Home & Lifestyle March 19 2026

PENRITH STUNNER

MAYFAIR STANDS AS DOORWAY TO PENRITH

Urban Property Group is making history in Thornton with their newest development, Mayfair.

The $415 million project features 431 apartments with premium finishes. The residential tower will include a rooftop pool, landscaped terrace, and a suite of communal spaces designed for wellbeing and connection.

Mayfair will also introduce Penrith’s newest retail precinct, offering 7,000 square-metres of dining destinations, convenience retail, and wellness operators.

“This will be Urban Property Group’s sixth building in Thornton; it’s our swansong – our last land holding on that side of the station at this stage,” explained Urban Property Group Sales Director Tom McIvor.

“We love developing in western Sydney and we love being a part of the changing face of Penrith.

This project is very special to us.”

Mayfair is one of the final pieces of Thornton’s puzzle.

“Currently, North Penrith is a really nice, clean spot to live and we’ve established ourselves as the dominant housing provider on the northern side of the station,” McIvor stated.

“But something we’ve been wanting to do is add more retail. It’s always been quite hard to make that work, but when we did add a convenience store, it traded incredibly well.

“From there we got a lot of feedback from the community enquiring about cafes and restaurants.”

The developers realised residents don’t want to leave Thornton to access food and retail.

“People don’t want to cross the station if they’re living in Thornton,” McIvor pointed out.

“They are buying an apartment

for convenience, and we need to make that part of Penrith even more convenient and improve quality of life.”

Urban Property Group’s efforts on the northern side of the train line coincide with Astina Group’s development aspirations on the south side.

“What they’re doing on their side of Penrith between the train station and South Penrith, and what we’re doing on this side proves that people in Penrith want a certain level of quality and lifestyle,” McIvor stated.

“What’s wonderful about that is that it doesn’t just bring residents, it also brings retailers.

“Look at Westfield now compared to where it was 10 years ago when it was a struggle to get retailers to commit out here. Now people are coming in droves begging for retail spaces – not only because of the population,

but the type of population. This area is moving forward really quickly. Penrith is transforming and people don’t want to leave anymore.”

The hesitance to leave Penrith will be amplified by Mayfair’s design.

“THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR THIS PROJECT WAS THE LOCATION”

“The biggest challenge for this project was the location. When you’re building directly opposite Penrith Station, the project has to be more than just a building; it ends up becoming part of the arrival moment for the whole precinct,” said Urban Property Group’s Design Director George Massoud.

“We approached it as a doorway to the North Penrith Town Centre.”

Although more foot traffic is anticipated through Thornton, it will not compromise privacy.

“For residents, there’s a strong focus on lifestyle. The rooftop spaces are designed almost like a sanctuary, with pools and landscaped entertaining areas that look straight out to the Blue Mountains,” the design director stated.

“At the same time, the building has a very active public edge. The two-storey colonnade brings retail and lifestyle operators like One Playground and Volcano’s Steakhouse right into the station precinct, so the building becomes part of the everyday life of Thornton rather than turning its back on the street.

Visit www.urbanpropertygroup.com.au for details.

A FLAGSHIP FAMILY HOME

What is so great about this property?

5 Bolger Place is a true family flagship, offering an exceptional combination of size, functionality and lifestyle on a rare 600sqm parcel. Spanning approximately 38.8 squares, the home features six bedrooms, multiple living zones and a dedicated home theatre. The expansive backyard features as a double alfresco area with kitchen provisions, while

the impressive 20kW solar system and three-phase power with EV charging capability deliver longterm efficiency and future-ready living.

Who does this property suit?

This home is ideally suited to large families, multi-generational households or buyers looking for space, flexibility and long-term comfort. It will also appeal to buyers who love to entertain, need additional parking for

vehicles, boats or trailers, or are seeking a move-in ready home with premium inclusions and future potential such as adding a pool (STCA).

Tell us about the suburb the property is in?

Colebee is one of Western Sydney’s most desirable lifestyle suburbs, known for its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere and

high-quality homes. Located within the Stonecutters Ridge community, residents enjoy access to the Greg Norman-designed championship golf course, local parks, walking tracks and community facilities. Minutes away from major retailers and supermarkets, and easy access to the M7, Richmond Road and train stations.

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.

PROPERTY EXPO

SYDNEY

Are you ready to take your property investments to the next level? Whether you're a seasoned investor, a homeowner looking to renovate, or exploring your first property purchase, the Property Expo Sydney is the must-attend event of the year! The Property Expo Sydney is your gateway to: - Exclusive Opportunities- Expert Advice- Networking Opportunities- Special Deals -

16 May 2026 | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Novotel Parramatta, Sydney

The Experts

OnePointHealth 4732 5188

ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS: HELPFUL OR HARMFUL?

Artificial sweeteners often spark strong opinions. Some people see them as a helpful tool for reducing sugar intake, while others worry they’re harmful or “unnatural”. So what does the evidence actually say?

Artificial sweeteners – such as aspartame, sucralose and stevia – provide sweetness without the calories and without the same impact on blood sugar levels as regular sugar. They’re commonly found in diet soft drinks, sugarfree lollies, flavoured yoghurts, protein bars and even some medications.

For people managing diabetes or trying to reduce overall calorie intake, sweeteners can help reduce blood sugar spikes compared to regular sugar. Replacing sugary drinks with low- or no-sugar alternatives may lower overall calorie intake, particularly for those who consume soft drinks regularly.

In Australia, approved sweeteners are strictly regulated and

considered safe when consumed within recommended limits. Acceptable daily intake levels are set well below amounts shown to cause harm, meaning moderate consumption is considered safe for the general population. Artificial sweeteners aren’t a magic solution – but they’re not a toxin either. When used in moderation and within a varied diet, they can fit comfortably into a healthy lifestyle.

Some emerging research suggests very high intakes may influence appetite regulation or gut bacteria in certain individuals, although findings remain mixed. For most people, occasional use is unlikely to pose health risks.

The bigger picture still matters.

Water should remain the primary drink, and whole foods – fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes and lean proteins – form

the foundation of a balanced diet.

Rather than asking whether sweeteners are “good” or “bad”, a more helpful question might be: how often am I relying on them, and could I be adding more water, fruit, vegetables or whole foods instead?

As with most nutrition topics, balance – not fear – is usually the most evidence-based approach.

The Experts

UNDERSTANDING THE HIDDEN STRUGGLE

When we think about anxiety, we often associate it with people. However, anxiety is a very real and recognised condition in our pets as well. Dogs and cats experience emotional stress in ways that can affect their behaviour, health and overall wellbeing.

As our understanding of animal behaviour grows, veterinarians are increasingly helping pet owners recognise and manage anxiety so that pets can live happier, more comfortable lives.

Anxiety in pets occurs when an animal experiences excessive fear, stress or worry in response to certain situations. While occasional nervousness is normal, ongoing or intense anxiety can lead to behavioural problems and even physical illness.

One of the most common forms of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety. Dogs are highly social animals, and some struggle when left alone. These pets may bark excessively, destroy furniture, scratch doors or attempt to

escape when their owner leaves the house. In severe cases, they may stop eating or develop digestive issues due to stress.

Noise anxiety is another frequently seen condition. Loud sounds such as thunderstorms, fireworks or even household appliances can trigger intense fear in some pets. Dogs may tremble, hide, pace or seek constant reassurance. Cats may retreat, freeze, or become unusually agitated.

Generalised anxiety can also occur, where a pet appears constantly on edge. These animals may startle easily, struggle to relax or display repetitive behaviours such as pacing, excessive licking or grooming.

Cats, in particular, can show anxiety in more subtle ways.

Changes in toileting habits, hiding, aggression, over-grooming or a sudden withdrawal from social interaction may all be signs that something is wrong.

Recognising the signs of anxiety early is important. Some common

indicators in both dogs and cats include trembling, panting, pacing, vocalising, destructive behaviour, excessive grooming, reduced appetite and changes in sleeping patterns.

Fortunately, there are many ways to help anxious pets. The first step is a veterinary consultation to rule out any underlying medical issues that may be contributing to the behaviour.

From there, treatment often focuses on a combination of behavioural support, environmental changes and, in some cases, medication.

Simple strategies such as providing predictable routines, safe resting spaces and enrichment activities can significantly reduce stress. Behaviour training and gradual desensitisation to triggers can also be very effective when guided by a veterinary professional or qualified behaviourist.

For pets with more severe anxiety, medications or calming supplements may be recom-

mended to help regulate their stress response and support behaviour modification training.

Anxiety in pets is not a sign of a “bad” dog or cat. It is a genuine emotional condition that deserves understanding and care. With the right support, many anxious pets can learn to feel safe and confident again, allowing them to enjoy the secure and loving home every companion animal deserves.

If you are concerned that your dog or cat may be experiencing anxiety, early support can make a significant difference.

After using my Galaxy S22 Ultra for years, I noticed the battery just couldn’t make it through the day anymore. The phone itself still worked fine, but hitting 20 per cent by mid-afternoon told me it was time for an upgrade.

I’ve been using the Samsung S26 Ultra for about a week and setting it up was easy. Samsung’s migration tool handled most of the work, moving my apps, photos, and settings over without any trouble. I only had to set up my banking apps myself and sign in to a few things. Since I use Dashlane for passwords, getting everything back in place took a few hours.

Once I had everything set up, I immediately noticed how much lighter and thinner the S26 feels compared to my old S22

Ultra. It’s still a large phone, but the lighter weight is a pleasant surprise. The new processor is fast, especially when working with photos or

and a half. I can use it all day at work, go out in the evening, and still have enough battery left to get home without worrying about finding a charger.

using AI features. I don’t usually pay much attention to benchmarks, but the speed improvement is clear in daily use. The real highlight for me is the battery life. The S26 Ultra easily lasts a day

After years of seeing my S22 drop to single digits by dinner, this feels like a real upgrade. Samsung has been promoting the new Privacy Display, which limits the viewing angle

so people nearby can’t see your screen. It’s a smart feature, and I tried it out, but in daily use, I found it more annoying than helpful. Since I often keep my phone on my desk, I couldn’t easily glance over to check who was calling or messaging because the screen darkens unless you look at it directly. It’s a cool idea, but it just isn’t practical for me.

One thing I’m not happy about is the durability. My S22 Ultra survived many drops without any cracks. With the S26 Ultra, one of my coworkers dropped theirs from a short distance, and the screen shattered right away. Make sure to get a case and consider Samsung Care. It’s worth it.

Speaking of features that are gone, the S26 Ultra’s S-Pen still works for notetaking and drawing, but

it no longer acts as a Bluetooth remote for taking photos as it did before. I used that feature a lot, so now I must use the timer again, which feels like a step back.

The camera, though, is a big improvement. The 200MP main sensor, better low-light performance, Horizon Lock for steady video, and AI tools like Photo Assist and Best Face all make it much easier to get great shots without any extra effort. Whether you’re recording action or taking night photos, the S26 really stands out.

Overall, I’m happy with it.

It’s faster, lighter, lasts longer, and the camera is very impressive. There are a few things that feel like downgrades, but the improvements are much more important.

Relax & Unwind

JOANNE

MADELINE MOORE

Boho Astro

@JoMadelineMoore

© Joanne Madeline Moore 2026

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

The Sun and Saturn link up with Pluto (in your sign) which boosts personal magnetism, professional influence, communication and education opportunities. It’s also a good week to explore your neighbourhood and introduce yourself to some new members of your local community. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, feminist and activist Gloria Steinem (who was born on March 25, 1934), “A good friendship is a conversation that never ends.”

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

The Sun and Saturn link up in your solitude, spirituality and dreaming zone on Wednesday. So it’s important to find some ‘me time’ in your busy week, where you can meditate, contemplate, pray or chant, as you relax and wind down in a way that suits you. And it’s also a good time to write your dreams down on your phone, computer or in your diary. As birthday great, feminist and activist Gloria Steinem observes, “Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.”

LEO

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Mercury and Mars are both transiting through your sign, so it’s time to think creatively and respond proactively. As birthday great Lady Gaga observes, “Creativity is my favourite thing about life.” When it comes to money matters, the Sun/Saturn conjunction urges you to think conservatively and plan for the long-term. So spontaneous spending sprees are (temporarily) off the menu. The weekend favours doing something special that makes your heart sing.

GEMINI

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Dynamic Mars and Mercury (your ruling planet) are both charging through your career zone, so it’s time to be more proactive and communicative at work. If there’s a problem, come up with a solution. If a colleague is being difficult, get talking. Plus – with the Sun and Saturn activating your friendship and peer group zone – strive to be more strategic about the company you keep. Perhaps it’s time to give a fake friend or a meddling acquaintance the flick?

VIRGO

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

On Wednesday, the fiery Aries Sun hooks up with taskmaster Saturn in your sign, so it’s the start of a new cycle of hard work, achievement and responsibility. Which is likely to bring success and stress in equal measure. A confident yet cautious approach is the best way for Rams to proceed. Be inspired by birthday great, soul singer Aretha Franklin (who was born on March 25, 1942), “Be your own person and always be confident in what you’re doing.”

CANCER

22 TO JULY 22

Roll up your sleeves because the Sun and Saturn pair up in your professional zone, so there’s important and challenging work to be done! With Mercury and Mars both transiting through your aspirations zone, it’s also a suitable time for dreaming, setting ambitious goals, researching and planning. Be inspired by birthday great, writer, feminist and activist Gloria Steinem, “Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities.”

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23 LIBRA

This week the Sun (your power planet) links up with Saturn and Pluto, so try to get the balance right between the status quo and change, between stability and transformation. Especially involving relationships (of the romantic, platonic and business variety) plus personal beliefs. You could also make an important decision concerning publishing, teaching, a new course of study or an overseas trip. The weekend is wonderful for travelling and socialising.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Wednesday’s powerful Sun/Saturn conjunction is good for re-organising your daily schedule, sorting out overdue paperwork, planning a new diet and/or restructuring your exercise program. A combination of enthusiasm and discipline will take you far. Mercury and Mars are both activating your creativity zone, which encourages you to be proactive about expressing yourself as you perform, sing, dance, draw, write, publish, paint or play a musical instrument.

Shopping Let’s

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Expect a rather complicated week Virgo, as Mercury and Mars visit your relationship zone, and Saturn links up with the Sun in your money/intimacy zone. So aim to be super patient with your partner, extra kind to your family, oh-so cooperative with your work colleagues and uber disciplined with deadlines. And try to keep spending to an absolute minimum, as you curb shopaholic tendencies, stick to a strict weekly budget, and put any extra cash into savings.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

This week’s stars highlight romance, entertainment, friendships, family, children, creative pursuits and DIY projects. With your sparky Sagittarian mojo and momentum running on high, you’re ready to rock and roll and get things done! But the planets caution you to slow down. You need to take your foot out of your mouth and communicate with more care and consideration, especially in matters involving relationships (of the romantic, platonic and domestic variety).

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

On Wednesday, the Sun and Saturn pair up in your partnership zone. So aim to get the balance right between personal needs and relationship responsibilities, between individual projects and joint ventures. You could also find yourself having deep conversations with a close friend, or a new acquaintance could dazzle you with their magnetic personality. The weekend favours passionate feelings and/or making a serious, longterm commitment.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

On Wednesday, the Sun and Saturn (your patron planet) hook up in your home zone, so extra domestic chores and/or family responsibilities could add to your already overloaded schedule. Calm down and pace yourself, Capricorn. Then the fabulous Saturn/Pluto link could send a financial opportunity your way or someone could say something that boosts your confidence and buoys your self-esteem. The weekend favours DIY projects and family get-togethers.

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.

PULP FICTION

JURASSIC PARK

THE MATRIX

FORREST GUMP

TITANIC

GOOD FELLAS

THE GREEN MILE

THE LION KING

TOY STORY

BRAVEHEART

DEEP IMPACT

BAD BOYS

Last week’s solution

7. What was the last James Bond movie to win an Oscar?

8. What was the first James Bond novel to be published?

9. What is James Bond’s code number?

Who was the most recent actor to portray the character? 5. Who was the first Bond girl to appear on big screen? 6. How many James Bond movies are there?

How to beat Str8ts –Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Maddie’s Meals

Butterscotch Pudding

This recipe is a favourite from an old friend. Easy, delicious and oh so comforting.

What you'll need:

– Over proof dish or dutch oven

– Large measuring cup

– Spatula or whisk to stir

Ingredients:

Pudding:

– 1 cup of Self Raising Flour

– 3/4 cup of Caster Sugar

– A pinch of Salt

– Roughly 50 grams or roughly 3-4 Tbsp of Butter

– 1/2 cup of Milk

Sauce:

– 2 Tbsp of Golden Syrup

– 1 1/2 cups of hot water (2 cups if you want an extra saucey pudding)

– Roughly 30 grams or roughly 2 Tbsp of Butter

* The butter and milk can be swapped for a plant based alternative to make vegan

Method:

1. Grease your dish or bowl with butter.

2. Combine sugar, flour and salt in the dish or bowl you'll be using to bake the pudding.

3. Melt the butter and add to the flour mixture. Add milk and combine.

4. Melt butter for sauce and combine with golden syrup and hot water. Pour over the top of flour mixture and place into the oven.

5. Cook on 180° for 30-40 minutes, checking by inserting a skewer or knife into the pudding. If it comes out clean, the pudding is ready!