Creating sustainable homes is rapidly becoming central to design and architectural considerations as we continue to integrate new and innovative ways to minimise our impact on the environment.
Regardless of whether you are starting a new build or simply renovating, sustainable design can be implemented at any phase of a project. From planning the homes’ orientation or choosing green wall solutions in the early phases to installing new paving or a water tank later on – anyone can create an eco-friendly home or space that best suits them, the key is choosing the right sustainable materials.
up as aesthetic and functional spaces that can be created to complement the look and feel of the entire home.
The ability to achieve a sustainable home that doesn’t compromise on style lies in the materials chosen. A key material in the outdoor and landscaping market is permeable paving. Permeable paving can greatly enhance the curb appeal of a home and create functional and lovely garden paths, walkways and driveways.
“The benefits of using permeable paving such as Adbri Masonry’s Turfgrid are endless and it’s a landscape design solution that should be utilised more,” Hodges said.
“There are numerous reasons why homeowners are looking to create sustainable homes,” said Jason Hodges, Landscape Expert and Adbri Masonry Ambassador.
“The most common reason is for better energy consumption, meaning lower running costs and more money in your back pocket. Other drawcards include a desire to reduce the environmental footprint and increased property values, with sustainable homes often having a higher resale price.”
Often, when thinking of designing an eco-friendly home we tend to focus on the interior elements or structural and architectural concerns. However, landscaping solutions are also a great option when looking to integrate innovative green systems. Eco-friendly landscaping designs also double
Permeable paving is a pavement system comprising purpose-designed paving units and specially graded base materials to allow water to move freely through the base, or be stored within the pavement. As more land is developed and covered with impervious surfaces, our stormwater and river systems are under increasing pressure to manage the high volumes of surface run-off which enters them. This increases the potential for downstream flooding and erosion. As an alternative to conventional paving, permeable paving systems encourage water to infiltrate through the pavement surface and substructure to the ground below, easing the pressure on these already overburdened systems.
To design a stylish and sustainable backyard space, the key is to focus on colour, texture and pattern when selecting materials. For residential use, Hodges suggests using Adbri Masonry’s Turfgrid which is specifically designed for light to medium traffic levels. These easy-to-install permeable pavers also maintain an even ground level.
For more information, visit www.adbrimasonry.com.au.
“HOMEOWNERS ARE LOOKING TO CREATE SUSTAINABLE HOMES”
What is so great about this property? Location, location, location. Located across the road from the Glenmore Park Home Co Shopping Centre. Walking distance to the bus stop, family friendly parks, and local sporting facilities. Close to child care centres and schools. A stunning executive style tri-level townhouse. Ducted air conditioning, freshly painted, new carpet, and much more.
Who does this property suit? First home buyers, investors, and downsizers.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Glenmore Park is a family friendly suburb. Approximately five kilometres from the Penrith CBD, Railway Station, Westfield Shopping Centre and Hospital. Approximately 15 kilometres to the new Western Sydney Airport.
For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1220607/
in the lounge room with a bar
• Open plan living/dining situated off the kitchen
• Under cover entertainment area leading to the inground swimming pool
• Double carport with 3 phase power
For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1273326/
• Charming ground floor unit
• Recently renovated kitchen
• Spacious bathroom
• Balcony
• Underground security parking, plus offstreet parking
• Located in a quiet and leafy street
• Two generous-sized bedrooms
• Walk-in robe to the main
• Updated L-shaped kitchen
• Combined living & dining with air conditioning
• Low maintenance coutyard plus a single carport
• Perfect opportunity to break into the Sydney market
$439,999 - $479,999
• Recently renovated bathroom
• Spacious open-plan layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas
• Split system air conditioning
• Large backyard with granny flat potential (STCA)
• 2 storage sheds perfect for extra storage
• Situated on a 588m2 block
Just Listed
INSPECT Sat 8 July at 11:45am - 12:15pm
ADDRESS 19 Murdoch Street, Blackett
CONTACT Professionals St Marys 9673 4422 Rob Masters 0414 281 291
For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1278018/
Magnificent Large Family Home
• Large, open, airy, beautifully-tiled living areas
• Spacious brand-new styled bathroom, featuring a frameless shower screen
• Generous-sized kitchen with stone benchtops
• Massive outdoor entertainment
• Ducted air conditioning throughout
• Large backyard that could fit a granny flat
Just Listed
INSPECT By Appointment ADDRESS Minchinbury
CONTACT Professionals Erskine Park 9834 3555
Angelo Mavris 0425 361 696
For more information visit: www.professionalsouterwesternsydney.com.au/real-estate/property/1257901/
•
• Stunning modern 2 bedroom unit
• Spacious open living design
• Gorgeous modern kitchen with S/S appliances
• 2 great-sized bedrooms, stylish ensuite to main
• Large balcony with northern aspect
• Currently returning $380 per week in rent
$529,950
INSPECT Sat 8 July at 10:00am - 10:30am
ADDRESS 56/144 High Street, Penrith
CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100
$290,000
INSPECT Sat 8 July at 10:45am - 11:15am
ADDRESS 18/9-11 Santley Crescent, Kingswood
CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100
•
$349,950
• Spacious living design with high ceilings
• 2 good-sized bedrooms
• Galley-style kitchen
• Large under cover balcony area
• Close to Penrith CBD, Kmart shopping complex, schools, bus stops
INSPECT Sat 8 July at 11:30am - 12:00pm
ADDRESS 24/175 Derby Street, Penrith
CONTACT Professionals Penrith 4725 3100
Fixed Price Package $431,722
Potential rental return: $650 per week
2 houses 2 incomes
within walking distance
Gizzelle, you have done it again!
“ Gizzelle was very impressive and we are very happy we had her by our side in our journey to selling our property. She has been very honest, transparent and very supportive of all our needs in every step of the way. Her skilful abilities in marketing and finding the right buyer was exactly what we needed. We will not hesitate to have her again and will recommend her to others needing Agent help. Thank you so much Gizzelle. ” – Verified by RateMyAgent
I highly recommend Litsa . . . She is one of the best Agents!
Litsa is one of the best agents, fair and very responsive to every detailed enquiry. Litsa is very professional and knowledgeable in providing a great outcome. Highly recommended. She makes you feel prioritised. Sincerely, with a smile and with great results. She is completely in touch with the market with professional attention to detail.
– Verified by RateMyAgent
kitchen with s/s appliances & dishwasher • Ducted air cond
• Modern bathroom with separate toilet • Securely fenced & large backyard • R2 zoning, possible for granny flat or duplex (STCA) • 500m walk to Werrington Public
Fixed Price : $1,040,530
Ducted air con both houses
Potential uplift on completion: $1,340,000
MELETI
M: 0466 969 164
E: litsameleti@remax.com.au
• 3 generous-sized BRs, 2 fitted with BIRs • Natural light-filled living room with s/s air cond • Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar plus ample storage space
Main bathroom with separate bath & shower
Fixed price (suitable for SMSF)
19.2% gross rental yield, approx $162,000 approx rent
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
Apartment G.03 3 2 2
Interior 111sqm
Exterior 33sqm
Total 144sqm
Price $829,500
9043 7500 metrocentral.oranparktown.com.au
In a “practice what you preach” moment, I’m currently reviewing my finances and part of that process involves addressing my mortgage. I’m happy with my current lender, but I’m left with a decision we all face; should I fix my interest rate?
I’ve never been one to try to crystal ball the future. I won’t pretend to be able to accurately predict the unknown variables of if rates will keep going up, where will they stop, and whether they will come back down and if so when? The thing is, the banks, with much greater resources than I, are forecasting all of the above before setting a fixed rate to ensure they don’t miss out; it isn’t easy to beat the bank!
For me, the benefit of locking in my interest rate is that I know what my payment will be for a fixed period of time. I know that I can afford the payment and I can plan my finances around it. History suggests that, over time, fixing rates is likely to result in a fractionally higher average rate. I’m happy to pay this premium for the certainty of knowing my payments won’t increase to a point that I’m unable to afford them.
There are some other disadvantages of the fixed rate option. There are limitations on the amount of additional repayments you can make and you may incur break costs if you exit the loan early.
The variable option is far more flexible
After presiding over an ultra-aggressive interest rate raising policy to tackle soaring inflation, Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor, Philip Lowe, is set to become the scapegoat for the economic and political fallout.
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers has indicated he will soon announce a decision on what will happen with the RBA Governor’s position when Lowe’s seven-year term expires in September.
While Lowe’s predecessors Ian Macfarlane and Glenn Stevens won three-year extensions to their seven-year terms, there has been a pile on against Lowe over the rate rises which began in May last year, and an appetite to get a new face for the RBA.
Lowe is likely to be punished for his repeated comments during the COVID era of 2020 and 2021 that official interest rates were likely to stay at record lows until
at least 2024. He has since apologised to the Australian public and said he would have “chosen different language” in hindsight. Those controversial comments were made prior to unexpected shocks such as the Russian inva-
sion of Ukraine and the tensions between China and the United States which have impacted on the global economy and led to soaring inflation levels worldwide.
But critics of Lowe believe the
RBA board should have managed consumer expectations better at the time and also lifted the cash rate earlier from its record low of 0.1 per cent.
By the time the RBA had started its rate-hiking cycle, many countries, including New Zealand, Canada and the US, had already been increasing rates for several months.
If Lowe is replaced, the RBA’s top job seems likely to go to a woman for the first time, with federal Finance Department Secretary Jenny Wilkinson and RBA Deputy Governor Michele Bullock among frontrunners for the role.
Chalmers has boasted that more than half the staff in his own office are women.
If there is a new face for the RBA, they may be better known for rate cuts rather than rises if the inflation dragon can be tamed. We will now very soon how it will unfold.
Future Financial Services
4704 8585
and currently is lower than the fixed rates. Having a variable interest rate allows you to make additional payments as you see fit, provides the option to shop your loan around as you please and overall is less restrictive. The downside is that your interest rate can change at any time. Many of us have experienced just that over the last two years.
In the end, I opted for a little of both! I already have my loan split in two; one portion (about 20 per cent) with a much shorter repayment period to force me to make additional repayments to reduce my debt quickly, and the remainder in a more traditional mortgage structure.
I decided I would fix the larger loan for three years to provide certainty in repayments for the foreseeable future. The smaller loan I have left on variable, this also provides the opportunity to make additional repayments if we choose. This “best of both worlds” suits my situation but is not the answer for everyone. Like most things in life, the fixed versus variable decision is a trade-off. In this case we trade certainty for flexibility.
When Windows 8 was released in October 2012 to replace Windows 7, it became one of the most popular computer operating systems ever. Sadly, the time of Windows 8 has come to an end. With Microsoft officially discontinuing support for it on January 10, 2023. This means that Microsoft will no longer be releasing security patches and updates for the operating system. Windows 8 still holds a large share of the desktop Windows market share, and many homes and businesses, including yours, may be at risk now that the support is discontinued.
The lack of security updates and support from Microsoft after the end of life will result in your computers being unprotected from the hundreds of thousands of new viruses and malware being developed every day, potentially increasing your vulnerability to hackers or data theft. It could also make computers more susceptible to ransomware, in which a
computer is locked, and money is demanded to regain access. But all of these problems can be avoided by migrating to a newer operating system. There is no direct way to upgrade from Windows 8 to the latest edition, Windows 11. Windows 11 also has hardware requirements that older comput-
ers do not support, specifically a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and a Secure Boot Option. So it is unlikely that a Windows 8 computer could run Windows 11. Some options, if you are still running Windows 8, are
• Continue using Windows 8 and accept the risk that you will be more vulnerable to
security risks. Not really an option given the increase in hacking and fraud activity.
• Upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10. Windows 10 remains under support until October 2025. Initially, this was free for a period of time. The website for the free upgrade is still online, so head here and select Update Now: https://www.microsoft.com/ en-us/software-download/ windows10.
• If you are a business and have Office 365 – upgrade to Microsoft 365 level, which includes Windows 10 or 11 licences.
• Purchase a new PC or laptop. There are devices that meet almost all price points.
• Switch to Linux – an open source operating system which is updated regularly with security patches. At Nortec, we understand the complexities surrounding migration to new operating systems and are here to help! Give us a call if you need any assistance.
From rollers to heat tools and dressing gown ties, it’s clear that people will try just about anything to uncover the secret to having flawless hair – without the associated damage.
In 2018, the Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler well and truly changed the game, with curling, straightening and drying attachments using innovative technology to minimise the use of heat, all for a cool $949.
As someone who spent years straightening my hair multiple times a week – to the point where even close friends thought it was natural – this all sounded very intriguing. But the price tag? Not so much.
Fast forward to April 2023 and the Airwrap’s younger (and cheaper) cousin, the Shark FlexStyle, finally launched in Australia at just $499. Still pricey, of course, but is it worth
it if it saves your hair, and replaces the need for other tools?
In terms of similarities, the Airwrap and the FlexStyle are both produced by reputable vacuum brands. Both have a range of features, including the iconic auto-wrap curling wands, and advertise themselves as heat-tool alternatives that are better for the hair than standard hairdryers, straighteners or similar.
But, with the Airwrap having made such an impact on the industry, it’s easy to question whether the FlexStyle is a quality product in its own right, or nothing more than a
poor dupe.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been testing out the FlexStyle and can confirm that the latter is simply not the case.
Along with the hairdryer base, the FlexStyle comes with six attachments – a Styling Concentrator, Curl-Defining Diffuser, Paddle Brush, Oval Brush, and two Auto-Wrap Curlers – packed into a sleek and convenient case.
Immediately, I was surprised by the power of the base alone, which can be used straight, or twisted into the shape of a regular hairdryer. But, seeing the other tools combat my
somewhere-between-wavyand-curly hair texture was even more exciting.
Taking into consideration the obvious critique that both the Airwrap and the FlexStyle can be tricky to manoeuvre, particularly when also balanc ing the dampness of your hair with the tool’s heat and airflow settings, I found that after a few attempts at using the curlers, the process became fairly autonomous, leav ing your hair shiny and bouncy for days.
The minimal heat applied with the tool is of course a bonus, though heat protection is always a must!
Having only tried the Airwrap once in-store a few years ago, I admit this isn’t the most even comparison.
Lipoedema is a chronic condition that involves abnormal laydown of inflammatory adipose tissue (fat) in the legs and arms, the most common symptoms include easy bruising, hypermobility (overly flexible joints), swelling, and pain (can be very severe) that can either come and go or is only felt when the fat is pushed on very lightly like the tap of a finger. It’s not well established on the cause of lipedema, but it occurs almost exclusively in females and is reported to start or worsen during hormonal shifts like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
Lipoedema vs obesity
The main symptoms that can differentiate lipedema from obesity (as they’re often confused) is the pain sensitivity to touch and the patterns of fat deposits, as obesity involves fat throughout the whole body whilst lipedema fat is not found in the hands and feet and might just affect the legs or just affect the arms.
Lipoedema vs lipolymphoedema (lipo-lymphoedema)
There will typically be swelling in lipoedema because the excessive fat content can mechanically restrict the lymph vessels from working properly, leading to fluid build-up, which can eventually result to a failed lymphatic system called lymphoe-
dema, but in this case, lipolymphoedema. The legs in lipoedema are symmetrical whilst one leg can be bigger than the other in a lipolymphoedema.
Treatment options
Exercise and dieting have shown no effect into losing weight in lipoedema patients. However, following an anti-inflammatory diet and a suitable exercise program for the individual is important to prevent worsening the condition.
Light touch may be a trigger for pain but some individuals from past clinical experiences have shown tolerance to the contact of MLD massage and applying a compression garment, which are most beneficial into preventing or managing lymphoedema.
The surgical removal of fat is called liposuction and is an option to improve lipoedema. However, as with all surgeries, it must be carefully discussed with your doctor.
Seeking a professional in mental health like a psychologist may also be needed.
As winter temperature arrive, we often see an increase in arthritis cases in both young and old pets. One in five dogs suffers from the pain and disability caused by arthritis. Cats can also suffer from the damaging effects of this condition and may have difficulty grooming themselves or going to the toilet.
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting dogs but as pets are unable to communicate their pain, the early signs of this illness are often missed or simply attributed to old age. Yet arthritis is a chronic, painful, degenerative condition that can develop gradually over time, affecting one or more joints (typically the hips, knees and elbows) and causing much inflammation and pain. Arthritis is not limited to certain breeds and it can affect any pet at any age. It can influence a pet’s quality of life and prevent it from enjoying simple, daily activities such as walking, running or playing.
Signs that a pet may be suffering from arthritis
• reluctance to walk or play
• limping
• stiffness of joints in the morning or after a sleep
• licking or biting of joints
• difficulty in rising from a resting position
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.
• difficulty in climbing stairs
• change in personality – less happy and playful or sometimes aggressive and irritable
Arthritis cannot be cured. The key to controlling the pain associated with arthritis is managing the inflammation within the joints. The added benefit to this is that with proper management, progression can be slowed.
• Weight control is extremely important when managing the symptoms and minimising the progression of arthritis. Excess weight will put additional pressure on already affected joints.
• Walking and swimming are the best forms of exercise for dogs with arthritis.
• Omega 3 fatty acids help block the inflammation around joints that causes pain. They also suppress the activity of an enzyme that causes cartilage damage, thus slowing the progression of arthritis.
• Joint cartilage protective medications aim to increase joint fluid production and increase blood supply to joint surfaces. The use of polysulphate injections have been proven to slow the progression of arthritis and help control the pain associated with the disease. Anti-inflammatory
medications can also be used to help control the pain associated with arthritis
• Some amazing medical breakthroughs in medication to treat the pain and inflammation of arthritis in dogs and cats have become available for both dogs and cats. They are proving to be highly beneficial in treating the pain of arthritis. These injections are a monoclonal antibody that is injected under the skin and targets a protein that stimulates pain in arthritic patients.
• Neutraceuticals such as Green Lipped Mussel have also shown good results in assisting dogs with arthritis. These products contain chondroitin and or glucosamine.
• There are many prescription joint diets for both dogs and cats that have been shown to assist in alleviating the discomfort and improving the workings of diseased joints.
We offer
•Vaccinations
•Microchipping
•Dental care
•Radiography
•Surgery
Camille and all the staff at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital wish to thank everyone who voted for us in the 2021 Penrith City Local Business Awards. are grateful for the continued support friendship of our clients and their pets.
•Ultrasound
We won the Pet Care category in 2015, and 2019, and we are looking forward to the 2021 awards presentation!
Contact us!
4736 2027
49 Wentworth Road,Orchard Hills, NSW 2748
Monday - Friday: 8:00am-7:00pm Saturday: 8:00am - 2:00pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9.00am-3.00pm
This week the Sun/Uranus link wakes up a work project or fires up a family dream. And how are you really feeling?
The Sun and Mercury energise your wellbeing zone. So it’s a good time to review your health and fitness; plus revise your diet and exercise routine. Then make appropriate adjustments and improvements. But they must be creative tweaks that specifically suit your idiosyncratic Aquarian style.
Are you still blaming yourself for mistakes you made many moons ago? Or are you still holding a grudge towards someone who wronged you many years ago? It’s time to forgive others – and yourself – for transgressions from the past. So your mantra is from author Marianne Williamson, “Forgiveness is not always easy. And yet, there is no peace without forgiveness.” The Sun and Uranus encourage fresh adventures!
The planetary patterns highlight freedom, independence, adventure and creative projects. If you pace yourself and prioritise, then you’ll get things done without feeling rushed and frazzled. It’s also a good week to socialise with family, close friends and work colleagues, as you participate in some lively and stimulating conversations. But avoid getting drawn into an argument where you end up saying things that you later regret.
Careful communication is the key to an agreeable week. The Sun and Uranus encourage you to blast away redundant attitudes, release old grudges and let bygones be bygones. Plus Mercury and Venus encourage you to work through domestic dramas and family squabbles in a proactive and diplomatic way. And Mars pushes you to get moving! As Henry David Thoreau said, “An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.”
Don’t allow a loved one to manipulate you on Monday or Tuesday, as they try to persuade you to do something against your better judgment. Have the emotional strength to stand your ground and say no. With your ruler Mercury moving into Leo, you’ve got energy to burn but make sure you channel it into productive pursuits. Mental activities and current affairs are favoured, as you pick up information with speed.
Prepare for a contrary kind of week Crabs! The current celestial cocktail includes a Sun/Uranus connection. So you’re in the mood for change but you’re also feeling sentimental, as you revisit the past and wallow in an ocean of emotion. Uranus encourages you to look to the future with fresh eyes, a curious mind and a full heart. When it comes to your local community, shake off your shyness and get involved.
Unpredictable Uranus links up with the fiery Sun, so boredom is a big no-no this week. Search out unusual people, places and activities, especially connected with your long-term career and future direction. You’ll favour excitement and novel ideas over the tried and tested. When it comes to routine work, health, and secrets, do your research. Things aren’t as straight-forward as they seem. Get someone you trust to help you out.
Your very discreet Virgo nature is emphasised, as Mercury moves from your peer group zone into your solitude zone. Make it a priority to connect with like-minded people who understand your particular peccadillos and strong need for privacy. A loved one could be temperamental, so handle them with extra care and don’t try to work out where they are coming from. Travel and group activities are favoured on the weekend.
This week a relationship with a work colleague could be re-energised, as you find exciting new ways to relate, debate and communicate. Don’t be afraid of change! Be inspired by Harrison Ford, “We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance.” With Venus and Mercury visiting your peer group zone, a dash of diplomacy and improved communication skills will help smooth over a troubled friendship.
On Monday and Tuesday, you’ll feel intense, argumentative and/or troubled. For the rest of the week, focus on revamping a close relationship as you get the strained partnership heading in a promising new direction. With Jupiter and Uranus transiting through your partnership zone, it’s time to charge up your charisma and call in a few old favours. Others will find your magnetic Scorpio charms hard to resist!
The current stars are all about the big two – sex and money – as the Sun stimulates your joint finances and intimacy zone. But avoid putting your foot firmly in your mouth via tactless talk or an impulsive remark. Those around you can expect some boisterous behaviour from you on the weekend when the Sun and Uranus rev up your reckless side. Try to burn off excess energy via vigorous physical activities.
Uranus and the Sun activate creative projects and fire up relationships. But the Mercury/Pluto opposition could complicate a romantic or platonic partnership. So aim to be creative and compassionate – but also robust and resilient. Then the bumps along the road will only make you stronger. It’s a good week to become more involved with volunteer projects and philanthropic pursuits, especially in your neighbourhood.
Without anyone at home aging me, it had been more than 20 years since my best mate and I visited the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales on Year 8 school camp.
So when the opportunity presented itself recently to visit the snow again, I couldn’t think of a better person to drag along.
My mate and I set off on our Snowy Mountains adventure on Friday morning, arriving in picturesque Jindabyne by mid-afternoon.
We had accommodation booked for two nights at the NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park, a popular place to stay for travellers looking for a unique, friendly and central location on the shores of Lake Jindabyne.
While there are plenty of cabins and places to park your caravan or pitch a tent on site, my mate and I were treated to a little bit of luxury – staying in one of the park’s two ‘glamtainers’.
The cleverly converted shipping containers offer a premium glamping experience with
hotel-style luxuries and contemporary interiors.
The glamtainers are hugely popular with guests who are looking for a higher-end, more comfortable camping experience, and those new to camping who are trialling the idea of an outdoors holiday with family and friends.
up to Perisher Valley since the late 1980s. The Skitube station at Bullocks Flat is located about a 20-minute drive from Jindabyne and includes ample free parking. The Skitube runs regularly throughout the day and evening and is very spacious to allow people to cart along their ski and snowboard gear.
Once we arrived at Perisher, which was about a 15-minute journey through a tunnel, we hopped off the train and made our way to the Snowsports Hire Centre where we got fitted for our snow gear and collected our skis, helmets and boots.
There, we met up with Ursina, an experienced ski instructor from Switzerland, who was about to spend the next two hours with us (lucky her) on Perisher’s busy slopes.
Built by Melbourne-based company GlamXperience, glamtainers start life as working shipping containers before being converted into spacious, stylish accommodation.
The seven-metre extendable glamtainers are open-plan with both heating and air-conditioning to suit all seasons. Our glamtainer was kitted out with a comfortable queen bed, two single beds in a separate room, kitchenette, living area, bathroom and outdoor dining areas overlooking the pristine lake below.
Not only was the accommodation right up our alley in terms of comfort and style, but the holiday park itself was situated in an unbelievable location with shops, restaurants, pubs and ski rental all within walking distance of the property.
Following a delicious dinner at the iconic The Banjo Paterson Inn in Jindabyne, my mate and I retreated to our glamtainer for an early night before our big day up the mountain the following morning.
After eating a scrumptious bacon and egg roll at the Jindabyne F2 café for breakfast, we were ready to make our way to Mount Kosciuszko National Park for a day of fun and adventure at Perisher Ski Resort.
Instead of driving in unpredictable conditions and having to worry about fitting snow chains due to icy roads, we decided to hop on the hugely convenient and popular Skitube, which has been taking snow lovers
It was my first time skiing, and our private lesson with Ursina couldn’t have gone any better. Not only did I learn to ski unassisted by the end of it, but I only slipped over once – a huge win for anyone that knows my track record doing snow sports.
After we said goodbye to our very helpful and patient instructor, it was time for my mate and I to have a go on our own. Our lift tickets allowed us to ride all the ski lifts open that day, but we opted to stick to the beginner slope as that’s where I felt most comfortable.
If you’ve never visited Perisher or haven’t been in a very long time like us, it remains the best ski resort in the Snowy Mountains, in my opinion. While it can get extremely busy during the school holiday period in particular, it truly has something for everyone – kids, adults, beginners, experts.
I’d definitely recommend planning your next snow trip well in advance, visit Perisher’s handy website where you can pre-book everything ahead of time – it’ll save you the stress and will allow you to enjoy your short time at the snow even more.
And my last tip… if you love a good hot chocolate to warm you up, you must pay a visit to the famous The Man from Snowy River Hotel in Perisher, where you’ll find the tastiest hot chocolate and Baileys ever!
To book a Glamtainer in Jindabyne, call 1800 766 133 or visit nrmaparksandresorts.com.au.
To book your snow adventure at Perisher Ski Resort, visit perisher.com.au.
“THE GLAMTAINERS ARE HUGELY POPULAR WITH GUESTS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR A HIGHER-END, MORE COMFORTABLE CAMPING EXPERIENCE”
15. Silver-trail gastropod
17. Gene acid (1,1,1)
18. Regular
20. Long-leafed lettuce
21. Rock guitarist, ...
Last
Previous solution - Tough
Medium Previous solution - Easy
Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black . These need to be filled in with numbers that 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.
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. The solutions will be published here in the next issue. www.str8ts.com
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:
Last
Test
1. In what year did the first FIFA Women’s World Cup take place?
2. Which team is the defending champion?
3. How many times has China hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup?
4. How many teams will compete in the 2023 event?
5. What is the total prize pool for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand?
6. How many venues will be used for the 2023 event?
7. Which other teams join New Zealand in Group A?
8. Which venue will host the 2023 Final?
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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.
Beloved duo’s new album Celebrated Country music duo, Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley (pictured), have released their second album, ‘Up Down & Sideways’.
Following on from 2018’s ‘Adam & Brooke’ – their first album together, ‘Up Down & Sideways’ is a celebration of the ups and downs of real life and real love.
Produced by Robby De Sa (Gretta Ray, The McClymonts, Tina Arena) the album’s magic lies in the dynamic interplay between the couple’s distinct yet complementary musical tastes and relevance of their stories and song writing; which has also resulted in award-winning successes and a special connection with live audiences.
“We are both super excited to share this album with you all, most of these songs were written while we rode an emotional roller coaster the last couple of years and it is a total celebration to have it out and to be back on the road doing what we love, we hope everyone can find something in these songs to connect with,” Eckersley said.
The album is led by the single ‘What Are You Waiting For’, which was written when the pair went to Sydney for a co-write, couldn’t find a park and wondered who could live in the middle of Sydney. It was all they could think about when they went into the writing room; and this song could be the new anthem for a regional tourism campaign!
