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Community Newspaper Issue 27, April 2012
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CLASSIC CAR SHOWA CLASSIC SUCCESS!
photo:Will S.
For the second time, on Saturday March 10, the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed held their annual Classic Car and Bike Show at Apex Park as part of the Altona Beach Festival 2012.
With almost 150 entries, all competing for a bucket load of trophies, the turnout was spectacular with almost every model represented from a ‘Roller’ to a Ford Prefect making the job difficult for the team of judges.
Once again organised by Graham Weightman and his group of experienced volunteers (he claims they did it all) the show went like clockwork with all details running according to the plan worked out in 2011/12 in conjunction with his team and the gorgeous Hazel, the event organiser from HBC Council.
The Sun obliged and the rain waited for another day – the exhibits were really great, my favourite being the ‘Rolls Royce’, a classic vintage model, in perfect condition, looking as new as ever, standing silently, just drippimg the wealth it represented.
Member Will Stjepovik was active with his camera (thanks for the pictures Will). There is a video of the event taken by George Said and can be seen on U tube.
A job well done by the members of the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed.
Graham Weightman "the man in charge"
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How quickly the year starts to fly by.
Thank you for your submissions again this month.
We are looking for interested persons who enjoy writing to attend some functions and local events and provide a short article of that event. If you are attending local events regularly, if you write a short account and send it through we will probably include it in the paper. Whilst we reserve the right to change articles where needed, we are very keen to promote local voices. If
you have creative writing, poetry, artwork, or if you are holding an event for the community we would also love to hear from you. Send submissions to the following email: [email protected]
Please direct advertising enquiries to: [email protected]
Until next month.RegardsDaniel.
EDITORS COLUMN
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While in the Waiting room at Werribee Hospital recently I had rather a pleasant surprise.
Sitting opposite to me were a mature couple, the lady, texting, going hammer and tongs on a mobile phone, and the gentleman, flat out on an IPad.
Now if they were kids this would not have surprised me – what grabbed me was that mature people had adopted this modern means of communication and were highly proficient!
Unable to restrain my curiosity I sat down next to them and explained my interest.
The gentleman was appreciative of my interest and began a demonstration of some of the programs on his ‘computer’, of which there were many. It transpired that he was a computer Tutor of disabled people and was a very skilled operator.
My favourite was a program he had evolved to train his CAT!
He had a goldfish swimming on the screen and he had trained his cat to stamp a paw on the fish when it swam around – when the cat struck the fish with its paw, the fish would disappear and reappear in another spot and so the cat would strike again#
This was fine and after a few minutes TWO fish would appear and the cat would use two paws to strike fascinating – I was most impressed.
As I’m attempting a start up of a ‘Virtual Mens Shed’ (there is an invitation in this issue) I have invited him to join as I hope you do.
The last decade has been an era of significant growth and change for our community.The work my government is doing will see the people of Lalor get better access to health care, greater investments in infrastructure and a clean energy future with the jobs and opportunities that will flow from taking action on climate change.Our education reforms will make sure that every child in our electorate gets the best education possible and that these kids go on to get the training they need to get the best start in life.
In four years Federal Labor has already delivered $134.7 million for building projects at local schools; and in the last two years has contributed more than $31 million to local councils for various infrastructure projects and $15 million for a GP Super Clinic in Wyndham Vale, which would not have been possible under a Coalition government.There will always be more to do in our community as it continues to change, but as the Member for Lalor I will always be there fighting to get us our fair share.
Julia Gillard MPMember for Lalor
PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER
MESSAGE FROM THE HON. JULIA GILLARD MP
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Fifteen hundred students from both campuses of Carranballac College Point Cook, Boardwalk P-9 School in Dunnings Road, and Jamieson Way P-9 School Jamieson Way Point Cook, took part in Schools Clean Up Australia Day on Friday 2nd March 2012.
Twenty-one Prep/1 and 2 classes worked on both campus grounds for Clean Up Australia Day, while twelve Year 3/4 classes went to adjacent community reserves.
Our photo shows Prep One Turquoise of Jamieson Way campus, eagerly waving their gloved hands during their time at work.
Twenty-seven Middle Years classes went out into the community into parks, reserves, Cheetham Creek and Point Cook Town Centre wetlands and sections of Skeleton Creek.
Some Year 5/6 and 7 Student Environment Councillors conducted an audit of litter collected in wetland areas for this event in partnership with Melbourne Water’s Healthy Waterways Waterwatch Program. Some of these results are shown in the accompanying table.
CARRANBALLAC COLLEGEReport on Clean Up Australia Day (CUAD) 2012 Friday 2nd March
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Over forty five bags of rubbish were collected from the areas around Jamieson Way campus, while forty were collected around Boardwalk. Other items such as old bicycles, builders’ rubble and large foam blocks were unable to be returned to school sites. Total mass of items collected equalled 500kg.
Our photo shows Clancy of 5/6 Jade Boardwalk campus. Clancy said, “There was a lot of rubbish in the area that we cleaned up. We found a lot of broken glass, a spray can and lots of toilet paper in a big pile. I think that people should start to clean up their own mess and not dump it in Point Cook. We filled four garbage bags full of rubbish.”
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Rain threatened on Sunday 4th March when a small band of volunteer garbologists, led by Paul Harder, came together to clean up Point Cook as part of Clean Up Australia Day.Participants met in the foyer of the Point Cook Library, where we were given maps, plastic bags and recycling bags.I wish I’d grabbed a trolley like one of the others, because I had difficulty juggling the bag I was using, without dropping the empty ones! Nevertheless, a good time was had by all, and the rain stayed away.Why don’t you get involved next year? Simply go to www.cleanup.org.au and register your interest. You’ll do your bit for your community, and make new friends at the same time!
SMALL BAND OF VOLUNTEERS CLEANS UP POINT COOK
Participants with some of the rubbish collected
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Altona, 13 March 2012: Altona, Laverton/Altona Meadows and Point Cook Community Bank® branches and Bendigo Bank Williamstown branch, today announced of an additional 40 automatic defibrillators units will be donated to sites across the community. The announcement at the
Altona Life Saving Club of more units follows the purchase of 15 defibrillators for local community clubs in January as part of the first phase of the Defib Your Club for Life program. Funds for this project are provided by the three Community Bank® branches.At the event, program founder and MICA paramedic, Andrew White, said the additional defibrillators may potentially save even more lives of those who suffer cardiac arrest.“A defibrillator is the most important life saving piece of equipment any club or group can have,” Mr White said.“There are great benefits for any community that has access to automatic defibrillators for emergency situations. “Research tells us that the MCG that has a cardiac arrest survival rate of 85 per cent, as automatic defibrillators are readily available. This is compared to a 7-10 per cent chance elsewhere in Australia where the life saving equipment is not as accessible.”Mr White formed Defib Your Club for Life in memory of 19-year-old Stephen Buckman, a young Rupertswood footballer who collapsed and died during training in May 2010. Director, Altona, Laverton/Altona Meadows and Point Cook Community Bank® branches, Michael Boyd, said local Community Bank® branches were committed to the health and safety of Hobsons Bay and Wyndham locals. “This is an important project for us to support, that will provide 88 defibrillator units, which have been strategically located to ensure accessibility to any member of our community in a timely manner.
The Defib locations as announced at today’s launch are attached.“Thanks to local shareholders and customers, our Community Bank® branches can support important programs like Defib Your Club for Life for the benefit of our whole community.’’“The more business that’s done, the more funds can be raised for major community projects,’’ he said. For further information on the Defib Your Club for Life program go to: www.defibforlife.org.au
MORE GROUPS BENEFITFROM LIFESAVING UNITS
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Easter represents the Christian festival commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Easter celebration marks the end of Lent, a 40-day period where Christians are devoted to fasting, prayer and penitence. Holy Week is the last week of Lent and it represents Jesus’ last moments on earth, His death on Good Friday and His resurrection on Easter Sunday.
In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, members of the Orthodox Church also begin with Great Lent, the 40-day period of self-examination and fasting which starts on Clean Monday and culminates on Lazarus Saturday. Lazarus Saturday occurs eight days before Easter Sunday and marks the end of Great Lent. Many Orthodox churches observe a Paschal Vigil which ends just before midnight on Holy Saturday. Following the vigil, Easter festivities commence with Paschal Matins that consist of early-morning prayer services or prayers during an all-night prayer vigil. Paschal Hours
which are brief prayer services commemorating the joy of Easter and finally with the Paschal Divine Liturgy which connects prayers with the communion of Eucharist.
The celebration of Easter has changed quite significantly from the past to the celebrations that we know and practice today. Its origin comes mainly from the German immigrants who arrived in the United States during the 18th century. Americans were introduced to the Easter Hare and the tradition of the Easter nest during this time period. Children would gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and play egg-hunting during the celebration process.
It was not after the US Civil War when the celebration of Easter achieved mass popularity around the world and was celebrated visibly with families across the globe gathering to celebrate such an important event within the Christian
EASTER CELEBRATION
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Calendar. Easter used to be celebrated in the past by prayer services including a vigil service before the Eucharist. The vigil service consisted of a series of psalms, readings but it is no longer observed every Sunday. Roman Catholics started to observe it only during one day every year, on Easter.
Modern celebrations of Christianity involve the belief that Christians symbolically pass through death into a new spiritual life in Jesus Christ. The celebrations are also based with prayer services and are modernly celebrated with more joyful activities such as the Easter egg-hunting, gifts to children and family gatherings.
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Do you know your rights when it comes to refunds, exchanges and warranty for goods bought over the internet?
The Victorian Government’s Consumer Affairs Department @consumervic has comprehensive online-shopping resources on their web page: they even have an App called “MyShopRights”!
If you purchase goods online (or in a store), and you have better things to do with your time than spend it on hold to their call centre, give Twitter a go!
Venting publically can make large companies take notice quickly! They don’t want their brand trashed publically so will endeavour to get your complaint offline as quickly as possible. Just remember to @theircompanyname when you tweet; including @consumervic might also help!
And yes – complaints via Twitter worked for me! I no longer have to deal with a particular Telco… after weeks of spending hours on hold and emails that went unanswered I finally got some customer service via a single Tweet!
@SOCIALMEDIAMONSYOUR LOCAL SOCIAL MEDIA CONVERSATION
Nicole Matejic@socialmediamonsSocial Media Monster
Remember:- Be polite and keep it clean. - Be firm and state that you know your consumer rights.- Be willing to take the matter further, such as to an industry Ombudsman.
Join the conversation @socialmediamons on Twitter or find me on Facebook.
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Point Cook Garden Page
Platycerium bifurcatum, the Common Elkhorn Fern, occurs naturally along Australia’s eastern seaboard from southern New South Wales northward to Queensland and into New Guinea. Platycerium hillii, the Northern Elkhorn Fern, is more restricted in its natural habitat, occurring from Ingham to the Cape York Peninsula in Queensland. In their natural habitats, both species grow epiphytically (on trunks and branches of trees) or lithophytically (on rocks) in humid lowland rainforests. Large plants are composed of a mass of plantlets, each plantlet consisting of a nest leaf 12-30cm wide lying against its host. Given time, the nest leaves of neighbouring plantlets could overlap one another and may eventually form very large, heavy clumps.The nest leaves are sterile and become brown and papery with age, but masses of velvety brown spores are produced on the undersurface of the long fertile fronds that can attain a length of 25cm to 90cm. These most impressive ferns remain as a solitary clump, gradually increasing in size.
Provided they are sited in a protected position (a fernery or shadehouse is ideal), Elkhorn Ferns are very easily grown in Melbourne, attached to suitable mounts or to a tree or rocks in the garden.Gardeners employ a range of different substrates as the mounts for Elkhorn Ferns. You could tie plants to established trees in your garden, make a raft from old fence palings, attach a plant to a terracotta roof tile, a sandstone paver, or ??? Well, the choice is yours; but do ensure your mount is strong and sturdy because, after a few years, your Elkhorn Fern could attain quite impressive dimensions.My tonal pencil drawing is of a recently mounted division of Platycerium hillii. It resides in our shadecloth covered fernery.
Helene WildResident Artist Habitat [email protected]
ELKHORN FERNS
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Hi to all readers for our first time. We at Laverton Park Tennis Club are proud to become involved with Around Point Cook and hope to be a regular voice to this publication.The team of coaches and committee invite you to come and join in the fun. In 2012 and with the assistance of Hobsons Bay Council an additional two courts will be added making a total of six courts to enjoy so all the more opportunity to become involved.Our junior and senior teams Summer competitions are about to conclude with several teams battling finals – so good luck to all. Winter comps starting early May and teams now finalised. However we are always looking for new members and players as our motto is:
“TENNIS IS FUN FOR EVERYONE”
Our open day which was conducted on 26th February welcomed over 60 new faces and trust all enjoyed the activities on offer. Furthermore we hope you are all giving consideration to joining our family friendly club.We encourage new members or social players to join our club to see and experience the fun of tennis. All ages – all abilities – and now catering for full time students as well, there’s much more to enjoy at our family friendly club with very affordable memberships available. So if you are interested and want to compete either in WRTA competition, or just want a once a week social night hit, feel free to contact us. The club also accesses:
• Qualified coaches providing group and private lessons for all ages• Junior and Senior Competitions on Saturday • Group or Private lessons• Pee Wee program (From the ages of 4 – 7)• Adult group lessons and weekly social tennis game nights
Until next month, good wishes to all readers, stay safe and keep hitting winners.For further information feel free to contact us:
Brendan J. O’Brien.TCAV/TPA,Advanced & Accredited.Ph: 03 9398 2339 0407 552 828.
Susanne Crotch Junior SecretaryPh: 03 9360 7905
LAVERTON PARK TENNIS CLUB
MERTON STREET, LAVERTON (Melways ref 53 F10)
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Community Board
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING &DINNERS CLUB
Dinners Club phone 9394 7905 for information.Scottish Country Dancing at Jamieson Way Community Centre 7-30pm Friday nights during school term time. Phone 9394 7905.
SEABROOK COMMUNITY CENTREEnhance your resume and improve your job seeking skills at these two hour workshops. At Seabrook CC Phone 93953010
* * *Resume and Interview workshops on Monday 30th April and Monday 7th May.
Point Cook
Soccer Club
PLAYERS WANTED!!!
Our teams play in the Football Federation of
Victoria’s winter competition which starts in
April.
Training is at Featherbrook Oval, off Sneydes
rd Point Cook and Home and Away games are
played on Sundays.
Please contact our Director of Coaching Geoff
Gillard on Mob: +61 (0)438 141 515
pointcooksoccerclub.org
AUSTRALIAN NAVY CADET UNIT TS VOYAGERAustralian Navy Cadet unit TS Voyager currently has vacancies for new cadets.TS Voyager was voted the runner up Best Cadet Anit in Australia in 2011.If your aged between 12 1/2 and 19 we offer the opportunity to develop your leadership skills in a maritime environment.Are you on the waiting list to join the Army or Air force cadets; how about some fun on the water instead?Our Cadets come from as far as Werribee, Point Cook, Melton, Sunbury, Romsey and Moorabin.
Both Males and Females are encouraged to apply.If your interest in finding out more, come down to the unit any Friday night from 7pmWe're located at 146 Nelson Parade in Williamstown (next to the Liston tennis courts)Or contact the Commanding Officer on 0419 116 155 for more information.
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Community Board
Learn to Fly at Point
Cook Flying Club
Phone 9395 1735
www.pointcook.org
ALTONA MEADOWS/ LAVERTON UNITING CHURCH61 Central Avenue, Altona Meadows.We invite you to join us any Sunday at 10am for worship. We cater for all ages, seated in a circle and you will be very welcome.We offer Sunday groups for children and teenagers and have Bible study and discussion groups during the week.There is also a low-cost playgroup on Wednesdays from 9.30-11.30.
We now have a full-time Minister; Rev. Susan Malthouse;9369 0384The multi-purpose building is available for regular hirers. It is carpeted, with kitchen facilities and a fenced playground.Enquiries to Lauris on 8386 9030
LAVERTON
COMMUNITY CHOIR
The Laverton Community Choir invites
you to attend a rehearsal as a guest
before you decide if you would
like to join.
Experienced conductor, different and fun
musical arrangements. No experience is
necessary just a love of singing.
The choir rehearses every Thursday 7pm
– 9pm at P-12 College, Bladin Street,
Laverton. ITALIAN LESSONS
Italian Lessons for beginners!
Call Louise on 0403 191 084
WWBUG - FEMALE CYCLINGWe are a group of women, passionate about
cycling, who come together to ride our bikes,
mainly on the weekends, in the Wyndham
area and beyond. We have regular rides on
the first and third Saturdays of the month.
These rides are usually two hours or more and
require a reasonable level of fitness. We also
host extra events such as bike maintenance
nights, information sessions, a weekend away
and participating in organised cycling events
such as Around the Bay. Contact 0439650156 or www.wwbug.net.
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Member for Altona District, Ms Jill Hennessy MP, today called on the Baillieu Government, to allocate funds in the forthcoming State Budget in order to support the duplication of Point Cook Road and roads infrastructure in general in Point Cook.
Ms Hennessy said, “not one dollar was allocated in last year’s budget to improve roads infrastructure in Point Cook.
“Local residents are rightly frustrated with being gridlocked in local streets at peak times.
“Mums and Dads commuting to work or ferrying children to school should not have to put up with the current situation which is growing worse by the day.
“The Baillieu Government cannot afford to ignore roads in the West in the May State Budget. Funds need to be urgently allocated,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The roads infrastructure issues around Point Cook are not just about congestion but also about the impact on the safety of our community which is incredibly important,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The people of Point Cook demand and deserve to be heard now, not in the future. Our community is suffering now. Action needs to be carried out now, not in years to come we just don’t have that luxury,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The Point Cook Community has run out of patience,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The Baillieu Government need to act now and allocate funds to fix the gridlock urgently.
“Wyndham has lost too many lives on our poorly resourced roads system. The government not only needs to finally release their road safety strategy, but they need to put their money where their mouth is and fund these things as a matter of urgency in this year’s forthcoming budget,” Ms Hennessy said.
FUNDING NEEDED TO CLEAR POINT COOK GRIDLOCK
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Wyndham Council has released more data showing the increasing pressure on its roads and highlighting the need for VicRoads to commit more funding through the State Government.The Review of 2011 Traffic Volumes in Wyndham, identified 18 road sections which are currently at capacity, with traffic on several roads growing at a rate of 10-12%.While there is 3% growth on roads in middle and inner municipalities, Werribee St Crossing near Cottrell St and Boardwalk Boulevard south of the Princes Freeway experienced a growth rate of 11% and traffic on Palmers Rd, south of Boundary Rd increased by 15%.The report identifies the sections of road which require urgent action as: Forsyth Rd, Old Geelong Rd to Princes Freeway; Sayers Rd, Palmers Rd to Morris Rd; Derrimut Rd, Sayers Rd to Leakes Rd; Derrimut Rd, Leakes Rd to Dohertys Rd; Point Cook Rd, Dunnings Rd to Sneydes Rd; Sayers Rd, between Morris Rd and Derrimut Rd; Heaths Rd, between Tarneit Rd and Shaws Rd; Palmers Rd, Boundary Rd to Leaks Rd as well as Tarneit Rd, Hogans Rd to Sayers Rd.Of the 18 road sections identified as at capacity, three of these are the responsibility of the council, with the remaining 15 coming under VicRoads jurisdiction.
WYNDHAM HIGHLIGHTS PROBLEM ROADS
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Planning for Point Cook South East P-9 is currently underway, Jill Hennessy, Member for Altona District, said today.
After having Questions on Notice (QON’s) answered by the Minister for Education, the Hon. Martin Dixon recently, Ms Hennessy advises the community of the following information:
• The total cost of construction is expected to be $17.8 Million• The school is expected to open in 2013 for students from Prep to Year 6• The schools is expected to be operating as a P-9 school by 2016• The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development is working with the Wyndham City Council to deliver community facilities on the school grounds• Funding by the Wyndham City Council will enable construction of a three room kindergarten, car parking and play spaces• The school is planned to cater for local growing enrolments
Ms Hennessy said “I have communicated regularly with the Minister, the urgent need for increased education facilities in this area.
“This school and the school planned for Truganina should both be fully funded in the upcoming 2012 – 2013 State Budget,” Ms Hennessy said.
“Truganina’s planned school is yet to receive funding while many of our local schools struggle with population caps.
“In another letter recently the Minister advises that the Point Cook South East P-9 is going to cater for 675 students, with the first stage planned to provide for 475 students.
“An additional 475 places will provide little relief to the massive demand faced by local schools in the electorate,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The Baillieu State Government need to take the local infrastructure and educational needs seriously by providing a sound provisioning plan for all schools and students in the West,” Ms Hennessy said.
SOME QUESTIONS ANSWEREDPOINT COOK SOUTH EAST P-9 COLLEGE
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How many Superannuation Funds do you have? One? Two? Not sure? Lots?
Throughout our working lives it is unlikely that we will remain with the one employer until retirement. Each time you change jobs most employers should offer you a “default” fund to have your contributions paid into with in most cases a “Standard Choice Form” to nominate your own fund if that is your preferred option.
Having a number of superannuation funds can result in: additional fees; difficulty keeping track of your funds; and maintaining a suitable investment strategy. In many cases, combining super accounts could be in your best interests.
However is it automatically the best option to accept your Employer’s fund and rollover your other funds into that one?
Is it automatically the best option to only have one Fund?
No, not always.
What is combining super accounts?
Consolidation (aggregation) is the combining of two or more superannuation funds into one fund.
Are there any disadvantages of consolidating super funds?
Before you consolidate your various superannuation funds, check first whether there are any fees for closing a super account, known as a withdrawal, transfer, exit or termination fee. For some older types of super funds, these fees can be very high. In addition you should confirm if there are any benefits you may lose such as insurance cover. You also need to consider Estate Planning Issues in relation to the insurance and taxation components held in each fund before consolidating.
Case Study 1Tim* came to see me last year. He wanted to consolidate his three super funds in order to commence a Transition to Retirement Pension at Age 55. He was 54. Upon checking his existing funds, it turned out that one of his old products with a balance of approximately $90,000 had an exit penalty of over $30,000. This exit penalty was removed at Age 55. Although he wasn’t very happy keeping the fund, by holding it for one extra year, he saved $30,000 in exit fees.
Case Study 2Robert* came to see me two years ago. He wanted to ensure his Estate Planning was correctly structured to be able to successfully leave funds to his current wife, ex-wife and two adult children if he passed away. His ex-wife is considered to be a tax dependant, but not a superannuation dependent. His current wife is a tax and superannuation dependent, and his adult children are superannuation dependents,
but not tax dependents.
By checking his existing funds, the tax components and insurance policies, we determined that it would be best to leave one of his existing super funds to his ex-wife via his Estate as it held mostly “tax-free” component. A different fund was left via a Binding Nomination to his current wife with mostly “taxable” component and Life Insurance attached. We then arranged a Life Insurance policy to be held outside of superannuation with his adult children as
IS IT ALWAYS BEST TO COMBINE YOUR SUPER FUNDS INTO ONE?
21ISSUE 27
beneficiaries. This structure meant that minimal tax would be paid by any beneficiary.
If he were to consolidate his super funds, and hold all of his life insurance under superannuation then his taxable and tax-free components would be mixed together and his ex-wife and adult children may lose a portion of their benefit in tax (assuming they are classified as non-dependents).
If received by his adult children, any Life Insurance component of the benefit could have tax payable of up to 31.5% (including Medicare levy). By holding the Life Insurance to benefit his adult children outside of the Superannuation environment there is no tax liability upon the proceeds if he dies.
As his current wife is classed as a “dependent”, she pays no tax on the funds she receives from superannuation either from a taxable component or from Life Insurance.
Case Study 3Susan* came to see me this year. She had rolled all of her superannuation funds into one and then applied to increase her Life and Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) Insurance that was held under her new fund.
Susan plays Netball, and had undergone a knee reconstruction three years prior, so the Insurer declined to cover her for any activities that related to her injured knee under the increased TPD Insurance cover.
Although she had existing TPD Insurance cover under one of her old funds, she had already closed the account and cancelled the insurance, so we were unable to regain the old Insurance policy that did not have a “knee exclusion” applied.
Conclusion
In many cases having one Superannuation fund is the best option. In some cases it is not. It is important to check all details of existing funds and options in new funds prior to combining any accounts. Superannuation can be confusing, and the information you need to make the best decisions is not always shown on your fund statements. Consulting a Financial Adviser can assist you to:
Establish what you need;Establish in detail what you already have;Check your current fees, investment op-
tions and insurance options;Consolidate where appropriate;Minimise financial risks and maximise fi-
nancial opportunities.
* Clients names have been changed to protect their privacy.
Please contact Melinda Houghton at the office of Houghton Strategic Solutions in Point Cook on 9394 6344 to check your superannuation options. With constant changes to legislation, financial markets, world events, and your own personal situation it is essential to refer to a financial specialist who is experienced and up-to-date.
Melinda Houghton Authorised Representative of Aon Hewitt Financial Advice LimitedAuthorised Representative No. 290343
Aon Hewitt Financial Advice Limited ABN 13 091 225 642 AFSL No. 239183
This information may be regarded as general advice. That is, your personal objectives, needs or financial situations were not taken into account when preparing this information. Accordingly, you should consider the appropriateness of any general advice we have given you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs before acting on it. Where the information relates to a particular financial product, you should obtain and consider the relevant product disclosure statement before making any decision to purchase that financial product.
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Pet Column
Our four-legged family members can get into just as much mischief as a toddler, so it is important that we ensure their environment is safe from paws, claws and teeth.
Around the house:
• Balconies, stairs and decks should be secured.
• Many plants are toxic if eaten, others may cause irritation on contact. As a great source of information, we have available for sale copies of “ , (for a brief list see below).
• Baits, such as those for rats and snails, are designed to be eaten by the species they are intended to poison; unfortunately they are also attractive to our pets. Baits should be kept out of reach of our pets at all times, even those that are labeled as “pet safe” as many pets will ignore the bittering agent. If you even suspect that your pet may have had access you should seek urgent treatment
• Check for exposed wires that can be chewed on, puppies and kittens love to chew on firm but soft objects when teething
• Plastic bags may seem fun to play with but can suffocate.
• Many pets drown in pools, make sure that your pet like your children can not get through the safety fencing. Unfortunately we see several puppies and kittens that have drowned each year.
• In the garage cats will often get up under the bonnet in the colder months, and some pets will sleep under cars to reduce drafts. Make sure that your pets are away from the car before starting or moving it.
• Anti-freezer and windscreen washer fluids are highly toxic, the component of the solution that prevents freezing is a sugar based product and highly attractive.
This chemical causes acute kidney failure and death, please clean up any spills.
• Paint, petrol and other chemicals should be stored securely and out of reach.
Inside the house:
• Close washing machine and dryer lids and keep the toilet seat down.
• Never leave hot items such as hotplates and irons unattended.
PET PROOFING YOUR HOME
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Pet Column
• Watch for wiring, remote controls and mobile phones, they make great chew toys.
• Rubber bands, string, wool even bottle tops have been used as toys and can be extremely harmful if swallowed.
• Christmas can be disastrous, with lights and ornaments tempting curiosity.
Plants:
Lilys, azaleas, oleander, ivy, foxglove, hydrangea, rhododendron and many other plants are toxic to pets if eaten. Some plants will cause minor tummy upsets, others can prove fatal. Some like wandering dew and nettles will cause skin irritations and inflammation. Pets predisposed to allergies often test positive for grass and pollen allergies.
Fertilisers and compost are highly toxic, and taste great to our pets. The nitrogen in these products can cause depression, fitting and death with direct effects on the organs including the brain. Bacteria and fungi contained in these products can also cause serious illnesses.
In short if your pet can fit something in its mouth it probably will, so pick it up, put it way or throw it out.
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ABOUT USThe Point Cook Flying Club (PCFC) exists to provide a social venue and facilities for the aviation enthusiast. Whether a licensed pilot, a student pilot or just one with an interest in flying generally, the PCFC endeavours to provide a meeting place for all.The PCFC is a non-profit organisation whose committee of management are committed to not only the provision of friendly surroundings and facilities for members, but also to the promotion of aviation generally and promotion of the Point Cook Airfield precinct as an ideal destination for local, interstate and overseas visitors.Throughout the year the PCFC provides social events, including flyaways, for its members and guests, as well as facilities for the qualified or student pilot.
AIRCRAFT FOR HIRECurrently the PCFC has a C-l 72 available to pilots with at least a PPL, and 10 hours on type.VH-WKB is available af a very competitive rate. Please feel free to call the club for further details.
LEARN TO FLYLearning to fly is a dream of many, but reality for a select few. A pilot's licence is a valuable qualification and learning to fly is an education in itself.The PCFC now offers flying training to a high standard. There are a number of stages involved in flying training.
FIND USTake the Point Cook Road/Laverton exit off the great new Geelong Rd and follow the Point Cook Rd all the way to the RAAF Williams entrance. (Follow signs to the RAAF Museum). Once on the base, follow the main road all the way around to the southern tarmac - as far as the road goes - and there we are.
POINT COOK FLYING CLUB
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There are many mobile marketing tools that can be used to grow your business. These are the most effective ones.
1. Location based services like facebook places and foursquare are social media applications. They allow businesses to offer promotions on their products and services and this will in turn help them get more loyal customers. Through location based services, customers can check-in to your business and also notify their friends of their present location.
2. Email marketing has been a very effective marketing tool for a long time. Now it can be used for mobile marketing considering the fact that the number of people using their phones to read their emails is on the rise.
3. Text messaging or SMS marketing makes it possible to send discounts and promotional messages to customers on their cell phones. One of the main advantages of using SMS is the fact that the read rate is high and most people read their messages immediately they are received.
4. Mobile websites: There are two ways you can approach this. You can either create a mobile website
which is usually a lighter version of your website or make your website easier to view and navigate on mobile devices. Mobile websites are better because customers will quickly find the information they want.
Mobile marketing is a good marketing platform to grow your business, your customer base, and your profits. Before you start a campaign, you have to do some research and learn certain strategies. Software tools can also make things easier.
For a complimentary consultation on how mobile can help your business simply contact Local Marketing Magnet on 8678-0657
Cheers,
Fred Gillen
0403 865 677
http://NittyGrittyBusiness.comhttp://www.Page1ofGoogle.comhttp://www.LocalMarketingMagnet.com
EFFECTIVE MOBILE MARKETING TOOLS
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A new Lions club came to Wyndham on the 17th of March when 22 men and women celebrated the charter night of the Point Cook Lions Club at The Point Cook Village.
During the ceremonies, Lions District Governor David Lowing presented the official charter to Point Cook Lions Club President Neal Robertson who accepted the charter on behalf of the new club's members. "I am proud to welcome these men and women into Lions. Point Cook will be proud to have such a fine group serving their community," said David Lowing.
Members of the Werribee Lions Club, who sponsored the formation of the Point Cook Lions Club, were also be on hand to congratulate members of the new club.
The guest speaker was Dr Meron Pitcher who spoke about the work that BreastWest does supporting the women of Melbourne's Western suburbs, who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer through Western Health's Breast Services Clinics at the Sunshine and Footsgcray Hospitals.
The Point Cook Lions Club plan to be involved with BreastWest by holding a Dinner Dance to raise funds to support BreastWest later this year.
Also present was Wyndham's Mayor Kim McAliney, who welcomed the Point Cook Lions Club on the communities behalf. Other guests present were Werribee Lions President Michael Eather and Rachel, Andrew Elsbury MLA, Bernie Finn MP, Wyndham Deputy Mayor Glenn Goodfellow, Councillor Heather Marcus, and Councillor Bob Fairclough and Denise.
LIONS CHARTER NEW CLUB IN POINT COOK
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The Point Cook Lions Club meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 6.30 for 7.00 at the Featherbrook Community Centre. Lions clubs are a group of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to meet those needs. For more information or to get involved with the Point Cook Lions Club, please contact Hill Robertson club secretary at 9394 6700.
Lions Clubs International is the world's largest service club organization with nearly 1.3 millionmembers in approximately 45,000 clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas around theworld. Since 1,9L7, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired and made a strongcommitment to community service and serving youth throughout the world. For more informationabout Lions Clubs International, visit the Web site at www.lionsclubs.org.
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AMSA is proud to welcome it's 700th Men's Shed. This incredible movement continues to gain momentum and we are all amazed that we have reached this milestone in such a quick time. The 700 sheds represents approximately 90,000 plus men so we look optimistically to a future with endless possibilites.The 700th shed
opened at Bonnell's Bay on February 21st, 2012 and is to be named the "Bonnells Bay Salvation Army Men's Shed". It is a little bit different to a lot of other Men's Sheds in that it was originally opened to attract men between the ages of 20 and 40 years
of age with a view to mentoring opportunities. The shed is located in a gymnasium and for 2 days a week, it operates as a gym with punching bags, treadmills and weights replacing the usual lathes and sawdust that is usually found in a Men's Shed. There is, however, a workshop room at the facility and according to Bonnell's Bay Salvation Army Minister, Laura Gittins, the workshop has become increasingly popular with the men at the shed, "We have noticed more men becoming involved in that activity and we also have an artisitic section where the men can display their artisitic skills. One day into the future, we will develop a community garden that continues to assist members of our community to connect with one another."AMSA welcomes the men at Bonnell's Bay Salvation Army Men's Shed to our association as we continue to be a source of information and resource to Men's Sheds throughout Australia.
Source: AMSA Newsletter
An opportunity is opening to join the Mens Shed as a ‘Virtual Volunteer’
What’s a ‘Virtual Volunteer?’
A Virtual Volunteer is a virtual member of the Mens Shed who communicates via email with other members and assists in the distribution of information regarding matters of interest to various members of the organisation.
Communication is vital to the health of any organisation and our group of Virtual Volunteers can fill this role ‘from the comfort of their own home’ – meaning using their own computer – at their leisure – to help in the growth of a major community project.
Is there a cost to join?
There is no cost to join and none are needed as there is a ‘Virtual Shed’ with only a ‘virtual rent’- the real task is to develop and test the value and worth of Digital communication.
What do I have to do?
A list will quickly develop as skills and imagination goes to work.
Important things like newsletters, information sheets about meetings such as social activities,
functions, research, forums, webinars, videos, fundraising, plus all the things that haven’t even been thought about yet.
Are there any Rules?
Of course there will be rules and a code of conduct
Things like confidentiality, non disclosure, privacy laws, management, monitoring, chat groups, prohibiting the passing on of any junk mail, are all important to the success of the project.
It is important that all Virtual Members with other than Mac’s or Linux based machines have up to date anti-virus software installed on any computer they use for the project
It is very disappointing to feel that you have had a very positive interaction between members only to find your files disappearing because of some virus or worm that has been passed on.
With your help this project can really grow
In this virtual world there is no age, sex, distance, or monetary discrimination, all who can accept the rules are welcome to participate
Expressions of interest are most welcome
Email [email protected] with ‘I’m interested’ in the subject line.
AMSA'S WELCOMES ITS 700TH SHED!!
VIRTUAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED
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March is a time of year that Rotarians really showcase their many achievements in building better communities both here and abroad and helping those in need at a District Conference. This year members and partners of the Rotary Club of Laverton
Point Cook attended our District Conference at the new Melbourne Convention Centre along with our exchange student Pierre-Baptist Devos pictured below with two other French exchange students.
Rotary’s exchange student program is one of its most successful programs where students spend a year in another country hosted by Rotary families and attending school. Students experience accelerated development in life skills, a greater appreciation of other cultures and greatly enhanced career potential. Local student Claire Pepin is currently being sponsored by our club on a youth exchange to Brazil for a year.
Meanwhile our Rotary club continues its very active program both locally and abroad. On the local scene we have assisted other Rotary clubs such as Wyndham Rotary with their recent fun run/walk to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital and we assisted at the flood devastated town of Rochester. We
also had a one of our members travel to Mt Hagen in Papua New Guinea to oversee the handover of a shipment of computers for local schools that our club arranged.
To find out more about us
please go to our website at
www.rotarylpc.org.au or email
Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook
Our French exchange student Pierre (pictured centre) at the Rotary Conference
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Question of the Month (Qom) is a new series which will enable APC to distribute some worthwhile prizes obtained from our advertisers and supporters.
Each month we will ask 3 questions and each email answer received will go into a draw for the Major prize. Readers may answer all questions or simply the one of their choice.
There are prizes for each question answered and you may answer as many times as you wish. We reserve the right to create a limit should we find it necessary. There is only one major prize each month for the first answer drawn digitally from all entries. There are prizes for each separate question, together with a prize for all who answer at least one of the questions.
Question of the month of April 2012You may answer one or more of the questions to be in the draw for prize s from one of our advertisers
1. What is Facebook?
2. Where is Melbourne’s Airshow held?
3. Name the on-line bookstore bringing with “A”
4. What is the number of this issue of Around Point Cook
Choose any question/s
you like and email your
answer to:
Qom@aroundpointcook.
com
Entries Close 20th April
QUESTION OF THE MONTH
(QOM)
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Famous Quotes
Learn from the mistakes of others. You can never live long enough to
make them all yourself.
Groucho MARX
* * *
I always thought we were paid to entertain.
Peter COSTELLO, long serving Federal Treasurer
(Quoted by journalist Laurie Oakes in the “Herald Sun” of Saturday, 18.2.2012.)
* * *
Youth is a blunder; Manhood a struggle; Old Age a regret.
Benjamin DISRAELI, 1804 –1881,
British Prime Minister.
* * *
There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies and statistics.
Benjamin DISRAELI
(Attributed to him by Mark TWAIN)
* * *
Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it, diagnosing it incorrectly and
applying the wrong remedies.
Groucho MARX
* * *
Courage is rightly esteemed as the first of human qualities because it is the quality
which guarantees all others.
Winston CHURCHILL
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Famous Quotes Famous Quotes
Blows that don’t break your back will strengthen it.
Omar MUKHTAR, famous Libyan rebel leader
hanged by the Italian Fascists in 1931 (Played by Anthony Quinn in the film “Lion of the Desert” (1980).)
* * *
In diplomacy, words are bullets.
Bill HAYDENFormer Foreign Minister and Australian
Governor General.
* * *
* * *
Truth is rarely pure, and never simple.
Oscar WILDE
(“The Importance of Being Earnest)
* * *
Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes.
Oscar WILDE
(“Lady Windermere’s Fan”)
* * *
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Laugh Out Loud
A lady goes to the bar on a cruise ship and orders a Scotch with two Drops of water. As the bartender gives her the drink she says,
'I'm on this cruise to celebrate my 80th birthday and it's today..'
The bartender says, 'Well, since it's your birthday, I'll buy you a drink. In fact, this one is on me..'
As the woman finishes her drink, the woman to her right says, 'I would Like to buy you a drink, too.'
The old woman says, 'Thank you. Bartender, I want a Scotch with two Drops of water.'
'Coming up,' says the bartender
As she finishes that drink, the man to her left says, 'I would like to buy you one, too.'
The old woman says, 'Thank you. Bartender, I want another Scotch with Two drops of water.'
'Coming right up,' the bartender says.
As he gives her the drink, he says, 'Ma'am, I'm dying of curiosity. Why the Scotch with only two drops of water?'
The old woman replies, 'Sonny, when you're my age, you've learned how to hold your liquor.. Holding your water, however, is a whole other issue.'
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Laugh Out Loud
Your sweetie says, 'Let's go upstairs
And make love,' and you answer,
'Pick one; I can't do both!'
'OLD' IS WHEN...
Your friends compliment you
On your new alligator shoes
And you're barefoot..
'OLD' IS WHEN.....
You don't care where your spouse goes,
Just as long as you don't have to go along.
OLD' IS WHEN...
You are cautioned to slow down by the doctor instead of by the police
'OLD' IS WHEN...
'Getting lucky' means you find your car in the parking lot.
Bees
There are many superstitions about the behaviour of bees when the keeper dies: ‘When a beekeeper dies, his hives will dwindle and die in sympathy’ (Donald Law). ‘When a beekeeper dies, the new owner must inform the bees of death, or they will dwindle and die’ (Thomas Hardy). Bees, Seasonal uncontrollability In many areas bees become uncontrollable in certain seasons. This is thought by some apiarists to be caused by the flowering of particular plants in which the nectary dries up abruptly at a given hour of the day. Two of the villains are considered to be citrus and tea tree. Bee Stings The best treatment is immediately to scrape off the sting with the thumbnail. The protruding part of the sting should never be grasped to withdraw it, as this will result in the squeezing of the venom sac and the injection of more poison. The juice of fresh marigold petals, pimpernel or plantain is said to provide relief. Dock Leaves will relieve both nettle and bee stings.
'OLD' IS WHEN...
It’s All About The Beeezzzzz!
did you know?
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APRILA pretty girl’s name is April,But it has gone out of fashion:Since its sound is so musical,What, one wonders, is the reason?
It is the fourth month of the year,As prescribed by Pope Gregory;Up in the northern hemisphere,It’s a time of rebirth and glee.
The derivation is Latin,A word to do with opening,A time for new life to begin:In Europe, in April it’s Spring.
England, Scotland, Ireland and WalesWill have sunshine mixed with showers;Gone Winter’s snow and icy gales;Now fun and games will fill the hours.
But down here in the Antipodes,Everything’s the other way round:Evergreen are our native trees;Autumn leaves don’t fall to the ground.
Alas for cricket, time is up;The footy is now in full swing;Rugby’s glory, Bledesloe Cup;Joy for some September will bring.
I recall, the first April day,As a kid at primary school,Some funny tricks we used to playOn a gullible April Fool.
In April we have Anzac Day,Marked by parades and contemplationOf those who with their lives did payFor the freedom of this nation.
Though in Australia it’s Autumn,With Winter now three months away,There is no reason to be glum,But plenty of cause to be gay.
Jack Nystrom, Tuesday, 31 January, 2012.
Calling on Point Cook Schools and Parents to share photos, art, stories, writing for this page.
Email your contributions to [email protected] or post to the PO Box 1145 Altona Meadows 3028
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Point Cook Kids
EASTER WORD SEARCH
Please redistribute rather than discard.
