Home & Lifestyle August 28 2025

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE WITH YOUR FLOORING

Choices Flooring Penrith is a trusted, locally owned business providing expert advice, premium flooring products and professional service, backed by decades of experience in the industry.

The store is proudly operated by dedicated team members –Gayle, Laurel, Sharon (pictured) and Justine – who are passionate about ensuring customers find the perfect flooring and window furnishing solutions for every space.

The Coreen Avenue showroom features an extensive range of flooring options designed to suit all styles and budgets, including carpet, laminate, hybrid, luxury vinyl and engineered timber.

The team at Choices Flooring Penrith takes the time to understand each customer’s needs and preferences, offering tailored recommendations to suit their home or commercial project. What sets Choices Flooring

Penrith apart is its comprehensive, end-to-end service. The store specialises in managing the entire installation process, using manufacturer-approved methods and industry best practices. Their team of experienced installers ensures every job is completed to the highest standard, providing customers with long-lasting results and peace of mind.

“DISCOVER WHY SO MANY LOCALS TRUST CHOICES FLOORING WITH THEIR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS”

In addition to flooring solutions, Justine is the in-store expert in window furnishings. She offers a wide selection of the latest designs and innovations, including the popular Mood Window

Furnishings range. These stylish and functional window treatments are designed to enhance any space – whether it’s a cosy home environment or a modern renovation project. Whether customers are updating a single room or undertaking a large-scale refurbishment, Choices Flooring Penrith delivers a smooth and supportive experience from product selection through to final installation. The team’s in-depth knowledge and friendly service have earned them

a strong reputation throughout the local community. For those seeking quality flooring and contemporary window furnishings, Choices Flooring Penrith offers the perfect combination of local knowledge, premium products, and expert service.

Visit the showroom at 131 Coreen Avenue today to explore the full range and discover why so many Penrith locals trust Choices Flooring with their home improvement projects.

CONTACT AGENT FOR PRICE

Upcoming releases in Marian’s Mana, Oran Park

CONTACT:

Oran Park Sales Office

Trevor Homes • 7043 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.

The Experts

KELLIE TICKNER

Orchard Hills

Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

A SILENT BUT DEADLY DANGER FOR CATS

Our feline friends are truly part of the family. We share our homes, our love, and sometimes even our meals with them. While this companionship is deeply rewarding, it is important to remember that not everything we humans do – or take – is safe for cats. One of the most dangerous examples is paracetamol.

Paracetamol is a staple in many households, commonly used to relieve headaches, fevers, and muscle pain. However, what is a safe and effective medication for people is extremely toxic for cats. In fact, as little as one tablet – or even a small amount of a children’s liquid formulation – can be fatal. Unlike humans, cats lack the specific enzyme needed to break down paracetamol safely. Instead, the drug is converted into harmful compounds that cause life-threatening damage to the blood and liver.

The toxic effects are severe. Paracetamol damages red blood cells, preventing them from

carrying oxygen properly. As a result, poisoned cats struggle for breath, and their gums and tongue may turn a bluish-brown colour. Their heart rate often increases, and swelling of the face and paws can occur. Vomiting, dark urine, and difficulty breathing are also common. As the poisoning progresses, cats may develop jaundice – a yellowing of the skin and eyes – due to liver failure. Without immediate treatment, paracetamol poisoning is almost always fatal.

If you suspect your cat has ingested paracetamol – whether accidentally or intentionally given – contact your vet immediately. Time is critical. Depending on when the ingestion occurred, your vet may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, or provide the antidote acetylcysteine to limit further toxic damage. Supportive treatments such as intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and even blood transfusions may also be needed. Sadly, if clinical signs are already

advanced, survival is far less likely despite intensive care.

The most important message is simple: never give your cat paracetamol. There is no safe dose, and the consequences can be devastating. If your cat seems unwell or in pain, always seek professional veterinary advice. Your veterinarian can perform an examination and prescribe safe, effective pain relief tailored to cats.

By keeping paracetamol and all human medications securely out of reach, and by relying on veterinary care for your pet’s health needs, you can help ensure your cat enjoys a long, safe, and healthy life as part of your family.

For more infor mation about products that are toxic to your pets, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

A PLACE AT THE TABLE?

“ Processed food” often gets a bad rap, conjuring images of neon-colored snacks and sugar-laden cereals. But the reality is far more nuanced. Not all processed foods are harmful — in fact, many are essential to modern diets.

What does ‘processed’

Processing simply refers to any change made to a food from its natural state. This could be as simple as washing, chopping, or freezing, or more involved steps like fermenting, pasteurizing, or adding preservatives. By this definition, even bagged spinach, yogurt, and canned beans count as processed foods.

The real concern lies with ultra-processed foods. These are products high

in added sugar, sodium, saturated fats, and artificial additives, while being low in fiber and other essential nutrients. Think sugary drinks, packaged snacks, processed meats, instant noodles, and many frozen ready meals. Research consistently links high intake of ultra-processed foods to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, poorer gut health and even some cancers. That doesn’t mean we need to avoid processing altogether. In fact, many processed foods offer both convenience and nutrition. Canned tomatoes, frozen vegetables, fortified cereals, and pasteurised dairy are affordable, safe, and time-saving staples that can support a healthy diet. As a dietitian, I am always emphasising to my clients that the goal isn’t to demonise all processed foods but to focus on nutrient quality and overall eating patterns. Food choices don’t need to be “all or nothing.” An occasional biscuit or packet of chips isn’t harmful if most of your meals are built from whole and minimally processed foods. This flexible, balanced approach helps make healthy eating sustainable in the long term, without guilt or restriction The takeaway? Not all processed foods are the enemy. The key is balance: instead of trying to completely cut out these foods, think about the balance in your diet and considering frequency and portion sizes.Make sure that there are minimally processed foods in there too that offer nutrients. In today’s busy world, smart use of processed foods can actually make healthy eating a lot easier.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2025

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Uranus (your ruler) squares Mercury on Wednesday, so expect some communication hiccups, especially involving children, teenagers or friends. And Saturn moves back into your self-esteem zone on Monday (until February 14, 2026). So don’t let other people dent your confidence or diminish your dreams! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Beyonce, “Your self-worth is determined by you. Don’t depend on someone telling you who you are.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Have you drawn up a wish list of your goals and aspirations for the future?

Strategic Saturn moves back into your hopes and wishes zone (from Monday until February 14, 2026). So start dreaming and drawing up that wish list ASAP. Remember – you can’t hit a target if you haven’t got one! Be inspired by birthday great Beyonce (who turns 44 on Thursday), “My mother taught me the principles of hard work, setting my own goals and visualising my future.”

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Prepare to sparkle and shine, as Venus vamps through your sign until September 19. Cat confidence, fiery creativity and generous compassion are highlighted, so make the most of it and do something special as you tackle a personal project or help someone in need. Be inspired by birthday great Freddie Mercury (who was born on September 5, 1946), “You can be anything you want to be, just turn yourself into anything you think that you could ever be.”

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Scorpio is the sign of transformation, and this week you’ll be able to put a positive spin on a perceived failure as you metaphorically transform an ugly pig’s ear into a beautiful silk purse. But do you feel stuck in the middle of a complicated family drama? If you want to get a recalcitrant relative onside, then use your strategic Scorpio negotiation skills as you answer questions, clarify concerns and smooth furrowed brows. Saturday is a good time to start.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Pisceans can be dreamy procrastinators. All ideas and no action. But you have more chance of putting plans into practice over the next few months, as practical Saturn shifts back into your sign until February 14, 2026. Which is just as well because family, friends and colleagues are looking to you for less confusion and more clarity. So take the time to think things through and pace yourself. When it comes to close relationships, clear communication is the key.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

This week you’re keen to express your creative ideas and enjoy plenty of stimulating conversations with a wide range of interesting people, as Mercury and Venus rev up your curious and social side. But there’s a tricky Mercury/Uranus square on Wednesday, so be extra careful you don’t write (or say) the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time! Use your considerable Gemini communication skills to motivate and inspire others in positive ways.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Virgos are very dependable and devoted, but you can also be a carping critic as family and friends struggle to keep up with your incredibly high standards. With Saturn shifting back into your relationship zone (and Mercury squaring Uranus) get ready to hear a few home truths from a frustrated loved one. Perhaps they just want to relax and be a slob occasionally? Mercury moves into your sign on Tuesday which favours reading, researching and analysing.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

On Friday, spontaneous Jupiter (your power planet) squares impulsive Mars which increases your tendency towards rash words and hasty actions. Slow down and pace yourself, before you come a cropper. You have a special talent for making people feel good with lively conversation, humour and generosity. So use it! Inspiration for the week is from music icon Freddie Mercury (born on September 5, 1946), “I love the fact that I can make people happy.”

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Saturn moves out of your sign (back into Pisces) from Monday until February 14, 2026. So the next few months is a good time to tie up loose ends involving solo projects and/or spiritual pursuits. Friday’s impulsive Mars/Jupiter square could see you jumping from the frying pan straight into the fire – especially involving a close relationship. Smart Rams will slow down and think before you speak (and act). Saturday favours group activities with family and/or friends.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Don’t fall into the trap of undervaluing and neglecting your numerous Crab talents. Jupiter is visiting your sign until June 2026, so it’s time to express yourself in uplifting ways that make your eyes sparkle and your heart sing. Be inspired by Beyonce (who turns 44 on Thursday) “We all have our purpose; we all have our strengths.” Family life and domestic matters look extra busy, as dynamic Mars moves through your home zone until September 22.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

This week, Jupiter (planet of success) is jumping through your career/life direction zone and Venus (your patron planet) is visiting your hopes and wishes zone, and proactive Mars is in Libra. So stop procrastinating! It’s time to dream big dreams, set ambitious goals, and then work hard to make them come true. Be inspired by birthday and music great, Beyonce (who turns 44 on Thursday), “As soon as I accomplish one thing, I just set a higher goal.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Are you frustrated by ongoing problems or disruptions at work? Mighty Mars is moving through your career zone (from Thursday until September 22) so it’s time to take on challenges with a proactive approach and a courageous attitude. At the moment, fortune definitely favours the bold and the brave! With Saturn (your patron planet) moving back into your local community/education zone, it’s time to work hard on a neighbourhood issue or a study project.

LITHGOW IS WAITING!

How many times have you driven over the Blue Mountains, saw the turn-off sign for Lithgow, and kept driving?

Probably many of you reading, I’d dare say!

Look, we’ve all been guilty of it, including this writer, but I want you to know that there’s an incredibly underrated town at that very turn-off that’s just waiting to be discovered.

“IT’S ONE OF LITHGOW’S TRUE HIDDEN GEMS”

Lithgow and the Seven Valleys is the gateway to Central NSW, and just a 90-minute drive from western Sydney – give or take. I recently ventured out to this pretty, historic working-class town to spend a few nights recharging the batteries and exploring Lithgow’s sensational hospitality offerings, various lookouts and huge range of things to do.

Here are the five places you should consider when you make that turn-off from the Great Western Highway and visit beautiful Lithgow…

1. Lithgow Workies Club

Upon arriving on a chilly Friday evening, I quickly discovered that the Lithgow Workies Club was the place the whole town converges on.

Not only is the Lithgow Workies a great place to drink with friends, eat a delicious meal and watch the footy, it’s also the perfect place to stay at while in town.

This boutique style award-winning four-star accommodation was my base for two nights, and I absolutely loved it more than I thought I would!

Lithgow Workies offers exquisite interiors and a range of room styles that sleeps up to five guests with modern features. It very much reminded me of a hotel in Las Vegas because of the various dining and entertainment options on-site.

Another great aspect of The Workies is it’s located in the heart

of Lithgow and is conveniently situated just a short drive away from surrounding attractions.

Plus, if you’re having breakfast at Cino’s Café, definitely order the bacon and egg roll. While I highly recommend the club’s busy Bistro for dinner – it has all your classic pub favourites along with good old-fashioned service that rarely exists anymore!

2. Lost City Walking Track

My first full day in Lithgow saw me visit Lost City, which is a popular walking track located about 20 minutes’ drive from town.

If you’re into hiking, Lost City walking track is the perfect place to discover lookouts with panoramic views, creek crossing, dams and pagodas.

These unique and visually stunning rock formations give context to the name of the park – Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area.

I can’t recommend it enough especially if you enjoy hiking and some fresh mountain air!

3. Zig Zag Railway

A place I hadn’t been to since I was a young kid, the famous Zig Zag Railway is one of the area’s most popular attractions.

Established in 1869, people travel from all over Sydney to the tiny town of Clarence to enjoy a

relaxing ride on the romantic, nostalgic and impressive steam locomotive as it hauls you over the Great Lithgow Zig Zag.

Filled with breathtaking views, rich history and unforgettable moments, the experience is ideal for railway enthusiasts, nature lovers or a family day out. It’s a true step back in time!

The Zig Zag Railway runs on a fortnightly basis, operating on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays every second week. Bring your camera!

4. The Blue Fox

My second night in Lithgow saw me dine at The Blue Fox, a stunning fairy light lit restaurant located on historic Main Street.

Run by Kat and her daughters Holly and Laura, The Blue Fox is the place to go for simple, tasty home cooked meals paired with friendly service and kick ass drinks to wash it all down with.

My wife and I were seated right next to the fireplace, and it was just the ultimate romantic setting with cocktail in hand and an amazing dinner ready to be devoured.

I highly recommend the Middle Eastern Fried Cauliflower as an entrée and the Blue Fox Sticky Date Pudding is a must for dessert!

I’m also told lunchtime there is just as incredible as the natural light sets the scene for a special afternoon.

5. Secret Creek Sanctuary

One of Lithgow’s true hidden gems, the Secret Creek Sanctuary is the only native wildlife sanctuary in the Blue Mountains.

Home to some of the most unique species of this area, it was recently renovated with a new entrance and visitor centre.

It’s conveniently located just a three-minute drive from the centre of Lithgow and is home to Eastern quolls, dingoes, koalas, Tassie devils, pygmy possums, native birds, rock wallabies, reptiles, and a pair of very inquisitive emus, who will follow you around as you wander through the expansive grounds.

My hot tip: once you finish spotting the various wildlife on offer, enjoy a bite to eat and a hot drink at the Sanctuary’s on-site café. It was a wonderful way to end the trip!

For more suggestions on things to do in amazing Lithgow and the Seven Valleys, visit www. visitcentralnsw.com.au and www.sevenvalleys.com.au.

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6.

7. Recedes

8. American baseballer, ... DiMaggio

23.

25. Run by sole operator (3-3)

26. Disruptive weather feature (2,4)

29. Narrow land strip

32. Father

35. Crisp biscuit

37. Examines

38. Blobs

40. Orchard fruit

41. Actress, Geena ...

42. Bantered

43. Cordoned (off)

44. Physics particles

47. Continued (subscription)

51. Water mammals

52. Warmer

53. Knock back (invitation)

54. Cord tuft

58. Supplied with weapons

59. Chicken

61. Tennis ace, ... Becker

63. Blood-sucking insect

64. Craftiest

65. Drink habitually

66. Diction flaws

68. Foolish

71. Escape

72. Communists

74. Fertiliser compound

76. Egyptian snakes

78. Patch up

80. Second numeral

83. Chop

and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our

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.

Last week’s solution

1. Which NRL team recently hosted a home game in Mudgee?

5. In what decade did Mudgee begin producing wine?

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

2. What is the name of the Mudgee local newspaper?

3. Which Channel Seven news presenter was born in Mudgee?

4. What product is Mudgee famous for producing?

6. Which river runs through Mudgee?

7. Mudgee derives from the Wiradjuri term ‘Moothi’, what does it mean?

8. The Mudgee Wine & Food Festival has been running annually since which decade?