Matthew Sandstrom and Chris Rudduck, Directors of AlphaBuild.
Photo: Melinda Jane.
BRINGING LUXURY BUILDS TO WESTERN SYDNEY
Alocal luxury property developer duo have put Penrith back in their sights as they look to build prestige housing in the area.
Matthew Sandstrom and Chris Rudduck grew up in the local area and then both went on to work for large contractors where they were building projects up to $50 million in value.
Now, they are both Directors of their company AlphaBuild and want to bring their luxury builds back to the community they came from.
“We want to raise the bar of luxury living… we think the area deserves it,” Sandstrom said.
“Our mission is to build the most refined luxury residences in
western Sydney.”
Their first project back on home soil is called ‘Nura’, it is set to be a multi-storey home nestled away in the leafy suburb of Leonay.
“We have a couple of our own projects that we are doing on two sites in Leonay,” Rudduck said.
“We started one, it’s a three-storey luxury house. We have the site next door to that which is a luxury duplex which we will start on the back of this one as soon as it’s finished.
“It’s good to have some stuff closer to home and try bringing what we are doing in the eastern suburbs back here.”
Previous to ‘Nura’, the duo has worked on luxury developments closer to Sydney.
“We completed a project in Maroubra that was about a $7 million build value, and they just offloaded one apartment for $6 million,” Sandstrom said.
“We just finished one in Coogee and I think that is worth about $20 million build value.
“So nicer, high-end, luxury builds but now we are coming out here and we want to bring this back to our hometown now and provide a premium product to the Penrith area.”
Both Sandstrom and Rudduck describe AlphaBuild as the company willing to take on projects that others put in the ‘too hard’ basket.
“The site that we just bought over there sat on the market for
ages, I think it went through two or three designs and everyone was like ‘Nah, I don’t want to build that’ because it had an eight-metre cut straight into the rock,” Sandstrom said.
“The job that we just came off the back of in Coogee was a 13-metre cut and Maroubra was a 10-metre cut.”
Sandstrom said it’s about time Penrith had builders willing to go to the next level.
“We want to challenge the status quo for building intricate designs and unique architectural projects in the Penrith area,” he said.
To find out more about the work AlphaBuild is doing, visit their website at www.alphabuild.com. au.
The render of the Nura build in Leonay.
What is so great about this property? The proximity to Penrith High School only 500m and 1.3km to Nepean Hospital. Who does this property suit? Family looking to get proximity to Penrith High School, Hospital staff, first home buyer or savvy investor. Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Penrith is a
vibrant and growing community, with the facilities of a large city while still offering suburban charm. Penrith has so many fun activities for families, upcoming indoor snow field, water ski park, indoor flying centre, escape rooms, bowling, golf, arcade games, local walking tracks, white water rapid training park, playgrounds and so much more.
PATIOMAN
No job too small
Lic No. 829 19C
Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms, Wooden Decks
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Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me
DIGITAL DETOX: TIME TO RECLAIM
Every year during the holiday period, I take the time to reduce my usage of digital devices. In effect, I have a digital detox. I limit my social media use and put an out-of-office reply to my emails. I watch less TV and really embrace summer and all the activities it offers. Christmas is the one time of year when almost everyone, including businesses, closes for two weeks. It’s the one time of year I do not have to worry about anything related to my business and be able to prioritise my family.
A digital detox offers numerous benefits, including:
• Improved mental health: Reducing screen time can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and boost overall mood.
• Enhanced relationships: By disconnecting from technology, you can spend more time with family and friends, strengthening your bonds and creating lasting memories. Perhaps even have a device-free date night with your partner.
• Greater mindfulness: A digital detox encourages mindfulness, allowing you to focus on the present moment.
• Reclaiming time: Remember when we used to read paperbacks or chat with friends without screens? Personally, I
use some of this time to read a couple of novels
• Sleep and serotonin: Screen blue light messes with our sleep patterns. A detox encourages better sleep hygiene, improving mood and overall well-being.
Some Strategies for a successful digital detox:
• Designate a tech-free space: Choose a specific area in your home where you can relax and unwind without distractions.
• Establish tech-free times: Set aside specific periods during the day, such
as mealtimes or evenings, when you’ll completely unplug.
• Use apps mindfully: If you can’t eliminate technology, use apps mindfully. For example, turn off non-essential notifications and unfollow accounts that fill up your social media.
• Set screen time limits: Use your device’s built-in features to limit your daily screen time.
• Rediscover old passions: Pick a hobby you’ve neglected, such as reading, painting, or gardening, or explore brand new hobbies.
• Spend time outdoors: Take walks in nature, hike, or sit in your backyard and enjoy the fresh air. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
• Inform: Tell your family and friends about your digital detox plans.
• Set boundaries: Politely decline social invitations that involve excessive screen time.
Remember, a successful digital detox is about balance and moderation. It’s not about eliminating technology from your life but rather about using it mindfully and intentionally. By taking steps to disconnect, you can experience a more fulfilling and meaningful holiday season.
WHY BATHTIME SAFETY NEEDS TO BE A PRIORITY
This week I want to highlight bathtime safety. With many of us quite time poor, who can blame busy parents from trying to fit as much as possible into a day?
Thinking “I’ll just go and grab a towel / hang the washing quickly / answer the door or phone/ go to the toilet / attend to another child / do the dishes” while their child is having a bath. Thinking “I will only be gone for a minute”. Sadly, this is plenty enough time for tragedy to occur.
In Australia, on average, five children under the age of five drown and 47 are hospitalised due to bathtub drowning or near drowning incidents each year.
One in four hospitalisations results in permanent injury such as brain damage. The majority of bathtub drowning deaths occur when there is an interruption to the bathing routine such as the doorbell or phone ringing while a parent is bathing a child. Most of the children who drowned in a bathtub in Australia were
already in the bathtub when they drowned and were less than two-years-old. 100 per cent of these deaths are due to a lapse in adult supervision. If you must leave the bathroom, please take your child with you.
No one is immune to the dangers of water. I myself once called 000 after a bath time incident. I was right there. I hadn’t even left the bathroom, but I was looking at my other child in the bath and
nearly missed seeing my toddler put a container of bath gel mixed with water to his mouth and swig. (How this container got into the bath for my one-year-old to get the lid off, add water and make a soapy soup I will never know).
The shock of tasting the mixture caused my little boy to inhale sharply – causing an unknown amount of water and soap to enter his lungs. It happened so quickly but soon he became very distressed and wheezy and the ambulance was called. Luckily he was given the all clear and settled well, but I watched him closely all night for any signs of secondary drowning (which can occur when water has been taken into the lungs). Secondary drowning is extremely rare, but it is important to have been with your child the entire time they were in the bath to witness any water inhalation which may have occurred. Older children do not provide adequate supervision, as they may not understand when the younger child is in trouble. Bath
seats or bath aids provide support for your child while leaving your hands free to wash them but are no substitute for active adult supervision as they do not prevent children from climbing or falling out of the seat and drowning. Please also remember to drain the bath as soon as bath time is over to remove this water hazard from the home. This also goes for any bodies of water in and around the home such as eskys, wading pools, wheelbarrows, drinks tubs, large pet bowls and anywhere else where water sit in any amount.
‘Kids Alive Do The 5’ have some fantastic videos on their YouTube channel showing parents how to familiarise very young babies with water in the bathtub and shower before they begin formal swimming lessons. I highly recommend that you take a look at these videos if you have an infant, and that swimming lessons are attended from six months of age. Until next week, please stay SAFER!
The Experts
One Point Health
CUSTOMISED ORTHOTICS AND HOW THEY WORK
Customised orthotics are medical devices designed to support and improve foot function. Unlike over-thecounter insoles, customised orthotics are specifically tailored to the individual’s foot structure, gait, and particular needs. These devices can address a variety of foot problems such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, and other biomechanical issues.
The key benefit of customised orthotics lies in their customised nature. They are created after a thorough assessment of the patient’s foot structure, gait analysis, and sometimes 3D imaging of the feet. This ensures that the orthotic provides optimal support to the areas that need it most. By redistributing pressure evenly across the foot, customised orthotics can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by abnormal foot mechanics. They can correct imbalances, promote proper alignment, and reduce stress on the joints.
For individuals with chronic
conditions like diabetes or arthritis, customised orthotics play an essential role in foot care. Diabetic patients, for instance, often suffer from neuropathy or poor circulation, which makes them prone to foot ulcers and other complications. Custom orthotics can reduce pressure points that may lead to these issues, thus preventing wounds and infections. For arthritis
Experience the thrill of coming face to face with the
King of beasts!
patients, orthotics can help alleviate pain by cushioning the joints and stabilising foot movements, reducing wear and tear on inflamed areas. Athletes also benefit from customised orthotics as they help optimise performance by improving foot alignment and reducing the risk of injury. They provide enhanced shock absorption and support during high-im-
pact activities, minimising strain on muscles and joints.
Customised orthotics are a powerful tool in managing foot pain, correcting biomechanical issues, and preventing injury or further complications in patients with chronic conditions. Their personalised fit ensures maximum effectiveness, making them superior to generic insoles for those with specific needs.
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
BLAKE COSSOR
IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce
Ready Freddie: The solution
Everyone knows that the correct order to get ready to go out is hair, makeup, then outfit.
But, what you wear in the interim is extremely important – it can’t be anything white, or anything too tight over your head, so as to not ruin all your hard work.
For Allie Goodbun and Georgia Smith, the solution to this came when they started dancing at the Moulin Rouge in Paris.
“When I started, I realised that it was a very common thing for a lot of the girls to be wearing these cozy, one-piece jumpers,” Goodbun said.
“I had seen them before, but it was definitely something I hadn’t seen in a decade, because it was something little kids were known to wear, more so in the ballet world.”
As it turns out, these jumpers
were being made by the mum of one of the dancers, who had unfortunately put down her sewing machine the year that Goodbun started. So, she went on a mission to make one of her own, and though she did manage to have one made, it wasn’t quite what she wanted.
“Having one that wasn’t quite functional – it was too short in the crotch, the elastic on the top wasn’t tight enough, the straps were too close together – it just made me want to redesign it
myself,” she said.
And so, they created their brand Ready Freddie, selling ‘freddies’ for everyone to enjoy.
Though the girls started with no business experience, Ready Freddie blew up almost immediately with the help of their social media accounts, with people all over the world now incorporating them into their getting ready routine.
“It’s become really big in sport – lots of swimmers wear it to get ready, and being from Canada, it’s now also lifted off in the figure skating world, which is really cool,” she said.
“Mums are also just wearing it around the house or to do errands!”
But, it’s been particularly popular in the dance community, given their careers as professional can-can dancers.
“They’ve landed backstage in almost every show in North
America,” she said.
Whilst Goodbun is Canadian, Smith is from right here in Australia, leading them to launch their latest collection at the Australian Dance Festival in September.
Moving forward, they’re keen to expand the business here, with new launches in the works set to run with the Aussie seasons.
“Once we hit that year mark in December, we’re going to transition into new fabrics,” Goodbun said.
“We’re hoping to really get into beach cover ups, move into a terry towel material, and that will land right in the middle of Australian summer.”
Having now given one of the freddies a test drive for myself, I can confirm that they’re the perfect outfit to get ready in. I can’t wait to see what they do next!
Experts
EXPLAINER: COMMON ZOONOTIC DISEASES
Our pets bring joy and comfort into our lives, and keeping them healthy is an essential part of keeping ourselves and our families safe. Zoonotic diseases are animal infections that can be passed to humans, often through close contact or exposure to contaminated surfaces. Although the risk of contracting a zoonotic infection is generally low, understanding these diseases and taking preventive steps can help keep everyone safe. Here are some common zoonotic diseases and how to protect yourself and your pet.
Worms
Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms are common in domestic pets like dogs and cats. These worms can be transmitted to people, typically through contaminated soil, water, or by direct contact with an infected animal. Symptoms in humans can include stomach pain, nausea, or skin irritation. Regular intestinal worming of pets, along with proper hygiene, significantly reduces the risk of these parasites spreading to humans.
Ringworm
Despite the name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm. This fungus affects the
skin of both animals and humans, causing red, itchy, circular patches. Ringworm can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected pet or even contaminated soil. Avoid handling animals with visible skin issues and always wash your hands after playing with pets, especially if they roam outdoors.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira bacteria, is spread through the urine of infected animals, including rats, cattle, and even marsupials. People can contract it by coming into contact with contaminated soil, water, or vegetation, and the bacteria can enter the body through cuts or mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, nose). Preventing leptospirosis includes avoiding exposure to contaminated water sources, using gloves when cleaning animal areas, and ensuring pets are vaccinated.
Sarcoptic Mange (Sarcoptes)
Sarcoptes, or “scabies,” is a parasitic mite that burrows into the skin, causing intense itching and irritation. This condition is highly contagious and can spread from pets to humans through skin contact. Limit handling of infected animals and seek prompt veterinary treatment to help stop the spread.
Cat Scratch Disease (CSD)
Caused by the Bartonella bacteria, Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) can lead to symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue in humans. CSD is transmitted through cat scratches or bites. To prevent it, avoid rough play with cats, trim their nails, and discourage them from biting or scratching. Wash any scratches or bites immediately.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that often infects cats, particularly those who hunt. People, especially those with weakened immune systems or pregnant women, can contract toxoplasmosis through contact with contaminated cat faeces. Always wash hands after cleaning litter boxes, and avoid handling cat litter if pregnant. Additionally, cook meat thoroughly to avoid foodborne transmission of the parasite.
Prevention and final tips
Good hygiene and regular pet care are crucial for preventing zoonotic diseases. Wash hands after handling pets, clean up pet waste properly, and keep pets’ vaccinations and worming up to date. With the right precautions, we can enjoy the many benefits of pet companionship while reducing risks.
HOROSCOPES
Relax & Unwind
Boho Astro
bohoastro.com
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
With Mars charging into your relationship zone, it’s time to maintain your independence within the partnership … and encourage your sweetheart to do the same. The Sun/Saturn trine is terrific for professional and volunteer work plus long-term career planning. Success will be more satisfying if you are patient and disciplined, as you follow your particular path. Be inspired by actress (and birthday great) Sally Field, “Your journey is unique; don’t compare it to others.”
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
With voluptuous Venus (your patron planet) opposing Jupiter and squaring Neptune, you’re in the mood to overindulge, overspend and exaggerate. But too much eating, drinking, partying and/or spending (plus too little sleep) could extend your waistline, shorten your patience and slow you down by the end of the week. Unrealistic expectations could also lead to disappointment and confusion, so try to keep your feet firmly on the ground.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Get cracking Cats! It’s one of the most proactive and productive weeks of the year as Mars charges into Leo, and Saturn (planet of discipline and patience) links up with the Sun (your ruling planet). Relationships with relatives should improve, as long as you take a cautious and responsible approach. Catching up with delayed chores and overdue DIY projects in your Lion’s den is particularly favoured. When it comes to personal projects, strike while the iron is hot.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
On Monday and Tuesday, being resourceful and strategic pays off well at work. Creative ideas and careful research will also take you far. But don’t blow your budget with an indulgent Venus/Jupiter spending spree or commit yourself to an ambitious project that you don’t really have the time or enthusiasm for. Short-term big talk is no good if it doesn’t translate into long-term action. This week, patience and persistence are the keys to Scorpio success.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
It’s a wonderful week to dream big dreams and set ambitious goals for the future, as the Sun and Saturn activate your aspirations zone. But family members and work colleagues need to be handled with an extra big dollop of diplomacy and discretion. As birthday great Joni Mitchell observes, “There are things to confess that enrich the world, and things that need not be said.” On the weekend, avoid the temptation to be vague about the truth and tell tall tales.
GEMINI
22 TO JUNE 21
Have you been wondering (and worrying) about your professional options in the future? The ideal is to follow your dreams and make your day-to-day work a pleasure rather than a full-time chore. This week, the terrific Sun/Saturn trine encourages you to turn an abstract idea into a rock-solid reality via an inspiring vision and a strategic plan, especially at work. Proactive Mars also encourages you to get busy and be productive in your local community.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
When it comes to romance, do you have ridiculously high expectations? Have you placed your partner (or imagined partner) on a towering pedestal? With Neptune and Saturn both transiting through your relationship zone, stop expecting the perfect soul mate and instead, be prepared to love a real flesh and bones person … faults and all. As singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell sings, “I’ve looked at love from both sides now, from up and down…”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
With Mercury and Venus both transiting through your sign, you’ll be at your chatty and charming best! So it’s a wonderful week to create, collaborate and communicate, in your friendly Sagittarian way. As birthday great Albert Camus wrote, “Charm is the way of getting the answer yes, without having asked any clear question.” But avoid making impulsive financial decisions, especially on Monday. Take your time, do your research, and get a second opinion.
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
The week starts with an impatient, indulgent Venus/Jupiter opposition, and then Mars (your boss planet) charges into fellow fire sign, Leo. So – if you want things to run smoothly – diplomacy, discretion and restraint are required. Not qualities that come naturally to Rams! Wisdom for the week is from singer-songwriter Lorde (who turns 28 on Thursday), “Take care of your thoughts when you are alone and take care of your words when you are with people.”
The Sun and Saturn are activating your entertainment and travel sectors. So jump out of your Crab comfort zone and book some tickets to a concert or plan a much-needed holiday. When it comes to your personal and professional friendships, strive to be extra patient and keep the lines of communication wide open. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, singer-songwriter-musician Joni Mitchell, “I want to have fun, I want to shine like the Sun.”
This week pleasure-planet Venus (your patron planet) opposes Jupiter and squares Neptune, so you’re in the mood to indulge your senses via over-eating, drinking too much, partying too often and/or maxing out your credit card. Wearing decidedly rose-coloured glasses could also lead to confusion and disappointment (especially involving love, romance, neighbours, work colleagues, clients or customers). The Sun and Saturn encourage you to stay grounded.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Your best days are Monday and Tuesday, when Saturn (your power planet) trines the Sun. Concentration, goal setting and creative plans will take you far, especially involving communication, education, social media and group activities. Jupiter encourages you to enjoy the simple things in life – like a walk in the park or a kiss from a child. Be inspired by actress Sally Field (who turns 78), “Find joy in the little things; they add up to something magnificent.”
65.
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: CARTOONS
ASTRO BOY
BULLWINKLE
DAFFY DUCK
DONALD
ELMER FUDD
FELIX
FLINTSTONES
FOGHORN
JERRY
JETSONS
MICKEY MOUSE
MINNIE
PLUTO
ROAD RUNNER
ROCKY
SCOOBY-DOO
SCROOGE
TOM
WILE E COYOTE
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about ‘Bluey’ in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. What city does ‘Bluey’ take place in?
2. What is the name of Chili’s sister?
3. Where did Chili and Bandit first meet?
4. In the episode titled ‘Bus’, what animal is Bandit married to?
5. Who voices Bandit?
6. What breed of dog is Bluey’s best friend, Chloe?
7. What job does Calypso have in the show?
8. Which famous rugby league commentator makes an appearance in the episode called ‘The Decider’?
9. What is the 28-minute ‘Bluey’ episode called?
Giraffe
David McCormack
Dalmation
Teacher
Ray Warren 9. ‘The Sign’
Using the key, can you crack the phone code?
ALFAKODO
Letters A to Z have a number value, some are shown in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Fill in 1 to 6, in each row across and down, and in each rectangle.
Letters A to Z have a number value Some are shown in the right hand cells Create remaining values using clues in centre cells
H+Z
Z×Z
S+Y Q Z+J 7
L+G R O+J
H+X S T-E
X+A T Y×V
J+Q U D+P
D×V 26 V B-O 2
S+Z W E+V
J+C X Z+V L J×V 8 Y Q+X 12 M Z+Z Z K÷M
Find fifteen words beginning with ‘t’ from these jumbled letters.
Can you help Stork find his next baby delivery?
CODE BREAKER: Kermit the frog is left-handed.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: 1. There is no ‘writing’ in the square on the book cover. 2. There is no shadow on the table at the base of the globe. 3. The island near Africa is missing. 4. There is only one alien in the UFO. 5. There are only two stripes on the man’s tie.
HIDDEN WORDS: Toaster, toast, toe, tore, tease, taste, trot, tea, toes, test, to, terse, tart, tee and taro. Special word: Taro - A widely cultivated tropical Asian plant. MINI-SUDOKU:
PUZZLE PLAY:
“I am eggcited, it looks like my omelette will pan out very well.”
PHONE CODE:
ALFAKODO: PIC PUZZLE: Ans: 5
