A PEACEFUL LIFE AWAITS
GO WEST: A BETTER WAY OF LIVING AWAITS
Western Sydney families feeling the squeeze of rising mortgages, long commutes and shrinking backyards are increasingly looking over the Blue Mountains for a better way of living.
Now, with the first stage of house and land packages officially on the market at The Foundations in Portland, a new opportunity has emerged for those seeking space, nature, and a genuine sense of community without leaving modern comforts behind.
Located just under two hours from Penrith, Portland sits at the edge of the Greater Blue Mountains and is fast becoming one of the Central West’s most appealing tree-changer destinations.
Once home to one of Australia’s cement works, the town is now experiencing a cultural and lifestyle revival centred around The Foundations, an 86-hectare master planned
community undergoing a remarkable transformation.
This first release of homes is positioned directly beside the millpond lake, giving future residents something almost unheard of in metropolitan housing developments –water views, walking paths, birdlife, fishing and open sky right at their back door. For families craving room to breathe, this rare blend of natural amenity and village atmosphere sets Portland apart from both suburban Sydney and other regional markets.
But The Foundations isn’t just about quiet living. The precinct is quickly establishing itself as a vibrant arts, events and hospitality hub, blending old industrial character with modern placemaking.
The long-awaited Zig Zag Brewery, now relocated to The Foundations, is preparing to open its new venue – a major drawcard that
will give locals and visitors a new space to meet, dine and enjoy live entertainment.
The broader vision for The Foundations includes new hospitality and events venues, arts studios, walking trails, boutique accommodation and new homes designed to support the region’s growing population. With major renewable energy projects underway in nearby Lithgow and Wallerawang, demand for housing in Portland continues to rise.
For those now working remotely or in hybrid roles, Portland offers a level of work from home efficiency that’s hard to match in the city. With reliable high-speed FTTP Internet, quiet streets, and expansive natural surroundings, the daily distractions of metropolitan life are replaced by calm, focus and fresh air.
“THIS IS A RARE CHANCE TO SECURE A LAKESIDE LIFESTYLE AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE”
Many new residents report they’re far more productive in Portland, enjoying uninterrupted workdays followed by lakeside walks, time with family and the ability to switch off without the noise, traffic or grind of Sydney. It makes remote work not just possible, but genuinely enjoyable.
For a preview of life in Portland, the next major event at the precinct is the Christmas Twilight Markets, to be held on Saturday, December 13 from 4pm to 9pm. The markets will feature artisan stalls, festive food, live music, and a magical sunset backdrop across the heritage buildings and lakeside. For anyone considering making the move, it’s the perfect chance to experience Portland’s emerging lifestyle firsthand.
For western Sydney buyers looking to escape the pressure cooker without sacrificing comfort, culture or connection, this first stage release is a rare chance to secure a lakeside lifestyle at an affordable price.
House and land packages are now available, with enquiries open for those ready to swap congestion for community, and concrete for country air. Visit www.thefoundations.com.au.
Discover exclusive townhome
living in Oran Pa rk .
Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a back yard and the low-maintenance qualities of apar tment living
You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved at tractions.
Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences of fer excellent value-for-money.
• Spacious, designer interiors
• Landscaped grounds
• Two to five-bedroom layouts
• Private porches and cour tyards
• Family-friendly living areas
• Premium finishes and inclusions
• Tranquil locations
Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfor t and practicality. A beautiful lifest yle in one of Au stralia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.
Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomesB anksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The ResidencesTypical example of Oran Park townhomes
YOUR NEW HOME AWAITS
What is so great about this property?
Bright, comfortable and full of potential, this three-bedroom Glenmore Park home is ready to move in or personalise. Each bedroom has built-in robes, with the main offering a private ensuite. Spacious lounge and
dining areas flow to a private backyard – perfect for kids, pets or entertaining. Nestled in a quiet street yet close to schools, shops, parks and HomeCo Glenmore Park, it’s ideal for first home buyers, investors or downsizers seeking comfort, convenience and lifestyle.
Who does this property suit?
First home buyers and investors
Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
Glenmore Park offers an exceptional family-friendly lifestyle, combining modern homes with leafy streets, quality schools and plenty of parks and walking paths. With a thriving community, a convenient local shopping village, and easy access to major roads, it’s a suburb that delivers comfort, convenience and a relaxed suburban feel — perfect for families and professionals looking for space, safety and a welcoming neighbourhood.
FIND THE RIGHT SUPPORT BRACES VERSUS CLEAR ALIGNERS
If heel or arch discomfort is slowing you down, the shoes you wear could be helpful in relieving your pain. Supportive, well-designed footwear can dramatically improve comfort, reduce strain, and make everyday movement far easier. The right pair doesn’t just feel better underfoot, they support healthier alignment, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and help your feet function more efficiently throughout the day.
Footwear designed for plantar fasciitis support typically includes firm arch support, cushioned heels, and contoured footbeds that guide the foot into a stable, natural position. Deep heel cups help keep your stride steady, while adjustable straps or laces ensure a secure and personalised fit. These features work together to distribute pressure evenly, reduce strain, and prevent the foot from working harder than it should.
Just as important as your everyday shoes is what you wear at home. Many people walk barefoot indoors, which can worsen heel and arch discomfort, particularly on hard floors. Supportive recovery thongs and slides are an excellent solution, offering elevated arch support, cushioning, and structure while still feeling relaxed and easy to slip on. Wearing supportive footwear around the house helps maintain alignment and reduces strain on the plantar fascia between your main activities, making a noticeable difference in daily comfort and long-term recovery.
At The Footwear Store, our carefully curated range is designed with these supportive features in mind. Every shoe and sandal we stock has been selected for its ability to enhance stability, encourage natural movement, and provide lasting comfort for those experiencing heel or arch pain. Many designs are
orthotic-friendly, giving you flexibility whether you prefer built-in support or custom orthotics. Pairing the right footwear with supportive socks can also help reduce fatigue and provide additional comfort throughout the day. When choosing shoes for plantar fasciitis support, look for structured arch support, shock-absorbing cushioning, contoured footbeds, secure adjustments, and orthotic compatibility.
If you’re ready to step into relief, visit The Footwear Store in Penrith for personalised fitting and expert guidance. Mention The Western Weekender to receive 10 per cent off your purchase.
One of the most common questions I get asked by parents is ‘does my child need braces?’ and the follow up ‘can we do Invisalign/clear aligners instead?’.
Braces or fixed orthodontics has been the gold standard of treatment for decades, and modern brackets and wires have made treatment times faster. However the aesthetics of the appliances has always been its main limitation, and for those who are self conscious it can be a major obstacle in commencing treatment.
Enter clear aligners. A new method introduced to straighten teeth that was marketed as more comfort-
able, invisible and more hygienic. Whilst all true, these removable systems rest their success entirely on patient compliance. Whilst early iterations of clear aligners were limited in their case suitability, continual advancement in the plastics and tooth attachments has meant about 90 per cent of what were traditionally ‘braces’ only cases can now be treated with clear aligners.
When advising adult patients, I will steer the vast majority toward using clear aligners due to their convenience and discreetness. My philosophy has always been if the person is paying for the treatment, this will self motivate for compliance. The same however cannot be said for children.
Parents will be the best judge for whether a child will follow instructions and use the aligners as instructed. Since they aren’t paying for the treatment, they will often take the cost of treatment for granted, causing increased stress and frustration when results aren’t being achieved due to non compliance. If there is any doubt, it is infinitely more predictable to use fixed methods i.e. braces.
Continuing on the topic of orthodontics, in my next article I will discuss the checklist you or your child should tick off to ensure straightening those teeth is a success.
The Experts
Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s
GIVE THE GIFT OF SWIMMING LESSONS!
This year has certainly been challenging in terms of the continuing rise in the cost-of-living, making the lead up to Christmas an anxious time for many households. All of these circumstances have me questioning if we really need all the extra purchases that usually accompany this time of year, and if the type of presents we are giving need to be rethought?
For me, this Christmas needs to be a stress-free event, less about multiple or large presents under the tree, and all about time spent with loved ones. It is very important this year that the gifts I exchange with family are meaningful, not whatever I could grab during my usual last minute dash to Westfield in the weekend before the big day. A gift that will not end up discarded by New Year’s Day. A gift that won’t be stashed in a cupboard or in my next Council collection. A gift that will make a difference and bring joy to the recipient. A gift that will promote long lasting
confidence, skills or a memorable experience.
Swimming lessons are a gift that require no storage space, promote health, physical activity and safety, are fun, and teach a skill that will last a lifetime.
Alan Bentley, owner of Nepean Swim and Fitness agreed: “Many children missed out on time in the water during the pandemic, and we are still seeing the effects to this day, with swimming milestones consistently not being reached by Aussie kids. However, the dangers of the water remain, so gifting swimming lessons for Christmas is both a thoughtful
and practical gift. Adults who are unable to swim may also request swimming lessons for Christmas to help them to set and reach the goal of learning to swim in 2025”.
As I mentioned in an earlier article, Royal Life Saving Australia is urging parents to enrol their eight, nine and 10-year-olds in swimming and water safety lessons as soon as possible, warning that too many children are missing out on the vital skills to keep them safe. Research shows 60 per cent of kids start lessons before age three, but most have dropped out before age seven. Royal Life Saving is reminding parents that learning to swim as a young child is a great start – but it’s often not enough to keep them safe as teenagers (when the drowning risk increases by 13 times) or last a lifetime.
Our gift vouchers can be used for any of our programs and are available from reception. Contact us on 4730 8900 to arrange a gift voucher or suggest a gift voucher to grandparents or family.
TROUBLESOME TICK SEASON
Summer brings longer days, warmer weather and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with our pets — but it also marks the start of peak tick season. While ticks can be found all year round, their numbers surge in spring and summer when warm temperatures and bursts of rain create ideal conditions
What are paralysis ticks?
Australia is home to around 75 species of ticks, but the ones we are most concerned about are the brown dog tick and the far more dangerous paralysis tick. Paralysis ticks are considered the most life-threatening parasite for pets. They are commonly found in bushy, humid coastal regions along the East Coast, stretching from North Queensland down to Eastern Victoria. Although they are most prevalent from spring through to autumn, they can appear at any time. What does a paralysis tick look like?
Paralysis ticks can be tricky to identify, particu-
larly before they become engorged. Their distinctive colouring and leg pattern are the most reliable clues. They have a greyish body and a specific leg arrangement: one pair of brown legs closest to the head, followed by two pairs of pale legs, and finally another pair of brown legs near the body. Even with these features in mind, it can still be difficult to be certain. In many cases, only a veterinarian can confidently identify the species, which is why seeking professional advice is essential whenever a tick is found.
What to do if you find a tick on your pet
Signs of tick paralysis include:
• Loss of coordination
• Weakness or collapse
• Vomiting or retching
• Change in bark or meow
• Difficulty breathing Prevention
No single prevention product offers complete protection, but using year-round parasite control — such as topical treatments, sprays, rinses or collars — significantly reduces risk. If you live in a tick-prone area such as Winmalee, Yellow Rock or Castlereagh, daily tick searches are essential. For more information, please contact us.
If you discover a tick, contact your veterinarian immediately. The tick must be removed as soon as possible to prevent further toxin injection. If you feel confident removing it yourself, keep the tick and take it to the clinic for identification. Even if your pet appears normal after removal, they still need to be examined. Symptoms can develop hours later, and early treatment greatly improves outcomes.
JULIE SHELDRAKE
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
Work and home life look rather chaotic, as Mercury and Uranus (your ruling planet) stir up your career and domestic zones. Expect the week to be messy and disorganised (and you might get distracted and make some frustrating mistakes) but try to keep things in perspective. Don’t let outer circumstances upset your inner equilibrium. Your motto is from Taylor Swift, who turns 36 on Saturday, “Happiness and confidence are the prettiest things you can wear.”
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
This week’s stars highlight the constant balancing act between individual needs and relationship responsibilities. Adventurous Uranus (in Taurus) emphasises the importance of maintaining your individuality and prioritising personal projects. Whereas the Sun, Mercury, Mars and Venus (your ruling planet) shine a spotlight on your partner, relatives and/or close friends. Are you meeting their needs, as well as your own? And is your trust in someone well-placed?
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Attention Cats … your inner muse is calling! Inspiration is high as the Sun (your ruler), Mercury, Venus and Mars activate your creativity zone. So it’s a fabulous week to express your fiery energy as you sing, dance, draw, paint, perform, write, take photos or play music. But expect some Uranian disruptions at home or work, especially mid-week. Clever Lions will slow down, think before you speak and consider the possible consequences before you act.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are all transiting through your money, values and self-worth zone. So financial matters and self-esteem issues are on your mind, as you find ways to consolidate your finances and boost your inner confidence. Do your best to show extra kindness and compassion towards a family member or close friend who’s going through a tough time. The things they are dealing with are more serious and complex than you previously thought.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
You’re full of big ideas and ambitious aspirations but stop procrastinating Pisces! The challenge is to follow through on plans and commitments. If you make a promise – keep it. If you set a goal – work hard to achieve it. It doesn’t matter how long it takes. With patience and persistence, you can make your dreams come true. But take off your rose-coloured glasses and have your wits about you (especially on Sunday). Don’t fall for a smooth talker bearing fake news.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Attached Twins – this week’s stars are good for cementing your commitment to your sweetheart, as you find extra romantic ways to show affection. Singles – give superficial suitors a wide berth. Look for lasting love with a clever Libran, a stable Sagittarian or a charismatic Aquarian. And – when it comes to your wellbeing – don’t just talk about improving your fitness levels. Be proactive, jump off the comfy couch and get physical in the great outdoors!
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Apart from some mid-week disruptions (courtesy of Uranus) this week looks very good. Monday’s Mercury/Saturn trine is terrific for mental focus and disciplined work. Thursday’s Mercury/Neptune trine encourages creative thinking, intuitive insights and forgiveness. And then Sunday’s Mercury/Pluto link fosters deep thinking and powerful communication. Your quote is from birthday great, Sinead O’Connor, “Forgiveness is the most important thing.”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
This week the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are in your sign, Mercury and Pluto fire up your imagination, plus Uranus pushes you to express your authentic self, every day. So it’s time to network within your peer group and extended social circle, as you get your creative ideas out into the world. Be inspired by Sagittarian singer-songwriter-poet Jim Morrison (who was born on December 8, 1943), “The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are.”
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Expect a frustrating and/or disappointing week, as Mars (your boss planet) squares Saturn and Neptune. Maybe you’re trying to do something, but it feels like you’re driving with the handbrake on. Or you keep coming up against resistance from other people. Or a plan may be too impractical to survive in the real world. Time to pause, be patient, reassess and then start again next week. Friday onwards is a good time to read, write, research, publish and/or travel.
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Lucky, plucky Jupiter is visiting your sign, plus Mercury forms positive aspects to Saturn and Neptune in your aspirations zone. So you need to be more proactive and focused about turning current opportunities and vague dreams into future good fortune. Where intention flows, energy goes! Inspiring motto for the moment is from birthday great, poet Emily Dickinson, “Fortune befriends the bold.” When it comes to a burgeoning friendship or romance, don’t rush.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Communication, conversation, education, social media and local travel are all highlighted this week. But avoid being rash with cash and credit (especially mid-week) via an expensive online purchase or a spontaneous spending spree at the local shops. Impulse buys now could lead to big regrets later. And is it time to express your humanitarian side? Think of ways you can contribute your numerous Libran talents to a worthy cause within your local community.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
The week starts well, as Mercury makes a terrific aspect with taskmaster Saturn (your ruling planet) which encourages and boosts your conscientious, perfectionist side. But don’t overdo it! Leave room for mistakes, stumbles and occasional sloppiness. No one can get things 100 per cent right all the time. Wisdom for the week comes from birthday great, actress Dame Judi Dench, “I think you should take your job seriously, but not yourself – that is the best combination.”
Have you noticed the ‘ SUMMER CLUB’ banners on some Weekender ads?
WHAT IS THE SUMMER CLUB?
The Summer Club is a collection of advertisers who’ve partnered with the Weekender to promote their businesses across the summer as part of an exclusive package
Spots in ‘SUMMER CLUB’ are extremely limited. Email sales@westernweekender.com.au to find out how you can be part of it. We urge you to support the businesses
Relax & Unwind
For document witnessing and other JP services, come in during business hours: �������� 4761 3210
�������� Monday- Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm
We’re happy to assist you! � 2/42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown
my name: Teddy my proud owner: Melanie i live in: Hobartville
Email alison.hall@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. a bit about me: I visit Hobartville Public School every morning to greet all the children, parents and teachers. I make everyone smile and I even have my own school uniform!
A DARLING WEEKEND
There is something special about being a tourist in your own city.
At least a couple of times a year, I love venturing into the city for a night or two – it may be just 50-odd kilometres away but too often we neglect our own backyard as we travel interstate or even internationally.
Recently, my family and I ventured to Darling Harbour for a night – with the Parkroyal our home base.
First impressions matter and battling city hotel parking situations is never a good start to one of these staycations for me – so I was delighted to find an easy to access driveway just off the ANZAC Bridge, with valet parking available to make the whole check-in process so much easier.
“CONSIDER
The room itself features all your standard fare – comfortable beds, a decent sized bathroom etc –but the facilities help deliver an impressive overall stay that mean you’re not totally confined to your room even if you are focused on a little more relaxation time during your stay.
impressive finishes and style, we didn’t feel out of place with a four-year-old in tow (who gave the mini spaghetti bolognese the stamp of approval, by the way). After dinner, we ventured over to Darling Harbour – enjoying the plethora of activities that are
usually being held, especially on weekends. Most of them are free, which helps make this a super affordable weekend.
Little miss played on the play equipment for hours, we even tried our hand at some Salsa dancing and grabbed an ice cream on the way back to the hotel – just a couple of minutes’ walk.
Parkroyal Darling Harbour proved the perfect base for a family weekend, close to all the Darling Harbour activities within the confines of a luxury hotel with superior service and excellent facilities.
What the hotel lacks in terms of a pool or spa it makes up for in location and little extras –including the late afternoon lolly bar, which we certainly gave a workout.
As the summer continues, and school holidays loom, consider a weekend of exploration at Darling Harbour – it’s full of surprises.
With a four-year-old in tow, we had the Little Explorers package added to our room – which meant the addition of a tent, plus gifts including an old school camera, binoculars and map of the city.
Little miss four loved these – in fact, the binoculars remain the current favourite toy at home –and it added an extra bit of adventure to our stay, and something she’ll certainly remember the weekend for.
The Club Lounge for example proved a great place to relax and enjoy some city views, with free beverages and snacks provided at certain points of the day. I’ll be honest – I’ve never really utilised the Club Lounge concept at hotels in the past, but I’m glad I did this time – it just adds that little bit extra.
We maintained our discipline at the Club Lounge given we were headed to the hotel’s Abode Bistro.Bar for dinner.
From delicious house made bread to an impressive aged sirloin and a porchetta that made your taste buds dance, there was nothing but quality across the menu – and despite its rather
Got kids? Make sure you add the Little Explorers package.
There’s plenty of spacious rooms at Parkroyal Darling Harbour.
The Parkroyal is located close to Darling Harbour and the city.
26. Scandinavian land 29. Sneeze sound
32. Cute ... button (2,1)
35. Rapids paddler
37. Clingy person
38. Experiencing a run of luck (2,1,4)
40. Motor vehicles
41. Completely consume (3,2)
42. Solemn vows
43. Glossy black bird
44. Trunk
47. Artist, Pablo ...
51. US mudguard
52. Uproar
53. Academic job permanency
54. Cheyenne dwellings
58. Body part
59. Family
61. Ward off
63. Nimble
64. Good Friday period
65. Went back over (path)
66. Episode
68. Pitchers
71. E African republic
72. Coverings
74. ... Lang Syne
76. Hyperactivity disorder (1,1,1,1)
78. Hey there!
80. Point of sale (1,1,1)
83. Sort
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every number uniquely.
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Word Search
Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.
THEME: THE
RIMA ROCKY RUBBLE
SERENITATIS
TERRA TIDES
WANE
WAX
WINDING VALLEYS
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about bushfires in Australia in this week’s special trivia quiz...
What is the primary natural cause of bushfires in NSW?
What is the 2019-2020 NSW fire season is often referred to as?
What is the name of the fire service responsible for managing most bushfires in NSW?
What weather conditions most significantly increase bushfire risk?
True or false: backburning is a method used to reduce fuel loads and help control bushfires. 6. What common Australian plant contributes to the rapid spread of bushfires due to its oil content?
7. During the 2019-2020 bushfire season approximately how many hectares burnt?
Penrith Cranebrook Lemongrove
no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.
