Oran Park Gazette October 2023

Forever Home Secured for Lonely Jimba

At Camden Council’s Animal Care Facility, dreams are constantly made when cats and dogs are connected with loving new owners. But for one unfortunate dog, the wait at the facility was a little harder than for most.

Jimba arrived at the facility on 28 July 2022 after he was found in Elderslie. He spent his fifth birthday, Christmas, and Easter at the facility as he watched his shelter mates come and go, patiently waiting for someone to take him.

But a whole year later, his prayers were finally answered by the Tannous family. On 5 August 2023, they adopted him, and he was taken to his forever home in Bradbury.

“It’s good to know you’ve got someone at home and no matter what, he’s there regardless. He’s not going anywhere,” motherof-three Amanda Tannous said about her family’s beloved new member.

Mrs Tannous came to look for a dog after the tragic passing of her beloved dog, Phoenix, eight months ago. Although at first hesitant, due to the heartbreak of Phoenix’s passing, pressure from her three sons encouraged her to visit the facility in Rossmore.

“We walked in, and I was still apprehensive about it. I said, ‘I’m not looking for anything … my heart’s still broken, it’s shattered,’” Mrs Tannous said. “They said ‘we’ve got someone I want you to meet. His name is Jimba.’”

She said it was love at first sight between the Tannous family and Jimba.

“We got him into the viewing pen, and it was all over red rover from there. He was just a dream,” she said.

“I looked into his eyes, and he was just sad and heartbroken. But also at the same time, he just wanted to sit on your feet and rub his bum on it, and jump on you, lick you and show you that he’s ok.”

Mrs Tannous said Jimba had been settling into his new home well.

“It’s hard to open your heart again when you’ve lost something that you love so much, but he’s definitely a good boy,” she said.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said she was glad to hear Jimba was now residing in a loving home.

“I always love to hear the stories of the cats and dogs at our Animal Care Facility finding a home, but Jimba’s case is particularly special,” she said.

“It’s not easy to open your heart and take in a five-year-old dog and so I thank the Tannous family very much for giving Jimba a second chance at being the loving dog we all know he wants to be.

“I hope you enjoy his warmth and affection for many years to come.”

Find out more about the Animal Care Facility by visiting the Camden Council website.

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

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

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

Messy Makers are Here!

Messy Makers specialise in providing children’s activities, from the ages of 5 months right up to 12 year old age group. They can be found right across Sydney and the Central Coast, plus have a wide range of sessions and events available for children in the Camden and Wollondilly regions.

Messy Makers Camden Region began in March 2023 and is owned by Meagan De Castro.

They run messy and sensory play sessions during the week in Elderslie, Wilton, Silverdale, and Campbelltown plus school holiday activities at Oran Park and Silverdale/Warragamba.

They have also hosted activities at the Ride for Smiles event in Camden, Camden Festival, and Picnic in the Park.

“We offer themed messy and sensory play activities for children between 5 months - 5 years and Slime School and school holiday activities for children between 5 years - 12 years.

“At Messy Makers Camden Region, we want to allow your children to grow and develop in the best way possible, without the need for you to worry about cleaning up any of the mess” said Meagan De Castro of Messy Makers Camden Region.

Their programs and taste safe activities connect families in the community at local businesses, venues, private parties, shopping centres and early childhood education centres.

“It is important to us that we promote learning through play. This is whilst providing an environment for families to socialise, build connections and have fun together as a community and supporting local businesses. The programs we offer children, and their families promote cognitive growth through sensory play activities whilst being guided by carers, parents, and our messy play educators” she explained to the Oran Park Gazette.

They were at Oran Park Podium for the last school holidays and most recently for their Father’s Day events.

“We value the diversity within the local communities and tailor our programs for all occasions and festivities, allowing us to get creative and making Messy Makers Camden Region a perfect option for parties, events and school incursions” Meagan ended.

You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram @ messymakerscamden or visit their website at www. messymakerscamden.com.au.

As proud club sponsors, we wish the Oran

r Oran Park Podium school holiday activities | Image: Meagan De Castro

London Surgeon in Oran Park

When Dr John McHugh was first offered the opportunity to study at Sydney University, he jumped at the chance. He had previously travelled to other places such as the Amazon Jungle and South Africa as a surgeon with the military and in humanitarian roles.

24 years and 5 children later, Dr McHugh hasn’t left, but he has seen a lot of change in the time that has passed.

“When I first moved here, I lived with my extended family near Penrith, and couldn’t believe the vastness of the land. Oran Park was part of the scenic route to the south coast back then and I have many fond memories of driving through the farmland towns on my way to the beach,” he explained.

Dr McHugh is joining the team at TRN House in Oran Park, as the resident Oral, Maxillofacial and Cosmetic Surgeon.

He grew up in England and studied at the University of London and the three Royal Colleges of surgeons in England, Ireland, and Edinburgh before arriving in Australia as a student in 1999. Dr McHugh has lived in Western Sydney/Blue Mountains area for over 20 years.

Dr McHugh is also a reserve Surgeon with the Royal Australian Navy, and regularly deploys on humanitarian missions providing surgery and surgical training in communities in need across the Pacific Islands with US Navy hospital MERCY.

His experience working with patients requiring facial reconstruction due to injuries and deformities inspired him to complete a fellowship in cosmetic surgery with the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery 15 years ago.

Dr McHugh now enjoys performing oral and maxillofacial surgery and cosmetic surgery as a key part of his practice. Specialising in facial cosmetic surgery, skin cancer reconstruction, body and complex cosmetic surgeries following significant weight loss after gastric sleeve.

He describes Oran Park as an exciting location to work at and he often flies over the area for his training as a pilot at Camden airport. “There’s incredible growth in the region, and it has so much going for it, as well as being well positioned between the south coast, Narellan, Camden, and the city. I’m looking forward to providing my services to Oran Park and being a part of the Oran Park community.”

“It’s not a bad Father’s Day gift!”:

Harrington Park Man Wins $2.5 Million

A Harrington Park dad says there’s no better way to celebrate Father’s Day than discovering you’ve scored $2.5 million in Saturday Lotto.

The Macarthur Region resident held one of the eight division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4395 on Saturday 2 September 2023. Each division one winning entry pocketed $2.5 million.

The man was oblivious to his good fortune until an official from The Lott contacted him on the morning after.

“Are you serious?!” he questioned.

“That’s terrific! Tremendous.

“I was just up the street doing the shopping and have just come home. I was thinking, ‘who’s calling me, I wonder?’.

“Thank you! I really appreciate the call.

“I’ve been playing every week for about 30 years.

“It’s not a bad Father’s Day gift!

“This really helps me out. I’m going to help out my adult children who have been doing it a bit tough.

“And I’d love to buy a new car for my wife.”

The man’s winning 24-game QuickPick entry was purchased at Harrington Plaza Newsagency, Shop 8, Harrington Plaza, 23 Fairwater Drive, Harrington Park.

Harrington Plaza Newsagency owner Betty Wang said she was thrilled to sell another big winning entry to one of her customers.

“It is amazing to know that we’ve sold another division one winning ticket,” she said.

“We last sold a division one in Monday & Wednesday Lotto in November 2021, so we’re happy to have another one.

“We’ve already had so many customers coming in to check their tickets hoping it was them.

“We wish our latest winner all the very best.”

The winning numbers in Saturday Lotto draw 4395 on 2 September 2023 were 9, 37, 32, 41, 40 and 16, while the supplementary numbers were 26 and 30.

Across Australia, there were eight division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4395 – three each in Victoria and New South Wales and one each in Queensland and Western Australia.

r Dr John McHugh | Image: Maja Baska | Article: Dr John McHugh rBetty Wang from Harrington Park Newsagency | Image/Article: The Lott

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.

PARENTS CORNER

Article Written + Submitted by:

Sussan Omar | Parenting Facilitator

Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services

W: www.nepeancommunity.org.au

E: info@nepeancommunity.org.au

Online Safety for Kids

As parents and caregivers, our concern for children's online safety is paramount. To protect them effectively, we must actively engage with and understand their digital world. Open communication from early years through adolescence can reduce online risks.

Common Online Risks

Depending on your child's age and internet usage, risks may include:

Excessive Screen Time: One of the primary concerns for caregivers is the amount of time children spend online. Current guidelines recommend specific limits based on age.

• For children under 2 years old, it's recommended to avoid any screen time other than video chat.

• Between the ages of 2 and 5, limit screen time to no more than 1 hour per day.

• For children and adolescents aged 5 to 17, the recommended limit is no more than 2 hours a day, excluding schoolrelated work.

Online Gaming: Online gaming can become addictive and impact other areas of a child's life if not monitored.

Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying, comprising of hurtful messages, posts, and images, that are sent directly to the young person or shared online. This can impact young victims mentally and physically.

Child Grooming: Child grooming involves adults posing as peers, establishing trust with minors, and leading to potential sexual abuse. According to e-safety research, 38% of young people chat to strangers online, and while most interactions are harmless, caregivers need to be aware of the risk.

Sexting: Sexting, common among youth, can turn problematic when coerced, shared without consent, or used for control. Both males and females are equally at risk of being victims here. It's important to note that once an image is sent, it can be lost forever in cyberspace.

Exposure to Online Pornography: Children may inadvertently come across explicit content, affecting their development.

Practical Steps for Caregivers

Open Communication: Engage in online activities with young children and maintain conversations about their online experiences and safety.

Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules on where and when kids can access the internet, favouring communal spaces.

Agree on Rules: Discuss age-appropriate time limits and consequences for device usage. Create agreements together when possible.

Provide Support: Foster a safe environment where children can seek help when facing online threats or issues.

Use Parental Controls: Utilise built-in controls in devices and apps to monitor and restrict online access.

Today, children enjoy the digital world for fun, education, and connection. While it can be enjoyable, parents must remain vigilant, set boundaries, and support their children.

For more resources, visit:

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents

Sydney Set to get Foamy and Fun: The 5K Foam Fest Returns this November!

Brace yourself Sydney, because the world’s most fun-filled 5k run is back this November, and its foamier than ever!

The 5K Foam Fest has some of the best and most exciting obstacles in the world, including the largest inflatable waterslide, slip and slides, and mucky mud pits. Combine this with 2.5 million cubic feet of foam and you are destined to have an awesome day.

Rock out all day to 12,000 watts of awesome (family friendly) music, enjoy a FREE kid’s zone for kids aged 6 and under, taste delicious food, shop from local vendors, and celebrate your success in a well-stocked beer garden.

With a variety of obstacles and a ton of foam, the 5K Foam Fest run is an exciting challenge for experienced and beginner runners alike. Walk it, run it, charge it, fun it; this course should be enjoyed at your own pace and all obstacles are optional!

But there’s more to it than just fun. The 5K Foam Fest proudly supports Make-A-Wish Australia, an organisation dedicated to granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Your participation not only guarantees a great time but also contributes to a fantastic cause.

Mark your calendars for November 25th and 26th at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre in Horsley Park and save a date for February 3rd at St. Ives Showground for an encore performance.

When you register, you’ll receive a 5K Foam Fest string bag, tattoos, head buff, and a finisher’s medal as tokens of your achievement. Visit www.foamfest.com for more information and to secure your spot. Use promo code SYDFOAM to save 10% on single entry tickets - but act fast because prices jump every 500 tickets sold.

The 5K Foam fest is not just a run; it’s a foam-soaked, mudcovered, and music-filled extravaganza that promises a day of unforgettable fun. Come and conquer obstacles, make memories, and have a blast. It’s an event you don’t want to miss!

r Brace yourself for some serious ‘foamy’ fun! | Images Supplied by 5K Foam Fest

Camden Athletics Club are set to have their biggest year yet, as the 2023/2024 season begins.

With athletics a Summer sport, the season begins in September and runs through to March. Athletes compete on Friday evenings at Narellan Sports Hub. The local club is made up of Tiny Tots (Under 5’s), Under 6’s to Under 9’s, Under 10’s to Under 17’s and Seniors/Masters.

They have just over 800 registered Little Athletes so far this season. This is their largest number of Little Athletes registered in the 49 year history of the club. Little Athletics covers the age groups from Tiny Tots (Under 5’s) to Under 17’s, with groups in every age for male and female athletes. The senior athletes (aged over 17) register and commence their season in October.

There were many highlights last season. Most notably was the club moving to their brand new purpose built track at Narellan Sports Hub. This is a tartan track that is usable in all weather conditions. It also provides a consistent surface for their athletes to train and compete on.

“We sent our largest contingent to compete at the Little Athletics NSW State Championships. We also had several athletes represent NSW at National Championships for schools, Little Athletics, and senior athletics. As always, a great highlight is watching the kids competing to the best of their ability and enjoying their athletics experience. Whether it be winning a medal, breaking a record, getting a new Personal Best (PB) or just having fun by being there, the smiles are a real highlight” said Karen Westwood, Communications Officer of Camden Athletics Club.

With registrations opening on 1st August, they have reached capacity and closed for the age groups of Tiny Tots (Under 5’s) to Under 9’s. They are still taking registrations for the older age groups from Under 10's to Under 17's (this session starts at 7:00pm on a Friday) and senior registrations (turning 18 in 2024 and older) will open in October.

“With a club this large, we rely on many volunteers to keep the wheels turning, and there are many moving parts to an athletics club (running the canteen, setting up the equipment, packing away equipment, maintenance of equipment, running events, results recording, programming, registrations, and finances). The committee are all volunteers and also having paying jobs to maintain, so volunteers are always welcome” she stated.

They are looking forward to the new season ahead.

“We are looking forward to bettering the successful season we had last season. Not just in the number of athletes and success on the track and medals won, but by everyone having a great experience at athletics” Karen ended.

r Feature Article: [Cover] Charlotte, Braylen, Chloe, and Harper. The athletes were representing Camden Athletics Club in a relay event [Above] Tyler participating in long jump | Images: Camden Athletics Club

KID’S CORNER

SOLUTIONS

Book Review your

will transport you from 19th century Valparaíso to goldrush San Francisco.

Eliza was abandoned as a baby on the doorstep of the Sommers house, wrapped only in a cardigan. She was adopted and raised in English manners and customs by Rose Sommers, who is unable to marry and have a daughter of her own. One day, when Eliza is 14, she falls in love at first sight with a delivery boy, Joaquín Andieta, and they begin a passionate, but short-lived affair.

Reports from the Californian goldfields allure Joaquín away from his beloved. Not long after he leaves, Eliza discovers she is pregnant and devises a plan, convincing her friend Tao Chi'en to smuggle her on to a ship headed to California.

She survives the voyage, only just, thanks to Tao’s medicine and care, and sets off to find Joaquín who, in the months they have been apart, has become an infamous outlaw with a bounty on his head. On her journey, Eliza meets hopeful and dejected miners, a travelling brothel, abolitionists, brigands, and more.

Daughter of Fortune is an engrossing tale of chasing freedom and love and finding more than what you bargained for in the most unlikely of places. It's a story of separation and reunion, family secrets, and overcoming grief.

Allende's writing is poetic and elegant. She takes care with every word and writes with sensitivity when dealing with the harsh realities of prostitution, foot-binding, disease, and more. Her characters will linger in your imagination long after you turn the final page.

Daughter of Fortune will appeal to lovers of historical fiction, especially Gone With the Wind and The Lady's Mine, as well as anyone who wishes they could be a better writer. You can trust Allende to delight.

r Book Review by: Chloé Steward

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OOPS! Last Months Solution

Due to a printing error, last months solution didn't print correctly. Thankyou to the lovely readers who notified us!

Bricks 4 Kidz Open Day a Success

Local small business Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) have celebrated their first year in Harrington Park, with an Open Day recently.

The Open Day, which took place on Saturday 26th August, was a celebration to mark one year since the opening of their new centre at Harrington Plaza Shopping Centre.

The community event was well received, with both parents and their children attending the festivities.

There were some exciting activities on the day to showcase the different programs that Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) have to offer.

“Children had a go at building our very own designed LEGO® characters like Ninjas, Minecraft, Pokemon, and Super Mario. We also had a dedicated senior instructor teaching children about our new Robotics program” explained Maria Iglis, Owner of Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney).

“Whilst children played, I gave a tour to the parents and showed them our awesome space” she continued.

Maria enjoyed meeting families, whilst introducing them to the programs at the celebrations.

“It was lovely to see so many new faces from our local community, chatting to mums and dads and watching children be creative” she smiled.

Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) currently have their Spring School Holiday workshops on sale. This includes Minion Madness on Wednesday 4th October from 9:00am – 3:30pm, Junior Robotics on Thursday 5th October from 9:00am – 3:30pm and Mining & Crafting on Friday 6th October from 9:00am –3:30pm. For information (including pricing), visit https://www. bricks4kidz.com.au/sydney-south-west/program-events/ south-west-sydney-school-holiday-programs-workshops-andactivities/leppington-school-holiday-activities/.

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.

Bricks 4 Kidz (South West Sydney) also offer birthday parties. “Birthday parties are very popular at our centre. Parents have private use of the centre for the duration of the party. We have many party packages to choose from to suit every budget. Call us today, let's get your party started” Maria concluded.

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 Members of the Bricks 4 Kidz team | Image: Maria Iglis

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

Recently in my email inbox, I received the latest e-newsletter by American nun, Sr Joyce Rupp. In this e-newsletter, Joyce recalled a humble statement by the political analyst, Mark Shields. She said:

“When Shields retired, he was asked by PBS NewsHour about his highly successful work. In response, Shields referred to something his parents taught him in his youth, a valued wisdom that guided his entire life: “Every one of us has been warmed by fires we did not build and every one of us has drunk from wells we did not dig…”

Whoever we are and whatever our life has attained in terms of success and satisfaction, we can be sure we did not accomplish our achievements by ourselves alone. This reality is reflected in “Standing on the Shoulders,” a beautiful song by Joyce Rouse. It directly attests to how much others influence the way we go about our lives. One of the verses contains the following:

This song encourages me to keep hope alive when it starts to dwindle and take a nose-dive. Being optimistic, as you well know, is not easy to do when the world is ablaze with wildfires, drenched in floods, burnt up by drought, and influenced by political leaders on whose shoulders we ought never stand, lest our civilization crumble into ashes. I know that for me to remain hopeful I must keep in mind the people whose talents and virtues paved the way for others and myself to live out of the best of who we are. (https://joycerupp.com)

There is great wisdom in Joyce Rupp’s reflection that is worth sharing, and more importantly worth putting into action in our own lives.

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

The Surprising Arrest Of Jesus

Did you know that Jesus was arrested? He wasn’t speeding, or using His mobile phone whilst driving. Jesus was arrested because His enemies understood He was claiming to be God.

This was no surprise to Jesus. The jealous religious leaders needed to have Him off the scene as soon as possible. Most of us would immediately go into hiding if we knew such things were immanent. Not Jesus.

Having taken what would be His last supper, Jesus headed out to a public garden to pray with His closest friends. It’s recorded in the Bible this way, “Going a little farther, He prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will. ” We can see Jesus’s humility and faith on full display here.

The quiet of the night was broken by the clatter of armour, as troops entered the garden. Peter (one of His apprentices) took out a sword and struck the servant of the High Priest - cutting off his ear. Rather than affirming the rescue, Jesus rebuked him, “put it away.” He then healed the man’s ear, before sombrely allowing Himself to be arrested. Jesus said to His friend, “all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”

Surprisingly, Jesus’s arrest was actually part of God’s plan - not a terrible accident. Jesus had come to teach and then die. The cross that awaited Him that very next day was at the heart of the plan. There Jesus would pay the price for the sins of the world. Jesus was arrested and lost His freedom - so that we might gain ours.

Introducing our newest park in Kolombo Creek in Oran Park. Nestled between Peter Brock Drive, Perkins Drive, and South Creek, the park is now part of the Green Liveable Network, adding to their growing collection of parks for our community.

There are still further works to be done including more landscaping, a connecting pedestrian bridge and further riparian works (subject to Council approval).

The park provides the perfect place for people to come together and enjoy the open spaces.

The park includes a weather shelter with picnic tables, a children's playground, an exercise fitness station with sandstone seating blocks scattered throughout.

Come down and enjoy this wonderful edition to our community. Don’t forget to tag your friends and family to spread the news!

Tanya

I am standing on the shoulders of the ones who came before me. I am stronger for their courage; I am wiser for their words. I am lifted by their longing for a fair and brighter future. I am grateful for their vision, for their toiling on this Earth.

Mens Shed Narellan Celebrates 10th Anniversary

The Mens Shed movement was established in Australia in 1993, and in 2023 celebrates 30 years. Mens Sheds have since grown across several countries, including Ireland, UK, New Zealand, Canada, and the US.

The principal purpose of Mens Sheds is to provide a place for men to be socially active, form friendships, allow new opportunities for activity and interaction in their lives post-work, provide support for men’s health and well-being and enable projects to be undertaken for the benefit of the community.

Mens Shed Narellan Inc was officially opened on 5th October 2013 and was originally established by the Rotary Club of Narellan. To celebrate its 10th Anniversary, Mens Shed Narellan will be holding a formal function for members and their partners and invited dignitaries on 3rd October 2023. At this celebration, 19 of their 82 members will be presented with a badge and certificate in recognition for having been members for 10 years and in recognition of their service to their Shed and the local community, particularly in the Camden LGA.

Their shed is a self-funded, not-for-profit, incorporated association that has facilities including woodworking, metalworking, and lapidary equipment. Members can also just come along and have a chat and a cup of coffee and enjoy the company of other members.

Members can undertake their own individual projects or work as part of a team to do a community project. Their shed has assisted many local preschools, primary and high schools, Camden Council and a variety of local community and not-for-profit organisations. They also do small projects for local residents, such as furniture and small metalwork repairs. Other examples of projects, include building furniture and playground equipment for schools, and children’s toys.

Their Mens Shed has been very active in supporting members through information sessions such as hearing information, funeral and estate planning, wills and powers of attorney, and cost of living information sessions.

Mens Shed Narellan is located at 1 Mt Annan Drive, Mt Annan in the grounds of the Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living (MCSL) and is opposite Flower Power. Any enquiries about their shed can be made to mensshednarellan@yahoo.com.au, by phone 02 8091 1511 or on Facebook by searching Narellan Mens Shed.

r Mens Shed Narellan | Image: Terry Lucas/Mens Shed Narellan | Article: Mens Shed Narellan

PROBUS CLUB

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

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

Oran Park Probus Club will be celebrating Probus month in October, alongside thousands of other Probus Clubs throughout Australia.

Probus South Pacific Limited recently announced a collaboration with the Black Dog Ride (BDR) to raise awareness about the positive impact of social connections, and to promote the health benefits of staying socially connected to Australia’s 4.3 million retirees.

Recent results from a representative Australian sample found 46% of Australians aged 65 or above felt they lacked companionship. With rates of emotional loneliness highest in Australians aged 75 or above, Probus and BDR’s partnership couldn’t have come at a better time.

The pandemic is still being felt, with social isolation gripping some older Australians, leading to loneliness, depression, and declining physical health. Probus is more important than ever with evidence indicating retirees who remain social through group activities improve their overall well-being.

This partnership will raise awareness and encourage older Australians to join Probus, a social group helping older Australians make new friends, and stay active in their local communities.

Oran Park Probus Club will be celebrating Probus month with the presentation of an annual award to one of our members who has made a significant contribution to the Club. We will also enjoy a day of fun with a sausage sizzle in a local park.

Our club offers a wide range of activities, including outings, trips, and interest groups. Our walking group always find photo opportunities as they walk. Last month it was nesting cockatoos and red bellied black snakes!

Why not come along to one of our monthly Meetings and find out more about Oran Park Probus Club? Visitors are always welcome.

For more information, please contact the Secretary Ph: 0410 758 755 or email: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com

FINANCIAL PLANNER

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 Fully Licenced to Project Manage all Trades

 Designs to Suit your Lifestyle and Budget

 Designs to Suit your Lifestyle and Budget

CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE MEASURE & QUOTE 0418 433 868

CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE MEASURE & QUOTE 0418 433 868

CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE MEASURE & QUOTE 0418 433 868

www.kitchenvision.com.au

info@kitchenvision.com.au

www.kitchenvision.com.au

www.kitchenvision.com.au

Renovators Licence No. 236100c

info@kitchenvision.com.au

info@kitchenvision.com.au

Renovators Licence No. 236100c

Renovators Licence No. 236100c

oran park

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

PO Box 8254

Glenmore Park NSW 2745

General Enquiries info@districtgazette.com.au

Advertising Enquiries advertise@districtgazette.com.au

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NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE

18th October 2023

NEXT ISSUE DISTRIBUTION

Online: 1st November 2023

Letterboxes: 7 + 8 November 2023

HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

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

October is upon us, and without a doubt, it sure is getting warmer!

It’s late September as I sit in my office and put pen to paper. We’ve experienced a spate of warm, picture perfect days - warm enough that the pool was beginning to look extremely inviting! Although the smarter /wiser me knows that it’s far too icy to give it a trial run. I won’t be fooled by these idyllic days - not just yet!

We couldn’t publish this amazing paper without you. Do you have a story to share? A great achievement, a milestone, an accomplishment against all odds? Perhaps you have an interesting career, a rare find, a talent, an unusual skill or hobby?

Breastfeeding Helpline (NSW) 1800 686 268 (1800

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

3290

We’d love to share your story, it might be exactly what our readers need to hear or know.

I’m excited to present this jam-packed edition, chock-full of events, stories and opportunities to connect.

Time for a cuppa! Enjoy Your Community News.

Remember, ‘none of us sit high enough to look down on anyone’.

Belinda

facebook.com/districtgazette

PICK UP POINTS

Delivered MONTHLY to homes in Oran Park + Harrington Park + Harrington Grove + Gregory Hills or PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY from...

Anglicare Oran Park Village

Daily Bean

Gregory Hills Hotel

Flynnko Pty Ltd

ABN: 65 601 734 472 trading as:

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

Gregory Hills Newsagency

Harrington Park Medical Practice

Harrington Park Newsagency

Macarthur Surgical Group News Extra Oran Park Podium

Oran Park Smart Work Hub

Oran Park Town Sales Office

Piada

The Grid Cafe If you

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

Writer / Sales Tayla James