Find Geelong - March edition 2021

Geelong The

MARCH 2021

WHAT’S INSIDE: 04

LOCAL STORIES

12

COLUMNIST ARTICLES

28

TAX UPDATES

30

RENTAL LISTINGS FREE ADVERTISING

34

GEELONG COUNCIL NEWS

36

NOT-FOR-PROFITS EVENTS & ARTICLES

50

FIND COMPETITION - FOOTY PHOTO

68

FIND COUPONS

SUPPORT LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, DISCOVER GEELONG

markmogato

SEE PAGE 50 FOR THE SPECIAL FEATURE

WHO WILL WIN THE FLAG IN 2021 WIN a $50 Gift Voucher

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PL ATINUM SPONSOR

See Page 50 to join the Geelong Competition

FOOTY PHOTO COMPETITION

NICOLE NELSON General Insurance 0429 446 229 nicole@belmontinsurance.com.au

MARCH SPONSOR

COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS ACCOUNTANT| FOUNDER

TEAM/LEADERSHIP COACH

LOAN SPECIALIST

BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM

WARREN STRYBOSCH

SALLY HIGOE - FACILITATOR

LEE WISNIEWSKI

BRENDA THOMSON

PAINTING & DECORATING

GARAGE DOORS

LAWYERS

JOHN VAN BEVEREN

CHANTAL DJURIC

STEVE DAHLLOF WEB DEVELOPER

VOCAL PERFORMANCE INSTRUCTOR

ADAM SIMS

VIDEO CONSULTANT

MARY-CLARE SWITZ

NICOLE NELSON

ZOË WOOD

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ARCHITECT

MARKETING

Are you our next Architect?

Are you our next Marketer?

GENERAL INSURANCE

MARK KRUGER

DAN NICHOLLS

BOOKKEEPER

SHAYNE LOWE

FINANCIAL PLANNER

SALARY PACKAGING

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Geelong The

EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 editor@findgeelong.com.au PUBLISHER: Issuu pty Ltd POSTAL ADDRESS: 248 Wonga Road, Wararnwood VIC 3134 ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTS: editor@findgeelong.com.au GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 1300 88 38 30 EMAIL SPORT: editor@findgeelong.com.au WEBSITE: www.findgeelong.com.au

OUR NEWSPAPER The Find Geelong was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with is core focus of helping other Not-For-Profits, schools, clubs and other similar organisations in the local community - to bring everyone together in one place and to support each other. We provide the above organisations FREE advertising in the community paper to promote themselves as well as to make the community more aware of the services these organisations can offer. The Find Geelong has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.

ALL THINGS GEELONG The City of Geelong is one of Victoria’s largest regional capital cities. Geelong had a population of approximately 230,000 as at the 2019 Report which includes 16,000 businesses.

Geelong’s location is in strong growth corridor, making it an ideal location for businesses to explore options outside of the capital city.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Find Geelong acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Geelong now stands, the Wadawuarrung people of the Kulin nation, and pays repect to their Elders - past, present and emerging - and acknowledges the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within our community.

DISCLAIMER Readers are advised that the Find Geelong accepts no responsibility for financial, health or other claims published in advertising or in articles written in this newspaper. All comments are of a general nature and do not take into account your personal financial situation, health and/or wellbeing. We recommend you seek professional advice before acting on anything written herein.

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NEXT ISSUE Next Issue of the Find Geelong will be published on Friday April 9, 2021. Advertising and Editorial copy closes Monday April 5, 2021.

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MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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About the Find Geelong

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Geelong is a community paper that aims to support all things Geelong.

We want to provide a place where all NotFor-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-and-coming events in the Find Geelong for Free.

We do not proclaim to be another newspaper and we will not be aiming to compete with other news outlets. You can obtain your news from other sources. We feel you get enough of this already. We will keep our news topics to a minimum and only provide what we feel is most relevant topics to you each month.

We invite local council and the current council members to participate by submitting information each month so as to keep us informed of any changes that may be of relevance to us, their local constituents.

We will also try and showcase different organisations throughout the year so you, the reader, can learn more about what is on offer in your local area.

To help support the paper, we invite local businesses owners to sponsor the paper and in return we will provide exclusive advertising and opportunities to submit articles about their businesses. As a community we encourage you to support these businesses/columnists.

Without their support, we would not be able to provide this community paper to you.

Lastly, we want to ask you, the local community, to support the fundraising initiatives that we will be developing

and rolling out over the coming years.

Our aim is to help as many NFP and other like organisations to raise much needed funds to help them to keep operating.

Our fundraising initiatives will never simply ask for money from you.

We will also aim to provide something of worth to you before you part with your hard-earned money. The first initiative is the Find Cards and Find Coupons – similar to the Entertainment Book but cheaper and more localised.

Any NFP and similar organisations e.g., schools, sporting clubs, can participate.

Follow us on facebook (https://www. facebook.com/findgeelong) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.

We value your support, The Find Geelong Team.

Job ads point to solid employment growth

By Colin Brinsden, AAP Economics and Business Correspondent (Australian Associated Press)

This week’s national accounts are gearing up to show another solid economic growth result at the tail end of 2020, as new figures point to further employment gains in coming months.

Job advertising surged 7.2 per cent in February, following an upwardly revised 2.6 per cent increase in January. It lifted the annual rate of the ANZ job ads series to 13.4 per cent, the highest level since 2018.

“The ongoing strength in ANZ job ads gives us confidence that we’ll see solid net employment gains continue over February and March at least, and that the impact of the end of JobKeeper in March will be mitigated to some extent,” ANZ senior economist Catherine Birch said Treasurer Josh Frydenberg is committed to ending the JobKeeper wage subsidy in March as planned, but has said other support measures are being considered for industries still in need, such as aviation.

However, the gradual winding back of the JobKeeper wage subsidy saw company profits drop by 6.6 per cent in the December quarter, but they were still 15.1 per cent up on the year.

Even so, the Reserve Bank is widely expected to leave the cash rate and other key measures unchanged at a record low 0.1 per cent when its board meets on Tuesday.

While weaker than forecasts, the Australian Bureau of Statistics data also showed the company wage bill rose by a solid 1.4 per cent, while business inventories – stock on shelves and in warehouses – are expected to contribute to Wednesday’s economic growth result in the national accounts.

Manufacturers are enjoying their strongest performance in three years, buoyed by the solid economic recovery from last year’s recession.

At this stage, economists are forecasting that the economy grew by around 2.5 per cent in the December quarter, although they will finalise their expectations after Tuesday’s international trade and government spending figures.

This builds on the huge 3.3 per cent rebound in the previous three months after collapsing seven per cent in the June quarter as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which marked the first recession since the early 1990s.

The Australian Industry Group performance of manufacturing index grew a further 3.5 points in February to 58.8, its strongest expansion since March 2018.

Ai Group chief executive Innes Willox said manufacturers lifted production and employment in February as sales recovered a large share of the ground lost in 2020.

“Manufacturers are generally positive about the outlook for the next few months with new orders coming in at a greater pace as restrictions on activity and crossborder travel are hopefully wound back,” he said.

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Single-use Plastic Ban Update markmogato

By Warren Strybosch

Single-use plastic will be banned from 2023 in Victoria. This includes items such as plastic straws, drink stirrers and plates, as well as polystyrene food and drink containers.

The good news is that many eateries are already working towards this deadline with the introduction of paper straws being the most noticeable change thus far.

Many Sustainability groups are praising the efforts of the eateries who have already made the move, but they would love to see other items included in the ban e.g., coffee cups and other takeaway containers.

The ban will not apply to medical or scientific equipment, emergency services, or other activities that require the use of single-use plastics based on health and safety reasons.

Another sector that may be exempt from the ban would be the age-care sector where the elderly might require the use of plastic straws or other singleuse plastic items for their daily need requirements. Even so, the government is in consultation with this sector to see how they can limit the use of singleplastic items and replace them with other suitable items over time.

Find out more about the single-use plastic ban go to www.vic.gov.au/single-use-plastics.

findgeelong.com.au

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ASIC Attempting to put a stop to illegal phoenixing and company fraud

By Warren Strybosch

From 18 February 2021, new requirements will apply when ceasing a company director. Background.

From 18 February 2021, companies can no longer cease the last remaining director on ASIC records.

In February 2020, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Combating Illegal Phoenixing) Act 2020 was passed

by Parliament. Taking effect from 18 February 2021, this legislation introduces new offences and grants additional powers to ASIC and liquidators to help combat illegal phoenixing and avoid systemic fraud.

To enforce this, lodgements submitted using a Change to company details, or Form 370 Notification by officeholder of resignation or retirement, to cease the last appointed director without replacing that appointment will be rejected.

The amendments aim to prevent illegal phoenix activity by holding directors accountable, preventing them from improperly backdating their resignation or leaving their company with no directors.

• •

What are the changes?

There are some exceptions to this, including if:

•

the last director is deceased the company is being wound up or under external administration; and the officeholder never consented to the appointment.

If you are ceasing a director under any of the above exceptions, you will need to contact us by phone, or submit an online enquiry with your details so we can assist.

In addition to the above changes, if a director’s cessation date is notified to ASIC more than 28 days after the effective date (e.g. director resigned on 1 April 2020, they notify ASIC on 1 November 2020), then the effective date will be overridden and replaced with the lodgement date (i.e. 1 November 2020).

Late fees still apply to the Change of company details form in this scenario.

Directors can apply to ASIC or the Court to change a resignation date. There will be an application fee for this.

These changes are intended to stop directors deliberately backdating cessations to avoid legal responsibility to creditors. (asic.gov.au)

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The Government is considering Younger people to pay for Age Care

By Warren Strybosch

The government is considering an age levy tax similar to the Medicare levy following recommendations from the aged care royal commission.

Recently, the Royal commission report in age care was released and included 148 recommendations.

The commissions of the report, Tony Pagone and Lynelle Briggs, believes that a levy needs to be introduced if we are to continue to provide a high-quality aged care system in Australia.

Mr Pagone, a taxation lawyer, believes a similar levy to that of the Medicare Levy is required and that those who are currently working should cover a majority of the costs of those living in age care.

“One way in which this mechanism could work would be to require the payment of an additional percentage of each personal taxpayer’s income tax,” Mr Pagone said.

“The additional percentage rate could be uniform (a flat levy, like the Medicare levy) or there could be graduated rates for different taxable income brackets (a

progressive levy).”

It is estimated, based on modelling, that the levy would be approximately 3% with all working Australians paying this amount. Otherwise, it would be a step levy based on earnings with the top levy being about 5% of earnings.

Mr Pagone said that while nobody would enjoy paying extra taxes, an aged care levy would be the best way to “engender stability and confidence in the future of aged care financing”.

“I also consider it likely to change the way the community perceives aged care for the better, towards it being seen as something valuable in which we all have stake, and that it will lead to greater scrutiny and accountability in the way money is raised and spent on aged care into the future,” he said.

Another suggestion is to introduce a ‘tax on frailty’ levy. Commissioner Briggs believes there shouldn’t be a hypothecated levy towards aged care.

She also considers that a Medicare-

style “aged care improvement levy” could help raise revenue to fund the commission’s recommendations.

Whilst the government acknowledges the increased cost to age care, Mr Morrisonis reluctant to introduce additional levies and to increase taxes. He said, “You know our government’s disposition when it comes to increased levies and taxes. It is not something we lean in to.

“As Treasurer, I once sought to increase the Medicare levy by 0.5 [of a percentage point] to support the National Disability Insurance Scheme and I wasn’t supported in that by the Labor Party or the Greens, for that matter.

“So, that’s something that I’ve seen in other contexts that the Parliament hasn’t supported before. So, you’d forgive me for being a little wary at this point.”

How would you feel about 5% of your pay going to towards an age care levy?

You can write your thoughts to the editor at editor@findgeelong.com.au.

findgeelong.com.au

MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Building approvals drop as incentive cut

By Colin Brinsden, AAP Economics and Business Correspondent (Australian Associated Press)

Approvals to build private houses dropped with a thump in January, after scaling record highs in December as people rushed to secure the full benefit of the federal government’s HomeBuilder grant before it was reduced.

Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show private sector housing approvals tumbled 12.2 per cent to 12,125 in January.

However, approvals were still 38 per cent higher than a year earlier. “The surge in HomeBuilder applications at the end of 2020, as well as the extension of the program to March, will continue to provide support for private house approvals in the coming months,” ABS director of construction statistics Daniel Rossi predicted.

House prices in February rose at their fastest pace since 2003, while demand for home loans were equally rampant with mortgages granted to first home buyers over 70 per cent higher than 12 months ago.

Overall building approvals fell 19.4 per cent in January, led by a 39.5 per cent slide in the more volatile “dwellings

excluding houses” component.

Meanwhile, the start of the national COVID-19 vaccine rollout has proved a shot in the arm for confidence after an unsettled start to the year. The weekly ANZ-Roy Morgan consumer confidence index – a pointer to future household spending – rose one per cent, ending three weeks of consecutive declines.

However, ANZ head of Australian economics David Plank said the highlight of the survey taken over the weekend was a further rise in consumer inflation expectations to 3.9 per cent, its highest level since last April.

Mr Plank said rising petrol prices, coupled with a strong housing market and the faster than expected recovery in the labour market could be fuelling inflation concerns. “Inflation expectations are still below pre-pandemic levels, so could rise further without causing undue alarm for the RBA,” he said.

Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe has repeatedly said the board won’t increase the cash rate from its record low 0.1 per cent until actual inflation is sustainably within the two to three per cent target, and probably not until 2024.

The consumer price index was just 0.9 per cent at the end of 2020. However,

financial markets appear sceptical of such an outlook, with interest rates, or yields, on government bonds factoring in 0.5 per cent of rate hikes by the end of 2023.

Global bond yields have risen sharply in recent weeks on the view that the world economy will recover from the COVID-19 induced recession quicker than first thought, fuelling inflation.

Such market action runs at odds with what the RBA and other central banks are trying to achieve through massive bond buying programs, otherwise known as quantitative easing, aimed at keeping market interest rates, and in turn borrowing costs, low.

The RBA purchased $4 billion worth of three-year bonds on Monday, double the usual amount, as it tried to push back against market moves.

The central bank holds its monthly board meeting on Tuesday.

At its February board meeting, while keeping the rate at 0.1 per cent on its suite of policy measures, the RBA also unexpectedly announced it will purchase an additional $100 billion in government and state bonds when an existing program ends in mid-April.

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Victoria to Return to COVIDSAFE Setting Victoria will return to its previous COVIDSafe settings from tonight, allowing for more visitors in the home, reduced mask wearing and increasing the number of workers heading back to the office.

The move to further ease restrictions follows a reduced exposure risk and low community transmission.

From 11:59pm tonight, masks will be only be required on public transport, in rideshare vehicles and taxis, in sensitive settings such as aged care facilities – and in some larger retail settings including indoor shopping centres, supermarkets, department stores, indoor markets.

While masks are no longer mandated in most circumstances, the evidence is clear wearing a face covering makes a real difference in slowing the spread of the virus – so masks continue to be recommended indoors or outdoors when distancing can’t be maintained.

Victorians will be able to host up to 30 people in their home per day. Outdoor gatherings in public places – the beach, the park – can increase to 100 people.

The planned increase for office workers to return to work can go ahead at 75 per cent across both public and private sectors from 11:59pm tonight. For most workers, this will mean returning to the office from Monday 1 March.

Density limits in pubs, restaurants and cafes will remain at 1 person per 2sq metres for both indoors and outdoors with no other cap, so long as electronic record keeping – a QR code – is used.

For small operations, there’ll be no density limits if the patron number is under 25 and they will still be required to keep records.

For beauty services, businesses remain at 1 person per 2sq metres – if they also introduce electronic record keeping.

For businesses where that’s not possible, density limits of 1 person per 4 sq metres will apply.

Retail businesses also remain at 1 person per 2sq metres and electronic record keeping is recommended where practical. Funerals and weddings are subject to a density limit of 1 person per 2sq metres. The same rules will apply to nightclubs and our community facilities, like our libraries, RSLs, and community halls.

In gyms, the density limit remains 1 per 4sq metres – with exercise classes limited to 50 indoors and 100 outdoors.

The State of Emergency – which needs to be declared so the Chief Health Officer can issue directions to respond to the pandemic and keep Victorians safe – will be extended to 11:59pm, 15 March 2021.

Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“I want to thank every Victorian for making today’s announcement possible – and I want to thank every Victorian for their patience. It’s been a hard slog, but Victorians are doing what they do best as we work to beat this virus: staying the course and looking out for each other.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Martin Foley

“Thanks to the incredible work of our public health team and all Victorians, we’re now able to continue our road to recovery – but we know the risk to Victorians is far from over.”

“The need for our public health team to have the legal ability to enforce measures that keep us safe are at the heart of recovery, which is why the amendment to the Public Health and Wellbeing Act before parliament is so important.”

“We expect this legislation to be passed so we can continue to use the tools we need to respond to this global pandemic and keep Victorians safe.”

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Transfer Balance Cap to increase from 1 July 2021 ACCOUNTANT

By Warren Strybosch

It’s official. The general transfer balance cap will be indexed from $1.6m to $1.7m from 1 July 2021 after the December 2020 quarter CPI rose enough to trigger the $100,000 increase.

Below we provide an outline of what this increase will mean for clients who are yet to commence a retirement income stream as well as those who have already accessed some or all of their transfer balance cap.

How will the indexation of the transfer balance cap impact clients?

A) Clients who have never commenced a retirement phase income stream If a client has never commenced a retirement phase income stream at 1 July 2021 (eg super pension/income stream where earnings are tax free), they will receive the full benefit of indexation.

Their personal transfer balance cap will be the same as the general transfer balance cap at $1.7m.

Example: Simon will retire in July 2021 and wishes to convert his accumulated Simon is able to transfer up to $1.7m into an account-based pension and not exceed his personal transfer balance cap.

B) Clients who have fully used their personal transfer balance cap If a client has fully used their $1.6m transfer balance cap at any time before 1 July 2021, they cannot access any of the increase due to indexation. Their personal transfer balance cap will remain at $1.6m.

Important note: To determine if a client has fully or partially utilised their personal transfer balance cap, the highest ever balance in their transfer balance account is used.

If a client has commenced a retirement phase income stream before 1 July 2021 however has not fully used their personal transfer balance cap (based on the highest ever balance of their transfer balance account), they will be entitled to a proportion of the increase in cap due to indexation.

For most people the TBC will not be relevant but for those who down-size, receive large inheritances and earn a high income, the TBC will be something to take into consideration when placing funds into super.

Example: Ava commenced an accountbased pension on 1 July 2019 for $1.6m resulting in a credit of $1.6m to her transfer balance account. On 1 January 2020, she withdrew $300,000 from the pension to gift to her daughter resulting in a debit to her transfer balance account reducing the balance to $1.3m.

Don’t forget, superannuation is a vehicle that provides tax-free income in retirement. It is important to seek advice early in life to gain the most from this vehicle prior to retirement.

On 1 July 2021, Ava’s personal transfer balance cap will be $1.6m and she will not benefit from indexation even though her current transfer balance account value is only $1.3m. This is due to Ava’s highest ever balance of $1.6m being used to determine if she has fully utilised the cap.

You can call them on 1300 88 38 30 or email

C) Clients who have partially used their personal transfer balance cap

Warren Strybosch

info@findaccountant.com.au www.findaccountant.com.au

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5. Reduces external noise 6. Enhances focus 7. Forces prioritisation (Helping us to get the most important tasks done) 8. Reduces Procrastination 9. Builds momentum 10. Builds creativity, inspiration and confidence 11. Reduces stress 12. Inspires relaxation and self-care 13. Increases energy levels 14. Raises acceptance 15. Moves us towards our goals 16. Aids successful tracking, testing and measuring There’s no set rule around setting a routine... but the benefits absolutely out way the opposite (flimsy, non-structured, nonchalant approach) and certainly reduce the noise that is society today, so routine is crucial.

Key factor is - Your routine must suit you... it doesn’t have to be the same every day, but it must be sustainable.

Without Routine... Is it just being hopeful?

RESILIENCE COACH

By Sally Higoe

With all the constant changes over the last 12 months, it would be reasonable to say most workplace routines have been tested and many are proving to be on shaky ground.

At just over halfway through the first quarter, now is the time to re-evaluate and make positive change before the uncertainty in your Company’s daily direction prevents you from hitting your goals.

An uncertain environment can lead to disengagement, low productivity, low morale and overwhelm. And although flexibility is a key trait for a leader, it shouldn’t come at the expense of anxiety or concern as to ‘how the job will get done’.

Good news is... you still have time to set your business- and team- up for success this quarter.

And it’s crucial that as a leader, you set the tone and the standard for each team member – whether working from home or in the office - to set up a balanced routine.

Ariana Huffington’s Thrive Global, reports-

Every quarter, I encourage businesses to set their routine with my TIME MAP ... grab a copy and start yours now.

“Having a daily routine in times of high anxiety can help reduce your stress levels by removing uncertainty out of your day... it allows you to feel more in control and less stressed. Having a structure and routine can help keep up healthy daily habits... protect mental health and has a positive impact”

The Time Map can be used for both individual and organisational planning, and with two maps running for each purpose at the same time. Either way, it is used by blocking out the week with highly chunked business categories of focus...eg Marketing, Sales, Admin, R & D.. etc.

Reaching your goals whilst maintain standards can be a balancing act, there’s no doubt, but with routine in place, there’s no surprises. Time is set aside for what really matters (or has to be done) and there is much less disappointment.

But first, the business or individual must slot in the non-negotiables – meeting times, driving time, me time (lunch breaks, sports, relaxation), kid’s activities... whatever they are for the user, they go in FIRST (don’t forget YOU time)... then add the business categories of focus.

Routine means there’s no ‘winging it’.

The day is purposeful, focused and productive. Not to mention, when we know what we’re waking up to, there’s less stress, anxiety and overwhelm. And when you bring your daily goals into this planning, it means that every day you are taking steps towards achieving your grander vision and desires.

Here’s some other reasons why daily routine is more than important, it’s necessary in order to nail your plans and goals, promote calmness and feel all round happier; 1. Makes us more efficient 2. Saves us time... and promotes more time!

3. Ceases bad habits 4. Instils good habits

Give it a go... and let me know how you go!

Take charge of your results... plan, plan, plan!... for you, your team and your business. If you need or would like more guidance on reaching your goals and building a resilient workplace, email me on sally@team-resilience.com.au and let’s chat.

Sally Higoe The Resilience Coach Team Resilience Method 0490388017 sally@team-resilience.com.au

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DIY Finance can be costing you thousands!!

FINANCIAL PLANNER

By Mark Kruger

Why pay for something when you can DIY? I am 100% onboard. I love educating myself. But reading Grey’s Anatomy does NOT make me a doctor. And reading a few finance books does not make you a financial expert. I see so many cases of people with the right intentions either getting things wrong or not optimising what they have. Let me explain.

Super I love making people better off in their super. It’s a passion! Tens of thousands of dollars is not unusual. 18 or 60 years old - it doesn’t matter. “That’s awesome!” you say. And I can hear it coming...“I’m gonna give it a crack myself. How hard can it be?” Let’s ask a couple of recent clients, Nick and Stacey. They had a crack... read the books, did some research.

Nic THOUGHT he knew what they were paying super. Thought they were set.

I saved them about $4,500. Per. Year. And that will increase as their super balances increase over the next 15 years. Let’s just say my fee paid for itself straight away. And they have the peace of mind knowing that it has been professionally looked at.

Insurance “Yeah, Mark, don’t worry about my Income Protection, I’ve got some in super.

It’s pretty cheap too!” Ok, great that this person knew they had it and what they were paying. But it was cheap for a reason. The benefit period was only for 2 years. This is for a family with a significant mortgage and limited resources beyond a single income.

What is the cost of getting that wrong?

It’s a personal choice to bear the risk or not, but at least make sure you have ALL relevant information. You don’t know what you don’t know.

Can I buy shares for kids?

Another week-intentioned sentiment.

But it isn’t necessarily the right question.

Depending on the purpose, timeframe, age of kids, tax rates and other things, buying shares for kids may not be optimal for you. Working through your intentions and knowing what else you have going on could be worth thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars, depending on your situation. Why wouldn’t you ask?

Look, I don’t want to pay for things I can do myself. But again, you don’t know what you don’t know. Finances are HUGE in your life! Why would you assume you

are equipped to make the optimal decisions?

I don’t know about other advisers, but if I can’t make you better off, I am not going to be charging you advice fees. So isn’t it worth finding out?

“There are various reasons people don’t seek financial advice: fear of cost, of looking dumb, not thinking they have enough going on, lack of time etc. I will address some of these in the next edition of FIND.”

This article is general in nature only. It is not a recommendation to start contributing more to super as this may not be right for you. You should seek personal financial advice from a financial adviser to consider your situation holistically.

Mark Kruger FINANCIAL PLANNER Money Rocket 0429 446 229 mark@moneyrocketadvice.com.au www.moneyrocket.com.au

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Feature Walls for the Wow Factor

What materials to use The materials you use depends on your budget. You can create a jaw-dropping feature wall just with paint and the right decore. If you have more resources available for your project, then stone, tiles or luxury wallpaper will give your house that air of opulence which will be the talk of your next dinner party for years to come.

If in doubt, consult an interior designer, or talk with me when you book your free consultation and quote.

PAINTING & DECORATING

By Steve Dahllof

Do you want your house to wow people as they walk in? A feature wall can be an exciting opportunity to express your creativity and stamp a sense of who you are onto your living spaces.

As a painter with decades of experience, people often ask me for advice on which wall to feature, and how. I’m more than happy to help! Here are my top tips to make your house feel unique and welcoming.

What’s a feature wall?

Which wall to choose You want to place the feature wall where a person’s eye is naturally drawn. By featuring the wall that draws your eye, you add an illusion of spaciousness.

As you walk to your room, notice where you look. If it’s a bedroom, feature the wall behind the bed head. If it’s a dining room, you want the wall behind the dining table to stand out. In your living room, choose the wall behind your TV, or behind your couch, depending on which wall you first see as you enter.

What colours to choose

stands out in a room. wallpaper, reclaimed

The colour of your feature wall should match the look and feel of your house.

Consider, too, whether you will be planning to sell the home again before the next repaint. Generally, if your house is neutral colours, you should stick to neutral tones.

Any room in the house can have a feature wall, so long as the room isn’t too cosy. Sometimes small rooms can have a feature wall (like a bathroom) but consistency helps to create a feeling of space in small spaces.

Take into account the amount of daylight that comes in. If the room has big windows, a pastel wall is going to look best in the day, because the contrast between a dark wall and the rest of the room will look too harsh. If the room is naturally darker, then adding a rich colour can add a touch of drama, mystique, and majesty.

A feature wall is a wall that compared to the other walls It can be done with paint, or and also with textures like wood or tiles.

Selecting your room

Steve Dahllof PAINTING AND DECORATING Dahllof Painting services 0407 365 372 www.stevedahllofpaintingservices.com.au MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Your Questions Answered About Victorian Rental Market Reforms LAWYERS

By John Van Beveren

Are you a landlord or property manager in Victoria? You need to know about more than 130 reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act that come into effect on March 29 2021.

The aim of the reforms is to remove friction for renters, make the market fairer, and bring the provision of accommodation in line with general community expectations for commerce and business.

If you are investing in residential property in 2021, here is a list of fifteen need-toknow changes that will affect your dayto-day contractual duties towards renters.

1. Rental Security Section 91ZZM(2) of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act ends nogrounds evictions.

2. Duty to Disclose Before entering into a residential rental agreement, rental providers are required to disclose: • •

any proposal to sell the property; mortgagee action to possess the property;

3. Misleading Conduct Prohibited

5. Minimum Rental Standards

Rental providers and their agents are prohibited from inducing a rental agreement by engaging in conduct that is misleading or deceptive.

Rental properties must meet “minimum standards”. The final list of minimum standards will be in the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2020 before April 2021.

4. Ban on Bidding Rental providers may no longer invite rental applicants to bid on a rental property. Rental properties may only be advertised for a fixed price.

6. Allowing Pets A rental provider must not unreasonably withhold consent to pets on the rented premises.

7. Property Modifications Permitted Renters can make prescribed modifications without the rental provider’s consent. The full list of prescribed modifications, likely to be minor in nature, will be available by April 2020.

8. Rental Arrears There are new rules for notices to vacate for overdue rent. A renter can be overdue up to 4 times in a twelve month period before a notice to vacate will be upheld.

9. Public Register Rental providers found who have committed an offence under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 will have their name, rental property address and offence listed on the CAV rental noncompliance register.

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10. Professional Cleaning Upon vacating a property, renters will only need to return the property to the condition it was in at the start of the tenancy, taking into account fair wear and tear, and won’t be required to provide professional cleaning.

11. Protecting Victims of Violence Where a rental agreement is terminated due to family or personal violence, rental providers and their agents are prohibited from listing the victim on a residential tenancy database. Nor are victims of family or personal violence are no longer liable for their perpetrator’s debts under the rental agreement.

12. Rental Increases Rental increases are limited to once per year. This reform also applies to rooming houses, caravan parks and residential parks.

13. Advertising material Section 89A requires you to give seven days’ notice to a renter to enter the property, and make a reasonable attempt to arrange a time that suits the renter if you want to take images or videos.

14. Renter’s Safety Obligations Renters do have new obligations under the amendments too, giving the rental provider the power to issue a notice to vacate where:

•

a renter is endangering safety (s 91ZJ);

•

a renter threatens or intimidates (s 91ZK);

•

a renter intentionally or recklessly causes serious damage (s 91ZL).

15. Existing Agreements If you already have a rental agreement, you will be exempt from some of the reforms if the rental agreement was signed before 1 July 2020.

Do you want to talk to a lawyer about property matters? Call JohnVan Beveren on 0429 312 986 for a free 15 minute call.

John Van Beveren LAWYER Van Beveren Lawyers 0487 044 478 www.vanbeveren.com.au

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Business Networking, the Dark Side.

BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM

By Brenda Thomson

Seven Networking Nasties and how to avoid them When you go into business one of the first things you’re told is how important networking is and I’d be the last person to disagree with that. However, what you often don’t hear is the dark side of networking and I think it’s something every new business owner needs to know… so here goes…

1. THE ODDS ARE THAT YOU WON’T FIND NEW CUSTOMERS AT NETWORKING EVENTS. Nobody goes to a networking event to be sold to. If you want to buy something you’re going to ask someone whose opinion you respect or you’ll Google it.

You don’t think to yourself “Oh – I need to buy a widget, I’ll pay for a ticket, give up a couple of hours of my time to go to a random networking event full of people I’ve never met and see if there happens to be a widget seller there”.

2. YOU WIND UP WITH A STACK OF BUSINESS CARDS THAT YOU’LL NEVER LOOK AT AGAIN AND CONVERSELY YOU’LL FIND YOURSELF ON A LOAD OF MAILING LISTS YOU NEVER ASKED FOR. You don’t have to exchange business cards with everyone. Where possible I only exchange cards with people with whom I genuinely want to reconnect. Of course there are cultural and courtesy conventions which you need to observe and respect, however look out for those people who ask for your business card without telling you why they would like to have it. I’ve seen people collect cards from everyone at a networking event simply to add them to their database.

3. YOU’LL GET INFORMATION OVERLOAD AND FIND YOURSELF CONFUSED BY TOO MANY CONFLICTING POINTS OF VIEW. It’s easy to get sucked into attending every workshop, seminar or webinar around in order to try and figure out what you need to know and what you need to do to achieve the results you’re looking for in business. Plus you’ll get lots

of conflicting advice from people you meet at networking events and on social media. Which leads to point 4.

4. IF YOU’RE NOT CAREFUL, YOU’LL FIND YOURSELF BUYING A HEAP OF THINGS YOU NEITHER WANT NOR NEED. There can be something a bit insidious about networking events. You meet someone who tells you all about the problems that they solve. All of a sudden you start to think that you have this problem (even though you didn’t know it even existed five minutes ago). You start to believe that it’s the most important problem you have right now and that this person you have just met is exactly the right person to solve it for you. All of a sudden you’re committing money or time or both to solving a problem that didn’t exist for you five minutes ago and that certainly isn’t in the budget or the plan. Now sometimes it may be the right thing to do… just saying “buyer beware”!

5. YOU’LL WASTE COUNTLESS HOURS ON COFFEE MEETINGS THAT GO NO-WHERE.

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Most networking events provide very little time for people to get to know one another. Typically you’ll meet 10 – 20 people and perhaps have the start of a quality conversation with 5 or 6. The usual post script to those conversations goes something like “ let’s catch up for a coffee and find out more about each other’s businesses”. How many cups of coffee do you have time to have with the wrong people? When I started my business half of my time was filled with coffee meetings, 99% of which were fruitless, and most of which turned into someone trying to sell me something – which leads to point 6.

No matter how good a potential alliance looks – if it won’t help BOTH OF YOU achieve your goals at less cost, in less time, with fewer mistakes, or with less stress, then you probably shouldn’t be doing it.

6. YOU MAY END UP DOING BUSINESS WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT THE BEST FIT FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

2. Know your business goals and objectives. If you don’t know where you are going, how can you hope to figure out how to get there or who might be in the best position to help you?

Once you’ve had a coffee with someone and started to develop a relationship it gets harder and harder to say no.

Unfortunately meeting someone at a networking event, and having a coffee with them doesn’t automatically make them the best supplier or the best alliance partner for you and your business.

7. YOU’LL FIND YOURSELF CHASING A LOT OF BRIGHT SHINY OBJECTS – EXPLORING NEW OPPORTUNITIES THAT ARE NOT A GOOD FIT FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS. And out of that sea of information and connections will emerge a few great connections. People who share your values and your target market and with whom you may genuinely be able to build a valuable WIN WIN relationships.

But beware of bright shiny objects. It’s really easy to get distracted by something that looks attractive but which diverts you from your core goals and objectives.

7 TIPS TO AVOID THE NETWORKING NASTIES Ok – so that’s all the bad stuff. So how do you avoid the Networking Nasties? Here are my seven top tips.

1. First – live, eat and breathe your values, NEVER compromise them. If something or someone isn’t aligned with your core values RUN!!!!

3. Have a plan and stick to it. OK – I agree plans can and often should change.

But beware of distractions which don’t lead to achieving your goals and objectives. Every time you are faced with a new and exciting opportunity – ask yourself “Will this help me meet or exceed my business goals at less cost, in less time, with fewer mistakes, or with less stress?” If the answer is no – then why are you doing it?

4. Don’t network for customers – network for mentors, alliance partners and advisors – people who CAN help and support you to meet your goals and objectives in less time, with fewer mistakes and with less stress.

5. Do your homework – don’t jump into bed with the first person you meet.

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Seek out the RIGHT people for you to work with. Most importantly people who share your values. Find mentors who have the knowledge and experience to advise and support you best and alliance partners who share your ideal clients and who are aligned with your goals and objectives.

Evaluate and consolidate: don’t just network for the sake of it. Regularly look at what’s working and what’s not. Focus on quality not quantity. Spend your time investing in building and extending on quality relationships rather than constantly trying to make new ones.

7. And finally – look for ways to help and support others. All of the first six points have been about you, but networking and relationships are a two way street … never lose sight of how you can help others. Be the person who asks others about their goals and objectives, who looks for ways to help them achieve them at less cost, in less time, with fewer mistakes, or with less stress.

BRENDA THOMSON BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM The Better Business for Good Company 0428 210 447 www.bb4g.co/

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General

Insurance - Getting the right cover

GENERAL INSURANCE

By Nicole Nelson

There’s no doubt that with all the different types of products and providers on the market, general insurance can seem like a bit of a maze. It’s common for people to worry about getting the right level of cover, having enough cover or paying too much in premiums. However, avoiding it all together is not going to protect your valuable assets or help you quickly replace your possessions in the event of a break-in.

Insurance is based on the idea of transferring risk. In the event that something unexpected happens to your home, contents, car or boat, the right insurance policy will ensure that you are compensated if you suffer a loss. Some people can get caught out with their policies when their insurance needs change and they forget to update them.

Getting the right cover If you don’t regularly re-assess your insurance requirements, there is a risk of having your assets underinsured. You may inadvertently leave something off your policy, or worse, find out after a theft, that your current policy doesn’t provide the level of cover you were expecting.

It’s recommended that you review the contents of your home every 12 months.

This involves making a list of any significant

purchases and then contacting your broker to add these items to your policy.

Nicole Centre

It’s also a good idea to assess how much it would cost to rebuild your home based on today’s costs. While it may have cost $150,000 to build your home 20 years ago, there’s no doubt it would cost more to rebuild it today. Remember to consider expenses such as cleaning up the site, paying an architect, the actual building work and alternative accommodation while your home is being rebuilt. Don’t forget to reassess your policy after any renovation work.

Important information:

Tips for saving on your premiums • Hold multiple policies with the same insurer: If you have two or more general insurance policies with the same company you may be entitled to a discount on your premiums.

Nelson

-

Belmont Insurance

this article provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, we do not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person.

• Increase your excess: Some insurance companies will let you increase your excess in return for lower premiums.

• Increase your excess: Some insurance companies will let you increase your excess in return for lower premiums.

• Look for age discounts: Some insurers offer discounts for certain age groups such as 55 year olds and over.

Nicole Nelson GENERAL INSURANCE Belmont Insurance Centre 419387012 www.belmontins.com

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Sub-4% jobless rate not inconceivable: RBA

Colin Brinsden, AAP Economics and Business Correspondents (Australian Associated Press)

He said Australian will learn lessons from other countries that are likely to get there before Australia.

Reserve Bank of Australia governor Philip Lowe believes an unemployment rate below four per cent is not inconceivable, but it’s a long way off.

However, he said the Australian economy’s recovery has been materially better than expected.

The recovery in employment has been “V-shaped” with a welcome decline in the jobless rate to 6.4 per cent.

The economy expanded by 3.1 per cent in the December quarter after a 3.4 per cent increase in the previous three months.

“Job vacancies, job ads and hiring intentions remain strong,” Dr Lowe told the Australian Financial Review Business Summit in Sydney on Wednesday.

“This suggests that the unemployment rate will continue to trend lower, although this trend could be temporarily interrupted when JobKeeper comes to an end later this month.”

He said the unemployment rate needed to be below five per cent to drive wages growth higher.

“How low below five is hard to tell and I certainly hope, and it’s not inconceivable, we could sustain an unemployment rate in Australia starting with a three,” he said in answer to a question.

“We are a long way from that.”

“They reflect the success that Australia has had on the health front, the very large fiscal and monetary policy support, and the flexibility of Australians in getting on with their lives and businesses,” Dr Lowe said.

“As a result, we are now within striking distance of recovering the pre-pandemic level of output.”

Dr Lowe noted the recent action in global bond markets has interest rate increases priced in Australia as early as late next year and again in 2023.

“This is not an expectation we share,” he said, reiterating that he does not expect to lift the cash rate from its record low 0.1 per cent until 2024 and when inflation is predicted to be sustainably within the two to three per cent target.

Wages growth also needs to materially higher.

“I also want to emphasise that the monetary stimulus is not just about achieving an inflation rate of two-pointsomething,” he said.

“It is just as much about achieving the maximum possible sustainable level of employment in Australia.

“Unemployment is a major economic and social problem and the (RBA) board places a high priority on a return to full employment.”

He said a full recovery of the economy requires a further lift in business investment to boost productivity and provide a firm basis for stronger growth and wages.

The governor said low interest rates were one of the factors contributing to the rise in housing prices.

“I would like to reiterate that the RBA does not target housing prices, nor would it make sense to do so,” he said.

“There are various tools, other than higher interest rates, to address these concerns, leaving monetary policy to maintain its strong focus on the recovery in the economy, jobs and wages.”

MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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The Facebook Purge of 2021 will happen again!

VIDEO CONSULTANT

By Zoë Wood

It’s the start of another busy Thursday at the office. You wake up, grab your coffee and pass your calendar that says something about ‘not building foundations on shifting sands’. You ignore it and look down at your phone, open your emails, and see the utter chaos online around some sort of new Australian Law affecting Facebook pages.

You immediately think: this won’t affect me, but I’d better check. So you log in and see that your page is gone. All your followers, posts, insights, ads, and that brand new expensive video you’ve just posted are all gone!

This story may be fictional, but it’s a reflection of many stories that have come out surrounding the “Facebook Purge” in February 2021. Where Facebook, in all their wisdom, abruptly blocked; publishers, non-for-profits, councils, and many other users in Australia who had been sharing news content. This was done in response to the Australian Government’s new “media bargaining code”, which would force Facebook, Google, and other online media companies to pay news publishers when linking to articles either in social media feeds or in search results.

Since then however, the government has amended legislation and negotiated with Facebook. But the pages, accounts, money, and data have yet to be restored

to some accounts. It may never be restored for those pages that aren’t associated with an established media brand with wealth and influence to throw around. All of that content, hard work, and engagement wiped from the internet as if it had never existed. Like that: *snap* You might feel like this scenario could never happen to you, but experts like fellow FindGeelong contributor Adam Sims, of aWebpage, and myself have been preaching the alternative for years. These major platforms are privately owned companies, never too big to fail you. They act like they don’t owe you anything, and you should act accordingly. They can easily take away anything they ‘give’ you or your non-forprofit. So you need to do the following to make sure you are not investing your hard earned resources into a falling giant.

First, have your videos, and other types of posts, on more than one platform. For example, post your videos on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. It does mean a bit more work posting the videos and interacting with the comments afterwards. However, it means you have more people potentially seeing your video and if one platform ‘goes dark’, you have other platforms to reach out to your followers.

Secondly, share your videos ,if relevant, at least once a quarter (i.e. every 3 months).

You don’t have to change anything, just post it again with a different description,

to get more people seeing your video and ultimately catch their eye.

Thirdly, have your video files and post descriptions on both digital cloud storage (i.e. Dropbox, Google Drive) and a personal digital copy (i.e. computer or external hard drive) for all of your videos.

When something does happen, you can feel stress-free knowing that everything is backed up, available for you to upload again, or to post to a different and better platform.

You may feel like you don’t get any customers from your social media platforms. If they were taken down tomorrow it wouldn’t bother your bottom line. However, did you know that this issue applies to more than just the Facebooks and the Googles of our world? Digital platforms that send your invoices, host your website, and control anything you do digitally can and will be affected.

Now, I hand you over to the article by Adam Sims of aWebpage in this very same magazine to get his perspective.

See our video called “The Facebook Purge of 2021 will happen again!”. Search Video Confidence Coach on YouTube to start creating videos for your non-forprofit or community group.

Zoë Wood VIDEO CONSULTANT Video Confidence Coach 0430 473 204 zoe@vcc.training

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MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Weathering the storm of social media disruption

WEB DEVELOPER

By Adam Sims

Late February 2021 was a wakeup call for many Small Businesses across Australia as their Facebook pages were deleted without notice. For many of these small businesses, their Facebook Business page became a primary go-to for both business managers and customers for lead generation, communications and sharing carefully crafted content that showcases the businesses brand story, products and services.

Here are some tips and tricks for taking back control and building a Webpage platform that can become an asset and a central part of your business premise.

Define a few clear business goals your webpage is intended to support. Keep in mind, these suggestions are by no means a comprehensive list, but intended to introduce you to some ways you can utalise your website above and beyond digital signage. This can include things like; 1. Communicating brand story

your

businesses

2. Generating leads 3. Keeping customers up to date with news and events 4. Provisioning brochures, documents and forms

Crafting quality written or audio/visual content through Video Confidence Coach owned and operated by Zoe Wood, is a sure fire way to keep people coming back to your webpage. Yet did you know that it matters where you publish first? Posting new content to your webpage first before social media, positions your webpage as the primary source and authority in the eyes of search engines. This can significantly improve your webpages search engine ranking as well as make sure other services know who is the likely owner of that content.

In addition to your publicly displayed content on your webpage, its important to define one more communication method for sending invoices and alerts. Some commonly choices include; 1. Email 2. SMS 3. Snail mail

however that is not much use unless your webpage knows who your customers are. Introducing the Customer Database and its cousin the Customer Relationship Management tool.

Being dependent on social media or other 3rd party cloud platforms to store a list of your customers is risky.

However it is often very time consuming to manually transfer customer details from communication, sales order, or invoice into a database. That’s why having a business webpage platform that is developed to assist you with these rudimentary chores can be so powerful.

In closing, the keys to weathering the storm of social media disruption is to claw back ownership of your digital communication platforms from 3rd parties by investing in your own digital storefront, develop that storefront with the goal of driving specific business outcomes, and use it to collect critical business intelligence that you can use to understand your customers and communicate with them better.

There is no right or wrong option here.

Each method has their own strengths and weaknesses. What is important is that you invest the time to weigh them up and choose the right option for your strategy.

Collaborating with a communications specialist can go a long way in making these sorts of choices.

So you have defined a communication method in addition to your webpage, but how are you going to send communications in bulk? Your webpage can be developed to send blog updates and other communications automatically,

Adam Sims WEB DEVELOPER

aWebpage 1300 667 141

www.awebpage.com.au/#services

MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Double Up!!

SALARY PACKAGING SERVICES

By Dan Nicholls

This month I thought I would recount a recent customer enquiry to show how we can really help people save money.

Customer “Lucy” Lucy works 2 jobs currently, both with notfor-profit employers who used different salary packaging service providers.

She set up her salary packaging in the following way:Employer 1 – Mortgage Payments as a Reportable Fringe Benefit expense for $15,900 per year Employer 2 – Meal Entertainment benefit for $2,650

Lucy had arranged her packaging with the salary packaging suppliers as she believed this was the correct way to use her allowances.

We asked Lucy why she was only packaging one benefit with us and if she was aware that she could be packaging more. Her response led to her explaining the above set up and her understanding that she was packaging as much as she could.

FACT: You can salary package with more than one employer. Your allowances are actually linked to your employment, not to you as an individual.

As an employee at a not-for-profit employer Lucy is able to salary package $15,900 (Reportable Fringe Benefits) and $2,650 (Meal Entertainment). She can package these amounts at BOTH employers, on the basis she doesn’t claim the same expense twice.

This means that Lucy is able to claim the tax savings by funding her everyday expenses from her pre-tax income for both employers.

KEY TAKEAWAY Salary packaging allowances are linked to your employer. If you have more than 1 employer you can potentially salary package more than once.

2 jobs = 2 possible salary packaging opportunities

If you have any questions relating to this or any other aspect of salary packaging please do not hesitate to contact us on 03 5229 4200.

Dan Nicholls SALARY PACKAGING SERVICES Salary Packaging People 040047998 dan@salarypackagingpeople.com.au

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Happy Singing!

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Shayne Lowe … Do It With Pizazz

VOCAL PERFORMANCE INSTRUCTOR

By Shayne Lowe

Endorphins anyone? Known as one of the “happy hormones”, endorphins are produced naturally when you eat dark chocolate, exercise, dance, get acupuncture, laugh and … of course … sing!

So, when I say singing is my happy, I really mean it! Let’s take a closer look at the science of singing …

Singing & Health One of the foundational aspects of singing lessons and classes is learning how to breath effectively. The process of exhalation stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system (the part of the body that enables you to rest and digest) which is where the concept of “take a breath and calm down” comes from.

Studies have shown that the breathing techniques used with singing assist in building strength in respiratory muscles which may offer benefits for people with conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer and multiple sclerosis.

“Singing is a form of regular, controlled breathing since breathing out occurs on the song phrases and inhaling takes place between these.

It gives you pretty much the same effect as yoga breathing. It helps you relax, and there are indications that it does provide a heart benefit.”

Dr Björn Vickhoff, musicologist University of Gothenburg, Sweden

…

Singing also stimulates the vagus nerve, causing the heart rate to slow (your heart rate increases when anxious so singing can be an anxiety antidote!) As a side benefit, this can work towards lowering blood pressure and providing tools for ongoing stress management.

Having a bad day?

Sing it out I say!

Studies have also found there is a release of oxytocin into the body when singing.

Oxytocin (another “happy hormone”!) has a calming effect on the body and promotes psychological wellbeing.

Of course, this happy little singing bubble cannot help but follow you out of classes and into your daily lives!

“There is no other stimulus on earth that simultaneously engages our brains as widely as music does. This global activation happens whether you listen to music, play an instrument, or sing - even informally in the car or the shower.”

Brian Harris, certified neurologic music therapist … Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital

Researchers in a 2008 study interviewed partners of choir members along with partners of people who didn’t sing regularly and found that significantly fewer choir members snored!

Get singing and get some more of those happy hormones in your day!

Singing & Community Research from the University of East Anglia found that people who took part in community singing groups maintained or improved their mental health.

Singing in groups, being a combination of socialising and singing, promotes ongoing feelings of belonging and wellbeing that continually builds as you settle into the group.

Shayne Lowe VOCAL PERFORMANCE INSTRUCTOR Do it with PiZAZZ 0429 08 4343 info@doitwithpizazz.com.au

Enter oxytocin (again!)

One of the neurochemicals released when people feel bonded is oxytocin … also known as the love hormone.

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Farm production tipped to hit $66 billion

Matt Coughlan (Australian Associated Press)

Australia’s farm production has been forecast to soar to a record high on the back of a remarkable turnaround from a crippling drought.

The federal government’s agriculture forecaster ABARES predicts production will reach almost $66 billion in 2020/21.

The latest figures, released at ABARES’ annual outlook conference on Tuesday, show the industry is defying the pandemic and seeing off the effects of consecutive poor seasons.

ABARES acting executive director Jared Greenville said it was forecast to be an excellent year for agriculture with an expected eight per cent lift in production value from last year.

“The rebound from drought has been exceptional – in terms of the three consecutive years of decline and the sheer scale of the turnaround,” he said.

Australia’s winter crop of 55.2 million tonnes – the second biggest on record – has underpinned the growth.

Dr Greenville said favourable conditions and strong meat prices would drive an 18 per cent increase in the average national farm income, which is projected to hit $184,000.

Lower livestock numbers as farmers rebuild herds and flocks will lead to less slaughter and meat production, leading to a four per cent fall in exports.

Average national farm income is projected to increase 18 per cent to $184,000 in the short term.

In 2021/22, overall production is forecast to fall slightly to $63.3 billion with cropping regions benefiting from residual soil moisture and replenished water storages.

In the medium term, the value is expected to remain above $60 billion.

While the industry has set a governmentbacked target to reach $100 billion by 2030, Dr Greenville said the longer-term outlook was less clear.

“While the sector has demonstrated resilience and the ability to adapt to COVID-19, other challenges remain,” he said.

“Shifting trade, along with macroeconomic and production uncertainties, will provide the backdrop for what we expect to be a more difficult environment in which to grow production and trade value.”

National Farmers’ Federation chief executive Tony Mahar said the government needed a long-term trade strategy to deepen access to existing markets and create more export destinations.

Mr Mahar said biosecurity would also be key to maintaining and expanding export markets with a severe pest outbreak estimated to cost more than $50 billion.

“Alarmingly, our current system risks not being up to the job, without adequate investment in its expansion and modernisation,” he said.

Speaking at the conference, Agriculture Minister David Littleproud pointed to $328 million in last year’s federal budget to slash red tape for agriculture exporters.

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MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Buying new, drivers in the ’70s could expect to pay under $10,000 for the Cobra and just $3800 for the Falcon XW GT. “We are used to seeing strong demand for classic Australian cars but we’ve never seen anything like this,” Grays CEO Chris Corbin said.

Bidding frenzy’ for classic Aussie cars Nick Gibbs

(Australian Associated Press)

A recent auction has proved that for those who know their Australian classics, the right car can offer a great return on investment.

Fords from the 1970s were the top sellers at a recent auction, with a 1978 XC Cobra attracting the highest price of $194,000 A 1970 Ford Falcon XW GT ($183,000), 1977 Ford Falcon XC Fairmont Coupe ($170,000) and a 1972 Ford Falcon XA GT Hardtop ($131,000) rounded out the highest earners.

“Clearance rates have never been higher and we don’t foresee demand or prices falling in the near future.”

A 1963 Holden EJ Taxi was a relative bargain with a sale price of $45,000.

The auction saw 330 vehicles go under the virtual hammer in one of Grays biggest auctions for classic cars.

It has reported demand outstripping supply since the onset of the pandemic with large numbers of bidders looking for classic Australian cars.

Moody’s Analytics has also found prices for second-hand vehicles have jumped up to 35 per cent in the past year with a surge driven by the limited supply of new cars, fewer trade-ins and increased demand.

Aviation grants and tourism loans expected Daniel McCulloch

(Australian Associated Press)

Aviation grants and business industry loans are expected to replace JobKeeper payments when the wage subsidy scheme ends on March 31.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will outline the replacement pandemic supports in Queensland later this week.

Daniel Gschwind from the Queensland Tourism Industry Council said operators across the state were crying out for more support.

“There are many parts of our industry that are still struggling,” he told ABC radio on Tuesday. “Cairns is one example, but it’s right across the spectrum of destinations.

“Even in Brisbane and here on the Gold Coast, we have enormous problems with businesses that cannot get international travellers, but also domestic travellers with the uncertainty that we have seen over the last 12 months.”

The Queensland government estimates 50,000 jobs will be lost when JobKeeper ends on March 31, many of those in tourism-dependent regions.

Mr Gschwind hopes it does not come to that, but said it was a real risk, with many small businesses already starting to shed staff.

“That risk is obviously increasing with the end of JobKeeper and we’re urging federal and state governments to really look at every option to ensure that we can keep the skills in place,” he said.

“That’s very important because if we lose the staff and the skills it will be very, very difficult to crank the economy up again when domestic and eventually international visitors return.

“And the cost to the federal government and state governments will be far greater if we lose the staff, lose the skills, and then have to deal with the damage afterwards.”

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Choosing a Creative Life Celebrate International Women’s Day 2021 Tuesday, 9 March 2pm - 4pm Meet four extraordinary women artists whose pursuit of a creative life has been beautifully captured by filmmaker Jamie Saxe.

Dindy Vaughan - Composer, Maria Millers - Writer and Editor, Lee Goller - Visual Artist, and Sylvia Jukes - Visual Artist have put artistic expression at the centre of their lives over many decades.

Join us via Zoom to find out more about them and their work. This event will be a mixture of film and live chat. Bookings essential!

Book now

Current Services With restrictions easing, we are able to have many more people in the libraries. Please continue to scan or log in for contact tracing. Face masks are recommended and must be worn in situations when you cannot maintain social distance – 1.5 meters Click+ Collect and Home Delivery Service are still available. Our website always has the current information - please check Current Services for any changes.

Learn more

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More storytimes at your library!

Enjoy more Tiny Tots, Toddlers, Preschoolers, and Family storytimes from 1 March!

In keeping with current government restrictions, the following conditions will apply to our Storytime sessions: - Bookings are essential for every adult and child over 12 months - Numbers are limited - Social distancing will be observed - Sessions will run for 20 minutes and include stories and rhymes and a take-home craft activity - Bookings open 3 days before the session - Masks are recommended for all Library visitors over the age of 12 - Conditions of entry to the library must be observed

Book now

We can’t wait to see you at storytime!

Relax and Unwind Meditation for Balance - Tues 9 & 16 March, 6:30pm | Realm Library Love, Peace, Harmony Meditation - Every Thursday, 10:30am | Belgrave Library Join us at the library and find your way back to inner peace and wellbeing.

Booking essential as places are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions

Book now

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2020 TA Small Business Entity Threshold to Increase Many more businesses will be eligible to access income tax concessions with the passing of legislation which extends thresholds currently reserved for small businesses. These concessions include: •

immediate deduction of certain start-up and prepaid expenses

•

exemption from FBT for car parking and work-related portable devices provided to employees

•

access to simplified trading stock rules

•

access to PAYG instalments based on GDP-adjusted notional tax

•

settle excise and excise-equivalent customs duties monthly, and

•

businesses will have a two-year amendment period to apply to income tax assessments for income

Passed (9-Oct-2020)

years starting from 1 July 2021, excluding entities that have significant international tax dealings or

Royal Assent (14-Oct-2020)

particularly complex affairs.

Date of effect

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation Introduced (7-Oct-2020)

A business will be eligible to access these concessions if their aggregated turnover is less than $50 million. Mostly, the change in aggregated turnover threshold will take place from 1 July 2021, with different dates to line up with the FBT year. Also, the eligible entity can access the simplified accounting method determination for GST purposes from 1 July 2021.

WA COVID-19 Stimulus Package A range of stimulus measures are being implemented in Western Australia to assist business with cash flow issues resulting from COVID-19. In particular, certain businesses in WA will receive grants, while others will be allowed a waiver of payroll tax for four months. A payroll tax exemption has been extended for new apprentices and trainees in the 2020-21 income year. Also, the future uplift of payroll tax thresholds

Announcement: 17-Mar-2020 Updated: 23-Dec-2020

will be brought forward to assist some businesses with their future obligations.

ACT COVID-19 Stimulus Package Starting in March 2020, the ACT government has announced a series of measures which provide waivers or deferrals of payroll tax. These waivers and deferrals are an attempt to combat the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Waivers of ACT payroll tax are available for businesses in hospitality, creative arts and entertainment industries. Deferrals are available for other small and medium-sized

Announcement: 22-Mar-2020 Updated: 23-Dec-2020

businesses. Initially lasting 6 months, some of these assistance measures have been extended into 2021.

FBT Exemption for Retraining and Reskilling Proposed An employer may receive a future exemption from fringe benefits tax when providing employees with retraining or reskilling opportunities. This 2020 federal budget announcement will take affect from 2 October 2020, subject to the passing of legislation. The government has also released a consultation

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation (22-Jan-2021) Introduced

paper with respect to possible changes to the self-education deduction section for individual taxpayers.

Passed

These measures may provide a tax incentive for employees to change careers, in particular if they are

Royal Assent

about to be made redundant.

Date of effect

Reviewing Denied Jobkeeper or Cash Flow Boost Receipts A recent report into the ATO’s administration of JobKeeper and Cash Flow Boost payments has uncovered situations where the ATO has incorrectly denied entities access to the stimulus payments. Some new

Announcement (18-Jan-2021)

businesses were informed that they were ineligible due to not having informed the ATO of any taxable

Updated (20-Jan-2021)

supplies prior to the commencement date of 12 March 2020. However, the report acknowledges that this

Consultation

was misinterpreted by the ATO. In particular, the modified definition of taxable supply to include financial supplies. However, the report also acknowledges that the ATO will not be chasing up businesses who may have been incorrectly determined to be ineligible. Any affected clients of yours will need to go through the objection process, which can be extended if there is a likelihood of success.

Introduced Passed Royal Assent Date of effect

AX UPDATES Victoria COVID-19 Package for States Taxes Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Victorian government has announced various assistance for businesses who are required to pay land tax or payroll tax. Assistance has been given in the

Announcement (20-Mar-2020)

form of reductions, refunds and deferrals of these state taxes. However, not all assistance is applied

Updated (3-Feb-2021)

automatically and requires direct application with the State Revenue Office. Most recently, a 12-month

Consultation

deferral of payroll tax applies to businesses with Victorian taxable wages under $10 million. Also, land tax relief has been extended into 2021 for landlords who provide qualifying rental reductions to their tenants. The impact statement and letters provide more detailed information for you to correspond with

Introduced Passed Royal Assent Date of effect

your clients, to ensure they receive all the assistance they are entitled to.

Simplified Fuel Tax Credits - Reduced Record Keeping A new simplified method of calculating fuel tax credits has been released by the Australian Taxation Office. Provided an entity follows this simplified method in good faith, the Commissioner of Taxation will

Announcement (5-Feb-2021)

administer the law in accordance with this approach. To be eligible to use the simplified method, an

Consultation (5-Feb-2021)

entity’s fuel tax credit claim for an income year should be $10,000 or less. If using this new simplified method, an entity cannot use another simplified method for calculating fuel tax credits, such as auxiliary equipment usage. However, an entity may choose which method best suits them each tax period.

Released (5-Feb-2021) Passed Date of effect

Temporary Full Expensing of Depreciating Assets The majority of businesses are eligible to claim an outright deduction for the cost and installation of new assets. To qualify for full expensing, the asset must be first held and first used, or installed ready for use, between 7:30pm AEDT 6 October 2020 and 30 June 2022. Unlike prior rules on instant asset write-offs, no limit applies to the cost of an asset under the full expensing rules. That is, an asset of any value may be fully deducted in the appropriate income year. For a business to qualify for the outright deduction, the entity must have an aggregated turnover of less than $5 billion. Certain large entities will have separate

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation (6-Oct-2020) Introduced (7-Oct-2020) Passed (9-Oct-2020)

eligibility criteria.Since the legislation has been enacted, further amendments will be made to the laws

Royal Assent (14-Oct-2020)

to allow businesses a choice in using full expensing or not. In certain situations, it may be beneficial to

Date of effect (6-Oct-2020)

spread out tax deductions over multiple years. The ATO has released a form for early balancers to lodge their full expensing claims for the 2020-21 income year.

Temporary Full Expensing of Depreciating Assets The majority of businesses are eligible to claim an outright deduction for the cost and installation of new assets. To qualify for full expensing, the asset must be first held and first used, or installed ready for use, between 7:30pm AEDT 6 October 2020 and 30 June 2022. Unlike prior rules on instant asset write-offs, no limit applies to the cost of an asset under the full expensing rules. That is, an asset of any value may be fully deducted in the appropriate income year. For a business to qualify for the outright deduction, the entity must have an aggregated turnover of less than $5 billion. Certain large entities will have separate

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation (6-Oct-2020) Introduced (7-Oct-2020) Passed (9-Oct-2020)

eligibility criteria.Since the legislation has been enacted, further amendments will be made to the laws

Royal Assent (14-Oct-2020)

to allow businesses a choice in using full expensing or not. In certain situations, it may be beneficial to

Date of effect (6-Oct-2020)

spread out tax deductions over multiple years. The ATO has released a form for early balancers to lodge their full expensing claims for the 2020-21 income year.

Loss Carry-back Available for Companies For three income years, many corporate tax entities will be eligible to claim a refundable tax offset when they incur a taxable loss. This optional offset is available only to business and is a recoupment of prior year income tax paid, but only available for recent income years. The loss carry-back is available to businesses with turnover under $5 billion. Any refundable tax offset is limited to prior year tax paid

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation (6-Oct-2020) Introduced (7-Oct-2020) Passed (9-Oct-2020)

and the balance of the franking account. An ATO form is now available for companies who are early

Royal Assent (14-Oct-2020)

balancers under a substituted accounting period.

Date of effect (1-Jul-2021) MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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MARCH 2021 REALESTATE

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If you have questions, contact Warren on 1300 88 38 30 or email: editor@findgeelong.com.au MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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REAL ESTATE AGENT

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We invite all Real Estate Agents to list their profiles here. First in, first page. Be known in your local community and help support all things Geelong.

For listing enquiries call 1300 88 38 30 or email editor@findgeelong.com.au

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We invite all Real Estate Agents to list their profiles here. First in, first page. Be known in your local community and help support all things Geelong.

For listing enquiries call 1300 88 38 30 or email editor@findgeelong.com.au

Agent Name: 1234 568 75896 emailaddress@gmail.com.au

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2020 NAIDOC Week program recognised with award The City has been recognised in the LGPro 2021 Awards for Excellence for its work in partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities for last year’s NAIDOC Week events.

Awarded with the Indigenous Community Partnership Initiative award last week, the category celebrates an initiative or program that enriches the community and that has been implemented in conjunction with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

In delivering the 2020 NAIDOC Week program, the City partnered with 15 Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous organisations, including Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative, The Torch, Geelong One Fire Reconciliation Group, Geelong Gallery among many others.

Mayor Stephanie Asher said this was a great recognition that celebrated the strength of the partnerships in crafting the 2020 program.

“We are so proud to receive this accolade.”

“The award recognises the innovative thinking and strength of the partnerships with the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous organisations ensuring NAIDOC Week could go ahead amidst challenging circumstances.”

Aboriginal Affairs portfolio holder Cr Jim Mason said the NAIDOC Week program was a celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples spanning thousands of generations.

We’re very grateful to the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and all of our other partners for their partnership and willingness to invest their time and energy in order to help us create a respectful and touching celebration of NAIDOC Week in Geelong,” Cr Mason said.

Through our Reconciliation Action Plan, we will continue to promote better understanding and recognition, positive relationships, and equal opportunity for our First Nations communities.

Taking place from 8 to 15 November due to COVID-19 restrictions, the City’s 2020 NAIDOC week program included: •

A virtual tour of 20 significant locations on Wadawurrung Country developed with Wadawurrung Traditional Owner, Corrina Eccles;

•

The annual projections at City Hall featuring artwork by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men on Wadawurrung Country, developed through The Torch and Department of Justice. The program connects participants with their cultural identity while helping them to develop confidence and define new pathways; and

•

44 banners flown around the region featuring the ‘Country and Connection 2019’ artwork by artist and Wadawurrung Traditional Owner, Billy-Jay O’Toole.

Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Paul Davis, said he was delighted to hear of the accolade for the 2020 program.

“Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation was delighted to see the City of Greater Geelong win this award and partner with them in their 2020 NAIDOC Week program. It is great to see a Council that actually works closely with its local Traditional Owner group be recognised in this way.”

The theme for NAIDOC week in 2020 was ‘Always was, Always will be’, which in Wadawurrung language is translated to ‘Yannan-ik Yannan-iyu’.

Building respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories by celebrating NAIDOC Week is a key action in the City’s Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, which was adopted by Council in 2020 and outlines the City’s commitment to action.

The LGPro Awards for Excellence are the key awards for the Victorian local government sector and aim to promote and celebrate the outstanding work being undertaken and delivered by individuals and teams working in the sector in Victoria.

Further information on the LGPro Awards for Excellence can be found at www. lgpro.com/awards

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Recycled glass paving new roads in Geelong The first roads in the Barwon region constructed using recycled glass are now open.

The City reopened Christies Road in Leopold and Walkers Road in Lara last month following repaving works that incorporated recycled glass as a replacement for sand in the asphalt mix.

Approximately 50 tonnes of glass was used in the base layer of the two roads.

Every tonne of asphalt contains three percent of glass, the equivalent of 200,000 glass bottles and jars.

Road construction company, Fulton Hogan, crushes the glass at its facility in Lara into particles similar in size to sand.

The crushed glass is then mixed into the asphalt mix and only used in the base layer of the road, which sits around 4cm below the final road surface.

Glass is not used in the road surface asphalt mix as yet, with further testing required to determine its performance.

Councils across Victoria are increasingly using recycled glass as a replacement for sand in road construction, which has seen an increase in demand for glass.

Using glass is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional asphalt. It also demonstrates the circular economy in action by diverting glass from landfill without compromising the quality of asphalt.

More News & Updates

The Christies Road and Walkers Road projects were supported through grant funding received from the Commonwealth Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Extended opening floated for Kardinia pool

The City is currently in the planning phase for another innovative road construction project that will use recycled glass, plastic and crumbed tyre rubber in road construction. The project is expected to commence in April this year.

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Oceania Regional Seniors Tennis Championships The 2021 Oceania Regional Seniors Tennis Championships, a tournament described as the ‘most prestigious seniors tennis event in Oceania’, is coming to Geelong.

Players will call the region home for five days, showcasing their skills for a local audience, with the tournament being played from 4-8 March on grass at the historic Geelong Lawn Tennis Club.

The tournament is part of the International Tennis Federation Seniors Tour and rates behind only the World Seniors Championships in terms of status and rankings points on offer.

The number of competing international players will be dependent on travel restrictions at the time of the tournament.

Gold Class Wrestling Pro wrestling’s hottest stars are coming to Geelong in an unforgettable night of hard hitting, trash talking, high flying action to entertain the entire family!

When Daily from 04 March 2021 to 08 March 2021 Where Geelong Lawn Tennis Club 12-20 Sommers St, Belmont Contact Associated organisation: Tennis Seniors Australia Website: https://www.facebook.com/ TennisSeniorsAustralia

Upcoming dates 27 March 2021, 06:00 PM - 09:30 PM 22 May 2021, 06:00 PM - 09:30 PM 24 July 2021, 06:00 PM - 09:30 PM 11 September 2021, 06:00 PM - 09:30 PM 13 November 2021, 06:00 PM - 09:30 PM

Facilities • Parking available • Seating/viewing areas • Toilets available • Wheelchair accessible Contact Wade Callus Email: goldclasswrestling@yahoo.com Associated organisation: Gold Class Wrestling

When

Where

Website: www.goldclasswrestling.com

Various dates from 30 January 2021 to 13 November 2021

Geelong West Town Hall 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West 3218

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GCWbrand Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/gcwbrand

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Pako Festa 2021 This year, Pako Festa will look a little different.

There will be three fabulous ways to experience our regions diverse mix of cultures.

1. 27 February - enjoy a smorgasbord of global food 2. 27 February - 13 March - projections on Geelong West Town Hall 3. 27 February - 27 March - Discovery Arts Trail Global Food For one brilliant day, enjoy mouthwatering food offerings from 19 of Geelong’s ethnic communities in 13 different locations across Geelong on Saturday 27 February. There’s something for everyone from Ukrainian Varenyky to Bangladeshi Chicken Biryani and everything in between.

You can choose take-away or dine in options. To ensure a COVIDSafe event, all takeaway and dine-in food orders must be pre-booked at https://bookings. pakofesta.com.au Patrons can place as many takeaway orders as they wish, but can only dine-in at one location.

Each location and time has limited numbers so place your booking today to avoid missing out!

Pako Festa is an annual fundraiser for our local diverse communities and your food purchase supports the ongoing sustainability of these communities.

Ukrainian Club - 57 Pakington Street, Gelong French and Ukrainian, licenced venue

Centenary Hall - 1-9 Cox Road, Norlane Nepalese

Wathaurong Aboriginal C-Op Morgan Street, North Geelong Wathaurong

Cloverdale Community Centre - 167-169 Purnell Road, Corio Thai

West Park - 207 Pakington Street, Geelong West Bosnian and Iranian

Croatian Club - 172-182 Cox Road, Corio Croatian and licenced venue

West Town hall - 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West Bangladeshi

Diversitat Hub - 25-41 Arunga Avenue, Norlane Dutch, Filipino and Japanese Greek Club - 1/3 Taliska Avenue, Hamlyn Heights Greek and licenced venue Macedonian Club - 465 Ballarat Road, Batesford Macedonian and licenced venue Pettit Park - 7-13 Beauford Avenue, Bell Post Hill Fijian, Indonesian and Pakistani Polish Club - 46-48 Fellmongers Road, Breakwater Polish and licenced venue Serbian Club - 240 Planation Road, Corio Serbian and licenced venue

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When Daily from 27 February 2021 to 27 March 2021 Upcoming Dates 01 March 2021 02 March 2021 03 March 2021 Upcoming Dates Where 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West Cost This is a Free Event

See More Here

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Scenic Victoria—Land, sea, city This exhibition draws on Geelong Gallery’s exceptional collection to survey artists’ enduring interest and engagement with the landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes of our region and wider State, with a specific focus on artistic responses to locations of personal significance. Includes historical works by Eugene von Guérard, Louis Buvelot, Frederick McCubbin and Walter Withers, through to more contemporary interpretations of the landscape and suburbia by Fred Williams, Jan Senbergs and Jenny Watson, amongst others.

COVID–19 Safety Conditions of entry apply. Book your free, timed-entry tickets geelonggallery.org.au/COVID-19 When Daily from 26 June 2020 to 18 April 2021 Upcoming dates 01 March 2021, 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM 02 March 2021, 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM 03 March 2021, 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM Show more dates

Gallery tots Join us for a free catch-up in the Gallery with your little one—explore and enjoy works of art, storytelling and play.

19 March 2021, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM 26 March 2021, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM 09 April 2021, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

• • •

Suitable for ages 18 months to 4 years.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Show more dates

Contact Geelong Gallery

Free event | Bookings required When Various dates from 18 September 2020 to 25 June 2021 Upcoming dates 05 March 2021, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM 12 March 2021, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Where Geelong Gallery 55 Little Malop Street Cost This is a free event Facilities • Change room facilities • Children’s activities • Seating/viewing areas

Toilets available Undercover areas Wheelchair accessible

Email: info@geelonggallery.org.au Phone: 0352293645 Associated organisation: Geelong Gallery Website: www.geelonggallery.org.au/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ geelonggallery Twitter: twitter.com/geelonggallery

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Rone in Geelong When Daily from 27 February 2021 to 16 May 2021 Upcoming Dates 01 March 2021 02 March 2021 Over the last two decades, Geelongborn artist Rone has built an exceptional reputation for large-scale wall paintings and immersive installations that explore concepts of beauty and decay.

Rone’s latest site-specific installation will transform Geelong Gallery’s rooms in response to the architecture and history of the building, and the Gallery’s collection.

The first comprehensive survey of Rone’s career to date will also be presented, charting the artist’s practice from early stencil works and street art, to photographs documenting major installations that have transformed abandoned spaces.

Images reproduced courtesy of the artist.

03 March 2021 Show more dates Where Geelong Gallery 55 Little Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220 Contact Phone: 03 5229 3645 Associated organisation: Geelong Gallery

Website: www.geelonggallery.org.au

Flying Brick Bellarine Sunset Run Over our first 5 years we’ve found the perfect way to combine some of life’s loves. Many families and friends have ventured to the Bellarine Peninsula to spend a weekend running, eating, drinking, smiling and laughing with friends and love ones.

Facilities • First Aid available • Parking available • Toilets available

Our family organised run is also an important contributor to Bellarine Community Health Youth Services with awareness and funds raised from our Bully Buster 4km contributing to their headspace program and the youth on the Bellarine Peninsula, the current total raised exceeds $25,000.

Email: info@bellarinesunsetrun.com

No Bully Buster 4km in 2021

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ bellarinesunsetrun/

When 20 March 2021, 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Contact Dion Milne

Phone: 0408 207 196 Associated organisation: TrailLove Events Website: www.bellarinesunsetrun.com

Where Portarlington - St Leonards foreshore trail Pier St Portarlington Cost Participant Entry Fee: $55.00 10km entry $55 (bus to start not included) Half marathon entry $75 Standard entry prices 10/12 until sold out 10km entry $65 Half marathon entry $95

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REGIONAL PARENTING SERVICE The Regional Parenting Service is committed to providing high quality parenting information and support.

To help protect public health our parenting programs will be run online.

For more information please visit our childcare page.

The Regional Parenting Service aims to: • • • •

promote and enhance parenting and parent education identify service gaps provide parenting information to families, professionals and other interested community workers assist organisations to conduct parenting and parent education activities by providing facilitators and/or financial support

• • • •

identify parenting resources and programs available across the region develop and support networks between organisations involved with families improve links between the community and organisations providing parental support conduct programs and workshops for schools, community groups and the general public throughout the Barwon South Western Region.

The service provides a wide range of parent education and skills training including programs for schools, preschools, child care centres, churches and other mainstream agencies.

Support is also provided for professionals working with parents. The Regional Parenting Service has a quarterly calendar of events available.

For more information, please contact our Regional Parenting Service staff.

Service aims and expectations This service aims to strengthen parenting skills and family relationships by ensuring that parents have access to high quality parenting information, skills training and support.

PARENTING PROGRAMS Group Parent Education Events for the Barwon South Western Region.

To help protect public health our parenting programs will be run online.

For more information please visit our childcare page.

•

Repartnering - Living in a Stepfamily

•

Tuning into Kids

•

Toddler Series

•

Kids Matter - Key Steps to parenting after Separation

The Regional Parenting Service collates parenting activities in the Geelong and Barwon South Western Region.

•

Activities may include things such as:

•

•

Positive Parenting Program

•

•

Parenting Your Teenager

Some activities are free - others operate for varying costs and fees.

•

Parenting as a Team

Parenting after Separation - Mixed gender group

Times for courses and programs vary check the latest calendar for details of each activity.

The calendar is provided each school term.

Numerous agencies contribute programs to this service including: •

Regional Parenting Service

Navigating the Rough Swells - Separation

•

LifeWorks

Little ones need big Dads.

•

Bethany

•

Family Relationship Centre

Expression of interest

Common questions

You can now register your expression of interest for term 3 parenting programs available in our latest calendar.

Parenting cources - Where I can find some? register expression of interest

their

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Class Clowns 2021 Heats around the country start with a 2-hour workshop, where students rehearse and refine their act with the help of a professional comedian, followed by an opportunity to perform for a live audience.

Selected comedians go on to compete in state finals, with the winners invited to participation the National Grand Final for a chance to win a cash prize of $1500, and a workshop package for their school.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival presents Class Clowns 2021.

The search is on for Australia’s funniest teens!

Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s one-of-a-kind national comedy competition for young people is now open.

Class Clowns aims to inspire, engage and elevate teens aged 14-18 (Years 9–12). It’s free to enter, and all students need is a 3-5 minute original act in any style of comedy.

For over two decades, Class Clowns has helped hundreds of funny, young peeps hone their comedy potential.

Past participants like Joel Creasey, Annie Louey, Rhys Nicholson, Aaron Chen and William McKenna have gone on to have a career in showbiz, and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is always on the look-out for the next generation of funny people.

If you’re the teacher, parent or guardian of a funny teen, head to www.classclowns. com.au to learn more

Please note this is a COVID friendly event, social distancing is required and patrons will be required to register their details via the QR code upon entry.

Book online now to purchase tickets or alternatively, call the Potato Shed Box Office to purchase via Credit Card.

When 10 March 2021 Where Potato Shed 41 Peninsula Drive, Drysdale 3222 Contact Lisa Harvey or Rob MacLeod Email: potatoshed@geelongcity.vic.gov.au Phone: 03 5251 1998 Website: www.geelongaustralia.com. au/potatoshed Facebook: www.facebook.com/ potatosheddrysdale

Midnight Oil Makarrata Tour Midnight Oil’s Makarrata tour will rock A Day on the Green at Mt Duneed Estate in March.

Don’t miss your chance to see these Aussie legends when they showcase music from their Aria #1 mini-album.

The band will be joined on stage by an amazing line up of First Nations collaborators in this one of a kind concert.

The venue and staff will take precautions and safety measures against COVID-19.

Get Tickets here!

When:

Facilities:

Contact

20 March 2021

• • • •

Associated organisation: A Day on the Green

Where: Mt Duneed Estate 65 Pettavel Road, Waurn Ponds

Catering and/or dining Parking available Toilets available Wheelchair accessible

Website: www.ticketmaster.com.au/ promo/1ebjfd

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Are you Not-For-Profit in Geelong Area?

Advertise your events for FREE on the following pages.

Are you a NFP with an up-and-coming event? If so, email your event to editor@findgeelong.com.au and we will place it in the paper for FREE.

Geelong

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT

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The Great Outdoors How can we keep a Healthy Mindset no matter what the situation?

I recently heard a Mental Health expert state that the single most helpful practice for maintaining a Healthy Mindset was to be in the outdoors spending time in nature – exercising, playing, relaxing or working.

My wife and I have been loving extended walks around so many picturesque parts of the Bellarine Peninsula. We are so lucky down here – there are numerous attractive and stimulating options.

Some very healthy things happen to our minds and bodies when we exercise in our great outdoors. Here’s some of the benefits: • • • • • • • •

–

For parents one great benefit of doing the above is that it has the potential to counteract the Overuse of Screen Time. Many families are struggling with issues around gaming and the misuse of media. It’s not always easy to maintain the necessary limits in this area, so if healthy alternatives can be fostered, the issues around the mistreatment of these devices may be managed a little easier.

One mum I was chatting with recently was celebrating the Family Project in their backyard that her child was happily involved in. She explained that her child was stimulated and entertained for some hours while they worked together as a family on clearing and cutting up some unwanted plants.

Another great spin off of the above, is that important connections and opportunities to communicate with our children are created.

Some suggestions that may be helpful: • • • • • • • •

mily outing to a spot around the area for a walk or…..

Ǧ

All the best everyone. Stay positive.

Rob Hunter LPS Chaplain

Robert.Hunter@education.vic.gov.au

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Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th March 10am - 4pm The Dower House Gallery 19 peterho Boulevard Point Lonsdale presents Water colour paintings, calendars, cards and prints for sale. by Lavinia Cuming

To celebrate 130 years of Cottage by the Sea 1890 - 2020 Proceeds from the sale of water colour paintings, calendar, cards and prints will be donated to Cottage by the Sea MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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FC LEOPOLD

By John Conway

Finally we are back at it again after a long wait. Our juniors and Miniroos have had their first week back at training and this month is all about finalising teams and coaches and getting back into the swing of things.

In the juniors we have a wonderful mix of new and experienced coaches, with many returning for their third and fourth season. The theme for this years season is flexibility! We have several job share coaches that are happy to step on board with very much a team approach. And in the current climate of family and life balance, and work commitments we strongly believe at FC Leopold in making it work. Coaches are invaluable to the running of a club and an integral part of getting volunteers is by being flexible and allowing joint roles and adapting to the needs of the coaches.

An example of that is in our junior girls team where we have three coaches sharing the role.

Karen Costelloe our club President and coach of the women’s team, Emily Hamilton a Committee member and player on the women’s team, and Tamara Allan a committee member, club registrar and player on the women’s team all decided that while they couldn’t coach a team each, to coach one collectively as a team was more achievable. Our junior girls are lucky enough to have the expertise of all three coaches, and between the three of them, training and game days can absolutely work in amongst the chaos of commitments and life.

We are very grateful to our coaches this season as a post covid season is none like we’ve ever experienced. QR codes, constant communication reminders, facility and equipment cleaning and staying abreast of current guidelines and back to training regulations as well as adhering to our COGG approved covid plan are all things that are new and time consuming. Our coaches give so much already, and this year is really a season that is going above and beyond for all involved in community sport.

Lighting update Very excited that delivery of poles has occurred at FC Leopold for their new lights and the bases and underground works are all complete. They are estimated to be completed by the end of March and will make a massive difference for the senior and junior season. Previously other years we have had to train at other. Ensues over winter, and have not been able to host any night games or training sessions. To have lights at our own grounds will mean we can stay local and hopefully retain more numbers due to no inconvenience of not needing to travel.

Women’s team update Pre season is well underway for the FC Leopold women’s team, with some returning players and new players. After a season off all players are enjoying getting back into training and ebuilding skills ready for 2021 under the guidance of their new coach Karen Costelloe. Karen is taking on many hats this year including that of player-coach, club president and junior girls coach. The womens team has slowly built up numbers but is still welcoming players of all levels and experience. They wish to build a culture of inclusiveness and are all about fun, building confidence and skills in a safe welcoming environment.

Men’s team update FC Leopold pre-season is beginning to gather steam as the Div1 and Div3 squads get some preseason friendlies under their belts. In the lead up to the season launch on the 18th of April "the Greens" have 3ws in 2021 with the latest matchup against Breakwater Eagles from the GRFA pleasing new coach Carlos del Rio. "The boys played the whole game with heart and little rest as a number were away for the Labour Day long weekend but the boys that showed up had a really good showing. Some of the plays that have been worked out at training was evident in the 4-0 win but still there is plenty of room for improvement. We are looking forward to the 2021 GRFA season", a delighted coach said. Next friendly is against BDSA club Sebastopol Vikings on the 21st of March.

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SUPPORT LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, DISCOVER GEELONG

Do you have photos from a local event or even a great story you would like to share?

SEND US YOUR NEWS! Geelong

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Geelong Competition MARCH 2021

WIN a $50 Gift Voucher • Simply send us a picture of yourself in your AFL colours to have a chance at winning a $50 Gift Voucher every month during footy season.

• We will place the best photos in the March edition of the Find Geelong.

• This month you only have to be wearing the colours. Next month, you have to be wearing the colors and either be watching the game or attending an actual match.

• We look forward to seeing your colourful and creative photos.

Conditions Apply: 1. Take a photo of yourself displaying your team colors 2. Email the photo to editor@findgeelong.com.au 3. Like and Follow us on Facebook.

Go Geelong!!

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Geelong

Located in the heart of the city, Westfield Geelong is your one-stop hub for shopping, food, fun and relaxation.

Geelong’s premier shopping destination for fashion and beauty.

Home to some of Australia’s best-known retailers including Myer, Big W, Target and Coles as well more than 160 specialty stores.

A great range of cafes, restaurants and lunch options.

A friendly Concierge team is available to help with: Westfield gift cards, personal styling sessions, hiring mobility equipment, Kiddy cars, mobile phone charging station, and parking information and more.

There are plenty of amenities, a parent’s room on each level and an adult change facility; Changing Places.

Located two blocks back from the water front, between Malop Street and Brougham Street.

Shop

Eat

Sleep tight: Guide to getting a good night’ sleep Smell

Want a better night’s sleep? Here are five ways to settle your senses to ensure a full night of pure, interrupted slumber.

Adjusting the scents around you can help improve your sleep quality.

Aromatherapy scents such as lavender, vanilla, valerian and jasmine are particularly well known for their ability to send you off to dreamland.

Whether you lather shower gel and body wash from Priceline, L’Occitane en Provence, The Body Shop, spray pillow mist from Mecca Maxima or burn oil in a diffuser from Dusk, these relaxing scents are sure to promote a night of relaxing, restful sleep.

Feel Feel good, sleep better. Pyjamas made of quality fabrics that are breathable and comfortable on the body such as cotton, silk or linen will assist in promoting a better sleep. Visit Myer, Cotton On Body, Peter Alexander or Target to find the perfect pair for you. Oh, and don’t forget to try them on like you would any other outfit, as it’s now trendy to wear them outside the house. We also suggest going a size up for ultimate comfort.

When is comes to bedding, layering is key. As temperatures change throughout the night it’s ideal to ensure you can adjust your layers accordingly. We suggest opting for natural fibres; cotton, linen and bamboo sheets. You’ll find these at Bed Bath N’ Table. Pro tip - try a weighted blanket from Myer to help calm a restless body, reduce feelings of anxiousness and improve sleep.

Hear Winding down before bed is not always easy. If you ever find it too quiet to sleep, we suggest playing calming music to trigger your body’s relaxation response.

Once you’ve created the ultimate calming playlist for you, listen to your chilled-out tunes with new speakers or headphones from Myer.

A good pillow is also key to sleeping well - however, finding the right one for you is not an easy task. A good pillow can make or break a good night’s sleep.

Memory foam pillows conform to your preferred sleeping style, providing the right type of support. You can purchase these from Myer, Target and Big W.

See

Taste Ever wondered what you should eat or drink before bed? Herbal infused tea is our number one pick.

Chamomile blends from T2 will help you and relax. Bananas are also rich in magnesium and contain serotonin, so if you’re starving before bed, this is a snack that will relax your muscles and encourage sleep. You’ll also find magnesium supplements at Chemist Warehouse and Priceline.

Magnesium is an important mineral for overall health and will aid with muscle relaxation to assist with sleep.

It’s much easier to get to sleep when visual distractions are limited. Turn off your phone, laptop and TV and curl up in bed with the latest best-selling book from QBD Books or Cook & Young Booksellers. When you’ve finished reading, cover those tired eyes with a silk eye mask from Cotton On Body or Priceline.

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RETIREMENT

LIFESTYLE

ACCOMMODATION

RETIREMENT ADVICE

RETIREMENT We will look after your financial affairs so you can enjoy your retirement.

WHO WE ARE

WHERE WE WORK

Find Retirement is a part of the Find Group of companies offering Retirement Planning, Accounting, Super, and Insurance service to our clients.

We service clients throughout Melbourne, Bendigo and Geelong and surrounding areas. With access to the internet it does not matter where you live.

WHAT WE DO We don’t sell proucts but provide simple retirement planning solutions.

Bendigo | Geelong | Melbourne

info@retirement.com.au

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm

www.findretirement.com.au

1300 88 38 30

Sat: 10am -1pm

Sun: CLOSED

This information is of a general nature only and has been prepared without taking into account your particular financial needs, circumstances and objectives. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, it is not guaranteed. You should obtain professional advice before acting on the information contained in this publication. Superannuation, tax and Centrelink and other relevant information is based on our interpretation and continuation of law current as at the date of this document.

The information contained in this document does not constitute legal or tax advice. You should seek expert advice in this regard. Warren Strybosch, Find Wealth Pty Limited ABN 20 140 585 075 trading as Find Retirement, Corporate Authorised Representative No. 236815 of ClearView Financial Advice Pty Ltd ABN 89 133 593 012, AFSL No. 331367.

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Best Place to Retire

RETIREMENT

By Bernard Kelly

BEST PLACE TO RETIRE I want you to be the first to know that I’ve discovered a combination of sunshine, health care, stimulation, a community of modern elders too young to retire, and a destination that will entice friends and family to visit.

LONGEVITY Society is now coming to terms with the concept of longevity, and given the continuing advances in medical science and technology, that’s those years, late in life, when a person remains free of significant disease or disability.

While genetics is thought to account for about one third of how we age, other factors such as lifestyle, nutrition, socioeconomic status, social connections and environment all play important roles.

But today we do know that over half of us will be living for many years yet.

Statistically, a man who lives to 65 has a probability of living to age 91. For a woman, same age, her probability is age 93.

You’ll also need mental stimulation and good health care facilities.

WISH LIST

Does a village in the south of France appeal?

So our first task, when planning for those 20-30 years after we leave the workforce, is to draw up a wish list. And the #1 question is “where is the best place to retire?”

Of course, you’ll chase the sun – that’s the number one priority on any retiree’s check list.

Then we’ll think about the cost of housing – it has to be moderate – and our dream destination will need to be close to a substantive airport. We’ll want the family, and particularly the grandkids, to be able to visit.

And of course, we don’t want to be pioneers. So we’ll tend to go where other modern elders have already settled.

National parks, waterways, boutique outdoor markets, theatres and a Mediterranean climate are all important to be able to maintain your zest for living.

A VILLAGE IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE?

You know what to expect there. You’ve read the magazines and can recall idyllic images of open air markets, villages built centuries ago, the warm dry summers and the food – and yes, that other justification: “it’s not too far away”.

Yup – that’s where it all comes together.

You’ll have to agree - a village in the south of France is the best place to retire.

What retirement issues do you have?

Email me and I’ll try to assist.

Bernard Kelly Bernard Kelly is the author of “Towards Successful Aging”. bernardkellygeelong@gmail.com

MARCH 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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$99 Returns - PAYG Only We have made it cheaper and easier for you to get your returns completed & you can do it all from the comfort of your own home.

Here are the steps involved: 1. Email to returns@findaccountant.com.au requesting your PAYG return to be completed. Provide us with your full name, D.O.B and address.

2. A Tax engagement letter will be emailed to you for signing via your mobile (no printing or scanning required).

3. You will be then sent a tax checklist to complete online. Takes less than 5 minutes.

4. We will then require you to upload your documents to our secure portal.

5. Once we have received all your documentation, we will complete the return.

6. We will email you the completed return with our invoices. Once you sign the return and pay the invoice we will lodge the return on your behalf.

Important: This offer is only available new clients to Find Accountant Pty Ltd. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

INDEX PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • Find Accountant ----------------- 56 • Find Insurance ------------------- 56 • Financial Planner --------------- 57 • Bookkeeping ---------------------- 59 • Business Coach ------------------ 47 • Business Knowledge System --- 57 • Lawyers ------------------------------- 58 • Mortgage Brokering ---------- 57 • Painting & Decorating ------- 60 • Video Confidence ------------- 58 • Web Developer ------------------ 59 • General Insurance ------------- 58

Leadership and Team Development .....Imagine a team where each individual is so strong in self that their focus is how to move together as one....

SERVICES LEADERSHIP COACHING & DEVELOPMENT

Leadership coaching that connects your team and drives results

TEAM COACHING & DEVELOPMENT

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BUSINESS GAP ANALYSIS

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Resilience Coach Team Resilience Method 0490 388 017 sally@team-resilience.com.au www.theresaliantcemethod.com.au

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OUR SERVICES MONEY COACHING This is where we take It’s not about super or investments or returns or anything ‘financy’. We aren’t going to discuss that.

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Cashflow PT 1-on-1 coaching PERSONAL ADVICE This is where we take the time to get to know you and your financial life in detail.

You decide what you want us to look at and you will receive a deeply thought-out financial plan in writing.

We stay in touch with you over the journey and make changes as needed so that your best interests are always served.

An example of this is reducing insurance when appropriate so you aren’t paying more than you have to.

MARK KRUGER Financial planner

Retirement planning

Super, investments Insurance - Life, TPD, Income, Protection, Trauma Saving for education Purchasing your first home

Centrelink Best uses for cash Singles / couples, young or old

In Business what you don’t know CAN hurt you!

With the BB4G BIPlan® Business Assessment and Planning System you’ll discover the gaps in your business practices, create a dynamic plan for a BETTER business and contribute to a BETTER world.

All for only $1 a day and in around an hour a month.

BRENDA THOMSON Business Knowledge System

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brenda.thomson@bb4g.co

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Biscuit Business Services Helping your business keep track of your bickies!

OUR SERVICES

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0422 800 012

Bookkeeping & Payroll

mc@biscuitbooks.com.au

Services Business Services

7A 9A-11 Leather Street, Breakwater VIC 3219

Biscuit Business Services provides professional, confidential and comprehensive bookkeeping, payroll, BAS and administrative solutions to small to medium businesses. We specialise in working with ‘in the cloud’ bookkeeping and document solutions to effectively keep your business up to date and on track. We believe in a strong team approach when working with our clients and their Tax Agents.

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GEELONG’S PREMIER NEWLAW FIRM WITH A PERSONAL APPROACH. WE PROVIDE HIGH QUALITY, TIMELY & TAILORED LEGAL SOLUTIONS WITH PRICE CERTAINTY AUSTRALIA WIDE. OUR SERVICES

CONTACT US

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COMMERCIAL & CORPORATE

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Available 24 hours

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0429 312 986

WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING

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john@vanbeveren.com.au

Van Beveren Lawyers based in Geelong provide high-quality, timely and tailored legal solutions with price certainty Australia-wide. We focus on quality services, building relationships and forging longterm partnerships. Together, we invest in your ongoing success

JOHN VAN BEVEREN Lawyers & Conveyancers

EVERYONE HAS THEIR THING. OURS IS DOMAIN NAMES. Whatever your thing is, your domain name is an important part. We want to make that part better.

OUR SERVICES

CONTACT US

Full of Video Strategy & Marketing at Video

1/16 Redfearn Court Corio Geelong 3214 430 473 204

zoe@vcc.training

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Ever since Childhood, I’ve been distracted by moving pictures. So it only seemed natural to seek work and education in his field when the time came. After many years working such as director, editor, crew member and camera operator for other video production companies I decided to take the plunge and start my own.

Knowledge, Service and Value...

In Everything We Do. OUR SERVICES

NICOLE NELSON General Insurance

CONTACT US

Personal Coverage

State Route 278 & Westbury Park Way in Bluffton, SC.

Commercial Coverage

info@belmontinsuranceservices.com

Policy Services

843 757 3838

Belmont Insurance Services is a locally owned, independent insurance agency with offices in Bluffton, South Carolina. We rely on a wealth of experience – three generations of industry service – to provide the precise amount and type of insurance coverage for individuals or companies.

Belmont specializes in serving families, businesses and individuals with insurance coverages customized for you and your specific situation. A “hands-on” depth of insurance experience and the commitment to choose the right coverage with the highest level of personal service is what makes Belmont different.

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Mortgage Brokers Melbourne Award-wining mortgage brokers in Melbourne with established relationships with multiple leaders, a slick process and a bucket of relevant experience.

OUR SERVICES

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• Refinancing • Home Loan • Buying your First Home

LEE WISNIEWSKI Mortgage Broker Fidget Loan Specialist

0401 272 505

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PO Box 633, Geelong VIC 3000

• Car Loans

Level 20,31 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Welcome to aWebpage, your one-stop-shop for brocure sites & bespoke web applications.

Our project delivery process maximises you project success.

our services

ADAM SIMS Web Developer

contact us

Plan a Webpage

1300 667 141

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adam@awebpage.com.au

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PO BOX 4336 Geelong, VIC, Australia

No matter your business focus, we can help.

Discover how we can make your next web project a whole-of-business success.

Find out more. Engage us and begin your journey!

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost. Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are: 53 x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size 139 x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

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We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

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DAHLLOF PAINTING SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • Painting Services • Garage Doors • Builder • Electrician • Painter • Plasterer • Property Maintenance

Concept to Creation - Perfect From Start to Finish CONTACT US

OUR SERVICES

We are lacated in Geelong, Victoria!

PAINTING SERVICES

Stephen Dahllof Painting Services

INTERIOR PAINTING

Servicing Geelong and Surrounding Areas

0407 365 372 kerna1967@gmail.com www.stevedahllofofpaintingservices.com.au

We are available for Emergency Repairs 24/7 in Melbourne and Surrounding Areas A Garage Door Specialist you can Trust

Trustworthy 24/7 Garage Door Installation

Regardless of the type of garage door you own, we at Cruzin Garage Doors, have the skills and expertise to either repair or replace your current garage door. For new installations we are also the ones to call.

• Roller garage doors • Security garage doors • Electric garage doors • Wooden garage doors • Garage door locks • Up and over garage doors

We’re a team you can trust when it comes to installation your new garage doors. We work to the highest of safety and is realiably secure.

Not only that, but we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Contact us with you garage door emergencies at any time of the day or night.

Hours of Operation

CONTACT US 0427 894 603

• Mon to Fri: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

sales@cruzingaragedoors.com.au

• Sat to Sun: CLOSED

www.cruzingaragedoors.com.au

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HOME & GARDEN

We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

INDEX PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • • • • • •

Specialist Tree Services Interior Design Mowing Building Inspection Nursey Flooring

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.fingeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are: 53 x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size

139 x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findgeelong.com.au *Available until your category is taken when a Tradie joins the Find Network Team.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

INDEX PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • • • • • •

Hair Dresser Osteopath Chiropractor Beauty Therapy Gym Massage Therapy

ADVERTISE HERE

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

INDEX PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • • • • • •

Hair Dresser Osteopath Chiropractor Beauty Therapy Gym Massage Therapy

ADVERTISE HERE

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SPORTS

We invite a representative from each sporting club to submit team selections, results and any interesting stories relating to your club/sport. For enquiries call 1300 88 38 30 or email editor@findgeelong.com.au

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Find Cards Policy

e Find Cards and/or Find Coupons can be found here.

Valid Periods Find Restaurant, Find Cafe & Find Coffee offers can be used at participating businesses any time except the following days: *Christmas Eve *Christmas Day *Boxing Day * New Year’s Eve *New Year’s Day * Valentine’s Day *Good Friday *Easter Sunday *Mother’s Day. Some restaurant/Cafe/Coffe establishments will have additional terms and conditions on the page where the business is advertising their offer).

Present Find Card You are required to present your Find Card at any participating businesses if you wish to secure the discount or goods/service being offered.

Authentication Code & Customer Signature All Find Cards must display an Authentication Code and a members signature to be deemed VALID. If your Find Cards does not display your signature and the correct code, the business can refuse to provide the discount offer advertised. You will receive your Authentication code after registering your Find Card.

PRESENT VALID FIND CARDS

VALID

Valid Find Cards have four folds and contain six different categories. Valid Find Cards will have its Regions logo sticker placed in the circle at the back and has an Authentication code display in front of the Find Cards.

NOT VALID

Find Cards that DO NOT display its Regions Sticker in the circle at the back and DO NOT display an Authentication code in front of the Find Card are INVALID. They will not be accepted at any participating businesses. Also, your signature must be present. You may be asked to present ID to verify that Find Card belongs to you.

Present the Find Card and ID prior to paying bill. Card is Non-Transferable. Each offer corresponds to a number on the card. Number will be crossed off once offer used. This is not a credit or charge card.

Copyright 2021 Find© Pty Ltd.

March 2021

www.findgeelong.com.au