BOOMING BINET: NEW RECORD FOR PITT TOWN
Rodney Binet, with 34 years of expertise in the real estate industry, continues to set new records with his unparalleled ability to sell brand new spec homes and off-plan house and land packages across greater Sydney.
Last week marked yet another milestone as the highest price ever achieved for a new bespoke home in Pitt Town was reached with the sale of 5 Alcorn Place. This luxurious property, designed and built by Binet Homes, boasts an impressive
home on a sprawling 2200sm block.
With six oversized bedrooms, five opulent bathrooms, four spacious garages, and multiple living rooms, this grand residence offers every modern comfort imaginable.
The fully appointed tiered home theatre promises endless entertainment options while designer landscaping frames a stunning pool and pavilion area perfect for outdoor gatherings.
PROPERTY EPITOMISES LUXURY LIVING AT ITS FINEST“
Contact Rodney Binet on 9868 3222 or visit www.binethomes. com.au for future opportunities. “THIS
Adding to its appeal is a chic self-contained granny flat that provides additional privacy or accommodation options. Situated within the prestigious Alcorn Mews Estate, this exceptional property epitomises luxury living at its finest – all being sold for $5.2 million.
What is so great about this property?
The property is situated in the highly sought-after suburb. It is an inviting family home, perfectly positioned on a welcoming 561sqm (approx) parcel located on the high side of the street with sunny aspect. Who does this property suit? Family home or investor.
The suburb of South Penrith consists of undulating hills with wonderful views to the Blue Mountains. South Penrith is well located for easy access to Penrith’s CBD, shopping areas and retail outlets. South Penrith hosts one of the largest and more distinctive recreation areas in the City.
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.
If you are considering selling your operty, please contact Gizzelle Powell today for a con dential discussion and market appraisal
IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce
Hair products under the microscope
When it comes to heat styling your hair, the tools you use aren’t necessarily the most important thing to ensuring you can create a smooth, frizz-free look without damage – it’s the products.
As someone who heat styles my hair at least once a week, products with heat protection are some of the most important in my routine. No hot tool will ever touch my hair without it!
Here are my thoughts on some of today’s most popular heat protectants.
Ouai Leave In Conditioner
The Ouai Leave In Conditioner retails for $55 at Mecca, and promises to both detangle and protect hair, ensuring a result free of frizz and flyaways.
This product takes the word ‘conditioner’ seriously, with a thick, milky consistency similar to what you’d use in the shower.
Whilst I think it does the job when used correctly – minimally, and on wet hair – it is very easy to use too much of this product accidentally, resulting in hair that almost feels greasy, like you’d need to wash it all over again. For this reason, it’s not one that I’d recommend.
Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Hair Styling Spray
The Color Wow Dream Coat is more of an anti-frizz treatment than a heat protectant, though of course it does both. It’s meant to be used liberally on wet hair, providing a smooth, shiny look when activated with heat.
I reviewed this product in full last year for In The Mirror, and my thoughts have remained the same. Looking back on photos of my hair when I was using the product frequently, I feel as though I can really see a difference! If you can justify the cost, I think it’s definitely worth a try.
Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant Cream
The Briogeo Farewell Frizz Heat Protectant Cream is described as being good for both the look and health of your hair, packed with ingredients like rosehip, argan, and coconut oils. Briogeo is one of my favourite hair care brands for this reason, and the performance of this product is no different from others I’ve tried. Unlike the others on this list, this product is in a tube rather than a spray bottle, which I think gives you more control in application. It smells lovely, and does a great job at protecting your hair.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Milky Leave-in Conditioner
Whilst they’re most famous for their body products and sprays, Sol de Janeiro also has haircare products, like the Brazilian Joia Milky Leave-in Conditioner. It’s said to provide weightless hydration, fight frizz for up to 72 hours, repair split ends, and protect against heat damage.
Though like the Ouai product, it is on the creamier side, I find this product melds into the hair much better. It also has the classic Sol de Janeiro scent, which is always a bonus!
Revlon Uniq One All In One Curls Treatment
For those with curly hair who like to use heat when drying, a leave in or curl cream with heat protection, like the Revlon Uniq One All In One Curls Treatment, is essential.
This product retails for $29.95, and is said to provide 10 benefits, including enhancing curl definition, reducing frizz and hydrating your hair – and I think it does all of these.
New Bathrooms for 2024 2024
ALEX MCKENZIE
CAN I PAY FOR THAT WITH MY SUPERANNUATION?
From social media platforms to conversations in the pub, people often want to know if they are able to access their super to pay for something they can’t afford. There are circumstances where you can access funds early, but they are very limited and very strictly enforced.
People often ask why they can’t use it?
It is their money after all. The reason the government doesn’t allow it is that the money is mandated savings to fund retirement. The funds are taxed at concessional rates as compensation for not being able to use it until we retire. Prior to superannuation, very few people adequately saved for when they were no longer receiving an income. If allowed to access super funds, too many people would do so and then not have enough savings to fund retirement years. This not only leads to a lower standard of living for these people but it is also a financial drain for the government.
There are some situations where superannuation can be accessed early. Death, terminal illness and total and permanent disability are all conditions of release that most people are familiar with. The two circumstances that cause the most issues are for severe financial hardship and compassionate grounds.
Two areas that cause confusion and, at times, a lot of misinformation is provided, are
in relation to accessing funds for a medical procedure and to prevent foreclosure on a mortgage.
It is possible to access funds for those reasons, but it is very, very strict. For the
medical procedure, the condition has to be life-threatening and/or be causing acute and chronic pain. Furthermore, the procedure must not be readily available through the public system. The ATO clearly defines what
they believe to be chronic and severe pain and what they determine is life-threatening. Life-threatening is defined as the likelihood that the condition will degenerate and lead to the client’s death within 12 months. It also states that this is for existing medical conditions not potential conditions.
The one I hear all the time is where people wish to use their superannuation for gastric band surgery. The argument being that, unless the person can lose weight, they are in a life-threatening situation. The ATO has specifically stated that this is NOT life-threatening by their definition and is not allowed.
The other condition of release that leads to confusion is the payment for mortgage assistance. Again, it is possible to do this, but under very limited circumstances. The payment has to be for severe financial hardship specifically to prevent foreclosure and must be on the primary residence. It cannot relate to a personal loan or an investment property loan (even if the primary residence is also held as security) and is limited to a maximum amount of $10,000 in any 12 month period.
Early access to your super really is a last resort, and should be treated as such. Although possible to access, it is very difficult, and will only be allowable in very limited circumstances and under strict conditions.
The Experts
MAKING THE TOUGHEST DECISION AS PET OWNERS
Saying farewell to a beloved pet is one of the most challenging and emotional experiences a pet owner can face. The decision to opt for pet euthanasia is especially heart-wrenching, as it embodies a deep sense of love, responsibility, and a desire to alleviate suffering.
Our pets are not just animals; they become treasured members of our families, offering unconditional love, companionship, and joy. However, as caring pet owners, we must face the reality that our pets are vulnerable to illness and aging. When a once-vibrant companion begins to suffer, and their quality of life diminishes, euthanasia can become a compassionate, yet difficult, consideration.
Choosing euthanasia is an act of profound love. It is a selfless decision made to prioritise the pet’s well-being, sparing them from unnecessary pain and discomfort. This final act of kindness requires immense courage from
the pet owner, who must often set aside their own grief to ensure their loyal friend’s comfort and dignity.
The process of saying goodbye through euthanasia involves more than just the physical
they can still enjoy a meaningful, pain-free life.
The experience of saying goodbye begins even before the euthanasia procedure. Pet owners often face anticipatory grief, mourning the impending loss
procedure; it is an emotional journey requiring open communication with veterinarians, family members, and oneself.
It is essential to understand the pet’s condition, discuss potential treatments, and consider whether
and reflecting on the cherished moments shared with their pets.
This period provides an opportunity to create lasting memories, express gratitude, and shower the pet with extra love and care.
Once the difficult decision has
been made and the farewell has taken place, the grieving process begins.
Coping with the loss of a pet is a unique and personal experience, and it’s crucial to give yourself the time and space to grieve.
Seeking support from friends, family, or pet loss support groups can offer comfort and understanding during this challenging time.
Ultimately, pet euthanasia is a compassionate choice that arises from love and responsibility. It allows our beloved companions to leave this world peacefully and with dignity, surrounded by the love of those who cherished them. Although the pain of loss may persist, the memories of the joy, companionship, and unconditional love our pets brought into our lives will endure forever.
The team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital is here to assist you with these difficult decisions.
Please contact our compassionate team at 4736 2027 for further information.
YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT
If you’re experiencing pain, mobility issues, or recovering from an injury, a consultation with a physiotherapist can be a crucial step towards improving your health. Here’s what you can expect from your initial consultation to help
Initial assessment
The first step in your consultation is a thorough assessment. The physiotherapist will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, and any relevant lifestyle factors. This discussion helps them understand the nature and potential cause of your condition.
Physical examination
Next, the physiotherapist will conduct a physical examination. This may include observing your posture, gait, and range of motion. They may also perform specific tests to assess strength, flexibility, and functional movements specific to you and your goals. The goal is to identify
any imbalances, weaknesses, or areas of pain.
Diagnosis and explanation
Based on the assessment and examination, the physiotherapist will provide a diagnosis.
They will explain the findings in understandable terms, helping you to grasp the underlying issues contributing to your symptoms. This clarity is crucial for understanding the treatment plan.
Personalised treatment plan
Your physiotherapist will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This plan may include exercises to improve strength and flexibility, manual therapy techniques, and advice on modifying activities to reduce strain. They will also provide education on the above so that you understand the intervention maximising adherence and outcomes.
Setting goals
Setting realistic, achievable goals is a key part of the consultation.
These goals might be related to pain reduction, improving mobility, or returning to specific activities. Your physiotherapist will work with you to outline short-term and long-term objectives, ensuring that your treatment plan is aligned with your aspirations.
Questions and concerns
Finally, your physiotherapist will address any questions or concerns you might have. This is your opportunity to discuss expectations, clarify doubts, and understand the next steps in your treatment journey.
KELLIE TICKNER
Relax & Unwind
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
Mercury is still in retrograde mode (until August 28-29) so be careful how you treat other people, in person and online. Self-indulgent behaviour, unrealistic expectations and controversial comments will just boomerang back on you! So your mantra is from actress Cara Delevingne (who turns 32 on Monday), “The energy you give off is the energy you receive.” Some quiet meditation or soulful contemplation will help you get through the week in a more relaxed state.
TAURUS
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
The Mars/Jupiter conjunction boosts family fun and feelgood vibes – as long as you communicate clearly and sensitively. With Neptune and Saturn both transiting through your sign, it’s time to set inspirational long-term goals, and then work hard to turn them into concrete reality. No procrastinating Pisces! No lame excuses! Be inspired by model and actress Cara Delevingne (who turns 32 on Monday), “Believe in yourself. Make yourself proud.”
GEMINI
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
Are you feeling hemmed in at home? Mercury reverses through your domestic zone (from Thursday until August 28-29) which could cramp your style. Try cleaning, de-cluttering, renovating and/ or extending your present living space so it’s more spacious. Bulls need room to breathe! Expect some family drama, as impatience and uncertainty overtake common sense. If you try to escape from your current commitments, then loved ones won’t be impressed.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Mercury reverses into your sign, so plans will proceed slowly. And Sunday looks particularly tricky, as the retro Mercury/Uranus square highlights personal or professional problems. On Wednesday, Mars and Jupiter stimulate your friendship zone, so it’s a good time to network with your peer group and catch up with close friends. Be inspired by actress Gillian Anderson, “I believe people are in our lives for a reason. We’re here to learn from each other.”
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
With Mercury reversing into your career zone, proceed carefully with a complicated professional project. If you are too hasty (or too stubborn) then you’ll experience communication problems with a colleague, client or customer. Plus Uranus also squares retro Mercury – so unpredictable feelings could re-surface, as loved ones push your emotional buttons. Simmer down Scorpio, otherwise you run the risk of turning a minor matter into a major obsession.
With retrograde Mercury and the Sun in your neighbourhood zone, find more meaningful ways to connect with people and contribute to your local community. Education and short trips are highlighted, plus expect plenty of phone calls, snail mail, texts, tweets and emails. But you’ll also have to handle stress, delays and misunderstandings along the way. The secret to a successful week is getting the balance right between being spontaneous and being patient.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Your ruling planet Mercury is still in retrograde mode. So it’s time for active and conscientious Virgos to pace yourself, as some plans backfire and confidence levels are lower than usual. You could also question your current trajectory and look to others for feedback and approval. Don’t overdo it! Madonna (who celebrates her 66th birthday on Friday) observes, “If your joy is derived from what others think of you, then you’re going to be disappointed.”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Most Sagittarians are independent, freedom-loving souls. And this week, gung-ho Mars and generous Jupiter (your patron planet) hookup in your partnership zone. So the focus is on relationships of all sorts – romantic, platonic and professional. The more proactive and positive you are, the better. Your motto is from birthday great, psychotherapist and bestselling author Esther Perel, “Our need for togetherness exists alongside our need for separateness.”
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Have you been waiting in the wings or sulking on the sidelines? This week the fiery Leo Sun activates your creativity and entertainment zone. And gung-ho Mars (your power planet) hooks up with adventurous Jupiter. So spring into action – wake up, explore, experiment, get into party mode and make some noise! Be inspired by original celebrity chef – and birthday great – Julia Child, “Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.”
Are you a luxury-loving Crab who’s living in financial fairyland? With Mercury reversing through your financial zone (from Thursday) you’re in the mood to spend up a storm. But make sure your personal finances are rock solid before you commit to a major purchase. And – if you can – delay making any big-ticket buys (and signing contracts) until after Mercury moves forwards on August 28-29. Your motto for the week? Spend in haste, repent at leisure!
Helpful Librans to the rescue! Venus and retrograde Mercury increase your interest in assisting those who are sick, in trouble or in need. You’ll find the more you lend a hand to others, the better you’ll feel and the more useful you’ll be. A personal matter should also improve, as Mars and Jupiter help you put a philosophical spin on a frustrating situation. Rest and relaxation are important, as you set aside some quality time with a very special person … you.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Expect some frustration or conflict this week Capricorn. Mercury is still retrograde, and go-slow Saturn (your ruling planet) squares gung-ho Mars on Friday. So you could feel like a car trying to move forward with the handbrake on! Patience and persistence are required if you want to steer projects through to a satisfactory conclusion. The Mars/Jupiter conjunction favours fresh, nutritious food; jaunty walks in the fresh air; and having fun with pets.
SUPERB STAYCATION SPOT
We have officially passed the midway point of the year and in my opinion, things can become a little monotonous, but I have the perfect fix to beat your midyear blues: a staycation.
I went on a winter staycation at the Pullman Sydney Hyde Park, and it was the perfect choice.
I had never stayed at a Pullman Hotel or even a five-star hotel before, so this was a decadent and luxurious experience for me.
Right from the moment I arrived, and the staff were so kind and attentive, I knew I had chosen the right spot.
While there is parking on site for guests to use, I recommend utilising the train as well. Museum Station is so close to the hotel and frequently does a city loop while also connecting users to Central Station to explore the rest of the city.
I stayed in a Deluxe Park View Room, which was so spacious and overlooked a gorgeous scene of Hyde Park.
The view was even better at night, there is just something about the city lights that made the view even more special.
What also really caught my eye was the incredible ANZAC Memorial that sits in Hyde Park. It looked so impressive, and I really recommend checking it out during your stay.
After checking in, I just marvelled at the room I was given to stay in for the night, but the bathroom was the thing I was most surprised about.
If you are anything like me or my family every other time we have stayed at a hotel we cram as many people into one room to save a bit
of money – which in my opinion is the way to go if you are on a budget – but this bathroom was so spacious that both my guest and I could have stood in there and not been anywhere near each other. The triangle bath was very decadent and added to the luxury feel of the stay.
While my guest and I waited for our dinner reservation we went for a walk along Oxford Street. If you know Sydney, then you know this street is a particularly bustling part of town. It is flanked by unlimited bars, paint and sip places and the iconic Oxford Art Factory, a thriving music venue.
My guest and I spent the evening relaxing in the hotel before checking out the rooftop pool.
At night, the surrounding city buildings provide a great view to look at while swimming or using the spa – perfect for a winter’s evening!
After a long sleep in – those block out curtains really do wonders – we went down to the breakfast buffet to refuel for the day before heading back home.
The selection of food available was endless, there was nothing you couldn’t get your hands on!
There were pastries, toast, cereal, bacon, eggs, fruit, yoghurt and juice amongst many other things.
It made me want to go back several times but there is only so much I can eat!
The best part about the breakfast was after being seated the
“AFTER CHECKING IN, I JUST MARVELLED AT THE ROOM”
attentive wait staff came over and took our coffee order. In my other experiences of a hotel buffet, I have never had my coffee order taken, so it was lovely to go and get food to come back to my table where a hot coffee was made exactly to my liking.
My guest and I were sad to go but if you have a staycation on your mind, I highly recommend a weekend at the Pullman Hyde Park.
The writer stayed as a guest of Pullman Hyde Park.
47.
52.
59. Gosh! (1,1,1)
65. Growls
66. Hog’s grunts
68. Bloodier (steak)
71. Wading bird
72. American air force (1,1,1,1)
74. Verbal
76. Knocks softly
78. Breakfast
80. Tomahawk
83. Flat ... pancake (2,1)
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.
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about Australian Olympic medals in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. After her sister Jessica won Gold in the C1 and K1 paddling events, which event did Noemie win this week?
2. In what sport has Australia won the most medals across its history at the Olympics?
3. Australia has only ever won one medal in baseball. What colour was it?
4. Which Australian athlete is our greatest ever medal winner, having collected a total of 14 medals?
5. How many Gold Medals did the legendary swimmer Shane Gould win?
6. Which Australian athletics star won Gold in the 800m at the 1896 games in Athens?
Emma McKeon
Three
Edwin Flack
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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.
