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INCORPORATING Western Property | The Experts | Relax & Unwind

WHAT MATTERS MOST KINGFISHER GROVE OPEN DAY | SEE PAGE 60 Western Property

The Experts

Relax & Unwind

OPEN YOUR EYES TO ORAN PARK

THE LATEST FROM OUR PET EXPERT

WHAT DO THE STARS HAVE IN STORE?

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FEATURE STORY Western Property

MAKE MORE TIME FOR WHAT MATTERS MOST K

ingfisher Grove in Jordan Springs is redefining retirement living, offering a lifestyle that is connected, active and full of opportunity. Nestled alongside the natural beauty of Wianamatta Regional Park, this established community combines modern apartment living with the benefits of a vibrant and welcoming neighbourhood. While the newest apartments have recently been completed, Kingfisher Grove is far from a new community. Residents moving in today are joining a village that is already flourishing, with friendships, activities and social connections firmly established. In fact, more than 70 per cent of the 103 new apartments have already been sold, with new residents moving in every week and settling into village life just in time to enjoy the warmer spring and summer months. For many residents, moving to Kingfisher Grove has been about more than securing a new home, it has been about creating space for the things that matter most. Freed from the upkeep of a larger property, they are spending less time on household maintenance and more time enjoying family, friendships, hobbies and new experiences. It is a lifestyle shift that residents frequently describe as liberating, and many share a common sentiment: they wish they had made

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the move sooner. Life at Kingfisher Grove offers the perfect balance of independence and connection. Residents can enjoy morning walks through nearby parklands, relax with a swim in the heated indoor pool or spend time with neighbours in the clubhouse. A wide range of hobby groups, social events and resident-led activ-

DON’T MISS THE OPEN DAY ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 ities create opportunities to stay engaged, learn something new and build lasting friendships. One of the village’s greatest strengths is its genuine sense of community. New residents are welcomed into an environment where there is always something happening, making it easy to feel at home from day one. Whether it is joining a social gathering, attending a movie screening or simply enjoying a coffee and conversation with neighbours, connections are formed naturally.

The apartments themselves have been carefully designed for modern retirement living. Set in contemporary low-rise buildings, they offer spacious layouts, quality finishes and a low-maintenance lifestyle. Recognising that downsizing does not mean giving up the things you value, each apartment includes thoughtful storage solutions, including a separate storage cage for less frequently used items. Location is another key advantage. Situated directly opposite Jordan Springs Shopping Centre and only a short drive from Nepean Hospital and Penrith, Kingfisher Grove has everyday essentials, services and entertainment within easy reach. As more people seek a lifestyle that offers freedom from home maintenance without compromising on comfort, community or convenience, Kingfisher Grove continues to attract strong interest. For many, it represents the opportunity to embrace a new chapter while remaining connected to the people, places and activities that matter most. Kingfisher Grove will host an Open Day on Wednesday, September 16, giving visitors the opportunity to tour the display apartments, meet residents and experience firsthand the lifestyle that is seeing more people choose to make their move sooner rather than later.

Independent travel reviews from writers who’ve been there!

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OPEN YOUR EYES TO BEAUTIFUL ORAN PARK What is so great about this property? Marian’s Mana is a prestigious master-planned community offering architecturally designed residences in one of south-west Sydney’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods. Nestled between the Oran Park Town Centre and its many amenities and the proposed Lake Pondicherry precinct, with its

foreshores, boardwalks, cafés and activity spaces, this family-friendly neighbourhood brings the best of both worlds to your every day. With easy access to Brooking Park, Whiteman Park, DawsonDamer Park and the proposed 10-hectare lake, you’ll always find the perfect spot for a walk, picnic or quiet reading spot, moments from your front door.

Who does this property suit? Anyone who’s wanting a more relaxed lifestyle, up-market living without many of the chores that comes with premium homes. Tell us about the suburb this property is in? Oran Park Town is a master planned development, designed and being built for a thriving community.

Greenfields Development Company began Oran Park in 2010 and its projected to complete the Town in the early 2040s. The Oran Park Town Centre is at the heart of the master-planned development offering residential, commercial and retail offerings as well as substantial civic and community amenities for residents and daily workers. Visit today!

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Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.

Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes

You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money. • • • • • • •

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 3, 2026

PET HEALTH The Experts

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE ITCHY... S

KELLIE TICKNER Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital 4736 2027

pring brings warmer weather, blooming gardens and more time outdoors with our pets. Unfortunately, for some dogs and cats, it also brings an unwelcome side effect – itchy skin. Seasonal allergies, or seasonal dermatitis, are common causes of skin irritation in pets and can become particularly troublesome during spring and summer. Environmental allergens such as pollen, grass, mould spores and dust mites can trigger inflammation and leave pets scratching, licking and chewing at their skin. Occasional scratching is perfectly normal, but persistent itching should never be ignored. Signs of seasonal dermatitis can include red or inflamed skin, hair loss, scabs, sores, excessive licking or chewing, and repeated rubbing of the face, belly or paws. Some pets may also develop recurrent ear infections, hot spots or secondary bacterial and yeast infections. One of the challenges with skin disease is that allergies are not always the cause. Fleas, infections and other conditions can produce very similar symptoms, which is why a veterinary assessment is important when itching persists. Flea allergy dermatitis is another common cause of intense itching. Some pets are allergic to proteins in flea saliva, meaning

even a single flea bite can trigger a significant reaction. The irritation often affects the area around the base of the tail, but can become more widespread. Fleas can easily be brought indoors, so all pets in the household should receive appropriate, year-round flea prevention, regardless of whether they spend most of their time inside or outside. Atopic dermatitis occurs when a pet reacts to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites or mould. It commonly affects the paws, belly and armpits. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to atopy and have a weaker skin barrier, making them more vulnerable to environmental irritants. There are several simple ways owners can help reduce exposure to allergens. Wiping paws and coats after walks can remove pollen and other irritants, while regularly washing bedding can reduce the build-up of allergens. Keeping grass maintained and avoiding areas with heavy pollen when possible, may also help. Bathing can be particularly beneficial for itchy pets, but it is important to use the right product for the individual skin condition. Veterinary-recommended shampoos can help remove allergens, soothe irritated skin and support the skin barrier. A leave-on conditioner may also provide additional

moisture and relief. For pets experiencing more severe or ongoing problems, veterinary treatment may include anti-itch medications or treatment for secondary bacterial or yeast infections. In some cases, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be considered to gradually reduce the pet’s sensitivity to particular allergens. Seasonal dermatitis may not always be curable, but it can usually be managed successfully. The key is recognising the signs early rather than allowing a few scratches to develop into painful, widespread skin disease. This spring, if your pet seems itchier than usual, don’t simply put it down to the warmer weather. Early veterinary advice can help identify the cause and get your pet back to enjoying the season – without the scratch. For more information phone the friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

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Thursday, September 3, 2026 « the western weekender

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LOAN LOWDOWN The Experts

BRIDGING THE GAP: HOW BRIDGING LOANS HELP F

STEVEN KORNER The Finance Korner thefinancekorner.com.au

or many western Sydney families, the moment arrives when the family home no longer fits the family. A third child, a work-from-home setup, or simply the need for more space can make upsizing feel urgent but selling and buying at the same time is rarely simple. This is where a bridging loan can offer a practical solution. What is a bridging loan? A bridging loan is a short-term finance facility that “bridges” the gap between buying a new property and selling an existing one. Rather than waiting for a sale to settle before making an offer on a new home, a bridging loan allows buyers to secure their next property first, with the loan typically repaid once the existing home sells. Why it suits upsizing families Avoiding the double-move: Without bridging finance, many families sell first, move into rental accommodation, then move again once a new home is found. For a household with young

children, that’s two disruptive moves instead of one. A bridging loan can allow a family to move directly from their old home into their new one. Competing confidently in the market: In a tight property market, offers that are contingent on selling an existing home are often less attractive to vendors. Bridging finance allows a family to make an unconditional offer, strengthening their negotiating

position against buyers without that flexibility. Time to sell properly: Rather than rushing a sale to align with a purchase settlement, bridging finance can give families breathing room to prepare their existing home for market, negotiate a fair price, and avoid underselling out of urgency. Things to consider Bridging loans are not without cost. Interest is generally charged

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on the peak debt (the combined value of both properties) until the old home sells, and rates are typically higher than standard home loan rates. Lenders will also usually want a realistic sale price and timeframe for the existing property, often around six to twelve months. For this reason, bridging finance tends to suit families with reasonable equity in their current home and a clear, realistic plan to sell. Getting the structure right Every lender approaches bridging finance differently, and structuring it well from loan-to-value ratios to end debt calculations, makes a real difference to the overall cost. Speaking with a broker before committing to a purchase can help families understand what’s achievable and avoid being caught short between settlements. This article is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. Speak with a licensed broker or financial adviser.

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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

There’s an opportunity for emotional release. Something you’ve carried for longer than necessary may finally feel ready to be put down. You don’t need to understand every detail before moving forward. Shared finances or commitments could also require an honest conversation. Facing something directly will bring far more peace than continuing to wonder about it.

Relationships are teaching you an important lesson about balance. Notice who meets you halfway and who consistently leaves you doing the emotional heavy lifting. An honest conversation could strengthen a meaningful connection, while another situation may require firmer boundaries. Trust what people consistently show you.

You may feel a strong urge to get organised and regain control of an area that has felt scattered lately. Small changes to your routine could make a surprisingly big difference. In relationships, avoid reacting too quickly to something said in the moment. Give yourself time to understand what’s really going on. Clarity comes when you respond rather than react.

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

This week invites you to reconnect with the things that genuinely make you happy. You may have been so focused on responsibilities that fun has slipped further down the list. Romance, creativity and connection are beautifully highlighted. Follow what feels good without needing to justify it. An unexpected invitation or conversation could also bring a welcome change.

Home and family matters may require a little extra attention this week. Something that has been left unsaid could finally come into the open, giving everyone an opportunity to move forward. Be honest about what you need rather than automatically adapting to everyone else. Creating more peace in your personal world will help everything else feel more manageable.

Your words carry extra weight, use them wisely. A conversation you’ve been avoiding may actually go far better than you imagined. This is also a powerful time to trust your intuition when making plans or decisions. Pay attention to unexpected messages, repeating signs or chance encounters. Something insignificant could contain exactly the guidance you’ve needed.

@ amandajaneclairvoyant

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

S EPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Your relationship with money and self-worth comes into focus. You may find yourself questioning whether you’re receiving the same value that you’re giving. Don’t be afraid to raise your standards. A practical opportunity could improve your security, but take your time before committing. Knowing your worth changes what you’re willing to settle for.

Your season continues to bring fresh energy and an opportunity to redefine what you want. This isn’t about becoming someone different; it’s about returning to the version of yourself that feels most authentic. Make yourself a priority without feeling guilty about it. A personal goal that once felt out of reach may suddenly seem much more achievable.

You may need more space from the noise of the outside world this week. Your intuition becomes clearer when you stop filling every quiet moment with distractions. Something you’ve been questioning may finally make sense once you give yourself time to reflect. Protect your energy and don’t feel obligated to explain every boundary. Peace is reason enough.

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

Connections are important, particularly those that encourage you to think bigger. A friend or new acquaintance could offer advice or an introduction that proves valuable later. Be open to receiving support instead of doing everything yourself. A long-held dream may also return to your thoughts. Perhaps it hasn’t been forgotten because it still belongs in your future.

Career and purpose take centre stage, and you may find yourself ready for greater recognition or responsibility. If you’ve been waiting for someone else to notice what you’re capable of, stop waiting. Put yourself forward. A professional conversation could lead somewhere interesting. Confidence will open doors this week, but remember that you don’t need to have everything.

You’re being encouraged to look beyond what feels familiar. A new idea, destination, course or experience could spark something within you that’s been missing lately. Don’t dismiss an opportunity simply because it wasn’t part of the original plan. Sometimes the unexpected path becomes the most rewarding one. Allow curiosity to guide you somewhere different this week.

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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, September 3, 2026 « the western weekender

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Thursday, September 3, 2026 « the western weekender

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

ACROSS DOWN 1. Unsightly fat 1. Rural holding 4. Survey public opinion 2. Opera solos 8. Epic tale 3. . .. appetit! 11. Riding & roping show 4. Cipher 13. Swedish prize for 5. Recesses medical achievement 6. Disgusts 15. Horned beast, white 7. Drawback ... 8. Behold 17. Trophy 9. Change 18. Conceded (goal) (3,2) 10. Actress, ... Paquin 20. Missing in action 12. Singer, ... Parton (1,1,1) 14. Lose blood 21. Parasite 16. Mud-wallowing 24. Bicker creature 27. Age 19. Very angry 28. Bible song 22. Comperes 30. Friendly word on 23. Munched meeting 25. Cad 31. Land, ... firma 26. Perfect society 33. Washing machine 29. Trapeze artist settings 32. Dreaming period, ... 34. Marched sleep (1,1,1) 35. Sullen 35. Shared out, ... up 36. Lowly 37. Glorify 39. Complied 38. Door aperture 42. Brown photo shade 40. Prairie animal 44. Curved-bill bird 41. College supervisors 45. Prohibit 42. Satisfied 46. Dancing Queen pop 43. Monastery superior group 44. Scientist, Sir ... 48. Short-stay Newton authorisations 47. Below 49. Burp 51. Vend 50. At summit of 52. Ruined 52. Junior to 53. Moses parted the ... 54. Will not (3’1) (3,3) 55. Fluorescent colours 54. More cautious 56. Discuss 58. Affair 57. Cube (vegetables) 59. Ostrich cousin 60. Attendant 61. Design transfer 62. BSE, ... disease (3,3) 63. LP record 65. Avail 64. Wild pack canines 67. Skeleton head 65. Stick (to) 69. Pen name, ... plume 66. Mode (3,2) 68. Rascal 70. Moral principle 71. Alphabetical guide 72. Daylight provider 72. Omit 73. Smoothed furniture 74. Overriding vote edge 76. Fragrant flower 75. UK prince 78. Existed 77. Catch (thief) 80. Non-verbal yes 79. The Matrix actor, ... 83. Before now Reeves 81. Do battle (with) 82. Soup-serving utensil Previous solution - Tough 84. Throw up 85. Military blockade 2 1 9 7 6 3 86. Piebald 7 3 1 2 8 5 6 4 87. Vulgar 8 9 7 6 4 1 2 88. Bullocks

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9 8 6 5 3 6 3 7 4 1 2 6 5 4 3 2 Last 5week’s 4 7 solution 3 2 2 5 4 6 8 9 2 7 6 5 1 9 8

r8ts.com

2 5 7 8 3

8 9 7

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

SUDOKU No. 809

7 6

5 3 8 1

Medium

8 7 4 5 7

1 7 9 6 4 5 2 8 3

6 5 6

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.

3 8

Previous solution - Easy

7 2 5 4 6

the western weekender » Thursday, September 3, 2026

6 1 2 9

9 7

Crossword

4 6 8 2 9 3 5 1 7

3 2 5 1 8 7 6 9 4

2 1 3 9 5 6 4 7 8

8 9 6 4 7 2 1 3 5

7 5 4 8 3 1 9 6 2

6 3 7 5 2 9 8 4 1

5 8 1 7 6 4 3 2 9

9 4 2 3 1 8 7 5 6

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.

SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE FOR FREE

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: SPRING SEPTEMBER SPRING SUNSHINE FLOWERS OCTOBER BLOOM SPROUT GREEN FRESH BUTTERFLY CLOVER HATCH SPRING CLEAN NEW LIFE NOVEMBER AWAKENING Last week’s solution

Test your knowledge about Dolly Parton in this week’s special trivia quiz...

1. Where was Dolly born? 2. What is the name of Dolly’s husband? 3. How many songs did Dolly write throughout her career? 4. Who is Dolly’s goddaughter? 5. What charity did Dolly found that delivers free books to children worldwide? 6. What year did Dolly’s hit song

‘Jolene’ come out? 7. What instrument did Dolly use to create the rhythmic percussion in the opening of ‘9 to 5’? 8. What Whitney Houston song did Dolly write? 9. In what movie did Dolly make her film debut in? 10. How many Grammy Awards has Dolly won throughout her career?

ANSWERS 1. Tennessee 2. Carl Dean 3. Over 3,000 4. Miley Cyrus 5. Imagination Library 6. 1973 7. Her acrylic fingernails 8. ‘I will always love you’ 9. ‘9 to 5’ 10. 11

Trivia Quiz

Thursday, September 3, 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. 809

Medium

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

2 4 1 2

3 9 7

5 1 8

5 7

Str8ts

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

No. 809

Previous solution - Tough

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

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

2 1

7 6

8 9 7

8 3

3 8

Name the Movie

Hexwords

If you can’t tell from the photo, drop the letters from the list below into the circles. We’ve given you a head start.

LOPNALNINEOSESTSSHMEESNITH R

E Previous solution:

Who Am I? HINTS

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.

www.30secondchallenge.com

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Last week’s answer: 30-second challenge ansWeRs To 166 - BEGINNER - 35, INTERMEDIATE - 72, ADVANCED - 360.

4. I run across America for no particular reason. 5. “ Life is like a box chocolates.” Last week’s answer: OASIS BROTHERS – NOEL AND LIAM GALLAGHER

30-second challenge ansWeRs To 167 - BEGINNER - 121, INTERMEDIATE - 3.5, ADVANCED - 192.

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the western weekender » Thursday, September 3, 2026

www.30secondchallenge.com

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InTeRMedIaTe

TIMes By ITself

1. I unknowingly influence several major moments in American history.

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adVanced

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,

adVanced

Previous solution: NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN

30 Second Challenge InTeRMedIaTe

7 5

COLOUR ME PENRITH!

Every week, we encourage your kids to give some colour to an iconic Penrith landmark. Let their creativity shine with The Western Weekender!

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Mum’s Caramel Slice A childhood favourite that still holds its own...no one makes it like Mum. What You’ll Need: – Oven-safe dish (greased) – Saucepan or pot – Spatula for spreading

Ingredients:

Base: – 1 cup Self-Raising Flour – 1 cup Brown Sugar – 1 cup Desiccated Coconut – 125g Butter Filling: – 440g Condensed Milk – 2 Tbsp Golden Syrup – 30g Butter Topping: – 125g Dark Chocolate

Method: 1. Preheat oven to 180°. Sift flour into a bowl and add the sugar

and coconut. Stir until combined. 2. M elt the butter and add to dry ingredients, mixing well. Press the mixture into the oven-safe dish. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside. 3. F or the caramel, place all ingredients into the saucepan on low heat and stir until the caramel has thickened. Bring slowly to the boil, then remove from the heat. 4. S pread the caramel on top of the base and bake for another 10 minutes. 5. O nce the base is completely cool melt the chocolate until smooth and silky. Spread the melted chocolate in an even layer over the caramel, and cover and place in the fridge. Once the chocolate is set, cut into pieces and enjoy!

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The Rocks • Northmead • Beverly Hills • Darling Square

the western weekender » Thursday, September 3, 2026

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • DESSERT