Stories from our community | June edition
17 June 2025

Looking for ways to make the most of the school holidays or escape the winter chill with the family?

From inspiring local stories to top indoor activities that’ll keep the kids entertained, explore our three featured blogs from the June newsletter below.

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOUR!

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Whether its Peter and Cathie’s German Shepard-cross making fast friends with the neighbour’s pup or bumping into familiar faces in the aisles of the local Coles or Aldi, the couple have quickly become part of the warm and welcoming community at The Hills of Carmel. 

Peter says one of his favourite things about the community is the bustling, vibrant and multicultural neighbourhood. 

“You see your neighbours in the streets, there’s no us and them. Everyone is just so friendly and always says hello”.  

But what makes Peter and Cathie’s story truly unforgettable is the love that blossomed alongside their new home. 

Exhausted from extensively house-hunting, the couple made a last-minute call to The Hills of Carmel for a late inspection, and the moment they arrived something clicked. The homes, the multitude of community facilities provided such as a gym, dentist, supermarkets and retailers and of course the people – it was everything they had been searching for. When they returned with their parents the next day, the decision was unanimous: this was home. They signed the contract the following Monday. 

Ready to start their life together, Peter knew Cathie was the one for him and seven weeks into their 10-week settlement period, Peter enlisted the help of our wonderful sales team, Catherine and Natasha, to help set up Cathie’s dream engagement at their new home.  

Peter led Cathie through the house under the guise of a ‘final inspection’, bringing her up the stairs where he had prepared the most magical engagement for her.  

Now, just over a year into living at The Hills of Carmel, Peter and Cathie are just as happy as they were that day. Congratulations Peter and Cathie – we couldn’t be happier to have you as part of our community! 

If you would like to share your story and be featured in our newsletter, please reach out to [email protected]. 

KEEP THE KIDS ACTIVE THIS WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

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From arcade games at the local RSL to school holiday programs, your local community has you covered this winter.


Monkey Mania

Located in Blacktown, Penrith and North Ryde, Monkey Mania has amazing play equipment for ages 1-12, with inflatable jumping castles, dedicated toddler areas, foam ball arenas, climbing structures, slides and more.   

Monkey Mania is designed to keep both you and your kiddies entertained for hours!  

Monkey Mania also offers school holiday programs, however, spots are limited!  


Flip Out

Only a 15-minute drive from The Hills of Carmel, Flip Out Marsden Park offers adventures for all ages.  

With a variety of activities like the Parkour Arena, Ninja Warrior Course, airbag jumps, Clip n Climb and 18-hole mini golf, Flip Out is the perfect school holiday activity, with hours of fun and activity for the kids.  


Sydney Hills Gymnastics

Keep the kids active this winter with Sydney Hills Gymnastics School Holiday programs, conveniently located in Castle Hill or Bella Vista.  

Featuring half-day, full-day or long-day care for kids aged between 4.5 and 13, children can enjoy gymnastics circuits featuring trampolines, trapeze swings, rings, bars, floor skills and fitness-based games.


Castle Hill RSL 

If you are struggling to keep your preteen or teen entertained check out The Playground and The Arcade at Castle Hill RSL.  

Castle Hill RSL is the perfect spot to grab a bite, and unwind, while the kids enjoy the playground or battle it out on the arcades. Located in the Courtyard precinct, it’s the perfect spot to spend an afternoon with family and friends.

WINTER WARMERS – BEST LOCAL EATS THIS WINTER

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From Michelin-style eats to delicious comfort meals, the Hills has it all! Check out some of our favourites for the whole family:


The Vineyard

Newly renovated, The Vineyard is less than five-minutes in the car from The Hills of Carmel.  

Offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with a spacious bistro, cozy lounges and a family friendly courtyard, The Vineyard has hearty winter dishes that are bound to keep you warm on a chilly evening. 

With live music on weekends and a dedicated kids’ play area, The Vineyard provides the perfect setting for a cozy night out with your family and friends.  


The Ettamogah Hotel

Famously known as the premier family friendly hotel in the Hills District, The Ettamogah Hotel is a great night out for the whole family.  

With a multi-story jungle gym, 8m giant rock wall and arcade, your kids and teens can be entertained for hours while you sit back and enjoy some delicious food with great company.


Modo Mio

If you are looking for fresh Italian-style food by a Michelin-trained chef that is close to home and won’t break the bank, look no further than Modo Mio 

Nestled in the heart of Castle Hill, Modo Mio brings a warm slice of Italy to the Hills, making it a perfect family dining spot this winter. 

Serving handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, the restaurant provides the perfect setting for an elevated night out.