a headhunting universe (where people hunt people for heads to shrink) and bring back a shrunken head. When he comes back, there’s good news and bad news: The elevator worked perfectly, but uncle Darius’s headhunting self in the other universe has come back instead of the normal uncle Darius. And he’s out to shrink yours and Jamie’s heads!
The ways you can defeat the headhunting uncle Darius vary. You can either battle him on Earth, assisted by the countless quirky devices he has scattered around the house, or sneak into the Transvator and travel to alternate universes to search for the real uncle Darius, some of which include a world where children are banned to a world where humans are entirely governed by bugs, and bring him back. No matter which path you choose, Thrills and fun are guaranteed through dozens of choices.
However, there is a twist. You must accomplish all this without dying, either by headhunting Darius with his long Machete or the beings of the universes you travel to. There are over 20 different endings, but some are good. Overall, I would highly recommend this to all, and it was a captivating read from start to finish.
r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal
Wrapped in Romance
Two local mums, Kylie and Maddy, have turned their shared love of romance novels into something extraordinary for women in the community who need it most. Known to many through their book-loving social page, The Naughty Nook, the pair run an online romance book club celebrating Australian authors. But beyond the fun, the laughs, and of course the fictional love interests, something deeper has grown, Wrapped in Romance, a charitable initiative delivering bundles of comfort to women in shelters and safe spaces.
“Books have always been our escape,” Kylie said. “We’ve both turned to romance during really tough times. One day we realised that if stories helped us feel less alone, maybe they could do the same for someone who really needed a little love and light.”
Each pack contains a “blind date with a book”, a wrapped romance novel labelled with key tropes and any trigger warnings. Inside, the women also include thoughtful extras like a bookmark, bookish stickers, tea or coffee, and chocolate. “Although the stories are fictional, the emotions they stir are
real,” Maddy added. “Romance makes us feel seen, wanted, understood. That heart-flutter, slow-burn feeling, sometimes that spark means everything.”
The pair carefully prepare each pack themselves on days off from their full-time work in emergency services. Between kids’ sport, work shifts, and everyday life, they wrap books while chatting about fictional boyfriends and favourite authors, ensuring every pack feels personal. Once ready, they reach out directly to shelters, transitional housing and women’s centres to organise drop-offs, often including toys, kids’ books and small activities as well.
The response has been heartfelt. “The most meaningful feedback has been hearing that women feel like they’ve been given a gift chosen just for them,” Kylie said. “Choice is powerful, especially for women rebuilding their lives. Every woman deserves the freedom to read what brings her comfort.”
They accept all romance genres: sweet, spicy, dark, funny, along with feel-good reads and thrillers. Authors are welcome to include a note or bookmark, and donors are publicly thanked on The Naughty Nook socials to help spotlight their work.
“Wrapped in Romance comes from the same place as everything we do,” Maddy said. “It’s all about connection, kindness, and stories that make people feel something real.”
Authors and donors can email thenaughtynook@outlook.com.au or send books to PO Box 905, Narellan NSW 2567. You can follow their journey on Instagram and TikTok at @thenaughtynook_.
r [Top] Wrapped in Romance Founders Kylie and Maddy with some of the donated books [Above] Kylie and Maddy with bestselling author Kat T Masen. Images: Raewyn Fernandez. Article: Tanya Nellestein
Article Written + Submitted by: Keira Noble | Clinical Psychologist
The Anxiety & Depression Clinic W: www.anxietydepressionclinic.com.au
P: 0424 263 577 | 02 46266932
People Pleasing
Feeling exhausted and upset with yourself for once again overcommitting to one too many tasks in order to help your family, friends, or work colleagues? People pleasing is a common behaviour in which many of us feel compelled to engage. We too often find ourselves ‘yes-ing’ instead of declining. Whilst this seems a fairly benign behaviour, it can significantly impact one’s mental health, time, and energy—and its root causes can go quite deep.
When we agree with someone or say yes to a request, the typical response we obtain is reinforcing; the other person often smiles and showers us with compliments, with phrases like “Thank you so much, you are a legend” being shared. Alternatively, when we decline a person’s request or disagree, we are often met with an expression of disappointment or irritation and comments that evoke guilt, such as “Oh no, I don’t know what I’m going to do now.”
Whilst helping out and being altruistic can be of benefit, like most things, it should be done in moderation with consideration of one’s own commitments, needs, and wants. Neither ‘yesing’ nor ‘no-ing’ should ever constitute a rule, and if yes-ing becomes your default, it is likely that you suffer from a low sense
PROBUS CLUB
Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com | P: 0410758755
Oran Park Probus Club
The Probus year ends in December, however, the fun and friendship will continue next year! Reflecting on the activities of Oran Park Probus Club over the last year, there’s no mention of Covid anymore. Our members are busy, out and about enjoying the activities we offer. Although we have lost a few members due to ill health, we will be ending the year with an increase in member numbers.
The future of all Probus Clubs lies in attracting new and younger members. This brings new vitality to the Club, new ideas, and members who are willing to volunteer for Committee positions or as coordinators for our activity groups. In a survey this year, run by Probus South Pacific Ltd and open to all Australian Probus Club members, 69 per cent of the respondents heard about Probus by word of mouth. Eighty-two per cent said they were likely or very likely to recommend Probus to a friend, neighbour or family member. Social connection and participation in activities were the two most popular aspects of Probus membership.
Our guest speakers this year have been informative and entertaining at our monthly meetings. Topics have included the history of the Camden Red Cross, Waste and Recycling, the work of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Organ Donation, the Kids of Macarthur Health Foundation, and the Seniors Fire Be Safe program. The latter is run by the NSW Fire and Rescue Service, and we were lucky enough to have four firemen and their truck arrive for this talk! Our last speaker talked about improving memory through visualisation. At our December meetings over the last few years, we have had entertainment showcasing local talent in performances that had us all toe-
of self-worth—pleasing people being one of the few transient, superficial ways to give your self-esteem a quick boost. However, as people continue to reinforce us for all of our people pleasing at the expense of ourselves, we do more of it and begin to wonder: Do these people really like me for me, or for what I do?
Behaviour Changer – Ceasing People Pleasing
• Start small: Think of someone with whom you share a close relationship and pick a smaller, insignificant topic to disagree on.
• Delay your response: Sometimes saying no is hard after ‘yes’ has become the default. Start by delaying your answer, e.g. “I’m not sure, I’ll get back to you” or “Yes, but not right now.”
• Practice declining: Continue to practice declining requests and learn to sit with the discomfort, which will become more manageable over time.
• Be assertive, not aggressive: Remember, declining does not mean being aggressive. Being assertive means remaining respectful at all times.
* For general information only- seek professional psychological assistance for tailored advice
tapping and joining in.
Our Tours program has engaged many of our members with car share, coach and train outings to the Western Sydney Airport, Kangaroo Valley, museums in Sydney, Berrima and Penrith, a visit to the Mushroom Tunnels in Mittagong, and the Hunter Valley Lights. Many of us are looking forward to a fiveday tour of the Victorian High Country next autumn.
Probus activities that involve food are always popular –the January brunch, coffee and chat mornings, pub lunches, dining, a sausage sizzle and the Christmas lunch still to come. The craft group has increased its numbers this year, as has the walking group. Members have enjoyed trivia, cinema outings, musicals and theatre performances and, for the men only –the Boyz Club.
Every month our editor has produced our newsletter – a great read that keeps everyone up to date with all the events and activities on the calendar. This year we’ve seen photos of overseas and Australian holidays, poems, jokes and special articles written by our members.
All in all, a wonderful year of Fun and Friendship! I hope this will spark some interest in new retirees who are wondering what retirement will mean for them. Oran Park Probus Club meets at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, 50 Raby Road, Gledswood Hills, commencing at 10.00 am on the first Tuesday of the month, except November. There is no meeting in January. Why not come as a visitor to our first meeting of 2026, on February 4?
Please contact the Club Secretary for further details: secretary. oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com
Camden Civic Centre Transformation Unveiled
After more than a year of extensive renovations, Camden Council is proud to reopen the doors of the newly transformed Camden Civic Centre.
The $9.9 million upgrade has reimagined the facility as a modern, multi-purpose venue, designed to meet the growing needs of the Camden community while also positioning the venue as a destination for world-class events, performances and exhibitions.
The upgrades, which targeted both visitor experience and technical capacity, include:
• Improved connectivity from John Street, creating a more seamless and welcoming entrance;
• Affordable multipurpose art-making and community spaces, opening up new opportunities for local creatives;
• Significant functional upgrades, including enhanced acoustics, improved storage, modernised back-of-house spaces, and better stormwater management;
• Improved outdoor areas for multipurpose use, offering flexibility for events and community gatherings;
• Expanded capacity for touring exhibitions and performances, ensuring Camden can host high-quality, large-scale productions; and
• An enriched customer experience, with contemporary amenities and a design that reflects Camden’s evolving identity.
The redevelopment was made possible by the $7.7 million in funding from the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program, alongside Camden Council’s $2.2 million contribution.
Beyond the structural and technical improvements, Council also secured $59,663 through the NSW Government’s Creative Capital Funding Program, contributing to the replacement of the
grand piano, enhancing performance capabilities and ensuring the venue remains attractive to musicians and touring acts.
Public art installations have also been integrated into the Centre, enriching its role as a cultural space. These installations highlight Camden’s unique heritage, while also creating contemporary points of interest that inspire community pride. They include a hand-painted mural by Dharawal artist, Michael Fardon; a hand-painted mural by founders of Dalmarri Art, Trevor Eastwood and Jason Douglas; sculptural seating art by Abbey Michelle Rich; a stainless steel sculpture entitled The Eternal Flame by Odilon Barraquio; and an incredible light box exhibition space, the inaugural exhibition featuring the work of Camden artist Jane Wray.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the project respected the Centre’s rich history and the need to modernise and grow with the changing area.
“Camden Civic Centre first opened its doors back in 1982 and, ever since, has been a cornerstone of our community,” she said.
“From weddings and celebrations to art exhibitions, live theatre, and corporate functions, it has served as a space where the Camden community, and visitors from far and wide, gather, create and connect.
“This upgrade ensures the Camden Civic Centre remains a central cultural and community hub for the Camden community for years to come. The improvements have added incredible value to the facility and created new vibrant outdoor spaces and connection to the heritage town centre.
“We’re so excited to welcome residents and visitors back to experience the renewed Camden Civic Centre and to show you what’s new and improved.”
Future programming promises to remain diverse and accessible for all members of the community, marking an exciting new era for the Civic Centre, particularly as the Camden area continues to grow and change.
For more information on these shows, to see what else is coming up and to secure a ticket, visit www.camdenciviccentre. com.au.
r Images/Article: Camden Council
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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
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Macarthur District Softball Association
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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 Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC
Melissa Takacs 0491 644 812
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 Basketball Association (Wildfire) www.wildfirebasketball.org.au
Email: info@wildfirebasketball.org.au
Community Groups
Gledswood Toastmasters
David Johnson 0417 423 458
December is a month of celebration, reflection, and connection. It is a time when the year gently comes to a close and our community shines in its best light. Streets sparkle with festive decorations, the sound of carols fills the air, and families gather to share meals, laughter, and memories. School graduations mark new beginnings, while community events bring neighbours together in the warmth of summer. It is also a time to pause and reflect on the months gone by, to appreciate milestones reached, lessons learned, and the people who have supported us along the way. Amid the busyness, remember to rest, recharge, and find joy in the simple moments that make this season special.
Thank you for being part of our community and for sharing your stories, spirit, and kindness throughout the year. Here is to a wonderful festive season filled with love and laughter, and to a bright, hopeful year ahead.
“What is done in love is done well.” –Vincent Van Gogh
Rotary Club of Gregory Hills Next-Gen President 02 9136 6349 or facebook.com/rcgregoryhills facebook.com/districtgazette
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