Events This Fortnight

• Visit Blacktown website hosts an extensive events calendar specifically for the Blacktown area.
• Blacktown Council Events Calendar lists local events
• Hills Shire Library Events Calendar lists local events
• Business seminars and events may be found in the Small Business Events section

September 2010

Blacktown City Family Sportsfest

• Sunday, September 5th 2010, 12pm - 4pm
• Blacktown Olympic Park, Eastern Road, Rooty Hill
• Have fun at the Blacktown City Family Sportsfest during Sportember!
• Come & try heaps of sports plus loads of giveaways and competitions!
• Web: www.blacktownolympicpark.com.au  
• Entry Free to Sportsfest.

Free Movie Screening of "Our Seeds:Seed Blong Yumi"

• Sunday 12th September from 3-5pm
• Venue: Northmead Public School Hall Kleins Road Northmead
• Come along and join your local community for a fantastic afternoon of entertainment, a movie and a cuppa.
• Pick up some organic vegetable seeds or a seedsaving pack at a bargain price.
• Nicolle Herbert, Sustainability Street Winston Hills (S.S.W.H.) Coordinator is sending out an S.O.S. - Save Our Seeds
  • Saving seeds saves money.
  • Heirloom varieties save our genetic diversity, increasingly important in our changing times. It takes only one seed to make one plant, but one plant makes many, many seeds, our world is naturally abundant. Saving seed from plants in our climate protects and enhances our own local food security.
  • We can help our future and our childrens future just by allowing our best plant go to seed, collecting the abundant bounty of seed, then saving and sharing those seeds in our local neighbourhood. 
• For more information visit http://groups.google.com/group/sustainabilityst_winstonhills    or contact Nicolle Herbert of Sustainability Street Winston Hills Coordinator on 0422 444 261
• Why not also go along to regular Sustainability Street Winston Hills meetings in the park. Members share organic seed with each other for free. 
• The film to be screened is from Australian pioneers Michel & Jude Fanton who founded the SeedSavers Network. Mr & Mrs Fanton have worked in Australia and throughout the world to preserve our food's genetic diversity by encouraging seed saving and sharing. This acclaimed film shot in eleven countries celebrates the keepers of traditional food plants who stand at the source of humanity's diverse food heritage.
• This event is also helped by the support of Parramatta City Coucil and auspiced by Karabi Community & Development Services.

Get Active

• Saturday 18 September - From 10.30am to 4pm
• Bernie Mullane, Marella Ave, Kellyville - Meeting Point: Near the All Accessible Playground
• Get on your bike, your scooter or come along on foot for The Hills Shire Council’s first ever “Active Community Day” to launch the exciting Tracks and Trails program.
• The event will be held as part of the celebrations for National Bike Week.
• Make a day of it with all the family by bringing along a picnic lunch and make use of all the recreation space in this great location.
• Kellyville Lions Club will also be hosting a barbecue and Council will be on hand to provide information about bike safety, sun safety and healthy living.
• Council will also be conducting another of of the very popular mobile skate clinics for young people.
• For further information on the day, please contact Melinda Gauci on 9843 0149 or mgauci@thehills.nsw.gov.au

Raising Boys with Steve Biddulph - presented by Playgroup NSW

• Thursday 23 September from 7.30pm – 8.45pm
• Venue: Wentworthville Leagues Club
• A talk from Steve Biddulph - child psychologist & international best-selling author.
• We all want our boys to grow up to be happy, positive, caring and motivated.
• Come and hear how this can be done – simple, practical ways that will make immediate sense.
• Topics Include: - The three stages of boyhood - The importance of fathers - Why boys love rough and tumble games - Plus much more
• Tickets: $25 for Playgroup NSW members & $30 for non-members.
• We regret that babies and children cannot be accommodated at the talks.
• Book online at www.playgroupnsw.com.au or call Playgroup NSW on 1800 171 882.

Inala Polo Tournament

• Sunday 12 September 11am-4pm
• Kurri Burri Polo Fields, Powells Lane, Richmond Lowlands.
• The day is all about getting out of the city and relaxing with family, friends and colleagues while supporting a worthy cause. All proceeds raised to benefit Inala
• While the two Polo matches are a major drawcard for spectators, a Marquee Buffet Lunch or pre ordered picnic hampers, jumping castle, pony rides, Jack Russell racing and Hawkesbury Harvest Markets stalls offer plenty of variety for visitors.
• A long standing tradition at half time is divot stomping, where spectators wander all over the polo fields stomping down the torn-up turf.
• The tournament is sponsored by Sportscraft, Saba, Century Funds Management, Petersen Investments, Quovus, Winten Property Group and Worldwide online printing.
• General admission is by donation on entry however bookings are essential for the Marquee lunch or picnic hampers.
  • Marquee Buffet Lunch - Adult $90pp, Child U/15 $20, Child <5 free
  • Pre-ordered Picnic Hamper - gourmet picnic lunch for 2 plus bottle of wine - $100
• Dont forget to bring your own picnic blanket
• Dress Country Casual
• Contact Sharni on 8853 0507 or events@inala.org.au.
• Inala is a Rudolf Steiner organisation, dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, increasing their independence and participation in the wider community. At Inala every client is treated with dignity, respect, friendship and understanding and we are responsive to their changing needs.
  Inala provides a wide range of services including, Post School Programs, Employment and Training and Residential Services. Our client group comprises people who primarily have an intellectual disability, with many having multiple disabilities.

Orange Blossom Festival

• Friday 10th-19th September
• In 2010, the tradition of the Orange Blossom Festival will continue and feature around 40 separate events over 10 FULL DAYS of fun and excitement.
• Get Ready For 10-Full Days of Fun, Fairs and Fireworks!
• Bonsai Exhibition – Pet Expo – Fun Run – Billycart Derby - Theatre - Art & Craft Shows – Gala Concerts – Powerhouse Open Day – Seniors Dance – Family Farm Day - Displays – Workshops - Excellence in Youth Awards – Schools Expo – Swimming Open Day – Art Awards – Jazz at the Pines – Men’s Bowls – Talent Quest – Markets – Ladies Bowls – Seniors Bowls – Classic Car Display – Hype Band Night – Crestwood Fair & Fireworks – plus more!!
• For more information about the Orange Blossom Festival phone 9843 0532 or visit http://www.orangeblossom.com.au/.

• Download your copy of the events here

Parramatta Farmers Market

• Venue: Church Street Mall, Parramatta (just outside Westfields)
• Every Saturday from 8am
• Features stalls of local produce including fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, jams, flowers, dairy and meat, as well as arts, crafts, jewellery, clothing and home wares.

Farmers and Fine Food Market

• Rouse Hill Market Square, Rouse Hill Town Centre
• 4th Saturday of every month, near bus transit
• Starts 8am
• Ph: 4572 6260
• www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au

Hawkesbury Harvest Farmers & Gourmet Food Market

• Castle Hill Showground, Carrington Rd, Castle Hill
• 2nd Saturday of each month
• Hours: 8am - 12pm
• Contact Ph: 4572 6260 or 0412 991 079

Blacktown Fresh Produce Market

• Blacktown RSL Club car park, Second Ave, Blacktown
• Third Saturday of each month, 8.00am-12.00pm
• These Farmers Markets will showcase fresh produce from the local growers in our area. You will be able to purchase fresh produce direct from the grower and gourmet delights produced locally.
• Bookings: 9622 5222

FREE Tax Returns

• Do you earn under $40,000 per year? Would you like your tax return prepared for FREE?
• The Dean Park Community Development Project is hosting Tax Help 2010 in partnership with the Tax Department.
• The Tax Help Program will run every Tuesday in school terms at Dean Park where a qualified tax agent will prepare and lodge tax returns for FREE .
• If you would like to book an appointment please phone Karen on 96265128
• Location: The Dean Park Community Development Project, 9 Yarramundi  Drive, Dean Park NSW 2761

Rouse Hill Families Connect Term 4 Groups/Events

Tuesday Trailblazers

• Tuesdays 10.30-11.30am (plus coffee at the end)
• November 2nd - December 7th
• Place:    Meet @ the fountain @ Rouse Hill Town Centre
• Cost:      Free
• Get fit, meet new people at a weekly walk.
• Bumps and bundles welcome so Mums/Dads/Grandmas/Grandpas be sure to bring along the prams. Bring your friends and neighbours or even your dog for a walk around Rouse Hill each week.
• Cost: FREE
• Registration Essential –contact Emma on 8805 7207 or email Emma.Ludlow@wesleymission.org.au
• Meet @ Rouse Hill Town Centre

Play In The Garden (formerly known as Play In The Park)

• Wednesday 10.30am – 12pm; November 10th - December 1st
• Location: Secret Garden @ Rouse Hill Town Centre
• Come along and meet others while enjoying free and structured play, singing, music, art and games outdoors.
• Specials Guests weeks 2 and 4!
• Grandparents Welcome also!
• The early experiences children have while they are playing, imagining and socialising with parents and peers assist with life long learning and development
• COST: FREE
• Registration Essential – contact Emma on 8805 7207 or E:   emma.ludlow@wesleymission.org.au
• Disclaimer: If the weather is inclement, the session will be cancelled for the day. Contact the office (02 8805 7207)/check on the Facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/RouseHillFamiliesConnect ) for updates each week if weather is bad!

Pilates For You And Your Bub

• Date:     October 28th – November 18th
• Time:     11:30am – 12:30pm
• Place:    Mile End Community Church , Mile End Road , Rouse Hill
• Cost:      $35.00
• A group for mums & bubs (under 12 mths) performed to nursery rhymes which will assist your baby with earning & development, language & gross motor skills, body/spatial awareness and balance.
• Benefits for mum include core strengthening, stretching, balance plus bonding with your child – as well as having fun and meeting other local mums!
• Registration Essential: Contact Emma Ph: (02) 8805 7207 or E:   emma.ludlow@wesleymission.org.au

Disability Discos

• 2nd Wednesday of each month 6.30pm - 9.30pm
• Location: Castle Hill RSL
• Monthly discos for people with disabilities will be held at Castle Hill RSL.
• These discos are accessible for the wider community.
• In some cases carer support is required.
• Bookings with North West Disability Services are essential Email: enquiries@nwds.org.au or Ph: 9686 4155
• Cost: $10
• Web: www.nwds.org.au

The Hills Indian Subcontinent Women's Group

• Tuesdays 11am to 1pm
• Venue: Beaumont Hills Community Centre, Corner Arnold Janssen Drive and The Parkway, Beaumont Hills
• Come & have a great time, make friends, meet new people, learn & gain important life skills.
• A new group is starting for women from the Indian Subcontinent, at Beaumont Hills Community Centre.
  • Work skills
  • Time management
  • Information sessions
  • Healthy living
  • Art & craft
  • Meet people and share cultures
  • Make new friends
• Child care can be provided
• For more details please contact Anu or Kamlini on 9899 5163 at The Hills Holroyd Parramatta Migrant Resource Centre Outreach Office

Relaxation Classes - Feeling stressed? Need to relax?

• Every Tuesday at 11.30am in school terms for only $2
• Feeling stressed? Need to relax?
• Come along to a one hour Relaxation Class at the Dean Park Community Development Project at 9 Yarramundi Drive Dean Park.
• For more info call Karen on 9626 5128

Art classes

• At Learning in the Hills on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays.
• No experience needed.
• Individual assistance in basic techniques, composition and colour mixing.
• Landscapes & still life, catering for beginners & advanced.
• Cost $60 for the term.
• Contact
  • Learning in the Hills on 9639 7918 during school term on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays 9.30am to 2.00pm, or
  • The Hills Community Aid and Information Service during school holidays Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3.00pm on 9639 8620.

Yoga classes

• Learning In The Hills has yoga classes available on Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 10.00am to 11.30am at Turner Buildings (4 & 5), Balcombe Heights Community Buildings, 92 Seven Hills Road, Baulkham Hills (opposite Jasper Road School).
• Join the classes and enjoy a gentle approach to Hatha Yoga, with an accent on breathing awareness and relaxation techniques.
• Cost: $60 for a term.
• Contact
  • Learning in the Hills on 9639 7918 9.30am to 2.00pm, or
  • The Hills Community Aid and Information Service during school holidays Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3.00pm on 9639 8620.
  • For further enquiry & to find out term dates please contact on 9639 7918 (9.30-2.00pm).

Hills Shire Library Events

Pre-school Storytime

Storytimes for preschoolers are held during school terms at all Hills Shire Library branches. These lively sessions are a great way to introduce preschoolers to a love of books.

• Baulkham Hills Tuesday & Friday 11.00am
• Carlingford Wednesday & Friday 10.30am
• Castle Hill Tuesday & Wednesday 10.30am & 11.15am
• Dural Thursday 10.30am
• Rouse Hill Tuesday & Friday 10.30am
• Please note: due to space restrictions participant numbers are limited at Castle Hill and Rouse Hill Special group visits are welcome by appointment at any branch

Raising Bilingual Children

• Tuesday 14 September 11am
• Children absorb language at a much faster pace than adults. Teaching children a foreign language helps with brain development and lays the foundation for lifelong academic achievement.
• Makeleta Felila from the Dept. of Education and Training will answer questions and give advice and tips on raising bi-lingual children.
• CARLINGFORD LIBRARY 17 LLOYDS AVENUE, CARLINGFORD
• FREE - BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL 9871 5922

Digital Downloads

• Thursday 16 September 11am - 12 noon
• Learn how to download ebooks and audio books from the library’s new Digitial Downloads collection.
• SONYA PHILLIPS ROOM, CASTLE HILL LIBRARY, 14 PENNANT STREET, CASTLE HILL
• FREE - BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL 9761 4510

Mark Dapin, Author of ‘King of the Cross’

• 23 September 7pm (for refreshments, 7.30pm author talk)
• Join us as Mark Dapin, Sydney Morning Herald GW magazine columnist and author of ‘King of the Cross’, discusses his books as part of the 2010 Get Reading campaign.
• VINEGAR HILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY. LEVEL 1, 29 MAIN STREET, ROUSE HILL TOWN CENTRE
• COST $7 per person (includes refreshments)
• TICKETS ESSENTIAL 8889 5200

Tax Help

• 15 July - 29 October
• Need help preparing your tax return?
• Australian Tax Office volunteers will be at the library to provide free advice and help with basic tax returns.
• VINEGAR HILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY. LEVEL 1, LEVEL 1, 29 MAIN STREET, ROUSE HILL TOWN CENTRE
• FREE - BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL (check with library staff for times).

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Woodcroft Physical Culture Club

• Dance Studio providing performance opportunities and competitions in the Woodcroft/Blacktown area for disadvantaged and low income families
• Contact Cheryl Burke Ph:4576 3562, Mob: 0414 763 562

Mainly Music

• Fun, interactive music sessions for young children (birth to school age) and their parents/caregivers
• Wednesdays (school term only) 10am
• The Salvation Army, 2 Kempsey Street, Blacktown (near the hospital)
• To register, phone 9831 5694 or 0411 321 660
• Weekly donation $4 per family

Riverstone Rembrandts Playgroup

• Join a friendly local playgroup in Riverstone!
• Meets on Tuesdays 10am till 12 noon
• Location: Sam Lane Community Centre, Park St, Riverstone.
• Facilities for all people including people with disabilities.
• The age group of children in this playgroup is 0 to 5 years old.
• Lots of room available so friends can join together.
• Costs $3 per session but the first 2 sessions are free.
• Everyone is welcome
• For more information call Sarah on 0415 431 068 or email riverstonerembrandts@hotmail.com

Rotary Club - Rouse Hill

• Meets every week on Fridays 6.45am for 7am-8.15am.
• Location: Mean Fiddler Hotel, Greenway Room, off Windsor Rd, Rouse Hill
• Rotary is establishing a breakfast club at Rouse Hill to provide opportunities for business and professional people to meet and network on their way to work.    
• Meetings feature an interesting variety of speakers covering a wide range of topics and a light breakfast.
• Rotary consists of a cross section of every business community, its members come from all walks of life.   
• Rotarians help each other and collectively help others.
• Email RouseHillRotary@tpg.com.au if wishing to attend
• Rotary at a glance: 33,099 clubs in 207 countries, 532 Districts.
• See our feature article Why Join Rotary? here

Motherless Mothers Support Group

For all mothers raising children without the love, support and guidance or their own mothers due to their incapacitation or having passed away.

• Meetings are generally held on the Third Wednesday of the month from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
• Location: Marie Therese Building, St Michaels Family Centre, 522 Windsor Road, Baulkham Hills
• Child Care: Provided for children 0 - 5 years of age, at $5 per child (prebooking required)
• Morning Tea is provided
• Costs: Free of charge, but a small donation is appreciated to cover administrative costs of the group.
• Contact person: Jill - Email:hillsmotherlessmums@yahoo.com.au or St Michael's Family Centre on 9639 0155

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Free Budgeting Advice

• Are you a Mum and/or Dad living in the Mt Druitt area
  with children 0-5 years old?
  • Having trouble paying your bills?
  • Always running out of money?
• Free budgeting advice available every week
• Phone Cheryl for an appointment on 9832 2300
• Appointments Essential
• Brought to you by Anglicare

Parramatta Bridge Club

• Bridge sessions held 5 times a week
• Bridge lessons for beginners held several times a year
• Enquiries to Secretary Ph: 9639 1364

If you are running a local event, you can send the details to us on an Events Publicity form and we can publicise the event here (free for non profit organisations). Alternatively, you can simply email us at info@mylocalguide.net.au.

If you know of a local event that you would like to see here contact us using a feedback form or email us at info@mylocalguide.net.au.