Home & Lifestyle February 26 2026

WHY PARENTS NEED TO TALK ABOUT MONEY!

Afinancially literate child is more likely to buy their first home in their twenties. Yet, the average age of first home buyers has risen to 36, up from around 34 before COVID, according to Westpac.

Financial advisers Victor Idoko and Lionel O’Mally (pictured below) say this trend is partly driven by a lack of basic money skills, with many young Australians entering adulthood unprepared to navigate housing costs, living expenses and other financial decisions.

“Australia doesn’t lack money. It lacks financial know-how and it’s seriously affecting people’s long-term outcomes in life,” said Victor Idoko from CFV Advisory.

Financial literacy in Australia remains low and is deteriorating, particularly among young adults. According to the 2020 Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, Australians aged 15 to 24 performed poorly on five basic financial literacy questions covering numeracy, inflation, risk versus return, diversification and money illusion, with results declining since 2016.

Overall, the mean score for

men fell from 4.1 to 4.0, and for women from 3.7 to 3.5, with the steepest declines among 15 to 34-year-olds. The survey also highlighted persistent gaps by gender, education and cultural background, suggesting many young Australians are entering adulthood without the skills needed to make sound financial decisions.

Idoko said the problem often begins at home.

“Parents avoid talking about money, and many children reach adulthood without the basic skills to manage it,” he said.

The consequences can be far-reaching.

“A child who learns financial principles early is far more likely to get into their first home in their twenties,” he said.

“Without those lessons, young adults struggle to save, budget and make informed choices.”

O’Mally, from Purpose Planning, sees the effects daily.

“Clients often tell me they wish they knew this information sooner. People reach their fifties or sixties and realise small decisions in their twenties could have completely changed their position,” he said.

O’Mally, who was not taught about money growing up, said he learned the hard way.

“When I was younger, I spent money on watches and clothes and material things that made no sense,” he said.

“Looking back, I could have bought the apartment I was renting for $350,000. Now it's worth probably $800,000.”

“MANY CHILDREN REACH ADULTHOOD WITHOUT THE BASIC SKILLS TO MANAGE MONEY”

Both advisers emphasise that parents start educating their children from a very young age, ideally between ages three and seven, when habits are forming.

“You can introduce simple ideas early. For example, three jars labelled ‘Save’ ‘Spend’ and ‘Share’ help children grasp that some money is for later, some is for now, and some is for helping others,”

The pair are co-authors of a new children’s bedtime money story in the series Bunnies and Monies, which introduces the concept of money and provides practical little money lessons parents can use to increase the financial literacy of kids worldwide.

“Good money habits don’t appear overnight,” O’Mally said. “If children aren’t taught early, it becomes much harder to build the discipline.”

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.

Coming soont to the market – a property you won’t want to miss. Call or SMS Gizzelle for more information. GIZZELLE

Coming

STRENGTH TRAINING MATTERS FOR ATHLETES

As a Strength and Conditioning coach, one of the biggest misconceptions I see is that endurance athletes simply need to run more. While mileage builds aerobic capacity, it doesn’t fully prepare the body for the physical demands of technical trail racing. For athletes preparing for events like Ultra-Trail Australia (UTA), strength training isn’t optional, it’s essential.

The UTA, held in the Blue Mountains, is far from a flat, predictable road race. Runners face steep climbs, technical descents, stairs and uneven terrain. Cardiovascular fitness will carry you far, but muscular strength is what keeps you moving efficiently when fatigue sets in and the terrain becomes more demanding.

Strength training enhances force production and improves how quickly that force can be generated, both critical for climbing, descending and adjusting to variable surfaces. It also supports

posture and technique under fatigue, improving running economy through better neuromuscular efficiency. In short, you move better, for longer.

Building durable legs

Without adequate strength, fatigue sets in sooner, technique breaks down and injury risk rises. A well-structured strength and mobility program improves climbing efficiency, downhill control, power output and overall durability.

Trail athletes commonly experience calf and achilles irritation, ITB pain and hip overload due to the repetitive stress and elevation demands of racing. Targeted strength work builds tissue resilience, allowing your body to better tolerate high training volumes and long descents.

Key focus areas include singleleg strength, calf and foot capacity, posterior chain development, quadriceps strength and core stability under fatigue. Often, improving these qualities deliv-

ers greater performance gains than simply adding another long run.

Training for safety and efficiency

Trail runners are particularly prone to lower limb injuries due to overuse, uneven terrain and reduced movement control as fatigue builds. Neuromuscular control and balance are critical for safe and efficient movement off-road.

A comprehensive program should include mobility work,

progressive strength training for the hips, knees and ankles, balance and proprioception drills and plyometric or reactive exercises to improve force absorption and terrain adaptability.

If you’re preparing for UTA, ask yourself: is your body strong enough to support your endurance?

Book a session with me at OnePointHealth to build a structured strength program that complements your running and helps you tackle the trails with confidence.

The Experts

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

SWIM SAFETY GOES BEYOND SUMMER

Every year the end of summer comes up far too quickly and I find myself urging everyone to just keep swimming – all year round!

Why? Swimming is for absolutely everyone: from birth to the very end, swimming is an activity that enhances a person’s life. Once you know how to swim, it’s a skill you can use for a lifetime, in so many settings. Swimming brings families together: whether its bonding with your baby during swimming lessons, enjoying the beach or poolside at home or on holidays, or supporting your competitive swimmer at meets, swimming time is often family time (especially as electronic devices and water don’t mix!).

Most importantly, swimming can save your life. That’s it. The bottom line. Improved water safety is the number one reason to enrol in swimming lessons to improve swimming skills, no matter what age or stage you or your child are at.

We encourage children to begin swimming at six months of age, and to regularly attend swimming lessons until their age-related safety milestones are met – consistence is key. Never learnt to swim and now as an adult don’t know where or how to start? We offer adult swimming lessons to help you reach your goals. Are you over 60 years of age?

We also have a very special Seniors Water Wellness Program coming up in March in conjunction with Royal Lifesaving Australia and Seniors Week offering a free lifesaving skills refresher program to kickstart your journey back into aquatic recreation. Visit www.drowningprevention.org.au/event-details/penrith-seniors-water-wellness-nepean to book your free spot.

Want to fast track your child’s water safety and swimming skills in the school holidays? Our school holiday intensive swim lessons and Paddles Super Swim camps are designed to build your child’s capability and confidence. Check out our website for upcoming dates and details.

Like to work out in the water and enjoy all of the benefits of low impact exercise? Join us for Aquarobics classes, or lap swimming in our indoor heated pools. Looking for a pool party that isn’t dependent upon the weather? Come party with us, complete with lifeguards and inflatable slides for hours of birthday or team building fun.

Since 2011 we have taught thousands of local people to swim at Nepean Aquatic Centre! Whether you’re a child or an adult, mastering the art of swimming offers numerous benefits that extend far beyond the water’s edge.

To celebrate our 15th birthday at Nepean

Aquatic Centre we are offering a Special Offer in March for Western Weekender readers – get your first lesson free upon enrolment! The offer is applicable for all new enrolments and re-enrolments, at both Nepean Aquatic Centre and Eva Borys Swim School, and all enrolment T’s and C’s apply. Just mention the Western Weekender to get your first lesson free and enrol with us today! Until next time, stay safer! Love to Swim, Swim for Safety, Swim for Life!

The Experts

SEIZURES AND OUR PETS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Unfortunately, seizures can happen to animals as well as people. If you’ve ever witnessed your pet go through a seizure, you know how distressing the experience can be. While seizures are more commonly associated with dogs, they can also affect cats and other animals. Understanding the signs, causes and treatment options can help pet owners manage this condition and ensure their pets receive the best possible care.

Recognising seizures in pets – Seizures are one of the most common neurological conditions in dogs, with veterinarians regularly treating canines for this disorder. Seizures result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, leading to involuntary muscle movements and other neurological symptoms.

Common signs of seizures in dogs and cats include:

• Collapsing onto their side

• Rigid body posture

• Twitching muscles or paddling legs

• Glazed or unfocused eyes

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

During a seizure, pets may lose consciousness or seem disoriented. Some animals exhibit unusual behaviours before the seizure, such as hiding, excessive drooling,

whining, or appearing anxious. If you notice these signs in your pet, especially if they occur frequently, veterinary attention is essential.

Causes of seizures in pets – Seizures can have many underlying causes, including:

• Idiopathic epilepsy: A genetic disorder with no identifiable cause, often diagnosed in dogs.

• Head trauma or brain injury: Damage to the brain can trigger abnormal electrical activity.

• Toxins and poisoning: Exposure to harmful substances like certain foods, pesticides, or medications can provoke seizures.

• Liver or kidney disease: These conditions can lead to metabolic imbalances affecting brain function.

• Brain tumours: Growths in the brain can disrupt normal neurological activity.

What to do if your pet has a seizure – If your pet is experiencing a seizure, remain as calm as possible. Move objects away from your pet to prevent injury but avoid touching their mouth, as they may unintentionally bite. Time the seizure. After a seizure, pets may be disoriented, so provide a quiet and safe space for recovery.

USING SUPER TO REDUCE CAPITAL GAINS TAX

For many Australians, property has long been a cornerstone of wealth creation.

But when it comes time to sell, the resulting capital gain can trigger a significant tax bill. One strategy that can help soften the impact is using superannuation –specifically, concessional contributions – to offset part of the taxable gain.

How the strategy works

Concessional contributions are before tax payments made into your superannuation fund. They include employer contributions, salary sacrifice amounts, and personal contributions for which you claim a tax deduction. It’s this last category – personal deductible contributions – that can be used to reduce the tax payable on a capital gain.

These contributions are taxed at 15 per cent inside super (or 30 per cent if your income exceeds $250,000, which can easily occur in a year when you realise a large capital gain). Even with this contributions tax, the overall outcome can be far more favourable than paying marginal tax rates on the gain.

Contribution caps and the carry forward Rule

The annual concessional contribution cap is currently $30,000. However, individuals with

a super balance below $500,000 at the start of the financial year may be able to take advantage of unused concessional cap amounts from the previous five years.

For anyone who hasn’t made additional contributions during that period, this can create a substantial pool of unused cap – often $60,000 to $70,000 or more (depending on income) – allowing for a much larger one off contribution to help offset a capital gain.

A practical example

Consider someone earning around $100,000 per year who sells an investment property and realises a $300,000 capital gain. After the 50 per cent CGT discount, $150,000 is added to their assessable income, bringing their taxable income to $250,000.

This results in a tax bill of $78,638 (excluding Medicare levy) – an increase of $57,850 compared with a year without the capital gain.

If their super balance is below $500,000 and they have accumulated unused concessional cap space, they may be able to contribute around $80,000 as a personal concessional contribution.

Doing so reduces their assessable income to $170,000. Their personal tax liability falls to $44,238 – a saving of $34,400. Their super fund will pay $12,000 in contributions tax, but even after this, the total tax saving is $22,400.

Why it’s effective

This strategy works because the concessional contribution is effectively replacing income that would otherwise be taxed at higher marginal rates. Instead, the amount is taxed at the concessional super rate, producing a meaningful reduction in overall tax payable.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Many Aquarians are (or were) rebels at heart including Mozart, Bob Marley, Germaine Greer and Yoko Ono. But remember there’s a fine line between being rebellious and just plain reckless. You’re impatient for change but don’t be too hasty and throw the baby out with the bathwater! With impulsive Mars leaving your sign, and a Lunar Eclipse in cautious analytical Virgo, slow down and think things through carefully before you act and/or speak out.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

This week’s Lunar Eclipse and Sun/ Jupiter trine stimulate your peer group and networking zones, so you could meet a fabulous new friend or a work colleague (or neighbour) from the past could boomerang back into your world! Whatever happens, surround yourself with positive people who encourage your talents and support your dreams. Mid-week is good for socialising, while Saturday is super for creative projects and spiritual pursuits.

LEO

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

This week the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are all transiting through your sign. So it’s time to be the most creative, communicative, compassionate and proactive Piscean you can possibly be. Your motto for the moment is from writer (and birthday great) Dr Seuss, “Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.” Tuesday’s Lunar Eclipse shines the spotlight on partnerships of the romantic and platonic kind.

GEMINI

22 TO JUNE 21

On Tuesday the Lunar Eclipse (in earthy Virgo) falls in your home zone, so get your house in order and tackle domestic chores with extra Gemini gusto. But, if you spread gossip or jump to conclusions, you could end up in hot water. And avoid the temptation to take short cuts. A slap-dash attitude will only mean you have to do everything twice. With a more methodical and practical approach, you can accomplish tasks and still have plenty of time to play.

VIRGO

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Rams can be feisty folk, but on Tuesday there’s a Lunar Eclipse so don’t allow yourself to be drawn into an intense argument. It would be better to stay on the sidelines. With four planets in your privacy zone, life will also run more smoothly if you incorporate a spiritual ritual into your daily routine. Something like yoga, tai chi, prayer, chanting, meditation or contemplation. After some quality ‘me-time’ you’ll start to see things from a refreshing new perspective.

CANCER

22 TO JULY 22

Expect some emotional discussions as the Lunar Eclipse stirs up your communication zone. And are you spending too many hours cruising on your Crab posterior? The Sun/Jupiter trine boosts your energy levels and activates your aspirations/adventure zone. So get your body moving and start exploring! Your motto for the week is from birthday great, Dr Seuss, “You’re off to Great Places, today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23 LIBRA

Tuesday’s Lunar Eclipse (in earthy Virgo) illuminates your self-esteem and money zone, so it’s a good time for self-reflection and self-improvement. To limit self-indulgence, pare back spending and increase saving. To be more financially disciplined and more emotionally self-aware. Then the mood changes on Thursday and Friday, when prosperity planet Jupiter trines the Sun (your ruling planet) and a lucky opportunity comes along.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

A child, teenager, friend or lover could shock you by making a surprise move or a group project could suddenly veer off in an unexpected direction. If you keep your adaptability muscles well-flexed, then you’ll adjust to the constantly changing landscape accordingly. With peace planet Venus visiting your friendship and work zones, stop sulking and stewing over a perceived slight from a colleague or friend. This week, it’s time to compromise and sympathise!

Shopping Let’s go

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Self-belief and self-motivation are the keys to Virgo success and satisfaction at the moment, as Tuesday’s Lunar Eclipse lights up your sign. Don’t let annoying disruptions, minor matters or other people rattle you! Keep going on your chosen path, with confidence and determination. Your motto for the week is from birthday great, Dr Seuss, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.”

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

When it comes to work projects and professional prospects, this week’s Lunar Eclipse is in efficient, no-nonsense Virgo. So people don’t care how funny, friendly and fabulous you are – they just want to know you can do your job promptly and competently. With the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars transiting through your family zone, don’t neglect the needs of your home and loved ones. Accept your domestic responsibilities with a sunny Sagittarian smile!

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

This week Venus (your patron planet) makes lovely links to Uranus and Neptune, plus it also transits into independent Aries. So it’s time to experiment and explore, be creative and compassionate, while carving out some ‘me time’ as you look after loved ones. It’s a tricky juggle but if anyone can manage, it’s a well-balanced Libran like you. (Afterall, the symbol for your sign is the Scales of Justice). Saturday is fabulous for art, beauty, romance and daydreaming.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Put on your problem-solving hat Capricorn! The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars reignite your desire to help a friend, neighbor or family member in a creative and hands-on fashion. You’re keen to tackle a problem (at home or within your local community) in a creative, strategic and compassionate way. Tuesday’s Lunar Eclipse activates your travel and adventure zone, so start planning a business trip or much-needed holiday for some time this year.

12. Record’s secondary track (1-4)

14.

16.

26. Curved-bill

32. Dreaming period, ... sleep (1,1,1)

35. Seer

37. Saunter

38. Travel cheats, fare ...

40. Model

41. Garish

42. Radical

43. Very swift

44. Toothbrush bristles fi bre

47. Ill on jet

51. Touched lightly

52. Hands-on-hips position

53. Nonetheless (4,2)

54. Chin indentation

58. Detest

59. Cloth used to silence person

61. Photographic supplies company

63. Director, George ...

64. Biblical strongman

65. Compel

66. Kind of duck

68. United (2,3)

71. Dark wood

72. Stupefy

74. Post & ... fence

76. Fuse

78. Young society entrants

80. Livid

83. Meat & three ...

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.

SNAPDRAGON

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

Test your knowledge about Michael Jackson in this week’s special trivia quiz... 1. How old was Michael Jackson when he died? 2. What was the name of Michael Jackson’s pet chimp? 3. Which Michael Jackson album is the best-selling album?

How many Grammy Awards did Michael Jackson win? 5. What is Michael Jackson’s nickname?

6. What was Michael Jackson’s famous dance move?

7. What group was Michael Jackson in?

8. What are the names of Michael Jackson’s three kids?

9. In what year did Michael Jackson perform at the Super Bowl, attracting a new TV ratings record?

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.

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Maddie’s Meals

Rich Tomato Risotto

This easy and delicious recipe is borrowed from my mum, and is one of my partner’s favourite dishes.

What you'll need:

– Large pan with lid

– Spatula or spoon

Ingredients:

– Arborio (Risotto) rice (1-2 cups depending on meal size)

– Tomato based pasta sauce

– Cherry tomatoes

– Mushrooms

– Kalamata olives

– 1-2 tsp vegetable or chicken stock

– 2-3 cups water (to account for adding sauce)

– Spices (I used salt, black pepper, white pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning and chilli powder –optional)

Method:

1. Preheat the pan with oil on a me-

dium heat. While preheating, slice mushrooms, tomatoes and olives. Place mushrooms and tomatoes in the pan, but leave olives to the side.

2. Add spices to pan, stirring through. Add rice, and stir through again.

3. Add stock dissolved in 1 cup of water, then add the remaining water needed, stirring. Add pasta sauce and stir through.

4. Cover and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding additional water if needed. When rice is soft but not fully cooked, add olives and stir through.

5. Cover again, simmering for another 10 minutes. When rice is soft, serve!

In today’s economic landscape, many Australians find themselves working longer hours without a clear plan to retire comfortably or achieve financial freedom. Active income – earnings directly tied to hours worked – has long been the default for most professionals, but experts now agree that long-term wellbeing increasingly depends on creating passive, sustainable income streams and strategic retirement planning.

‘From Active Income to Lifelong Freedom’ is a transformative educational event taking place Saturday, March 7 2026, from 12.00pm to 4.00pm at the Amora Jamison Hotel, Sydney.

The session is designed for Australians who want to move beyond trading time for money and build lasting financial security through informed investing and planning.

What the event covers

During the four-hour education session, participants will gain practical insights into:

– Key steps to plan for early retirement and achieve a more flexible lifestyle: practical guidance to help individuals clarify lifestyle goals and chart a path towards flexible, self-directed work.

– Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs): what they are, how

Finding financial freedom

they work, and how they can be used to take greater control of retirement assets.

– Passive income from investment portfolios: foundational principles of generating cash flow through diversified assets rather than relying solely on wages.

–

Effective tax and estate planning: strategies that help protect wealth, minimise liabilities, and ensure financial goals are realised across generations.

– Hot suburbs to watch in 2026: expert insights powered by data to identify the hottest areas to watch in 2026 Why this matters

Financial freedom isn’t just about wealth – it’s about choice: the ability to decide when you retire, how you live, and what legacy you leave behind.

Research shows that people who enter retirement with a reliable income stream experience greater confidence, autonomy, and life satisfaction.

Tickets are available now and designed to educate, inspire and equip participants with the tools they need to plan their financial future with clarity and confidence.

Buy tickets to this March event online at https://bit.ly/seniors-event.

Don’t miss out. SPONSORED CONTENT

Isn’ta Chapter Retirement

It’sa wholestory

A busy social calendar at The Royce A more confident future awaits!

‘ Live Life in Colour’ is the theme for this year’s Seniors Week, with The Royce getting in on the fun.

The Royce, located at the Panthers Precinct in Penrith, will be adding to their usual range of activities and events for next week’s Seniors Week, which begins on Monday, March 2.

Village Manager at The Royce for the past four years, Michelle Wolfe, said the ‘Live Life in Colour’ theme aims to encourage seniors to celebrate new adventures, creativity and active lifestyles.

“The Village already has an incredible amount of things to do such as Pilates and the gym, but our biggest challenge is not creating the events for the residents, but finding a spot on their social calendar!” she said.

“During Seniors Week we try to have something different to what we usually have like running a mosaic workshop as well as a Travel Expo, which will inspire the residents

to take on those new adventures.

“We are also putting on a Mexican Fiesta with bright colours, bursting flavours, music and of course, a Piñata. Residents will have the brief of dressing up and the staff will definitely be having fun with that theme as well.”

The Royce hold events and experiences for their residents all-year round. Each year they hold a winter campfire under the stars with toasted marshmallows and singalongs, while recently they celebrated the Lunar New Year.

“That’s what we try to do at The Royce –think outside the box and recreate different events or moments that they may have enjoyed in their younger years,” Wolfe said.

“These events keep our community youthful and bring in that energy and fun. The residents have spent their lives working tirelessly, and now is their chance to unwind, enjoy life and cherish all the moments that they have.”

Stylish & Spacious 1-Bedroom Apartment For Sale!

Retirement is not a single milestone moment, but a journey that unfolds in stages, each with its own opportunities and challenges.

From preparing to step away from full-time work to navigating the complexities of later life, thoughtful financial advice can make all the difference.

Enhance Financial Partners is proud to support the community at every stage of retirement. As a leading Sydney and western Sydney financial advice firm, they are dedicated to helping individuals and families make informed decisions tailored to their unique goals.

To celebrate NSW Seniors Week, they are offering complimentary consultations, because no two retirement stories are the same.

The service starts with helping clients understand their options. This is done by assessing individual needs and goals and providing an explanation of aged care fees and charges.

From there, the team at Enhance Financial

Partners provides tailored strategies to help structure clients’ finances efficiently, ensuring entitlements are collected and long-term wealth is maximised.

Book your Seniors Week consultation today and take the next step toward a more confident future by calling 1300 885 025 or by visiting www.enhancefinancial. com.au.

For more information, you can register to take part in Enhance Financial Partners’ upcoming webinar

on March 19 at 6pm – ‘Planning For a Peace of Mind’: Things to consider in later retirement.

The practical and empowering webinar will cover the essentials of estate planning, explore downsizing options, explain aged care choices, and provide confidence for making decisions that will protect clients and their families.

You can access the webinar at https://us06web.zoom. us/webinar/register/WN_

The power of human connection Focus on confidence and care

As we celebrate Seniors Week, it’s a perfect moment for our community to acknowledge an organisation that quietly transforms the everyday lives of countless older residents – Nepean Food Services. For more than 30 years this local service has been nourishing bodies and hearts across Penrith, Silverdale and Warragamba with nutritious meals and friendship. While many know it for its

dependable Meals on Wheels deliveries, the impact of Nepean Food Services goes far beyond food. Its social support programs, from luncheon clubs and community restaurants to transport services and “Let’s Dine Out” vouchers create vital opportunities for connection, laughter and belonging. These moments of interaction can be as important as the meals themselves.

Volunteers bring not only meals to doorsteps but

As Australia’s popu lation ages, more families are asking how they can continue living well at home for as long as possible.

The 2021 Royal Commis sion into Aged Care Quality and Safety highlighted a strong national preference for ageing in place, with most older Australians wanting to remain in familiar surroundings, close to their community.

meaningful conversation and compassion, reminding us all how powerful human connection truly is.

Seniors Week is about celebrating contribution and community. Nepean Food Services embodies both –caring for older neighbours with dignity and warmth. As we honour our seniors, let’s also recognise and thank the volunteers and staff who make this support possible, and encourage others to get involved where they can.

Across western Sydney, this has increased demand for reliable in-home support. Falls are one of the leading causes of hospitalisation for Australians aged 65 and over, and gradual changes in strength, balance and confidence can impact independence. With the right support, many of these risks can be reduced.

Pinq Care was established in response to this need.

Backed by the experienced Physio Inq allied health network, Pinq Care brings together home support, nursing and allied health services in a coordinated

and approachable way.

The focus is on working alongside each person, whether that’s assistance with daily tasks, nursing care, or partnering with allied health professionals to improve strength and stability. The goal is to build confidence and capability so people can continue doing

what matters most. Through government-funded Support at Home packages, services can be tailored to individual goals and delivered with consistency and genuine care.

To learn more, visit www. pinqcare.com.au or call 1300 439 968.

4761 3210 �������� Monday- Wednesday: 9:00am to 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am to 3:00pm Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm

AST ONISHING AFRICA Exclusive & Wild

Join Scotty McRae as he returns to explore more of the magic of South Afric Zimbabwe and Kenya with a beach stay in Mombasa to put the icing on the African cake. It will be 23 days of excitement, wonder and exploration giving you the perfect mix of must visit locations with some beguiling destinations that are not on the usual tourist route.

The scenic magic of Cape Town with its unmatched natural beauty, amazing beaches, wonder ful hospitality, and cultural diversity makes Cape Town one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations on the planet. Including some sumptuous time in the world-famous Western Cape vineyards.

Discover Victoria Falls “Mosi-ao -Tunya” or the “smoke that thunders” is a must-see spectacle so incredible that it takes one’s breath away! You will also cruise the Zambezi River and take in the spectacle of elephants, hippo, crocodiles, and many different bird species going about their daily life right in front of you.

This Travelling Guy must do adventure leaves Australia in September and is capped at 12 guests onl y.

SAVE $4 00 PP WITH EA RLY BIRD PR ICING UN TIL MAR CH 1ST

Then it’s all about the magic of Kenya as we experience top shelf safari for 9 days in between The Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha and Nakuru. Amboseli home to the big tuskers. The Big 5 and the incredible Red Elephants of Tsavo National Parks. Think Giraffe, Rhino, Cheetah and so many more of what makes East Africa as astonishing as it is! y

For more information, itinerary and prices, or to discuss this fantastic oppor tunity with Scotty ' The Travelling Guy' email now to scott@thetravellingguy.com or private message on Facebook @scottythetravellingguy or Instagram @scottythetravellingguy