Home & Lifestyle December 1 2023

WELCOME TO SUMMER NEW SEASON, NEW HOUSE? | NEW REAL ESTATE LISTINGS INSIDE!

In the MIRROR

SEE PAGE 52

Your HOROSCOPES SEE PAGE 55

Crosswords & PUZZLES

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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

CLEARY LOCKS IN REAL ESTATE CAREER MOVE I

ndi Cleary is on a mission to be the best real estate agent in Sydney’s west.

The 24-year-old has just joined the powerhouse Ray White Nepean Group to take her business to the next level.

With six years of experience in the industry, the standalone agent with a first class Penrith pedigree is making a name for herself at Ray White.

“What I am loving about my new team at

Ray White Nepean Group is the amount of weekly training they offer, the support, the cutting edge technology and of course the family values, which is very important to me,” Cleary said.

“I feel like I have come home as I actually started my real estate career at age 18 at a Ray White agency in the northern beaches at Warriewood with Paul Franks, my uncle. I was there from the first day and learned the ropes from him.

“I have transitioned back to

Ray White for my own personal growth and development.

“My dad, Ivan Cleary, is my business and life mentor, and he taught me to always be community minded and follow the process and have discipline in everything that I do.”

Cleary says her dad, Penrith’s three-time Premiership winning coach, has offered invaluable advice and guidance in her career so far.

“My dad inspires me, he’s always talked about following process

and putting in the work as there’s no shortcuts to success. I have a lot to thank him for,” Cleary said.

The young gun has also founded a women’s networking group in Penrith called EMPOWHER, which meets quarterly to empower like minded business women to reach new heights.

“There weren’t any networking organisations for women in Penrith, so it was born from the idea to support women to reach their full potential in whatever field they are in,” she said.

It began as a women’s networking group and has become a niche group for influential women in the area to refer and share their knowledge.

“It’s been so beneficial to so many women in business to support each other and mentor each other,” Cleary said.

Ray White Nepean Group

“I HAVE TRANSITIONED BACK TO RAY WHITE FOR MY OWN PERSONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT”

General Manager Daniel Piredda welcomed Cleary to the team, and said he was thrilled to have her on board.

“We aim to provide a springboard to success for all our agents. We offer all the training, support, technology and help our team needs. Our group is experienced in helping young agents become top level performers in our industry,” he said.

“We have the runs on the board and I know Indi’s mindset and work ethic will ensure she is successful in her career with us.”

Stay Informed Visit our website direct to stay update to date with all recent local news Your home of local news in Penrith

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

15 GREENBANK DRIVE, WERRINGTON DOWNS

BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOME What is so great about this property?

This is a beautiful home featuring multiple living areas, freshly painted interior, new carpets,

four good sized bedrooms, modern kitchen and bathroom, large undercover entertaining area, and an open timber deck area.

Who does this property suit?

This home would be perfect for any young family needing plenty of living space and a great sized fully fenced backyard for kids.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

The location is perfect being so close to local shops and schools, and a short drive to Penrith.

$879,990

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OPEN FOR INSPECTION Contact agent for details CONTACT Penrith Professionals Real Estate Ross Heidtmann • 0407 113 039 ross@penrithprofessionals.com.au

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

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131 Coreen Ave, Penrith (02) 4731 4242

Friday, December 1, 2023 « the western weekender

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-867 /,67(' 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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• 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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WE HAVE QUALIFIED BUYERS WAITING TO PURCHASE IN YOUR AREA! If you are considering selling your property please Contact Gizzelle today for a confidential discussion and market *,==(//( 32:(// appraisal.

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• 10kW Solar Panels • Plantation Shutters • To be sold with Designer-Sourced Furniture

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

• Multi Dwelling Site • 6 approved cabins plus potential for further houses

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Penrith Greater Region and Blue Mountains OPEN HOME

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16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood

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Definitely Worth Your Time!

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

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$1,029,000 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 69 Second Avenue, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

FOR SALE

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$669,990

• 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite to main • Private U/C timber deck entertaining area • Secured gated complex with street frontage

• Beautiful 2-storey, 3-bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • Huge modern kitchen with S/S appliances

2.5

INSPECT Sat 2 December 10am – 10.30am ADDRESS 16/14-18 George Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood

Beautiful, Stylish & Modern • Modern 2-storey 3 bedroom townhouse • Spacious open living design • 3 good-sized bedrooms, ensuite & WIR to main • Large modern kitchen & bathroom • Ducted A/C throughout • 1 of 10 in complex, street frontage

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$659,990 INSPECT Contact Agent ADDRESS 10/28-30 Joseph Street, Kingswood CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100

penrithprofessionals.com.au 02 4725 3100 253 High Street, Penrith Friday, December 1, 2023 « the western weekender

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APARTME

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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

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Interior

111sqm

Exterior

33sqm

Total

144sqm

Price

$829,500

9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

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

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

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SWIM SAFETY The Experts

GIVE THE GIFT OF SWIM SAFETY THIS CHRISTMAS T

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

his year has certainly been challenging in terms of the rise in cost-of-living, petrol and grocery prices and interest rate hikes, making the lead up to Christmas an anxious time for many households. All of these circumstances have me questioning if we really need all the extra purchases that usually accompany this time of year, and if the type of presents we are giving need to be rethought?

For me, this Christmas needs to be a stress free event, less about multiple or large presents under the tree, and all about time spent with loved ones. It is very important this year that the gifts I exchange with family are meaningful, not whatever I could grab during my usual last minute dash to Westfield in the weekend before the big day. A gift that will not end up discarded by New Year’s Day. A gift that will make a difference and / or bring joy to the recipient. A gift that will promote long lasting confidence, skills or a memorable experience.

With over half of Aussie kids currently not attending swimming lessons, denying them the basic skills needed to safely experience all of the aquatic activities on offer in the Australian summertime, what could be a better gift than swimming lessons?

SWIM Australia CEO, Brendon Ward said

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.

We are already seeing a surge in requests for gift vouchers from grandparents particularly, but also aunties, uncles and friends of the family, being organised from as far afield as interstate and overseas.

Swimming lessons are a gift that require no storage space, promote health, physical activity and safety, are fun, and teach a skill that will last a lifetime.

Alan Bentley, owner of Nepean Swim and Fitness agreed.

“Many children missed out on time in the water during lockdowns, and we are still seeing the effects this day, with only 41 per cent of Aussie kids currently in swimming lessons. However, the dangers of the water remain, so gifting swimming lessons for Christmas is both a thoughtful and practical gift. Adults who are unable to swim may also request swimming lessons for Christmas to help them to set and reach the goal of learning to swim in 2024,” he said.

Gift vouchers can be used for any of our programs, and in conjunction with Active Kids Vouchers. Creative Kids vouchers can be used towards our Paddles Swim Safety Camps.

BROKING BREAKDOWN

T

he Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has hit mortgage holders with five interest rate hikes this year, and there remain fears the central bank could be set to play the Grinch at its final meeting for 2023.

After keeping the cash rate on hold for the previous four meetings, the RBA whacked borrowers with an unwelcome quarter of a per cent increase last month to take official rates up to 4.35 per cent.

And homeowners struggling to meet mortgage payments and facing costof-living headaches have cause for concern the RBA could be ready to raise rates ahead of Christmas when it meets for the last time on Tuesday.

RBA Governor Michele Bullock cited another lift in inflation as the reason for last month’s increase, and since then she has pointed to higher wages growth as a further inflationary pressure point.

Bullock said wages growth needs to be matched with a

pick-up in productivity to keep inflation at bay.

“But we haven’t had any productivity growth in Australia for a number of years,” she said.

While borrowers brace for possible pre-Christmas punishment from the RBA, new data from credit bureau Illion has found western Sydney families have borne the brunt of the fastest interest rate hikes in a generation.

According to Illion, seven out of every 1000 Sydneysiders – or 0.71 per cent – are at least a month behind on their mortgages in July. That is up from 0.63 per cent in February.

But in a string of western Sydney suburbs, including Maraylya, Blackett, Shalvey, Narellan and North St Marys, 25 out of 1000 borrowers or 2.5 per cent are behind on their mortgage.

Illion head of model-

MARK STEVENSON Bell Partners Finance bellpartnersfinance.com.au

ling, Barrett Hasseldine, said while the majority of Sydney was keeping up, the affected areas had recorded a significant increase in arrears in the past nine months.

“A delinquency rate of 2.5 per cent or more is incredibly high,” Hasseldine said.

“Those households will be under significant financial pressure.”

Perhaps evidence of that kind will dissuade the RBA board from taking another bite.

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WILL RBA BE THE GRINCH AGAIN?

The Experts

Give the gift of swimming lessons Christmas Gift Vouchers now available!

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Friday, December 1, 2023 « the western weekender

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IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce Aussie products that deserve a place under the tree this Christmas

W

ith Christmas c o m i n g up, you’re probably looking out for the perfect gift for your beauty-obsessed friends and family members.

You can always go the route of restocking some of their favourite products, or you could choose a product from a newly released holiday range.

But, if you’re wanting to get something a little more unique this Christmas, I’d recommend looking closer to home.

Recently, Australian brands have really been taking over in the beauty space, whether it’s makeup, skincare, sunscreen, or storage options. You might even find something to add to your own Christmas list!

Summer Fling Mango Scrub – a hydrating salt and sand scrub that’s perfect to prep for self-tanner, or scrub off sunscreen.

Frank Body I know, I know, it’s hardly unique, but you can’t bypass Frank Body when talking about Australian beauty brands.

Famous for their coffee scrubs, Frank Body creates beautiful hair, body and face products that are vegan, cruelty free, and all Australian made.

As someone who can’t stand the smell of coffee, I’d recommend their

Ultra Violette Despite launching back in 2019, it was in 2023 that the globe became obsessed with Ultra Violette.

Ultra Violette is well and truly leading a new gen of Australian-made sunscreen, with products that not only provide protection for your skin, but also consider what else you may be wearing on your face, and are comfortable enough for daily wear.

My personal favourite is their Lean Screen Spf 50+ Mattifying Zinc Skin-

screen, though they have plenty of options for all different skin types, as well as an SPF BFF Quiz so you can find the best choice for your friend that’s (rightfully) scared of the sun.

Etoile Collective I came across Etoile Collective on TikTok just a few months ago, and I’m already obsessed!

Owned by Melbourne woman Michelle Hu, Etoile Collective focuses

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• Plastering • High Pressure Driveway Cleans • Concrete Sealing & Painting • Hedging and Tree Maintenance • Concrete Cutting (up to 100mm deep) • General Handyman Services

yardley1804@gmail.com

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

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Contact David 0415 312 294 WW43972

on what’s around your products, including storage options, travel cases, and mirrors.

Having already purchased one makeup bag with another on the way, I can attest to the fact that their products are incredibly high quality, made even better with fast shipping! You can even personalise some of their products, making for the perfect, thoughtful gift.

Naked Sundays As far as cute packaging goes, you really can’t go past Naked Sundays.

Though the brand is based around their sunscreens, it’s their newer products which have really put them on the map.

The CabanaGlow SPF50 Mineral Glow Serum Drops are a dupe for the Drunk Elephant equivalent, and their SPF50 Glow + Go Lip Oils are absolutely stunning (and have a place on my Christmas list this year).

Lust Minerals Lust Minerals is an Australian clean beauty brand specialising in high performance mineral makeup and clean skincare.

Whilst I’m a newbie when it comes to mineral makeup, I’ve been loving their Pro Finish Foundation and HD Setting Powder for a look that lasts all day, with either making for the perfect gift for the makeup lover in your life.

IDENTIFYING A LUMP IN PETS

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hilst lumps on pets are more frequently seen in older pets, they can also appear on younger animals too. But what do you do if you find that lump or bump on your pet? Sometimes, they are harmless, but every so often they are a sign that something else may be happening. It is recommended that you check your pet’s body on a regular basis. This will allow you to become more familiar with what’s normal and recognise any changes that occur.

Checking for lumps You can check for lumps on your pet by running your fingers through their coat starting with the head, back, sides, chest, belly, and down the legs. Although some lumps may not cause a concern, some can be very dangerous if left untreated.

What kinds of lumps are there?

• Lipomas (fatty lumps) – Lipomas are the most common lump found on dogs and are more

common in overweight pets. These are benign cancers that can grow quite slowly and rarely spread.

• Mast cell tumours – Mast cell tumours are a common type of cancer that can take on many different appearances Some breeds of dogs may be more commonly affected, but all breeds can suffer from mast cell disease. Mast cell tumours are potentially very serious and early detection and diagnosis is the key.

• Mammary tumours (breast cancer) – Unfortunately, these lumps can be amongst the most aggressive forms of cancer. These lumps must be checked immediately by your veterinarian.

• Warts – Warts are more common in older animals and look like a small tag of skin attached to the coat. They can be irritating and, in some cases, require removal.

PET HEALTH

HEALTH

The Experts

The Experts

OSTEOARTHRITIS AND EXERCISE

O KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027 • Sebaceous cysts – These are swellings filled with a creamy matter, often seen in older pets. Often the swellings become quite red, but normally do not cause any problems.

• Histiocytoma – Histiocytoma are a red button like lump that are usually found on young pets.

They usually go away in about 2-3 months.

How can I tell if a lump on my pet is cancer?

You cannot tell whether a lump is cancerous just by looking at it. Your veterinarian will examine the lump and recommend the most appropriate testing moving forward. They will also examine your pet.

steoarthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions of an entire joint resulting from a gradual loss of cartilage. Cartilage is the protective cushion between the bones and when this breaks down, bone overgrowth occurs and fluid filled pockets called subchondral cysts result in inflammation and stiffness within the entire joint.

The most common joints to be affected by osteoarthritis are our hips, knees and hands, with hips and knees causing the most pain due to their weight bearing load.

Fundamentally osteoarthritis causes chronic pain, reduces physical function, causes muscle wastage and diminishes quality of life.

Due to the pain associated with osteoarthritis, most people feel that exercise will make their pain worse and therefore opt to rest from exercise. It is important to understand why exercise helps osteoarthritis and what exercise you should do

to improve your symptoms.

Research has found that land based exercise is the most dominant non pharmacological intervention recommended for the treatment and management of osteoarthritis. Exercise is implemented to help improve joint range of motion, improve joint stability and muscle strength in the surrounding areas and help with weight loss.

A structured progressive strength training program that targets muscle hypertrophy will help to improve function and decrease pain, particularly in load bearing joints such as the hips and knees.

Swimming is a great way to get started on an exercise program if pain levels are too high initially. Swimming can

GEORGIA SMITH One Point Health 4732 5188

help to increase strength in a non-weight bearing environment before moving to a land based exercise program.

Weight is the biggest modifiable factor to decrease pain associated with osteoarthritis. Being overweight impacts how much weight the joint has to sustain with each step taken; particularly with the hips and knees.

Each additional kilogram of body mass increases the compressive load placed on the knee by roughly four kilograms.

To decrease your pain related to osteoarthritis, do not stop exercise, seek a structured progressive land based training program from an Exercise Physiologist.

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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Contact us!

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PET OF THE WEEK Relax & Unwind

VOICEOVERS ON HOLD MESSAGES my name: Tammy my proud owner: Fiona i live in: Colyton a bit about me: 11-year-old Tammy is such a

RADIO COMMERCIALS & ALL OTHER AUDIO info@hourmedia.com.au www.happyhourmedia.com.au

big sooky-pants that loves attention especially from her human family. Everyone that meets her falls in love with her instantly. Her favourite things to do are play ball and eat!

Email Cassidy.Pearce@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 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

Courageous Mars and the creative Sun are currently transiting through your hopes and wishes zone. So it’s important to dream a dream, turn it into a goal, and then make it happen. No procrastinating or complaining Aquarius! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Walt Disney (who was born on December 5, 1901), “All your dreams can come true, if you have the courage to pursue them.”

Friday is fabulous for catching up with family and friends.

The more creative and proactive you are at work, school or college, the better the week will be. And the more you help others, the more connected you’ll feel.

With Mercury moving through your networking zone, it’s also time to boost your social media profile by communicating with more family, friends, colleagues, clients and/or customers.

You have the ability to influence people in positive ways, as you employ encouragement and praise to get others onside.

With the Sun and Mars shining in fellow fire sign Sagittarius, you’re in Ram freedom-bunny mode! Plus indulgent Venus and restless Jupiter rev up your adventurous, extravagant side. So this week will work best if you experiment and explore, stretch well beyond your comfort zone, and fraternise with a stimulating crowd. But you could receive unsettling information about a friend or financial matter. Do some stringent fact checking and be extra patient.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

This week’s stars highlight the constant balancing act between individual needs and relationship responsibilities. Jupiter and Uranus (both in Taurus) emphasise the importance of maintaining your individuality and prioritising personal projects. Whereas Venus (your ruling planet) shines a bright spotlight on your partner, relatives and/or friends. Are you meeting their needs, as well as your own?

Tuesday and Wednesday are terrific for socialising.

The Sun and Mars are both transiting through your relationship zone so a problem with a loved one should start to improve, as long as you are proactive about finding a solution. When it comes to your aspirations for the future, don’t just dream about them. You need a practical plan (and the cooperation of others) to turn abstract dreams into robust reality. The late week stars highlight travelling, teaching, studying, intense conversation and inner contemplation.

Attached Crabs – this week’s stars are perfect for cementing your commitment to your partner, as you find extra romantic ways to show your affection.

Singles – give superficial suitors a wide berth. Look for lasting love with a soulful Scorpio or a charismatic Capricorn. And – with the Sun and Mars in your wellbeing zone – don’t just talk about improving your fitness levels. Be proactive, jump off the comfy couch and get physical in the great outdoors!

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

The focus is on friends, as the Sun and Mars move through your friendship zone.

But don’t let your peer group influence you too much. The planets encourage being your own person and doing your own thing. So your motto for the week is from birthday great, singer-songwriter Jim Morrison, “A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself.”

Creativity is high on Friday, but don’t let your tendency to gossip come between you and others.

This week Mercury (your power planet) forms a fabulous trine with lucky, plucky Jupiter. Plus Jupiter and Uranus are both jumping through your aspirations and adventure zone. So you need to be more proactive and courageous about turning current average opportunities into future good fortune. Where intention flows, energy goes! Your inspiring motto for the moment is from birthday great, poet Emily Dickinson, “Fortune befriends the bold.”

On Tuesday and Wednesday, taskmaster Saturn links up with your ruling planet Venus. Which encourages and boosts your conscientious, perfectionist side. But don’t overdo it Libra! Leave room for mistakes, stumbles and occasional sloppiness. No one can get things 100 per cent right all the time. Wisdom for the week comes from birthday great, actress Dame Judi Dench, “I think you should take your job seriously, but not yourself – that is the best combination.”

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Mercury and Pluto (your patron planet) are transiting through your communication zone. So you’re keen to enjoy plenty of stimulating conversations with a wide range of interesting, adventurous people within your extended peer group.

It’s a wonderful week for flashes of inspiration as you fraternise with local, interstate and/or international friends.

The Venus-Saturn trine will help you sort out your priorities and face relationship responsibilities with a smile.

The Sun and Mars are visiting your sign (plus Mercury and Venus link up with Jupiter) so you’re in adventurous, freedom-loving mode. Limiting rules, regulations and restrictions won’t be welcome! But slow down Sagittarius, otherwise you could be involved in an argument or accident. Inspiring quote is from singer-songwriter Jim Morrison (who was born on December 8, 1943), “The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are.”

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Venus makes a lovely link with your power planet Saturn. Which favours financial matters, established relationships and finding long-term love. Then Friday’s Mercury/Jupiter trine is particularly good for business, travel, education, conversation and curiosity. Your mantra for the moment is from birthday great Walt Disney, “We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things because we’re curious.”

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Friday, December 1, 2023 « the western weekender

55

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

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© 2023 Syndicated Puzzles

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INTERFAITH REMEMBRANCE

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Test your knowledge about Christmas classic ‘Home Alone’ in our special trivia quiz this week...

1. How many siblings does Kevin have?

2. What are the names of the two burglars?

3. The two burglars give themselves what calling card / nickname?

4. According to Uncle Frank, at what time is the family leaving for the Paris vacation?

5. Why doesn’t anyone want to sleep with Fuller?

6. What item does Kevin steal from the supermarket?

7. What is the name of the renta-truck company Gus Polinski and his band use?

8. What letter got melted into Harry’s hand from the hot door handle?

ANSWERS 1. Four 2. Harry and Marv 3. The Wet Bandits 4. 8am 5. He wets the bed 6. Toothbrush 7. Budget 8. M

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57

Test Your Brain brought to you by Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital orchardhillsvet.com.au | 4736 2027

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOK No. 674

We won the Pet Care category in 2015, 6 and 2019, and we are looking forward to the 2021 awards presentation!

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

Str8ts

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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.

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the western weekender » Friday, December 1, 2023

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© 2023 Syndicated Puzzles

Camille and all the staff at rchard Hills Veterinary Hospital wish to hank everyone who voted for us in the 021 Penrith City Local Business Awards.