Peita Davies, owner of MoneyQuest
Penrith & Blue Mountains, has received the ‘Community Champion Award’ at one of mortgage broking’s most prestigious awards nights – the NSW/ACT Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) Excellence Awards 2024.
Davies won the award for her
20|20|20 campaign, which she began back in 2022 to celebrate her 20th year in business.
The campaign successfully raised funds and awareness for 20 different charities over the course of 20 months, having just wrapped up in June 2024.
“It’s been great to showcase 20 different charities over the timeframe,” she said.
“I think it’s very different
to what anyone else has done. I did get some of that feedback from some colleagues that I have known that have worked in the industry, and they’re like, ‘What a fabulous idea, I wish I’d thought of it!’.”
Of course, Davies had no expectations of being recognised for the campaign. That’s why when her name was announced at the awards event earlier this month, she was well and truly over the moon.
“I’ve been a finalist in the MFAA Awards almost every year and have never won,” she said.
“For this to be the one that took the crown was really exciting for me!”
According to Davies, being publicly recognised as a community champion made her feel incredibly inspired to continue in her efforts – particularly as new career milestones come around.
“I did think, ‘Wow, what am I going to do for my 30?’,” she said.
However, for the time being, she said she’s going to be working more closely with particular charities, selecting causes meaningful to her which she can support on a more regular basis.
“I think we’re going to see what we can do to be more targeted in relation to our ongoing support – maybe a few organisations each year that are close to our hearts,” she said.
What is so great about this property?
This meticulously crafted home offers an array of features that elevate both style and comfort.
Nestled in the serene and sought after location of Mulgoa Rise, this property is a true masterpiece, offering a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. Presenting an
open-plan layout with an array of features that cater to every aspect of comfortable living, this property is a gem waiting to be yours!
Who does this property suit? A family.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
One of the best things about residing in this area is the abundance of green spaces and parks, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. The well-designed infrastructure, coupled with a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere, creates a welcoming environment for
families and individuals alike. Additionally, the proximity to essential amenities, schools, and recreational facilities ensures a convenient and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether enjoying the scenic views of the Blue Mountains or participating in community events, the quality of life in Glenmore Park is unparalleled.
Ray White Diamantidis Group
Peter Diamantidis • 0404 051 702 peter.d@raywhite.com
Ray Jankovic • 0438 535 945 jankovic@raywhite.com 4 2 4
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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
Property prices continue to power ahead around the country, with the biggest mover in the market being Brisbane, which has surpassed Canberra to be second in the ranks of Australia’s most expensive capital cities behind Sydney.
According to property data specialists CoreLogic, prices nationwide increased 0.8 per cent in May, making it the 16th consecutive month that prices increased.
Brisbane’s move into second place for median dwelling values for a rise of 1.4 per cent was the first time it had done so since 1997. With Queensland’s population soaring coupled with a severe lack of housing supply, the median value for dwellings in Greater Brisbane has now reached a new peak of $843,230.
The momentum for property prices in South-East Queensland accelerated with major interstate
migration to the Sunshine State during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the onset of COVID in 2020, Brisbane dwelling values
pandemic years.
The primary driver of this shift in Brisbane is the significant reduction in total listing volumes,
have increased 59.8 per cent, compared to just 11.2 per cent in Melbourne which experienced lengthy lockdowns during the
which are down 34.1 per cent compared to the previous five-year average, according to CoreLogic.
Despite this, month on month, total listings are actually up 7.14 per cent. Simultaneously, sales volumes have increased by 7.0 per cent over the last 12 months, indicating strong buyer activity. As a result, any new listings are quickly being absorbed by buyers who continue to exert upward pressure on prices.
With Brisbane to host the 2032 Olympics, the price growth and demand for property looks highly likely to keep trending upward.
Sydney remains the most expensive place to buy property in the country, with a median house price of $1.4 million.
Perth recorded the biggest increase to property prices in May with a 2.0 per cent rise, while Hobart and Darwin were the only two that saw prices fall slightly. Talk to Bell Partners Finance if you are considering buying property, either as an owner-occupier or an investor.
Ihave written about Amazon Prime Day for the last few years. So this article will cover the basics and will also show you how to determine if the price is discounted and a bargain. Prime Day is the annual two-day shopping event that offers members exclusive deals and discounts on a wide variety of products. The event is held annually in July; it will occur in mid-July this year. Pricing on popular items drops significantly on Prime Day, and items sell out quickly. Almost everything on Amazon is discounted, with discounts between 50-70 per cent quite common.
CamelCamelCamel is a reliable website that tracks and notifies you of price changes on Amazon Australia. It’s not just free to use, but it also monitors millions of products and alerts you to price changes. This website will allow you to verify that you are getting a bargain. Once you know the item you want, simply enter it into the website, and it will give you a
history of pricing over the last few years on the product. It will also allow you to set a notification of any price drops, giving you the confidence that you’re making the best purchase.
To use it:
• Visit au.camelcamelcamel. com.
• Create an account or use Facebook or Google to log in.
• Then either type a description of the product or, better still, paste in the Amazon URL of the product.
As an example, I searched for Bose QC Wireless Noise-cancelling Headphones. It displayed a graph showing the price changes over the past year, showing the highest, lowest, and average prices. Coincidentally, it is currently at its lowest price, saving an average of $150. It additionally lets you put in a price watch. You can have a price you are prepared to buy for, and if there are any drops to that price or under, you will be notified of the change. The best way to use
it is to put a price watch one cent below the current price. This way, you will be notified of any price drops.
Day, they have a dedicated page identifying the best deals. Prime Day is an excellent opportunity to save big on various products. With
Another way to keep track of the deals is through the OZ Bargain (ozbargin.com.au) website. This website highlights daily deals identified by members. On Prime
so many deals, you’re sure to find something great. Prepare beforehand and use Camelcamelcamel to ensure that you get a great price on the product you want.
In the realm of foot ailments, plantar fasciitis stands as a common antagonist, presenting sufferers with a sharp, unwelcome pain with each step. Massage therapy, an age-old remedy, now reveals its modernday prowess, offering a non-invasive and deeply therapeutic approach to combat this affliction. Delving into the art of massage, we uncover its capacity to not only soothe the immediate agony but also to promote longterm healing and mobility for those affected by plantar fasciitis.
The traditional approach to managing plantar fasciitis has often involved rest, medication, and sometimes more invasive procedures. However, the spotlight is now on massage therapy, and non-invasive treatment that promises relief without the side effects of pharmaceuticals or the risks of surgery.
Massage therapy targets the very structure affected by plantar fasciitis – the plantar fascia. By applying strategic pressure to the foot, massage helps to loosen the fascia, thereby alleviating tension and pain. The technique not only addresses the immediate discomfort but also works to break down scar tissue, enhancing flexibility and range of motion.
But the benefits of massage therapy extend beyond the mechanical. The therapy stimulates circulation, ushering in a fresh supply
of oxygen and nutrients to the weary tissues. This boost of activity aids in reducing stiffness and swelling, fostering a conducive environment for healing.
Moreover, the versatility of massage therapy allows for its integration with other treatment modalities. Stretching exercises, when paired with massage, can fortify the foot’s musculature, providing a robust defence against the recurrence of symptoms. The synergy of these treatments can expedite recovery, propelling individuals back to their daily routines with renewed vigour.
In an era where self-care is paramount, the allure of massage therapy lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Self-massage techniques, easily learned and performed at home, empower patients to take an active role in their recovery. The use of commonplace items like a tennis ball or a frozen water bottle can mimic the effects of a therapist’s touch, offering convenience and control.
As research continues to unravel the layers of benefits offered by massage therapy, its role in the management of plantar fasciitis becomes increasingly evident. It stands as a testament to the power of touch – a remedy as old as time, reimagined for the modern age, providing solace to those hindered by the throes of plantar fasciitis.
Mecca’s Beauty Election, otherwise known as the Oscars of beauty, has finally arrived.
This year, tens of thousands of shoppers voted on their favourite products from 23 categories, and the winners have finally been announced.
Here are my top picks from the bunch:
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
The NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer was my very first high-end beauty purchase, so to say I was happy to see it enter the Hall of Fame this year is an understatement.
Though many concealers have come out since, this one’s high coverage combined with its creamy consistency and natural finish makes it a musttry for all, which has well and truly stood the test of time.
Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen
Another Hall of Famer this year is Mecca Cosmetica’s To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen.
This is a product that I’ve repurchased multiple times, and will continue to do so time and time again. It’s a beautiful everyday sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast, and works perfectly mixed with foundation or under makeup as a primer.
Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask
Ever since seeing Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! line recommended by one of my favourite YouTubers back in the day, I’ve been quite the fan. This deep conditioning mask is excellent to restore and improve the long-term health of damaged hair. It works really
well on my bleached and heat damaged curly hair to lessen frizz and add moisture, and is well deserving of its place in the Hall of Fame.
Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum
This year, the Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum was the winner of the ‘The One for the Sun’ category.
Similar to the To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen, I think this product does a great job at providing sun protection alone or under makeup, without the white cast.
What makes this one different, however, is that it also contains niacinamide, meaning it works to smooth the appearance of fine lines, and add a stunning glow. The size is also really great for popping in your handbag!
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Without a doubt, the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm is the product of the year in my eyes. I bet every girl you know has one in her handbag! It’s for this reason that I think
it’s well deserving of taking out the ‘The Handbag Essential’ category.
Though I think the price, at $40, is a little steep, it is a really beautiful product, providing just the right amount of colour, as well as hydration. I can’t help but want them all!
Mecca Max Off Duty Blush Stick
I received one of these in a Beauty Loop Bonus a few months ago in the shade ‘Juicy’, and I will admit, I was a little scared at first. But, it has since become one of my favourite blushes for its blending ease and beautiful pop of colour. It’s definitely earned its place as the winner of the ‘The Best for Beginners’ category – at just $20, I recommend everyone giving it a go!
Does your pet have bad breath? It’s hard to believe that more than 85 per cent of dogs and cats over four-yearsold have some form of periodontal disease. While many people believe that bad breath is normal for their furry friends, it can be an indication of a problem and one of the most common diseases that we see in animals.
Any dog or cat can be affected but dental disease is more common in smaller breed dogs with small faces such as Cavaliers, Poodles and Shi Tzus. There are various signs you can look out for such as:
• Bad breath
• Discoloured and/or loose teeth
• Excessive drooling, sometimes bloodstained inflamed or receding gums
• Dropping of food from the mouth when eating, or reluctant to chew or eat at all, especially hard food.
• Pain when handled around the head
• Facial swelling
• Pawing at the mouth
When food particles and bacteria are allowed to accumulate in the mouth, it can form plaque. When plaque combines with saliva, it forms a hard substance called calculus. This causes gum irritation and inflammation which is known as gingivitis.
After a period of time, the calculus builds up
under the gum line and separates it from the teeth – at this point in time, this is irreversible disease of the teeth and will lead to bone loss and formation of pus between the gum and teeth. Advanced periodontal disease can be
very painful for your pet and often the best course of treatment is surgically removing the teeth.
Periodontal disease is best prevented and there are several things that you can do to make sure your dog or cat has a clean and pain-free mouth. The best thing you can do is brush your pets’ teeth daily but many animals will not tolerate this.
There are commercially available diets such as the Hills Science Diet T/D which will reverse the build-up of mild calculus and prevent future build up. Also providing your pets with chewable treats such as dentastix and greenies are great for reducing plaque build-up. Minimising wet food is also great as wet food tends to cling to the teeth and cause a build-up of bacteria. Bones are best avoided as they can fracture teeth and cause gastro intestinal upsets and constipation.
Just like we go to the dentist and have our teeth scaled and polished, we can also do this for your pet. Depending on the severity of your pet’s dental disease, they may benefit from a thorough clean under anaesthetic. Scaling and polishing the teeth will reverse the early stages of gingivitis and cure bad breath! Phone the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 to discuss the best dental options for your pet.
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
bohoastro.com
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
The Sun, Mercury and Venus are visiting your job zone, so socialising with customers, clients and/or colleagues will help improve workplace relations. If you’re looking for employment, then put the word out amongst family, friends and within your wider peer group. At the moment, it’s not what you know but who you know! The Mercury/Uranus link (on the weekend) is wonderful for innovative ideas, lively communication and brilliant, lightbulb moments.
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
It’s a good week to entertain family, friends and neighbours, as Venus and Mars encourage socialising. Convivial conversation is a bonus. But has an old relationship finally run out of steam? Or is a fair-weather friend criticising your behaviour and holding you back? The planets urge you to review your peer group and discard negative influences. Surround yourself with positive people who encourage your talents and support your dreams.
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Are you impatient for adventure, excitement and success? Awesome opportunities are circling around you, but they’re not immediately obvious. They are hidden in unexpected places, waiting for you to discover them. Lions love to spring into action but – at the moment – some of your best work will be done quietly, behind the scenes. Other people may not notice what you’re currently doing, but your efforts will be rewarded in the months ahead.
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
It’s a good week to channel energy into educating and expanding your mind. Your communication skills are firing, as you extend your peer group and make creative new connections. With your ruler Pluto in your domestic zone, family comes first as you build firm foundations and foster affection at Casa Scorpio. Singles – with Mars and Uranus in your relationship zone, it’s time to proactively look for love online. So start posting your updated profile pronto.
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Courtesy of taskmaster Saturn hard work, discipline and determination bring benefits. Channel your energy into a personal project or a creative venture. Draw inspiration from singer-songwriter Carly Simon (who celebrates her 79th birthday on Tuesday), “There’s always a creative side to me, even when it’s quiet musically. Like painting, decorating or planting a garden.” Plus aim to be more proactive about protecting your local environment.
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
This week – courtesy of Mercury (your ruling planet) and Uranus – you’re keen to jump in and act with lightning speed, but other people may need some time to adjust. Smart Twins will aim to get the balance right between Mercury and Saturn; between being spontaneous and thinking things through. On Saturday, Venus and Mars encourage creativity in action, as you connect with your inner muse and sing, dance, write, perform or play music.
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Professional projects are favoured, as you rub shoulders with influential people. Don’t be a wallflower though. Speak up and promote your talents! If you hesitate, then promising opportunities will pass you by. With Jupiter jumping through your career zone, confidence and an adventurous attitude will take you places. So your motto is from birthday great, deaf-blind author and educator Helen Keller, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.”
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Is it always appropriate to be fearlessly frank? Is honesty always the best policy? Your natural inclination is to be incredibly blunt, but not everyone is ready for your special brand of Sagittarian truth serum. The Sun, Mercury and Venus are in your secrets zone, so a dollop of discretion and a pinch of diplomacy will smooth troubled waters. If you’re smart, then you’ll talk a lot less and listen a lot more. It’s time to hold your tongue and uncover a mystery (or two).
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Courtesy of the Mercury/Saturn link, you’re keen to follow humanitarian or spiritual pursuits. You’ll seek out the wise counsel of a trusted mentor or play that role yourself to someone who’s looking for firm guidance. You’ll also question your inner motivations, and a soulful examination of your interior life will give you the self-knowledge and confidence to let your unique Aries talents shine. Saturday is fabulous for love, lust, friends and flirtations.
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Don’t sulk and sit on the sidelines! With the Sun, Mercury and Venus visiting your sign, you’re at your creative, communicative, charismatic Crab best. Mars and Uranus are also activating your networking zone, so it’s the perfect time to promote yourself as you push forward in a proactive and adventurous way. Confidence is the rocket fuel that will take you to exciting new places. The weekend is wonderful for socialising with family and having fun with friends.
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
If you’re looking for a promotion or a new job, now’s the time to strike as lucky Venus and proactive Mars enhance your career charisma and professional persona. Communicating with work colleagues, clients and customers will also improve, as you initiate contact and impress others with your conscientious, perfectionist approach. The positive Venus/Mars link should also benefit partnerships of the romantic, platonic and business variety.
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Mercury trines Saturn (your patron planet), which boosts drive and ambition. But it’s also likely to fan your control-freak tendencies, which could end up alienating others. Remember – the only person you can control is yourself! So turbo-charge your personal evolution, tap into your leadership skills and steer your life in a positive direction. With the Sun, Mercury and Venus in your relationship zone, put the needs of loved ones at the top of your to-do list.
35. Bordering
37. Waters garden
38. Street-finder (4,3)
40. Shock
41. Baby eel
42. Pepper grinders
43. Supply (entertainment) (3,2)
44. Paints roughly 47. Powerful person (3,4)
51. Tougher
52. Actor, ... Irons
53. Annually
54. Is unable to
58. Traffic-light colour
59. Tissue layer
61. Airborne
63. 8-piece group
64. Arid region
65. Sponsor
66. Brushes (off)
68. Marsh grasses
71. Beach formations
72. X-ray procedure, CAT
74. Spiky plant, ... vera
76. Cries
78. Electrical resistance units
80. Missing in action (1,1,1)
83. Due time (1,1,1)
Find
Theme: Cartoons
ASTRO
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
Test your knowledge about TV cop shows in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. Tom Selleck stars as NYC Police Commissioner Frank Reagan in which long-running police drama?
2. Who shot beloved character Maggie Doyle, played by Lisa McCune, in ‘Blue Heelers’?
3. Who played the iconic Andy Sipowicz in long-running police series ‘NYPD Blue’?
4. What is the only live-action series that premiered in the 1990s that remains in production today?
5. Carrie Preston stars as livewire lawyer Elsbeth Tascioni in what ‘Good Wife’ spin-off?
6. In what year did popular police show ‘Chicago P.D.’ first come on the air?
. 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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.
It o ers networking opportunities with industry leaders and parliament members, featuring food, wine, entertainment, and recognition of excellence in Western Sydney. POWERED
NOMINATIONS & TICKET SALES OPEN
NOMINATIONS CLOSE FINALIST ANNOUNCED AWARDS NIGHT NOW JULY 15 31ST JULY 24TH OCTOBER 6:30PM, THE WILLIAM INGLS HOTEL
1. CAMPAIGN AWARD 2024 - HOTELS/TOURISM BUSINESS
2. EVENTS CAMPAIGN AWARD - COUNCILS
3. BUSINESS EVENT/FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR
4. TOUR GROUP EXPERIENCE OF THE YEAR
5. BEST VISITOR ECONOMY EVENT - DAY VISITATION
6. BEST VISITOR ECONOMY EVENT - NIGHT VISITATION
7. OUTSTANDING BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR
8. OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2024, scheduled for October 24th, celebrate achievements in Southwest and Western Sydney’s tourism industry. The event aims to set industry benchmarks for growth and participation, coinciding with the upcoming WSI opening.
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
