THE ROBOT VACUUM SET TO CHANGE
Dreame Technology, a pioneer of innovative home appliances, has announced the ultimate robotic vacuum of the year, the X40 Ultra.
With unique side brush extends and MopExtend RoboSwing technology, and industry-leading suction capabilities, a fully automated cleaning station, an anti-tangle brush, and intelligent mapping technology, maintaining a sparkling clean home has never been more effortless, eliminating the need to get your hands dirty.
The X40 Ultra sets a new standard for clean living, with revolutionary features including the world’s premier bionic robotic arm technology, an autonomous self-cleaning base station, intelligent algorithm-driven path planning, and unparalleled obstacle recognition capabilities. Keeping a home clean can be demanding, the X40 Ultra can be your ultimate cleaning companion.
“Our latest innovation, the X40 Ultra, represents one of our most advanced robotic vacuum cleaners that has been developed after extensive research into the
“IT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED AFTER EXTENSIVE RESEARCH INTO THE NEEDS OF OUR CUSTOMERS”
needs of our consumers. Our customers want a robotic vacuum that effectively cleans corners and edges, requires minimal post-cleaning maintenance, and utilises intelligent technology to accurately navigate their homes with ease,” said Mike Eagle, Regional Manager (ANZ) at Dreame Technology.
The X40 Ultra introduces a new innovation, extendable SideReach. These brushes lift
and extend during simultaneous sweeping and mopping, ensuring comprehensive coverage of your home’s tightest corners and narrowest crevices. They effectively clean the undersides of curved furniture and reach right angle corners with 100 per cent efficiency.
The side brush can lift up to 10mm and extend to reach wall corners and curved furniture legs with fewer missed spots. Utilising
Dreame’s MopExtend RoboSwing technology, X40 Ultra eliminates hidden debris under low-profile furniture with a 4cm mop extension.
The X40 Ultra features an all-inone, self-cleaning base station where it can remove its oscillating mop pads, wash and dry them, refill its water tank, empty the bin, and reattach the clean mop pads when needed.
The X40 Ultra automatically
empties its internal dustbin into the base station when it’s docked and its 3.2-litre dust bag requires emptying only once every 75 days. And, with Auto Washboard Cleaning, the upgraded duo-scraper allows simultaneous scrubbing of the washboard and mop, ensuring both stay consistently clean. The scraper eliminates the need for users to disassemble and clean them separately. When clean-up is complete, the rotary mops are blow-dried for two hours with warm air to help prevent mildew formation and any unpleasant odour. Also, the base station’s intelligent cleaning solution system delivers the perfect waterto-solution ratio for spotless cleaning the next time.
For more information on this incredible piece of cleaning tech, visit www.dreametech.com.
THE BEST OF COASTAL AND COUNTRY LIVING
What’s so great about this property?
Escape the city and embrace the serene lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of! This charming three-bedroom home in Kendall offers a perfect retreat with modern upgrades, sun-filled living spaces, and a private outdoor oasis. But it’s more than just a home – it’s an investment in your future, with DA-approved duplex and subdivision potential ready to unlock financial rewards. Who does this property suit?
This is the ultimate haven for sea-changers and tree-changers seeking a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle without sacrificing convenience. It’s also a dream opportunity for savvy investors
looking to build wealth through rental income or future development. Whether you’re craving a slower pace or chasing financial growth, this property ticks every box.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
Nestled in the heart of Kendall, this idyllic town offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Surrounded by lush greenery and just a 10-minute drive to pristine beaches, Kendall provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Yet, you’re only 30 minutes from the vibrant hub of Port Macquarie. Live where others vacation – experience the best of coastal and country living.
Creating a beautiful home that can handle a busy family has never been easier
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With over 50 styles to choose from, it really is the smart choice. Visit us in-store or view at choicesflooring.com
6 Mount Close, Cranebrook
Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0
FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME
WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE
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.
impression
POOL SAFETY PUT IN FOCUS
As summer fast approaches, Penrith City Council is reminding residents to make sure their pools, especially inflatable pools, are properly fenced off.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney says that as fun as
people to please take the time to check that their pool is safe and complies with the law – especially if there is no barrier to stop children from going for an unsupervised swim,” Carney said.
“Active supervision by an adult is the best protection
and one of our qualified Compliance Officers will plan a visit to assess the pool and assist with certification.”
the pool is, it can also be a dangerous place which is why it is so important to do the right thing when it comes to pool compliance.
“Many residents will look to beat the heat and cool off by their pool but we urge
against drowning but, a pool barrier is another layer of protection if supervision is interrupted.
“If residents need help with their swimming pool barrier, we encourage people to contact Council
Portable and inflatable pools are a cheap way to keep cool but can also be a source of tragedy as they have the same drowning risk as permanent pools. It is important that home pools, including portable and inflatable pools that hold 30cm of water or more, are properly fenced with a self-closing and self-latching gate.
Council can issue on the spot fines for $550 if it is found that the gate of a pool has been propped open or there is an unfenced portable or inflatable pool.
Enjoy the serenity of a close-knit community, just 10 minutes from stunning beaches and 30 minutes to Port Macquarie And the best part is, that it is highly a ordable as it is in the $725000 price range Contact us as we have only one of this gem available at the moment!
A PLACE TO CALL HOME: GLENMORE PARK BEAUTY
What is so great about this property?
728sqm of land, perfect for the modern family to enjoy all year round. This home was built by Beachwood Homes in 1992, designed to impress inside-and-out, with its stunning atmosphere and spacious design. Located in the blue-ribbon suburb Glenmore Park, this home is not to be missed!
– Ducted air conditioning
with timber floorboards throughout.
– Three living areas include formal lounge, dining and a huge, tiled sunroom/mediaroom/games room which is enclosed and Council approved.
– Fifth bed or study, ideal for those working from home.
– Master bed with ensuite and mirrored robes, 2 x beds with garden views.
– Main bathroom with separate bathtub and shower.
– Internal laundry with access to sunroom and internal access from garage.
– Double lock-up garage with drive through access to the rear carport.
– Beautiful, manicured gardens all around the property with solar panels (8 x panels, 2kW) to roof.
– Fully renovated kitchen in
2018, huge island bench, dishwasher, electric cooktop, oven and ample storage.
Who does this property suit?
Growing families.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
Blue-ribbon highly sought after suburb of Glenmore Park. Shops, schools, parks and fields all close by with more to come in the future.
Morton Real Estate
David Lipman • 0409 663 535 david.lipman@morton.com.au
MEET THE AGENT
With an experienced career spanning over 14 years, Josh’s unwavering commitment to excellence has made him a trusted name in the industry. His positive presence, exceptional negotiation skills, keen market insights, and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction have earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.
Not only has Josh excelled in the realm of real estate sales, but he has also successfully ventured into property development and is owner & Founder of BBT Finance a first class mortgage broking business. His involvement in various development projects has showcased his keen eye for potential and his ability to transform properties into thriving assets.
Joshua Martin| Property Central 048 234 457 | joshua.martin@propertycentral.com.au
MEET THE AGENT
0
Looking for expert real estate services in Western Sydney?
Urban Real Estate proudly offers 11 conveniently located offices across the region, providing unmatched local knowledge and dedicated support for buyers, sellers, and investors. Whether you’re looking for your dream home or seeking the perfect investment opportunity, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. With in- depth understanding of the Western Sydney market and a commitment to personalized service, we’re your trusted partner for all your real estate needs. Visit us at one of our local offices today! UrbanRealEstate.com.au | 02 9672 6055
MEET THE AGENT
In 2015 I started with Morton as a Property Manager and in 2019 I developed into the role of Property Consultant, servicing the Penrith local government area.
I enjoy working in Real Estate as it allows me to meet and work with a broad range of interesting people, establishing and maintaining long term relationships. I pride myself on being thorough and service driven to ensure I understand my clients’ needs to deliver the best result.
A people person, I’m able to speak a f words in 12 languages, which helps me build rapport with clients. Technology and apps lik WeChat, KakaoTalk and WhatsApp are just some of the ways I have learnt to connect with people to deliver 6-star service.
#1 Agent in Penrith for the last 4 years on Realestate.com.au, Gold Member Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, Back to Back Winner Penrith Local Business Awards 2023 & 2024.
MEET THE AGENT
I have been in the real estate industry now for over 12 months and I am looking forward to a long career I bring energy and enthusiasm to my clients and I work tirelessly to solve their commercial real estate challenges. I am involved in the sales and leasing department and I am guided by highly successful mentors within the team
If you need a young and enthusiastic agent that is prepared to roll up the sleeves and do the work necessary to get you a result then please contact me so that we can connect and start work.
Mitch Reardon | InFocus Commercial Real Estate 0401 313 160| mitch@infocus.sydney
MEET THE AGENTS
Darrel and Nikkole, the powerhouse duo behind Higgins + Co Property Solutions, have been reshaping the real estate landscape for over two decades. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for delivering exceptional service, they have consistently exceeded expectations.
Their impressive track record speaks for itself, with record-breaking sales and a loyal client base that keeps
coming back.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, Darrel and Nikkole are dedicated to providing personalised guidance and support, ensuring a smooth and successful real estate journey.
Darrel Higgins & Nikkole Dixon | Higgins + Co Property Solutions 0416 039 815 Darrel Higgins | 0416 093 811 Nikkole Dixon
MEET THE AGENTS
With eight offices across Regentville, Wallacia, Penrith Sales, Penrith Property Management, Jordan Springs, Emu Plains, and Lennox Village – Emu Plains, our team at Aitken RE has you covered!
We have top selling Agents at every location and a team of dedicated Property Managers with expert market knowledge that are focused on
Aitken Real Estate Penrith: 4732 5055
MEET THE AGENT
Jocelyn Marrian and @realty combine personalised service with cutting-edge technology to make your property journey seamless. Powered by a sophisticated digital platform and bespoke marketing strategies, @realty delivers exceptional resultsby connecting buyers and sellers in innovative ways.
Jocelyn is backed by a large team at head office who focus on marketing, legal,
financial and all that’s needed to help Jocelyn focus on getting you the results you are looking for.
Jocelyn’s expertise, paired with @realty’s forward-thinking approach, ensures every step is tailored to you, making life-changing decisions easier and more rewarding.
Jocelyn Marrian | @realty 0405 164 446 | jocelynmarrian@atrealty.com.au
MEET THE AGENT
Recently purchasing the business in 2023, it’s been a rollercoaster ride, as I’m now wearing different hats as both a manager and owner, looking after sales as well as people.
Our Penrith RE/MAX office has won numerous awards, including RATEMYAGENT’s Agency of The Year for Penrith in 2023 and Cambridge Park in 2023 and 2024, and yours truly is the Agent of the Year for Penrith and Cambridge Park for 2023.
I am thankful to have my family, a good team and a good network around me. I am grateful that through this job I can make a difference and help someone achieve their property goals. The joy of my clients when they have successfully bought or sold a property drives my passion even further
Gizzelle Powell | Remax Lifestyle Marketing 0428 934 618 | gizzelle.powell@remax.com.au
MEET THE AGENT
With a strong foundation in Sydney’s property market, Charlene Camilleri leads Nala Homes with a commitment to excellence, transparency, and client satisfaction. Nala Homes offers a comprehensive suite of property services, from buying and selling to leasing and expert property management.
Charlene’s unique approach combines hands-on market knowledge with an
Charlene Camilleri | Nala Homes
unwavering dedication to personalised service, ensuring that each client’s property journey is seamless and rewarding. Known for her attention to detail and proactive approach, Charlene is passionate about helping clients achieve their real estate goals while maximising the value and potential of every property
You can reach Charlene on 0468 344 230 to discuss any of your real estate needs
MEET THE AGENT
Jacob Bennett brings a fresh perspective to the real estate industry through his unique combination of skills and experiences. With a background in hotel management, he understands the importance of personalised service and creating memorable experiences for his clients.
In addition to his expertise in sales, Jacob’s understanding of customer service enables him to create a
seamless and enjoyable experience for his clients. He goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service, ensuring that every transaction is handled with professionalism, integrity, and care.
With Jacob Bennett as your trusted real estate agent, you can expect unparalleled dedication, a customercentric approach, and the assurance that you are in capable hands.
Jacob Bennett | Bennett Property 0487 487 775 | jacob@bennettproperty.com.au
MEET THE AGENT
Josh is a top-performing real estate agent, with 13 years of experience who focuses on exceptional service and commitment to his clients.
Josh has sold approximately $74 million dollars worth of property in the last 12 months around the Nepean Region and has been awarded Alan White Elite Status (Top 3% in the Ray White Group)
and #1 Rising Star Across the Ray White Network at this years Annual awar
You can reach Josh any time on 0410 504 918 for any advice on your real estate needs.
Joshua Cassells | Ray White Diamantidis Group 0410 504 918 | joshua.cassells@raywhite.com.au
MEET THE TEAM
Maximise Your Investment with LJ Hooker Penrith’s Award-Winning Property Management Team
At LJ Hooker Penrith, our dedicated and experienced property management team is committed to providing exceptional service and maximising returns for our clients. With over 50 years of combined experience, we offer expert guidance and meticulous care, ensuring your property is in the best hands.
We leverage advanced technology to monitor rental payments, conduct routine inspections, and keep you informed every step of the way. Our team focuses on prompt responses, thorough communication, and innovative solutions ensure a seamless property management experience.
Call us today to find out how we can help maximise your return on investment!
LJ Hooker Penrith 4732 2322 | penrith@ljhooker.com.au
The Experts
BIG SALES: HOW TO SHOP SMART AND SAVE BIG
Between Friday, November 29 and Monday, December 2, one of the most significant sales periods of the year occurs. It is known as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This is a perfect time to snag a bargain for Christmas. Many vendors offer deep discounts and specials throughout the whole weekend. The best deals are released on Friday and again on Monday. It is becoming common for early release specials from mid-November as a teaser to the sales period. There is no need to wait until these dates; many companies are already releasing heavily discounted prices ahead of them.
item. Don’t just rush in and buy!
• Read the terms and conditions of the sale, such as delivery fees, return policies and warranty information.
• Check for any bonus offers, such as gift cards.
• Set a budget and stick to it. Don’t buy things you don’t need or can’t afford.
• Use a secure payment method and avoid sharing your personal or financial details with unknown sellers.
A good way to verify if the advertised price is great is to use a website like camelcamelcamel. com. This website contains a price tracking history of items sold on Amazon over several years. Enter the item you are looking to purchase and see its price history. This is a great way to verify you are getting a deal.
BUNIONS EXPLAINED
Abunion (hallux valgus) is a bony bump that develops at the base of the big toe, where it meets the first metatarsal bone. This condition arises when the big toe begins to shift toward the smaller toes, causing the joint to protrude outward. Over time, the misalignment can lead to a visible deformity and pain.
Several factors contribute to the development of bunions:
1. Genetics: In many cases, bunions are hereditary. If your family has a history of bunions, you’re more likely to develop them due to inherited foot structures (such as flat feet or abnormal bone shapes).
2. Footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have high heels places excessive pressure on the big toe joint, leading to misalignment and bunion formation over time.
3. Foot mechanics and structure: Conditions such as flat feet, excessive pronation, or low arches can increase the risk of developing bunions, as these foot structures put additional strain on the toe joint.
4. Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to bunion formation due to inflammation and weakening of the joints.
5. Injury or trauma: Foot injuries that alter the alignment of the bones in the foot may also lead to bunion formation. There are a number of treatment options available listed below:
1. Non-surgical treatment
• Footwear modification: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box, low heels, and proper arch support can reduce pressure on the bunion.
• Padding and orthotics: Using bunion pads or custom orthotics can
Over 50 per cent of Australians are estimated to purchase Christmas gifts during this sales period. Why wouldn’t you benefit from between 50-80 per cent off at the following stores: Amazon, eBay, Big W, Myer, The Good Guys, Kogan, David Jones, JB HiFi, BCF, Target, Tumu, Koala, Rebel, The Iconic, Nike and Chemist Warehouse. Research the items you want to buy well in advance
to identify a bargain and move quickly. You need to be smart and savvy to avoid scams and overspending. Here are some tips to help you get the best deals:
• Use Camelcamelcamel and compare prices across different retailers and websites to find the lowest offer.
• Check the product reviews and ratings to ensure the quality and reliability of the
HEALTH
The Experts
BLAKE COSSOR
One Point Health 4732 5188
help realign the foot and reduce friction or pain.
• Medications: Over-thecounter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications.
• Ice application: Applying ice to the bunion area can reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Exercises: Toe stretches and strengthening exercises may improve foot alignment.
2. Surgical treatment
• If conservative measures fail, surgery may be considered to realign the bones, remove the bony bump, and correct the deformity. Various surgical techniques are available depending on the severity of the bunion.
• Subscribe to newsletters and follow the social media accounts of your favourite retailers to get notified of their latest deals and promotions.
• Use websites that track deals and offer coupons and cashback rewards, such as OzBargain.
• Also, be suspicious of links posted on social media or in SMS or emails with deals that are too good to be true, as this is a period when scammers are also hard at work. DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514
Water safety is a critical issue all year round, but with the weather now really heating up, it’s time to talk about water safety myths. Water safety misconceptions can lead to dangerous behaviours and a false sense of security, so it’s important to debunk these myths before summer is upon us.
Myth 1: Drowning is loud and obvious
Despite what we see on TV, drowning in reality is usually silent and swift. People who are struggling in the water often cannot scream for help because they are focused on trying to stay afloat. They may not have the energy to make noise, and they often struggle silently while attempting to breathe or grab onto something for support. It’s important to stay vigilant and watch for signs like a swimmer’s head being low in the water, flailing arms, or a lack of forward motion, even if the person doesn’t seem to be panicking.
Myth 2: Swimmers can’t drown if they can swim
Often people believe that strong swimmers are immune to drowning, but that is far from the truth, especially if they are caught off guard by unexpected circumstances such as strong currents, fatigue, or a medical emergency. Swimming in open water, such
as oceans or rivers, is particularly risky because factors like changing tides, waves, and rip currents can quickly overwhelm even skilled and experienced swimmers. In addition, dehydration, hypothermia, and exhaustion can all contribute to drowning, regardless of swimming ability.
Myth 3: If someone is conscious after a near drowning incident, they’re fine
Another dangerous misconception is that if a person is conscious after a near-drowning incident, they have not been harmed. However, water inhalation can cause delayed symptoms. A person may feel fine initially but may later experience symptoms of secondary drowning or dry drowning, which occurs when water enters the lungs and causes respiratory distress. These conditions can develop several hours after the incident and may lead to difficulty breathing, chest pain, or even loss of consciousness.
Anyone who has inhaled water,
even if they seem fine, should be monitored closely and seek medical attention.
Myth 4: Life jackets are only for non-swimmers
While life jackets are often associated with people who cannot swim, they are just as crucial for skilled swimmers, especially in open water. Life jackets provide an additional layer of safety in case of sudden fatigue or unexpected accidents. Wearing a life jacket is particularly important in fast moving water or when boating or fishing, as accidents can happen quickly and without warning. Even strong swimmers can become disoriented or exhausted, and a life jacket can be the difference between drowning or not.
By educating ourselves and others about water safety, we can work together to reduce drowning incidents in our community and keep everyone safer in and around the water.
EXPLAINER: INTESTINAL WORMS IN PETS
Intestinal worms in pets pose significant health risks to both pets and humans, making regular deworming a crucial preventive measure. Dogs and cats can contract worms through contaminated environments, ingestion, or even through their mother’s milk. Here’s an overview of the primary types of intestinal worms, their risks, symptoms, and how to prevent infestations.
Hookworms
Hookworms are among the most dangerous intestinal parasites in pets. These small worms latch onto the pet’s intestinal walls, sucking blood and leading to symptoms like black, tar-like faeces, diarrhea (often with blood), dehydration, anaemia, and weakness. Severe cases, particularly in puppies, can lead to death. Pets contract hookworms through ingestion of larvae or eggs from the environment, skin penetration, or mother’s milk. In humans, hookworm
larvae can penetrate the skin, causing intense itching – hence gloves are recommended when handling pet waste.
Roundworms
Roundworms are highly common, especially in puppies, as they can be passed from mother to offspring during pregnancy. Adult roundworms are long, white, and visible in dog droppings. Pets contract roundworms by ingesting eggs found in contaminated soil, droppings, or infected prey. Symptoms include a pot-bellied appearance, diarrhea, vomiting (sometimes containing whole worms), and coughing. In humans, accidental ingestion of roundworm eggs can cause Visceral Larva Migrans (VLM), where migrating larvae may damage organs like the liver and eyes.
Whipworms
Pets contract whipworms by ingesting whipworm eggs from the environment. Whipworms
mature in the lower intestine, where they can survive up to a year, making reinfection common. Symptoms are often subtle and chronic, including weight loss, abdominal pain, and diarrhea with occasional blood.
Flea tapeworms
The flea tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum, uses fleas as an intermediate host. Pets can become infected by ingesting fleas carrying the tapeworm larvae. Although not typically dangerous, tapeworms can cause irritation, evident by scooting or dragging the hindquarters. Tapeworm segments, resembling rice grains, may be visible around the pet’s anus.
Hydatid tapeworms
Hydatid tapeworms, especially concerning in rural areas, can transfer to humans, causing serious illness. Pets typically contract hydatid tapeworms by eating raw meat or offal from infected livestock, while humans are exposed
through contaminated dog faeces. Hydatid cysts can form in human organs, posing severe health risks.
Worming treatments from veterinarians are effective for eliminating most worms. For puppies, regular deworming is essential, starting every two weeks from two-weeks-old and then monthly until six months. Adult pets should be wormed every three months, with additional treatment for tapeworms as needed. Some pet owners opt for combination medications that prevent both heartworm and some intestinal worms, though these may not cover tapeworms. Prevention tips:
• Wash hands after handling pets or cleaning waste.
• Remove pet waste from yards and clean kennels regularly.
• Avoid allowing pets to lick faces.
• Keep fleas under control.
• Avoid feeding pets raw meat or offal.
HOROSCOPES
Relax & Unwind
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19 JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
bohoastro.com
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
Are you feeling confused Aquarius? Have you been questioning your goals in life? Or does it seem as if you’ve got the worries of the world on your shoulders? Take a step back and view things from a wider perspective. Doing good deeds will leave you with a warm inner glow, so think up some dynamic ways you can help those who are less fortunate. As Yoko Ono (a fellow Aquarian) observes, “Helping yourself is connected with helping others.”
TAURUS
TO MAY 21
The New Moon heralds the rebirth of an important relationship of the romantic, platonic or business variety. But remember Mercury turns retrograde on Tuesday (until December 15-16) so financial partnerships, tax matters and deep, dark secrets must be handled with extra tact and care. Double-check everything twice Taurus! On the weekend, someone tells you something in the strictest of confidence, but are they telling the truth – and can they be trusted?
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
This week a long-cherished dream may need to be re-imagined and reworked so that it better suits your current situation. Rather than seeing it as a disappointing setback, clever Cats will perceive it as an exciting new challenge. With Mars in Leo, you’re impatient to communicate about a wide range of topics, as you share creative ideas with family and friends. But, with Mercury turning retrograde, avoid spilling secrets or saying something that’s inappropriate.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Scorpios can have trouble trusting other people at the best of times and this week, retrograde Mercury and the New Moon stir up your self-esteem zone. So a confidence could be broken, a loved one could let you down or an old resentment could resurface. If you don’t feel comfortable asking someone for help then don’t. Your motto is from birthday great, writer Louisa May Alcott, “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
This week – with Mercury turning retrograde and a New Moon – it’s time to do things with an ‘re’ in front of it. Revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover, reconnect. Especially in areas involving career, work colleagues, clients and customers, plus professional goals and dreams. Energy, confidence, enthusiasm and motivation will take you far, Pisces. Be inspired by birthday great Bruce Lee, “To hell with circumstances … I create opportunities.”
GEMINI
22 TO JUNE 21
Mercury (your patron planet) starts reversing through your relationship zone on Tuesday, so do your best to surround yourself with dependable, sensible, unflappable people. And make sure you double-check all texts (before you press send) and all appointment times (before you leave home). Sunday’s New Moon is a good time to reset boundaries and expectations in a romantic, platonic or business relationship. Keep flexible because things are constantly changing!
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Mercury (your boss planet) is in retrograde mode from Tuesday until December 15-16, so resist the urge to over-analyse, over-worry, over-stress and over-react. By all means think things through, but avoid getting caught up in an endless, obsessive loop. As birthday great Bruce Lee observed, “If you spend too much time thinking about a thing, you’ll never get it done.” Sunday promises a fresh start as you relax and have fun with family and friends.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Retrograde Mercury and the fiery New Moon both activate your sign, so you’re ready to sparkle and shine. But avoid overcommitting and promising more than you can deliver. It’s time to shake off the shackles of other people’s expectations and instead, be the real, authentic you. Your mantra is from birthday great Bruce Lee, “Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself. Do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.”
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Mars (your power planet) and the fiery New Moon encourage you to focus on friendships, plus your hopes and dreams for the future. The more ambitious your aspirations, the better! You’re not in the mood for superficial encounters with others, preferring deep and meaningful conversations with loved ones. But Mercury is in retrograde mode (from Tuesday until December 15-16) so smart Rams will try to be prudent, patient and persistent.
Clever Crabs – it’s a good week to revise your diet and/or rejig your fitness routine, as retrograde Mercury and the New Moon activate your health and wellbeing zone. It’s important you choose nutritious food and regular exercise that you enjoy, so you can maintain healthy habits into the future. It’s also a suitable week to refine your life direction and follow your guiding star. Be inspired by birthday great Mark Twain, “Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Perfectionist-prone Librans love things to run efficiently and smoothly but (courtesy of Mercury turning retrograde) there’s disruptive energy about this week. So drop the carefully planned schedule and just take things as they come. Some possible scenarios? A relationship with a lover, relative, colleague or neighbour could veer off in a confusing direction. Or something you say, text or post on social media could receive a disappointing response.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
On Tuesday, Mercury turns retrograde (until December 15-16). Mercury is the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the Internet. So – when it’s retrograde – it’s not a good time to do the following things: sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on a business trip or embark on a holiday.
7. Cram (for exam)
8. Cost of living index (1,1,1)
9. British vehicle, ... Martin
10. Cheat
Kiosks
23. Familiar with (4,2)
25. Fragrances
26. Gets steeper
29. Military pageants
32. Club’s yearly meeting (1,1,1)
35. Beachside
37. Horse-like animals
38. Contempt
40. Savoury jelly
41. Inuit snow shelter
42. Long-limbed (colt)
43. Cut (timber)
44. Jellied meat loaf
47. Comprehended
51. Nanny (2,4)
52. Revered tomes
53. Hired guns (3,3)
54. Not singular
58. Voiced publicly
59. Failure
61. Originated
63. Nimble
64. Breathe
65. Go by (of time)
66. Invitation holder
68. Coral isle
71. Pakistani cricketer, ... Khan
72. Missile fi n
74. Wheat spikes
76. Attempts
78. Bite persistently
80. Dance, ... de deux
83. Irish activists, Provisional ... (1,1,1)
many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org
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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: SNAKES
ANTIVENOM
BROAD HEAD
CAMOUFLAGE
COMMON
CONSTRICTOR
DANGEROUS
DISTINCTIVE
GRASSLANDS
LENGTH
MARKINGS
PREDATOR
RAINFORESTS
REPTILES
TERRITORY
TREES
VENOM
WOODLANDS
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about John Farnham in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. In which band did John Farnham replace Glenn Shorrock as lead singer from 1982 to 1985?
2. In what year did John Farnham release his iconic song, ‘You’re The Voice’?
3. John Farnham married his wife back in 1973. What is her first name?
5. John Farnham appeared in The Main Event concert alongside Olivia Newton-John and which other performer?
6. Which AFL club is John Farnham a fanatical supporter of in Melbourne?
4. Which 1968 song followed John Farnham through his entire career, and became a song he didn’t like performing?
Warlow
North Melbourne
compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.
Follow the picture clues, fill in the grid and the arrowed column will reveal a key word related to this scene. m i n i s u d o k u
ALFAKODO
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
Letters A to Z have a number value, some are shown in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
A M×M N A-G B V-F 4 O G+F
C U+G P A+A
D G-U Q B+L E K+W R J-G F S-I S C+K G G×D 7 T E-H H K+N 10 U M×N 6 I V÷B V I×B 20 J L+C W B+H K F-K X Z+U L N+A Y H+F M F-C 3 Z S-N
Find ten words beginning with ‘c’ from these jumbled letters.
Look who’s playing hide and seek! Can you help Clancy the Croc find his friend?
WORD PLAY: Nachos.
PIC PUZZLE: 3 and 6 MINI-SUDOKU:
Arrowed Column = OMELETTE
Special word: Con means a confidence trick. ACROSTIC PUZZLE: 1. fork, 2. timer, 3. oven, 4. plate, 5. shell, 6. tap, 7. cat, 8. knife.
HIDDEN WORDS : Clown, cow, con, clone, can, cone, cane, coal, clan and clean.
4. The wrestler’s top knot (part of his hair style) is smaller. 5. The N in training is backwards.
3. A cherry is missing from one of the muffins.
2. The wrestler’s tongue is missing.
1. There is an extra drop of sauce dribbling from the hamburger.
ALFAKODO: PUZZLE PLAY: SPOT THE DIFFERENCE:
