Home & Lifestyle June 4 2026

POOL SOLUTION: LET THE ROBOT DO THE WORK

TROY DODDS

Pool cleaners have come a long way over the years.

And whether you manually vacuum your pool yourself, use a cleaner that connects directly to the filter or have graduated to a robot cleaner, every pool owner knows keeping your pride and joy clean can be a challenge.

We’ve recently been road testing the M1-AI series from iGarden.

This comes with a pretty hefty price tag – you’re looking at around $2,000, about the same as a quality robot vacuum cleaner for inside the home.

I’ve been a convert to robot pool vacuums for a while now. As someone who constantly used to deal with suction pool cleaners getting stuck or coming away from the filter, the ability to have

a robot cleaner do the work while the skimmer box is still collecting leaves and what-not from the top of the water is the perfect experience for a pool owner.

“YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED WITH THE JOB IT DOES”

The M1-AI series is a beauty of a machine. From a cleaning perspective it did a terrific job picking up your classic debris like leaves, while it left a sparkling finish clearing all the dirt after recent rain.

It did find larger items a challenge – some trimmed off-cuts

from the nearby garden fell in the pool and it struggled to pick those up. That’s not to say I’d expect it to – it’s beyond what you’d fairly anticipate a robot cleaner to achieve – but I have had robot cleaners that have achieved it in the past, so that was just a slight disappointment.

The unit itself is fairly easy to operate in terms of getting the basket out and cleaning – in fact there’s no tricks here, just an easy process. It’s also reasonably lightweight so the average person won’t have any trouble getting it in and out of the pool.

Like with most robot cleaners, you use a hook connected to a pole to retrieve the cleaner once it’s done. Getting the hook into place to retrieve the cleaner in this case was really easy (that’s not always the way) and I felt it didn’t hold as much water as other cleaners

so the weight on exiting the pool was not over-bearing. You can run the cleaner without its supportive app, and to be honest I found the app a little confusing and difficult to operate.

I would recommend reading the instructions with great detail – it’s not that the unit is hard to understand or use, but it does have a range of features and options and just trying to guess probably isn’t the right approach.

Overall, I wouldn’t say the M1-AI is the best robot pool cleaner I have ever used, but it is a mighty improvement if you’re using any of the manual pool cleaning options.

And it certainly deserves to be in the conversation when it comes to picking a robot cleaner – you won’t be disappointed with the job it does overall.

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STRONG BONES FOR LIFE:

Strong bones are important at every stage of life, and exercise plays a major role in keeping our bones healthy, strong, and resilient. As physiotherapists, we often see people only start thinking about bone density after a fracture or diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis. However, maintaining bone strength should begin long before problems arise.

Bones are living tissue that adapt to the demands placed upon them. Just like muscles, bones respond positively to the right type of exercise. Weight-bearing and resistance-based activities help stimulate bone growth and improve bone density over time. This can reduce fracture risk, improve strength and balance, and help people remain active and independent as they age.

Exercise does not need to be extreme to be effective. Walking, stair climbing, resistance training, and balance exercises can all support bone health when completed consistently

and safely. The key is choosing exercises suited to your ability, medical history, and goals. For some people, especially those

with osteoporosis, certain movements may need to be modified to reduce unnecessary strain or injury risk.

Physiotherapists can help guide safe and effective exercise programs tailored specifically to you. We assess strength, balance, mobility, posture, pain, and overall function to create an individualised plan that supports both bone health and confidence with movement. Exercise can also help reduce falls risk, one of the leading causes of fractures in older adults.

Long periods of inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and poor nutrition can negatively impact bone health. Combining regular exercise with adequate calcium, vitamin D, and healthy lifestyle habits provides the best foundation for maintaining strong bones and reducing injuries and mobility limitations.

If improving your bone health, strength, balance, or confidence with movement sounds useful to you, book in with our team today and let us help you stay strong, active, and moving well for years to come.

UNDERSTANDING COGNITIVE DECLINE

As our dogs grow older, it’s natural to notice changes in their behaviour and daily habits. While slowing down with age is expected, some senior dogs develop a condition known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), often described as canine dementia. This progressive condition affects memory, awareness, and learning, much like dementia does in people.

Recognising the signs early can help pet owners seek appropriate support and make adjustments that improve their dog’s comfort and wellbeing.

Signs to watch for: There is no set age at which canine dementia develops, although subtle changes can sometimes be noticed from around six years of age onwards. Before diagnosing cognitive dysfunction, your veterinarian will need to rule out other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including: diabetes, cushing’s disease, high blood pressure, hearing or vision loss, urinary tract, infections, kidney disease and arthritis. Once other health concerns have been excluded, several behavioural changes may suggest cognitive decline.

Becoming disorientated: Dogs experiencing dementia may appear confused in

familiar environments. They might wander aimlessly, become stuck in corners, stare at walls or into space, or head to the wrong door when wanting to go outside.

Changes in social behaviour: Many dogs become less engaged with family members, other pets, and activities they once enjoyed. Some become withdrawn, while others may seem more anxious, clingy, or dependent on their owners for reassurance.

Disturbed sleep patterns: Changes to sleeping habits are common. Dogs may sleep more during the day and become restless at night, pacing around the house, whining, or barking when everyone else is asleep.

Memory loss and house-training accidents: A dog with cognitive dysfunction may forget previously learned behaviours and routines. House-soiling accidents can become more frequent, and they may not respond to familiar commands as reliably as they once did.

Reduced interest in activities: You may notice your dog becoming less enthusiastic about walks, games, and exploring their environment. Activities that once brought excite-

ment may no longer hold the same appeal.

Supporting a dog with dementia: Although there is currently no cure for canine dementia, there are several ways to help manage the condition and maintain your dog’s quality of life:

• Speak with your veterinarian about medications, diets, and supplements that may support brain health.

• Maintain a predictable daily routine to minimise confusion and anxiety.

• Continue gentle exercise and sensory enrichment through regular walks and safe exploration.

• Avoid making significant changes to your home’s layout. Keeping food bowls, bedding, and furniture in familiar locations can help your dog navigate more confidently.

• Be patient and understanding. Many behaviours associated with dementia are the result of cognitive changes rather than deliberate disobedience.

The team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital is here to help. If you are concerned about your dog’s behaviour or wellbeing, contact us on 4736 2027 to arrange an appointment. Early recognition and supportive care can make a significant difference.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

You’re in the mood to party as the Sun and Uranus (your patron planet) activate your entertainment zone. But Saturn squares Mercury (on Wednesday) so avoid skimming over important details – and remember there’s a fine line between making snap decisions and making messy mistakes. If you don’t pace yourself, then you’ll be exhausted by the end of the week. Astute Aquarians will slow down, enjoy the ride, and practice the gentle art of patience.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Venus (your patron planet) links up with Jupiter (planet of prosperity and joy) on Tuesday and Wednesday, when you’re at your charismatic and generous best. Make the most of it as you turn on the Taurus charm, dazzle the doubters and call in a few old favours! They link up in your neighbourhood zone so prepare to make some lucky connections within your local community. Short trips (especially interstate) are also likely in the weeks ahead.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Tuesday and Wednesday are the best days to relax, meditate and/or contemplate your life and where you are going, as Venus and philosophical Jupiter link up in your spirituality and solitude zone. Then the weekend is the time to mix and mingle, socialise, party and let your hair down when vivacious Venus races into your sign. So your motto for the week is from His Holiness the Dalai Lama “Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.”

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Scorpio style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns so expect power plays, disruptions or delays. Patience and compromise are required. When it comes to work projects and your daily routine, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No one (not even a super organised Scorpio) is indispensable! On Tuesday and Wednesday, dream big dreams and follow your heart.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

The planets encourage you to express your compassion and creativity, so don’t undervalue your kind heart and creative talents. It’s a wonderful week to enjoy a romantic interlude with your partner, fix a floundering friendship or find your soul mate. But don’t sit around hoping Lady Luck and Cupid’s arrow will strike. With Venus and Jupiter in your romance and good fortune zone, you need to consciously attract more love and abundance into your life.

GEMINI

22 TO JUNE 21

This week - courtesy of Wednesday’s Mercury/Saturn square – work or finances look rather stressful, and you won’t have the patience to put up with annoying people or tedious explanations. So strive to extricate yourself from negative situations in tactful ways. Communication and conversation are the buzz words on the weekend as you circulate in your local community, discuss current affairs, learn a new skill or share some exciting news.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Virgos love to feel productive, but does it seem as if you’re treading water at work or a close relationship is going backwards? This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations. But lucky Venus also hooks up with prosperous Jupiter, which encourages you to pair up with a creative colleague and make your professional dreams come true. If you are flexible and open to new ideas, then a flash of brilliance could suddenly turn things around.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

This week, if you’re argumentative with a family member, close friend or work colleague, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So – if you want to avoid fiery clashes – do your best to be more tolerant and understanding towards others. Plus try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. The winning formula for smooth Sagittarian communication is conversation + cooperation + generosity = joy.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Rambunctious Rams can appear confident on the outside but - with Saturn and Neptune visiting your sign – the main dangers at the moment are self-criticism and self-doubt. Be kind to yourself this week. Fortunately – on Tuesday and Wednesday – Venus and Jupiter (the two lucky planets) hook up in your home zone. So look out for some good news via a relative, housemate or family friend. And the weekend is wonderful for social events and creative projects.

CANCER

22 TO JULY 22

Lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter join up in your sign, and conscientious Saturn is visiting your career zone. So make sure you have done all the hard work that’s required, so you can take advantage of good fortune when it comes along. Your motto for the week is ‘Preparation + Opportunity = Success.’ There are lessons to be learned on Wednesday (especially at work) so make sure you learn them quickly and don’t keep on repeating the same mistakes.

LIBRA

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Many Librans will feel unusually restless, as the Sun and Uranus activate your freedom zone. Exercise and outdoor activities are favoured as you channel energy into physical pursuits, go on a grand adventure or connect with friends from far away. Just make sure you nurture relationships with people who support your aspirations. Tuesday and Wednesday are lucky days (especially at work) as Jupiter (planet of good fortune) links up with your ruler Venus.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Taskmaster Saturn (your ruling planet) squares Mercury on Wednesday, so expect a stressful day of frustrations and challenges (especially involving your partner, a family member or a close friend). And a work colleague could say or do something that makes you gasp. Writer Joyce Carol Oates (who turns 88 on June 16) reminds us, “Sometimes people surprise us. People we believe we know.”

A flexible, philosophical approach will get you through.

RELAXATION IS AIM OF

Every now and again, the desire sets in to head for a holiday that ticks all the ‘no fuss’ boxes – low maintenance, easy for families and no surprises to the back pocket.

Fiji is one of the most popular family destinations for all of these reasons. It’s guilt-free relaxation, and while a little more costly than it used to be it’s a generally affordable overseas holiday with packages that are customisable to your wants and needs.

I’ve been to Fiji twice before – first to the Warwick, located on the Coral Coast, and then Radisson Blu which is located closer to the airport at Denarau.

This time around we split the difference and headed to Momi Bay and the Marriott, which is about a 45 minute drive from the airport.

The drive is actually a highlight in its own right – while you know you’re headed for cocktails, great food and swimming, you get a first-hand look at the realities of Fiji as a country and the very different lives that are lived.

opt for a-la-carte (either at Goji or the Lagoon House).

Thanks to a wristband the staff will be aware you’re on an all-inclusive package and will give you appropriate drinks menus – these were pretty extensive and whether you enjoy beer, wine, cocktails or spirits, there’s a solid list that does vary between the different bars. If there was one slight disappointment in this space it was that on more than one occasion, a certain bar would be “out” of one of the cocktails on the all-inclusive menu. Not the biggest deal in the world, but with no replacements it would perhaps irk you if you were a fan of a particular drink (as an example, the frozen daiquiri was unavailable three of the seven days we were there).

The food is all of great quality. I’m not sure we had a bad meal the entire time we were there.

The only reason I’d advise not going with an all-inclusive option is if you plan to spend plenty of time on day trips out of the resort. Each meal you miss is, at the end of the day, a dropped opportunity to take advantage of what you’ve already paid for.

In our case we only headed out on one day trip to a nearby island – so it remained worth it.

Exemplified best perhaps by the cow we almost hit on the road into the resort – just taking a leisurely mid-afternoon walk.

Like most who head to Fiji, we booked the trip as a package deal through one of the online travel companies.

With a five-year-old in tow and my wife and I both enjoying a cocktail or three while on holidays, we ended up throwing in the kitchen sink and going with an ultimate all-inclusive package.

This meant we knew that all of our meals and drinks were covered, as well as those for our daughter, and that there would be no nasty surprises on checkout. Those margaritas do add up!

The all-inclusive menus are fair and reasonable at the Marriott with no huge limitations. There’s a buffet breakfast daily, the choice between a couple of restaurants for lunch and the same at dinner – where you can partake in the daily buffet in the main Goji restaurant or

Just on those day trips – they can be challenging from Momi Bay given it’s a little more remote than the resorts closer to Denarau. So much so that if your trip to Fiji is about adventure, island hopping and day trips, you might be better off at one of the Denarau-based resorts.

For us, on our third visit to Fiji, relaxation was the order of the day so Momi Bay was perfect.

There’s two pools – the main family pool with a swim-up bar and an adjacent kids’ pool, and the adults only pool at the Fish Bar – which we enjoyed while little-miss-five headed off to the kids club.

While the kids club and nanny service was of high quality and professional, I will note it wasn’t quite as good as the experience we had at Radisson Blu; where our daughter couldn’t wait to go back each day.

There’s a whole range of accommodation options, including over-water bures for couples which certainly allows those visiting without kids to escape the family feel of the resort that is expected in Fiji.

We stayed in a lagoon-facing bure, which was well-sized and comfortable with great views and facilities.

One note to make – the resort is huge, and

THE GAME IN BEAUTIFUL FIJI

unless you get a room reasonably close to the main hub (we did, fortunately) you’ll either be doing a lot of walking or relying on calling golf buggies to get you around. The walk is great though – and I found myself strolling around each morning and making new discoveries along the way, so unless your mobility is

restricted, time is on your side – so just give yourself time and enjoy.

Through the resort you can organise a short visit out to the nearby Tau Village. This gave us an opportunity to show our daughter the true Fiji and how those who live in the villages experience everyday life.

“IT NEVER SEEMED OVERLY BUSY AT THE POOLS OR RESTAURANTS”

The advantage here was that it was a two hour trip all up, so it didn’t take an entire day out of the schedule and also ensured our daughter’s attention span was maintained.

The people in the village do a wonderful job of welcoming you – just make sure you take some cash to donate.

In short, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with great food and friendly staff, look no further than the Marriott at Momi Bay. It has an upscale feel, and its size means that even at full capacity, it never seemed overly busy at the pools or restaurants (in fact, it’s one of the few resorts I’ve been to where you didn’t need to get up at the crack of dawn to reserve a poolside seat).

But I’d lean towards suggesting the Marriott as a second-time visit to Fiji – first-timers may benefit from being closer to the action.

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COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Maddie’s Meals

Feta-Chickpea

Salad

Fun, fresh and delicious – this salad is a winner as a side or on its own!

What You’ll Need:

– Large Bowl

Ingredients: Salad:

– 1 can of Chickpeas

– 1 Spanish Onion

– A handful of flat leaf Parsley

– 1 block of Feta

Dressing:

– 2 Tbsp Olive Oil

– Salt (to taste)

– 2 Tsp Maple Syrup or Honey

– 1 Lemon

Method;

1. Dice onion and parsley (fine) and add to bowl with chickpeas.

2. Crumble the block of feta and add to bowl.

3. Mix all dressing ingredients together in a bowl and add to salad ingredients. Mix well and enjoy!

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

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Friendly Grocer

C astlereagh

Ampol Ser vice Station

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IGA Claremont Meadows

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Coly ton Centre Pharmacy

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Dan Murphy's

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McDonald's

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McDonald's

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Woolworths Lennox Village

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Gre at Western Highway)

7/ 11 Emu Plains (Old Bathurst Rd)

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Ashcroft’s IGA

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7/ 11 Jamisontow n

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Boronia House (Retirement Community)

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7/ 11 Henr y Street

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