From all the staff at Connections a very Happy Mother's Day to all the mums! Thank you for all your love, support, kind works, help with homework, dinners cooked, hugs and that special smile that only mums can give! Have a wonderful, spoilt and happy day today!

We love our mums!

With Mother's Day coming up, don't forget to keep an eye out for all the upcoming Mother's Day events happening in your estate! For more information visit the Coming Events page on this website, or contact your Community Facilitator!

The May 2013 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now! A PDF copy can be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter May 2013

The Autumn 2013 edition of the new-look Saddlers Ridge Community Newsltter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Autumn 2013

The Autumn 2013 edition of the new-look Hidden Waters Community Newsltter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Autumn 2013

The April 2013 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now! A PDF copy can be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter April 2013

From the team at Connections, we wish you and your family a Happy Easter!

We welcome Natasha Wilson to the Connections team as the Community Facilitator for Discovery Point in Wolli Creek, near Sydney Airport. Natasha has a background in marketing, communications and education. She enjoys spending time with her husband and 1 year old daughter. She is excited to play a part in developing this new vibrant community.

We welcome Suzanne Angara to the Connections team as the Community Facilitator for Gainsborough Greens. Suzanne and her husband recently moved to the Gold Coast with their 2 children. Suzanne has a background in business and is excited in this new role and she is looking forward to engaging in the community.

The March 2013 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now! A PDF copy can be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter March 2013

The Autumn 2013 edition of the Waterside Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter Autumn 2013

The Autumn 2013 new look edition of the Glenfield Estates Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter Autumn 2013

The February 2013 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now! A PDF copy can be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter February 2013

The February / March edition of the Bella Vista Waters Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Feb Mar

The first edition of the Elizabeth Hills Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter Summer 2013

The Summer 2013 edition of the Parkbridge Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

PLEASE NOTE: This is the last printed Community Update for Parkbridge

We are going green! We are going to be commencing electronic email Community Updates. Not only are we helping the environment by reducing printing, this also allows us to communicate more frequently. Make sure we have your email. Email claire.raitt@connections.com.au

Community Update Summer 2013

Happy New Year! The Connections team are busy planning for a fantastic 2013 in each of our estates. Coming events will be posted soon on the 'events' tab. Contact your Community Facilitator for more information on coming events or social groups that you can be part of this year.

The Summer 2013 edition of the Saddlers Ridge Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Summer 2013

The December 2012 / January 2013 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now! A PDF copy can be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter December 2012

The December / January edition of the Bella Vista Waters Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter Dec Jan

The Summer 2013 edition of the Panorama Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Summer 2013

The Summer 2013 edition of the Hidden Waters Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Summer 2013

The Summer 2013 edition of the Waterside Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Summer 2013

The November 2012 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now! A PDF copy can be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter November 2012

We are excited to anncounce that the Walking Bus is coming to Nareena Hills Public School in Term 1, 2013 due to a generous sponsorship by the Commonwealth Bank. Walking Bus Coordinator Natalie Nicastri, along with Commonwealth Bank mascot Pat the Dog, anncounced at Nareena Hills' school assembly that the Walking Bus would be coming in 2013.

The ladies of Hidden Waters had a fabulous time at Girls Night In raising money for the Cancer Council. Thanks to Kim & Olivia from Beauty@142 who provided the pampering. You can contact them on 02 4953 7740 or kimbobeauty@hotmail.com for all your beauty needs in the Newcastle area.

For more information on Girls Night In, including information on how to host an event, visit www.girlsnightin.com.au

RESCHEDULED EVENT: Unfortunately, due to the forecast rain this evening, the Panorama Movie Under The Stars event has been postponed until November 17th, 7:00PM. Keep an eye out in your letterboxes for a rescheduled pamphlet coming soon! 

For more information, contact Michele at michele.girdham@connections.com.au

Connections has gone national! We are commencing a Community Development program at Gainsborough Greens, a beautiful new estate in Pimpama, half-way between Brisbane and Gold Coast in Queensland. For more information on Gainsborough Greens visit http://www.mirvacdevelopment.com/gainsborough- greens/home

This week we welcome Jessie-Claire Henderson to our team as our Community Facilitator for Gainsborough Greens. Jessie-Claire brings a wealth of experience, having worked both in corporate and non-profit organistations. A local resident, Jessie-Claire lives with her young family.

Today we welcome Dale Russell to our team as the Manager of Providential Assist (formerly North West Helping Hand), our charity arm.

The October 2012 edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter October 2012

The October/November 2012 edition of the Bella Vista Waters Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what’s been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter OctNov 2012

The Spring 2012 edition of the Hidden Waters Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Spring 2012

The Spring 2012 edition of the Saddlers Ridge Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Spring 2012

Barnier Public School celebrated the coming launch of the Walking Bus this morning with a Walk Safely to School Day. Children, parents and Connections Community Development staff walked down the three different routes converging at the front gate.

The Walking Bus will launch in term 4. To register as a volunteer please contact Walking Bus at info@walkingbus.com.au or on (02) 8824 8967.

The information on the council website described the event as ‘...exciting, entertaining and educational..” and after attending it last Saturday I can surely say that it was all the above and lots more.

The performances from different cultures and the stalls displaying artifacts and food from different parts of the world were very exciting. These added colour and spice to the festival.

Charlie Darling and Dirtgirl effortlessly taught the importance of taking care of our planet Earth and at the same time involved the kids in their song and dance routine.

The show was not only fun and entertaining but also immensely educational for both kids and adults. The workshops on ‘Reduce your food miles, Worm farming, etc were very enlightening. From the line-up of stalls, we gained some valuable information about our local flora and fauna, importance of conserving our environment, composting, recycling, etc. And the brilliant idea of the ‘Passport’ made visiting the stalls so much fun.

Me and my family enjoyed the show a lot. We came back home with henna tattoos on our hands, yummy Gozlemes in our tummys, a big smile on our faces and a lot more wiser (I hope).

It was an afternoon well spent.

Meet our new Walking Bus Manager Julie Smith who started today! Julie previously worked with adults with intellectual disabilities, overseeing volunteers. She lives in Oakhurst with her husband and one year-old son. She enjoys scrapbooking, netball and spending time with her family.

For more information on the Walking Bus visit walkingbus.com.au and facebook.com/WalkingBus

The Spring 2012 edition of the Parkbridge Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Spring 2012

The Spring 2012 edition of the Waterside Community Newsletter is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Newsletter Spring 2012

The Spring 2012 edition of the Panorama Community Update is out now and will be delivered to all residents shortly! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Community Update Spring 2012

The team at Connections Community Development wish a Happy Father's Day to all the fathers! We hope it is a special day for you.

Our annual Father's Day Competition gave children a chance to write and draw something to the theme "My dad is like a superhero because...", held at John Palmer, Barnier, Schofields, and Middleton Grange Public Schools. As always, chosing the winning entries is a difficult decision. Connections Community Development Facilitators presented the winners with a prize for their dad at each school's assembly. Thank you to all the children who participated, and congratulations to those who won either 1st, 2nd or 3rd prizes in each category.

The advertised positions of Walking Bus Manager and  Helping Hand Manager close tomorrow! For more information on both these opportunities, or to submit your application visit www.connectionscd.com.au/careers/ or follow the CAREERS link above.

Bi-carb! A common place ingredient found in most household kitchens but... did you know it can used for more than baking? It can also a cheap and environmentally friendly alternative to many household cleaners. Check out the attached document with 27 ways to utilise this handly little product around the house.

CleaningWithBiCarb

2 fantastic positions are available at Connections; a Walking Bus Manager and a Helping Hand Manager. For more information on both these opportunities, or to submit your application visit www.connectionscd.com.au/careers/ or follow the CAREERS link above.

Congratulations to young Mann from Vista at Panorama who has just won his final tennis competition at West Tennis Club.  

Mann first started to enjoy playing tennis when his family moved to Vista at the end of 2011.  Mann came along to our first Tennis Connection registration day back in November 2011 and joined in on a few games with some other residents on the day.

Since then, Mann has enjoyed regular games with the other members of the Tennis Connection club and started his professional tennis lessons.  If anybody is interested in playing a game of tennis with Mann or other residents at club Vista, please contact Michele.

Planning is well underway for Carols at The Ponds 2012, held again at the Eastern Playing Fields, on Sunday 16 December 2012. The theme for 2012 is "The Gifts of Christmas".

Since 2000, Connections Community Development have ran an annual regional Carols by Candleight event in North-West Sydney. In 2009 the event moved to The Ponds and is now known as Carols at The Ponds. Below is a photo of our first Carols by Candlelight event 12 years ago.

Connections Community Development has joined Instagram! Instagram is a free photo sharing app available on both iOS (iPhone, iPad & iPod Touch) and Android platforms. Connections' Instagram username is "ConnectionsCD". Follow us for great photos of what we are doing in our various estates and programs.

Connections is also on Facebook and Twitter. 

Congratulations to Patricia, our volunteer of the year! In late May we honoured Patricia who volunteers with Connections two days a week helping wherever needed, from folding newsletters to serving food at our homeless BBQs through our charity arm Helping Hand. We are grateful for the help of all our volunteers who make what we do possible.

The latest Parkbridge Community Update is now avialable and has been delivered to all residents! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Parkbridge Community Update Winter 2012

The latest Panorama Community Update is now avialable and has been delivered to all residents! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Panorama Community Update Winter 2012

The latest Saddlers Ridge Community Update is now avialable and has been delivered to all residents! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Saddlers Ridge Community Update Winter 2012

The latest Hidden Waters Community Update is now avialable and has been delivered to all residents! A PDF copy can also be downloaded below! Check out all the upcoming events and find out what's been happening in your estate!

Hidden Waters Community Update Winter 2012

The annual Australia's Biggest Morning Tea was held at Bella Vista Waters Sales & Information Office on Wednesday 23rd of May. Organised by our energetic resident, Mary and her team, the event was a great success. Some 50 people came and enjoyed a delicious morning tea.
Funds were also raised through and auction and raffle and there were lots of happy winners. In addition to our generous residents, the event was also supported by many local businesses.
Over $9,000 was raised! Thank you to all for your support!

See all the photos from this great event in our GALLERY! 

Parkbridge Community Facilitator Claire Raitt skydived today wearing Mix 106.5's Travelling Pants to raise money and awareness for White Ribbon Australia, a campaign to stop voilence against women.

For more information on the Travelling Pants and to watch the video click here.

For more information on White Ribbon Australia visit www.whiteribbon.org.au/

Congratulations and our sincerist thanks to all the Mothers out there from everyone here at Connections! We hope that you have a great weekend filled with the warmest memories, beautiful flowers and a hot breakfast in bed!

A special dinner is held twice a year for residents new to Bella Vista Waters. It is a great opportunity to meet other new people over a delicious, free meal. Children are also welcome and they enjoyed a craft activity, a surprise for mum for the upcoming Mothers' Day. The next dinner will be held in October.
Visit our gallery to check out all the photos from this great evening!

Today saw another milestone for Walking Bus with the launch of our first Walking Bus in the Illawarra region in conjunction with Stockland. It was a great success with over 80 students already participating across 3 routes, with special guests The Hawks, local Councillers, local and national media, and many more!
After all the students arrived a special assembly was held with all the school where Walking Bus enrolled students received a special medallion, volunteers were given gifts, the school was presented with a plaque, and a huge Walking Bus cake was cut by the School Captains!
What a fantastic way to launch this amazing program at Dapto Public School!
Visit The Hawks Website to read all about the launch and to watch a video of this morning!
 

Local families took part in an action packed afternoon at the third Family Fun Day hosted at The Ponds on Sunday! Thousands from the new suburb and surrounding areas took part in the event which was held at the Eastern Playing Fields. There was plenty of entertainment options to enjoy including an animal farm, a giant slide, mini jeeps, face painting, a jumping castle and sporting activities run by Cricket NSW, Rod Fahey Tennis and AFL NSW. A free BBQ was organised by Riverstone Lions Club for all to enjoy. Children and aduls enjoyed the live Shrek Show.
The winning adult boat crew (three people) were each awarded a $200 gift card to Rouse Hill Town Centre, a three monthly gold membership to Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope and a $1,000 cash donation to the charity of their choice which was given to John Palmer Public School. Children in the junior boat races (two people) shared $400 cash prizes for the winning boats and $50 was given to each boat participant for their creative input as well as a participatory medal.
We would like to thank Rouse Hill Town Centre and Blacktown Leisure Centre for sponsorhip of Land Boat Race prizes, the hard working volunteers from Lions Club and Aaron Wright form Hope 103.2 for his great job as MC of the event.

Don't forget to visit our gallery to see all the photos from this incredible event at The Ponds!

BELLA VISTA WATERS School Holiday Fun Morning is still on despite the rain! Come and join us for a fun Science Show and morning tea.

PANORAMA School Holiday Fun Day has unfortunately been canceled due to wet weather and will postponed. More details to come shortly.

From the team at Connections, we wish you and your family a happy Easter! 

Neighbour Day is Australia’s annual celebration of community, held on the last Sunday in March each year, it is the perfect day to get to know the people next door, across the street or down the road and feel part of your community. Why not get together with your neighbours for a BBQ, breakfast or a drink?

While Connections have organised community events around this date (some on the day), it is a perfect chance for residents to take innitiative and organise their own community gatherings such a street party. Contact your Community Facilitator for ideas and support.

For more information visit http://www.neighbourday.org/

MP for Riverstone, Mr Kevin Conolly, today officially opened the last external connection to The Ponds at the Schofields Road intersection on The Ponds Boulevard, enabling residents to now directly access Rouse Hill. The opening is only temporary until the Schofields Road upgrade is completed in 2013. Over $5.8 million has been invested in the road section from the Spearmint Street intersection to Schofields Road.

Carmen Osborne, Development Director from Landcom comments, “This final important external connection will greatly assist residents living in the northern and southern parts of The Ponds to easily access Rouse Hill Town Centre and its associated facilities including entertainment complexes, shops and local schools. It will also allow direct access to the new Schofields Station and bus interchange at Rouse Hill. The Ponds is a thriving suburb that is already home to over 2,500 residents. The Ponds Boulevard road opening will assist thousands of current and future residents moving into the new suburb."

"Landcom has spent considerable money on infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges to ensure residents can easily access all parts of The Ponds and neighbouring areas. The ability to provide adequte transport links plays an integral role when building any new community."

"I am delighted to see this important connection for residents in The Ponds open. This will not only enable residetns to have more direct access to surrounding suburbs but will also play a role in alleviating traffic in other nearby suburbs. I congratulate Landcom for their ongoing work in devlivering for residents in The Ponds," Mr Connolly said.

In late 2012/early 2013 buses are expected to be in operation along The Ponds Boulevard through to Rouse Hill Town Centre.

Parkbridge residents will be excited to know that the latest issue of the new look Parkbridge Community Update (Autumn 2012) is out now and will be delivered to their doors soon! This is a great way to keep up to date with all the coming events, social groups, and all the latest happenings in your estate!

In the meantime, download a PDF copy by clicking on the link below!

Parkbridge Community Update Autumn 2012

Saddlers Ridge residents will be excited to know that the latest issue of the Saddlers Ridge Community Update (Autumn 2012) is out now and will be delivered to their doors soon! This is a great way to keep up to date with all the coming events, social groups, and all the latest happenings in your estate!

In the meantime, download a PDF copy by clicking on the link below!

Saddlers Ridge Community Update Autumn 2012

Panorama residents will be excited to know that the latest issue of the new look Panorama Community Update (Autumn 2012) is out now and will be delivered to their doors soon! This is a great way to keep up to date with all the coming events, social groups, and all the latest happenings in your estate!

In the meantime, download a PDF copy by clicking on the link below!

Panorama Community Update Autumn 2012

Hidden Waters residents will be excited to know that the latest issue of the Hidden Waters Community Update (Autumn 2012) is out now and will be delivered to their doors soon! This is a great way to keep up to date with all the coming events, social groups, and all the latest happenings in your estate!

In the meantime, download a PDF copy by clicking on the link below!

Hidden Waters Community Update Autumn 2012

Clean Up Australia Day is on again this weekend! Every year the event encourages and inspires thousands of Australians to take to their local park, beach, bushland and streets and really help make a difference to their local environment. The next Clean Up Australia Day will be held on Sunday 4 March 2012. Clean Up Australia Day is a simple way you can take action to clean up, fix up and conserve our prized Australian environment.

In 2011 an estimated 565,510 volunteers cleaned up 16,454 tonnes at 7,479 sites right across Australia. But we can do better! So be a good sport and join the team to Clean Up Australia on Sunday, 4 March 2012.

For more information on this fantastic community event, visit cleanupaustraliaday.org.au and register as a volunteer! Also, visit the Events Page on this website to find out what is happening in your estate!

A fantastic position is available for a Coordinator of The Walking Bus based in the Dapto region. This role will require flexibility as the work hours may be spread over several days during the week. The suitable applicant will also be required to start immediately. Ongoing training and supervision will be provided by the Walking Bus Manager and Connections Staff.

Connections Community Development is a non-profit organisation based in Sydney’s Northwest and aims to build community through a number of initiatives throughout Sydney. One of those initiatives is The Walking Bus, which aims to see children walk to school in a way that encourages a healthy lifestyle, is environmentally friendly, and builds community.

For more information on The Walking Bus, visit www.walkingbus.com.au or for more information on this opportunity, or to submit your application visit www.connectionscd.com.au/careers/ or follow the CAREERS link above.

Bella Vista Waters residents will be excited to know that the latest issue of Bella Vista Waters Newsletter (February - March 2012) is out now and will be delivered to their doors soon! This is a great way to keep up to date with all the coming events, social and parents groups, and all the latest happenings in your estate!

In the meantime, download a PDF copy by clicking on the link below! 

Bella Vista Waters Feb-March 2012 Newsletter

The Ponds residents will be excited to know that the latest issue of The Ponds Newsletter (February - March 2012) is out now and will be delivered to their doors soon! This is a great way to keep up to date with all the coming events, social and parents groups, and all the latest happenings in your estate!

In the meantime, download a PDF copy by clicking on the link below! 

The Ponds Feb-March 2012 Newsletter

Schools back and what better way to kick start the new school year than by walking to school! Enrol your children now with The Walking Bus to encourage your children to walk to school in a safe and healthy way! 

For more information, or if you would like to enrol your children or even volunteer yourself, visit www.walkingbus.com.au or contact Lynda Hobden at lynda.hobden@walkingbus.com.au .

Happy Australia Day to everyone! This is a fantastic opportunity to head out to the beach, the parks, or to your friends and celebrate Australia by meeting your neighbours over a BBQ! Enjoy the public holiday and we look forward to seeing you all at our upcoming events!

What a fantastic event we had on Sunday evening with the 10th Annual Carols at The Ponds! It was a great evening with up to 10,000 people attending! With a large live band, an amazing array of singers from around Australia, carols for the whole family, a 15 piece pipe band, local school choirs, a live nativity, a huge fireworks display, and a special visit from Santa and Rudolph, it's no wonder the Carols at The Ponds made the front headlines of local newspapers!

For more great photos from the evening, visit the Carols Gallery on this website, or also visit The Rouse Hill Times gallery dedicated to the Carols at The Ponds!

Joy to The Ponds

It was a new venue and a record crowd at Carols at The Ponds on 18th December. The Carols event was also the 10th that has been organised by Connecctions Community Development in the north west. Visit our gallery to see all the photos from this great evening!

The new Eastern Playing Fields were filled with excited children and grown ups, some coming early to get the "front row seats". The gates opened at 5 pm with rides and food stalls plus a fun photo service by Rouse Hill Times. The Bullet Bus provided a free shuttle service from Blacktown Leisure Centre, picking people up along the way.

The Carols by Candlelight program started at 8 pm with a the Nepean-Hawkesbury Pipeband heralding the start of the event. We then enjoyed all our favourite Christmas songs and carols, presented by professional singers and musicians with the added touch of dancers from Monique Selwood Danders. The combined children's choir from John XXIII College, John Palmer Public School and Barnier Public School was a new and delightful addition to the program. The Nativity Pageant included a live donkey and sheep and, of course, the wise men arrived on real camels while siging. Santa also paid a special visit to The Ponds, making his appreance high above the screen. The event finished with a specacular fireworks display.

We would like to thank our sponsors: Landcom & Australand, developers of The Ponds, Connections Community Development, Rouse Hill Times, Blacktown RSL, St George Bank Rouse Hill, LJ Hooker, Active Hire, Australian Scaffold, Kennards Hire Kellyville, Bullet Bus, Traffic Technologies, Bunnings Seven Hills. Thank you also to Coles Stanhope Gardens, Stanhope Seafoods, Bakers Delight Stanhope Gardens, Gloria Jeans Coffee Stanhope Gardens, Stanhope Fruit Barn & Michel's Patisserie Stanhope Gardens. Thank you to the volunteers from NewHope Kellyville for distributing the candles.

The 10th Annual Carols at The Ponds is coming up on Sunday, 18th December! This is a great family event with live music, entertainment, rides, food stalls, candles, carols, a live Nativity, Santa Claus and an amazing fireworks display from Howards & Sons Pyrotechnics! Bring a picnic or purchase your dinner from the many food stalls available!

This is the 10th Anniversary of this fantastic family event, so bring all the family, invite all your friends and make this Christmas Carols an event to remember! 

The Carols at The Ponds are held at The Ponds Playing Fields, The Ponds Boulevard, The Ponds!
5:00 PM - Gates Open. Food stalls and rides available
8:00 PM - Carols by Candlelight commence
9:30 PM - Spectacular Fireworks Display!

For more information, details on parking and the FREE SHUTTLE BUS service, visit www.carolsattheponds.com.au

Free Shuttle Bus Map Route & Schedule

It's Christmas time and the festive season is being celebrated by The Walking Bus at all the schools involved! Santa made a surprise visit to all the children on each of the Walking Bus Routes ringing his bell and presenting them all with gifts! Special Guest Moira Gase was also present for the Parklea Public School Walking Bus. Being one of the original founders of The Walking Bus program, Moira is fondly remembered by all the volunteers and it was great to have her back walking with us once again!
The Walking Bus Volunteers were also treated to a special outing for a Volunteer Christmas Thank You Morning Tea! Thank you so much to all our wonderful volunteers who walk the children safely to and from school each day!

Bella Vista Waters Knit for Charity ladies celebrated the end of the year with a delicious Christmas lunch at Bella Vista Waters Sales & Information Office on 14th December. The ladies worked together, bringing in food and decorating the community room.

The Knit for Charity ladies have been knitting together since July 2010. They meet on the second Wednesday of each month (except January) at the Bella Vista Waters Sales & Information Office with the aim of knitting squares which are then sewn together to make blankets for Wrap with Love. So far our Bella Vista Waters ladies have knitted enough squares for more than 25 blankets.

Since 1992, the Wrap with Love idea has gained considerable momentum, with over 30,000 volunteers in Australia alone. The blankets are shipped to those in need in Australia and all around the globe.

If you would like to be involved, please phone Mary Prokop on 0438 614 177.
 

The annual Christmas Lights Competition is on again at The Ponds and our anonymous judge had an enjoyable time driving around the streets of The Ponds recently. Every home owner who has gone into trouble to decorate for the festive season deserves our thanks, as they have all made a wonderful contribution to the Christmas street scape at The Ponds. The judge has photographed some of the most impressive homes, but there will only be one winner, who will be announced at Carols at The Ponds on Sunday.

We would like to make a special mention of Widgeon Road and Eider Street, where many residents have pitched in to crate a festive community feel. Well done to all and we look forward to the announcement of the winner.

Mayor of Blacktown, Councillor Alan Pendleton and MP for Riverstone Kevin Connolly officially opened Riverbank Drive bridge, which is the second major bridge to be built across Second Ponds Creek at The Ponds, on 8th December.

Riverbank Drive bridge plays an integral role in connecting the eastern side of The Ponds with the west along Riverbank Drive and continuing onto Ridgeline Drive.

Nigel Edgar, General Manager, Residential NSW from Australand said, “Riverbank Drive bridge is the second of three major bridges to be built in the masterplanned community. This bridge will assist residents in the Kalina area access one of the most important areas to be built in the near future in this suburb – the community resource hub situated on Riverbank Drive. All bridges have been strategically positioned in the middle of the 80 hectare nature corridor to act as linkages to bring the community together.”

“This is yet another example of the effective partnerships that exist between Blacktown City Council and developers such as Landcom and Australand, in ensuring essential infrastructure is delivered to new and existing areas throughout Blacktown City for the benefit of residents,” said Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Alan Pendleton.

Clouston Associates, an award winning landscape architectural practice provided the urban design for the bridge. Bridge features include a series of four rock filled gabion walls and elevated mesh structures which adjoin the walkways. Two artworks titled Flood Grasses by artist Jane Cavanough will also be positioned at the entry points to the bridge early next year. They will feature glass light boxes with etched reed patterns, inspired by the environment of Second Ponds Creek, a major focus of The Ponds Public Art Plan.

Justine Kinch, Associate Director for Clouston Associates adds, “The bridge exudes an open character and acts as a visual cue that is influenced by the patterns of water movement along Second
Ponds Creek. Natural stone, endemic vegetation and reed patterns on the artwork are further complimented by mesh panels which allow viewers to still see the vegetation through it whilst moving across the bridge. Dense endemic plants are nestled right beside the structure to accentuate the feeling of crossing a creek line.”

BDM Construction built the bridge, Arup Engineers was responsible for the civil and structural design and Craig and Rhodes were the project managers.

Work has just started on the third bridge on Greenview Parade, with completion expected in mid 2012.

The Ponds is a 320 hectare master-planned community which is being developed by Landcom and Australand. It will comprise over 3,000 homes when complete.
 

The 10th Annual Carols at The Ponds is coming up on Sunday, 18th December! This is a great family event with live music, entertainment, rides, food stalls, candles, carols, a live Nativity, Santa Claus and an amazing fireworks display from Howards & Sons Pyrotechnics!
Bring a picnic or purchase your dinner from the many food stalls available!

The Carols at The Ponds are held at The Ponds Playing Fields, The Ponds Boulevard, The Ponds!
5:00 PM - Gates Open. Food stalls and rides available
8:00 PM - Carols by Candlelight commence
9:00 PM - Spectacular Fireworks Display!

Bring all the family, invite all your friends and make this Christmas Carols an event to remember! 

For more information, details on parking and the FREE shuttle bus service, visit www.carolsattheponds.com.au

Congratulations to the winners of our "Let's Be Friends" Social Media Competition!
Facebook: Roxii Exequiel from Parkbridge
Twitter: Karen Mortimer from The Ponds

Both have won a $50 Red Balloon voucher! Thank you to everyone who participated!

If you haven't already, you can connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. You can visit our sites and ‘Like’ or ‘Follow’ us, simply by clicking on the Facebook and Twitter icons at the top right corner of this site!
 

We had a wonderful night at Bella Vista Waters Residents' Christmas Party. The Sales & Information Centre, which was transformed into a party venue, came to life with some 160 people, amongst them familiar and new faces. People mingled really well, conversation was lively and the atmosphere relaxed and happy. Vov Dylan provided a trio band, which helped to set the festive mood. Amory Catering once again lived to their great reputation, providing excellent food for all to enjoy. Trays of bite size tasty food came around over and over, followed by prawns, chicken and lamb cutlets. A highlight was the baked ham off the bone, served as a small buffet with bread rolls, condiments and rocket. Dessert was profiteroles and dipping chocolate. There was also a variety of drinks to quench the thirst.
Organising the party is a team effort with Jennie, our Sales Coordinator, and Tuula, our community facilitator from Connections Community Development.
Don't forget to visit the GALLERY to look at all the photos taken on the evening.

Parkbridge residents, keep an eye out for the Summer Edition of the Parkbridge Community Update in your mailbox. The Parkbridge Community Update contains the latest news from your estate and upcoming events to mark in your dairy.

You can also download the Parkbridge Community Update below.

Parkbridge Community Update Summer 2012 Edition

Panorama residents, keep an eye out for the Summer Edition of the Panorama Community Update in your mailbox. The Panorama Community Update contains the latest news from your estate and upcoming events to mark in your dairy.
You can also download the Panorama Community Update below.
 

Panorama Community Update - Summer 2012 Edition

It's coming up to Christmas and there are many festive events coming up soon in your local area and within your community! Check out the Events Calendar for a list of all the upcoming Christmas Events in your estate, and don't forget to contact your local Community Development Facilitator for more information!

Landcom has opened its second Eco-Living Display Home at The Ponds in Sydney’s north-west. The Greencycle home has a seven star rating and features building materials and products that are environmentally friendly, have low embodied energy, a high recycled content and are capable of being recycled. Clarendon Homes was selected by Landcom to construct all three of its Eco-Living Display Homes, which showcase sustainability concepts and products for the project home industry and general housing market.

Steve Driscoll, Director, Sustainability and Policy at Landcom said, “The Greencycle home highlights how environmentally conscious people can use recycled products in their home to lower their carbon output at an affordable price. Each year the building industry contributes significant tonnes to landfill across Australia. The Greencycle home showcases the benefits associated with various recycled products, thereby educating consumers, as well as the project home building industry, how everyone can contribute to reducing excessive landfill waste.”

“The home uses clever materials that produce much less carbon when compared to traditional building materials. Significantly it also incorporates universal housing principles into the design, enabling people to potentially live in their home over their lifetime without the need for major adaptation or specialised design. Universal housing effectively responds to the needs of people of different ages and abilities over time.”

Shaila Divakarla, Design Sustainability Specialist from Clarendon Homes added, “The recycled products market is growing as people become more environmentally conscious. They are also becoming cheaper as demand continues to grow. Builders and consumers need to seek ways to put back into the environment rather than keep taking from it. Concrete is the most dominant CO2 contributor when building a home, contributing between 3 to 5 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions globally. The materials used in the home are clever and showcase some of the best recycled products available on the market.”

“Compared to the standard home, occupants will see reductions of 41 per cent on heating and cooling loads through the ability to section off rooms for heating and cooling purposes, orientation towards the sun and thermal materials used. Overall the Greencycle home has a 74 per cent BASIX rating which is nearly double the mandated compliance target.”

“By replacing standard Clarendon materials in the major building elements with the sustainable materials used in the Greencycle home, a 30 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions is achieved. This figure will be higher when the carbon sequestration value of the predominantly timber based materials are taken into account,” she added.

Consultants including global company Ecospecifier were appointed to assess different materials and products to determine which were most suitable to showcase in the Greencycle home. The process included reviewing which building materials were carbon heavy such as walls, floors and roofs using Landcom’s PRECINX tool. PRECINX was then used to determine where CO2 reductions could be made with various materials during the building cycle; reviewing which products that had a high recycled content were capable of being recycled at the end of their lifecycle; material cost and supply availability of various products.

Recycled materials featured in the home included green concrete ‘ecomax 1’. This contains a 20 per cent replacement of cement with fly ash and slag from power station waste which also improves the strength of the product. Another is ‘eco-top’ benchtops in the kitchens and bathrooms that look like stone and comprise 50 per cent bamboo and 50 per cent recycled paper and cardboard. The floorboards are made from fast growing bamboo, a renewable building material. Bamboo floors are also easy to clean and do not harbor dust, making it a great product for asthma sensitive consumers. Also weathertex is used throughout, which is an engineered weatherboard, using timber fibres from certified sustainable forests and natural wax.

The Greencycle home features a lush garden with big green leafed plants creating a sense of tropical dappled shade. The garden uses captured water, held on site via a series of water features acting as reservoirs. These help sustain a frog and fish friendly environment. Lush irrigated lawn is used throughout the garden.

Landcom is funding the Eco-Living Display Homes project. The Benchmark home, which showcases practical sustainability products and features, opened in June this year. It has received a very positive response from potential house purchasers.

Later this year the third home, the Net-Zero emissions home, will open. It will challenge the building industry and consumer thinking on sustainability. It will be a smaller and smarter home which showcases leading-edge design and technologies that have been blended to create a home with virtually no bills.

The Eco-Living Display Village Homes are located at Pebble Crescent, The Ponds.

For further information visit: www.ecolivingdisplayhomes.com.au
 

Did you know that Connections Community Development is on Facebook and Twitter? We use these to keep you updated with all that’s happening in your estate and to allow you to communicate with us. We have two exciting competitions:

Facebook Competition

To go into the draw to win a $50 Red Balloon voucher, like us on Facebook and write on our wall and tell us what you love most about the community you live in. Competition closes 5pm Friday 2 December 2011. Winner with the most creative entry will be contacted by reply comment to their post.

Twitter Competition

To go into the draw to win a $50 Red Balloon voucher, follow us on Twitter and tweet @ConnectionsCD and tell us what you love most about the community you live in. Competition closes 5pm Friday 2 December 2011. Winner with the most creative entry will be contacted by reply tweet.

By entering either competition you agree to the Terms & Conditions attached 

TermsAndConditions

Milo in2 Cricket is back. Last year's program, initiated by one of our cricket loving resident dads, was a great success, so the program is back by popular demand. Held on Thursdays for 2 months, the program is a fun way for 5 - 8 year olds to learn cricket skills. More participants are welcome. We meet at The Plaza, next to The Ponds Sales & Display Centre, at 6.30 pm for one hour.

If you would like more information or would like your children to participate, please call Shanaka on 0435 028 103

The Walking Club is meeting once more now that the skies have cleared and the weather is warmer! Residents of Panorama are invted to come along, bring a towel and a bottle of water, and have fun getting fit for summer!
The Panorama Walking Club meets every Tuesday, 7:30PM at the Atlantic Boulevard Park (opposite Mariner Street).
All residents are welcome!
For more information, contact MIchele, on 0421 220 935 or via email at michele.girdham@connectionscd.com.au. Note that the Walking Club is postponed during wet weather.

Panorama Walking Club Brochure

Did you know that Connections is on both Facebook and Twitter? You can visit our sites and 'Like' or 'Follow' us, simply by clicking on the Facebook and Twitter icons at the top right corner of this site!

Keep connected with Connections online and keep up to date with all the latest information and happenings in your community! You will also be kept posted on the latest online competitions!

For more information on our Facebook and Twitter accounts, contact Ariel at Connections by emailing him at ariel.tate@connectionscd.com.au

The Ponds was the place to be on Thursday 6th October. There were two free holiday activites for the children and parents to enjoy at The Plaza. The one hour science show, presented by Fizzics Education, involved the children making sherbert, slime and bubbles. There was also the opportunity to have some fun shoting each other playing laser wars. The shower of rain did not make any difference to the children having a great time. The event included afternoon tea and parents and children were able to meet each other.  

Helping Hand is Connections Community Development's charity arm. We provide furniture and support to people in need and also run weekly BBQs for homeless people in Parramatta and Lalor Park.

Helping Hand is registered with the Department of Gaming and Racing (Charities) and has Deductable Gift Recipient status with the Australian Taxation Office.

To make a financial donation, give food or furniture (which we can arrange to pick up), or to volunteer your time please contact Helping Hand on 0412 084 509.

School holiday events held at Panorama and Parkbridge were a great success with many children and parents attending! Panorama residents went to the circus, with carnival games, jumping castle, circus acts, balloon art, face painting and some carnival food. Parkbridge residents enjoyed a variety of fun games from a sack race to life-sized snakes and ladders, topped off with some delicous morning tea.

Visit the gallery page to see photos from both these events.

Walking Bus hosted two whole school "Walk to School" days in conjunction with the Cancer Council’s National "Walk to Work Day" at John Palmer and Parklea Public Schools, encouraging students, parents and teachers alike to walk to school.

This was a great success with over 160 people taking part across the two schools! The Walking Bus is a fantastic initiative, encouraging children to wlak to school along safe routes with trained parent volunteers, promoting healthy lifestyles, exercise, and less congestion around schools.

The Walking Bus is planning to host walk to school days at the schools in the Hills District in term 4 and also a once per term walk to school day at all schools who are currently involved in the Walking Bus program to give children and parents the opportunity to try out the program.

Congratulations to Rohan Weir who works here at Connections who proposed to his now finace, Belinda, over the weekend! The weekend was a very romantic treasure hunt, culminating in the proposal at The Rocks, Sydney.

Congratulations to you both! We look forward to your upcoming wedding!

Panorama residents, keep an eye out for the Spring Edition of the Panorama Community Update in your mailbox. The Panorama Community Update contains the latest news from your estate and upcoming events to mark in your dairy.

You can also download the Panorama Community Update below.

PanoramaComUpdateSpring2011

Parkbridge residents, keep an eye out for the Spring Edition of the Parkbridge Community Update in your mailbox. The Parkbridge Community Update contains the latest news from your estate and upcoming events to mark in your dairy.

You can also download the Parkbridge Community Update below.

ParkbirdgeComUpdateSpring2011

We welcome Lynda Hobden to our team. Lynda is the new Walking Bus Manager. For more info on the Walking Bus visit www.walkingbus.com.au

Saddlers Ridge residents were treated to a fantastic Spring Lifestyle event, with special guests Tracey Drayton from Ivanhoe Wines, and celebrity chef Rodney Scales. The BBQ creations Rodney made were simply delicious, and easy to make at home!
Attached below are a copy of the recipes for you to download and try at home! These are great recipes for all occassions.

BBQ Recipes

Planning is well underway for the North West Rail Link, the new train line which will be benefitial for many residents of Sydney's North West region. Local residents will be pleased to hear that the six originally planned stations will possibly be expanded to eight. Read more here.

Please visit www.northwestrail.com.au for more information on the North West Rail Link and to have your say on the North West Rail Link Project Overview Report.

Residents at The Ponds would be pleased to hear that plans for the new Community Resources Hub have been submitted to Blacktown City Council for approval. The proposed Community Hub will be located on Riverbank Drive adjacent to parklands and the proposed retail precinct. The proposal was lodged at Council on the 6th July 2011, and we would expect an approval before the end of the year, with the aims for completion of the facilities in 2013.
These will be fantastic facilities for the community to utilise, with a new sustainable Retail Centre to be constructed adjacent, with easy walking access.
For more information, download the attached Letter To The Residents, compelte with an artistic implression and design plans.

The Ponds Community Resource Hub

Children are invited to put on their thinking caps and get creative for their chance to win Dad a fantastic Red Balloon Experience Voucher for Father's Day! Simply visit the upcoming Events page on this website, and under your estate download the Fathers Day Competition forms. Colour in a picture, write a story, simply get creative!

For more information download the competition forms or contact us here at Connections. Don't forget to complete all the information on the entry form to make sure you're entry is valid.

Social and Parents Groups are a great way to meet new friends, have a fun time, and get to know people with similar interests. Connections helps facilitate many various groups throughout the estates, based on the feedback and needs of the residents.

From walking groups, parents groups, the Over 50's Club, Coffee Club, book clubs, playgroups, Zumba classes, Kick Boxing groups, Soccer Clubs, and many many more, Connections can help you organise a group to suit your needs.

For more information on what groups are currently running in your estate, or if you would like help organising a group, contact your local Community Development Facilitator, whose details can be found on this site.

Recently, The Ponds over 50’s Group enjoyed a BBQ dinner together at the home of one of the group. The men did the cooking whilst the ladies enjoyed the warmth of the fire inside. There was far too much food!! 

The Waterside Parents Group has also commenced, meeting every Wednesday at 10:00AM. This is a great way for residents to meet other parents in the estate, while their children are able to play and have fun!   

The Ponds King Tots are commencing a Monday playgroup on 25th July.

The group will meet from 10 am to midday at the Neighbourhood Centre, corner of Fyfe Road and Carindale Street. Parents are requested to bring morning tea for their child/children. Morning tea will be provided for the grown ups by The Ponds Community Development Program. There will be a cost of $3 per family.

Please contact Tracey on 0412 068 997 for more information. 

Landcom has opened its Benchmark home, the first of three Eco-Living Display Homes to be built at The Ponds in Sydney’s north-west. The progressive home is a practical demonstration of how people can live sustainably at an affordable price.

Landcom selected Clarendon Homes to construct its Eco-Living Display Homes which showcase sustainability concepts and products for the project home industry and general housing market.

Steve Driscoll, Director, Sustainability and Policy at Landcom commented, “The opening of the Benchmark home underlines Landcom’s aim to further educate the public and project home industry about measures that can be taken to build more sustainable dwellings. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of living more sustainably.”

Read the FULL NEWS ARTICLE at The Ponds Community Website. Also, visit www.ecolivingdisplayhomes.com.au for more information on Eco Living Homes.

A fantastic new opportunity for successful applicants has arisen in the Maitland / Hunter Valley region. For more information on this great opportunity within the Connections Team, download the attached job description or email us at info@connectionscd.com.au.

This is a great opportunity for someone with a passion and drive to have a positive influence on the growth and development of new communities in their area.

Applications close COB 1st July, 2011. 

CDF Job Description

The inaugural get together for a career girls social group was held at Bella Vista Waters Sales & Information Office on Wednesday 15th June. At the suggestion of a resident to form such a group, Tuula Schaeffer, the community facilitator at Bella Vista Waters, sent out an expression of interest to the residents and several ladies responded. The group will be meeting on the second Wednesday of each month at a local restaurant, providing a great way for working ladies to get together to meet people, network and have a laugh.

While enjoying a drink and some dessert, the ladies enjoyed getting to know each other as most had not met prior to the night. The conversation was lively and stimulating and all were pleased to meet such interesting people.

The group will meet at The Original Frango, 29-31 Lexington Drive (next to Gloria Jeans), Bella Vista, on Wednesday 13th July at 7.30 pm. Contact person for the group is Christine Richards, phone 0416 161 844. 

June is a fun fitness month at The Ponds with a free fitness classes each Tuesday at 7 pm at The Ponds Sales & Display Centre.

We kicked off with a group fitness class with Sarah, and yes, there were some sore muscles the next day, probably from the skipping. The next Tuesday was Zumba with Kate, a fun way to keep fit and still get a good workout, thought everyone as they walked out the door, sweaty and smiling. Still to come is a Bollywood Dance class on 21st June and kick boxing on 28th June.

The 45 minute classes are free and all are welcome to come along. It is a good idea to bring a bottle of water.

Artist Jill Chism visited The Ponds on Thursday night 2nd June and Saturday morning 4th June to work with the community in a second set of workshops as part of her exciting new artwork for Lakeside Park as rendered in the above image.

The 3 elements include making a Creative Mind Map of your personal aspirations or dreams for your life at The Ponds, Stream of Consciousness writing and making a time capsule. These works will develop in a series of workshops. Pictured are Saturday morning participants with their work.

The latest edition of The Ponds Community Newsletter for the June - July period is now available for download! Residents will be receiving a copy of the newsletter in their letterboxes soon so keep your eyes open for when it arrives! Until then, feel free to download a digital copy below!
Read all about the recent events, workshops, and fundraisers that have been happening in your estate, meet some new residents that have moved into The Ponds, find out what events are coming up soon, and say hi to Ariel Tate who now works with the Connections Community Development team in The Ponds!

The Ponds June/July 2011 Newsletter

Landcom is keen to hear about your experiences of The Ponds since moving into your new home. Residents of The Ponds are invited to take part in a survey which is being conducted on behalf of Landcom by independent research company, Elton Consulting. The survey will soon be delivered to most homes at The Ponds. Your feedback will be used to help Landcom better understand how people feel about The Ponds and the wider neighbouhood. It will also be used to help plan the community development program at The Ponds.

We encourage you to return your completed survey form to Elton Consulting by Thursday 30th June. In return, you will receive a $30 gift voucher for taking the time to share your views. A short overview of the findings will be made available to all residents in a future Community Newsletter & website News story. For more information contact Lucy Greig or Georgie Wheadon at Elton Consulting on 9387 2600 during office hours. We look forward to receiving your feedback.

Did you know the Liverpool Leader, your local community newspaper, is conveniently available in a digital format? An exact replica of the print edition is available online as an ePaper so staying in touch with your local community has never been simpler – local news, local events, real estate, trades and services, classifieds, shopping specials and more can be viewed at the click of a mouse! You can even register for this ePaper. As a registered user you will receive an email alert advising you when the latest Liverpool Leader newspaper is available online!
Everyone who registers for the Liverpool Leader ePaper before June 30 goes into the draw to WIN one of two $50 Coles Group & Myer gift cards.

Simply go to:
1. www.liverpoolleader.com.au/digitaledition
2. Complete the registration form and enter the offer code Parkbridge and enjoy reading your local community newspaper online
3. Entries close June 30, 2011

Full terms and conditions visit http://liverpool-leader.whereilive.com.au TPLM/10/0033

What a fun night we had at The Ponds Ladies Night Out on Wednesday 18th May! The evening combined a chance for ladies to get together, have a cultural experience and raise money for The Cancer Council (our version of Australia's Biggest Morning Tea).  The Bollywood theme encouraged ladies to dress in their saris, if they owned one, and even Tuula & Michele, the Community Facilitators, dressed up for the occasion.  Entry was by donation at the door to The Cancer Council.

The ladies enjoyed drinks, delicious Indian food, a Bollywood dance performance and even a dance lesson.  A highlight of the evening was the raffle with a major prize of $500 worth of Accor gift cards, compliments of Eden Brae Homes.  Over $620 was raised on the night. 

We would like to thank the following businesses for their support by donating prizes for our raffle: 
Eden Brae Homes (major prize), 
Rouse Hill Town Centre & Green Travel Club, 
St George Bank Rouse Hill, 
Stanhope Village
, The Ponds Therapy, and 
Amor's Creations.

Congratulations to the winners of our recent Mother’s day Competition in Saddlers Ridge and Hidden Waters! We had three excited young “super colourers” who won a beautiful bunch of pink, long stemmed roses as a gift for their mum. Connections and Mirvac are pleased to announce the winners of the competition were Caleb Wilson, Mia Stamatelatus and Kloye Davidson!
The flowers were delivered to the mums on Friday and it was delightful to be welcomed into their stunning new homes. 
Finally, thank you to all the budding young artists who entered. The standard was very high. I’d encourage you all to enter future competitions there are some great prizes to be won.

A very special congratulations to the newest residents at Panorama! We would love to welcome Isabella Giamas, Shanina Ramirez, Samuel Bartalome, and Memphis to the Panorama family! Congratulations to each of these families!

A very special Happy Mothers Day  to all the Mothers for this weekend! And a very special congratulations to all the winners of the Mothers Day Colouring Competitions that have been held! We hope that the prizes make it home and the Mothers enjoy their gifts!

Children are invited to get creative for a chance to win their Mothers a special gift this Mothers Day! Simply download the attached PDF Colouring Competition, and send back to us the completed form along with their artistic creations! Entries close 2nd May, 2011. For more information and details, contact us here at Connections Community Development, or see the attached document below.

Mothers Day Colouring Competition

The Giamas are overjoyed to welcome their new little resident to the Panorama estate. isabella Peta Giamas was born on 19th April. Congratulations to mum, dad and little sister Chloe.

The People Places Bunnings Giveaway continues until the end of April, 2011! Five lucky The Ponds residents will receive one of five $50 Bunnings Vouchers! If you live in Kellyville Ridge, you are eligible to win a $50 Bunnings voucher too! Haven't checked it out yet? To be eligible for one of the vouchers, simply register as a member of People Places by CLICKING HERE then also do one of the following when you are logged on the site:

• "Watch" one of the videos featuring The Ponds on People TV (these show just how great our community is!)
• "Like" People Places on Facebook
• "Follow" People Places on Twitter
• "Tweet" about The Ponds on Twitter using the hashtags #theponds or #peopleplaces
• "Create" a hotspot of your favourite park, restaurant, shop, group, etc, in and around your community

It's that simple! Hope to see you soon at People Places.

The contract for the multi-million dollar Central and Northern Parklands at The Ponds has been awarded by Landcom to Design Landscapes. You can read the full media release, including all about the designs planned for this fantastic new parklands in the attached Media Release.

Media Release 13 April 2011

The latest editions of the Entertainment Book are now available to order, with over $10,000 worth of valuable offers inside! 2011/2012 Entertainment Book Editions available are:
         - SYDNEY: $65
         - SYDNEY NORTH: $65
         - SYDNEY GREATER WEST: $60 (formerly Parramatta, The Hills, Blue Mountains and Macarthur)
A portion of the purchase price goes towards Hopscotch Playtime Group, a community service by NewHope Kellyville. If you would like to order a book, place contact info@newhopekellyville.org.au

The People Places website is an exciting new site recently launched. To view some recently recorded stories at The Ponds, please visit www.peopleplaces.com.au, click on Latest, then People TV and you will see four stories about The Ponds. As you can see in the latest newsletter for The Ponds, residents can win a $50 Bunnings voucher! For full details on how, please visit www.thepondscommunity.com.au, click on NEWS and read the relevant story.

The Ponds April/May 2011 Newsletter

Parkbridge residents of the furry and four legged kind enjoyed a fantastic afternoon of fun and activities, and even brought their owners along! Despite the wet weather, residents enjoyed a fantastic family afternoon with a free BBQ, activities, a special guest speaker, and an amazing live animal show brought to us by FEATURE CREATURES, with every family receiving a special showbag filled with animal treats and information. Photos of the event can be viewed in the GALLERY! 

Don't forget to visit the EVENTS page to see what is coming up in your estate!

Bunnings Warehouse, Norwest, are providing FREE entertainment for families this school holidays, with a range of programs to keep everyone entertained!
For more information, download the attached pamphlets from below, or contact Bunnings Warehouse Norwest, on (02) 9854 9500, or at norwestactivitiesorganiser@bunnings.com.au

Bunnings Holiday Fun Pamphlets

Would you like to see your business advertised within your estate?
The Local Community Directories or each estate are currently being updated and redesigned! If you would like to see your business included, send us an email to info@connectionscd.com.au, or alternatively, contact your local Community Development Facilitator directly (details can be found on the Staff Page).

When contacting us, don't forget to include not only all your business details, but all your contact information, and which estate you live in. 

Community Directory Flyer

A special event was organised for Wednesday 22nd March for current and future residents of The Ponds, giving them an opportunity to see a presentation by Context Design Landscapes regarding the construction of three proposed parks on the western side of Second Ponds Creek, between the release area "Waterfall" and future Ridgeline Drive. The evening provided an opportunity for feedback and discussion with representatives from the developers of The Ponds, Landcom and Australand.  Food and drinks were also provided.

This fantastic annual event is on once again, and residents are invited to come and sample food, wine and beer, all sourced from local restaurants and cafes! This annual event is on again Sunday 27th March, at Rowanbrae Reserve, with entertainment and food starting from 12:00pm!

For more information, visit the Events Calendar on this website and download the pamphlet, or, alternatively, contact the Bella Vista Waters Community Development Facilitator, Tuula, at tuula.schaeffer@connectionscd.com.au

BVW Food & Wine Festival Flyer

We are so thrilled to welcome the following little people to The Ponds:

Baby Branden, first born to Caren & Richard on 16th January, weighing 3.62kg and 51cm long.

Baby Azeem, born to Fozia & Inaam on 11th February, weighing 3.06kg and 50cm long. His big sisters, Hira & Fiza, are thrilled to have a baby brother.

We are so thrilled to welcome the following little people to The Ponds:

Baby Noah, first born to Alison & Mark on 20th December, weighing 3.72kg and 51.5cm long.

Baby Olive, born to Casey & Shane 14th December, weighing 3kg and 50cm long. Big brother Archie is very proud.

The latest Bella Vista Waters Interactive, Autumn 2011 Edition, is now available for residents! Keep an eye out for it in your letterboxes soon!

In the latest edition you will find all the latest news about what has been happening in Bella Vista Waters, information on upcoming events, and even a competition to win a $50 seafood voucher!

The BulletBus, a convenient, comfortable and fast way to get to the city or North Sydney at peak hour is now picking up passengers at Rouse Hill Town Centre.

Passengers are able to park in the car park running along Rouse Hill Drive and the buses pick up in the bus terminal about half way down. Pick up times are 6.17am, 6.57am, 7.17am and 7.47am.

For enquiries, please contact BulletBus on 1300 307 442 or at www.bulletbus.com.au

It is amazing what an enthusiastic group of residents can accomplish in one morning. 27 bags of garbage was collected around Strangers Creek and the lake on Clean Up Australia Day at Bella Vista Waters. A huge thank you to the Jenkinson, Obrien and Heymel families for this great effort. They are keen to see other residents also involved in the clean up next year.

Young Mums: if you are looking to join a playgroup, look no further than The Ponds King Tots Playgroup, which meets Fridays at 10 am at the neighbourhood centre, corner of Fyfe and Carindale Streets. Contact Alda on 0405 593 973.

Also, we are looking for expressions of interest for a Wednesday group. If you are interested, please email Michele: michele.girdham@connectionscd.com.au.

Young Brad Heyes from The Ponds is colouring his hair in support of Leukaemia Foundation's The World's Greatest Shave. If you would like to support him in this worthy cause, visit  http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/bradleyhayes? langPref=en-CA.

If you would like to be involved yourself, why not go along to Stanhope Village, where, at the front of K Mart you can have your hair shaved or coloured on Friday 11th March from 1:00PM to 4:00PM for a minimum gold coin donation. See http://www.stanhopevillage.com.au/centre-events

Greenway Views will soon be featuring a new park! The park is located at the corner of Manton Ave and Conway Ave and will be a fantastic asset for the estate.

Keep checking back here for more information as the park nears completion, and for all the latest news on your estate!

Kid Friendly Family Lifestyle Guide is a fantastic publication for parents and families, now available online at www.kidfriendly.com.au. Kid Friendly has become a trusted and sought after guide renowned for its straightforward information and a valuable resource tool for todays parents on the go.

Their focus is to promote a range of events, venues and activities that appeal to families wants and needs that indirectly strengthens the family unit covering everything from the retail sector to attractions and everything in between. Don't forget to visit their website at www.kidfriendly.com.au

One of the initiatives implemented by Connections is The Walking Bus, which aims to see children walk to school in a way that encourages a healthy lifestyle, is environmentally friendly, and builds community. A fantastic position has opened up for a Manager of The Walking Bus. The position is permanent part-time, 15 hours per week, with the possibility of more hours to come as the program expands. The position will be working alongside another coordinator to expand the program, and to seek additional sources of funding which currently operates in six schools. The position also requires the expansion of the Walking Bus programs in the schools it is currently operating.

The long-term vision of this program is to see it rolled out at a national level. Are you the person to make this happen? For more information on the job, along with contact details, please see the attached pdf. Also, visit the Walking Bus website at www.walkingbus.com.au.

WB Job Advert

The new Walking Club in Panorama has launched with a great turn out! This is a regular group that meets in the estate, and walks for social and fitness reason.

It's a great opportunity to meet new friends! The group caters for everyone of all ages, and is a great way to meet new friends!
For more information, contact Christie, the Panorama Community Development Facilitator. Her details can be found on this site under Our Staff.

The teachers at John Palmer Public School were treated to a delicious lunch, catered for by Peacock Indian Cuisine, on their first day back. Sponsored by The Ponds, the lunch provides an opportunity for the community facilitator to connect with staff, including many new teachers, of this growing school in the middle of our community.

The Ponds Community Development Program partners also with other schools in the area, organising Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day competitions with prizes which are great gifts the children can pass on to their parent.  The program also sponsors citizenship awards.

2011 has seen The Walking Bus launch their fantastic new website, www.walkingbus.com.au. Please visit the website for all the latest information, Frequently Asked Questions, Walking Bus routes, online registration, as well as much more!

The Walking Bus is a fantastic program, providing a safe, fun and healthy way for children to get to school! It is also a fun and active way for parents to make new friends, as well as walking their children to and from school! If you would like more information, would like to register your child, or if you are interested in volunteering, head on over to www.walkingbus.com.au, or simply click on the link at the top right of this website!

Walking Bus Newsletter

Congratulations to Jack and Tina from The Lakes on the birth of their baby boy in December.

A fantastic new fitness class has started up in Parkbridge, at Lancaster Park helping people meet those New Years resolutions for 2011, and everyone is welcome to attend, with the classes held at the convenient times of Wednesday 9:30AM and Saturday 8:00AM, at Lancaster Park in Parkbridge!

All you need to bring is your towel and a bottle of water! This is a fun, healthy and fantastic way to make new friends and to exceed those goals you've always wanted to achieve! Download the pamphlet by clicking the link below! For more information contact Fitness Trainer Kristie (details on the pamphlet).

Panorama Fitness

The Parkbridge Parents Group is recommencing for 2001 after a fantastic summer break! Come along and join us at the BBQ Area for a great morning of craft, activities, and morning tea! It is a great way to meet other people from your community. Visit the EVENTS page to find out the Parents Group dates for Term 1, which can also be downloaded below on the attached PDF!

Parkbridge Parents Group Dates

The latest newsletter for The Ponds (February - March 2011) is now available for download! Simply follow the link at the bottom of this news item! It will also be distributed throughout your estate very soon! Feel free to contact us if you would like any further information on any of the articles, upcoming events, or how you can contribute to the life of your community!

The Ponds Feb/March '11 Newsletter

The latest newsletter for Bella Vista Waters (February / March) is now available! It will be distributed throughout the estate, and is also available for download at the bottom of this News Item! Simply click on the link below and catch up on all the latest news, events held over Christmas, and the latest calendar of upcoming events in Bella Vista Waters!

If you would like any further information on any of the articles, or upcoming events, or would like to help contribute to the life of your community in any way, give Tuula a call and see how you can help make a difference.

BVW Feb/March '11 Newsletter

Happy New Years from all our staff here at Connections Community Development!  2011 is going to be an exciting year full of amazing opportunities for you to become involved in your community! Contact your Community Development Facilitator, or just complete our online survey, to find out how the many ways you can be involved!

Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new friends and to give a little something back to help build your communities spirit. You can volunteer in many ways, from helping out at Parents Groups, organising a social club, get fit by delivering your community newsletters, and event help organise an event for your neighbourhood!

An exciting new position has opened up for a Community Development Facilitator in Sydney’s South West! Our partner organisation, Community Building Enterprises (www.communitybuildingenterprises.com.au), is a non-profit organisation, which works with local partners to build a spirit of community through a number of innovative initiatives within new estates. Operating as part of a professional team, the position is part-time (starting at 15 hrs per week) and will be based from offices within the new estate at Oren Park Town.

The role is very flexible and will involve personal visits to new residents, organising and running community events, liaising with the onsite developer, and building community through initiatives such as publishing and distributing community newsletters, establishing and coordinating special interest groups, working along side local businesses and services, among others.

Applicants should have great communication, organisational and management skills, high level Mac and PC skills, high level knowledge of Microsoft Office and other relevant software, a registered car and current license, ability to work independently, a very positive, friendly and outgoing personality, and flexibility to work some weekends / evenings when community events are organised.

While this is a “hands-on” role, the person will need to be able to think and operate strategically at a corporate level. For further information and ideas on what we do have a look through this website and at our operating partners, Community Building Enterprises (CBE) at www.communitybuildingenterprises.com.au, or alternatively give Warren Weir a call on 0412 677 878
If you are interested in this position, please forward your resume to info@communitybuildingenterprises.com.au
Applications close at close of business Tuesday January 25, 2011 so get in quick!

From all the staff at Connections Community Development, we hope that everyone has a very Merry Christmas this festive season! May everyone have a fantastic time with family, and travel safely. We look forward to seeing everyone again in the new year for even more great times within your estate!

Check back here regularly to find out whats coming up! Until 2011, Merry Christmas!

A fantastic night was had by over 5,000 people who attended the 2010 Carols by Candlelight at The Ponds, persevering through the early showers to enjoy a night full of entertainment for the whole family.

This years theme "All Aboard The Christmas Express" saw residents transported to different locations filled with songs, dance, and carols. A live nativity, band, choir, 20 piece Pipe Band, snow falling from the sky, and a special trip to The North Pole where Santa arrived by train to the stage, kept the audiences captivated the whole night. The evening, hosted by Gavin Robertson, culminated with an amazing fireworks show put on by Howard & Sons Pyrotechnics.

Check back here later this week to see all the photos from the evening in our gallery! Residents are also encouraged to email us their photos from the evening to go up on the website and show everyone how much fun they had!

Merry Christmas everyone! 

The Milo In2Cricket program has finished with the final day featuring more cricket fun, a BBQ, presentations and even Santa paid a visit. Thank you to all parents who helped to make the program such a great success.

The 2010 Carols By Candlelight is finally here! Bring the whole family along for and join The Ponds Express for a surprise filled Carols by Candlelight experience, with traditional carols, candles, and lots of entertainment, ending with an amazing FIREWORKS display! Bring a picnic or purchase dinner from a variety of stalls.

6:00 PM - GATES OPEN with food stalls, camel and trackless train rides for a gold coin donation, and free candles for the whole family.

8:00 PM - CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

9.30 PM (approx) - SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY!

WHEN: Sunday, December 19, 2010

WHERE: Corner of The Ponds Boulevard and Riverbank Drive, The Ponds, NSW

2011 Carols Pamphlet

With only a few sleeps left until Christmas, Santa is beginning to make appearances around the estates! Keep your eyes open, and listen out for his bell as he goes through the estates with gifts for the children!

For more information when to expect Santa check out the Events page on this site! Also check out the photos of Santas visits so far this year!

The Christmas season started off with a fantastic weekend of celebrations! Residents had a fantastic festive evening, with party themes including Traditional Christmas Celebrations, An Aussie Christmas, and a Tropical Polynesian Christmas. Events will continue to be held in all the estates right up until Christmas, with Christmas Lights Competitions, Santa Visits, and Carols by Candlelight Spectaculars!

Check out all the photos from these events under the GALLERY page! Also see what is coming up in your estate in the EVENTS page!

Welcome to our new Connections Community Development Website now up and running! Make sure you regularly check back to check out new photos from our latest events, details on future events coming up in your area, and news stories from your community! The site will be regularly updated so check back here just as frequently to stay up to date on what has been going on in your estate, and what will be happening very soon! A special thanks to Jo, Blake and all the team at SALT Advertising Group (www.saltadvertisinggroup.com) who have done such an amazing job!

Welcome to our new Connections Community Development Website now up and running! Make sure you regularly check back to check out new photos from our latest events, details on future events coming up in your area, and news stories from your community!
The site will be regularly updated so check back here just as frequently to stay up to date on what has been going on in your estate, and what will be happening very soon!
A special thanks to Jo, Blake and all the team at SALT Advertising Group (www.saltadvertisinggroup.com) who have done such an amazing job!

Local residents received a welcome boost with the completion of Stanhope Parkway in The Ponds. Landcom has constructed Stanhope Parkway from the Conrad Road roundabout at Stanhope Gardens through to Hambledon Road, Schofields. The project involved a new bridge and three sets of traffic lights. The total value of these works within The Ponds, including Second Ponds Creek Bridge, is an investment of over $15 million.

The completion of the road not only brings improved access and travel times in the local region, but also makes Quakers Hill Station only 10 minutes away from The Ponds and Stanhpe Gardens.

The Water Cultures Public Art Competition has been launched and the successful artists who were shortlisted are:
- Art Venture
- Bronwyn Berman
- Braddon Snape
- Duke Albada
- Jane Cavanagh
- Jill Chism
- Plowright Studios

Selection of the successful shortlist was undertaken in accordance with the tender evaluation process detailed in the artist brief as issued for the project.  As the selection process has been slower than envisaged, Landcom will be revising the submission date for the next stage until early 2011. Artists are visiting the site on 24th November.

Landcom thanks all for their submissions for this important public art project.  Thanks also to Michelle Bitner and Shanaka who are the community representatives on the selection panel.

An Over 50's Group has been formed at The Ponds.  As their first event, the group went out to dinner at Thai Spice, Stanhope Village, on Friday 19th November and enjoyed a delicious banquet.

The group will meet regularly and is a great way to make new friends.  Check this website for more information on future outings.

A drinks and dessert night with a difference was held at The Ponds on Wednesday night 17th November. Local businesses were invited to come along to a mini Business Expo and a variety of businesses took up the offer to promote awareness, meet people and some were even able to sell products. Several businesses donated prizes for a lucky door prize.

Volunteers from NewHope Kellyville (a Baptist Church) provided activities for the children. There were new and familiar faces among the crowd and everyone enjoyed a pleasant night out.

A fundraising Movie Night, held at John Palmer Public School on Saturday 6th November, was a great success. There was a variety of activities for families to participate in, food, face painting, entertainment and everyone enjoyed watching Tooth Fairy. Over $3,350 was raised on the night, a great reward for the effort by the Parents and Citizens Association.

The Ponds was a sponsor of the event along with The Berry Patch and Audio Visual Warehouse. Photos courtesy of Debbie Blackwell, principal, John Palmer Public School.

Sunday 17th October was a perfect day to be at The Plaza, The Ponds, for our annual Spring Celebration. Current & future residents along with people from the local area were treated to a relaxing afternoon with live music by Anna Matthewson & band, a free afternoon tea of muffins and scones. Many who brought their bikes were able to attend a bicycle safety course.

There was also some cricketing fun and a game, organised by Craig from Cricket NSW. They could also purchase drinks, coffee or Dippin' Dots ice cream for a subsidised $2. Sue Wiblin from Rouse Hill Town Centre's Green Travel Club was on hand with information and a highlight of the day was the prize draw of a $1000 Trek Bicycle Store bicycle and helmet voucher, donated by Green Travel Club. The winner, Duane Raitt, is new to the local area from England. Welcome to Australia!

Ladies from Bella Vista Waters were invited to a night of fun, food, fashion, beauty & champagne, and a little shopping, with money raised for Cancer Council. It was a beautiful evening with everyone enjoying themselves. A special thanks to all the Special Guests who gave a lot of fantastic information and tips for all the ladies.

PDF

Milo In2Cricket intorudces boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old to the game of cricket through fun, action-packed programs and activities. The recent registration day at The Ponds attacted much interest and the program is ready to go. Milo In2Cricket starts on Friday 17th October and will run until Friday 17th December, from 6 pm to 7 pm, at The Plaza, next to The Ponds Sales & Display Centre. To register, please contact Shanaka on 0435 028 103 or come along on the first night

Connections Community Development welcomes another two new staff members to our team. Christie McDougall who started in late May will be the Community Development Facilitator at Panorama, and Anne Irvine who started this week will take over the coordination of The Walking Bus program.

Moira Gase who previously coordinated The Walking Bus program has now started working for Helping Hand. We appreciate all the work Moira has put into establishing and coordinating The Walking Bus during the past three years.