Issuu

INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

A DEEPER CLEAN CLEANING TIPS, ADVICE AND MORE | SEE PAGE 76 The Experts

NOT JUST A HOUSE: TOP OPPORTUNITY

DEALING WITH A TROUBLED TEEN

WHAT DO THE STARS HAVE IN STORE?

SEE PAGE 77

SEE PAGE 80

SEE PAGE 85

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

NEXT LEVEL CLEANING: HOW TO DIG DEEPER B

efore writing off a cloudy shower screen, stained tap or rust-marked outdoor fitting, Australians are being urged to consider what is causing the mark. Australia’s fastest cleaner, Jason Shipway, says calcium, limescale and surface rust can be mistaken for ordinary dirt, permanent staining or signs that an item is past its best. Recognising different cleaning challenges early can help households spend less time scrubbing and better maintain fixtures, appliances and outdoor items. “When these marks keep returning, the instinct is often to scrub harder or try another everyday cleaner. But understanding what is causing the mark first, means a much better chance of selecting the right approach from the beginning,” Shipway said. According to Shipway, recognising the difference between removable

build-up and permanent damage can also prevent households from prematurely writing off items that may simply need a more targeted clean. Recent research shows 79 per cent of Australians would consider repairing an item before buying new, with cost cited as the primary motivator. This shift is placing greater emphasis on products that help preserve the appearance and performance of fixtures, appliances and outdoor surfaces over time. “One of the biggest mistakes I see is people thinking a stubborn mark means something needs to be replaced or treating every mark as if it’s ordinary dirt,” Shipway said. “A quick look can often tell you what you’re dealing with. If a mark wipes away with a damp cloth, it’s probably surface grime. If it’s white, chalky and feels slightly raised, it’s likely calcium or limescale. Orange-brown discol-

ouration that starts from a single point and spreads outward is often surface rust. Identifying the cause early can save a lot of unnecessary scrubbing and help prevent long-term damage.” CLR is a powerful solution that can be used to remove Calcium & Limescale buildup, rust, salt, mineral deposits, oxidation, algae and soap scum, across a wide range of suitable surfaces and applications, from bathrooms and kitchens to appliances and outdoor equipment. CLR Calcium, Limescale & Rust Remover contains no phosphates and is septic safe, providing a powerful and safer cleaning solution for calcium, limescale and surface rust build-up. CLR products are available from major retailers, hardware and outdoor stores nationally.

JASON SHIPWAY’S CLEANING TIPS Know the difference between dirt and mineral build-up: If a mark transfers to a damp cloth, it’s usually surface grime. If it remains after cleaning and feels chalky or slightly raised, it may be calcium or limescale that requires a specialist cleaner. Check the places most people overlook: Mineral build-up commonly forms underneath tap spouts, inside tap aerators, on shower head jets, around drain covers and on sink plugs, often before it becomes obvious elsewhere. Your shower screen may be a water problem, not a cleaning problem: Cloudy shower glass is often caused by hard-water minerals left behind as water evaporates. Because deposits build layer by layer, regular cleaning may not completely remove them once established. Watch for the early signs of hard water: Chalky rings around taps, cloudy glassware, mineral deposits in kettles, stiff towels and recurring shower-screen haze can all be indicators that your home’s water supply contains higher mineral levels. Coastal homes need to monitor metal fittings: Sea air and moisture can accelerate rust formation on flyscreens, hinges, window winders, outdoor furniture, BBQs and garage door hardware, even when these items are regularly cleaned. Don’t keep scrubbing if nothing is changing: If a mark remains after cleaning, agitation and dwell time, it may not be everyday grime. Identifying whether you’re dealing with calcium, limescale or rust can help guide a more effective solution. Prevent build-up before it becomes permanent: Mineral deposits can eventually etch glass and damage surfaces if left untreated for extended periods. Tackling build-up early can help preserve the appearance of fixtures and fittings.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

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HEALTH The Experts

THE TEEN YEARS: WHEN YOUR CHILD PULLS AWAY I

AMANDA DUGGAN OnePointHealth 4732 5188

f your once chatty teenager now answers every question with “fine”, and slams the bedroom door before you’ve finished asking, welcome to the hardest chapter of parenting so far! The teen years feel personal. Where there used to be cuddles and endless chatter, there’s now eye rolls, long silences and closed doors. Many parents I see in practice arrive carrying guilt and confusion. Did I do something wrong? Are we losing them? Here’s the reassurance. The pull-away is developmental, not personal. Teens are doing what their brains are biologically wired to do: separate, individuate, and figure out who they are without you at the centre. That work is messy, and it often looks like rejection. But it isn’t. They still need you. They just need a different version of you. So how do you stay connected when it feels like you’re being pushed out?

Start with curiosity instead of interrogation. “How was your day?” will almost always get you “fine.” Try “Did anything funny happen today?” or “What’s annoying everyone at school?” Specific, low-pressure questions open doors that “how was your day” keeps firmly shut. Show up without an agenda. The best conversations with teenagers happen in the gaps: car trips, washing up, walking the dog. When they sense you’re not fishing for information, they often offer it. Validate before you advise. When they share something hard, resist the urge to fix. “That sounds really tough” or “Tell me more” goes further than any solution you could offer. Advice can come later. Connection has to come first. Respect the door. The closed door is about autonomy, not rejection. Knock, ask, and give them space when they need it. Don’t take the eye-roll personally. It’s hormonal, developmen-

tal, and usually not about you. Stay calm in the storm. When they’re dysregulated, they need your steadiness, not your reaction. Your calm teaches them what calm looks like. Know when to get help too. If your teen is withdrawn for weeks, their mood is persistently low, or

you’re noticing self-harm or risky behaviour, reach out early. Your GP is the starting point. Raising a teenager is some of the most important work you’ll ever do. You’re not losing your child. You’re watching them become their own person, and you’re the safest place they’ll ever know.

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

PET HEALTH

CELEBRATE THE LONG WEEKEND SAFELY A

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

long weekend is the perfect excuse to slow down, catch up with family and friends, fire up the BBQ and enjoy some well-earned time together. Whether you are gathering around the television for the footy, enjoying a backyard BBQ or simply making the most of an extra day at home, chances are your pets will be right there with you. And while they may not understand what all the excitement is about, they certainly know when there is food around! Unfortunately, some of the foods and items that are part of our celebrations can be dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening, for our pets. Cooked bones are one of the biggest BBQ dangers. Chicken bones, ribs and other cooked bones can become brittle and splinter when chewed. These sharp pieces can cause choking, intestinal blockages or even tears in the digestive tract. No matter how much your dog begs, cooked

bones should never be on the menu. Kebab skewers are another hidden hazard. The smell of meat cooking may be irresistible to your dog, but swallowing a wooden skewer can cause serious damage, including punctures or blockages in the digestive tract. Once the food has been eaten, dispose of skewers safely and immediately. Be careful with onions and

garlic, too. Both can be toxic to dogs and cats and can damage red blood cells, potentially causing anaemia. They can easily be hidden in burgers, marinades, sauces, dips and other prepared foods. Then there are the salty snacks. Chips, pretzels and other heavily salted foods aren’t suitable treats for pets. Too much salt can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst and, in severe cases, trem-

ors or seizures. And don’t forget the dessert table. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, while sugar-free products may contain xylitol, which can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Grapes and raisins are also a concern and can cause serious kidney problems in dogs. One of the easiest ways to prevent an accidental feast is to give your pet their own quiet area away from the BBQ and food table while guests are visiting. Ask family and friends not to feed them and make sure rubbish bins are securely closed. After all, it only takes a moment for a curious pet to grab something they shouldn’t. A little planning can make all the difference, helping everyone — including your four-legged family members — enjoy the long weekend safely. So, relax, enjoy the company, enjoy the footy and make the most of the extra day. For more advice about keeping your pets safe, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital.

GET THE CARE YOUR PET DESERVES AT ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL! At Orchard Hills ills Veterinary Hospital, we understand d that your pet is a cherished family ily member. That’s why we offer comprehensive and affordable pett care services to animals acrosss the Penrith district.

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender

57725

The Experts

LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

HOW SHOULD YOU REACT TO RATE RISE? T

STEVEN KORNER

growth of around 15–17 per cent. That growth has been good news for existing owners’ equity. It also means many recent buyers, especially first home buyers and families who bought in the past two years, are carrying larger loans than they would have a few years ago. On a $900,000 loan, which is typical for a recent Penrith house purchase, repayments have risen by more than $6,500 a year since

January. For households already dealing with higher fuel, grocery and energy costs, that is a real squeeze. There is some good news for local investors. Rental vacancy in Penrith remains well under one per cent, and rents have kept rising, which helps offset higher interest costs. Could rates rise again? Possibly. The RBA’s next meeting is on November 3 2026. ANZ is already forecasting

a fifth increase then, which would take the cash rate to 4.85 per cent. Other economists think the RBA may pause to see how the four rises so far are affecting household spending. Much will depend on inflation data over the coming weeks. Practical steps for Penrith home owners • Check your current rate. Many borrowers who haven’t reviewed their loan in a year or two are paying well above what new customers are offered. A difference of even 0.3–0.5 per cent on a $700,000 loan can add up to thousands of dollars a year. • Ask your lender for a better deal. A phone call quoting competing rates can sometimes secure a discount without switching. • Consider refinancing. Refinancing isn’t free, so weigh discharge fees, application costs and any cashback offers against the interest you’ll save over time. • Use your offset account. Every dollar sitting in an offset reduces the interest you’re charged. • Think carefully about fixing. Fixed rates offer certainty but already factor in expected rises, and break costs can be high if your plans change. • Act early if you’re struggling. Lenders have hardship options, but they are easier to arrange before repayments are missed.

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The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

he Reserve Bank of Australia lifted the official cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.60 per cent this week, its fourth increase of 2026 and the highest cash rate since late 2011. The new rate took effect today. The decision wasn’t a surprise. All four major banks had forecast it, and financial markets had priced in a rise weeks earlier. For the thousands of Penrith households with a variable home loan, though, it still means higher repayments. Why the RBA moved The Board’s decision was unanimous. It pointed to inflation that is “still too high”, along with higher global energy prices driven by oil supply disruptions in the Middle East and ongoing capacity pressures in the domestic economy. The Board also said it will keep doing “what it considers necessary”, including raising rates further if needed. Taken together, 2026’s four increases (February, March, May and September) have lifted the cash rate by a full percentage point since January. Why Penrith feels it more than most Penrith has been one of Sydney’s stronger-performing markets. Median house prices now sit at roughly $1.09 million to $1.2 million, depending on the data source, after annual

the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

TALKING TECH The Experts

KEEPING YOUR PC HEALTHY AND SECURE A

DAVID NORRIS Nortec IT 9894 9514

couple of years ago, I wrote about a littleknown but powerful tool – Microsoft PC Manager. A lot has changed since then, and the tool has many more features. So many that I’ll cover it in a couple of articles. At its core, PC Manager is a comprehensive utility suite that streamlines PC maintenance and security. It combines various tools traditionally scattered across Windows into a user-friendly interface. The tools are split into categories that enhance system performance, security, and usability. In the next couple of articles, I will cover some of these key tools PC Boost – This was the first tool in the toolkit. It is a one-click optimisation feature that frees up memory by releasing memory used by non-essential background processes and applications. It also deletes temporary and cache files that have built up over time. When you click Boost, Windows usually

shows an immediate reduction in memory usage, and your PC may feel more responsive if you have many programs, browser tabs, or background tasks running. Whenever I feel my computer is slow, I run this. Startup Management – which monitors and controls programs launching at startup, ensuring faster boot times and smoother performance. If your computer is slow to start, this is where you can disable the startup programs. Background Process Management identifies and stops

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resource-intensive processes, enhancing overall system responsiveness. It lets you easily identify and terminate problem applications. Antivirus Protection integrates the core Windows Security engine, providing real-time protection against malware, viruses, and other threats. Network Booster analyses and diagnoses network issues, helping improve internet connectivity and speed. Battery Saver, which extends battery life by intelligently

managing system resources and reducing power consumption. File Management provides essential tools to organise and clean up your drives. These include tools to easily identify and delete downloaded files, identify large files on your computer, and identify and manage duplicate files. Pop-Up Management, which blocks annoying advertising pop-ups. Network Diagnostics Analyses your network connection and performs basic troubleshooting, helping to identify potential performance bottlenecks related to Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity. In a future column, I will cover the powerful Health Check and AI Toolbox features. Microsoft PC Manager is free and compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11. Installing PC Manager is straightforward. You can download it directly from the Microsoft website or the Microsoft Store app. Its intuitive interface suits users of all levels.

Celebrate the year’s wins with a Christmas party that feels like a real escape. Step aboard the iconic Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler and enjoy delicious food, beautiful river scenery and a relaxed celebration on the water. From smaller family, friends and team gatherings to whole-ofcompany celebrations, we make it easy to bring everyone together for a memorable day or night on the Nepean.

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender

PRESENTS

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

BUY TICKETS

HOROSCOPES Relax & Unwind

AMANDA JANE Clairvoyant Medium amandajane-xo.com revivalretreats.com.au

AQUARIUS

PISCES

ARIES

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

You’re craving expansion, and staying inside your comfort zone may feel particularly frustrating this week. Follow anything that sparks curiosity, whether that involves travel, learning, spirituality or simply experiencing something new. A conversation could challenge a long-held belief in a positive way. You don’t need to have everything figured out.

Something is ready to be released. It could be an old belief, emotional attachment or fear that has quietly influenced your decisions for longer than you realised. Be gentle with yourself as it surfaces. This isn’t about going backwards; it’s about finally being ready to move beyond it. Spirit may be communicating more loudly than usual.

You may be eager to know exactly where something is heading, but not every answer is ready to reveal itself just yet. Relationships could bring an important conversation that helps you see things differently. Trust what feels consistent rather than what sounds convincing. By the weekend, a situation that felt complicated may suddenly seem much clearer.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

There’s a strong focus on your wellbeing and the way you’re spending your energy. If you’ve been running on empty, consider this your reminder that rest is productive too. A change to your routine could help you feel more grounded and motivated. Someone may also offer unexpected assistance this week. Allow yourself to receive support.

Make room for laughter, creativity, romance and experiences that remind you life isn’t supposed to feel serious all the time. An unexpected invitation or conversation could bring a welcome change of scenery. If you’ve been considering a creative project or new idea, stop analysing it from every angle and simply give yourself permission to begin.

Your intuition is particularly strong around home and relationships. You may sense that something needs to change before anyone actually says it aloud. Trust yourself, but avoid assuming you know exactly what someone else is thinking. A heartfelt conversation could bring reassurance. Creating more peace around you begins with being honest.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Something you say could have more impact than you realise this week, so choose your words thoughtfully. Communication, meetings and important conversations are highlighted, making this a great time to put an idea forward or clear up confusion. An unexpected message may also bring exciting news. Don’t let pride prevent you from changing your mind.

You may find yourself thinking differently about money, security and what success actually means to you. Something that once felt incredibly important may no longer hold the same appeal. Trust that changing priorities are a sign of growth, not indecision. A practical opportunity could improve your financial situation, but look beyond the immediate reward.

Your season continues to place the spotlight firmly on you. This is your reminder to stop putting your own needs at the bottom of the list. You may feel ready for a fresh start, and the timing feels supportive. Listen carefully to your intuition around a decision. You already know more about what you want than you’ve been allowing yourself to admit.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

You may feel more sensitive. If something or someone leaves you consistently drained, pay attention. Dreams, synchronicities or a strong intuitive feeling could also bring insight into a situation you’ve been questioning. You don’t need to chase clarity. Sometimes the answer becomes obvious when you become quiet enough to notice what you’re feeling.

Your social world could bring a pleasant surprise. A new connection, invitation or conversation may lead to an opportunity you weren’t expecting. Be open to meeting people outside your usual circle. You’re also being encouraged to think bigger about your future. A dream you’ve been quietly carrying deserves more than occasional thought.

Career and purpose take centre stage, and you may feel ready to challenge yourself in a new way. An opportunity to lead, speak up or demonstrate what you’re capable of could arise. Don’t automatically assume someone else is more qualified. You’ve accumulated more experience than you realise. Take yourself seriously and others are likely to follow.

WW59002

Amanda Jane is an internationally recognised Clairvoyant Medium, spiritual teacher, retreat facilitator, and founder of Revival Retreats Australia. With a gift for connecting to the spirit world and over a decade of experience supporting people through healing, transformation, and personal growth, Amanda has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt, accurate, and compassionate guidance.

Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender

Have a story to share? Send us your news, community stories and photos from across Western Sydney.

Crossword

edium

3 2

3 4 8 5 6 4 5 6 8 7

3 8 7

6 7 9 8 1

Last 2week’s 1 5 solution 7 9 8 6 4 3

r8ts.com

2 1 3 2

Sudoku brought to you by The Western Weekender westernweekender.com.au/digi-subscribe

SUDOKU No. 813

Medium

9 7 4 1 3 9 8 6 4 3 2 8 9 4 5 7 4 6 3 2 4 8 9 3 8 5

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 The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

Previous solution - Easy

1 9 5 3 7 6 2 4 8

ACROSS DOWN 1. Front part of the head 1. Unnecessary excitement or worry 4. Surname of dictionary pioneer Noah ___ 2. Country whose capital is Beijing 8. Long periods of time 3. Consume food 11. The ___, seat of the Dutch government 4. Past tense form of are 13. Drama set largely to music 5. Present or confer as a gift 15. Malicious desire to annoy 6. Prefix relating to heat 17. Perceive with the eyes 7. Top covering of a building 18. Period of rule by a 8. Present-tense form of be monarch 9. Increases or benefits 20. Male child 10. Dispatched or transmitted 21. Upright; standing straight 12. Plural of goose 24. Direct attention to 14. Mistake 27. Hard-shelled edible seed 16. Major Portuguese city on 28. Lift to a higher position the Douro 30. Spaces within a building 19. Answer without being certain 31. Small rodent; also a computer device 22. Restore to working order 33. Son of a sibling 23. Recognition for an achievement 34. People or things besides those named 25. Property and assets owned by a person 35. Route used by vehicles 26. Come into view 36. Otherwise; in addition 29. US state whose capital is 39. Inflammation of the iris of Indianapolis the eye 32. Put into service 42. Platform for performers 35. Surname of Russian 44. Just and impartial general Nikolay ___ 45. Number after two 46. River in Austria, tributary of 37. Continues for a period of time the Danube 38. Clear or obvious 48. Blood vessels carrying 40. Possibilities of harm or blood toward the heart loss 49. Marked with a calendar 41. Not long date 42. Number after six 50. Purpose or benefit, as in for the ___ of 43. Finished 52. Relating to Greece or its 44. Surname of American language philosopher John ___ 54. Obtains or receives 47. First name of a central character in War and 55. Clever or stylish Peace 56. US state containing Las 51. Early stage of Vegas development before a 57. Thought or concept foetus 60. Common seasoning; 52. European country with sodium chloride Athens as its capital 62. Healthcare professionals 53. Vessel used to boil water who care for patients 54. Prefix relating to the 65. Loop of thread used in stomach sewing 67. In a wild or intense manner 58. With little light 59. Word joining two items 69. Male given name shared 61. One thickness placed over by actor ___ Ritchard another 70. Prepared 63. Relating to the forearm 72. The whole amount bone opposite the radius 73. Short written records or 64. Set of connected parts musical symbols working together 75. Large sweet fruit with a 65. Not complicated thick rind 66. Hundredths of a dollar 77. Covered or saturated with 68. Without anyone else water 71. Lived in a place 79. Benign tumour of muscle tissue 72. In the middle of 81. Highest point or surface Previous solution74. - Objective Toughform of they 82. In or at that place 76. Curved transparent piece 85. Relating 6 to7the nose2 1 3 used 4 to5 focus light 78. Word or expression; also a 86. Ceased to live 7 8 9 3 4 5 period 6 fixed 87. People belonging to a 7 9 group8 6 1 4 2 583. P3ossesses 88. Main stalk of a 2 plant1 3 484. Relating 9 to8medieval Scandinavia 5 4 3 6 80. 17960s8youth-

3 6 4 5 2 8 9 7 1

2 7 8 4 9 1 6 5 3

8 4 2 6 5 9 1 3 7

9 1 7 8 3 4 5 6 2

5 3 6 7 1 2 4 8 9

4 8 1 2 6 3 7 9 5

7 2 3 9 4 5 8 1 6

6 5 9 1 8 7 3 2 4

NEVER MISS AN EDITION

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

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Wordsearch brought to you by Penrith Jobs www.penrithjobs.com.au

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: TOOLS AX CHISEL CLAMP DRILL FILE HAMMER LEVEL NAIL PLIERS SANDER SAW SCREW SCREWDRIVER TOOLBOX VISE WRENCH MALLET SPLIT LEVEL HACKSAW POCKETKNIFE SCISSORS BRACE TAPE MEASURE Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about NRL Grand Final in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. When is the NRL Grand Final? 2. What teams are playing in this year’s Grand Final? 3. How many Premierships have the Penrith Panthers won? 4. Which team has won the most Grand Finals? 5. Who won the Clive Churchill

Medal in 2025? 6. Which two players feature on the NRL Premierships trophy? 7. Which NRLW teams are playing in this year’s Grand Final? 8. Who won the 2026 Dally M Medal? 9. Where will the 2026 Grand Final be played?

ANSWERS 1. Sunday, October 4 2. Sydney Roosters and Newcastle Knights 3. Six 4. South Sydney Rabbitohs 5. Reece Walsh 6. Norm Provan and Arthur Summons 7. Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos 8. Nathan Cleary 9. Accor Stadium

Trivia Quiz

LOOKING FOR A JOB IN PENRITH? www.penrithjobs.com.au Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender

Grow your business by advertising with us! Contact sales@westernweekender.com.au or call 02 4722 2988

TEST YOUR BRAIN STR8TS SUDOKU No. 813

Medium

6 7 2 7 8 9 3 8 6 1 4 2 1 4 3 3 2 6 2 1 5 7 3 4 8 4 5 6

7 5

8 7 6

2 5 6 9 4 7

Str8ts

7 8 9

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

No. 813

Previous solution - Tough

1 4 2 3 6 7 9 5 8

3 4 5 5 3 4 7 9 8 8 6 6 7

5 6 7 9 8 1 4 2 3

9 8 5 3 1 2

8 7 3

4 9

2 4 8

Name the Movie

Hexwords

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TOGYOC I

Who Am I?

30 Second Challenge your brain sharp in just 30 seconds. Start on the 30-second Keep left with the number given and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit, challenge beginners have to complete their own challenge, douBle IT

+6 ÷7 x9 -5 ¼ x5 ÷11 -40

InTeRMedIaTe 9/10 of IT

+1600 50% of IT -900 2/5 of ThIs 25% of ThIs

adVanced

Plus 15% ThIs +240 -110 of87½%

2000 6000

12½% of ThIs

www.30secondchallenge.com

7/10 of IT

ansWeR

of ThIs ansWeR

Plus 12½% 20% of ThIs

Last week’s 30-second challengeanswer: ansWeRs To 170- BEGINNER - 11, INTERMEDIATE -6400 , ADVANCED - 62 ½.

1. My career has lasted longer than most Hollywood marriages. 2. I can disappear into almost any accent or character. 3. I traded serious drama for overalls, a Greek Island and lots of singing. 4. I once had three possible candidates for my on-screen daughter’s father. 5. I proved that even an Oscar-winning actress can still be a “Dancing Queen.” Last week’s answer: RICKY BOBBY

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 171 - BEGINNER - 49, INTERMEDIATE - 70, ADVANCED - 18.

Plus 10% -290 of ThIs Plus 25% +25 of ThIs 5600 12½% of ThIs

62½% half of IT half of IT

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400 3/10 of IT douBle IT +10 ÷5

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of ThIs

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the western weekender » Thursday, October 1, 2026

www.30secondchallenge.com

÷6 x9

intermediates have to complete their own challenge AND the beginners’ challenge, and advanced players have to complete their own AND the intermediate. You can try to improve on your times each day.

+15 ¼ of ThIs

HINTS

adVanced

Previous solution: CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON

Previous solution:

BegInneR

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Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender

Maddie’s Meals

Spinach & Feta Layered Pie Great as a side dish or meal on its own, this flaky, buttery pie is sure to please.

What You’ll Need:

Method:

– Large pan (for Spinach) – Baking dish – Blender – Spatula

1. Preheat oven to 200°. In the large pan, wilt spinach with a few tablespoons of water on medium heat. Once all wilted, squeeze out the water and place into the blender. 2. To the blender, add the feta, shallot, eggs, lemon juice, yogurt and spices. Blend until smooth and no chunks remain. 3. Lay 2-3 sheets of Filo Pastry across your baking dish, covering the bottom but leaving the edges flowing over the sides. Pour some

Ingredients: – Approx. 300g Spinach – 1.5 blocks Feta – 1 Shallot (diced) – 2 eggs – 1 lemon (juice) – Approx. 200g natural Greek Yogurt – Filo Pastry – Spices (I used Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika) – Butter (melted, for pastry)

of the spinach mixture onto the pastry and spread to the edges with the spatula. Layer 2-3 more sheets on top of this, edges still out of the dish. 4. Repeat step 3 until no mixture remains. Once finished, starting from the middle, tuck the sheets of pastry into the middle of the dish. Spread melted butter on top of pastry and place in oven for 20-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown. 5. Once cooked, slice and enjoy (and share, if you must!).

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enrith’s greatest ever period of success has delivered the once struggling club a second straight Premiership and confirmed the Panthers rugby league juggernaut.are an unstoppable It is impossible to argue with James Fisher-Harris’ cheeky claim that this is Penrith team of all-time. They are the best an unpreceden delivering ted sustained period of success and have lost just 10 games three seasons, in the past breaking countless along the way. records Coach Ivan Cleary Nathan have also and his co-captain son entered Panthers tality, creating immorall sorts of history in what one of the greatest Premiership defences was game has ever seen. the Ivan is now the only won dual Premiership Penrith coach to have s with the club, just 24 Nathan while at is on club’s greatest ever his way to becoming the player. But Cleary was overshadowed Final night by on Grand a stunning performanc fullback Dylan e from Edwards, who claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match. Penrith players and fans partied and hard into long the night after Sunday’s 28-12 demolition of Parramatta. It was a definitive game of this incredible Penrith era and proved the club’s dominance of over the past three the competition seasons. It was billed as the the West in history greatest Battle of but kick-off it was obvious almost from the Parramatta were little chance of stopping a switched Penrith. on Eels fans were barely in their seats by time it was obvious the trophy was stayingthe the foot of the Mountains. at Penrith has emerged from an 18-year drought and near title collapse to now more Grand Final have two wins, and show slowing down. no sign of The scenes at Panthers Leagues Club after the game and at a fan Bet Stadium prove day on Monday at Bluethis over the community Penrith team has won . From Bathurst to cially own the west Blacktown, Penrith offi– the result of hard taking a chance and a playing group work, taken the NRL by that has storm.

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www.westernweekender.com.au/getapaper Thursday, October 1, 2026 « the western weekender

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