Home & Lifestyle July 23 2026

FIRST HOME BUYERS ARE FOCUSED ON THE WEST

Western Sydney is leading the charge for first home buyers in New South Wales, claiming seven of the top 10 suburbs for buyer activity in the second quarter of 2026.

PropTech firm InfoTrack recently released its latest Property Market Update, which analyses sales activity from Wednesday, April 1 to Tuesday, June 30, with the data revealing NSW property sales volumes increased 7.1 per cent over the quarter.

InfoTrack’s Chief Operating Officer Lee Bailie said the results highlight a market where affordability is playing an increasingly important role in buyer decisions.

“First home buyers are making

very deliberate choices about where they enter the market, and affordability is clearly shaping demand,” Bailie said.

“WESTERN SYDNEY CONTINUES TO STAND OUT”

Apartments led first home buyer purchases, accounting for three quarters of sales (76.7 per cent) and pointing to affordability as a key consideration for this buyer group.

Bailie explained that first home buyers are finding

success in western Sydney given a mixture of things.

“Western Sydney continues to stand out because it offers a combination of relative value, infrastructure investment and access to housing options that suit first home buyers,” Bailie said.

Parramatta reclaimed the top position as the most popular suburb for first home buyers, this time widening its lead.

“Parramatta’s return to number one reflects its strong fundamentals, including transport connectivity, employment opportunities and a growing supply of apartment stock,” Bailie said.

For the first time Fairfield made an appearance, ranking in second place after seeing a 130

per cent increase in volume of sales quarter-on-quarter, driven by its relative affordability and increasing supply of apartments.

“With borrowing capacity impacted by interest rates, suburbs like Fairfield are becoming increasingly attractive,” Bailie said.

“Affordable price points combined with significant local investment, including a $630 million hospital redevelopment and a new $50 million mega venue, are boosting its appeal among first home buyers.”

Western Sydney continued to dominate the rankings, with Liverpool ranking fourth, Blacktown seventh, Schofields eight, Penrith ninth and Wentworth Point 10th.

A CONNECTED LIFESTYLE

What is so great about this property?

A thoughtfully designed family floorplan that offers both connection and privacy. Move-in ready with every modern convenience. Who does this property suit?

Growing families, couples, those seeking low-maintenaince living. Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

Caddens is a thriving, masterplanned community renowned for its modern homes, leafy parks and exceptional convenience. With quality schools, Caddens Corner Shopping Centre, Western Sydney University, Nepean

Hospital and Penrith CBD all just moments away, it offers a connected lifestyle in one of the region’s most sought-after suburbs.

Disc

over

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

HAMSTRING STRENGTH IN SPRINT SPORTS

Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries in sports that involve sprinting, such as rugby league, football and athletics. While most people think about hamstrings from an injury prevention perspective, they also play a major role in helping athletes run faster and perform at their best.

Every time an athlete accelerates or reaches maximal speed, the hamstrings are working to produce force and control the movement of the leg. If they’re not strong enough for these demands, both performance and injury risk can be affected.

Building sprint strength

The ability to produce force into the ground is what allows athletes to accelerate quickly and maintain speed. Strong hamstrings contribute to a more powerful stride and help athletes generate force more efficiently during a sprint. Including exercises that target

the hamstrings in the gym can support these improvements. Movements such as Romanian deadlifts, Nordic hamstring curls and single-leg strength exercises all help build strength that transfers to running and sprinting.

Reducing injury risk

As training intensity increases throughout the season, so do the demands placed on the hamstrings. Strength training should be combined with regular sprint exposure so athletes gradually build the capacity to handle the speeds they’ll reach in games and training. Progressing both gym work and running load helps reduce sudden spikes that are often linked to injuries.

Strength for performance

Hamstring strength should be viewed as a key component of athletic development rather than simply an injury prevention strategy. A balanced program that develops strength, power and sprint capacity gives athletes

the physical qualities needed to perform at their best throughout the season. If you or your athlete would like an organised strength and conditioning program, book in with

UNLOCK

Tme at OnePointHealth. Together, we’ll develop an individualised training plan that builds strength, improves performance and helps reduce the risk of injury throughout the season.

interest rates than unsecured finance options such as personal loans or credit cards. Over the life of a renovation loan, this can mean substantial savings.

he family home has quietly become more than just a place to live, it’s a financial asset that’s grown in value over years of mortgage repayments and rising property prices. Increasingly, local homeowners are tapping into that growth to fund something practical: renovating the very home that created it. What is equity, and why does it matter?

Renovations such as kitchen and bathroom updates, additional living space, or improved energy efficiency can add value to a property – in some cases offsetting some or all of the cost of the works over time.

Equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. If your property has increased in value since you bought it or you’ve paid down a significant portion of your loan, you may have built up equity that can be accessed through refinancing or a top-up loan, without needing to sell.

Why renovate using equity rather than other finance options?

Because a home equity loan is secured against the property, lenders typically offer more competitive

For growing families or those wanting more space, renovating can be a more affordable alternative to selling and buying a larger home, particularly once stamp duty, agent fees, and moving costs are factored in.

Rather than juggling a separate renovation loan alongside a mortgage, many homeowners choose to fold renovation costs into their existing home loan structure, simplifying repayments.

Points worth considering

Using equity isn’t the right fit for everyone, and it’s worth going in with eyes open:

• It increases your loan balance. Borrowing more against your home means a larger mortgage and, potentially, a longer loan term or higher repayments.

• Property values can fall as well as rise. Renovation spending doesn’t guarantee a dollar-fordollar increase in value.

• Not all lenders assess useable equity the same way, and borrowing capacity, serviceability, and loan-to-value ratio requirements will affect how much can be accessed.

• Fees and structuring matter. The right approach depends on individual circumstances.

The Experts

UNDERSTANDING KENNEL COUGH AND ITS IMPACT

If your dog has suddenly developed a persistent hacking cough, you’re not alone. Over recent weeks, veterinary clinics have seen a noticeable increase in cases of kennel cough, leaving many owners concerned about what is causing their dog’s symptoms.

Kennel cough (also known as canine cough) is a contagious upper respiratory infection in dogs caused by several different highly infectious bacteria and viruses, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica. Much like the common cold in people, it is highly contagious and spreads easily wherever dogs come into contact with one another.

Despite its name, dogs don’t have to visit a boarding kennel to catch kennel cough. It can be picked up almost anywhere dogs socialise, including dog parks, or even during a walk where dogs greet each other. The infection spreads through airborne droplets produced when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, as well as

contaminated bowls, bedding, toys and other shared surfaces.

The most common symptom is a harsh, dry, hacking cough that often sounds as though your dog has something stuck in their throat. Many dogs will gag or retch after coughing, while others may sneeze or develop a mild runny nose. Excitement, exercise or pulling on a lead can make the coughing worse, and some dogs cough so forcefully they vomit.

Most otherwise healthy dogs remain bright, active and continue eating normally despite their cough. Symptoms usually appear three to seven days after exposure and often improve within one to two weeks. However, not every cough is kennel cough.

A cough can also be a sign of more serious conditions including pneumonia, heart disease, collapsing trachea, airway obstruction or, in some regions, heartworm disease. For this reason, any persistent or wors-

ening cough should be assessed by your veterinarian. A physical examination, and in some cases blood tests or chest x-rays, may be recommended to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment depends on

the severity of the infection. Many mild cases simply require rest, avoiding strenuous exercise and allowing time for the airways to heal. More severe infections may require medication, particularly if there are signs of secondary bacterial infection or pneumonia.

Vaccination remains the best way to reduce your dog’s risk. Vaccines are available and help lessen both the severity of illness and the spread of infection. While no vaccine offers 100 per cent protection, vaccinated dogs generally experience much milder disease.

If your dog develops a cough, keep them away from other dogs until they have recovered, as kennel cough spreads very easily. Early veterinary assessment not only helps your own dog recover but also reduces the risk of passing the infection on to others.

For more information or if your dog has developed a cough, contact our team.

Relax & Unwind

AMANDA JANE

Clairvoyant Medium

amandajane-xo.com

revivalretreats.com.au

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Relationships remain your greatest teachers this week. Honest communication and vulnerability will strengthen important connections, whether in love, family or friendships. Be willing to compromise without losing yourself. An unexpected conversation may bring healing, deeper understanding or exciting plans for the future.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Your attention naturally shifts towards creating more stability and comfort in your personal life. Financial matters look positive if you avoid impulsive decisions. Someone may seek your advice or support, reminding you just how much wisdom you have to offer. Prioritising self-care will leave you feeling refreshed and energised.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Happy Birthday, Leo! Your confidence begins to shine brighter as your season arrives. Others are naturally drawn to your warmth and leadership, making this a wonderful week to launch new ideas or pursue personal goals. Believe in yourself – you’ve worked hard to reach this point, and your time to shine has arrived.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Career, purpose and long-term ambitions receive positive attention this week. Your dedication is beginning to pay off, even if results have felt slow to appear. Stay focused on your vision and avoid distractions. Trust your intuition when making important choices – it won’t lead you astray. Don’t doubt yourself.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Small, intentional changes to your daily routine in this next little while will create lasting positive results. Your intuition is especially heightened, so pay attention to dreams, signs and quiet inner nudges. Spirit encourages you to simplify your schedule, protect your energy and trust that you’re exactly where you need to be.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Your gift of communication is especially strong this week, making it an ideal time to express ideas, negotiate or reconnect with someone important. New opportunities could arrive through social interactions or networking. Trust your curiosity and don’t dismiss the small signs pointing you towards your next exciting adventure.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Life asks you to slow down and reconnect with yourself before taking your next big step. Rest is productive too, especially if you’ve been pushing yourself lately. Trust that everything is unfolding in perfect timing. Behind the scenes, opportunities are quietly aligning in ways you may not yet recognise.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Adventure is calling, whether through travel, learning something new or simply saying yes to experiences outside your comfort zone. A fresh perspective could completely change your outlook. Listen carefully to conversations that inspire you, as they may contain the guidance you’ve been searching for.

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Momentum is beginning to build, but don’t feel pressured to have all the answers just yet. This week rewards patience, thoughtful planning and trusting your instincts. A conversation with someone close could inspire a fresh direction or help you see a situation from a completely new perspective. Stay open to unexpected opportunities.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

As one chapter closes, another begins with fresh possibilities. You’re being encouraged to honour how far you’ve come while confidently looking ahead. Trust your intuition around finances, relationships and career decisions. A small step taken this week could create significant positive momentum over the coming months.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Friendships, teamwork and meaningful connections take centre stage. Someone may offer encouragement, support or an opportunity that helps move you forward. Be willing to receive as much as you give. Balance comes through honest conversations and surrounding yourself with people who genuinely lift your energy.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Adventure is calling, whether through travel, learning something new or simply saying yes to experiences outside your comfort zone. A fresh perspective could completely change your outlook. Listen carefully to conversations that inspire you, as they may contain the guidance you’ve been searching for.

BRISBANE’S TOP 10

When your best friend lives interstate and says she needs you, you book a flight.

That’s exactly what I did last month and proceeded to spend a weekend doing all her favourite activities.

So, without further ado, here are the top 10 things to do if you want to be a Brisbane local for a weekend…

1. Enjoy a festival

At the time of my visit, Brisbane was in the throes of Festa Italiana – an annual Italian food and culture festival at Howard Smith Wharves.

Acoustic Italian music rang through the event, and red gingham tablecloths adorned tables throughout the festival. The smell of pizza and pasta lingered in the air and refreshing Aperol Spritzes tasted just as satisfying as they did in Italy.

Although Festa Italiana has now ended, it was one of many festivals on Brisbane’s cultural calendar! Still to come this year is Providore Park, Redfest Strawberry Festival, Night Feast, and the Good Food and Wine Show.

2. Explore New Farm Markets

The Jan Powers Farmers Markets Powerhouse has run from 9am to 12pm every Saturday for 26 years, and it is still bustling!

The market’s popularity is no doubt thanks to the rows of passionate stallholders selling handmade products and fresh produce like fruit, vegetables, artisan cheeses, pasta, bread, and more!

3. Picnic at New Farm Park

Since you’re already in New Farm for the market, have a picnic at New Farm Park!

Set up a blanket on the lush grass after a stroll along the riverside promenade, prepare your cheeseboard, people watch, enjoy

the scenic view of Brisbane River, and have a laugh.

4. Catch a ferry at sunset

In Brisbane, a sunset cruise costs $1. That is if you board one of Brisbane’s ferries – known as CityCat’s and KittyCat’s – at the right time of day.

“I’LL

These ferries are a go-to form of public transport and stop at a network of 22 terminals along the Brisbane River. They are not only an amazing way to get around the city, but also a great tool for sightseeing.

Taking in the Brisbane skyline and the iconic Story Bridge as the sun set behind them casting incredible shades of gold and pink across the sky was a memorable moment.

5. See the city from above

If you want a different view of the CBD, head to the Star Casino’s Sky Deck. 100 metres above the city, you can soak in the view day or night, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate it with a cocktail in-hand.

6. Get fancy

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, I recommend Tillerman Seafood Restaurant. It boasts resort-style riverside dining and serves incredible local seafood. Not to mention, the live piano player and friendly staff! I’ll be

back at Tillerman every time I venture to Brisbane.

If you want something a bit more lowkey, I recommend Stratton Bar and Kitchen – an industrial-style venue within two transformed World War II hangars in Newstead.

7. Bust a move

My best friend and I spent our pre-teen and early teenage years dancing competitively together, so when we catch up, a dance break is non-negotiable.

For a night out, I recommend heading to Fortitude Valley – or ‘the Valley’ if you’re a local – and starting the night with karaoke at Lost Souls. After that, it’s only right to head to the local country bar! We selected Honky Tonks for a dose of live music. After a country fix, head to Su Casa Nightclub and Rooftop for some R&B, before completing the night at a local kebab shop.

8. Wake up properly

For a great coffee and an incredible breakfast, Pablo’s Pantry is

the answer. The food is delicious and the family behind the counter are passionate about delivering an amazing experience. They hope to create a feeling of home for every customer, and the recipes have been passed down from mother to daughter for generations. You can taste the love.

9. Smell the roses Stop and smell the flowers at MILKBUD – a new florist in Woolloongabba. This florist has quickly gained popularity for its flowers over fillers philosophy, pet-safe range, zero plastic use, and on-trend stems.

10. Go old school

Finally, you can’t do a girl’s trip without a little bit of shopping. If you want to do that sustainably, I recommend a visit to Vintage Street in Stones Corner. This shop offers a huge selection of second-hand designer clothing. I spotted a gorgeous Prada handbag for $100, and the Burberry coat collection is amazing! Not to mention, if you want to continue the vintage vibes, there is a record store called Sonic Sherpa just next door. There is so much to see and do in Brisbane! But if you want to embrace being a local for a weekend, these top 10 tips are a fool-proof method.

26. Eternally

29. Gives

32.

38. Aromatic

40. Perch

41. Denmark natives

42. Packs of cards

43. Ponds

44. Severe (illness)

47. Amasses

51. Cross-country walk

52. Fidget

53. Brief turbulent storm

54. Idiom

58. Kit out

59. Insecticide (1,1,1)

61. Diner

63. Black pool-ball number

64. Smudges

65. Taller

66. Provide (with)

68. Courage

71. Abrasive paper

72. Lounge about 74. Bare

76. Curves

78. Recording reel

80. Excellent (1-1,1)

83. Favourite

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: FRUITS APPLE

LIME

Last week’s solution

Trivia Quiz

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

When do the 2026 Commonwealth Games begin?

Where are the 2026 Commonwealth Games being hosted? 3. How many sports are being played in the 2026 Commonwealth Games? 4. How many nations and territories are participating in the 2026 Commonwealth Games?

5. Which two nations are making their Commonwealth Games debut?

6. How often are the Commonwealth Games held?

7. Where were the inaugural Games held in 1930?

8. How many times has Australia hosted the Commonwealth Games?

9. Where will the 2030 Commonwealth Games be held?

–

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!

Honey & Maddie’s Meals

Green Tea Cookies

This cookie recipe is an easy favourite of mine, and you can swap out the mix ins for anything you like.

What You’ll Need:

– Large mixing bowl

– Electric Mixer (optional)

– Measuring cups

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup of Butter (approx. 113 grams), softened

– 1/2 Castor Sugar

– 1 cup Self Raising Flour

– Vanilla to taste

– 2 Tbsp Condensed Milk

– 2 Tbsp Honey

– 1 bag Green Tea, steeped

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°

2. Cream the butter and sugar with the electric mixer until it is smooth and lighter in colour.

3. Add the vanilla and condensed milk, mixing well.

4. Add in the flour and mix until just combined. This may be easier with just a spoon or spatula.

5. Steep the green tea in a small amount of water, adding to the mixture a little at a time. Run the bag under cold water and then break open, adding some of the steeped tea leaves to the mixture. Add the honey and mix through.

6. Roll cookies into balls and place on a tray. Cook for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes and enjoy!

Tip: If yours spread together like mine did, you can cut out fun shapes instead!

A unique farewell in Emu Plains

In a fast–growing region like Penrith, where development often brings speed and efficiency, one Emu Plains chapel is quietly pushing back against the idea that everything must run to the clock – especially funerals.

At Grace Funerals – Penrith, located in Emu Plains, families are finding a chapel designed around flexibility rather than fixed time slots, offering a noticeably different experience to many traditional funeral venues and crematoriums.

Locals who have attended services at the Grace Chapel say the absence of strict time limits allows families to move through farewells at their own pace, without the pressure of ‘the next service waiting’.

The chapel itself reflects that philosophy. Filled with natural light, the space feels open and calm – a deliberate departure from darker, more enclosed funeral interiors. A green wall forms a central feature, adding warmth and a sense of life to the room, which is a detail that has resonated strongly with families looking for a more contemporary setting.

Unlike older facilities, the Emu Plains chapel is modern and purpose–built, with clean lines

and a light, neutral palette. Technology has also been built in rather than added on. High–quality live streaming allows family members who cannot attend in person to take part – something that has become increasingly important for Penrith families with widely spread relatives.

Practicality also plays a role. Parking is readily available, easing congestion and stress during an already difficult time, particularly

for older attendees or those unfamiliar with the area.

Beyond the building itself, Grace Funerals is family owned and operated and has developed a reputation for a high level of service with a strong focus on listening and personalisation rather than formulaic arrangements. Each farewell is planned to reflect the individual, rather than fitting a set template.

After services, many families continue gatherings at nearby

Penrith and Emu Plains venues, reinforcing the chapel’s connection to the local community. Popular wake locations include O’Donoghue’s, The Log Cabin, Emu Hall, Nepean Rowers, and Leonay Golf Club – all within easy reach and familiar to many locals.

As Penrith continues to grow, the Grace Funerals Emu Plains chapel

is emerging as a space that reflects changing expectations; a place that prioritises time and care, and offers families a farewell shaped around people, not schedules.

Grace Funerals can be contacted via phone at 4735 6900 or email at info@gracefunerals.com.au. Find out more information online at www.gracefunerals.com.au.