Home & Lifestyle November 27 2025

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EVERDENE MULGOA FINDS WILLING BUYERS

Western Sydney’s international airport hasn’t even opened but already it’s spurring a wave of confidence and excitement amongst new home buyers.

Mirvac’s launch of its latest masterplanned community, Everdene, Mulgoa, generated a tsunami of inquiry when it launched last month with the momentum continuing into a second, equally successful second release. The vast majority of buyers already live within 30

minutes of Everdene and were keen to relocate to a new community close – but not too close – to the airport.

With children to consider, Everdene’s 23 hectares of green space, proposed to include a junior AFL and cricket field, tennis and basketball courts, café, walking trails, picnic areas and playgrounds, have proved compelling for families. Mirvac is also exploring the potential for a community centre with Council.

Glenmore Park locals Ashlee

and Matthew Bruce (pictured) are planning to build a beautiful new home on the 525sqm block they bought in the first release, and are looking forward to settling into a community where their children, Harrison, nine and Mackenzie, six, can thrive in a natural environment that encourages them to be outdoors.

“THIS WILL BE OUR FOREVER HOME”

“We love the area and Everdene is only five minutes from the children’s school so they won’t need to change,” said Ashlee.

“This will be our forever home, that our kids will always come back to. We looked at established homes but there are certain things that we want and we’ll be able to do that here in the house we build.”

As a Human Resources Manager, whose work entails frequent travel, Ashlee will reap the benefits of living close to the airport.

“I travel a lot for my job so being close to Western Sydney International Airport is going to make my life much easier,” said Ashlee.

“In my role I partner with Australia and New Zealand, and can arrive home as late as 1 in the morning after a flight into Mascot. When the new airport opens, I can save 2.5

hours in my trip and take a 20 minute Uber ride to get home.”

Mirvac’s General Manager for Residential Development in NSW, Warwick Bible, said the investment in new infrastructure associated with the 2026 opening of Western Sydney International Airport was adding to the optimism of locals.

“So many of our Everdene purchasers see Western Sydney International Airport as a catalyst for future investment and growth in population and jobs,” said Bible.

“Many of them own or work in businesses that will benefit from this major boost to the local economy and have chosen Everdene as the place to build their forever home.

“We have also seen an encouraging number of first home buyers take this important step to securing their future in what will be a fantastic community.”

A diverse range of lot sizes is being developed at Everdene, Mulgoa, ranging from 300sqm to 700sqm, with larger rural lots starting from 2,000sqm.

Facilities will be delivered early in tandem with housing construction to ensure the new community starts out on a strong footing. To support a cooler, healthier environment, Mirvac will undertake the restoration of adjoining Cumberland Plain Woodland and regeneration of native trees and riverine vegetation, creating a 15-hectare bushland regeneration area within the 23 hectares of green space, linking the community to local shops and a proposed future school.

For more information about Everdene, Mulgoa and to register for future land releases, visit https://everdene.mirvac.com.

The Sales Office at 2337 The Northern Road, Mulgoa, is open daily 11am to 4pm.

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

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park

CONTACT:

Oran Park Sales Office

Trevor Homes • 9043 7500

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.

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!

MORE THAN TOENAILS CAN AI CURE YOUR COLD?

When most people hear the word podiatrist, they often think of toenail trims and callus care. While that’s certainly part of the job, podiatry goes far beyond basic foot maintenance.

Podiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, shin splints, tendon issues, or recurring injuries, a podiatrist could be the key to getting you back on your feet.

Treatment usually begins with a biomechanical assessment. This means looking at your foot posture, walking pattern (gait), and muscle strength to identify any imbalances or areas of strain. From there, a personalised plan is created to address the root cause of your symptoms.

Podiatry offers a range of therapies to support recovery and performance. These can include custom orthotics to improve alignment,

sports and low-dye taping to reduce strain, shockwave therapy for chronic pain, and dry needling to release tight muscles. Strengthening and stretching exercises are often prescribed to build resilience and prevent future injuries.

SHANNON SMITH

OnePointHealth 4732 5188

Importantly, podiatrists don’t just treat the problem, they help you get back to the activities you love, whether that’s walking the dog, playing sport, or simply moving without discomfort. The goal is to restore function, improve comfort, and support long-term mobility.

So next time you think podiatry is only about toenails, remember: it’s also about biomechanics, rehabilitation, and helping people move well. If you’re experiencing foot or lower limb discomfort, a visit to your podiatrist could be the first step in solving it!

Irecently received an email from a colleague.

Titled: Can AI cure the common cold? The crux of the email was about an AI tool called Consensus. This piqued my curiosity, so I decided to conduct my own investigation.

Consensus is different from general AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Search. It focuses only on academic literature and delivers clear, structured answers based on real studies. Anyone who needs trustworthy information can use it.

Consensus AI searches over 200 million peer-reviewed articles from databases like Semantic Scholar, PubMed, and OpenAlex. It uses advanced language models to interpret your question, retrieve and rank studies, summarise findings, and provide evidence. This means users get fact-based answers, not opinions or unverified content.

Of course, I had to test it,

• I went to the Consensus website (Consensus.app)

• I typed in “What supplements can reduce the effects of the Common Cold. Please recommend dosages of each.”

• I applied the medical sources filter and limited the research to papers published within the past five years.

• The tool scans the medical academic databases and presents a summary of findings. It provides a summary and lists all the reviewed research papers.

The results indicate that Vitamin C, Zinc, and probiotics can help reduce recovery time for the common cold. I also asked about the RSV and COVID-19 viruses, and the results I received were based on medical research.

Another question I asked was, “Is a high-protein diet beneficial for weight loss when over 50?” I typed it into both ChatGPT and Consensus. ChatGPT gave a more general response, outlining the benefits, dosage, and protein sources. In contrast, Consensus summarised

research results using a meter. Overall, ChatGPT focused on a qualitative overview, while Consensus prioritised quantitative results and detail.

There are 23 different research fields including law, history, computer science, art, business, engineering, geography, physics, psychology, biology, and sociology. Consensus AI brings the scientific process – once locked behind library walls – to everyone. Anyone who wants reliable, fact-checked information on a topic can use it to verify claims.

This includes health and fitness enthusiasts, as well as content creators and influencers.

Nepean

YES, YOU SHOULD GET YOUR BABY IN THE POOL!

Your baby can’t yet walk, so why should they learn to swim? For safety first and foremost! One of the best things a parent can do to keep their child safer around water is to ensure they start Learn to Swim classes as soon as possible, especially with summer fast approaching, but are you aware of all of the other benefits of swimming lessons for babies?

We often have less time that we would like with our kids (it is an unfortunate effect of being so busy) but swimming provides quality bonding time. Time in the pool is one of the few times when your child has your undivided attention for the duration, so make the most of it! To make family schedules easier we’re launching new Monday afternoon classes and Tuesday morning classes at Nepean Aquatic Centre from early January 2026 – perfect timeslots for little ones and school-aged siblings to swim at the same time.

Swim time helps promote important muscle development and control in babies at a young age. Little ones will need to develop the muscles needed to hold their heads up, move their arms and legs, and work their core in coordination with the rest of their body. As a result, swimming helps to improve coordi-

ing movements, which use both sides of the body to carry out an action, help your baby’s brain grow. This facilitates communication, feedback, and modulation from one side of the brain to another. Down the road, this may improve reading skills, language development, academic learning and spatial awareness, as demonstrated by a recent four-year study of more than 7,000 children by Griffith University which suggested that children who swim have advances in physical and mental development when compared to their peers who don’t swim.

Don’t forget, you can get your baby prepared for swimming before you go to the pool, by using bath time at home to get your baby used to the feeling of being immersed in water and the splashing of the water on and over their faces and heads. Swim Australia recommends starting lessons from six months of age. Don’t delay – just get your baby into the water! JULIE

Swimming can also improve a baby’s sleeping pattern. While I’m not making any promises that swimming will make baby sleep through the night every night... I can say that the extra exercise did make my notorious night owl babies sleepier! Additionally, swimming can improve a baby’s appetite, and in turn a full belly can further promote sleep... win win!

Swimming is also a unique social experience, which furthers its brain-boosting power. Water baby’s classes also include elements including songs and skin-to-skin contact with parents or caregivers. Children interact with one another and the instructor and begin to learn to function in groups. These elements, plus the fun of learning a new skill, can boost your baby’s sociability and wellbeing!

nation and balance. It’s not easy learning to move those little arms and legs together, and even small, coordinated movements represent big leaps in your baby’s development. Being in the water engages your baby’s body in a completely unique way, creating billions of new neurons as your baby kicks, glides, and smacks at the water. Bilateral cross-pattern-

The Experts

KEEPING PETS SAFE IN THE GARDEN IN SUMMER

Our pets are cherished members of the family, and their safety is an important consideration in every part of our homes — including the garden. While many pet owners are aware that certain plants can be toxic, fertilisers and mulch can also pose significant risks if not used carefully. With many garden products being highly attractive to curious animals, it’s essential to understand how to manage them safely.

Organic fertilisers such as blood and bone, composts, and manures are particularly appealing to pets. Dogs, in particular, may dig, sniff, or even attempt to eat these products, putting them at risk of gastrointestinal upset or more serious poisoning. Even if you choose fertilisers marketed as pet-safe, it’s important to remain vigilant. Any pet showing signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, muscle twitching, or seizures after being in the garden should be examined by a veteri-

narian immediately.

The safest approach begins with preventing contact wherever possible. Store garden products securely in a locked or elevated cupboard, checking regularly for leaks or damaged packaging. If a label becomes unreadable, arrange for a replacement to ensure you always have access to correct safety information.

Many fertilisers require watering in after application, and this step plays an important role in reducing the chance of ingestion. Liquid products typically pose a lower risk than pellets or granules because they are less accessible once applied. Whether watering in is required or not, allow any treated plants, lawns, or surfaces to dry completely before letting pets return. This helps prevent skin contact, accidental ingestion, and the transfer of chemicals — such as herbicides — from one part of the garden to another. Always take note of recommended exclusion or withholding periods, particularly if you have

small herbivorous pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs who may nibble recently treated grass or foliage. Once a product’s safe re-entry time has passed, be sure to dispose of any empty containers appropriately, following local regulations.

Mulch also requires careful consideration. Cocoa bean mulch, for example, is highly toxic to pets and should never be used in households with dogs or cats. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, seizures, or even death. Safer options include pine, cedar,

and hemlock bark mulches, or non-organic alternatives like rock or shell mulch. Keep in mind that some pets — especially puppies — may chew mulch out of curiosity or boredom, so newly mulched areas may need temporary fencing or supervision. If you suspect your pet has ingested fertiliser or mulch, contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms of poisoning can include excessive drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, tremors, or seizures. Bringing the product packaging with you can greatly assist your veterinary team in providing fast and accurate treatment.

Taking a few simple precautions can give you confidence that your garden is a safe, enjoyable space for your pets. With the risks managed, you can focus on what matters most — spending quality time outdoors together.

For urgent advice or if poisoning is suspected, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

With the Sun, Venus, Mars and the Super Full Moon all activating your networking and friendship zones, it’s time to communicate and connect (creatively, cooperatively and proactively) with family, friends, colleagues, clients and/or customers. You have the ability to influence people in positive ways as you employ charm, encouragement and praise to get others on-side. The weekend Mercury/Jupiter trine promises an overall sense of wellbeing.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The Super Full Moon urges you to shine a spotlight on financial matters and personal values. Do you need to let go of certain people, possessions or attitudes that have passed their used-by-date?

With the Sun, Full Moon, Venus and Mars activating your money zones, be careful your main form of entertainment isn’t shopping. Your bank balance (and budget) won’t appreciate a shop-tilyou-drop kind of week. Saturday night favours socialising with loved ones.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

With the Super Full Moon stimulating your hopes and wishes zone, it’s important to dream a dream, turn it into a goal, and then make it happen. So your motto is from birthday great Walt Disney (born on December 5, 1901), “All your dreams can come true, if you have the courage to pursue them.” It’s also a good week to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition, organise a night at the movies or a lunch date with friends.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

This week the Super Full Moon highlights a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture. Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope, as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well placed. And prepare for a welcome burst of Scorpio creativity and energy as Mercury is now moving forwards in your sign. Lucky opportunities could magically manifest, especially via a family member or an international connection.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Mercury is moving forwards in your adventure zone, which is good news for Piscean travel plans, long holidays and weekend getaways. Plus – with the Sun, Venus and Mars all transiting through your career zone – it’s a good week to be creatively proactive as you follow a professional dream. However – with the Super Full Moon firing up your home zone – don’t be so work-focused that you ignore your domestic life. If you do, expect there will be dramas!

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

It’s a good week for Geminis. Mercury is moving forwards – yeah! And on Thursday night/Friday morning there’s a Super Full Moon in your sign, leading to increased energy and motivation. Then on the weekend, Mercury (your patron planet) makes a lovely link with prosperity planet Jupiter. So Lady Luck is heading your way! If you want to get ahead then strive to work smarter, not just harder. Your natural charm and generosity will win people over.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

The buzz word for the week is Communication, as Mercury (your patron planet) is now moving forwards in your neighborhood and conversation zone. Expect increased social interaction and activities within your local community. The Super Full Moon lights up your career zone as you shine on the professional stage. Then the Mercury/Jupiter trine (on the weekend) is wonderful for conversation, education and networking within your extended peer group.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Jupiter (your ruling planet) and Mercury (which is now direct) activate your money-from-others zone. So – over the next few months – expect a boost to your bank balance via a pay rise, work bonus, bumper tax return, inheritance, superannuation payout or extra business. Any windfall won’t last long if you don’t manage it wisely though. The late week Super Full Moon focuses on a close relationship as passions fire up, or a problem comes to a head.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Mercury is moving forwards, so it’s time to communicate your creative ideas with extra pizazz, dream mind-blowing dreams, and/or make connections with folk from foreign shores. But – with the Sun, Venus, Mars and the Super Full Moon in your wanderlust zones – many restless Rams will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy. Pull on your travelling shoes and escape on a weekend getaway or plan an adventurous trip for some time soon.

CANCER

22 TO JULY 22

This week there’s a Super Full Moon in your self-sabotage zone, which could dent your Crab confidence, dampen your enthusiasm, and/or make you doubt your intuition. Don’t dwell on the negatives! Hold your head high, tune into your intuition and trust your inner judgement. Be inspired by fellow Cancerian, Princess Diana, “I work on instinct. It’s my best advisor.” The weekend is a wonderful time for joyful celebrations and philosophical conversations.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Mercury is moving forwards in your money zone so a financial problem should start to ease. With the Super Full Moon in your aspirations zone and bountiful Jupiter in your career zone, it’s time to dream ambitious dreams for the future. Don’t hold yourself back with negative thinking or limiting beliefs. Inspiration for the week comes from birthday great, film producer and entrepreneur Walt Disney, “First, think. Second, believe. Third, dream. And finally, dare.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Mercury is now moving forwards in your hopes and wishes zone while the Sun, Venus and Mars are visiting your spirituality zone. Which favours meditation, contemplation, relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem, get to the bottom of a mystery or imagine a fabulous new dream. Then the Super Full Moon shines a spotlight on physical and mental wellbeing as you (ideally) eat more healthily, think more positively and exercise more often.

Blaxland

McDonalds

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

Iga Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Dan Murphy's

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Mother Earth Nurser y Plus Pharmacy

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

Penrith Regional Galler y

Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Height s

Super Save Compounding Chemis t

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s Iga

Erskine Park Ctc

G lenbrook

Glenbrook Newsagency

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Atmosphere

Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Take Away

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen

(Penrith Homemaker)

Patt y’s Place

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo IGA

Londonderr y Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t

IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Little Bottler

MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt

RM Newsagency

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

Atmosphere Gym

Ca fé Fre d

Au stralian Arms

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hogs Bre ath C afe

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Markets (Thursdays)

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Ta s tify

Tattersalls Hotel

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

World Gym

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing

Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

CHOICE Pharmacy

Mobil Ser vice Station

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys

All Good Newsagency

Andrew s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Monfar ville Corner Store

Queen St Newsagency

St Mar ys

McDonald's St Mar ys South

HOLIDAY HERE AT HOME!

When you think of Sydney’s best hotels, your mind automatically goes to properties at Circular Quay, Barangaroo or The Rocks. But what if I told you that one of Sydney’s best hotels doesn’t have a spectacular harbour view because it’s located 25 minutes west of the Sydney CBD in Parramatta?

The newly refurbished PARKROYAL Parramatta is a 4.5-star hotel smack bang in the middle of Eels territory, and I think what it lacks in harbour views, it makes up in style, sophistication and location.

I recently stayed the night at PARKROYAL Parramatta in a Deluxe King Room on the top floor, overlooking bustling Church Street below and CommBank Stadium and Parramatta Park to the west.

One of the things I’ve always loved about this hotel whenever I’ve stayed is its central location to all the hot spots that Parramatta is famous for.

“THE HOTEL IS JAM-PACKED WITH AMENITIES AND FACILITIES”

Situated between Parramatta River and the restaurant-lined Church Street, PARKROYAL Parramatta is a short walk to Westfield, Parramatta Square, Parramatta Railway Station, Eat Street, Riverside Theatre, Parra Leagues, CommBank Stadium, Parramatta Park and the soon-toopen Powerhouse Parramatta.

It’s also a couple of hundred metres from the new Parramatta Light Rail, meaning popular places like the Westmead Health Precinct and Rosehill Gardens Racecourse are easily accessible for hotel guests as well.

The rooms at PARKROYAL Parramatta are another big tick in my book.

The hotel features 286 modern, spacious rooms and suites, many with river views.

The Deluxe King Room I stayed in recently had a major upgrade and just oozed style from floor to ceiling. These room types offer an elevated stay on higher floors, with stunning views of the Parramatta skyline and Parramatta Park.

At a decent 26sqm, each room is thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. From

blackout curtains and a luxurious rain shower to a 55-inch television, my room was equipped with all the modern amenities, including charging ports.

But perhaps my favourite feature – something I’ve never seen in the near 100 hotels I’ve stayed in – was a filtered tap in the bathroom for fresh drinking water. Mind blown!

PARKROYAL Parramatta is also jam-packed with amenities and facilities.

With summer well and truly here, the outdoor swimming pool is the perfect place to cool off after a long day, while the outside terrace is a great spot to relax with a drink and watch the world go by.

Speaking of drinks, make

sure you grab a pretty purple PARKROYAL G&T cocktail from BAR30 & Bistro, located in the lobby of the hotel. Whilst there, you can also purchase lunch, dinner and a selection of small plates perfect for any occasion.

PARKROYAL Parramatta has an incredible array of gourmet deli sandwiches available for lunch, catering to not only hotel guests but local workers and the public.

I ordered a Chicken Milanese sandwich and The Reuben sandwich on my recent visit. Both sangers had a side of chips and a pickle and were simply yum!

While Parramatta’s Eat Street is famous all over Sydney for its incredible variety of cuisine, it’s worth considering BAR30 & Bistro for dinner as well.

Hotel restaurants

can sometimes be hit and miss, but I must say this place did not disappoint with a strong selection of modern Australian dishes on the menu including ‘house favourites’ like burgers, schnitzels and steaks as well as pizzas and desserts.

I tucked into the NSW Grainge Angus Striploin, Octopus & Chorizo Skewers, and Harissa Prawns – all three dishes were fresh, well cooked and hit the spot beautifully!

On top of an incredible buffet breakfast at nearby Table 30 complete with barista made coffee, a dedicated egg chef and a fresh juice station, the final secret I need to let you in on is PARKROYAL Parramatta’s exclusive, private area on the seventh floor known as the Club Lounge –think a fancy VIP airport lounge, but inside a hotel.

Club Lounge is another unique feature to this property and is truly a gamechanger in my opinion. Available to guests with access through a Club Room or Suite, or for top-tier Pan Pacific Discovery members, it offers amenities like all-day refreshments, complimentary Wi-Fi and a twilight service with drinks and canapés.

If you’re able to add the Club Lounge experience to your stay, I’d highly recommend it as a place to visit with mates before your night out on the town.

Overall, the PARKROYAL Parramatta has a lot going for it. It’s clean, friendly, located in a vibrant area and is value for money. No, it doesn’t have harbour views but believe me when I say that it’s just got about everything else!

Deluxe King Room.
The bathrooms are stunning.
The Club Lounge.
Filtered water tap.
Dinner at BAR30 & Bistro.

Connect With Us Online!

every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

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.

PROHIBITION

SEX APPEAL

SMALL STORES

Last week’s solution

How old was JFK when he was elected President?

Test your knowledge about US President John F Kennedy in this week’s special trivia quiz...

What is the name of the Vice President who took over as President following JFK’s death?

How many siblings did JFK have? 7. What military force did JFK serve in in WW2? 8. What organisation did JFK establish? 9. Who played JFK in the 1983 series ‘Kennedy’?

Lyndon Johnson.
Navy.
The Peace Corp in 1961.
Martin Sheen.

Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or

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.

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