STUNNING NEW UNITS HAVE BEEN REVEALED!
An exclusive collection of four-bedroom riverfront apartments, within the Laguna & Glade buildings at Sanctuary in Wentworth Point have been revealed by Sekisui House Australia.
With construction nearing completion and more than 90 per cent of all apartments now sold, private viewings of these premium residences will begin in June.
Located in the centre of Sanctuary, Laguna & Glade’s two resi-
Country House For Sale
Lifestyle Change / Holiday House
TUMUT IN THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS
228 Wynyard Street
Price $1.2 million
This property is within an easy drive to the snowfields for the day and your own slice of heaven on the Tumut Golf Course. Maybe you would enjoy a day on the Blowering Dam water skiing instead, or Talbingo Dam fishing. Lots of things to do
The house is situated alongside the 5th green on the golf course where you can enjoy the outdoor alfresco area fitted with an outdoor kitchen, and watch amazing sunsets over the course, being entertained by the wildlife.
When you’re not using the house, you could let it out as an Air BNB, especially for golfers. This 4 bedroom, 2 living room, master bedroom with a large WIR and en suite, will not disappoint.
It also o ers an o ce, where you could work from home
The main living area is open plan and consists of the kitchen, dining, butlers pantry, a large island bench, a large TV on the wall inside a very large built-in-wall unit with storage. It has central heating and cooling, as well as a double garage attached to the house. It also o ers a double shed in the backyard
Take a look on realestate.com.au228 Wynyard Street, Tumut. Call 0417 216 697 for more information.
dential mid-rise towers comprise 163 waterside apartments.
Only six of the eight four-bedroom north-facing riverfront apartments remain, with two already purchased ahead of the official campaign.
“THIS IS A RARE OPPORTUNITY”
These generously sized, singlelevel residences boast uninterrupted views of the Parramatta River and are set within a unique location fronting both the lush neighbourhood green (opening in July) and future Foreshore Park.
Each apartment includes approximately 168sqm of internal living space, three car spaces, balconies over 30sqm with built-in outdoor BBQs, bespoke
designed for comfort and family living.
Prices range between $2.9 million to $3.25 million.
“This is a rare opportunity as there are no new four-bedroom apartments currently available in Wentworth Point,” said Paul Wainwright, Senior Sales and Operations Manager – Apartment & Mixed-Use Developments at Sekisui House Australia.
“We identified the need for
evolving lifestyles, particularly as Wentworth Point becomes increasingly attractive to families.
“These apartments offer homelike proportions in an elevated location with park and river vistas.”
When completed in 2030, Sanctuary will comprise around 2,000 carefully curated homes, integrated parks, new public spaces, retail and direct access to
Western Property
PENTHOUSE LIVING!
What is so great about this property?
This apartment is one of the Penthouses within the Solis by Astina Development. Positioned on the top floor, this three-bedroom penthouse offers uninterrupted panoramic views of the Blue Mountains.
Who does this property suit?
This property is perfect for a downsizer looking for penthouse living. Solis sets a benchmark for apartment living within the Penrith CBD. This property is complete turn key, brand new, ready to be occupied. Spanning over 100sqm of private external
CONTACT:
PRD Penrith
Thomas Latty • 0452 230 480 thomas.latty@prd.net.au
has a real Real Estate, her enthusiasm and drive is reason she
Jocelyn Marrian hasareal passion for RealEstate, her enthusiasm and drive is the reasonshe has joined @realty.
space, the fully wraparound balcony creates an entertainer’s dream
Tell us about the suburb the property is in?
Positioned within the heart of Penrith, this property is within walking distance to Westfield, Penrith Train Station, and the Nepean River Walk. It couldn’t be better positioned!
How Jocelyn helped Home Owners get their Best Results!
Good knowledge
Jocelyn provided an excellent and professional service in theselling of the house. Jocelyn was very knowledgeable, and her communicationwas excellent. Jocelyn made the process of selling the house seamless.I would highly recommend her service.
the selling house her communication was excellent seamless I service
Verified by RateMyAgent
Highly recommend
Very professional, sold house quickly and for theprice we wanted and very easyto talk to Verified by RateMyAgent
and worked in the network of industry that all property, Jocelyn is passionate she is committed to delivering what she her clients the best
Jocelyn has lived andworkedin the Penrith area for over 30yrs with an extensive networkof clients and friends. In an industrythat is all about property,Jocelynispassionate about people, sheiscommitted to deliveringwhatshe promises and getting herclients thebest results!
What SetsUsApart?
Sets Us Apart?
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The c oncep to f@ realty revolves around the individual real estat e professional. Thi sm eans @realt ya ssociates are not b urdened by the requirement st ha ta re common in m ost real estate offices, or d istractions t hat ca nc ome with ab usy o ffice. Instea dH ea do ffice o ffer sal arge t eam focused on ou ra g ent ss upport with Admin, M arketing, IT, legal ,f inanc e a llowing th eA gent st ow ork in th eb est interest of Y OU, th ec lient. Contact J ocely nM arrian on: 040 516 4446 https://www.ratemyagent.com.au/real-estate-agent/jocelyn-marrian
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JocelynMarrian is atrue gem andI highly recommend hertopeople lookingto buy or sell
Jocelyn made the whole experienceapleasure she had great communication and her understanding of themarket and what we could do toothe property to bring it from thepastto the present and more appealing to potential buyers.Her level of care and professionalism took us from being nervous to excited even taking time out off hoursto answer calls andquestions thatI had.The staging of houseand furniture choicemade it feel warm and inviting With theadvertisement and photos in the lead up to theopen house wastruely amazing On the day of The open home there wasagreat turnout and Jocelyn gotusagreat result on the firstday the house wason the market. I will recommend Jocelyn Marrianto anyone lookingtobuy or sell.
Verified by RateMyAgent
Jocelyn Marrian a true and I her to people looking to experience a pleasure the market we too the the past to more buyers Her care professionalism hours to and questions that I had The house and choice made the advertisement the open was truely amazing The was a great got us a great on first day was on market recommend Marrian to looking to buy sell by
Exceeds Expectations
We chose to useJocelyn to sell our property after having previouslybought our property through her and having been impressed by her communication, skills and expertise. Jocelyn has gone above and beyond to help us through thesaleprocess. Her communication is frequent and thorough and ensures we know what is happening every step of the way. She ensured our propertywas in its best position to sell andsold aboveour asking price on the first open house.Jocelyn has been exceptionally supportive throughout the sale periodwith both ourselves and the purchasers and has gone beyond her role to ensure that everyone hadwhatthey needed and knew each step of the process and whatto expect. Would 100% recommend using Jocelyn
Verified by RateMyAgent
Fast andefficient
use Jocelyn property after previously bought her expertise gone beyond to us the sale process and ensures every step of way ensured our property was in to and sold above our house Jocelyn sale period with the has her to had what they each process what to expect 100% by and efficient
Jocelyn is Amazing !!!!
Ourproperty sold after the first openhome.Jocelyn even got the price aboveour expected sale price. She worked hardtoget the deal done even with the issues regarding our areas reputation of land issues.Our land /property is not effected but still caused afew massive hurdles. Jocelyn made everything easy and accommodatedus with ourbusy work/life schedule. Alot wasdone behind the scenes and Ican’t thank her enough for allthe effort she has putin. If your looking for someone to sell your property with efficiently and no fussI highly recommend Jocelyn
Verified by RateMyAgent
Amazing !!!! Our property open home Jocelyn above our price hard to get areas issues Our /property but a few hurdles Jocelyn accommodated us our busy schedule A lot was done behind I can’t her for all the put in your fuss I Jocelyn by
Ma rian’s Mana is a pre stig iou s maste r-plan ne d pre ci nct offer i ng prem iu m land lots and a rchite ct ural ly des ig ne d res idence s i n one of South-West S yd ney’s faste st-g rowi ng com mu nities.
PR ICES START FROM $554, 50 0
FE AT URES MANICURED GARDENS AND GREEN SPAC ES , ALL MAIN TA INED UNDER A CO MMUNIT Y TITLE SCHEME
WELL PO SITIONED NE AR THE RA PI DLY EX PA NDING OR AN PA RK TO WN CENTRE
Located near Oran Park ’s most popular amenities and shopping precinct, Marian’s Mana invites you to enjoy an addres s that blends nature with urban conveniences. It ’s a place you’ll want to call ho me
Penrith 1/25 Robert Street
WHEN LOCATION COUNTS
This spacious, well-presented townhouse is set in a quiet complex of just four, offering privacy and comfort across two levels. Upstairs features three generous bedrooms, main with ensuite, built-ins to two, a functional bathroom, and separate toilet. Downstairs includes open-plan living and dining, a functional kitchen, study, inter nal laundry with third toilet, and single garage.
Step outside to a private, fully fenced courtyard with a covered entertaining area and open-air deck-perfect for relaxing or hosting guests. Located just 1.5km from Penrith Station, Penrith Plaza, schools, parks, and cafés, this is a smart choice for first home buyers or investors.
AUCTION: Saturday 21 June at 3:00pm Open Home Saturday 2:00pm – 2:30pm
For further information please call Tony Liras 0425 269 611 or Peter Stanford 0417 333 322
2/314 High Street, Penrith
Penrith 1/32 Doonmore Street
Cranebrook 6 Holmegate Crescent
OLD WORLD CHARM WHERE PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY MEETS THE PERFECT FAMILY RETREAT!
Matthew O’Farrell from LJ Hooker Penrith proudly presents 1/32 Doonmore Street, Penrith. This charming 2-bedroom home, with a versatile third room perfect for a study or hobby space, offers immense potential.Ideally located near Penrith CBD and the medical precinct, it’s perfect for first-time buyers, investors, or medical professionals. Zoned R4 High Density Residential, the property boasts future development possibilities. Inside, enjoy a welcoming lounge with a fireplace, high ceilings, and air conditioning. Outdoors, discover ample entertaining space and street parking.With Penrith’s booming infrastructure and proximity to schools, transport, and entertainment, this is an excellent investment. Don’t miss this opportunity – call today for a private inspection!
Private Inspections Only
For more details contact
Matthew O’Farrell 0415 115 415
2/314 High Street, Penrith
Discover this stunning 6-bedroom, tri-level home in Cranebrook, perfectly designed for large families seeking space and comfort. Boasting three modern bathrooms, two expansive living areas, and a dedicated rumpus room, there’s ample room for everyone. The master features a built-in robe and huge ensuite, while five of the six generous bedrooms have built-in robes. A standout feature is the potential teenage or in-law retreat with separate access, ideal for multi-generational living. Enjoy low-maintenance timber floating floors, fresh carpet in bedrooms, an updated exterior, and revamped gardens. A spacious balcony off the dining/kitchen area overlooks the low-maintenance backyard and garden shed. The massive double garage includes a secure workshop. Ducted air conditioning and abundant storage ensure year-round comfort. Located in a sought-after neighbourhood near schools, parks, and shops, this flexible home offers the ultimate family lifestyle. Move in and enjoy!
$1,130,000 - $1,150,000
Private Inspections Only
For more details contact Matthew O’Farrell 0415 115 415 2/314 High Street, Penrith
Castlereagh 152-166 Sheredan Road
Welcome to 152-166 Sheredan Road, Castlereagh – a picturesque and flood-free 5-acre property offering idyllic acreage living just a 10-minute drive to Penrith. All reasonable offers will be considered.
This impeccably presented solid brick homestead is set back from the road and boasts three generously sized bedrooms plus an office in the master. Recently renovated, the home features fresh paint, new flooring, a new country-style kitchen with stainless steel appliances and stone benchtops, and a fresh bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiles – leaving nothing to do but move in! Enjoy a large living area with a bar and slow combustion fire, a separate dining space, and stunning rural outlooks from every window, complemented by wraparound verandahs and mountain views. Additional features include a detached double garage and carport, plus a second storage shed or large workshop, providing ample options for any buyer Properties like this are rare, so don’t miss your chance to secure this exceptional rural retreat!
Private Inspections Only
For more details contact Matthew O’Farrell 0415 115 415 2/314 High Street, Penrith
THE CRITICAL ROLE OF FEET
Your feet do more than get you from place to place; they’re the foundation of your entire body. When your feet are in pain or out of alignment, it doesn’t just hurt your steps. It can affect your posture, joint health, physical activity, and even your mental well-being.
Let’s start with posture. If you’re dealing with heel pain, bunions, or arch problems, you’ll often adjust how you walk to avoid discomfort. That small adjustment can throw off your knees, hips, and back, leading to a domino effect of pain and stiffness elsewhere. Many chronic back and joint issues can trace back to foot alignment.
Now consider movement. When feet hurt, people walk less. That lack of movement can cause weight gain, reduced cardiovascular health, muscle loss, and increased risk of falls especially in older adults. Even mood can suffer.
Studies show chronic pain and reduced mobility contribute to social isolation and depression, especially when once-enjoyed activities become difficult.
Feet also give us clues about overall health. Swollen feet or ankles can indicate circulation issues or heart problems. Numbness or tingling might suggest diabetes or nerve damage. Discolored toenails, wounds that won’t heal, or changes in skin texture can all point to underlying medical concerns.
That’s where podiatrists come in. Far from just trimming toenails or treating bunions, podiatrists play a key role in diagnosing and
The Experts
SINGH
managing conditions that affect your whole body. They can assess your gait, recommend proper footwear, prescribe orthotics, and help with early detection of issues like diabetic neuropathy or arthritis.
Good foot health isn’t about vanity, it’s about staying mobile, active, and independent. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or a retiree wanting to enjoy walks without pain, healthy feet make it possible. So don’t wait for a serious issue to arise. If your feet are sore, stiff, swollen, or just tired all the time, it’s worth a visit to a podiatrist. Because taking care of your feet means taking care of the rest of you.
EXPLAINING BRUXISM
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth –often unconsciously during the day or while sleeping. While it may seem harmless at first, chronic bruxism can cause significant damage to your teeth, jaw joints, and overall oral health.
Many patients don’t realise they suffer from bruxism until symptoms appear. These can include worn, chipped, or flattened teeth, frequent headaches, jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and even interrupted sleep. In some cases, a bed partner may hear the grinding noises at night.
The causes of bruxism vary. Stress and anxiety are two of the most common contributors, particularly in adults. Misaligned teeth or bite issues (malocclusion), sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea, and certain medications or lifestyle factors like caffeine and alcohol consumption can also play a role.
Left untreated, bruxism
can lead to tooth fractures, damage to dental restorations, and chronic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
That’s why early diagnosis and intervention are quite critical.
At Sydney Smile Doctor, we begin by carefully assessing your symptoms, bite alignment, and wear patterns. Treatment often starts with a custom-made night guard – an appliance worn while sleeping that cushions the teeth and reduces grinding forces. In some cases, addressing stress through relaxation techniques, cognitive behavioural therapy, or changes in lifestyle can make
Experts
a meaningful difference. For patients with severe wear or bite damage, restorative treatments such as crowns or onlays may be necessary to rebuild lost structure and protect the remaining teeth. Botox injections into the jaw muscles are also gaining popularity as a safe, effective option to reduce muscle activity and relieve bruxism-related pain.
If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t ignore it – early treatment can prevent years of discomfort and costly dental damage. Book a consultation with us at Sydney Smile Doctor and protect your smile for the long term.
NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF PET FOOD CHOICES
When it comes to feeding your pet, the choices can feel overwhelming – dry food, canned food, rolls, grain-free diets, raw diets, even breed-specific formulas.
Age: Puppies and kittens require energy-dense, nutrient-rich diets to fuel their rapid growth. Most pets should transition to adult food at 12 months of age, although large-breed dogs may need puppy
help manage genetic predispositions to conditions such as arthritis, skin issues, dental disease, and urinary problems. For instance, large breeds benefit from joint-supporting diets, while
Add to that the questions of when do you change from puppy to adult food? And how do you switch foods without causing tummy upsets? It’s no wonder pet owners can feel confused. But nutrition plays a vital role in your pet’s health and wellbeing. The goal is to provide balanced nutrition that supports their individual needs, optimises their health, and contributes to a long, happy life. A nutritional assessment with your veterinarian is a great place to start. Your vet will consider several key factors when recommending a diet:
Weight: Obesity is one of the most common health concerns in pets. Underweight pets can also signal underlying problems. Body condition score charts can help visualise whether your pet is at a healthy weight.
food until 18 months. Senior pets (typically seven years and older) benefit from diets that support joint health, digestive function, and cognitive wellbeing.
Breed and size: Breed-specific and size-appropriate diets can
small breeds may need formulas that promote dental health.
Specific needs: Some pets require therapeutic diets for conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or allergies. Your vet may prescribe a special diet to
help manage these issues. With so many options available – dry kibble, canned food, fresh rolls, or raw diets – it’s important to choose a balanced, nutritionally complete option. Not all diets marketed as “natural” or “grain-free” are ideal; in some cases, these trends may do more harm than good. Your veterinary team can help you navigate these choices.
How to change foods without tummy upsets?
Switch foods gradually over seven to 10 days. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old, and slowly increase the new food while reducing the old. This gentle transition allows your pet’s digestive system to adjust.
Every pet is different. Partnering with your veterinary team ensures your pet receives the best nutrition for their individual needs at every life stage. For personalised advice, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
This week’s stars affect your communication and work zones, so steer clear of a smooth operator who could lead you up the primrose path to trouble. Check all news, proposals and information carefully. If something sounds too good to be true, then turn around and start walking in the opposite direction! And ask a trusted colleague for a second opinion. It is a good week to eat well, exercise often and make relaxation a daily priority. Balance is the key.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
This week neighbourhood activities and local connections are favoured as the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter encourage you to be more community minded. Don’t let stubbornness, false Taurus pride or silly misunderstandings stop you from taking a giant leap forward when it comes to love, forgiveness and generosity. With Venus transiting through your sign, accept the opportunity for healing and connection with outstretched arms and an open heart.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Are you impatient for excitement and success? Awesome opportunities are circling around you, but they’re not immediately obvious. They are hidden in unexpected places, waiting for you to discover them. Ambitious, creative Cats love to spring into immediate action but – at the moment – some of your best work will be done quietly, behind the scenes. Others may not notice what you’re currently doing but your efforts will be rewarded in the months ahead.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
This week Venus transits through your relationship zone – which highlights love, romance, companionship, consultation and creative joint ventures. And Mars moves into your peer group zone – which favours socialising and networking. Then it’s the Solstice on Saturday - the shortest day of the year (in the southern hemisphere) and the longest day (in the northern hemisphere). So make sure you spend quality time sharing the day with someone special.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Piscean plans could be turned upside down as nebulous Neptune (your patron planet) squares Jupiter and throws unrealistic expectations and confusing misunderstandings into the mix. Especially involving financial matters, children, creativity and/or friends. Don’t let other people lead you astray, and don’t let self-doubt stymie your confidence and derail your dreams. There are serious Saturn lessons to be learned, so learn them quickly and then move on.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
The focus is on financial matters as the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter activate your money zone and your spontaneous spending gene. Which is OK – as long as you have the cash flow to fund a shopping spree. If you don’t, then you’ll have to entertain yourself in more frugal ways. Friends and finances are a particularly messy mix, so strive to keep the two well separated. Sunday’s Mars/Jupiter link favours proactive communication and keeping busy, especially at home.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Dynamic Mars barnstorms through your sign from Tuesday until August 6, so it’s time to be bold, brave, and passionately proactive! The stars also encourage educational matters, travel, international connections and local networking. But don’t let yourself be deceived by fake news, sidetracked by dubious friends, or distracted by empty promises. Keep your eyes wide open and your feet firmly planted on the ground. Sunday favours being physically active.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Most fiery Sagittarians are spontaneous folk. But this week you need to carefully consider the consequences of what you do and say. If you act in haste – without all the relevant facts at hand – then you could find yourself deep in a disagreement or a messy misunderstanding (especially with a child, teenager, lover or friend). Sunday’s super Mars/Jupiter link favours sport and travel, and boosts confidence and optimism, so make the most of it!
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Mighty Mars (your boss planet) moves into fussy Virgo on Tuesday so you’ll find the more disciplined and diligent you are, the better the week will be. Then the Sun transits into your home zone on Saturday, when it’s a good time to focus on home and hearth, domestic matters, and your blood relatives or family of choice. Whatever projects you tackle this week, make sure you complete tasks properly before embarking on exciting new ventures.
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
This week Saturn and Neptune square Jupiter (in your sign), so be aware that all is not as it seems (especially involving a professional matter or a work colleague). Jupiter and the Sun (moving into Cancer on Saturday) encourage you to jump out of your comfort zone, shake off bad habits, embrace opportunities and fast track changes. As birthday great Nicole Kidman observes, “Life has got all those twists and turns. You’ve got to hold on tight and off you go.”
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Librans are clever and capable but are you confident enough for big time success? This week the Sun joins Mercury and Jupiter in your career zone, so step up and assume a leadership role as you network and socialise with your extended peer group, and mix business with plenty of pleasure. But your deft diplomatic skills may be required to sort out a messy misunderstanding (especially on Monday and Thursday). Sunday is all about rest and relaxation.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
It’s not all about you this week Capricorn! The Sun joins Mercury and Jupiter in your partnership zone, so the focus is firmly on relationships of the romantic, platonic and business variety. It’s time to walk around in the shoes of others for a while. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Meryl Streep (who turns 76 on Sunday), “The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Sunday favours travelling with loved ones.
Relax & Unwind
DESTINATION
Blue Mountains
WORDS
Ally Hall IMAGES
Supplied, Ally Hall and David Montomgery
MORE INFO
JOY AT EVERY TURN AT
It feels like every hour is golden hour at Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges Blue Mountains.
When I arrived at dusk, I found the setting sun casting a golden glow over the lakeside canopy and gardens.
At night, I saw gold dance in the fire pit as I roasted marshmallows before bed.
And during the day, I noticed gold in the dry autumn leaves blanketing the ground and clinging to tree branches for dear life as winter took hold.
This place feels like treasure as a destination, and I’m going to share the bounty with you.
In Blackheath, far from the rat race, is the luxury retreat accommodation. The grounds of Parklands offer 31 elegant rooms, including 28 guest rooms across seven garden cottages and three lakeside canopies. I was lucky to call a lakeside canopy my home for a night.
Offering 53 square metres of refined indoor-outdoor living, the premium tented lodge was perfectly positioned alongside the estate’s private lake and surrounded by tranquil gardens.
It offered an outdoor bathtub, a fire pit, a deck with views, a kitchenette, and everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Gentle jazz welcomed me to the “tent”, flowing through a Samsung TV mounted on the wall.
The room was lit by sunshine streaming through sheer curtains lining the sliding doors leading to the deck. That light highlighted the notes of green around the room, blending seamlessly with the garden outside.
Against the back wall was a plush queen bed, to the left of which was a door leading to a smaller deck where the glorious outdoor bathtub stood.
With a glass of bubbles in hand, I ventured outside where the trees had started stripping for winter.
The orange and crimson leaves were a highlight for me. Every year I remember to properly appreciate them before they fall away.
And against the lake – blue and brown with the reflection of the sky and the tree trunks and filled with green lilypads – the colours
were striking. I spent most of my time braving the cold outside to take in the view before attending my dinner reservation at the Hydro Majestic, which was less than a 10-minute drive away.
“I SPENT MOST OF MY TIME BRAVING THE COLD OUTSIDE TO TAKE IN THE VIEW”
I was given a glass of mulled wine when I took my seat at one of the giant windows overlooking the Megalong Valley. The best way to describe the beverage is ‘Christmas in a glass’ – sweet, spicy and fruity.
The Wintergarden restaurant was dimly lit, lending the room a romantic feel, amplified by the orchid in the table vase.
The menu featured amazing options for all food tolerances. My choices for the night
were Twice Cooked Venison for my entree, Chargrilled Wagyu MB5+ Ribeye for my main, Charred Broccolini with Kimchi Butter for my side, and Strawberry and Jannei Goat Milk Cheesecake for dessert.
Knowing the experience was going to be luxurious, I was prepared for the occasion. I had the whole classy schtick going. I was dressed like a sophisticated lady and my posture was immaculate. My downfall came when I had my first bite of food and couldn’t hold back the words, “Holy crap”.
So, props to the chef.
After dinner, I retreated back to my accommodation, where my first destination was the fire pit. I chucked a robe on to keep warm and once again braved the cold for the sake of the view. Also, those marshmallows weren’t going to roast themselves.
The clear sky gave me a wonderful view of the stars – a view I often can’t find at the foot of the mountains.
Between the patterns of the flames in front of me, the thousand twinkles in the sky above me, and the warm bed awaiting me inside, I felt content.
The next day, I explored the gardens, but not
The Main Guest House at Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges Blue Mountains.
Overlooking the lake. Photo: David Montgomery.
BLACKHEATH ESCAPE
before indulging in breakfast and barista-made coffee at the Lakeview Breakfast Room.
The bright, cheerful atmosphere of the breakfast room set the tone for the rest of my day. As I ate my eggs benedict, I looked out the cottage-style windows to appreciate the dense forest green blur that formed the backdrop for the colourful flowers and bushes in the foreground.
“PARKLANDS
It’s clear a lot of love and care is given to the gardens, and that became clearer after walking back to my canopy the long way.
The garden wraps around the lake, giving it a leafy hug. It has an English feel to it, but when your eyeline travels upwards, the mountains remind you you’re still home.
Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges Blue Mountains is a treasure in Blackheath, and I hope everyone discovers it. I’ve marked the X for you.
The Main Guest House.
The outdoor bathtub. Photo: Ally Hall. The rooms are incredible.
38.
68.
71.
72.
74.
78.
80.
83.
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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: ANNIVERSARIES ANNUAL
Last week’s solution
Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge about NSW coach Laurie Daley in this week’s special trivia quiz...
1. Laurie Daley played 246 NRL games for which club?
2. What was Daley’s first appointment as a representative coach?
3. In what town was the local football ground re-named Laurie Daley Oval in recognition of Daley’s achievements in the game?
4. In what year did Daley lead New South Wales to a State of Origin series victory?
5. In what year did Daley first experience Premiership success with Canberra?
6. In what year was Daley first selected to represent New South Wales in the State of Origin arena?
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
