Macathur Advocate - September 2023

Local business winners shine

How to share the safe way Safe driving camp starts

HOUSE and land sales continue to surge in Greater Macarthur with the first stage of the next major Appin development by Walker Corporation selling out just three months after the DA for construction was approved. 259 lots have been secured by purchasers at Walker Corporation’s Appin

Grove, with works targeted to commence onsite in the coming months. Walker Executive Chairman Lang Walker AO said the sell-out reinforces the strong demand from families to live in a master planned community anchored by parklands, health, education, shopping and transport. More: page 3.

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PROJECT SELLS 259 LOTS IN THREE MONTHS

Buyers target Appin Grove

HOUSE and land sales continue to surge in Greater Macarthur with the first stage of the next major Appin development by Walker Corporation selling out just three months after the DA for construction was approved.

259 lots have been secured by purchasers at Walker Corporation’s Appin Grove, with works targeted to commence onsite in the coming months.

Walker Executive Chairman Lang Walker AO said the sell-out reinforces the strong demand from families to live in a masterplanned community anchored by parklands, health, education, shopping and transport.

“The pace at which Appin Grove sold out is exciting for all young families because it demonstrates the great Australian dream is well and truly alive, and they should be able to believe it’s still achievable to have that great suburban life with a backyard for the kids and the dog to run around in,” said Mr Walker.

“We are confident all the arms of government are on the right page now and moving to free up more supply. We are excited about bringing more homes to Greater Macarthur to help with the program the Minns and Albanese Governments are doing a good job to expedite.”

Appin Grove buyers Stephanie and Joshua Raish said they are excited to build their dream home and start a family in an area with so many lifestyle opportunities on the doorstep.

“We are 35 weeks pregnant so having space to grow and a backyard for our family is really important for us. The new schools and shops planned are a big drawcard too.”

“We love that it’s so close to Wollongong and the beautiful Illawarra beaches, all that Campbelltown has to offer with Macarthur Square, Campbelltown Hospital and Western Sydney University along with the proximity to the Southern Highlands,” said Ms Raish.

Appin Grove’s landmark sell-out follows the recent rezoning approval of the next phase of Walker Corporations Appin development which has potential to deliver over 13,000 new homes and apartments.

Large-scale masterplanned develop-

ments like Appin are essential for tackling NSW’s critical housing supply shortage and alleviating pressure on the rising cost of renting and buying property.

A key part of the Appin region is the $2B infrastructure plan that Walker will be delivering. This includes schools, retail centres, parks and ovals along with roads and services.

The Appin housing supply led by Walker is an integral part of the longterm, collaborative approach required to succeed in deliveringhighly connected and accessible housing solutions that become vibrant, attractive and liveable communities.

Managing Director at Urban Land and Housing Group Christopher Lowry said it’s clear why homebuyers are look-

ing to move to the Macarthur region.

“We are seeing a very strong demand for housing across Sydney from young families wanting more space and a backyard in a relaxed suburban setting, without sacrificing amenities,” said Mr Lowry.

Walker is finalising their masterplan for the site which will prioritise sustainable interconnected village communities linked to transport, education, health and public infrastructure.

Situated 20 minutes from some of Illawarra’s beautiful beaches, Appin residents will also have access to world-class universities, healthcare and medical research at the new Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building in Campbelltown’s City Centre 15 minutes down the road.

Premium land release coming soon

Artist impression of the new project.

completes her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

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ISSUE 9 | September

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Support Partner Local Business Awards in Campbelltown, Camden abd Wollondilly.

“At the end of the day, Natalia also provides valuable feedback to the parents like, how much they’ve eaten, if there are any issues and that’s really important, especially for the babies,” said Anne, whose kindy is located in The Oaks, just east of Camden.

Anne credits the support she and Natalia receive from NOVA’s Camden Manager, Julie Multari, as key to her success in the role.

“With NOVA’s support and reassurance, I have seen Natalia’s confidence and self-esteem boosted,” said Anne.

MACARTHUR'S TRUSTED LOCAL MEDIA VOICE

“They’ve helped her with the way she communicates with the families and encouraged her in participating in and creating activities for the little ones,” explains Anne.

Anne is so impressed with Natalia and NOVA’s service she plans to hire more workers with disability in the future.

“It’s been amazing,” said Anne. “And I’m really proud to have Natalia and our partnership with NOVA. I have no doubts whatsoever that Natalia will get her diploma and become a very successful educator.”

Safe driving program launched

AYEAR after the tragic car accident at Buxton, the entire Wollondilly community is feeling the enduring impact of losing five young locals.

As part of an ongoing response, Wollondilly Shire Council has partnered with Southern Highlands PCYC to offer a free Safer Drivers Course for local young people.

The course is available to 16 to 25-year-oldresidents of the Wollondilly Shire who are on their Learner Drivers licence, and at the completion of the course they can take 20 hours off their log book.

The free offer will run over 10 months until June 2024 with spaces available for 12 participants each month.

Council’s initiative will cover for the $140 cost of the two-module five-hour course; part of the Local Government Road Safety Behavioural Program.

Wollondilly Mayor Matt Gould said: “As we acknowledge the first anniversary of the tragic accident at Buxton and remember the five young local lives that

were lost, we understand the importance of doing everything we can to make sure our young people are safe.”

Indian outlet serves region

IOINDIAN themed store Kanhaiya’s grocery hut is a firm favorite with its Camden customers.

“Being in the Camden area, my husband and I real-

ised that there were so many things that were missing that could make our community of Indians, Pakistanis,Fijians, Nepalese and every other south Asian families benefit from a store that provides all the grocery, home ware and utensils, ” owner Ragina Lata Nagpal said.

“With the growing community we would like to bring everything available to our customers that we would otherwise travel an hour to get.

“My staff ensure all our customers receive the best customers service.”

Web: WWW.kanhiaysgroceryhut.com

responsible and confident driving and ultimately help to prevent accidents on our roads.”

“The Safer Drivers Course offers strategies to help participants become proactive, safe drivers, as well as giving them a head start towards obtaining their Provisional Licences.”

As an Accredited Provider of Transport for NSW Safer Drivers Course, PCYC will help students gain greater understanding of how to be safe P-plate drivers.

The course highlights-road decision making and hazard identification and includes a practical coaching session.

Spaces are limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis. Participants are required to have obtained their Learner Driver licence and have completed 50 hours on their logbook before they do the course.

Bookings can be made by direct email through Southern Highlands PCYC: southernhighlands@ pcycnsw.org.au

S

“We want to provide our Learner Drivers with essential skills and knowledge that will cultivate a culture of

Preschool discovers ‘asset’ in worker with disability.

Buzy Bee Kindy owner, Anne Psegiannakis, admits she wasn’t sure what to expect when NOVA Employment introduced her to Natalia, a young woman who wanted to work in child care.

But Natalia, who has a hearing impairment, soon proved herself to be a valuable member of her team.

“I believe in giving everyone a fair go,” Anne said. “And seriously she’s an asset to our company. An absolute asset.”

Natalia’s responsibilities include feeding, nurturing and developing the motor skills of the babies as she completes her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

“At the end of the day, Natalia also provides valuable feedback to the parents like, how much they’ve eaten, if there are any issues and that’s really important, especially for the babies,” said Anne, whose kindy is located in The Oaks, just east of Camden.

Anne credits the support she and Natalia receive from NOVA’s Camden Manager, Julie Multari, as key to her success in the role.

“With NOVA’s support and reassurance, I have seen Natalia’s confidence and self-esteem boosted,” said Anne.

“They’ve helped her with the way she communicates with the families and encouraged her in participating in and creating activities for the little ones,” explains Anne.

Anne is so impressed with Natalia and NOVA’s service she plans to hire more workers with disability in the future.

“It’s been amazing,” said Anne. “And I’m really proud to have Natalia and our partnership with NOVA.

I have no doubts whatsoever that Natalia will get her diploma and become a very successful educator.”

For more information about NOVA Employment’s services or the candidates they represent contact Julie Multari by phone 0414 956 298 or email: julie.multari@ novaemployment.com.au.

Buzy Bee Kindy owner, Anne Psegiannakis

Natalia feeding one of the babies at Buzy Bee Kindy

Natalia with NOVA Camden Manager Julie Multari

LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS A WIN FOR ALL! Local business shine at Camden

THIS year’s Camden City Local Business Awards was a glittering spectacular that provided a fitting finale to the annual event.

This year’s winners exchanged exuberant hugs and cheers filled the room as they made their way to the stage on June 13.

Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said the evening was an exciting culmination to a successful awards program.

“The Local Business Awards recognise the vital role business people play in the lives of their communities,” he said.

“The presentation evening not only sees the announcement of the category winners but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all the finalists.

“We had a sell-out crowd that included our finalists, their families and staff, as well as our sponsors and local dignitaries, who helped to present awards to the winners.”

The Macthur Advocate captured all the excitement as the finalists in each category were announced, complete with images on the big screen, followed by huge cheers as the winners’ names were

read out and they took to the stage to claim their trophies.

“The winners’ speeches are always heartfelt and emotional,” Mr Loe said. “This year was no exception.

“It’s very emotional for everyone there to see their tears and smiles as well as hear the beautiful acceptance speeches.”

As official media partner for the Camden Local Business Awards, Macathur Advocate will publish a winners’ feature, that recognises all category winners from the presentation evening.

“Of course, the awards are only possibly with the support of Major Partners.”

“Their involvement proves their commitment to their community and the businesses that thrive there.”

Mr Loe also the Camden Civuic Centre for the high quality food and service it provided.

“Thanks to them it was a five-star occasion,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge the incredible entertainment and our fabulous MC Paul Hancock who kept the evening flowing smoothly.”

Businesses can register for the 2023 Local Business Awards at www.thebusinessawards.com.au

Macarthur Advocate congratulates all winners in this years local business awards. www.macarthuradvocate.au

A Big Thankyou to all our Loyal Customers for their continued support , we have loved helping you all create your dream holidays & look forward to continue to assist you in the future “

ELITE BLENDS is an Australian owned and operated contract manufacturing company. We manufacture skin care, hair care, and health & beauty products for companies in the cosmetic industry, both in Australia and overseas.

Our services include, product development & formulation, private label manufacturing, filling and packing.

We have a team of staff who are dedicated to producing quality products following current GMP and ISO guidelines.

We are proud to be the Winner of the Most Inclusive Employer at this years Camden Local Business Awards.

A heartfelt thank you to Our customers and staff in winning the Camden local business Awards 2023.

To our remarkable staff: Your dedication, passion, and hard work have paved the way for this achievement. Your commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of greatness are the driving forces behind our success.

To our customers: Your trust, loyalty, and support have elevated us to new heights. Your patronage and feedback have been invaluable in shaping our business. We are profoundly grateful for the privilege of serving you and will continue to strive for excellence in everything we do. This award is shared with My staff and Customers.

Thank you again, Andrew, (Pizza Spot) 4655 5396

Order online

www.pizzaspot.com.au 1/54 Flinders ave, Camden South.

AN AWARD WINNING TEAM!

PNP Constructions are the experts in Bespoke NDIS Complex Home Modifications.

Specialising in: Complex Home Modifications (CHM) Creating high end bespoke and stress-free home modifications so people with disabilities can live in safety and comfort.

PNP Constructions push the boundaries of innovation and break down barriers, to ensure they continuously provide an individualised bespoke service.

Your trusted and leading team in bespoke NDIS Complex Home Modifications.

2023 Winner - Business of the Year!

Local Business Awards, Camden

2023 Winner - Outstanding Service & Trade!

Local Business Awards, Camden

2023 Winner - Team Award! Disability Staff Recognition Awards, National Disability Leadership Organisation.

2023 Finalist - Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations!

Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards

2023 Finalist - Bathroom of the Year! HIA-CSR Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards

2023 Finalist - Bathroom Design! HIA-CSR Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards

Camden Local Business Awards Winners 2023

Top beauty and cosmetics brands

TOP quality Australian-made beauty and cosmetics products are manufactured at Elite Blends in Sydney’s southwest suburb of Smeaton Grange.

Elite Blends will be lunching their own range in 2024.

Among the products to be launched will be hair shampoo, conditioner and colour care for women and for men, after shave balm and a children’s Range.

The plant-based products being developed for the children’s range are bubble bath, body wash, moisturisers and calming oil blends.

Elite Blends’ clients are beauty and cosmetics companies located across Australia and overseas, says owner Jody Eade.

As a contract manufacturer for companies, Ms Eade says they provide advice on product development and

formulation, manufacturing options and packaging.

The Smeaton Grange facility has equipment to cater for customers with either small or large batches of products.

Products are handled for quality assurance and following current GMP and ISO guidelines for Australian-made products.

Co-owner Anita Baric said the company is always searching for new and innovative products that can stand out in the global market for Australian-made products.

With an in-house laboratory for research and development, they offer advice on how to formulate new products or adjust existing formulation.

For more details, visit https://www.eliteblends. com.au/

PNP offers bespoke building solutions

AT the recent 2023 Campbelltown Local Business Awards, PNP Constructions founded by Marcus Pavlakis and Eva Pavlakis won Business of the Year and Outstanding Service & Trade reflecting their resounding success in the industry.

PNP Constructions is a building and construction company operating in Gregory Hills NSW, offering bespoke end-to-end solutions for clients in the disability sector.

The company delivers quality and customised range of services, offering a unique and tailored approach for addressing specific conditions associated with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) home modification requirements.

Strong support from customers

HELLOWORLD Travel Narellan owner and operator Tammy Fitzgibbon has thanked their valued customers who voted them among outstanding businesses in the 2023 Camden Local Business Awards.

“The team is incredibly grateful for your support and trust in our services,” Mrs Fitzgibbon said.

Winning the award after running the local business for 23 years, Mrs Fitzgibbon said was “a true testament to the strong relationships we have built with our customers over the years.”

“The strong relationships we have also built over the years with our travel partners allows us to offer unforgettable travel experiences, tailored to the specific needs and desires of our clients,” she said.

“A sincere thank you once again for your continued support and we look forward to serving you for many more years to come.”

visit https://www.helloworld.com. au/store/narellan.

These services include Complex Home Modifications designs, specialist Disability Accommodation as well as Building Works Project Management, all focused on compliance to relevant standards and codes while maintaining industry best practise.

PNP Constructions keeps on improving its services and recently hosted its first-ever Professional Development and Networking event where industry experts and stakeholders shared their insightful presentations sponsored by PNP Institute. With over three decades of experience in the construction industry, Marcus who holds a degree

in international business and education, shared to the attendees his wide-ranging knowledge of the intricacies of building compliance with Australian Standards, existing legislations and industry regulations.

Co-founder Eva Pavlakis, an engineer whose industry experience includes international projects, manages the company’s range of projects ensuring product designs are compliant to standards and certifications.

Eva’s broad industry knowledge in Manufacturing, Building and Construction, Aged Care, NDIS and Auditing & Training makes her a key member of the business compliance and certification sector.

Aside from the Campbelltown Local Business Award trophy, PNP Constructions recently won the Team Award at the National Disability Leadership Organisation’s Sydney Disability Staff Recognition Awards Gala night held last June at Doltone House.

PNP Constructions is among companies supporting the Australian Paralympics Team in 2024 Olympics in Paris, France.

To learn more visit www.pnpgroup.co. If you would like speak with one of our experts and find out how we can work together, email homemods@pnpgroup.co or call 1300 767 462.

Elite Blends staff at the manufacturing facility at Smeaton Grange.

Helloworld Travel Narellan’s award-winning team with grateful owner Tammy Fitzgibbon, Lisa Kyle, Valeska Gonzalez and Narelle Martin.

The winning team.

HOW AN AIRPORT SELFIE CAN RUIN YOUR HOLIDAY How to share the SAFE WAY

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

THE simple pleasure of posting a selfie of your boarding pass on social media as you depart on your holiday could lead to a major hacking of your identity and finances.

A recent survey shows that almost 85% of travellers are worried about being hacked while traveling. Cybersecurity experts from NordVPN said the risks of being hacked increased drastically for those who share too much information about their holiday online.

An “airport selfie,” or photo of a traveller’s boarding pass and a passport, is a popular way to let social media followers know they are going abroad. However, a boarding pass contains personal information that can help hackers to ruin the big trip.

“Even if only the barcode of your flight ticket is visible in the picture, hackers can scan it and find out such information as a traveller’s full name, reservation number, passenger name record and sometimes even contact information,” Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, said “This data can later be used by the hacker to ruin a traveller’s holiday by cancelling their return flights, stealing money from their payment cards, or even stealing their identity.”

So, what can a hacker do with the information from your boarding pass?

Well, after scanning the barcode, hackers can use the data to get into a passenger’s airline account, steal their mileage points or change details for upcoming flights.

And if the passenger is not a frequent traveller and they have not collected many mileage points for criminals to steal, the hacker might call a traveller up during their trip pretending to be the airline representative and ask for credit card details to confirm a return flight.

Cybercriminals can also gather more information about their victim on social

media and then try to call the airline, pretending to be a traveller. Boarding pass information and other valuable details they may find online can help criminals trick even the most secure travel agency or airline company into sharing their customer’s information.

After collecting this huge amount of data about their victim, criminals can proceed to sell this data on the dark web or even worse, steal the victim’s identity, enabling the hacker to commit fraud like opening credit card accounts or making unauthorized purchases.

The good news is, there is a safe way to share vacation photos online.

“While posting your boarding pass is never safe, there are ways to share your vacation with your followers and

stay secure online at the same time,” Mr Warmenhoven said.

1. Always post photos after you are back from holiday. It’s better to hold off posting photos or information that indicates you’re vacationing while you’re away. Don’t let your followers know your home is empty at the moment.

2. Make sure your account settings are set to private. One of the most important pieces of information to know before you post anything online is who you’re sharing your information with. Make sure that your account settings are set to private and your posts are visible to your friends only instead of everyone on the internet.

3. Never share personal information on social media. Remove personal details, such as your home address and telephone

number, from your profile pages because there, they are easily accessible by anyone. Don’t make status updates sharing your location. And never ever post photos of your passport, plane tickets or any other documents.

4. Be careful with free public Wi-Fi. If you eventually decide to post anything online while abroad, ensure your connection is secure. Cafes, shops and even hotels offer unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Users need to be especially cautious when connecting to these networks because they are easily monitored. Hackers may position themselves as a Wi-Fi hotspot or use special software to steal data from unprotected networks. One of the best ways to safely use public Wi-Fi is by installing a VPN.

at Blacktown Workers Club

Urgent Care On Your Doorstep: Western Sydney Opens Six Urgent Care Facilities

Western Sydney is now home to six urgent care facilities to help you access local, quality care for minor injuries and illnesses that might normally require a visit to a hospital emergency department. This means over 15,000 of you could receive free care for non-lifethreatening conditions at an urgent care local practice per year.

Built within local general practices, these six centres are able to treat health concerns such as minor fractures, sprains, wound management, mild burns and cuts requiring stitches. Each urgent care facility is staffed by highly-skilled health professionals, with referral pathways to onsite additional services such as pathology, mobile imaging (x-rays and ultrasound) and, in some cases, dental care. Our Western Sydney urgent care initiatives are free to access and located across the region to offer you the best care when you need it.

Urgent care facilities are currently available in:

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

Auburn

Castle Hill Marsden Park

Rouse Hill Rooty Hill Wentworthville

Not Sure Where to Go For Care?

The Western Sydney Urgent Care Line, 1800 371 372 , is a free phone line staffed by a clinical team who can assess your symptoms and direct you to the right point of care. This includes referral to a hospital, community-based service, or to an urgent care initiative.

The Urgent Care Line is available Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, except on public holidays.

WHERE AUSSIES ARE REALLY TRAVELLING

Forget the pretentious lists

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

HAVE you ever read one of those lists of the best places to go next year in the flash, glossy travel magazines?

And have you ever shaken your head in disbelief as you realise you’ve never heard of most of them and the rest you wouldn’t want to go to anyway?

You know the kind of thing – yak herding in Outer Mongolia, kayak paddling at the North Pole or watching the moon come up over Palestine.

Some travel writers are, shall we say, a little bit pretentious and they seem out of step with the ordinary Aussie traveller who goes overseas more for a holiday or to see the ‘rellos’ than go on a expensive time consuming slog across some little known area.

True, there are adventurers amongst us and it is a ‘given’ you will find Aussies at every corner of the earth.

However travel habits die hard in Australia and the top 10 places to visit are mostly still at their pre covid place on the list.

There were 968,490 international departures from Australia in September, a monthly increase of 87,630 from June, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

New Zealand was the most popular spot for a visit, with 96,180 arrivals recorded by Australia’s closest Pacific neighbor.

Indonesia -mostly Bali- and the UK were the second and third most visited places, with 86,160 and 66,480 arrivals returning from each country respectively.

Overseas visitors coming here

USA, Fiji, India, Singapore, Thailand, Italy and Vietnam rounded out the top 10.

All of these countries had more Australians return from them than they did in June.

During the 2021-2022 financial year, New Zealand continued to be the leading destination country for Australians travelling overseas, accounting for 195,370 trips in total.

And despite the allure of the yak herds in full flight, the most popular reason for travel – accounting for almost half of all trips – was “visiting friends and or relatives”.

The average trip was 19 days long. The stats from the ABS take into account the number of international border crossings rather than the exact number of travellers.

So, what about overseas visitors coming here? Well, A total of 325,680 short-term trips of visitors in Australia were recorded in July, an increase of 306,960 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year

In fact, the number of trips for July was lower than in July 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic halted international travel in and out of the country.

New Zealand was the largest source country for visitors to Australia, accounting for 24% of all arrivals in July this year.

The USA and UK took out second and third place, respectively sending 27,040 and 25,340 visitors to Australia.

There’s one giant omission in a new top-10 of countries whose travellers plan to visit Australia now our borders are open - China.

China was once Australia’s largest inbound tourist market for both arrivals and spending. There were more than 1.4 million visitors from China pre-pandemic, contributing a combined total of $12 billion to the Australian economy.

This was more than one quarter of the entire international tourism spend - according to data provided by Australia’s peak tourism body, the Tourism and Transport Forum.

Now, that huge Chinese spend has fallen off a cliff, plunging 99.4% to just $76m in 2021, TTF figures show. Tourism generates $94 billion in spending and contributes nearly $34 billion to Australia’s GDP, directly employs over 500,000 people and earns nearly 10% of our total export earnings, according to Tourism Australia data.

Sources: Escape, ABS, MSN, Tourism Australia

FOUR STARS

Haunted Mansion feels like a lovely throwback to the family fun Disney films of old

BEN Matthias (LaKeith Stanfield), a scientist struggling with the death of ghost-obsessed wife, is hired by Gabbie (Rosario Dawson) to help take photos of ghosts in the haunted mansion she inhabits.

What he doesn’t realise is that upon arrival, the ghosts latch onto him, and now he is stuck trying to rid the house of its ghostly presence.

Gabbie has already brought in a crack team to help her in this endeavour though, all similarly tricked into the task. Between them, Ben, Gabbie, Father Kent (Owen Wilson), medium Harriet (Tiffany Haddish), lecturer Bruce (Danny DeVito) and young Travis (Chase Dillon) will have to discover what has these ghosts worked up, and how they can save them

Directed by Justin Simien, Haunted Mansion is a pleasant little throwback film that feels like it has stepped straight out of the early 2000’s. Its mild humour bubbles along nicely, briefly interspersed with the occasional jump scare and the brief flash of heart.

Owen Wilson and Danny DeVito

standout in the comedy sphere, both bringing their respective zany schtick’s to the piece. But it’s Lakeith Stanfield in the lead that really anchors the movie. He’s able to change it up so quickly between heartbreaking backstory complete with tears, and crazy ghost action antics, and funny asides, that it seems nearly miraculous.

Visually, the film is suitably gorgeous from a set design, and if the animation on the ghosts never quite reaches the heights you would expect, it’s not a major detractor from the film.

For fans of the Disney ride, the soundtrack will be a welcome addition, consistently playing on the ‘Grim Grinning Ghosts’ refrain.

PAST LIVES - FIVE STARS

Ultimately, the film probably drags on a little longer than needed. But there is a moment where Stanfield’s Ben recalls his grief that really cuts so quickly to the heart that you’re left a little shell shocked. This is a completely inoffensive, fun time in the theatre, but it also has a sneaky little bit of emotional warmth that will suck you in as unsuspectingly as our lead gets sucked into the Haunted Mansion itself. It makes it feel like a much older movie; something closer to ET than the modern dearth of overly animated kids films.

Ben may have resurrected the dead in this film, but with it, Simien resurrects a dead art form; that of the entirely watchable, completely enjoyable, limited ambition family action comedy, and it absolutely works.

Haunted Mansion is a joyful little surprise.

Past Lives is a superb take on human connection, tugging at the heartstrings and leaving audiences contemplating their own pasts and futures

IN their debut major film, Past Lives, Celine Song takes audiences on an introspective journey that delves into the intricacies of identity, longing, and the immigrant experience.

As both the writer and director, Song crafts a narrative that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression of heartfelt emotion.

The film, characterised by its poignant exploration of human connection, introduces us to a world where the past and present intertwine, revealing layers of emotions that remain hidden beneath the surface.

The story opens with two childhood friends, Na Young and Hae Sung who’s deep connection is drawn apart when Na Young parents decide to emigrate from South Korea to Canada.

A span of twelve years pass and we see Na Young, now going by her western monika Nora, looking up old friends from her childhood online. As it turns out Hae Sung has been looking for her too.

Their rekindled connection sparks anew but as is often the issue with modern romance the timing just isn’t right. Years passing again between these two are reunited, with changes to their individual lives, loves and identities.

This poignant exploration of human connection, introduces us to a world where the past and present intertwine, revealing layers of emotions that remain hidden beneath the surface. One of the film’s most compelling aspects is its ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. The theme of identity,

particularly in the context of immigrants or the children of immigrants, will strike a chord for many.

The film captures the complex journey of reconciling one’s heritage with the environment they now call home.

The struggle between the Western society they inhabit and the heritage they carry becomes a palpable presence throughout the film. Greta Lee (Nora) and Tae Yoo’s (Hae Sung) performances are nothing short of exceptional, breathing life into characters grappling with the complexities of self-discovery and belonging.

Their on-screen chemistry not only enhances the storytelling but also evokes a profound sense of empathy from the audience.

Lee and Yoo navigate the delicate balance between their characters’ cultur-

al roots and the demands of the worlds around them, creating a poignant portrayal that resonates authentically. John Magaro skillfully plays Arthur, Nora’s husband who enters in the latter act.

His ability to play a secondary man in this story of missed connection is not lost to the audience. Unlike conventional narratives he is not projected as an obstacle but rather a differential connection that was there at the right time.

Celine Song showcases a remarkable understanding of the human psyche, pulling viewers into a realm of infinite and relatable longing.

This debut venture into the world of major cinema is a testament to Song’s talent as a storyteller, leaving audiences no doubt eagerly awaiting her future

endeavours. The visual aesthetics of the film only adds to the story.

The camera work and cinematography seamlessly complement and enhance the emotional depth of each scene. The film’s visual appeal is matched by its impeccable sound design, which adds a definitive and unique layer to the storytelling. Every sound, from intimate footsteps to a closing gate, is captured with meticulous attention, amplifying the audience’s immersion in the film’s world.

One of the film’s standout strengths is its ability to convey emotions through silence. Awkward pauses and unspoken words are harnessed with precision, allowing the characters’ inner struggles to speak volumes.

This emphasis on the unspoken adds depth to the relationships portrayed and invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences of missed opportunities and unexpressed emotions.

Past Lives is a refreshing departure from the often-explored narrative of lust, instead choosing to focus on the nuances of love, friendship, and the intricate emotions that accompany them.

The narrative weaves stories of missed chances and unfulfilled desires, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of melancholy and yearning that resonates for days on end.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO Know about fitness trackers

MOST modern fitness trackers are electronic devices you wear on your wrist to track steps, overall physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep. They typically work with a smartphone app or website that allow you to track your progress over time using graphs and figures. Advanced fitness trackers can also record heart rate and GPS related outcomes, like your route, speed and distance.

People can be active without using fitness trackers, but their self-monitoring features help you set realistic goals and track your progress. Self-monitoring is an effective behaviour change technique.

So let’s have a look at the evidence about these trackers.

1. Fitness trackers work in the short term

Basic pedometers (mechanical step counters) have been around for a long time and when people use them their activity levels increase. Today’s fitness trackers are essentially fancy pedometers. So, there’s little reason to believe their added features and functionality makes them less effective.

You can trust this article because it’s written by academics.

Of the few rigorous randomised controlled trials of advanced fitness trackers, most found positive short-term outcomes. For example, a study comparing people using pedometers to those using Fitbits found Fitbit users were 62

minutes more physically active a week. Other studies also found people using fitness trackers took significantly more steps compared with those in a control group, but only measured outcomes over a short period.

2. For long-term outcomes fitness trackers work best with other strategies

Too few studies have looked at how people use fitness trackers beyond three months to say if they work in the long term. Numerous reports suggest many people soon stop using them. Reasons include the need to repeatedly recharge and sync the device with an app or website.

More importantly, fitness trackers need to be part of an overall behaviour change strategy to promote a lifelong fitness habit. But this mostly doesn’t happen.

For example, one workplace study showed physical activity increased after 12 months when fitness trackers were combined with organisational support in the first three months. Support included educational information, goal setting, social support and team challenges.

A high-profile study showed that when people were financially rewarded for using fitness trackers, this didn’t improve their health in the long term. However, such external rewards are not a strong behaviour change strategy, as they don’t increase the motivation needed to keep going after the incentives are

removed.

So behavioural support is needed with fitness trackers to form healthy lifelong activity habits.

3. Basic fitness tracker functions are accurate

Several reviews indicate most fitness trackers provide valid and reliable measures of physical activity, for instance counting steps and activity minutes. Most users consider step counting as the most important function of fitness trackers.

But these reviews also indicate energy expenditure, calorie counts and sleep measures are less accurate. This isn’t necessarily a problem for recreational users as the measurement error tends to be consistent. This means you still can accurately assess whether you are making progress as the device always over- or under-estimates the same way.

4. Fitness trackers affect your mood

Some people report feeling guilty or naked when not wearing their fitness tracker; others suggest it may damage their relationship with their doctor.

But there are many studies demonstrating the strong positive effects of regular physical activity on mental health, including improved mood, quality of life, stress, anxiety and depression. While there is no direct evidence, it is likely the positive mental health effects of being active outweigh the potential negative mental health effects of wearing fitness

trackers.

5. Fitness trackers are here to stay, despite media reports

A recent article highlighted the financial troubles for market leader Fitbit and others such as Jawbone. Sales are slowing and profits are down. This has many believing fitness trackers are a temporary fad.

We don’t think this will happen; the global wearables market is forecast to grow to more than US$34 billion a year by 2019. More importantly, fitness trackers are still evolving rapidly, with different brands developing new models boasting improved features and performance. It is difficult to stay on top as market leader in a dynamic and quickly changing environment.

Health professionals are also willing to use fitness trackers for specific patient groups, like people recovering from breast cancer or having haemodialysis. This demonstrates the potential for trackers to be integrated into the health care system.

Authors: Corneel Vandelanotte: Professorial Research Fellow: Physical Activity and Health, CQUniversity Australia. Stephanie Alley: Postdoctoral research fellow, CQUniversity Australia.www. theconversation..com.au

QUICK CROSSWORD

QUIZ

1 The Hoysala Empire ruled in the south of what country between the 10th and 14th centuries?

2 In the children’s cartoon Tom and Jerry, what sort of animal was Jerry?

7 Coach (7)

8 Part of a play (5)

14 Injured player carrier (9)

16 Preceding day (9)

18 US state (7)

19 On the sheltered side (7)

21 Great (7)

22 Attempts (7)

SUDOKU

23 Cuts (wood) (5)

24 Land measures (5)

9-LETTER WORD No. 033

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”.

3 US singer/songwriter Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr was better known by what name?

4 True or false: elephant seal bulls can grow to 7m long?

5 The Scandinavian Peninsula covers which three countries?

6 Which Australian band released a remix of the ABC News theme song in 2010?

7 Before Mick Malthouse, who was the coach of the Collingwood Football Club?

8 In Roman mythology, who was the god of love?

9 In what year did Frank Sinatra (pictured) release the song My Way?

10 Not including Australia, how many countries have a flag that is only red, white and blue?

ACROSS

1 Hot springs (4)

5 State of comfort (4)

6 Operatic melody (4)

7 Flesh (4)

DOWN

1 Edge line (4)

2 Trim (4)

3 Eastern continent (4)

4 Chair (4)

WORD FIND No. 033

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

Secret message:

ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

No. 042

ACROSS

2 Big-budget adventure starring Alexander Skarsgård as the title character, The Legend of – (6)

4 2014 British drama starring Max Irons, – –Club (3,4)

9 John Ford classic starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara (3,5,3)

11, 25-down British actor and comedian behind fictional radio and TV star Alan Partridge (5,6)

12 Dystopian series based on the novel by Margaret Atwood, The – – (9,4)

29 Actor who plays Neil Armstrong in the 2018 bio First Man (4,7)

30 Actor who portrays Dryden Vos in Solo: A Star Wars Story, Paul – (7)

31 Superhero played by Paul Rudd (3-3)

DOWN

1 US reality series looking at plastic surgeries gone wrong (7)

15 The voice of King Julien XIII in the Madagascar films, Sacha Baron – (5)

16 Jim Carrey’s 1997 fantasy comedy (4,4)

18 2013 drama starring Naomi Watts and Xavier Samuel (9)

20 Action movie starring Bruce Willis and his daughter Rumer (7)

21 Actor (pictured) who plays old school tycoon Reuben Tishkoff in the Ocean’s film series, –Gould (7)

23 Debate forum hosted by Jenny Brockie (7)

24 Star of the title role in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Michael – (4)

25 See 11-across

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations.

13 Actor who plays Dominic Toretto in the Fast and the Furious franchise, Vin – (6)

15 Star of Shopgirl and Stardust, – Danes (6)

16 Gerard Butler action thriller, – Has Fallen (6)

17 Star of Steven Soderbergh’s Logan Lucky, – Swank (6)

2 Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway’s (pictured) 2015 comedy (3,6)

Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

3 Acting siblings Patricia, David, Richmond, Rosanna and –Arquette (6)

5 Series starring Esme Creed-Miles, based on the film of the same name (5)

6 English comedian, actor and author, – Brand (7)

19 Star of 8-down, –Judd (6)

A e

27 Actor who played Harvey Dent in The Dark Knight, – Eckhart (5)

ADMIRED

HIDDEN WORD

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code? 1

Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.

5

O U

26 Black comedy starring Edward Norton as identical twin brothers (6,2,5)

28 Japanese actor who plays Hogun in the Thor movies, Tadanobu – (5)

22 Australian TV presenter and sports commentator, – Meadows (6)

A e K

S A L

7 Nigerian-born star of cop show Shades of Blue, Dayo – (7)

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words –five reading across the grid and five reading down.

8 Musical biopic based on the life of Cole Porter and starring 19-across (2-6)

1. In which year was Cumberbatch born?

A. 1980

B. 1982

C. 1976

D. 1972

3. For which series did Cumberbatch win an Emmy Award?

A. Sherlock

B. Parade’s End

C. Patrick Melrose

D. None

10 Johnny Depp and Benedict Cumberbatch’s crime drama, Black – (4)

8 L e TT e RS DEFERRAL INFLATES SCRAPPED SECLUDED S O Y

NOTe: more than one solution may be possible

14 American musician who plays Cinna the stylist in the first two Hunger Games films, – Kravitz (5)

2. Which prestigious school did Cumberbatch attend?

A. Harrow

B. Eton

C. Westminster

D. None

4. Which animated character did he voice on film?

A. Simba

B. Buzz Lightyear

C. The Grinch

D. Mowgli

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