WARM UP THIS WINTER
WINDOWS PLAY A ROLE
IN WARMING YOUR HOME
As the cooler months settle in, turning your home into a warm and welcoming haven becomes top of mind.
While we often reach for throws and rugs to cosy up our spaces, one of the most effective and elegant ways to boost comfort, and style, is through layered window treatments.
According to Delena Pitman, Interior Designer & Window Covering Specialist with Andersens, the key to successful layering lies in balancing beauty with function for yearround practicality and aesthetics.
“Window treatments shouldn’t be an afterthought, they’re one of the most powerful tools for transforming a room,” she explained.
“Layering allows you to tailor your space to the seasons while introducing softness and sophistication.”
In Australia’s diverse climates, the right window covering can also make a noticeable difference to energy efficiency.
“During winter, windows are one of the biggest culprits for heat loss,” she said.
“Adding a second layer, like a blind beneath curtains, acts as a thermal barrier. It helps
trap warmth inside and reduces the need for artificial heating.”
This technique is particularly useful in openplan homes, where expansive windows and glass doors are common. Layering helps zone open-plan spaces, making large areas feel more intimate and finished. Sheer curtains soften harsh light and add movement, while blockout blinds or heavier curtains offer insulation and light control when you need it most, especially in the evenings or on chilly mornings.
By layering sheer curtains with thermal drapes, or teaming blinds with curtains, you’re not just adding texture and depth to a space, the layered window dressings help to retain warmth, enhance privacy, and offer greater control over light throughout the day. It’s a clever styling move that serves both form and function.
Layered window treatments are especially practical in high-traffic areas or multi-functional rooms. Think living rooms that double as home offices, media rooms, or guest bedrooms that need to adapt to different uses.
The flexibility to control light and temperature throughout the day means these spaces remain functional, comfortable, and stylish.
One of Pitman’s favourite combinations is blockout roller blinds paired with linen sheer curtains. Perfect for bedrooms, nurseries or media rooms, this pairing offers privacy and light control by day and full darkness and insulation by night. Andersens’ blockout roller blinds in soft neutrals like Chalk, Pebble, or Charcoal provide a clean, minimal base, while sheer linen-look curtains in whites or oatmeal introduce a relaxed, coastal-inspired elegance.
“LAYERING
ALLOWS YOU TO TAILOR YOUR SPACE TO THE SEASONS”
Wooden shutters are an excellent option in both the cooler and warmer months, as they provide thermal insulation against the cold and heat, as well as controlling light, air flow and privacy. When used in conjunction with drapes in luxe fabrics, shutters are a sophisticated choice for more formal living and dining areas.
For a more traditional or Hamptons-style interior, Pitman recommends pairing Roman blinds with floor-length curtains. Roman blinds bring a structured and timeless element, particularly in textured weaves or subtle stripes, while full-length curtains in complementary tones, like white Romans with navy or soft grey curtains, introduce softness and elegance.
In kitchens, bathrooms or smaller spaces where a more compact solution is needed, double roller blinds are ideal. These combine a sheer with a blockout fabric in one neat system, offering both light filtering and full privacy when needed. Choosing a tonal palette in soft greys or warm beiges keeps the look clean and modern while delivering all the functional benefits.
For inspiration and to explore Andersens’
Western Property
CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE
Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park
CONTACT:
Oran Park Sales Office
Trevor Homes • 7043 7500
BUY OF THE WEEK
OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK
What is so great about this property?
Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its
foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day.
With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.
77 Kirsh Street
Werrington NSW 2747
Unlock the potential of this vacant block, perfectly positioned in a growing and well-connected neighbourhood. Set on approximately 254.3sqm, this clear and level parcel offering an approximate 9-metre frontage and 28.25-metre depth, a superb blank canvas to bring your vision to life.
Enjoy close access to Western Sydney University, local schools, shopping centres including Penrith Westfield, and the renowned Nepean Hospital. Commute with ease thanks to nearby public transport options such as Werrington Train Station, and major roads including the Great Western Highway and M4 Motor way. Surrounding parks and green spaces add to the appeal for families and nature lovers.
Who does this property suit?
Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.
Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers. Visit today!
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
PROPERTY LAUNCH
EXERCISE AND CHRONIC PAIN
Living with chronic pain can be frustrating, exhausting, and isolating. Whether it’s from arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, or another longterm condition, chronic pain can affect every aspect of daily life – from your ability to work to your mood and sleep.
Exercise, although it may seem counterintuitive, is one of the most effective tools to manage chronic pain.
Why exercise helps
When you’re in pain, movement might be the last thing that is on your mind.
However staying inactive can actually make pain worse over time, leading to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, poor circulation and a greater sensitivity to pain.
Targeted, gentle exercise helps by:
• Reducing inflammation
• Releasing endorphins
• Strengthening muscles that support painful areas
• Improving blood flow to
muscles and joints
• Boosting energy, mood, and sleep
Research shows that people who do regular physical activity often experience less pain, improved mobility and better overall function – even if their condition doesn’t go away.
What kind of exercise is best?
Not all movement is created equal when it comes to chronic pain. The best approach is a low-impact, gradual program which includes:
• Strength training to increase muscle strength and support joint health
• Aerobic activity like cycling, swimming or walking to boost energy and circulation
• Flexibility exercises to
BEN TUCKER
OnePointHealth 4732 5188
reduce stiffness
Start safe and stay consistent
The key is starting small and staying consistent. A few minutes a day is better than nothing, and over time, these small steps add up.
This is where an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) can help. AEPs specialise in designing safe, personalised program for people living with chronic conditionsincluding persistent pain.
Let’s get you moving You don’t have to push through pain or do it alone. If you’re ready to take control of your pain and start moving again, our team at OnePointHealth is here to support you every step of the way.
THE INTERNET ARCHIVE
Before Gene Roddenberry became famous for ‘Star Trek’, he had three failed TV show pilots. A friend mentioned that they had recently watched one, so I decided to see where I could stream it. This led me to the Internet Archive, a non-profit digital library dedicated to preserving and providing free access to a vast collection of digital content, including websites, books, audio recordings, videos, software and images. The Archive gained recognition as a catalogue of historical websites through its Wayback Machine. Let’s take a closer look at the major sections
1. Wayback Machine
Arguably the most famous feature of the Internet Archive, the Wayback Machine allows users to view older versions of websites dating back to the late 1990s. With over 800 billion web pages saved, it’s interesting to see how websites have evolved.
2. Texts
The Archive’s text collection includes millions of books, magazines, academic papers, and other written materials. From classic novels to technical manuals, the amount and diversity of the content are amazing; it’s quite easy to end up down a rabbit hole and discover you have lost hours of your day. Project Gutenberg and Open Library are integrated, offering access to public domain and out-of-print books.
3. Video
The video section features documentaries, vintage TV broadcasts, educational programs, and user-uploaded footage. This is where I found the TV show pilots mentioned earlier. If you’re interested, search for PAX Trilogy.
4. Audio
5. Software
This section preserves old software, games, and operating systems – many of which are playable directly in your browser thanks to emulation technology. ‘Prince of Persia’ is one of my favourites, which you can play via emulation straight from the site.
From radio shows to live music, the audio section includes podcasts, audiobooks, and even entire music albums. Notable collections include LibriVox, a free public domain audiobook project read by volunteers, and the Grateful Dead Archive, which features thousands of live concert recordings and 78 RPMs and cylinder recordings digitised for preservation.
DAVID NORRIS
PEDICURE FOR YOUR POOCH?
Are your dog’s nails constantly tap-tap-tapping across your floorboards like a tiny parade of high heels on tiles? While it might sound amusing, long nails can be more than just a noisy inconvenience – they can lead to pain, injury, and long-term health issues for your furry friend.
Trimming your dog’s nails isn’t just about aesthetics or neatness – it’s an essential part of their health and wellbeing. Overgrown nails can cause a range of problems, from uncomfortable walking to serious injuries. When left too long, nails grow in a curved shape, eventually pressing into the paw pad and causing pain or even infection. They can affect your dog’s posture, leading to joint issues, and they’re more likely to catch on carpets or furniture, risking torn nails – a painful and messy injury.
So, how often should you clip your dog’s nails? The answer varies depending on your dog’s breed, age, lifestyle, and how quickly their nails grow. As a general guide, if you can hear their nails clicking on the floor when they walk, it’s time for a trim. For most dogs, this means every 4–6 weeks. Regular clipping not only keeps nails at a safe length but also helps prevent the sensitive quick – the blood vessel inside the nail – from growing too long. This makes future trims easier and safer.
How to clip your dog’s nails
Start by gently holding your dog’s toe between your fingers. Use sharp, pet-specific nail clippers and trim just the tip of the nail. Never cut beyond the curve, as this risks cutting into the quick, which is painful and will bleed. If your dog has clear or white nails, the quick is usually visible as a pink line. For dogs with darker nails, look for a chalky white ring on the cross-section of the nail after each snip – that’s your sign to stop.
And don’t forget the dewclaws – the extra nail on the inner side of the paw. These don’t touch the ground, so they won’t wear down naturally and can easily curl inward if not trimmed.
Top tips to make nail clipping easier
• Start early: Introducing your puppy to nail trims while they’re young sets them up for success later. Regularly handle their paws, even when you’re not trimming, and always reward calm behaviour. This helps build positive associations that last a lifetime.
• Make it positive: Use treats, praise, and patience. A lick mat smeared with dog-safe peanut butter can be a brilliant distraction. Some owners even turn nail trimming into a bonding session with lots of pats and cuddles.
• Stay calm and confident: Dogs can pick up on your anxiety. If you’re nervous, they’ll be nervous too. Keep sessions short and positive – don’t try to tackle all four paws in one go if it’s overwhelming.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for help: If nail trimming feels too stressful for you or your dog, speak to your veterinary team or a professional groomer. They can show you the right technique, trim the nails for you, or discuss sedation or twilight anaesthesia if needed for particularly anxious dogs.
• Be consistent: The more regularly you trim your dog’s nails, the easier it becomes for everyone. an waiting until the nails are overgrown. With patience, practice, and a few tasty treats, you can turn nail trimming into a positive experience that supports your dog’s long-term health.
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
This week there’s a Mars/Uranus trine, a Full Moon in Aquarius, and Mercury’s reversing through your relationship zone. So you’ll be reliably unpredictable and consistently inconsistent! One half of you wants to snuggle up close with someone special – while the other half longs to be footloose and fancy-free. Try to find the sweet spot between cosy companionship and invigorating independence and resist the urge to be deliberately controversial.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
This week the Full Moon’s stirring up your career zone and Mercury’s reversing through your domestic zone, so the work/life balance will be an extra tricky juggle. Your partner, family members or housemates will certainly let you know if you’re not pulling your weight at home! Be patient with a frustrating loved one. Draw inspiration from fellow Taurean, Audrey Hepburn, “People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed.”
LEO
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Mercury is reversing through your daily routine zone, the Full Moon lights up your mystery/secrets zone and Neptune opposes Mars. So many Fish are set for a frustrating and confusing week. Some possible scenarios? Important phone calls may be missed, diets could be broken, or paperwork go missing. The best way to handle the ensuing chaos? Slow down … relax … imagine … daydream … meditate … contemplate … ruminate … and escape!
GEMINI
22 TO JUNE 21
Many Geminis have a wandering gypsy gene. This week your travel zones are activated by the Full Moon and retrograde Mercury, so a trip could be delayed or disrupted in some way. Communicating with others (in person plus via texting and social media) could also prove to be confusing and frustrating. Things should start to settle down next week, after Mercury moves forward on August 11. Until then, try to be extra patient and double-check everything.
VIRGO
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Are you procrastinating about which project to pursue? A bored and unengaged Ram is a recipe for trouble. With Saturday’s Full Moon activating your hopes and wishes zone, you want to act ASAP, with plenty of energy and enthusiasm. However – with Mercury reversing through your creativity zone – you’ll feel hamstrung in some way. This week is good for reviewing and rehearsing, before you spring into action after August 11, when Mercury finally moves forward.
CANCER
22 TO JULY 22
Venus (the love planet) and Jupiter (the confidence planet) are visiting your sign. So – even though Mercury’s reversing through your self-esteem zone – it’s time to be your authentic self! If you don’t accept yourself (warts and all) then why should anyone else? If you don’t develop your talents and follow your dreams, then others won’t do it for you. As actress/producer (and birthday great) Lucille Ball said, “Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.”
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23 LIBRA
With the Sun (your ruler) and retrograde Mercury both visiting your sign, you’ll go to extremes as the planets press your ‘Let’s overdo everything’ button. So your motto for the moment is from music icon Mick Jagger (who has four planets in Leo), “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.” But resist the temptation to be a right royal bossy-boots – especially when you don’t get your way. Rather than being pushy, try being charmingly persuasive instead!
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
Expect professional problems or domestic dramas, as the Full Moon and retro Mercury stir up old grievances. Use your diplomatic talents to help find solutions. However, if you just sit back and let others make decisions, you’ll feel powerless. So strive to be more self-sufficient, especially at home and work. Getting the ratio right between your public and
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Many practical, sensible Virgos are set for a chaotic and challenging week. Mercury is reversing through your solitary zone until August 11 (hey – where did all my friends go?) while Mars, Saturn and Neptune complicate financial matters (hey – where did my savings go?). Clever Virgos will slow down, reevaluate and reboot. Maximum tolerance will get you a lot further than constant criticising and stressed-out angst. Sunday favours relaxation and rejuvenation.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Many Archers are restless for adventure. You’re keen to head off on an overseas trip, an interstate holiday, or a weekend getaway. But with Mercury still reversing through your travel zone (until August 11), be careful your fiery, impatient nature doesn’t land you in hot water! Smart Sagittarians will slow down and aim to get the balance right between
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
This week Mars (in your sign) opposes Saturn and Neptune (in your partnership zone). If you’re attached, the two of you will be under increased stress due to doubt, illness, money problems or career pressures. Don’t panic! Work on the relationship in a patient and compassionate way. If you are single, don’t expect much from the dating scene this week. If you do connect with someone special, there’ll be plenty of roadblocks before the romance takes off.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
Retrograde Mercury and the Full Moon highlight financial matters, and Saturn (your ruling planet) opposes Mars (in your career zone). Which could push your predilection for criticism and perfectionism to the max, especially at work. Plus a payment could be delayed or a project postponed. It’s a passing phase so calm down Capricorn – and don’t take
40. Shoreline
41. Skeleton photographs (1-4)
42. Occasion
43. Overthrow, coup ... (1’4)
44. Haughty
47. Nauseous in flight
51. Stupid (behaviour)
52. Santa’s laugh (2,2,2)
53. Fleet of warships
54. Indian curry style
58. Acknowledge 59. Gender
61. Sports ground
63. Music genre
64. Snuggle
65. Left behind
66. Motionless
68. Sacrificial
71. Pale
72. Fingertip covering 74. Dedicatory
76. Maladies
78. Members’ organisation
80. Kind
83. Expected landing time (1,1,1)
and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org
you
THEME:
ACCESS
ACQUISITIONS
ARCHITECTURE
BODLEIAN CARDS
CIRCULATION
READING
RESOURCES
SCHOLARS
STACKS
TECHNICAL
THEOLOGICAL
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ON THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL HARBOUR
