Oran Park Gazette February 2023

A Love for the Ages

How many people can say they’ve been married for over 65 years?

Locals Ted and Yvonne Gillroy certainly can and it’s a love for the ages. The Gillroy’s were married on 26th October 1957 in Bondi. Ted was 22 and Yvonne 20. They first met at a surf club get together in 1954, whilst teenagers. As fate would have it, they both went to primary school together and didn’t even know each other!

The inspirational couple have 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Family means the world to them.

“We all have a very special bond. Family become even more relevant as you get older. Having their love and support is priceless” said Ted and Yvonne.

Sharing a laugh together is something they enjoy, even after all these years.

“Yvonne’s corny jokes make me laugh. She starts at the punchline first. Our kids make us laugh and we have a good time” Ted smiled.

So, what’s the secret to a long and happy marriage?

“Always be aware of your partner. Their feelings, wants and needs. Listen to them. Understand them. Get to know your mate” Ted and Yvonne agreed.

Here’s to a wonderful life lived as husband and wife and all the very best for many more years to come!

Valentine’s Day returns this month and will take place on Tuesday 14th February.

v ‘Love Is’: Yvonne and Ted on their wedding day in 1957 | Image: Ted Gillroy

Stay Safe Using Water Play Spaces

• Acids and alkalis;

• Smoke detectors;

• Paint and paint-related products;

• Gas bottles;

• Fire extinguishers;

• Car and household batteries; and

• Motor oils and cooking oils.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the event was a staple in Council’s calendar.

Our Water Play Spaces are fabulous fun and a great way to cool down on these hot summer days.

Camden Council undertakes regular maintenance and cleaning of these facilities to protect the health and safety of our community.

Here’s how you can stay safe when visiting Dawson-Damer Park or Curry Reserve Water Play Spaces:

• Adults must supervise children at all times;

• Swimmers must be worn and children who are not toilet-trained must wear a swim nappy;

• Do not use the water play space if you or your child/ren have any types of skin sores, infections or illness (including COVID, colds and flus);

• Do not use the water play space if you or your child/ren have or have had diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours.

• Don’t drink the water or sit on the jets;

• Change all nappies away from the water play space, preferably in the change facilities provided;

• No smoking, alcohol or animals within 10 metres of the water play space area;

• No chewing gum, glass or food of any kind is permitted on the water play space; and

• Be sun safe

r Image/Article: Camden Council

It’s Time To Say Good Riddance To Bad Rubbish

It’s that time of year again!

Council’s annual Household Chemical CleanOut will be held on Sunday 5 February, 9am-3.30pm, at Narellan Sports Hub Hockey Fields.

Residents will have the opportunity to drop their chemicals off to be disposed of safely.

Items to be collected on the day include:

• Solvents and household cleaners;

• Floor care products;

• Ammonia-based cleaners;

• Pesticides and herbicides;

• Poisons;

• Pool chemicals;

• Hobby chemicals;

• Motor fuels;

• Fluorescent globes and tubes;

“Council is committed to helping residents find the best way to dispose of their waste materials, in particular chemicals,” Cr Fedeli said.

“I know residents really look forward to their opportunity to clean out their homes of unwanted and potentially hazardous chemicals with many of us having them in our garages or sheds.

“It is important to remind residents that chemicals sitting for a while can potentially become dangerous, so now is the perfect time to go through your items at home and bring them to our Chemical CleanOut to have them disposed of in a safe manner.

The annual Camden Chemical CleanOut is a joint initiative between Camden Council and the NSW Environmental Protection Authority.”

Entry to Narellan Sports Hub for the Chemical CleanOut will be via Millwood Avenue, Narellan.

Residents are also reminded to take advantage of the newly-opened Community Recycling Centre (CRC), which provides a free and convenient way to drop off their household problem waste for recycling all year-round.

The CRC accepts up to 20 litres or 20 kilograms of the following items:

• Paint;

• Gas bottles;

• Fire extinguisher;

• Fluoro globes;

• Smoke detectors;

• Aerosols;

• Motor and other oils; and

• Household and car batteries.

The CRC is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-2pm, and is located at 5 Millwood Avenue, Narellan.

For more information on the upcoming Chemical CleanOut event, visit https:// www.camden.nsw.gov.au/waste/newsand-events/ and for more information on the CRC, visit https://www.camden. nsw.gov.au/waste/community-recyclingcentre-crc/

POSITION VACANT

Telesales ConsultantNewspaper Advertising

In this position, you will prospect for new customers by cold calling, using leads, or other means of generating interest from potential customers. Developing and maintaining relationships with current customers across several publications both in an inbound and outbound capacity is critical.

The ideal candidate will have strong ties to the area and a knowledge of local business. A willingness to support our communities and highlight the value of local newspapers to our region’s future is essential.

The Role

The role is casual, working across our entire portfolio.

Up to 12 Hours Per Week | 6-Month fixed term contract, possible ongoing for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

• Calling customers for advertising needs and advocate our products (Warm and Cold Calls)

• Assist advertisers with their advertising solutions in innovative ways.

• Deliver the revenue targets.

Skills and Experience

• You are easy to talk to and have a professional telephone manner.

• Sound Microsoft Office skills and the ability to learn new systems.

• Excellent oral and written communication.

• Accuracy and excellent attention to detail.

• Effective time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.

• A positive work ethic and strong drive for results, with an ability to work well in a team.

• The ability to use initiative to solve a problem.

• An understanding and keen interest in local business and news

• You have gained work experience in sales or customer service in the media industry (ideal but not essential)

About Us

The District Gazette are proudly locally-owned and operated by industry professionals.

For over twenty-five years, publishing 5 Independent Newspapers that are a fresh, modern monthly publication catering to a growing region, with incredible reach into the community.

r Image/Article: Camden Council

Apply Email CV + Cover letter to info@ districtgazette.com.au

Bringing Drawings to Life

Local Tracey

Prioste is an artist in demand. Her artworks need to be seen to be believed.

The traditional monochrome artist uses charcoal and graphite pencils to create realistic drawings. What’s even harder to believe is that Tracey has only been drawing for a few short years.

“I began drawing as an artist with charcoal/graphite since October 2022. Before this, I had drawn with HB pencils for a couple of years” said Tracey to the Oran Park Gazette.

She enjoyed drawing as a child. It wasn’t until Tracey was an adult that she began focusing on her amazing talent.

“My Dad inspired me from a young age to draw more. Now I have more time, with my boys married and having families of their own” she explained.

With an interest in drawing wildlife, Tracey held her first solo art exhibition in December 2022/January 2023 at The Arthouse Café @ Narellan.

The exhibition featured 11 original A1 framed charcoal and graphite wildlife drawings. The reference photos were chosen as she was drawn to particular expressions of the animals.

When looking at artworks, Tracey likes to connect through a feeling. She aims to accomplish this through her art.

“For me, it is like a meditation. I lose myself in my drawing. My goal is to connect to viewers and draw them to my work and feel the emotions of the subject in my drawings” Tracey expressed.

Tracey will next be facilitating Wildlife Drawing Workshops, through Camden Council, at Alan Baker Art Gallery in Camden this month.

The Workshops will be on Wednesday evenings from 8th February to 1st March. Visit www.camden.nsw.gov.au for more information.

Find Tracey Prioste on Instagram @drawnbytracey.

Liberal for Badgerys Creek

Mr Perfect Narellan Launches

Mr Perfect, a community organisation that connects men across Australia over a relaxed, free BBQ to chat about all things life, has launched a local group.

Mr Perfect Narellan meets at Iron Spokes Brewery (Unit 2/7 Maxwell Place, Narellan) the 3rd Sunday of the month, from 10:30am till 12:30pm.

The group currently has approximately 10 members who turn up, with about 3 to 4 turning up each month.

“The event is about getting people to talk. We open up with the lighting of the Charcoal. This normally 30 minutes and while this is going, we make sure everyone is getting to know each other and new members. Then, we get into the cooking part of it. We normally cook for 30 minutes. During this, we continue the talk, with camping and travel being the main topics, which continues to 12:30” said the Mr Perfect Representative.

Local members enjoy being a part of the group and building new connections with one another.

“What I like about being a part of Mr Perfect is giving back to the community and helping others find connections using the BBQ, which I am very passionate about. Seeing people come along for a chat and get involved always gives me a smile” said one of the members.

Groups, like Mr Perfect Narellan, are proving to be important in assisting men’s health in the local community.

“With services out there for crisis care, I found there were no meetings for pre-crisis issues, that can be dealt with at a community level. Having seen how BBQing can allow people and particularly men open up and chat with others and build a trusting connection with each other.

“Not everyone has a support system in place for simple conversations that are outside of the home or workplace. We offer a chance for people to come down and have a good chat and a laugh over a BBQ to recharge” they ended.

For more information about Mr Perfect Narellan, visit the website at www.mrperfect.org.au. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram.

r [Top] One of the Mr Perfect BBQ’s underway [Above] Mr Perfect members | Images Supplied by Mr Perfect

New President for Gregory Hills FC

Local Tim Waller is the new President of Gregory Hills FC for 2023, with foundation President Renato Cocchietto stepping down last year.

Waller was nominated and voted in as the President of the club by the existing committee members of 2022 before taking over the reins on December 1st.

His association with Gregory Hills FC began when the club first started in 2020.

“My daughter Harper has the same passion for the game as I do, and we registered her to play for the club. My business sponsored Gregory Hills FC the first year they were established. We were hoping to give them the support and help they needed as a new club coming into the Macarthur Football Association” said Tim to the Oran Park Gazette.

In 2021, he took over as the Coach of his daughter’s team. Tim formed an amazing bond with the children and parents, leading them to the Under 10’s Grand Final.

“Seeing the kids make it that far and how excited they all got was definitely a highlight for me. I will continue as their Coach this season coming” he stated.

Tim is looking forward to his new role as President ahead of the 2023 season.

“I can’t wait to help kids learn the game that I love and watch them all form new friendships. I’m also looking forward to seeing our club grow into a strong family friendly club where everyone wants to be a part of it” Tim explained.

He is very happy with the direction that the club is heading and the growth that it is experiencing.

“Since taking over the club, I have introduced the first MSAPS League and also the latest Super League, which will consist of 5 Macarthur clubs and 5 Southern Districts clubs in a few age groups. To be part of that is a huge step in the right direction of where I want the club to head” he conveyed.

“We are appointing a female delegate for the support of woman/young ladies in football and hope to attract more females to join our club too.

“So, in saying that, I’m hoping to have 40+ teams this year, after having just over 30 last year” he ended. For information about the club, including registrations, visit their website www.gregoryhillsfc.org.au or find them on Facebook.

r Tim and the Gregory Hills FC Under 10’s Purple team | Image: Jill Bennett Photography/Macarthur Football Association

Mariah’s School Journey Begins

Article Written + Submitted

by: Monica Purcell | Family Facilitator

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Generation Vape: How to Talk to your Teen about the Risks of E-Cigarettes

Parents are talking to young people about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, but too often these conversations fail to cover the risks of vaping. A Royal Children’s Hospital ‘Child Health Poll’ found that 57% of parents have never discussed e-cigarettes with their teen. Yet around 14% of young people aged 14 – 17 years have tried vaping.

E-cigarettes, also known as ‘vapes’, are electronic devices that heat liquids to create aerosol that users inhale. Aerosol is a fine spray of chemicals and small particles that can lodge in the lungs. As these products are new to the market, there is no quality and safety standards on devices, liquids, and labelling. Vapes contain chemicals and toxins commonly found in bug spray, weed killer and nail polish remover. Short term risks associated with vapes include vomiting, shortness of breath, poisoning, nausea, headaches, lung damage and heart palpitations. Vaping can negatively impact growing bodies and brains and is likely to cause lung and mouth cancers.

The majority of vapes contain nicotine, even if they are labelled otherwise. Nicotine is highly toxic, and the most addictive substance known. Young people who vape are 3 to 5 times more likely to take up smoking later in life.

Here are some tips for chatting with teens about the risks of vaping:

• Know the facts – keep up to date with the latest information by consulting your local GP and organisations such as the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (adf.org.au).

• Keep the conversation open, calm, and non-judgmental –Use a respectful tone of voice and body language.

• Avoid lecturing, judging, or going through your teen’s space looking for evidence – prioritise trust with your teen. We are all more likely to consider information shared with us by somebody we trust.

• Avoid exaggerating the dangers – share the facts simply and calmly.

• Explain your concerns – let your teen know you care about their health and wellbeing.

• Be a positive role model – a young person is about 55% more likely to try e-cigarettes if they have a parent who smokes. Avoid using any nicotine products in front of your children.

The journey is about to begin for thousands across the country. One that will bring laughs, tears, friendships, and lifelong memories. Kindergarten will soon start for the first time for many, including local student Mariah Pakau.

This year, Mariah, who is 5 years old, will start school at Gregory Hills Public School.

Mariah is looking forward to starting big school in February.

“I am excited to see what my new school will look like. I like my principal and would like to see who my teacher is. I cannot wait to meet new friends. If any girls have no friends, I will be their best friend,” said a smiling Mariah.

The energetic youngster has lots of hobbies and interests that keep her busy away from school. Mariah enjoys playing in the sand and playing with her sister Myra. She also does karate, swimming, Aboriginal dancing, and culture class.

So, what does she want to be when she finishes school you may ask?

“I want to be an artist, doctor, or teacher” she explained.

Starting school can be a day of mixed emotions for parents, grandparents, family and friends as they farewell children for their road ahead in kindy.

“It will be an emotional time, as she starts the new chapter in her life. Mariah, now attending big school, is another reminder that our baby girl is growing up too fast” said Tracey McGlashan, Mariah’s mother.

“We believe she will do well at school and will have no problems in making friends, as she is a sociable and happy child. We are sure the teachers will have fun teaching Mariah as she has a great sense of humour. She’s always making her family and friends laugh, especially with her wild imagination” Tracey ended.

Best of luck to all the local students starting and returning to school this year.

Gregory Hills Public School Welcomes its First Students

Delivery of the new temporary Gregory Hills Public School is in full swing, ready to welcome the school’s first cohort of students this year.

The school, currently accommodated by temporary facilities, includes 12 general air-conditioned learning spaces, staff and administration building, library, communal hall, canteen, out of hours school care amenities, a covered outdoor learning area (COLA) and open play space.

In preparation for Day 1, Term 1, the temporary school car park and surrounding footpaths have been completed, perimeter fencing installed, and turf laid for play space. A short stay parking lane along Long Reef Circuit will soon be completed.

Work to deliver the permanent school continues with preparatory early work for earthworks and service integration for the main build in progress. The Department of Education is finalising its response to submissions for the State Significant Development application. The next step for the permanent school will be to engage a building contractor for main works construction.

“This school is an important project for the community, and it is fantastic that students and staff will be starting the new school year together, as work continues on the new permanent facilities.” said Peter Sidgreaves MP, State Member for Camden.

“We want our students to be excited to engage in learning, and I am certain they will love their new learning environment.”

“The Liberal and Nationals Government continue to invest in schools, enabling our community to be one of the best to live, work and raise a family.” he continued.

“It is an absolute privilege to be the foundation principal of Gregory Hills Public School. My teaching and support staff are thrilled to be establishing a new school and together we are committed to ensuring we deliver expert teaching and high quality education for every learner.

“We are looking forward to 2023 in our temporary setting and excited about what the future holds for our school community” said Alison Rourke, Principal of Gregory Hills Public School.

“It is a very exciting time for the new Gregory Hills Public School students who can look forward to lots of new things this year – new classrooms, new school uniforms, new teachers and new friends.” said The Hon. Ms Sarah Mitchell MLC.

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r [Top] Inside the classrooms [Above] An aerial photo of Gregory Hills Public School | Images: Peter Sidgreaves MP

Luddenham Show Returns

All roads will lead to Luddenham, with the annual Luddenham Show taking place on the 4th and 5th of March.

The committee is looking forward to a huge event, after having to cancel the last two shows due to COVID. Luddenham Show not only boasts some great family entertainment, but also gives a nod to the region’s vast agricultural past.

The “Country Show”, as it is known, will take place for the 117th time. After a huge upgrade, including a new cattle pavilion and animal nursery, new asphalt walkways and new grandstand seating, the grounds are set to host thousands of people for the biggest event on the Luddenham calendar.

Among the most anticipated events to take place will be the spectacular and dangerous bull ride and rodeo, along with the demolition derby and a first at Luddenham - the Eljay freestyle motorbike and BMX stunt/comedy show. There are wheelie bin races, the ever-popular sheepdog trials and of course all the fun of sideshow alley. Great displays of arts and crafts as well as cooking, photography and flowers are free to enter your handy work. Details can be obtained from the website or their printed schedules. Of course, show staples such as two full days of horse classes and judging of both cattle and poultry will be keenly fought out, with owners vying to take home a converted blue ribbon.

If watching stage entertainment is more your scene, they have you covered. The huge selection of acts taking to the podium include a poets breakfast to kick start the day. Keeping the stage buzzing are various singers, dance troops and a magician, along with a mechanical bucking bull. Furthermore, for those who wish for a bit of fun, comps ranging from fancy dress for humans as well as ice cream eating are sure to bring many laughs. New this year is the Lego master crafters competition, or watch the big men send the chips flying in the wood chopping section. Saturday night will see the band, The Mad Hatters, hit the stage. Finally, what show would be complete without the fireworks!

Luddenham Showgrounds can be found on the corner of Park Rd and is one of only three grounds in the state still wholly owned by the community. As a result, the annual show raises much needed funds for the upkeep of the facilities as well as next year’s show. Luddenham A.H & I Society has a proud history dating back to 1891, when it was reported in the papers of the time “Luddenham may fairly lay claim to having the best first show ever held in the colony!”. This year’s committee, many of whose forebears were among the first organisers, are determined to live up to that high standard.

The current committee, a small but very hard working band of local volunteers, would like to thank all their sponsors as well as the army of great helpers who lend a hand to make this country event on the outskirts of Sydney such a success. Further information can be found on their website www.luddenhamshow.com.au or on their Facebook page, Luddenham Show.

r Image/Article: Luddenham A.H & I Society

Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th March 2023

Presented by Luddenham Agricultural, Horticultural and Industrial Society

• MOTORBIKES & BMX STUNTS

• FAMILY & KIDS STAGE ENTERTAINMENT

• SHEEP DOG TRIALS & DOG HIGH JUMP

• BULL & STEER RIDES

• DEMOLITION DERBY

• FIREWORKS

• CHAINSAWING

• WOODCHOPPING

• MECHANICAL BUCKING BULL

• LIVE BANDS: THE MAD HATTERS & THE JESTAS

• HORSE, CATTLE & POULTRY CLASSES

• ARTS, CRAFT & HORTICULTURE PAVILIONS

Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park

E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com P: 0410758755

Oran Park Probus Club will hold its first meeting of the year on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. Meetings are held in the Function Room of Wests Golf Club, Camden, commencing at 10.00am on the first Tuesday of the month except November. The Club does not hold a meeting in January.

Probus Clubs throughout Australia and New Zealand are social clubs that offer retired and semi-retired people the opportunity to meet other like-minded individuals, discover new activities and hobbies in the spirit of Friendship, Fellowship and Fun.

As we start a new year, members are hoping for the return of old and new activities that won’t be impacted by the weather or Covid! After a ‘brunch’ in January, we will start February off with a theatre outing. Craft and trivia groups will resume, as will coffee and chat and dining/pub lunches.

Our speaker program continues at the February meeting, with a talk about the ‘Rum Rebellion’. The monthly talks cover a wide variety of topics and are a highlight of the meetings. Many of our members stay after the meetings to socialise together over lunch.

Visitors are always welcome to attend a monthly meeting, so please come along, meet some of our members and find out if Probus would suit you. If you are interested in learning more about Oran Park Probus Club, please contact the Club Secretary on phone 0410 758755 or email secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com.

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

Back In The Flow

Have you been to Officeworks yet? Have you been to the store with the sliding silver measurement tool for your kid’s feet and been surprised again at the cost of the shoes? Have you found your year snap into gear and the speed pick up from a casual January pace back into the dizzying ‘flow’ of the year - appointments, practice, commute, sport, etc. etc.? Does it all really matter?

At times, my job is a little unusual as I conduct both weddings and funerals on a relatively regular basis. Along the way, I see the joys and the griefs of life - often in the same week. What emerges from those times is a profound respect for the most important things. God, family, and character.

Every day we make an invisible investment into our relationships - with our kids, our colleagues, and our spouse or partner. These things don’t seem world-changing at the time, but over the course of 80-90 years words, actions, and attitudes, carve an indelible impression.

If someone was to ask your nearest and dearest how they’d sum up your character or personality, what would they say? What would they say if I asked them what turns of phrase you used or life lessons you passed on?

At NewLife, we believe that our relationships, families, and character are shaped and informed by the God who is really there. If you’d like to be laying a foundation that includes wisdom from our Creator, you’re invited to poke your head into our building on Central Avenue one Sunday this month. We’re far from perfect, but from kindergarten through to teens, young twenties, families, and to retirees, we’re trying to refine our ‘flow’ to align with God’s good plan. You’re invited to check it out. You never know the change it might make.

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

I think it would be fair to say that many people began 2023 with the hope that the challenges faced over the last few years would be behind us. But as we know, the start of 2023 so often brings a new set of challenges.

But no matter the challenges we face, as Pope Francis said in one of his New Year reflections, “if we truly want the New Year to be good, if we want to reconstruct hope, we need to abandon the language, those actions and those choices inspired by egoism and learn the language of love, which is to take care of. To take care of is a new language that counters these languages of egoism. This is the commitment: to take care of our lives – each one of us needs to take care of our own life – to take care of our time, of our souls; to take care of creation and the environment we live in; and even more, to take care of our neighbour, of those whom the Lord has placed alongside us, as well as our brothers and sisters who are in need and who call for our attention and our compassion”

“Like the early Christians, while we are realistic about our challenges, we do not let these challenges define us. No! We will only be defined by our faith. We will only be grounded in hope. And in spite of it all, we will only walk in love. “There are three things that remain,” St. Paul said to the Corinthians, “faith, hope, and love” (1 Cor 13:13). Faith, hope, and love - these virtues defined the early Christians and now they must define us. Not the pandemic, not our divisions, not the inequalities, not our fears, nor the uncertainties … during this time it is faith, hope, and love that will guide us beyond the pandemic and other raging challenges” (https://catholicoutlook.org/ faith-hope-love-antidotes-for-the-pandemic-and-beyond/)

FAITH – ST

r Members enjoying the Christmas meeting | Image Supplied

PROBUS CLUB

Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers JRLFC are charging into the 2023 season, with registrations for the local club now open.

Pre-season training will commence in February and season training and trial games will kick-off in March, in preparation for the upcoming competition which officially kicks off in April.

The Chargers are looking for boys and girls turning 5 years to 12 years, boys turning 13 years and 14 years and girls turning 12 years to 16 years (Girls League Tag) this year.

The 2022 season proved to be a positive year for the club, and they hope to repeat that again.

“Last year was a very successful year for our Chargers! We had our very first Under 13’s Boys International team, who ended up winning the grand final. One of our Under 11’s teams made the finals, and both of our Under 10’s teams made the grand final; one of which finished the season as Minor Premiers” explained Casey Gettings, Media Manager of Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC.

As the community continues to grow, so do their members. Last year, they had 250 registered players, and they are expecting between 280 – 300 players in 2023.

With COVID and poor weather conditions hampering previous seasons, they are looking forward to a full year of rugby league to come.

“We are looking forward to an uninterrupted season of footy. The last few years, we have had COVID and extreme weather. This significantly shortened the amount of footy our players were able to participate in. So, this year we are hoping to see our players out on the field each and every week” Casey smiled.

Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers JRLFC welcome any new or returning players for the year ahead.

“Please feel free to head over and like our Facebook page by searching ‘ChargersJRLFC’. You can also visit the website www. playrugbyleague.com to register as a Charger this season!” she ended.

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Distribution Enquiries wedeliver@districtgazette.com.au

NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE

15th February 2023

NEXT ISSUE DISTRIBUTION

Online: 1st March 2023

Letterboxes: 7 + 8 March 2023

HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency

Police, Ambulance, Fire 000 or 112 mobile Narellan Police Station 4632 4499

Rural Fire Service

St. Vincent de Paul Society 8250 1484 e: Socialjustice.Wol@vinnies.org.au

SES 4647 0319

emergency help in floods and storms call NSW SES – 132 500) General OPT information,

Health Services

Camden + Campbelltown Hospital Switchboard 4634

Sports Clubs

Well, there it is! 2022 has been filed and packed away. Good, bad or otherwise - it’s now one for the archives.

Like they say, 2023 offers a blank book full of new and exciting opportunities. The pen is in your hand and the chapters are waiting to be scribed!

One of the best lessons I put into practice last year was to not hold onto things that are weighing you down. Focus on what brings you positive energy and happiness and be sure to surround yourself with the same. Mark my words, you’ll feel empowered by doing so.

We start the year grateful to our advertisers, who make it possible for us to compile and distribute our publications to 28,000 letterboxes each month across 20 suburbs. We urge you to call on their businesses if required, be sure to let them know you saw them in the ‘Gazette’.

Enjoy this first edition of ‘Your Community News’ for 2023.

‘You glow differently when you have good people with good intentions in your life’.

Flynnko Pty Ltd

ABN: 65 601 734 472 trading as:

Camden

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 Netball Club

Rachael Cecil 0433 994 591

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

facebook.com/districtgazette

PICK UP POINTS

Delivered MONTHLY to homes in + Harrington Park + Harrington Grove + Gregory Hills

or PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY from...

The Grid Café Unit 2 No.5

Due to the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses, and with the health and safety of our extended team in mind, copies at pick up points during this uncertain period may vary.

Cnr Peter Bock Dr & Oran Park Dr Oran Park Sweet 4 U Patisserie Shop C6

Oran Park Podium, Oran Park

Oran Park News Agency

Oran Park Podium, Oran Park Harrington Park News Agency

Your Community News will continue as we adapt to these challenging times. All/any events published, will proceed in-line with Government Covid guidelines at the time. All/any images published have been supplied with permission and in-line with Government Covid guidelines at the time.

Now more than ever, small business needs your support!

Shp8/ 23 Fairwater Drv, Harrington Park

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SMALL PRINT

Advertising Policy... Payment on booking secures your space. The Business Directory offers cost effective advertising to businesses in an alphabetical format.

Premium Placement may be available, at an extra charge. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion.

Community News... The Oran Park Gazette welcomes community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements and anniversaries (published free of charge) Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor.

Letters to the Editor... May be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

Managing Editor Belinda Sanders

Writer / Sales Cim Sanders

Advertising Sales Michele Collins