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INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

WHAT’S YOUR NEXT STEP? INSIDE: NEW OPPORTUNITIES FROM LOCAL AGENTS Western Property

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE IN THE MOUNTAINS

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

HISTORIC 83 HECTARE ESTATE ON THE MARKET A

fter 150 years in the hands of the same family, one of the Blue Mountains’ most significant private estates is being offered to the market, giving a new owner the opportunity to restore the historic Wynstay Estate to its former glory. Spanning 83 hectares at Mount Wilson, Wynstay was established in 1875 by Sydney merchant Richard Wynne whose family went on to establish the Wynne Prize for Landscape Painting and Sculpture at the Art Gallery of NSW. “Wynstay is one of those properties that stays with you. It has been part of the family for generations and holds so many special memories. It is difficult to let it go but we hope the next

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owner will appreciate what makes it so special, restore it to its former glory and create their own memories here,” said a spokesperson for the residence.

“WYNSTAY IS ONE OF THOSE PROPERTIES THAT STAYS WITH YOU”

The heritage-listed estate has remained within the Wynne family for five generations and includes the 1920s Wynstay residence, the original 1875 cottage, Old Wynstay, a gatekeeper’s

lodge, stables, historic Turkish Bath and extensive gardens. “Wynstay is not a turnkey property but that is part of the appeal. There is an opportunity for some-

one to take on the estate, restore it to its former glory and bring new life to a property with such a significant history and setting,” added Daniel McMahon, Director | Residential, Colliers. The estate’s scale and existing approvals also provide scope for a range of future possibilities with potential buyers including private purchasers, developers and hospitality or events operators. Its historic buildings, extensive gardens and mountain setting could lend themselves to a boutique wedding or events venue, subject to the relevant planning and heritage approvals. “Mount Wilson has a very particular appeal and Wynstay is a property that people will remember. The combination of the history, gardens, buildings and scale gives the next owner plenty to work with, whether that is creating a significant private retreat or exploring what else the estate could become,” added Nathan Berlyn, Director, Project Marketing | Residential. The decision to sell follows five generations of family ownership with the estate now being offered to a new custodian for the first time in its history. An Expressions of Interest campaign is now underway.

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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!

Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park CONTACT: Oran Park Sales Office Trevor Homes • 9043 7500

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

SWIM SAFETY The Experts

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM LESSONS? I

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

n last week’s column, I wrote with a heavy heart about the drowning deaths that have occurred over the past 12 months. One of the most effective ways we can help reduce these tragic statistics is by ensuring people of all ages learn to swim. However, fear of the unknown can sometimes stop people from taking that first step. A question I’m often asked is: What should I expect when starting swimming lessons? For most students, regardless of age or ability, swimming lessons focus on developing foundational skills while building confidence in the water. Early lessons often include basic water familiarisation activities, such as floating, blowing bubbles, and learning essential water safety skills. Just as importantly, students begin building trust with their instructor and developing positive associations with being in the water. Progress is highly individual and depends on factors such as confidence levels, fear of

water, physical coordination, and consistency in attending lessons. Like any new skill, regular practice is essential. As students become more comfortable, lessons gradually introduce specific swimming techniques, including kicking, stroke development, and breathing skills, all with the long-term goals of water safety, fitness, and overall wellbeing. There is no set timeline for learning to swim. Every student progresses at their own pace, and it’s important that they are given the time and support they need to

build confidence. Patience is crucial, as is practising skills outside of lesson time. For younger children, this may be as simple as practising blowing bubbles in the bath under close supervision. Older children and adults can benefit from extra time in a public pool, ideally with a lifeguard on duty. Parents should also understand that it is completely normal for young children to be upset during their first lesson, or even their first few weeks of lessons. Swimming lessons are often a child’s first structured activity away from

home, and it can take time for them to feel comfortable with a new environment and instructor. While it can be difficult to watch as a parent, it is not a reason to stop lessons. Perseverance is key when learning a life skill that could one day save a child’s life. I speak from personal experience. Looking back, any tears or hesitation in those early lessons were far outweighed by the confidence I now feel sending my children to camps, pool parties, and other water-based activities knowing they can swim and understand water safety. There are several things parents can do to encourage a positive experience. Speak positively about swimming lessons at home, build excitement around attending, and model calm confidence around the water. If you don’t know how to swim yourself, consider learning. Children take their cues from the adults around them, and your attitude towards water safety can have a significant impact.

HEALTH

EMU PLAINS

PENRITH

FIVE HABITS TO CONSIDER

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

hen it comes to managing your weight, it can be tempting to make big changes all at once. However, healthy weight management doesn’t have to mean following a strict diet or completely changing the way you eat. Small, realistic habits can be easier to maintain and, over time, can make a meaningful difference. Here are five simple habits to consider. 1. Build balanced meals Instead of focusing on eating less, focus on creating balanced meals. Include a source of protein, plenty of vegetables or fruit, and a high-fibre carbohydrate such as wholegrain bread, brown rice or potatoes. A balanced meal can help keep you satisfied and support steady energy levels throughout the day. 2. Include protein throughout the day Protein can help you feel satisfied after meals and is important for maintaining muscle. Include foods such

as eggs, greek yoghurt, fish, chicken, lean meat, tofu, beans and lentils across your meals and snacks. A protein-rich breakfast can also help keep hunger at bay during the morning. 3. Listen to your hunger and fullness cues Weight management doesn’t mean ignoring hunger. Before reaching for food, consider whether you’re physically hungry or eating out of habit, boredom or convenience. During meals, slow down and check in with how satisfied you feel. Over time, becoming more aware of these cues can help you better respond to your body’s needs. 4. Consider what you’re drinking It’s easy to overlook drinks when thinking about your overall diet. Soft drinks, energy drinks, juices and some specialty coffees can

The Experts

SARAH BONNICI OnePointHealth 4732 5188 contain high amounts of added sugar and energy. You don’t need to avoid them completely, but choosing water more often is a simple habit that can support your goals. 5. Aim for consistency, not perfection Healthy eating doesn’t need to be perfect. Enjoying a takeaway, dessert or a meal out is part of a balanced lifestyle. Rather than feeling guilty about these choices, focus on your overall eating pattern. What you do consistently matters far more than what happens occasionally. Looking for personalised advice? Book in with a dietitian for tailored nutrition advice, and help setting realistic goals.

PET HEALTH The Experts

THE LITTER TRAY COULD BE TELLING YOU SOMETHING F

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

requent trips to the litter tray, straining to urinate or unexpected accidents around the house could be more than a behavioural issue. They may be signs of a urinary problem that needs veterinary attention. Urinary problems are common in cats and can range from bladder inflammation to a life-threatening blockage. Many fall under the term Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), which affects the bladder and urethra. Recognising the warning signs early can make a significant difference to your cat’s comfort and, in some cases, save their life. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so changes in their usual habits can be an important clue that something is wrong. Warning signs include frequent trips to the litter tray, straining or crying out when urinating, blood in the urine, excessive licking around the genital area or urinating in unusual places. Your cat may also become restless,

hide more than usual or display sudden behavioural changes. One of the most important signs to recognise is difficulty passing urine. A cat that repeatedly strains but produces little or no urine may have a urinary blockage, which is a life-threatening emergency. Male cats are particularly at risk because their urethra is narrower. Never assume your cat is constipated if they are straining in the litter tray. Seek immediate veterinary care if little or no urine is being produced. There is no single cause of FLUTD, and treatment depends on the underlying condition. Feline idiopathic cystitis, which involves bladder inflammation without an identifiable cause, is one of the most common problems. Stress can contribute to flare-ups, with changes to the household, a new pet or conflict between cats potentially triggering symptoms. Other causes include bladder crystals or stones, which can irri-

tate the bladder and sometimes contribute to a blockage. Bacterial urinary tract infections are also possible, particularly in older cats or those with underlying health conditions. Being overweight and drinking insufficient water can further contribute to urinary health concerns.

Your veterinarian may recommend a physical examination, urine testing, blood tests or imaging to determine the cause. Treatment may include pain relief, dietary changes, increased water intake and stress reduction. Antibiotics are only appropriate when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed. A urinary blockage requires emergency treatment. There are several ways to

support your cat’s urinary health at home. Provide fresh water in multiple locations or consider a pet water fountain. Wet food can help increase water intake, while your veterinarian can advise whether a specialised urinary diet is appropriate. Keeping litter trays clean and accessible, providing quiet resting places and maintaining a predictable routine can also help. In multi-cat households, several litter trays in separate locations may reduce competition and stress. Urinary problems are not always preventable, but paying attention to changes in your cat’s habits can help you recognise trouble early. If your cat is making frequent trips to the litter tray, passing blood or showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian promptly. If your cat cannot pass urine, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. For advice or to arrange an appointment, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

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LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

WHY RBA RAISES RATES TO FIGHT INFLATION T

STEVEN KORNER

catch is that it works slowly, often over a year or more, and it cools the whole economy, not just prices. That’s why the RBA moves

lift rates by the same amount within a few weeks of an RBA decision.Theyaren’tobligedtopass on the full rise, but most do.

in small 0.25 per cent steps and pauses to watch the effect. How it reaches your home loan When the cash rate rises, banks’ funding costs rise too, and most pass that on to borrowers. • Variable rate: Lenders usually

• Fixed rate: Your rate is locked until the fixed term ends. Lenders price new fixed rates on where they expect rates to go, so fixed rates often rise before the RBA moves. The real jolt comes when your fixed term expires.

What it means for your repayments On a $600,000 loan over 30 years, a 0.25 per cent rise from 6.09 per cent to 6.34 per cent lifts monthly principal-and-interest repayments from about $3,632 to $3,730. That’s roughly $97 more a month, or $1,170 a year, from a single rate rise. What you can do You can’t control the cash rate, but you can control your loan. • Review your rate. Lenders often offer new customers sharper rates than existing ones. • Know your fixed-rate expiry date and plan before it arrives. • Build a buffer by keeping extra repayments in an offset or redraw account. • Speak to your lender early if repayments are getting tight. The Finance Korner reviews every home loan client’s rate every six months. To check whether your loan is still competitive, contact info@thefinancekorner. com.au or visit thefinancekorner. com.au.

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The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

he cash rate is the interest rate banks charge each other on overnight loans, and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) sets its target. In 2026 the RBA has lifted it four times, from 3.60 per cent to 4.60 per cent on September 29, its highest level since 2011. Here’s why, and what it means for your mortgage. Why higher rates fight inflation The RBA’s job is to keep inflation within a two to three per cent target band. When prices rise faster than that, it makes borrowing more expensive to slow spending across the economy. Higher rates work in three ways: • Households with a mortgage have less left each month, so they spend less. • Businesses hold off borrowing to expand or invest. • Saving becomes more rewarding than spending. With less demand, businesses have less room to keep lifting prices, and inflation eases. The

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 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

Your career and reputation are in focus this week, Aquarius. Something you started a while ago could come back around, giving you the chance to finish it your way. Avoid rushing important decisions and double-check any agreements. Family and home bring comfort toward the weekend, and you may feel the urge to create a cosier, calmer space.

A fresh perspective is opening up for you this week, Pisces. You may feel drawn to revisit a spiritual path, study or travel plan that once inspired you. Keep your plans flexible, as things may shift. Conversations bring healing and understanding toward the weekend, and someone may say exactly what you needed to hear. Follow your heart – it knows the way.

After a busy few weeks, this is your time to let go of what’s been weighing on you. You may finally understand why a certain situation unfolded the way it did, and that clarity brings real peace. Be patient if a financial or shared matter is still moving slowly - it’s being sorted in divine timing. A heartfelt conversation midweek could bring you closer to someone special.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

The energy around you is shifting, Taurus, and you’re ready to release something you’ve outgrown. A relationship may need a little more give and take, so speak honestly but gently about what you need. Someone could surprise you with kindness when you least expect it. Toward the weekend, focus on your wellbeing and simple pleasures.

You may feel like you’re juggling a lot this week, Gemini, so slow down and tackle one thing at a time. A work matter you thought was finished might need another look, and that’s okay. Fresh eyes bring better results. Love and creativity light up toward the weekend, and you’ll find joy in the little things. Say yes to an invitation that makes your heart smile.

Your intuition is especially strong this week, Cancer, so listen to that quiet inner voice. A creative idea or old passion could reignite, reminding you of who you are when you’re happy and free. Family matters may need some patience, but your caring nature helps smooth the way. Toward the weekend, home becomes your sanctuary. Rest and nurture yourself.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Big things are building for you, Leo, even if they’re taking a little longer than you’d like. This week is about laying solid foundations at home and within yourself. A family member may open up in a way that touches your heart. Conversations flow more easily toward the weekend, and a message or catch-up could bring welcome news. Keep believing in yourself.

An old friend, colleague or idea may return, and it could lead somewhere wonderful. Take your time before making any decisions, especially about money or commitments. You don’t need to have every answer right now. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel more grounded and secure, and a small win reminds you that your hard work is paying off.

You may be thinking about a past relationship or reflecting on how you deserve to be treated. Be kind to yourself as you work through these feelings. Your beauty and charm are growing stronger, and others are noticing. Toward the weekend, you’ll feel a renewed sense of confidence. Choose what feels balanced, peaceful and true to you.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Your birthday season continues, Scorpio, and this is a powerful time of reflection and renewal. Rather than racing ahead, take time to review your goals and dreams for the year ahead. Someone from your past may reappear, bringing understanding or a sense of closure. Relationships feel deeper and more meaningful toward the weekend. Trust the transformation.

Your soul is asking for quiet time this week, Sagittarius. You may feel more sensitive than usual, so be gentle with yourself and protect your energy. Dreams and gut feelings could hold important messages, so pay attention. An old worry may finally be released. Toward the weekend, practical matters fall into place and you’ll feel more organised and refreshed.

Friendships and connections bring warmth and support this week, Capricorn. A group, community or friend from the past could reconnect with you, opening a lovely new door. It’s also a good time to revisit your goals and make sure they still light you up. Romance and fun are highlighted toward the weekend. Let yourself relax and enjoy life a little more.

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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 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Relax & Unwind DESTINATION Wollongong

WORDS

Nathan Taylor

IMAGES Nathan Taylor / Supplied

MORE INFO

WOLLONGONG’S CHARM L

ike most local families growing up in the ‘90s, the South Coast was a destination that I visited often with my mother during the school holidays. Whether it was for a whole week or a just few days, Wollongong seemed to be the perfect place for some holiday fun at the beach. So, when I stayed at my old haunt recently for a few days, those vivid childhood memories came flooding right back. Now, don’t get me wrong, Wollongong has changed a fair bit since I last holidayed there, but thankfully it still has that classic coastal town charm and laidback vibe we all know and love. Thanks to leading Aussie online travel company Luxury Escapes, I was fortunate enough to spend two nights at Hotel TOTTO Wollongong, a four-star contemporary, industrial-style hotel, located right in the heart of the CBD.

Stunning Wollongong from above.

“PLEASE TRY THE QUATTRO CARNI FOR ME”

No, I didn’t have the stunning beaches of Wollongong on my very doorstep, but what I did have was a casual, modern base that was perfect for exploring all that Wollongong has to offer, including its array of shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment. Located on Market Street and a short stroll from Crown Street Mall and Wollongong Central shopping centre, Hotel TOTTO opened four years ago following a major refurbishment by operator EVT Hotels & Resorts. Before becoming the Hotel TOTTO that everyone knows and loves today, the property had a previous life as student accommodation for the University of Wollongong. Fortunately, those rowdy uni students have since departed the property, with scores of travellers from all over New South Wales, Australia and even the world now replacing them. Hotel TOTTO has 150 rooms across a compact multi-storey building. The aesthetic is minimalist and industrial chic – unfussy but comfortable with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, Smart TVs with casting, tea/coffee facilities, mini fridges and private bathrooms.

My wife and I stayed in a cozy Queen room on the first floor, which was more than ideal for the length of time that we were staying. Like I mentioned earlier, Hotel TOTTO is nowhere near the beach, so unfortunately you can’t hear those wonderful waves crashing onto the shore, but what you can hear is the hustle and bustle of everything else Wollongong has to offer – and that’s plenty! Firstly, Hotel TOTTO is home to its own popular restaurant, BASTA Trattoria. A casual Mediterranean/Italian restaurant and bar, BASTA Trattoria is located in the open-plan lobby area of the hotel and features an outdoor terrace for dining and drinks. BASTA Trattoria serves up delicious woodfired pizzas (please try the Quattro Carni for me), pastas, seafood, steaks, antipasti, salads, dessert as well as cocktails, local beers and

Watching the Illawarra Hawks.

Views from North Wollongong.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Hotel TOTTO’s rooms are stylish.

wine. And if you visit BASTA Trattoria on a Friday evening, you’ll be able to sit back and relax while listening to soothing live music – you may even hear it from your room’s open window like we did! BASTA Trattoria is also the venue for Hotel TOTTO’s extensive buffet breakfast of a morning, which we enjoyed immensely on two occasions during our stay! As evidence the hotel attracts tourists from all over the world, we spoke with a Japanese couple sitting next to us at breakfast that were eager to see some of Australia’s unique wildlife while they were in town. Still on Hotel TOTTO’s brilliant location, it’s just a three-minute walk from Crown Street Mall, which has the brilliant Eat Street Markets every Thursday evening; Wollongong Central, which is home to more than 200 retail

TRAVEL

NOT HURT BY PASSAGE OF TIME

Amigos Mexican restaurant.

Nathan at the beach.

Hotel TOTTO.

Pizza at BASTA Trattoria.

stores including David Jones; and the Keira Street Dining Precinct, which has a huge variety of casual dining and restaurant options including beloved Mexican institution Amigos (the tacos there were amazing!) and everyone’s favourite guilty pleasure Yo-Chi. If it’s entertainment that you’re after then Wollongong has that in spades especially if you’re a lover of sport like me. WIN Stadium, where the St George-Illawarra Dragons play during the winter months, and WIN Entertainment Centre, where the

Illawarra Hawks play at during the spring and summer, is roughly a 10-15 minute walk from Hotel TOTTO. When my basketball-mad wife and I stayed the other week, we got to catch the Hawks NBL team in action against the Tasmania JackJumpers. While Illawarra came up short on the night, the game had a great, intimate atmosphere, and you really felt like a true Wollongong local walking to and from the venue with the passionate fans. But you’re probably thinking to yourself,

‘Nathan, it sounds like you’ve had a fun-filled trip down south, but you can’t stay in the ‘Gong, recreating your favourite childhood memories, without visiting the beach!’. Well, readers, I’m here to tell you… I did! Whether you have a car or not, Wollongong’s incredible beaches aren’t actually that far from Hotel TOTTO. In-fact, we walked to both Wollongong City Beach and North Wollongong Beach in approximately 15-20 minutes – leaving the Haval H6 behind. Whilst there, we were able to frolic in the

waves, read a book on the sand and enjoy a soft serve with sprinkles from the famous ice cream truck near the iconic lighthouse – just like I did as a kid, sans the book reading of course! If you’re after a stylish, no-fuss CBD base close to everything Wollongong has to offer, Hotel TOTTO Wollongong should be at the top of your list. For exclusive offers and to book, visit www.luxuryescapes.com. The writer travelled courtesy of Luxury Escapes.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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

Crossword

edium

2 9

3 4

5 6

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

r8ts.com

westernweekender.com.au/digi-subscribe

SUDOKU No. 817

Medium

5 1 4

9 1

9 3

8 7

3 2 9

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

5 8 7

7 5 8 9 1 4 3 2 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.

Previous solution - Easy

9 3 6 4

8 2

Last 7week’s 6 solution 5 4 2 3 1

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender

ACROSS 82 Hindu religious retreat (6) 1 /21 Across Location in 83 Greek goddess of the dawn Queensland of a depot left (3) by Burke and Wills (6,5) 84 Claim (6) 8 /44 Down New Zealand 85 Heron-like wading bird (5) conqueror of Everest (6,7) 86 Live (5) 11 See 8 Down (5) 87 /15 Down Fred Astaire’s 12 Grant (5) most famous dance partner 13 Zodiac sign of the bull (6) (6,6) 16 Donkey (3) 88 Range (6) 17 Most sagacious (6) 20 Barely average (2-2) DOWN 21 See 1 Across (5) 1 Andrew Lloyd Webber musical show based on a 22 Where active sailors can be work of TS Eliot (4) found (2,3) 2 Musical work (4) 23 Synthetic fertiliser (4) 3 Save (6) 24 Wildebeest (3) 4 Concurred (6) 25 Wise bird (3) 5 Polish city on the Vistula 26 Steel bar (3) River (6) 27 Eyelid inflammation (4) 6 Most common volcanic rock 28 Provide a source of funds (6) (5) 7 Balm (6) 31 Meek (5) 8 /11 Across Great English 34 Leave out (4) composer (6,5) 35 Scottish city on the Clyde 9 Drug taker (4) River (7) 10 Given information (4) 38 Light-purple colour (5) 14 Concerning the major blood 41 Extreme misery (7) vessel (6) 45 Mine entrance (4) 15 See 87 Across (6) 46 In place; in ... (4) 18 Japanese numbers game (6) 47 French island in the Indian 19 Multi-episode TV show (6) Ocean east of Madagascar 29 Intermittently (3,3,5) (7) 30 Completely done away with 48 Person from Dallas (5) (11) 49 Hindrance to free action (7) 32 Furnace (11) 50 Antlered animal (4) 33 Not genuine (11) 51 Sheet reinforcement for 35 Lei (7) concrete (4) 36 Aluminium oxide (7) 52 Legendary character associated with 40 thieves 37 Stringed instruments (7) (3,4) 39 Repeat (7) 53 Shaving implement (5) 40 According to the fashion 54 Former portion of Ethiopia, (1,2,4) now an independent state 42 Igneous rock widely used for (7) buildings (7) 55 Billy or nanny (4) 43 Dunk (7) 5 /68 Down Great Australian 44 See 8 Across (7) swimming champion, winner 58 Antarctic mount (6) of three successive 100m 59 Well-groomed (6) freestyle Gold Medals (4,6) 62 Bryan Brown’s wife; ... Ward 57 World’s lowest body of (6) surface water (4,3) 63 Important person (coll) (6) 60 Article of faith (5) 65 Seethe (6) 61 By that means (7) 66 Hospital doctor (6) 64 Seaweed (4) 67 Decadent (6) 65 Maliciously derogatory (5) 68 See 56 Across (6) 68 Dress (5) 69 Get the better of mentally (6) 71 US actor; Nicolas ... (4) 70 Japanese system of Previous 72 Polynesian food (3) solution - Tough unarmed combat (6) 73 A long way (3) 75 T8olled6a bell 5 3 4 7 (4) 74 Fire residue (3) 76 Eschew (4) 5 7(4) 8 75 Ploy (4) 6 1 3 2 480 Lake 77 Theme 3(5) 4 2 1 6 581 Lease 7 (4) 78 Communion table (5) 9 8 7 3 6 5 2 79 Independent Islamic 1 2 9 8 7 4 3 chieftain (4)

9 6 1 2 3 8 7 5 4

2 4 3 7 5 6 9 8 1

6 1 2 8 4 3 5 7 9

3 9 7 5 6 2 1 4 8

4 8 5 1 7 9 6 3 2

1 3 4 6 2 5 8 9 7

8 2 6 3 9 7 4 1 5

5 7 9 4 8 1 2 6 3

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: HALLOWEEN BLACK CAT BROOMSTICK CANDY CAULDRON COSTUME FRANKENSTEIN GHOST GRAVEYARD HALLOWEEN HAUNTED HOUSE JACK O LANTERN PUMPKIN SCARECROW SKELETON SPIDERWEB TRICK OR TREAT VAMPIRE WEREWOLF WITCH ZOMBIE Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about the Salem Witch Trials quiz in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. When did the Salem Witch Trials occur? 2. Which American state is Salem in? 3. How many people were hanged after being found guilty of being witches? 4. True or false: people were burned at the stake during the Salem Witch Trials?

5. How old was the youngest person accused of being a witch? 6. After being accused of witchcraft, how was Giles Corey tortured for a plea? 7. When did Massachusetts issue a formal apology? 8. When were the final accused victims exonerated? 9. What caused the trials to end?

ANSWERS 1. Between 1692 and 1693 2. Massachusetts 3. 19 4. False 5. Four-years-old 6. Crushed beneath heavy stones 7. 1957 8. 2022 9. The Governor of Massachusetts wife was accused

Trivia Quiz

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

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TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 817

Medium

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

2 9

5 3 6

2 4

7 2 3 5 3

8 1 2

6 7

Str8ts

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

Cracking the Safe

No. 817

Previous solution - Tough

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

9 1

3 2 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.

TPOJBWETHLIRICCH E Previous solution:

HINTS

One of the five letters is in the right place.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

Who Am I?

One of the five letters is in the right place.

BrainSnack® The Last Word

Previous solution: LOST IN TRANSLATION

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. We’re an Australian band. 2. We formed in 2012. 3. O ur music is heavily influenced by Britpop. 4. IDK but ‘Everybody’s Saying Thursday’s The Weekend’. 5. W e became internationally known for our cover of Cher’s ‘Believe’ on Triple J’s Like A Version. Last week’s answer: CHAZ MOSTERT

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Thursday, October 29, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Chorizo & Halloumi Pasta A delicious and filling meal, I can’t go past a good pasta!

– Large pot – Large pan

Ingredients: – Pasta (amount subject to servings) – 100g halloumi (small pieces) – 1-2 chorizo sausages (diced) – 1 brown onion (diced) – 2 cloves garlic (diced) – 2 sachets tomato paste (approx 4 tbsp) – 300ml thickened cream – Spices (I use salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika)

Method: 1. Bring a pot of salted water to the boil, cooking pasta as per

package instructions. Remove 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain completely. 2. In the pan, heat some oil on medium heat. Add diced chorizo and cook until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside. In the same pan, cook the halloumi until each side is golden brown, then remove and set aside. 3. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until softened. Add garlic, spices and tomato paste, stirring. Once combined, add cream, reducing heat to a simmer. 4. After a few minutes, add in drained pasta, chorizo, halloumi and a dash of pasta water. Stir until combined and glossy. Add more pasta water if sauce feels too thick. Serve and enjoy!

64 66

the western weekender » Thursday, October 29, 2026

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What You’ll Need: