Oran Park Gazette October 2022

Get Snappy For Annual Photo Competition

Put your photography skills to the test while enjoying the local environment by entering this year’s Macarthur Nature Photography Competition.

The annual competition, hosted in conjunction with Campbelltown City Council and Wollondilly Shire Council, invites residents to enter their most striking, engaging and enticing images of local plants, wildlife and natural environment taken from within the Macarthur area.

This year’s themes include: Australian plants; Australian animals; People helping the environment; and Water in the landscape.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, encouraged residents to get out into the Camden environment and snap their best photo.

“Camden is home to a beautiful range of native plants and animals and this is the perfect opportunity to really take in the environment we live amongst,” Cr Fedeli said.

“The best part of it is that you don’t have to be a professional photographer or own a flash camera. Simply take out your smartphone and have some fun in the area.

“I look forward to seeing what our community comes up with.”

Categories are now open for children aged 12-15, 13-18 and open with winners to take home a share of $3000 worth of prizes.

Entries for the Macarthur Nature Photography Competition will close 5pm Friday 7 October.

For more information and to enter, go to www.camden.nsw.gov.au/environment/ environmental-programs/macarthurnature-photography-competition/

Camden Wedding Expo Brings Wedded Bliss

If wedding bells are ringing, you won’t want to plan your big day without the help of the Camden Wedding Expo.

The annual event, which will be held on Saturday 16 October at Camden Civic Centre, will have more than 40 exhibitors on display, including wedding attire, cakes, celebrants, ceremony locations and venues, entertainment, photography, videography and much more.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said many of the vendors would have special deals available to event attendees to help them plan a unique and unforgettable day.

“Camden Wedding Expo truly is a onestop-shop for all things for your special day whether it be a wedding or engagement,” Cr Fedeli said.

“Planning a wedding or engagement can be quite stressful and our exhibitors are specialists at taking some of the pressure off you and going above and beyond.

“I encourage those getting married or helping to plan a wedding to attend the free Camden Wedding Expo and grab some help and answers along the way.”

CharBella Cakes owner and chef Nicole Day, who specialises in cakes, cupcakes and cookies, said the event was equally rewarding for exhibitors.

“I’ve been involved with Camden Wedding Expo since 2017 and I have found it most beneficial to the growth of my business,” Ms Day said.

For more information on the expo, go to www.camdenciviccentre.com.au/events/ cwe22/

Program To Help Youth Join Workforce

Local young people have the chance to get the best tips on joining the workforce with Council’s Camden Joblink Program which began last month.

The program integrates initiatives and programs for youth, to help them develop skills, connect with potential employers and gain confidence when entering the workforce, and includes the following at Julia Reserve in Oran Park:

• Apprenticeship and Traineeship Information Evening on 1 November;

• Building Confidence and Mastering the Interview on 5 November;

• Prepping for Employment on 19 November;

• Barista Course from 27-29 November; and

• RSA and RCG course on 20 and 21 January 2023.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said assisting young people in making their first step into the workforce was pivotal for the future.

“Young people truly are the future of our area and Council is committed to helping them reach their goals,” Cr Fedeli said.

“The program offers a range of tips and ideas for those looking at getting their first or next job in the industry of their choosing.

“I encourage our local young people to take advantage of the offer and get the ball rolling on their careers.”

The program is the latest offer to local young people, with Council also hosting a range of events throughout the year including a Careers Expo, Youth Week festivities and creative opportunities such as Camden Shorts. Camden Council

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.

Apply

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

r Image/Article: Camden Council

rArticle: Camden Council

Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages –Camden Festival is back! Council’s celebration of the incredible Camden area will return this month, after a two-year hiatus. It will include:

• A Very Bear Storytime and Bear sleepover on Monday 3 October at Narellan Library and on Thursday 6 October at Camden Library;

• Colour Run for Mental Health on Friday 7 October at Birriwa Reserve, Mount Annan;

• Camden Swirls on Friday 7 October at Julia Reserve, Oran Park;

• Picnic in the Park on Sunday 9 October at Perich Park, Oran Park;

• Kids Fun Day on Wednesday 12 October at Camden Civic Centre;

• Unlock Camden on Saturday 15 October at Alan Baker Art Gallery and Camden Library and Museum;

• Café Connect Carers Pamper Day on Wednesday 19 October at Camden Civic Centre;

• Café Connect Grandparents Day on Wednesday 28 October at Oran Park Library; and

• TASTE Camden on Sunday 30 October at Camden Town Farm.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said she was excited to see the much-loved program of events make a comeback.

“Council is committed to providing residents with events like Camden Festival to celebrate our beautiful area,” Cr Fedeli said.

“Camden Festival puts the spotlight on so many fantastic things we have in the area and truly fills the area with excitement each year.

“The events provide something for everyone in our community, culminating in our favourite Taste Camden at Camden Town Farm on Sunday 30 October.

“We have some really big announcements to make in the coming weeks, and I can guarantee you won’t want to miss out. I would encourage everyone to lock it in your diaries from now and keep an eye on Council’s socials and website!”

For more information on Camden Festival, go to www. camdenfestival.com.au.

r A month of celebrations | Image: Mayor Therese Fedeli/Camden Council Camden Council

Sydney, get ready for the 5K Foam Fest!

The two day event will take place on Saturday 19th November and Sunday 20th November at Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park in Sydney’s South West.

The 5K Foam Fest is a one of kind obstacle course-based fun run. With a variety of obstacles and a ton of foam, the run is an exciting challenge for experienced and beginner runners alike. The 5K Foam Fest is not a hardcore run it is a FUNCORE run. Walk it, charge it, run it, fun it! A festival atmosphere offering activities for all ages.

They guarantee you'll be foamy, muddy, and wet by the end of the 5K Foam Fest.

You’ll find 22 of some of the best and most exciting obstacles in the world including the world’s largest inflatable waterslide, slip and slides, and mucky mud pits! Combine these with 2.5 million cubic feet of foam that they pump out at each event, and you are destined to have an awesome day! The obstacles include foamy start, hurdles, lily pads, DD mega slide, chamber of foam, cargo climb, body washer, spider web forest, walls, foam zone, mud crawl, slip n slide, log roll, tube town – tube crawl, mud pit, rope climb, foamy finish, and tyre hop.

You can rock out all day to awesome music, enjoy a FREE kid’s zone for kids 6 and under, taste delicious food, shop from local vendors, and celebrate your success in their well-stocked beer garden.

Registrations are open now. Purchase tickets online at https:// bit.ly/3xuGoui. Limited tickets will be available at the gate.

Once registered, you will get a temporary tattoo, race bib, bib buttons, finishers medal, free photos, 22+ obstacles, 2.5 million cubic feet of foam, water stations, festival and vendor village, kids’ free fun zone, live DJ, gear check ($5 donation), showers and you’ll be giving to a good cause.

Be sure to bring photo ID, sunscreen, cash only, change of clothes and a great attitude.

Check out 5K Foam Fest online at https://the5kfoamfest.com/ australia/locations/sydney/ r Image/Article: 5K Foam Fest

Small Club, Big Hearts

Gregory Hills Netball Club may only be a small club, but their results on the court this year have been big.

Playing in the Campbelltown District Netball Association (CDNA) Winter Competition, they had about 80 members registered this season. This consisted of 8 teams - 1 Net Set Go team (non-competitive), 4 junior teams, 1 graduate team and 2 senior teams.

Amazingly, 5 out of their 7 competition teams made it through to the semi-finals!

“Each and every match had us on the ends of our seats and despite the pouring rain, our teams gave it their all. One of our senior teams won the grand final and were deemed Premiers for their division, one junior team drew at the end of the game and was deemed joint Premiers and two teams were deemed runners up Premiers for the 2022 season” said Angela Heap, Club Treasurer of Gregory Hills Netball Club.

The local club find it hard to pick just one highlight from the season, with lots of great memories made on and off the court.

“I think that the growth in the club and players was definitely a big highlight. Gregory Hills Netball Club also won a $5,000 community sports award from Sunrise and Primo and had the opportunity to be broadcast on live television” Angela replied.

“We are also super proud to have had 5 out of our 7 competition teams make it through to the semis. All in all, it was an amazing season” she continued.

The club attended a gala dinner for the 50 Year Anniversary of Campbelltown District Netball Association (CDNA) celebration too.

With the Summer netball competition commencing in midOctober, they hope to continue their success.

“We are really looking forward to the 2023 netball season to see how much further the Gregory Hills Netball club family grows” ended Angela.

r Angela

Business Spotlight.

From Oran Park, Harrington Park, Edmonson Park to Gregory Hills, Gledswood Hills and Emerald Hills, our region is growing at an eye-watering pace and so are its businesses in both size and sophistication. This is where Park & Hills can be of service. Leveraging off almost 2 decades of experience working in Sydney’s CBD, Park & Hills is your local corporate law firm aiming to be your trusted business partner

Our principal, James Nguyen, is a multi-award-winning lawyer who has worked both in private practice at DLA Piper and Gilbert + Tobin and also in-house at Rabobank and TEG (Ticketek). He also happens to live in Gledswood Hills and believes in the exponential growth potential of our region.

In support of our belief in the potential of the region, we’re also looking to hire from the local talent pool as well. So, if you’re a gun lawyer with relevant experience and, more importantly, can work to our principals of: Curiosity, Creativity and Consistency then we’d love to hear from you.

Our recent local deals include helping two sisters acquire an online fashion business, a person looking to exit an existing construction business, a mum buying a local café business and helping a start-up incorporate its business. In addition, we also have Sydney CBD clients in the private equity and enterprise software platform space. Our relevant corporate and commercial law experience is across a broad spectrum.

So whichever stage of the business lifecycle you’re in and whatever your plans are for the future of your business, Park & Hills is there to support and give you peace of mind. Leave the lawyering to us so you can get on with what you do best!

Local Brigade Do Proud at State Championships

The 2022 NSW Rural Fire Service State Championships were held at Bulli Showground in Wollongong on 9th to 11th September and brought together 26 Brigades from across New South Wales to compete in two days of intense competition.

Five members of Gledswood RFS Brigade participated which was their first time competing in the State Championships.

The Gledswood RFS team took out 2 x 1st place and 2 x 3rd place trophies in individual events and an overall 3rd place for the entire weekend.

The weekend’s events consisted of multiple scenarios focusing on basic firefighting skills, using problem solving techniques and teamwork to complete each activity in a timely and safe manner. Some of these events included pumps and pumping operations, fire mapping tasks and fire truck driving skills just to name a few.

“The team was very proud of their efforts. For a crew that had never competed in anything like this before and to only have 2 weeks to train, we were extremely pleased with the result” said Gledswood RFS.

With the Brigade’s success, they plan on taking part in the next State Championships and making a challenge for the top spot.

“We most certainly will be applying to participate in the next state championship. It was an amazing experience, and we look forward to challenging Oakville Brigade for the title in 2024” they ended.

r Feature Article [Cover] Members of Gledswood RFS at the 2022 NSW RFS State Championships [Above] (L-R) Brian Bey, Troy Fisher, Clayton Crawford, Jake Taylor, and Tim Christison | Images Supplied by Gledswood Rural Fire Service (RFS)

Gledswood Rural Fire Service (RFS) Brigade have had an amazing result in the 2022 NSW RFS State Championships, placing third overall in the competition.

James Morrison October Concert

On Sunday 30 October 2022, trumpet maestro James Morrison will visit Penrith for one monumental afternoon of music.

Morrison said he is excited to return to Penrith after an absence of nearly 10 years.

“I have performed in concert venues and theatres throughout the world, but this will be my very first on the edge of a lake and what better place than the Sydney International Regatta Centre,” Mr Morrison said.

Joining Morrison on stage will be his quartet including sons William on guitar, and Harry on double bass, and Patrick Danao on drums.

Together, the James Morrison Quartet have taken the international music scene by storm, performing at major festivals such as BBC Proms with superstar Dianne Reeves, Melbourne International Jazz Festival with Patti Austin, and performing at famous jazz venues including Ronnie Scott's in London.

In what he is describing as an intimate afternoon of jazz, Mr Morrison's show will comprise of classic jazz based on styles and acts such as Louis Armstrong, Bosso Nova, Stan Getz, Be-Bop and much more.

“I want everyone to enjoy the performance” he said.

“Firstly, I'm not there to educate anyone about jazz; I really love the music, and what it does and how it makes me feel and I want everyone to feel that, and we can all enjoy it together.”

When asked about what audiences can expect, Mr Morrison replied “Expect to have a good time.”

Although COVID restrictions in recent years has put a pause on touring, Mr Morrison recently returned from a tour of Europe saying it’s great to be on the road again making music.

In addition to performing, Mr Morrison spends much of his time in education conducting master classes and workshops sharing his love and knowledge for music education.

As well as performing with his quartet Morrison will join the students and staff of St Pauls Grammar and Nepean High for special performances in the early afternoon.

“The students are putting a lot of energy into preparing their pieces and I am looking forward to working with them and sharing the stage for an afternoon of fantastic entertainment.”

Tickets to An Afternoon with James Morrison can be booked online via TryBooking at www.trybooking.com/BYLWD

r James Morrison | Image: Nethanel Sutton (JME)/James Morrison.Article: James Morrison/Dr Adrian Sheen

We live in an epidemic of violence against women, with one woman losing her life at the hands of a male partner or expartner every week in Australia. Violence starts with disrespect. When we excuse disrespect, it can escalate to aggression and abuse. Studies show that disrespectful attitudes take root in childhood. As parents, you can help to break this cycle.

Disrespect looks like pressuring someone to do something they don’t want to do or treating someone as though they are not as important as you. Disrespect can be based on differences between people such as gender, sexuality, skin colour, cultural heritage, age, disability, or religion.

Some things adults say unintentionally teach children that disrespect is OK in certain situations. Self-reflection is the first step. It is helpful to be aware of common excuses made for aggressive or disrespectful behaviour in boys:

• Downplaying the behaviour, e.g. “it wasn’t that bad”, “he was just joking”

• Accepting aggression as part of being a boy, e.g. “boys will be boys”

• Blaming girls for being treated with disrespect, e.g. “it takes two to tango”

Be prepared to talk to boys about respect early and often. Everyday situations are opportune moments for life-changing conversations. For example, you can discuss what an insult like, “you throw like a girl” says about boys and girls. You can also discuss examples from television or movies.

Ask questions about what your boys think and feel about disrespect and gender equality. Conversation starters might include, “do you notice any differences in how girls and boys are treated at school?” or “Have you ever heard a boy say something to a girl that you didn’t agree with?”

Support empathy by modelling this yourself. If you notice your child acting out, acknowledge their perspective AND reinforce appropriate behaviour, e.g. “I know you were frustrated, but we treat everyone with respect no matter what.” Prompt your child to understand another person’s perspective with questions like, “how would you feel if you were treated like that?”

You can create a safer future for women and girls by stopping disrespect at the start.

For more support and resources around this topic, please visit https://www.respect.gov.au/resources/talking-about-respect/ or call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Men’s Line 1300 78 99 78.

There’s a new place for kids to learn, build and play with LEGO® bricks and it’s right here in Harrington Park! Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) opened on 27th August at Harrington Plaza and is perfect for children’s parties or school holiday workshops.

Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) is owned by local Maria Iglis.

“We run fun and engaging school holiday workshops, vacation care incursions and after school classes. We also offer a private party venue with awesome LEGO® themed birthday parties” explained Maria to the Oran Park Gazette.

Maria is excited to open the new centre in the local community, one of the fastest growing LGA’s.

“We want to provide a space where children can learn in a safe and relaxed learning environment, where initiative is invited, and self-expression is celebrated. Building models provide opportunities for problem-solving and help kids develop an appreciation for how things work. All this takes place while kids are having fun and socialising in a non-competitive atmosphere” she said.

They integrate core STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) content into all their programs. For each option, they incorporate their We Learn! We Build! We Play! philosophy.

We Learn: Their trained Bricks 4 Kidz instructors lead a discussion related to that day’s model, using materials designed by educators to teach concepts across a variety of subject areas. Kids learn about everything from gears, torque, and friction, to geography, space exploration, weather and more.

We Build: Students build the model of the day with simple step-by-step instructions. Working with a partner, kids experience the hands-on fun of model building, from concept to completion. All their models are designed by Bricks 4 Kidz model designers, so you won’t find them on the shelves of your local toy store.

We Play: Students explore their own creativity through free play time at the end of the program.

“There is so much more we want to offer! We are working on events like Kids Night Out and maybe something for the adults. Stay tuned and follow us on Facebook for the latest news” Maria ended.

Bricks 4 Kidz are located at Suite 7, Harrington Plaza, 23 Fairwater Drive in Harrington Park. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/b4kswsydney.

r Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) | Image: Click House Media

EXCEEDING YOUR EXPECTATIONS

Exceed Early Education and Care, in beautiful Gregory Hills, is a privately owned centre offering your family Long Day Care, Before and After School Care and Vacation Care. Priding on ourselves on “exceeding” your expectations we welcome you to come and see what we have to offer!

Opened in 2017, our state-of-the-art centre provides education and care based on warm and nurturing relationships with children, educators and families, and a commitment to providing an educational program embracing the outcomes of the Early Years Learning Framework. Our specialised “school readiness” program will set your child apart as they transition into the next step of their educational journey. Children love our sport and dance lessons that we hold weekly in our purpose built dance studios and undercover sports courts.

Operating 52 weeks per year 6.30am – 6.30pm we cater for all your family’s needs providing up to five meals per day, hats, nappies and bedding for our babies, and sunscreen. Our delicious menu is prepared daily in our 5 Star Council Rated commercial kitchen by our qualified chef, so children will enjoy an abundance of nutritionally balanced hot and cold meals and snacks.

To join our Exceed Community for 2022 or wait-list for 2023, contact us now for a centre tour, via phone or our website and our friendly team will be happy to help.

Join Our Waitlist www.exceededucation.com.au

Exceed Early Education and Care www.exceededucation.com.au PHONE: 02 4648 2733 Address: 67-77 Lasso Rd, Gregory Hills

SPORT

Students at three Catholic schools in the Macarthur celebrated more than $21m worth of new facilities when the Bishop of Wollongong, Most Rev Brian Mascord, visited Magdalene Catholic College in Narellan, followed by St Benedict’s Catholic College and St Justin’s Catholic Primary School in Oran Park on Thursday 1 September 2022 to bless, and open the facilities.

The new buildings at Magdalene Catholic College include contemporary learning areas and a multipurpose hall. St Justin’s Catholic Primary School and St Benedict’s Catholic College, both located on the southern side of Catherine Park Estate, will share a new multipurpose hall, equipped with a gym and kitchen facilities, providing opportunities for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 to gather as a connected Catholic school community.

Director of Schools, Peter Hill, said the new facilities represent Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong’s ongoing commitment to providing high quality learning and teaching environments, and investing in Macarthur communities.

“The incredible growth in this diverse region is set to continue for years to come,” he said. “We believe that every family in the Macarthur should have the opportunity to choose the education that’s right for them and their children”.

“Our Catholic schools provide high quality education with low fees in a welcoming and inclusive environment,” said Mr Hill. “These latest additions to Magdalene, St Justin’s and St Benedict’s mean students will have even more opportunities to grow and achieve their best—academically, socially, physically and spiritually”.

Magdalene was established in 1999 and now has a student population of more than 1,100. The St Justin’s and St Benedict’s campuses were officially established in 2013. Together they serve nearly 1,800 primary and secondary students.

St Benedict’s principal, Kerrie Piatek, said the new hall that they share with St Justin’s is a fabulous flexible space for events that can also double as a social space for their wider community.

“The hall’s gym and café has allowed us to enhance the College curriculum,” Ms Piatek said. “Senior students can access the gym for PDHPE courses and for personal training outside timetabled hours. In 2023, Hospitality Food and Beverage, a VET Industry Framework, will be delivered using the new kitchen facilities”. Catholic Schools

r St Justin’s and St Benedict’s opening and blessing | Image: Peter TsuiStudio Kai | Article: Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong

Dawson-Damer Park Picks Up Prestigious Award

Dawson-Damer Park has once again been recognised after recently winning the prestigious UDIA NSW Excellence in Social and Community Infrastructure Open Space Award.

The popular facility, which was delivered by Greenfields Development Company in partnership with Camden Council, was recognised for its range of amenities, thoughtful design, and high-quality construction.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the award was very deserving for such a fantastic community facility.

“Dawson-Damer Park has been incredibly popular with the community, with thousands of people using the facility since its opening in December 2020,” Cr Fedeli said.

“Winning this award continues to prove that Camden is a great place to live, work and play.”

Greenfields Development Company General Manager, Mick Owens, said he was proud to see the facility receive the award.

“I am proud of the collaborative approach between Greenfields Development Company and Camden Council to create such a high-quality social space so close to the heart of the town,” Mr Owens said.

The UDIA judges stated: “They were impressed by the range of amenities the $9 million facility provides to Oran Park workers, residents, and visitors, including the playful, thoughtful design and high-quality construction of all landscape and building elements, the range of planting and trees of appropriate scale. A civic square, structured play areas, world-class accessible water-play facility, Ninja warrior course, flying fox and barbecue areas and shelters, all sits adjacent to a wetland environment for wild play and quieter places to relax.”

The award comes off the back of Dawson-Damer Park receiving an honourable mention for the Department of Infrastructure’s 2021 Cohesive Communities Award.

Dawson-Damer Park is located at the corner of Dick Johnson Drive and O’Toole Avenue, Oran Park.

What's Happening

Oran Park Probus Club@

Probus Clubs throughout Australia and New Zealand promote friendship, fellowship, and fun among retired and semi-retired people in the community through regular meetings, activity groups, tours and outings.

Oran Park Probus Club meets monthly at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, Camden. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month, except November when we avoid any conflicts with Melbourne Cup Day. The highlight of any meeting is the Speaker. Our Speakers’ programme provides members with the opportunity to learn more about our community, voluntary organisations like Big Yellow Umbrella, Assistance dogs and the RFS – who knew they aided with fire training in Botswana?

We’ve been given gardening tips on how to grow geraniums and pelargoniums, seen some wonderful photographic displays and enjoyed music, singing and comedy. At the October 4 meeting, our Speaker, who has a wealth of knowledge about the Titanic, will also display his personal collection of Titanic artifacts. Other activities continue as usual, coffee and chat, pub lunches, trivia, family history, movies, craft, walking, barefoot bowling, and fine dining. Members enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Bendooley Estate in Berrima last month and explored the Book Store before leaving. We are now looking forward to a tour of the Dingo Sanctuary at Bargo, followed by lunch, of course and in November, more fun with another Observation Car Rally.

Visitors are always welcome to attend our meetings and we do not have a waiting list if you would like to become a member. The next meeting will be on Tuesday October 4, then Thursday November 3. To find out more about Probus or Oran Park Probus Club, please email secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com or phone 0410 758755. r Bendooley happy diners | Image Supplied

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, many have become familiar with the concept of being muted in conversations. Many voices are muted in public discourse around climate change and the ethics of Earth-keeping. These are voices of those who suffer the impacts of climate change. These are voices of people who hold generational wisdom about how to live gratefully within the limits of the land. These are voices of a diminishing diversity of more-than-human species. It is the voice of the Earth. The 2022 Season of Creation theme raises awareness of our need to listen to the voice of creation”.

In his message for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, Pope Francis said that this Season of Creation is "an opportunity to cultivate our 'ecological conversion'", recalling this concept encouraged by St. John Paul II as a response to the 'ecological catastrophe' announced by St. Paul VI as early as 1970.

Let us use this Season to find ways to reconnect with the beauty of God’s creation. While our region continues to see an increase in the number of homes and other buildings being constructed, and what were once open fields now have become thriving suburbs, we are still blessed to have places and spaces around us where we can experience anew the wonder of creation – why not find time, to visit one of our local parklands, including the beautiful Australian Botanic Garden at Mt Annan.

Let us join Saint Francis of Assisi in singing: “Praise be to you, my Lord, for all your creatures” (cf. Canticle of Brother Sun). Let us join the psalmist in singing, “Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!” (Ps 150:6).

“Listen to the Voice of Creation.”

rArticle: Camden Council

Emergency Services

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

Oran Park Physical Culture Club

Mandy Weiling 0417 020 549

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

Gledswood Toastmasters

David Johnson 0417 423 458

Rotary Club of Gregory Hills Next-Gen President 02 9136 6349 or facebook.com/ rcgregoryhills

Undeniably, the past month has been a difficult one for many.

Tragically, for the families and friends of the five youths whose lives were cut short in a single vehicle crash at Buxton; where nearby communities rallied together in a show of support and strength as those families and friends faced the unimaginable.

And historically, the entire world mourned the passing of Her Majesty, The Queen. Aged 96 she was the longest-reigning monarch in British history. Serving the Commonwealth for over 70 years was just as amazing as the life she led. Thank you, Queen Elizabeth II for all that you did. It is hard to imagine a world without her.

October brings with it Halloween. Get your lollies ready and prepare to be spooked! While the tradition is not typically an Australian one, we’ve noticed in recent years that it has become quite the growing trend.

We’ve been delivering direct to letterboxes for almost 25 years and counting. It’s your support of the businesses that advertise, that keeps us landing in letterboxes. A big HI-FIVE from us and them; to think we’re still going strong all these years later. Hats off to YOU!

Enjoy your community news! Remember, all we have is now.

Find us on Facebook Belinda

The Grid Café Unit 2 No.5

Cnr Peter Bock Dr & Oran Park Dr

Oran Park

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.

Sweet 4 U Patisserie Shop C6

Oran Park Podium, Oran Park

Oran Park News Agency

Oran Park Podium, Oran Park

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.

Harrington Park News Agency

Now more than ever, small business needs your support!

Shp8/ 23 Fairwater Drv, Harrington Park

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