Find Maroondah - August 2023 Edition

About the Find Maroondah

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Maroondah is a community paper that aims to support all things Maroondah. We want to provide a place where all Not-For-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-andcoming events in the Find Maroondah 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 business 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/findmaroondah) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.

We value your support, The Find Maroondah Team.

Maroondah The

EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 editor@findmaroondah.com.au

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OUR NEWSPAPER

The Find Maroondah was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with a 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 Maroondah has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.

ALL THINGS MAROONDAH

The City of Maroondah is a local government area in Victoria, Australia in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Maroondah had a population of approximately 118,000 as at the 2019 Report which includes 9000 business and close to 46,000 households. The City of Maroondah was created through the amalgation the former Cities of Ringwood and Croydon in December 1994.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Find Maroondah acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Maroondah now stands, the Wurundjeri 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 Maroondah 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 Maroondah will be published on Friday September 08, 2023. Advertising and Editorial copy closes Friday August 29, 2023.

Buy local, support local

By Abby

We encourage consumers to support businesses and products within their local communities. The idea behind this is to promote economic growth, sustainability, and a sense of community by prioritising local businesses over larger corporate chains or online retailers. When people shop locally, they contribute to the local economy, create jobs, and help maintain the unique character of their neighborhoods.

Here are a few reasons why buying local and shopping local is often emphasised:

1. Economic Impact: Local businesses play a vital role in generating economic activity within a community. Money spent at local shops, restaurants, and service providers circulates within the area, creating a multiplier effect that can lead to increased employment and prosperity.

2. Community Building: Supporting local businesses fosters a sense of community pride and identity. It can create a stronger bond among residents, business owners, and other stakeholders, contributing to a more vibrant and connected community.

3. Environmental Benefits: Buying local can often reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and distribution, since goods don't need to travel as far to reach consumers. This can help lower emissions and promote sustainability.

4. Unique Offerings: Local businesses often offer unique and distinctive products or services that may not be available through larger chains. This can contribute to a diverse and culturally rich marketplace.

5. Preservation of Character: Local businesses help maintain the unique character and charm of a neighborhood or town. They often contribute to the distinctive atmosphere that makes a place special.

Financial Adviser Warren Strybosch

6. Personal Connections: Shopping locally allows for more personal interactions between customersand business owners. These connections can lead to better customer service and a stronger sense of trust.

7. Job Creation: Small and local businesses are significant job creators. When consumers spend money locally, they contribute to job growth and help improve the overall employment situation in the community.

8. Cyclical Spending: Money spent locally tends to stay within the community longer, as local business owners and employees are more likely to reinvest their earnings back into local products and services.

To participate, individuals can consider shopping at local farmers' markets, boutiques, restaurants, and other small businesses.

Supporting community events, festivals, and artisans also helps promote local culture and entrepreneurship.

Remember that while buying local is encouraged, it's important to find a balance that meets your needs and preferences.

Some items might only be available through larger retailers, and online shopping can offer convenience for certain products. However, making a conscious effort to support local businesses whenever possible can have a positive impact on your community and the broader economy.

DIGITAL MARKETING

The Power of Pricing: How Higher Pricing Can Boost Your Business

By Ethan Strybosch

By Ethan Strybosch

Setting the right price for your products or services is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the success and growth of your business. While some may believe that lower pricing attracts more customers, the truth is that correctly pricing your services, even at a higher level, can offer numerous advantages that lead to greater profitability and success. In this article, we will explore the benefits of pricing your service correctly, and why higher pricing can be a better strategy for your business.

Setting the right price for your products or services is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the success and growth of your business. While some may believe that lower pricing attracts more customers, the truth is that correctly pricing your services, even at a higher level, can offer numerous advantages that lead to greater profitability and success. In this article, we will explore the benefits of pricing your service correctly, and why higher pricing can be a better strategy for your business.

3. Better Customer Relationships: Contrary to common belief, customers are often willing to pay more for exceptional service and a superior experience. When you charge higher prices, you can afford to allocate more resources to enhance customer support and provide personalized attention, leading to stronger relationships with your clientele. These satisfied customers are more likely to become brand advocates, spreading positive word-ofmouth and driving more business your way.

3.Better Customer Relationships: Contrary to common belief, customers are often willing to pay more for exceptional service and a superior experience. When you charge higher prices, you can afford to allocate more resources to enhance customer support and provide personalized attention, leading to stronger relationships with your clientele. These satisfied customers are more likely to become brand advocates, spreading positive word-ofmouth and driving more business your way.

to invest in research and development. With more resources at your disposal, you can innovate and stay ahead of the competition. This willingness to invest in improvement fosters a culture of innovation within your organization, keeping your services fresh and relevant to changing customer needs.

to invest in research and development. With more resources at your disposal, you can innovate and stay ahead of the competition. This willingness to invest in improvement fosters a culture of innovation within your organization, keeping your services fresh and relevant to changing customer needs.

7. Sustainable Growth:

7. Sustainable Growth:

1.

1.PerceivedValue:

Perceived Value:

One of the main advantages of higher pricing is that it conveys a sense of premium quality and value. Customers often associate higher prices with superior products or services, which can create a perception of exclusivity and desirability. When your offerings are priced higher, potential customers are more likely to view your business as a provider of high-quality solutions, increasing the likelihood of converting them into loyal, long-term clients.

One of the main advantages of higher pricing is that it conveys a sense of premium quality and value. Customers often associate higher prices with superior products or services, which can create a perception of exclusivity and desirability. When your offerings are priced higher, potential customers are more likely to view your business as a provider of high-quality solutions, increasing the likelihood of converting them into loyal, long-term clients.

4. Targeting the Right Audience: Pricing your service correctly allows you to target the right audience effectively. A higher price point can attract clients who value quality over affordability, and who are willing to pay for the unique benefits your service provides. This targeted approach not only simplifies your marketing efforts but also helps build a loyal customer base that aligns with your business's values and offerings.

4.Targeting the Right Audience: Pricing your service correctly allows you to target the right audience effectively. A higher price point can attract clients who value quality over affordability, and who are willing to pay for the unique benefits your service provides. This targeted approach not only simplifies your marketing efforts but also helps build a loyal customer base that aligns with your business's values and offerings.

While lower pricing might attract an initial influx of customers, it can be challenging to maintain the volume needed to sustain profitability in the long term. On the other hand, correctly pricing your services higher ensures a stable revenue stream, supporting sustainable growth and expansion opportunities. This stability allows you to weather market fluctuations and make strategic decisions for longterm success.

While lower pricing might attract an initial influx of customers, it can be challenging to maintain the volume needed to sustain profitability in the long term. On the other hand, correctly pricing your services higher ensures a stable revenue stream, supporting sustainable growth and expansion opportunities. This stability allows you to weather market fluctuations and make strategic decisions for long-term success.

2. Improved Profit Margins:

2.Improved Profit Margins:

Higher pricing naturally leads to improved profit margins, allowing your business to maintain healthy financials and invest in its growth. With better margins, you can reinvest in marketing, research, and development, as well as customer service improvements, which ultimately enhances your competitive advantage and overall business performance.

Higher pricing naturally leads to improved profit margins, allowing your business to maintain healthy financials and invest in its growth. With better margins, you can reinvest in marketing, research, and development, as well as customer service improvements, which ultimately enhances your competitive advantage and overall business performance.

5. Distancing from Competitors: A well-placed higher price can distinguish your business from competitors, establishing a sense of uniqueness in the market. Lower-priced services often engage in price wars and discounts, eroding profitability and diminishing perceived value. By pricing your services higher, you demonstrate your confidence in the value you deliver and encourage customers to choose you based on quality rather than price alone.

5. Distancing from Competitors: A well-placed higher price can distinguish your business from competitors, establishing a sense of uniqueness in the market. Lower-priced services often engage in price wars and discounts, eroding profitability and diminishing perceived value. By pricing your services higher, you demonstrate your confidence in the value you deliver and encourage customers to choose you based on quality rather than price alone.

6. Capacity for Innovation: Higher pricing provides your business with a financial cushion, enabling you

6. Capacity for Innovation: Higher pricing provides your business with a financial cushion, enabling you

In conclusion, pricing your service correctly is a critical aspect of your business strategy. While lower pricing might seem attractive initially, the benefits of higher pricing, such as perceived value, improved profit margins, better customer relationships, and sustainable growth, far outweigh the short-term gains of attracting bargain-hunting customers. By positioning your services at a higher price point, you can establish your business as a provider of premium solutions, attract the right audience, and pave the way for lasting success in a competitive marketplace.

In conclusion, pricing your service correctly is a critical aspect of your business strategy. While lower pricing might seem attractive initially, the benefits of higher pricing, such as perceived value, improved profit margins, better customer relationships, and sustainable growth, far outweigh the short-term gains of attracting bargain-hunting customers. By positioning your services at a higher price point, you can establish your business as a provider of premium solutions, attract the right audience, and pave the way for lasting success in a competitive marketplace.

DIGITAL MARKETING

CCS continues to fight to save mature trees in our municipality.

By Liz Sanzaro

While many of us residents of Maroondah are grieving the loss of hundreds of trees from our local urban forest as a consequence of no less than 3 level crossing big build projects, it’s cathartic to focus on helping rebuild lost habit. While we would like to say that we can replace the mature indigenous trees many mature folks will not be around long enough to see that happen.

Council will be planting 2,500 new trees in reserves, and along roadsides, more later this year. But the chosen species may not be anything like the size for habitat or food source that has been removed. Council is having to restrict size and species based financial issues arising from contractors to do street tree clearance around power lines. And a “new” tree policy is underway by the rail authority which will ensure no tree ever falls across rail line infrastructure. Image Carte Blanc for tree removal along what used to be green corridors.

So what can we do? Maroondah residents who have lived here a number of years will have discovered that we no longer regularly see the small birds we once used to see such as these little cuties.

Rats will eat your pumpkins, and other vegies at night, best to trap them, as rat poison also kills owls that eat the affected rat.

If we want to see the small birds return, we need to provide for them. So how is the best way to do this? Plant more vegetation that is dense and prickly which is a deterrent to cats and foxes and also plant species that can feed smaller birds as they find shelter in prickly shrubs, listed below.

The spotted Pardalote which is a cute little bird, builds a mud nest and has been known to go in to the bolt holes of old railway sleepers where they have been used as retaining walls, it is unlikely that you will see them as they sit nearby and wait until the coast is clear then dive in

Spiky plants: densely planted spiky natives that can act as a bit of a buffer to prevent bigger birds and predators from coming in easily. They will also provide food, shelter and nesting sites for small birds. Great species to use include Hakeas, Bursarias, Bankasias, Lambertias, Woollsias, Styphelias, Epacrises, Daviesias, and the Acacia ulicifolia.

Native grasses: allowed to grow tall, native grasses will provide lots of seed for small birds like finches to eat, and good places to hide. Native grasses include Kangaroo Grass, Wallaby Grass and Poa Grass, among many others.

Nesting materials: Including leaf litter, sticks, bark and grasses. Nest material is often bound together with spider web, so leave any webs or spiders you find around the garden alone. Having leaf litter, mulch and bark around the garden will also encourage skinks and insects for small birds to eat. Nests are often lined with soft downy fibres from plants, or strips of moss or lichen, so if you can include these in your garden, all the better. This section courtesy of Backyardbuddies. org.au

These reused sleepers are better for an “alive” garden than concrete, or treated timber. Insects and small lizards as well as spiders inhabit the gaps, all of which are food for small birds. Mono culture gardens offer little to the biodiversity. whereas often a fully planted slightly neglected garden is actually often great habitat for skinks, and host of insects for birds to eat and a safe place to nest, away from roaming cats.

Start small, with about 4 plants replacing lawn, with rocks, fallen logs and local plant species from one of our two local nurseries CRISP in Greenwood Avenue or Candlebark on Hull Rd. Volunteer Staff will assist you in choosing what works best. Once you see what works, you can continue with a variety of other dense bushes and hopefully attract the tiny birds back home. Spring is just around the corner now.

Liz Sanzaro

President of Croydon Conservation Society

liz@sanzaro.com | www.croydonconservation.org.au

The powerful owl and the barn owl are seen by diligent bird spotters out after dark. Owl species are doing quite well, courtesy of the possum population and common rodents which may have taken up residence in undisturbed parts of the garden.

Blue fairy Wren Eastern Spinebill

Silver eyes Brown Thornbill

Spotted Pardalote Habitat

Landscaping without habitat

Transition to retirement pensions

FINANCIAL PLANNER

By Erryn Langley

Superannuation can be used to start an account based pension once a person retires (or meets another condition of release). This allows income to be received as a series of regular payments (usually monthly, quarterly, half yearly, or yearly).

If over preservation age but still working, the person may not have full access to superannuation but may be able to start an account-based pension under the Transition to Retirement (TTR) rules. A TTR pension may also be referred to as a Transition to Retirement Income Stream, or TRIS.

Once a person reaches 65 or informs their super fund that they have met a condition of release before turning 65, their TTR pension becomes a ‘TTR pension in retirement’. This means their pension is subject to the same conditions that apply to an account-based pension.

Income Payments

The person can select how much income to receive each financial year. This allows flexibility to meet individual needs. The only rules for how much pension must be taken are:

• An income payment must be made at least once each financial year.

• A minimum level of income must be paid each year based on a percentage of the account balance at commencement and each 1 July. If the income stream commences part-way through a financial year, or is commuted before the end of a financial year, the minimum income payment is pro-rated for that year.

pension can be commuted (stopped) at any time with the money rolled back to accumulation. Withdrawals cannot be made in cash unless a condition of release has been met.

Taxation of Income from a TTR Pension

Every withdrawal (income or lump sum or death benefit) from a pension is split into taxable and tax-free components in the same ratio that applied when the pension commenced. The tax on each component depends on the person’s age as shown in the table below.

For a TTR pension, the maximum income is 10% of the account balance and no lump sum withdrawals can be made.

The pension will cease when the account balance reduces to nil, or the person requests the money be rolled back to accumulation phase or another pension account. The

* Plus, Medicare Levy

Earnings added to a pension account are taxed at the same rate as applies to the accumulation phase of superannuation.

Erryn Langley

1300 557 144 | erryn@findwealth.com.au

www.findwealth.com.au

Financial Planning is offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a Find Wealth.Find Wealth is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No 468091) of AllianceWealth Pty Ltd ABN 93 161 647 007 (AFSL No.449221).Part of the Centrepoint Alliance group https://www.centrepointalliance.com.au/

Erryn Langley is Authorised representative (No.1269525) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd.

This information has been provided as general advice. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives. You should consider the appropriateness of the advice. You should obtain and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and seek the assistance of an authorised financial adviser before making any decision regarding any products or strategies mentioned in this communication.

Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, it is based on our understanding of current regulatory requirements and laws at the publication date. As these laws are subject to change you should talk to an authorised adviser for the most up-to-date information. No warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly neither Alliance Wealth nor its related entities, employees or representatives accepts responsibility for any loss suffered by any person arising from reliance on this information.

Why Should You Use a Mortgage Broker?

MORTGAGE BROKERING

By Reece Droscher

Now is the time to take a good, hard look at your current financial situation and stop paying more than you should be on your Home Loan. So you want to refinance your home loan to get a better interest rate, but where do you go? The bank down the road looks like they have a good rate but you’re self-employed and had heard it was difficult to get a home loan. You may be right, but how do you know that you’re getting the best option available to suit your needs? Or you have a few debts that are getting out of control with rising interest costs. How do you try and improve your finance situation? That’s how a Mortgage Broker can help you.

Finding A Lender To Suit You

A Mortgage Broker can help you filter out the Lenders that don’t suit your personal situation. Asking your friends or on a Facebook group will only provide you with the lender that is right for that person, and it probably only suited them at the time they applied. If they were to apply again six months later, they may find they are better off with a different lender altogether.

Each Lender’s credit policy is different and while one lender may be happy to lend to the self-employed, others can make it more difficult or may prefer PAYG applicants. Some will happily lend for properties in regional areas, other lenders may only lend against securities in metropolitan areas.

Time or Features – what’s more important?

Time can also be a factor when deciding which lender to go to. If you are looking to purchase a house, you may need a lender that is approving loans quickly. If you are refinancing, that may not be an issue and having the right rate and product features is more important. Mortgage Brokers are in touch with lenders every day and know which ones are able to respond quickly and which ones are taking a bit longer.

Fast Refi

If you are refinancing and time is of the essence, after all you want to be paying the lower rate as quickly as possible,

there is a product called Fast Refi that some lenders offer as part of their process. Often it is your current lender that can hold up the process and delay settlement, meaning they get to receive your repayments a little longer. Lenders who offer the Fast Refi process bypass asking your current lender to transfer the title of your property before releasing the money to pay out your current loan. They simply repay your current loan and then request the current Bank to discharge their mortgage and transfer the property title to them. Not all lenders offer this but your Mortgage Broker will know which ones to deal with if that is an option you wanted to pursue.

Medical Practitioners/Professional Packages

Did you know that if you are in a certain occupation, some lenders will offer you extra benefits? For example some lenders offer to waive the costs of Lender’s Mortgage Insurance on loans where the applicant needs to borrow more than 80% of their property value. Some of these occupations include Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics and Dentists as well as Financial Planners, Accountants, Lawyers and Vets. If you think you

might be eligible for this type of loan, a Mortgage Broker will know which lenders to approach on your behalf.

BID – Best Interests Duty

Mortgage Brokers are required to always put your needs first and to consider each loan based on your personal requirements. This means you can be confident that, even in the long term, the loan you get will be in your best interests and will have taken into consideration your current plans as well as future ones. If you simply walk into a bank, even if they know their product isn’t the best one for you, they can only offer you their product, which could cost you dearly.

As a mortgage broker we act in your best interests. A lender has no obligation to do so. At SHL Finance we have always acted in our clients’ best interest and would love the opportunity to help you too.

Please call Reece Droscher on 0478 021 757 should you want to discuss your finance requirements.

Awake - wrestling with the restlessness

NATUROPATH

By Kathryn Messenger

Insomnia includes trouble initiating sleep, maintaining sleep or early waking. It could be debilitating, or maybe it just affects your ability to function.

According to the Sleep Health Foundation, whilst only 15% of Australian adults show symptoms of clinical insomnia, over half of us suffer from sleep symptoms which affects quality of life.

Primary insomnia is caused by a range of issues such as HPA (hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal) axis hyperarousal usually as a result of chronic stress; circadian rhythm abnormalities; GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) dysregulation; and other excitatory pathways. Secondary insomnia is as a result of medical conditions, medications, and dugs (including alcohol, coffee and nicotine).

If you’re too switched on when you hit the pillow, try the following before going to bed:

• Don’t drink caffeinated drinks after midday

• Talk to someone about your worries

• Spend 30-60 minute before bed relaxing away from a screen

• Spend time in the morning in the sunlight and limit blue light in the evening

One thing that I see commonly in clinical practice is waking regularly around 3-4am, for some people it’s just for a quick trip to the bathroom, but for others, it can disrupt the sleep cycle enough to keep them awake for quite a while after.

3-4am is the time of night when your liver is involved in digestion, and I rarely see a case of this that isn’t resolved by taking herbs to strengthen and restore the liver. Since the liver is one of the main organs involved in detoxification, if it’s not functioning efficiently, it can struggle to process the drugs, hormones, and other toxins.

To help with liver function, foods such as green leafy vegetables and berries are high in antioxidants and which can help with detoxification.

If you wake at any time during the night:

• Limit alcohol to just one drink

• Exercise during the day

• If you wake with a ‘busy mind’, spend some time journalling about your stressors the next day

• If it’s 3-4 am, come and see me for some liver herbs

Along with herbs for the liver, nervous system tonics, adrenal tonics, and sedative herbs may be really helpful and these as discussed in a naturopathic appointment.

If you are experiencing high stress, magnesium glycinate can really calm the nervous system. I have also seen great results with homeopathy which is prescribed depending on individual symptoms: with sleeplessness from joint pain, to restless leg syndrome, and a busy mind.

Here at Whole Naturopathy we have a range of effective treatments for both sleep, we spend time to understand how all of your health issues affect each other and treat the cause as well as the symptoms.

Kathryn Messenger

BHSc (Naturopathy)

kathryn@wholenaturopathy.com.au

Suite 1 53/1880 Ferntree Gully Rd

Mountain Gate Shopping Centre

Ferntree Gully, Victoria

This advice is general in nature and not intended to be prescriptive. For individualised prescriptive advice, please see a naturopath or other health care practitioner.

New Membership Challenge

By Peter Horton

Like many sporting clubs within the City of Maroondah, The Ringwood Bowls Club has been looking to increase its membership throughout the year.

The combination of new membership campaigns, internal and external advertising, participation in the Maroondah Festival, Bunnings Ringwood events and the support of FIND Maroondah our numbers are on the rise.

Our campaigns have been built around the concept of meeting new people, making new friends and enjoying the companionship of other members of the Ringwood Bowls Club.

The theme did not concentrate on becoming a bowler – rather it was

all about joining a sporting club socialising, meeting new people and participating in the regular social events conducted by the RBC.

All people joining the Club were invited to try their hand at bowling with the RBC providing the bowls and a fully qualified coach to assist in getting their bowling career underway.

The RBC offers its social members a venue where you can meet, have a cuppa and make new friends.

Many of our social activities offer the opportunity to bring family and friends along, have a meal at the club, purchase drinks at reduced prices and above all have some fun.

The Ringwood Bowls Club has ongoing plans to run further membership

campaigns and one of the aims will be to attract potential bowlers from a younger demographic.

In the mean-time If you go to our website – www.ringwoodbowls.com. au you will be able to see how to go about becoming a social member of the RBC, special offers available to club members via our many and varied sponsors and upcoming social activities. Don’t sit alone at home, don’t sit around wishing to meet new people, don’t sit around expecting to make new friends, don’t sit around just watching television

If any of the above sounds like YOU then it’s time to contact the Ringwood Bowls Club.

We would love to welcome you onboard.

Manufacturer fined $280,000 after fatal machine crush

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY

By Mark Felton

As a business owner and employer, it is your responsibility to ensure the health safety of your employees within your workplace. This includes providing your team with a safe work environment and protection from hazards. You can achieve this by understanding your obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws and by complying with them.

WorkCover Victoria recently reported that Rapid Perforating Pty Ltd has been sentenced in the Melbourne County Court after pleading guilty to a single charge of failing, as far as was reasonably practicable, to provide or maintain plant that was safe and without risks to health. The court heard the worker, who had been working at the factory for a month, was operating a turret punch – a large machine used to perforate sheets of metal.

Co-workers found the worker pinned between the machine's travelling carriage, which moved metal sheets around the turret, and one of two tables placed at the front of the machine and bolted to the ground to support the sheet metal as it slid out.

The man died at the scene with severe crush injuries to his torso and arms.

A WorkSafe investigation found a lack of guarding around the danger area presented an immediate health and safety risk, and the fixed table created a trapping space with the moving carriage.

The court found it was reasonably practicable for Rapid Perforating to have installed a presence-sensing system,

such as a light curtain, to the front of the turret punch and physical barriers with designated access points at the rear, or a presence-sensing system that encompassed the entire perimeter of the machine.

WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said workers would continue to die or suffer horrific injuries while employers fail in their duty to ensure machinery is appropriately guarded.

"This worker was only 46 when his life was cut short due to a lack of guarding," Dr Beer said.

"Last year 311 manufacturing workers were injured seriously enough in incidents involving machinery to make a workers compensation claim. So far this year there have been 142 such claims."

"WorkSafe will not hesitate to prosecute duty holders who fall short of their obligation to keep their workplaces safe." To manage risks when working with machinery WorkSafe Victoria recommends employers should:

• Identify hazards, assess the risks associated with them and eliminate or control those risks by isolating them or using an alternative.

• Train staff in the safe operation of machines and equipment and provide written procedures in the worker's first language.

• Develop and implement safe operating procedures in consultation with employees and health and safety representatives.

• Ensure safety guards and gates are compliant and fixed to machines at all times.

• Regularly service and inspect machines and equipment.

• Place signs on or near a machine to alert employees of the dangers of operating it.

As a business owner, are you confident that you do not have shortfalls in your efforts to keep your workers healthy and safe? Do you have an understanding of your responsibility to ensure the safety of your employees? Are you confident that you can provide a safe work environment and comply with OHS laws? Do you believe that you are effective in carrying out risk assessments, employee consultation and providing training? Do you regularly review these measures to ensure that they remain fit for purpose and keep you and your employees healthy and safe?

At Beaumont Advisory we assist business owners clarify what they currently have in place, as well as where there are shortfalls. We then assist in developing effective systems and documentation, working with businesses to ensure effective implementation. Checks are put in place to monitor ongoing effectiveness, to ensure that going forward, they are sound and comply with the Act, and most importantly keep you and your employees informed, and healthy and safe. Please feel free to contact me, Mark Felton, at Beaumont Advisory on 0411 951 372 or mfelton@beaumontlawyers.com. au for an obligation and cost-free initial discussion.

Mark Felton

Claiming a tax deduction for clients 67 to 75 and what happens after 75?

ACCOUNTANT

By Warren Strybosch

The ATO has released the 2023 individual tax return format and instructions, including the instructions for the tax return supplement which is the area of the return that deals with tax deductible super contributions.

As the 2023 financial year is the first year where eligibility to claim a tax deduction for personal contributions made by those between the ages of 67 and 75 relies on meeting the work test or work test exemption, we were uncertain how this declaration was going to be administered by the ATO.

There is no stand-alone declaration in the income tax return that must be made by clients 67-75 stating that the work test (or exemption) has been met.

The same self-assessment principals that apply to the other areas of the Australian tax system also apply to the work test requirement. The responsibility to ensure the tax return and other tax forms comply with tax laws is placed on the individual and the ATO may review a return and increase or decrease the amount of tax payable via their auditing processes.

The instructions to the tax return supplement provide some information

‘in the fine print’ on the restrictions placed on those 67 to 75 claiming a tax deduction however for most, it will be important to seek assistance from an accountant to ensure the tax return is completed accurately.

What is crucial is that those wishing to claim a deduction for personal contributions placed into super, are to make sure they have submitted an Intent to Claim form to the relevant super fund and a letter of acknowledged has been received from the same super fund accepting the personal contribution as a concessional contribution. It is important that the Intent to Claim is made prior to the return being lodged or before the end of the next financial year in which the contributions were made otherwise the super fund will not accept the Intent to Claim request and potential tax deductions will be denied.

For those over the age of 75 who might still be working, there is a restriction on what contributions can be placed into superannuation as follows:

1. Concessional Contributions

(Before-Tax Contributions): If you are 75 years or older, the super fund cannot accept any voluntary (concessional and nonconcessional) contributions from you apart from mandated (super guarantee) employer contributions which can be contributed at any time regardless of age.

2. Non-Concessional Contributions (After-Tax Contributions): Individuals aged 75 and older were allowed to make non-concessional (after-tax) contributions to their super up until the 28th day of the month following the month in which they turned 75. After that point, non-concessional contributions are not allowed.

If you are unsure as to whether you can claim a deduction for personal contributions and how much you can place into your super in any given year, simply ask your accountant to provide you with a concessional contribution report. This can be obtained from the ATO portal within minutes and it can provide useful information to you before the end of the financial year and help you determine if you should contribute additional funds to your superannuation.

A U3A Ringwood Member Profile

By Lynn Blackbell

In the Music Appreciation Class at U3A Ringwood there is a member, Thomas who has had a stroke. . He attends class with his Carer Neville. Thomas walks in with the aid of a walking stick which he places against the wall. The same seat is always available to him.

Although Thomas can hardly speak but understands everything, he still manages to get the odd word out but it is often a struggle, however, whenever he enjoys a piece of music or anything else offered

By Heatherdale Community Action Group

This week, our Tree Crew found a family of sugar gliders using an old tree stump as their home. The stump was about to fall, so the crew relocated them with care, wrapping them in a cozy blanket. They moved the old log to a safe area and put the gliders back in their home.

Wishing this little sugar glider family a safe winter in their new home.

Let's cherish and protect wildlife!

Learn more about wildlife in Whitehorse https://bit.ly/WhitehorseWildlife

by the class, he gives them the thumbs up sign. Upon arrival he always smiles broadly and waves hello to everyone in the class which they all acknowledge.

All the other members of the class include him in their conversation and lots of times he responses with “happy signage”. During the course of listening to a CD, Thomas will indicate that he wishes to have a look at the CD cover to find out details of the piece being played, the singer, orchestra or instruments involved.

The music program each term endeavours to include a presentation on classical music by a class member and last year, via an email from Thomas’

wife, he indicated that he would like to prepare a presentation on one of his favourite pieces, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony if someone could read it out. This was duly achieved and read out by the class leader and everyone found it so interesting and really loved it and Thomas was very proud of his achievement.

Following the end of music class each week, Carer Neville takes Thomas for a walk and then out to lunch. Thomas’ wife tells us he was culturally rich and in the “blink of an eye” became disabled, but this has not stopped him enjoying life, albeit in a different way, and she says that the music class is the highlight of his week.

Heartwarming Tree Tale: Saving Sugar Gliders!

By Dr. Joanna Strybosch

For the majority of breastfeeding mothers, there comes a time when she has to return to work, and many of these women are still breastfeeding when that time comes. This should not herald the end of her breastfeeding journey. If a women wishes to continue providing exclusive breastmilk for her baby, as is recommended by the World Health Organisation, this is possible with the right supportive structures in place.

Combining work and continued breastfeeding requires commitment, organisation and planning as well as support attitudes from all sides. In Australia, breastfeeding in the workplace is protected under the Fair Work Act 2009. The Act includes provisions that require employers to provide reasonable accommodations to breastfeeding mothers to facilitate their ability to continue breastfeeding when they return to work.

Breastfeeding is a protected ground of discrimination. Making an employee feel uncomfortable about breastfeeding, or not providing adequate facilities or breaks, may constitute discrimination. It may also be a breach of work health and safety laws.

Whilst what is “reasonable” is open to interpretation, many employers have taken steps to accommodate the needs of breastfeeding employees, making it more feasible for them to continue breastfeeding when they return to work. A best practice employer can support employees who are breastfeeding by making sure they have suitable facilities available - such as a private room for breastfeeding, somewhere where they can store a breast pump, and a fridge where they can store any breast milk. Employees should also be given appropriate breaks so that they can breastfeed or express.

Best practice may look like the following:

• Breastfeeding Breaks: Many employers have become more understanding and accommodating when it comes to providing breastfeeding breaks. These breaks allow mothers to express breast milk or breastfeed their infants during working hours. The Fair Work Act 2009 mandates that employers offer reasonable unpaid breaks for this purpose.

Let’s Make Breastfeeding and Work, Work!

• Private Spaces: Employers are increasingly providing private, clean and safe spaces for breastfeeding mothers to express milk or breastfeed, shielded from view and free from intrusion. These spaces are essential to ensuring a comfortable and suitable environment for mothers to carry out these activities.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Employers are becoming more open to offering flexible work arrangements to accommodate breastfeeding mothers. This may include options for part-time work, adjusted schedules, or the ability to work remotely.

• Supportive Policies: Some companies have implemented supportive policies specifically addressing the needs of breastfeeding employees. These policies may include guidelines on breastfeeding breaks, space availability, and support for pumping or expressing milk.

• Positive Attitudes: There is a growing awareness and acceptance of breastfeeding in the workplace. Colleagues and supervisors are generally more understanding and supportive of the needs of breastfeeding mothers.

• Breastfeeding-friendly Employers: Certain companies have been recognized as "breastfeedingfriendly" employers, going above and beyond legal requirements to support their breastfeeding employees.

Despite the positive developments, challenges still exist for some breastfeeding mothers in the Australian workplace. Some potential challenges may include:

• Lack of Awareness: Not all employers may be aware of their obligations

under the Fair Work Act or the benefits of supporting breastfeeding mothers.

• Lack of Facilities: Some workplaces may not have suitable facilities for breastfeeding mothers, making it difficult for them to express milk or breastfeed comfortably.

• Workload Pressures: In certain industries or high-pressure job roles, finding time for breastfeeding breaks can be challenging.

• Stigma: While societal attitudes towards breastfeeding have improved, some women may still encounter stigma or discomfort when breastfeeding in public or in the workplace.

• Work-life Balance: Balancing work responsibilities and breastfeeding can be demanding and stressful for some mothers.

To continue improving the experience of breastfeeding mothers in the workplace, it's essential for employers to stay informed about their legal obligations and to create supportive environments that prioritize the well-being of their employees, including those who are breastfeeding. Public awareness campaigns and ongoing education can also contribute to reducing stigma and promoting a breastfeeding-friendly culture in Australia.

GENERAL INSURANCE

By Craig Anderson

Working from home was unexpectedly thrust upon many employees and employers due to COVID – 19 and due to the unplanned nature of the circumstances, both parties have had to rapidly adjust their thinking. Employers are still responsible, from a duty of care perspective, for staff safety while working from their own home, which is to put it mildly, “challenging”.

If you try to imagine a standard office space, you probably don’t consider the lighting level, the testing and tagging of equipment, the ergonomic furniture, the ambient temperature, the hands free phone head set, and a host of other things like the boiling water tap with safety features. You probably won’t imagine the planning it took to eliminate trip hazards, eye and ear strain, back strain, mental stress and fatigue and other stressors. Now look at a home work environment. Possibly no ergonomic furniture, trip hazards galore, cords

Employers Responsibility – Staff Working From Home

everywhere, low lighting, no testing and tagging, noisy pre-schoolers interrupting, dogs barking and a whole host of other potential issues. Having said that, how employees spend their free time is up to them, however the environment in which they spend work hours is really important for their wellbeing, and the employer is still responsible for any injuries they suffer, even when they work from home.

The connection to insurance is straightforward. Following a serious injury “at work” like an electrocution, slip and fall, serious burn, or laceration for example, an employer may be prosecuted by WorkSafe after an investigation if they have contributed due to lack of care or failure of due dilligence. However; if the employer has audited the home work environment and made every attempt to eliminate wherever possible all of the hazards, and if the employer has Management Liability Insurance including Statutory Liability, the insurer may legally defend the claim or pay fines where appropriate and avert a possible conviction where unwaranted.

If this is a situation currently causing you concern, and you’d like to explore. Management Liability Insurance to protect you and your assets, please contact us for a preliminary no obligation discussion. Please also consider engaging an OH&S Consultant to ensure all due diligence is exercised, as this may help insurers to view your business as a “good risk”.

For a health check of your business insurance, contact Small Business Insurance Brokers via email sales@ smallbusinessinsurancebrokers.com.au

Any advice in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, before acting on the above advice, you should consider its appropriateness (having regard to your objectives,needs and financial situation).

Craig Anderson

GENERAL INSURANCE

Small Business Insurance Brokers www. heightsafetyinsurancebrokers.com.au

0418 300 096

Urgent Call to Save Our Lake!

By Anthony Bigelow

The Victorian State Government is planning to bulldoze Lake Knox and replace it with residential housing, endangering the rich bird and aquatic life, trees, and habitats of numerous animals, including the threatened, Bluebilled Duck.

This devastating action will also contribute to increased traffic congestion, pollution, and noise in the area.

To fight against this injustice, we require $120,000 by September to cover legal expenses and take this matter to court.

Your donation today is crucial and urgent in our mission to preserve this incredible community asset and the precious home of endangered species.

The ATO knows what car you purchased

By Warren Strybosch

I went to a party recently and met a café owner. It was the first time I met this gentleman and during the party he let it be known to those around me that he had recently purchase a new BMW. Further on into the night I also overhead him let it slip to a few people that he liked to hire young people in his café and that there was a ‘bit’ of a cash trade going on, “if you know what I mean.”

When he finally spoke to me, he asked me what I did for work, and I explained I was an accountant and did a few other things. I then asked him if he owned the BMW at the front. As expected, his stood up a little bit taller and poked out his chest with pride, confirming it was his vehicle. I asked him if he had bought

the vehicle with cash, and he readily confirmed he had. I then asked him if he had registered and/or insured his vehicle. He stated matter of fact that he had.

I then went on to explain how the ATO was carrying out data matching exercises; looking at vehicle registration and car insurance and matching it with small business owners’ earnings…well, to say the colour went out of his cheeks was an understatement. I left him there to consider my words.

People need to be aware that the ATO is continuously gathering data to and will be matching it with ATO internal data holdings to "identify relevant cases for administrative action". This time the ATO is gathering information

Please contribute now and join us in saving Lake Knox and safeguarding its biodiversity for future generations

https://chuffed.org/project/helpsavelakeknox

about your motor vehicle registrations across all States and Territories for the next three financial years: 2022-23 to 2024-25.

Information will be acquired from motor vehicle registry authorities where their records indicate that both:

• a vehicle has been transferred or newly registered during the 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 financial years; and

• the purchase price or market value is equal to or greater than $10,000.

The ATO has been vigorously data matching information to try and determine if there are any ‘anomalies’ with tax returns and are likely to take action where they deem it necessary.

President, First Friends of Dandenong Creek

Uni body warns $7b at risk without more graduates

By Andrew Brown

(Australian Associated Press)

Universities have warned the national economy could be billions of dollars worse off if the rate of tertiary degrees remains stagnant.

New modelling shows a cost to the economy of $7 billion by 2026 if university attainment levels don’t rise.

Universities Australia chair David Lloyd told the National Press Club on Wednesday more tertiary degrees were essential to address skills shortages.

“The National Skills Commission’s employment projections show that in the next few years, more than half of all new jobs will be highly skilled – meaning they will require a university qualification,” he said.

“The looming iceberg of skills shortage requires a much shorter turning circle than the provision of traditional threeyear degree programs if it is to be avoided.”

Professor Lloyd said a rethink was needed to meet future demand.

“The ways in which we educate for attainment – our very definition of attainment – must now be reconsidered,” he said.

“Addressing this challenge for our national benefit will require us to rethink how we upskill, reskill, and deliver units of education to learners in a manner commensurate with life-long learning.”

The calls to boost university investment come as the first round of reforms were introduced to parliament following the Universities Accord interim report. The final report, due to be handed down by the end of the year, will look to overhaul the university sector in a bid to help more students to graduate.

The first reforms include abolishing the 50 per cent pass rule, which was previously introduced as part of the Job-Ready Graduate scheme.

Under the rule, students who failed more than half their subjects would no longer be eligible for Commonwealth funding.

Prof Lloyd said the scheme was hurting students.

“Universities cannot continue to do more and more for the nation with less and less,” he said.

“But that’s exactly what we were compelled to do under the Job-Ready Graduates package – itself positioned as ‘a reform’.”

The Universities Australia chair said the accord had the potential to shape the future of higher education.

Prof Lloyd said unity was needed from federal politics in order to fund future university graduates.

“The job of government is to act in the national interest and the provision of human capital for this nation, and the educational attainment of this nation is in the national interest,” he said.

“It behoves both sides of government to act in a bipartisan way to commit to the delivery of the highest outcomes for the nation’s people.” As parliament debates laws stemming from the accord recommendations, the coalition has hit out at the removal of the 50 per cent pass rule.

The opposition has argued students would be put at risk of not completing their course and would suffer financial hardship as a result.

It has also urged the government to explain how it would hold universities to account for Indigenous completion levels, should Commonwealth-supported places be uncapped.

Prof Lloyd said participation for Indigenous students at university was not the only outcome.

“Having people come in the doors is one thing, we need people to have successful graduates and learners and leave skills that will translate into their benefit,” he said.

Prof Lloyd also used his address to call for a greater investment in research.

Australia’s spend on development and research sits at 1.8 per cent of GDP, while the figure for the OECD is 2.7 per cent.

“This is not good enough for a nation of Australia’s standing. I don’t think any Australian believes we should lag behind like this – it seems to me to be, well, unAustralian,” Prof Lloyd said.

2023 TAX UPDATES

Labour Costs for Capital Assets – Deductibility Guide

A recent tax ruling released by the ATO provides guidance on appropriate taxation treatment of labour costs related to construction and creation of capital assets. While the ATO acknowledges that labour costs are generally revenue in nature and deductible under s 8-1 of ITAA 1997, TR 2023/2 addresses situations in which labour costs incurred will be considered on capital account and hence non-deductible.

Relevant labour costs include salary and wages, payments to contractors and labour-hire firms.

Labour costs incurred by property developers who build capital assets on revenue account are excluded from this ruling.

This ruling applies to income years commencing both before and after 7 June 2023 (date of issue).

Announcement(7-Jun-2023)

Consultation period

Released(7-Jun-2023)

Sharing Economy - Expansion of Reporting Regime Now in Effect

Starting from 1 July 2023, operators of sharing economy platforms will be required to report transactional information to the ATO.

The Taxable Payments Reporting System already applies to some businesses in industries where noncompliance is deemed to be high risk. By adding operators of sharing economy platforms to the regime, taxpayers who hold or use assets for short-term lease or contract work will also have their information collected.

The identification of users of sharing economy platforms means that, as an adviser, you should be informing taxpayers who earn income off these platforms about their tax obligations. This includes operators of shortterm accommodation, ride-sharing transport and food delivery platforms. Also, other task or time-based service platforms will be required to report for income years beginning on 1 July 2024.

Image Rights to be Taxed in Individual Returns Only

An ATO tax determination has clarified that earnings from an individual’s “image rights” or “fame” can only be included in that individual’s assessable income. For professional sportspersons who are employed by a professional league, this determination from the ATO changes previously held guidance that allowed a safe harbour approach to alienate income to a related entity.

The tax determination was previously issued as TD 2022/D3 and applies to arrangements in place both before and after the date of issue, being 28 June 2023. However, the ATO will not utilise compliance resources where a taxpayer with fame has restructured their affairs in line with the determination prior to 1 July 2023.

The tax determination differentiates agreements for the use of “image rights” and “fame” from an individual with fame providing services to a third party.

Update on NALI Amendments for SMSF General Expenses

The non-arm’s length income (NALI) measure announced by the Coalition government in 2022 will be amended to provide greater certainty to taxpayers. The intention of the proposal is to include a factorbased approach for trustees to be able to adequately calculate the amount of SMSF income that is NALI income. This factor-based approach applies to a situation where general expenses of the fund are not at arm’s length amounts.

The factor-based approach would apply to general fund expenses incurred after 1 July 2023.

Announcement(25-Aug-2021)

Consultation

Introduced(3-Aug-2022)

Passed(28-Nov-2022)

Royal Assent(12-Dec-2022)

Date of effect(1-Jul-2023)3)

Announcement(5-Oct-2022)

Consultation period(4-Nov-2022)

Released(28-Jun-2023)

nnouncement(24-Jan-2023)

Consultation(9-May-2023)

Introduced

Passed

Royal Assent

Date of effec

2023 TAX UPDATES

Modernising Individual Tax Residency Framework

The ATO has finalised a tax ruling which provides additional relevant guidance on the statutory residency tests for individuals and how the Commissioner may apply them under s 6(1) of ITAA 1936.

Taxation Ruling TR 2023/1 focuses on modernised ways of working, relevance of business or employment ties overseas and whether work duties can be performed from anywhere in the world.

Resident tax rates may be applied for individuals even where there are a tax resident in Australia for only a single day and pro-rata the tax-free threshold over the period of their residency in an income year.

The ruling concludes that residency depends on individual facts and circumstances and no bright-line rules or any single factor can be considered to be paramount.

Small Business Energy Incentive

Revenue NSW has determined that the current surcharge purchaser duty and surcharge land tax provisions for certain foreign residents are inconsistent with their nation’s international tax treaties with Australia.

In response to this, effective immediately, individuals who are citizens of New Zealand, Finland, Germany and South Africa, will no longer be required to pay surcharge purchaser duty and surcharge land tax.

The above list was extended on 29 May 2023 to include India, Japan, Norway and Switzerland.

Refunds may also be made available for payments made by the concerned taxpayers for residential property or land purchases on or after 1 January 2021.

Announcement(7-Jun-2023)

Consultation period Released(7-Jul-2023)

Announced: 21-Feb-2023

Updated: 12-Jul-2023

NSW to Reimburse Surcharge Purchaser Duty and surcharge Land Tax

Revenue NSW has determined that the current surcharge purchaser duty and surcharge land tax provisions for certain foreign residents are inconsistent with their nation’s international tax treaties with Australia.

In response to this, effective immediately, individuals who are citizens of New Zealand, Finland, Germany and South Africa, will no longer be required to pay surcharge purchaser duty and surcharge land tax.

The above list was extended on 29 May 2023 to include India, Japan, Norway and Switzerland.

Refunds may also be made available for payments made by the concerned taxpayers for residential property or land purchases on or after 1 January 2021.

Digital Games Tax Offset Set Now Law

The digital games tax offset (DGTO) has received royal assent and is now law.

The DGTO is aimed at giving a boost to the digital economy as well as the digital gaming industry in Australia. This offset will allow eligible businesses to claim a refundable tax offset of up to 30% on qualifying Australian gaming development expenditure.

The offset will be implemented through the creation of Div 378 to the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

Rules on the application process have now been released to assist developers and the Arts Minister on the administration of the offset.

Announced: 21-Feb-2023

Updated: 12-Jul-2023

Announcement(23-Nov-2022)

Consultation Introduced(23-Nov-2022)

Passed(21-Jun-2023)

Royal Assent(23-Jun-2023)

Date of effect(1-Jul-2023)

2023 Maroondah Community Satisfaction Survey results

The 2023 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey results have been released, with a great report for Maroondah.

The survey was conducted by an independent market research organisation on behalf of the Victorian Government. The results show that Maroondah City Council continues to rate highly in comparison with average ratings for councils state-wide across seven key performance areas:

• overall performance

• value for money

• community consultation

• advocacy

• customer service

• overall Council direction

• making decisions in the interest of the community.

Now in its 24th year, the Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey is one of many engagement methods used by Council each year to track our performance, along with collecting other community feedback about our service delivery offerings.

Survey respondents were asked to share their feedback on Council’s performance over the past 12 months, with the survey conducted between July 2022 and March 2023. A total of 400 Maroondah residents were randomly selected to share their views.

Council’s overall performance continues to be rated in line with the average rating for Melbourne metropolitan councils and is rated statistically significantly higher (at the 95 per cent confidence interval) than the state-wide average for councils.

When it comes to ‘value for money’, Maroondah rated 12 points higher (61) than the state-wide council average (49), while the rating for ‘overall performance’ for Council (64) was eight points higher than the state average (56).

Council’s performance was also statistically significantly higher when measured against other Melbourne metropolitan councils and the statewide average for a range of other indicators, including recreational

facilities, arts centres and libraries, local streets and footpaths, the condition of sealed roads, making decisions in the interest of the community, informing the community, waste management and family support services.

Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Rob Steane OAM, said Council is pleased with this year’s results.

“Thank you to members of the community who gave their time to participate in the 2023 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey. This survey is among a range of tools Council uses to ensure our activities are tracking well and relevant to our community’s needs, so your input is highly valued,” Cr Steane said.

“The 2023 results show that Council’s performance is relatively consistent with last year’s results, which is a positive result, as the survey provider advised us that it has been a year of decline for many other councils following changes to service delivery during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is pleasing to see our 2023 results have been positive overall, as this demonstrates that Council’s service delivery is valued by our community and that our community generally feels positive about our community consultation and engagement, customer service, overall performance and direction, and our advocacy efforts, among other key areas.

“The results are also a testament to our employees, who strive to provide excellent services, programs and

initiatives for our community. We will continue to strive towards improving these services for the community and achieving even better results,” Cr Steane said.

Council’s results were measured against other participating Melbourne metropolitan councils including Banyule, Boroondara, Brimbank, Glen Eira, Greater Dandenong, Hobsons Bay, Kingston, Knox, Manningham, Melbourne, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Whitehorse.

Council will continue to use the results from the survey to inform future service delivery planning and implementation.

View the 2023 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey Results

2024 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey

Council is also participating in the 2024 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey, which will be undertaken quarterly between July 2023 and March 2024.

During this time, you may receive a call from an independent market research agency, National Field Services, who will be conducting the survey over the phone.

Your feedback will help give us a better understanding of your views on a range of Council services and initiatives.

Learn more about the Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey

Maroondah Council News AUGUST 2023

Over $345K in funding announced for capital projects

Fifteen sporting clubs and community groups will be able to renew and improve their facilities sooner after successfully receiving grants under the Capital Funding for Community Groups funding scheme for 2023/24.

A total of $345,750 will be distributed among the community groups for capital projects that will improve or promote greater community access.

Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Rob Steane OAM, said the funding would make possible various building and equipment upgrades used by groups, while also improving facilities and services for the wider community.

“These grants are one way for Council to assist groups to plan and develop community facilities that will continue to meet the needs of the community and the groups and organisations that use them,” Cr Steane said.

Categories

Grants are offered annually, with two categories available for organisations to apply for capital funding:

Category 1 - projects less than $7,700, which are fully funded by Council

Category 2 - projects over $7,700, which receive a 50% contribution from

Council (with a maximum contribution of $75,000 Council contribution)

Council has approved the allocation of $345,750 through the latest Capital Funding for Community Groups Program funding round to the following recipients:

Projects up to $7,700

• Arrabri Community House Occasional Childcare - Design for refurbishment and enhancement of childcare playground

• Ringwood Croquet Club - court three drainage remediation

• Glen Park Community Centresecurity screens installation

• Oban Kindergarten - sandpit upgrade

• Heathmont Cricket Club - HE Parker (no.1 oval) net and turf practice facility upgrade design

Projects over $7,700

• Central Ringwood Community Centre - Bedford Park Community Garden

• Croydon Ranges Football Clubshelter for players and coaches no.1 pitch

• East Croydon Kilsyth Tennis Clubsynthetic court upgrade

• North Ringwood Community Children’s Centre - shade sail project

• Knaith Road Childcare Centreshade sail project

• Norwood Sporting Club - KPP solar panels project

• Ringwood Central Tennis Clubcourts 3 to 6 resurfacing

• South Croydon Cricket ClubGlen Park pitch and run-ups redevelopment

• Croydon Ranges Cricket Club - Silcock Reserve north oval electronic scoreboard

• Ainslie Park Cricket Club - pitch upgrade

A wide range of applications were assessed under the program, with priority given to those projects satisfying a community need, that broaden community access, increase opportunities for participation, address safety issues and risk management, and which maximise the use of the facility.

Applications for the next round of grants will reopen in 2024. See Capital Funding for Community Groups

See also 2023/24 Community Grants Funding Program and Arts and Cultural Grants Program

Victorian State Ballet - Giselle

and choreography which honour the spirit of this great classical work. A moving story of love and forgiveness spoken through the language of true traditional classical ballet. Don’t miss the incredible leading couple’s solos and pas de deuxs, plus the breathtaking corps de ballet scenes in stunning traditional white romantic tutus.

Take advantage of this unique and opportunity. Bring family and friends along to experience the sheer delight and beauty of Classical Ballet. Appropriate for all ages.

Featuring meet & greet the cast & photo opportunity after the performance.

When

Featuring internationally recognised principal artists in the lead roles.

The Victorian State Ballet’s production of "Giselle" is a beautiful rendition of this most perfect of ballets. Considered

as one of the greatest of romantic ballets, its romance and beauty has mesmerized audiences for hundreds of years. The story is retold through excellent staging, simple and direct mime, superb classical ballet technique

• Friday, 11 August 2023 | 07:30 PM10:00 PM

• Saturday, 12 August 2023 | 07:30 PM - 10:00 PM

• Sunday, 13 August 2023 | 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM

Friends of Ringwood Lake August volunteer working bee

Come along and help environmental volunteers improve the biodiversity values of Ringwood Lake.

Volunteers are helping to improve the biodiversity values of Ringwood Lake, focussing their efforts on the eastern end of the reserve.

Come and join the group’s August working bee and help plant 500 indigenous plants and learn about some of the more common environmental weeds at the site. Meet at the end of Patterson St, Ringwood. Planting will take place between the path and the railway fence.

Please wear sturdy shoes, long pants and long-sleeved shirt and bring gloves and drinking water.

When Sunday, 13 August 2023 | 10:00 AM12:00 PM

Location

End of Patterson St entrance.

Ringwood Lake, Patterson St, Ringwood East, 3135,

View Map:

No Waste Cooking Workshop

An interactive cooking experience to help reduce food waste in the home.

Did you know that 20 per cent of food purchased by Australian households ends up in the bin? Open Table educates and empowers people to reduce their household food waste.

Join us for an educational cooking experience that focuses on simple ways to reduce household food waste. Be inspired to get creative with vegetable scraps, odds and ends and excess seasonal produce, as well as picking up some money-saving tips and tricks.

Find out more

Seniors outing - Tyabb

Take a trip down memory lane with a visit to the Tyabb Vintage market.

There is a wide range of antiques, retro pieces, reproductions, art deco, pre-loved clothing, framed pictures, industrial vintage, old-school toys, nautical, men's shed items and homewares. Afterwards we will stop for lunch at the Sommerville Hotel.

Heathmont Farmers Market

The Heathmont Lions Club presents the Heathmont Farmers Market on the FOURTH SUNDAY of each month at Great Ryrie Primary School in Heathmont.

Includes 20+ stalls, fresh fruit and vegetables, sausage sizzle, cafe and jumping cafe.

Read More

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT

NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE MONTH

The Victorian Folk Music Club inc has been around for over 60 years. We started first

Pretty soon a group of dancers were keen to join who mainly lived in the Eastern suburbs and so the club found a hall in Patterson Street Ringwood East and for many years they

Through the next 15 years for one reason or another the club moved from hall to hall until we ended up in the Community Hall in Knaith Road Ringwood East, for the musical, singing and poetry side and the Ringwood East Senior Citizens Hall for the dancing side. Now the club was

The club started a regular Concert night on the second Tuesday of the month at the Community Hall where it was all acoustic sound. The Community Hall had good acoustics. That hall was pulled down and the club, now meets regularly at the Uniting Church Hall Ringwood on a Tuesday evening. We have 2 weeks where we have a hybrid meeting, that means we also have Zoom people attend, this allows people from all around Victoria to join in. These nights are open to all to sing, recite or play music. On the second Tuesday of the month we have our concert with a guest performer and also some spot acts. The spot acts allow musicians, singers and poets to stand up in front of a live audience and get experience in performing. This is also on Zoom so the concert is open world wide not just limited to Victorians. To date we have had English listeners and Spanish listeners.

The fourth Tuesday is only for those that are able to attend in person and we run it like a round robin for all to join in. We sit around in a circle and each member/person there chooses a tune/song for all to play/sing. A bit tricky for Poets but I am waiting expectantly for a Poet to write a poem for the audience to participate in.

Should there be a fifth Tuesday it is varied depending on what people suggest. All the Tuesdays are open to the public and welcomed with open arms.

The dancers are not left out as every first Saturday of the month except January dances are held at the Ringwood East Senior Citizens Hall. This is a lovely hall with a stage. Every month we have a live band play for the dances and each month there is a different band so each month has it's own flavour. All are very welcome as the dances are taught.

The club has recently started a Children's dance for school children on the third Saturday of the month in the afternoon at the Ringwood East Senior Citizens Hall. Again we have live music and again each month is different. The children are taught the moves and the dances. Every child is welcome as it is a fun way to while an hour.

About 10 years ago the club started to have a special day for 'Wattle Day' the new Australian day. During the day we run workshops on music, songs, dances, poetry, and instruments.

For all the above activities that the club does please visit our website

Special Promotion: Saturday 2nd SeptemberWATTLE DAY - Celebrating all things Australian - Music Workshop; Singing Workshop; Poet's Breakfast; Dance Workshop Ending the day with a Family Bush Dance with 'Blackberry Jam'

Address: Ringwood East Senior Citizens Club, Laurence Grove, Ringwood East. - Family and children's Dances

Website: www.vfmc.org.au for more up to date details.

Victorian Folk Music Club Inc.

Telephone: 97621389 (Jane)

Violin Workshop

Dance Music Workshop

Dance Workshop

Boronia View Club will be meeting on Friday 21 July at 11.30am at Eastwood Golf club Liverpool Rd., Kilsyth with a 2 course lunch costing $27 followed by Jennie Wynd (Victorian Advisor-Melbourne VIEW Clubs) speaking about "The Smith Family support program". There will be a bookstall, trading table and raffle with all monies raised going to the Smith Family learning for Life program to help needy Australian children with their educational requirements. The club is looking for new members so ladies of all ages and backgrounds please come along and you will be most warmly welcomed. There is also opportunity for outings, film mornings, book club, coffee mornings etc.

Enquiries to Judith on 9764-8602

Boronia View Club

Have you ever thought about becoming a foster carer?

VACCA are seeking carers from all walks of life to care for Aboriginal children from the ages of 0 to 18. VACCA offers Emergency, Respite, Short and Long Term Care.

Reach out today for more information using the link www.vacca.org/page/get-involved/foster-care

We enjoy the company of ladies of all ages and backgrounds, so come along and you will be warmly welcomed.

RETIREMENT & AGED CARE

Investment Options In Retirement Explained

Getting the balance right between a safe spending rate and having enough income to enjoy retirement takes some careful planning. Investing for a reasonable return is one approach to helping your savings go the distance.

Risk vesus return

There’s a rule of thumb when it comes to investment risk. Generally speaking, the higher the expected return, the higher the risk involved. But taking on investments with the least possible risk can make it difficult to earn investment returns that keep up with inflation and any rises in living costs.

On the other hand, taking on too much risk could lead to steep falls in the value of your investments. This can have an even bigger impact when you’re retired, because you can’t expect to replace these losses from your salary or other types of income. Plus, you’re relying on your ‘nest egg’ to provide at least some of your income. When you lose a portion of those savings to risky investments, you have less to spend for the rest of retirement and less to earn returns on over the long term.

Understanding the investments available to you, and their risks, will be crucial to looking forward with confidence in your retirement.

What is an asset class?

An asset class is a group of investments with similar characteristics and laws. They’re typically grouped into two broad categories, defensive and growth. Defensive assets offer less opportunity for growth, and generally provide you with income stability and security for your original investment and income. Growth assets carry more

risk, and generally provide you with more potential to grow your investment over time.

Here are some of the assets in each category that you might come across when exploring your

Defensive assets

Defensive assets include investments like cash, term deposits, fixed interest securities, and annuities.

Cash is considered the safest form your money can take but it typically generates the lowest returns. However, it can be good to have some cash in a bank account because of the safety it provides and because you can access it right away when you need it.

Term deposits are held for a set period of time with a bank, building society or credit union. The rate of return is fixed, and you can be certain of your income, but you should be prepared to have your capital locked away for the full term. Whilst term deposits offer this security, there is a trade-off. When markets perform strongly, your rate of return will remain fixed and you won’t benefit from higher returns.

Fixed interest securities, such as bonds, involve you usually loaning money to a company or entity. You receive regular interest payments and can expect to get back the original sum invested at the end of the term, known as the ‘maturity’. The underlying value of the fixed interest security can change with interest rate movements.

Annuities can also be viewed as a type of fixed interest investment. You invest a lump sum with an annuity provider and receive regular

payments for either a fixed period or for the rest of your life depending on the type of annuity you choose.

As with term deposits, your payment rate will remain fixed. So whilst you won’t be affected by share market falls, you also won’t benefit from higher returns when share markets perform strongly.

Growth assets

Growth assets include investments like property, shares and equities.

Property can provide you with rental income and potential for capital gains. In Australia property prices have generally performed well over the long term. However, property prices are notoriously difficult to predict due to the number of variables that impact them. Investing in shares means buying a share of ownership in a company, usually on a stock exchange. The value of the shares are generally linked to a company’s value and as a shareholder, you can be paid a share of profits as a dividend. Shares are generally considered to be a higher risk asset class as their value tends to be more volatile. You can control the amount of risk you take on by investing in share portfolios that invest in companies that have delivered consistent returns over the long term.

Investment strategies for retirement

Everyone has different investment goals. However, a common objective for many people investing for their retirement is striking a balance between maximising available cash flow and protecting the remaining savings. Your risk appetite will determine which investment strategy is right for

RETIREMENT & AGED CARE

you, and according to the Government website MoneySmart1 may fall into one of the following four types:

1. Cash: Invests 100% in deposits with Australian deposit-taking institutions or in a ‘capital guaranteed’ life insurance policy. This option aims to guarantee your capital and accumulated earnings cannot be reduced by losses on investments.

2. Conservative: Invests around 30% in shares and property with the majority in fixed interest and cash. Aims to reduce the risk of loss and therefore accepts a lower return over the long term. There is less

chance of having a bad year than in the balanced or growth options below.

4. Balanced: Invests around 70% in shares or property, and the rest in fixed interest and cash. Aims for reasonable returns, but less than growth funds to reduce risk of losses in bad years. Those losses usually occur less frequently than in the growth option. You may also be able to invest in a ‘moderate’ option with around 50% in shares and property.

5. Growth: Invests around 85% in shares or property. Aims for higher average returns over the long term.

This also means higher losses in bad years compared to investing in other low risk options. You may also be able to invest in a 'high growth' option with 100% in shares and property.

The importance of diversification Diversification is a golden rule of investing. Spreading investments across different asset classes can strike a balance between security (defensive assets), and higher investment returns (growth assets). This can reduce your overall investment risk and the impact of significant market downturns, or poor returns from a particular business or sector.

CONGRATULATIONS!

on winning the Holistic Adviser of the Year again at the IFA Excellence Awards 2022.

founder of the Find Group of companies draws on his diverse background, Find Accountant | Find Wealth | Find Retirement | Find Insurance | Find Aged Care Services | Find Foundation | Find Network

WARREN STRYBOSCH Find Group The financial advisers featured in this guide are a diverse group: some specialise in responsible investment advice, some provide financial advise to specific professions, and some focus on addressing market gaps, mwith several finding themselves on the list for the very first time. But they all have one thing in common: they all wield influence that can create the blueprint for the future of financial advice in Australia. Not all of them are faniliar names but just because they are not making a lot of noise doesn’t mean they are not making waves. Meet our Power 50.

As a transition into retirement is made, there needs to be a much bigger focus on income stability and wealth protection rather than wealth accumulation.

Commonwealth Seniors Health Card to expire every two years

By Warren Strybosch

Currently, the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) expires every 12 months with a new card issued in August to clients who are still eligible.

Centrelink have announced that, if a client already has a CSHC and is still eligible (ie still meets the income thresholds), they will be sent a new card by the end of September 2023. This new card will be valid for up to 2 years, expiring at the end of the client’s birth month.

A new CSHC will then be sent every two years before the old one expires.

Note: Even if a card hasn’t expired yet, if a client’s circumstances change and they are no longer eligible, they must inform Centrelink of the changes and will immediately lose access to the card.

This information has been provided as a general advice. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives. You should consider the appropriates of the advice. You should obtain and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statment (PDS) anf seek the assistance of an authorised financial adviser before making any decision regarding any products or strategies mention in this communication.

Whilst all care has been taken in the preparatin of this material, it is based on our understanding of current regulatory requirements and laws at the publication date. As these laws are subject to change you should talk to an authorised adviser for the most up-to-date information. No warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly neither Alliance Wealth nor its related entities, employees or representative accepts responsibility for any loss suffered by any person arising from reliance on this information.

HELPING TO PROTECT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

Osteopathy in Australia is a government registered, allied health profession. Osteopaths focus on improving the function of the neuro-musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, nerves and connective tissues) to optimise health and well-being.

Joanna is highly qualified and experienced in the osteopathic assessment and treatment of babies and infants.

She can assist with the following assessments:

• Gross motor development (milestones)

• Primitive reflexes

• Tongue function and it’s relation to sucking skills

• Biomechanics of the jaw and mouth

LACTATION CONSULTING

IBCLC lactation consultants are recognised around the world as the experts in lactation care. They provide evidencebased knowledge to assist mothers to establish and maintain breastfeeding. As professionals, they are charged with promoting, protecting and supporting breastfeeding.

Joanna can help with a broad range of lactation consulting services, including:

• Teaching a new mum how to hold and position her baby to breastfeed

• Assess the suck, swallow and breathing of an infant

• Assess for tongue function and determine any evidence of restriction (tongue tie)

• Pre and post-frenectomy breastfeeding support

• Help increase or decrease milk supply

NORWOOD NETBALL CLUB

Norwood Netball Club are proud to announce the commencement of selecting our 2024 Under 18s side in the EFNLs Friday Night Comp.

Norwood Netball has had an impressive year rebuilding the Senior player involvement in the EFNL and are now looking to bring on board and develop the talent of the community for years to come. In the 2024 season, the club are proudly expanding to include an 18 and under side that will be coached by one of Norwood Netballs current top division players.

Our senior netballers will provider mentorship and expert guidance to the Under 18s players coming on board, with multiple areas for our younger players to broaden their skill set and develop into future club leaders. To register yours, or your child's interest please send an email to norwoodwoodettesnc@hotmail.com or message our facebook page for further information. We look forward to hearing from you!

*please note due to league requirements, players must be 15 or turning 15 during the season to be eligible to play in the EFNL*

First the Norwood Netball Club update, who had their third sweep in a row to finish off the H&A season. A very well matched competitive game saw purple down by 2 points at half time. After a quick quarter break, the team came out fighting in the fourth quarter and were able to come up with a four point win against Montrose. A great way to finish the final home and away game of the season. Purple complete the 2023 season in 6th position.

In a tough battle during the first quarter, scores were even. An amazing peformance saw Black take the lead during the second. Black never dropped their heads and stayed dominating around the court, all players never slowed down, kept leading and gave it their all. Finishing off the season with a huge win from Black! Black complete the 2023 season in 6th position.

Chirnside Park came out very strong against our Gold side and took their pressure to the very end! Gold remained composed and were able to finish the year with another win, only dropping one game all season! Gold complete the 2023 season in 1st position and progress to finals!

As the 2023 season concluded this weekend, we would like to Congratulate all of our netballers on the successful year they have had in the relaunch of the netball club! Well done ladies!

Quickly

Lets make Matt feel welcome around the club this season!

Keep an eye out for more announcements in the coming weeks also.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

RENNIE RAULLI

Rennie Raulli is our August volunteer of the month - and should from this point on be known as Mr August.

Rennie is one of the first to put his hand up when anything needs doing. He's been a constant in the kitchen for Thursday night meals and helping out with the Norsemen bar.

Thanks Rennie and thanks to all volunteers at the Norwood FC.

Another big announcement for this season with Matt Anderson coming on down to the Nest.

creating the best Matt and Ben brother combination at the club. Matt is a classy opening bat who is hungry to score runs at the top of the order and set a great platform for the team this season.

Do you have an upcoming events?

Place your EVENT AD here for FREE in our community online paper.

SEND US YOUR NEWS!

Simply upload your ad at www.findmaroondah.com.au/nfp-free-advertising or you can email the ad to the editor@findmaroondah.com.au and we will do the rest for you.

Croydon Hills Baptist Church

Pastoral Team

Senior pastor - Andrew Harris

Karen Pastor - Moo Hei

NextGen Pastor - Matt Moran

Worship Pastor - Leah McCormack

Transform Pastor - Ben Dickson

Community Engagement - Gitta Clayton

Children's Co-Ordinator - Meagan Dickson

Youth Co-Ordinator - Mat Weller

Services

• English Sunday 10am

• Karen Sunday 1pm

• English Sunday 6pm

6 Bemboka Rd, Croydon Hills VIC 3136, Australia

+61 39876 4503 | 0405 507 118

Hope City Church

About us

Hope City is a community partnering with Jesus to see His Church grow and to see people encounter God’s presence and be transformed by His Spirit and Word. We look to empower every believer in God’s purpose for their life so that the 7 Mountains of society will be impacted by God’s kingdom. We see a Church where every person experiences the goodness of God in their lives through energetic praise and intimate worship.

Our Online Services Sunday 10am and 6pm

51 Lusher Rd, Croydon VIC 3136 +61 39761 6778

Religious Groups and Churches

Ringwood Church of Christ is a community of believers that love God, love others and love our community. Our services and ministries reflect a wide and generous orthodoxy, and involve people from all walks of life. We seek to live out the gospel in the city of Maroondah in practical and transformational ways.

Ringwood Church of Christ

Services

10 AM Sundays – main worship service

Also streaming on Facebook Live

13 Bedford Rd, Ringwood VIC 3134

+61 39870 8169

www.ringwoodchurch.org.au

Canterbury

Our Mission

Why do we exist?

We are a church that desires to be Jesus CENTERED (Galatians 2:20), to DISCIPLE (Ephesians 4:16) each other to love God and others and deploy every follower of Jesus to be on MISSION (Acts 1:8) wherever He has placed us.

Services

9:00AM service and 10:30AM family service

Night service monthly 5pm

281-283 Colchester Rd, Kilsyth South VIC 3137

+61 39720 7121

CROYDON HILLS & WONGA PARK ANGLICAN CHURCH

Connecting People With God And One Another

Services:

• 9am Service at St Marks Wonga Park, cnr of Toppings Rd and Yarra Rd Wonga Park

• 10:39 am at St James Croydon Hills , 21-23 Bemboka Rd Croydon hills

0417679682

(03) 9876 2600

RINGWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH

Connecting People With God And One Another

Services: Sunday 10 AM

Livestreamed: myrcc.co/live

Activities for all - children, youth, families, adults, senior

1 Tamar St, Ringwood VIC, 3136

(03) 9870 0102

Gardens Community Church