$50 MILLION PLAN FOR 24/7 FREIGHT FACILITY
Anew 24/7 sensitive freight facility, expected to cost over $50 million, has been proposed in Orchard Hills, with its Development Application (DA) placed onto public exhibition.
The DA is for the construction of a COPE Sensitive Freight facility within the Alspec Industrial Business Park (AIBP) at 211-227 Luddenham Road in Orchard Hills and is expected to cost a whopping $52,211,656.
The warehouse is one of the first facilities planned for the AIBP and is proposing to operate as a storage facility for sensitive and bulky freight.
The proposal is seeking consent for the construction and operation of a purpose-built warehouse and distribution facility, to be primarily used for the storage of bulky products and sensitive/ fragile products.
“The proposed development is
designed to handle the intricate logistics of sensitive equipment, ranging from MRI machines to gaming devices,” the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) attached to the DA said.
“The facility serves as a comprehensive hub, accommodating the delivery, storage, testing and subsequent on-delivery of these and other specialised items.
“The site is designed to meet the unique requirements of its clients, ensuring the safe and secure handling of sensitive equipment from arrival to final distribution and set up.
“COPE Sensitive Freight will store materials classified as Dangerous Goods (DGs). The DGs that will be stored at the site revolve around the sensitive equipment that is stored at the site, which involve Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines.”
The proposal is also seeking
approval for the installation of an in-ground weighbridge, construction of a separate car and truck entry/exit locations to the car park, a car park comprising 222 parking spaces and for the site to operate 24/7.
“THE PROPOSAL WILL NOT RESULT IN ANY ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS”
The SEE proposes the facility will have a positive impact on the surrounding area, including boosting job availability.
“The proposal will not result in any adverse environmental impacts. The supporting technical reports assess how the proposed development will not
result in any unacceptable amenity impacts in terms of noise, air pollution, dust, or other issues to nearby land uses,” the SEE said.
“The proposal will result in positive social and economic impacts: the proposal will deliver a high-quality warehouse facility that will unlock employment opportunities and industrial services for both the locality and broader region.”
Attached to the proposal was a Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, which conceded that there will be additional road noise generated from the proposal, but it is in line with expected growth of the area.
“…Increased road traffic noise would be realised over a number of years and should be considered in the planned growth of the area (i.e. major transport infrastructure, industrial, retail, commercial and high density residential).”
CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE
LAND FOR SALE FROM $1,050,000
OPEN FOR INSPECTION By
Urban Real Estate
Nahro Hasan • 0449 722 323 sales@caddensmeadow.com.au www.caddensmeadow.com.au
What is so great about this property?
• Only $15,000 deposit required (conditions apply).
• Delayed settlement, mid 2026.
• Spacious 540m2–608m2 blocks.
• Wide 15 metre – 32 metre frontages.
Who does this property suit?
All buyer types. Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
Perfectly positioned for growth, Caddens Meadow is within close proximity to local schools and Western Sydney University.
Only 1.7km from the future Orchard Hills Metro Station (planned 2027).
The entry/exit to the M4 Motorway is within easy access and with the future Western Sydney International Airport set to open in 2026, this location is primed for long-term value.
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
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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
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Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomesB anksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
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GIZZELLE
0428 934 618
The Experts
THE POWER OF EXERCISE BIG CHANGE TO SOCIAL MEDIA HEALTH
This National Diabetes Week, it’s the perfect time to shine a light on one of the most effective and underutilised tools in diabetes management: exercise.
Whether you’re living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, regular physical activity plays a vital role in improving blood glucose control, increasing insulin sensitivity, managing weight, and reducing the risk of complications such as heart disease and neuropathy. The benefits go well beyond blood sugar levels — exercise also improves mental wellbeing, energy levels, sleep quality, and overall quality of life.
For people with Type 2 diabetes, exercise helps the body use insulin more efficiently. Even a single bout of moderate activity — such as a brisk 30-minute walk — can lower blood glucose levels for up to 24 hours. Over time, regular activity can lead to reductions in HbA1c, blood pressure, and
cholesterol.
For those with Type 1 diabetes, exercise still offers substantial benefits. However, it requires a little more planning to prevent hypoglycaemia.
That’s where the guidance of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) becomes incredibly valuable. We work closely with individuals to understand how different types of exercise — from aerobic training to resistance work — affect their blood sugar levels and help tailor safe, effective programs.
What’s most important is finding a type of movement
BEN TUCKER
OnePointHealth 4732 5188
you enjoy. It doesn’t have to be high-intensity or involve a gym. Gardening, swimming, dancing, or even walking the dog all count as beneficial physical activity. The goal is to build consistency and make it a regular part of your lifestyle.
If you’re unsure where to start or have other medical conditions to consider, consulting an Exercise Physiologist is a great first step. At OnePointHealth, we’re passionate about empowering individuals with diabetes to take control of their health through movement.
This National Diabetes Week, let’s move with purpose — your body will thank you.
Starting this December 2025, social media in Australia is undergoing a significant change aimed at protecting our kids online. As a parent, you should be aware of this, especially if you have children under 16 who already have access to social media. A new Act is coming into effect, so social media platforms will begin to lock out users under 16.
The Act is the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024 Its purpose is to restrict platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, and others from allowing children under 16 years of age access. They will now need to verify that account holders are at least 16-yearsold before they can create or maintain an account.
This act is in response to growing concerns from parents, educators and health experts about the effects of social media on young people’s mental health, privacy and safety. A national survey revealed that 90 per
cent of adults support age checks. Social media platforms must take “reasonable steps” to prevent them from signing up or continuing to use their account.
Importantly, parents and children will not face penalties if underage access occurs; the responsibility lies solely with the platforms. Even existing accounts will be age-verified and may have their accounts suspended or deleted.
The law allows platforms some flexibility in implementing age verification, but they must demonstrate adequate compliance with the requirements. The eSafety Commissioner will oversee the rollout and has the authority to adjust the rules as needed.
If you’re a parent:
• Discuss the upcoming changes with your kids. Let them know they will lose access to social media.
• Stay informed about which platforms are affected.
• Keep an eye out for new age checks appearing in the apps your kids use, such as ID uploads or facial recognition, which may soon become part of the sign-up process. There will undoubtedly be some challenging conversations. Children will be upset, especially if they’ve been using these platforms for years. Parents might feel tempted to bend the rules or represent their child’s age to maintain peace. However, this is a valuable opportunity to discuss online safety, digital boundaries, and the importance of these changes. This new law represents a significant step toward making the online world a safer place for children.
SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUNDS AND DIVORCE
Self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF) have a lot of complexities that are often overlooked when established. One such area that is virtually never considered upfront is, what happens to the SMSF in the event of divorce?
For most SMSFs, the husband and wife are both members of the fund. The trustees are usually either the husband and wife, or a
arrangements for their own superannuation. Both parties are required to agree to this course of action and, in most cases, they are usually in agreeance to wind up the fund. The mechanics in doing so can, unfortunately,
assets). If the SMSF pools assets, it means that the fund itself owns the assets, not any one member. This is necessary if the fund holds single large assets such a property. As no member owns any particular assets, the trustees
an asset the other would like to retain. If the couple would like financial advice in relation to the fund, the financial advisor must provide advice to the individual as well as the trustees of the fund on the impact of the advice. The insurance can be even more complicated. Given that it is compulsory to have an insurance strategy for an SMSF, it is typical for the SMSF to own insurance
ALEX MCKENZIE
The Experts
RAT BAIT POISONING IN PETS – WHAT TO KNOW
Recent reports from pest control operators suggest a noticeable increase in mouse activity across parts of Sydney, including areas close to home. Urban development, unpredictable weather patterns, and easily accessible food sources all contribute to this surge. As a result, many households are reaching for rat and mouse baits to manage infestations – but these products pose a serious threat to the health of our pets.
Why are rodents on the move?
Construction and urban sprawl are displacing mice and rats from their natural habitats, forcing them into homes, sheds and garages in search of food and shelter. Weather changes – such as heavy rains or prolonged dry spells – can also drive rodents indoors. Good sanitation practices, securing food sources, and sealing entry points are essential for preventing infestations.
The hidden danger of rodent baits
While rat baits can be effective at controlling rodent populations, they also present a high risk of poisoning for curious cats and dogs. Pets can be affected either by directly ingesting the bait or by eating rodents that have consumed it.
There are two major types of rodent baits:
• First-generation anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin in Ratblitz) require repeated ingestion over several days to be fatal.
• Second-generation anticoagulants (e.g., Brodifacoum in Talon and Ratsak) are much more potent and can be deadly with just one dose.
These poisons work by depleting the body’s vitamin K reserves, which are essential for blood clotting. It can take one to five days for symptoms to appear, making early detection and treatment vital.
Signs of rat bait poisoning
• Pale gums or small red spots on the gums
• Lethargy
• Unexplained bruising
• Blood in urine or stools
• Bleeding from the nose or prolonged bleeding from wounds
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Laboured breathing
• Seizures or muscle tremors
If you suspect your pet has eaten bait – or even if you find a damaged bait box
– it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Bring the packaging with you, as knowing the active ingredient helps deter mine treatment.
Treatment and prevention
Treatment depends on the timing and severity of ingestion. Your vet may run blood clotting tests and prescribe vitamin K therapy for up to 30 days. In severe cases, pets may need hospitalisation or blood transfusions. To protect your pets, avoid loose bait pellets. Always use tamper-proof bait stations placed well out of reach of animals and children. If you’re concerned your pet may have come into contact with rodent bait, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 for prompt advice and care.
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
This week you’ll be reliably unpredictable and consistently inconsistent! Love, loyalty and compromise are the New Moon buzz words. But one half of you wants to snuggle up close with someone special – while the other half longs to be footloose, fancy-free and spontaneously solo. Try to find the sweet spot between cosy companionship and invigorating independence. And resist the urge to be an Aquarian provocateur who is deliberately controversial.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
Venus squares Mars on Wednesday, when a financial matter takes an unexpected turn or a family member could hit you with some surprising news. Talking things through with a sympathetic friend may be the healing balm you need. Then the New Moon (on Thursday night/Friday morning) is a good time for a domestic reboot as you clean and de-clutter your living space, and make it more beautiful via re-decorating, playing music or a fresh lick of paint.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Calling all Cats! With the Sun and New Moon in Leo, it’s your time to shine – to display your numerous creative talents, and dazzle others with your fiery enthusiasm and abundant Leo charm. It’s also the best week of the year to try a new hairstyle, update your wardrobe or start an exciting personal project. But remember Mercury is reversing through your sign, so be careful you don’t upset others by behaving in an inconsistent, confusing or selfish way.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
There’s no denying you’re a smart Scorpio but are you making the most of your professional talents? With the Sun and New Moon in your career zone, put on your thinking cap, connect with colleagues and keep them up to date with your work plans. But retrograde Mercury is also there, so – unless you communicate clearly and concisely – expect timetable chaos, missed meetings and/ or misunderstandings. Diplomacy and patience will see you through.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
New Moon week is the ideal time to ditch bad daily habits and start afresh. Work, health, fitness and food choices are the main areas you need to revise and then make some long overdue changes and adjustments. The sooner the better. Try to release pent up Piscean frustrations via a chat with a close confidante or a trusted family member. Spending some quality time with your favourite four-legged friend (in the great outdoors) will also help to lift your spirits.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Family relationships and close friendships look complicated, as loved ones debate a wide range of controversial topics or a relative makes an unpredictable move. If you have a problem that’s bothering you, avoid making a rash decision. Slow down and let your intuition be your guide. The New Moon (on Thursday night/Friday morning) is the perfect time to begin a course of study, start a neighbourhood project, join a community group or make a new friend.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Mercury is retrograde which can make you feel restless, stressed, disorganised and/or overwhelmed. Plus – with the Sun and New Moon also in your solitude zone – you’ll feel like being on your own. Privacy and self-reflection are paramount, so activities like meditation, contemplation, chanting and/or yoga are recommended. Your mantra comes from birthday great, psychoanalyst Carl June, “Solitude is for me a fount of healing which makes my life worth living.”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Are you feeling restless Sagittarius?
The Sun, New Moon and Mercury stir your gypsy gene and find you dreaming of airplane tickets, greener pastures and foreign adventures. You’re also longing for closer connections with your international friends. But Mercury is retro (until August 11) so travel plans could be delayed or cancelled, and a friendship could be turned upside down. Less haste and closer attention to details with make the week less frustrating.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Prepare for a topsy-turvy week! The Sun and New Moon are both visiting fellow fire sign Leo, so you’ll feel like powering ahead with creative projects. But remember Mercury is retrograde (in Leo, until August 11) so rushing around impulsively could backfire – especially involving family and friends. To reduce stress levels (and the likelihood of making mistakes) enthusiasm must be balanced with caution, and fiery haste tempered with plenty of patience.
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
You’ve been talking about saving for something big (like a car, holiday, house deposit or home renovation) for a while. With the Sun, New Moon and retrograde Mercury visiting your finance zone, resist the urge to be extravagant with cash and careless with credit. In an uncertain economic climate, aim to be a canny Crab who is cautious with money. Plus do an inventory on your inner wealth, as you nurture your self-esteem and consolidate your core values.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
The Sun and fiery New Moon stimulate your hopes and wishes zone and reignite a special dream or aspiration that’s been languishing on the sidelines. But retrograde Mercury is also there so – if you are stuck in a friendship slump or a relationship rut – don’t dwell on the past. It’s time to reboot your peer group as you reacquaint yourself with a creative new crowd. Thursday favours disciplined work, ticking the to-do list and tidying up loose ends.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Do you have a frustrating problem that needs fixing? Have you asked other people for advice but still can’t find a solution? This week the Sun, New Moon and retrograde Mercury activate your trust and wisdom zone. So listen to your inner voice and pay attention to symbolic messages and intuitive insights. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Carl Jung, “The person who looks outward dreams, the person who looks inward awakens.”
and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org
THEME: THE MOON
ARISTARCHUS
ARMSTRONG CRATERS
CRISIUM
CRUST
DORSA ESCARPMENTS
GIBBOUS IMBRIUM LANDING
LOW DENSITY
LUNAR MOUNTAINS
NEAR SIDE
ORIENTALE
PROMONTORIUM
RILLES
RIMA
ROCKY RUBBLE
SERENITATIS
TERRA TIDES
WANE
WAX
WINDING VALLEYS
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].
