Home & Lifestyle November 24 2023 by Western Sydney Publishing Group

A NEW HOME AWAITS LATEST REAL ESTATE LISTINGS INSIDE

In the MIRROR

SEE PAGE 61

Your HOROSCOPES SEE PAGE 65

Crosswords & PUZZLES

SEE PAGES 66-68

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9623 4033 | 200 QUEEN STREET, ST MARYS 9834 1044 | SHOP 1/46-52 MELVILLE ROAD, ST CLAIR

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

POOL SAFETY MUST BE A FOCUS THIS SUMMER A

s Aussie families gear up for pool party season, a troubling new report underscores the urgent need for heightened pool safety awareness with over half (55 per cent) of pool owners admitting to propping open their pool gates, especially when children are in the pool (25 per cent) or during social gatherings (20 per cent). The new report released as part of Check-Your-Pool-Gate Month, a partnership between D&D Technologies and Kids Alive, alarmingly reveals two in five (20 per cent) parents let their children swim unsupervised, and a quarter (25 per cent) of families admit their child has

gained unsupervised access to the backyard pool. Laurie Lawrence, founder of Kids Alive and ambassador of Check-Your-Pool-Gate Month, stressed the importance of constant supervision.

“THESE STATISTICS ARE A STARK REMINDER OF THE DANGERS OF COMPLACENCY”

“I was shocked to discover nearly half of parents have left

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children unattended in the pool to complete quick chores,” he said. “Leaving a child unsupervised significantly increases the risk of accidents. Supervision is a drowning prevention method that parents really can’t overlook. These statistics are a stark reminder of the dangers of complacency in pool safety.” Adding to these concerns, close to a third (30 per cent) of pool owners have faced issues with pool gates not closing properly, yet nearly half (47 per cent) of the families took more than a month to rectify such a critical safety issue. “Ensuring that pool gates

function correctly and are never left open can be the difference between safety and tragedy,” Lawrence said. “Regular checks and immediate repairs are non-negotiable. A pool gate should never be propped open under any circumstance.” Emma Lawrence, Operations Director of Kids Alive, said she was worried about how many children were gaining access to pools unsupervised. “A quarter of families said there was an incident of children accessing their pools unsupervised, yet 30 per cent of pool owners did not have the highest safety standards in place; with no lock or alarm on the pool gate,” she said. “With nearly a third of families already experiencing a pool-related injury or emergency it is understandable parents are worried. The new report shows 85 per cent of families are concerned about the safety of their children swimming at other people’s pools and based on this information, they have reason to as the best safety methods are not being utilised enough by pool owners.” In 2022, 16 children under five unfortunately drowned and with summer the start of the peak drowning season, Kids Alive wants Check-Your-PoolGate Month to act as a critical reminder for families to enjoy their pool time responsibly this summer. In response to the findings, Check-Your-Pool-Gate Month urges pool owners to take immediate action to ensure their pools are safe environments including routine checks of pool gates and fences, fixing any issues promptly, and never leaving kids unattended in or around the pool. A comprehensive checklist and tips for safe parties can be found at www.checkyourpoolgate.com. au.

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26 TIDSWELL STREET, ST MARYS

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

THE PERFECT FAMILY HOME David Frendo from R&W St Clair & Erskine Park is proud to present to you this well presented and well renovated 3/4 bedroom cladded home, located in the popular suburb of St Marys. Featuring modern touches throughout, this property would be sure to impress all your friends and family.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

OPEN FOR INSPECTION Contact Agent

Further features include: • 3/4 bedroom or option for a study • Built in wardrobes to all + ceiling fans in three rooms • Master bedroom with split system air-conditioning • Open plan lounge and dining room with split system air-conditioning

• Neat and tidy kitchen with electric cooking dishwasher and loads of bench space • Large family room overlooking the leafy rear yard • Fully renovated bathroom with free standing bath and black tapware • Polished timber floor boards • Internal laundry with bench top • Second bathroom with shower and toilet • Single carport • Side access to rear yard • Covered BBQ area • Great sized yards • Walking distance to bus transport • Situated on an impressive 600.7m2 block.

CONTACT: R&W St Clair & Erskine Park David Frendo • 0411 457 027

GLENMORE PARK we’ve got you covered The Highest Standard in Concreting Services in Penrith & Blue Mountains SLABS | FOOTPATHS | DRIVEWAYS Our team will handle any necessary council approvals

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Glenmore Park can pick the paper up at the following locations:

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Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains OPEN HOME

LI NEW ST IN G

10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood

Beautiful, Stylish & Modern

FOR SALE

69 Second Avenue, Kingswood

Dual Income – House & Granny Flat • Dual income investment opportunity • Spacious 3 bedroom house • Updated kitchen & bathroom • 2 bedroom granny flat • Modern & spacious design • Good-size backyard • Directly opposite Western Sydney University • 5-min drive to K’wood Station

$1,069,950 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 69 Second Avenue, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

FOR SALE

$659,990

• Large modern kitchen & bathroom • Ducted A/C throughout • 1 of 10 in complex, street frontage

• Modern 2-storey 3 bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite & WIR to main

INSPECT Sat 25 November 10am – 10.30am ADDRESS 10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

15 Greenbank Drive, Werrington Downs

The Search Is Finally Over! • Fantastic 4 bedroom family home • Spacious lounge, dining, family & sunroom areas • Freshly painted interior & new carpets • Large modern kitchen & bathroom • Huge U/C entertaining area • Fully fenced 627m2 allotment

$879,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 15 Greenbank Drive, Werrington Downs CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith 52

the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

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2-STOREY HOME WITH A RANGE OF AMENITIES • 6 generous-sized BRs, all fitted with BIRs • 3 BRs down & 3 up • Study or sitting area upstairs • Multiple living & entertaining areas all filled with natural light • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar • Separate dining area • Main bathroom with separate toilet • Separate laundry • Fireplace • Sauna/steam room • Pool • Oversized under cover carport • Spacious backyard • Concreted driveway • Located in a quiet cul-de-sac • Nestled on a 705.5sqm block

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• Multi Dwelling Site • 6 approved cabins • Current cabins averaging $3,000 per week via Airbnb • Land area: 2971m2

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Ground Floor: • 2 generous-sized BRs plus study 3ULFH *XLGH 0 0 • Multiple living rooms filled with natural light ,QVSHFWLRQ &DOO $JHQW • Contemporary kitchen • Separate dining • Internal laundry First Floor: • 3 generous-sized BRs • Multiple living rooms *,==(//( 32:(// filled with natural light • Modern kitchen with s/s appliances 0 • Sitting area • Modern bathroom tiled up to the ceiling ( JL]]HOOHSRZHOO#UHPD[ FRP DX • 780.4sqm & Zoned R4

• 3 generous-sized BRs, 2 with BIRs • Natural light-filled living room with s/s a/c • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar plus ample storage • Main bathroom with separate bath & shower • Internal laundry with 2nd toilet • Well maintained large above ground pool • Spacious front and backyard • Covered alfresco area • Concreted driveway • 758.5sqm block • Shops, schools, cafes and eateries as well as a variety of nearby transport options • Zoned R2, granny flat potential (STCA)

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Gizzelle, Amazing Agent that will work Above & Beyond

Dual Key Investment Property in Thornton near Newcastle

“ Gizzelle is a Super hardworking agent who works over and

beyond to ensure all her client requirements are met. She was superb in preparing & coordinating the house presentation. The property was sold at first open home with a great & favourable price that exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Gizzelle to anyone looking forward to sell or buy a property, hassle free and under exceptional satisfactory conditions. ” ABUBAKAR, 19/32 O’BRIEN ST, MT DRUITT TOWNHOUSE: SOLD FOR $715,000 – Verified by RateMyAgent

Thinking of Selling, Buying or Investing? Call or SMS Gizzelle on 0428 934 618

Litsa is an amazing Real Estate sales professional who helped us build and rent a Dual Key Investment property in Thornton. She is very reliable, very patient, very professional, very polite and really outstanding. She was with us throughout the journey from buying the land, getting it registered and getting a best quality builder contract in place. Even after the contract with the builder was made, she made sure that every phase of the build project was properly done by visiting the property and sending us the updates with photos and videos as we live in Sydney. She was getting in contact with the builder at every phase multiple times and made sure they are on track with the delivery and got it delivered to us every much early than the time promised. She was the one who dealt with the builder directly and updated us throughout. The journey didn’t end there, she also made sure that good tenants also moved in 2 sides of the property and made sure that whatever rent she promised us at the beginning of the project was achieved. I am very glad that we found Litsa and very much recommend her services as we felt that we are in safe hands. Thanks a tonne Litsa, once again for all your services throughout the journey and wishing you the best always.

Thinking of Selling or Investing? Please give me a call or SMS Litsa on 0466 969 164

– Verified by RateMyAgent

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In an ideal lifestyle location, the property is close to Kingswood train station, childcare centres, bus stop, schools, shops, parks, Nepean Hospital and Penrith CBD. MAIN HOUSE: • 3 good-sized BRs • Contemporary kitchen with ample storage • Separate dining • Spacious bathroom with laundry • Cypress pine floorboards • High ceilings • Huge backyard • Double carport • Currently rented APPROVED GRANNY FLAT • 2 generous-sized BRs, both fitted with BIs • Modern kitchen • Combined bathroom & laundry • Currently rented

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Auction Guide: $900,000 Ducted aircon BRAND NEW - not lived in

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WE HAVE QUALIFIED BUYERS WAITING TO PURCHASE IN YOUR AREA! If you are considering selling your property please Contact Gizzelle today *,==(//( 32:(// for a confidential discussion and market 0 appraisal. ( JL]]HOOHSRZHOO#UHPD[ FRP DX

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$220,000 gross rent per annum Potential Gross Rental Yield 25%

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Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

Keep your air conditioning maintained with PREFERRED AIR CONDITIONING to guarantee a a ee optimal op a performance pe o a ce all a year! ye

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SALES, SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATION

Our ‘Floors by design’ sale features savings on over 20 hard flooring styles and designs. Visit us in-store or view at choicesflooring.com Choices Flooring Penrith

131 Coreen Ave, Penrith (02) 4731 4242

the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

APARTME

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ACT NOW! N

SELLI

ORAN PARK

This is your last opportunity to secure a luxury apartment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the heart of the Oran Park community. Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apartment features ample floor space, sophisticated style 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 cooktop, rangehood, built-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

•

Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedrooms

•

Ground floor entry, two levels of secure parking and a communal rooftop with barbeque facilities

Interior

111sqm

Exterior

33sqm

Total

144sqm

Price

$829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

View the Display Apartment by appointment Open 9am – 5pm | Cnr Oran Park Dr & Peter Brock Dr, Oran Park

Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

Apartment G.03

$'9(57,6(0(17

READ ALL ABOUT US /HYDQGH·V :DUDWDK +LJKODQGV 5HWLUHPHQW 9LOODJH $ )ORXULVKLQJ &RPPXQLW\ ZLWK 1HZ 9LOODV LQ +LJK 'HPDQG Eager buyers have already snapped up six out of twelve new homes being built at Levande’s Waratah Highlands retirement village, near Bargo. While the 132-villa community is well-established, interest in Waratah Highlands surged during a week of events held to launch the new housing release. Half of the first release is now sold by Levande in their first week on the market. The brand-new villas are well-priced for affordable entry into the retirement living market, with 2-plus study and 3 bedroom designs available from $632,000. Each villa offers single-level access throughout, with extra-wide hallways and showers to allow for modification if residents’ needs change. The villas boast self-contained, covered alfresco areas and attached garages in all designs, with the option for double garages. They feature stone benchtops

in kitchens and bathrooms, along with a selection of top-brand appliances. Residents enjoy the comfort of splitsystem air-conditioning, all within structures built with full brick veneer and steel-framed construction. “Potential buyers can come on-site and walk through a complete display home, to experience the look, feel and finishes of the new villas. They can see if the space is right for their needs, meet some of the current residents, and imagine themselves being a part of the Waratah Highlands community” said Levande’s NSW/ACT Sales Manager Robert Kingston. “We’re very pleased, but not surprised, at such a positive public response to the new villas.” The villas are being built by Pattersons Building Group, which has previously delivered over 200 new villas at Levande’s Willowdale retirement community, in Sydney’s southwest. Levande

Waratah

Highlands

situated in picturesque Bargo and is surrounded by landscaped gardens amid 10 hectares of tranquil woodland. At its heart is a rejuvenated Community Centre with a lakeside deck equipped with communal amenities and BBQ facilities, and inside, ample lounge and dining areas, a community kitchen, the games room, library and a hairdressing

salon. “Waratah Highlands is an outstanding retirement village with great facilities and a wonderful community of like minded retirees.” said Calum Ross, Head of Development for Levande. “We are thrilled to be able to bring these 36 new villas to market, so that we can welcome new residents to this close-knit community.”

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Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

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BROKING BREAKDOWN The Experts

MORTGAGE HOLDERS KEEP THE WOLVES AT BAY I

MARK STEVENSON Bell Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

f mortgage holders are struggling to make their home loan repayments after 13 increases in official interest rates over the past 18 months, it’s news to the major banks. With reporting season done and dusted, the big four banks have only reported slight rises in so-called ‘mortgage stress’, when homeowners have difficulty making mortgage repayments. Maria Trinci, a financial services partner at KPMG, said: ‘‘The major banks have reported a modest rise in arrears, which suggests that interest rate rises and the erosion of savings buffers may be starting to impact consumers. However, this rise remains small and from a record low base, demonstrating the resilience of Australian consumers.” Reporting in The Australian, James Kirby said if the results for the big four banks are examined

collectively, ‘mortgage stress indicators remain lower than they were pre-COVID’. In its analysis of the big four Australian banks’ 2023 full-year results, Ernst & Young (EY) also found there has been only a modest increase in mortgage stress among the major banks’ borrowers, with arrears still

tracking at low levels. However, EY Oceania banking and capital markets leader Doug Nixon said the “full impact of rate increases on credit quality is still to play out”. “With cost-of-living pressures mounting, the banks will need to carefully monitor any increase in arrears and defaults over the

next year, making full use of their frontline and collections capabilities and stepping up their support for customers facing financial hardship where needed,” he said. I believe the work of brokers and the publicity around jumping from cheap fixed rates to much higher variable ones may mean many borrowers were prepared and had their eyes open ahead of time, while interest rate servicing buffers have made it harder to obtain finance. Younger mortgage holders who only entered the home loan market in the last three years will be most exposed to possible mortgage stress. Time will tell where all of this lands. With the home the most important financial commitment most people make, homeowners will always fight hard and find a way to keep the wolves at bay.

VIEW MARK’S COLUMNS ONLINE AT WESTERNWEEKENDER.COM.AU/AUTHOR/MARKSTEVENSON/

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the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

BE A SUPERHERO AND GET YOUR KIDS IN LESSONS! T

JULIE SHELDRAKE Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s Swim School 4730 8900

his week is national SWIMSAFER week – and we are the NSW Ambassadors. The 2023 SWIMSAFER Report revealed 43 per cent of families did not have their children in lessons because they believed they were too young to learn to swim, and that only 41 per cent of Aussie kids are currently enrolled in swimming lessons. SWIM Australia CEO Brendon Ward said the report also showed one in every five families had to cease lessons this year due to increased cost-of-living expenses. “The reality is cost-of-living pressures have been a concern for many families this year and unfortunately some parents have taken their children out of swimming lessons to manage financial constraints,” he said. “The flip side is close to half of the parents surveyed kept their children in lessons by sacrificing spending on weekly takeaway, coffees, streaming services, and beauty treatments.” Ward said he was buoyed the research showed the SWIMSAFER message was inciting change in Aussie families. “We’ve seen the number of children learning to swim climb by 15 per cent since the SWIMSAFER Week Report was first commissioned three years ago,” he said. “It is heartwarming to know our message

about learning to swim is getting through but our goal is to have all children gain this lifesaving skill so we still have a way to go.” The SWIMSAFER goal is to push further towards the goal of zero drownings in Australia. Royal Life Saving Australia’s latest National Drowning Report revealed 16 children aged between 0-4-years-old drowned last year, with a quarter of incidents happening in either back yard pools or the bath. “We know that the 0-5 years age group is

particularly vulnerable to drownings, which is why it is imperative that we change the belief held by some parents that their child is too young to start water familiarisation lessons,” Ward said. The SWIMSAFER Week campaign includes co-branded content with campaign ambassador, Olympian Giaan Rooney and world renowned pre-school brand PJ Masks, and has seen Swim Australia partner with Australia’s pre-eminent provider of swimming and water safety teacher training, AUSTSWIM. CEO Bradley Low said: “By partnering together, we are further extending the SWIMSAFER message to 700 swim schools and over 30,000 teachers across Australia. For us it is very concerning that over half of parents are not confident their child has the skills to help themselves in a water emergency. By the age of six months, children can start infant learn to swim programs where the child explores and enjoys the water with their parents. “Children are exposed to water of all forms right from birth so it’s critical they get comfortable in and around water as early as possible.” Swimming lessons are the best way to keep your child SAFER along with pool fences and gates, supervision and knowing CPR.

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Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

TALKING TECH The Experts

HOLIDAY FUN FOR TECH HEADS: TRY VIRTUALBOX! H

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

ave you ever wanted to play with a different operating system but do not have a spare computer? Virtualisation tools allow you to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single physical machine. One of the easiest to get up and going is VirtualBox, which Oracle develops. VirtualBox is a free product for download on Windows, Mac, Solaris, and Linux. (virtualbox.org). VirtualBox allows you to create isolated virtual machines, each running its own operating system. This is particularly useful for trying out new operating systems, testing websites, learning cybersecurity, developing cross-platform software, and even playing old games. You can run it

on VirtualBox if you have an ISO image of the operating system you want to try. VirtualBox supports a wide range of guest operating systems. This includes various Windows, Linux, Solaris, OS/2, and OpenBSD versions. It also provides experimental support for Mac OS X4. Several sites have operating system images that you can import into VirtualBox. These include

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the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

osboxes.org, virtualboxes. org, sysprobs.com and virtualdisk images. weebly.com. Installing a guest operating system within VirtualBox varies depending on whether you downloaded an ISO or VDI file. There are plenty of websites that step you through the setup of these files within VirtualBox. Below are the general steps. 1. Download and install

VirtualBox. 2. Launch VirtualBox: Click the “New” button to initiate the VM creation process. 3. Select Guest OS Type: Choose the guest operating system you intend to install. 4. Allocate System Resources: Assign the desired RAM and storage space to the VM. 5. Create a Virtual Hard Disk. 6. Mount Installation Media: Select either your VDI image or ISO image. 7. Start VM and play with the operating systems. 8. Install VirtualBox Guest Additions. One of the most powerful benefits of having a virtual machine is it allows you to open and experiment with different

programs, knowing if you mess it up will not affect your main computer. VirtualBox is not the only Virtualisation tool. Most modern Windows Operating systems have a virtualisation tool built in called Hyper-V. It supports most Windowsbased operating systems and mainstream Linux and Free BSD. To install Hyper-V on Windows, click “Turn Windows Features On and Off”. Tick the Hyper-V box, and after a reboot, you will have Hyper-V installed. A wealth of information is available if you search for how to set up guest operating systems in Hyper-V. Now is an excellent time to either learn a new operating system or indulge in nostalgia and download an older one. Thinking back, Windows 3.1 was awesome!

HEALTH

KEEPING GUTS IN GOOD SHAPE

ven though the weather is starting to heat up and summer is around the corner, building a healthy and strong immune system is still important. The better our health and stronger our immune system, the more resilient we are at fighting infections. The key to a healthy immune system is through good gut health as around 80 per cent of our immune system lies in the gut, so it’s critical that our gut is in good shape. Key foods to building a strong immune system: Probiotics: A large part of our immune health depends on the presence of many probiotics in our gut. These bacteria have been found to be anti-carcinogenic, aid in digestion, defend against pathogens, remove toxins from the body and improve immune function. Sources of probiotics include yogurt with live cultures, Chobani plain Greek yogurt is an excellent choice, sauerkraut, kombucha, kimchi and good

quality probiotic supplements. Fibre: Fibre can be found in fruits, vegetables and in whole grain choices like whole grain bread, quinoa, brown or basmati rice. Fibre is a key nutrient because it’s important for gut and digestive health. It helps fuel colon cells and helps to keep the digestive tract flowing by keeping bowel

movements soft and regular. Fresh vegetables and fruit: Vegetables and fruit provide antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are key for our immunity. Antioxidants support the immune system by reducing inflammation and help to reduce damage caused. Other sources of antioxidants include

The Experts

CANDACE SCIBERRAS One Point Health 4732 5188 pecans, walnuts, turmeric, ginger, basil, raw cacao and green tea. Key vitamins and minerals for immunity include vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, B vitamins, zinc, iron and omega 3 essential fatty acids. These can be found in variety of fruits and vegetables, whereas other sources of these nutrients can be found in other food types such as nuts, certain protein choices, like red meat / fish. Overall to ensure you are consuming these nutrients aim to have variety in your diet, and choose fresh, local choices. Choose ones with limited added ingredients and from the least processed source available.

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce Advent Calendars for grown-ups: A treat behind every door

Let’s be real, you’re never too old for an Advent Calendar. But, if you’re over chocolate this holiday season, there are plenty of other options to look into, like homewares, pop vinyls, and, most importantly, beauty products. Though they can be significantly more expensive than what you’d normally pick up from Coles, they can be the perfect way to treat yourself or a loved one in the lead up to Christmas, and with most brands making their own variation, you’re bound to find something for every type of beauty lover. For the makeup obsessed If makeup is what you’re after in an Advent Calendar, there are plenty of options of all sizes and prices. Starting off on the higher end is this year’s M.A.C’s Advent Calendar, which retails for

$450 (below). In saying this, it’s filled with 24 best-selling items and all-new shades, including 21 full-sized products, giving it a value of $839.

Benefit Cosmetics’ All I Want Beauty Advent Calendar Set is also a standout this year, filled to the brim with their bestselling mascaras, powders and more – perfect for travelling, or to keep in your handbag for touch ups. For a more affordable option,

look into the Mecca Max Mini Marvels 12-Piece Advent Calendar, which includes all kinds of beauty favourites for $69. For someone who loves to be pampered Of course, beauty isn’t limited to just makeup products. Advent Calendars which include body, skin, and hair care products can be the best way to sample products from a new brand, or a brand that you love. Starting off strong with Advent Calendars by The Body Shop. As always, they have a few different size options of The Advent of Change, but all of them include a mix of new and classic products, including their famous shower gels, body butters, and hand lotions. L’Occitane’s Classic and Deluxe Beauty Advent Calendars contains a similar mix of

products, with 24 doors worth of old favourites and new treats to discover. Skincare fiends can’t go past the Kiehl’s and Clinique Advent Calendars this year, with both containing plenty of generously sized samples that may even inform full-size purchases by Boxing Day. For someone who wants a bit of everything Sometimes you can’t go past variety. David Jones has released

an Advent Calendar (above) this year aiming to give you a taster of some of their top selling brands. Included in the calendar is everything from a La Mer cleanser to a Jo Malone London candle, and a delicious Carolina Herrera perfume. Similarly, The Iconic is giving you the ultimate holy grail of beauty products in their Advent Calendar, with skincare, makeup, hair, body and fragrance favourites from a number of top brands.

Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square. With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.

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Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

PET HEALTH The Experts

YOUR HOLIDAY CHECKLIST FOR YOUR FAVOURITE PET A

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

s we the weather warms up and we start to plan our upcoming summer holidays, there is that extra family member that we need to consider, our pets. Should you leave your pet at a boarding facility, arrange a pet sitter, or even bring them along with you? Whichever option you decide this holiday period, there are a few basic must-do’s before you begin your holiday:

especially if you are going into known paralysis tick regions. Remember to reapply at correct intervals. • Microchip details – Just in case your pet decides to escape or take a holiday of its own, ensure that their microchip details are up-to-date. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and ID tag that includes your mobile phone numbers.

• Vaccinations – Ensure your pet is up-to-date with their vaccination. Boarding facilities request that your dog has had a Kennel Cough vaccine at least two weeks prior to their stay. • Heartworm prevention – Monthly preventatives or even a Proheart heartworm injection that lasts 12 months is a great idea. • Flea and tick prevention – Apply / administer flea and tick preventatives at least two weeks before you travel,

Research your destination When planning your holiday, learn about your destination and accommodation. Check that your accommodation includes secure fencing and search for access to dog-friendly areas such as beaches, parks and walking tracks. Don’t forget to read local council regulations and make sure you have the contact details of the closest vet should your pet require medical attention. Make yourself familiar with the local hazards, especially paralysis ticks and known snake regions.

Travelling in the car: Get your pet ready for car travel well in advance. If your pet is anxious during car rides, it is best to be prepared. If your pet is drooling, panting, yawning or trembling they may be uncomfortable. Start with very short trips, praising them when they show calm, relaxed behaviour. As they improve, progress to longer trips. If you have a pet who dislikes car trips, you can get them used to the car environment by feeding them treats or their meals near the car while it is parked – make it fun and slowly but surely build them up to the travel experience. Praise them when they show calm, relaxed behaviour. Other tips include: • Not feeding your pet for approximately 4-6 hours prior to travel (water is fine). • Plan regular, short breaks for your pet to get out of the car, ensure they have fresh water. • Ensure there is plenty of fresh air (open the windows or an air vent).

• Remember that pets have sensitive hearing, so limit loud music while travelling. • Talk to your vet if you feel your pet would benefit from calming medications. This will need a trial run before you head off on your holiday, so prepare this well in advance. Travel safety Restrain your pet in the car. Unrestrained pets are distracting to the driver and are a potentially dangerous projectile if the car suddenly swerves, stops, or is involved in an accident. Cats or small dogs should be placed in a secure carrier and seat belt harnesses used for medium or large breed dogs. Place animals on the back seat or cargo area if you have a wagon, never the front passenger’s seat due to airbags. Pets shouldn’t be allowed to stick their head out of the window due to the risk of injury especially to their eyes. Happy travels.

Get the care your pet deserves at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital! At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your pet is a cherished family member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pet care services to animals across the Penrith district. We offer: • Vaccinations • Radiography • Microchipping • Surgery • Dental care • Ultrasound

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the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

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HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

JOANNE MADELINE MOORE Boho Astro bohoastro.com @JoMadelineMoore © Joanne Madeline Moore 2023

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Take a good look at your close friends and current peer group. Do they encourage you to be the quirky, avant-garde Aquarian you were born to be? Are they supporting your talents and championing your dreams? It’s also a good week to tackle a creative solo project, as the Full Moon energises your self-expression zone. Your mantra for the moment is from entertainer Bette Midler (who turns 78 on Friday), “Cherish forever what makes you unique.”

This week you could feel confused or discouraged, especially when it comes to a family matter or a professional issue. But escaping into a fantasy world won’t make problems magically disappear. As the week progresses, do your best to banish procrastination and be a firm and focused Fish as you find creative solutions to current challenges. The distance between dreams and reality can be wide but, with patience and persistence, that gap will decrease.

Monday’s Full Moon is a good time for a brilliant light-bulb moment. You have the creative ideas and fiery passion to get an ambitious project off the ground, now all you need is the patience and persistence to finish it. The Sun, Mercury and Mars are visiting fellow fire sign Sagittarius, which revs up your Ram motor. But Saturn sends a cautionary reminder: if you are too hasty, then you could find yourself in hot water. So slow down and pace yourself!

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The Full Moon urges you to shine a bright spotlight on financial matters and personal values. Do you need to let go of certain people, possessions or attitudes that have passed their used-by-date? With the Sun, Mercury and Mars also activating your money zones, be careful that your main form of entertainment isn’t shopping. Your bank balance (and budget) won’t appreciate a shop-til-youdrop kind of week. The weekend stars favour catching up with old friends.

Neptune squares your ruler Mercury on Monday, so you could easily become confused or side-tracked by the busyness and minutiae of daily life. The more you concentrate on the needs of others, the better the week will be. With the Sun, Mercury and Mars stimulating your relationship zone, you’re in a romantic and flirtatious frame of mind. So it’s the perfect time to pamper your partner. Unhappily single? Look for love with an amorous Aries or a sexy Sagittarian.

You’re keen to daydream the hours away in your cosy Crab cave, as the Full Moon illuminate your solitude zone. But – as you retreat into your private world make sure you can differentiate between fact and fantasy, otherwise you’ll end up in a confusing mess. A current project needs to pass the Practicality Test, so try to balance being idealistic with being realistic. And don’t make serious commitments unless you’re certain you can keep them.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 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. You’re keen to communicate about a wide range of topics, as you share creative ideas with family and friends. But, with Neptune squaring Mercury, avoid spilling secrets or saying something that’s inappropriately ambiguous.

Even though you’re run off your feet at work, home is where the heart is as the Sun, Mercury and Mars move through your domestic zone. So it’s a good time to tackle DIY projects and communicate with family members in creative ways. Avoid sending mixed messages though (especially on Monday and Tuesday). On the weekend, the Mercury/Saturn link is wonderful for mental focus, problem solving, strategic thinking and longterm planning.

Librans love things to run efficiently and smoothly but (courtesy of the Full Moon, Neptune and Pluto) there’s unpredictable planetary energy about this week. So drop the perfectly 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.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Scorpios can have trouble trusting other people at the best of times and this week, the Full Moon fires up your trust and intimacy zone. So a confidence could be broken, a loved one could let you down or an old resentment could resurface. Also, if you don’t feel comfortable asking someone for help then don’t. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, writer Louisa May Alcott, “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship,”

The Sun, Mercury and Mars are moving through your sign, which activates your spontaneous side. But avoid overcommitting and promising more than you can deliver. The weekend stars encourage you to tie up loose ends before you launch new ventures. The more energy and focus you put into current projects, the less confused you’ll feel. Make it a priority to communicate clearly, do your homework thoroughly and check all details before you proceed.

Monday’s Full Moon stimulates your wellbeing zone, so jump off the comfy couch and get moving! Nutritious meals are also on the celestial menu, as you take more interest in your health and more pride in your appearance. Are you worrying about something? If you have the confidence to listen to your wise inner voice, then it will point you in the right direction. Mercury moves into your sign on Friday, which boosts communication, creativity and concentration.

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Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

Crossword

ACROSS 9. Fit (7) 10. Small long-tailed bird (3-4) 11. Claire Hooper, for example (5) 12. Misnamed fruit bat (6,3) 13. Utopian (7) 14. Some arts (7) 15. Sydney-born country singer (7,6) 20. At the start (5,2) 22. Flat-bottomed canal or harbour barge (7) 24. Coiner of “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it” (9) 26. Register (5) 27. Mocked (7) 28. Developed over time (7)

DOWN 1. Clairvoyant (7) 2. Consternation (6) 3. Powerful (8) 4. Enforce pit discipline to achieve improvement (10) 5. 180-degree turn (4) 6. Disposable mobile phone (6) 7. Some wall art (8) 8. Banished (2,5) 14. Popular NSW National Park (5,5) 16. Bombastic monologue (8) 17. Enlisted (6,2) 18. Mass-to-volume ratio (7) 19. Musical introduction (7) 21. Like fresh bread (6) 23. Prosper (6) 25. Chucks in (4)

N M O E

C S

O C

G O

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H O R

O U P

L U

A I

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P S

O 26

A W A S S

No. 673

19 22

C I

V V

Medium

5 9 8 2 8 1 5 6 1 7 5 7 9 8 2 4 3 6 4 8 6 7 4 5 1 9 The solutions will be published here in the next issue.

H R

SUDOKU F

E E

I S R

N W A

I L

O I

A E

S N

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Last week’s solution 8

the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

Previous solution - Easy

3 1 5 8 2 4 9 7 6

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Crossword brought to you by Emerson’s Envirocare emersonsenvirocaresydney.com | 1800 600 760

2 7 4 1 9 6 5 3 8

6 9 8 5 7 3 2 1 4

1 5 6 3 4 8 7 9 2

8 4 7 2 1 9 6 5 3

9 2 3 6 5 7 8 4 1

5 8 1 9 3 2 4 6 7

7 3 2 4 6 5 1 8 9

4 6 9 7 8 1 3 2 5

Sudoku brought to you by Nepean Aquatic Centre

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.

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S P A• S E R V I C E S

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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: THE MOON ARISTARCHUS ARMSTRONG CRATERS CRISIUM CRUST DORSA ESCARPMENTS GIBBOUS IMBRIUM LANDING LOW DENSITY LUNAR MOUNTAINS NEAR SIDE ORIENTALE PROMONTORIUM RILLES RIMA ROCKY RUBBLE SERENITATIS TERRA TIDES WANE WAX WINDING VALLEYS Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about TV newsreaders in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. Who has hosted Seven’s flagship 6pm news bulletin since 2014? 2. Which veteran Melbourne newsreader announced this week he was retiring after more than 50 years on air? 3. In what year did the iconic Brian Henderson finish up at Channel Nine?

4. Which Nine newsreader was poached by Seven to front the 6pm bulletin in 2003? 5. Before Juanita Phillips joined the ABC to anchor its 7pm bulletin, which overseas network did she work for? 6. Ron Wilson worked for more than 30 years on which network?

ANSWERS 1. Mark Ferguson 2. Peter Hitchener 3. 2002 4. Ian Ross 5. CNN 6. Channel 10

Trivia Quiz

Friday, November 24, 2023 « the western weekender

Test Your Brain brought to you by Choices Flooring Penrith choicesflooring.com | 4731 4242

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOK Medium

Str8ts, Hexwords & Name the Movie brought to you by Choices Flooring Penrith

3 3 4

4 7 4 5

3 4 2 1 2 5 2 1 3 3 4 5 6 5 6 6 4 8 7 7 9 8

6 9 7 5 8 3 8

7 2 You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Hexwords

5 6 4 3 6 4 5 2 1 8 1 7 2 2 1 7 8 6 9 3 3 5 4

8 7 7 8 9 9 8 6 7 3 4 4 3 1 2 3 2 5 1 6 1 2

5 8 5

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into 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 The solutions will see how ‘straights’ are formed.

1 4

No. 673

Previous solution - Tough

Str8ts

No. 673

3 6

Name the Movie

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

SSTWOWNEINDOHTKD ‘

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Who Am I?

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Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 163- BEGINNER - 36, INTERMEDIATE - 150, ADVANCED - 9.8.

Last week’s answer: STEVE MARTIN

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 164 - BEGINNER - 49, INTERMEDIATE - 4.5, ADVANCED - 42.

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the western weekender » Friday, November 24, 2023

www.30secondchallenge.com

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1. I don’t like tea.

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intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

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HINTS

331/3 % of ThIs

your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge, douBle IT

Previous solution: DOWN PERISCOPE

30 Second Challenge BegInneR

Choices Flooring Penrith