Oran Park Gazette November 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

NOVEMBER 2023 | Issue 89

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

Running for Rio: A Children’s Hospice Mission

See Article Pg 11

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

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

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COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

NEWS + MEDIA

Helping Improve The Lives Of Children

Camden Council is seeking community feedback on a plan which aims to support, understand and address the needs of children and families in the local community.

The draft Children and Families Strategy 2023-27 is now on public exhibition.

The Strategy identifies opportunities to improve the lives of children and families in the Camden area under the direction of five key priorities: • Safety; • Education; • Informed; • Health and Wellbeing; and • Recreation and Leisure.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney urged the community to review the plan and make a submission.

“We understand childhood development and happy families are linked to the community, environment and infrastructure which surrounds us,” she said.

“This Strategy aims to better understand the needs of children, identify any shortfalls in existing services and explore solutions to address them.

“More than a third of the households in the Camden area contain children aged 0-15 and so getting this Strategy right is really important to us.”

“I encourage everyone to check out the draft Strategy and share their thoughts.”

The Children and Families Strategy is on public exhibition until 14 November.

To have your say, and find out more, visit yourvoice.camden.nsw. gov.au/children-and-families.

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

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

r Article: Camden Council

Ultra-Fast NBN Services Now Ready For Order In Macarthur Eligible residential homes and businesses across parts of Macarthur can now place an order to upgrade their NBN connection to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

This includes parts of: Bardia, Bow Bowing, Denham Court, Ingleburn, Leumea, St Andrews, Varroville, Macquarie Links and Minto.

These upgrades will be available on demand where a customer in an eligible premises seeks a higher speed service through their Retail Service Provider.

This will allow residents and businesses to take advantage of the faster speeds which are increasingly important in a digital society and economy.

To further expand the benefits of fibre connections, the Albanese Government has invested $2.4 billion to enable an additional 1.5 million premises to transition from Fibre to the Node (FTTN) to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) by 2025 – over 660,000 of which will be in regional areas. The first tranche of eligible suburbs – 1,000,000 premises – were announced by the Government earlier this year.

As a result of the Albanese Government’s investment for a better NBN: • Close to 90 per cent of the NBN fixed-line footprint will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 500Mbps to close to gigabit speeds.

• Around 80 per cent of all regional and remote premises will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more by late 2025. This was estimated at 33 per cent in March 2022.

• 93 per cent of all Australian homes and businesses will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more.

For more information on upgrade eligibility, visit www.nbn.com. au/fibreupgrade. r Article: Member for Macarthur Dr Mike Freelander MP

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November 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

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

Remembrance Day: A Time to Reflect and Remember

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Remembrance Day in Australia is a solemn occasion observed on the 11th of November each year, commemorating the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served in the armed forces during times of war and conflict.

This day marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. At the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent, signifying the end of a brutal conflict that had claimed the lives of millions across the globe.

In Australia, flags are flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning and respect on Remembrance Day. Services across the country are held at war memorials at 11:00am, where the ‘Last Post’ is played by a bugler, and one minutes silence is observed.

In 1997, Governor-General William Deane issued a formal proclamation that would declare the 11th of November to be Remembrance Day. The proclamation urged all Australians to observe one minutes silence at 11:00am on the 11th of November each year.

In 2023, as with every year, Australians from all walks of life will come together to honour and remember the courage, resilience, and selflessness of those who defended our freedom. Join us in commemorating our veterans. Take a moment of silence to pay your respects and consider wearing a poppy as a symbol of remembrance. Attend local Remembrance Day ceremonies or watch online. Help veterans in your area, donate to support them, and above all, remember their sacrifices.

Let this day serve as a reminder that the freedoms we enjoy today were secured through the sacrifice of others. In 2023, let us unite as a nation to remember and honour our veterans, ensuring that their legacy lives on for generations to come.

Lest We Forget. r Lest We Forget| Image: Pixabay

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Be Kind Friday: Spreading Acts of Kindness Across Communities

Macarthur Nature Competition

In a world that often seems overwhelmed by negativity, one organisation is on a mission to remind us of the power of kindness. Be Kind Friday, a nonfor-profit initiative, is inspiring individuals and communities to make every Friday a day filled with love, empathy, and genuine connections.

“Our mission is to inspire individuals and communities to come together every Friday, embracing kindness as a way of life,” said Pat Frusciante, Director of Be Kind Friday. “We aim to encourage acts of kindness, to create a ripple effect of happiness, fostering a culture of kindness that unites people from all walks of life.”

Be Kind Friday started as a simple idea promoted on social media, to encourage the community to embrace kindness.

Every Friday, Pat encouraged viewers to take 10-15 minutes to put a smile on someone's face. The movement gained momentum as people began sharing and supporting Be Kind Friday posts.

Made up of a small team of 10 members, Be Kind Friday’s current activities include weekly giveaways on their social media, where the gifts that are up for grabs are donated by various companies and individuals wanting to jump on board and give back. Additionally, they host a free community breakfast once a month in different council areas.

They have also distributed over 6,500 Be Kind Friday cards to recipients of kind gestures. “To know the word is getting out is heart-warming,” Pat said.

“We are most proud of people coming together again with open hearts and love,” said Pat. The organisations events are filled with excitement, smiles, tears, laughter, hugs, and heartfelt conversations among attendees.

“The message we are sending is so important in the world we live in today. We need to remind our children of the importance of helping and being kind to others. You just never know what someone else is going through and your kindness might just help someone get through their day,” he said. Be Kind Friday is all about small gestures, a drop in the ocean, to create a ripple, to create a wave, to change the world, one soul at a time.

To stay updated on Be Kind Friday's initiatives, individuals can follow them on Instagram @bekindfriday. This Friday be sure to spread kindness wherever you are!

Announcing this year’s Macarthur Nature Photography Competition winners.

Congratulations to the following winners: OPEN SECTION Caring for Country Winner: Daniel Chalker | Second Place: Lizette Pomering Highly Comm. Belinda Musumeci Threatened Species Winner: Andrew Evans | Second Place: Ben White | Highly Comm. Les Shearim and Deb Evans Clark Australian Native Plants, Animals and Pollinators Winner: Noah Syed | Second Place: Amy Borg | Highly Comm.

Belinda Musumeci, Sharon Robertson, and Karen Powell HIGH SCHOOL Caring for Country Winner: Hayden Wilson | Second Place: Nicholas McLeod Threatened Species Winner: Summer Tuckey Australian Native Plants, Animals and Pollinators Winner: Cooper Tamayo | Second Place: Hayden Wilson Highly Comm. Natasha Saab PRIMARY SCHOOL Caring for Country Winner: Quinn Wilson | Second Place: Harvey Stead | Highly Comm. Lucas Wilson Threatened Species Winner: Isaac Harris Australian Native Plants, Animals and Pollinators Winner: Anthony Spiers | Second Place: Quinn Wilson | Highly Comm. Oliver Muriniti and Asnika Sutharjan Don't forget to vote in the People's Choice Award by visiting the exhibition at Narellan Town Centre and picking your favourite image.

The Macarthur Nature Photography Competition is a joint initiative of Campbelltown City Council, Camden Council and Wollondilly Shire Council.

View All Their Entries At: bit.ly/3rOiD0H

r The Be Kind Friday team, extra volunteers, and Camden’s Deputy Mayor, Therese Fedeli at their FREE breakfast event| Image: Supplied

Photography

r Some of the amazing photographs | Image/Article: Camden Council

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November 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 November 2023

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Shooting their Way to the Top Oran Park Netball Club have had a successful year on the court, recently wrapping up the 2023 Camden and District Netball Association Winter Competition season.

The local club, which was established in 2013 with just four teams, has seen tremendous growth since then.

The 2023 season saw over 180 players, comprising of 18 teams, represent Oran Park Netball Club on the court at Narellan Sports Hub. With highlights aplenty, this year would see two of their teams’ progress through, making their Grand Finals.

A full season was enjoyed by all, without the interruptions of the pandemic or bad weather that had hampered previous years.

Samantha Perovich, Club President of Oran Park Netball Club, was proud of everyone and the progress that was made in the popular Winter Competition.

“I was most proud of seeing the progression of our players and umpires and how much everyone had improved” Samantha explained to the Oran Park Gazette.

Attention now turns to the 2023 Summer Competition, which began on Wednesday 11th October. The 8 week competition caters for players from the Under 10’s through to the Seniors (Ladies and Mixed). The shorter format is also played on Wednesday nights.

“The Summer Competition is now in full swing. Teams are doing well across the board” she smiled.

The highly anticipated Junior and Senior Club Presentation takes place this month, on Saturday 11th November at Enzo’s Cucina Camden.

Club Committee members will also be on hand at the upcoming Barrabounce Fete.

“If anyone would like some information about joining Oran Park Netball Club in 2024, we will be attending the Fete on Saturday, November 25, at Barramurra Public School,” said Samantha.

For updates and news about the club (including registrations), search Oran Park Netball Club on Facebook.

Bag a Bargain in your Neighbourhood Cash in or bag a bargain when the Garage Sale Trail, Australia’s festival of pre-loved stuff, returns to Camden.

Boasting garage sales across the Camden area on 1112 and 18-19 November, the event is a chance for you to turn your stash into cash and shop epic stuff at retro prices.

Camden Council will also host a Macarthur region event, in association with the Macarthur Councils and the Macarthur Strategic Waste Alliance, on Saturday 18 November (8:00am – 1:00pm) at Narellan Sports Hub. The community will be invited to register to sell their items soon.

Last year, a total of 83 garage sale events were hosted over the two weekends in the Camden area, seeing 21,537kg of items sold and reused. On average, $1,363 was made by each seller.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said the Garage Sale Trail would be a fun and simple action we can take to reduce our carbon footprint.

“The Garage Sale Trail helps neighbours connect, make some money and keep their good stuff out of landfill,” she said.

“I encourage everyone to see what they have lying around they could sell and head around their neighbourhood to see what gems they can find.”

Register your sale and find out more at

www.garagesaletrail.com.au

r Garage Sale Trail | Image/Article: Camden Council

PARTY PARTY r The OPNC Under 11 Summer Comp Swifts | Image: Oran Park Netball Club

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November 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

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

Connecting with Kids: The Power of Love Languages Have you ever considered the power of Love Languages when it comes to connecting with your children?

The concept, originally coined by Dr. Gary Chapman for couples, has evolved into a valuable tool for parents and caregivers to build strong, loving bonds with their children.

Understanding Love Language Love languages are all about how individuals both give and receive love. Identifying your child's primary love language, or a combination of two, can significantly benefit your parent-child relationship. It ensures that your child not only knows they're loved, but also feels it deeply.

The Five Love Languages and Their Application to Children: 1. Words of Affirmation: Expressing love, praise, appreciation, and encouragement through words. Connect through words of affirmation by saying "I love you" often, acknowledging your child's achievements, leaving sweet notes in unexpected places, and sharing what you love about them.

2. Quality Time: Providing your child with focused, undivided attention shows you love them and value their company. Connect through quality time by engaging in conversations, enjoying activities, scheduling one-on-one time, and prioritising family meals.

3. Physical Touch: Children thrive on loving physical touch, especially during infancy. Connect through physical touch with hugs, kisses, cuddles, playful activities like wrestling, holding hands, and story time.

4. Gifts: For some children, receiving a physical gift symbolises love and affection. It's about the thought and effort behind the gift. Connect through gift giving by selecting items aligned with your child's interests, surprising them with thoughtful gifts, and creating treasure hunts.

5. Acts of Service: Doing things for your child to make them feel cared for and special is another love language. Connect through acts of service by preparing special meals, engaging in their favourite activities, assisting with tasks, and completing their chores.

Understanding your child's love language is a valuable tool to show love and nurture, and it helps you notice when your child is expressing love. Being aware of your own love language but responding in your child's love language can further strengthen the parent-child bond.

Take the Love Language Quiz with Your Child. It's a fun way to connect and learn something new together: https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language r Image: www.pixabay.com

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November 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

Oran Park Gears Up for Fun-Filled BarraBounce Fete Barramurra Public School is set to bring the community together for a day of excitement and family fun with its Barrabounce Fete. The event will take place on Saturday, November 25, at Barramurra Public School, situated on O’Keefe Drive in Oran Park.

The day will kick off at 10:00 AM with a special quiet hour catering to kids with special needs and/or sensory needs, featuring minimal noise and no music. From 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the fete will be open to the entire community for a day of fun.

For those looking to enjoy the inflatable rides, kids under 18 can purchase a wristband for $25, granting them unlimited access to the excitement. For adults and kids not interested in inflatables, entry to the event is just $2.

The event promises a day packed with activities, including 11 inflatable challenges, a petting zoo, 8 food trucks offering a variety of sweet and savoury delights, 10-15 market stalls, and special appearances from the Oran Park Fire Brigade and NSW Police Highway Patrol. Attendees can also look forward to impressive performances by school and local dance groups.

“I am really looking forward to hosting the quiet hour,” said Carolyn Brown, President of Barramurra PS P&C Association.

“For children with special or sensory needs and their families to be able to experience the fun in a more suitable environment makes me proud to be able to cater to their needs as well as the whole community.”

“This is Barramurra PS P&C Association’s inaugural fete, and we want to make this a fantastic day out for all families! So please invite your friends, neighbours, cousins, everyone is welcome for the wider community,” Carolyn ended.

For more information about the Barramurra Public School Bounce Fete and to purchase tickets, visit the official website at barramurrapandc.com.

r Barramurra Public School | Image: https://barramurra-p.schools.nsw. gov.au/

Rent a Space Proudly Opens their New Self Storage Facility at Oran Park The sixteenth storage centre for the family-owned company, Rent a Space, opened its doors in Oran Park recently, next to McDonalds on Dick Johnson Drive.

It is thought the concept of self-storage began 6,000 years ago in China. Large clay pots were used for possessions to be stored in underground pits, with guards watching over them full time. In the last 40 years, self-storage facility design has undergone notable change. The stereotypical ranch-style development is a thing of the past, giving way to multi-level, purpose-built storage facilities with enhanced technology, ride on lifts to make access to upper-storey units easier, and undercover areas for easy unloading.

Modern multi-level buildings designed to enhance customer convenience and built with quality materials are the hallmarks of the new Rent a Space at Oran Park. Featuring a sleek, contemporary exterior and bright, secure storage spaces, the new Rent a Space storage facility was designed with customers’ convenience in mind. The 4-storey facility features fast ride-in lifts, brightly lit corridors, a box and packing supplies shop and a complimentary meeting room. All units are individually alarmed, CCTV monitors the complex, and access is via a personal, unique pin code.

Its standout feature is the fully undercover drive-through space, where customers can drive in, unload their vehicle, use the complimentary trolleys to transport their goods to their storage unit and drive out.

“We invite Oran Park residents to visit our new store and meet our friendly, professional staff who will proudly show you around our fantastic storage facility and help you with your storage needs,” said Thomas Whalan, CEO of Rent a Space.

Rent a Space offers a free storage move-in service, with the convenience of a truck and professional driver, saving customers hundreds of dollars in removalist fees, truck hire, fuel, and insurance.

The company also has a no-obligation Instant Online Quote on their website. It helps you calculate the best size storage unit to suit your needs at the location of your choice and at the best price. Their storage calculator videos will help you visualise how much will fit into the various sized spaces and Rent a Space’s expert staff will ensure that you only pay for the storage space you need.

“Our new Oran Park facility is situated in a key area of the rapidly growing Macarthur region, and we’re proud to provide the community with a highquality storage experience in a modern facility with the latest amenities.” r [Top] Rent a Space Oran Park Store Managers Mitchell Hambridge and Nicole Maher | Image: Wendy Hooke [Above] Rent a Space Oran Park | Image: Guy Wilkinson Photography. Article: Rent a Space/Wendy Hooke

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www.oranparkgazette.com.au November 2023

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Noble November

KID’S CORNER 1

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HELP MAIZIE THE BEE FIND HER POPPIES

SPOT THE 5 DIFFERENCES SOLUTIONS

Puzzle 2 Puzzle 1

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November 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

Running for Rio: A Children’s Hospice Mission In a heart-warming effort to honour his late son and raise awareness for Australia’s lack of children’s hospices, Ryan Fowler, the founder of Rio’s Legacy, recently undertook a strenuous 980+km journey from Brisbane to Oran Park. From September 18 to October 3, Fowler ran and biked to raise awareness for the pressing need for more children's hospices in Australia.

Starting his challenge at Hummingbird House in Brisbane, Queensland's only hospice, Fowler covered an average of 40km running each day for 12 days and cycled 160km each day for 4 days. Reflecting on the experience, Fowler revealed, "It was a gruelling physical challenge."

He added that managing his Type 1 Diabetes added another layer to the challenge.

"I lost my son Rio to a terminal illness in 2018," Fowler shared. "My wife, Karen, and I wanted to support families when they go through the toughest thing any family can face - having a child with a terminal illness."

Unfortunately, in Australia, over 28,000 children live with life-limiting conditions, with more than half of them being under 18. Despite these staggering numbers, the country currently has only three hospices to cater to these children and their families.

Dr Raymond Chin of Western Sydney University Medical School highlighted the urgency of the situation, "Given the number of children requiring this care, we should have more hospices. We’re falling behind and are failing to support the children and families who desperately require care.”

“Our mission is to see more hospices built across Australia that support and assist children with a life-limiting condition and their families. We believe every family should have the option to choose hospice care for their child at end of life if needed.

Hospices are places where children with a life-limiting or terminal illness live, not die,” said Ryan.

Rio's Legacy is committed to building Australia's fourth children's hospice in Western Sydney. With a functional model of care already in place, Fowler appealed to the public for support. "With land earmarked in Oran Park, functional model of care and fly through architectural design developed, we just need the financial support of Australians together with the government to help bring our mission to life,” said Ryan Fowler.

To contribute to this honourable cause and help build this hospice in Western Sydney to support families, donations can be made via the Rio’s Legacy fundraising link -https://rioslegacy.grassrootz.com/rio-23-brisbane-to-sydney r Feature Article [Cover + Above] Ryan Fowler and Daughter Remy | Images: G.Vickery Photography

Cool Off and Have Fun this Summer Season The warm Spring air is well and truly here, with Camden Council’s water play spaces now open for the 2023-24 season.

The water will turn on every day from 10:00am to 7:00pm, through to April at Dawson-Damer Park in Oran Park and Curry Reserve in Elderslie.

Dawson-Damer Park is the Macarthur region's largest water play space. It has a number of water and non-water activities, including water spinners, a ninja warrior course, swings, trampolines, basketball facilities, picnic areas and much more. Being an inclusive facility, the award-winning Dawson-Damer Park also has wet play wheelchairs available for hire and adult change facilities.

Curry Reserve Water Play Space in Elderslie boasts a large splash pad with 36 play features for all inclusive, accessible fun for children of all ages.

The award-winning water place space is also an inclusive facility with accessible activities, wet play wheelchairs and a fully accessible and accredited public toilet and adult change facility.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said she was excited to see the eagerly anticipated re-opening of Council’s water play spaces.

“We know it’s expected to be a very warm spring and summer, and so we’re excited to provide a way for kids to cool off and have fun,” she said.

“Remember to slip, slop, slap, and we hope you enjoy these two incredible facilities.”

Attendees are asked to observe the safety and sanitation signage at each site and abide by all rules.

You can find out more about the facilities at the Camden Council website at https://www.camden.nsw.gov. au/parks-and-recreation/parks-andplaygrounds/. rArticle: Camden Council

www.oranparkgazette.com.au November 2023

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PROBUS CLUB Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com P: 0410758755 September and October have been bustling months for Oran Park Probus Club, with members actively involved in a membership drive at a local shopping centre, and a wide range of activities, including crafts, walking, social gatherings, dining, trivia, movies, and a remarkable 'Les Misérables' performance. The October General Meeting also saw the club recognizing a remarkable couple with the Annual Probus Award for their substantial contributions to the club's development since its inception.

What’s happening in November?

A delightful seafood dining experience in Georges Hall, a Melbourne Cup luncheon, another theatre excursion, and a coach journey to a vineyard in the Southern Highlands. At the vineyard, interested members can partake in a wine tasting session and purchase some wine bottles.

This is just a sample of what’s on offer at Oran Park Probus Club; a social club that offers fun and friendship to retirees who find themselves with time on their hands. As colleagues from your working life drift away, it’s time to make new friendships and enjoy some new activities with like-minded people.

Monthly meetings of Oran Park Probus Club are held at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, Camden. In November, our speaker will talk about training the dogs that are used in search for missing people. This meeting will be held on the first Wednesday, November 8, rather than the usual first Tuesday of the month, to avoid members Melbourne Cup Day arrangements.

Visitors are always welcome to attend the monthly meetings which commence at 10.00am, so please arrive 10-15 minutes before the start.

If you are interested in joining a social club, please come along and find out what Probus could mean for you. For further information, please email the secretary: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com r Annual Probus Award [L-R] Kath Armstrong, with winners Dee and Peter Douglas| Image: Supplied

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

Ever-Present Help The NRMA has done a great job of making their name synonymous with HELP. Many of us will know either from years ago, or perhaps just recently, what it’s like to be bailed out when your keys are locked in the car, or the battery is flat, or your car is inexplicably stopped by the side of some strange road.

Cars are one thing, but there’s no NRMA for the world. None for a life that’s in the midst of turmoil and challenge. No ‘one number’ to call for personal and global crisis.

In one of the hymns of the Bible (known as Psalms) we see the writers reflecting on how to respond when all that we have confidence in is shaking and falling.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” The source of confidence is the effortless power of the-God-who-is-really-there, “He lifts His voice, the earth melts.”

To take shelter in God as the chaos descends is an invitation offered to all who would trust in Him; “He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”’

To find this help is not to know a phone number or to pay membership dues. To know this shelter is to know a person. In the midst of a world that is shaking you’re invited to find in Jesus, a welcome, and a confidence, to face whatever may come with strength and resolve that isn’t based on your own resources - but rather on God’s. And so, we can say with the Psalmist, “The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

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November 2023 www.oranparkgazette.com.au

Appeal for Information following Multiple Car Fires – Oran Park

Detectives are appealing for information following an investigation into two suspicious car fires in Oran Park earlier this year.

About 3.30am on Sunday 11 June 2023, emergency services were called to Gruen Place, Oran Park, following reports of a car fire.

Officers attached to Camden Police Area Command arrived to find a Mercedes-Benz sedan alight.

The fire was extinguished by Fire and Rescue NSW. No injuries were reported.

A week later about 11.10pm on Sunday 18 June 2023, emergency services were called to the same address following reports the same car was on fire.

The fire was extinguished by Fire and Rescue NSW. No Injuries were reported.

Police established a crime scene after both incidents and are treating them as linked.

Following inquiries police are hoping to speak to the driver and passengers of a grey utility that was seen driving on Seidler Place, Oran Park, at the time of both incidents.

All people were seen wearing dark coloured clothing.

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident, or who may have CCTV footage, to contact Camden police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. r NSW Police Media | Image: www.pixabay. com

Tanya Davies MP

Tanya Davies MP

Member forBadgerys MulgoaCreek Member for anya

Contact T

badgeryscreek@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 9834 2966 (02) 9834 6291 tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au

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Understanding Snake Activity this Summer As Summer approaches, Western Sydney residents can anticipate increased snake sightings in bushlands, grasslands, backyards, and houses. The snake season traditionally falls between September to March, but often varies due to temperatures.

Sean Cade, from Australian Snake Catchers, has over 20 years of experience and assures residents that these encounters should be viewed as informative rather than alarming. "Snakes are mostly present for shelter or food and are generally just passing through a property," Sean explained.

The Sydney Basin is home to a diverse range of snakes. "Most people in Western Sydney will come across the Eastern Brown Snake, Red Bellied Black Snake, Yellow Faced Whip Snake, and the Golden Crowned Snake," Sean said. Other snakes in the Sydney Basin include the Broad Headed Snake, Tiger Snake, Marsh Snake, and Death Adder.

Sean offered some basic tips to minimise the chances of encountering snakes: • Avoid approaching snakes.

• Refrain from trying to catch or harm them.

• Ensure children and pets maintain a safe distance.

• Clear any clutter or trash around your home.

• Maintain clean lawns and store firewood at a distance from the house.

Correcting common misconceptions, Sean explained that the presence of a Red Bellied Black Snake doesn't necessarily mean you won't encounter an Eastern Brown Snake. “This is a common statement which is incorrect. If the snakes are a similar length, they cannot eat each other. And Eastern Brown Snakes will also eat a Red Bellied Black Snake,” he said.

Sean's dedication to his profession stems from a love for wildlife and a passion to share the wonders of native fauna with his children. "Although many are hesitant to deal with snakes, they play a valuable role in our ecosystem. They, like any animal, sometimes need assistance,” he said.

"Snakes don't need to be feared. With a little understanding they are quite fascinating creatures. This time of year, they are breeding also and are quite active," Sean ended.

If you need expert and secure removal of snakes or reptiles, reach out to Sean and his crew through their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/australiansnakecatchers/ or call Sean at 0410761575 or Freya at 0452492836. v Sean with an Eastern Brown Snake | Image: Australian Snake Catchers

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FROM THEWORD EDITOR THE LAST

Emergency Services

Last month, Australians were asked to vote on the proposal to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

According to the Australian Electoral Commission website a record 97.7% of eligible Australians were enrolled to vote. Official results can be found here: https://aec.gov.au/ referendums/ November has arrived, and that can only mean one thing......Christmas is closer than you’d care to believe.

I know I start out with every good intention to plan and prepare well in advance, and somehow, one way or another...... I end up battling the crowds of last-minute shoppers on Christmas Eve! Consider this your notice, it will sneak up on us!

Remembrance Day falls this month, and serves as a reminder that the freedoms we appreciate today were secured through the sacrifice of others. Take a moment on the 11th to honour the brave men and women who have served.

Lest we forget.

‘You are the artist of your own life. Don’t hand the paintbrush to anyone else.’

Time for a cuppa! Enjoy Your Community News.

4733 0792 editor@districtgazette.com.au www.districtgazette.com.au

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15th November 2023 NEXT ISSUE DISTRIBUTION

Online: 1st December 2023 Letterboxes: 5 + 6 December 2023 MEET OUR TEAM

Managing Editor Belinda Sanders Writer / Sales Cim Sanders Writer / Sales Tayla James

Flynnko Pty Ltd ABN: 65 601 734 472 trading as:

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

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 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

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