NEWS DESK
Let there be lights In the swim: Tammy Van Wisse, centre, and students cheer along their teams during the Wellwisher swimathon.
Digging deep for water supplies WE take for granted that water will flow from the tap when it’s turned on. It’s a welcome blessing in a first world country. But that luxury is unknown to impoverished villagers in Ethiopia, leading to a daily chore for women and girls who must fetch water for their families from the nearest well. The task can be dangerous and exhausting as the wells can be far from the safety of home. The time taken means girls are often forced to neglect their schooling, meaning they miss out on opportunities open only to those with an education. Health is a concern, too, with consumption of dirty water causing the deaths of one-in-five children from diseases transmitted by dirty water. A Swimathon by students of Woodleigh School’s Minimbah campus last year was one of a host of events conducted by students to raise money for wells in the African country. The idea was put to Deputy Principal Rod Davies by parent Ross Wood-
ward, of Mt Eliza, who was inspired by the efforts of the Australian trust, WellWishers. Coincidentally, he also knew Tammy Van Wisse, who was to become an enthusiastic participant in the fundraising. Mr Davies was impressed by the “worthy cause” and was sure his students would be, too. They swam laps against the champion swimmer, helping raise a total of almost $8000 from this and a range of events and fundraisers. Now, that money is being spent – as intended – on building two wells in rural villages in Tigray Province. This will provide water for hundreds of people daily, helping ease the daily grind on women and girls and ensuring their schooling becomes a viable option. Mr Woodward said WellWishers was thrilled with the school’s efforts. In gratitude, it has arranged to place signs on the wells bearing the names of students whose efforts made them possible.
THE popular Christmas Festival of Lights lured tens of thousands to Frankston again last Saturday evening (28 November). Crowds flocked to Davey St and Beauty Park to be entertained by live stage shows and performances, carols by candlelight and a spectacular fireworks display. Mayor Cr James Dooley said the crowd had number about 45,000 again this year, in line with attendances in previous years. “It was impossible not to get into the Christmas spirit. The moment I arrived I was greeted by great entertainers including local dancers, angels on stilts and huskies who were all in the parade, and brought Santa into the festival in style,” he said. “This year the event again attracted tens of thousands of visitors - which goes to show the huge appeal that this event has for the whole community. “Opening Beauty Park has made a wonderful difference to the festival as it has allowed another space for festivalgoers to relax and enjoy - not only the entertainment - but one of our city’s most iconic locations.” Cr Dooley thanked the free event’s sponsors, organisers and emergency services for making the annual event possible. Christmas cheers: Crowds enjoyed festival highlights including a fireworks display and performance by The Voice Australia winner Harrison Craig, pictured with Channel 9 presenter Brodie Harper. Pictures: Gary Sissons
Healthy Living
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PAGE 26
Frankston Times 7 December 2015
IF you’re one of the hundreds of thousands of Australians who suffer joint pain, osteoarthritis, tendinopathy or bursitis you’ll be aware of how difficult it can be to find relief, especially longterm relief. Often benefits from treatments for these conditions are short lived or involve ongoing medication or surgery. Long- term solutions are not easy to come by, especially natural ones with proven medical effectiveness. But thanks to the latest advances in medical science and the partnership between one of Australia’s leading musculoskeletal and sports podiatrists, Dr. Paul Dowie, and some of Australia’s leading orthopedic and regenerative medicine doctors and rehabilitation experts, ‘Joint & Tissue Regeneration Clinics’ has been born. Regeneration Clinics has a unique case management and multifaceted approach. Using the latest medically proven regenerative therapies such as prolotherapy, platelet rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy along with nutrition therapy and exercise rehabilitation they are having great success assisting healing and regeneration of tissues. Regeneration Clinics has also developed a unique patient case management program which involves their team of leading experts working together across multiple modalities, to thoroughly assess, diagnose, prescribe, implement and review comprehensive and holistic treatment plans. “If we can assist the function of damaged tissue, correct and re-educate muscle patterns and identify stresses, deficiencies, biological weaknesses and sensitivities we can provide all the support the body needs to heal itself, with the help of these wonderful new regenerative therapies.” Dr. Dowie says Regeneration Clinics also have a strong focus on preventative treatment as well as ongoing management and are passionate about educating, supporting and empowering their patients in
regards to their healing. “When we work together we can achieve amazing results. We’ve been able to assist thousands of people to avoid surgery and harmful medications as well as help many who’ve previously been told nothing can be done for them. Assisting people to get their lives back through increased mobility and relief from pain, without negative side-effects, is very rewarding,“ Dr. Dowie says. If you have painful or arthritic joints, injuries that won’t heal, or damaged tissue such as tendons, ligaments, muscles or cartilage, ‘Regeneration Clinics’ just may be your answer. ‘Regeneration Clinics’ are located in Nepean Highway, Moorabbin and Kew East. For appointments call 1300 858 864 or log on to www. regenerationclinics.com.au for further information.