Home & Lifestyle March 1 2024

Western Property

The massive jump in weekly rents throughout Australia due to the national rental crisis has seen tenants collectively throughout the country now having to pay $1.7 billion every week in rent –over $88 billion annually.

Kevin Young, President of Property

largest independent property investment group, said that these statistics were based on the latest CoreLogic median dwelling rental prices combined with rental housing statistics from the 2021 Census.

“The latest census showed that there were over 2.84 million private rental properties in

recent CoreLogic data reveals that the median rental weekly dwelling cost was $601,” he said.

“When the figures are combined together, they reveal that Australians are collectively paying over $1.7 billion weekly in rent and if weekly rents remained the same for the next year, then collectively, they would be

paying $88 billion in rent.

“However, for every $10 rise in weekly rents Australians would have to collectively pay an additional $28 million per week or $1.4 billion per year.

“And a breakdown of total rental payment for the capital cities (excluding regional areas of Australia) further underlines the huge number of rents that Australians are now paying on a weekly basis.”

Young added that the rental crisis in Australia would only be solved if governments stopped attacking mum and dad investors and instead gave them more incentives to enter the real estate market.

“MUM AND DAD INVESTORS FEEL LIKE THEY ARE A THREATENED SPECIES”

“I have been investing in the residential real estate market for over 50 years and I would have to say that now is the toughest time for ordinary mum and dad investors to own a rental property,” he said.

“Mum and dad property investors currently supply over 90 per cent of rental properties in Australia and they hold the key to solving our entrenched rental crisis.

“Between government red tape and ever-increasing regulations combined with the constant threats of removing incentives such as negative gearing, mum and dad investors now feel like they are a threatened species.”

How can we fix the rental crisis? Give us your thoughts!

Email news@westernweekender.com.au.

Western Property

What is so great about this property?

The PERFECT family home!

This stunning property boasts a separate granny flat and the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and functionality, offering everything you need for modern living. Situated in a prime location with picturesque views over the neighbouring nature reserve,

this home is sure to impress even the most discerning buyers.

Who does this property suit?

Families.

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

Glenmore Park is a highly sought after suburb!

One of the best things about

residing in this area is the abundance of green spaces and parks, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls.

The well-designed infrastructure, coupled with a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere, creates a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike.

Additionally, the proximity to essential amenities, schools, and recreational facilities ensures a convenient and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether enjoying the scenic views of the Blue Mountains or participating in community events, the quality of life in Glenmore Park is unparalleled, making it a truly special and rewarding place to live.

This FULLY RENOVATED home is ideally suited for family living or investment purposes. Positioned in a sought-after pocket of Cambridge Park.

Price: $890K - $940K

Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE P OWELL

M: 0428 934 618

PROPERTY LAUNCH: Saturday, 24th Feb

Inspection: Call Agent

GIZZELLE P OWELL

M: 0428 934 618

E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

LITS A MELETI

M: 0466 969 164

E: litsameleti@remax.com.au

Sale: Just Listed

Inspection: Call Agent

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This is your last oppor tunit y to secure a luxur y apar tment in the prestigious Metro precinct, centrally positioned in the hear t of the Oran Park community.

Generously sized, this 3-bedroom apar tment features ample floor space, sophisticated styl e 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 cook top, rangehood, buil t-in microwave oven and dishwasher plus striking Parisi tapware, tinted mirror splashback and Caesarstone benchtop centrepiece

• Ceramic tile floor throughout with carpet to bedroom s

• Ground floor entr y, two levels of secure parking and a communal roof top with barbeque faciliti es

ORAN P ARK

The Experts

KEEPING YOUR PC HEALTHY AND SECURE

Maintaining a healthy and secure PC can be daunting, especially with the ever-evolving landscape of threats and performance bottlenecks. Recognising this need, Microsoft has launched PC Manager, a free tool designed to optimise your Windows experience. I have been using it for the last few weeks. When I feel my computer is running slow – I hit the performance boost button, which [automatically optimises system settings and frees up resources to improve performance]. Let’s explore what PC Manager offers, including its features and benefits.

At its core, PC Manager is a comprehensive utility suite that streamlines PC maintenance and security. It combines various tools traditionally scattered across Windows into a userfriendly interface. The tools are split between enhancing system performance, security, and usability. In addition to the performance boost button, other

tools are included.

Disk Cleanup, which scans and removes temporary files, junk data, and outdated system logs, freeing up valuable storage space.

Startup Management, which monitors and controls programs launching at startup, ensuring faster boot times and smoother performance.

Background Process Management identifies and stops resource-intensive processes, enhancing overall system responsiveness.

Antivirus Protection integrates the core Windows Security engine, providing real-time protection against malware, viruses, and other threats.

System Health Checks regularly audits Windows for vulnerabilities and outdated software, offering timely recommendations for updates.

Network Booster analyses and diagnoses network issues, helping improve Internet connectivity and speed.

Battery Saver, which extends

Experience the thrill of coming face to face with the

King of beasts!

battery life by intelligently managing system resources and reducing power consumption.

File Management provides essential tools for organising and cleaning up your drives.

Pop-Up Management, which blocks annoying advertising pop-ups.

Snipping Tool, Captions and Voice Recorder are added to a mini toolbar for quick access.

Network Diagnostics analyses your network connection and performs basic troubleshooting, helping to identify potential performance bottlenecks related to Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity.

Performance Boost Button combines several of the above tools, specifically startup Management, background process management, System configuration management and Network Diagnostics

Microsoft PC Manager is compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11. Installing PC Manager is a straightforward process. You can download

it directly from the Microsoft website or the Microsoft Store app. The installation takes only a few minutes and requires minimal user interaction. Being a free tool directly from Microsoft, PC Manager offers peace of mind without subscription fees or potential security risks. Its small footprint and intuitive interface suit users of all levels.

Zambi Wildlife Retreat is an exclusive and unique Not for Profit Animal Sanctuary, set in beautifully landscaped grounds.

A tour of the retreat allows you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals and learn about their history and species. Zambi only allows limited visitors each week and you will need to book your spot on our website booking page here: www.zambi.org/bookings

The bookings are only available for a total of 7 guests and includes a tour of the retreat with an experienced guide where you will get to hand feed the macaw parrots and baboon monkeys. Complimentary hot and cold drinks and light snacks are included in the cost.

There is also the opportunity to add on animal encounters such as hand feeding the big cats and meeting the meerkats and little marmoset monkeys. This can be booked at the same time as your tour or added during your visit.

Entry is 9 years of age and older and a further age restriction of 12 years and older will apply to hand feeding the

zambi.org

The Experts

JULIE SHELDRAKE

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

SUMMER IS OVER, BUT WE MUST STAY VIGILANT!

Summer is officially over, but that doesn’t mean that pool safety is any less important. With the weather tipped to be warm for many more weeks yet, I have to ask – is your pool and fence in tip top condition? Would they pass a compliance check? If the answer is no, you are risking much more than a fine – you are risking lives.

Did you know that all pools and spas (including portable and inflatable pools) containing more than 30cm of water are legally required to be registered on the NSW Swimming Pool register? Registration is free, but the fine for not doing so is $220, and fines of $550 apply if a pool is not completely surrounded by a

the pool gate stopped closing automatically pretty soon after, and had to be repaired immediately, despite having just passed compliance. With three young children who spent the majority of their time playing outside in the backyard I dread to think what might have happened had we not noticed. It’s worth taking the time to regularly check fences and gates around the pool, and to make sure trees have not grown over the fence to aid climbing. Be vigilant.

Even with effective barriers in place, the importance of supervision cannot be overstated. Drowning remains the biggest cause of accidental death in children under five, and in most cases these deaths can be directly attributed to a lack of supervision. Nothing is more important than supervising children around water – drowning is silent, and swift.

We know that kids are adventurous by nature – they love to climb

and explore – and can often be found trying to climb the fence to retrieve a stray ball from the pool or propping the pool gate open (rather than let it self-latch). Water safety lectures when seeing these behaviours often fall on the deaf ears of our little people, which only emphasises the importance of the other precautions being taken – barriers, supervision, learning to swim and knowing CPR for emergencies. Kids can’t help themselves around water, you need to. Stay safer everyone.

WHAT TO DO IF RATES FALL

There’s plenty of talk at the moment about interest rates going down this year, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) poised to finally give some relief to borrowers as the year continues to unfold.

So what should you do if the rates do go down?

First thing is to make sure your bank is passing on the rate cut in full. If for some reason it doesn’t, it might be time to talk to a broker or another bank and see what other options are out there. Banks usually make announcements around rate changes within a few days of the RBA move.

If your bank does pass on the rate cut, you’ve got a few options. You could enjoy the extra money in your pocket, given your minimum repayment will come down.

But you could also pretend that the cut never happened – and ask your bank to maintain your repayments at the amount they were prior to the cut.

This will obviously have significant long-term benefits, allowing you to build a buffer in the loan that over time could shave significant time off your home loan.

There’s also a host of other options that could also be of benefit. You could store the extra repayments in an offset

bellpartnersfinance.com.au

account so it still reduces the overall interest payable, but gives you quicker access to your funds.

Or you could divert the funds into a savings account and save for that holiday, new car or special treat.

Perhaps even a Christmas fund to have a little bit extra around that financially difficult time of the year.

We often get used to dealing with higher repayments, our lives adjust somewhat and we forget about it. But it’s important that we also adjust when things go the other way – and make the most of the extra money you have.

As always, speak to a broker if you need any advice about your home loan options.

The Experts

A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO PERSISTENT PAIN

Imagine being diagnosed with arthritis, eager to continue your daily activities, but faced with excruciating pain. This is a common predicament for many, and real-life scenarios like gardening can become sources of agony.

Take the case of knee pain during gardening. After spending three hours in a squat position pulling weeds, the stiffness and pain upon standing are undeniable. A visit to the GP reveals severe knee arthritis, leading to prescribed pain medication and a week of rest. However, upon resuming gardening, the pain returns, and the prospect of a potential knee replacement looms.

This narrative resonates with countless individuals who, like you, may feel stuck in a cycle of pain with no modification to their approach. The conventional advice often centres around rest, but it’s crucial to delve into the reasons behind the pain. The arthritis likely existed before the

GP visit, with the extended squatting exacerbating the condition.

Enter “relative rest”. Instead of complete inactivity, this approach encourages modifying your routine while still performing normal duties. For instance, during weeding, opt for a chair at a low to medium height to reduce excessive knee loading. Take breaks to prevent excessive stiffness, breaking down tasks into manageable 15-minute blocks. While medication helps manage acute pain, engage in rehab exercises during periods of rest to strengthen the knee. This proactive approach aims to enhance the joint’s capacity, allowing for prolonged gardening without reaggravation.

In essence, don’t let arthritis dictate a halt to your activities.

Embrace a tailored strategy, combining relative rest with modified duties and targeted exercises. By understanding and addressing the root cause of pain, you can reclaim control over your life, even in the face of arthritis.

Pendragons Abreast: supports the wellbeing of breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating.

At Pendragons Abreast we encourage fitness, wellness, fun and camaraderie. We empower individuals and educate on the benefits of an active lifestyle after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Our inclusive team consists of breast cancer survivors and supporters of various ages, from a variety of backgrounds and athletic abilities.

Pendragons Abreast Penrith was formed in 2004 and we are also members of the Pendragons Dragon Boat Club, Penrith.

We race and train at the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) Penrith Lakes and Nepean River at The Nepean Rowing Club Penrith. With opportunities to participate in regattas, travel and race against other breast cancer survivor teams.

Want to know more?

Find us on Facebook: Dragons Abreast Penrith

Or contact our Membership coordinator 0407 278 384

Take a look at Dragons Abreast Australia website: www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Pendragons Dragon Boat Club: pendragons.online

Come and try and have a chat over a coffee & morning tea.

Contact the membership coordinator for dates & times: 0 0407 278 384

IN THE MIRROR with Cassidy Pearce

Colour is key! The best products to add some sparkle to your makeup

Whether it’s festival season, The Eras Tour, or Mardi Gras that’s gotten you in the mood to play with colour and texture in your makeup, this is your sign not to put the glitter down!

Although the more natural, no-makeup-makeup look is still well and truly in, there’s always a time and place to have fun with makeup. Whilst wearing a sparkly, rainbow look to work isn’t for everyone, here are a few subtle ways to incorporate colour into your makeup routine, and some products to make it happen.

Eyeliner

Okay, I hear you, eyeliner in general isn’t for everyone. I had to do a perfect wing almost on a weekly basis

for dance competitions in my teens and the idea of doing it today still makes me shudder. But, if eyeliner is your thing, using a statement colour or graphic design can be one of the easiest and most effective ways of incorporating something fun into your makeup.

A good coloured eyeliner can be hard to find, especially because everyone has their preferences in formula and applicator. I would recommend the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, which has plenty of matte and shimmer shades, or the Mecca Max Zoom Liner.

Eyeshadows

For a quick and easy way to add something different to your makeup look, a pop of colour on the eyelid will

always win.

There are plenty of eyeshadow palettes or single shades to do this with – you probably already have something at home! But, if you’re looking to invest in something new, Mecca Max has just come out with their Over The Top Holographic Eyeshadow Toppers. The three shades come in a stack and range from an everyday neutral shade to a bright pink, and a stunning green-gold.

If there’s a specific colour scheme you think you’ll wear regularly, look into smaller palettes like Huda Beauty’s Color Block Obsessions

Eyeshadow Palettes in Orange & Purple and Blue & Green. These beauties come with matte and shimmer shades – 10 in nine pans – as well as cake eyeliners which are activated with water.

Blush

One of my favourite ways to switch up my makeup lately has been using different blush shades to match my eyes each day. Of course, the specific shades you use will depend on your skin tone, but for someone as fair as me it’s possible to make almost anything work with a

light hand, from baby pinks all the way to reds and purples. Nars has one of my favourite blush formulas, and I generally rotate between ‘Orgasm’ and ‘Amour’ for every day. But, if you want to be more adventurous, try the brilliant red ‘Exhibit A’ or berry shade ‘Sin’.

Lipstick

A bold lip will truly never go out of style.

If you’re looking to add one to your collection, MAC makes one of my favourite formulas which also happens to come in just about every shade in the rainbow. Or, add some subtle sparkle to the lips with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Lip Gloss in ‘Amber Sparkle’ or ‘Honey Diamond’.

Dogs are incredible communicators, using a language that goes beyond barks and tail wags.

Recognising the subtle cues in their body language is essential for building a strong and trusting bond with our furry companions. Understanding when a dog is happy, depressed, fearful, or stressed can pave the way for a closer bond with your furry friend.

A wagging tail is often associated with a happy dog, but the speed and height of the wag matter. A loose, wide wag usually indicates a content and happy pup, while a stiff, high wag can signal excitement or even aggression. Pay attention to the overall body language – a relaxed posture, ears in a neutral position, and a soft expression all contribute to a genuinely happy canine.

Depression in dogs can manifest in various ways, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or withdrawal. Drooping ears, a

lowered head, and avoiding eye contact are common signs. If your dog exhibits these behaviours, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. Providing extra attention,

their bodies to the ground. Avoid direct eye contact, as it can be perceived as a threat, and give them space to retreat if needed. Offering treats, speaking in a soft, calm voice, and gradually expos-

engaging in gentle play, and maintaining a consistent routine can help lift their spirits.

Fearful dogs may display submissive body language, such as cowering, tucking their tail between their legs, or flattening

ing them to positive experiences can help build their confidence over time.

Stress in dogs can manifest in a variety of ways, including excessive panting, pacing, or yawning. Examine the envi-

ronment for potential stressors, such as loud noises or unfamiliar surroundings. To alleviate stress, create a safe and quiet space for your dog, provide comforting physical contact, and establish a consistent routine. Consultation with a professional trainer or veterinary behaviourist may be beneficial for addressing specific stress triggers.

In any situation, it is crucial to be patient, observant, and responsive to your dog’s needs. Clear communication, positive reinforcement, and empathy form the foundation of a strong human-canine relationship.

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and ample opportunities for physical and mental stimulation contribute to a dog’s overall wellbeing.

By delving into the rich tapestry of dog body language, we not only enhance our understanding of our four-legged friends but also create an environment where they feel secure, loved, and truly understood.

Relax & Unwind

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024

AQUARIUS

This week Uranus (your ruling planet) squares Venus and Mars, which will stir up your impulsive, restless, rebellious side. So slow down Aquarius – otherwise you could find yourself headed for an argument or an accident. With Venus and Mars both visiting your sign, you’ll find the more you cooperate with others, the more affection and abundance you’ll attract. And the more proactive you are about making positive changes, the better your week will be.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

This week the Venus/Uranus square revs up your motivation and boosts your Bullish bravado. But you could also feel rather rushed and slightly unsettled. Cool down and calm down! Aim to do plenty of physical activity, so you can channel your restless energy in pleasant and productive ways. But being overly proprietorial about a person or situation will only lead to a fraction too much friction. Strive to be less stubborn about people, possessions and work.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Have you been feeling like a tired and listless Leo? This week – courtesy of the restorative, transformative New Moon – you’ll feel your mojo, motivation and Lion’s roar returning. So find a challenging project to direct your energy into. The Sun, Mercury and Uranus also encourage you to be more positive when communicating with others. A sunny smile and an encouraging comment will get you a lot further than feisty fireworks and theatrical foot-stamping!

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Uranus disrupts domestic harmony but don’t let it disturb your equilibrium. The secret to success is learning to let go, as you keep what’s working in your life and discard what isn’t. (But you may have to lose a current battle in order to win the long-term war.) Opportunities for New Moon growth come from a loved one, as you realise who has your best interests at heart. It’s also a good time to express your creative side and appreciate the talents of others.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The stars bless creative projects, boost intuition, and help you get lost in a fabulous fantasy novel or a favourite romantic movie. With the Sun, New Moon, Mercury, Saturn and Neptune all illuminating your sign, you’re keen to please others. But avoid the temptation to say ‘yes’ to everyone and everything, like a compliant doormat. You may find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! Confidence is high on the weekend so make the most of it.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Gregarious Geminis are clever communicators but are you confident enough for big time success? With no less than eight planets (including the New Moon) activating your career and aspirations zones, a golden opportunity is waiting in the wings. But you must grab it when it appears, or it will promptly pass you by. Monday and Tuesday favour original ideas and innovative plans, whereas Friday and Saturday are fabulous for creative projects and spiritual pursuits.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The planets could generate a lucky break involving a partnership, joint venture, travel opportunity or educational project. So get your ideas out there as you inform and entertain others with your mercurial mind. A major relationship (of the romantic or platonic variety) could go through a New Moon metamorphosis. Do your best to air any concerns in a compassionate way, as you work through problems that have been holding you back.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Being of service to others (with kindness and compassion) brings much joy and satisfaction. Plus take the time to savour and enjoy the simple things in your everyday life – like a kiss from a child or a walk in the park. But avoid making a rash, insensitive comment (in person or online) that you later regret. It’s a wonderful weekend to entertain at home with a special meal, as the New Moon stimulates your family zone. Convivial conversation is a bonus.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

The Mars/Uranus square could amp up your impulsive, impatient, argumentative side, especially involving friends or finances. And relationships look challenging, as loved ones are more unpredictable than usual. With Venus visiting your friendship and peer group zone, strive to be more diplomatic. If you can temporarily morph from a raging ram to a gentle lamb, then life will be less bumpy. Channel your fiery energy into making a goal or dream come true.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Unpredictable Uranus could unsettle a close relationship on Monday or Saturday, especially if there are secret agreements, trust issues or joint finances involved. Then Sunday’s New Moon activates your adventure zone, so you’re in the mood to plan (and book?) weekend getaways or work holidays for the rest of the year. Mercury also moves into your career zone so it’s time to amp up the communication with colleagues, clients and/or customers.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Laidback Librans love peace and harmony! But they may be hard to find, as unpredictable Uranus squares Venus (your power planet) on Monday. So expect upsets or surprises … perhaps a disruptive partner, an unpredictable friend or a rebellious child. Then Sunday’s New Moon stimulates your wellbeing zone, so it’s a wonderful weekend to start a new diet, reboot an exercise program or begin a meditation practice. Remember – health is the true wealth.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The New Moon lights up your communication, education and neighbourhood zone, so it’s a fabulous week to focus, plan, study, organise and strategise. Especially involving partnerships, joint ventures, and projects within your local community. But double-check all information that comes your way on the weekend. Make sure someone isn’t trying to steamroll you or pull the wool over your eyes (particularly involving friends and/or finances).

3

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Previous solution - Medium SUDOKU

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www.str8ts.com

Like Sudoku, no single number can 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.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

Last week’s solution Crossword 12 34 56 78 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 ACROSS 1. Steep rugged rock 4. Invigorate 8. Parrot 11. Heart-throb poster (3-2) 13. More talented 15. Reflection 17. Hollywood studio (1,1,1) 18. Escape 20. Famous ballpoint 21. Restate main points 24. Cake frosting, ... sugar 27. Blunder 28. Fly out 30. Powdery 31. Too soon 33. Horror 34. Complacently 35. Folk tale 36. Detect 39. Sung rhythmically 42. Agreements 44. Resist 45. South Korean capital 46. Model, ... Macpherson 48. Curry accompaniment 49. Country bumpkin 50. Sell to public 52. Safe havens 54. Chief executive officers (1,1,2) 55. Cheeky 56. Shaving blades 57. Strong flavour 60. Second largest birds 62. Hateful 65. Deadly Australian serpent 67. Uncalled-for 69. Rework 70. Follow on 72. Diamonds ... a girl’s best friend 73. Lustre 75. Coke’s rival 77. Inn 79. The Matrix actor, ... Reeves 81. Social insect 82. Sentimental 84. Indian currency 85. Kitchen strainer 86. Hornet home 87. Church bell tower 88. Axe-like cutter DOWN 1. Baby’s bed 2. Quickly 3. Pop concert 4. Long movie 5. Malaysia’s Kuala ... 6. Retches 7. German WWII fascist 8. Electric fish 9. Hardhearted 10. At an end 12. Sense receptor 14. Legitimate 16. Actress & singer, ... Cyrus 19. Evaporate (3,2) 22. Spookily 23. Worships 25. Brass percussion instrument 26. Contradict 29. Olympic competitor 32. Cereal grass 35. Settler from abroad 37. Searches for 38. Discolours (of paper) 40. UK actor, Rhys ... 41. Tooth problem 42. Less tainted 43. Wilier 44. Low couch 47. Slackens 51. Writer, ... Defoe 52. Transpires 53. Ferocious 54. Two-door cars 58. Blue shade 59. Immortal being 61. Deplete (3,2) 63. Uncovered (facts) (3,2) 64. Magic saying, open ...! 65. Highest quality 66. Asian spice, star ... 68. Approaches 71. Raised (stakes) 72. Similar 74. Poems 76. Affected attitude 78. Laptop data block 80. Pecan or cashew 83. Reproductive cells Crossword brought to you by OnePointHealth onepointhealth.com.au | 4732 5188 510/536 High Street, Penrith Sudoku brought to you by Nepean Aquatic Centre nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au 4730 8900 the western weekender » 58 Friday, March 1, 2024

This wordsearch is brought to you by CPAP Direct, would you finish it faster with a better night sleep? - cpap.com.au

Word Search

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards,

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about the Sydney Mardi Gras in our special trivia quiz this week.

1. In what year was the Mardi Gras held in Sydney for the first time?

2. Who produced a famous documentary in 1980 that tells the story of the first Mardi Gras?

3. Which Premier repealed the Summary Offences Act, that saw people arrested at the 1978 Mardi Gras?

4. Who debuted their single ‘Physical’ at the 2020 Mardi Gras?

5. Where did COVID-19 force the 2021 Mardi Gras to be moved to?

6. What does each Mardi Gras parade traditionally start with?

7. What year did Boy George appear?

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