HARMONY COMING TO RHODES: NEW HOUSES
Award-winning developer Billbergia has lodged a State Significant Development Application for ‘Harmony – Rhodes Central East’ – one of the first to be lodged under the NSW Government’s recent affordable housing reforms.
An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) has now been submitted for the 48-level tower, which is located in Sydney’s inner-west and will set a new benchmark for sustainable living.
Located at 9-13 Blaxland Road in Rhodes, Harmony – Rhodes Central East is a mixed-use residential tower featuring
striking architectural design by GroupGSA and targeting an industry-leading 7.4 Star NaTHERS sustainability rating. The tower’s innovative biophilic design – described by Group GSA as a “vertical forest” – will contribute to redefining the Rhodes peninsula with elevated architecture, delivering 313 apartments in one-to-five-bedroom configurations above a mixed-use podium with 12 levels of basement car parking below.
A café will activate the podium, while an extension of the hardscape at the park junction will facilitate outdoor seating flowing into Churchill Tucker Reserve.
With a new landscaped area at ground level, the building sits between Rhodes Station, Blaxland Road, Churchill Tucker Reserve, McIlwaine Park and Brays Bay, providing easy access to transport and open space.
“Billbergia has been part of the Rhodes community for more than 15 years, delivering the homes and infrastructure needed to shape thriving communities.
Our plans for this project are aligned with the NSW Government and City of Canada Bay Council’s vision for a vibrant and connected precinct,” said Saul Moran, Development Director of Planning and Development.
“Harmony reflects our commitment to helping connected communities grow through affordable transport-oriented housing, supported by amenities and essential infrastructure.”
“APARTMENTS AT HARMONY WILL OFFER EXPANSIVE VIEWS OVER BRAYS BAY”
Alongside over 300 homes, the tower will yield 424 square metres of premium communal space for residents – including a dining and alfresco area on Level 20, crowned by a rooftop tree canopy and infinity pool.
“Apartments at Harmony will offer expansive views over Brays Bay and the nearby parklands, alongside bespoke interiors with a range of options, finishes and upgrades – so future owners can tailor their home to suit their lifestyle,” Moran said.
Importantly, significant open space will also be delivered alongside Harmony – Rhodes Central East, with 428 square metres of open space and a further 1,537 square metre landscaped area enhancing connectivity to the nearby Rhodes Train Station. 9-13 Blaxland Road sits within the Rhodes Station Gateway East precinct, rezoned by NSW State Government for residential use in 2021.
With a small tower footprint of just 680 square metres, the site currently houses Rhodes Business Centre, a four-level commercial office building, and an adjoining single level building. For more information about this project, visit www.billbergia. com.au.
Gizzelle
LJ HOOKER CELEBRATES MILESTONE WITH BIG NEWS
Three decades after taking over the ownership of LJ Hooker Penrith, owners Peter and Kerrie Stanford have celebrated the significant milestone with a further expansion of their successful business.
The Greater Western Sydney office, which specialises in property sales and management, has just acquired a substantial rentroll as they have merged with The Professionals Penrith, which has recently closed.
“TOO MANY REAL ESTATE AGENCIES JUST FOCUS ON SALES”
to thrive under their ownership becoming a trusted market leader in the region.
The recent rent roll acquisition, which was five months in the making, coincided with their
and ensuring all systems were in place to facilitate this major undertaking,” Principal, Peter Stanford said.
“Too many real estate agencies just focus on sales, but property
30th anniversary and proved to be the perfect way to mark the special occasion.
“It feels like the time has gone
management has always been an important part of our business, and it needs to be treated with equal respect.
tant as guaranteed income and asset value as well as generating more business through property management sales. It opens up opportunities otherwise unavailable and when done correctly builds an army of supporters and advocates.”
Head of Network Australia, Chris Keating congratulated Peter and Kerrie Stanford on their 30th anniversary with LJ Hooker and the growth strategy to expand their property management division.
“Three decades is a long time in real estate and it is wonderful that Peter and Kerrie continue to have the drive and passion to keep expanding their operations, while also training the next generation of up-and-coming young agents,” Keating said. LJ Hooker Penrith has also welcomed Ross Heidtmann, former Principal of The Penrith Professionals, and three property managers, Brooke De Oliveira,
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
INCOME STREAMS IN RETIREMENT TALKING TECH
The superannuation system is designed to build wealth in order to provide us with income in our retirement years. Once we retire and need income, the most efficient way to do this is by converting our superannuation to pension phase and commence an income stream.
Once in pension phase, all earnings are tax free as is the income you receive. There are two types of income streams; account-based pensions and annuities. Each has competing strengths and weaknesses.
An account-based pension, also known as an allocated pension, is by far the most common income stream.
Account-based pensions are offered by most superannuation providers and there is a wide array and choice of funds.
The main strength of the account-based pension is flexibility. You are able to choose how you invest your funds. You can also select the level of income you require
and are able to make withdrawals as you please. The value of the account-based pension goes up and down in line with investment returns and withdrawals. Once you run out of money, the pension stops. In the event of your death, the remaining value of your account-based pension is passed on to your estate.
The full value of the account-based pension is assessed for Centrelink asset test purposes. It is also subject to deeming for the income test, in the same way as other investment assets.
With account-based pensions, you bear investment risk and longevity risk.
Annuities pay you a set income for a set period of time. You are able to nominate a time frame and a portion of your investment you would like back at the end of the period. The annuity company will pay you a pre-determined pension for the designated time frame. You are also able to select a lifetime pension, in which you receive an income for the
The Experts
ALEX MCKENZIE
rest of your life. The newer lifetime annuities offer guaranteed payment terms, periods you can access your funds and other options that weren’t available in earlier life time annuities.
Annuities are very secure in that they offer guaranteed payments with the annuity company bearing the investment risk. Lifelong annuities and annuities with benefit periods of longer than five years with no return of capital, have favourable Centrelink treatment. In the case of lifelong annuities, they also bear the longevity risk.
The weakness of annuities is that they typically have lower investment returns and are very inflexible.
FUNCTIONAL INDEPENDENCE
Aging brings many changes to the body, often leading to decreased mobility, strength, and balance. However, maintaining functional independence as you age is crucial for a high quality of life. Physiotherapy offers effective strategies to help seniors stay active, healthy, and independent.
Personalised exercise programs
Physiotherapists help older adults by designing personalised exercise programs focusing on strength, flexibility, and endurance, tailored to individual needs and abilities. Regular exercise helps maintain muscle mass, improve joint function, and boost overall physical health, making daily activities easier and safer.
Balance and fall prevention
Falls are a significant concern for older adults, often leading to serious
injuries. Physiotherapists assess balance and gait to identify weaknesses or instability. They then create specific exercises to improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Additionally, physiotherapists offer advice on home modifications to create a safer living environment.
Pain management
Chronic pain, particularly from conditions like arthritis, can limit functional independence.
Physiotherapists use techniques such as manual and exercise therapy to manage pain effectively. By reducing pain and inflammation, patients can move more freely and comfortably, maintaining their independence in daily activities.
Education and self-management
Education is a key component of physiotherapy. Physiotherapists provide guidance on self-management techniques for chronic
conditions, empowering patients to take control of their health and well-being.
Enhancing mobility
Mobility issues can significantly impact independence. Physiotherapists are trained in recommending assistive devices, such as walkers or canes, and train patients on their proper use.
Building confidence
Aging can sometimes lead to a loss of confidence in physical abilities. Physiotherapists offer support and encouragement, helping older adults regain confidence in their movements. This boost in confidence is vital for maintaining an active lifestyle.
IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce
Top level skin treatments from the comfort of your lounge room
When it comes to taking care of your skin, it’s easy to feel like you’re always a few steps behind. It seems like everyone on the Internet is going to all sorts of extremes to prevent acne and ageing – vampire facial, anyone?
But, what if you could reap the same benefits and feel just as glamorous from the comfort of your home?
What is LED light therapy?
LED light therapy is a non-invasive skin treatment. Specific colours are used to treat different things, together entering the skin’s layers to target concerns such as acne, fine lines and inflammation.
Whilst you can have this done professionally at many beauty salons and spas, it adds up to a hefty price tag, given achieving the desired effect requires
repetition. Thankfully, you can now do it all on your own with an LED light mask.
How does it work?
Though there are plenty of variations available on the market, if you’ve ever seen one of your favourite influencers or celebrities donning an LED mask, chances are it’s by CurrentBody.
CurrentBody is a UK brand which has taken the world by storm with the increase in interest in home-use beauty
devices. They stock devices dealing with everything from acne to hair loss, and even at-home laser hair removal.
But, by far, their most popular is the LED Light Therapy Face Mask, which you may have seen on celebs like Kim Kardashian and Suki Waterhouse, or in the most recent season of ‘Emily in Paris’.
The mask retails for $585, or you can get the full Face & Neck Kit for $923. It’s FDA-cleared and TGA-certified, and uses patented flexible silicone and
pillow technology to ensure every inch of your skin is covered.
The mask is recommended to be used three to five times a week, with results including a balanced skin tone and reduced texture within a month.
Should I invest?
I’ve been testing out CurrentBody’s LED Light Therapy Face Mask over the last month.
Though it takes a little while to charge the first time, I will
say it’s pretty easy to use as part of your nightly routine. It comes with an attached remote which you use to turn it on, then it stays on for 10 minutes before switching off itself.
The mask also comes with eye inserts, which would be really helpful if you have sensitive eyes, because the light is quite bright.
Whilst I’ve yet to see a huge visible difference in my skin, I do feel as though my skin feels tighter and smoother after each use. I wouldn’t say it’s a necessary purchase given the price, however it would be an excellent addition to your routine if you’re looking to step things up a notch, or a great alternative if you’re currently going to a spa for similar treatments, or are thinking of doing so.
I’m really looking forward to continuing using it – updates to come!
KELLIE
UNDERSTANDING LUMPS AND BUMPS IN OUR PETS
Lumps and bumps are common occurrences in pets, particularly as they age. While these growths are often seen in older dogs and cats, younger animals can also develop them. The key to ensuring your pet’s health is to regularly check their body for any unusual changes and understand the different types of lumps that can appear.
Regular checks are crucial
Performing regular checks on your pet’s body is essential for early detection of any lumps or bumps. To do this, gently run your fingers through your pet’s coat, paying attention to the head, back, sides, chest, belly, and legs. Becoming familiar with what is normal for your pet will help you quickly notice any new or unusual growths.
Types of lumps you might find
• Lipomas (fatty lumps): Lipomas are among the most common lumps found on
dogs and are more frequently seen in overweight pets. These are benign tumours that grow slowly and rarely spread to other areas. Although lipomas are usually harmless, in some cases, they may need to be surgically removed, especially if they interfere with your pet’s movement or comfort.
• Mast cell tumours: These are a common form of cancer that can present in various ways. Certain dog breeds may be more prone to developing mast cell tumours, but any breed can be affected. These tumours are potentially very serious, making early detection and treatment vital.
• Mammary tumours (breast cancer): Mammary tumours can be among the most aggressive types of cancer in pets, particularly in undesexed females. These lumps require immediate veterinary attention to determine the best course of action.
• Warts: Warts are often seen in older pets and appear as small skin tags. While they are usually harmless, they can become irritated and may need to be removed if they cause discomfort.
• Sebaceous cysts: These cysts are swellings filled with a creamy substance and are often seen in older animals. Although they may become red and irritated, they usually do not pose significant health risks.
• Histiocytoma: This is a red, button-like lump commonly found on younger pets. Histiocytomas typically resolve on their own within a few months, but they should still be monitored for any changes.
Identifying cancerous lumps
It is impossible to determine whether a lump is cancerous just by looking at it. If you discover a lump on your pet, your veterinarian will need to examine it
and possibly conduct tests, such as a biopsy, to make an accurate diagnosis. A biopsy involves collecting cells from the lump, sometimes requiring anaesthesia, to determine whether the growth is benign or malignant.
Benign vs. malignant lumps
Benign lumps are non-cancerous and generally do not spread, though they may grow over time. If a benign lump interferes with your pet’s movement or daily activities, surgical removal might be recommended. Malignant lumps, on the other hand, are aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs like the lungs and liver. These types of growths must be treated promptly to prevent further health complications. By routinely checking your pet and staying alert to any changes, you can help ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment. If you have any concerns about lumps or bumps on your pet, contact our team on 4736 2027.
HOROSCOPES
Relax & Unwind
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
This week there’s a Sun/Uranus square, a Full Moon in Aquarius, and Mercury’s reversing through your relationship zone. So you’ll be reliably unpredictable and consistently inconsistent! One half of you wants to snuggle up close with someone special – while the other half longs to be footloose and fancy-free. Try to find the sweet spot between cosy companionship and invigorating independence and resist the urge to be deliberately controversial.
TAURUS
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Mercury is reversing through your daily routine zone and the Full Moon lights up your mystery/secrets zone. So many Fish are set for a frustrating and confusing week. Some possible scenarios for frazzled Pisceans? Important phone calls may be missed, diets could be broken, and paperwork could go missing. The best way to handle the ensuing chaos? Slow down … relax … imagine … daydream … meditate … contemplate … ruminate … and escape!
GEMINI
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
With Mercury reversing through your domestic zone, you’ll feel like cleaning, de-cluttering, and re-arranging your living space (or tackling a delayed DIY project). But Venus (your ruling planet) is making tricky aspects to Jupiter, Saturn and Mars, so Bulls can expect a busy and bamboozling time. Prepare for some very short timelines. You don’t work well when other people try to hurry you. Have the confidence to cruise at your own preferred pace.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
With Mercury reversing through your sign – and Uranus squaring your ruler the Sun – you’ll go to extremes as the planets press your ‘Let’s overdo everything’ button. So your motto for the moment is from music icon Mick Jagger (who has four planets in Leo), “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.” But resist the temptation to be a right royal bossy-boots. Especially when you don’t get your way. Rather than being pushy, try being charmingly persuasive instead!
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Expect professional problems or domestic dramas, as the Full Moon and retro Mercury stir up old grievances. Use your diplomatic talents to help find solutions. However, if you just sit back and let others make decisions, you’ll feel powerless. So strive to be more self-sufficient, especially at home and work. Getting the ratio right between your public and private lives is challenging, but if anyone can juggle conflicting commitments, it’s a strategic Scorpio!
Mars (the proactive planet) and Jupiter (the confidence planet) are transiting through your sign. So – even though Mercury’s retro – it’s time to be your authentic self! If you don’t accept yourself (warts and all) then why should anyone else? If you don’t develop your talents and follow your dreams, then others won’t do it for you. As style icon Coco Chanel observed, “How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone.”
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Many practical, sensible Virgos are set for a chaotic and challenging week. Mercury is reversing through your solitary zone (hey – where did all my friends go?) and the Jupiter/Saturn square complicates close relationships (hey – what’s the matter with my romantic partner or work colleague?). Clever Virgos will slow down, reevaluate and reboot. Maximum tolerance will get you a lot further than constant criticising and stressed-out angst.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Many Archers are restless for adventure. You’re keen to head off on an overseas trip, an inter-state holiday, or a weekend getaway. But with Mercury still reversing through your travel zone (until August 28-29), be careful your fiery, impatient nature doesn’t land you in hot water! Cautious Saturn is also squaring Jupiter (your patron planet). So smart Sagittarians will slow down and aim to get the balance right between hasty spontaneity and careful preparation.
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Are you procrastinating about which project to pursue? A bored and unengaged Ram is a recipe for trouble. With the Full Moon activating your aspirations zone, you’re keen to act, with plenty of energy and enthusiasm. However – with Saturn squaring Jupiter – too much haste could land you in trouble (especially involving family, neighbours, education and/or communication). So do your best to get the balance right between thinking things through and being proactive.
Expect a disruptive week with a friendship surprise or a financial setback. The Full Moon focus is firmly on money matters. Crabs have a good business brain so make sure you’re using it. If you can get the balance right between being canny with cash and entrepreneurial with ideas, then you could really go places. But Mercury is reversing through your $$$ zone (until August 28-29) so make sure you double-check all financial transactions carefully.
This week Venus (your patron planet) squares Jupiter/Mars and opposes Saturn. If you are attached, the two of you will be under increased stress due to doubt, illness, money problems or career pressures. Don’t panic! Use the time to work on the relationship in a patient and productive way. If you are single, don’t expect much from the dating scene this week. If you do connect with someone special, there’ll be plenty of roadblocks before the romance takes off.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
This week Mercury is still retrograde, the Full Moon highlights financial matters, and Saturn (your ruling planet) squares Jupiter. Which could push your predilection for criticism and perfectionism to the max. Calm down Capricorn – and don’t take everything so seriously! Jupiter encourages you to sit in the sun with a drink (or two), read a book, play beautiful music, indulge in some birdwatching … and just relax. You might learn to like it.
14. Put up with 16. Japanese fruit, ...
19. Adversary
22. Attractiveness
37.
38.
40.
42. Irritated
43. Roof overhangs
44. Narcotics
47. Oliver Twist author, Charles ...
51. Burden (with responsibility)
52. In a jaunty manner
53. Hunting trip
54. Taiwanese city
58. Gastric ailment
59. His Master’s Voice (1,1,1)
61. Sectors
63. Directed
64. Water down
65. Display (3,3)
66. Tennis champ, ... Agassi
68. Rocky Mountains state
71. Policy reversal (1-4)
72. Canoodle
74. Singer, Diana ...
76. Artist’s inspiration
78. Note well, nota ...
80. Roman VI
83. Vineyard barrel timber
For 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: SQUIRRELS
ARBOREAL BURROWS
BUSHY TAIL
CHICKAREES
LEAP
PRAIRIE DOG
PYGMY
SHARP CLAWS
STRONG LEGS
TUFTED-EAR
VEGETARIAN
WOODCHUCK
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about the Paris olympics in our special trivia quiz this week...
1. Which country topped the medal tally with 40 Gold Medals and a total of 126? 2. How many Gold Medals did Australia win at the Paris Games?
3. How many Gold Medals did Australian women win at the Games?
4. Nina Kennedy won Gold for
Australia in which sport at the Games?
5. Which country took home the Gold in the Women’s Duet in Artistic Swimming?
6. Who did USA beat to win the Gold Medal in women’s basketball?
7. Which country won Gold in Men’s Handball?
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.
Relax & Unwind
DESTINATION
Melbourne
WORDS
Alice Frank
IMAGES
Supplied
MORE INFO
MELBOURNE ON A BUDGET
Melbourne is one of those special cities that just keeps drawing you back.
The incredible food, the endless shopping and the rooftop bars (my personal favourite) always make for the perfect weekend escape, but with so much on offer it’s important to maximise your time.
So when I recently traveled with my toddler and my mum, I needed somewhere spacious to accommodate us comfortably, but still right in the heart of the city.
The Oaks on Collins is the perfect place.
Located on the bustling Collins Street, this budget-friendly hotel offers heritage charm while still having all the mod-cons –including good wi-fi and TVs with streaming capabilities.
It’s also a literal stone’s throw from the tram line or a leisurely stroll to Southern Cross and Flinders Street stations, meaning the entire city is at your fingertips.
“IT REALLY DOES FEEL LIKE A HOME AWAY FROM HOME”
When we arrived at the Oaks on Collins, there was a self check-in system at reception which was very fun to test out, but there were also plenty of staff on-hand to help and one lovely team member even offered my daughter some colouring pencils and paper while I collected our keys.
We stayed for two nights in a Cosmo Apartment, which really
does feel like a home away from home.
With two queen beds, one is located in a separate bedroom while the other is tucked away around a corner offering ample room for the whole family.
There was also a fully-equipped kitchenette as well as a lounge and dining area, so we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay.
Despite being right in the heart of the city, it was reasonably quiet in our room which meant we were well rested each night, too.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit
Melbourne a few times, but had never had the chance to check out the South Melbourne Markets, so we hopped on a tram and were there within 10 minutes.
As we surveyed the incredible foods on offer – from fresh-cut fruit and freshly shucked oysters to pork belly and burrata focaccia sandwiches – I was kicking myself I hadn’t been here sooner. It’s definitely a must-do while you’re visiting, and there’s also plenty of clothing and homewares stalls to check out while you’re there too.
If you’re a foodie, I’d also highly
recommend wandering down to Degraves Street – one of the famous laneways of Melbourne – and finding a spot to order a delicious brunch and watch the world go by.
Plus staying on Collins Street means you’re just minutes from the bustle of the main shopping precinct and museums that will keep the whole family happy.
So if you’re looking for a budgetfriendly weekend away, it can’t get any better than Melbourne! This writer stayed as a guest of Oaks on Collins.
