Macarthur Advocate - January 2026 by Community Broadcast Network (CBN)

INGLEBURN WOMAN

WINS $200,000

YOUR 2026 ASTROLOGY FORCASTS

RIDE FOR HEALTH

THE Campbelltown community is being encouraged to get behind the local arm of Black Dog Ride by registering to ride in the 2026 One Dayer or participating in local fundraising to help start a national conversation about depression and suicide prevention. This year's Black Dog Ride One Dayer’ motorcycle ride will be held in more than 50 communities across Australia on Sunday, March 15, 2026, with the Campbelltown ride following a route throughout the region yet to be announced. In 2025, more than 6,000 participants took part nationwide, helping raise over $300,000 to support mental health and suicide prevention. More page 3.

Riders from 2025.

How to get Advocate

The Macarthur Advocate is available at strategic locations throughout Blacktown LGA. To find a location near you visit our website.

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Contacts

Editorial

info@macathuradvocate.au

Admin and General

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Editor Michael Walls michael@accessnews.com.au

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Administration Rebecca Swaleh rebecca@accessnews.com.au

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Local news voice for Sydney’s North West

Our sister publication covers the high growth area of Sydney’s North West, bounded by Blacktown, Hills and Hawkesbury Councils, including: Kellyville Ridge, Marsden Park, Riverstone, Schfields, The Ponds, Plumpton, Stanhope, Collebee and more.

REGISTRATIONS OPEN FOR BLACK DOG RIDE

Call for locals join annual event

THE Campbelltown regional com-

munity is being encouraged to get behind the local arm of Black Dog Ride by registering to ride in the 2026 One Dayer or participating in local fundraising to help start a national conversation about depression and suicide prevention.

This year’s Black Dog Ride ‘One Dayer’ motorcycle ride will be held in more than 50 communities across Australia on Sunday, March 15, 2026, with the Campbelltown ride following a route throughout the region yet to be announced.

In 2025, more than 6,000 participants took part nationwide, helping raise over $300,000 to support mental health and suicide prevention and this year, organisers are hoping to see even more local riders, clubs and businesses come together to make a difference.

Most of the money raised through the One Dayer ride is funded back into local communities via the Black Dog Ride Grant Program which directly supports regional and rural areas where access to mental health services and free support is limited or non-existent.

“Each year, the Black Dog Ride One Dayer reminds us that meaningful change starts at a local level. We know first-hand that when community members, volunteers, clubs and busi-

nesses unite behind a shared cause, the ripple effect can be felt right across the country.

“By raising awareness and vital funds that go directly back into regional communities, we’re helping to close the gap where mental health services and free support are still out of reach for so many Australians. It’s about connection, compassion and showing that no one has to face their struggles alone”, said Campbelltown Black Dog Ride Coordinator, Melinda Vickary.

Locals who want to register or donate, can head to:

One Dayer Registrations: https:// www.123tix.com.au/events/50743/campbelltown-nsw-black-dog-ride-1-dayer-2026

Make a donation: https://www.blackdogride.org.au/view/donate

Since 2009, Black Dog Ride’s annual One Dayer has brought riders, volunteers and supporters together across Australia to start conversations, share stories, and raise vital funds for mental health.

To date, volunteers and donors have raised over $4M that has been donated to hundreds of organisations within regional communities across the country

including Men’s Shed Association, Royal Flying Doctor, Just a Farmer, local schools, Mental Health Charities and initiatives that directly support the wider community.

Local schools, clubs, community groups and individuals can also raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention and support the vital work of Black Dog Ride by organising local fundraising activities and events or simply donate.

For more information visit: www.blackdogride.org.au

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF CONVERSION & TRANSFER BY

The Co-operative herein announces its intention to amend rules in the following manner:

▶ the proposed amendment of rules for the purpose of converting to a non-share co-operative to members of the co-operative (section 35(2) CNL).

▶ the proposed special resolution for the transfer of registration from a non-distributing cooperative to an incorporated association (section 404(2) CNL).

If you wish to enquire further in relation to the above, please direct your enquiries by email to csmm.info@gmail.com or contact Coleen Hillard by telephone 0438 422 343 during the hours of 7.30pm to 8.30pm pm Monday to Friday.

The annual Black Dog Ride is always popular in Macarthur.

Wollondilly Beach Bus returns

WOLLONDILLY Shire Council’s much-loved Beach Bus has returned for its 13th summer, providing free transport for local residents to enjoy a day down at the coast and some welcome relief from the summer heat.

The Beach Bus offers residents of all ages free travel to North Wollongong Beach, with pick-up points across the Wollondilly Shire.

The service will operate on four Thursdays in 2026 – 8, 15, 22 and 29 January.

The service is sponsored by METRO Bingara Gorge and delivered thanks to the longstanding partnership with Picton Buslines, continuing a collaboration that has supported the Wollondilly community for more than a decade.

The Beach Bus is a low-floor accessible service, ensuring the experi-

All

the

ence is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community.

Two buses will operate on separate routes, with one departing from Bargo and the other from Warragamba, providing coverage across the Shire.

Appin residents can access a free Opal card, pre-loaded with the correct fare, to travel on the regular bus service to North Wollongong.

Opal cards are available for collection from Appin Pharmacy.

Upon arrival at the beach, Wollongong City Council Lifeguards will board the buses to provide passengers with important updates on current surf conditions and beach safety.

For more information, contact Council on (02) 4677 1100, email youth@wollondilly.nsw.gov. au, or visit the Beach Bus page on Council’s website.

Changed traffic conditions at Menangle

THE community is advised of changed traffic conditions from next week on the Hume Motorway at Menangle. Road resurfacing will take place on the northbound lane of the Hume Motorway between the new Menangle Truck Parking Bay and Moreton Park Road.

Work will take carried out between 6pm to 6am from Tuesday 20 to Thursday 22 January and again between Tuesday 27 to Thursday 29 January, weather permitting. A 40 km/h speed limit will be in place along the work site for the safety of workers. Motorists are advised to

allow up to five minutes’ additional travel time and to follow the direction of signs and traffic control.

For more information visit www.livetraffic. com/incident-details/260044 or download the Live Traffic NSW app.

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Wollondilly Beach Bus.

Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.

Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money.

• Spacious, designer interiors

• Landscaped grounds

• Two to five-bedroom layouts

• Private porches and courtyards

• Family-friendly living areas

• Premium finishes and inclusions

• Tranquil locations

Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

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Ingleburn woman wins $200,000

AN Ingleburn woman who’s played the lottery for decades almost missed the life-enhancing news that she’d bagged $200,000 in a recent Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw. The southwest Sydneysider held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw 1743, drawn Tuesday 16 December 2025 and looks forward to a sweet $200,000 prize. Despite initially being sceptical of lottery officials, the winning woman was overjoyed to

discover she’d won a major prize. “Hang on a minute. Did you say you’re calling from The Lott? Oh my!” she questioned when an official from The Lott called. “I’m extremely happy with $200,000 - that’s just great! Her winning entry of two random numbers was purchased at Ingleburn Fair Newsagency, Shop T17, Ingleburn Village Shopping Centre,. Owner Mahesh Rabadia shared he was thrilled to discover he’d sold a $200,000 winning ticket just in time for Christmas.

Council’s E-bike warning to residents

CAMDEN Council is reminding residents about responsible E-bike and E-scooter use, aiming to ensure shared paths, parks and public spaces stay safe and welcoming for everyone.

Council is focusing on a clear message for its residents, and one they’re already familiar with – ‘See Something. Say Something.’.

The existing campaign, which is in partnership with Wollondilly Shire Council and Camden Police Area Command, encourages residents to speak up and report suspicious activity promptly to their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Council is reminding E-bike and E-scooter riders of the E-Bike Code, which sets out rules and responsibilities to help keep everyone safe on shared paths. Some of these key responsibilities include:

• Slowing down to walking pace when others are nearby;

• Ringing the bell and calling out “on your right” when passing people; and

• Being alert to sudden changes, with people, pets and prams often unpredictable.

Riders should also be aware that E-bikes and E-scooters are prohibited areas such as parks, playgrounds and other signed locations.

Mayor of Camden Council, Cr Therese Fedeli, said E-bikes and E-scooters were becoming an increasingly popular way to get around Camden.

“With convenience comes responsibility,” Mayor Fedeli said.

“While many people ride safely and respectfully, unsafe behaviour, confusion around the rules and damage to public spaces can put others at risk and takes the fun out of shared community areas.” those around us, we can all play a part in helping to keep Camden’s shared paths, parks and public spaces safe, accessible and enjoyable for all.”

For more information visit: www.camden.nsw.gov.au

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2026 Apprenticeship / Traineeship & Jobs Expos

EXHIBITOR REGISTRATIONS & SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ARE OPEN

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PARRAMATTA & HILLS DISTRICT

Tuesday 28 July

3pm to 7pm

Wenty Leagues

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Tuesday 1 September

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CENTRAL COAST

Tuesday 11 August 3pm to 7pm

Mingara Recreation Club Tumbi Umbi

WESTERN SYDNEY

Tuesday 8 September 3pm to 7pm

NEWCASTLE & HUNTER

Tuesday 18 August 3pm to 7pm To be advised

Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre

Cambridge Park

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY & MACARTHUR

Tuesday 25 August 3pm to 7pm Liverpool Catholic Club Prestons

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MAJOR

Community champion Chris recognised

COMMUNITY advocate Chris Vagg has been announced as Campbelltown’s 2026 Australia Day Ambassador.

Mr Vagg is a driving force behind supporting people experiencing homelessness in the greater Sydney region and established the Pass it on Clothing & Co charity in 2016 with his partner Olga Puga.

Pass it on Clothing & Co aims to transform the support for people in need in our community with their simple motto of “taking quality to those who need it most, restoring dignity and choice in the process”.

A decade later, the organisation

delivered more than 400,000 pieces of clothing, run almost 1,500 outreach services and supported more than 40,000 people.

Pass it on Clothing & Co has launched numerous innovative programs including subscription donation clothing boxes for businesses. They are also preparing for their upcoming Pass It on Academy, which will provide work, life skills and a pathway out of intergenerational disadvantage.

Mr Vagg has continued to be a passionate advocate on behalf of people in need, regularly appearing on media platforms like 2GB, A Current Affair and the Impact Boom Podcast.

M“We’re delighted to welcome Chris to Campbelltown as our Australia Day Ambassador and I look forward to hearing about his journey when he joins us at our Australia Day Awards ceremony in Ingleburn,” Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Darcy Lound said.

“Chris has continued to undertake incredible work to support and uplift vulnerable people in our community. We’re proud to welcome him to our city,” Cr Lound said.

Mr Vagg will attend Campbelltown’s 2026 Australia Day Awards ceremony and give an address as part of the official proceedings on Monday 26 January.

Workers to make venues safer

ORE than 40,000 hospitality workers across NSW have completed the updated Australian-first Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) course in the seven months since prevention of sexual harassment and prevention of sexual assault training was added, marking a major milestone to making licensed venues safer for staff

and patrons. The training, introduced by the NSW Government in June 2025, provides practical guidance on preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct at pubs, clubs, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and other venues. It teaches workers how to recognise warning signs, support patrons who may be at risk and respond appropriately to incidents.

Community advocate Chris Vagg.

LARGEST PUBLIC PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

New facilities support transition

CONSTRUCTION of some of the first public preschools to be delivered by the NSW Labor Government has officially started as the government works to deliver the biggest expansion of public preschools in Sydney.

When built, the new preschools will offer high-quality early learning to support childrens’ transition into kindergarten and schooling, as well as ease pick up and drop off for parents with older students at the same school.

In addition to state-of-the-art learning areas, each new preschool will include staff facilities, a kitchen, toilet facilities and landscaped outdoor areas.

This is part of the NSW Government’s $769M commitment to build 100 new public preschools.

The investment doubles the number of public preschools in the state, the largest expansion of public early learning in NSW history.

Once complete up to 9,000 children will benefit from access to fee-free, high quality early education in their local community.

Of the 100 new public preschools, 51 are in metropolitan Sydney and 49 in regional NSW, prioritised in areas of highest need based on a rigorous

selection process.

The NSW government is making historic investments to giving every child across NSW the best possible start to their education, including:

• $100M to help community preschools provide more hours and welcome more children

• $60MM to build and upgrade 50 preschools at non-government schools.

• $200M to support Aboriginal-led early learning.

• $17M for capital works at early childhood services in areas of need, and

• More than $29M for scholarships to increase the number of early childhood workers.

With the one new public preschool already open to students, the first built in NSW in almost 20 years, the Government is on track to deliver its commitment of 100 public preschools in full by 2027.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said: “I don’t think there’s a more important investment we can make than in our kids’ education. These 100 new public preschools will give thousands of children across NSW the best possible start in life.

“For too long, families have struggled to find affordable, high-quality early learning close to home. We’re changing that, building public preschools right alongside public schools to make life easier for parents and give every child the opportunity to thrive.

“The former government didn’t build a single public preschool in twelve years. We’re building one hundred, because every child in NSW deserves access to early learning, no matter where they live.”

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said: “The Government is delighted to be kicking off construction on the first tranche of new public preschools, marking a historic expansion in access to early learning for families across NSW.

“For too long, families in Western Sydney and Regional NSW had limited access to quality early childhood education, especially public early childhood education.”

Parentopia  Australia’s number one marketplace for products, services and resources for children , parents and families.

Premier Chris Mionns announces the program.

Go to Urgent Care Need Care Fast?

This festive season, injuries and illness can strike when you least expect it.

Save emergency departments for emergencies— get the right care, at the right time.

Urgent Care Services are available across Western Sydney this holiday season for immediate medical needs that aren’t life-threatening.

Access the care you need, when you need it.

Urgent Care Services treat non-life-threatening issues like:

9 Suspected fractures, sprains and dislocations

9 Wound management and cuts requiring stitches

9 Bites

9 Minor burns

9 Removal of foreign objects from skin, eyes and ears

Urgent Care Service in Western Sydney

In Western Sydney there are two types of urgent care services available: NSW Health Urgent Care Services and Medicare Urgent Care Clinics.

Both provide free treatment when you are not feeling well or have a minor injury. Trained medical staff will help you get the treatment you need faster and keep the busy emergency departments free for those with a serious illness or injury.

NSW Health Urgent Care Services

9 Open 8am to 8pm, Monday to Sunday including public holidays.

9 To access, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

9 A registered nurse will answer your call, ask some questions and then connect you with the right care, in the right place for your health needs.

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics

9 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are open 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, including public holidays.

9 You do not need an appointment or referral. You can walk in and wait to be seen. They are open for extended hours.

Care Services are a

Edited by Emma Wilson travelwellwithemma@gmail.com

Why Vietnam Is a top travel destination for Australians

AUSTRALIANS are increasingly drawn to Vietnam because it offers exceptional value for money without compromising on quality.

With the rising cost of travel in many parts of the world, it stands out as a destination where accommodation, food, transport, and experiences are affordable, even by Southeast Asian standards.

With high-end resorts, boutique hotels, and world-class dining at a fraction of the price they would pay at home, this makes it appealing for both budget travellers and those seeking luxury.

Another reason Australians love travelling to Vietnam is its proximity and convenient flight options.

Direct flights from major Australian cities make for an easy and relatively short international getaway, ideal for holidays ranging from quick escapes to extended adventures.

Minimal time zone difference also helps reduce jet lag, allowing travellers to settle in quickly and make the most of their time exploring the country.

Vietnam Airlines, VietJet and China Southern Airlines all offer multiple flights weekly to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam’s rich culture and history strongly resonate with Australian travellers seeking meaningful experiences. From ancient temples and imperial cities to traditional villages and vibrant markets, it offers a deep sense of heritage and authenticity.

Travellers will appreciate the opportunity to learn about the country’s past, including shared historical connections, while also experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the local people.

The food scene is another powerful drawcard, with dishes made from the freshest ingredients delivering bold flavours.

Regional specialties turn every meal

into an experience—whether it’s a simple bowl of pho from a street vendor or a refined dining experience in a modern city.

Food tours and cooking classes are especially popular among Australian visitors.

Finally, Vietnam’s diverse landscapes make it appealing from the beaches of Da Nang and Phu Quoc to the mountains of Sapa and the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

This diversity allows the chance to combine relaxation, adventure, culture, and nature in one trip, not forgetting wellness and a round of golf, which is a key reason Vietnam continues to grow in popularity as a top travel destination.

BestPrice Travel are experts in creating tour itineraries to suit all traveller needs from family holidays, trekking and hiking adventures, cycling and food tours. Visit: www.bestpricetravel.com

Sapa Trekking.

Jeep Tour Family and Kids.

Halong Bay.

Halong Bay Kayaking.

A culinary and cultural journey through Vietnam

AUSTRALIANS are known for their love of food, particularly when travelling, often bringing home recipes and new insight into the cuisine of a nation.

Food is tied into culture, history and geographic location, so a culinary and cultural tour is the perfect solution when planning a holiday.

BestPrice Travel has created a collection of food tours using their years of expertise to create immersive journey’s offering richly layered introductions to Vietnam, weaving together the most iconic destinations.

From the historic streets of Hanoi to the waterways of the Mekong Delta, the tours balance discovery with moments of indulgence and unhurried exploration.

Da Nang in Central Vietnam introduces a shift in pace and flavour offering Michelin-listed street food tours showcasing regional specialities, from sizzling banh xeo, a popular Vietnamese savoury pancake to mi quang, a vibrant and iconic noodle dish from the Quang Nam Province, and then there’s endless fresh seafood from bustling markets to street stalls and riverside eateries.

Everything from fiery chilli crabs to delicate grilled fish, reflecting the nation’s deep connection to the water.

A short transfer leads to Hoi An, a beautifully preserved trading port and UNESCO World Heritage site where a guided walking tour explores the historic bridge over the Bon River.

During the day the river is used by local fishermen and boat operators moving goods and people along the river.

In the evening, the river becomes a major attraction as lantern boats glide across the water and visitors float paper lanterns, a tradition believed to bring good luck for the future.

In Ho Chi Minh City, where modern energy meets layered history, nighttime scooter food tours explore Saigon’s vibrant street life, Chinatown and the city’s famous flower markets.

The street food scene across Vietnam is so good you’ll be an expert on Vietnamese food by the time you return home.

Tours include Michelin recom-

mended street food walking tours revealing the culinary soul with dishes such as bun cha, pho, cha ca la vong and then there’s the coffee scene!

With over 640,000 coffee plantations across the country, mainly in the Central Highlands, the coffee culture is vibrant, social, and deeply woven into daily life.

Street cafes with tiny stools buzz from morning to night, serving strong, slow-brewed coffee through metal phin filters. Condensed milk sweetens the iconic ca phe sua da, the quintessential Vietnamese iced milk coffee, while innovations like egg coffee and coconut coffee showcase creativity. Coffee is less about rushing and more about lingering, chatting, people-watching, and savouring bold flavours in a relaxed, communal atmosphere.

FIND OUT MORE

Real Taste of Vietnam 13 days

Flavours of Vietnam & Cooking Class – 11 days

Vietnam Gourmet Odyssey: Michelin Delights from North to South – 10 days

From Hoi An to Saigon: A 10-Day Vietnamese Culinary Expedition

Hanoi street food tour 2.

The Vietnamese pancake - Bánh Xèo Vietnamese coffee.

TraveL

with Emma Wilson

BestPrice Travel is offering a discount of 20 per cent to groups of four and 15 per cent to groups of two or three travellers on its 10-day Vietnam Gourmet Odyssey: Michelin

Delights from North to South package. The small-group tour journeys through Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, combining cultural sightseeing

Vietnam with kids: familythroughadventure culture, cuisine and colour

THERE is nothing like travel to keep your kids engaged whilst widening their horizons, creating lifelong memories and the chance to bond as a family.

Vietnam offers a safe environment and great value for money with exceptional food and activities that will excite everyone.

Some of the most popular locations to visit include Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An and Phu Quoc.

A fun family experience is joining a cooking class together, where everyone visits a wet market to pick out ingredients, engages with locals, and observes daily life in Vietnam.

Other activities include riding on a Cyclo, a threewheeled carriage with the driver at the back allowing the passenger uninterrupted views.

There’s no better way to see daily life as you are peddled through the Old Quarter at a leisurely pace, soaking in the buzz of scooters, street vendors, and sizzling food stalls.

Aromas of pho and fresh herbs mingle with the city’s hum, while hidden courtyards, ancient temples, and colourful shopfronts reveal themselves around every corner.

FIND OUT MORE

Vietnam Adventures with Biking, Trekking and Snorkelling – 12 days.

North & Central Vietnam Easy Adventure for Family with Kids – 10 days

– 10 days

The ride is unhurried, intimate, and endlessly charming - a small, swaying window into everyday life in Vietnam.

Every child loves a water park, and Vietnam is home to many. You won’t be able to contain the excitement with tube slides, cable swings, wave pools, and splash zones for kids of every age. BestPrice Travel can add visits to your itinerary, making it a kid’s dream wish list.

Kids can participate in cultural crafts including learning how to make the iconic Vietnamese conical hats.

Adventure tours include BestPrice Travel’s 12-day tour, Vietnam Adventures with Biking, Trekking and Snorkelling that takes you on a discovery of the vibrant streets and rich history of Hanoi, from the ancient temples to the bustling markets, trekking through stunning landscapes of Sapa and explore

with Michelin-recommended street-food experiences, a luxury Ha Long Bay cruise, accommodation, guided tours and select meals. www.Bestpricetravel.com

clear waters.

The whole family will love to cycle to the floating markets and lush fruit orchards in the Mekong Delta.

the underwater wonders of Nha Tran’s pristine coral reefs, snorkelling amidst marine life and crystal

Halong Bay Kayaking with Family.

Family cycling in Vietnam.

Sapa cycling.

Family Tour.

with Emma Wilson

Why Vietnam is best seen on two wheels

STEP away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and prepare for one of the most incredible experiences you’ve ever had with BestPrice Travel’s Northern Phu Quoc Motorbike Tour.

Relax as your rider takes you on a full day tour exploring Phu Quoc’s roads, as you witness the daily life of the locals.

The motorbike tour visits some of North Phu Quoc’s famous places including Ganh Dau, a quiet coastal village and cape located at the northwestern tip of Phu Quoc Island.

Known for its laid-back atmosphere, fishing culture and scenic seascapes where you will enjoy nature and the quiet coastal life.

The tour continues onto the National Park with incredible views of forests, streams, waterfalls and landscapes, home to hundreds of species of birds

and mammals, some of which are rare and endangered.

Next stop is Rach Vem fishing village located in the East of Phu Quoc Island also known as Starfish Kingdom. This place is blessed by nature with beautiful beaches and rich seafood resources.

Travellers will be immersed in the freedom of being close to nature on this motorbike tour.

For the active traveller, the ultimate 16-day Vietnam Adventure on bike from north to South tour will take you off the beaten track across Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Join an intimate group of travellers who yearn nature and adventure.

You start by selecting a bicycle to suit your comfort and riding style before the adventure begins. The tour from north to south takes you from the

vibrant capital of Hanoi to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, passing through iconic destinations.

The biking journey promises exciting experiences but also a deep immersion into the country’s rich history and diverse landscapes.

This is a trip for those longing for a chance to travel off the beaten track and take in breathtaking landscapes of northern Vietnam along winding mountains roads with stunning views of rice fields and misty valleys.

The first iconic stop is at the Long Bieng Bridge, an architectural marvel with rich history dating back to the French colonial era and a symbol of Hanoi’s resilience.

Other key stops include the paths around West Lake with a visit to Huu Tiep Lake, where the wreckage of a US B-52 bomber lies and an adventurous trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Sapa.

The tour includes a night aboard a cruise to Ha Long Bay, officially one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and includes cave exploration, kayaking and swimming.

Other stops on the tour include a half day Hanoi biking city tour, the Hoi An countryside and a half day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnel, an underground defence system created by Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.

A wealth of history and culture awaits you on this spectacular 16-day bicycle tour.

FIND OUT MORE

Northern Phu Quoc Motorbike Tour – Full Day

Vietnam Adventure on Bike from North to South 16 days

On two wheels in Vietnam.

Motorbike Food Tour Da Yang.

with Emma Wilson

Spicers Guesthouse, Hunter Valley is an ideal palce for a multigenerational summer escape

SPICERS Guesthouse in the Hunter Valley is one of those rare places that genuinely works for everyone, grandparents, parents, teenagers, young children and babies and is perfect for escaping the crowds.

From the moment you arrive, it feels less like a hotel and more like a generous country home, the kind where there’s space to spread out, slow down and choose your own pace and it’s wheelchair friendly.

The accommodation

Set across expansive grounds in Pokolbin, this Hunter Valley property offers something for every energy level. There’s a tennis court for family or friends who like to start the day or end their day with a hit of tennis.

Our family habit on mutli-generational holidays is to play a casual game of tennis when the heat of the day goes down around twilight, then jump into

the pool then head out for dinner. In our family, grandkids, parents and grandparents play or can at least have a turn at getting the ball over the net.

It's a fun way to connect, even with 5- or 6-year-olds.

Spicers Guesthouse pool is the perfect temperature, it’s not heated but it wasn’t cold at all when we stayed there.The outdoor spa is heated, which is glorious to watch birds dipping and wheeling above us in the trees.

The acreage itself invites wandering and exploring. Kangaroos and ducks appear at dusk, and it’s easy to stroll the grounds after dinner with a glass of local wine, soaking up the calm of the valley and the perfect place for young kids to run around and get their countryside fix.

Bicycles and E-bikes

Bicycles are complimentary during your stay, and one of our

highlights was cycling with my 12-year-old a few kilometres up the road to the Hunter Valley Chocolate Factory, returning with treats for gifts (and ourselves).

For those wanting to explore further or tackle the hills with ease, ebikes are also available through local providers with a QR code at Spicers Guesthouse.

There are shops about five minutes by bicycle up the road and plenty of wineries and tastings nearby.

Excursions in and around Pokolbin

Spicers Guesthouse staff can organise wine tasting, gin or whiskey tasting half day or full day tours for your group, just ask reception.

One evening, we visited the Hunter

Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular , an allages experience that truly lives up to its reputation and is open to the public until the end of January.

Spread across acres of landscaped gardens, the display comes alive after dark with immersive light installations, food trucks, amusement rides including a Ferris wheel.

Teenagers wander independently, younger children are wideeyed with excitement, and adults enjoy the festive atmosphere. It is truly a wow-factor and well worth a visit. My tip is to rest in the afternoon and arrive later in the evening to make the most of the darkness and cooler air.

You can purchase food and drinks at the food trucks there and purchase tickets online for entry to this event.

with Emma Wilson

Horse riding

For all ages, Hunter Valley Horse Riding is an excellent addition to your stay. Rides range from short introductory sessions to longer trail experiences.

We chose a onehour ride and were guided by Russell, whose informative approach made the experience feel safe and memorable. Recent rain had left the forest misty and atmospheric, and the horses navigated the trails with great care.

This particular business caters for children and adults of all abilities as well as riders with disabilities. Book online for rides.

Wheelchair accessible

Accessibility is thoughtfully considered at Spicers Guesthouse. Two rooms are fully wheelchair accessible, built to Australian standards and serviced by a lift from the foyer area.

These rooms open onto a veranda overlooking the grounds, ideal for enjoying a quiet cup of tea while taking in the country views.

Dining at the onsite eRemo restaurant is optional, but well worth considering. eRemo’s menu is a celebration of Italian cuisines, while the wine list showcases a strong selection of Hunter Valley producers alongside a handful of international classics.

Whites include local Semillon, Chardonnay, Vermentino and Pinot Grigio; rose and Moscato feature for warmer evenings; and the reds highlight regional Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Barbera and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wines are available by the glass or bottle, making it easy to sample the region without overcommitting.

During our stay, we shared entrees, compared mains and lingered over a particularly memorable local red (Barbera), one I’ll be seeking out again at home.

Not all accommodation packages have breakfast included, it is optional

but always advantageous to choose a package that includes breakfast because it’s not a token jam and toast but it’s a generous array of fresh tropical fruit, juices and a la carte options.

On the mornings of our stay, we chose avocado with bacon and goats cheese on toast. Sitting out in the sunlit verandah area set the tone for relaxed days of exploring Pokolbin.

For families or groups travelling across generations, a threenight stay is ideal. There is so much to do, you can come together for a meal or a cheese platter outside.

Mornings are easy, days are flexible, and the wider Pokolbin region offers countless options for lunch and dinner,

just remember to book ahead if it’s a busy period or you have a large group. Spicers Guesthouse doesn’t try to be everything. Instead, it creates the space for everyone to have their own kind of

Stay information

holiday, together, which is exactly what a great multigenerational escape should do. Its style is countryish and stylishly simple, just like a great family home in the countryside.

Spicers Guesthouse, Pokolbin, NSW. Bookings can be made directly via the Spicers Guesthouse website, where seasonal summer packages and special offers are regularly available. This summer, guests can enjoy 25% off either Spicers Guesthouse or any of the luxury regional getaways. From an exclusive mountaintop lodge on the Scenic Rim in Queensland, the European charm of Montville’s Sunshine Coast Hinterland to soul-soothing retreats in the Blue Mountains or refined Estates in The Barossa and Hunter Valley. These handpicked stays promise a season of slow travel, fine food, and memorable moments of reconnection.

Visit: www.spicersretreats.com

ABS data shows a 46 per cent rise in the number of female business owners in the last 20 years. Female small business owners represent a formidable economic force.

Women in Small Business (WISB) is an empowering online resource that champions the female entrepreneurial spirit in all its forms and stages.

WISB covers the diverse and rich world

the women in small business ecosystem, with proﬁles and back stories of success and innovation.

BE WARY WHO YOU MIX WITH

How friends shape your health

 DR JEREMY LONDON

THE people you spend the most time with, what you watch on your phone or TV, all influence your beliefs, thoughts, and daily actions.

Your health is no exception.

Your environment shapes your health more than you may realize.

In today's newsletter, we will explore how much your environment, friends, and coworkers can impact your health and, most importantly, what you can do about it

What is Normal?

What we eat, how often we go to the gym, and even our daily routines feel extremely individualized. However, we don't make those decisions in a vacuum.

Our environment plays an equally— if not more—powerful role in shaping health outcomes.

Your parents, friends, peers, and coworkers' health habits all shape your perspective.

They shape your version of what is normal.

The meals you ate growing up, the activities your friends enjoy, and the type of workspace your coworkers create all mold what's 'normal' to you.

This influence of 'normal' affects your

level of physical activity, eating habits, and your overall approach to wellness.

Obesity is Socially Contagious: Here's What the Data Shows

In 2007, researchers published a landmark study in the New England Journal of Medicine that followed over 12,000 people for 32 years.1 What they found was shocking:

• If a close friend became obese, your risk of becoming obese increased by 57%

• If a sibling became obese, your risk increased by 40%

• If a spouse became obese, your risk increased by 37%

Surprisingly, this effect occurred even when people lived far apart.

This wasn’t about sharing the same fridge. It was shared norms.

What researchers concluded was simple but not obvious: our behaviors — and even our perception of what’s “normal” — spread through social networks.

Health is contagious, and so is unhealthy behavior.

The Bottom Line: Be the Change Awareness is the first step.

The intellectual honesty to examine your environment and ask:

• What behaviors are normalized around me?

• What foods are constantly available?

• How often do the people around me exercise?

• What narratives are repeated about health?

I want to be clear: the solution isn't about blaming or assigning fault to others.

At the end of the day, there are multiple factors in your control.

The data strongly suggest that obesity is socially contagious; conversely, the

opposite is also true.

Witnessing friends, family members, and coworkers exercising and eating well increases the likelihood that others will follow suit.

So what's the takeaway?

Be the change.

You can be the friend, the family member, the coworker who starts to shift the curve in the positive direction. Be the reason others make choices towards a healthier, happier life.

THE HOUSEMAID - REVIEW

This adaptation leans into the more out-there elements of the novel and has a lot of fun while it’s at it

 JACOB RICHARDSON

MILLIE Calloway (Sydney Sweeney) is down on her luck and needs a job desperately. She gets a role as the housemaid for Nina Winchester (Amanda Seyfried) and her rich, sexy husband Andrew (Brandon Sklenar).

It seems like a dream role, but after getting the job, Millie starts to find some odd things - a room that locks from the outside, and a Nina who seems completely at odds with her initial impression and who changes up her entire personality depending on the day.

Paul Feig undertakes this novel to film adaptation, and does so with a fair amount of cheeky fun.

Feig leans into the wild, out there, soap opera elements of the book. This is no Gone Girl vibe; if anything, this feels more telemovie or Real Housewives. It’s fun, funny, and a blast.

The cast is pretty much OK across the board. Sweeney and Sklenar are both serviceable in their roles, and there are mo-

in a fun switch up moment.

But the only issue with their performances is that they are outclassed by Seyfried, who is truly wonderful. She plays to the absolute

rafters with her out there performance, and it is iconic from start to finish. Seyfried continues to shine and showcase her immense talent.

The film chugs along nicely, and there are sequences that feel really fun and engaging.

Some of the set design and cinematography can at times feel a little on the cheap side, and some of the side characters are so buried (the groundskeeper is almost non-existent in this adaptation), and these moments make this film feel like a bit more fun than function.

If you are a reader of the original novel, you might find it fun how they adapted it - the things they cut, the things they included, and the things they changed up slightly.

Ultimately, this film is a blast of fun, fresh air that is perfect for the holidays.

The Housemaid will shock you - if you haven’t read the book, you’re in for a surprise, and if you have you’ll be shocked by how well they’ve adapted it. THREE STARS.

ments that both shine above the characters themselves; Sweeney when taking bloody revenge, and Sklenar

2026 ASTROLOGY FORECAST –

Aries

Focus: Ambition, action, momentum.

2026 empowers you to build the life you want — with confidence and drive. Career pushes forward and personal goals get traction through sustained effort; still, success requires consistent daily action rather than leaps.

Focus: Steady effort, grounding, stability.

The year invites a practical reassessment of finances and long-term plans. You may feel pulled to balance comfort with pragmatic change, especially in work and personal finances. Early caution pays off in growth later in the year.

Focus: Learning, communication, adaptation. Mixed results are likely — challenges at work may test your resilience early on, but perseverance brings rewards. Income may be steady and opportunities to grow your skills are highlighted.

Cancer

Focus: Emotional clarity, restructuring, steady progress.

2026 calls for conscious action and discipline, especially in balancing emotions with practical duties. Health routines and work balance improve results later in the year, while relationships deepen through honesty.

Leo

Focus: Creativity, leadership, visibility.

This year heralds strong career growth and recognition, especially from mid-year onward under Jupiter’s influence. However, pressure and misunderstandings can arise, so focus on clear communication and financial care.

Virgo

Focus: Discipline, structure, steady gains. Mixed outcomes are possible — work and finances can grow with thoughtful planning. The second half of the year strengthens relationships and love matters, while minor health awareness helps you thrive.

Libra

Focus: Balance, creativity, recognition.

2026 brings stable personal growth and artistic expression. Early careful planning evolves into financial and career stability. Creativity blossoms late in the year, prompting new ideas and meaningful expression.

Scorpio

Focus: Transformation, depth, resilience.

Challenges early in the year give way to a more favourable second half, especially in love and family life. Steady effort in career pays off, while health attention ensures long-term strength.

Sagittarius

Focus: Growth balanced with wisdom.

2026 encourages you to blend optimism with discipline. Emotional stability and home life deepen, while education, travel, and leadership opportunities grow under Jupiter’s movement through key signs.

Capricorn

Focus: Goal-setting, persistence, practicality.

Your career and financial outlook looks supportive through careful planning. Honest communication deepens relationships; structured routines enhance well-being. Patience works in your favour.

Aquarius

Focus: Innovation, clarity, expansion.

2026 brings mental sharpness and creative problem-solving. Relationship honesty strengthens bonds and opportunities arise through communication and leadership. Maintain balance between new drives and self-care.

Focus: Insight, intuition, creativity.

Spiritual growth and intuition sharpen this year. Financial and emotional planning becomes clearer as cycles unfold, while patience and balance help you make the most of unfolding opportunities.