Argyle Housing acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.
Acknowledgement of country Environment
Argyle Housing cares about the environment and is committed to a sustainable environment and follows a comprehensive environmental protocol. The Argyler is printed on FSR® certified paper traceable to certified sources. We use a new varnish coating process that is environmentally-friendly. We use soy-based inks with low VOC and recycle all unused ink. We recycle all scrap paper.
Copyright © 2024 by Argyle Housing
All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.
Printed in Australia
ABN 88 002 761 855 / ACN 002 761 855
Argyle Housing Gundungurra Country
32-36 Wingecarribee Street Bowral, NSW 2576
P.O. Box 1026, Bowral NSW 2576 1300 274 953
www.argylehousing.com.au info@argylehousing.com.au
CEO Welcome Welcome to our Summer Edition of The Argyler
As we draw this year to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the remarkable milestones we’ve achieved together. This year marked Argyle Housing’s 40th Anniversary, showcasing our enduring commitment to providing quality housing and nurturing vibrant communities. It fills me with joy to see how far we have come and inspires hope for the exciting journey ahead.
One of our standout achievements was unveiling the Griffin Green townhouses in Griffith—a celebration uplifted by the presence of residents, the Griffith City Council, and key stakeholders. This development reflects our dedication to sustainable living and the accessibility of affordable housing for Griffith residents. These stylish and sustainable homes, with their modern design and eco-friendly features, embody our unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. Beyond just expanding our physical landscape, welcoming new residents to Griffin Green symbolises a deep and meaningful connection in our community, emphasising inclusivity and growth for everyone.
Another highlight was the grand opening of Dave Taylor Park, where over 250 community members gathered for a heartwarming celebration that truly showcased our unity. The day brimmed with laughter and music, making the park a central gathering space for all ages. The event featured lively basketball competitions hosted by the Basketball Association of NSW, and a ceremonious inauguration attended by Minister Rose Jackson and Helen Dalton MP. Their supportive words showed how important it is to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and included. They also emphasised how the park is helping our region grow and bring people together in a positive way. Adding to the celebration was the announcement of the new Community Hub’s name—Ngumbaaydyil, meaning “All together in one place” in Wiradjuri language. This purposely proposed name by Jacinta Simpson captures the essence of unity and embodies our commitment to honouring Aboriginal heritage. As Ngumbaaydyil begins to serve as a cornerstone of Griffith’s unity and diversity, we look forward to fostering even stronger connections within our community.
In reflection of these accomplishments, I wish all our clients at Argyle Housing a safe and joyful Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. Let us continue this journey together, building a future full of promise and opportunities for growth and community spirit. Stay well,
Carolyn Doherty, CEO
Carolyn Doherty CEO - Argyle Housing It fills me with joy to see how far we have come and inspires hope for the exciting journey ahead.
Editorial
As we approach the festive season, I want to share some important updates that can help make your holidays a little brighter.
First, if you find yourself in need of some extra assistance with food, I encourage you to visit the Christmas Services page on the Argyle Housing website. We’ve gathered a host of resources and support networks designed to lend a helping hand this time of year.
In the spirit of giving, I am also delighted to share the Argyle Housing Christmas Giving Tree initiative. Every Argyle Housing office is hosting a Giving Tree, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to participate in spreading festive cheer. This initiative is driven by our dedicated staff, reflecting our deep commitment to supporting our community.
Lastly, I am thrilled to reveal the winner of The Argyler Stories competition. Congratulations to Carolyn for her inspiring story about her journey to find the perfect home for her family. Carolyn’s narrative highlights the challenges and triumphs of seeking a residence that truly feels right, and I encourage everyone to read her story. It not only sheds light on personal determination and resilience but also underscores the difference a supportive community can make.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year ahead.
Warm regards,
Scott Dunstan Editor and Head of Marketing
Every Argyle Housing office is hosting a Giving Tree, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to participate in spreading festive cheer
Christmas Community Food, Gift and Meal Assistance
Do you need some assistance during the festive season?
Christmas lunch is back on offer throughout the regions with most service providers open this year. The following list shows what’s on offer throughout the areas in which we serve:
Bowral
Bowral Uniting Church Christmas Lunch, Wed 18 December, Starting 12:00 pm 28 Bendooley St, Bowral
C3 Destiny Church – Santa’s Grotto 16th – 24th Dec 2023 Corbett Gardens, Bowral
The Salvation Army – Hampers – Cut off Date 10th Dec Please call them on (02) 4861 3912
Yass
Yass Valley Anglican Church – Christmas Day Lunch
Wed, 25 December from 12:00 pm. All free.
Address: 20 Church Street, Yass Yass Vine Church – Christmas Lunch Sat, 14 December, all free. Hampers and gifts for 15 and below. Yass Vine Church Community, 66 Lead Street, Yass
Young
St Vincent De Paul – XMAS hampers and lunch
Please contact 6234 7445 to put your information down for either one
Albury
Uniting Victoria Tasmania
See our website for more information:
Cnr Nilmar Ave and Beechworth Rd, Wodonga. Emergency food parcels are available Monday to Friday 9.30am-12.30pm Phone (02) 6048 6900
Southwest Sydney
Greg Precival Library
Christmas Card Craft and Cuppa Friday 13 December 10 am to 12 pm
Cnr Oxford Rd and Cumberland Rd, Ingleburn, 2565
Griffith
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Christmas Day Lunch, Wed 25 December, 11 Warrambool St, Griffith NSW 2680
ACT
St John’s Hall Christmas Day Lunch, Wed, 25 December, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm 45 Constitution Ave, Reid ACT
Wagga
Meals on Wheels
Address: 17 Rural Place Wagga Wagga Contact: 6921 2205
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am – 2pm Charges apply assessments conducted over the phone
Join The Argyler Editorial Team
Client Editorial Team
We need your ideas and stories to keep The Argyler relevant to you.
Do you want to contribute to The Argyler?
Do you have a great news story that you would like to share?
Would you like your ideas published to our community? If so, we would like to hear from you.
For more information, contact Scott Dunstan at: editor@argylehousing.com.au
Argyle Housing Office Closures
Office Trading Hours
Wednesday 25 December 2024 Closed
Thursday 26 December 2024 Closed
Friday 27 December 2024 Closed
Monday 30 December 2024 Closed
Tuesday 31 December 2024 Closed
Wednesday 1 January 2025 Closed
Thursday 2 January 2025 Closed
Friday 3 January 2025 Closed
All Argyle Housing offices will close from 3pm on 24th December 2024 and reopen on 9:00am Monday 6th January 2025.
We hope you have a wonderful break with your families.
Repairs and Maintenance
If you have an emergency and need to report repairs and maintenance, please refer to the emergency numbers within your lease agreement.
Christmas Giving Tree: Spreading Holiday Joy
This holiday season, Argyle Housing is embracing the spirit of giving. Instead of exchanging traditional presents amongst ourselves, our staff has come together to support local families in need through the Christmas Giving Tree initiative.
Here’s how it works: our team selects a tag from the tree, each representing a gift for a girl, boy, mother, or father. These presents are thoughtfully wrapped and donated to local support services, ensuring they reach those who need them most.
Due to the overwhelming success of last year’s program, we are expanding our efforts in 2024. In addition to our gift drive, we will also be organising a food drive, collaborating with local service providers to distribute much-needed meals to those in need.
By participating in the Christmas Giving Tree, you are making a meaningful impact in your community. The joyous smiles on children’s faces and the relief felt by their parents are the true rewards of this heart-warming initiative.
If you’d like to join in spreading holiday cheer, simply select a gift tag from the tree. The tags indicate the age and gender of the recipient, allowing you to choose a gift that will truly make a difference. Remember, all gifts should be donated unwrapped. Let’s come together and make this Christmas season a time of generosity and compassion. Join us in making a small gesture that will go a long way. The Christmas Spirit is alive and well at Argyle Housing, and we invite you to be part of this wonderful tradition.
If Clients would like to participate, gift tags on the tree indicate gender/age:
* We ask all gifts are donated unwrapped.
Girl/Boy aged 0-3
Girl/Boy aged 4-7
Girl/Boy aged 8-12
Girl/Boy aged 13-15
Or give a gift for a Father/Mother
Argyle Housing Digital Annual Report 2024
We are thrilled to share with you our accomplishments over the past year and our plans for future success. Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to foster client engagement and meet the ever-growing demand for affordable housing.
We recognise the importance of investing in our staff to ensure they have the necessary resources and support to provide exceptional service to our clients. Furthermore, we remain committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity throughout our organisation. We believe in creating welcoming communities that are accessible to everyone.
Thank you for your continued support as we strive to impact the lives of those we serve positively.
https://argylehousing.com.au/annualreport2024/
Financial Stress
Is it weighing you down this Christmas
If you’re struggling with debt or worried about how you’ll be able to pay your rent and bills, then financial counselling could be exactly what you need.
The free and confidential service is provided by qualified and caring professionals. Depending on your individual circumstances, your financial counsellor might: help you assess your financial situation
teach you information about common credit and debt issues
help you design a personal money management plan act as your advocate and negotiate with your credit providers, government agencies and businesses on your behalf (if appropriate)
give you important information on credit laws, debt recovery processes, and bankruptcy refer you to other specialist financial services.
Anglicare’s Financial Counsellors work out of its Parramatta, Liverpool, Bankstown, Campbelltown, Wollongong and Nowra.
Call 1300 111 278 for your local Financial Assistance offices.
info@argylehousing.com.au or 1300 274 953
Lions Club of Tahmoor Inc: A Legacy
of Community Service and Engagement
Since its inception in 1972, the Lions Club of Tahmoor has been at the heart of our community, dedicated to fostering a spirit of care and making tangible impacts through various initiatives.
We are proud to stand by our commitment where every dollar raised from the public is channeled back into the community— administration costs are never deducted from your generous donations. Our presence is felt through regular BBQs, but our reach and influence extend far beyond. Local businesses team up with us to offer Lions Mints, and during the festive season, you can find our delightful Christmas Cakes and Puddings. An integral part of our mission is the “Recycle For Sight” initiative, where we collect used eyeglasses and hearing aids to refurbish and distribute to disadvantaged countries.
In addition to these efforts, we also participate in the collection of postage stamps—sorting and sending them to the Australian Lions Stamp Club for auction. The funds raised from these auctions support the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF), which provides mobility aids to
Written by Argyle Housing client, Tony
children with constraints such as Cerebral Palsy. Our community involvement also spans commendable projects like the Australian Lions Children’s Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF), SaveSight, Diabetes education, and disaster relief through LCIF, ALF, and Need For Feed, among others.
This year marks an exciting new venture for us, as we begin training volunteers to screen children in our local schools and community groups for previously undetected eyesight conditions through the Lions Eye Health Program (LEHP). We invite all who are passionate about making a difference to join us. Connect with us via our Facebook page or at tahmoor.nsw@lions.org.au for more details on how you can participate. Join us on the first Monday of each month at Tahmoor Inn at 6:30 pm. Together, we can continue to enrich our community and the lives within it.
Birdwatching
Recently I was at a play park where the magpies had arrived to clean up some food scraps. “Bird”, said a small child nearby. “Yes, bird,” agreed the parent. I wondered why the child was not told “Yes, that’s a magpie.” Little children have a remarkable ability to pick up a full vocabulary, but this can only be as good as the parents’ knowledge.
As members of a poorer socio-economic group, social housing tenants do not have the widest opportunities available for thrilling and educational outings and extra access to many activities, but one thing we can all do is become aware of our common bird species and get to know the various interesting differences between species. Our local libraries have bird books to borrow, and a good way of both enjoying the hunt and learning more about the local birds is to do some bird counts. For help with this, try https:// aussiebirdcount.org.au/how-to-take-partin-birds-in-backyards-surveys-using-thebirdata-app/ These apps help you to identify the birds you see as well.
Getting back to the magpies, these are the bigger black and white birds with the white patch on the back of their necks and whitish beaks. They look similar to a number of other common birds such as the Currawong (black beak and only a little bit of white on wing tips and tail), the raven (all black, with a cawing call), the pied Butcherbird (a smaller black and white birds with a ring around its neck) and the Peewee or Mud lark (smaller again). Magpies are notorious for swooping in the spring when they have eggs and nestlings living in a tree nearby. It is only for a short time, and then the young birds have fledged and you will see them on the
ground, squawking, and the parent birds are frantically trying to keep up with food for them.
Wearing a hat is usually enough to protect yourself from any swooping bird, and it is not only magpies that sometimes swoop. Butcherbirds, Currawongs, Peewits and sometimes wattle birds swoop too, and many of us know the spur-winged plover, which nests on the ground, and will act aggressively if you happen to get too close.
One bird that comes into our locality for a while in spring and summer, is the Koel. The male is black, with a red eye and calls out mournfully with a long note while the female is prettily marked with orange and brown stripes and dapples. The Koels are cuckoos and lay their eggs in the nests of other birds such as the wattle birds. Their big fat baby can sometimes be seen sitting on a tree branch, incessantly chirping for food, which is brought to them by often somewhat smaller foster parents.
Try birdwatching. It’s enjoyable and cheap, and you may be amazed at what can be seen from your backyard or balcony.
Written by Argyle Housing client, Lyndal
The Argyler story Award
Well done to the following winners of The Argyler writing competition who each won a $50 gift voucher:
Jodie - Murrumburrah
Karina - Queanbeyan
Amanda - Campbelltown
Cameron - Queanbeyan
Andrew - Conder
We will publish their stories in future Argylers in 2025.
The Winner of the $100 gift card was Carolyn* from Moss Vale.
Please read her winning story on the following page
Carolyn’s students
Book series Carolyn wrote
Carolyn helping neighbour with rubbish in their house
Ambre having makeup for tv show
The Winner
Carolyn from Moss Vale
Many years ago my search for a safe country place to raise my daughter, brought me to Moss Vale. Not too hot, seasonal contrast, not prone to flooding, or earth quakes, quiet and fresh country air.
Am still here after home schooling my daughter Ambre and teaching her in particular as a concert pianist, with many challenges such as completing all the AMEB piano examinations over 12 years including Associate and Licentiate diplomas which Ambre completed at the age of 12 years, which was the first time that such a young performer achieved this.
We were immensely proud of all the work and sacrifice when we finally achieved the goal. It was huge work and discipline for us both including of course a lot of fun and humour to get us through. As well as daily fitness routines, healthy vegetarian foods, plenty of rest and sleep as well as a very modified curriculum, I admit we skipped quite a few subjects in order to excel in her great love of music. The Music was not just performance but included much technical work as well as theory, which we both found a big effort. Ambre’s performance was always
astonishing and always well within her grasp but the theory required in order to pass the Licentiate examination as well was extremely difficult for a 12 year old and myself. I remember hanging rolls of paper with the theory all around the house including quintets music parts and many challenging classical music theory questions. Because my daughter was so eager to pass the complete Licentiate Diploma I had to work very hard to help her hopefully pass the theory otherwise she would not pass the Licentiate Diploma. She passed the licentiate performance with distinction shocking the judges but we then had to wait for the 6 weeks for the theory results which was a very anxious time for us both as this was the culmination of 9 years work and was the final examination. She went to the mail daily until finally the letter arrived, she ran in without opening it. We sat down and she opened it slowly. I looked at her face. A bit screwed up. Then she screamed I passed mum by 1 point.
We were very relieved because she was then accepted as a fully qualified concert pianist with her Licentiate Diploma and would be taken seriously despite her age. We travelled much with her performance and competitions. After returning home from a performance of Rachmainoff‘s Piano Concerto No 3 in Argentina we received a phone call in Moss Vale from the great pianist and conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy. He praised her performance saying was the most extraordinary performance.
Living in an Argyle home enabled us to achieve both our goals the music and my series of children’s learning books over several years. When we were working together life was so busy we hardly ever saw neighbours but since Ambre moved to Sydney as both Concert Pianist, Speaker and a very popular music teacher I have enjoyed meeting my diverse neighbours.
I am happy to stay in Moss Vale and continued to write completing a children’s early reading series, political articles and health books.
We are lucky to enjoy this neighbourhood with helpful and caring people that help each other with all sorts of things including food, mowing and even cleaning. Every one at sometime has a difficulty and it is a good community here that I have enjoyed giving and receiving support. We help each other as well as appreciate the always helpful Argyle staff.
We both feel lucky to have discovered the Moss Vale home.
Ambre with Bronwyn Bishop after her concert
Ambre teaching
40 Years of Client stories
For four decades, Argyle Housing has been dedicated to community service and providing affordable housing solutions. This significant milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support and trust of our valued Clients, along with our most hard-working staff.
We extended our heartfelt gratitude to our Clients, whose confidence in our services was the cornerstone of our success. Their trust and determination enabled us to achieve remarkable growth and positively impact the communities we served. We appreciated and honoured the countless individuals who contributed to our journey over the past 40 years. From our dedicated employees to our committed partners and volunteers— your hard work and dedication were pivotal in making Argyle Housing what it was today. As we celebrated this special anniversary, we looked forward to many more years of collaboration and continued success. Together, we committed to building stronger communities and providing more housing for those in need.
We invited everyone to take a moment to watch and listen to our Clients’ stories. Their experiences and testimonials reflected the true impact of our work and served as a testament to the difference we made in their lives. Through their narratives, we gained insight into their challenges and how everyone at Argyle Housing helped them find stability and hope. We were deeply moved by their stories and honoured to share them as part of our 40 Year Anniversary celebrations.
Thank you for being a part of our journey.
Community Hub Name Announced: Ngumbaaydyil
We’re delighted to announce the chosen name for the new Community Hub in Griffith: Ngumbaaydyil, meaning “All together in one place” in the Wiradjuri language.
This beautiful and meaningful name was suggested by Jacinta Simpson, bringing to life our shared vision of community, unity, and gathering. The Hub, which sits on sacred Wiradjuri lands, symbolises our commitment to honouring the Aboriginal heritage and fostering inclusivity within Griffith. The naming contest, organised by Argyle Housing, invited the community to propose names that embraced these values, using the rich and vibrant Wiradjuri language. With an overwhelming response from our community, Jacinta’s thoughtful suggestion stood out, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of togetherness. We extend our warmest congratulations to Jacinta for her contribution, which not only earns her the $300 prize but also leaves a lasting legacy for our Community Hub. We look forward to seeing you all at Ngumbaaydyil, where
All together in one place
Celebrating the Grand Opening of Dave Taylor Park in Griffith!
On the 31 October we marked a special day for the Griffith community as we celebrated the grand opening of the newly transformed Dave Taylor Park!
Carolyn Doherty, Argyle Housing CEO, warmly welcomed all guests and dignitaries, including Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing, Homelessness, Mental Health, Water, and Youth; Helen Dalton, Local Independent Member for Murray; Griffith City Council Mayor Councillor Doug Curran; Griffith City Council General Manager Brett Stonestreet; representatives from Basketball NSW for their support of today’s basketball competition, and the Griffith Basketball Association. A heartfelt thank you was also extended to Phil and Brendan from the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney for their contributions to the community garden, and to the Dave Taylor family, whose legacy this park honours.
Thanks to a $1.5 million transformation funded by the NSW Government’s Regional Youth Investment Program, Dave Taylor Park has been transformed into a vibrant community space for all ages. Families, friends, and local residents came together today to explore the new features and amenities, including a state-of-the-art basketball court, free fitness tips, and hands-on community gardening workshops with the Botanic Gardens of Sydney. Young ones enjoyed colourful face painting, delicious free ice cream, and a sizzling BBQ as they celebrated this exciting new community space. The park’s lush green spaces and blooming gardens provided the perfect atmosphere for families to relax, connect, and embrace the beautiful community there is.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us and showed support for this fantastic project, which will serve as a valuable asset to the Griffith community for years to come. Here’s to many more memorable moments and shared experiences at Dave Taylor Park! Special thanks to Isabel Forbes BNSW Regional Development Officer Riverina, Basketball NSW, Botanic Gardens of Sydney, Anytime Fitness, and Kpu_creative for their roles in making today a success!
Staying Cool with Summer
As summer’s warm embrace envelops Australia, staying cool in the comfort of our homes becomes essential, especially for those living in Argyle Housing properties. While not all homes are equipped with air conditioning, there are numerous practical and community-friendly ways to beat the heat throughout the season.
By embracing simple yet effective strategies, you can create a cool and comfortable living environment that fosters both personal wellbeing and neighbourly connection. In the spirit of community support and togetherness, we are pleased to offer helpful tips to our valued Argyle Housing clients to make the most of this summer season, ensuring everyone can enjoy a refreshing escape from the rising temperatures.
With the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves in recent years, taking care of ourselves and our loved ones during summer has become more important than ever. And while air conditioning may seem like the most obvious solution, it is not always a feasible option for everyone. Limited finances or rental property restrictions can make installing an air conditioner out of reach for some individuals and families. This is why we believe it is crucial to explore alternative ways to stay cool that are accessible and affordable for all.
One simple way to beat the heat is by utilising natural ventilation techniques. Opening windows and doors strategically at specific times of the day can promote airflow and help circulate cooler air throughout your home. For example, opening windows on opposite sides of a room allows for cross ventilation, while keeping doors closed during the hottest parts of the day can help maintain a cooler temperature inside. Additionally, using ceiling or portable fans can also aid in circulating air and creating a cool breeze.
Another cost-effective option is to invest in window coverings such as blinds, curtains, or shades. These can help block out direct sunlight and keep your home from heating up too quickly. You could also consider planting shade trees around your property to provide natural shade and reduce heat absorption by your home’s exterior walls.
In addition to these practical solutions, building a strong sense of community support and connection can make summer more bearable for everyone. Check-in with your neighbours, particularly the elderly or those with health concerns, to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated. Consider organising a community event such as a pool day or BBQ to beat the heat together. And for those without access to air conditioning, offer to share your cooler home during extreme heatwaves.
At Argyle Housing, we believe in looking out for one another and creating an inclusive and supportive community. By implementing these simple strategies and fostering a sense of connection with your neighbours, you can make this summer season not only bearable but enjoyable for all. Let’s beat the heat together! So stay cool, stay hydrated and look out for each other during these warm months ahead.
Stay Hydrated: Keep a refillable water bottle with you and sip water consistently throughout the day. Hydration is key to maintaining a healthy body temperature, especially during prolonged heat exposure.
Utilise Fans Wisely: Position fans near windows or in strategic locations to enhance airflow and circulate cooler air throughout your home. Consider placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan to amplify cooling effects.
Blinds and Curtains: During the hottest parts of the day, keep blinds and curtains drawn to block out direct sunlight. This can help maintain a cooler indoor environment by reducing heat gain.
Light, Breathable Clothing: opt for loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton or linen, which allow your skin to breathe and help regulate body temperature.
Cross Ventilation: Open windows at opposite ends of your home during the cooler morning or evening hours to create a cross-breeze that naturally cools the space.
Connected with Neighbours: Check in with neighbours, especially those who are elderly or vulnerable, to ensure they are also staying cool and hydrated. Sharing tips and resources can strengthen community bonds and foster a supportive neighbourhood.
Indoors During Extreme Heat: On days with extreme heat or high air pollution, it is best to stay indoors in a cool and well-ventilated space. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during these times.
Advantage of Community Spaces: Many local facilities such as libraries, community centres, and shopping malls have air conditioning and can provide relief from the heat. Consider visiting one of these spaces on particularly hot days.
Informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts and alerts for your area. This will help you plan ahead and take necessary precautions to beat the heat.
Remember, we are all in this together. Let’s work towards creating a safe, cool, and connected community this summer. Stay cool and stay safe, from all of us at Argyle Housing.
PLAN A SAFE ESCAPE
Be Fire Safe this summer
As the weather warms up, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is urging everyone not to become complacent about home fire dangers. A fire can spread rapidly and be devastating. In under three minutes, toxic smoke and flames spreading through your home will put you and your loved ones at serious risk.
Here are some key tips for you and your loved ones to Be Fire Safe this season:
Working smoke alarm – ensure your smoke alarm is in good working order and test it regularly. You can’t smell smoke when you’re sleeping but you will hear a working smoke alarm when it activates.
Keep Looking When Cooking: The leading cause of home fires in NSW is leaving cooking unattended. Make sure you stay in the kitchen while cooking and turn off the stove before you leave.
BBQ fire safety: The backyard barbie can be a common cause of fires and injury during the warmer months. Keep barbeques clean and ensure all gas hoses and connections are tight with no leakage.
Charge safe: Don’t ignore the signs! A damaged or failing lithium-ion battery can explode, releasing highly toxic fumes. These fires are hard to put out. Never use or charge a damaged battery.
Electric lights safety: When setting up Christmas lights or decorative electric displays, use only one item per power socket and don’t overload power boards or piggyback double adapters.
Remember: Plan and practice your plan
Every home should have a fire escape plan
Having a home escape plan in conjunction with a working smoke alarm will greatly increase your chances of getting out safely. In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get out of control and turn into a major fire.
Use the template to create your escape plan with these steps:
1
Draw a floor plan: Map out your home, mark exits and safe meeting points.
2 Practice regularly: Conduct fire drills with your family, ensure everyone knows the plan.
3
4
Designate a meeting spot: Choose an outdoor location away from the house where everyone can gather.
Keep exits clear: Ensure that pathways to exits are free from obstructions.
If your home catches fire: STAY LOW, GET OUT and STAY OUT! Call Triple Zero (000) immediately
For more information on how to Be Fire Safe this summer, visit fire.nsw.gov.au
EXAMPLE ESCAPE PLAN
Decide on a meeting place outside e.g. the letterbox.
MEETING PLACE
Plan two ways out of a room.
First choice
Second Choice
YOUR ESCAPE PLAN
Draw your escape plan here and share it with your family.
Argyle Housing Client Portal
At Argyle Housing, we strive to ensure that our clients can easily access essential services and support online. Our Client Portal is designed with you in mind, providing a user-friendly experience that allows you to manage your information efficiently. Did you know you that you can do a lot of things through our Client Portal, and could save your time?
Key Features of the Portal
Access to Resources:
You can make requests for repairs & maintenance.
You can pay your rent.
You can make complaints right at your fingertips.
Communication Tools:
You can contact your Client Support Specialist directly through the portal for quick assistance or inquiries.
Stay Updated:
You can update your mobile number or email address.
You can check the Useful Information section for the latest news about Argyle Housing and upcoming events in the community.
By utilising the Argyle Housing Client Portal, you can stay connected with us and access the resources you need, all from the comfort of your own home. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Wendy Middleton Scholarship
Up to $1,500 for individuals
Are you a new or continuing student, mature age student, at University, TAFE or with a registered training organisation? If you answered YES to any of the above, then you are able to apply for the Wendy Middleton Scholarship.
Scholarships are part of an annual education program for Clients, providing up to $1,500 for college, university or TAFE students. The scholarship money can be used to pay for any educational costs, such as course fees, text books, specific clothing, computers or anything which helps you to complete your education.
Applying for a Wendy Middleton Scholarship is easy: simply fill in a short application form, which takes around five minutes. More than one member of your family can apply. Scholarships are open to any household member enrolled in full-time or part-time tertiary education during 2024.
argylehousing.com.au/about-us/scholarships/
