SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE FOR NEW AIRPORT CITY
In another significant milestone for Bradfield City Centre, construction of the First Building – housing Stage 1 of the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) – is now complete.
The AMRF will offer world-class support to help businesses grow faster, reduce risks, and compete globally, while strengthening the NSW economy.
The AMRF is central to the economic development strategy underpinning Bradfield City Centre. By strengthening the manufacturing sector, the AMRF will play an integral role in creating more high-value jobs, leveraging the $20 billion worth of Government infrastructure in the Aerotropolis.
With sustainability at its core, the First Building sets the bench-
mark for the new city. It features extensive use of natural materials and a cooling green roof to reduce solar thermal heating loads.
“IT’S
Designed with Country, the building draws its design cues from the surrounding natural waterways and the Cumberland Plains. Internal rammed earth walls provide a stunning visual feature, alongside extensive glass walls that allow visitors to witness the creation of new prototypes
and technologies in the AMRF Manufacturing Hall.
A rooftop viewing platform provides a unique vantage point to watch the construction of the new city and the nearby Bradfield Metro station.
The Bradfield Development Authority has now begun commissioning the building and installing advanced manufacturing equipment, with a scheduled opening in early 2025.
“Bradfield Development Authority is committed to building a stronger future for Western Sydney by delivering Bradfield and attracting investment to the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. The Authority has firmly shifted from planning to a delivery phase, with momentum well underway,” said Bradfield Development Authority CEO, Ken Morrison said.
“Completion of the First Building is a milestone that will accelerate innovation across the manufacturing sector in western Sydney and beyond.”
The First Building and AMRF will be magnets for innovation and investment across NSW and Australia, aligning with the NSW Government’s commitment to prioritise rebuilding the state’s manufacturing capability.
“The people and industries of western Sydney can now utilise AMRF’s expertise and world leading advanced manufacturing equipment to connect with global opportunities, create jobs and drive the NSW economy,” Morrison said.
“It is the first step in delivering more highly paid, skilled jobs, improving the lives of people in western Sydney.”
Completion of the First Building in Bradfield City Centre. Photo: Quentin Jones/thinkMammoth.
LUXURY LIVING AWAITS
FAMILY
What’s so special about this property?
This modern Waterside home features open-plan living, a stunning kitchen, luxurious master suite, alfresco entertaining, and low-maintenance design, with access to community facilities, lakeside trails, and Penrith’s shopping and transport.
Who does this property suit?
This property suits families or professionals seeking a modern,
low-maintenance home with premium amenities, community facilities, and convenient access to shopping, transport, and lifestyle perks.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
Waterside is a serene, family-friendly area offering picturesque lakes, walking trails, community facilities, and easy access to Penrith’s shopping, transport, schools and amenities.
a beautiful home that can handle a
family has
been
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Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0
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Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me.
GROUND BROKEN ON SENIORS’ LIVING PROJECT
Ground has been broken at Park Meadows by Uniting, with works officially commencing for the project’s expansion in Westmead.
The new development will address the needs of the growing number of seniors in Westmead and neighbouring suburbs, creating a welcoming community where every stage of life is supported with exceptional care and services.
This milestone was marked with a Welcome to Country and
smoking ceremony performed by a Darug Elder, alongside a symbolic sod-turn at Park Meadows by Uniting. It was attended by residents of both the retirement living village and the residential aged care home, along with Simon Furness, Director of Property and Housing at Uniting, who all celebrated the growth of this thriving retirement and independent living village.
Speaking at the ceremony, Furness said the expansion was testament to Uniting’s commit-
ment to the local community.
“Uniting has been providing high-quality seniors’ accommodation and services to the Westmead community for over 50 years. This expansion of Park Meadows by Uniting means we can continue to provide a continuum of care for our local seniors
“THE
that prioritises independence and wellbeing, alongside the security of staying close to those they know and love, even as care needs may change,” he said.
Set for completion in mid-2027, the new village will provide a variety of amenities for existing and future residents, their families and local community
including 153 quality independent living apartments, bringing the total number of apartments to 223 and 171 parking spaces. There will also be an indoor pool and spacious gathering and relaxation areas, including an activities green, children’s playground, village green, designated BBQ areas, and alfresco dining and lounge areas.
Adrian Ciano, Head of Property Development at Uniting, said Stage 2 is the final step in realising Uniting’s vision for the Westmead community.
“The new development at Park Meadows will address the increasing demand for high-quality, contemporary accommodation for seniors in our local area. We continuously look for ways to enhance and expand villages such as Park Meadows, ensuring that our services provide for people well into the future,” he said.
For more information, visit www.uniting.org/park-meadows-by-uniting-expansion.
DIVE INTO YOUR DREAM POOL WITH OUTBACK POOLS
Outback Pools is your one-stop shop for all concrete pool essentials. Stocking top brands like Pentair, Maytronics, Theralux, Lincoln BWT and more, we offer a wide range of supplies, including heat pumps, pool covers, chemicals, and cleaning equipment.
Our expert team provides free water analysis, onsite maintenance, and personalised advice to keep your pool in perfect condition. Whether you’re upgrading or maintaining, we have products for ever y budget.
PROTECT YOURSELF THIS FESTIVE SEASON The Experts
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and generosity. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to exploit the festive spirit and the increased online activity. Here are some common scams to watch out for during the holidays, along with tips on protecting yourself.
1. Gift card scams
Gift cards are a popular holiday gift, but they are also a favourite target for scammers. A common tactic is to trick people into buying gift cards as a form of payment for fake services or debts.
Example: This happened to one of our clients. A new staff member identified on LinkedIn was targeted to buy gift cards. The reasoning was that the owner wanted to give them out as bonuses. Being new, no-one would find out and spoil the surprise.
Protection tips: Only buy gift cards from reputable retailers. Check the packaging for signs of tampering. Most importantly, never use gift cards to pay for services or debts.
2. Impersonation scams
Scammers often impersonate trusted entities, such as banks, government agencies, or friends and family, to steal personal infor-
mation or money. These scams can occur via phone calls, emails, or social media messages.
Example: A resident in a retirement village we look after got caught in this scam. A virus protection company was impersonated. They were allowed to log into his computer. They then asked him to log into his bank as they suspected it may have been compromised. They then captured his banking details and emptied his account.
Protection tips: Verify the identity of the caller or sender before providing any information. Call them back using phone numbers directly from their website. Be cautious of unsolicited requests for personal information.
3. Malware scams
Malware scams involve tricking victims into downloading malicious software that can steal personal information, lock files for ransom, or spy on online activities. These scams often take the form of fake software updates, email attachments or malicious links.
Example: You receive an email or phone call claiming to be from a well-known software company urging you to download an urgent security update. The link installs malware on your device.
Protection tips: Keep your software and
antivirus programs up to date. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
4. Email phishing
Phishing scams involve sending fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, aiming to trick recipients into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Example: You receive an email from what looks like a popular online retailer claiming there was an issue with your recent order and asking you to click a link to resolve it. The link leads to a fake website designed to steal your login details.
Protection tips: Check the sender’s email address for authenticity. Look for spelling and grammar errors in the email.
5. Spoofing
Spoofing involves disguising communication from an unknown source as being from a known, trusted source.
Example: You receive a call that appears to be from your bank’s phone number, but it’s a scammer using caller ID spoofing.
Protection tips: Be sceptical of unsolicited calls or messages. Verify the source by contacting the organisation directly.
MAKING THE SILLY SEASON SAFER!
Summer is here, children are nearly finished school, and Christmas is coming! However we can’t afford to become complacent about water safety during the silly season, as Royal Life Saving Australia research shows that Australians are twice more likely to drown on a public holiday than any other day of the year.
210 Australians drowned on public holidays over the past 15 years, and holiday makers are at highest risk, being 2.5 times more likely to drown due to lack of knowledge and familiarity with the local water ways. Alcohol is a significant contributor to public holiday drowning deaths, and it’s men that are commonly susceptible to a higher risk, with the report showing men are four times more likely to drown than women. Let’s do all we can this summer to take care of one another and minimise the risks.
These are my top 10 water safety tips for a happy holiday period:
children to swim and continue to attend lessons regularly. It may be tempting to drop lessons as life gets busy but until children reach their age related milestones swimming lessons should remain non-negotiable.
2. Avoid alcohol around water.
3. Check for snags and currents before entering inland waterways and rivers.
inflatable pools, bathtubs, buckets, fishponds, even pet bowls. Children have drowned in less water than a drink bottle can hold.
9. Make supervision of children the priority around all water – delegate a supervisor at all events with the adults talking turns on rotation. Never assume someone else is watching.
10. Learn how to perform CPR and use an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). Drownings remain a risk at home, where we are often most relaxed and assume nothing bad will happen, but we must remain vigilant. Make this weekend the time to check your pool fences and gates and refer to the Royal Life Saving home pool safety checklist to minimise the risks. You can find the checklist at: www.royallifesaving.com.au/ programs/home-pool-safety/ home-pool-safety-checklist. Wishing you a safe summer with your families! JULIE
1. Swimming lessons! Teach
4. Know your limits and never swim alone, or when intoxicated.
5. Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags and learn how to spot rip currents.
6. Children under five should be kept at arm’s reach at all times at the beach, at the pool, and in every other aquatic environment. Accidents happen very quicky.
7. Fence the pool, check and close all gates and make sure all gates are self-latching.
8. Be aware of other household items which represent a drowning risk, i.e. Eskys,
SHELDRAKE
At One Point Health, we can assess your neurovascular status as part of determining your overall diabetic foot risk status. This, in turn, helps us to guide regular treatment intervals if required or to provide advice if it is deemed safe for you to continue to manage your own feet at home.
In order to assess someone’s neurovascular status, we look at two things: neurological assessment and vascular status. High, uncontrolled blood glucose levels are known to cause peripheral neuropathy – nerve damage in the peripheries such as the feet or hands, as well as damage to vascular walls. Over time this can lead to the development of foot ulcers that have difficulty in healing due to the reduced blood flow.
Our role as a podiatrist is to determine and manage an individual’s risk status to assist in preventing these issues from happening.
As part of the neurological
assessment we use both a 10g monofilament and a 128Hz tuning fork to look at what is known as ‘protective sensation’. Reduced protective sensation in the feet increases the risk of development of ulcers due to a reduction in feeling, and therefore someone can step on something sharp and not know about it.
For the vascular assessment we palpate pedal pulses and assess them on an ultrasound known as a doppler. The waveform and sound shown on the doppler helps us to determine whether the quality of the blood flow in the feet.
At a minimum, it is recommended that you have an annual diabetes assessment with your podiatrist to assess and monitor your risk status.
Over time your risk status may change and it is important to be aware of these changes to best reduce your risk of diabetes-related foot complications.
See you next week!
Experts
DON’T BE SILLY IN THE SILLY SEASON!
Personally, I always think of Melbourne Cup Day as the start of the festive season. It seems that the Melbourne Cup functions are the first in a series of Christmas parties and end of year cele brations. It is a great time of year; it also be an expensive time of year!
It is very easy to overspend during this period, and way too many people get themselves into financial trouble. Hopefully, many of you read my article last year and have already allocated funds throughout the year for this period of increased spending, and have your festive period kitty ready to go. If you did, good work and enjoy! Obviously, you still need to be somewhat aware of what you are spending.
Increased spending over this period is inevitable, the key, as always, is to direct the increased spending to areas that add the most value. Too much of our spending adds very little value to our lives. It may not be necessary to buy a new outfit for every one of the functions you are attending. I know my wife loves to get a spray tan and her hair and make-up done for an event, it makes her feel great and this adds value. The difference is that she picks and chooses the events she goes “all out” for, while the others that aren’t
as important, she does her own and hair and make-up.
For me, if I decide not to have a few drinks at some events and drive, I can really reduce the cost of a night by avoiding the need for a taxi or a hotel room. Other nights, I will let my hair down and celebrate.
Christmas presents can really add up to be expensive. For my family, we no longer buy everyone a present, we have a Kris Kringle; we buy and receive a single present, but it is high quality. This works out to be cheaper and better value than buying a large number of inexpensive and lower quality presents.
This is just a few examples of how to direct your spending to the things that are important to you, so you can still enjoy the festive season without breaking the bank to do so.
The thing we really want to avoid is racking up a credit card debt. Ideally, you have put some money aside specifically for this period or have some savings. If you haven’t and will be putting money on the credit card, at least plan in advance how you are going to pay it back. Don’t let this enjoyable time of the year become an expensive millstone for the rest of the year.
We know that as a small busines you just want to be producti ve and not have to worr y about all that “business s tu ”.
But that “business stu ” is so impor tant to your success. That’s where the Western Sydney Business Centre can help. We h av e be en helping small businesses for years with things like Business Planning and Marketing, Pric ing and Sales , Business Resilience and more. Choose a One on One adviso ry sessions with a professional, independent business advisor who will come to you. Or sit in on one of our many tailored webinars or workshops.
Get started to day, call 4721 50 11.
The Western Sydney Business Centre has The
We stern Sydney Business Centre has been delivering business advice as a not for profit organisation for over 36 years winning multiple national business advice awards as both a Centre and as individual advisors. We are consistently being placed in the top 3 busines s advice centres in NSW. We complete over 6,500 hours o f business advice e ver y year wsbusiness.com.au
KELLIE TICKNER
THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF XYLITOL: A WARNING
The holiday season is a time for celebration, indulgence, and often, sweet treats. However, some festive favourites can pose serious dangers to our pets. Among the hidden toxins lurking in many holiday goodies is Xylitol – a common artificial sweetener that is harmless to humans but extremely toxic to dogs.
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is widely used in sugarfree chewing gum, sweets, baked goods, toothpaste, and even some medications. While it is slowly absorbed in humans, in dogs, it is absorbed rapidly and triggers a surge in insulin production. This leads to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) and can cause seizures, coma, liver damage, clotting disorders, or even death.
Why is Christmas a risky time? Christmas is filled with tempting treats that often include Xylitol, even in unexpected places.
Holiday items to watch out for include:
• Sugar-free desserts and cookies baked with Xylitol-based sugar substitutes.
• Festive sweets and candies often gifted or placed within easy reach.
• Stocking stuffers and gift baskets containing sugar-free gum or mints.
• Holiday hygiene gifts such as toothpaste and mouthwash, which could be mistakenly
ingested by curious pets.
• Decorations and packaging, such as foil wrappers or discarded gum, can also attract pets and lead to accidental ingestion.
How much is too much?
The amount of Xylitol that can cause toxicity is alarmingly small – just one piece of gum can poison a small dog. Compounding the danger is the fact that many products do not clearly
list their Xylitol concentration, making it difficult to assess the risk. The first symptom of Xylitol ingestion is often vomiting. Other signs include lethargy, diarrhoea, weakness or collapse and seizures. If you suspect your pet has consumed Xylitol, seek immediate veterinary care.
To keep your pets safe during the holidays:
• Store Xylitol-containing products well out of reach.
• Inform guests and family members about the dangers of sharing sweet treats with pets.
• Check ingredient labels carefully when buying products that will be in your home. If your pet ingests Xylitol, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately. Quick action can save lives. Have questions about Xylitol or other potential toxins? Call us at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
Let’s keep your pets safe and your holiday season merry!
Email Alison.Hall@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.
Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.
At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.
Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.
We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.
Want to know more?
Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384
Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au
Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online
Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.
Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
This week, vivacious Venus (in your sign) trines jolly Jupiter, so you’re at your charismatic Aquarian best as you charm the cynics and dazzle the doubters. Compatible companionship is a must, as you surround yourself with stimulating friends, positive peers and curious colleagues. As writer (and birthday great) Jane Austen wrote, “My idea of good company is the company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.”
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
It’s a fabulous week for many Bulls, especially involving work, career, money and business. Mercury moves forwards on Monday and Venus (your patron planet) forms a trine with prosperity planet Jupiter on Friday. So look out for a fortuitous meeting or a special sign/ synchronicity/opportunity. But you must make the most of good fortune when it comes along. If you procrastinate or fail to recognise the signs, then Lady Luck will promptly pass you by.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
On Monday, Mercury finally moves forwards, so communicating (especially with young children and moody teenagers) should gradually improve. On Wednesday and Thursday, the Sun (your power planet) squares Neptune, so be on alert for confusing information, fake news, and dodgy deals (especially involving friends and finances). Friday is fabulous for romantic relationships, close friendships, socialising, joint ventures and financial matters.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
This week, Mercury moves forwards in your money zone and the Sun shifts into your communication and education zone. So it’s time to be more financially literate, more conversationally engaged, and more curious about the world around you. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, actress and activist Jane Fonda (who turns 87 on Saturday), “Stay curious, keep learning and keep growing.” But friends and finances could be a dodgy mix.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
The Sun/Neptune square (on Wednesday and Thursday) could drain your Piscean energy and sap confidence so pace yourself and prioritise projects. Don’t make commitments unless you have the time and motivation to follow through on your well-meant intentions. If something can be put off until another week, then do so. Communicating with loved ones and colleagues also looks confusing and frustrating, but things should improve from Friday onwards.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Mercury (your ruling planet) moves forwards on Monday. When it comes to work, habits, health and fitness, the more proactive and organised you are, the better the results will be. But Neptune squares the Sun midweek, so a lack of focus, direction and diplomacy could temporarily side-track relationships and confuse you. And don’t let a dubious acquaintance lead you down the primrose path to trouble. Keep your trusty Truth Detector set on high.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Your ruling planet Mercury has been reversing through your home zone, which may have resulted in mistakes, misunderstandings, setbacks and/ or self-doubt (especially involving domestic matters and family members). Thank goodness Mercury finally moves forwards on Monday and – hopefully –you’ve learned a thing or two over the last few weeks. So your motto is from fellow Virgo, actress Lily Tomlin, “The road to success is always under construction.”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Mercury finally moves forwards on Monday morning (in your sign), which boosts your confidence, energy levels, and personal magnetism. But then Neptune squares the Sun on Wednesday/Thursday (in your sign) so, if you indulge in gossip or make vague pronouncements, you could end up in a confusing mess. Smart Sagittarians will have a better week if you slow down, think things through, communicate clearly, and double-check often.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
After three weeks of confusion, chaos, delays and/or dramas, Mercury finally turns direct on Monday morning (Sydney time) – yeah! It starts moving forwards in your travel, education and communication zone, which encourages you to explore exciting new horizons, physically and mentally. The wider your circle of friends and acquaintances, the more influence you will have in the big world outside your door. Being curious and confident are the keys.
CANCER
22 TO JULY 22
With the Sun shifting into your partnership zone, you can’t escape close relationships this week Crabs! And Mercury finally moves forwards on Monday, so don’t approach things with the same old stale attitude. It’s time to recalibrate. If there is a problem: fix it. If there is a misunderstanding: sort it out. If there is too much distance between you and a loved one: get closer. The more positive energy you pour into partnerships, the more enjoyable they will be.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Courtesy of the Sun, the Venus/Jupiter trine, and Mercury turning direct, the buzz words this week are communication and education. Your curiosity is piqued, and you’re keen to connect with a wide range of stimulating people, within your local community and further afield. But Neptune squares the Sun (in your conversation zone) so some relationships will be complicated, and communication could be confusing. Clever Librans will listen and learn!
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
You’re in the mood to let your hair down and party but don’t accept things at face value. With Mercury moving forwards in your mystery zone (and Neptune squaring the Sun) look beneath the surface gloss to discover what’s really going on. And – when you’re buying last-minute presents – Saturn encourages you to choose gifts that are timeless, practical and sturdy. When the Sun transits into Capricorn on Saturday, it’s your turn to sparkle and shine!
Relax & Unwind
GET INTO THE SUMMER
One of the coolest things I’ve done this year was go to school.
My school had a classroom.
My school had a teacher.
My school had gin.
Lots and lots of gin.
That’s right… I went to Gin School – and bloody loved it!
Recently, my wife and I were invited to Manly Spirits Co. to experience their $190 per person, two-hour Gin School class at their fancy Brookvale distillery.
Manly Spirits Co. are one of the leaders in the Australian gin and alcohol market and it’s no surprise why.
At their purpose-built distilling laboratory, my wife and I sat down with a gin & tonic in hand, and not only did we dive into the art of distilling, but we learned step by step how to craft Manly Spirits’ award-winning gin.
As we sat down at our round wooden table, we got to select from dozens of native and exotic botanicals to create our own personalised flavour profile.
With help from our excellent teacher Sasha, we were both able to create our own unique gin blend that we wouldn’t be able to find on liquor store shelves anywhere!
“THIS WAS A REALLY COOL AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCE FROM START TO FINISH”
With our gin ‘cooking’ away in the neat-looking distilling equipment nearby, Sasha treated us to a tasty antipasto platter as well as another gin cocktail as she kept a close eye on our brew.
Following the hour-long distillation process, we finally got to sample and name our unique creations (I called mine Festive Choc Orange Gin) before bottling them up and personalising them with our special bottle labels.
Like I said in the opener – this was a really cool and unique experience from start to finish and one that I would highly recommend to friends, family gatherings, or special events like hens or bucks parties.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast like me or just looking for a one-of-a-kind activity to do on a weekend with your partner, Manly Spirits’ Gin School is an intimate and must-do experience!
After leaving the best school ever, my wife and I retreated to our nearby accommodation for a rest, the recently refurbished Mercure Sydney Manly Warringah.
While this property doesn’t have views of the Pacific Ocean, it is situated in a prime location for any Northern Beaches getaway.
The hotel’s friendly General Manager Scott Bear dubbed the property “the gem of the Northern Beaches” and I can see his point! Located in Brookvale, directly opposite Manly Sea Eagles Leagues Club and a five-minute walk from Brookvale Oval, the Mercure Sydney Manly Warringah is just a short drive away from beautiful Manly, Dee Why and Collaroy beaches as well as the fabulous Warringah Mall shopping centre.
The three-level hotel comprised of 120 rooms with a private kitchenette, smart TV, air conditioning, iron and a safe. While services included on-site parking, free Wi-Fi, a laundry, 24-hour reception and a self-check-in desk.
Perhaps one of my favourite things about this family-friendly property though (apart from its location) was its restaurant, the Distrikt Press Café.
The hotel bills Distrikt Press as “your home away from home”, with dynamic spaces to sit, work or play, as well as flexible service styles and eating options.
I must admit, District Press’ buffet breakfast was sensational to wake up to and their all-day dining menu – which featured snacks, pizza, toasties and desserts – was perfect for those random hunger cravings.
The Gin School lab at Manly Spirits Co in Brookvale.
Having a drink at Bucketty’s.
The atmosphere at Bucketty’s brewery on Saturday night.
Breakfast at Distrikt Press was delicious.
SPIRIT ON NORTHERN BEACHES
Speaking of cravings, once the gin started to wear off, we couldn’t wait to get stuck into our next boozy location that night, Bucketty’s Brewing Co.
I swear my wife and I aren’t big drinkers, but after a long and tough year, this weekend away was very much needed!
Bucketty’s is a popular (and
“THIS
I mean popular) brewery located a less than five-minute drive from the hotel along Orchard Road, Brookvale.
This up-and-coming area is full of breweries and the like, but judging by the line to get in during a wet and dreary Saturday evening, Bucketty’s was the place to be!
Bucketty’s is a large indoor-outdoor venue with 15 regularly changing taps
serving up fresh, delicious beers and ciders. The heaving bar also serves up some great Aussie wines, spirits and cocktails for the non-beer lovers.
Bucketty’s also has a decent food menu as well as live bands multiple nights a week on their dedicated stage, showcasing local artists. I must say, the atmosphere at Bucketty’s was incredible and unlike any brewery I’ve visited before.
Please put this on your itinerary!
The Northern Beaches can often feel like a million miles away but, in reality, it’s not. It’s just over an hour from western Sydney and features some wonderful places that you won’t find anywhere else in our wonderful city.
From breweries and distilleries like Manly Spirits Co. and Bucketty’s to incredible places to eat like Chargrill Charlie’s and Butterboy Bakery, the Northern Beaches is more than just beaches, it’s one of my favourite destinations of the year, and there’s so much to do.
The Mercure Hotel Sydney Manly Warringah was the perfect base for a Northern Beaches getaway.
25.
26.
32.
35. Crisp
54. Cord tuft
58.
59. Chicken
61.
63. Blood-sucking
64. Craftiest
65. Drink
66. Diction
68. Foolish
71. Escape
72.
74. Fertiliser
76.
78. Patch
80.
Word Search
Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.
Theme: CAR WORDS
CAR PARK
CARAMEL
CARBON
CARDBOARD
CARDIGAN
CARETAKER
CARGO
CARNATION
CARNIVAL
CAROL
CAROUSEL
CARPENTER
CARRIAGE
CART
CHILDCARE
CREDIT CARD
MACARONI
SCARCE
VICAR
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about famous Christmas carols in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. In ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’, how many swans are swimming?
2. The words for ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ come from a poem by Cecil Frances Alexander. Who wrote the music?
3. In which famous carol does ‘the little Lord Jesus lay down His sweet head’?
4. ‘Joy to the World’ is based on which book of the Bible?
5. Which Christmas carol is also the third best-selling single in world history?
6. What was the original title of ‘The Little Drummer Boy’?
7. ‘Jingle Bells’ was originally written for which holiday in the United States?
Gauntlett
‘Silent Night’
‘Carol of the Drum’
Thanksgiving
m i n i s u d o k u
ALFAKODO
Use the key to crack the telephone code and find out what the man is saying on his mobile phone.
Letters A to Z have a number value, some are shown in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Fill in 1 to 6, in each row across and down, and in each rectangle.
Letters A to Z have a number value Some are shown in the right hand cells Create remaining values using clues in centre cells
A C-Y N W+U
B M-W O B+C 26
C Y+A P J+S
D S+U Q A×S 18
E D+S 11 R G×E
F T+U S N-H 3
G T÷G 2 T G×G
H X-F U Z÷G 5
I S×U V W+T
J Q+S W A×G K C-U X V+L
L O-Y Y J-G M L+A Z T+A
©
Study the picture and unscramble the words.
MINI-SUDOKU:
WORD JUMBLE: Carnivorous, predator, fox, tail, forest and canine.
PHONE CODE: “Having a pleasant picnic in this field is not possibull.”
JUNIOR PUZZLERS: 1. A square. 2. Two players. 3. An ostrich.
Help Superdog catch the Robber. Go Superdog!
ALFAKODO: PIC PUZZLE: 2, 8, 9, 1: 4, 3, 7, 6: 9, 2, 1, 8: 5, 7, 3, 5.
Puzzles and pagination by Auspac Media
