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INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE FIND THE NEXT STEP ON YOUR JOURNEY | SEE PAGE 46 Feature Story

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

BUDGET FRIENDLY FAMILY OUTINGS

SWIM SAFETY COLUMN RETURNS!

A RELAXING WEEKEND IN GOSFORD

SEE PAGE 46

SEE PAGE 50

SEE PAGES 54-55

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

BUDGET FRIENDLY DAYS OUT FOR THE FAMILY K

eeping the kids entertained doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here are five family days out in and around Sydney, plus tips to make the budget go further. A family day out can add up fast once tickets, food and parking are counted. The good news is a bit of planning goes a long way, and some of Sydney’s best family experiences are right on western Sydney’s doorstep.

“SOME OF SYDNEY’S BEST FAMILY EXPERIENCES ARE RIGHT ON WESTERN SYDNEY’S DOORSTEP”

1. Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, Doonside Meet koalas and hand-feed kangaroos without leaving western Sydney. Featherdale has more than 100,000 bookings on Klook and a 4.7 out of 5 rating.

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2. Sydney Zoo, Bungarribee Western Sydney’s own zoo is an easy drive for Penrith and Parramatta families, with discounted tickets available on Klook.

3. Taronga Zoo by ferry Make the trip part of the fun. Klook’s Taronga Zoo Ferry and Entry ticket bundles zoo entry with a harbour ferry ride. Awesome value!

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5. A harbour cruise A Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruise is a relaxed way to see the Opera House and Harbour Bridge up close, from under $25 on Klook.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026

Tips to save Bundle attractions. The Klook Pass Sydney lets you choose two to five attractions, including Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Sydney Tower Eye, with savings of up to 36 per cent. Watch for sales. Klook regularly discounts popular attractions, so check before you book. Book ahead. It saves time on the day and makes it easy to compare prices. Visit https://www.klook.com/ en-AU.

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4. Luna Park Sydney Entry is free, so you only pay for rides. The Unlimited Rides Pass uses a height-based wristband system, so little ones and big kids can each find rides that suit them.

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Thursday, October 22, 2026 « the western weekender

G I

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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

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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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the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026

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Thursday, October 22, 2026 « the western weekender

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

IT’S TIME TO TALK ABOUT WATER SAFETY AGAIN! T

JULIE SHELDRAKE Nepean Aquatic Centre & Eva Bory’s Swim School 4730 8900

he National Drowning Report 2026 recorded 313 drowning deaths in Australia, 10 per cent higher than the 10-year average. Nearly half of all fatalities (151 deaths) occurred in coastal locations, while 90 deaths occurred in inland waterways and 44 in swimming pools, with most pool drownings occurring in backyard pools. Older adults aged 65 years and over accounted for 95 deaths (30 per cent of all fatalities), while there were 34 deaths among people aged 15–24 years. Encouragingly, drowning deaths among children under five fell to 39 per cent below the 10-year average, however the report still recorded 11 drowning deaths among children under five in Australia in 2025/26, with more than half occurring in backyard swimming pools. Each year, around 80 children under five are hospitalised after a non-fatal drowning. Some experience lasting health impacts that affect both them and their families.

Although drowning deaths among young children have fallen over the past decade, every single death is a reminder that we can’t afford to become complacent. Young children are curious and increasingly mobile, and it can take only a moment for them to reach the water. Teaching children to swim is another important part of keeping them safe around water. Knowing how to swim can help children feel more confident and comfortable in the water, and can also teach them how to move through water, float and reach the side – skills that may help them respond if they unexpectedly fall in. Additionally, swimming lessons build coordination, strength and endurance while helping children learn safe behaviours around water. Starting lessons at an age and pace that suit your child will help them gradually build water confidence and develop essential skills. The sooner your child can independently get back to the

side and out of the pool after a fall, the better! However, as crucial as swimming lessons are, they are not a substitute for close adult supervision, pool barriers or other safety measures – even confident young swimmers need close supervision whenever they’re in or near water. A secure, well-maintained pool fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate adds another vital safeguard. With the weather heating up, now is the perfect time to inspect your pool area to ensure it is safe for children. Check that pool gates close and latch properly, fences are secure, and there are no objects such as chairs, pot plants or toys that could be used to climb over the barrier. If you have a portable pool, empty and store it safely when not in use to prevent unsupervised access and reduce the risk of drowning. Keep Watch is a child drowning prevention program that aims to keep children aged 0–4 years safe around water by encouraging

parents and carers to follow four simple actions: Supervise children actively whenever they are near water, Restrict access to water through effective barriers and safety measures, Teach children water safety skills from an early age, and Respond by learning CPR and knowing what to do in an emergency. Together, these actions help reduce the risk of drowning and create safer aquatic environments for young children. Royal Life Saving’s free checklist offers a simple guide to checking your pool area. It’s available online.

HEALTH

FIBRE: WHAT TO KNOW!

LEARN TO

Swim

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ALL YEAR ROUND

Swim For Life

nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au | 4730 8900

the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026

ibre is an important part of a healthy diet, but many people don’t get enough of it. Fibre is a type of carbohydrate that your body can’t fully digest. Instead, it moves through the digestive system and plays an important role in supporting your gut and overall health. So, why does fibre matter? One of its best-known benefits is supporting healthy digestion. Fibre helps add bulk to your stools, which can make bowel movements easier and help prevent constipation. Certain types of fibre also act as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping support a healthy gut microbiome.

Fibre can also help you feel fuller for longer. High-fibre foods tend to take longer to chew and digest, which can make meals more satisfying and may help with appetite management. There are also benefits beyond digestion. Some types of fibre can help support healthy cholesterol levels and blood sugar control. Fibre-rich foods can also provide a range of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds. The good news is that getting more fibre doesn’t require a complete change to your diet. Small swaps can make a noticeable difference. For example, try choosing wholegrain or

The Experts

SARAH BONNICI OnePointHealth 4732 5188 wholemeal bread instead of white bread. Adding beans, chickpeas or lentils to meals such as pasta, soups, salads and curries is another easy way to increase your fibre intake. You can also keep the skin on fruits and vegetables, as the skin is high in fibre, as well as other micronutrients. Choosing fruit, nuts or seeds as snacks can also help increase your intake throughout the day. If you’re not used to eating much fibre, increase it gradually and make sure you’re drinking enough water. A sudden increase can cause bloating or discomfort. Rather than trying to change everything at once, start with one simple swap and build from there.

PET HEALTH The Experts

INJURED WILDLIFE: KNOWING HOW TO HELP L

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

iving in a growing urban area like western Sydney, it is not unusual to encounter native wildlife that has come off second best against cars, pets, windows or extreme weather. Finding an injured bird, possum or young animal can be distressing, and our first instinct is often to help. However, knowing what to do – and what not to do – can make all the difference. If you find sick, injured or orphaned wildlife, the best first step is generally to contact WIRES on 1300 094 737 or Sydney Wildlife Rescue on 9413 4300. Available 24 hours a day, they can assess the situation, provide advice and issue a reference number to help coordinate the animal’s care. If veterinary attention is needed, they can advise whether to take the animal to a nominated veterinary clinic or wait for a trained wildlife rescuer. Keep people and pets away to minimise stress. If WIRES advises that it is safe to contain the animal, follow their instructions carefully. Where appropriate, wear gloves, gently cover the animal with a towel and place it in a secure, well-ventilated box. Keep it somewhere dark and quiet, away from pets, and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Do not give wildlife food, milk, water or medication unless instructed by a veterinarian or wildlife rescuer. Feeding the wrong

food or administering fluids incorrectly can cause serious harm. Injured animals need appropriate assessment and treatment as soon as possible. If you find a baby bird on the ground, it may simply be a fledgling learning to fly. If it is uninjured and in no immediate danger, observe it from a distance. Its parents may be nearby and return to feed it. Contact WIRES for advice before attempting a rescue. Veterinary clinics can assess injured native wildlife, generally without charging for the initial assessment. The veterinarian will determine the extent of the injuries and whether the animal has a realistic chance of recovering to live a healthy, active and painfree life in the wild. Suitable animals can then be transferred to authorised wildlife carers for rehabilitation. Always note the exact location where the animal was found. This can help reunite young animals with their parents and is important when rehabilitated wildlife is ready for release. Many native animals are territorial, so returning them to the appropriate location can improve their chances of survival. Flying-foxes require special attention. If you find one on the ground, caught in fruit netting, or hanging from powerlines,

never touch, approach or attempt to rescue it yourself. Keep people and pets away and contact WIRES or Sydney Wildlife Rescue immediately. Unlike other injured wildlife, a flying-fox cannot simply be taken to your local veterinary clinic. Due to the risk of Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV), a rabies-related virus that can be fatal to humans, flying-foxes require specialist handling by appropriately trained and vaccinated personnel. Many veterinary clinics do not have staff with the necessary vaccination, training and protective equipment to handle them safely. WIRES will advise on the appropriate rescue arrangements. Never touch a dead flying-fox either. If bitten or scratched by a flying-fox, seek urgent medical attention. The same caution applies to snakes, goannas, large kangaroos and birds of prey, including eagles, falcons and hawks. Leave these animals to trained wildlife rescuers. Our native wildlife is an important part of the environment we share. By keeping a safe distance, contacting WIRES or Sydney Wildlife Rescue and following professional advice, we can give injured animals their best chance of recovery while protecting ourselves, our families and our pets.

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.

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Thursday, October 22, 2026 « the western weekender

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY DESERVES CLOSER LOOK F

STEVEN KORNER The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

rom August 10 2026, self-managed super funds can no longer take out a new limited recourse borrowing arrangement (LRBA) to buy residential property. The legislation, which received Royal Assent on June 26 2026, limits new SMSF property borrowing to business real property: premises used wholly and exclusively in running a business. Existing residential loans are grandfathered, and refinancing remains possible provided it doesn’t release equity or fund another asset. For trustees who planned to gear into residential property through super, that door has closed. For small business owners, however, the change puts the spotlight on one of the most effective SMSF strategies available: owning your own business premises.

The benefits • Rent builds your own wealth. Instead of paying a third-party landlord, your business pays rent into your super fund. • Deductible for the business. Market rent paid by your business is generally a tax-deductible expense. • Concessional tax inside super. Rental income is taxed at up to 15 per cent in accumulation phase and may be tax-free once the fund is paying a retirement pension. Capital gains on assets held longer than 12 months receive a one-third discount. • Security of tenure. You control your premises, avoiding unexpected rent reviews, relocation or a landlord selling

from under you. • Leverage is still available. Commercial property remains the only property type a fund can now borrow to buy. The fine print Commercial property is not a simple replacement for residential, and the structure must be done properly: • Arm’s length terms. The lease must be at market rent on commercial terms. Discounted rent can see income taxed at the top marginal rate under the non-arm’s length income rules. • It must genuinely qualify. A commercial property that is vacant at purchase, or residential property converted to business use, may not meet the business real property test. • Cash flow and concentration. A single large asset can dominate the fund. Trustees need to be confident repayments

can be met if the premises sit vacant or the business struggles to pay rent. • Tighter lending. Fewer lenders offer SMSF commercial loans, and deposits are typically larger than for standard commercial lending. • Higher balances. From July 2026 1, members with total super balances above $3 million face additional Division 296 tax on a portion of their fund’s earnings, which should be factored into longterm planning. Get the structure right from day one Buying business premises through your SMSF can be a powerful way to grow retirement savings while securing your business’s home base. It works best with the right team: your accountant or SMSF specialist to confirm the strategy suits your fund, and a broker to source compliant SMSF commercial finance.

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Become your own landlord Business real property is exempt from the rules that normally stop an SMSF leasing assets to

members or related parties. Your fund can buy the warehouse, workshop, office or shopfront your business operates from (even purchasing it from you or your company) and lease it back to your business at market rent.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 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

Career and life direction are under review this week, Aquarius. A project or opportunity from the past could resurface, giving you the chance to approach it differently. Be patient with delays at work and double-check important details before agreeing to anything. Home and family matters come into focus toward the weekend, and you may feel a deep need for comfort.

Your heart is drawn toward adventure, learning and spiritual growth this week. You may revisit a course, belief or place that once inspired you, seeing it through fresh eyes. Travel plans could shift, so keep things flexible. Toward the weekend, conversations flow beautifully and a message or phone call could bring welcome news. Speak from the heart, Pisces.

This week asks you to look a little deeper at what you share with others, emotionally and financially. A conversation about money, trust or closeness may need revisiting, and it’s worth taking your time rather than rushing to an answer. Old paperwork or an unfinished agreement could resurface – double-check the details. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel clearer.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Partnerships are firmly in the spotlight, Taurus, and someone from the past may reach out or reappear unexpectedly. Rather than jumping to conclusions, listen to what’s really being said. An existing relationship could benefit from a slower, more honest conversation. As the week unfolds, you’ll feel a lovely surge of confidence and self-belief.

Your daily routine is asking for some gentle attention this week. Plans may shift, appointments could change and technology might test your patience, so build in extra time wherever you can. This is a wonderful week to revisit healthy habits you let slip. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel the need to rest and recharge. Quiet time isn’t wasted time – it’s where your best answers arrive.

Love, creativity and joy are calling you. A romantic connection or creative project from the past could return, offering a second chance. Children or younger people in your life may need extra patience and reassurance. Friendships bring warmth toward the weekend, and a group gathering or conversation could remind you just how loved and supported you are.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Home and family take centre stage this week, and an old family matter may come back around for gentle resolution. Lead with your heart rather than your pride. You may also feel inspired to declutter or create a calmer space around you. Career matters gain momentum toward the weekend, and your efforts are being noticed by the right people.

Conversations are highlighted this week, Virgo, though not everything will go according to plan. Messages may be delayed or misunderstood, so say what you mean clearly and kindly. Someone you haven’t heard from in a while could get in touch. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel a strong urge to expand your horizons through travel, study or a spiritual practice.

With your birthday season behind you, attention turns to what makes you feel secure and valued. You may be reassessing your finances, your worth or how much energy you give away. Avoid big purchases for now and revisit your budget instead. An honest conversation could deepen trust with someone close. Remember, you deserve the same care you so freely give.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Happy birthday season, Scorpio! The spotlight is on you, though this is a reflective rather than rushed beginning to your new year. You may find yourself reviewing who you’ve become and what you truly want next. Old feelings or familiar faces may resurface, offering closure or a fresh start. Relationships are highlighted toward the weekend, Trust your instincts!

This is a beautiful week to slow down and retreat a little, Sagittarius. Your energy may feel lower than usual, and that’s your soul asking for rest. Pay attention to dreams, intuitive nudges and repeating signs. An old hurt could resurface, not to hold you back but to finally be released. Toward the weekend, small changes to your routine help you feel more balanced and in control.

Friendships and community bring meaningful moments this week. Someone from your past may reconnect, or a group you once belonged to could call you back. Take time to consider which connections truly support the person you’re becoming. Your hopes and goals may also need some fine-tuning. Toward the weekend, make room for fun, romance and creativity.

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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 22, 2026 « the western weekender

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Gosford

WORDS

Troy Dodds

IMAGES Supplied

MORE INFO

GOSFORD DELIVERS THE “

What are you possibly going to do there”. That was the question I got asked multiple times when I told people I was headed to Gosford for the weekend. Sure, it doesn’t often make the list of mustsee travel destinations – but perhaps it should. As it turns out, Gosford indeed offers the perfect weekend away, especially when you’ve got voco Gosford as your central destination. This was the first new hotel in Gosford in more than a decade when it opened last year to considerable fanfare, promising a swim-up bar and notes of luxury at every turn. And while there is indeed plenty to do in Gosford and nearby – like the Australian Reptile Park or great picnic and hiking spots, or the footy stadium that hosts A-League and NRL games – voco Gosford has been designed to be the centrepiece of your stay, almost to the point where leaving the hotel feels criminal.

“VOCO GOSFORD HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO BE THE CENTREPIECE OF YOUR STAY... LEAVING FEELS CRIMINAL”

The hotel is located in the Archibald Precinct in the Gosford CBD. It overlooks the shimmering expanse of Brisbane Water and surrounding national park, and is just a few minutes from the waterfront. Just over an hour from Penrith, parking is easy and upon arrival you’ll quickly find yourself in the impressive reception area; where

voco Gosford is an impressive hotel in the heart of Gosford.

check-in is a breeze and the staff friendly and welcoming. There’s about 130 rooms all-up. Our digs for the night were the very impressive King Suite, overlooking the city. While this was a night away for my wife and I without our five-year-old in tow, it could have easily been turned into a family trip away – the room was large enough to cater to a family and judging by the amount of children at breakfast, plenty make the most of this being an affordable getaway with little ones. The rooms are brilliantly presented – the addition of a bar cart felt luxe, and a full-size TV that didn’t require a Master’s Degree to operate was a bonus when we wanted to relax in bed with a movie later in the night. We kicked off our afternoon with a swim and a drink at the aforementioned swim-up bar. The pool is heated, but it doesn’t get the afternoon sun – so it’s still a little chilly on entry. Still, it’s a good size and a great way to

Astra offers incredible views and a Japanese-inspired menu.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026

spend a relaxing afternoon. The cocktails were spot-on. Before dinner, we headed to level 28 to enjoy a pre-dinner drink at Astra. The Japanese izakaya inspired menu celebrates Japanese technique with a fire-driven edge, delivering an elevated yet high-energy space, perfect for cocktails, share plates and late-night bites– all prepared with precision and flair. Try to get a spot by the window – the view from up there is awesome. After a couple of cocktails, we headed downstairs to Paolo’s for an Italian meal that was to die for. Locally sourced ingredients are prepared daily, with pizzas made from Italian flour, fior di latte mozzarella, and seasonal toppings, all cooked to perfection in the pizza oven. Fresh pastas are paired with slow-cooked sauces, while seasonal cocktails and a curated wine list showcase the best of Italy and Australia. The wood fired bread with black garlic oil is

TRAVEL

GETAWAY WE NEEDED a must to kick things off. We enjoyed a Meat Lover pizza – which was delicious – and the Spaghetti Carbonara. We literally fought over who got the last bite. A local told us the Squid Ink Spaghetti is one of the restaurant’s best dishes – a must-try for next time.

“WE LITERALLY FOUGHT OVER WHO GOT THE LAST BITE” Reception feels friendly and luxurious.

Relax in the pub, or grab a meal there.

We relaxed in the adjoining pub with another couple of drinks before heading upstairs for that movie and a bit of relaxation. The next morning, it was off to Saltfire for breakfast. It’s a modest buffet, but won’t leave you feeling hungry. Before checking out, we gave the sauna by the pool a crack, admired the gym from afar and noticed some aquatic activities happening at the pool – well worth adding to the agenda if you have time. So what are you going to do in Gosford? Relax, eat good food, down some delicious cocktails and soak up the luxury that comes with a new hotel build. What more could you want?

The incredible pool at voco Gosford.

Independent travel reviews from writers who’ve been there!

READY TO

TRAVEL? PREPARE BY VISITING THESE PARTNERS...

www.suitcasestories.com.au Thursday, October 22, 2026 « the western weekender

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

Crossword

Tough

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

r8ts.com

1 3 3 2

9 6 8 7 5

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

SUDOKU No. 816

Easy

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

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.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026

Previous solution - Very Hard

7 6 9 4 3 1 8 5 2

DOWN ACROSS 1 Resort in West Florida (5) 1 South of Rockhampton is the ... of Capricorn (6) 2 Ancient (5) 6 Substance made from 3 Former Peruvian Indian (4) cellulose fibres (5) 4 Beheaded wife of Henry 9 /55 Across/15 Across VIII; Anne ... (6) Danish author of fairytales 5 Scrap (6) (4,9,8) 6 Product for which Kingaroy 11 Prairie wolf (6) is famous (6) 12 Doctor (6) 7 Type of wine; ... noir (5) 14 A.D. (4,6) 8 US actress; Winona ... (5) 15 See 9 Across (8) 9 Big hit in baseball (5) 16 Given name of Russian 10 The time being (5) ballerina Pavlova (4) 13 Banded chalcedony (4) 19 Put into circulation (5) 17 Former name for Lake 22 Flightless bird of South Malawi (5) America (4) 18 Excuse of being elsewhere 25 Rock foreign to that (5) surrounding it (8) 20 Operating room (7) 28 Very fast (5) 21 Former (9) 31 Annual chocolate treat 23 Scavenging animal of (6,3) Africa (5) 33 Abstinent (5) 24 North African republic 34 Noisy summer insect (6) adjoining Libya (7) 35 Fundamental (5) 26 US lift inventor (4) 37 Basis of the thermal, used 27 Unsuitable (5) by glider pilots (4,3) 29 Body of deputies (5) 38 Concept (4) 30 Shedding all leaves 39 Fine white powder used in annually (9) water to stiffen fabric (6) 32 Proverbial worm catcher 40 Place (5) (5,4) 42 Coastal town at the mouth 36 More disagreeable (9) of NSW Clarence River (5) 40 Late great US actor; ... 44 /48 Down Glamorous Tracy (7) Italian actress (6,5) 41 So far (2,2,3) 46 Shapeless form (4) 43 Mediterranean island 47 Former athletic great; Herb awarded the George Cross ... (7) (5) 50 Small water-surrounded 45 Drive forward (5) land mass (5) 48 See 44 Across (5) 53 Parentless child (6) 49 Protruding tooth (4) 54 /64 Down Reclusive 51 Drain (5) Swedish actress (5,5) 52 British noblemen (5) 55 See 9 Across (9) 58 Mendicant (6) 56 Dopey is one; as is Sleepy 59 Paradoxical (6) (5) 60 Tell (6) 57 Ready to do favours (8) 61 Developed (4) 62 Called on the phone (4) 63 Great pain (5) 65 Oscar-winner for Gladiator; 64 See 54 Across (5) Russell ... (5) 65 Level of Indian society (5) 67 See 70 Across (4) 66 Type of willow (5) 70 /67 Across Oscar-winner 68 Beneath (5) for his role in Shine (8,4) 69 Wicked Biblical king (5) 72 Nutritious (10) 71 Sailing boat (4) 73 Prison officer (6) 74 BeePrevious farm (6) solution - Medium 75 Beginner (4) 1 3 4 76 Mistake (5) 9 8 77 International prize donor; 9 8 7 5 3 2 4 ... Nobel (6)

8 1 2 5 6 7 4 3 9

3 4 5 9 8 2 7 1 6

5 9 3 7 4 6 2 8 1

1 7 6 2 9 8 5 4 3

2 8 4 1 5 3 6 9 7

6 3 1 8 2 4 9 7 5

9 2 8 3 7 5 1 6 4

4 5 7 6 1 9 3 2 8

NEVER MISS AN EDITION

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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Wordsearch brought to you by Penrith Jobs www.penrithjobs.com.au

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: JAPAN ANIME BONSAI BULLET TRAIN CHERRY BLOSSOM GEISHA HIROSHIMA KARAOKE KIMONO KYOTO MOUNT FUJI NINTENDO ORIGAMI OSAKA RAMEN SAKE SAMURAI SHINKANSEN SUMO WRESTLING SUSHI TOKYO Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about Continents quiz in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. How many continents are there? 2. Which continent has the largest human population? 3. Which continent is largest by area? 4. Which continent is Brazil on? 5. Which continents are entirely in the southern hemisphere?

6. Which continent has the most countries? 7. Which nation is both a country and a continent? It’s the only one! 8. What ocean separates Africa and South America? 9. On which continent is the world largest desert? Think hard about this one!

ANSWERS 1. Seven 2. Asia 3. Asia 4. South America 5. Australia and Antarctica 6. Africa 7. Australia 8. Atlantic Ocean 9. Antarctica

Trivia Quiz

THE new home for job listingS in penrith www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, October 22, 2026 « the western weekender

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TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU Str8ts

No. 816

Tough

Previous solution - Medium

9 8 9 7 8 7 2 3 4 2 3 4 5

1 9

1 6 You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

Cracking the Safe

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

4 3 2 1 8 5 9 6 7

1 2 4 1 3 3 2

5 8

9 6 8 7 5

4 2

8 7

9 8 7 6 3 4 5 2 1

No. 816

9 8 1

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.

NSLATOILANTROTI S Previous solution:

Who Am I? HINTS

One of the five letters is in the right place. One of the five letters is in the right place.

BrainSnack® The Last Word 58

the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026

Previous solution: OCEAN’S THIRTEEN

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 not used. 3. All letters from the letter list below the symbols, are used at least once in the grid.

Previous solution:

1. I am an Australian racing driver. 2. I have raced Ford Mustangs extensively in my career. 3. I won the Bathurst 1000 in 2014 and 2021. 4. I won my first Bathurst 1000 from the back of the grid. 5. I suffered a serious crash during Bathurst qualifying in 2015, fracturing my left femur and left wrist. Last week’s answer: GREG ‘BRANDY’ ALEXANDER

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Every week, we encourage your kids to give some colour to an iconic Penrith landmark. Let their creativity shine with The Western Weekender!

LOOKING FOR A JOB IN PENRITH? www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, October 22, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Miso Noodle Soup This delicious and comforting broth is quick, easy, and perfect for any season.

What You’ll Need: – 1 large, deep pan – 1 medium pot

Ingredients: – 3 tbsp miso paste – 1 pack silken tofu – 1 bunch broccolini – 2 cups (approx) boiling water – 3 packs noodles ( I like to use chicken noodles for extra flavour) – Dash of salt, pepper and chilli oil (optional)

Method: 1. Heat up the pan on medium heat, while filling the pot with water to boil. 2. Spread the miso paste around the pan with some

oil until it becomes fragrant. Pour the boiling water into the pan and stir, adding in the salt, pepper and chilli oil. 3. After a few minutes, add in the tofu, sliced into chunks. Lay the broccolini on top and cover the pan with a lid. 4. Once the noodles are cooked, prepare as per packet instructions. Once ready, Place into a deep bowl. 5. When the broccolini is soft and cooked through, take the pan off the heat. Place tofu, broccolini and broth on top of the noodles. Top with seaweed if desired. 6. Enjoy, and share it with your friends!

the western weekender » Thursday, October 22, 2026