Living Healthy - Summer/Autumn 2024

General Manager

Glenn Seri

Editor and Marketing Officer

Tamika Piccinelli

Contributors

Laura Geitz, Brand Ambassador

James Jensen, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Hello Health

Kirby Phillips, Laubman and Pank

Joel Savage, Townsville Running Festival

From the General Manager

Hello and welcome to the 2024 Summer / Autumn Edition of Living Healthy!

Recently the Queensland Country Health Fund team celebrated our 47th birthday on February 14. Our team held a small celebration at head office and reflected on our origins that date back to 1977. Also over the last six months we have been collaborating with HBF to ensure that Queensland Country Health Fund continues to provide excellent value for money and outstanding service for our Members.

With the cost of living increases being felt across all goods and services, we are reminded that private health insurance is not immune to the impact of these price increases. One of the advantages of being part of HBF, a larger not-for-profit Health Fund is our ability to contain costs. Consequently, Queensland Country is pleased to announce its lowest average premium increase in 15 years at 2.53% effective April 1st. Additionally we have increased benefits for some of our members most popular claims, these can be found in our Members' benefits letter you should have received recently.

As a member of the HBF family, Queensland Country Health Fund remains committed to providing excellent service to our Members from our home base in North Queensland. The friendly and professional service that is synonymous with Queensland Country has continued unabated since our acquisition and will continue to be the cornerstone of our offering to our Members.

Talking about our service, we recently received the results of our Member Satisfaction Survey conducted by IPSOS earlier this year. We are delighted to share we achieved outstanding results, with over 90% of surveyed Members expressing satisfaction with Queensland Country Health Fund. Our Members are at the heart of everything we do, and it is great to see that we have successfully met their expectations in terms of service and product design. It was truly heartening to see the substantial engagement, with over 2,500 members taking the time to complete our Member survey. Big thank you to all Members who participated in the survey, providing us with invaluable feedback.

This edition of Living Healthy is a great read with some amazing contributors including an article from our Brand Ambassador and proud Member, Laura Geitz about embracing the season, James Jensen, owner of Hello Health discusses the importance of getting your health checked, our friends from Specsavers Audiology keep your hearing in check and Darryl Grundy from Avanti Health centres shares the power of exercise after 50. And much more! I hope you enjoy this edition.

Lastly, I would like to thank you for trusting us with your private health insurance needs. May 2024 treat you and your loved ones well!

Healthy Regards,

Glenn Seri General Manager

The Season Embracing

Laura Geitz Brand Ambassador

I’m not sure about you but it wasn’t until flipping over the calendar to February did I feel like 2024 had actually arrived. There’s something so special about those slow summer holidays, waking up with nowhere to rush to and no plans in place. You know you're relaxed when you have no concept of what day of the week it is and the biggest decision to make is whether to ride the bikes or walk to the coffee shop. That’s how we spent the best part of our holidays between the bush and the beach. It was slow and simple but the more I journey through this life with four little ones in tow, the more I think it's exactly the way it should be.

I often wonder, is the rushing around all worth it? Is that why the days and the years are passing us by so quickly, because we are quite simply filling every minute of our day with an outside school activity or something of the like? It’s quite a common occurrence on our trips to the shops to have some kind folk offer to push the trolley over to my car while I have one child in a baby carrier and the other two sitting in the trolley. If I had a dollar for every time those kind strangers say, ‘goodness me darl, you’ve got your hands full haven’t you!” I can nearly guarantee what comes next…it’s something along the lines of “I know it’s hard for you to imagine this, but these little people of yours will be all grown up before you know it and you will be wishing and wanting these days back, so please do enjoy them!”

I love hearing this, it’s a gentle reminder to stop! Stop rushing to get to the next thing and to genuinely enjoy these simple moments that fill our everyday. It’s the power of advice from the older generation to the next, someone who has lived it and knows exactly what they are talking about. Ritu Ghatourey once said “The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you.”

When it was time to bid farewell to those summer holidays, the lunchboxes got brought back out of the drawers, the new schoolbooks and pencils were labelled and packed neatly into the school bag ready for the return to routine. Starting the year is starting with some different intentions for our family. Saying no to the busyness and saying yes to the slow, simple, nameless moments. Enjoying these years and embracing the season that we are in. Letting the kids unpack the trolley for me, having their little chats with the local butcher and throwing some loose change in the guide dog statue at the entrance of the shops. These are the nameless moments that I will never rush them on thanks to the wonderful advice of those that have been before and are kind enough to share their wisdom.

Dental care that will make you smile

Queensland Country Dental provides high quality, patient focused dental treatment for the whole family.

To enable our Members to improve their oral health (and as a result their general health) we offer preventive and diagnostic treatments at no or low gap for Members of Queensland Country Health Fund with extras cover.

Some of the services our practices provide:

• Comprehensive examinations for the whole family, including children's dentistry

• Digital x-rays and photographs

• Preventive treatments such as scale and clean

• Mouthguards for adults and children

• Patient education, such as oral hygiene instruction and dietary counselling

• Dental hygiene treatment

• Full range of restorative treatments such as composite (tooth coloured) restorations (fillings)

• Teeth whitening

• Endodontic (root canal) treatment

• Crowns and bridges

• Metal and acrylic dentures

• Extractions

• Cosmetic dentistry

• Emergency dentistry

Queensland Country Dental is committed to providing excellent dental care, focused on patient safety and continuous quality improvement within the practice environment.

If you're not sure what your level of cover is, or how much you've got left to claim on your dental benefits this year, you can easily check by logging into the Mobile App or Online Member Services.



To book your appointment contact your local practice. Our experienced team look forward to welcoming you!

If you're not located near one of our practices, visit queenslandcountry.health/premierprovider to find out more about our Premier Provider Network to see if we have a preferred provider near you.

Premier Provider Network

Premier Provider

We pay the same benefits to all recognised providers of extras services and therapies, so there's no need to change your favourite dentist or optometrist.

However, we have agreements in place with certain providers under our Premier Provider Network to provide you with great discounts, so you get even more value for money.

When you visit providers in our Premier Provider Network, you'll get access to exclusive discounts and services if you have any of our extras covers. We've negotiated agreements with a number of dentists and optometrists across the State, with more being added regularly.

To find out more about the providers listed visit queenslandcountry.health/premierprovider

Optical Providers

Bernie Lanigan Optometrist

Clearly.com.au (Coastal Contact Pty Ltd)

Eyecare Plus Charters Towers

Eyecare Plus Ayr Shannon Davies

Eyecare Plus Mount Isa

EyeQ Optometrists Mackay

Innisfail Optical

Judi Coey Optometry OPSM

Q Optical Network Specsavers

Stacey & Stacey Optometrists

The Optical Superstore

Dental Providers

Far North Queensland

Cairns Family & Cosmetic Dental

Maven Dental Cairns City

Sundown Family Dental - Innisfail

Edmonton Family Dental

North Queensland

Ayr Family Dental

Queensland Country Dental Mount Isa

Queensland Country Dental Townsville

Goldcity Dental CentreCharters Towers

Toothcare - WeCare - Charters Towers

My Family Dental Ingham

Central Queensland

Bowen Dental

CQ Dental - South Rockhampton

Hilton Dental CQ - North Rockhampton

My Family Dental Bowen

Queensland Country Dental Mackay

Sarina Dental Care

South East Queensland

BDF Dental - Beaudesert

Brisbane CBD Dental Clinic

DentArana - Arana Hills

Landsborough Dental Centre

Limestone Dental GroupIpswich

Northern Territory

Darwin Smiles - Fannie Bay

Maximising your Extras Cover to get the most value from your health insurance

Health insurance is an essential part of managing your healthcare costs and ensuring access to necessary medical services. While most people are familiar with hospital cover, many may not fully understand how to use their Extras cover to get the most from their cover. Utilising your Extras benefits for preventative services may help reduce the possibility of future health problems. We will explore how you can maximise your extras to get the most from your health insurance.

Understanding Extras

Extras or ancillary benefits are additional services and treatments covered by your health insurance policy. These benefits can include service like dental care, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic services and more. To maximise your extras you need to know what they cover, the benefit limits and any waiting periods associated with them.

Review your policy

The first step to making the most of your extras cover is to thoroughly review your health insurance policy.

Understand what extras are included, their annual limits and any restrictions or waiting periods that may apply. This information will serve as a roadmap for effectively using these benefits.

Know your annual limits

Extras often include, or often come with annual limits, which represent the maximum benefit payable for those services in a Membership Year. It’s important to be aware of these limits and manage your visits accordingly. If you reach your limits early in the year, you may need to pay in full or postpone certain treatments or services until next year when your benefits reset. To conveniently view your annual limits why not download our Mobile App.

Schedule regular check-ups or visits

Preventative healthcare can save you money in the long run. An example would be regular dental check-ups can help catch problems early and prevent costly dental procedures in the future. The same goes for optical check ups and other preventative services covered by your extras. Make it a habit to schedule these appointments to maintain your health and maximise the value of your insurance.

Understand waiting periods

Some extras may have waiting periods before you can claim benefits. This means you’ll need to wait a specified period of time (eg. 2-6 months) from the start of your policy or the addition of extras before you can access those benefits. Plan your health care needs accordingly to avoid unnecessary delays in getting the services you need.

Use Premier Providers

Queensland Country Health Fund pay the same benefits to all recognised providers of extras services and therapies, so there's no need to change your favourite dentist or optometrist.

However, we have agreements in place with certain providers under our Premier Provider Network to provide you with great discounts, so you get even more value for money.

When you visit providers in our Premier Provider Network, you'll get access to exclusive discounts and services if you have any of our extras covers. We've negotiated agreements with a number of dentists and optometrists across the State, with more being added regularly.

To find out more about our providers visit queenslandcountry.health/premierprovider

Premier Provider

Elevate

Your Active Journey in 2024:

A guide to setting and achieving running goals

Joel Savage McDonald’s Townsville Running Festival

As we start the first few months of the new year, the opportunity to reflect and set goals for the upcoming months is upon us. For those considering embracing an active lifestyle in 2024, running festivals and events offer an ideal platform to challenge oneself and find joy in the world of running. This guide will help you navigate the process of goal setting. Always consult your doctor or health professional when starting a new health program, and consider your individual medical conditions and injuries when setting goals.

Define Your Purpose: Before delving into your running goals for a specific event or running festival, take a moment to reflect on your purpose. Clarify why you run and what you hope to achieve during this exhilarating event.

Setting SMART Goals: In the spirit of running festivals and events, where runners of all levels converge, embrace SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a beginner, let your goals be a source of motivation and personal growth.

Gradual Progression: Just as the festival offers various races and stunning coastal views, ensure your objectives foster a sense of accomplishment without compromising your well-being.

Example - The Audacious Marathon Goal: Consider someone transitioning from a 5K to a marathon at an event in August. Instead of attempting the marathon unprepared, steadily build your weekly long run and relish the mental benefits of steady improvement.

Breaking Down the Goal: Main Goal: Complete a 42.2km run at running event in August

Weekly Goals:

• Run 3 times per week under the guidance of a run coach or program

• Designate Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings for runs

• Use weekends for longer runs to progress distance each week or fortnight

• Incorporate 5-10 minutes of stretching after each run

Lead-in Events: Consider additional events in the lead up as mini-checkpoints to gauge progress and maintain motivation.

Example:

• Feb- run 8-10km event

• March- run 12 km event

• May-run 16km event

• July- run 20km event (Progress as needed for goal event)

Example - The Weight Loss Goal: In tandem with running goals, some people may set a weight loss objective. Main Goal: Achieve a 10-30kg weight loss (examples only not needed or recommended for all)

Weekly Goals:

• Maintain a calorie deficit and consume healthy, low-caloriedensity foods

• Exercise 5 days per week, including 3 runs and 2 gym sessions

• Prepare a series of meals for the week to support healthy eating

• Conduct weekly/monthly weigh-ins or body fat tests etc to track progress

Involving Others and Personality Types: Accountability plays a crucial role in goal achievement. Whether it's friends, family, coaches, or other trainers, sharing your goals with others can boost motivation and commitment.

Basic Progression Rules: Adhere to the approximate rule of no more than a 10% improvement per week to mitigate the risk of injury. Ensure sufficient recovery time for muscles, tendons, and the central nervous system.

Long-Term Sustainable

Approach: Success indicators such as time or distance goals, should align with your overarching objectives. Don't embark on this journey alone— having accountability partners ensures mutual support and encouragement.

Conclusion: As you prepare for a specific running festival or event, let the setting and achieving of meaningful running goals enhance your overall experience. Enjoy the journey, celebrate your achievements, and relish the unique atmosphere.

The Townsville Running Festival has a number of free training guides and plans on the website townsvillerunningfestival.com/ training-guides

including:

• From the Couch to your first 5km

• From 5km to your first 10km

• From 10km to your first Half Marathon (21.1km)

• From Half Marathon to your First Marathon (42.2km)

McDonald's Townsville Running Festival

Queensland Country Health Fund is once again proud to sponsor the McDonald's Townsville Running Festival 5km Corporate Challenge. To find out more about the August 4 event or to register for the event visit

townsvillerunningfestival.com

Check out our Community Spotlight page for your Member discount code.

Chiropractic treatment physiotherapy:

vs

Understanding the differences

Chiropractic treatment and physiotherapy are two distinct healthcare professions that focus on the musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones), aiming to enhance mobility, function, and overall well-being. While both share common goals, they differ significantly in their approaches, philosophies, and treatment methods. In this article, we will explore the key differences between chiropractic care and physiotherapy to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare options.

Chiropractic Treatment:

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who primarily concentrate on the spine and its relationship with the nervous system. The foundational philosophy of chiropractic care is based on the idea that misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can impact overall health by interfering with the nervous system.

Chiropractic treatment involves manual adjustments, where chiropractors use controlled thrusts to manipulate specific joints and correct spinal misalignments. Beyond spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also employ complementary therapies such as massage, stretching, and exercises to address musculoskeletal issues. The philosophy of chiropractic care emphasises the body's innate ability to heal itself and the importance of maintaining spinal health for optimal overall well-being.

Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapists, also known as physical therapists, adopt a broader approach, addressing various musculoskeletal, neurological, and respiratory conditions throughout the entire body.

Physiotherapy treatments encompass a diverse range of techniques, including exercises, stretches, manual therapy, and modalities like heat, cold, or electrical stimulation. The goal of physiotherapy is to improve mobility, strength, and function, often through customised exercise programs tailored to individual needs.

Physiotherapists work towards specific functional goals, aiming to enhance overall physical well-being and independence in daily activities.

Key Differences:

1. Approach

• Chiropractic care centres on spinal adjustments to restore nervous system function.

• Physiotherapy utilises a comprehensive approach, addressing various physical issues throughout the body.

2. Philosophy

• Chiropractic care embraces a holistic philosophy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of spinal health and overall well-being.

• Physiotherapy focuses on rehabilitation, injury prevention, and systematic physical improvement.

3. Scope of practice

• Chiropractors specialise in spinal adjustments and nervous system function.

• Physiotherapists have a broader scope, addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal and other physical conditions.

Choosing between chiropractic treatment and physiotherapy depends on individual preferences, the nature of the condition, and recommendations from healthcare professionals. While chiropractic care may be suitable for those seeking spinal-focused treatments, physiotherapy offers a comprehensive addresses diverse muscuoskeletal issues.

Upon any chiropractic treatment or physiotherapy ensure that you speak with your practitioner about what you can expect from the treatment including the potential benefits and risks and how many sessions you may require. Additionally, check your Extras cover details to see your available benefits for these services via the Mobile App or Online Member Services

Sources: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/physiotherapy

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chiropractors-chiropractic-treatment

The importance of keeping your hearing in check

One in six adults in Australian experience some degree of hearing loss, and for people over 70, that number jumps to 3 in 4^. However, only one in three do anything to address it. You probably already get your eyes checked, so why not get your hearing tested as well? We understand how important your hearing is and we want to make sure that you continue to enjoy it for as long as possible.

For most people, hearing begins to deteriorate from their mid-thirties and it usually declines slowly over time meaning it can be hard to detect. The small, sensitive hair-like cells within the inner ear simply get worn out over the years.

When this happens, you don’t simply go deaf, but it becomes more and more difficult to understand sounds clearly, particularly speech. Whether you’re attending a business meeting or listening to family and friends, hearing well is vital. Untreated hearing loss can become a significant problem, impacting your relationships with others, participation in the community and even your independence.

If you do have hearing loss, today’s latest technology hearing aids work more effectively than ever and look discreet. Some are so small that people can't even tell you’re wearing them.

*If further testing is required, a fee may apply.

So, how do I know if I need to see an audiology professional?

• You have the TV or radio volume louder than is comfortable for others

• You find hearing over the telephone hard work

• Group conversations have become difficult to follow

• You ask people to repeat things or misunderstand what they say

• You’ve started avoiding places because you can’t hear properly

• Someone suggests you might not be hearing as well as you used to If these tell-tale signs sound familiar, you may benefit from a free* Hearing Check with an Audiology Professional. To find out more about the benefits Queensland Country Health Fund will pay visit the Mobile App or Online Member Services at members.queenslandcountry.health

^Sources:Page 11 https://www.deafnessforum.org.au/wp-content/uploads/documents/research_ publications/listen_hear_-_the_economic_impact_and_cost_of_hearing_loss_in_australia.pdf deafnessforum.org.au

Getting your health

in check

The start of a new year provides the perfect opportunity to re-evaluate our health habits and create new ones for the year ahead. But, instead of just setting surface-level resolutions, it’s important to get to the root cause of the issues that may be hindering your path to a healthier lifestyle. So, what steps can you take to ensure you can glide into a healthier 2024?

Do a dietary overhaul

The new year is a great time to re-evaluate your dietary habits. We know nutrition is crucial to fuelling energy, and a balanced and nutritious diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining our overall health. Making small adjustments, such as incorporating more whole foods, vegetables, and fruits, and reducing processed foods, can make a significant impact. And remember, the concept of “eating the rainbow” doesn’t just apply to our children.

Get your sleep schedule back on track

After the hustle and bustle of the post-holiday period, it’s not uncommon for our sleep to become disrupted. The transition from festive celebrations to regular routines often brings about irregular sleeping habits. If you’re struggling to realign your schedule, there are a wide range of natural sleep support products that can help support healthier night-time habits and reset your snooze button.

Note: All information supplied is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a qualified health practitioner.”

James Jensen Functional Medical Practitioner & Owner of Hello Health

Get up to date testing

Undergoing basic tests at the beginning of the year to assess your health can serve as a valuable means of identifying areas for improvement. It can also help determine if you have any nutritional gaps that might require supplementation. From B-12 to Iron, there are many supplements available to support optimal health. However, it’s crucial you do your research and speak to a qualified health practitioner before making any decisions.

Boost that vitamin D

We all know that sunlight is a major source of vitamin D and plays a key role in regulating the body’s immune system. This positively impacts our mood and helps to sustain our energy levels. Engaging in outdoor activities such as jogging, walking in the park, or even taking the dog to the beach, are all great ways to enhance your vitamin D. Every little bit counts, and building this consistently into your routine will have numerous benefits for your general health.

Remember, everything is all connected

It’s important to remember that every aspect of our health is interconnected. For instance, if you’re extremely fatigued, you’re likely not going to feel motivated to cook a healthy meal or go outdoors and exercise. If this is the case, you need to address your energy levels before you can tackle your nutrition or exercise goals. It’s truly a domino effect and recognising the interconnectedness of your health is the key to treating the root cause of the issue, rather than simply the symptoms.

Your health should be your priority, and taking a proactive approach to prevent potential health issues from arising is the best form of personal insurance. By implementing these few simple steps, you can help remove the hand break on your health and set yourself up for success this year.

and kids’ vision Screens

Kirby Phillips

Laubman and Pank

These days screen time can seem almost unavoidable. We relax and unwind by watching screens, we work on screens, we even do our banking on screens. But what impact does this have on the growth and development of our kids?

In 2019, the World Health Organization released a statement that children under the age of 5 need to spend less time watching screens and more time engaging in active play. There were several factors that played a part in this recommendation, and Laubman & Pank optometrist, Kirby Phillips, discusses the visual component.

Spending prolonged time doing near tasks, including using tablets and smart phones, has been shown to increase the likelihood of children becoming shortsighted.

Short-sightedness – also known as myopia – is the visual condition that causes blurry vision in the distance. Individuals who are short-sighted require glasses or contact lenses to correct their vision, and generally need to wear these visual aids on a full-time basis. Children who are short-sighted require glasses to see the board clearly at school, and if they don’t wear glasses, may complain of headaches and blurry vision.

Many optometrists see the effects of excessive near activities in the optometry room on a regular basis. The prevalence of short-sightedness, and visual fatigue in long-sighted children who spend too much time on screens continues to rise.

Symptoms of visual fatigue include headaches, sore eyes, excessive blinking, and blurry vision, all of which can impact on a child’s ability to learn and develop.

Children who are experiencing visual fatigue can have more difficulty with homework, reading, and shifting focus between the board and their desk at school. It’s important to recognise the symptoms of visual fatigue and short-sightedness in children, as they can lead to deficits in growth and learning.

The World Health Organization’s screen time recommendations for children under 5 years are:

• 0-1 years old: Screen time is not recommended.

• 2 years of age: No more than 1 hour per day; less is better.

• 3-4 years old: No more than 1 hour per day.

Sources: www.who.int/news/item/24-04-2019-to-grow-up-healthy-childrenneed-to-sit-less-and-play-more

Guuidelines: https://iris.who.int/bitstream/hand le/10665/311664/9789241550536-eng.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

The power of exercise beyond 50 for a

Darryl Grundy Founder and CEO, Avanti Health Centres

Vibrant and Healthy Life

With Australians living longer than ever before, it has never been more important for ageing individuals to maintain muscle strength, bone health, flexibility, and social connection. Alarmingly, statistics reveal that only one third of older individuals meet the recommended physical activity guidelines*. Yet, engaging in exercise beyond the age of 50 holds numerous benefits that have not only been linked to improved physical health but also a greater sense of happiness and fulfilment.

Improved Bone Health

Partaking in weight-bearing and resistance training exercises play a key role in improving both bone density and muscle strength. Exercises to improve bone density not only decrease the likelihood of falls but also helps to mitigate the risk of fractures and health conditions such as osteoporosis. This increased mobility that results from such exercises helps to support overall skeletal health and minimise the impact of potential health issues related to bone fragility.

Building Capacity

Regular exercise improves muscle strength and joint flexibility in older adults which enables them to conduct daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, lifting objects and getting out of a chair with greater ease. Beyond this, it opens up avenues to explore travel adventures and pursue life goals that are still on the bucket list. Research indicates that those who maintain an active lifestyle also tend to experience a faster recovery period following surgery or illness. Therefore, exercise plays a key role in building the capacity required to assist individuals both before and after any procedures or health concerns.

Cognitive and Social Benefits

Exercising is not just about physical fitness. It has also been associated with a decreased risk of memory loss, dementia, depression, and cognitive decline. When older adults exercise in a communal gym or shared space, it facilitates social interaction and connection. This helps to foster a sense of community and reduce social isolation which is a prevalent issue among older adults.

Individuals over 50 are discovering a newfound vitality through physical activity. In a society that often associates ageing with limitations, research has shown that positive ageing beliefs can increase life expectancy by 7.5 years. Rather than overlooking this age group, we should be celebrating increased longevity and the wonderful opportunities that ageing affords us.

*Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics – National Health Survey 2022 https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/ health-conditions-and-risks/physical-activity/latestrelease#people-aged-65-years-and-over

Exercising Safely

Accessing professional advice from medical and exercise professionals can help support people aged 50 and over to exercise safely and meet their health objectives for the following reasons:

1. Specialised Expertise: Exercise professionals bring specialised knowledge to address the unique health needs and concerns of over 50s.

2. Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: They can design customised exercise programs that focus on injury prevention and rehabilitation whilst enhancing mobility, flexibility, and balance.

3. Health Assessments and Monitoring: Regular health assessments and monitoring can help track an individual’s progress, identify potential risks, and tailor fitness plans accordingly.

4. Chronic Disease Management: They have the required skillset to tailor exercises that support in aiding and managing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or cardiovascular issues.

5. Adaption of Exercises: They can modify existing exercises to accommodate any pre-existing conditions or physical limitations that those over 50 may have or be at risk of.

Staff: volunteers Amazing

At Queensland Country Health Fund our team takes pride in residing and working within the same communities as our valued members. Among our remarkable staff, there are individuals who generously dedicate their time outside of work to volunteer for various noteworthy causes and organisations. We recently had the opportunity to sit down for a Q&A with two of our staff members, Glenn Seri and Mic Seaden to delve deeper into their volunteer experiences.

Glenn Seri –General Manager

1. Name of organisation you volunteer for Althea Projects

2. What inspired you to start volunteering?

Coming from the mutual sector, helping people has always been the focus. Now that my children are older it seemed like a good time to try volunteering.

3. Why did you choose to volunteer with this organisation? Althea Projects being local and making a real difference every day to people, particularly children, in our community were the key factors for me. We have amazing staff who truly go above and beyond what is expected and that is inspiring to be around.

4. How long have you been volunteering for this organisation? Just over a year.

5. What specific roles or activities have you been involved in? I am on the board and part of the board’s job is to help provide direction and support to the management and staff of the organisation.

6. What is the most rewarding aspect of volunteering for you? Just being part of an organisation that cares so much about people in our community. Althea Projects makes a real difference in people’s lives and being part of that is very rewarding.

7. Have you acquired new skills or perspectives through your volunteer experiences? Understanding how organisations like Althea Projects work, which is very different to my normal work life.

8. What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for the first time? Jump in and have a go. Organisations are always looking for volunteers but the truth of the matter is that you will probably get more out of it than the organisation!

Mic Seaden - Product Specialist SME

1. Name of organisation you volunteer for Rural Fire Brigade (RFS)

2. What inspired you to start volunteering?

My family – my Grandparents and Dad were very heavily involved in the Rural Fire Brigade and the SES while I was growing up. It was instilled in me from a young age that everyone should do something to help their community.

3 Why did you choose to volunteer with this organisation?

I chose RFS from the connection to my Grandparents. I also wanted to challenge myself, so it just seemed like the natural choice!

4. How long have you been volunteering for this organisation?

I have been volunteering for the RFS for 2 years now.

5. What specific roles or activities have you been involved in?

I am a firefighter, which means I am regularly involved in hazard reduction burns, call outs and community education. I have also been lucky enough to be have been deployed to Mt Isa last year to assist with the bushfires.

6. What is the most rewarding aspect of volunteering for you?

The most rewarding aspect for me is being able to assist the community in times of need.

7. Have you acquired new skills or perspectives through your volunteer experiences?

I have acquired a whole new skill set from joining RFS! Not only have I gained the skills necessary to be a firefighter, I have also developed my leadership and communication skills.

8. What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering for the first time?

Find something you are passionate about and give it a crack! It truly is the greatest feeling knowing you are doing something to help your community in times of need and you never know, you may make a whole new group of lifelong friends along the way!

Community spotlight

Townsville Running Festival

Queensland Country Health Fund is excited to once again sponsor the 5km Corporate Challenge at this year's Townsville Running Festival. This marks another year of our commitment to promoting health and well-being within our community.

Our ongoing dedication to the health of our Members aligns seamlessly with the festival's mission to celebrate fitness and vitality. This fantastic event takes place on Sunday, 4 August along the picturesque Strand in Townsville. With race categories spanning from 2.5km to the marathon's 42km, there's a challenge for every level.

As the proud major sponsor of the Queensland Country Health Fund 5km Corporate Challenge, we invite you to grab your co-workers, friends, or family and join us in the festivities. Whether you prefer walking, running, jumping, rolling, laughing, or crawling, our 5km challenge is a fun way to build team camaraderie and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Our continued involvement in the Townsville Running Festival is more than just sponsorship; it's a celebration of community health. So, lace up your sneakers and be part of the Queensland Country Health Fund 5km Corporate Challenge, register today!

Visit townsvillerunningfestival.com to register!

IMPORTANT DETAILS

Date: Sunday, 4 August 2024

Where: Jezzine Barracks, Townsville

From: 4.45am

Queensland

Catch Rosie in the Mascot Run at 9.10am

Queensland Country Health Fund

The Queensland Country Health Fund Mobile App

An easy way to manage and access your membership online.

Some of the great features include:

Online claiming

Ability to review your claims history

View policy details

View and edit contribution account and benefit account details

Check your annual benefit limits

View personal details and update your contact information

Order new Membership Cards

Make immediate payments by Visa or Mastercard

Access membership communications through your personal inbox

Upload a PDF document Provider search

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Login using biometric logins

*PLEASE

Follow these easy steps to download the Mobile App:

1. Visit our website, select Login then Online Member Services and select the Register option*

2. Enter the required information of the policy holder, securely confirm your membership and create a password

3. Download the Mobile App via the Apple Store or Google Play

4. Enter your Member Number and Password to access your policy information at your fingertips

How to submit a claim via the Mobile App:

1. Open the Mobile App and login

2. Tap the Claims icon and Submit claim

3. Upload a clear photo of the receipt

4. Enter an optional reference if you wish

5. Opt to send yourself an email receipt and agree with the Terms and Conditions

6. Submit your claim