Home & Lifestyle February 16 2024 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

RETIREMENT LIVING ARE YOU READY FOR A CHANGE? | SEE PAGE 46

In the MIRROR

SEE PAGE 54

Your HOROSCOPES SEE PAGE 57

Crosswords & PUZZLES

SEE PAGES 58-60

Selling, buying or renting?

Contact our award-winning team today! PETER DIAMANTIDIS Director | Selling Principal

51371

9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR

FEATURE STORY Western Property

RETIREMENT LOOMING? WE’VE FOUND THE PLACE! R

etirement living operator Levande has started selling with the release of 36 new villas at its established Waratah Highlands community near Bargo, 110km southwest of Sydney. The expansion of Waratah Highlands is the next stage of Levande’s ambitious development plans. The brand-new villas include both two-plus-study and three-bedroom options, all thoughtfully designed to cater to residents’ preferences. Each villa offers single-level access throughout to ensure ease of movement and comfort, with extra-wide hallways and showers to allow for modification if residents’ needs change. “We’re very proud of the new villas at Waratah Highlands. In

every aspect, they’re truly vibrant retirement residences that will enhance our new residents’ lifestyles,” said Levande’s NSW/ACT Sales Manager, Robert Kingston.

“WE’RE VERY PROUD OF THE NEW VILLAS AT WARATAH HIGHLANDS”

Features of the new villas include self-contained, covered alfresco areas, attached garages to all designs with double garage options also available, stone benchtops in kitchens and bath-

rooms, selection of leading brand appliances, split system air-conditioning and full brick veneer, steel-framed construction. Levande’s Waratah Highlands retirement community itself is situated in picturesque Bargo, the gateway to the NSW Southern Highlands. Waratah Highlands is surrounded by landscaped gardens set amid 10 hectares of tranquil, natural woodland. The community has a very active, friendly group of residents, with a wide range of social activities on offer. Waratah Highlands boasts a rejuvenated Community Centre with a lakeside deck equipped with communal amenities and BBQ facilities. The Centre is the heart of the community and the hub for most activities and social events. Within it, there are

ample lounge and dining areas, a community kitchen, the games room, library and a hairdressing salon. More than 150 residents already call Waratah Highlands home, and the community will continue to grow when the new villas are released for sale in October. “Levande has strong growth ambitions across Australia, all based around delivering the best possible retirement experience for our current and future residents,” said Levande’s Head of Development, Calum Ross. “In addition to our existing development pipeline, we’re always looking at potential future acquisitions, to complement our portfolio of the best homes in the right places.” For further details, visit https:// bit.ly/waratahWW.

VOICEOVERS ON HOLD MESSAGES RADIO COMMERCIALS & ALL OTHER AUDIO info@hourmedia.com.au www.happyhourmedia.com.au 46

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

81 COLLEGE STREET, CAMBRIDGE PARK

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

ARE YOU READY TO MOVE IN? What is so great about this property? You will not be disappointed when you check out this fully

renovated home. Ideally suited for family living or investment purposes. Positioned in a sought-after pocket of Cambridge

Park with a 556.4 square metre block of land and low maintenance backyard for your children and/or pets to enjoy.

Who does this property suit? Everyone who is looking to buy for a low maintenance house and ready to move in.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

1.5

OPEN FOR INSPECTION Contact agent CONTACT RE/MAX Lifestyle Marketing Gizzelle Powell • 0428 934 618 gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

UNDER C UNDER CONTRACT ONTRACT SOLD S OLD

@realty Jocelyn Marrian is looking for Properties in the Castlereagh and surrounding areas, with buyers ready to go and looking for 1-10 acres of Land I am in need of properties to sell. If you have a Property and thinking of Selling please call me for a free Property Price Report today. @realty Jocelyn Marrian will offer a compariable Commision rate and with any property that signs with @realty Jocelyn Marrian I will offer a free Marketing Campaigne package. (terms and conditions apply) Free marketing offer Valid until June 30th 2024, for all properties 1 acrea in land size and over only.

PROPERTIES DESPERATELY NEEDED! WW52670

Friday, February 16, 2024 « the western weekender

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the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

The Team Penrith Trusts At Wilsons Solicitors, we’re more than just another law firm — we’re the legal team that Penrith trusts.

“No matter your legal needs, we’ll get you the right team for the job every time.” Phone 4731 5311 | Mobile 0434 310 203 WWW.DW.LEGAL 51 LEMONGROVE ROAD, PENRITH

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Wills & Estate Planning

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.® OFFICE: 233 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750

81 College Street, Cambridge Park

32A & 32B Braddon Street, Oxley Park

Garage + Carport

1.5

JUST LISTED

Teenage

3+ Retreat

1.5

Inspection: 11am-11:45am

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

44 & 44A Richmond Road, Cambridge Park

DUPLEX

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

26 Gadara Drive, South Penrith

Brand new Torrens Title (no strata) Downstairs bedroom/ bathroom Home buyers / investors Potential rent $950 $1000pw 2km approx to St Marys Station

This fully renovated home is ideally suited for family living or investment purposes. Positioned in a sought-after pocket of Cambridge Park. Fully renovated, this home offers 3 generous-sized BRs, exquisite kitchen with beautiful splashbacks, island benchtops, 40mm stone benchtops and stainless-steel appliances. Walking distance to Kingswood Station, schools, shops, parks, and close to Nepean Hospital and only a short drive to Penrith CBD & St Marys CBD. FULLY RENOVATED Inspection: Call Agent

JUST LISTED

3+1

1+1

• 3 generous-sized BRs, 2 with BIRs • Natural light-filled living room with s/s a/c • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar plus ample storage • Main bathroom with separate bath & shower • Internal laundry with 2nd toilet • Well maintained large above ground pool • Spacious front and backyard • Covered alfresco area • Concreted driveway • 758.5sqm block • Shops, schools, cafes and eateries as well as a variety of nearby transport options • Zoned R2, granny flat potential (STCA)

Close to Kingswood Station, childcare centres, bus stop, schools, shops, parks, Nepean Hospital & Penrith CBD. MAIN HOUSE: 3 BRs • Open plan living • Modern kitchen with dishwasher, breakfast bar • Separate dining • Spacious bathroom tiled up to the ceiling with bathtub • Ducted a/c throughout • External laundry • Good-sized backyard • Currently rented. APPROVED GRANNY FLAT: • 1 BR, fitted with BIs • Contemporary kitchen • Modern bathroom • Internal laundry • Currently rented

Sale: $890K - $940K Inspection: Call Agent

Ideal for Growing Family or Astute Investors Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

SOLD Very Happy Seller

JUST LISTED

PERTH, WA

Great agent and very accommodating

“ We had a great experience with Gizzelle. She was very accommodating and if you have any issues or concerns, she will make sure all concerns are resolved. During our selling she always gave us updates. We are so happy for the short period of time our house was SOLD. Thank you so much Gizzelle, you are such an angel to us and it was a great experience that you were our agent. ” Ruby & Charles 31 & 31A Deborah Cres, Cambridge Park

Verified by RateMyAgent

4/490 George Street, South Windsor

• 2 good-sized bedrooms with built-ins • Combined bathroom and laundry • Separate toilet • Balcony • Carport

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Potential rent: $870 per week Dual living (house & granny)

Thinking of Selling, Buying or Investing? Call or SMS Gizzelle on 0428 934 618

SMSF

House & Granny

Coming Soon

• Secured Complex • Currently rented with tenants happy to stay

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

25/1-5 Regentville Road, Jamisontown

2.5

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

15 Emu Street, Raymond Terrace

• 3 generous sized BRs, all fitted with BIs • Main BR with ensuite & spacious balcony with amazing views • 2nd BR with private balcony • Natural light-filled living room with access to the balcony • Freshly painted with newly installed sliding doors • Modern kitchen with ample storage, breakfast bar, stone benchtops, gas cooktop & s/s appliances • Main bathroom tiled up to the ceiling with separate shower & bathtub • Powder room downstairs • Internal laundry • 2 x split system a/c • NBN ready

Coming Soon

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE POWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

Put Our Winning Team to Work

$710,000 Potential rent: $870 per week

Gizzelle Powell

0428 934 618

Litsa Meleti

0466 969 164 0

Only 2 remaining

Completing soon First Home Buyers/Investors

Peter Parker

0408 432 998

Uzrah Bi 0435 205 061

Sale: Just Listed Inspection: Call Agent

LITSA MELETI M: 0466 969 164 E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Teeannah Camilleri 0424 823 911

Victor Borg

0439 755 081 1

Friday, February 16, 2024 « the western weekender

Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains AUCTION ne Au x t ct we ion ek en d

104 Hindmarsh Street, Cranebrook

Going To Auction 24th February

AUCTION

• Appealing 3 bedroom brick home set for Auction • Spacious lounge & dining areas with lots of natural light • Galley-style kitchen, ample cupboards & bench space • Upgraded bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiling • Close to Cranebrook shopping complex, local schools & sporting fields

8 Cotula Place, Glenmore Park

This Could Be Home! • Beautiful 3 bedroom brick home is located in Glenmore Park estate • Spacious open living design • Large kitchen with ample cupboards & bench space • 3 good-sized bedrooms with carpet flooring • Quiet cul-de-sac location

FOR SALE

$845,000 INSPECT Sat 17 February at 10:30am - 11:00am ADDRESS 8 Cotula Place, Glenmore Park CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

FOR SALE

• Beautiful 2-storey, 3-bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • Huge modern kitchen with S/S appliances • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite to main • Private U/C timb er deck entertaining area • Secured gated complex with street frontage

OPEN HOME

Beautiful & Modern

Beautiful, Stylish & Modern • Modern 2-storey 3 bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite & WIR to main • Large modern kitchen & bathroom • Ducted A/C throughout • 1 of 10 in complex, street frontage

$659,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

AUCTION 24th February at 12:30pm On Site CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood

Definitely Worth Your Time!

10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood

INSPECT Sat 17 February at 11:30am - 12:00pm ADDRESS 104 Hindmarsh Street, Cranebrook

• Elevated fully fenced 560m2 allotment

OPEN HOME

• Stunning modern 2 bedroom unit • Spacious open living design • Gorgeous modern kitchen with S/S appliances • 2 great-sized bedrooms, stylish ensuite to main • Large balcony with northern aspect • Currently returning $380 per week in rent

2.5

$669,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

56/144 High Street, Penrith

$529,950 INSPECT Sat 17 February at 9:30am - 10:00am ADDRESS 56/144 High Street, Penrith CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith 50

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

APARTME

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ACT NOW! N

SELLI

ORAN PARK

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

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Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

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Ground floor entry, two levels of secure parking and a communal rooftop with barbeque facilities

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Exterior

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Price

$829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

View the Display Apartment by appointment Open 9am – 5pm | Cnr Oran Park Dr & Peter Brock Dr, Oran Park

Friday, February 16, 2024 « the western weekender

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Apartment G.03

BROKING BREAKDOWN The Experts

PREPARING FOR A BIG FINANCIAL COMMITMENT B

MARK STEVENSON Bell Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

uying your first home is likely the biggest financial commitment you would have made in your life so far. It’s certainly a big step up from saving for Taylor Swift tickets, or your first car. As with most big things in life, preparation is everything in terms of being financially prepared to take the leap into home ownership. It’s one thing to be prepared ‘on paper’ for a home loan. You can get all your paperwork together, get your finances in order for a broker or bank to look at and be in a stable job, but the realities of home ownership can sometimes hit home (so to speak) hard. So how do you best

prepare for home ownership? First, you want to make sure that your likely repayments can be met comfortably. Remember, this is a long commitment you’re making – so start to imagine the repayments and put away that money each week, or at least do a mock budget with them included. It may be at this point you realise you need to cut back on things – perhaps it’s time to go out to dinner less, or reduce your cocktail budget! It could be cutting down on your streaming services, or not going to that concert (sorry Taylor). It’s not that you shouldn’t be able to enjoy life with a home loan, but it’s about figuring out

what your budget will and won’t allow with this new financial commitment in your world. You also need to realise the added costs that can come with home ownership in the early days. Everything from insurance to furniture, setup fees for any utilities and fixing the couple of things that inevitably do go wrong when you first move in. Talking to a broker is a great first step. It allows you to get a proper picture of your borrowing power, your budgets, likely repayments and exactly what life will look like with a home loan. Give us a call at Bell Partners today – it’s the best first step you can make.

VIEW MARK’S COLUMNS ONLINE AT WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU/AUTHOR/MARKSTEVENSON/

TORIES PENRITH’S S

– TOLD BY TH

E PEOPLE

Penrith’s stories – told by the people who made them!

On The

Record HOW TO LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

1. Search ‘Western Weekender’ wherever you listen to podcasts and subscribe. We’re on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podcast Addict and more! 2. Visit www.westernweekender.com.au/ podcast and listen direct on our website 3. Scan the QR code to listen now

Keep your air conditioning maintained with PREFERRED AIR CONDITIONING to guarantee a a ee optimal op a performance pe o a ce all a year! ye Ray Filewood Former St Marys Local Area Commander

Fully Ducted Systems

Includes: Reverse cycle operation check Full electrical check Zone operation check Air flow check Return air filter clean Duct Sanitising Drain check and clear Internal roof check Gas pressure check Outdoor unit and fan motor check

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CALL US TODAY ON:

Max Cowan 1990s/2000s Panthers Marketing Guru

Bruce Turner Finance and auditing expert and local author

Alan Whiticker Respected author and former teacher

Gai Hawthorn CEO of the Penrith CBD Corporation

Greg Taylor Penrith real estate veteran

Fiona Scott Former Member for Lindsay

Jim Mason 45-year Penrith Council veteran & local historian

Belinda Wollaston Musical theatre performer

Peter Collins Bernard Zuel Chair of Nepean Blue Popular music critic & Mtns Local Health District former Penrith journalist

Ross Free First Federal Member for Lindsay

Troy Dodds Long-time Editor of The Western Weekender

John Todd CEO of Western Sydney Business Centre

Tricia Hitchen Former Penrith City Mayor

Mark Geyer Penrith Panthers legend and gym owner

Stuart Ayres Former State Member for Penrith

Matt Jones Former owner of the Daily Planet nightclub

Graham Chapman Local business and marketing guru

Greg Alexander Penrith Panthers 1991 Grand Final captain

Ian Taylor Former ONE FM broadcaster

Kevin Crameri Veteran Penrith City Councillor

Prue Car State Member for Londonderry

Terry Gallaway Veteran journalist and broadcaster

Peter Lang Respected Panthers rugby league writer

Andrew Paech Local charity leader

Wayne Willmington Local radio legend

Royce Simmons Penrith Panthers legend

Ross Hutchison Entertainer

John Scott Local business icon

Ben Feszczuk Penrith’s former top cop

John Thain Veteran Councillor

Matthew Freeburn Long-time Penrith business owner

Split System Service Includes: Full electrical check Air flow check Air filter check Coil sanitising Drain check and clear Gas pressure check Outdoor unit check

Ask us about Installation, Sales, Maintenance and Service

0413 421 166

SALES, SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATION

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

WHY SWIM SKILLS ARE DECLINING AT SCARY RATE I

JULIE SHELDRAKE Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s Swim School 4730 8900

t’s difficult to quantify the statistical significance of how effective swimming lessons can be, however research out of the US suggests that formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning for children aged one to four by 88 per cent. This is significant, especially considering that drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death in this age group. I cannot stress enough that children need ongoing weekly swimming instruction to maintain their swimming and water safety skills. At every age, structured swim classes help kids become familiar with, and confident around, water and set the foundation for later swimming skills and aquatic safety. However, swim skills seem to be decreasing, as evidenced by the decline in school swimming carnival participation and the introduction of non-compulsory ‘twilight’ swimming carnivals after school. It’s a far cry from the old days when it seemed most

children could swim 50 metres and actively wanted to race! It is generally accepted that the optimum age to start formal structured swimming lessons is six months of age, and the sooner a child is able to get themselves back to the side of the pool independently, the better. Our program has children swimming independently of their parent or carer from around two years of age. Children should then move

progressively through their swimming goals until all milestones are reached. Children who are 11-12 years old should be able to continuously swim 50m using freestyle or backstroke, scull (use their arms to move around in the water) float or tread water for two minutes, throw a rescue flotation aid to a partner at five metres away and swim fully clothed, in swimwear or normal clothes (to simulate an accidental fall into

water). Royal Lifesaving reports that children who had regular weekly lessons were most likely to reach these national safety and swimming benchmarks at age nine and 10, yet sadly only 25 per cent were staying in lessons long enough to reach this standard. As for teenagers – well, this age group isn’t always known for making the best decisions. At this age parents and teachers should be addressing any lacking swim skills, as well as knowledge, behaviour and attitudes of this group of students to promote safer and sensible behaviour in water environments. We have been teaching the local community to swim and educating about general water safety for over 30 years, with trusted Learn To Swim programs from babies to adults. The structure and discipline learnt in our program – often a child’s first lesson experience – promote optimum learning outcomes, and their ultimate safety. Please, get your kids swimming!

HEALTH

hockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive and cutting edge technology that can treat a number of painful problems and injuries. Even though the name sounds a little scary it’s really not half as bad and has multiple benefits from it. It’s a form of treatment that uses high energy acoustic waves (otherwise known as radial pressure waves) on your injured tissues. It emits the waveforms through the use of a handpiece, which facilitates a local reaction to engage your body’s healing and repair response. These sound waves also stimulate tissue regeneration, increases blood flow to the affected area and breaks down scar tissue. The process altogether accelerates the whole healing process. It reduces pain to the injured region by targeting specific pain in the soft tissues like muscles,

ligaments, tendons, joints and bones. To put it simply, the shockwaves will create micro ruptures which stimulate blood flow to the problematic area which will result in localised inflammation, where your body naturally works to heal this inflammation by producing new healthy cells. Shockwave also stimulates collagen production to help muscles,

ANITHA BEERAPU One Point Health 4732 5188 tendons and soft tissue repair. Shockwave therapy can be a great way to kickstart the body into creating more collagen, if for whatever reason it’s not doing so naturally. It is known to release trigger points and therefore reduces pain altogether. This ultrasonic treatment is a great device to offer a long-term solution to plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinopathy, shin splints and other various tendinopathies. 3-6 treatment sessions which are one week apart is usually the gold standard method. Podiatrists are well trained to use this device, which they will use in conjuction with other treatment methods to help repair injuries.

LEARN TO FOR ALL AGES

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SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

The Experts

nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au • 4730 8900

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Friday, February 16, 2024 « the western weekender

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce T

Times and trends change, but the best brands adapt

he year is 2016 – contour is strong, eyebrows are ‘on fleek’, and Anastasia Beverly Hills is the brand of the moment. Most famous for the iconic Dipbrow Pomade, the trailblazing Original Contour Kit, and the Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette which singlehandedly made its colour scheme so synonymous with the period, there’s a clear reason why Anastasia Beverly Hills was the go-to brand at the time. It was during this same period that Instagram and YouTube influencers were at their peak, sharing reviews and tutorials using the popular products, tagging the brand in hopes of earning a place on ‘The List’, and promoting overconsumption in a way that had everyone begging for Ikea’s Alex Drawers for Christmas. With this now being almost a decade ago, trends have shifted away from the vampy, full glam aesthetic that made the brand so famous, and instead towards a more natural, no makeup makeup look which has seen brands

like Rare Beauty, and even more skincare-focused brands like Glow Recipe and Drunk Elephant, reign supreme. However, even though it might not be your first stop during a trip to Sephora anymore, Anastasia Beverly Hills hasn’t stopped releasing products, with almost 500 items sold across thousands of stores worldwide, and it might be about time to give them another go. Anastasia Beverly Hills as a brand has always been best known for their eyebrow products, having been started in 1997 by Anastasia Soare when she opened her flagship salon in Beverly Hills and pioneered the ‘Golden Ratio Eyebrow Shaping Method’ – a method which aims to create arches which perfectly frame any face. Although the Dipbrow Pomade might not be your cup of tea anymore – or just the cause of a phase arguably more embarrassing than plucking your eyebrows down to nothing – brow products are still a good place to start if you’re looking to get back into the brand.

If you’re an eyebrow pencil user, their Brow Wiz is a timeless classic. I use the shade Taupe, and find that it has the perfect amount of pigment to fill in any sparse areas, without it immediately giving you a blocky look. Or, if you’re into a fluffier, laminated brow look, opt for their most recent release, the Brow Freeze Gel. The older sister of their Brow Freeze Brow Styling Wax, the gel version is undoubtedly one of the best on the market. I like to use the longer side of the comb to brush the product through the hairs, followed by the shorter side to shape and style. This will keep your brows tamed all day, without that hard, crunchy feeling! Another one of their new releases, the Stick Blush, is also beautiful. It’s sold in a number of shades to suit every skin tone and even comes with a brush on the other end for easy application. But, if you’re truly missing the OG Modern Renaissance palette,

it might be time you picked up their new mini version, coming with nine shades instead of 14. Though it doesn’t come with a brush like the original, it does have the same Anastasia Beverly Hills formula, and enough shades to create a full, cohesive eye look. Plus, the mirror makes it perfect for travelling.

Pendragons Abreast:

4 ww.

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: 0407 278 384

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

PET HEALTH The Experts

SIX FLOWERS THAT CAN BE FATAL TO YOUR PETS W

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

ith love in the air, many of us are heading to the florist to buy our Valentine a colourful bouquet of flowers. Unfortunately, we often return home with flowers that may be toxic for our pets. Although many flowers and plants are mild-to-moderate in terms of toxicity and can cause “mild” symptoms like a gastrointestinal upset, when pets consume highly toxic plants it can be fatal – even if they only have a very small amount. The following list contains six common flowers toxic to your cats and dogs:

kidney damage, kidney failure, multiple organ failure. Daffodils – Daffodil ingestion can result in trouble swallowing, serious heart irregularities, and respiratory distress, so if you think your dog has eaten any part of the daffodil or bulbs, see veterinary treatment immediately. Skin exposure also causes symptoms, such as burning, rash, itching, and inflammation. Carnations – When ingested, the carnation can cause gastrointestinal upset and exposure to skin may lead to dermatitis in

your dog. While the exact toxin is unknown, it can cause toxicity symptoms such as skin irritation and diarrhoea in your dog if exposed to or ingested. Chrysanthemums – These come in many different sizes, colours, and styles, but they are all toxic. The entire plant is poisonous and contains sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, and several other toxic substances. All parts of the chrysanthemum plant are potentially harmful if ingested, especially the flower heads. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, rashes,

Lilies – Lilies (such as peace lily, calla lily, Easter lily and Tiger lily) are highly toxic and potentially fatal to cats. Some types are also toxic to dogs. Avoid having any plant from the lily family in or around the home. And be mindful of gifted flowers as these may cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite, stomach pain, depression, difficulty swallowing,

increased salivation, diarrhea and lack of coordination. Tulips – All parts of a tulip plant are toxic to dogs, from root to leaf, stalk, and flower. The bulbs are especially poisonous because it has a higher concentration of the plant’s naturally occurring chemicals, including the toxic Tulipalin. Pets may experience drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, heart problems and difficulty breathing as a result of tulip poisoning. Ivy – Any popular ivy plants, including English ivy and Devil’s ivy/Golden Pothos, have moderate toxicity to pets. Mouth and stomach irritation, excessive drooling, foaming at the mouth, swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, vomiting, diarrhoea will occur if ingested. If your pet chews, licks or ingests any of these toxic flowers or plants, call Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 and seek veterinary attention.

Get the care your pet deserves at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital! At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your pet is a cherished family member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pet care services to animals across the Penrith district. We offer: • Vaccinations • Radiography • Microchipping • Surgery • Dental care • Ultrasound

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Phone 4736 2027 49 Wentworth Road,Orchard Hills Monday - Friday: 8am-7pm | Saturday: 8am-2pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9am-3pm

Friday, February 16, 2024 « the western weekender

PET OF THE WEEK

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7 NIGHTS ACCOMmODATION IN THAILAND

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE Boho Astro bohoastro.com @JoMadelineMoore © Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Saturday’s Full Moon stimulates your sexuality and secrets zone, so expect a dramatic week full of passion and/ or intrigue. Also, with no less than five planets transiting through your sign (the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Pluto) it’s time to be creative, communicative, bold and brave! Draw inspiration from birthday great, writer Anais Nin (who had Sun in Pisces and Mercury in Aquarius), “Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.”

Compassionate Venus links up with dynamic Mars in your humanitarian zone, so be proactive about helping others. Can you do some volunteer work, start a fundraiser, or organise a working bee? Plus – with the Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune in Pisces – you’ll feel like daydreaming, visualising and creating even more than usual as you perform, paint, draw, dance, write, sing or play music. The Full Moon’s in earthy Virgo, so make your dreams a reality!

Romance, friendship and fun are highlighted on Thursday. With Saturday’s Full Moon in your daily routine zone, it’s time to prioritise, organise and stabilise, but avoid being too impulsive about a complicated issue involving money, values or possessions. The stars encourage you to dream ambitious dreams for the future. Be inspired by pioneering feminist Gloria Steinem, “Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities.”

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Bulls can blunder around being (unintentionally) insensitive. This week you need to be extra responsive to the needs of children, teenagers and close friends, otherwise Saturday’s Full Moon could trigger a misunderstanding or an emotional drama. With Venus transiting through your career zone, professional matters are set to improve – as long as you’re not too stubborn. The more flexible and understanding you are, the more quickly things will improve.

This week the Full Moon (in earthy Virgo) falls in your home zone, so get your house in order and tackle domestic chores with extra Gemini gusto. But, if you spread gossip or jump to hasty conclusions, you could end up in hot water. And avoid the temptation to take short cuts. A slap-dash attitude will only mean you have to do everything twice. With a more methodical and practical approach, you can accomplish tasks and still have plenty of time to play.

With Saturday’s Full Moon stimulating your conversation and social media zone, communicating with other people will be turbo-charged (in person and online) and a close partnership should prosper. The planets also bring good fortune in the form of an international friend, a wise mentor, an educational milestone, a financial boost, or a travel opportunity. So it’s time to crawl out of your Crab cave and get moving, mixing and mingling ASAP!

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Regal Lions love to live in the lap of luxury! Saturday’s Full Moon activates your finance zones and encourages your tendency to be hasty with cash and careless with credit. But penny-pinching Saturn is visiting one of your money zones, so clever Cats will resist the temptation to blow the budget with an impulsive, extravagant spending spree. Big binge buys now will just lead to major money headaches later on. So slow down, plan carefully and shop prudently.

Partnerships – of the romantic, platonic and business variety – are highlighted this week, as the planets activate your relationship zone. Saturday’s Full Moon lights up your sign, so self-belief is the key to Virgo success and satisfaction. Don’t let annoying disruptions and minor matters rattle you! Keep going on your chosen path, with confidence and determination. Be inspired by birthday great, writer Anais Nin, “Good things happen to those who hustle.”

The Full Moon illuminates your solitude zone and Venus is in your creativity zone, so spend some quality time on your own and let your imagination percolate. Activities like reading, writing, painting, drawing, dancing, playing music and meditating are favoured. And don’t forget to dream! Writer (and birthday great) Anais Nin wrote, “Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love.”

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Tuesday’s Venus/Mars hook-up highlights romance, flirtation, cooperation, entertainment and good times. So loosen up, let your Scorpio hair down, and have some fun! Then Saturday’s Full Moon fires up your friendship zones, so it’s also time to review and renew your peer group. Be inspired by birthday great, writer Anais Nin, “Each friend represents a world in us, a world not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.”

When it comes to work projects and professional prospects, this week’s Full Moon is in efficient, no-nonsense Virgo. So people don’t care how funny, friendly and fabulous you are – they just want to know you can do your job promptly and competently. With the Sun, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune transiting through your family zone, don’t neglect the needs of your home and loved ones. Accept your domestic responsibilities with a sunny Sagittarian smile!

This week there’s a Full Moon in your adventure/aspirations zone, and the Venus/Mars conjunction boosts confidence and self-esteem. So it’s a good time to grab the Goat by the horns and initiate some long overdue changes – especially involving travel, education, communication and community connections. Be inspired by fellow Capricorn, writer Simone de Beauvoir, “Change your life today. Don’t gamble on the future, act now, without delay.”

Friday, February 16, 2024 « the western weekender

Word Search brought to you by Merv Shipp Smash Repairs mervshipp.com.au | 4731 4587

ACROSS DOWN 1. Dressed 1. Purring animals 4. Harvesters 2. Inundated 8. Last ... & testament 3. Morning droplets 11. Drive zigzag course 4. US divorce city 13. Trekked 5. Maltreats 15. Fish commercially 6. Labour 17. Broadcasting 7. Spurn frequency (1,1,1) 8. Minuscule 18. Top-billed actors 9. US potato growing 20. Distress call (1,1,1) state 21. Sacred likenesses 10. Not as much 24. Weight measure 12. Foreign 27. Belonging to that 14. Fashion designer, fellow Calvin ... 28. Approving cry 16. Bumpy 30. Deeply desire 19. Mournful song 31. Corpse rigidity, ... 22. French pancakes mortis 23. Sheer hosiery 33. Genuflects 25. Unfasten 34. Seat of power 26. Bob Hope & Bing ... 35. Dr Jekyll & Mr ... 29. Supplements (4,3) 36. Lowly 32. Diamond or ruby 39. Earthy pigment 35. Cutting in two 42. Recreational interest 37. Treatise 44. Sections of grass & 38. Door lock aperture soil 40. Conceptions 45. Weakened (one’s 41. Onward faith) 42. Watered with tube 46. Root vegetables 43. Enclosed areas 48. Prize dearly 44. Loud sucking noise 49. Stretch (for) 47. Cleaver 50. Colorado’s neighbour 51. Foggier 52. Dislikes 52. Groups of concubines 54. Friendly Aussie 53. Senor & ... greeting (1’3) 54. Clever 55. Green side dish 58. Afoot 56. Remove condensation 59. Slide on snow from 61. Tourist 57. Spaces accommodation 60. Pang 63. Wrath 62. Indie band from 64. Villain Leeds, ... Chiefs 65. Groomed (hair) 65. Part of brain 66. Be real 67. Strong string 68. Dog sounds 69. Country house 71. Horned African beast 70. Wield (influence) 72. Endure 72. Life history 74. Elects 73. Unrefined 76. Asian staple crop 75. Fete, ... Gras 78. Spicy honey liquor 77. Clothing edge 80. Trough 79. Wear away by 83. Karaoke essential weathering 81. Round bread loaf 82. Grin 84. Initial Previous solution - Medium 85. Jump the queue (3,2) 3 4 5 8 7 9 6 86. Croak 1 2 3 6 7 8 9 5 87. Blot 2 3 5 4 6 7 8 9 88. Rope

Easy

1 4 2 5 3 8 6 7 9 4 3 7 6 3 2 5 4 Last 8week’s 7 9 solution 3 1 5 9 8 1 2 6 5 7 8 4 6

r8ts.com

Sudoku brought to you by Ray White St Marys raywhitedg.com.au

SUDOKU No. 682

Tough

7 1 6 5 4 9 2

1 6 2

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 to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

Previous solution - Medium

7 9 3 1 1 6 2 7 02 9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS NSW 2760 4 8 5 2 02 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR NSW 2759 6 2 8 9 3 7 1 8 5 4 9 3 2 1 4 5 8 3 6 4 9 5 7 6

1 3 9

7 8 5

4 2 3 4 2 3

2 1 8 5

8 7

Crossword

8 4 9 5 6 1 3 7 2

5 3 6 4 2 7 9 1 8

4 8 3 7 5 2 6 9 1

2 9 7 1 4 6 8 5 3

6 5 1 3 9 8 7 2 4

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.

Servicing the Blacktown and Penrith Regions 0404 051 702

Peter Diamantidis Director Selling Principal

This wordsearch is brought to you by CPAP Direct, would you finish it faster with a better night sleep? - cpap.com.au

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: ANIMAL COLLECTIVES ARMY BAND BATTERY BEVY BRACE CACKLE CAST CETE CHARM CLOUD CLOWDER CLUTCH COLONY COVEY CRASH CULTURE DEN DRIFT DROVE GAGGLE HERD

KNOT LEAP LITTER MOB MURDER MURMURATION PACK PARLIAMENT PASSEL POD PRIDE SCHOOL SEDGE SHREWDNESS SLOTH SOUNDER SWARM TEAM TRIBE TROOP

Last week’s solution V E P S E A S S B I Y M T I N W R M Y S L E T A M U L U T I S E S W R S P R P O O A T I L H P A S M A A M T O M T A T E O N H A A B M R E U C M N R R A L R I I R A I L T U L K E I R C U C N H C E D M W O H F V A J I X K X T O M G L T A E E H I E R O G L Y P H S U M N R P L K Q F R J F O H X S U O B S S O U K A P K K S A M N A C T W A B U S I M B E L G R J A A I R D N A X E L A F A U L I C E H C U O T R A C C I E S R D C A T A R A C T S I R I S O

E G D E S K C T C P P P W P R C R A S H L O N A U O A A Q E D E N G U R C E R D L S C H D R V L T G L L M M H S T T K R S E C K O L M A Y E H F U T U E H D U C R E I L R R I E R M D D D W A A Y L Y D E R C O E R N I H O R C R A O W D A O E O A C R E L Y A Y S D C R P O V B W T P N C P L V N D B M S E C T M O K N O T Y E V O C W S A A L R E T T I L S B E Z A B E O S C H O O L R S T I B R T C L S T S O U N D E R Q R M X C N O I T A R U M R U M U T Trivia Quiz Test your knowledge about Super Bowl LVIII in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. Which team won the Super Bowl on Monday? 2. What was the official attendance at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas? 3. Who was awarded MVP? 4. Which country music legend performed the National Anthem prior to the match? 5. Which entertainment act

headlined the famous halftime show? 6. How many points were scored in the opening quarter? 7. Who kicked a 55-yard field goal to open the scoring for the 49ers? 8. Bill Vinovich has now refereed how many Super Bowl showdowns?

ANSWERS 1. Kansas City Chiefs 2. 61,629 3. Patrick Mahomes 4. Reba McEntire 5. Usher 6. Zero 7. Jake Moody 8. Three

Word Search

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Test Your Brain brought to you by My88, Your home of the eighties! my88.com.au | 0401 222 088

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOK 1

Easy

5 5 6 4 7 8 5 3

Previous solution - Medium

3 4 5 1 2 3 6 2 3 5 4 1 4 2 8 6 7 7 6 3 8 7 9 9 8 5 7 8

8 5 1 7 8

4 7 8 7

9 2

Str8ts, Hexwords & Name the Movie brought to you by Choices Flooring Penrith

Str8ts

No. 682

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Hexwords

8 7 6 5 9 2 3 1 4

7 9 8 7 3 4 3 5 4 1 5 2 6 6

6 9 5 8 9 7 8 5 4 2 3 4 2 3

No. 682

7 1 6 5 4 9 2

Name the Movie

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

EHONLE N Previous solution:

Who Am I?

of ThIs

adVanced

of IT

of ThIs

Plus

www.30secondchallenge.com

less

ansWeR

less

Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 172- BEGINNER -10 , INTERMEDIATE - 28, ADVANCED - 8200.

5. I can hold my breath for more than nine minutes. Last week’s answer: ARIANA GRANDE

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 173 - BEGINNER - 15, INTERMEDIATE - 39, ADVANCED - 408.

douBle IT 5/6 of ThIs Plus 10%

½ % 66 /3% 800% Plus 2½% -900 62 of ThIs of ThIs of ThIs 2

x2 +9 ÷3 -25 5/12 x7 5% of IT

of IT 2/3 of ThIs

douBle IT

TIMes By ITself

50% of IT 2/7 of IT

-1 ÷5 x8 ¼

of ThIs

ansWeR ansWeR

the western weekender » Friday, February 16, 2024

www.30secondchallenge.com

-8

of IT

4. I perform for celebrities a lot. ansWeR

of IT

3. I currently have a show in Las Vegas.

InTeRMedIaTe

ansWeR

TIMes By ITself

+18

TIMes By ITself

2. I’m known for my extreme stunts.

-5 ÷8 +8 ÷3 -5 +6 2 7 x4 -300 /9 ÷10 -19 /9 -24 3000 3/5 2/3 10% +21 15% 20% ÷6 x30 470 -390 x4¼ 25% 19

TIMes By ITself

1. I’m an illusionist and magician.

adVanced

0401 222 088

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

my88.com.au

HINTS

200

Your home of the eighties!

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge, BegInneR

Previous solution: FOREVER MY GIRL

30 Second Challenge My88