Macarthur Advocate - February 2024

MPS SHOW HOW TAXPAYERS BENEFIT

SERVICES TO MEET SHIRE GROWTH

SENIORS’ FESTIVAL GOES BEYOND THE USUAL

COLOUR BURST RETURNS

Walkers ready to conquer at Mount Annan track

THE popular ‘Colour Burst’ returns as walkers speed up to conquer six to 11 kilometres track within the panoramic rolling vistas of Mount Annan Botanic Gardens. The gardens consist of 416 acres with lakes, walking tracks and gardens for one of the country’s largest collections of

Australian native plants and where native animals, including some rare birds species, are part of the landscape. Hundreds have taken part in the Campbelltown City Challenge Walk in the past and new entrants are invited to join the 8am on the race on Sunday, March 10, so lace up now. More: page 3.

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COLOUR BURST AT MOUNT ANNAN Great fun for famailies

THE popular ‘Colour Burst’ returns as avid walkers speed up to conquer six to 11 kilometres track within the panoramic rolling vistas of Mount Annan Botanic Gardens.

The gardens consist of 416 acres with lakes, walking tracks and gardens for one of the country’s largest collections of Australian native plants and where native animals, including some rare birds species, are part of the landscape.

Hundreds have taken part in the Campbelltown City Challenge Walk in the past and new entrants are invited to join the 8am on the dot race on Sunday, March 10, so lace up now.

Gates open at 6.30am and have your coffee and breakfast at the Gardens Caf? before the first course starts at 8am.

Walkers who take the Colour Burst path will be showered in coloured powder as they pass through.

Visitors will be able to explore a variety of on-site health and wellness stalls, food and drink vendors and live music throughout the day at the event.

Competitors will be awarded with a participation medal upon completion of their chosen course.

A short stage presentation will be held at the end of the 11km course to

award the winners of each course.

In-person registrations are accepted at Campbelltown Civic Centre and will close on Friday, March 1, while online registrations close Wednesday, March 6.

“The Campbelltown City Challenge Walk is a chance to get outdoors and

enjoy a great day together in one of the region’s most scenic spaces,” Mayor George Greiss said.

“The Colour Burst section provided some great fun last year for families and entrants looking for more fun than competition.

“There’ll be plenty of attractions

and stalls on the day, so I encourage everyone to get in early and register.”

For more details, visit https://www. campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Whats-On

To find out more about Mount Annan Botanic Gardens, visit https://www.botanicgardens.org. au/australian-botanic-garden-mount-annan

Premium land release coming soon

Last

starting line at Campbelltown City Challenge Walk. Photo supplied

MPs show how taxpayers benefit

„ ELIZABETH FRIAS

IF you live in the region on average $73,000 a year salary, you will receive a tax cut of about $1,504 from July 1 this year and single low wage earners at $30,000 are $172.40 better off in their bottom line.

This is the estimates of the recent stage 3 tax cuts passed in Canberra shown to media by Macarthur MP Mike Freelander who described Labor’s changes as “designed to provide relief to high cost of living” experienced by residents in his electorate.

Dr Freelander said single pensioners also receive a bigger boost with about $272.40 tax cuts which is “fairer” when compared to the opposition Coalition’s tax cuts.

The Labor tax cuts replaced the Coalition’s tax legislation passed in 2019 that set the tax threshold for those earning from $45,000 to $200,000 at 30 percent.

The recently passed tax breaks for low-income earners come under the changes to the Medicare levy, with the Albanese Government proposing to increase the thresholds by 7.1 percent to be in line with inflation, Dr Freelander said.

The tax cut changes also mean those households earning from $45,000 and below gets to keep around $804

more of their income.

“Every taxpayer in Macarthur will now get a tax cut. We’re delivering more help for working families and more help for Australians already under the pump from the cost of living, putting cash back into people’s pockets when they need it most,” Dr Freelander said.

In the region, Dr Freelander said there are 90,000 wage earners, and 89 percent of them or around 80,000 residents will receive a bigger tax cut under the changes to stage 3 tax cuts.

The treasury department said the

stage 3 tax cuts are set to benefit 13.6 million of taxpayers with reduced tax rates ranging from current 19 percent tax rate to 16 percent for those earning below $45,000; 32.5 percent tax rate cut to 30 percent on earnings above $45,000; 37 percent threshold applies to those earning $135,000 and 45 percent threshold applies to those earning $190,000 and above.

Shadow treasurer Angus Taylor, the Liberal MP for Hume, a neighbouring electorate in the Macarthur, has accused the Albanese Labor government of breaking their promise not to change

the tax cut legislation both parties passed in 2019.

“It is a tax increase Australians never voted for, now with this broken promise, many Australians will be hit with a double whammy… no one has ever solved an inflation crisis using class warfare,” Mr Taylor said in a statement last month.

To make your own computation of the tax breaks based on your actual annual income, residents are urged to use the calculator on the Department of Treasury website, by visiting www.treasury.gov.au/tax-cuts/calculator

Hume MP and shadow treasurer Angus Taylor visited a Mt Annan takeaway shop recently. Photo supplied Macarthur MP Dr Mike Freelander in Campbelltown recently. Photo supplied

WOLLONDILLY HEALTH ALLIANCE SETS GOALS

Services to meet shire ghrowth

THE relaunched Wollondilly Health Alliance has set its priorities at ensuring services are within reach, such as telemedicine, as more people are moving in the locality.

The Alliance consists of the Wollondilly Shire Council, South Western Sydney Local Health District and South Western Sydney Primary Health Network.

They signed a new memorandum of understanding as partners delivering health services that connects and improves health outcomes for residents.

The alliance was formed in March 2014 and under the new agreement, they will “aim to apply a fresh and coordinated approach to meeting the diverse health and wellbeing needs of people in the Wollondilly Shire.”

Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould said the shire “will face significant challenges over the next few years due to more people moving to live in the shire.”

Located just 75 kilometres to Sydney, Wollondilly’s population grew 6.2 percent in the

last five years from just over 51,000 to 54,176, according to NSW planning and environment projections in the council website.

More than half of residents or 63.8 percent are aged 20 to 59 years, while 20.7 percent are under 20 years old, and 15.5 percent are aged 60 and older.

By 2036, the department forecasts population in the

shire increasing to 92,102 as more housing estates are built within the shire which has 34 towns and villages with rural landscapes.

“We will continue to strongly advocate for the health services we need for our current and future communities,” Mr Gould said.

“I look forward to working collaboratively through the

Wollondilly Health Alliance to improve health outcomes for all our community members.”

Southwestern Sydney Primary Health Network chief executive officer Dr Keith McDonald said the alliance will be focusing on achieving improved services to keep up with the growth.

“With the Wilton and Appin expansions, the population of

Wollondilly is set to triple in the next 30 years,” Dr McDonald said.

“The Alliance is focused on identifying what health services are needed to support this growing population and what we need to do to improve the health and wellbeing of residents.

“The Alliance will be looking to better coordinate our preparedness for, and response to natural disasters, and to improve how virtual technologies are used to ensure local health services are working smarter, not harder.”

The key focus of the agreement includes assessment and advocacy for future health services needs, integrating health services networks to include telemedicine, joint training of staff on health and wellbeing initiatives and awareness campaign on preparing residents for impacts of natural disasters.

“By working together and sharing our expertise, skills and resources, the Alliance has the potential to achieve greater outcomes collectively,” Southwestern Sydney Local Health District CEO Sonia Marshall said.

(Back) Wollondilly Shire council official Peter Buckley and South West PHN population manager Ben Neville, Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould, and South Western Sydney Primary Health Network CEO Dr Keith McDonald. (Front) South Western Sydney Local Health District Director of Population Health Mandy Williams and South Western Sydney Local Health District CEO Sonia Marshall.

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SENIORS’ FESTIVAL GOES BEYOND THE USUAL Range of hot topics and activities

THE range of events for the upcoming Seniors Festival in the Macarthur region are beyond the usual, with new topics and activities to explore, make connections and sample experiences.

This year’s theme is ‘Reach Beyond’, with Campbelltown’s over 50s residents opening their festival on Monday, March 11 at the ‘Garden to Table Easter Treats’ at the Glenquarie Library.

With Easter season, find out ways to bake delicious hot cross buns and mouthwatering Easter treats for family and friends using ingredients already in your pantry and home garden.

The organisers will show how to repurpose food scraps, find alternative sweeteners to sugar and other healthy baking techniques described as “one-of-a-kind experience using local fruits and vegetables in season.”

Looking for free expert legal advice on making a will? Volunteer solicitors from Macarthur Legal Centre will be presenting the free session, ‘Let’s Talk Legal’ at Campbelltown City Library on preparing a will, power of attorney and enduring guardianship. Auslan interpreters are available.

The free session will be held at HJ Daley Library, at 1 Hurley Street, Campbelltown on Tuesday, March 12 from 10.30am until 12.30pm.

Keen to paint while enjoying cocktails and canapes, then join ‘Mocktails and Masterpieces’ at HJ Daley Library on Monday, March 18 from 11am to 12.30pm with painting mentors on hand to show the techniques.

Professional mentors from Pinot and Picasso Camden will lead the painting of a King Protea with you, with all art supplies provided and

you just need to turn up.

The ‘Gardening for Bees and Wildlife’ program shows keen gardeners how local wildlife and pollinators can thrive in a home garden, so you’ll see more brightly coloured butterflies and native birds visiting your property more often.

The nature gardening experts will present the free session on Wednesday, March 20 from 10am to 11:30am at the Eagle Vale Library, corner Feldspar Road and Emerald Drive, Eagle Vale.

The Wollondilly Seniors’ Festival features Grandparents Storytime, Bargo Men’s Shed Open Day, Aqua Aerobics, Seniors Week High Tea, Knit and Yarn.

At Camden, the Comedy Road Show will headline the events including health and well-being sessions, Showcasing Seniors Skills and Seniors Talent Quest and Exhibition.

“The NSW Seniors Festival is a chance for us to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Campbelltown residents who have been an important part of our community over many years,” Campbelltown mayor George Greiss said.

“There’s a great variety of events planned that cater to a range of

interests so it’s a real opportunity for people to get out and socialise while having fun,” Dr Greiss said.

Across the state, Minister for seniors Jodie Harrison said it will be “a great time for older Australians to ‘reach beyond’, to seek out new experiences and make new friends by participating in the festivities.”

Ms Harrison said seniors from across the state have been invited to take part in popular events such as Premier’s Gala Concerts and Expo at the International Convention Centre at Darling Harbour.

For details about the events in Sydney, visit https://seniorsfestival.info/galaconcert

For the full list of Seniors Festival program of activities in Campbelltown, visit https:// www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Services-andFacilities/Community-Services-and-Programs/ Programs-suitable-for-you/Older-People-andSeniors/Seniors-Festival

For Wollondilly, visit https://www.wollondilly. nsw.gov.au/events-and-community/annualevents/seniors-festival/

For Camden, visit https://www.camden.nsw. gov.au/community/support/older-people/ seniors-festival/

Local seniors taking part in art workshop at the Campbelltown Art Gallery. Photo supplied by Campbelltown Council.

AUSTRALIA’S REMOTE WORK CONDITIONS Why we rank 25th in the world

THE Global Remote Work Index, has revealed what it takes to be a top country when considering a remote working destination.

Turns out the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark lead the list. However, daydreaming about a winter escape and jumping straight into summer does not necessarily have to be a fantasy.

Australia ranked 25.

Growth of the digital nomad and workation concept

Workations (work+vacation) are steadily growing in popularity. According to research, 93% of workers worldwide say they want the flexibility to choose where and when they work. Google searches for the term “workation” worldwide reached an all-time high in the last week of August 2023.

Regarding digital nomadism, such lifestyles continue to gain popularity despite the growing global office mandate.

Workations or digital nomadism really can be a mood, money, and, in some cases – a cybersecurity saver. That is the reason why cybersecurity company NordLayer decided to look at 107 countries and make a list of the best countries to work remotely in terms of cybersecurity, infrastructure, and economic and social safety.

Carlos Salas, a cybersecurity expert at NordLayer, comments: “Technologies allowing people to have more flexibility are among the greatest innovations, but they are also a challenge.” He adds: “Cybersecurity shouldn’t be forgotten when planning an individual or business trip. Being careless might sour the experience and end up being expensive.”

Infrastructure is the best in Australia

In the GRWI, Australia is number 25 and ranks six places lower than last year’s data. The nation excels in digital and physical infrastructure (18), including a top-tier e-government system (7) and physical infrastructure (12).

However, challenges include a cyber safety ranking of 35th and a high cost of living (92). Social safety is in the 24th place, with concerns about personal safety (53). Addressing these areas could further enhance Australia’s economic and social safety standings.

What do you need to have a perfect and safe workation?

Don’t let cybersecurity matters wander off when considering New Zealand or Australia as a spot to work and relax. Since Oceania is not the start of the cybersecurity realm, more precautions are needed.

Carlos says, “As you pack your sunscreen, don’t forget to protect what’s happening on your computer’s screen. Public Wi-Fi, weak passwords, and even passwords saved in the browser can expose you to hackers, and they never take a day off.”

Here are tips that will help protect your network no matter where you work from:

• Consider cloud technologies. Cloud cybersecurity will give an additional layer of security for remote workers and enterprises by helping to protect your files and passwords, as well as by limiting who can access specific documents or tools.

• Think before connecting. Avoid using public Wi-Fi without a trustworthy VPN app, and avoid plugging in any devices — be it a USB flash drive on your desk or a public charging station — to your device.

• Take care of your device. Do not leave your working computer unattended. Always lock it and use secure passwords.

WEXPO at Blacktown Workers Club

MyMedicare: Strengthening Health Care in Australia

At the end of last year, the Australian Government introduced MyMedicare, a voluntary registration system that aims to help you build stronger relationships with your general practice and the primary care teams that support your health.

Seeing the same general practitioner (GP) regularly can lead to better health outcomes. Now, through MyMedicare, you can nominate your preferred GP to gain access to more care options.

Why Register for MyMedicare?

When you register for MyMedicare, additional funding is provided from the government to your selected general practice and preferred GP so that they can deliver better care. For you, this means:

9 Access to longer telehealth appointments with your GP

9 Better continuity of care within your nominated practice

9 Bulk-billed, longer telehealth consultations for children under 16 and Commonwealth concession card holders

More benefits will be rolling out throughout the year, including more regular visits from your GP for those living in residential care homes and better care planning.

As part of your MyMedicare registration, your chosen practice and GP will appear on your My Health Record (if you have one) so that all health professionals you see, for example, if you visit a hospital, know who to contact about your ongoing regular care.

You can change your preferred GP at your registered practice or withdraw from MyMedicare at any time.

Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.

How do I Register?

There are three different ways to register for MyMedicare.

Online through your MyGov Account at my.gov.au

Through the Medicare Express Plus mobile app

Completing a paper registration form at your usual general practice, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service or Aboriginal Medical Service

Going from foamie to fibreglass

SURFING sounds fun but learning can be daunting, particularly upgrading from a safe foam board (foamie) to the traditional fibreglass surfboard.

To master standing on a fibreglass board can be very rewarding and that feeling of standing on a wave is noted as one of life’s finer moments.

To help you out with this transition, we’ve enlisted James Cheal, founder and owner of Chilli Surfboards to give us his best tips to get you going. Good luck.

Moving from a foamie to a fibreglass. James’ three tips:

T“You are not ready for a fibreglass board, unless you can transfer from your belly to your feet on a foamie.

Once you can stand 8 out of 10 times on a foamie then you will definitely be able to stand up on a fibreglass board”.

If getting a fibreglass board for the first time after using a foamie, don’t get something thin or narrow, stick closely to the dimensions of your foamie.

If learning to surf is on your bucket list and you’d like to skip the foamy surfboard stage, be cautious when walking into a secondhand shop for the first time as you can get it really wrong.

“You have to be honest with your ability and give them your correct weight and height. If you’re 95 kg, but you think you’ll lose some weight and get to 90 in summer just tell them you’re 95 kg”.

Chilli Surfboards has a range of cheaper second-hand fibreglass surfboards to start learning on. Head to Chilli Surfboards (shop online) www. chillisurboards.com

44 Darley Street Mona Vale, 0466188844 chilli@chillisurfboards.com. Open Monday to Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm Saturday - 8:30am4:00pm

Day out in the Southern Highlands

HE train is loud in Bundanoon and has been for 150 years. It’s a sweet town if you haven’t popped in for a while and worth a visit. Bundanoon’s highlights can be visited in one day if you don’t want to spend a night but it’s a lovely town to take your time and enjoy the sights of local gardens.

Suggested itinerary:

Start with breakfast or brunch in Bundanoon and meals and cafe at the Morton Cafe served all day are great. There are several cafes down the main street (opposite the train station). Catching a train is a great alternative to driving. It does take longer but pops you straight out on the main drag with shops, cafes and restaurants.

Enjoy the original and historical building facades, walk north along Railway avenue and find little boutiques or plan your trip for the artisan Makers

market, 1st Sunday of the month at Bundanoon public school or 3rd Sunday of the month at the Soldiers Memorial hall

Bundanoon is the gateway to the Morton National Park. There are a couple of nice day walks here, bring a picnic lunch, sunscreen, proper footwear for walking and some water, there’s an IGA in the main street to get food and snacks.

Head to the Bundanoon pub with its beer garden out the back after your walk, and if you’re staying until nightfall, bring a torch for the walk down into the valley to see the famous glow worms that make their home in this area. Entry is via William St.

Thai dinner at Little Jacks Style 12 noon - 9.30pm Tues-Sun is very good or pop into Sally’s Corner wine to purchase mementos of the area on your way home if driving. Open Sat- Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm.

Chilli Surfboards.

Travelling with pain?

MELINDA and her family never expected to have to consider accessible travel until a playground accident left her son, Cooper with a chronic pain condition in his foot which can leave him bedbound for days,

tralia full time in a caravan, visiting the best of Australia.

Travelling for this family relies on the use of a wheelchair to be mobile, they tell us which resorts and holiday areas do accessible travel well. During 2024, the column will focus on some solutions for travelling with pain, as it’s something any of us may face at any time so we want accessible travel to be as excellent as we can get it.

Get involved to improve

Attention hotels, motels and holidays parks

Here are the top three issues you need to get onto for 2024. - It’s go time!

1. Footpath width

Check your paths meet the Australian standard for accessibility AS 1428.1. You may think your path is wide enough, smooth enough and entries compliant but Melinda and her family assure us they DON’T. “The danger of a wheelchair user going over the edge of walkways to accessible bathrooms is real. Cooper fell one night (at a big name caravan park) and repairs to the

chair were $2800 and the pain flare left him bedbound”.

2. Ramps

These are easier for your property to update as many ramps are mobile and easy to install or build. Entry to doors, reception, pool and playground areas and toilets also need to be smooth because travelling with chronic pain can result in uncomfortable jarring through vibration.

3. Maintenance Team

Find the funds to do a full Australian standards

compliance check. Not only is it a good thing to do, but accessible travel is also a big growing sector so you’re sure to make back in new business whatever funds you outlay.

Accommodation that does wheelchair access well: Treasure Island holiday park on the Gold Coast, Ups and Downs Farm Stay, near Roma QLD, Awesome Anglers, Cairns and Ambitions NQ Cairns (provide exceptional support services and full access fishing activities).

Cooper has learnt to travel with paid.

Battery electric Mini Countryman E, SE due here from Q3 this year priced from $64,990

„ MATT BROGAN

MINI has detailed pricing for its all-electric Countryman E and SE range ahead of the model’s local launch in the third quarter of this year.

The electric duo – which are offered in multiple grades – will join internal combustion engine powered Countryman variants and are built upon an architecture shared with the current BMW iX1.

Pricing for the range will begin at $64,990 plus on-road costs for the entry E Core front-wheel drive and top out at $77,990 + ORC for the flagship SE All4 JCW Sport – or approximately $15,000 more than the equivalent petrol-powered range.

Rivalling the likes of the BMW X1, Kia Niro, and Volvo C40, the Mini Countryman measures 4444mm long, 1843mm wide, and 1661mm tall, and rides on a 2692mm wheelbase. Luggage capacity ranges from 460 litres in fiveseat mode through 1450 litres all told.

Countryman E variants feature a 150kW and 250Nm single electric motor and 63.8kWh lithium-ion battery which can deliver a driving range of up to 462km. A 0-100km/h time of 8.6 seconds is quoted.

Countryman SE variants add a second electric motor on the rear axle to deliver all-wheel drive and offer 230kW and 494Nm, the same battery pack, and a range claim of 433km. The model is three seconds faster in the sprint to 100km/h (5.6sec).

Charging for both models is listed at 29 minutes against the standard 20 –80 per cent measure.

The Core grade offers as standard 18-inch alloy wheels, dusk-sensing LED headlights with auto high beam, LED tail-lights, hands free and powered tailgate functionality, the choice of body-coloured or Jet Black wing mirrors and roof, a 9.4-inch OLED infotainment cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, inductive smartphone charging, Mini personal assistant, a six-speaker/100-watt audio

system, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, a sport steering wheel and seats, and choice of grey/ blue or black/blue cloth upholstery.

For Classic variants Mini adds a panoramic glass sunroof, augmented reality satellite navigation, heated front seats, and (on SE grades) All4 exterior styling elements.

Moving onto Favoured variants we find 19-inch alloys (20-inch on SE grades), UV glazing, a 12-speaker/365-watt Harman Kardon audio package, Anthracite headlining, JCW front seats with electric adjustment, and a choice of Beige, Dark Petrol or Vintage Brown Vescin upholstery.

Finally, on JCW Sport variants, we find 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels, body stripes in Jet Black or Chilli Red, adaptive suspension, JCW brakes and exterior styling elements, paddle shifters and a JCW steering wheel, and JCW Black Vescin/Cord upholstery.

Across the range, the electric Countryman is fitted with a detailed range of safety equipment, including AEB,

blind-spot monitoring, exit warning, front and rear parking sensors, intelligent emergency alarm, and a reversing camera.

Classic grades and higher add adaptive cruise control, auto speed limiter, drive recorder (in-built dashcam) and interior camera, parking assistant, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

2024 Mini Countryman

E and SE pricing*:

E Core (a) $64,990

E Classic (a) ............................ $67,990

E Favoured (a) $70,990

SE Classic All4 (a) $72,990

SE Favoured All4 (a) ............ $75,990

SE JCW All4 (a) $77,990

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.

FitnesS

TRANSFORMING EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES Into fitness OPPORTUNITIES

IN the quest for better health and fitness, we often associate exercise with dedicated gym sessions or structured workout routines.

However, adopting a holistic approach to physical activity involves recognizing that every daily activity can be an opportunity to exercise.

From household chores to commuting and leisurely pursuits, integrating movement into every aspect of our lives can significantly contribute to overall well-being.

Redefining Exercise: A Holistic Perspective

Exercise doesn’t have to be confined to a gym or a specific time of day. It’s about moving your body consistently and making physical activity an integral part of your lifestyle.

Embracing this holistic perspective allows individuals to break down traditional barriers between exercise and daily life, transforming routine activities into opportunities for physical fitness.

1. Commuting Creatively

For many, commuting is an inevitable part of daily life. Rather than viewing it as a sedentary task, consider it an opportunity to incorporate movement. If feasible, choose active modes of transportation like cycling or walking. For those who rely on public transportation or driving, make a conscious effort to take the stairs, park a bit farther from your destination, or stand during your train or bus ride. These small adjustments can

accumulate into significant physical activity over time.

2. Turning Chores into Workouts

Household chores are often viewed as mundane tasks, but they can be transformed into effective workouts. Vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping engage various muscle groups, providing an excellent cardiovascular workout. Squats can be iяncorporated while loading or unloading the dishwasher, and lunges can be performed while folding laundry. The key is to approach these activities with mindfulness, ensuring proper form and posture to maximize their fitness benefits.

3. Deskercise for the Office Worker

Sedentary office jobs can lead to a host of health issues. Combat the negative effects by incorporating “deskercise” into your work routine. Simple stretches, seated leg lifts, and neck rotations can be performed discreetly at your desk. Consider using a stability ball as a chair to engage your core muscles, or set a timer to remind yourself to stand up, stretch, and walk around for a few minutes every hour.

4. Playful Workouts for Families

Family time doesn’t have to be limited to sitting in front of the TV. Engage in activities that involve movement, turning playtime into a

family workout. Outdoor games like tag, hideand-seek, or frisbee are not only fun but also excellent cardiovascular exercises. Consider hiking, biking, or even dancing together to make fitness a shared experience that promotes bonding while staying active.

5. Gardening for Physical and Mental Health

Gardening is a therapeutic activity that offers physical and mental health benefits. Digging, planting, and weeding engage various muscle groups and contribute to flexibility and strength. The rhythmic nature of gardening also promotes stress reduction and relaxation. Spending time outdoors and tending to a garden is a holistic approach to well-being that combines physical activity with the calming effects of nature.

6. Mindful Walking and Running Errands

Walking is a simple yet effective form of exercise. Make a habit of incorporating brisk walks into your routine, whether it’s during your lunch break, while running errands, or in the evening. Choose stairs over escalators and elevators when possible and consider walking or cycling for short-distance errands instead of driving.

So, the next time you engage in routine activities, remember that each step, stretch, and movement is a step toward a healthier and more active life.

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No. 038

QUIZ

1 Which US comedic actor starred in the third season of Swedish sitcom Hjälp! (Help!) as a US journalist?

2 What is the world’s smallest island country?

3 In which Australian city is the Big Merino (pictured) located?

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23 Naughty child (4)

No. 038

9-LETTER WORD

No. 038 25

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

4 Dili is the capital of which country?

5 Which two US rap artists released the collaborative album Watch the Throne in 2011?

6 In what year did Mao Zedong declare that the Chinese Cultural Revolution had officially ended?

7 In which country was Freddie Mercury born?

8 Who was the only actor to appear in every episode of the TV series M*A*S*H?

9 True or false: in chess, a king can put another king in checkmate?

10 The phrase ‘Go you big red fire engine’ is associated with which Australian comedian?

ACROSS

1 Amount of matter (4)

5 Countertenor (4)

6 Soft sheepskin leather (4)

7 Openers (4)

DOWN

1 Symbol (4)

2 Drug-yielding plant (4)

3 Remain (4)

4 Male offspring (4)

WORD

FIND

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

No. 038

HARD

MEDIUM

puzzles

3

WORD FILL

ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

5 Le TT e RS

ACROSS

4 Le TT e RS

2 1999 family comedy based on the novel by E. B. White, – Little (6)

4 He won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the age of 82, Christopher – (7)

9 Australian psychological horror, the directorial debut of Jennifer Kent (pictured) (3,8)

28 Actor known for his roles as a villain in The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and For A Few Dollars More, Lee Van – (5)

29 1980s horror comedy classic directed by Joel Schumacher (3,4,4)

30 Golden Globe-winning actor for his role as ‘Nucky’ Thompson in Boardwalk Empire, Steve – (7)

CROSS MATH

11 DC Comics blockbuster starring Joaquin Phoenix in the title role (5)

12 He played Cam Delray in the Jack Irish series and detective Jay Swan in Mystery Road (5,8)

13 1980s Brat Pack actor and brother of Charlie Sheen, – Estevez (6)

15 He portrayed Steve Jobs in the bio Jobs and stars as Colt Bennett in The Ranch, – Kutcher

16 Late actor and comedian and the father of actors Jason and Tyler, John – (6)

5x5

17 Michael C. Hall’s serial killer drama (6)

19 Actress in Schindler’s List who played Miss Honey in Matilda, – Davidtz (6)

22 Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s sitcom (6)

26 2002 biographical drama directed by and starring Denzel Washington (7,6)

31 Ian Smith’s long-running Neighbours character, – Bishop (6)

DOWN

1

No. 014

1 Jerry Zucker comedy starring Rowan Atkinson and Whoopi Goldberg (3,4)

2 Ex-pop star of S Club 7 who plays Abby Maitland in Primeval, Hannah – (9)

3 2008 film starring Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes, The – (6)

No. 013

5 Jean-Claude van Damme’s character in The Bouncer (5)

6 2019 drama starring Peter Sarsgaard as journalist Walter Duranty (2,5)

7 Star of The Dark Knight and Sully, Aaron – (7)

8 Mike Leigh’s bio drama starring Timothy Spall in the title role (2,6)

No. 047

No. 013

10 Star of Children of Men and guest star of 22-across, Clive – (4)

14 Talk show host and actress, – Winfrey (5)

15 Iconic wrestler who played Fezzik in The Princess Bride, – the Giant (5)

16 Worldwide annual film festival highlighting outdoor adventure films, – Film Tour (4,4)

18 Sci-fi spin-off from Doctor Who (9)

20 Canadian actor of The Tudors and Vikings, Lothaire – (7)

21 Steven Soderbergh’s 2000 crime drama, winner of four Oscars (7)

23 Computer-animated comedy about penguin surfers (5-2)

24 David Fincher’s highestgrossing film, – Girl (4)

25 US actress and singer, known for roles in The Office and Monk, – Hardin (6)

27 He played the title role in the Magic Mike films, Channing – (5)

HIDDEN WORD

5

2

3

4

6

7

8

1. What is the name of Danson’s character in Netflix series The Good Place?

A. Martin

B. Michael

C. Matthew

D. Maverick

2. What does he play in The Good Place?

A. A police officer

B. A plumber

C. An architect

D. An engineer

Te D DANSON

3. How many Emmy awards has he won?

A. Two

B. Three

C. Four

D. Five

4. In Cheers, Danson played a bartender who formerly played baseball for what team?

A. New York Yankees

B. Chicago Cubs

C. Houston Astros

D. Boston Red Sox

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L

Come home to St Hedwig Retirement Village and discover the secret to your perfect retirement.

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