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It sounds like a dream, but imagine if Western Sydney had everything a family needs to live and prosper without needing to regularly make the long commute to Sydney’s CBD. Well, Western Sydney residents can rejoice, as that’s exactly what the Australian and NSW governments are working towards with the Western Sydney City Deal and plans for a Western Parkland City.

While not a binding commitment, the Western Sydney City Deal, involving the Federal and NSW State governments as well as eight Western Sydney mayors, represents a new level of collaboration between the three tiers of government.

It is all too easy to switch on the heater as the cooler weather sets in, but it can prove a costly decision when the power or gas bill arrives in the letterbox. Pair that with the strain on the environment and it’s clear why some old-fashioned warming tips are worth implementing in your home this winter.

Preheat the oven and get out the oven mitts – it’s time for some home cooking! The heat that is generated in a bustling kitchen from the oven and stovetop are instrumental in warming the place right up, as well as ensuring there is a homecooked meal at the end of it.

Autumn is such a visually spectacular time in Macarthur. The exceptional crimson displays have been slowly mounting for the past few weeks and are almost in full force. They frame the beautiful natural landscapes all across the region and set a calm tone for this time of year.

Some of the best vantage points to see the autumn foliage in the local area are below.

The Fraxinus Pennsylvanica 'Cimmzam' showcases the best of all seasons, with a deep green summer display followed by rich autumnal colours in the cooler months. Its autumn leaves are longer lasting than many others, when out of the wind, meaning its beauty is prolonged.  

Once established this deciduous species is tolerant of extreme heat and cold, making it a durable choice to line the streets of Catherine Park Estate. Originating in North America, it grows to about 13 metres x 8 metres at full maturity, providing great shade and thriving in full sun.

This season is the perfect time to enjoy a bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Picking your own produce provides the family with a grassroots experience and makes the reward ever so sweeter when it’s the fruits of your own labour. Fruit picking is not only a fun and leisurely activity, but also reduces food miles and ensures you know exactly where your food is coming from. Below are some of the best places to sample and pick seasonal fruits and products.

Head to Berrylicious Strawberries on one of their special ‘pick your own strawberries’ days to return home with buckets of freshly picked strawberries. Bookings essential. Address: 200 West Parade, Thirlmere Open: All year round