Welcome to my June Newsletter
Welcome to my June Newsletter
In this newsletter:
š An Update on Local Bus Services
š³ New Parks in the Electorate
š£ļø Have Your Say: Tintern Avenue
š¶āāļø Rawson Street Pedestrian Crossing Update
š Have You Thought About Volunteering?
āļø Cancer Council's Biggest Morning Tea
ā My Morning Tea with the Gidget Foundation
Welcome to my June newsletter.
Iām back in Parliament this week (Jude in tow) to fight for our community.
This week the NSW Government handed down another State Budget. There are some good elements to this Budget: the Government has matched our commitment to reduce car registration by $100 and there is important investment in health and domestic violence services.
However the Budget also confirmed in numbers what many are probably feeling ā that we are in a per capita recession, which means our quality of living is going backwards. There was no plan in the Budget to grow the economy or create jobs to provide for all families across the State.
Budgets are ultimately about choices, and unfortunately, the NSW Government has made a choice not to make new investments in our communities, despite significant population growth.
Our plan for the community is to lower taxes, grow the economy and invest in education for our children. You can see some of my thoughts here.
An Update on Local Bus Services
Local bus reliability has been a top concern for our community, and I've been fighting for more routes and more buses. My petition is here. That fight is not over but I wanted to provide an important update about some changes that are happening in our community.
Transport for NSW is now introducing major network changes across our area.
Here are some of the changes:
- Route 550: 49 additional trips per week and high-capacity buses during peak times.
- Routes 291 and 549: Updated with new timetables to improve reliability.
- Route 552: This route has been completely withdrawn.
- Route 546: Morning services will deviate through Oatlands to replace Route 552.
You can find more information here.
If you have concerns with these changes ā please get in touch. I want to hear whether these changes are good, bad or are making the challenges with our buses worse.
New Parks in the Electorate
As a Mum, I know that I need great local parks. So it's good to see some of our local parks getting an upgrade.
Somerville Park has had a much needed upgrade with a new playground, accessibility paths, fitness and sports facilities. There was a great community turnout at the parkās reopening ceremony, and Iām sure many more Epping residents will enjoy using the transformed space in years to come!
The funds for this upgrade came from the West Invest program from the former government, funded from the proceeds from West Connex.
Click here to learn more about Somerville Park's upgrade.
Carlingfordās Kilpack Park has also received a major upgrade, expected to be officially opened in July 2026. New playground equipment, surfacing, fitness facilities, and lighting have been installed in the past year.
Click here to learn more about this upgrade.
Have your say: Tintern Avenue at Pennant Hills Road
If you live or drive through Carlingford, this one affects you. Parramatta Council is proposing an āAll Traffic Left Onlyā restriction for northbound traffic on Tintern Avenue at Pennant Hills Road, following congestion caused by the new pedestrian refuge island near Cumberland High School.
Community feedback is open now and closes at 5pm on Tuesday 14 July 2026. Have your say here.
Rawson Street Pedestrian Crossing Update
Lots of politicians before me have promised to fix the Rawson Street crossing. Politicians at all levels have taken photos, posted on Facebook and run petitions.
The solution that has been routinely proposed are signals at the intersection to manage the flow of pedestrians and cars. Council have said they are being blocked by State Government. State Government has said it's a Council road.
Hereās what Iāve been told by the Roads Minister:
"A signal installation too close to the existing traffic lights at the Rawson Street and Carlingford Road intersection could adversely affect vehicle movements into and out of Rawson Street. This may lead to queuing that could extend back onto. Carlingford Road, impacting traffic flow for the broader community."
So we have a case of Transport bureaucrats saying ācomputer says noā.
If the Epping Town Master Plan is executed according to the current vision this would address the issue but Iām not holding my breath on this.
So what does that mean for the community? Iāll still fight for signals and will continue to advocate to both Council and the State Government that an intervention is desperately needed to actually improve traffic flow.
Have you thought about volunteering?
We are lucky to have some great volunteer groups in our community, from Rotary, to the Menās Shed to the P&C groups that support our schools.
Recent ABS data indicates that volunteering is on the decline, which means our community groups, sporting clubs and volunteer emergency services are doing more with fewer volunteers.
If you've been thinking about getting involved, here are some ways to do it right here in the Epping electorate:
Become a Justice of the Peace (JP) - JPs witness statutory declarations, affidavits, and certified copies of documents. If you're interested, contact our office and we can walk you through the nomination process.
P.S. my office has a JP available on Wednesday and Friday, you can book an appointment here.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) - Volunteers help protect communities from bushfires and other emergencies. No experience is needed; training is provided. Apply online at the NSW RFS website or contact your local brigade. (Our local brigade is based in North Rocks!)
NSW State Emergency Service (SES) - Roles range from emergency response to admin and community engagement. Apply through the NSW SES website or call 1800 201 000.
Rotary Clubs ā Volunteers lend hands at fundraising events, local community initiatives, and help organise outreach programs. Clubs in the Epping Electorate include Epping Rotary Club, Carlingford Rotary Club, and Beecroft Rotary Club. Apply on their website or by contacting the club.
Parramatta Council - Volunteer opportunities options include Community Care, Bushcare, Community Garden or Park Committee Member, and library programs. Apply on their website.
If your organisation needs volunteers, contact us and we'll post a callout in the next newsletter.
Biggest Morning Tea
You probably know someone who has had cancer; you may even know someone who has lost their life to this insidious disease.
Thank you to Shirley Wehbe and family in Oatlands for continuing their long-standing community tradition with a generous community breakfast spread, and to Carmen Drive Community Pharmacy in Carlingford for bringing the local area to life with great treats and live music.
Missed the events but still want to support life-changing cancer research? Find out more here.
Gidget Foundation
I hosted my first Community Morning Tea in partnership with the Gidget Foundation.
We heard from Gidget Foundationās CEO, Arabella Gibson, about the incredible work that they do to mentally support mums and families through pregnancy and early parenthood.
Parenthood at any stage has its joys and challenges; however early parenthood can feel particularly challenging without the right resources and support.
Click here to find out more about Gidget Foundation Australia.
Until my next newsletter,
Monica Tudehope MP
Member for Epping
Epping Community Notice Board
Want to hear the latest news about upcoming grants, forums, available award programs and events? Make sure your details are up to date, click on the button below.
Beecroft LAWN Tennis Club Inc
As one of the longest operating Tennis Clubs in Sydney, the Beecroft Lawn Tennis Club Inc., boasts both lawn and synthetic grass tennis courts to its Members and Hirers.
Our two synthetic tennis courts are equipped with the latest high tech LED lighting which brings daylight to nighttime tennis and at very competitive rates.
Have you ever really wondered what it would be like to play tennis on real lawn, just like at Wimbledon? Now is your chance, right here at Beecroft.
Whether you wish to join our very friendly club or simply hire a court, full details of the Club and its people can be found on https://beecrofttennis.com.au or email us on info@beecroftlawntennis.org.au
Beecroft Combined Probus Club
Beecroft Combined Probus Club is dedicated to fostering friendship, connection and active living for its members. The Club exists solely to serve the Probus community and is non-political
Meetings
are held on the second Friday of each month (FebruaryāDecember) at St
Johnās Church Hall (corner of Beecroft Road and Chapman Street,
Beecroft).
For enquiries, please contact Suzanne Brady (Secretary) at bcprobussecretary@gmail.com. More information is available at www.beecroftcombinedprobusclub.org.au.
Beecroft Community Hall/Craft and Conversation
The
Hornsby Hub and Ku-Ring-Gai Neighbourhood Centre sponsors Craft and
Conversation every Wednesday during the school term from 9.30am until
12.30pm. This promotes connection amongst retirees and all who come
along. The hall also has space for other activities.
If you are interested in joining Craft and Conversation or
booking the hall, please phone Roslyn Hayes on 0414 146 139.
Carlingford SOS (Switched On Seniors)
Carlingford
SOS is a welcoming social group for retirees and seniors, offering a
relaxed and friendly weekly morning tea with opportunities to connect,
learn and be entertained. Morning tea is held every Tuesday from 9:30am
to 11:00am in the Community Room on the 3rd Floor of Carlingford Court
Shopping Centre.
The cost is $10
at the door, with no joining fees, and each week features a guest
speaker or entertainment. Programs are available from Guest Services at
Carlingford Court. For more information, visit www.sosclub.au or contact Dianna Hammond at dianna8@bigpond.net.au.
Cheltenham Recreation Club
Cheltenham Recreation Club is a welcoming community club offering Tennis, Croquet and Real Tennis for all ages. Located at 60ā74 The Crescent, Cheltenham NSW 2119, the club is open seven days a week from 9am until late.
For membership and program enquiries, visit www.thecheltenhamclub.com.au or contact Salvatore Barbera on 0435 924 483 or via email at enquires@thecheltenhamclub.com.au.
Epping Civic Trust
Epping Civic Trust is a long-standing volunteer organisation that has represented local residents for more than 50 years. The Trust works to improve life in Epping, with a strong focus on development, infrastructure and the local environment. Quarterly newsletters are shared with members and are also available on the Trustās website at: www.eppingcivictrust.org.
Quarterly public meetings are held at the Epping Church of Christ Hall, 31 Bridge Street, Epping, commencing at 7:30pm on the third Tuesday of February, May, August and November, and feature guest speakers. Enquiries can be directed to Judith Dawes, President, at eppingcivictrust@gmail.com.
Epping Scout Group
Epping Scout Group delivers youth programs and services that support personal development, leadership and community involvement for young people of all ages. Activities are tailored to different age groups, with meeting locations and times varying accordingly.
For enquiries and further information, please contact Simone Haider at: simone.haider@nsw.scouts.com.au
Epping Football Club
Epping Football Club offers soccer competitions across both the summer and winter seasons. The club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels and hosts games and training sessions at West Epping Park. For more information about registration, teams or upcoming seasons, please contact Malcolm Arnold on 0448 555 058.
Epping Senior Citizen Club Inc (ESCC)
ESCC is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation offering a wide range of activities designed to support seniorsā health, wellbeing and social connection. Through ten different community activities, the Club helps improve physical fitness and balance, while reducing the risk of falls, depression and loneliness. ESCC provides a pleasant and welcoming environment where older residents can make friends and enjoy staying active.
The Club is led by President and contact person Cathy So, who can be contacted at eppingseniorcitizenclub@gmail.com. ESCC is located at 1 Chambers Court, Epping, beneath the Library in the Epping Leisure & Learning Centre.
North Epping Menās Shed (NEMS)
North Epping Menās Shed is a welcoming community space where men and women of all ages come together to learn new skills, work on projects and enjoy good company. Our Shed offers wellāequipped woodworking and metalworking facilities, handsāon training, interest groups, community projects and social activities that support wellbeing, purpose and connection.
New members are always welcome ā whether youāre keen to make things, volunteer your time, learn something new or simply meet others in a friendly, supportive environment.
NEMS is located at 130 Boundary Road, North Epping NSW 2121 ā nems.org.au. For enquiries, please email info@nems.org.au or visit the Shed during opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs & Sat, 8amā2pm.
North Rocks Football Club
North Rocks Football Club offers community football for children, youth and adults across the electorate. Training runs on weeknights with games on Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays at North Rocks Oval, Hazel Ryan Oval and Murray Farm Reserve. For more information contact Jessica Squillacioti at nrsfc.president@gmail.com or visit their website.
Northwest Sydney Tennis
Northwest Sydney Tennis is
a community tennis centre offering competitive play, social tennis and
professional coaching for players of all ages and abilities. The centre
caters to juniors, adults and seniors, with programs running throughout
the week and school holiday camps available.
Activities are based at 97 Midson Road, Epping, with an additional centre at Britannia Street, Pennant Hills. For enquiries, please contact Jackie De Vivo (Manager) on (02) 9481 0970 or email info@northwestsydneytennis.com.au.
Parramatta Bridge Club
Ever wanted to learn a new card game that is fun, social and great for your brain? Parramatta Bridge Club welcomes new members and runs beginner lessons throughout the year at Burnside Community Hall in Oatlands. Bridge is played by millions around the world and is a wonderful way to meet people and challenge your mind.
For more information contact President Margaret East at parramattabridgeclub@gmail.com
Parramatta Women's Shed
Parramatta Womenās Shed is a welcoming community organisation focused on woodworking, artisan crafts and DIY skill-sharing. The Shed provides a supportive space for women to learn new skills, share knowledge and build strong community connections.
President and contact person Alison Pryor can be reached at parramatta.womens.shed@gmail.com or on 0497 423 998. Shed activities are held at the corner of Wade and Shortland Street, Telopea, with postal correspondence to 9/52 West Parade, West Ryde.
Rotary Club of Epping
To
improve the wellbeing of our community and to foster international
understanding through the actions of Epping Club members. Embracing
Rotary Ideals.
Meetings at the Epping Rotary Community Hall 1-3 Brigg Road, Epping
Meeting times 6.00pm for 6.30pm on Mondays. Contact the Secretary - Ian Stephenson
0422 541 266 ian_stephenson2001@yahoo.com.
Sydney Real Tennis
Sydney Real Tennis offers opportunities for players of all ages to learn and enjoy the historic sport of Real Tennis. The club is based at 60ā74 The Crescent, Cheltenham NSW 2119, and operates seven days a week from 9am until late, welcoming both beginners and experienced players.
For more information about lessons, memberships or court bookings, visit www.sydneyrealtennis.com.au or contact Alex Marino-Hume on 0466 591 907 or via email at pros@sydneyrealtennis.com.au.
The 1st Carlingford Scout Group
The
1st Carlingford Scout Group is a youth group for kids aged 5-18 years!
They meet at Carlingford Scout Hall, 20 Boundary Rd, Carlingford, on
various days and times.
If you're interested in joining or want more info, get in touch with Leonie Plummer on 0412 878 873 or Leonie.plummer@nsw.scouts.com.au. Also, their hall is available for community groups to hire, and they will run a Christmas Tree Sale on 5 Dec 2026!
West Epping Uniting Church
Join us at West Epping Uniting Church on Carlingford Road, Epping! Our "Friday Discovery" Seniors Group meets on the 3rd Friday of each month at 10am. We also host Playgroup and Mahjong on Tuesday mornings, Mainly Music on Wednesday mornings, and other various adult groups. Contact Church Office (Thursday and Friday 8.30am - 2.30pm) Phone 9868 3574 or weppinguca@gmail.com for more information.
