BELL PARTNERS ADDS TO EXPERIENCED TEAM
asset and business finance division in Sydney,” he said.
“Her experience covers consumer car loans, personal loans, commercial vehicle and asset loans, unsecured business loans, refinancing, and subprime lending, and she continually is thinking outside the box to find
“CARLY IS A GREAT ADDITION TO OUR ASSET AND BUSINESS FINANCE DIVISION”
solutions for her clients.”
Cappielli is a published author whose Listurbia won the 2019 Viva la Novella Prize from Seizure and Brio Listurbia was written during Cappielli’s time with the Western Sydney University’s Writing and Society Research Centre, where she completed a Doctorate of Creative Arts
“Listurbia is set in Sydney’s western suburbs and is told entirely in lists,” she said.
“I wanted to set the novella in western Sydney because I’ve grown up there so can write about things that people from other places probably wouldn’t know about, and secondly because I feel like western Sydney is not a traditional or romantic setting, especially not for experimental fiction, but I think it can be.
“Writing the book was a tremendous experience which I consider to be one of my greatest achievements.”
Stevenson said Bell Partners Finance strives to provide business borrowers with the best possible service offering.
“The asset and business finance division will not only work closely with our business clients, but partner with their accountants and financial advisers,” he said.
Bell Partners Finance has multiple locations throughout Australia, including Sydney CBD, Northwest Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Baulkham Hills, Newcastle and Tamworth.
LUXURY LOCAL LIVING
What is so great about this property? A stylish modern home with open-plan living, gourmet kitchen, spacious bedrooms, and a luxury master suite. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor flow, landscaped gardens, and a prime
Werrington location close to schools, shops, transport, and the future Metro link.
Who does this property suit? Whether you’re a first-home buyer, downsizer, or investor, this
is a rare opportunity to secure a quality home in a growing and vibrant community.
Tell us about the suburb the property is in? Werrington is a family-friendly suburb 50km
west of Sydney, offering great transport links, green spaces, and affordable housing. Close to schools, Western Sydney University, and Penrith’s major services, it’s ideal for convenient modern living.
Discover exclusive townhome
living in Oran Pa rk .
Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a back yard and the low-maintenance qualities of apar tment living
You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved at tractions.
Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences of fer excellent value-for-money.
• Spacious, designer interiors
• Landscaped grounds
• Two to five-bedroom layouts
• Private porches and cour tyards
• Family-friendly living areas
• Premium finishes and inclusions
• Tranquil locations
Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfor t and practicality. A beautiful lifest yle in one of Au stralia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.
Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomesB anksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The ResidencesTypical example of Oran Park townhomes
MOVE IN SOPHISTICATED HOME
ou will not be disappointed when you step into this architecturally designed, beautifully esented 4-bedroom home with multiple entertainment areas. Situated on a spacious ner block, this home boasts an exquisite n kitchen with a Butler’s Pantry, a eakfast bar, and a large, light- lled living oom with stunning light ttings.
GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au
Nestled in a sought-after pocket of Penrith, this home presents a rare opportunity on a generous 638 square metre block. This home features three well-sized bedrooms, a practical kitchen and dining space, and a light- lled living area, ideal for rst-home buyers, downsizers, or investors seeking long-term growth in the thriving Wester n Sydney property market. ZONED R4 - ENDLESS POTENTIAL IN PENRITH
GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au
GIZZELLE P OWELL M: 0428 934 618 E: gizzellepowell@remax.com.au
KEEP STRONG IN OFF-SEASON
The off-season is often seen as a break from sport, but it’s actually the perfect time for young athletes to focus on strength and conditioning.
As a Strength and Conditioning Coach, I can’t stress enough how important this period is for building a strong foundation that supports performance and reduces injury risk during the season.
Off-season strength training helps athletes develop key physical qualities such as power, speed, and endurance without the pressure of competition. By focusing on correct technique and age appropriate exercises, athletes can strengthen their muscles, tendons, and joints, improving resilience to the demands of their sport. For example, stronger legs support faster sprints and higher jumps, while a strong core improves balance, coordination, and efficient movement.
Importantly, the off-season is the ideal time to
address weaknesses. Youth athletes often have muscular imbalances or areas that are underdeveloped due to repetitive sport-specific movements. Targeted strength exercises can correct these imbalances, reducing the risk of overuse injuries and helping athletes return to their sport fitter, faster, and more confident.
Strength training off-season also reinforces proper movement patterns. Learning to squat, hinge, push, pull, and land correctly not only enhances athletic performance but sets the stage for safe, long-term participation in sport. Athletes gain confidence in their physical abilities, which translates to greater effort, resilience, and enjoyment when they return to training and competition.
Finally, off-season S&C promotes discipline, goal-setting, and accountability. In a supportive training environment, young athletes learn the value of consistent effort, celebrate
The Experts
HANNAH NORRIE
OnePointHealth 4732 5188
progress, and develop habits that last a lifetime.
Strength training isn’t just for elite athletes, it’s a key part of developing strong, resilient and confident young players. Using the off-season wisely can make the difference between an injury prone athlete versus one who performs at their best all year round.
WINDOWS 10: MORE SUPPORT
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates, which could put many users at risk. If you are not ready or able to upgrade to Windows 11, Microsoft now offers the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This gives you a way to keep Windows 10 secure for one more year, until October 13, 2026.
The ESU program provides critical and essential security updates for Windows 10 after its official end-of-life. It does not include new features, non-security bug fixes, or technical support. For businesses, ESU can be extended up to three years, but for home users, the extension lasts only one year.
Option 1: Pay the Fee. The simplest way is to pay $30 USD for one year of security updates. This fee covers up to 10 devices on the same Microsoft account, which is helpful for families with several PCs. You can enrol through
Windows Update settings. If your device is eligible and running Windows 10 version 22H2, you will see an ‘Enrol in Extended Security Updates’ wizard. For businesses, the cost is significantly higher, starting at $61 per device for the first year, with a doubling of the cost each subsequent year for up to three years.
Option 2: Use Microsoft Rewards Points. If you collect Microsoft Rewards points by using Bing, shopping in the Microsoft Store, or playing Xbox games, you can use 1,000 points to pay for ESU enrolment. For example, downloading the Bing app awards you 500 points, making this option easily accessible to many users.
How to enrol: To qualify, your PC must:
• Run Windows 10 version 22H2.
• Install the August 2025 cumulative update (KB5063709), which enables the ESU enrolment wizard.
• Be linked to a Microsoft account, regardless of which option you choose. Once eligible, go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update, look for the “Enrol now” option, and choose your preferred method: pay $30, redeem 1,000 Rewards points, or sync with OneDrive.
Option 3: Sync with OneDrive for Free Updates. You can obtain ESU for free by enabling Windows Backup and syncing your PC settings to OneDrive. You need to sign in with a Microsoft account and use the Windows Backup app to save your settings and files online. Microsoft gives you 5GB of OneDrive storage for free. If you need more space, extra storage starts at about $2 per month for 100GB.
Shopping Let’s
WHY IS MY PET SO ITCHY?
Itchy skin is one of the most frequent reasons dog owners bring their pets to the vet. While the occasional scratch is normal, persistent itching, licking or chewing often signals an underlying health issue. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, grass, or other environmental factors. For some, this may cause irritation only in certain areas – like the paws – while others may experience full-body itchiness, recurring ear infections, or ongoing skin problems.
Your pet’s skin and coat are windows to their overall health, so it’s important not to ignore the signs. Here are some of the most common causes of itchy skin in dogs:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the top culprits behind intense itching. In sensitive dogs, even a
single flea bite can cause severe irritation, most often around the tail base. Because fleas multiply quickly, prevention is essential, and all pets in the household should be treated – even those that mostly stay indoors. Left unchecked, flea allergies can lead to secondary skin infections, making your pet even more uncomfortable.
Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy): Atopy is a reaction to environmental allergens such as pollen, mould spores, and dust mites. Dogs with atopy often chew at their paws or scratch their armpits and belly.
Some have an inherited skin barrier weakness, making them more vulnerable to allergens. If untreated, mild itchiness can progress to widespread dermatitis, requiring ongoing management.
Food Allergy Dermatitis: Food allergies may develop after the first year of life and are commonly linked to ingredients like beef, chicken, or wheat. Diagnosis usually involves a strict food elimination trial with a novel protein (such as kangaroo or duck) for at least three months. If symptoms improve during the trial and flare up again when old foods are reintroduced, a food allergy is likely responsible.
Mange: Mange is caused by mites such as Demodex or Sarcoptes (scabies). Symptoms include intense itching, hair loss, and inflamed skin. Scabies is highly contagious, so rapid veterinary treatment is crucial to prevent spread to other pets.
Hot spots: Hot spots are moist, inflamed skin lesions that develop from excessive scratching, licking, or chewing. They often arise from flea bites, wounds, or skin allergies. These painful sores can worsen quickly without treatment, leading to infection.
When to see a vet: Persistent scratching should always be taken seriously. Signs that warrant a vet visit include:
• Constant licking, biting or chewing at the skin
• Redness, sores or scabs
• Bald spots or hair loss
• Frequent face, paw or belly rubbing
• Decreased playfulness or appetite
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent chronic skin issues and help your dog feel comfortable again.
For professional advice and care, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027. Our team is here to help your pet stay happy, healthy and itch-free.
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
The fiery Super Full Moon ignites your sociable, spontaneous and adventurous Aquarius side, as you mix with locals and explore your neighbourhood. But slow down (and calm down) otherwise you might put your foot in your mouth and come a cropper! With the Sun in Libra, try to find more balance in your relationships and more equilibrium within. Your motto is from birthday great Desmond Tutu, “We are made for friendliness. We are made for togetherness.”
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
Expect a rather intense week as the fiery Full Moon stirs vivid dreams, hidden compulsions or submerged secrets. You could also become obsessed about someone (or something) from your complicated past. If you’re a bright Bull, you’ll learn from your mistakes, let go and move on. Wednesday’s fabulous Venus/Jupiter link favours love, creativity and local community connections as you socialise with family members and/ or close friends.
LEO
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23
Many Lions are feeling restless. This week’s fiery Super Full Moon activates your aspirations and adventure zone, so you’ll feel like pursuing a dream or going on an exciting trip. But Saturn cautions
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
Tuesday’s fiery Super Full Moon activates your money zones, as you start to see your current financial situation in a revealing new light. And – for some financially challenged Fish - money matters could come to a head. Maybe it’s time to curb spending, boost savings and/or re-design your dreams? Are you unhappily single? Love and travel are linked, so you could meet your soul mate while on holiday or they could work in the tourism industry.
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
This week the fiery Super Full Moon focuses on friendships. How to nurture them, keep them … and let them go if you have outgrown each other. You’ll find mutual interests are essential to longterm platonic relationships. Mercury (your patron planet) squares Pluto mid-week, so avoid being scatterbrained, superficial and slapdash. You’ll find the more mentally disciplined you are, and the more you focus on a problem, the more solutions you’ll come up with.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Tuesday’s fiery Super Full Moon shines a bright spotlight on trust issues and long-forgotten secrets. And carefully laid plans may veer off in unexpected directions – which could be wonderful or stressful, depending on the circumstances. Whatever happens, drop the perfectly planned schedule, and go with the flow. When it comes to money matters, joint finances, taxes or trust issues, avoid being uncharacteristically rash. Slow down and take a second look.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
There’s a super lucky aspect this week as Jupiter (your power planet) trines Venus (planet of love, beauty, pleasure, harmony and the arts). Which boosts your Sagittarian charisma and is particularly good for work involving writing, teaching, performing, publishing, public relations and all sorts of creative projects. Throw in a fiery Super Full Moon on Wednesday and you’re set for an actionpacked, stimulating week! If you want to last the distance, pace yourself.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
There’s a Super Full Moon in fiery Aries on Tuesday, so do your best to get the ratio right between personal needs and relationship responsibilities. And then Saturday’s Venus/Saturn opposition could stir up a frustrating old partnership problem. So resist the urge for hot-headed arguing and feisty foot stamping, which could lead to a headache or migraine. With the Sun visiting Libra, the buzz words for the week are tranquillity, cooperation and balance.
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Jupiter’s jumping through your sign and there’s a Super Full Moon! Time to connect with colleagues and clients at work, plus family and friends from within your local community as you talk, text, tweet, publish, podcast or post up a storm. And don’t persist with outdated old ways of doing things. Be proactive about initiating exciting, adventurous and creative new strategies. But things could become intense with a child, teenager, friend or lover mid-week.
LIBRA
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Jupiter (planet of positivity and good luck) forms a fabulous aspect to Venus (your power planet) so it’s a wonderful week to make a wish, dream a dream, and keep your fingers crossed for a fabulous outcome! It’s also time to focus on a problem and think things through carefully. Your motto for the moment is from singer/songwriter PJ Harvey (who turns 56 on Thursday), “I’m a Libra. That means that I can make a decision, but only after much thought.”
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
The Sun is transiting through your career zone, which boosts your capacity for hard work and your ability to lead others. But don’t do so at the expense of your home and family life. Tuesday’s Super Full Moon highlights the importance of getting the balance right between professional success and domestic harmony. Be inspired by fellow Capricorn, writer A. A. Milne, “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
5. Irish Sea seabird
6. Ill-disposed
7. Listen!
8. British award (1,1,1)
9. Animal support organisation (1,1,1,1,1) 10. Air mattress 12. Recurrent pattern 14. Cosmetics house, Elizabeth ...
Directive
Ghostly 22. African ‘laughing’ scavengers 23. Frigid
25. TV reception
26. Reworded
29. Fairy-tale cat, Puss ... (2,5)
32. Solicit
35. Soviet spaceman, Yuri
37. Pivot
38. Shout
40. Wails in grief
41. Hang around
42. Flans
43. Lease again
44. Deserted tots
47. Made fizzy
51. Form liking for (4,2)
52. Leather strips
53. Most painful
54. Green sushi paste
58. World fairs
59. Shop ... you drop (‘3)
61. Prevent (disaster)
63. Pause punctuation mark
64. Stab
65. Huddle cosily
66. Adjusted (piano)
68. Cove
71. Gawked
72. Account
74. Rewrite (essay)
76. Illegally help
78. Looked over
80. Pub drink
83. Missing in action (1,1,1)
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.
CARRIAGE
CART
CHILDCARE
CREDIT
MACARONI
SCARCE
VICAR
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 see how ‘straights’ are formed.
A DREAM DESTINATION
Every time I land in Cambodia, it feels familiar and easy. The heat hits first, heavy but alive. Then as you make your way from the airport and into the city centre the vibe that makes Cambodia a must visit reveals itself again. The smiles – the tuk-tuk drivers waving, the kids laughing in doorways, the street vendors already calling out. There’s an openness here that you feel instantly, and it pulls you in before you’ve even unpacked your bag.
I’ve explored a lot of countries, but Cambodia has a grip on me. And when you come with me, I want you to feel that same spark – that mix of excitement, curiosity and belonging that makes travel unforgettable. It’s an integral part of my Asian adventures and along with our stay in Vietnam, it completes the magic travel canvas.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Let’s start where every journey here should begin: Angkor Wat at sunrise. I’ve seen it more times than I can count, but it never loses its magic. Standing in the dark before dawn, waiting with a quiet crowd, you feel the anticipation build. Then the towers appear, shadows at first, before the sky ignites with oranges and pinks.
I’ll take you past the crowds into quieter corners where roots of ancient trees claw through stone walls, where silence hums louder than any camera shutter. My personal guides will tell you the stories their families and ancestors have lived – of kings who built temples that outlived empires, of explorers who stumbled upon them centuries later. It’s not just sightseeing. It’s stepping into history with your own two feet, and it will blow your mind.
Beyond the temples, Siem Reap’s streets pulse with energy and creativity. The Old Market buzzes with local artisans, vibrant textiles, and the intoxicating aroma of street food that ranges from sweet mango sticky rice to spicy, sizzling noodles. Café culture here offers the perfect pause, letting you sip rich Cambodian coffee while watching the world drift by.
Evenings bring a new kind of magic. Pub Street comes alive with music, laughter, and the glow of lanterns, pumping music, a controlled chaotic madness that has a pulse of its own. Sitting in one of the corner pubs and people watching is one of my favourite pastimes here.
The Rhythm of Phnom Penh Phnom Penh is a city that keeps you on your toes. Tuk Tuks zip around like they own the streets, monks glide past in saffron robes, and food stalls smoke with the smell of grilled skewers. I’ll take you to the Royal Palace, where gold spires glitter against the sky, and then to hidden cafés serving iced coffee strong enough to wake the dead.
But I won’t shy away from Cambodia’s painful past either. We’ll visit Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields. It’s not easy, but it’s important. You’ll leave with a deeper respect for the resilience of the Cambodian people, and that’s part of truly knowing this place. You will be amazed at the way the people will embrace you and want you to understand their past, present and help pray for their future.
One of my favourite things is taking the group for an evening stroll along the shores of the Mekong. Imagine this: lanterns swaying, the city lights flickering on waters, cold beers in hand, and a table full of spring rolls and noodles and local delights. The breeze cools the heat of the day, and laughter spills into the night air.
It’s one of those moments where travel feels
effortless. You’re not just watching Phnom Penh – you are part of it.
Giving Back: New Dream of Cambodia Children’s Organisation
One stop that means the world to me is visiting the New Dream of Cambodia Children’s Organisation. It’s more than just a visit – it’s a chance to connect, to laugh, to share stories, and to support children who are building brighter futures. You’ll see their classrooms, hear their songs, and feel the energy of young people who, despite tough beginnings, radiate joy and determination. Every visit here reminds me that travel isn’t only about what we see – it’s about what we give back. Supporting this organisation, even in small ways, leaves an impact that goes far beyond our trip. You will be amazed at what a small offering can bring to these beautiful souls, and you will feel a real sense of connection and pride in giving!
“IT’S MORE THAN JUST A VISIT, IT’S A CHANCE TO CONNECT”
Why you should come
Traveling to Cambodia on your own would still be amazing. But with me, it’s not just about ticking boxes off an itinerary. I’ll show you the shortcuts, the hidden corners, the food stalls locals actually eat at. I’ll make sure you don’t just see Cambodia – you feel it. And maybe most importantly, you won’t just come home with photos. You’ll come home with stories, with friends, with a piece of this country that stays with you long after you leave.
So come with me. Let’s share sunsets over Angkor, laughter on the Mekong, connections with the locals and love at giving to those that are in need! Cambodia is waiting – and it’s even better when we experience it together. The Travellingguy’s Premium 19 Day Best of Vietnam and Cambodia Tour January 2026 is on sale now. Visit www.thetravellingguy.com.
Nights on the Mekong
The locals bring a smile.
At its heart, Cambodia is about connection.
A sunrise to savour.
Now’s the time to get that check-up!
No matter what stage of life you may be at, your health is critical.
But our busy lives mean we sometimes neglect those crucial annual appointments and check-ups.
Today, the Weekender presents a special feature: The Great Penrith Health Check.
And it’s encouraging you to do a full health check-up, making sure you’re good to go for whatever is coming next in life.
So get out your phone and your calendar, and let’s start making those appointments!
Get those teeth checked
You should be getting your teeth checked by your dentist at least once a year. A thorough clean and check for any issues, such as cavities, is a crucial part of keeping your oral health in check.
Check in with your GP
Just like your car gets a service, you should be servicing your body too!
Check in with your GP and ask for the works – a full once over including a check of your blood pressure, general wellbeing and of course get a blood test done.
Depending on your age, it may also be time for age-specific checks as well.
Check those aches and pains
Have you been struggling with back pain, but failing to get it checked? The time has come to stop
Your Mental Health Matters!
the delay and get things looked at now.
Consider a visit to Penrith Exercise Physiology, opening soon in Crane-
Mental clarity is vital for overall wellbeing, helping you make better decisions and feel lighter, happier, and more confident.
Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, and NLP uncover thought patterns, reset unhelpful habits, and empower you to take back control.
With tailored hypnosis recordings, positive changes can be felt from your first session—supporting relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, stress, low self-esteem, weight management, and more.
Time to get fit
We sometimes let our general weight and fitness become less of a priority as we tackle the challenges of work, family and managing a household.
But there’s no better time to start your fitness journey than today. Check out all the local gyms around town and find one that is right for you.
For one on one personal health coaching, consider Vision Personal Training on Station Street in Penrith.
Check those eyes and ears
Don’t forget to visit an optometrist for an eye check. And if you already have glasses, make sure your prescription is right for you.
And what about your ears? Hear Clear on Castlereagh Street in Penrith can help guide you through the process of getting a hearing aid, if you require one.
Your mental health matters
Health is not just about aches and pains.
Mental health is important too.
brook. They can help with back, neck and joint pain as well as injury rehabilitation and general wellness, along with exercise programming.
Talk to your GP about what support is available.
And why not chat with the team at Hilltop Hypnotherapy too, they’re here to help.
MATES LUNCH
FRIDAY 21 NOVEMBER | 12 for 12.30pm
Proudly sponsored by:
Fundraising and awareness for The Australian Man Cave Support Group PANELIST
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
2SM talkback radio broadcaster, journalis and podcaster
Founding Father & President Australian Man Cave Support Group
Penrith Man of the Year & Young Man of the Year Awards www.karenmckeown.com.au/nominations/penrith-man-young-man-of-the-year-awards/
PANELIST
Charity Walk adventurer mental health advocate and fundraiser MARK
Radio host, celebrity and former NRL player
au