PERFECT SPLASH
MORE THAN JUST WATER: POOL CHOICE IS TOUGH
Australia’s love affair with backyard swimming pools continues to surge, but experts say many homeowners are jumping in without understanding the major differences between the types of water systems available and their ongoing cost and maintenance.
According to Brett Blair, head of the pool care division at Jim’s Pool Care, Australians are installing around 20,000 to 25,000 new swimming pools every year, bringing the total number of backyard pools across the country to approximately more than 1.4 million pools.
Yet many pool owners are surprised to learn that the water system they choose can signif-
icantly affect installation costs, chemical use and long-term maintenance.
“People spend tens of thousands installing a pool but often don’t realise the type of water system they choose will determine how much time and money they spend maintaining it,” Blair said.
“Not all pools are created equal.”
Blair said the easiest option for a backyard pool is the traditional chlorine pool. They remain the most affordable and straightforward system, however are very manually intensive and have dropped away significantly since the introduction of Salt Water Chlorinated Systems.
“These pools rely on liquid
chlorine, tablets or granules to disinfect the water and prevent bacteria and algae growth,” Blair said.
However, chlorine systems require regular chemical balancing and monitoring.
“They’re effective but they do need more hands-on management,” Blair said.
“You’ll be testing water more frequently and adding chemicals regularly.”
Blair said saltwater pools are Australia’s most common system. They have become the most popular system in Australian homes, but are still chlorine pools.
“These pools use a salt chlorinator that converts salt into chlorine automatically, meaning the pool equipment system does all the heavy lifting on a daily basis,” he said.
“Salt pools are very popular because they’re easier to manage day-to-day. They still produce chlorine, but it’s done automatically by the system rather than constantly adding chemicals.”
Saltwater systems typically cost more upfront because of the chlorinator equipment, but they often require less manual chemical dosing. They do require a minimum level of salt in the water.
Blair said the biggest trend he is seeing is the growth of mineral and magnesium pool water systems. He said this is the luxury trend that is growing across the country in pools, but is becoming more affordable and minerals can have many benefits. Across the country you are seeing a proliferation of day spas using these minerals in their health and beauty programs, but pool owners can have these benefits right at home.
“These pools use mineral blends such as magnesium, potassium and sodium which offer a range of health benefits” he said.
“Many people say mineral pools feel like swimming in a luxury spa. The water is noticeably softer and gentler on skin, hair and eyes. The minerals and sodium help the chlorinator produce and the sanitiser is still ultimately chlorine.
“SALT POOLS ARE VERY POPULAR BECAUSE THEY’RE EASIER TO MANAGE DAY-TO-DAY”
“While these pool water systems offer benefits they usually come with higher installation and maintenance costs, but owners who have taken the step up are usually very positive about the bathing experience.
“The minerals themselves need to be replenished periodically and that means ongoing costs can be higher compared with traditional systems.”
At the high end of the market are advanced sanitation technologies including ionisers, UV and ozone systems, which dramatically reduce the need for chemicals and can run the minimum levels of chlorine based on Australian Standards. These systems use ultraviolet light or ozone gas to destroy bacteria and contaminants.
“These systems have come a long way and are now incredibly effective in most climates and can reduce chemical use,” Blair said.
“However, the technology behind them is sophisticated and the equipment costs are much higher.”
Blair said installation costs and ongoing maintenance vary widely depending on the system chosen.
CONTACT
AGENT FOR PRICE
Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park
CONTACT:
Oran Park Sales Office
Trevor Homes • 9043 7500
OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK
What is so great about this property?
Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its
foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day.
With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.
Who does this property suit?
Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes.
Tell us about the suburb this property is in?
Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.
Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers.
Visit today!
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
Blaxland
McDonald's
C addens
C addens News (C addens Corner)
Woolworths
C ambridge Gardens
Coles
McDonald's
Overlander Hotel
C ambridge Park
C ambridge Park Newsagency
Cellarbations
Friendly Grocer
C astlereagh
Ampol Ser vice Station
Claremont Meadows
IGA Claremont Meadows
Coly ton
Coly ton Centre Pharmacy
Coly ton Friendly Grocer
Coly ton Hotel
Coly ton Newsagency
Dan Murphy's
Hewitt Street Takeaway
Cranebrook
Aldi Cranebrook
Cranebrook Community Health
Cranebrook Village
McDonald's
Plus Pharmacy
Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies
Woolworths Cranebrook
Emu Plains
Chambers Cellars
Lennox Centre Newsagency
McDonald's
Penrith Regional Galler y
Woolworths Lennox Village
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)
7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)
Emu Height s
Super Save Compounding Chemis t
Erskine Park
Ashcroft’s IGA
Erskine Park CTC
G lenbrook
Glenbrook Newsagency
G lenmore Park
Coles
Mags News
McDonald's Glenmore Park
McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise
Medi Advice Pharmacy
Woolworths
J amisontown
Abcoe
Abel Street C afé
Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym
B att Street Takeaway
Grey Gums Hotel
Har vey Norman
New On York Takeaway
Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen –
(Penrith Homemaker)
S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)
S hell Ser vice Station
Taproom On Tench
The Coffee Club Nepean River
Three Sugars C afé
We stern Weekender
York Takeaway
Zoo Fitness
7/ 11 Jamisontow n
Jordan Springs
Brooks Tavern
Jordan Springs Newsagency
Woolworths
Kemps Creek
C altex Ser vice Station
Kemps Creek Bowling Club
Kingswood
B arista Bar Coff ee Shop
(Nepean Private Hospital)
Countr y Brewer
Hallani’s
Kingswood Hotel
Kingswood Newsagency
Kingswood Sports Club
Penrith Gaels Club
Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital
7/ 11 Kingswood
Leonay
Emu Sports Club
Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)
Llandilo IGA
Londonderr y
Londonderr y Liquor Store
S hell X Roads
Luddenham
Au stralia Pos t
IGA Luddenham
Minchinbur y McDonald's
Minchinbur y Fruit Market
Mulgoa
Glenmore Heritage Golf Club
Mulgoa Newsagency
Mulgoa Pharmacy
Nor th St Mar ys
Boronia House (Retirement Community)
Little Bottler
MFC Food Stores
Old Mt Druitt
RM Newsagency
Orchard Hills
Flower Power
Oxley Park
Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy
Penrith
Aldi
Astina
7/ 11 Henr y Street
Atmosphere Gym
Ca fé Fre d
Au stralian Arms
Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)
Coles ( We stfield Penrith)
Crescent Mini Mar t
High Street Pies
Hog's Bre ath C afé
Hoyt s Westfield
Joan Sutherland Arts Centre
Liquor Stax Pe achtree
McDonald's High Street
McDonald's Panthers Le agues
McDonald's Pe achtree
Mercure Hotel
Museum Of Fire
Nepean Aquatic Centre
Nepean Motor Group C afé
Nepean Rowing Club
Nepean Village Coffee Club
Nepean Village Newsagency
Nextra Westfield
O ffice of Karen McKeown MP
One Point Health
Panthers Le agues Club
Pe achtree Hotel
Penrith Bowling Club
Penrith CBD Corporation
Penrith City Council
Penrith City Librar y
Penrith Hotel
Penrith Markets (Thursdays)
Penrith Paceway
Penrith RSL
Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre
Pioneer Tavern
RE/MAX
Sittano s Restaurant
Tattersalls Hotel
The Heritage Terrace C afé
The Log C abin
We stfield
Wingsto p
World Gym
Regentville
7/ 11 Regentville
Ropes Crossing Coles
Ropes Crossing Newsagency
Silverdale
Choice Pharmacy
Mobil Ser vice Station
S outh Penrith
Budget Ser vice Station
Fish Fish
Friendly Grocer
Grose’s Pharmacy
Southlands Newsagency
Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)
Lemongrove Community Health Centre
South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre
Woolworths
St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel
Foodworks
St Clair Librar y
St Clair Shopping Centre
7/ 11 St Clair
St Mar ys
All Good Newsagency
Andrew s Corner Store
Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy
C assand ra’s On Queen
Cr ystal C afé
Guido s Hair C are
The Experts
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REDUCES STRESS
Stress and anxiety are widespread issues that affect a large portion of the population. While psychological therapy and medication are important in managing mental health, one highly effective and often underutilised strategy is exercise. Physical activity is not only beneficial for physical health, but also plays a significant role in improving mental well-being. Research consistently shows that engaging in regular exercise can help reduce stress and ease symptoms of anxiety.
During exercise, the body releases endorphins – chemicals that help improve mood and create a sense of well-being. These “feel-good” hormones interact with the brain to reduce discomfort and promote positive emotions. In addition, physical activity helps lower cortisol levels, which is the body’s primary stress hormone. By reducing cortisol, exercise can contribute to a calmer and more stable emotional state.
Exercise also supports better sleep, which is essential for managing stress and anxiety. Poor sleep can worsen both conditions, often creating a cycle that is difficult to break. Regular physical activity helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to fall asleep and maintain quality rest throughout the night.
The benefits are not purely physiological. Exercise also provides important psychological advantages. Participating in regular physical activity can improve mood, enhance emotional resilience, and offer a constructive distraction from daily stressors.
Social interaction is another
key benefit. Group classes or team-based activities can help build connections with others, reducing feelings of isolation that are often linked to anxiety. The shared experience and sense of support in these environments can significantly improve mental well-being.
Importantly, high-intensity training is not required to gain these benefits. Moderate activities such as walking, swimming, or even gardening can be effective. The most important factor is consistency. Aiming for around 30 minutes of activity on most days can lead to meaningful improvements in stress levels and overall mood.
As understanding of the link between exercise and mental health continues to grow, more people are recognising physical activity as a simple, accessible, and cost-effective way to support both mind and body. When stress begins to build, incorporating movement into your day can be a powerful and practical solution.
SPOT THE SIGNS OF ARTHRITIS IN PETS EARLY The Experts
As the crisp mornings return and temperatures begin to drop, many of us reach for an extra layer. But for our pets, cooler weather can do more than bring a chill – it can worsen underlying conditions like arthritis.
Arthritis is one of the most common yet under-recognised diseases affecting pets. Around one in five dogs will experience the pain and reduced mobility associated with arthritis, and cats are just as susceptible. However, because pets cannot tell us when they’re in pain, the early signs are often missed or mistaken for “just getting older.”
In reality, arthritis is a chronic, progressive condition that causes inflammation, stiffness, and ongoing discomfort in the joints – most commonly the hips, knees, and elbows. It can affect pets of any age or breed and, without management, can significantly impact their quality of life, limiting simple daily activities like walking, playing, or even getting up comfortably.
As the weather cools, symptoms often become more noticeable. You may see stiffness after rest, limping, reluctance to walk or play, difficulty climbing stairs, licking at joints, or even changes in personality such as irritability or withdrawal. In cats, signs may be more subtle, including reduced grooming
or toileting issues.
While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed — and early intervention is key. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, control pain, and slow disease progression.
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors, as excess weight places added strain on sore joints. Gentle, regular exercise such as walking or swimming
helps keep joints mobile without overloading them. Nutritional support can also play a role, with omega-3 fatty acids helping to reduce inflammation and supplements like greenlipped mussel, glucosamine, and chondroitin supporting joint health. Prescription joint diets are another valuable tool in improving comfort and mobility.
Veterinary treatments have advanced significantly in recent years. Joint-support injections and anti-inflammatory medications remain important in managing pain and protecting cartilage. More recently, monoclonal antibody injections have emerged as a breakthrough treatment. Given monthly, these injections target the pain pathways associated with arthritis and have shown impressive results in both dogs and cats.
The key message is simple: don’t wait for Winter. If you’ve noticed even subtle changes in your pet’s mobility or behaviour, now is the time to act. Early assessment and a tailored management plan can make a significant difference to your pet’s comfort, helping them stay active, happy, and pain-free through the cooler months and beyond.
If you’re concerned your pet may be showing signs of arthritis, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027 to arrange an assessment.
Relax & Unwind
JOANNE
MADELINE MOORE
Boho Astro
@JoMadelineMoore
© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19
The Sun and Mercury activate your family zone, so home is where the heart is this week. Even though you may be faced with an unpredictable domestic problem, be thankful for the relatives who nurture and support you. As birthday great Audrey Hepburn wisely observed, “I may not always be offered work, but I’ll always have my family.” With restless, proactive Mars visiting your local travel zone, try to escape on a much-needed weekend getaway.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 TO MAY 21
It’s time for Bulls to bewitch and bewilder! With the Sun and Mercury both transiting through your sign, your positive and negative Taurus traits are boosted this week. So expect to be more sensual, stable, patient and dependable … and more possessive, pedantic, slow-moving and stubborn! Your motto for the moment is from iconic Taurean actress (and birthday great) Audrey Hepburn, “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy.”
LEO
PISCES
FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20
This week the planets increase your tendency to blurt things out and spread secrets. So think before you speak, Pisces! When it comes to a recalcitrant relative or an annoying neighbour, be more diplomatic as you build bridges and let bygones be bygones. And don’t let negative self-talk hold you back. Be inspired by actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929), “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”
GEMINI
MAY 22 TO JUNE 21
Venus (the planet that rules appearance and aesthetics) is visiting Gemini and Jupiter is jumping through your self-esteem zone. So the stars urge you to look for the inner beauty within yourself – and other people. Here are some beauty tips from Hollywood movie star (and birthday great) Audrey Hepburn, “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak words of kindness. And for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”
VIRGO
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20
Ambitious Saturn, creative Neptune and dynamic Mars (your patron planet) are visiting your sign, so your fiery, passionate, proactive, boisterous, bossy Aries side will be on full display. Do your best to get must-do, routine tasks out of the way early in the week. Then you can enjoy the activities that really make your heart sing. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn, “I believe, every day, you should have at least one exquisite moment.”
CANCER
JUNE 22 TO JULY 22
Jolly, generous Jupiter (the planet of prosperity and positivity) is transiting through your sign until June 30. This lucky placement only happens every 12 years, so make the most of it while it’s still around! You’ll find confidence, authenticity and robust self-esteem will take you places. Be inspired by Hollywood movie star, fashion icon and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn, (who was born on May 4, 1929) “Always be a first-rate version of yourself.”
JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23 LIBRA
Have you been hibernating in your Lion’s den? With Mercury and the Sun (your ruler) activating your career zone, do your best to initiate positive, creative changes at work. It’s time to be bold rather than brooding, and proactive rather than reactive. And spend some quality time in nature. If you’re lucky enough to have one, then get out and potter in the garden. As birthday great Audrey Hepburn observed, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22
This week the Sun and Mercury are moving through your relationship zone, so the focus is on partnerships (of the romantic, platonic and business variety).
Smart Scorpios will go out of your way to avoid controlling behaviour and power struggles, as you argue a lot less and empathise a lot more. As Hollywood movie star, humanitarian and birthday great Audrey Hepburn wisely observed, “Nothing is more important than empathy for another human being.”
AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23
Generous Jupiter activates your hopes and wishes zone, which boosts confidence as you pursue ambitious and adventurous aspirations for the future. Avoid being too safe and sensible! Let go of a perceived failure that has been holding you back. If you learn from your mistakes, then you can finally move forward. Family and friends will help you along the way. Your motto is from Audrey Hepburn, “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21
Impatient, speedy Sagittarians can be too quick to ditch family members, dismiss close friends, and disregard work colleagues who stuff up or disappoint. But is that always the best thing to do? Perhaps some people deserve a second chance? As movie star, humanitarian and birthday great Audrey Hepburn said, “People have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed. Never throw out anyone.” Work and family are connected on Wednesday.
S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23
Prosperity planet Jupiter is jumping through your career zone until June 30, which only happens every 12 years. So don’t procrastinate and dilly-dally Libra. A lucky opportunity could come out of the blue. You need to make hay while the sun shines and strike while the iron is hot! Be inspired by birthday great, actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn, (who was born on May 4, 1929) “Opportunities don’t often come along. When they do, you have to grab them.”
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20
This week you’ll be at your Capricorn best as the Sun and Mercury light up your leisure and pleasure zone. Wednesday is the best day to relax and socialise with family and friends. In the words of birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn, “Enjoy the day to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come.” With Mars, Saturn and Neptune moving through your home zone, you may also have to lend a helping hand to a stressed relative or housemate.
BEYOND WINERIES: A
Ever since I started travelling nearly 20 years ago, I’ve always had a fascination with staying at unique accommodation.
I once stayed on a floating hotel, known as the Botel, in stunning Amsterdam, and I’ve also stayed the night under the stars in a luxury Bubbletent at beautiful Capertee Valley near Lithgow.
There’s something about these types of properties that bring me plenty of joy, so when I had the opportunity thanks to Luxury Escapes to stay at a former boarding school / nuns convent over in the Hunter Valley, you can imagine my excitement!
These days, The Convent Hunter Valley is an amazing five-star, 19-room luxury boutique hotel nestled on a private estate in Pokolbin, surrounded by vineyards and gardens, but its former life as a boarding school run by Irishborn Brigidine nuns is incredibly fascinating.
“I JUST LOVED BEING OUT THERE ON THE VERANDA WHEN THE SUN WAS SETTING”
Built in 1909 in Coonamble – some five hours west of Pokolbin – The Convent Hunter Valley served as a Roman Catholic convent and boarding school for the Brigidine Order for 70 years.
After closing in 1980, the timber building was rescued from demolition in 1990 and transported in sections 600km east to its current location at the end of Halls Road in Pokolbin.
The historic convent was then carefully reconstructed by a team of builders and engineers, and repurposed into the 19-room luxury hotel that we see today.
Recently, I was lucky enough to spend two nights at this wonderful property, staying in
a Superior Suite that was once a place where boarders slept all those years ago.
Perhaps my favourite part of my suite wasn’t the high ceilings, comfy bed or vintage furniture, instead it was the dual access I had to The Convent’s second-storey veranda, which had gorgeous views of the property’s well-manicured gardens and showpiece water fountain as well the working vineyards in the distance. I just loved being out there on the veranda when the sun was setting, enjoying a glass of local wine and my delicious takeaway cheese platter from the nearby Binnorie Dairy.
If The Convent looks familiar to you in my photos, that’s because it’s the location for where the Seven Network’s ‘Farmer Wants a Wife’ is filmed.
Another highlight of The Convent Hunter Valley is that it’s located on the same estate as several other standout venues, including the renowned Pepper Tree Winery and historic
restaurant Circa 1876.
Set amongst the estate’s historic homestead, vineyards and kitchen garden, Circa 1876 has long been regarded as one of the Hunter’s most distinguished dining experiences. I met Circa 1876’s recently appointed executive chef Anthony Fullerton during my visit and he was very impressive – I couldn’t wait to taste his food!
Anthony brings more than 35 years of experience to the Circa 1876 kitchen, and his menu captures the warmth and generosity of provincial France, expressed through local Hunter Valley ingredients.
Guests can choose to dine from a two-course set (lunch only) for $90 per person, or threecourse set (lunch and dinner) for $120 per person.
To start the meal, Hunter Valley sourdough and Coppertree Farms cultured butter was served to our table alongside Adina mixed olives and olive grissini.
For our entrées, my wife and I tucked into the Seared Scallop as well as the Tortelloni, while for our mains, we were well fed with the Manning Valley Grassfed Striploin and the Aquna Murray Cod.
Before arriving, I heard plenty about the
Enjoying a Tawny at Restaurant Botanica.
A cheese platter at sunset.
The Convent Hunter Valley.
LITTLE LUXURY IN THE HUNTER
desserts at Circa 1876 and they didn’t disappoint!
We selected their famous Crème Brûlée as well as a slice of their freshly baked Walnut & Pear Cake with coconut, orange and pineapple chili sorbet.
The next morning, my wife and I didn’t have to go far to enjoy breakfast, with The Convent Hunter Valley home to their very own on-site restaurant simply called Restaurant Eighty Eight. Here, they just serve breakfast and they do it very, very well.
“IT’S TRULY THE HUNTER’S HIDDEN GEM”
Spending two mornings there, we got to enjoy most of the menu with the Waffles with maple syrup, berries and mascarpone cream being my favourite, while my wife very much enjoyed her fried eggs on sourdough toast with smoked salmon, truss cherry tomatoes and spinach on the side. Each guest also gets to select one hot and one cold beverage when they dine for breakfast, making Restaurant Eighty Eight great value as well!
Following a day of visiting nearby wineries,
breweries and local chocolate shops, it was that time again for dinner and what better way to end our short stay in the Hunter than dining at Spicers Vineyards Estate’s Restaurant Botanica.
Located just a 10-minute drive from The Convent, Restaurant Botanica recently underwent a comprehensive refurbishment and appointed new head chef Thomas Heinrich to launch an entirely new seasonal menu. Thomas’ career spans leading luxury hotels across Australia and North America, and he applies this background to a modern Australian menu centred on seasonal ingredients,
regional producers and refined technique. Dinner is offered as a three-course menu for $115 per person, with an optional $70 wine paring.
For our entrees, my wife and I had the Wild Mushroom with porcini broth as well as the Sautee Prawns, while for our mains, we couldn’t go past the yummy Charred Grilled WA Fremantle Octopus, as well as the Roasted Cauliflower with coconut curry and chickpeas.
And to finish off the evening and to toast my 15 years as a journalist at the Western Weekender, we enjoyed two mouth-watering
desserts – the Honey and Labneh Ice Cream and Mandarin Sorbet – plus a glass of their very best vintage Tawny.
I’ve spent some time at the Hunter Valley before, but it wasn’t a luxurious and fulfilling experience like the one detailed above.
The Hunter is full of brilliant accommodation options, but you’ll be hard pressed to find anywhere as unique, as charming, and as historic as The Convent Hunter Valley. It’s truly the Hunter’s hidden gem, and it’s waiting for you to check-in.
For exclusive offers and to book your next stay, visit www.luxuryescapes.com.
Inside the Superior Suite at The Convent.
Restaurant Botanica.
Scraped (out a living)
12. Gosh!
14. Howled (of hounds)
16.
22. Zambia’s
26. Dined at restaurant (3,3)
32. Church
35. Canvas carry-sacks
37. Donkeys
38. Book extract
40. Not healthy
41. Milking farm
42. Bites persistently
43. Lucifer
44. Connection (3-2)
47. Unearthly
51. Character
52. Hormone organs
53. Biliousness
54. Furthest down
58. Trepidation
59. Former time standard (1,1,1)
61. Fragrance
63. Sworn promises
64. Witnessing
65. Acquiesce
66. Non-clergy
68. Peruvian mammal
71. Located
72. Soviet states (1,1,1,1)
74. Want
76. Curse
78. Scheme
80. USA, Uncle ...
83. Bullfight cry
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: 2000’s Movies
THE
GLADIATOR
THE DEPARTED
BLOOD DIAMOND
FINDING NEMO
CINDERELLA MAN
DONNIE DARKO
A BEAUTIFUL MIND UP INTO THE WILD
KILL BILL
WALK THE LINE
THE INCREDIBLES
TAKEN
SNATCH
ALMOST FAMOUS
–
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
COLOUR ME PENRITH!
Maddie’s Meals
Dad’s Mauritian
Curry
This family curry recipe has been passed down by my father who was born in Mauritius.
This version is vegan friendly, but you can swap the chickpeas and beans for chicken breast!
Can be served over rice or in a wrap (as pictured).
What you’ll need:
– Large Pan or dutch oven
Ingredients:
– 1 can of black beans
– 1 can of chickpeas
– 1 zucchini (diced)
– 3 potatoes (peeled and diced)
– Spices of choice (I use salt, black pepper, white pepper, curry powder, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder and onion
powder)
– 2 tsp vegetable stock
– 1 cup hot water (add more or less depending on how thick you like your sauce)
– 1 tsp corn flour (optional)
Method:
1. Dice zucchini and potato and add them to a pan or dutch oven on medium heat.
2. Add spices and stir through, letting cook until potato has softened slightly.
3. Add chickpeas and black beans, adding spices in again
and stirring, making sure the spices cover everything. Mix stock with hot or boiling water and add to the vegetables.
4. Cook covered until potato is completely soft and the sauce begins to thicken. If sauce is not thickening, make a corn flour slurry (mix 1 tsp corn flour with 2 Tbsp cold water) and add to sauce to thicken it.
5. Once sauce is thick to your liking, serve!
OFF
Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm – 6pm during May! Based on full visitors price. Not valid with any other discount or promotion.
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