Camden Valley Way Upgrade a Step Closer to Reality
Camden Council welcomes the recent NSW and Australian Governments’ announcement of the $65 million South West Roads Planning Program, which identifies seven major road corridors for upgrades in Greater Macarthur and South West Sydney, including Camden Valley Way and Jersey Road.
The widening of Camden Valley Way from four to six lanes, called for as part of Camden Council’s The Time Is Now campaign, is vital for commuters, connecting our rapidly growing suburbs and easing pressure on one of our busiest routes.
The inclusion of Jersey Road, which serves as a key corridor between Oran Park and Bradfield, recognises its importance to Camden residents and the need for stronger planning to support public transport access and connectivity.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said the announcement was a step in the right direction with the need now for planning to turn into action.
“We’ve been calling for the Camden Valley Way upgrade as part of our Time is Now advocacy because our residents face gridlock every single day and we cannot afford to wait another decade for shovels in the ground,” she said.
“The inclusion of Jersey Road in this announcement is equally important. It’s a critical link for Oran Park and the growing Bradfield city. If this planning work is done right, it will shape the future of our community for generations.
“What our community needs now is clear timelines and guaranteed funding to move beyond planning into delivery.”
To find out more about The Time Is Now, visit www.camden. nsw.gov.au/advocacy.
r Article: Camden Council
ItSay LoudOut
Submit your Community Notice on/by 10th of the month, to be included in the following edition. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations. E: info@districtgazette.com.au
Community Groups
Macarthur Art Group
Meet every third Saturday at Narellan Library 1st floor from 9.30am - 1.30pm. Tea coffee biscuits for a gold coin donation. More details: 0404 229 498
Children + Families
PlayTime @ NewLife Anglican Church
Meets Wednesdays (During School terms) at 10.00am -11.30am. PlayTime is for Mums and Carers with kids 0-5. NewLife Anglican Church (Cnr Marcus Loane Way + Central Avenue, Oran Park). More Details: www.newlifeanglican.org.au/wp/playtime.
Markets
Camden Fresh Produce Market
Held weekly on Saturdays from 7:00am till 12:00pm at Camden Town Farm (40 Exeter Street, Camden). More details: camdenproducemarket@hotmail.com or www. camdenproducemarket.com.au
Cobbitty Village Markets
Held on the first Saturday of the month (excluding January and February) from 8:00am till 1:00pm at Cobbitty Public School (Cobbitty Road, Cobbitty). More details: www. cobbittymarkets.com.au
Support + Wellbeing
Australian Breastfeeding Association CamdenWollondilly Group
Come along and meet new friends. Chat with mums who have 'been there' and connect with their local breastfeeding counsellors and educators. The group meets monthly at Spring Farm Community Centre (275 Richardson Road, Spring Farm). More details: camden_wollondilly_aba@outlook.com
Have You Seen Something? Make Sure You
Say Something
Camden Council is encouraging residents to speak up and report suspicious activity as it launches phase two of its ‘See Something. Say Something.’ campaign.
The campaign, which is in partnership with Wollondilly Shire Council and Camden Police Area Command, aims to contribute to safer public spaces for the Camden community, reduce antisocial behaviour and crime in the local area and help improve reporting of crimes and anti-social behaviour.
It looks to eliminate any confusion about how and where to report incidents in public spaces by encouraging residents to report suspicious activity or witnessed crimes promptly to their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said she wanted residents to feel empowered to actively engage with local policing efforts.
“So many incidents go unreported and we’re hoping to address this gap with efforts like our See Something. Say Something. campaign,” she said.
“Community safety is a shared responsibility. By speaking up when we see something suspicious, we can help prevent crime and make our public spaces safer for everyone.
“We want to see the community, Council and the police working together. Your call could make all the difference in preventing crime and keeping each other safe.”
This phase of the program will see the targeted messaging appear across social media.
Make sure to keep an eye out for See Something. Say Something. campaign messaging on Council’s Facebook page, at https://www.facebook.com/camdencouncil/, and Council’s Instagram page, at https://www.instagram.com/ camdencouncilnsw
r Image/Article: Camden Council
COMMUNITY WIN: GLEDSWOOD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL OPEN!
Construction Underway at Gledswood Hills High School
Contact Tanya
I’m incredibly excited to announce that Gledswood Hills High School is open!
Construction is officially underway at Gledswood Hills High School!
After 12 years of delays and broken promises by the former Liberal government, the new temporary high school has been delivered.
I had the privilege to attend the sod turning at Gledswood Hills High School recently with Acting Minister for Education Courtney Houssos in what was an incredibly special moment for me and the community.
Gledswood Hills High School will be operating out of Gregory Hills Primary School until 2027, when the permanent site for the high school is expected to open.
At the 2023 State Election, I promised to deliver the families of Gledswood and Gregory Hills a high school, and two years later, I’ve delivered. I want to thank local mums Hanna Braga and Hanna Valenzuela, who have been campaigning for this school since long before I came on the scene, and who continued to do so with me after my election.
Land has also been chosen for the permanent site for Gledswood Hills High School.
As a former teacher, I know how important it is to have access to a great education at a local school, and I’m working hard to ensure that every child in our area is able to receive the best schooling experience they can.
After a decade of neglect by the former Liberal-National Government, the construction of this school is such an exciting announcement. The Minns Labor Government is listening to its constituents: delivering on its commitment to ensure Camden families have access to quality, world-class education.
REBUILDING PUBLIC EDUCATION IN CAMDEN
tanyadaviesmp tanyadavies.com.au
The school build will include 51 modern classrooms, catering for up to 1,000 students, plus a multipurpose hall, library, science and arts workshops, along with a playing field, sports courts, canteen and covered learning area.
The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering much needed upgrades to 15 schools across Camden.
TEACHER VACANCIES DOWN
Teacher vacancies have been slashed by over 40 percent in NSW public schools.
The expedited project is on track to be completed by Day 1 Term 1 2027. I’ve worked hard to ensure our kids have a place to learn in the meantime: in the temporary Gledswood Hills High School facility next to Gregory Hills Primary School, which the Minns Labor Government opened last year. The temporary school is currently flourishing and is taking enrolments for next year.
These upgrades are part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education in NSW after 12 years of Liberal Government neglect.
As always, if there are any government or local concerns you’d like me to fight for, please don’t hesitate to contact my office on 4655 3333 or at camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au.
When the Minns Labor Government says that we want to ensure every student has access to a world class education, we mean it – and that’s proven right here in Camden.
r Images/Article: Sally Quinnell MP
(02) 4655 3333 camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567
Authorised by Sally Quinnell MP, Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567. Funded using parliamentary entitlements, January 2025.
Over the last 12 months or so, Kolombo Reserve’s drainage basin and water quality pond has been under maintenance to clean out sediment deposits from years of upstream catchment being undeveloped. The facility was first delivered back in 2011 and now the upstream catchment is fully developed, it was time to remediate the facility back to its original design, so it performs its function for years to come.
Construction fences have been removed, and the facility is back open for the community to enjoy again. As part of the reestablishment, the water will be left low for a period of time until the perimeter native grasses vegetation establishes and then the water level can be returned to operating level.
Greenfields Development Company have maintained Kolombo Reserve up until now. Soon, most maintenance responsibilities will be transferred to Camden Council for the open space, basin and wetlands.
They want to thank our local residents for tolerating the inconvenience of maintenance activities and now that the works are finished, we all can enjoy the open space and its natural beauty.
Kolombo Reserve is one of our favourite spots to sit and enjoy the ambience.
Greenfields Development Company
Land for sale
Enjoy living in the Park with easy access to the conveniences Oran Park is known for.
No matter where you live in Oran Park, you’re only moments from a great range of amenities including The Podium Shopping Centre, a wide array of schools, parks and facilities.
Set in one of the fastest-growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master-planned community of new homes and expanding dining and retail precincts.
Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer.
Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.
Chargers Enjoy Record-Breaking Season
The 2025 season was one for the record books for Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC, with the club experiencing its biggest growth in history. Boasting an impressive 486 registered junior players across 40 teams, the Chargers continue to cement their place as one of the region’s most dynamic and rapidly growing rugby league clubs.
Among the season's standout moments was the remarkable performance of the Under 13 Gold team, who made club history by securing their third consecutive premiership title, a celebrated #3peat. Even more impressive, they went through the entire season undefeated, finishing as minor premiers before sealing their Grand Final win.
Another highlight came from the Under 12 Gold side, who powered through to the Grand Final after a strong season. Though they narrowly missed out on the title, their determination and team spirit left a lasting impression on the club. The Under 14 Girls Tackle, Under 14 Bronze, and Under 16 Gold teams also made the finals, showcasing the club’s depth of talent and competitive edge.
Development and player progression were key themes
in 2025, with 17 players selected to join the Wests Tigers Development Squads, including six girls from the Under 14 team and eleven boys from the Under 13s to Under 15s. This milestone reflects the club’s commitment to nurturing local talent and providing pathways to higher levels of the game.
Looking ahead, the Junior Presentation Day is scheduled for Sunday, 26 October 2025, with organisers promising a fun and memorable event to celebrate the players’ achievements.
Preparations for 2026 are already underway, with registrations opening in December. Two dedicated registration days will be held at Oran Park Podium on Saturday, 31 January and Saturday, 7 February 2026, with preseason training kicking off in February.
Reflecting on the season, the club shared, “Seeing our Chargers on the field in green and blue is so heartwarming. The effort behind the scenes is all worth it when you see those smiling faces.”
The club is also seeking sponsors for the 2026 season. Interested businesses or individuals can email sponsorship@ oranparkchargers.com.au for more information.
The Chargers continue to grow, succeed, and inspire, on and off the field.
Images: Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC
It Takes a Village – Find Yours With Camden Council
Camden Council is hosting its first ever Children and Families Service Expo.
The inaugural event, which will be held on Saturday 18 October, 10:00am-2:00pm, at Julia Reserve Community Centre, promises to be a great opportunity for families in the Camden area to connect with professionals from social, emotional, disability, health education and recreation service providers.
Families will have the opportunity to hear directly from more than 30 organisations specialising in child development and parenting support, including:
• Next Path;
• Big Yellow Umbrella;
• Blue Fit;
• Tharawal Aboriginal Organisation;
• Focus Connect;
• Ability Action;
• Nurtured Journey Early Intervention;
• Auscare Support; and
• Karitane.
There will be interactive activities for children, parents and carers, including face painting, a book swap session, sensory play, a martial arts demonstration and even a free sausage sizzle provided by Camden Lions Club.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagey, encouraged local families to take advantage of the event.
“Raising a family is one of the best parts of my life, but I know how hard it can be and how many questions and
situations parents can use help with,” she said.
“As a mother, I know how important it is to have all the information and advice available to make the best, most informed decisions for your family. For instance, how do we go about choosing an early learning centre that suits our child’s needs? How do we prepare our kids for school? How do we find financial support?
“There’s no way to automatically know everything when you start your family, which is why we’re hosting the Children and Families Service Expo. We want to help support families of all shapes and sizes to access the information you need to put your best foot forward for your family unit.”
For more information, and to secure your spot at the event, visit:
Northcott customers in Campbelltown are making a meaningful impact by volunteering to prepare home-cooked meals for individuals experiencing homelessness or domestic violence. This initiative is part of a partnership with Dignity, a local organisation dedicated to providing housing and support for people in crisis.
They recently attended a meal preparation event in Oran Park, held at on Thursday 28th August at Julia Reserve Community Centre.
Northcott is a leading Australian disability support provider, providing tailored individual and group support services that enable their customers to live the life they choose. Through Northcott’s Work & Study program, customers collaborate with Dignity’s Dignity Dishes initiative to create nutritious meals, gaining valuable cooking and social skills while contributing to a vital community cause.
This hands-on experience aligns with the broader goals of the Work & Study program, which empowers young people living with a disability to develop vocational skills, build confidence, and gain realworld experience to support their journey toward employment and independent living.
The partnership not only fosters personal growth for Northcott customers but also strengthens the local community by promoting inclusion and supporting those in need. By combining efforts, Northcott and Dignity are creating a more connected, compassionate and inclusive community.
For more information, visit https://northcott.com.au/ or https://dignity.org.au/volunteer/
More Than Just a Meal: Camden Meals on Wheels
For over 50 years, Camden Meals on Wheels has been providing meal services to the senior community across the Camden Local Government Area (LGA) to support their independence to remain living at home. Throughout this time, they have expanded and evolved to provide a range of healthy and nutritious meals, with their diverse menu boasting over 100 options to appeal to every taste (for even the fussiest eaters!).
Subsidised meals are available for those 65+ across the entire Camden LGA receiving a Government funded Commonwealth Home Support Package (CHSP) and Home Care Package (HCP). Meals are also available to anyone without a package residing in the Camden LGA. Their meals come in main and mini sizes, soups and desserts. They have a range of juices and flavoured milks, offer texture-modified meals and cater for dietary requirements and allergies. Their current menu is always available on their website.
Meals are delivered Mondays to Fridays between 11:00am and 1:00pm and can be delivered hot or frozen. Orders placed before 9:30am can be delivered the same day. With their subsidised mains starting at $8.00 or retail mains at $12, they are proud to offer an affordable option for those requiring meal services with all meal prices including delivery. There is no minimum order or locked in contract and you can order as often or as little as you like!
Orders can be made by phone, in person, online, by email or by handing your order to the volunteer delivering your meals. Most importantly and as their motto states, they are “More than just a Meal” as no meal is left personally unreceived with all meal deliveries having the dual purpose of a welfare check.
Get in touch today on (02) 4655 6822 or via admin@ camdenmow.org.au to discuss their meals service.
r Article: Camden Meals on Wheels
Book Review Your
The Curse of the Cave Creatures
Author:R.L Stine
The Curse of the Cave Creatures is a choose your own adventure book by R.L Stine. The storyline bases about you (the reader) visiting your relatives in the Arizona Desert. However, when you go hiking, you spot a cave and go inside. You find an ancient animal skull, and drop it, thus upsetting an evil entity, the cave spirit. Because of this incident, he wants to turn you into a painting on his cave wall! However, you can combat him by either becoming a spell caster or a hunter. Once you have chosen, you get your pick of three magical spells or weapons to defeat him… Or become a cave painting!
You set off home with your three magical weapons/ spells to defeat the spirit. When you get home, the story path branches into 2 ways: one for spellcasters, and one for hunters. You find animals that the cave spirit has commanded to kill you! From there, you face multiple challenges, from being attacked by a stuffed lion, a giant snake, or dinosaurs to being thrown into a poisonous bug pit by a crazed scientist or being locked up in a police station by a ghostly sheriff of a ghost town.
With over 20 different endings, all carefully written. The choices are carefully written and assist you in defeating the cave spirit. Summarising, this book fascinated me with its plot, and I would highly recommend it to others. Finally, the best part is that no matter how many times you read it, there will always be a part which you haven’t read.
r Book Review by: Mustafa Faisal
Gregory Hills Netball Club Celebrates a Season of Passion and Premierships
It’s been another impressive year for Gregory Hills Netball Club, with a season full of growth, determination, and wellearned victories. For 2025, the club proudly registered 66 players across 7 teams, ranging from the youngest Net Set Go players to senior ladies' teams.
This year’s standout moments came in the form of two premiership wins, a testament to the club’s spirit and perseverance. “The grit and determination from both our Premiership-winning teams is to be commended,” said Naomi McNeill, Gregory Hills Netball Club Secretary.
Among those triumphs were the Division 7 Ladies, who entered the finals series in third place. With strong performances in the Semi Final and Final, they advanced to the Grand Final, clinching the title with an emphatic 50–27 win.
The club’s Grad C team also turned heads. After a slow start to the season, they built momentum and morale, finishing the regular rounds in fourth place. In a classic underdog story, they upset the competition leaders to win the Grand Final 32–28.“It’s proof that great things can happen when you show up, don’t give up, and play your own game,” McNeill said.
For the committee, the real reward lies in the camaraderie and fun shared among players, families, and volunteers. “The successes our little club has produced for numerous years now make the committee so proud,” McNeill added. “The general enjoyment and fun you see amongst the teams is pleasing, because that is what the club is about.”
To celebrate the season’s achievements, the 2025 Presentation Day will be held on Saturday, 18 October at Willowdale Hotel, with all players, families, and supporters welcome to attend.
McNeill expressed heartfelt thanks to the club’s many volunteers. “To our committee members, coaches, managers, and umpires, thank you for your time and dedication. And to our players and families, thank you for being the taxis, the cheer squads, and for your help with fundraising. Your continued support is greatly appreciated.”
As another season wraps up, Gregory Hills Netball Club continues to show that with passion, teamwork, and community spirit, even a small club can achieve big things.
Cirque Nouvelle: A New Evolution of Circus
After a sellout regional tour earlier this year, the internationally acclaimed CIRQUE NOUVELLE is back by popular demand— bringing its thrilling blend of world-class circus artistry to audiences across New South Wales this spring.
Presented by Cameo Rascale Entertainment, Cirque Nouvelle kicks off in Wyong on Friday 27 September and will tour to Taree, Port Macquarie, Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Penrith, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Albury, Sutherland, and concludes in Nowra on Saturday 12 October.
“Cirque Nouvelle is the perfect concoction of nostalgia, comedy, and sophistication. By blending subtle burlesque with dry, slapstick humour and eye-opening wonder, (dynamite husband-and-wife duo James and Rebecca Capener) have crafted the perfect all-ages, modern circus.” Review, The Scoop.
“A visually stunning show that held both adults and children in awe.” Stage Whispers
From aerial artistry and cyr wheel choreography to high-energy juggling and breathtaking acrobatics, this heart-pounding, family-friendly spectacle showcases an extraordinary cast of multitalented international performers.
Cirque Nouvelle explores the dynamic evolution of circus—transitioning from the nostalgic ‘Big Top’ era to today’s cuttingedge theatrical experiences, complete with dazzling technology, dramatic lighting, and striking costumes.
James Capener, acrobatic juggler and Artistic Director of Cameo Rascale Entertainment, says: “This show is designed to entertain, inspire, and create special moments for families. We can’t wait to share it with audiences all over the state.”
Whether you're five or ninety-five, Cirque Nouvelle promises a captivating and uplifting live entertainment experience for the whole family.
Tour date and location: Sunday 5 October 2:00pm and 6:00pm
Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith Bookings: www.cameorascale.com/cirquenouvelle
r Images/Article: Cirque Nouvelle
r [Top] Gregory Hills Netball Club Grad C’s [Above] Gregory Hills Netball Club Division 7 Ladies | Images: Campbelltown District Netball Association (CDNA)
Sleep
Article Written + Submitted by: Keira Noble | Clinical Psychologist
The Anxiety & Depression Clinic W: www.anxietydepressionclinic.com.au
P: 0424 263 577 | 02 46266932
Feeling exhausted, run down, getting sick more often or are you more irritable than usual? Sleep can impact our mental and physical health in a multitude of ways. Despite the crucial effect of sleep on our daily functioning, it is often the first thing we sacrifice in order to complete one more task in our day or to satisfy our craving for one more episode of our favourite TV series. Having the discipline to prioritise your sleep hygiene is one of the best investments you can make in your life toward your psychological and physical health. As we face the winter months where colds and flus can often be a feature, getting enough sleep supports our immune system and assists with recovery and repair of cells in our bodies. With the many demands and stressors facing each of us in our daily lives, a lack of sleep can impact our motivation, concentration and memory as well as diminish our coping capacity, making small tasks seem difficult or even insurmountable. We would never expect
Article Written + Submitted by: The Probus Club of Oran Park E: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com | P: 0410758755
At the monthly meetings of Oran Park Probus Club, our members enjoy talks from guest speakers on topics so varied that there is always something to suit everyone. At our last meeting, the speaker was an exercise physiologist who spoke about falls risks, prevention, and exercise. From a show of hands, at least eight of our members have had a fall this year, some minor, some significant. Thirty percent of people over 65 fall each year.
Falling is not a normal part of ageing. It’s well known that poor balance and strength will affect a person’s mobility and put them at an increased risk of a fall. Other factors may include scatter rugs, poor lighting or clutter in the home, medication, poor vision, footwear, or incorrect use of walking aids. Strength and balance exercises, managing health issues and medications, having regular vision checks, and making the living environment safer are steps we can all take to reduce the risk of falling and suffering a fall-related injury. Exercise physiologists can design specific exercise programs for individuals, and there are also group sessions you can attend. NSW Health has an Active and
our iPhone to work if we fail to put it on charge, yet this is the common expectation we have for ourselves. If you find yourself struggling with a poor sleep routine there are some behaviours you can engage in to assist your sleep-wake cycle.
Behaviour Changer – Improving Sleep
• Go to bed and wake up at the same times each day – set an alarm
• If you cannot sleep after 20 minutes, remove yourself from bed and do something relaxing e.g. reading
• Be active during the day – physical exercise can assist sleep quality
• Do not nap during the day and if you feel tired expose yourself to sunlight or some small physical task to increase heart rate
• Sleep without the television on
• Make your sleep environment quiet, dim and cool
*For general information only- seek professional psychological assistance for tailored advice
Healthy website which provides plenty of information about falls prevention, general well-being, exercises, and locating a nearby exercise program or group to suit you.
Oran Park Probus members need to be active to enjoy all the activities and events on offer! Members enjoy outings and tours by coach, train, and car. We have various activity groups for walking, craft, movies, and theatre outings. Very popular social occasions include Coffee and Chat mornings, pub lunches, specialty dining, and Boyz Club lunches. Our brain power also gets a workout by attending regular trivia nights.
If you are retired or semi-retired and looking for fun and friendship, please come to one of our monthly meetings and see if Probus would suit you. Visitors are always welcome.
Oran Park Probus Club meets at Wests Lakeside Golf Club, 50 Raby Road, Gledswood Hills, commencing at 10.00 am on the first Tuesday of the month, except November (when the meeting would clash with Melbourne Cup events). There is no meeting in January.
Why not join some of our Probus members for lunch after the meeting? You may find this is the first step to making some great friendships.
Please contact the Club Secretary for further details: Email: secretary.oranparkprobusclub@gmail.com
Oran Park Probus Club
PROBUS CLUB
BMX Nationals Comes to Camden
For the first time since 2016, Australia’s pinnacle BMX racing event, the GWM BMX Racing National Championships, will be held in New South Wales at Macarthur BMX Club in Camden this October.
After successfully staging AusCycling BMX Racing National Series rounds in 2023 and 2024, the Macarthur BMX Club will host the 2025 edition of the annual event from Thursday, October 9 to Sunday, October 12.
Macarthur BMX is one of only five tracks in Australia with an eight-metre start hill, setting the scene for truly spectacular elite-level racing, with Olympic gold medallist Saya Sakakibara headlining a start list full of world-class talent.
Defending elite women's national champion Sienna Pal, 19, said she was stoked about racing at a track that she considers local.
"I’m excited for Macarthur, which is almost like a home track for me because I'm there doing gates each week and the club knows how to put on a great event," Pal said.
Pal, who hails from Forresters Beach on the Central Coast, will have to battle Australian superstar Sakakibara to unlock backto-back elite national titles, along with 2024 junior women's world champion Teya Rufus and last year's under-23 women's national champion Bella May.
Forster's Oliver Moran enters as the defending elite men's national champion, with the likes of rising stars Josh Jolly, Jesse Asmus and Joel Marsh hoping to dethrone the 22-year-old.
Among the 1,633 entries for the event is a strong group of Macarthur BMX Club hometown heroes, including Oran Park's Andrew Hughes, St Helens Park's Jye Furner, Douglas Park's Isla Basa, Narellan Vale's Mason Thorn and Harrington Park's Rory Southwell.
The 2025 AusCycling Pump Track National Championships will be held on the final day at the Kirkham Park Pump Track and doubles as a Velosolutions 2026 UCI Pump Track World Championships Qualifier.
For more information about the 2025 GWM BMX Racing National Championships, visit bmxnationals.org.au.
r An exciting event for Macarthur | Image: Mitch Ramm. Article: Josh Davies/Auscycling
Dam Fest 2025: A Celebration for All Ages
Excitement is building in the Warragamba community as Dam Fest 2025 gears up for a massive day of celebration on Sunday, October 19th at the Recreation Reserve area in Warragamba. This year’s event holds special significance, marking the 65th anniversary of the opening of the mighty Warragamba Dam and the community is planning to celebrate in true festive style.
The day promises to offer something for everyone, with a packed program of family-friendly entertainment and activities designed to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together. From the ever-popular petting zoo and reptile show to thrilling carnival and amusement rides, there’s fun to be had around every corner. Kids and adults alike will be wowed by live rescue demonstrations from the RFS, and those with a taste for adventure can take to the skies with helicopter rides offering a bird’s eye view of the region.
Music lovers can look forward to performances from Chalkie White and Liam Maihli, alongside talented students from local dance academies. For the motoring enthusiast, the Car, Bike and Truck Show is not to be missed, and the ever-competitive Tug O’ War challenges are sure to keep the crowds cheering.
In celebration of the dam's rich history, a scale model of Warragamba Dam will be on display, and transport will be available to view the dam itself, offering a unique opportunity to learn more about one of Australia’s most important engineering feats.
Organisers are especially proud that Dam Fest continues to be an inclusive, affordable community event, designed to bring people together and create lasting memories. “We want to ensure there’s something for all ages and stages,” said Mel Christian of Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre (WSNC). “It’s about celebrating our local community and enjoying a fantastic day out with family and friends.”
Dam Fest is still welcoming stallholders, volunteers, and sponsors and anyone interested in getting involved is encouraged to contact the Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre (WSNC) via phone on (02) 4774 1273, by email at damfest@wsnc.org.au, or by visiting their website at wsnc.org.au. You can also find updates on Facebook at DamFest or Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre.
So, mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and come along to celebrate 65 years of Warragamba Dam at an event that promises fun, community spirit, and memories to last a lifetime.
r A great day out for the whole family | Images: Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre (WSNC)
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 Rovers Football Club
Nathan Hawthorne 0422 139 993
Oran Park Gregory Hills Chargers RLFC
Melissa Takacs 0491 644 812
Oran Park Hockey Club
Michelle Brennan 0400 050 078
Camden Junior AFL Club
Naomi Porter 0417 683 768
Camden Junior OZTAG camdencobras@oztag.com.au
Harrington Park Scorpions Softball Club
Greg Trevena and MB: 0417 257 385
Mets Baseball - Catherine Field
Kim O'Grady 0412 081 144
Camden Valley Basketball Association (Wildfire) www.wildfirebasketball.org.au
Email: info@wildfirebasketball.org.au
Community Groups
Gledswood Toastmasters
David Johnson 0417 423 458
As I look around our towns this October, I can’t help but notice how alive everything feels with colour, activity, and community spirit. Spring is in full swing, and those longer, warmer days seem to draw us all outdoors. From festivals and sports finals to school fetes, markets, and family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For me, October always feels like a time of renewal—a chance to pause, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with the people and places that make our community special. It’s also the perfect month to discover something new: maybe that hobby you’ve been curious about, a class you’ve been meaning to try, or simply supporting a local business that adds so much character to our neighbourhoods.
Let’s make the most of these bright days and warm evenings by celebrating one another and everything our community has to offer. “The more you celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” –Oprah Winfrey
Let’s keep building a community we’re proud to call home.
Belinda
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