Home & Lifestyle June 18 2026

FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR COOKTOP EVOLUTION

The rise of open-plan living has fundamentally changed the role of Australian kitchens. No longer separated from living and dining areas, the kitchen is increasingly expected to operate as a cohesive, multi-purpose environment that balances practicality, overall comfort, flow and thoughtful design.

Reflecting this shift, BORA, the German-Austrian company group founded almost 20 years ago by Willi Bruckbauer, is bringing renewed attention to the BORA X Pure cooktop extractor system through the latest evolution of the BORA Pure family, which includes the introduction of a sophisticated new matte finish and enhanced premium features designed to support contemporary, open-plan living.

Balancing aesthetics, comfort and performance, the BORA X Pure eliminates the need for a traditional overhead rangehood through its integrated cooktop extractor system. The appliance helps maintain clean sightlines across open-plan spaces while delivering

effective odour extraction and fresh indoor air during and after cooking.

The BORA Pure family represents nearly 20 years of continuous innovation in cooktop extraction technology, with new features and a refined aesthetic elevating both innovation and the everyday pleasure of cooking.

“It took time, commitment and dedication to develop the first BORA cooktop extractor system nearly 20 years ago. Since then, we have never stopped innovating and optimising. Our challenge is to create products which change everyday life. The BORA perspective is simple and grounded: highest quality and continuous innovation and local production.

For the latter, we are investing in a factory next to our headquarters in Austria,” notes Bruckbauer, outlining the company’s strategic effort in making a difference in the industry.

In Australia, the evolution of open-plan living has increased demand for appliances that integrate more seamlessly into the architecture of the home.

Sean Burrell-Sinclair, Country Manager at BORA APAC said the BORA X Pure reflects the growing preference for kitchens that support both functionality and connected living.

“As kitchens become increasingly integrated into living and entertaining spaces, there is greater emphasis on appliances that support clean sightlines and quieter, more cohesive environments,” he said.

“The integrated extractor system and the new matte black finish allow the appliance to blend naturally into contemporary kitchen design while maintaining exceptional performance.”

An interesting detail: BORA cooktop extractor systems feature a round air inlet nozzle, unlike many other manufacturers. By keeping the distance between the extractor and the pot on each cooking zone as short as possible, this design ensures highly effective vapour extraction.

Visit www.bora.com/en-au to learn more or to discover stockists.

Discover exclusive townhome

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• Spacious, designer interiors

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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

Blaxland

McDonald's

C addens

C addens News (C addens Corner)

Woolworths

C ambridge Gardens

Coles

McDonald's

Overlander Hotel

C ambridge Park

C ambridge Park Newsagency

Cellarbations

Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

Claremont Meadows

IGA Claremont Meadows

Coly ton

Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

Coly ton Friendly Grocer

Coly ton Hotel

Coly ton Newsagency

Dan Murphy's

Hewitt Street Takeaway

Cranebrook

Aldi Cranebrook

Cranebrook Community Health

Cranebrook Village

McDonald's

Plus Pharmacy

Raygal Landscape & Nursery Supplies

Woolworths Cranebrook

Emu Plains

Chambers Cellars

Lennox Centre Newsagency

McDonald's

Penrith Regional Galler y

Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

Emu Height s

Super Save Compounding Chemis t

Erskine Park

Ashcroft’s IGA

Erskine Park CTC

G lenbrook

Glenbrook Newsagency

G lenmore Park

Coles

Mags News

McDonald's Glenmore Park

McDonald’s Mulgoa Rise

Medi Advice Pharmacy

Woolworths

J amisontown

Abcoe

Abel Street C afé

Atmosphere Fitness Signature Gym

B att Street Takeaway

Grey Gums Hotel

Har vey Norman

New On York Takeaway

Parrabey Gourmet Kitchen –

(Penrith Homemaker)

S alt C afé (Penrith Homemaker)

S hell Ser vice Station

Taproom On Tench

The Coffee Club Nepean River

Three Sugars C afé

We stern Weekender

York Takeaway

Zoo Fitness

7/ 11 Jamisontow n

Jordan Springs

Brooks Tavern

Jordan Springs Newsagency

Woolworths

Kemps Creek

C altex Ser vice Station

Kemps Creek Bowling Club

Kingswood

B arista Bar Coff ee Shop

(Nepean Private Hospital)

Countr y Brewer

Hallani’s

Kingswood Hotel

Kingswood Newsagency

Kingswood Sports Club

Penrith Gaels Club

Volunteers Desk Nepean Hospital

7/ 11 Kingswood

Leonay

Emu Sports Club

Grow C afé (formerly Willow Tree C afé)

Llandilo IGA

Londonderr y

Londonderr y Liquor Store

S hell X Roads

Luddenham

Au stralia Pos t

IGA Luddenham

Minchinbur y McDonald's

Minchinbur y Fruit Market

Mulgoa

Glenmore Heritage Golf Club

Mulgoa Newsagency

Mulgoa Pharmacy

Nor th St Mar ys

Boronia House (Retirement Community)

Little Bottler

MFC Food Stores

Old Mt Druitt

RM Newsagency

Orchard Hills

Flower Power

Oxley Park

Morris C are & Advice Pharmacy

Penrith

Aldi

Astina

7/ 11 Henr y Street

Atmosphere Gym

Ca fé Fre d

Au stralian Arms

Coles Penrith (Nepean Village)

Coles ( We stfield Penrith)

Crescent Mini Mar t

High Street Pies

Hog's Bre ath C afé

Hoyt s Westfield

Joan Sutherland Arts Centre

Liquor Stax Pe achtree

McDonald's High Street

McDonald's Panthers Le agues

McDonald's Pe achtree

Mercure Hotel

Museum Of Fire

Nepean Aquatic Centre

Nepean Motor Group C afé

Nepean Rowing Club

Nepean Village Coffee Club

Nepean Village Newsagency

Nextra Westfield

O ffice of Karen McKeown MP

One Point Health

Panthers Le agues Club

Pe achtree Hotel

Penrith Bowling Club

Penrith CBD Corporation

Penrith City Council

Penrith City Librar y

Penrith Hotel

Penrith Markets (Thursdays)

Penrith Paceway

Penrith RSL

Penrith Senior Citizens’ Centre

Pioneer Tavern

RE/MAX

Sittano s Restaurant

Tattersalls Hotel

The Heritage Terrace C afé

The Log C abin

We stfield

Wingsto p

World Gym

Regentville

7/ 11 Regentville

Ropes Crossing Coles

Ropes Crossing Newsagency

Silverdale

Choice Pharmacy

Mobil Ser vice Station

S outh Penrith

Budget Ser vice Station

Fish Fish

Friendly Grocer

Grose’s Pharmacy

Southlands Newsagency

Borec Road Takeaway (Valley C afé)

Lemongrove Community Health Centre

South Penrith Neighbourhood Centre

Woolworths

St Clair Blue C attle Dog Hotel

Foodworks

St Clair Librar y

St Clair Shopping Centre

7/ 11 St Clair

St Mar ys All Good Newsagency

Andrew s Corner Store

Ampol Foodar y Astley Pharmacy

C assand ra’s On Queen

Cr ystal C afé

Guido’s Hair C are

Jayam Supermarket

Gloria Jean s (St Mar ys Village)

McDonald's St Mar ys South Monfar ville Corner Store

Queen Street Newsagency

St Mar ys Band Club

St Mar ys Diggers

St Mar ys Fish Market

St Mar ys Le agues Club

St Mar ys

MAJA BOSIC

OnePointHealth 4732 5188

WHY TIGHT CALVES CAUSE SO MANY ISSUES

When people develop foot pain, they often assume the problem originates in the foot itself. However, in many cases, the true cause lies higher up the leg.

Tight calves are one of the most common yet overlooked contributors to foot pain.

At OnePointHealth, we frequently identify tight calf muscles as a contributing factor in conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, shin splints and forefoot pain.

The connection between the calves and the feet

The calf is made up of two major muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus. Together, they attach to the heel bone via the Achilles tendon, the strongest tendon in the human body. These muscles play a critical role in walking, running, climbing stairs, and virtually every movement that involves the lower limb.

For the body to move efficiently, the ankle requires adequate flexibility to bend upwards, a movement known as dorsiflexion. When calf muscles become tight, ankle motion becomes restricted, forcing the body to compensate elsewhere.

Unfortunately, these compensations often place excessive strain on the foot and ankle, increasing the risk of pain and injury.

How tight calves affect foot function

Restricted calf flexibility alters the way forces are disturbed through the lower limb during movement.

This commonly results in:

• Early lifting of the heel during walking

• Increased pressure through the forefoot and arch

• Excessive foot pronation (rolling inward)

• Greater strain on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon

Over time, these changes and abnormal loading patterns can contribute to increased injury risk.

Foot conditions commonly linked to tight calves

Research has shown strong links between calf tightness and several common foot and lower limb conditions, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Achilles Tendinopathy

• Sever’s Disease in children and adolescents

• Forefoot Pain and Metatarsalgia

• Shin Splints

In many cases, the area experiencing pain is not the primary problem but rather the structure being overloaded and absorbing excessive stress due to restricted ankle movement.

Why do calves become tight?

Calf tightness often develops gradually from a range of factors, including:

• Prolonged sitting or sedentary lifestyles

• Unsupportive footwear

• Overuse or increased training load

• Growth spurts in children and teenagers

• Inadequate stretching or mobility work

• Biomechanical factors

Improving flexibility and reducing pain

Improving calf flexibility is often one of the most effective ways to reduce strain on the feet and lower limbs. This can be achieved through:

• Individualised stretching programs

• Strengthening exercises

• Supportive footwear

• Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and redistribute pressure.

DIABETES: WHAT TO LOOK FOR PET HEALTH

Several factors may contribute to the development of diabetes in our pets, including obesity, pancreatitis, infections, genetics, and certain hormonal conditions. In dogs, diabetes is almost always insulin-dependent, meaning lifelong insulin injections are usually required. Cats, however, may respond well to a combination of insulin therapy, weight management, and dietary changes, with some even achieving diabetic remission.

Recognising the warning signs: Early diagnosis can make a significant difference to your pet’s long-term health. Common symptoms include excessive thirst, increased urination, a bigger appetite than usual, and unexplained weight loss. You may notice yourself constantly topping up the water bowl or your pet asking to go outside more frequently.

Despite eating more, diabetic pets often lose

weight because their bodies are unable to use glucose efficiently for energy. Dogs with diabetes may also develop cataracts, while both dogs and cats are more susceptible to urinary tract infections due to elevated glucose levels in their urine.

Diagnosis and treatment: Diabetes is commonly diagnosed in middle-aged dogs, typically between four and 14 years of age, with female dogs being affected more often than males.

Diagnosis involves assessing your pet’s clinical signs along with blood and urine testing to detect elevated glucose levels. In some cases, additional tests such as a fructosamine blood test or imaging may be recommended, particularly if pancreatitis is suspected. For most diabetic dogs and many diabetic cats, insulin injections form the cornerstone of treatment.

Living well with diabetes: Successful diabetes management relies on consistency. Feeding meals

The Experts

AMAZON PRIME DAY 2026

Aat regular times, maintaining an appropriate high-fibre or veterinarian-recommended diet, and ensuring moderate daily exercise can all help keep blood sugar levels stable and improve insulin effectiveness.

With early diagnosis, routine monitoring, and commitment to a treatment plan, many diabetic pets continue live happy lives.

mazon Prime Day is the annual mid-year shopping event that offers members exclusive deals and major discounts across thousands of products. The event traditionally takes place mid-year, starting June 23 and ending June 26. The event is four days long, continuing the expanded format introduced in 2025.

Prices on popular items typically drop significantly, and the most sought-after deals can sell out within minutes. You can expect substantial savings across many categories. Shoppers can look forward to:

• Significant discounts across electronics, home appliances, clothing, toys, books, and more.

• Exclusive offers available only to Amazon Prime members.

• Lightning Deals, which are time-limited offers that often sell out quickly.

• Prime-only promotions such as early access deals and limited-time bundles.

• Fast and free delivery on eligible items, including same-day or next-day shipping in select areas.

• “Invite-only deals” on high-demand products.

If you want to get the most out of Prime Day, a little preparation goes a long way:

• Join Amazon Prime. A

Prime membership in Australia currently costs approximately $9.99 per month or $79 per year, and includes benefits such as fast delivery, Prime Video, Prime Gaming, Prime Music, Prime Reading and more.

• Use the free trial strategically. Consider starting the 30-day free trial to take advantage of the deals without committing.

• Create a Wishlist. Add items to your basket in advance. This makes it easier to monitor price drops and quickly act when deals go live.

• Enable notifications and alerts. Use the Amazon app or your preferred deal-tracking tools to receive alerts for price drops, Lightning Deals, or restocks.

• Compare prices. Not every “deal” is the lowest ever price. Check historical pricing or compare with other retailers to ensure you’re getting genuine value.

• Act fast, but stay calm. The best deals can disappear quickly.

CONSOLIDATING YOUR LOANS: YES OR NO?

Managing multiple debts can feel like a juggling act; different lenders, varying interest rates, and several due dates each month. For homeowners, one strategy worth considering is rolling personal loans into your home loan. This approach, often called debt consolidation through refinancing, can offer several meaningful advantages, though it’s important to understand the full picture before making a decision.

Lower interest rates

Personal loans typically carry higher interest rates than home loans because they’re unsecured; there’s no asset backing them. Home loans, by contrast, are secured against your property, which makes them less risky for lenders and therefore cheaper to service. By consolidating a personal loan charging, say, 12–15 per cent interest into a home loan charging six to seven per cent, you could significantly reduce the interest rate applied to that debt.

Simplified finances

Combining multiple debts into a single loan means one repayment, one lender, and one due date. This streamlining reduces the administrative burden of managing your

money and lowers the chance of missing a payment, which can hurt your credit score and trigger late fees.

Lower monthly repayments

Because home loans are spread over a much longer term; often 25 to 30 years; rolling a personal loan into your mortgage usually reduces your immediate monthly outgoings. This can free up cash flow and ease financial pressure in the short term.

Improved cash flow flexibility

The reduced monthly commitment can give you breathing room in your budget, whether that’s to cover everyday expenses, build an emergency fund, or direct money toward other financial goals.

The important catch: Long-term cost

Here’s where caution matters. While your monthly repayments may drop, stretching a personal loan over the full term of your mortgage can mean you pay far more in total interest over time. A personal loan you might have cleared in three years could end up being paid off over decades. A debt that would have cost you a few thousand dollars in interest could cost considerably more if left to accrue across 25 years.

To capture the benefit of a lower interest rate without the penalty of a longer term, many people choose to make extra repayments on the consolidated amount; effectively paying off the former personal loan debt on its original schedule while enjoying the cheaper rate.

Other considerations

Before consolidating, keep these points in mind. You may face fees, including refinancing costs, valuation fees, and break costs on existing loans. Turning unsecured debt into secured debt means your home is now on the line – if you can’t keep up repayments, your property could be at risk. You’ll also want to check your available equity, since lenders will only allow consolidation up to a certain loanto-value ratio.

The bottom line

Consolidating personal loans into your home loan can lower your interest rate, simplify your finances, and ease monthly cash flow. The key is to avoid the trap of paying more over the long run by committing to extra repayments where possible. Because everyone’s circumstances differ, it’s wise to speak with a mortgage broker or financial adviser who can assess your specific situation before you proceed.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The Sun/Neptune square affects your communication and work zones, so steer clear of a smooth operator who could lead you up the primrose path to trouble. Check all news, proposals and information carefully. If something sounds too good to be true, then turn around and start walking in the opposite direction! And ask a trusted colleague for a second opinion. It is a good week to eat well, exercise often and make relaxation a daily priority. Balance is the key.

TAURUS

21 TO MAY 21

Bulls can too easily get bogged down in a boring old rut. But this week – with dynamic Mars charging through your sign – you’re full of creative ideas and keen to make exciting connections. You could also be asked to do some volunteer work in your local community or contribute to a humanitarian project, as you reach out to those who are less fortunate. Sunday’s positive Mars/Jupiter link favours proactive communication and catching up with friends.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Expect a rather confusing week, as nebulous Neptune squares the Sun (your ruling planet). If you sweat the small stuff, then you’ll just end up feeling tired and emotional by the end of the week. It’s time to de-stress as the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter light up your spiritual/solitude zone and you meditate, contemplate, ruminate and relax. Calm down Cats –you might just enjoy it! Thursday favours catching up with old friends and making long-term plans.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

It’s a good week to channel energy into travel, education and expanding your mind. Your communication skills are firing, as you extend your peer group and make creative new connections. Unhappily single? With Mars visiting your relationship zone, it’s time to be more proactive about finding love. Coupled Scorpio – surprise your sweetheart with a special romantic gesture. But confused thinking is a danger on Thursday and Friday, so try to relax body and mind.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

This week the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter stimulate your self-expression zone, so channel your energy into a personal project or a creative venture. Draw inspiration from singer-songwriter (and birthday great) Carly Simon, “There’s always a creative side to me, even when it’s quiet musically. Like painting, decorating or planting a garden.” But be extra careful on Thursday and Friday, when the Sun/Neptune square could scramble your bulldust detector.

GEMINI

22 TO JUNE 21

Mercury, Jupiter and the Sun are visiting your money zone, which increases your spontaneous and extravagant side. So be careful you don’t indulge in a ‘comfort shopping’ spree that you later regret. Slow down and think things through. Remember … good things eventually come to Geminis who wait! Tuesday is terrific for serious conversations, cosy companionship and networking with friends, acquaintances and professional connections.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

With the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter activating your hopes and wishes zone, it’s time to articulate (and write down) your goals and dreams for the future. Then you can put them into action. Thursday favours disciplined, creative work. But don’t let a loved one or work colleague manipulate you, as they try to persuade you to do something against your better judgment. Have the strength – and common sense – to stand your ground and say no. With a firm smile.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Most fiery Sagittarians are spontaneous folk, but this week you need to carefully consider the consequences of what you do and say. If you act in haste – without all the relevant facts at hand – then you could find yourself deep in a disagreement or a messy misunderstanding (especially with a child, teenager, lover or friend). Sunday’s super Mars/Jupiter link favours sport and travel (and boosts confidence and optimism) so make the most of it!

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are visiting clannish Cancer so it’s a suitable time to tackle a domestic project, clean the house or organise a family get-together. If you’re travelling, it’s likely to be somewhere you’ve been before, where you feel completely at home. But have you been feeling like a tired and lacklustre Ram, with too many activities crammed into your timetable? Some rest and relaxation (at Casa Aries) could be just what the doctor ordered.

CANCER

This week the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are moving through Cancer, which stirs up your sensitive emotions. Plus the Sun/Neptune square increases professional problems or personal insecurities. But becoming emotionally overwrought won’t help matters. Instead, tune into the week’s positive aspects as you learn to love yourself, celebrate your strengths and follow a cherished dream. Tuesday favours money matters and long-term financial plans.

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Polite Librans are the peacemakers of the zodiac. And you’ll certainly require your diplomacy skills this week, when a relationship with a partner or work colleague could be confusing and frustrating. The best way to handle the situation is with plenty of patience and understanding. The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter activate your career zone, so don’t be a wallflower. Speak up and promote your talents! If you procrastinate, then a golden opportunity will pass you by.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are jumping through your relationship zone, so put the needs of loved ones at the top of your to-do list. Walk in their shoes for a while. And Venus trines Saturn on Thursday, which boosts drive, ambition and organisational skills. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Meryl Streep (who turns 77 on Monday), “The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Sunday favours travelling with loved ones.

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Relax & Unwind

DESTINATION

Hotel Woolstore, Pyrmont

WORDS

Madeline Dantier

IMAGES

Madeline Dantier

MORE INFO

CHARM AND LUXURY

When I stay in the city, I want somewhere that breaks the mould of a typical hotel. Of course, I enjoy crisp white sheets, a big bed and nice views, but I want charm, excitement and something a little out of the ordinary. Much to my delight, I got all this and more during my stay at Hotel Woolstore 1888.

Located just a street away from Darling Harbour, Hotel Woolstore 1888 drops you right in the heart of the action, with the city’s endless activities and dining experiences at your doorstep. Originally opened to meet the demand for wool storage in 1888, the building is Sydney’s oldest surviving wool store, beautifully restored as a boutique hotel in recent years.

Upon arrival, I was met with something I can only describe as a vibe. The ironbark beams and timber furniture – remnants of the building’s past – are on full display, creating a unique aesthetic that’s inviting and intriguing.

After a ride in the glass elevator to the top floor, I mounted a further set of stairs to the High Country Suite, where I was met with not only a fantastic room, but fantastic views of the city as well. The High Country Suite pairs luxury with unique charm, as seen in the bright coloured furniture and decor. The room was equipped with everything you could need, and things you wouldn’t have even thought of. I must say, a highlight for me was the shower, which was considerably larger and more powerful than mine at home, and I found the hotel’s sustainability efforts to be endearing.

Another feature of the High Country Suite is the sizeable deck with stunning views overlooking Darling Harbour. Not to worry if it’s too cold outside though , the suite features floor to ceiling windows so you can enjoy the city views in comfort.

After settling into the suite, my partner and I headed downstairs to Percy, the hotel’s inbuilt restaurant and bar, for a delectable tapas style meal. With so many options to choose from, we ordered enough to keep us full for the next few days at least. A clear favourite for me was the Gambas Al Ajillo, Prawns cooked in extra virgin Olive Oil and Garlic, and the Pan Con Tomate, crushed Tomatoes and Garlic served on thick cut sonoma Sourdough.

Seeing as though no meal is complete without a beverage to accompany it, my partner enjoyed a Toasted Cinnamon and Yuzu Non-Alcoholic Wine, while I relished in a

custom cocktail made from Gin, Vodka, Kava and Orange juice.

Of course, despite our full stomachs, dessert was a must. Narrowing down the list, we opted for the Lemon Sorbet topped with Olive Oil and Lemon zest, as well as the Churros served with rich Dulce De Leche and Vanilla Gelato.

“THE HIGH COUNTRY SUITE PAIRS LUXURY WITH UNIQUE CHARM”

Thoroughly impressed and full to the brim, we happily headed back upstairs to enjoy the king size bed. Whether you are staying at Hotel Wooolstore or not, I highly recommend Percy for a delicious and relaxed evening.

The next day, we ventured into the city to the Australian Museum, making several stops for coffee, pastries and lunch along the way.

Sydney has such a diverse array of dining options, you can truly get anything your heart

desires. After a long day of traipsing around Sydney, we recovered for a few hours on the deck, before heading out again to one of our favourite restaurants for dinner.

Vapiano, an Italian restaurant known for its delicious and expansive menu, was a must-do for us.

From their fantastic cocktail list to the ease of dietary requirements, dining here is always an enjoyable date night.

After a big day of being a tourist in our own city, we wanted nothing more than to come home and relax on a big bed and watch some TV, which is exactly what we did.

On the last morning of our stay, we headed down to Percy to check out their breakfast menu. Again, we were very impressed with the delicious coffee, gigantic croissants and of course, helpful and kind staff.

As it sadly came time to check out, the process was smooth and effortless, the hotel’s staff being helpful and competent, making the check-out morning rush a breeze.

If you want a hotel that stands out, Hotel Woolstore 1888 is it. From the room, to the views, to the restaurant and staff, every minute was prefect, and it was evident the work that’s been done to make Hotel Woolstore as great as it is. So do yourself a favour and book!

12. Admit (3,2)

38. Severely

40.

42. Irritated

43. Roof overhangs

44. Narcotics

47. Oliver Twist author, Charles

51. Burden (with responsibility)

52. In a jaunty manner

53. Hunting trip

54. Taiwanese city

58. Gastric ailment

59. His Master’s Voice (1,1,1)

61. Sectors

63. Directed

64. Water down

65. Display (3,3)

66. Tennis champ, ... Agassi

68. Rocky Mountains state

71. Policy reversal (1-4)

72. Canoodle

74. Singer, Diana ...

76. Artist’s inspiration

78. Note well, nota

80.

83. Vineyard barrel

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: FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

FRIENDLIES

SHIN PADS

SPECTATORS

EXTRA TIME

PITCH

KIT

GOLDEN BOOT

Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about the FIFA World Cup in this week’s special trivia quiz... 1. What four nations are making their FIFA World Cup tournament debuts in 2026?

2. Which player scored the first goal at the 2022 World Cup? 3. Which two players scored hat tricks at the 2022 World Cup? 4. Which country has won the most World Cups? 5. In what year did the World Cup competition start?

Which team won the World Cup in 2022?

7. How many teams are competing in the 2026 World Cup? 8. Where are the 2026 World Cup games being played?

9. Who was the first opposition Australia faced in the 2026 World Cup?

Maddie’s Meals

Potato & Leek Soup

Perfect for these chilly nights and comes together in less than an hour

What You’ll Need:

– Large pot or Dutch oven

– Spatula or spoon for stirring

– Immersion blender

Ingredients:

– 1 leek

– Three Dutch cream potatoes

– 1 carrot (optional)

– 2-3 tbsp vegetable stock

– 3 tbsp butter (or non-dairy alternative)

– 1 tbsp garlic paste

– 1 can of coconut cream or 600mL of thickened cream

– Spices (I used salt, black pepper, white pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder and a pinch of chilli powder)

Method:

1. Melt the butter and garlic paste in your pot on a low to medium heat.

2. Cut the roots and base of the leek, as well as the leafy tops, leaving just the white and light green stalk. Then cut the stalk into rings and add to the melted butter, turning up the heat slightly. Stir the leeks occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.

3. Peel and cube potatoes and add to pot with carrot and spices, stirring.

4. Combine stock with 2 cups of hot water and add to the pot, stirring. Now cover and let come to boil.

5. Once boiling, reduce to a

simmer and check the softness of potatoes by piercing with a fork. Once soft, re move from the heat and blend together with the immersion blender. When just combined, add cream and continue to blend until smooth. Taste, and add spices again if needed.

6. Serve! Best enjoyed with garlic bread and topped with chives or parsley.