Here is a personal story of a Mum who is experiencing the parenting journey of raising a transgender child. I raised my child with the intent of growing a wonderful […]
Magpie Season: Keeping Your Kids Safe from Spring Swoops. As Spring arrives in Australia, magpie season is upon us. For many, this means warmer weather, blooming flowers, and plenty of […]
There are plenty of activities you and your family can do to make Halloween fun. Watch the video from our Canadian friends on how to carve a pumpkin. After my […]
Motherhood and Breast Cancer – How a diagnosis taught me to prioritise my health and deepened my love for being a Mum. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my […]
Connor, a brave 7-year-old battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia since August 2023, recently swapped hospital wards for the fast lane at the iconic Repco Bathurst 1000.
October 15 is Pregnancy and Infant Loss International Remembrance Day Before we start, I want to say that this is a difficult topic for many people. This topic is relevant […]
Central West Playgroups. Here you’ll find recommended playgroups for your little ones all over the Central West including locations in Orange, Blayney, Canowindra, Cowra, Millthorpe and Molong. Orange Bush […]
Doing Death Differently: Navigating Farewells in a Changing Landscape Early one spring morning, at 19, my world was turned upside down when I discovered my boyfriend had died from a […]
Join the Team at Newstead Early Education and Care: Flexible, Rewarding, and Now Even More Attractive! A Warm and Inviting Place to Work Newstead Early Education and Care is more […]
Central West Community Fundraising Support Page Central West Mums would like to help spread the word about ways you can help people in our community which is essential in addressing […]
The death of a child at any age is a horrible thought for parents. Parents are supposed to outlive their children. In nature, that’s how it’s supposed to go. At […]
When my aunt was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 68 years old, she left the psychiatrist’s office with a prescription and no information on what to do next. […]
Do you want to improve your mood, sleep, digestion and stress? Your Vagus Nerve may be the answer. What is the vagus nerve? The vagus nerve is the longest cranial […]
Check-up your child’s eligibility – $1095 free dental care from ADA.
For year 12 students a lot of their energy at the moment would be focused on the HSC. This is a build-up after 13yrs of schooling and hard work. This […]
Do you have an HSC student in your household and not sure what to feed them? The HSC can be a gruelling time for our kids. It’s important to fuel […]
Bowen Community Technology Centre’s manager has been recognised for providing free help teaching adults and school-age children the 3 Rs and computers for 16 years.
Ronald McDonald House Central New South Wales in Orange provides accommodation for families that are coming to Orange, free of charge, for families with an unwell child going into hospital or having medical procedures. It is set behind Orange Base Hospital in the leafy grounds of Bloomfield Park and provides security, support and assistance to families while in care.
We all live in a stressful environment and this can have large impacts on your body. Find out how to identify if your body is stressed and some simple strategies to compact the impacts of stress.
“We provide a unique, holistic women-centred preventative and treatment approach to health and well-being. We empower women and children of all ages, cultures, sexual orientation and gender identity to make informed choices throughout their lives.” Central West Women’s Health Centre
What is music therapy, and how can it help people with their health and wellbeing? Music therapy is an evidence-based allied health profession and NDIS-funded support. In Australia, Registered Music […]
May is Huntington’s Disease awareness month and the 2024 High Tea fundraiser is on again!
Located in the elegant upstairs ballroom room of Hotel Canobolas, High Tea 4 HD will be a chance to sip bubbles, enjoy delicious finger food and pretty tiered cake stands – all in a sea of purple and blue table settings – this Mother’s Day on Sunday, 12 May at 11:00am.
From 1 July 2025, those eligible for the Parental Leave pay will receive 12% in super contributions to their nominated fund, in addition to the 20 week paid parental leave […]
Should I worry about my toddler? The early signs of autism in young children. I had two older children when my son was born. I started noticing differences at about […]
Spotting the signs of autism in school-aged children Younger children who have developmental delays are often diagnosed before the school years. However, children with typical language skills and average to […]
Carer Gateway program supports adult and young carers to manage their own well-being with emotional and practical services and support, so that they can continue in their carer roles.
Sport and recreation is an important part of our Australian culture and especially important in regional communities. Team sports promote participation and contribute to overall health and wellbeing. There are […]
What to do if your child is involved in a bullying incident If you learn or suspect that your child has been involved in a bullying situation, your first step […]
Here is a guide on what to look for in a before and after school care program This parenting business is a tough gig. The decisions you need to make […]
The silly season has come and gone and now it’s time to think about the school season again. Dear reader I sympathise with you. On top of a busy day […]
Six months has passed since the life of our beloved CWM member Kristy Armstrong was tragically taken in an act of domestic violence. In a loving bid determined to honour her and the 23 other Australian women who lost their lives in 2023 to DV, her children, loving family and friends dressed in purple for a special remembrance day ceremony in December.
What’s On If you are asking the question about where to have a photo taken with Santa this year, here are some venues for you to visit. Orange City Centre […]
For those of us who love to entertain, Christmas can be a busy time of year. From lunch on Christmas day to festive cocktail parties, preparation is key and will help you navigate the silly season with ease.
Famous for surfing and chilled-out summer vibes, Avoca Beach, on the New South Wales Central Coast, has long been a magnet for holidaying families. Whether your kids are keen to […]
Judy and Tony Fisher are in a club that nobody wishes to join because they have lost a child. Their 12 year old son Nic drowned in their backyard pool in 2001 but it was ten years before they understood what had actually caused this tragedy. They learnt that he’d died from Shallow Water Blackout in 2011, and the shocking part is that most people have played the long breath-holding game he and his friends were enjoying at the time.
Liz Sargeant has for over 22 years been a music education specialist, sharing the joy of music and the benefits of playing a musical instrument within schools and community bands, and believes the number one priority in any rehearsal or class is for participants to feel included and to be able to participate.
Men’s Health: So November is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and also Movember. This is a favourite time of the year for most men as instantaneous societal approval is given for […]
Warning: This article may contain content that some people find triggering, distressing or upsetting. The choice of the reader/audience to enter the article may require them to engage in self-care, […]
“When I’m collaborating with a child and see the spark light in their eyes and see the joy their families get from that inspiration, it makes me love this job.”
BurMac Financial Services have been providing expert insurance and financial advice for the agricultural, commercial and construction sectors in our larger regional NSW hubs for almost 40 years. They pride themselves on having a healthy work culture for its mums and strong relationships with their clients, and they owe that to thinking like a community.
Here is our Summer guide to sports clubs to join. Sport and recreation is an important part of our Australian culture and especially important in regional communities. Team sports promote […]
When planning what cellar doors to visit with kids, it is no easy feat when there are approximately 50 in the Orange region. Here you’ll find a trusted guide of cellar doors that are both family-friendly and provide a lovely tasting experience too.
Healthy meals the whole family will enjoy don’t have to be complicated or expensive! Below are my biggest tips for creating balanced meals without blowing your budget. 1. Take […]
“I fit bras for all women through every stage of life,” says Philippa Mitchell, owner of The Fitting Studio. “I service regional women with AA to K bra cups in sizes 8 to 28 – offering a beautiful range of quality garments, and back this up with exceptional customer service.”
Oh, to be young again!
Jenny’s Kindergarten and Early Learning centre is Bathurst’s answer to children’s early education needs, and its rating of Exceeding National Quality Standard is backed with gold stars from parents and schools for its life-long learning approach and professional, friendly staff.
VERTO’S vast range of services assisting businesses and individuals with all their apprenticeship, employment and training needs has benefitted 1000’s of workers over its 40-year history, and continues to meet the changing face of the job market with unbeatable advice, training and work opportunities through their wrap-around approach.
Orange literally has 100’s of amazing historic landmarks and places of interest to explore and so Central West Mums is launching a holiday drawing competition to celebrate these iconic places.
Follow your nose using Central Western Daily’s link ‘Extraordinary historic places in Orange NSW’ (compiled by photographers Carla Freedman and William Davis) to walk, hop or skip your way to the heritage homes and business-houses that are the foundations of our city.
I thought I knew what mattered when it came to aged care choices for a family member with dementia. Turns out, I knew very little.
WHEN Gabe McNamara from Clear Creek near Bathurst stepped back from volunteering at RMHC Central West to focus on her pregnancy, she could not possibly forsee that within a year […]
Death, dying and grief is overwhelming for all. There are so many unpredictable emotions and experiences during this time and knowing how to give sudden and unexpected news to children […]
How to use documentation to your advantage when approaching your child’s school.
Strikingly, morning sickness affects up to 90% of pregnant women but it is often overlooked as an illness and is considered the ‘norm’. Its unwanted symptoms of nausea or vomiting commonly occur in the first trimester and can happen at any time of the day and be isolating and physically challenging. The result is added pressure to the demands of work and raising a family – leaving many women feeling unsupported during a time that’s meant to be incredible.
As a mother, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily demands of taking care of your family. Between cooking meals, running errands, working and keeping up with the […]
This Mother’s Day you could be on a winner for life by treating (you and) your mum to a fabulous fundraising high tea.
Located in the beautiful upstairs ballroom room of Hotel Canobolas, the High Tea 4 HD will be a chance to sip bubbles and/or tea, try delicious finger food, enjoy pretty tiered cake stands and time together – all in a sea of pink and gold table settings.
The Autumn School Holidays are approaching and it’s forecast to be warmer and dryer temperatures this year, so here’s what’s approaching around the Central West region. Here’s our suggestion list […]
Online mums-supporter Ami Zielinski is shimmying as she dons her dance shoes in preparation for Stars of Orange 2023.
Co-founder and director of Central West Mums, Ami will be joining nine other business owners and personalities from the Orange area breaking dance moves to raise funds to help fight cancer.
Knowing your Personal Insurance. With interest rates and cost of living on the rise, I am seeing more clients questioning the value of their Personal Insurances. I’ve found that in […]
Vintage ’80s is the new black at Blayney’s huge ‘80s vibe party this Wednesday-Sunday, where everyone is invited and entry is free.
With 1000’s of glammed-up visitors coming to town, Blayney will be awash with neon leg warmers, mullets, big curls, Doc Martens and awesome costumes from seminal movies like Rocky, Top Gun and Dirty Dancing – creating something of pop-up theme park.
Now I don’t want to alarm anyone, but most winter sports clubs are about to start their season sign ups… Yes – I know winter still felt like it was […]
Welcome to Westfund. Welcome to Feel Good Cover. You don’t spend 140-odd years working with Australians without finding out what matters to them. Westfund helped to forge the private health […]
Parents, Guardians and Carers of school-aged children in NSW can now apply for Back to School Vouchers valued at $150 for each eligible student. Premier Dominic Perrottet announced in December […]
Every school holiday period, our speech pathology families are given the option; continued therapy in the holidays or a therapy break? Choosing the option that is best for both you and your child might not as simple as it first seems.
The floods have been devastating across our community. When a flood happens in a community, it can be highly distressing for many people. A large number of these are children […]
Christmas traditions If there’s one Christmas treat you can nail this year, it’s these! My boys and I have been making these for a number of years now since living […]
What is Postnatal Depression? This is different to the “baby blues” that many women experience in the first few days after having a baby, and which resolves quickly. Many women, […]
10 things to do if you’re reaching burnout Connection. We are human beings who thrive in a tribe. Reach out to a friend, peer, mentor or coach. Journal. Write down […]
A simple but empowering first step to financial freedom Earlier this week a client of mine wanted to review their budget. I do this with them each year, but I […]
Team Ukraine’s Philipa Waters and Dnipro’s Alex and Vika Volodina recently took time out from renovating the Molong Convent to talk with CWMs about the local support for Ukrainians.
Team Ukraine is a group of local community members (families, friends, anyone that lives in the central west) including Ukrainian families that have moved here, who are working together to create safe housing and support for those that have moved to Australia from Ukraine and want to live in the central west.
With more time spent at home than ever before, it’s a great opportunity to get stuck into spring cleaning and organising projects. From the kitchen to the bedroom, our handy spring-cleaning checklist will have your home spotless!
Honestly, nothing feels better than waking up to a clean home (unless the kids woke up before you, then it’s back to square one) and Spring is the perfect time […]
Every new generation has its own sources of stress… everything from school pressures, friendship dramas, cyberbullying, dramas at home, and even concerns about social issues like the environment and human […]
When couples hear the unbearable news that they will lose their child they are faced with a series of decisions which can seem impossible. Thankfully, the volunteer photographers from Heartfelt are dedicated to creating lasting memories at this difficult time.
July school holidays are MASSIVE in the Central West when it comes to arts, heritage and creative activities. Regional arts development organisation Arts OutWest have been extra busy loading all […]
With winter school holidays underway, it’s a great time to think about fun activities that will keep everyone in the family healthy, active and engaged in learning. Rather than vegetating […]
How to search for the best electricity deal in the Central West Whether it’s because of a shocking bill or simply because you’ve had it with not being able to […]
Established last year, the Torie Finnane Foundation is making a difference to the local community by funding training and resources for Orange Hospital staff
Recently, I spoke with Jo, a mother of very young kids, who had previously worked in banking. A bit over a year ago, she began her own small business consultancy. Shortly […]
In the spirit of Christmas, team Orange Credit Union are supporting The Salvation Army Toy and Gift Drive. Orange Credit Union are encouraging community and their customers to donate gifts and […]
Vanlife is an exciting way to travel, but there are several factors to take into consideration before you go… and there are other options! Escaping the everyday grind to live […]
Jessica Hickman spoke with Central West Mums about how you can be proactive as a parent and teaching kids how to become an ‘Upstander’ in our society when it comes […]
Findex’s job is to help make yours one of the classics. After a shock diagnosis several years ago, Lydia Albert has overcome life-threatening stage four cancer. Now, as a successful professional, wife and mother to […]
One local Central West resident Samantha Smith has raised $3,734 in honour of Isabel with her garden raffle which is such a fantastic effort. ‘I felt quite overwhelmed by the generosity […]
What does life look like with our mental health in a Post-Pandemic world? Stay at home orders, loss of employment, mask wearing, social distancing, financial pressures and loneliness are all […]
CWM interviewed Maryann Wild from Little ZZZ Sleep Consultant today about all things sleep; tips, guidance, support and more. If you are part of our Facebook community group for women, […]
Are you looking for lockdown activities to do in the School Holidays? For many in lockdown, it may seem that there isn’t much to look forward to during the Spring […]
Wondering how to approach all those generously gifted and inherited items? My top tips for when you are left with much more than fond memories.
It is fair to say remote learning has put an enormous pressure on our children, our families and our teachers – even more so when working with hidden disabilities such […]
One local Mum, Sam Smith has shared her family story about her daughter’s experience with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, a rare genetic condition affecting children. What is Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)? […]
It’s official, I am now a beekeeper. Truth be told it’s only been a year and I don’t feel I do that term justice but in those 12 months I […]
While oral health may not be on the top of our priority list during lockdown, you may benefit from some oral health tips to navigate your way.
Are you worried about your child’s mental health and eating patterns? This article may help to address concerns regarding mental health and poor eating habits particularly in our tween – […]
The last few months have not been without their challenges. We’ve been in lockdown, battling remote learning from our often already remote locations and unsure of what the future holds. […]
Are you looking for fun and delicious lockdown recipe activities? My son Marlsy and I created our own fun rocky road recipe after he was inspired by watching a video […]
Are you in lockdown with a child on the spectrum? For those that are blessed to have a child on the spectrum, you will be fully aware of the roller […]
Most people are well aware of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a scheme designed to help Australians living with a significant and permanent disability. The problem is, many of us are also well aware that it can be quite difficult to navigate, particularly at times when stress levels are already high due to your family members not having the essential services they need.
Am I proud of Ash Barty? Well that’s an understatement. Proud, is just one of many words to describe this young Australian. I was so lucky to meet Ash briefly […]
Did you know? Over 1 million Australians are living with an Eating Disorder and only a quarter are getting treated! This is alarming, especially considering how dangerous eating disorders are […]
We’ve heard a lot about the Astra Zeneca Vaccine so now that the Pfizer vaccine is available in Australia it’s time to learn some facts about this vaccine. The COVID-19 […]
The school holidays are just around the corner, so if you haven’t already, now’s the time to make your vacation care bookings… or risk an endless alternating loop of “I’m […]
Would you like to more about School Readiness Programs and why they are so important? In our Q & A Live video with Michelle Wood from Clever Cookie Academy has […]
Last week I had my first covid vaccine- the AstraZeneca vaccine. Developed by a team based in Oxford, UK, this vaccine has had some really bad press recently. I’ve got […]
It is not uncommon for our clients to tell us how being more organised in their homes by using phrases such as “Life Changing” or “Incredible difference” or “I feel so much clarity”. Anecdotally I know that a good tidy up or declutter makes me feel so much better – but is there any scientific evidence behind this feeling?
Did you know? Chronic diseases are the leading cause of illness and disability in Australia today with 89% of deaths in 2018 associated with these chronic conditions. These include; Cardiovascular […]
School holidays are meant to be idyllic, right? Long family board games, walks on the beach, picnics and trips to the movies. Making memories. Ummm. Sometimes. And then sometimes school […]
Central West Mum Anonymous Author… Living in the 21st Century as a parent certainly has its perks. The mobile phone has also become our personal camera and digital diary when […]
Central West Mum Anonymous Author I remember when I found out I was pregnant. My first thought was “I wonder if it’s a boy or girl” closely followed by the […]
Central West Mum Anonymous Author Dear Mum’s, you know that gut feeling you get? The feeling that’s almost like an angel tapping on your shoulder telling you something is not […]
Meet Lyndal; a Central West Mum with a young family of 4. Juggling her routine with two little ones in tow isn’t an easy act to nail when planning playdates, […]
Meet Katie; a time-poor Central West Mum of 5 kids and her husband works a schedule of 7 days on and 7 days off with the mines! With a busy […]
Meet Julie; a Central West Mum who runs a tight ship with three active kids and all the sports gear required to go with them. Julie then zooms to numerous […]
Meet Anna; an adventure loving Mum of two boys and two dogs who cruise all over the Central West for Rugby and other road trips. Families come in all shapes […]
2020 has been a Year of firsts for schools and for our community For the first time Orange Anglican Grammar were unable to welcome the families to take part in […]
Getting up and active every day is so important for both children & adults alike…. but how can that be made simple?
The beauty of a good ol’ family road trip is a budget wise option that gives you the flexibility and freedom to head to your destination at your own pace. […]
As Year 12 students approach the end of their schooling Scots All Saints College ensured this important milestone was celebrated well. There have been many challenges faced by all schools […]
After a challenging year for Year 12 students, students can finally celebrate the HSC exams finishing this week. On Saturday 14 November 2020, Kinross Wolaroi School in Orange will bring […]
As the population of young families moving to pockets of the Central West increase, there is a huge demand for available spots in pre-schools and prep schools. News off the […]
When the subject of “the snip” comes up in conversation most men will try to change the subject. Despite this, vasectomy remains the safest and most successful form of permanent […]
Lindy Maurice is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Thoroughbred Industry Careers. After living overseas and starting a family, the country called her all the way back to Borenore, […]
Looking after our dogs to be the happiest they can be is important, but it’s not always easy to understand how. Learn types of enrichment you can implement into your […]
Creating the ultimate space for your child is no easy task. As they grow their room requirements change; it may morph from a nursery with a cosy cot to the […]
Circumnavigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be difficult at the best of times, even for those with a significant knowledge base surrounding it. So, for those individuals that […]
What’s your favourite thing about the new season? It’s a season that’s so full of life, growth and beauty to discover and share with our kids. There are so many […]
My son Sam is currently away on his gap year jackarooing on a Cattle Station up in Northern Queensland in the Gulf country. He finished Year 12 last year and […]
Amorette Zielinski talks to Alice Burnes from Cheney Suthers Lawyers about Family Law during a pandemic. Other helpful resources: Statement from the Hon Will Alstergren – Parenting Orders and COVID-19 […]
As parents, we can often feel pressured to give in to the requests (or demands) of our kids. Sometimes it saves arguments, other times it’s just quicker and easier to […]
I simply can’t believe that it’s already September with the deadline of 2 November looming for lodgment of your 2020 tax return. This year feels like the unwanted gift that […]
Family rituals and traditions are an important part of life for many families and can have a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing. They create our childhood memories […]
Just because it’s raining (with more predicted during winter), doesn’t mean that your kids need to be parked on the couch all day! There are loads of activities, games and […]