18
Tristan O’Kane
tristan.o@lvvoice.com.au
Submissions deadline Wednesday 5pm
MOE
Valley
Also covering Narracan, Newborough, Trafalgar, Yallourn North, Yarragon
NEWS BRIEFS
Lightening the “ family load ▪ Katrena and Rhyann
a.
MOST parents struggle at some stage when raising a family. There are bills to be paid, sleep deprivation, toddler tantrums and many other issues to deal with. We all muddle through the hard times, but sometimes the struggle becomes overwhelming. That’s where Good Beginnings comes in. Based in Moe and operating since 1997, Good Beginnings provides a family support program, with services including a telephone counselling line and play and learn groups. Through these programs, support workers and volunteers – some young, some with adult children – provide a sounding board and practical assistance for families. But more volunteers are needed for this important role. Good Beginnings state development officer Neci Sutherland says it’s important to support families so that children can develop to the best of their abilities. “If a child begins school and they are behind, the remediation is more
There is more tha way to raise a chil n one not the experts, w d. We’re parents are the e e think the Lifestyle expo xp THE Gippslife Alternative Lifestyle Expo, just provide an ext erts we to be held at Old Gippstown, Lloyd St, ra p e rs o n Moe, on April 2 and 3, promises to be to bounce ideas w ith.” anything but ordinary. The expo will feature holistic health practitioners, psychics and tarot readers, homewares, massage, astrologists, crystals, and other products for the mind and body. Entry costs $5 for adults, and there’s gold coin donation for kids.
expensive,” Ms Sutherland said. “We involve the family in play activities that are age-appropriate and stimulating. The parents can pick up ideas to help their child develop. If they have sleep problems or toddler tantrums are an issue, they can speak to a qualified worker.” Ms Sutherland said there were a variety of ways that children were referred to Good Beginnings. “They are sometimes selfreferrals or it may be picked up at the maternal child and health care visit. Isolation can be a problem in the rural areas so the groups help parents to meet other parents in a caring and supportive environment,” she said. “There is more than one way to raise a child. We’re not the experts, we think the parents are the experts we just provide an extra person to bounce ideas with.” For more information on becoming a volunteer contact Good Beginnings on 5127 7270.
Skaters showcase their talents
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TOWN NEWS
March 30 2011
Moe courses MOE Neighbourhood house offers an astounding variety of courses and services, including computer classes, health and well being workshops, arts and craft and Scrabble club. It also provides a good opportunity to meet people if you are new to town. Enquiries: 5126 3123 or moemnh@bigpond.com.
Weight management KIDS life provides a free, safe, effective and evidence-based weightmanagement service for children aged five to 12 years and their families. The sessions are an enjoyable way to build a foundation for a healthy lifestyle. To register or participate in the program or for further information call 5136 5295 or free call 1800 242 696.
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▪ More than 80 young skateboarders and riders took part in Trafalgar’s inaugural skate festival. SKATERS, scooter riders and BMX trick masters – watched on by many spectators – took to the Trafalgar skate bowl for the inaugural Trafalgar festival on Sunday, March 6. YCMA Skate Services, which conducted the day’s competitions and games, was impressed with the talent of the 88 contestants, encouraged by friends and family watching on. Several community organisations contributed to the festival atmosphere, selling cold drinks, sausages and popcorn, and providing information about local
services. First aid for the day - fortunately only needed for two minor abrasions - was provided by two trained volunteers from St Mary’s and young local Ellie Harrison, who is completing her medical degree. Trafalgar Community Development Association, which organised the event, was delighted with the successful function and very grateful for the funding from Youth Foundations Victoria, a partnership between the local Bendigo Bank and the State Government.
40% off 32 GEORGE STREET, MOE. P: 5127 2099
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