There’s a new entrant to the Top 10 locations for New South Wales first home buyers, according to the latest property report.
Prop tech firm InfoTrack has released its Property Market Update Q1 2024, naming the suburbs with the highest volume of sales to first home buyers from January 1 to March 31 2024.
“THE
Making the list was newcomer postcode 2142 which covers Blaxcell, Camellia, Clyde, Granville, Holroyd, Rosehill, and South Granville. It just made it into the Top 10, at ninth position.
The report further found postcode 2760 which covers seven
suburbs – Colyton, Oxley Park, Ropes Crossing and St Marys (pictured below) – experienced an explosion in popularity, named in first position in Q1, up from ninth.
InfoTrack’s Head of Property Australia, Lee Bailie, said there was a lot of movement in Q1, but Greater Western Sydney continued to dominate the list.
“New entrant 2142 has never appeared in the Top 10. We have seen consistent growth in sales figures with particularly strong results in February and March this year. Median house prices in this location have jumped 6.32 per cent from Q4 2023 to Q1 2024,” Bailie said.
“We saw another two postcodes named in the Top 10 which didn’t appear in the last quarter of 2023.” In second position, was postcode 2200, covering Bankstown and surrounds.
“Similarly, in sixth position was 2762, covering Schofields and Tallawong, which previously made the list in Q3 2023,” Bailie
said.
Along with 2760 and 2200, InfoTrack’s report showed postcodes 2145 (Greystanes, Wentworthville, Westmead, and surrounds), 2560 (Campbelltown and surrounds), and 2148 (Blacktown and surrounds) rounded out the Top 5. “The State Government has been boosting local investment across West and Southwest Sydney, and with commutable distances, extensive infrastructure, and greater affordability, first home buyers are continuing
to see the benefits of living and owning this location,” he said. Bailie said there was only one location outside of Sydney which made the Top 10.
“Postcode 2250, which includes several suburbs in and around Gosford, has cemented its status as a property hotspot, with the postcode coming in at eighth position after also being named a popular choice in Quarter 1 and Quarter 4 of last year.”
Strata properties retained a 49 per cent share of property sales, consistent with Q4 2023.
What is so great about this property?
This unique home was built by Mirvac Homes in the early 2000s.
As you enter the home, you have a private / open plan floorplan which accommodates any family, with large bedrooms, living areas, backyard space and quality appliances in the kitchen.
Who does the property suit?
Ideally the types of buyers who would have interest in the home would be young families, multi-generational families, investors, upsizers, even location changers.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
This magnificent home is located in the heart of Glenmore Park in the Blue Hills Estate. The Blue Hills Estate is a section of the suburb with higher ground overlooking the views of the Blue Mountains. But also, the quiet lifestyle homeowners enjoy. Make sure you book an inspection today to explore this beautiful home.
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
Almost three-quarters of new residential home loans in Australia are now written by mortgage brokers.
In an era when banks have been closing branches around the country, the statistics show that consumer reliance on finance brokers just keeps growing.
The latest data released by the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) has revealed that 71.8 per cent of all new residential home loans were written by mortgage brokers between October and December 2023. This beats the previous all-time record of 71.7 per cent recorded in the September 2022 quarter.
sented a rise of 2.5 percentage points (December 2022 quarter to 2023), and 5.3 percentage points when compared to the December 2021 quarter.
“Mortgage brokers play a pivotal role in the home loan market, providing their clients with a broad spectrum of choices and expert guidance,” she said.
home or investing in property.
“Mortgage brokers offer support and guidance regardless of the time of year, and with interest rates elevated, property prices increasing and cost-of-living pressures it makes sense for borrowers to talk to their mortgage broker.”
The broker team at Bell Partners are well placed to help clients understand their options and select the loan product best suited to them. We can help borrowers obtain a more competitive interest rate with their current lender or refinance to a different product in their best interests.
At Bell Partners Finance we provide a highly personal service. MARK
During the December 2023 quarter, the mortgage broker market share rose 0.3 percentage points from the September 2023 quarter, according to the MFAA. Annually, these figures repre-
Chief Executive of the MFAA, Anja Pannek, said the data reflects the commitment, professional approach and the trust clients have in their brokers.
“It’s very clear from the continued growth in market share that Australians value this support when making important financial decisions around buying a
The finance broking sector has benefited from banks over the years turning their backs on personal service, and the time and effort brokers put in would be a big challenge for the banks to match.
Zambi Wildlife Retreat is an exclusive and unique Not for Profit Animal Sanctuary, set in beautifully landscaped grounds.
A tour of the retreat allows you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals and learn about their history and species. Zambi only allows limited visitors each week and you will need to book your spot on our website booking page here: www.zambi.org/bookings
The bookings are only available for a total of 7 guests and includes a tour of the retreat with an experienced guide where you will get to hand feed the macaw parrots and baboon monkeys. Complimentary hot and cold drinks and light snacks are included in the cost.
There is also the opportunity to add on animal encounters such as hand feeding the big cats and meeting the meerkats and little marmoset monkeys. This can be booked at the same time as your tour or added during your visit.
Entry is 9 years of age and older and a further age restriction of 12 years and older will apply to hand feeding the zambi.org
Hydrotherapy is a great option for the management of arthritis and can provide several benefits.
Hydrotherapy is a branch of exercise treatment that involves the use of water for pain relief and treatment.
Benefits of hydrotherapy for individuals with arthritis include:
Pain relief
Immersion into warm water can assist in soothing arthritis related pain by increasing and improving blood circulation to the affected joints as well as promoting muscle relaxation. The buoyancy of the water takes away the weight bearing load on the joints, alleviating pressure and discomfort during exercise.
Improve range of motion
Hydrotherapy can facilitate gentle stretching of stiff joints helping increase the range of motion (flexibility) of the affected joints. The water also allows for the individuals with arthritis
to move their joints through a greater range of motion with less effort and discomfort than land based exercises.
Increase muscle strength
The water provides a natural resistance to movement, allowing for effective muscle strengthening without placing excessive stress on the joints.
Strengthening the surrounding muscles to the affected joints to prevent flare ups, reduce pain
and improve stability and function.
Weight management
Hydrotherapy provides a low-impact environment for exercise, making it an ideal option for individuals with arthritis who may struggle with weight-bearing activities on land. Maintaining a healthy weight through aquatic exercise can help reduce stress on arthritic joints and improve overall joint health.
Social support and engagement
Hydrotherapy programs often take place in group settings, providing opportunities for social interaction and support among participants. Engaging in aquatic exercise with others can enhance motivation, accountability, and enjoyment of the activity.
Overall, hydrotherapy is a beneficial treatment option for those wanting a conservative treatment for the management of their arthritis.
In summary there are multiple benefits including pain management, improved range of motion, increased muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness and weight management.
Incorporating hydrotherapy into a comprehensive arthritis management plan can help individuals enhance their physical function, reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life. However it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional.
If you’re anything like me, you probably spent a little too much on last week’s Sephora Beauty Pass Sale. Here are my first impressions on the things I bought, and whether I think they’re worth your money – with or without the 20 per cent off.
Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment in ‘Strawberry Sorbet’
The Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment is described as an advanced lip treatment that instantly plumps lip with hydration and smoothes lip lines. With lip products all the rage at the moment, everyone is trying to find the best one, and I truly think this is a contender. As far as texture goes, I think it’s fairly similar to the Lanolips Superbalms, however it’s not quite as thick and gloopy. In saying that, it’s also not as thin as the Summer Fridays ones, meaning it lasts longer, and
you don’t have to reapply as frequently.
I haven’t purchased anything from Ole Henriksen before, so I likely wouldn’t have picked it up if I hadn’t seen it recommended on TikTok, but I’m so glad I did!
Fenty Beauty
Demi’Glow Light-Diffusing Highlighter in ‘Pretty Purlz’ Fenty Beauty just released their range of Demi’Glow Light-Diffusing Highlighters, which are skin tone-based highlighters designed to flatter every tone for a low-key glow. Being so fair, I’m always nervous about highlighters being too deep for my skin tone, but I was pleasantly surprised by
the shade ‘Pretty Purlz’. I think it provides a natural ‘lit from within’ type of glow, which I would recommend to anyone looking to complement a no-makeup-makeup look.
Lanolips Lip Scrub Strawberry
The Lanolips Lip Scrub is a balm-based lip scrub made with gentle sugar and real, finely ground strawberry seed pieces to smooth away dead skin, whilst the 70 per cent lanolin deeply hydrates.
I generally lean towards more harsh sugar scrubs for the lips, so this product will definitely take some getting used to, but based on first impressions I do think it does a good job at both smoothening and hydrating the lips – especially given it’s only $15 full price.
Natasha Denona Hy-Per Natural Face Palette
The Hy-Per Natural Face Palette is a brand-new concept
for Natasha Denona, featuring a combination of eyeshadow, blush, bronzer and contour shades.
The face shades have a natural matte finish, and are buildable in pigmentation. I do think the pan sizes might be an issue if you’re wanting to use a larger brush, however thankfully the shades don’t have too much fall out, so if you are careful, you don’t have to worry about picking up more than one by accident.
Of the eyeshadows, ‘Dreamy’ is by far my favourite, being the only true shimmer, whilst the others are more malleable formulas which could be satin or matte depending on how they’re applied. At $112 full price, I do think
you’d be better off finding something less expensive, as this is a lot of money to spend if you’re not completely obsessed with a product – I prefer my Hourglass palettes as another option at a similar price point.
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch
Luminous Powder Blush in ‘Love’
I picked this one up as I was looking for a red-toned powder blush to go over the top of a similar liquid shade I have already.
I think this one is really pretty, and thankfully nowhere near as glowy as it looks in the pan!
Ransomware attacks are a constant threat, holding your precious files hostage until you pay a hefty fee. Thankfully, Windows Defender offers a built-in layer of protection specifically designed to combat these digital extortionists. Let’s delve into how this feature safeguards your data and how to activate it for peace of mind.
Windows Defender Ransomware Protection utilises a feature called Controlled Folder Access. This acts like a digital moat around your most critical files and folders. It monitors any attempts by unauthorised programs to modify these protected areas. If suspicious activity is detected, Windows Defender throws up a red flag, preventing the program from making
unauthorised changes. This effectively stops ransomware before it encrypts your files and demands a ransom.
Imagine having a trusted list of programs allowed to access your important documents, pictures, and videos. Controlled Folder Access functions similarly. It safeguards pre-defined folders like Documents, Pictures, and Videos by default. You can even add additional folders for enhanced protection. Windows Defender verifies its legitimacy against the trusted list whenever a program tries to modify these protected areas. Access is denied if the program isn’t authorised, thwarting potential ransomware attacks.
Enabling Windows Defender Ransomware Protection is a breeze. Here’s how:
• Search for “Security” in the Windows search bar and launch the Windows Security app.
• Click on Virus & Threat Protection.
• Scroll down and find the Ransomware Protection section.
• Click on Manage ransomware protection.
• Under Controlled folder access, toggle the switch to On. For added control, you can also customise the protected folders and grant access to specific programs you trust. The benefits of Windows Defender Ransomware Protection are undeniable:
• Free and Effective. This built-in feature requires no additional cost and offers a robust layer of defence against ransomware attacks.
• Proactive Protection. Blocking unauthorised access attempts prevents ransomware from
When holiday plans beckon or family emergencies arise, ensuring the wellbeing of your beloved pets becomes a pressing concern. At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we recognise the stress involved in entrusting your furry companions to boarding facilities. Whether it’s a short-term need for unexpected events or a longer stay for cats, finding the right boarding option is crucial.
Your quest for reliable advice might naturally start with your local veterinarians, but it shouldn’t end there. Seeking recommendations from friends, especially those with similar pets, can offer valuable insights. Additionally, checking boarding kennels’ websites and arranging visits can provide firsthand experiences of the facilities, their feel, and staff expertise.
Anxious pets facing boarding can experience heightened stress and discomfort, often due to unfamiliar environments and separation from their owners.
For these pets, the bustling atmosphere of a boarding facility can exacerbate their anxiety, leading to decreased wellbeing and even behavioural issues.
In such cases,
opting for a pet sitter may provide a more comforting solution. Pet sitters offer the advantage of allowing pets to remain in familiar surroundings, minimising stress triggers and providing personalised attention, which can significantly alleviate anxiety and ensure a happier experience for the pet during their owner’s absence
Crucially, before boarding your dog or cat, ensuring their vaccinations are up-to-date is paramount. Vaccinations should ideally be administered at least two weeks before their stay. Furthermore, regular flea and tick control measures should be applied, and microchip details must be current.
Special dietary requirements or medication needs should be communicated to the boarding staff. Establishing a clear plan ensures your pet’s comfort and well-being throughout their stay. Providing emergency contact information and your regular veterinarian’s details is essential,
especially for pets with unique needs.
Once the check-in process is complete, it’s crucial to bid farewell calmly, avoiding prolonged goodbyes that may confuse your pet. Trusting that your furry friend is in capable hands, you can depart with peace of mind.
At Orchard Hills Vet, we offer short and long-term boarding options for your feline friends. During their stay we can arrange updates via email or social media platforms, allowing you to stay connected and reassured that your pet is enjoying their ‘holiday’ as much as you are.
Choosing a boarding facility or pet sitter is not a decision to be made lightly. It requires thorough research, personal recommendations, and clear communication. By prioritising your pet’s comfort, safety, and individual needs, you can embark on your travels or handle emergencies with confidence, knowing your furry companion is well cared for in your absence.
MADELINE MOORE Boho Astro bohoastro.com
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
Watch out world! This week the Sun squares Pluto (in your sign) and there’s a Full Moon in your career/public/ reputation zone. So you need to find appropriate ways to let off steam, and choose challenging projects to channel all your electric energy into. It’s also time to embrace and celebrate your contrary, quirky Aquarian side. As birthday great Barbra Streisand observes, “I am simple, complex, generous, selfish, unattractive, beautiful, lazy and driven.”
This week the Sun, Jupiter and Uranus are jumping through your sign, the Full Moon revs up your relationship zone, and Mercury moves forwards. So avoid getting stuck in a static way of thinking and a routine way of behaving. A current situation (or problem) has more flexible options and exciting possibilities than you previously thought. Your motto is from movie star (and birthday great) Barbra Streisand, “I just don’t want to be hampered by my own limitations.”
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Prepare for a colourful week Cats! On Monday, the Sun/Pluto square will amp up your bossy side. Then Tuesday night’s Full Moon falls in your home zone so be on domestic drama alert. Confiscate all sharp implements and choose your words wisely, as loved ones are liable to make mountains out of molehills. Mercury moves forwards on Thursday which favours travel, education and communication as you socialise with a wide range of cosmopolitan people.
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Monday starts with the lingering effects of the intense Sun/Pluto square, which could amp up your control-freak tendencies. And then the Full Moon lights up your sign on Tuesday night, which could magnify your compulsive side. You’re determined to win an argument or solve a problem but don’t step on other people’s toes in the process. And don’t get stuck in a stultifying rut. Less confrontation and more cooperation will get you where you want to go.
Tuesday night’s Full Moon shines a bright spotlight on travel, communication and/or education. And your financial future looks rosier this week, as the planets activate your money zone in positive ways (Mercury moves forwards on Thursday and lucky Venus is visiting until April 29). So – whether you get a pay rise, take on a second job, cash in some investments, organise a garage sale or sell an important asset – it’s time to make hay while the Sun shines!
On Thursday, Mercury (your ruling planet) finally moves forwards which will boost your confidence, energy levels, and personal magnetism. But there’s also a tricky Full Moon so, if you indulge in gossip and make hasty pronouncements, you could end up in a complicated mess. There’s a lot going on behind the scenes that you’re not aware of. Smart Twins will do some detective work (and check the facts thoroughly) before you proceed with your plans.
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
After nearly three weeks of confusion, chaos, delays and/or dramas, Mercury (your patron planet) finally turns direct on Thursday – yeah! Plus the Sun, Jupiter, Uranus and the Full Moon activate your travel, education and adventure zones, which encourages you to explore exciting new horizons. The wider your circle of friends and acquaintances, the more influence you will have in the big world outside your door. Being curious and confident are the keys.
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Mercury is still retrograde until Thursday so there could be a misunderstanding with a child, teenager or friend. Choose your words carefully and look to your trusted circle of loved ones for comfort and support. With the Full Moon stimulating your seclusion zone you’ll find rest, relaxation, meditation and/ or contemplation are essential. Shirley Maclaine says, “The most profound relationship we will ever have is the one with ourselves.”
Mercury has been reversing through your sign, which can cause misunderstandings with other people and lots of self-doubt. Mercury finally moves forwards on Thursday and – hopefully – you have learned a thing or two over the last few weeks. Your motto for the moment is from Barbra Streisand, “Doubt can motivate you, so don’t be afraid of it. Confidence and doubt are at two ends of the scale, and you need both. They balance each other out.”
The Sun, Jupiter and Uranus are visiting your networking zone, and the Full Moon stimulates your friendship zone. So the more you mix and mingle, and the more connections you make, the better the week will be. Looking for employment? It’s time to capitalise on all the contacts you have. From family and friends to colleagues and casual acquaintances. Don’t wait for opportunities to magically appear. Be proactive about following your dreams!
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
This week the planetary focus is on money and business matters, as Tuesday night’s Full Moon fires up your finance zones. But the lingering Sun/Pluto square could throw a partnership challenge in your direction (perhaps involving jealous behaviour or a power struggle). Your ruling planet Venus is visiting your relationship zone (until April 29) and Mercury turns direct on Thursday, so do your best to play the perceptive, diplomatic Libran peacemaker.
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
This week you’ll find life’s complicated, partnerships are unpredictable, and the rules are constantly changing, as unresolved relationship difficulties or financial issues come back to test you. Maybe you need to simplify your life, cull some of your commitments, or finally give a fair-weather friend the flick? Plus find time to spruce up your living space so Casa Capricorn is more comfortable and beautiful. Fresh flowers and relaxing music are a must!
Like Sudoku, no single number can 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.
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: LEATHER BAGS BALLS BELT BOOK COVER BOOTS BRIEFCASE CLOTHING CROCODILE DRUM HEADS FOOTWEAR GARMENTS HAT OTTOMAN OXEN PIGSKIN PORTFOLIO PURSE SANDALS SATCHEL SEAT SHAGREEN SKIRT SNAKE SOFA SUITCASE TOILETRY KIT TROUSERS UPHOLSTERY WAISTCOAT WALLET WHIPS
Last week’s solution
Test your knowledge about the Spice Girls in our special trivia quiz this week.
1. In what year did the Spice Girls release their breakthrough hit ‘Wannabe’?
2. Who directed the 1997 film ‘Spice World’?
3. Which fellow famous singer drove the bus in ‘Spice World’?
4. How many studio albums did the Spice Girls record overall?
6. Which Spice Girl was first to leave the group?
7. In what year did the Spice Girls go on an “indefinite hiatus” to focus on solo careers, denying the group had split?
8. At what Olympic Games did the Spice Girls perform at?
5. Which Spice Girl didn’t return for the reunion tour that took place recently?
8.
7.
4.
3.
2.
