Termites – the destructive pests everyone dreads finding in their home or business. Unfortunately, many don’t know about their existence in the space until it’s too late. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from getting to this point.
According to Blake Rigger from Gold Pest Solutions, termites damage or infest around one in five homes, and cause around $22 billion worth of damage worldwide.
With over 300 species of termite in Australia, and each queen laying one egg every 15 seconds, it’s integral to stay aware.
“It is very important to stay on top of termite problems as insurance companies don’t cover termite damage, and if they eat structural beams it’s very expensive to replace and can become very dangerous in windy weather,” he said.
when it comes to spotting them early, or making your house look a little less appealing for the creepy crawlies.
“Signs of termites can normally be found around the edge of a concrete slab – a mud tubing will come up the edge like a straw and they will make entry that way,” Rigger said.
“Other things that will make them choose your home over others can be decaying wood left
on soil surfaces, old tree stumps or water leaks in or around the home.”
Additional signs that termites may have already invaded your space includes paint peeling from the wall, laminated or wooden floorboards beginning to curve, holes or discolouration in drywall, and a hollow sound when tapping wood. But, nothing can beat regular checks, with Rigger highly
recommending having someone take a look at your home yearly.
“You can get already active bait stations installed around the home with a bait in them, but they are required to be checked every year,” he said.
“That will let you know they are there before they eat the home, and also helps getting rid of them.”
–Cassidy PearceDespite it not being their peak season, with termites really coming out to play in the year after a fire, it’s just as possible to face termites in your home at any point in time, including the team at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre who are currently undergoing a very public battle with the insects over some of their courts. Although they share many similarities to ants, termites can’t stand the light, and opt to instead make mud tubes to travel and source food.
It’s for this reason that looking to the ground is your best option
“IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO STAY ON TOP OF TERMITE PROBLEMS”
What is so great about this property? This house has had no expense spared. It has been recently renovated throughout with fantastic finishings.
Who does this property suit? This property suits a growing family looking to upgrade on
space. It would also suit those who want something that needs no work to be done.
Tell us about the suburb? This property is located in Minchinbury. It is within walking distance to the local shops, schools and public transport.
In an uncertain market knowing your paying the true market value for a property is important; and losing out on buying your dream home by only a few thousand is frustrating! Openn Negoiation gives Buyers peace of mind and owners clarity they got the best price.
Welcome to Castlereagh, a semi-rural paradise located in NSW. This property, situated on a sprawling 2.14 hectares of cleared land Not Flood effected, fully fenced, is an absolute stunner and provides the perfect rural escape with all the extra luxuries of paradise you could ask for.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
FOR THE FAMILY:
Large 5 bed home, 2 open plan living areas; massive kitchen with plenty of storage and prep area, outdoors is the real show-stopper here with an outdoor entertainment area featuring down lights, fans, access to the garage with toilet and shower, overlooking your inground salt water pool, cubby house with built in kennel, tennis/ basketball court
FOR THE TRADIE:
Cement driveway graded to hold trucks, multiple large sheds with high roofing, mezzanine storage, washroom and toilet, sliding doors to allow space for forklift or large equipment, 3 phase power, separate alarms, estimated 8 car undercover parking, fully fenced. Call Jocelyn 040 516 4446
•
Nothing
• Spacious bedrooms with built-in wardrobes
• Living areas featuring massive windows
• Ducted air conditioning
• Alfresco overlooking swimming pool
•
kitchen with plenty of cupboard space
$949,950 - $1,049,950
For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1281074/
•
•
$659,950
INSPECT Sat 15 July at 11:00am - 11:30am
ADDRESS 22/9 Birmingham Road, South Penrith CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100
$1,149,950
$349,950
INSPECT Sat 15 July at 10:00am - 10:30am
ADDRESS
This is your last opportunity to secure a luxury apartment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the heart of the Oran Park community.
Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apartment features ample floor space, sophisticated style and the finest finishes.
Built in partnership with the award-winning Allen Jack + Cottier Architects and currently under construction with Richard Crookes Construction, the residence is completed to a high standard with:
• Miele oven, gas cooktop, rangehood, built-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece
• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms
• Ground floor entry, two levels of secure parking and a communal rooftop with barbeque facilities
Apartment G.03 3 2 2
Interior 111sqm
Exterior 33sqm
Total 144sqm
Price $829,500
9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au
“ Gizzelle provided excellent service and communication while selling our house. Gizzelle has excellent knowledge of the area and is very supportive, with her availability to always answer questions. ”
I bought my second dual key off the plan from Litsa. She made the entire process extremely simple. Litsa’s strong knowledge of the property market and investment opportunities helped us decide to purchase. Litsa was able to answer all of my questions and I felt that she was looking after my best interests. I was again impressed with the quality of the build and the speed that it was built; especially during Covid. Our investment property has performed far better than we could have anticipated.
am very happy that we chose to buy again through Litsa.
LITSA MELETI
M: 0466 969 164
E: litsameleti@remax.com.au
0466 969 164
E: litsameleti@remax.com.au
The
At Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Property Solutions, we are locals who know and understand the local market. With years of experience, our team takes the time to understand what you need, then partners with you to provide a tailored service that caters to your unique circumstances.
Being part of a well-known lifestyle and real estate brand, Better Homes & Gardens Property Solutions leverages its well established brand to market properties through forward thinking technologies, while retaining detailed local market knowledge. Contact
For
Mon-Fri: 9:30am-5.30pm | Sat: 8am-1pm
8 Econo Place, Silverdale
Mon-Fri: 9:30am-5.30pm | Sat: 8am-1pm 4774 0749
Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed.
8 Econo Place, Silverdale
8 Econo Place, Silverdale
We sell various types of animal feed including Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed.
Mon-Fri: 9:30am-5.30pm | Sat: 8am-1pm
We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
We sell various types of animal feed including Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed.
We sell various types of animal feed including Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed.
8 Econo Place, Silverdale
We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
We sell various types of animal feed including
4774 0749
DOG WASH, POOL TESTING AND MACHINE H IRE ALSO AVAILABLE
We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
DOG WASH, MACHINE AILABLE
We sell various types of animal feed including Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed.
We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
We sell various types of animal feed including Dog, Cat, Bird, Horse, Chicken and Stockfeed.
OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF COLORBOND®, PRIVACY & SECURITY FENCING
DOG POOL TESTING AND MACHINE IRE AILABLE
We also sell Firewood and Pool Chemicals.
We we manufacture, powder coat, supply and install any fence type to what you desire. WE CAN DO IT FOR YOU!
Check out our own Colorbond: “Ozzybound”
With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) sensibly pressing the pause button on its interest rate rises this month, there is a general acceptance that mortgage holders are unlikely to again see the low-level interest rates of the COVID era any time soon.
While those with a home loan will be hoping the RBA won’t go much harder in its use of hikes to the cash rate to combat inflation, what they should expect is that whenever inflationary pressures are tamed, we won’t see interest rates come down very much.
Mortgage holders who will be coming off fixed interest rates of 2.0 per
cent or lower in the next few months will be having to adjust to the new normal of home loan interest rates of around 5.0 per cent or higher.
You have to remember that an RBA official rate of the record low of 0.1 per cent was an emergency
setting as part of the response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The RBA has been criticised for keeping rates low for too long before it started increasing the cash rate by four percentage points since May last
year as inflation soared. While mortgage rates currently sit a lot higher than many thousands of borrowers have experienced, they should come down a little in the medium term.
But we need to accept that home loan rates
will realistically settle at around four to six per cent on a longer-term average. There is possibly more pain ahead with RBA
Governor Dr Philip Lowe saying after this month’s rate decision that inflation is still too high.
“Some further tightening of monetary policy may be required to ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe, but that will depend upon how the economy and inflation evolve,” Lowe said. Economist Shane Oliver said he expected the RBA to lift the cash rate two more times in the coming months, but he thought the central bank had already done enough to engineer a soft landing for the economy.
Almost every device we have in our home now has the ability to connect to your Wifi. These devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. I love using a voice command to turn on and off my lounge room lights. These devices enhance our comfort, convenience, and productivity. However, we often overlook a crucial aspect of maintaining these devices: firmware upgrades. Like our computers, these devices have an operating system that controls how they work. We have been trained to keep our computers and mobile phones updated, but what about our other home devices?
Here are a few home devices that require firmware updates: Internet routers, modems, printers, digital cameras, smart televisions, Gaming Consoles (Xbox, PlayStation), Foxtel, Steaming devices (Chromecast, Firestick, Apple TV), Amazon Echo, Google Nest, Home security systems and cameras, Home automation Devices (light bulbs, smart plugs, motorised blinds) and any other smart device (fridges, ovens, washing machines, air conditioning).
Firmware upgrades are designed to enhance the performance, security, and functionality of embedded operating systems in all devices. Ignoring or neglecting these upgrades can have significant consequences. Some exam-
ples include a casino that was hacked using an intelligent fish tank thermometer. Another is a woman who was verbally abused by a hacker who gained access to her webcam due to its older, unsecured firmware.
The process of doing a firmware upgrade will vary depending on your device. However, the general steps are as follows:
You will usually be prompted to install, update, and reboot smart devices like televisions, gaming consoles and streaming devices. Don’t ignore these prompts to complete the upgrade. In other cases, go to the manufacturer’s website and find the latest firmware update for your device. Download the firmware update file to your computer. Connect your device to your computer. Open the firmware update file on your computer. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the firmware update. Do not interrupt the firmware update process. If you do, you could damage your device.
It’s essential to check for firmware updates regularly for all these devices.
Falls are a major health concern, especially among older adults. Physiotherapists can play a crucial role in falls prevention by examining clients and identifying key reasons for increased falls risk. They can detect subtle changes in movement, posture, and balance, which could be the reason for falling.
In Australia 30 per cent of adults over 65 experiences at least one fall per year. Between 2018 and 2019 falls accounted for 43 per cent of hospitalised injuries including fractured hips leading to hip replacements, serious head or neck injuries and broken wrists.
Physiotherapists are experts in movement, function, and exercise prescription and can help reduce the risk of falling by offering a range of exercise options, from home exercise programs to individual and group exercise sessions. To get started simple group programs that can help improve balance including tai chi, strength training, and balance classes can also help improve balance by increasing flexibility and coordination.
In addition to prescribing exercise programs, physiotherapists are trained in preventing falls and recognising near misses. These near misses include events such as slips and trips where individuals
lose their balance but don’t fall and land on the ground.
Some simple tips to prevent falls at home include:
• Decluttering and keeping your home neat and tidy. Remove clutter, from walkways especially from hallways and on staircases.
• Repair or remove tripping hazards, home fixtures can contribute to falls, therefore it is important to repair or remove any tripping hazards.
• Use non-slip mats and rugs, these can help prevent tripping and slips.
• Keep all rooms, walkways and staircases well lit, having good lighting will allow for you to see and avoid potential hazards.
• Keep your home organised. Set up your home to minimise the need to climb, overstretch and overreach to reduce your risks of precarious situations. Falls prevention is a collaborative effort between healthcare professionals, caregivers, families, and individuals.
Feline respiratory disease (also referred to as cat flu), is a common disease seen in unvaccinated cats. It can affect cats of all ages but tends to be particularly severe in kittens and purebred cats. Cat flu is highly contagious and can spread from one feline friend to another via eye, nasal or mouth discharge. Contaminated food or water bowls can also be a source of the spread of disease.
There are several viruses responsible for cat flu. Most have a targeted vaccination. However, the majority of cases will be caused by one of two viruses, Feline Herpes Virus 1 (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV).
What are the signs of cat flu?
The clinical signs of cat flu are similar to colds and flu in people. Symptoms include:
• sneezing
• coughing
• runny eyes
• nasal discharge
• loss of appetite
• tongue ulcers
Some infected cats don’t show any clinical signs and are known as ‘carrier cats’. A carrier is only infectious to other cats when they are shedding the virus, which may be continuous or intermittent. If the carrier is stressed, shedding of the virus will be increased. Nothing can be done to change
KELLIE
the carrier status of cats. All cats that have had cat flu should be considered potential carriers.
How is cat flu diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on the clinical signs and physical examination of the feline.
How is cat flu treated?
The treatment of cat flu can vary depending on the cause. Treatment is usually only symptomatic relief that includes keeping the nose and eyes clear and clean. Antibiotics are often used to control secondary bacterial infections, and mucolytics are given to reduce the thickness of secretions and help cats breathe easier. Dehydration can occur as the disease worsens, so it is important to encourage eating and drinking. Hospitalisation, close monitoring and intravenous fluids may be required for severely unwell cats.
How is cat flu prevented?
Prevention can be achieved in most households by vaccination. Even cats that have contracted cat flu should be vaccinated.
If you’ve gotten this far into winter and your skin and lips are starting to look a little parched, you’re definitely not alone.
Whilst switching up your skincare routine might be scary for those worried about breaking out or causing additional irritation, it’s one surefire way of making sure your skin is saved by spring.
Moisturisers and masks
Using a high-quality moisturiser is key to making sure your face is looking soft and supple all year round. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid can be good to look for when you’re scoping out ingredient lists, and once you’ve found a formula you love, it’s most important to be packing it on day and night.
Laneige: Water Sleeping Mask
Sold at Sephora, Korean beauty brand Laneige is known for its ability to bring dry skin back to life.
If you’re looking for an overnight cure, their Water Sleeping Mask is perfect to have you looking well rested, no matter how many hours your head is on the pillow.
Dew Not Disturb Moisturiser is an oil-free, pillowy-soft gel cream moisturiser that not only strengthens your skin barrier, but is also good for the planet.
Drunk Elephant: Lala Retro Whipped Cream
This Drunk Elephant favourite is this year’s Mecca Beauty Election winner for Best Moisturiser. Although it’s definitely on the more expensive side, this thick and creamy blend is perfect to revive dull and parched skin.
Lip treatments
finding one that works for you, in terms of colour, scent and consistency. There are endless options to choose from.
Charlotte Tilbury: Charlotte’s Magic Lip Oil Crystal Elixir
For a more luxurious option, Charlotte Tilbury makes a beautiful lip oil that provides endless amounts of moisture and shine in one convenient squeeze tube.
Fenty Skin: Cherry Treat Conditioning And Strengthening Lip Oil
Barni Skin: Dew Not Disturb Moisturiser
The newest release from Barni Skin – your new favourite vegan, Aussie-made, cruelty-free skincare brand – the
As far as I’m concerned, there are few things worse than having, dry, cracked lips – to the point where I carry around some sort of lip balm in every jacket pocket or bag I own. When it comes to these types of products, it’s all about
If you’re looking for a pop of colour, the Fenty Skin Cherry Treat Lip Oil can’t be beat. Not only is it a dry lip cure, but it also provides your lips with a plump and juicy look, without feeling sticky.
Lanolips: The Original
101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm
Having won over 50 major awards worldwide, it’s no surprise that the Lanolips 101 Ointment comes in first place here. The ointment is super versatile and deeply hydrating, containing ultra-pure grade Aussie lanolin.
JANUARY
Monday night’s New Moon activates your work and daily routine zone so it’s a good week to start a job, launch a business, begin a new diet or embark on a rebooted exercise program. With Venus in your relationship zone, it’s time to harmonise, compromise and cooperate with the main people in your life. As birthday great Cat Stevens sings, “peace train sounding louder … come on the peace train.” Get in quickly before Venus turns retro on the weekend!
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
With two oppositions and Venus slowing down (before it turns retrograde on the weekend) the intensity levels ratchet up, and issues involving relatives, friends, neighbours, travel or education could be complicated. Jealous thoughts and possessive behaviour are also a danger. If you’re not careful, you could find yourself embroiled in a fiery argument or a frustrating power struggle. Smart Bulls will step back and gain some much-needed perspective.
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Thursday’s Sun/Neptune trine boosts your creativity. But Saturday’s tempestuous Sun/Pluto opposition highlights your inclination to jealous, possessive, bossy or overbearing behaviour. So do your best to loosen your intense grip on a loved one, otherwise you’ll just drive them away with your dramatic pronouncements and demanding Divalike antics. Then the fiery Sun shifts into your sign, when it’s time to sparkle and shine!
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
The stars boost your personal magnetism – and your manipulative side. Pluto gives you an energy surge that increases your desire to be in charge. But, if you want to avoid unnecessary power struggles and unpleasant dramas, stop trying to control others. You can be powerful and passionate – or compulsive and controlling. If you’re a smart Scorpio, then you’ll choose the path of least resistance as you channel your energy in positive and proactive ways.
If you’re involved with a group, class, club or organisation, then expect power plays and personality clashes. A partnership could also be placed under temporary strain. When it comes to your social circle, aim to be much more discriminating. Don’t waste precious time on negative people who undermine your confidence. Surround yourself with stimulating new friends as well as trusted old mates. Thursday highlights compassion, creativity and spirituality.
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
It will be difficult to balance head and heart this week. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! Loved ones or work colleagues will attempt to throw you off balance, scramble your sense of certainty, or press your emotional buttons. But it’s up to you to deflect their efforts with plenty of Gemini grace and good humour. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Nelson Mandela, “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.”
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Some Virgos will reminisce about an old love or experience a disappointment, as you discover you’ve over-committed energy and enthusiasm to a project (or relationship) that’s going nowhere. It’s time to reformulate your goals for the future, as the New Moon activates your hopes and wishes zone. But steer clear of dubious dreamers and manipulative schemers. Surround yourself with positive people who promote your talents and support your dreams.
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
You’re keen to expand your knowledge base, as you pick up ideas and inspiration from all corners of the world. Sagittarians are the cosmopolitan global citizens of the zodiac, so get connecting with your international buddies ASAP! But – with the New Moon and the Sun/ Pluto opposition stirring up your $$$ zones – it’s not a good time to lend cash, borrow money or initiate a joint financial partnership. Instead, be patient and wait for a more auspicious week.
This week there are difficult Mars/ Saturn and Sun/Pluto oppositions, so your bossy Aries side could take over (especially at home and/or work). If you sweat the small stuff, then you’ll end up feeling tired and emotional by the end of the week. Perhaps it’s time to de-stress, as you meditate, contemplate, ruminate and relax. You might just enjoy it! Plus pay close attention to a developing domestic situation, and the symbolic messages in your nightly dreams.
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Sensitive Crabs are ruled by the silvery, changeable Moon. So you can’t help but be affected by this week’s New Moon in Cancer, as it stirs up your emotions. Plus the Sun and Pluto agitate professional partnerships or romantic insecurities. But becoming overemotional and unreasonable won’t help matters. Instead, tune into the magical promise of the new moonbeams as you learn to love yourself, celebrate your strengths and follow your dreams.
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
This week looks rather stressful, as Venus (your power planet) slows down before it turns retrograde on the weekend. Do your best to be patient and persistent. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Nelson Mandela, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” You could also become unsettled about issues involving home, work or finances. So avoid making long-term decisions until you can view the current situation from a more objective perspective.
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
This week (courtesy of transformative Pluto) an obstacle could be placed in your path. Or you could be drawn into a power struggle with a relative, friend or work colleague. Don’t stress and obsess! Sometimes hurdles help you slow down and see the path ahead more clearly. Then you can adjust our compass and tweak your plans. So keep going Capricorn. Your motto is from birthday great Nelson Mandela, “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”
Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black . These need to be filled in with numbers that is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org
If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store. The solutions will be published here in the next issue.
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: ACE WORDS
BOOTLACE
BRACELET
CARAPACE
COALFACE
CRUSTACEAN
FACE CLOTH
FACE CREAM
FACE-LIFT
FURNACE
LACERATE
MENACE
NECKLACE
PALACE
PLACEMAT POPULACE
RACEHORSE
REPLACE
SPACE
TYPEFACE
Last week’s solution
Test your knowledge about pizza chains in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. In what Australian state are the headquarters for Domino’s located?
2. Who is the current CEO of Domino’s Australia?
3. In what year did the first Domino’s store open in Australia?
4. In what year was Pizza Haven acquired by Eagle Boys?
5. American chain Pizza Hut
expanded to Australia in 1970. Where was its first Australian store located?
6. Which pizza chain had the iconic Dougie advertising campaign in the 1990s?
7. On what street is Penrith’s
How to beat Str8ts –
Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution
90s favourites return If you love 90s country, you probably adore Diamond Rio (pictured).
After 33 years together, the band (with a couple of new members) is back in business, releasing a brand new song ‘The Kick’.
Diamond Rio debuted with ‘Meet in the Middle’ in the early 90s and went on to have hits including ‘How Your Love Makes Me Feel’, ‘One More Day’, ‘Beautiful Mess’, ‘Unbelievable’ and more.
The group has sold more than 6.8 million albums and has in excess of one billion global streams.
You can stream ‘The Kick’ now through all the usual streaming services.
Jackson Dean to tour US country music star Jackson Dean will make his Australian debut this October.
Maryland-native Jackson will perform intimate headline shows at Sydney’s Factory Theatre on Wednesday, October 18 and Melbourne’s Corner Hotel on Wednesday, October 25.
The 22-year-old burst onto the scene in 2022 with his critically acclaimed album, ‘Greenbroke’, making “one hell of an impression” (Outsider) and made waves with his history-making debut single, ‘Don’t Come Lookin’’.
General public tickets to the Australian shows are on sale now.
Visit www.frontiertouring.com/ jacksondean to secure your seats to the shows.