FUN, FRIENDS AND FREEDOM FOR OVER 60’S
Halcyon Gables was conceptualised to provide an aspirational lifestyle enriched with fun, friendship and freedom for each and every homeowner. Key to this exciting, first of its kind development from Stockland in NSW, are the facilities and shared spaces that connect and nurture the community.
Positioned in the Hills District, just a short walk to the future Stockland Gables Town Centre and lake, Halcyon Gables provides great access to Greater Sydney and day-to-day amenities. But with so much on offer on-site, homeowners may choose to stay within the gated community more often than not.
The meandering streets and connected walkways create a neighbourhood feel that builds
towards a resort style Lodge and multiple lifestyle precincts.
When speaking about the conceptualisation of Halcyon Gables’ facilities, Architect Adam Beck of BDA Architecture, said that he and his team “approached the design to have a heart and a hub” that would anchor the community for years to come.
Taking inspiration from the beautiful landscape of the Hills District, Beck describes the exterior aesthetic as having a “beautiful expression in the architecture and the built form of the location in which it is set”.
From the striking gabled roof, to the sandstone facades and established native trees that have been left in place, to the orientation of the buildings to provide breathtaking views, each design decision is intentional and combines
to create a distinct sense of place.
When asked about the facilities at Halcyon Gables, Project Director Ken Franklin explained that “whether you’re coming from one side of the community or the other, you will have a shortcut there, whichever facility that you want to use and enjoy”.
As such, the four lifestyle precincts (Entertainment, Health & Wellness, Creative and Sporting) are separate, yet seamlessly connected to encourage regular use and create opportunities for organic interactions and connections.
Inside, interiors have been carefully designed both for aesthetic and function. When interviewed about the project, Halcyon Gables
Interior Designer Charlotte Correard of Pike Withers, shared
that while each precinct was a “communal facility, they were also an extension of each owner’s home”.
Expanding on their shared vision for Halcyon Gables, Pike Withers Director Amanda Pike said that they were intent on “incorporating the surroundings” while achieving a “boutique hotel feel” in order to create community spaces that homeowners “would be proud to bring family and friends”.
“EACH COMMUNITY PRECINCT PERFECTLY COMBINES QUALITY, FUNCTION AND COMFORT”
As a result, each community precinct perfectly combines quality, function and comfort. Spaces ebb, flow and evolve as homeowners and guests move through them, with grand rooms and clusters of cosy corners providing options to encourage usage – all elevated by aspirational yet welcoming colours, finishes and furnishings.
At the heart of The Lodge is a striking sandstone fireplace that symbolises the heart of the community and provides the perfect place for homeowners and guests to meet, gather and connect.
From inside to out, Halcyon Gables is a community that perfectly blends aspirational aesthetics with day-to-day function to inspire the evolution of a thriving over 60’s community. To find out more about Halcyon Gables call 1800 050 050 or visit www.stockland.com.au/halcyon-gables.
ENJOY A RURAL LIFESTYLE IN BEAUTIFUL KURRAJONG!
What is so great about this property? The property is completely move in ready and would make a fantastic rural family home and in a desired location.
Who does this property suit?
Established family who enjoy entertaining, car enthusiasts, people with a truck or mechanic business. Also suitable for livestock with secure fenced, irrigated paddocks. Several undercover car spots as well as
space to park machinery or larger vehicles.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Kurrajong is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The Kurrajong Village / Shops has a peaceful atmosphere and attractive natural surrounds. The area offers great schools, medical services and an abundance of boutique cafes and antique stores as well as modern cafes and diners/restaurants.
Property Michael Bennett • 0414 643 667
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GIZZELLE
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.
*Artist impression
Western Property
RARE OPPORTUNITY ON DOORSTEP OF AIRPORT
Alarge-scale site near Western Sydney Airport has hit the market for the first time in nearly half a century, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a substantial parcel of land with future development potential.
Matthew Neale, the Director of Sales and Leasing at Macquarie Commercial, said access and location are definitely the major drawcards.
The 3.23-hectare property is
located on the corner of Bradley Street and The Northern Road in Glenmore Park, one of Greater Sydney’s fastest-growing suburbs, making it ideal for land bankers.
It is in the Northern Gateway precinct of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, with easy access to the future metro rail stations in Luddenham and Orchard Hills.
“It’s rare to find large tracts of land fronting The Northern Road with the access that it has,” Neale said.
“It’s right in, right out at traffic lights on an arterial road, not far from the M4.”
Neale said the three-bedroom home with double-garage on site creates an opportunity to start building a short-term rental portfolio or start a home-based business. Other permitted uses under the current C4 Environmental Living zoning include bed and breakfast, home-based childcare, dwelling houses, and home industries.
For those looking to subdivide,
he said the site has approval for a one-acre subdivision.
For further information, contact Matthew Neale via email at Matthew@maccom.com.au or call 0420 808 349.
1-13 Bradley Street, Glenmore Park
• Site area 3.23 ha approx.
• Previous rezoning and residential subdivision undertaken on the site.
• Three-bedroom home with double garage on-site providing rental/ Airbnb income potential.
• C4 Environmental Living Zoning, making it suitable for a bed and breakfast, home-based childcare, dwelling houses, and home-based businesses/industries.
FOCUSING ON STRENGTH
As we get older, keeping our muscles and bones strong is important for staying active and preventing falls. A combination of proper nutrition, exercise, and a balanced lifestyle can help maintain muscle mass, support bone health, and reduce the risk of falls.
Protein and calcium are two key nutrients that play a big role in keeping our muscles and bones healthy, which can help us stay strong, healthy, and independent for longer.
Protein and muscle maintenance
Protein, which is typically found in meat, dairy products, eggs, nuts, seeds and legumes, is essential for building and repairing muscles. Our muscles are made from protein, so it makes sense that protein is needed to build and repair muscle. When you exercise, especially through strength training like lifting weights, small tears form in your
muscles. Protein helps repair these tears, making your muscles stronger over time
Not only does protein help with building muscle, but also with maintaining the muscle we already have.
As we get older, it becomes harder to maintain our muscle due to the natural process of muscle loss that occurs as we age. That’s where protein comes in. Regularly eating the amount of protein that our body requires helps slow down natural muscle loss.
The Experts
THE IMPLANT ADVANTAGE HEALTH
SARAH BONNICI
One Point Health 4732 5188
Replacing a missing tooth is more than a cosmetic decision –it’s vital for your oral health, function, and confidence.
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for modern tooth replacement, but like any treatment, they come with pros and cons.
oral surgery, which may not suit everyone, particularly those with certain health conditions or insufficient bone volume.
The procedure also takes longer than alternatives, often involving several months of healing.
Cost is another factor –
The Experts
DR. ANDREW PETERSON
Sydney Smile Doctor
sydneysmiledoctor.com.au
make sure our bones stay strong. As we age, our bones can become weaker, making us more likely to break a bone if we fall, meaning we need more calcium as we age. Great sources of calcium include dairy products such as milk, yoghurt or cheese, but calcium can also be found in leafy greens such as spinach and kale and in the bones of fish.
Calcium and bone health
Calcium is a mineral that helps keep bones strong and healthy by maintaining bone density, which lowers the risk of fractures. It also works with vitamin D to
Looking for a snack? Try snacking on high protein yoghurt, or cheese and crackers next time for extra protein and calcium. Personalised guidance on how to improve your protein and calcium intake can be provided in a consultation with an Accredited Practising Dietitian.
The pros
Dental implants closely mimic the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. A titanium post acts as an artificial root, supporting a custommade crown for a seamless result.
One of the biggest benefits is that implants help preserve jawbone density by stimulating the bone, preventing the sunken facial appearance that often follows tooth loss. They are also extremely durable – when cared for properly, implants can last decades.
The cons
However, implants require
implants are generally more expensive upfront compared to bridges or dentures.
Ultimately, dental implants offer a strong, natural-looking, and permanent solution for missing teeth.
A personalised consultation will determine if you’re a good candidate, helping you restore your smile with confidence and care.
Take the first step towards a stronger, more confident smile – book your implant consultation with me today.
Dr. Andrew Peterson is a Penrith-based dentist and master of aesthetic restorative dentistry at Sydney Smile Doctor.
Peterson is an internationally renowned dentist. With a Masters in Aesthetic Dentistry from Kings College London, he provides world class services here in Penrith.
The Experts
ALTERNATIVES TO OWNING A DOG OR CAT
Are the kids begging for a dog – but you have no space to house one?
Or perhaps your cat-caring instincts are kicking in – but all you can think about is the cost?
Yes, dogs and cats are the most common Australian pets. But no, they aren’t your only options. Many other animals need loving pet parents, and some may be a better fit for your lifestyle. If you’re wondering, ‘What pet should I get?’, here are some fantastic alternatives to cats and dogs.
Small mammals: The cuddly companions
Guinea pigs – Sociable and friendly, guinea pigs are great for those who enjoy cuddling and interacting with their pets. They’re gentle, easy to handle, and thrive with companionship.
Rabbits – With intelligence and charm, rabbits can be trained to use a litter box and even walk on a leash. They love social interaction and require a secure enclosure with room to roam.
Ferrets – These playful and intelligent creatures are full of energy and love to explore. However, they require a lot of attention, enrichment, and proper training.
Scaly and feathered friends
Fish – Affordable and low-maintenance, fish can bring a calming presence to any home. While they may not be as interactive as a cat or dog, watching them swim is soothing and stress-relieving.
Birds – Budgies, cockatiels, and parrots can mimic sounds
and provide companionship. However, they require spacious cages, mental stimulation, and daily interaction.
Reptiles – Geckos, turtles, and snakes are fascinating pets for those who prefer observation over cuddles. Make sure you check the licencing requirements before purchasing.
Unique
and unconventional pets
Hermit Crabs – Social and inquisitive, hermit crabs are fun to watch as they scuttle around their habitat. They thrive in groups but require high humidity and a well-maintained enclosure.
Axolotls – These adorable aquatic creatures are low-maintenance but require specific water conditions. Their quirky appearance and gentle nature make them a unique choice.
Stick Insects – Masters of camouflage, stick insects are low-maintenance and fascinating to observe. They need fresh
enclosure to thrive.
The ultimate low-maintenance pet – If loyalty and low maintenance are top priorities, a pet rock will never take you for granite. They’re stable, reliable, and require zero effort!
Alternative ways to enjoy animals
If you’re not ready for a full-time pet commitment, consider fostering a pet in need while they wait for adoption or volunteering at a shelter. They always need help walking dogs, playing with cats, or assisting with care.
Owning a pet is a long-term commitment, so it’s important to consider your lifestyle, space, and budget before bringing one home.
Whether it’s a small mammal, a scaly friend, or even a pet rock, there’s a perfect pet out there for everyone!
Come and chat with the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital or give us a call on 4736
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
When it comes to home and family –expect the unexpected! With the Sun joining Uranus in your domestic zone, there’ll be changes involving loved ones and/or living arrangements over the next few weeks. You could also feel the need to re-design, decorate, renovate or extend your living space (or even move house). Plus – with so much planetary action happening in your neighbourhood zone – there could also be a shake-up in your local community.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
With Saturn, Mercury and Venus (your patron planet) stimulating your peer group zone, it’s important to support and encourage your friends and colleagues. But make sure you communicate clearly and sort out any misunderstandings early on. Fast thinking and creative strategies will help you solve short-term problems and alleviate long-term stress. The Sun transits into Taurus on the weekend (until May 20) so it’s time for ebullient Bulls to sparkle and shine!
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
On Good Friday dynamic Mars charges into your sign, so it’s time for listless, languid Lions to be bold, brave and adventurous. Which will give you the confidence and courage to be the authentic you, showcase your strengths, and pursue your wildest dreams. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, actress and activist Emma Watson (who turns 35 on Tuesday), “I don’t want other people to decide who I am. I want to decide that for myself.”
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Proactive Mars charges into your career and life direction zone on Good Friday. So a combination of self-belief, sudden opportunities and taking action could set you on an exciting new professional path. Volunteer work and networking are also favoured. Inspiration for the week comes from birthday great, fashion designer Victoria Beckham, “I think the sexiest thing about a woman is confidence, but confidence in a humble way, not in an arrogant way.”
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Saturn is sauntering through your sign, which could stymie progress, squash confidence and bring you down. This week Venus visits Pisces, plus the Sun, Mercury and Neptune (your ruler) stimulate your self-esteem zone. So steer clear of criticism (in person and online), avoid getting caught up in a negative self-talk loop, and stop worrying about the qualities you perceive you don’t have. It’s time to celebrate your strengths and be your number one fan!
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
This week, you’re ready to head off in dynamic new directions! Your power planet Mercury joins the Sun and Neptune in your hopes and wishes zone. So frustration will gradually lift, to be replaced by a growing desire to get things done. You’ll find it’s a wonderful week to dream big dreams, prepare well, and then initiate a bold new project. But don’t get carried away, talk too much, promise the moon and the stars, and fail to follow through.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Don’t waste energy worrying, especially at work. It’s a good week to re-connect with colleagues, tell them what’s on your mind and keep them up to date with your plans. Mercury, Venus and Saturn encourage you to look at a troubled relationship in a perceptive and diplomatic new light. If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll just keep getting what you’re getting! So perhaps it’s time to re-set boundaries and roadtest some creative new strategies?
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
After five slow, frustrating months of retrogrades (Mars, Mercury, Venus and then Mercury again) many Sagittarians are feeling super restless. You’re itching to put on your travelling shoes! This week fiery Mars activates your adventure zone so travel, holidays and/or business trips are favoured from Friday until June 17. And with Jupiter jumping through your relationship zone, close partnerships have the potential to bring much laughter and joy.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Be careful you don’t undermine yourself this week Rams, or blame other people when things go wrong. With the Sun, Mercury and Neptune charging through Aries (and your ruler Mars moving into fiery Leo) it’s up to you to be proactive, plus fix things when they go haywire. So your motto is from Aries diva Diana Ross, “You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.”
22 TO JULY 22
The Sun, Mercury and Neptune activate your career/reputation zone so prepare for a few changes. But the more you try to control others, the more they will push back. So take a good long look at your motives. Perhaps you need to be a less clingy Crab? Maybe you could give someone more freedom, so they can fight their own battles and make their own mistakes? Food for thought this Easter, as you transform the way you connect with family, friends and colleagues.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Mercury and Neptune hook up in your relationship zone on Thursday, so think compassionately and speak kindly. Then – when mighty Mars charges into your hopes and wishes zone on Friday –it’s time to dream big dreams and take adventurous steps to make them come true. No sitting on the sidelines! Your motto is from Victoria Beckham (who turns 51 on Thursday), “If you can get your head around your dream, it means your dream isn’t big enough.”
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
This week fiery, impulsive Mars could complicate a financial situation. So proceed with a pragmatic attitude plus plenty of caution. No less than five planets fire up your family, friendship and neighbourhood zones as you express more love, compassion and understanding towards loved ones. Family and friends are the ones who really matter. As Michelle Obama (a fellow Capricorn) wisely observes, “Surround yourself with people who will make you better.”
Relax & Unwind
MUSIC CITY SHINES AS A
Despite its growing popularity –particularly amongst the bachelor and bachelorette party brigade – Nashville isn’t necessarily on the must-do list of travellers to the United States.
But amidst a country music resurgence and the ever-growing party vibes it generates, ‘music city’ is back in a big way – no longer just as a destination for die-hard Johnny Cash or Dolly Parton fans, but for a whole new generation experiencing ‘three chords and the truth’.
A warning first up: Nashville is busy these days, especially on a Friday and Saturday night. Which is why arriving on a Monday afternoon turned out to be a blessing in disguise of sorts.
“IT’S
As we hit the bars of Broadway – the main tourist hot spot, full of live music venues – it was a little quieter than you’d find it on a weekend, but certainly not a ghost town. Indeed Nashville is pumping with decent numbers and great music seven days a week, from late morning through to the wee hours of the next day.
For anyone going to enjoy the live music and soak up the atmosphere of the bars, I’d definitely advise getting in at least one early or mid-week night out – it almost lets you experience it all a little better, and you avoid that bachelorette crowd!
Most of the live music venues are country-based, but you’ll find a few that aren’t specific to the genre – including Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk and Jon Bon Jovi’s bar.
But when in Rome, right?
There’s a few country bars that are a must on Broadway: Tootsies, which first opened in 1960 and offers three levels of live music in an unmissable purple building, is a particular favourite.
It stands next to Robert’s Western World, another must-visit especially if you’re a fan of older country music and not the modern, pop-leaning style.
The larger Chief’s, which backing from country music superstar Eric Church, is a relatively new addition on Broadway and offers terrific views from its rooftop, while both Luke’s 32 Bridge and Aldean’s both offer terrific music, food and drinks menus.
Morgan Wallen’s This Bar, one of the newer Broadway venues, was where we found ourselves dancing and signing into the early hours of Tuesday morning (thanks largely to Nicole Summerlyn, an emerging artist who happened to be performing that night), while
Show Pony provided a unique atmosphere, plenty of fun and some of Broadway’s cheapest drinks.
Broadway is big, but not that big – you can easily bar hop and let the night take you away, so don’t be too pre-planned here.
Away from the bars, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the history of Nashville and its importance on the American and international music scenes.
A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a great way to learn about how Nashville became the home of country, and I’d highly recommend adding the Studio B tour – a short bus ride to an iconic recording studio where the likes of Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their biggest hits.
About 20 minutes from the centre of town you’ll find the Grand Ole Opry, which for the last 100 years has been the mother church
Live music at Tootsies.
The Grand Ole Opry stage.
Songwriters at the Bluebird Cafe.
Nashville’s Broadway is full of live music bars playing country hits.
PLACE TO PARTY IN USA
of country music. If you play the Opry stage, you’ve made it in Nashville – and the history of this concept – originally a radio show, now a live music phenomenon – is extraordinary.
If you can get yourself tickets to a show, don’t second guess it – just buy them! But regardless, make sure you do the backstage tour, which offers excellent insight into a country music institution.
“IT’S LIKE NOTHING YOU’VE EXPERIENCED BEFORE”
Another country music icon is the Bluebird Cafe, which first opened in the early 1980s but had a huge resurgence in popularity a few years back due to its regular appearances on the hit TV show ‘Nashville’.
Getting a ticket to this live show – generally featuring both established and emerging songwriters, along with surprise guests – is tough work. They go on sale a week before the show, which means an early alarm for us here in Australia.
Some limited tickets are made available at the door, but line up early!
Food is another big part of the Nashville
scene, and there’s so much to choose from.
You’ll find famous Nashville hot chicken pretty much anywhere, but Hattie B’s – despite being a chain – was by far our favourite.
If you like Mexican, make sure you book in for Bakersfield – a jug of margarita to kick things off, and then some of the most awesome authentic Mexican food you’ll ever have.
As for BBQ? You can’t go past Martin’s BBQ Joint, which has a few locations in Nashville.
Ask a Nashville local what to do in Nashville and they’ll tell you to avoid the above. It’s kind of like asking a Sydneysider if they’ve climbed the Harbour Bridge recently.
And of course, there’s some awesome things to do outside of the tourist hot spots in Nashville – visit Printer’s Alley and the Gulch region, for instance – but don’t be swayed by a local telling you to avoid Broadway. It’s like nothing you’ve experienced before,
and if you’re a country music fan – you’ll be in heaven. It’s a reminder of what Sydney lost when it went poker machine crazy. Nashville is getting a little expensive as it cashes in on the country music boom and becoming a party hot spot, but it is well worth visiting on your next American trip – both for its extraordinary music scene and it’s special history, much of it retained for new generations to enjoy.
The Grand Ole Opry, one of Nashville’s most famous country music venues. The best BBQ in town.
Alas and ...!
10. Hyperactivity disorder (1,1,1,1)
12. Evil spirit
14. Moan & ...
16. Greased
19. Throws (fishing line)
22. Tempt
23. Fixed (in one’s mind)
25. Value highly
26. Heavy horned animals
29. Lingers
32. Non-governmental organisation (1,1,1)
35. Skating entertainment (3,4)
37. Deplete (3,2)
38. Thumped
40. Adroit
41. Female peers
42. Radio station selector
43. Irritating complainers
44. Tendency
47. Palmed off
51. Union Army combatant
52. Wax taper
53. Formal argument
54. Word comparison
58. Futilely, to no ...
59. ... de toilette
61. Operative
63. Arab religion
64. Offshore drilling platform (3,3)
65. Potent
66. Lettuce meal
68. Old wives’ tales
71. Blood-sucking insect
72. Garbage disposal area
74. Flue
76. Thin cushions
78. Norway’s capital
80. Bloodshot (eyes)
83. ... voyage!
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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.
SCROOGE
TOM WILE E COYOTE
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about Peter Dutton in this week’s special trivia quiz... 1. In what decade was Peter Dutton born?
Peter Dutton worked as a police officer in which Australian state? 3. Peter Dutton has one brother and how many sisters? 4. Dutton was elected to the House of Representatives in what year?
5. John Howard handed Peter Dutton his first Ministerial role. What portfolio did he hold (appointed October 2004)?
6. Which Prime Minister appointed Peter Dutton as Health Minister and Minister for Sport in 2013?
7. Which NRL team does Peter Dutton support?
the continued support friendship of our clients and their pets. We won the Pet Care category in 2015, 2016 and 2019, and we are looking forward to the 2021 awards presentation!
Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any
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.
