Home & Lifestyle May 17 2024

Entering a new season is the perfect time to refresh your living spaces.

With the right décor, it’s easy to create interest and atmosphere.

Incorporating plants into your styling bridges the gap between

Whether your style leans towards modern minimalism, coastal oasis or rustic farmhouse, there are pot designs to complement a variety of looks, adding depth and character to your home.

the indoors and outdoors, and beyond their aesthetic appeal, plants naturally enhance the quality of our spaces.

Selecting the right garden pots can transform your space dramatically and make a huge visual impact.

A good styling tip is when placing multiple pots together, be sure to vary the sizes and shapes to add texture and depth.

A cluster of three pots draws the eye, inviting exploration of each unique plant pairing.

Perfect for clustering is the elho

Fuente Lily Outdoor Plant Pot range (RRP: 30cm pot $40, 38cm pot $61, 47cm pot $92).

Crafted with sustainability in mind, it’s made with recycled plastic materials and produced in Holland using 100 per cent wind energy.

Capi Europe’s Rib Outdoor Pots (RRP: 35x34cm pot $81.98, 40x60cm pot $165 and 43x41cm pot $109) are crafted with a stunning ripple design in chic monochromic colours of ivory and anthracite, and look at home in a cottage garden just as much as in a contemporary backyard.

Durable and lightweight, these pots are sustainably produced from synthetic material and resemble natural stone to seamlessly integrate into your space. In compact areas, styling with pairs of pot plants can be equally striking.

Consistency in the colour palette enhances cohesion within your clusters.

Choose your plants wisely and opt for plants with similar sun and light exposure needs to simplify maintenance.

Incorporate a tall statement plant in the largest pot for vertical interest. When choosing plants for companion pots, focus on coordinating or contrasting colours and foliage, and don't forget to introduce diversity in textures for added visual appeal. Bring the outdoors in with decorative pots. In addition to adding texture and colour, potted plants add life into a home, not only contributing to the look of the room but also changing how it feels to spend time within it.

You can use pots with similar finishes and colours to make the arrangement look like a set, or you can combine all your favourite pots in different materials and colours for an eclectic finish.

Capi Europe’s Black & Gold Groove Indoor Pot (RRP:

12x10cm pot

$12.30, 14x13cm pot $16.80) creates a stunning centre piece with its metallic finish and unique vertical groove design, inspired by nature. Available in two sizes, simply place your grow pot inside the pot, there’s no need for extra potting soil.

If you like your potted garden to be ‘easy-care’, then self-watering pots are the way to go. With a self-watering system, plants can access water as they need it and in most designs the overflow hole drains away any excess.

“IF YOU LIKE YOUR POTTED GARDEN TO BE ‘EASY-CARE’, THEN SELF-WATERING POTS ARE THE WAY TO GO”

These pots also help to retain nutrients and reduce watering time.

Elho’s Greenville Self-Watering Plant Pots, available in three sizes in black, white, concrete and green (RRP: 20cm pot $18.50, 49cm pot $29, 33cm pot $36.96), have a stylish look, an integrated water reservoir, and are made from recycled plastic. These pots both look and feel good in your garden or on your terrace. Available in four contemporary colours – charcoal, white, black and olive, you can choose to cluster several pots of different sizes, or make a bold and stylish statement with just one. When choosing plants, play around with texture by combining a spiky plant with something softer, such as an orchid, or a structural plant with something that’s a bit more fluid.

Capi Europe pots and elho pot plants are available at Bunnings stores nationally. Visit bunnings. com.au.

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Raine&Horne St Marys Jack Turner • 0434 554 430 jack.turner@stmarys.rh.com.au

TRUE ENTERTAINER’S HOME AWAITS IN CRANEBROOK

What is so great about this property?

Situated within the heart of Cranebrook, this home is situated within close proximity to several schools, shops and parks. The home also has loads of space for entertaining including a massive undercover area with built in barbeque and swimming pool. Who does this property suit? Families looking to be in a great

area and people who love to entertain.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

Cranebrook is a great suburb for families, having a strong sense of community, with many residents having lived there for several years. The suburb is home to several schools and sporting clubs/facilities, perfect for the growing family.

Our talented team has over 50 years combined industry experience in media and film production, having worked with Disney Channel, Channel 7, 9 and 10, Foxtel and Sky News, just to name a few.

HeyYa TV’s mission is to empower and inspire our communities through creating employment opportunities for our youth, C.A.L.D Communities and the next generation of creatives.

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

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

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

GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618

gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

This is your last oppor tunit y to secure a luxur y apar tment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the hear t of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apar tment features ample floor space, sophisticated styl e 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 cook top, rangehood, buil t-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedroom s

• Ground floor entr y, two levels of secure parking and a communal roof top with barbeque faciliti es

ORAN P ARK

Perfec tly

This

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I f you’re think ing of selling or would like to k now what your

The Experts

A GEM IN THE WORLD OF FREE PHOTO SOFTWARE

There has been a lot of talk in the news about the photo editing of a Royal Family picture. So how can you do this? There are loads of programs on the market to do this. There are two popular ones, one paid and one free. These are Photoshop and GIMP.

Adobe Photoshop is available on a monthly subscription payment of $33 a month on a 12-month plan. GIMP is recognised as one of the best alternatives to Photoshop and is free. GIMP, standing for GNU Image Manipulation Program, caters to a wide range of users, from hobbyists and casual editors to professional photographers and graphic designers. Gimp version 3 should be released by the time you read this.

GIMP’s capabilities are extensive. It allows you to:

• Edit photos: From basic adjustments like brightness and contrast to advanced retouching tools for blemish removal and noise reduction,

GIMP offers a comprehensive suite for photo manipulation.

• Create graphics: Design logos, social media graphics, web banners, and more with GIMP’s vector drawing tools, text manipulation features, and a plethora of customisable brushes.

• Image composition: Combine multiple photos, create photo collages, and manipulate image elements with GIMP’s powerful layering system and selection tools.

• Advanced features: GIMP offers features like animation packages (plug-ins required), channel manipulation for in-depth colour control, and scripting capabilities for power users.

Adobe Photoshop’s strength is that it offers a more polished intuitive solution compared to GIMP. From a capability perspective, the two tools have very little difference for most users. While GIMP’s user interface can be intimidating for beginners with

RBA TALKS UP RATE RISES

Mortgage holders hoping for interest rate relief from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) this year look to be out of luck, with the central bank declaring that rate hikes are back on the agenda to bring inflation under control.

While the RBA’s cash rate remained on hold at 4.35 per cent after its May board meeting, RBA Governor

Michele Bullock “was not ruling anything in or out” following an unexpected rise in the March quarter inflation data.

Bullock said she was “alert and vigilant” to the risk of inflation staying too high for too long after RBA economists predicted prices growth would climb from 3.6 per cent in the year to March, to 3.8 per cent

its abundance of features translating into a multitude of menus, tools, and options. By spending time working through the tutorials and videos, you can pick up and use GIMP quite quickly. The official GIMP website offers a wealth of resources, including user-friendly tutorials and a helpful community forum. Additionally, the software itself provides tooltips and in-program documentation to guide users. While it does have a learning curve, it is a learning curve with rewards.

GIMP is a perfect choice for:

• Home users who want to edit photos professionally without paying an ongoing subscription fee.

• Hobbyists and Casual Editors: For users who don’t require the absolute bleeding-edge features or prioritise affordability, GIMP offers a remarkable feature set.

GIMP, while not perfect, remains a gem in the world of free software.

in June – the first increase since the end of 2022.

She warned soaring petrol prices would stall recent progress on inflation, and that if services cost increases got “stuck” then “we’re going to have to act”.

The RBA Governor also said over-spending by federal and state governments would increase the difficulty for the RBA to contain inflation.

Adding to expectations that rates will be higher for longer, the RBA’s forecasts released this month were predicated on no rate cuts over the coming year, against the central bank’s assumption in February that rates would be cut three times in 2024.

“We believe we have rates at the right level to return inflation to the [2-3 per cent] target range next year,” Bullock said.

According to financial comparison site Canstar, borrowers who opt to wait for the Reserve Bank to cut the cash rate rather than securing a better home loan rate now could end up paying thousands of dollars more in repayments and interest.

To see if you can get a better home loan deal, reach out to Bell Partners Finance.

“But as we said in the past, getting inflation back to target will take time. And I think the path will likely continue to be bumpy and we should all be prepared for that.” For homeowners already struggling with cost-ofliving pressures, the one comforting thing to keep in mind is the home lending market remains highly competitive and there is always the chance to secure a better deal on your mortgage.

SEEING A PODIATRIST

OVER A NAIL SALON

While a fresh pedicure can be a nice experience in the moment, it is crucial to recognise the importance of prioritising foot health over cosmetic enhancements.

Here’s why scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist should be your first point of call for anything foot and ankle related:

Medial expertise matters: Podiatrists are university trained medical professionals who specialise in treatment and diagnosis of foot and ankle conditions. Unlike nail technicians at a salon, podiatrists have a deep understanding of the complexities of the foot and ankle to be able to identify and address underlying health issues.

foot and ankle problems including plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, ingrown toenails, fungal infections and bunions. They are also able to manage these issues to get you back on your feet.

Holistic foot care: A podiatrist doesn’t just focus on beautifying your nails. They consider the overall health of your feet, examining the skin, nails, and underlying structures. By addressing any underlying issues, such as bunions, calluses, or ingrown toenails, a podiatrist helps prevent more severe problems from developing in the future.

to your specific needs. From chronic foot pain to regular care, a podiatrist will educate on proper foot care practises, footwear choice and lifestyle adjustments to ensure you have the best care. They take a proactive approach to encourage patients to take an active role in maintaining healthy feet

Long-term solutions, not quick fixes: Nail salons provide a temporary aesthetic fix but can often aggravate, worsen or create foot and nail issues. A podiatrist will focus on sustainable, long-term solutions. By addressing the cause of the issue, podiatrists help to improve your foot health. Prioritising your foot health by seeking the expertise of a podiatrist is a wise investment in your overall wellbeing. SIOBHAN KELLY One Point Health 4732 5188

Diagnostic abilities: Podiatrists can accurately diagnose a wide range of

Education and empowerment: Podiatrists understand that people’s feet are just as unique as them. Unlike a one-sizefits-all approach at a nail salon, podiatrists provide personalised care tailored

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

Going to the dark side: Considering making a big call on your hair?

Over the last few years, you may have noticed some of your favourite influencers and celebrities going to the dark side –that being, ditching the highlights and going brunette. Most notably, there are people like Hailey Bieber, Jessica Alba, or Margot Robbie.

But, I dare say you could think of a few examples much closer to home, whether it’s a friend, or just someone you follow on Instagram. If you, like me, have

been committed to bi-monthly highlights for years, you might be wondering why that is. But, for many, the reality is that it comes down to price.

Similar to trends in makeup and fashion, hair colours and styles have been known to reflect the state of the economy almost as much as the numbers on grocery store tags.

Many may remember more flexible balayage and ombre styles coming into fashion back around 2008 during the Great Recession, with darker, more natural roots and lighter ends allowing for fewer, and cheaper, visits to the salon. Now, with the cost-of-living having been at an all-time high for years, and coming right off the back of a period where going to the hairdresser was completely impossible, it’s not a surprise that budgets are tightening, and the will to

spend such a sum on what is ultimately considered a luxury has almost completely disappeared.

Who can afford to drop $300 on your hair, when you just can’t seem to catch a break with necessities like food and petrol?

If you’re looking to cut costs at the hairdresser, there are a few things you can do.

Of course, the first one is getting on the ‘recession brunette’ train. Though it does feel like a real commitment, it is a sure-fire way of lowering that number at the end of your appointment, and getting the maintenance down to next to nothing if it’s close enough to your natural colour.

If you want to leave the door open to going back to blonde in the future, though, be sure to get this done professionally, otherwise your chances of

getting to where you once were in less than a few appointments is next to none.

For anyone who’s wanting to take that next step without the commitment, take a page out of my book and talk to your hairdresser about experimenting with different toners and semi-permanent colours. This way, you can figure out a depth and tone that you’re comfortable with, knowing that it will soon wash out, before jumping off the deep end.

If you want to remain committed to your blonde, though, toning down to a more natural colour and getting a shadow root, rather than a scalp bleach, is a good, low maintenance option. You can always spend the money you save on better quality hair products, which improve the look of your hair by keeping it thick, healthy and shiny.

A DOG’S DAY OUT: DOG PARK ETIQUETTE EXPLAINED

Scattered throughout various suburbs in Penrith, lies a haven for our four-legged companions – the dog park. A place where open spaces meet wagging tails, and where dogs can romp and play to their heart’s content. However, with this communal space comes responsibility, both for the owners and their furry friends, to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

Ground rules: Before unleashing your pup into the playground of fur and fun, it’s essential to understand the rules of engagement.

and there’s no screening process in place. Therefore, it falls upon the owners to assess whether their furry friend will thrive amidst the hustle and bustle of the park.

The DOs of Dog Park Etiquette:

1. Be realistic about your dog: It’s crucial to be honest with yourself about your dog’s temperament. Even the most well-behaved pet can find the excitement of the park overwhelming. Ensure your dog is well-socialised and comfortable interacting with other dogs.

5. Clean up after your pup: It goes without saying – scoop the poop. Maintaining cleanliness is essential for the enjoyment of all park-goers.

The DON’Ts of Dog Park Etiquette:

1. Don’t get distracted: Stay vigilant. Your dog’s safety and behaviour are your responsibility, so keep your focus on them at all times.

Not every dog is suited to the dog park environment,

2. Keep vaccinations up-to-date: Health is paramount in a communal setting. Ensure your dog is vaccinated, up-to-date with preventative care, and in good health to minimise the risk of disease transmission.

3. Keep your dog on-leash until the designated area: Good manners start at the gate. Keep your dog on a leash until you’re within the fenced-off area to control introductions and prevent any unwanted confrontations.

2. Avoid taking puppies: Until your puppy is at least 16-weeks-old and fully vaccinated, steer clear of dog park visits. Discuss alternative socialisation options with your vet.

As the popularity of dog parks continues to grow, it’s crucial for owners to uphold these etiquette guidelines to ensure a harmonious experience for all park visitors. Remember, a well-behaved dog makes for a happy outing. So, leash up, scoop the poop, and let the tails wag freely in Penrith’s beloved dog parks! For more information, phone the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027. KELLIE

4. Respect size restrictions: If the park segregates by size, adhere to it. Large dogs can unintentionally harm smaller ones during play, and a smaller dog may feel threatened in a space dominated by larger breeds.

3. No place for behavioural rehabilitation: Dog parks are not a substitute for professional training, especially for dogs with behavioural issues. If your pet is showing signs of stress or anxiety, it’s time to exit the park and seek expert guidance.

2024 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

2024 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

Careers Market

Offering Exhibitors the

Offering Exhibitors the

speak with thousands of GWS High School students and Careers Advisers as students explore career and further education options available to them through Universities, Registered Training Organisations, Apprenticeship Centre’s, Group Training Organisations, Private Colleges, Professional Associations and Employers.

Offering Exhibitors the opportunity to speak with thousands of

Offering Exhibitors the opportunity to speak with thousands of GWS High School students and Careers Advisers as students explore career and further education options available to them through Universities, Registered Training Organisations, Apprenticeship Centre’s, Group Training Organisations, Private Colleges, Professional Associations and Employers.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

bohoastro.com

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

With the fiery Full Moon activating your bohemian side and Jupiter jumping into your self-expression zone, it’s time to do your own thing, in your own highly individual way. Don’t play it too safe though. Forge your own path and follow your unique dreams. The more adventurous and inventive you are, the luckier you’ll be! Draw inspiration from by birthday great Cher, “The people who make a difference in the world are the ones who aren’t afraid to be themselves.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Quit wasting time Taurus! The Sun, Venus and Jupiter are spending their last days in your sign, which provides a golden opportunity to fine-tune who you are and where you’re going … quick smart! The fiery Full Moon also pushes you to draw up a creative plan, as you start transforming your dreams into reality. Be inspired by birthday great Stevie Nicks, “Dreams do come true, but not without hard work, determination, and a little bit of magic.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Thursday’s Full Moon fires up your creativity zone, so you’re in the mood to dance, draw, paint, perform, play music and/or sing up a storm! Then Jupiter jumps into your hopes and wishes zone, where it stays until June 2025. So it’s time to set goals for the future and make longterm plans. And don’t make them too safe and sensible. Go for gold, as generous Jupiter helps you envision ambitious dreams and inspiring schemes over the coming year.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week’s stars fire up your financial zones. Thursday’s Full Moon could bring money matters to a head. Then luck and loot are linked from May 26 onwards, when Jupiter (planet of good fortune) transits through your money-fromothers zone. So – over the coming year – expect a boost to your bank balance via a pay rise, work bonus, superannuation payout or extra business. Any windfall won’t last long if you don’t manage it wisely though.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Thursday’s Full Moon fires up your career zone so it’s a good week to set professional goals, apply for a job or seal a business deal. Then prosperity planet Jupiter transits into your domestic zone on the weekend. So sometime over the next 12 months is a great time to redecorate, renovate, build an extension, sell property, buy a new home, relocate or start a home-based business. Good fortune could also come via a loved one, distant relative or family friend.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

It’s a big week for Geminis as the Sun, Venus and Jupiter all transit into your sign. So it’s time to be creative, cooperative, adventurous and generous. Over the next 12 months make the most of travel and prosperity planet Jupiter jumping through your sign as you explore, experiment and enthuse. Here, there and everywhere! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Bob Dylan (who turns 83 on Friday), “There is nothing so stable as change.”

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The Sun, Venus and Jupiter cruise into your career zone. So – if you want to get ahead – strive to work smarter, not just harder. And, if you choose to take on a professional challenge in the coming year, you’ll find the benefits will far outweigh the difficulties. When it comes to a complicated family matter, avoid quick fixes. Instead, be patient and do all the research that’s required. Virgo vigilance and close attention to details will result in a satisfactory solution.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

The Sun, Venus and Jupiter (your patron planet) transit into your partnership zone. So – when it comes to close relationships – it’s time to be creative, cooperative, adventurous and generous. Attached Archers – pamper your partner and show them they are Number One. Unhappily single? True love is on the way, as long as you believe. Your mantra is from birthday great Stevie Nicks (who turns 76 on Sunday), “I live in the realm of romantic possibility.”

HOROSCOPES ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Thursday’s Full Moon motivates you to be adventurous, and then Jupiter shifts into your study and local travel zone. So this week is all about education and exploration. With your ruler Mars charging through your sign, it’s imperative to strike while the iron is hot! Be inspired by music pioneer (and fellow Aries) Diana Ross, “You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.”

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The Full Moon fires up your wellbeing zone so it’s time to focus on your health. Have you been burning the midnight oil and now you’re suffering from burnout? Or have you been running around on autopilot, making careless mistakes? The Sun, Venus and Jupiter shift into your solitude zone, so slip into hermit Crab mode as you slow down, simplify your life, prune projects or organise a digital detox. Meditation, contemplation, and relaxation are a must.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Lady Luck is calling, as Venus (your power planet) links up with prosperity planet Jupiter. So it’s a good week to enter a competition, buy a lottery ticket, start a new job or go on a first date. With Jupiter transiting into your travel zone, foreign shores beckon over the next 12 months. So start planning your itinerary now –and make sure you keep up to date with your international contacts. Thursday’s Full Moon highlights social media, education and conversation.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Thursday’s fiery Full Moon highlights your humanitarian side. Being of service to others (with kindness and compassion) brings joy and satisfaction. Plus take the time to savour and enjoy the simple things in your everyday life – like a kiss from a child or a walk in the park. Then Jupiter (planet of good fortune) jumps into your work and wellbeing being zone on the weekend, which is good news for health matters and job satisfaction for the rest of the year.

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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.

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:

LUNAR MOUNTAINS

NEAR SIDE ORIENTALE

PROMONTORIUM

RILLES

RIMA

ROCKY RUBBLE

SERENITATIS

TERRA

TIDES

WANE

WAX

WINDING VALLEYS

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about classic 1990s movie ‘Father of the Bride’ in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. Where did Brian and Annie meet and fall in love?

2. What is Annie studying to be in the movie?

3. What is the name of wedding coordinator Franc’s assistant?

4. George is shocked at the price of the wedding cake that Brian and Annie chose. What was the price tag?

5. Where does the wedding end up taking place?

6. What did Brian give Annie for their eight month anniversary that upset her?

7. What weather event happened the night before Annie and Brian’s wedding?

7. Kimberly Williams (Annie) is now married to which singer?

Camille and all

formed.