Urban Property Group has taken home another two awards with its wins at last month’s 2024 the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s (UDIA) National Awards for Excellence at a Gala Dinner in Melbourne.
These latest accolades come after first winning the state level UDIA New South Wales awards last year.
Urban Property Group’s CEO Patrick Elias received the Young Leaders’ Award and Navali, a premium mixed-use development in Penrith, was crowned the winner of Apartments (Mid-Rise), against the other states.
These two award wins demonstrate not only Urban Property Group’s quality leadership, as well as quality projects, but also that quality and affordability do not need to be mutually exclusive, as well as the strength of the
New South Wales property sector. Urban Property Group has long shown leadership in creating high-quality spaces, by providing buyers with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance in an Australian-first, being one of the first developers in Australia to receive an as-built BTI rating from KPMG Origins, an independent assessor of “trustworthy buildings”, as well as having received a New South Wales Government-endorsed iCIRT rating.
Navali, a conveniently located Penrith 10-storey mixed-use development received top honours for Apartments (Mid-Rise). Part of the Sheffield Quarter development, which is made up of 541 apartments, Navali provides high-quality, yet affordable homes, including some National Disability Insurance Scheme apartments, affordable housing, and private market
housing. Navali reached Practical Completion in 2022, featuring resident facilities including a rooftop garden, communal space, kitchen, garden, and children’s play areas. In addition to Navali's latest award win, it was also crowned as the winner of the 2022 Urban Taskforce Mid-Rise Development Award.
“IT’S AN INCREDIBLE HONOUR FOR URBAN PROPERTY GROUP”
Elias, CEO of Urban Property Group, was awarded as the winner of the Young Leaders’ Award in recognition of his visionary thinking, strategic mindset and focus on innovation.
He was also acknowledged for putting his team first, and for fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.
“It’s an incredible honour for Urban Property Group to have taken home two national UDIA awards on top of our state wins, for both my Young Leaders’ Award and for Apartments (Mid-Rise) for our Penrith development Navali. I’m truly grateful for this recognition and could not be prouder of what our team has achieved,” Elias said.
“These awards are also reminders of how vital our work is in creating high-quality, yet affordable homes to assist with tackling the housing challenges we face in Australia. We are not just building properties, we are creating homes where people can thrive. In today’s housing crisis, that mission feels more important than ever.”
What is so great about this property?
Who does this property suit?
Perfectly positioned on a generous block of est 665m2 in the ever-popular suburb of South Penrith, this family home offers a versatile single level floor-plan with enough room for the growing family, two large living areas, outdoor undercover entertaining area and granny flat potential (STCA).
Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
A growing family or a savvy investor.
South Penrith has everything you would need. Within close proximity to the property are great local reputable schools, family friendly parks and sporting grounds, public transport, Southlands Shopping Centre with post office, Penrith CBD, Nepean Hospital and easy access to the Northern Road and M4 Motorway. South Penrith has been one of the area’s most popular suburbs for many, many decades.
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
No job too small
Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms, Wooden Decks
With the cost-of-living at an all-time high, you wouldn’t be alone if you’ve decided it’s time to put a little more thought into what you’re spending your hard-earned cash on.
Though some would consider beauty to be a category where it’s necessary to splurge, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be, with so many good quality, affordable options out there that you don’t need to be shopping high-end for every step of your routine.
If you’re having trouble deciding where to splurge, and where to save, here are my top tips.
Primer: Save
This may be a hot take, but unless you have a specific skin concern you want to amend, you don’t need to be using a high-end primer – you probably don’t need a primer at all.
Even the most prepared person can be thrown a financial curve ball in their life, where a comfortable lifestyle can suddenly become a stressed one.
Perhaps you’ve lost your job and you’re a sole income family, or maybe illness has struck. As we saw during the COVID pandemic, the most unexpected of issues could arise.
So what happens if you can’t meet your home loan repayments?
First and foremost, the main rule is to not bury your head in the sand. Ignoring emails or calls from your bank, and just hoping the problem can get kicked down the road, is not the right approach.
The last thing a bank wants to do is kick you out of your home and sell your property. It is the absolute last resort, despite the reputation they may have at times.
Your bank will be able to provide you with a whole
Lash Sensational or Essence
Though using a nice primer can definitely make a difference in the way your makeup looks, if you’re in a pinch, a good skincare routine or a more affordable primer can get the job done. I personally like the Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer, or the e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer for a more flawless, shine-free complexion.
is one of my favourites!
Setting Powder: Save
Though I am a fan of high-end setting powders, I do think this is another area where you can save if necessary – especially if your skin is on the drier side.
My favourite affordable option is the Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder.
Blush, Bronzer and Highlighter: Splurge
Foundation and Concealer: Save
Though this may not be possible if you have sensitive skin, or if you’re tricky to shade match, I do believe that you can save on your foundation and concealer. the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer
range of options, including pausing your payments for a period of time, reverting to interest only or consolidating other loans. There will be a variety of options on the table well before the prospect of selling.
And once you’re back on your feet, or even while you’re still off them, talking to a broker is a good option. A broker can ensure you have the best possible home loan arrangement, and if your credit history has taken a hit during your period of financial stress, they’ll be able to provide the best advice possible for your circumstances.
Paying off the family home is a wonderful achievement, and of course takes a long time. Perhaps 30 years, in a lot of cases. You can’t expect that during those 30 years it’s all going to be smooth financial sailing. There will be times of change and stress, and knowing your bank or broker is in your corner is important.
Whilst you can definitely get away with affordable face products, I do think spending a little bit extra in this category is worthwhile – especially if you’re saving on your other base products.
If you’re wanting to splurge on quality, you can do it in a more affordable way by keeping an eye out for a face palette that you love, so you get more product for less. I really love the Hourglass palettes and
sets when they’re available, as well as the One/Size blush and bronzer trios for some variety.
Eyeshadow: Splurge
Eyeshadow in particular is one place where I think it’s necessary to splurge if possible. You just can’t get the same quality in affordable palettes!
To spend your money effectively, find a palette you love and know you’ll use every shade in, or invest in a lid shade or glitter to use with bronzer in the crease.
Mascara: Save It’s no secret that there are plenty of amazing affordable mascaras on the market right now.
If you haven’t tried them already, I recommend giving the Maybelline
Lash Princess False Lash Effect mascaras a go.
Eyebrow Products: Save
No matter if you use an eyebrow pencil, gel, or pomade, there’s a great, affordable option out there for you.
The Mecca Max BROW GURU Power Brow Strong Hold Gel is perfect for no makeup-makeup days.
Hair Products: Somewhere in the middle!
Though I’m not generally a fan of super affordable hair products, I do think it’s possible to find a middle ground. Opt for Shark tools instead of Dyson, or switch from Kérastase to Redken if you want to save without compromising the look and health of your hair.
So if you do have a time of financial stress, make sure you be up front and active straight away – don’t bury that head!
Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital
4736 2027
You let your furry friend out in the backyard for some exercise and fresh air, only to find him wandering down the road, in the neighbour’s yard or chasing birds in the park. It’s a scenario that’s all too common for many dog owners. But why does it happen, and how can you prevent it? Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s escape attempts is the first step towards keeping them safe and content within the confines of your yard.
There are generally two main reasons why dogs try to break free from their yards.
To escape from something Dogs, like humans, have their fears. Loud noises, such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or even construction sounds, can trigger anxiety in dogs. Faced with such discomfort, a frightened dog may do anything to flee the source of distress, even if it means breaking through barriers like fences. To prevent such incidents, ensure
your dog has a safe, enclosed space during times of heightened noise and always keep identification updated, providing a better chance of being reunited if they do manage to escape.
To escape towards something
Sometimes, the allure of the world beyond the fence is simply too tempting for dogs. Whether it’s chasing after wildlife, investigating intriguing scents, or seeking the company of other dogs or people, the outside world can offer endless excitement. Additionally, intact male dogs may feel compelled to wander in search of a mate. To lessen these urges, it’s essential to make the home environment as stimulating and appealing as possible.
Here are some strategies to prevent your dog from escaping:
Supervision
Avoid leaving your dog alone in the yard for extended periods. Dogs left to their own devices
may quickly grow bored and seek entertainment elsewhere. Stay outside with your dog, engaging in activities like fetch or simply providing companionship.
Enrichment
Create a fun and engaging environment within the confines of your yard. Offer toys, a sandbox for digging, or a kiddie pool for splashing on hot days. Consider setting up a mini-agility course or inventing new games to keep your dog mentally stimulated and less likely to seek adventure beyond the fence.
Secure fencing
Invest in a solid fence that prevents your dog from seeing through or over it. Ensure the fence is securely installed, with no gaps or loose boards that could provide an escape route. If your dog is prone to digging, consider sinking the fence into the ground or installing barriers to prevent tunnelling.
The pelvic floor is located between the tailbone and the pubic bone within the pelvis and supports bowel and bladder control.
Common causes of pelvic floor weakness include pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, constipation and age. The main reason we exercise the pelvic floor is to assist with urinary and bowel incontinence.
Exercise physiology plays a crucial role in promoting pelvic floor control and overall pelvic health which include:
Improved strength:
It is key to focus on strengthening the pelvic floor and abdominals while focusing on breath control. This can help improve bladder and bowel control, reduce urinary continence and provide support for pelvic organs.
Enhanced stability and support
Positive reinforcement
Encourage your dog to stay within the yard by offering rewards for good behaviour. Call him over for treats or praise him when he chooses to remain close by. Positive associations with the yard can help reinforce the idea that staying home is rewarding.
It’s also essential to consider your dog’s breed and individual needs. Some breeds, like sporting dogs or those with high energy levels, may have a stronger inclination to wander. Providing adequate physical and mental exercise tailored to your dog’s breed and temperament can help prevent escape attempts.
Taking proactive measures to create a secure and stimulating environment can significantly reduce the likelihood of such incidents. By addressing the underlying reasons for your dog’s desire to roam and implementing preventive strategies, you can help ensure your furry friend stays safe and content.
Exercise physiology interventions can be particularly beneficial for pregnant women and postpartum individuals. Pelvic floor exercises and other targeted exercises prescribed by exercise physiologists can help maintain pelvic floor function during pregnancy, reduce the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction postpartum, and facilitate recovery after childbirth.
What exercises should I do at home?
It is best to consult with an Exercise Physiologist to develop an individualised program. However, try these at home.
Dead bugs: Keep your back on the floor, bring up hips and knees to 90 degrees and raise your hand vertically
A strong and coordinated pelvic floor provides stability and support for the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Exercise physiology techniques can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, reducing the risk of pelvic organ prolapse and other pelvic floor disorders. Optimised function during pregnancy and postpartum
over your head and lower the opposite arm and leg away from one another towards the floor.
Glute bridges: Lay on your back with feet flat on the floor and lift your hips off the floor, and slowly lower your glutes down through rolling down your spine.
Exercise physiology offers a holistic approach to promoting pelvic floor control and overall pelvic health through targeted exercise interventions, education, and support. By strengthening and coordinating the pelvic floor muscles, improving core stability, and addressing needs, exercise physiologists play a valuable role in preventing, managing, and treating pelvic floor issues.
GLENMORE PARK we’ve got you covered
Glenmore Park can pick the paper up at the following locations:
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Relax & Unwind
my name: Charlie, Teddy and Minnie
my proud owner: Michael and Amanda
i live in: Glenmore Park
a bit about me: Charlie’s superpower is puppy dog eyes that could melt a heart of ice. Teddy’s superpower is he can make food magically disappear –just don’t ask him to bring it back. Minnie’s superpower is taking down Teddy (five times her size), what a bully!
Email Cassidy.Pearce@westernweekender.com.au with your favourite picture of your pet, and include your name, pet’s name, suburb and a blurb about your favourite furry friend.
Since 1975 Pancakes On The Rocks has been a Sydney favourite with restaurants at The Rocks, Northmead, Darling Harbour, Beverly Hills & Darling Square. With something for everyone from Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert we have a wide range of meals including Ribs, Steak, Pizzas, Salad, Crepes & of course our Pancakes.
www.pancakesontherocks.com.au
MADELINE MOORE Boho Astro bohoastro.com
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
The Aquarian buzz word for the week is Communication (with a capital ‘C’).
Monday night’s Solar Eclipse stimulates your neighbourhood and conversation zone, so expect increased social interaction and educational activities within your local community. When it comes to an ongoing neighbourhood problem, think global and act local. Wisdom for the week is from fashion designer (and birthday great) Vivienne Westwood, “The sexiest people are thinkers.”
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
Taurus is a fixed sign and you can be a bossy, stubborn Bull. Aim to be more adaptable and adventurous this week, as you focus attention on helping those around you. The Solar Eclipse lights up your humanitarian zone, so being of service to others sees you glow on the inside. But with Mercury in retrograde mode, take the time to double-check all information and communicate clearly. On Wednesday and Thursday, tread carefully with family and friends.
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Are you a Lion who’s feeling rather restless? On Monday night there’s a fiery Solar Eclipse in your adventure zone, which highlights holidays, adventure, exploration and exciting beginnings. But retrograde Mercury is also there, which could complicate travel plans, limit patience, shorten timelines and lengthen frustrations. So you’ll need to be on your best behaviour if you want to cruise through the week! Clever Cats will check, double-check, listen and learn.
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Jump off the comfy couch! The Solar Eclipse (in Aries) encourages you to be proudly proactive as you get your body moving, set challenging daily goals and then actively pursue them. Not sure how to do that? Try rubbing shoulders with your kickass Aries friends … they’ll show you how to crank up your motivation and energise your enthusiasm. But Mercury is in retrograde mode, so be careful you don’t stir up trouble and play power games.
Mars and Saturn link up in your sign (on Wednesday/Thursday) which could stymie progress, squash confidence and bring you down. However – fortunately – the Solar Eclipse and Venus 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!
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Mercury is your ruling planet and it’s in retrograde mode until April 25. So it’s not a good time to gossip; sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on an important business trip or embark on a big overseas holiday. However, it IS a good time to do anything with an ‘re’ in front of it … revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover and reconnect. And make sure you double-check everything.
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Mercury (your boss planet) is in retrograde mode until April 25. So – even though there’s a New Moon/Solar Eclipse on Monday night – it’s not an appropriate week to expedite tasks, initiate ideas or race ahead with projects. Instead, use the time wisely to remember, revise, research and review. Be patient, pace yourself and move ahead slowly in planned stages. Your motto for the moment is from Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.”
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
With your sparky Sagittarian mojo and momentum running on high speed, you’re ready to rock and roll! Monday night’s fiery Solar Eclipse activates your leisure and pleasure zone, so all forms of entertainment will appeal as you socialise with friends and enjoy yourself to the max. However – with Mercury reversing through your friendship zone – be careful you don’t say the wrong thing to the wrong person. Think things through before you speak.
Monday night’s Total Solar Eclipse is in your sign which boosts energy levels, turbo-charges your motivation and increases your determination. If you’re lacking confidence (and feeling more like a meek lamb than a courageous ram) then spend time with an uber Aries friend. Hopefully, some of their chutzpah and self-assurance will rub off on you. But Mercury is also activating your sign, so slow down and think (carefully) before you speak and act!
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Avoid being a lonesome Crab! Professional projects and creative collaborations with colleagues are favoured, as you spark ideas off each other and pool your talents to produce something special. The Total Solar Eclipse and Venus increase enthusiasm and encourage rebooting a rickety work relationship that’s been experiencing problems. But be careful you don’t get into an emotional stew over a festering secret, a broken promise, or a breach of trust.
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
With Venus and the Solar Eclipse in your relationship zone, you’re keen to motivate, encourage and inspire others. But Mercury is retrograde, so you’ll need to utilise your well-developed diplomatic skills. Librans are the fashionistas of the zodiac, so it’s up to you to lead the way towards a more sustainable future. Wisdom for the week comes from fashion designer/innovator (and birthday great) Vivienne Westwood, “Buy less, choose well, make it last.”
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
The Solar Eclipse promises a fresh start involving family plans, a domestic situation, or a new housemate. But the Mars/Saturn conjunction – and retro Mercury – could delay a project, exacerbate a misunderstanding, or frustrate a financial situation. So proceed with a pragmatic attitude plus plenty of caution. Family and friends are the ones who matter. As Michelle Obama (a fellow Capricorn) observes, “Surround yourself with people who will make you better.”
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.
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org
If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store. The solutions will be published here in the next issue.
This wordsearch is brought to you by CPAP Direct, would you finish it faster with a better night sleep? - cpap.com.au
Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.
Theme: ANNIVERSARIES
ANNUAL BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION CENTENNIAL COMMEMORATE CRYSTAL DATE EMPLOYMENT
GOLD HISTORICAL MILLENNIAL NATIONAL OFFICIAL PAST PLATINUM QUADRENNIAL RECURRING RUBY SAPPHIRE SEPTENNIAL SILVER SPECIAL DAY TRIENNIAL
Last week’s solution
Test your knowledge about classic television shows in our special trivia quiz this week.
1. ‘Ozzie and Harriet’ launched the singing career of which American pop star?
2. Buddy Ebsen and Irene Ryan starred in which 1960s comedy about a poor, backwards family who struck it rich and moved to California?
3. Who created 1960s sci-fi show ‘Lost In Space’?
4. Who did Ron Howard play in the hit 1970s/1980s series ‘Happy Days’?
5. What was the name of the family whose home ALF crashed into on ‘ALF’?
6. What was the supposed job of Norm Peterson on ‘Cheers’?
7. Where was ‘The Cosby Show’ set?
ANSWERS
1. Ricky Nelson
2. ‘The Beverly Hillbillies’
3. Irwin Allen
4. Richie Cunningham
5. Tanner
6. Accountant
7. Brooklyn
