A small group of Blue Mountains women is helping local women survive and thrive and also contributing to improve maternal and newborn survival in developing countries. Assembling birthing kits for women in remote locations is just one of the many ways the Zonta Club of the Blue Mountains is empowering and supporting women, both abroad and at home.
Read More »A Composting Champion: One Small Act = A Huge Impact
Jo Heeps has prevented more than 11 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions being released from landfill each year, simply by composting coffee grounds and food scraps from her local Glenbrook café. Learn how you can also make a big impact.
Read More »Claire Meijnderts Brings Hope to Children of Prisoners     Â
For two decades Claire Meijnderts of Blaxland has been a beacon of hope for children facing the challenges of having incarcerated parents. As a tireless volunteer leader of Camp for Kids, she has helped transform hundreds of lives and played a pivotal role in steering young people away from the justice system. While raising her family alongside husband Jeff, Claire has been a devoted foster Mum and has worn many other volunteer hats.
Read More »Op Shops & Antique Stores in the Lower Mountains Helping to Create a Sustainable Community
Op shops, antique stores and other secondhand sellers in the lower Blue Mountains offer an eclectic mix of practical, fun and rare pre-loved items. We took a tour of the  treasure troves helping to boost the circular economy.
Read More »Double The Fun Volunteering Together
Small business owner Sherilyn Page and her dad, retired public servant Peter Berry, have always been close. Volunteering together at the Blaxland Community Restaurant has deepened their relationship and brought joy to their guests and each other.
Read More »Top Tips To Help Your Garden Survive Summer
There are many steps you can take to protect your garden from the impacts of hot, dry conditions. Glenbrook Native Plant Nursery and Reserve volunteers share their advice on how to help native plants thrive and, in turn, cool down your home environment. Â
Read More »Protecting Our Community, One Street at a Time
The preparation and resilience shown by the Blue Mountains community in the 1994 bushfires helped create Fire and Rescue NSW’s Community Fire Unit (CFU) program. Meet the Blue Mountains-based head of the Statewide program and a dedicated CFU member in Winmalee.
Read More »Creating Connections and Beauty Out of Wood
Amidst the sound of sawing, carving and hammering, there’s laughter and chatter. Friendships are strengthened and skills are traded. Members of the Blue Mountains and Penrith Woodworking Club are supporting charities and each other.
Read More »Finding Your Feet in Nature’s Playground Â
For seven years, Blaxland Preschool Kindergarten has been delivering an innovative nature-based program that encourages adventure & risk-taking. Inspired by Scandinavian Forest Kindergartens, Bush Preschool is offered to children one day a fortnight.
Read More »The Healing Power of Wool
Every Friday at the Lower Mountains Neighbourhood Centre, women come together to transform balls of wool into blankets, beanies & teddies. Their creations find their way to people in nursing homes, premature babies, vulnerable children, homeless people or those living with terminal illness.
Read More »