Home & Lifestyle January 29 2026

Western Property

WHY STAGING CAN GET YOU THE BEST PRICE

As the property market becomes more competitive in 2026, sellers are being urged to rethink how their homes are presented, with professional staging now viewed as one of the most powerful tools to attract buyers and maximise sale prices.

According to celebrity interior designer, property expert and founder of Kurved by Design, Kellie Richardson, buyers don't just purchase bricks and mortar, they buy a feeling, a lifestyle and a future vision of themselves in a space.

“Staging isn't about decoration, it's about psychology,” Richardson said.

“It shows buyers how to live in the home, how the space flows and why it feels right. That

emotional connection is what drives strong offers.

“If the property looks good and delivers the right emotional connection, staging can increase the sale price of your property by up to 15 per cent. That is a huge gain when you look at the market and the value of the property.”

Richardson explained the benefits of property staging when selling a home.

Staging removes personal distractions and creates a buyer-ready canvas

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is leaving too much of themselves in the home.

“Buyers don’t want to see your life, your photos or your collections,” Richardson said.

Professional staging strips

back personal items and visual noise, replacing them with clean, balanced styling that appeals to a broad buyer audience. It also ensures the property photographs beautifully which is essential for listing and marketing.

“STAGING DRAWS THE EYE TO WHAT MATTERS”

It makes rooms look bigger, brighter and more functional

Professional staging uses correctly scaled furniture and intentional placement to show how rooms are meant to function, helping buyers understand space,

flow and usability instantly.

“Staging can make a small room seem larger or a lower ceiling feel higher. It is all about optics and perception. Staging is more than making a room look nice, it is about transforming how a space appears to potential buyers,” Richardson added.

It highlights the property’s best features and downplays weaknesses

“Staging draws the eye to what matters,” Richardson said.

“We amplify natural light, ceiling height, layout and architectural details while minimising less desirable elements. Strategic placement of colours and lighting can immediately create a feeling of space and openness.”

It creates emotional connection and urgency

Buyers make decisions emotionally and justify them logically.

Homes that feel move-in ready often attract stronger competition, faster offers and fewer objections during negotiation.

It increases perceived value and supports stronger sale prices

Staged homes consistently outperform unstaged properties in both buyer interest and final sale outcomes.

In a market where buyers have choice, staging positions a property as the standout option.

Richardson said staging is no longer optional for sellers who want the best possible result.

“You don’t get a second chance at a first impression,” she said.

“Staging isn't a cost, it's a strategic investment that helps your property sell faster, with less friction and often for more.”

Sellers who present their homes professionally will be the ones who win.

PREMIUM LAND IN ORAN PARK

Western Property

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.

– Lynn H (Seller)

Your gut does a lot more than digest food. It’s a central player in your overall health and wellbeing. From breaking down nutrients and supporting your immune system to influencing mood and brain health, a healthy gut is vital. The trillions of microorganisms that live in your digestive system, known collectively as the gut microbiome, help maintain balance and protect your body from disease.

But factors like poor diet, stress, lack of sleep and medications can disrupt this balance, leading to digestive issues, inflammation and even mental health challenges. That’s why supporting your gut isn’t just about avoiding tummy troubles. It’s about feeling your best every day.

Here are some top tips to keep your gut healthy

1. Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole foods with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and

healthy fats. A diverse diet promotes a diverse gut microbiome, which is key to gut health.

2. Include fibre-rich foods: Fibre is a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Beans, legumes, oats and leafy greens are all excellent sources.

3. Consider probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that can support a healthy gut. Fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi are natural ways to add them to your diet.

4. Manage stress: The gut-brain connection is powerful. High stress can negatively affect digestion and gut health. Practices like mindful eating, meditation and regular movement can help.

5. Listen to your body: If certain foods cause discomfort, it may be

worth discussing potential intolerances with a dietitian to ensure your gut is supported without missing essential nutrients.

As dietitians, Emma and I love cutting through the confusion around gut health. There’s no magic potion, just practical, evidence-based strategies you can incorporate into everyday life to feel confident and supported. For a deeper dive, including fibre hacks, mindful munching and why stress management might be your secret gut weapon, catch our latest episode on the ‘What the Health? By OPH’ podcast, available now.

RETRO GAMES STILL LIVE!

Ihope you all had a wonderful holiday break. I had a chance to play with some retro Windows 98 emulation and games. There are two programs I played with – one is a browser-based emulator with maybe 50 games, and the other has thousands of retro games but requires installation. This week, I will cover the browser-based version, and next week I will discuss the more comprehensive version. So, if you feel like a bit of retro gaming – ‘Doom 1-3’, ‘Prince of Persia’, ‘Minecraft’, ‘Flappy Bird’, ‘Tomb Raider’, and many more, read on. EmuOS is a project that lets you run classic software,

old operating systems, and retro games right in your web browser. It uses a web browser to recreate the look and feel of early Windows versions, especially Windows 95, 98, and ME. This way, you can explore or rediscover old-school computing without having to install any emulator software.

To get started, visit https:// emupedia.net/beta/emuos.

You’ll see options for Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows ME. Most of them have the same games, so pick Windows 98. It will load a desktop that looks just like Windows 98. This desktop is your starting point for all the software and games.

EmuOS gives you an interactive retro desktop that runs right in your browser. The desktop includes a variety of emulated programs, as well as different tools utilities and applications. You’ll find Winamp 2.9, the classic media player, along with Paint, Notepad, Monaco Editor, and PixelCraft. One of the best things about EmuOS is its big collection of classic games. You’ll find everything from simple web games to full PC classics like ‘Doom’, ‘Doom II’, and ‘Wolfenstein 3D’. You can also play ‘Quake’, ‘Quake II’, and Quake III Arena. Other games include ‘Command & Conquer’, ‘Lemmings’ and ‘Prince of Persia’.

Nepean

JOIN OUR SWIM SAFETY TEAM HERE IN PENRITH!

Are you looking for rewarding local casual work with children, teaching them a skill for life? Are you available afternoons and weekends?

We are currently recruiting, offering successful individuals the chance to become certified swimming instructors and teach kids one of life’s most important skills – how to swim!

So why become a swim instructor with us? It is both rewarding and fulfilling knowing you are making a difference in the lives of the little people who attend learn to swim lessons and teaching them a skill that may one day even save their life. As swimming continues to rank among the top

• Are you a Weekend Warrior?

who are interested in being upskilled to work with our Achievers Program for neurodivergent and uniquely abled children. Our Achievers program runs on Sunday at Nepean Aquatic Centre, so consistent Sunday availability is a must. Seeing a child go from being afraid of the water to swimming their first lap is something you can’t forget – it’s an incredible feeling to know you’ve helped make that happen. Join our team and make a positive impact on children’s lives by teaching them essential water safety skills.

We are seeking people with the availability to work on weekends is a must to apply, with the ability to work on one or both days (Saturday and Sunday), plus multiple weekday afternoons.

Prior experience is not required; internal paid training will be provided.

• A bright and cheerful attitude paired with a strong work ethic goes a long way!

• Applicants must be 16 years of age or older and must obtain a Working with Children Check if 18 or over before progressing through our recruitment process.

We are also seeking (preferably already qualified) instructors

As part of the Nepean Swim & Fitness team you’ll have the opportunity to work in a fun, friendly and supportive environment with a flexible schedule and ongoing professional development opportunities. Interested? Email me ASAP –julie@nepeanswim.com.au – to express your interest and request further information.

Interviews will be taking place soon!

WHY VACCINATION IS AN IMPORTANT STEP

Rabbit owners across Greater Sydney and the Central Coast are being encouraged to plan ahead, following the NSW Government’s announcement of a scheduled release of the RHDV1-K5 calicivirus strain in early March 2026. This program is designed to help manage wild rabbit populations and protect agriculture and native bushland, but it also serves as an important reminder for pet owners to review their rabbit’s health care.

Rabbit calicivirus, also known as Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), affects both wild and domestic rabbits. While it spreads readily in the environment, the good news is that effective vaccination is available and provides strong protection for pet rabbits when kept up-to-date. The virus can be carried by insects such as flies and mosquitoes and can also be transported on shoes, clothing, grass, or equipment that has been in contact with wild rabbits.

Because of this, even rabbits that live indoors may be exposed from time to time. Vaccination helps protect rabbits regardless of their lifestyle and provides peace of mind for owners.

notice changes in their rabbit’s normal behaviour or routine.

Vaccination remains the most effective and reliable way to safeguard pet rabbits. The Filavac® vaccine can be given from 10

Some rabbits exposed to calicivirus may show vague early signs such as being quieter than usual, eating less, or producing fewer droppings. As with many illnesses, early veterinary attention is always important if owners

weeks of age as a single injection, with a booster recommended every 12 months for ongoing protection. With the planned virus release approaching, veterinarians recommend ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date

before March 2026, ideally by mid-February.

In addition to vaccination, there are a few simple steps owners can take to further reduce risk. Keeping rabbits indoors where possible, minimising contact with wild rabbits, using fly screens, and practising good hygiene – such as washing hands and removing shoes after being outdoors – can all help support your rabbit’s wellbeing.

These measures are particularly useful during the months following the release while the virus is circulating in the environment.

If you’re wondering whether your rabbit needs vaccination, consider whether they are older than 10 weeks, spend time outdoors, or come into contact with items brought in from outside.

If so, vaccination is strongly recommended.

For more information regarding rabbit vaccinations, contact the team at Orchard Hills veterinary Hospital.

INTRIGUING TREND FOR EVERYDAY INVESTORS

Managed accounts – often referred to simply as SMA’s – are becoming one of the fastest growing ways Australians choose to invest. While the term stands for Separately Managed Accounts, few people ever use the full name. What matters more is how quickly these investment vehicles have moved from being the domain of high net worth individuals to a practical, accessible option for everyday mums and dads.

Advances in technology have played a major role in this shift. Lower operating costs and more efficient administration mean SMA’s are now cost effective for a much broader range of investors. In fact, many professionals are directing superannuation member balances into SMA structures, reflecting their growing popularity and trust in the model.

So what exactly is an SMA?

At its core, a managed account is an investment portfolio that

can be adjusted throughout the year by professional managers.

Investors retain full visibility over every holding and every transaction, yet they don’t need to make any of the day to day decisions themselves. It’s a hands off approach that still offers complete transparency.

Most SMA portfolios are built using a mix of managed funds and exchange traded funds (ETFs) sourced from specialist investment providers. This blend allows for a well diversified portfolio without the complexity of managing multiple individual holdings.

Key benefits of SMA’s Professional management and oversight, ensuring portfolios remain aligned with their stated objectives.

Disciplined rebalancing , keeping asset allocations on track rather than drifting over time.

Broad diversification within a single managed structure.

Clear visibility of all holdings and transactions through plat-

form reporting. Administrative simplicity, with all changes handled within one consolidated solution.

Reduced behavioural risk, helping investors stay the course during periods of market volatility.

Historically, the main drawback of SMA’s was cost. They were once considered a premium product with fees to match. Today, that’s no longer the case.

Thanks to economies of scale

and improved technology, SMA providers can now offer these portfolios at costs comparable to traditional diversified investment options.

As more Australians seek transparency, control, and professional oversight in their investments, SMA’s are well positioned to continue their rise. What was once a niche offering for the wealthy has become a practical, modern solution for investors of all sizes.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Courtesy of the Full Moon, creative partnerships and joint ventures are favoured, as you spark ideas off each other and pool talents to create something unique. When it comes to relationships, stop talking long enough to let others have their say. Venus could send a special friend along to help you out of a sticky situation. As music icon Bob Marley observed, “True friends are like stars; you can only recognise them when it’s dark around you.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The week starts with a dramatic Leo Full Moon that lights up your home zone, so expect some fiery domestic shenanigans and rumbles with housemates or relatives. Things settle down for a few days, then rev up again on Sunday when disruptive Uranus squares Venus (your ruling planet). A personal problem could be reignited or a work colleague could shock you by making an unexpected move. When it comes to your hopes and dreams for 2026, write a wish list.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Lions love to hog the limelight and be the centre of attention, especially when the Full Moon’s in Leo. And it is a fabulous week to put ideas into action and finish a long-term creative project. However –with the Uranus squares activating your relationship and career zones – try to get the balance right between your pending needs and those of the significant people in your life. Perhaps it’s time for your lover, best friend or business partner to sparkle and shine?

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Many Scorpios are set to shine on the professional stage, as Monday’s fiery Full Moon illuminates your career zone. Then Mercury joins Saturn in your love and friendship zone, so spend quality time on the weekend with long-term friends who lift your spirits and make your heart sing. Be inspired by birthday great and music icon Bob Marley (who was born on February 6, 1945), “Love, friendship, laughter … some of the best things in life really are free.”

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The fiery Full Moon and Mercury (moving into your sign) encourage tweaking your timetable, devising a new daily schedule or rebooting a work relationship. This week’s stars also suit projects that require a curious mind, self-motivation and creative, flexible thinking. So don’t waste the opportunity to communicate with colleagues, power through paperwork and create something new. Plus put aside some special time to meditate, contemplate and rejuvenate.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Five planets and the Full Moon stimulate your travel, communication and education zones. So it’s a wonderful week to read, write, study, learn, give a speech, write an article, post a podcast or explore exciting new territory as you go on a grand adventure (locally, interstate or overseas). Sate your galloping Gemini curiosity! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, writer James Joyce, “To learn one must be humble. But life is the great teacher.”

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Your days are usually organised with military precision. But this week there’s a fiery Full Moon, plus Uranus squares Venus and Mercury (your ruling planet). So strive to be much more spontaneous as you toss your usual timetable out the window and stretch your adaptability muscles in unfamiliar directions. Whatever happens, expect the unexpected and prepare to pivot! Unhappily single? You could meet your soul mate via an introduction through work.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

With the fiery Full Moon activating your adventure zone, it’s a terrific week to travel or plan an exotic escape for some time soon. But Mercury and Venus also square Uranus so, if you blurt out something when you’re in a rush or feeling stressed, you may regret it later on! Think things through before you speak (especially with loved ones and work colleagues). Remember Sagittarius – the first thought that jumps into your head isn’t necessarily the best one.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

The Full Moon fires up your romantic, imaginative side, so you’re in the mood for fun, creativity and lashings of love. As Aries writer Emile Zola declared, “If you ask me what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud.” But the Uranus squares boost your tendency to make hasty remarks and unintentional blunders, especially involving friends and finances. Remember – it takes a short time to burn bridges and a lot longer to mend them!

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Secrets and mysteries abound as six planets stimulate your trust zone, so avoid fake news and be very careful about who you place your trust in. You’re also keen to show loved ones how much you really care. Avoid being too overprotective though. Give people space. All relationships need room to breathe and there’s a big difference between loving and smothering. Be inspired by birthday great, writer Charles Dickens, “A loving heart is the truest wisdom.”

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Monday morning’s fiery Full Moon lights up your hopes and wishes zone. So it’s a suitable time to expand (or re-visit) your goals for 2026. Don’t be half-hearted though. Aim high, go for gold, and make your dreams as big and beautiful as possible! Sunday looks unpredictable, as Uranus squares Venus and a close relationship goes through a bumpy patch. Music legend (and birthday great) Bob Marley reminds us, “Overcome the devils with a thing called love.”

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Money matters are on your mind this week Capricorn, as the Full Moon fires up your cash zones. Look for creative ways you can make more income, budget better, save more dollars and feather your financial nest for the future. Secrets and intrigue are also around, so take the time to peel back the layers and discover the real story that’s hidden behind the exterior gloss. The weekend is wonderful for connecting with like-minded people in your local community.

7. A selection

8.

22. Lessen in intensity (4,2)

23. Bends

25. Isolated land tract

26. Encircle

29. Public plant park, ... garden

32. Epidemic disease

35. Skating entertainment (3,4)

37. Luxury fabrics, ... and satins

38. Affl icted (with guilt)

40. Wool bundles

41. Waltz

42. Paddling craft

43. Fastened (corset)

44. Lathers

47. Breeding

51. Sponged

52. Doctrinal rupture

53. Legendary man-like beings

54. Gem, lapis ...

58. Shy away from 59. Regal title (1,1,1)

61. Cancel (marriage)

63. Bedouin

64. Appetiser

65. Slanted (typeface)

66. Chasm

68. Large violin

71. Eskimo shelter

72. Egotistical

74. Molecule part

76. Estuary current

78. Vehicle wheel

80. Spy writer, ... Fleming

83. Yuck!

Word Search

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be

Test your knowledge about the ‘Toy Story’ movies in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. What is the name of Andy’s neighbour in ‘Toy Story’?

2. What year was ‘Toy Story’ released?

3. In ‘Toy Story’ which toy doesn’t know he is a toy?

6. What is the name of the show Woody used to star in?

7. Who is Buzz’s archenemy?

8. Currently, how many ‘Toy Story’ movies have been released?

Maddie’s Meals

Baked Cheesecake

This recipe is simple and delicious – always a crowd favourite!

What you’ll need:

– Springform pan

– 1 mixing bowl

– Electric Mixer (handheld)

– Measuring spoons

– Spatula

Ingredients:

Base:

– 1 packet Arnott’s Nice biscuits – crushed

–1 tsp Cinnamon (optional)

– 125g melted Margarine or Butter

Filling:

– 3 tubs/packets of Cream Cheese – room temperature

– 1 cup white Sugar

– 1 tsp Vanilla Essence

– 1 tbsp Lemon juice (can substitute with lemon essence)

– 2 Eggs – 1 punnet of Raspberriescrushed with hands

Method:

– Mix biscuit crumbs, cinnamon and melted butter together and press mixture evenly into a springform pan.

– Chill mixture in the fridge while preparing filling.

– Beat cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth.

– Add lemon juice and vanilla. Beating constantly, add eggs one at a time.

– Add ¾ of the crushed raspberries to the mixture and fold in with spatula.

– Pour mixture into prepared crumb and spread evenly, adding the leftover raspberries on top.

– Bake at 150° for 45 minutes. Leave in oven to cool.

– Check cheesecake is cooked by inserting small knife or skewer into the centre. If the knife is clean, it’s cooked, if not, put back in the oven on low heat and monitor.

Shopping Let’s go

EL MACO® RETURNS

*Available after 10:30am for a limited time. Serving suggestion.