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INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

READY TO MOVE? WHAT IS YOUR FAMILY’S NEXT CHAPTER? | PROPERTY LISTINGS INSIDE Western Property

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

NEW BOOK TAKES YOU ON A JOURNEY

THE LATEST FROM OUR HEALTH EXPERT

WHAT’S MADDIE COOKING?

SEE PAGE 48

SEE PAGE 55

SEE PAGE 64

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

GO ON A JOURNEY OF INTERIOR DESIGN R

enown interior designer and bestselling author, Amber Lewis, takes you on a journey through her entire design process in Interiors: Curated Spaces from Start to Finish, from the moment a project becomes official to the final, stunning reveal.

“YOU’LL GET A FRONT-ROW SEAT TO THE REAL-LIFE TWISTS AND TURNS THAT COME FROM DESIGNING HOMES”

It’s not just about the beautiful, finished spaces – though there are plenty of those – it’s about the messy, layered, and sometimes maddening journey to get there. You’ll get a front-row seat to the real-life twists and turns that come with designing homes. The book is organised around what Lewis calls The Six P’s she goes through with

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any project: Ponder, Play, Procure, Patience + Panic, Pull It Together, and Pride. Each chapter walks you through one of nine gorgeous homes, stage by stage, sharing the why, the how, and sometimes the WTF moments that come with making homes that feel both beautiful and lived in. Like her bestselling book, Call It Home, this will be illustrated with over 200 full-colour photographs and presents a deep dive into Amber Lewis’ own processes, offering valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of high-end interior design. Amber Lewis is the principal and founder of Amber Interiors. Lewis and her team collaborate with architects and contractors to bring to life the distinct visions seen in her work, on her blog, and in her retail shop. She lives with her daughter in Southern California. Interiors: Curated Spaces from Start to Finish will be available through Hardie Grant Publishing from October 27. It’s RRP in Australia is $60.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

32 WORCESTER ROAD, CAMBRIDGE PARK

BUY OF THE WEEK Western Property

POTENTIAL AT EVERY TURN IN CAMBRIDGE PARK What is so great about this property? Set on an expansive 696sqm parcel of land, this three-bedroom residence features spacious living areas, a separate teenage retreat, and exciting future development potential (STCA).

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

Who does this property suit? Whether you are searching for a family home with room to grow,

a strong investment opportunity, or a development site with future potential, this property offers exceptional value. Tell us about the suburb? Positioned in a sought-after pocket of Cambridge Park, the property is within walking distance to bus stops, schools, shops, parks, cafes and eateries, with easy access to Penrith and St Marys CBDs.

OPEN FOR INSPECTION Expressons of Interest Contact Agent CONTACT RE/MAX Lifestyle Marketing Gizzelle Powell • 0428 934 618 gizzellepowell@remax.com.au

FOR SALE – PRIME RETAIL

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Thursday, October 15, 2026 « the western weekender

G I

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S E LL

Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.

The Residences Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money. • • • • • • •

Spacious, designer interiors Landscaped grounds Two to five-bedroom layouts Private porches and courtyards Family-friendly living areas Premium finishes and inclusions Tranquil locations

The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits. Banksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

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Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

A wide range of affordably priced residences now selling.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

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Thursday, October 15, 2026 « the western weekender

TALKING TECH The Experts

FEELING BORED ONLINE? CHECK THESE SITES OUT! I

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

f you have a few minutes to spare and want to try something new, the internet has plenty of quirky, entertaining, and fascinating websites that can turn a boring moment into something fun. Here are some great websites to check out when you’re feeling bored. My favourite is Little Alchemy. Radio Garden: Spin the Globe and Listen In (radio.garden): Radio Garden brings travel and music together. On the site, you’ll see a 3D globe with thousands of green dots. Each dot is a live radio station from somewhere around the world. Quick, Draw!: Can AI Guess Your Sketch? (quickdraw.withgoogle.com): Quick, Draw! is a simple game from Google that shows how advanced artificial intelligence is. You get a word and have 20 seconds to draw it. As you sketch, the AI tries to guess what you’re drawing in real time. The Useless Web: One Click, Endless Weirdness (theuselessweb.com): Sometimes you’re not

the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

sure what you want, and that’s what The Useless Web is all about. Just press a big button and you’ll land on a random, often strange website. Window Swap: Peek Through Someone Else’s Window (window-swap.com): Window Swap lets people worldwide share short videos taken from their windows. Click the button, and you might find yourself looking out at a Paris apartment, a beach in Brazil, or a street in Canada. Neal.fun: A Playground of Interactive Curiosity (neal.fun): There are a bunch of interactive experiences, covering topics like history, science, and pop culture. My favourites: The Deep Sea, Space Elevator, and “Spend Bill Gates’ Money”. Little Alchemy 2: Create a Universe (littlealchemy2.com): This easy browser game begins with four elements: water, fire, earth, and air. By mixing them in different ways, you can create hundreds of objects, animals, technologies, and even whole

civilisations. Pointer Pointer (pointerpointer.com): Move your mouse anywhere on the screen and wait a second. The site will show a photo of someone pointing right at your cursor. FutureMe (futureme.org): Write an email to your future self and have it delivered months or even years from now. Arcade Games (arcade.gs): Play

thousands of older arcade games straight from your browser. Stars.chromeexperiments. com : Explore over 100,000 nearby stars in a beautiful 3D map. The next time boredom strikes, skip the endless scrolling and try one of these sites instead. You might learn something new, discover a hidden talent, or simply enjoy a few minutes of harmless fun.

HEALTH The Experts

BOREDOM EATING: HOW TO BREAK THE HABIT! W

e’ve all had those moments when we wander into the kitchen looking for something to eat, even though we’re not really hungry. Maybe you’re watching TV, scrolling on your phone or simply have nothing else to do. This is often called ‘boredom eating’, and it’s something many of us experience from time to time. The good news? You don’t need to avoid snacking altogether. Instead, try these five

simple strategies: 1. Pause and check in Before grabbing a snack, ask yourself, “Am I actually hungry?” Physical hunger tends to build gradually, while boredom cravings can appear quite suddenly. There’s no right or wrong answer, the goal is simply to notice what’s going on. 2. Think about when you last ate If it’s been several hours since your last meal,

SARAH BONNICI One Point Health 4732 5188

you may genuinely be hungry. If you’ve eaten recently and feel satisfied, boredom might be behind the urge to snack. 3. Change what you’re doing If you think boredom is the issue, try switching activities. Go for a walk, make a cup of tea, call a friend, or listen to music. Distracting yourself with a different activity for 20-30 minutes can help take your mind off food, and help you better distinguish between boredom, and true hunger. 4. Don’t ignore real hunger If you’re hungry, eat! There’s no need to try to distract yourself from genuine hunger. Choose something satisfying, such as yoghurt and fruit, wholegrain toast with peanut butter, or crackers with hummus. Ignoring your hunger can cause you to overeat at your next meal. 5. Don’t beat yourself up Boredom eating is normal, and one extra snack isn’t going to undo your healthy habits. Instead of feeling guilty, think about what happened and what you might need next time. The goal isn’t to never eat when you’re bored. It’s simply to become more aware of your eating habits. So, next time you find yourself reaching for the pantry, take a moment to ask: “Am I hungry, or am I just looking for something to do?”

PET HEALTH

IS IT A TRICK OR TREAT?

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL!

At Orchard Hills ills Veterinary Hospital, we understand d that your pet is a cherished family ily member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pett care services to animals acrosss the Penrith district.

We offer: • Vaccinations ions • Radiography aphy • Microchipping pping • Surgery • Dental care are • Ultrasound nd

Phone 4736 6 2027 49 Wentworth Road Road,Orchard Orchard Hills Monday - Friday: 8am-7pm | Saturday: 8am-2pm Sunday: Open for emergencies for existing clients 9am-3pm

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alloween is just around the corner, with October 31 bringing costumes, decorations, trick-or-treaters and, of course, plenty of sweet treats. While it is an exciting time for families, Halloween can also bring some unexpected tricks for our pets. What looks like harmless fun to us can be confusing, frightening or even dangerous for our four-legged family members. With a little planning, however, you can make sure Halloween is more treat than trick for your pets. The “Tricks” – Halloween Dangers Chocolate is one of the biggest Halloween hazards for pets. It can cause serious illness in dogs and cats, with darker chocolate generally posing a greater risk. Raisins and grapes can also be toxic, while sugar-free lollies and chewing gum containing xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and potentially serious illness, particularly in dogs.

Keep all Halloween treats securely out of reach and remind children that their treats are not for sharing with the family pet. Wrappers can be an issue It is not just the sweets themselves that can cause trouble. Curious pets may be attracted to the smell of discarded wrappers and swallow cellophane, foil or plastic packaging. These materials can become lodged in the digestive tract and potentially cause a serious intestinal blockage. Doorbell anxiety For some pets, Halloween night can be overwhelming. Constant knocking or doorbell ringing, excited children and unfamiliar people dressed in unusual costumes can cause fear or anxiety. Even normally calm pets may become unsettled, while frightened cats and dogs may try to escape through an open door. Costumes aren’t for all While a pet in a Halloween costume can make for a great photo, not every

The Experts

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027 animal enjoys dressing up. Tight or restrictive clothing, masks and accessories can interfere with movement, vision or breathing. If your pet is uncomfortable, don’t force them to participate. Their wellbeing is more important than the perfect Halloween photo. How to make it a “Treat” If you want to include your pet in the festivities, consider a simple, lightweight accessory such as a festive bandana rather than a full costume. You can also give your pet a pet-safe treat while the trickor-treaters enjoy theirs. This allows them to be part of the celebrations without sharing potentially dangerous human food.

Thursday, October 15, 2026 « the western weekender

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

REVIEW YOUR LOAN RATE EVERY SIX MONTHS Y

STEVEN KORNER

and cashback deals throughout the year, often with little fanfare. • Your loan-to-value ratio improves. Each repayment and any rise in your property’s value can push you into a lower-risk pricing tier, which may unlock a better rate. What half a percent is really worth A rate gap of 0.50 per cent sounds small, but on a typical western Sydney loan it is worth around $190 a month. A review doesn’t always mean switching A good review often ends with no change at all, and that is a perfectly good outcome. Switching lenders is not always the right call: • Break costs. Leaving a fixed rate early can trigger break fees that wipe out any saving. • Switching costs. Discharge fees, government registration fees and new lender fees all need to be weighed against the benefit. • Lenders mortgage insurance. If your equity is below 20 per cent, refinancing may mean paying LMI again. • Serviceability. A new lender will reassess your income and expenses, and tighter lending rules may limit your options. • Credit file enquiries. Multiple applications in a short period can affect your credit profile. How The Finance Korner keeps your rate in check

At The Finance Korner, every home loan client receives a rate review every six months, for the life of their loan. You don’t need to remember to ask; we put it in the diary for you. Here is how each review works: 1. We check your current position. We look at your rate, balance, loan-to-value ratio and any fixed-term expiry dates. 2. We compare the market. We benchmark your loan against what your current lender and other lenders on our panel are offering borrowers like you. 3. We talk to your lender first. Where there is a gap, we approach your existing lender to request a sharper rate, often the quickest and cheapest path. 4. We weigh up the alternatives. If your lender won’t move, we set out the real numbers on switching, including every fee and cost. 5. You decide. We give you a clear, plain-English summary and a recommendation. Nothing changes unless you’re comfortable with it. Because we deal with home loans every day, we see where pricing is heading across the market, not just at one bank. When did you last check your rate? If you can’t remember, it has probably been too long.

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The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

our home loan is likely the biggest debt you will ever carry, yet many borrowers check their rate less often than their phone plan. Reviewing it every six months is one of the simplest ways to make sure you are not paying more than you need to. The set-and-forget trap Most people put serious effort into finding a good rate when they first borrow. Once the loan settles, attention moves on to the mortgage repayments, the move and everyday life. The problem is that lenders often save their sharpest rates for new customers. Existing borrowers who never ask can drift onto a rate well above what the same lender offers a new client walking in the door. This gap is often called the “loyalty tax”, and it quietly adds up over the years. Why every six months? Six months is long enough for meaningful change, but short enough that you never sit on a poor deal for years. A lot can move in that time: • The rate cycle shifts. The Reserve Bank meets regularly, and lenders do not always pass changes on in full or at the same speed. • Lenders reprice. Banks and non-bank lenders adjust their new-customer offers

the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AMANDA JANE Clairvoyant Medium amandajane-xo.com revivalretreats.com.au

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

A deep inner shift begins moving forward this week. Changes you’ve been quietly working through can now start to show on the outside. Partnerships are highlighted too, bringing important and honest conversations with someone close. Your career direction may also be under review. Rather than forcing a decision, give yourself time to reflect.

This week invites you to go deeper, emotionally and spiritually. An honest conversation could strengthen an important bond, particularly where trust is concerned. You may feel drawn back to a course, belief or place that once inspired you. Revisit it with fresh eyes. Your daily routine benefits from a little more structure, helping you feel more in control.

Relationships take centre stage this week, and someone may meet you halfway sooner than expected. An old conversation about trust or closeness could resurface, giving you the chance to approach it with an open heart rather than armour. Creativity, romance and joy are highlighted, make time for whatever lights you up. A decision you’ve been weighing finally feels right.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

This week invites you to revisit what you truly want from your closest relationships. Someone from the past may reappear, or an existing connection could ask for a more honest conversation. Don’t rush to fix anything; simply notice what feels right. At home, there’s lovely energy for nesting, family time and creating a sanctuary that feeds your soul.

Your playful, creative side is calling, and this week rewards following it. Say yes to the invitation, start the project or simply allow yourself more fun. Everyday responsibilities may move slower than usual, so build in extra time and double-check the details. Your words carry real warmth right now – a message or phone call could mend a misunderstanding.

Home and family are close to your heart this week, and you may feel inspired to create more calm and comfort around you. A creative passion or romantic connection from the past could resurface, offering a fresh understanding. You’re also being reminded of your worth. Speak up for what you deserve, gently but clearly. The people who matter will listen.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Your confidence is rising this week, Leo, and others are noticing. This is a wonderful time to put yourself forward or begin something you’ve been planning. Your enthusiasm is matched by real staying power, helping you turn big ideas into steady progress. At home, an old family matter may need revisiting. Lead with warmth rather than pride and it may resolve easily.

Conversations flow easily this week, though a topic you thought was settled may come back around. Listen for what’s beneath the words. You may also feel a strong need to retreat and recharge, and that’s nothing to feel guilty about. Quiet time could spark your best ideas yet. Value your time and talents highly – when you know your worth, others follow.

As your birthday season draws to a close, recognise how much you’ve grown this past month. You’re reassessing what you value and what genuinely makes you feel secure, and there’s no need to rush any big decisions. Friends could offer encouragement exactly when you need it. Lean on them. You don’t have to carry everything on your own.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

This is a deeply reflective week, encouraging you to look at how you love, what you value and how you show up for yourself. With your birthday season approaching, it’s the perfect time to rest and clear space before your new year begins. A situation at home or within your family that has felt stuck can finally move forward. Trust the timing. You’re ready.

Friendships and community bring warmth, and a group conversation or gathering could spark an exciting idea. Your adventurous spirit is wide awake, so follow anything that expands your world - travel plans, study or a spiritual path that calls you. Privately, an old feeling may resurface for healing. Be gentle with yourself. Releasing the past makes room for something better.

Career and purpose are in focus, and your efforts are being noticed. This is a strong week to take decisive action on something you’ve been quietly planning. A friendship may need attention or honest reflection, particularly if expectations have shifted. You’re also redefining what security means to you. Choose what supports your future rather than what simply feels familiar.

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Amanda Jane is an internationally recognised Clairvoyant Medium, spiritual teacher, retreat facilitator, and founder of Revival Retreats Australia. With a gift for connecting to the spirit world and over a decade of experience supporting people through healing, transformation, and personal growth, Amanda has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt, accurate, and compassionate guidance.

Thursday, October 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Singapore

WORDS

Emily Chate

IMAGES Supplied

MORE INFO

THE SINGAPORE YOU F

or Australians, a trip to Southeast Asia feels almost like a rite of passage. Bali is often the go-to destination, but I’m here to say that Singapore deserves a place on everyone’s travel wish list. I got to discover the magic of Singapore recently and found it to be a modern, futuristic island. Sitting just an hour eight-hour flight away from Sydney, Singapore is a hidden gem that more people need to experience. It’s no secret that the first thing you’ll notice is the humidity. Singapore sits close to the equator and experiences year-round heat so staying at a hotel with a pool is necessary. My whirlwind Singapore stay began at The Singapore EDITION, which is a tranquil, greenery-filled retreat in the heart of the city. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle outside. The hotel has a signature Le Labo scent that mixes perfectly with the soft white interiors and lush greenery to create a spa like environment. A complimentary welcome drink while you check in is a thoughtful touch that sets this hotel apart from others. Opened in 2023, The Singapore EDITION’s standout features are the garden courtyard and the signature EDITION spiral staircase. The courtyard runs through the heart of the property, drawing natural light into the rooms and public spaces. The room I stayed in looked into the courtyard and made me feel a million miles away from the city. Some hotels have a way of making even staying in a room feel special and The Singapore EDITION does this like no other, I’ll be dreaming about this for a long time.

The pool at The Singapore EDITION.

Above the courtyard sits the hotel’s spectacular pool. The 43-metre pool is framed by daybeds both in and out of the water, making it feel like a private sanctuary suspended above the city. Look closely when swimming and you’ll discover a transparent panel in the pool floor, offering a unique view into the garden courtyard below.

“I’LL BE DREAMING ABOUT THIS FOR A LONG TIME”

The hippo cocktail Emily tried at WOOBAR at the W Singapore Sentosa Cove.

The room at the W Singapore Sentosa Cove.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

The hotel’s food and beverage offering stand out just as much with each venue bringing its own personality. For evening drinks, the Lobby Bar is a standout. A magnificent pink backlit bar takes centre stage and is complemented by plush pink velvet accents and a rose-coloured pool table. The Punch Room and Wonder Room offer further spaces to settle in and enjoy the evening. At the heart of the dining experience at The Singapore EDITION is Tanica, where modern Asian cuisine is elevated by regional herbs, spices, and bold flavours. A few standout dishes made the experience particularly memorable, including a 72-hour Wagyu beef short rib and dry-aged Murray cod fillet. I can see why people rave about this food.

Beyond the hotel, the location makes exploring effortless. Orchard Road’s world-class shopping is within walking distance, while nearby transport links connect you to Marina Bay Sands and the city’s major attractions. Leaving The Singapore EDITION was harder than expected. It’s the kind of place where thoughtful service, beautiful design, and a calming atmosphere come together so seamlessly that you could happily stay a little longer. For me, the best way to experience Singapore is to split your stay between the energy of the CBD and the slower pace of Sentosa Island. Known for its beaches, resorts and theme parks, Sentosa offers a different side of Singapore, one that’s made for switching off. I checked into the newly renovated W Singapore Sentosa Cove, a resort that makes a statement from the moment you arrive. Deep marina blues and vibrant coral tones run throughout the property, creating a cohesive, contemporary aesthetic that feels both luxurious and inviting. My Premier King room exceeded expectations. The balcony looked over the pool and into the marina offering stunning sunset views. The pool is open 24 hours a day and with Singapore’s tropical heat being able to take a dip whenever the mood strikes is hard to beat. The resort’s signature steakhouse, SKIRT, is an experience in itself – one that people travel across Singapore for. The open plan kitchen puts the chefs’ craft on full display, while the dry-ageing room offers a glimpse into the care behind each cut of meat.

The room at The Singapore EDITION.

TRAVEL

DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED I sampled several of the restaurant’s signature dishes, including the Wagyu, and can confidently say it was one of the best restaurant experiences I’ve ever had. The team’s knowledge of the produce is exceptional, and guests can even select their own steak knife, adding a personal touch to an already memorable meal.

“SINGAPORE OFFERS SO MUCH MORE THAN A QUICK STOPOVER”

Wellness is another standout at W Singapore Sentosa Cove, with both AWAY Spa and the AiRE Wellness experience on offer. I opted for AiRE Wellness, where the attentive team made my relaxation feel like their highest priority. My session began with 30 minutes in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, followed by red light therapy and compression boots. It was a highlight of my stay and perfect after a flight – for me this is a must do. For something a little more social, WOOBAR is the resort’s go-to for cocktails and light bites. The food was delicious, but the signature cocktails stole the show – you might even find yourself being served a cocktail in a hippo!

The Lobby Bar at The Singapore EDITION.

The iconic spiral staircase at The Singapore EDITION.

SKIRT at the W Singapore Sentosa Cove.

The spa at the W Singapore Sentosa Cove.

With atmospheric lighting and a laid-back marina-side setting, it was the perfect place to wind down in the evening. Singapore offers so much more than a quick

stopover. Whether you’re unwinding beside a rooftop-style pool at The Singapore EDITION or indulging in island life at W Singapore Sentosa Cove, there’s something special about

experiencing both sides of the city. I left already looking forward to my next visit. Singapore has a way of making you feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface.

READY TO

TRAVEL?

PREPARE BY VISITING THESE PARTNERS . . .

Thursday, October 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Have a story to share? Send us your news, community stories and photos from across Western Sydney.

Crossword DOWN 1 Came to a conclusion (7) 2 Ridge above the optic organ (7) 3 Yachting (7) 4 Handsome Greek youth (6) 5 /70 Across Unstable countries with economies controlled by foreign interests (6,9) 6 Confused (6) 7 Former Queensland halfback nicknamed Alfie (6) 9 Talk over (7) 10 Former Queensland batsman; Sam ... (7) 11 Make amends for (7) 18 A display of lustrous changing colours (11) 19 Unresolved state (5) 20 Unfeeling (4) 21 Before expected time (5) 22 Filled with major actors (4-7) 24 Producing eggs that hatch outside the body (9) 25 Inability to feel pain (9) 27 US movie director; Quentin ... (9) 28 Steep descent of an aircraft at great speed (5-4) 30 Young birds of prey (7) 31 Son of Laius and Jocasta in Greek legend (7) 33 Chemical used in photocopying machines (5) 34 Tough cotton thread (5) 36 Jumping parasites (5) 37 Group of eight (5) 45 Native group of Kenya (5) 47 Concerning vision (5) 50 Ireland (Gaelic) (4) 53 Act done to heighten selfimage (3,4) 54 Attacked (3,4) 55 Tapered end of a sailing ship’s spar (7) 57 Language of a people in NW India (7) 58 Dog like a small Previous solution - Easy greyhound (7) 59 Speakers’ platform (7) 8 3 2 1 4 5 61 Thin surface coating (6) 1 3 2 9 662 5Honest; 4 fair ... (coll) (6) 3 2 1 8 763 That6is to5say (6) 6 8 7 164 Lure 2 3(6) 4

edium

4 7 8 9 6 5 1 7 8 9 5 4 3 Last 5week’s solution 6 3 4 2 8 5 6 4 9 7 4 5 8 6

r8ts.com

2 3 6 9 7 8 7

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender westernweekender.com.au/digi-subscribe

SUDOKU No. 815

5 4 5

Very Hard

6 7 8 9 4 3 1 5 2

2 9 7 8 3 1 1 8 3 6

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

1 7 2 6 5 7 1 8 4 7 9 1 7

the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

Previous solution - Tough

ACROSS 1 Elegant in style of attire (6) 8 Newspaper boss (6) 12 Period from 1901 to 1910 (9) 13 A fool (6) 14 Noticed (6) 15 Former Queensland Premier (4,5) 16 Cause a train to leave the track (6) 17 Grope about clumsily (6) 18 Polynesians (9) 23 Titled widow (7) 26 Paces (5) 29 Words used in epitaphs (2,8) 32 Essential (5) 35 Biblical tower of confusion (5) 36 Knit your brows (5) 38 Animal assisting the force (6,3) 39 Stains (4) 40 Decorative edging material (4) 41 Mobs (5) 42 Ingress (5) 43 Stagger (4) 44 Arrived (4) 46 Inhabited (9) 48 Code inventor; Samuel ... (5) 49 Devoured (3,2) 51 Passive strike (3-2) 52 Without help (10) 53 Short work of prose (5) 56 Give authority to (7) 60 Corroborated (9) 65 Protest (6) 66 Briefs and the like (6) 67 Lifeless (9) 68 Put the record on again (6) 69 National Park in Alberta, Canada (6) 70 See 5 Down (9) 71 Central American republic bordering Columbia (6) 72 Offended party (6)

4 2 3 1 6 5 8 9 7

1 9 5 7 2 8 4 3 6

2 6 1 4 3 7 5 8 9

7 5 4 6 8 9 2 1 3

8 3 9 2 5 1 6 7 4

5 4 7 3 1 6 9 2 8

3 8 6 5 9 2 7 4 1

9 1 2 8 7 4 3 6 5

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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains 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.

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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: HOBBIES BAKING BIRDWATCHING CAMPING COLLECTING COOKING CYCLING DANCING DRAWING FISHING GARDENING HIKING KNITTING MODEL BUILDING PAINTING PHOTOGRAPHY POTTERY READING SCRAPBOOKING SEWING WOODWORKING Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about ‘The Lord of the Rings’ quiz in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. How many books make up the The Lord of the Rings series? 2. Who authored the series? 3. What year did the first movie premiere? 4. What is the name of the hobbit who carries the One Ring to Mount Doom? 5. Who is the rightful heir to

the throne of Gondor? 6. Who had the ring before Bilbo Baggins? 7. What creature attacks Gandalf in ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’? 8. What is the name of Frodo’s sword? 9. What is the name of the leader of the Nazgul?

ANSWERS 1. Three 2. J. R. R. Tolkien 3. 2001 4. Frodo Baggins 5. Aragorn 6. Gollum 7. The Balrog 8. Sting 9. The Witch King of Angmar

Trivia Quiz

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TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 815

Medium

8 3 1 3 2 6 4 7 7 8 5 6 5 4

1 3 2 2

6 5 6 7 3 3 4 5 2 5

Str8ts

5 3 6

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Cracking the Safe

No. 815

Previous solution - Easy

2 1 3 2 9 6 1 8 7 8 7 1 8 9 6 5 9 5 4 3 4 2 6 4 9 5 8

4 5 5 4 6 2 3 1 2 3 8 9 7 8 6 7

5 4 3 6 7

4 5

1 7 2 7 1 9

Name the Movie

In order to crack open the safe solve the six digit code. You are given five clues. The letters can be any number between 0-6.

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

EOCTRESAHNIN E Previous Hexwords solution:

1. Enter the last word at the bottom of the grid. 2. The symbols show how many letters from the word next to it are or are not used in the last word.

One of the five letters is in the right place. One of the five letters is not used. 3. All letters from the letter list below the symbols, are used at least once in the grid.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 15, 2026

Previous solution: 28 DAYS LATER

BrainSnack® The Last Word One of the five letters is in the right place.

’

Who Am I? HINTS 1. I won Dally M Rookie of the Year in 1984. 2. I then won Dally M Player of the Year in 1985, a year later. 3. I captained the Penrith Panthers to win the historic 1991 NSWRL Grand Final victory over the Canberra Raiders. 4. I became Penrith’s first home-grown Test player representing Australia. 5. I now work as a prominent NRL commentator and analyst for Fox Sports and radio. Last week’s answer: JAR JAR BINKS

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Thursday, October 15, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Brownie Tiramisu A chocolaty twist on a decadent classic. What You’ll Need:

– 1 cup Black Coffee – 2 Tbsp Coffee Liqueur (stirred into coffee, optional) – 1 pack of Lady Finger biscuits – Cocoa Powder (to top)

– 3 x large bowls – A large oven safe dish – An electric mixer – Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients: Brownie: – 200g Butter – 1 cup Brown Sugar – 2 Eggs – 1 tsp Vanilla Extract – 1/2 cup Plain Flour – 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder – pinch of Salt

Method:

Tiramisu: – 3 Eggs (yolks and whites separated) – 1/2 cup Caster Sugar – 1 tsp Vanilla Extract – 250g Mascarpone

1. Preheat oven to 180° and line an oven safe dish with baking paper. 2. For Brownie, melt butter and mix in sugar and vanilla with electric mixer in a large bowl. Once combined, mix in the eggs one at a time. 3. Mix in flour, cocoa and salt with spatula and once combined, transfer to oven dish. Make sure to spread mixture to the edges. 4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skew-

er inserted into the middle comes out clean. Set aside to cool completely. 5. For Tiramisu, beat the egg yolks and sugar until they are thick and a pale yellow. Add vanilla and mascarpone and mix until just combined. 6. In a separate bowl, add egg whites and beat with the electric mixer until stiff. Add half of the cream mixture into the egg whites and fold in with a spatula. Once combined, add remaining half.

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7. Remove the baking paper and place brownie on the bottom of the oven dish. Pour half the cream mixture on top and spread evenly. 8. Dip the lady fingers into the coffee and place on top of cream mixture in the oven dish. Once filled, pour remaining cream mixture on top. 9. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Dust with cocoa powder when ready to serve.

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PENRITH’S #1 NEWSPA PER

TROY DODDS

enrith’s greatest ever period of success has delivered the once struggling club a second straight Premiership and confirmed the Panthers rugby league juggernaut.are an unstoppable It is impossible to argue with James Fisher-Harris’ cheeky claim that this is Penrith team of all-time. They are the best an unpreceden delivering ted sustained period of success and have lost just 10 games three seasons, in the past breaking countless along the way. records Coach Ivan Cleary Nathan have also and his co-captain son entered Panthers tality, creating immorall sorts of history in what one of the greatest Premiership defences was game has ever seen. the Ivan is now the only won dual Premiership Penrith coach to have s with the club, just 24 Nathan while at is on club’s greatest ever his way to becoming the player. But Cleary was overshadowed Final night by on Grand a stunning performanc fullback Dylan e from Edwards, who claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match. Penrith players and fans partied and hard into long the night after Sunday’s 28-12 demolition of Parramatta. It was a definitive game of this incredible Penrith era and proved the club’s dominance of over the past three the competition seasons. It was billed as the the West in history greatest Battle of but kick-off it was obvious almost from the Parramatta were little chance of stopping a switched Penrith. on Eels fans were barely in their seats by time it was obvious the trophy was stayingthe the foot of the Mountains. at Penrith has emerged from an 18-year drought and near title collapse to now more Grand Final have two wins, and show slowing down. no sign of The scenes at Panthers Leagues Club after the game and at a fan Bet Stadium prove day on Monday at Bluethis over the community Penrith team has won . From Bathurst to cially own the west Blacktown, Penrith offi– the result of hard taking a chance and a playing group work, taken the NRL by that has storm.

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