Good morning {{first_name | resident}},

Welcome to the Lab #16.

When I started the newsletter I wanted to create something for the local community that keeps them up to date on news and events in Lidcombe, Auburn, Berala and surrounding areas.

After putting a solid 2 months into the newsletter, I think I’d like to expand our coverage sooner rather than later. So going forward you will see more news stories and events in other areas but meanwhile always focused on Western Sydney.

I’m always interested to hear feedback from readers as well, so if you would like to chat about how the Lab can be improved, please send me an email below.

Cheers
Norman.

Are you running an event or have news that could benefit the community? Maybe you have a local business and would like to partner with us. Shoot me an email: [email protected]

Popular Lebanese charcoal chicken restaurant chain El Jannah recently secured a $1B AUD investment from US private equity firm General Atlantic.

The goal of which is to ramp up expansion both in Australia and in international markets.

First opening their doors in Granville 1998, the humble chicken shop gained immense popularity over the decades enabling them to open 4 more locations by 2020.

The deal sees General Atlantic as the controlling majority stakeholder in the business with chief executive Brett Houldin and founding husband and wife Andre and Carole Estephan retaining an undisclosed yet substantial minority share.

General Atlantic will help El Jannah fast track operation goals from 200 to 500 in eight years, entering Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia along the way.

While discussions of international markets before rapid national expansion is seldom spoken, the brand is looking to eventually go back to its Lebanese roots and enter the Middle East market.

The pet of the week is Shiba.

Shiba is a beautiful Siberian Husky with a gentle nature who takes a little time to feel comfortable with new people, but once she does, she forms loyal bonds.

She’s best suited to a patient home where someone can be around in the early weeks to help her settle into a new routine.

As an active Arctic breed, she needs both indoor and secure outdoor access to thrive.

Shiba would do best as the only dog in the home and isn’t suitable for households with cats, birds or pocket pets.

She’s suited to families with children aged six and over and a high-energy household to match her needs.

Sweet, loyal and full of potential, Shiba is just waiting for the right home to give her the chance to shine.

Visit Shiba and her other furry friends, make an online enquiry.

Have you seen this cat?

This is Almond.

The 1 year old ginger tabby has been missing from his John Street (Lidcombe) home since 26 November. He has a small scratch on his nose and is described to be very friendly.

His owner is pleading for help.

If you see Almond or able to catch him, please email [email protected] (or directly reply) for the owner’s contact details.

Check out events and things to do for this upcoming weekend and the next.

If you’re running an event, reach out to [email protected] or reply directly and I may be able to include it this section.

Botanica Garden is opening its gates to the community next Sunday for a sausage sizzle and bake sale. Come down and meet the rest of the community, learn about the garden and how to become a member.

Accepting donations for the day including baked/bought goods, tools, equipment and seeds.

Get into the festive spirit and have a bit of fun while you’re at it! Come along, make something beautiful and unique to take home—or gift to someone special. All materials are supplied, so just bring your creativity and a touch of Christmas cheer. When & where:

Join the garden lifestyle program with Garden Greening!