MAY / JUNE 2020
B I T S ‘N P IE C ES
In April, Australians came together in remembrance and to honour the ANZAC spirit which is characterised by endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour and mateship. The Community Gro Team would like to pay our respects to and honour all the Australian Service Personnel, both past and present. LEST WE FORGET
OUR COMMUNITY CENTRES: Upper Ross Community Centre 1/43 Allambie Lane Rasmussen QLD 4815 Ph. 07 4774 0144 Garbutt Community Centre 15 Lonerganne St Garbutt QLD 4810 Ph. 07 4779 7268 www.communitygro.org.au enquiries@communitygro.org.au
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COMMUNITY GRO - UPDATE This is a difficult time for everyone in our community as we face the challenges presented by COVID-19; keeping our families safe, job losses and livelihoods lost. We strongly support the need for the whole community to stay home to prevent the spread of the virus and to protect those who are most vulnerable.
everyone looks after their physical and mental health. It is important for all us to get our Information from a reliable source, like the ABC or the QLD or Commonwealth Departments of Health. If you start to feel overwhelmed, try to restrict the amount of time watching the news. Information is changing rapidly; unfortunately this can also create opportunities for misIf you need support please call 47740144 information to circulate and also opportunities To comply with social distancing measures we for scammers to take advantage. have been required to close the door to our We will continue to share accurate information community centre’s until further advised. Whilst on our Facebook so please keep an eye on our we are unable to provide face to face contact Facebook https://www.facebook.com/communitygro/ page to receive updates. we still have staff on site to ensure our essential services keep running and we can continue At times like these we can feel that we have no to provide information and support to people. control so it is good to take charge of the things Our first priority is to ensure that the safety of we can ... like washing our hands, keeping in people who use our services, our volunteers touch with the people who are important to us and staff. This has meant the temporary even if we have to keep our distance, and suspension of our centre based activities. planning and preparing for change. Above all Secondly, we are working to deliver support to we encourage people to continue to be kind our communities. We are finding ways to con- and look out for others – especially those most tinue to provide services to existing and new vulnerable in our community. clients. Check in with your neighbours ... especially if During these difficult times it is important that they are elderly and they live alone. Please
FREE LEGAL SERVICE ONGOING TELEPHONE ADVICE SERVICE Our free legal advice clinic will continue by telephone appointments whilst the centre remains closed. Tuesdays 4 - 4.30pm Bookings essential - call 4774 0144
Office Services - (costs apply) are still available To support community with printing, scanning and emailing we are continuing to provide these services at the Upper Ross Community Centre during the closure. Please call to discuss your needs and how we can assist … Ph. 47740144
COMMUNITY GRO - PROGRAM UPDATE IMPORTANT—READ THIS NOW IF YOU NEED FINANCIAL HELP WITH THE PURCHASE OF ESSENTIAL HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, CAR EXPENSES, EDUCATION EXPENSES, MEDICAL EXPENSES. HAVE YOU LOST YOUR JOB DUE TO COVID-19? We are still processing NILS loan applications during the centre closure. Are you thinking of renting appliances or furniture? STOP! Do you know the true cost of these contracts over the term of the agreement (usually 2-3 years) can be up to four times the original purchase price? Maybe your car needs repairs, or your car registration is due and you don’t have the money to pay for this. Don’t go to a payday lender (such as Cash Converters, Money 3, Cigno). Not only do these lenders charge fees and interest, there are additional charges for missed payments which can very quickly see loans triple in the amount you owe. There is an alternative to renting and payday loans:
No Interest Loan Scheme
NILS (No Interest Loans Scheme) is a great alternative to rental arrangements and payday lenders. Eligibility criteria: Low income: holder of a Centrelink Health Care Card or Centrelink Pension Card or earning total net income (after tax) of less than $45,000 single, $60,000 family per year; have lived at current (or previous) address for at least 3 months. No minimum age limit however must be receiving an income to be eligible.
What can NILS be used for? These may include: Household items like fridges, washing machines, TV’s and furniture Medical procedures and dental services, prescription glasses Education essentials such as computers and text books Car repairs, tyres or registration Some other items as requested
Does not include: Food Rent Bills Cash Debts
To find out more contact Upper Ross Community Centre Ph. 47740144 or Garbutt Community Ph. 4779 7268 Or enquire by email to NILS_URCC@communitygro.org.au
UPPER UPPERROSS ROSSCOMMUNITY COMMUNITYCENTRE CENTRE https://communitygrofsh.blogspot.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ groups/2785777468209202/
ONLINE RESOURCES
Online community service directory for Qld parents, families, and professionals looking to find support. oneplace lists everything you need, from parenting groups to domestic and family violence support services.
https://www.oneplace.org.au/
https://www.practicalparenting.com.au/
A website with a lot of practical support for parents of children of all ages.
UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE ENROL NOW FOR HIPPY 2020
HIPPY is a FREE two-year, home-based early learning and parenting enrichment program for Upper Ross families with young children. Introducing Ganima Anau Age 4 HIPPY Tutor. Ganima has lived in the Upper Ross for about 10 years. Her favourite colour is purple and on the weekends she likes to spend quality time with her family, going to the beach and enjoying the outdoors. Q. Who is the HIPPY program for? A. All families that live in the Upper Ross area with a child turning 4 before 30th June 2020. Q. Why should parents/carers do the program? A. To benefit their child and prepare them for school, plus it is a free program! Q. What does a HIPPY tutor do? A. We deliver activity books to the families homes once a week, and spend time with the parents/carers th To be eligible to enrol your child must be aged 4 by 30 explaining how to use them. There is 30 activity June 2020 and reside in the Upper Ross (Condon, Kelso, books over the first year, and the children receive reading books as well. Rasmussen). For more information or to enrol in the Q. What do you like about the program? program contact HIPPY Program Coordinator – Boleen A. I enjoy working with families in the Gorringe on 0427 251 993 or 47740144 or email: community. It is a great program. bgorringe@communitygro.org.au
Introducing one of our new age 4 HIPPY families for 2020. My first home visit with Anika and her daughter Destiny. The excitement on their faces when receiving the HIPPY box with stationary and gifts. It was a delight meeting Destiny, who was keen on interacting in the first HIPPY activities with her Mum Anika. I would like to congratulate Anika in taking the first step in this great 2 year program, that will benefit and prepare Destiny with her confidence in starting school. Ganima Anau Age 4 Tutor
ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE UPPER ROSS UPPER COMMUNITY CENTRE Training Information Due to social distancing measures for Covid -19 our Skilling Queenslanders for Work program is currently on hold. We are looking forward to when the restrictions are lifted and we can safely deliver training once again. We are still taking expression of interest (EOI) for the program and this can be done online through our website under the Skilling Queenslanders for work tab. If you are currently not working or studying or due to the virus have lost your job and want to re-skill in the Community services sector then this program is for you. Submit your EOI online or give us a call to find out more.
Check out Busy at Work for Australian Government funded employment assistance programs. Give them a call to ask about your eligibility 1300 359 061
UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE 2020 Qld Women’s Day - ‘Celebrate our diverse community of Strong women’ On Monday 9th March, our very own Shield of H.E.R.S Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Group hosted the 2020 Queensland women’s week event at the Upper Ross Community Centre. Over 40 women came together to Celebrate a diverse community of Strong women’. It was an amazing time for all, the theme highlighted the diversity of women in Queensland and how it aimed to empower and inspire all women and girls to embrace and celebrate their unique qualities and experiences. It is vital to recognise and celebrate our diversity as it enriches and strengthens our families and our communities . Everyone has a role to play in creating a community that respects women, embraces gender equality, and promotes and protects rights, interests and wellbeing of women and girls. We were absolutely honored to have Heather, Glenda and Marie (pictured) as our guest speakers who shared their life experiences, challenges and story of how they continue to rise above it all. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended and the participants of the Shield of H.E.R.S women’s group for their assistance in coordinating this inspiring event. You all did an amazing job. Also, I have some very exciting news to share, I have created our very own private Facebook Group to assist us to stay connected during Covid19. So keep an eye out for your invitation.
Community Connect Program In response to the COVID19 situation, I want to inform you all that I am available via phone to assist with any worries, concerns or struggles you may be experiencing, so please do not hesitate to contact me. Our doors may be closed but our phone lines are open, so if you need support, information, advice or referral please give me a call at the Upper Ross Community Centre on 4774 0144.
Stay Safe and stay Blessed: Topsy Tapim Community Connect Worker Facilitator: Shield Of H..E.R.S Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Women’s Group
COMMUNITY INFORMATION UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE A MESSAGE FROM OUR YOUTH WORKERS HI KIDS, Everyone from the Centre wanted to let you know that we haven’t gone anywhere. We all hope you are keeping safe at Home and staying busy while YOUTH NIGHT is closed. We have put together a YOUTH PACK with some useful things for you to have at home until we open again. Even though we can’t be at the centre right now we can still come and visit you after school or come around home to see how you are doing. If you would like us to come visit or you want to know what is happening with YOUTH GROUP, MISS BEC’S mobile number is 0411 843 061. See you all again very soon
Home Schooling Tips 1. Keep calm and establish a routine so your kids know what to expect. 2. Plan out each day, have a daily plan on the fridge and set a consistent start time , as without a start time screens can gobble up the hours 3. Be Flexible and if kids finish early celebrate– days do not have to be 9am—3pm if your kids are fast in their work. 4. Don’t Panic 5. Keep the kids motivated and inject the fun about your kids falling behind. 6. Add in breaks for fun and socialising 7.Don’t stress that you have to be their teacher-you are just a guide using the tools provided 8. Community Support 9.Don’t put too much pressure on yourself
Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday nights @ the Upper Ross Community Centre 3:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Come along and chill, have a feed, all free. For Ages 10-17 years
COMMUNITY INFORMATION UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE
The Tenancy Skills for Successful Tenancies - Dollars and Sense is a free tenancy skills training program which is for people who are wanting to rent successfully in the private rental market. The training can help you prepare for and maintain a residential tenancy. No matter what age, gender or whatever your circumstances are, if you’re thinking about renting, these classes are for you. Even if you're currently renting, you'll discover solutions to common renting problems and gain new life skills. Upon completion, graduates receive a certificate which is recognised by real estate agents who are committed supporters of the program.
Next Course: Tues 5th - Fri 8th May. Morning & Afternoon sessions available 10.00am-12.30pm or 2.00pm-4.30pm (AEST) Bookings essential - Book Online What to know more or to book your place in the next course visit: https://www.tenancyskills.com.au/skillsets/ Skillsets for Successful Tenancies - Dollars and Sense is funded by the Queensland Government.
FYI PARENTS!
The ABC Network has some fantastic resources for home learning.
https://education.abc.net.au/home#!/home
COMMUNITY INFORMATION COMUNITY UPPER ROSSINFO... COMMUNITY CENTRE This is an excellent opportunity to hone in your computer skills. Join Be Connected to help you navigate online. Its free to register and free to learn. Follow the simple steps below to get started 1. Go to the BeConnected page https://beconnected.esafety.gov.au 2. Click on Sign in/Sign up button at the right hand side 3. If you are a first time user, fill in your details and select Community GRO in the Name of Support Centre box. (select either Upper Ross Community Centre or Garbutt Community Centre) 4. Fill in your other details and click Sign Up for Free. 5. On the main page head to Topic Library. 6. Enjoy Browsing through the topics at your pace. There is a lot of useful information and online tutorials.
The Townsville City Council libraries may be closed, but they are still here delivering your favourites online so you and the kids can enjoy from the comfort of your home! Plus there is something for everyone in their online resources section, all you have to do is become a member of our CityLibraries and start enjoying audio books, movies, comics and more for FREE! Storytime - Join the team every Wednesday at 10am, suitable for 3-5 yrs of age Online Resources - Online membership with CityLibraries provides you with instant 24x7 access to the library’s databases, online learning resources, and thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks and online magazines. Become a member and start enjoying the library for FREE. Join online now. Council Mobile Apps To report a problem to Townsville City Council online visit Report a Problem or download the Council Mobile Apps: iCouncil for iPhone and iPad Snap Send Solve for Android
COMMUNITY INFORMATION UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE
COMMUNITY VISITORS SCHEME TOWNSVILLE - Recruiting Volunteers NOW The Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) is a national program funded by the Australian Government. The CVS aims to enrich the quality of life of residents of aged care homes who are socially isolated or lonely, and would benefit from a friendly visitor. Due to the social distancing measures for COVID-19 our volunteers are unable to visit their residents at this time however we know that when the social distancing measures are lifted there will be many residents of aged care facilities that will be in need of social interaction and would benefit from having a CVS volunteer visit. During this period we are working hard to build up our wonderful team of volunteers so that we will be ready to recommence the visits when the social restrictions are lifted. If you can spare an hour each fortnight and would like to visit an elderly resident of a local aged care home int Townsville please call our CVS Program Coordinator, Tina Glenwright on 47740144 or email tglenwright@communitygro.org.au
SUPPORT OURCOMMUNITY ADVERTISERS... UPPER ROSS CENTRE We bulk bill for services provided to DVA, HCF “More for Teeth” program & children and teenagers are eligible through the Child Dental Benefits Scheme • • • • • •
Tooth Cleaning Fillings Extractions Dental Sealants Dentures Crowns
• • • • • •
Bridges Veneers Root Canals Cosmetic Dentistry Whitening
Mon—Fri Saturday Sunday & Public Holidays
8-8 9-3 9-1
Locally owned and run business • Easy access and plenty of parking at front and rear Cnr Riverway Drive & Gollogly Lane, Rasmussen Phone: 4755 4654 •
Rasmussen Tyre and Mechanical (Next to Puma Servo) Repairs & Tyres Guaranteed Mechanical Repairs to all vehicles www.facebook.com/rasmussenmechanic/ rasmussenmechanical@outlook.com
PH: 4789 1299 Unit 2/1231 Riverway Dr Rasmussen
COMMUNITY INFORMATION UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE
ANZAC DAY 2020 ANZAC Day 2020 looked very different and yet it was just as beautiful a celebration as previous years. In times of crisis its so important for us to remember those who have gone before us and those who continue to serve to protect us - to celebrate and remember the ANZAC Spirit which is characterised by endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour and mateship. Some of you may be home-schooling your children right now and if you are looking for some fantastic resources about the ANZACS, and Australia’s proud military history, look no further than the Australian War memorial “Learning from Home” page. Their resources are interactive, informative and FREE! ➔ Here is the link - https://www.awm.gov.au/learn/learning-from-home The RSL also have a fantastic program called “ANZAC Bears” which is specifically aimed at Primary-aged children. ➔ Here is the link—https://anzacbears.com.au/learning-activities/
GARBUTT COMMUNITY CENTRE GARBUTT COMMUNITY CENTRE UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE
GARBUTT COMMUNITY CENTRE UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE
A MESSAGE FROM AARON HARPER MP
E: Thuringowa@parliament.qld.gov.au
Ph: 07 4766 3100
During the extraordinary times we are currently living in, with the COVID-19 Pandemic, I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone for doing their part in “flattening the curve”. The Prime Minister and Premier have listened to the advice given to them from Scientists and Chief Medical Officers, to eliminate the coronavirus in Australia and we are extremely lucky that our Leaders took charge of this serious situation as it started spreading across the globe. As we watch the news, and sadly how other countries are faring, it puts things into perspective of how lucky we are to live in Australia.
PO Box 393, Thuringowa Central Qld 4817
The Care Army is a welcome initiative for our most vulnerable people in the community. If you need assistance or want to join the Care Army, more details can be found at: contact the Care Army on 1800 173 349 or www.covid19.qld.gov.au/carearmy To keep up to date on Government actions that relate to you, your friends, family and businesses, visit the dedicated website www.covid19.qld.gov.au Other important contacts are: Latest Health Info: 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) www.health.qld.gov.au/ coronavirus
Small Business Hotline 1300 654 687 www.business.qld.gov.au/
I know the restrictions that have been laid out for us Community Recovery Federal Gov Support can be difficult and frustrating and a lot of people are https://treasury.gov.au/ Hotline (Care Army) hurting financially. Regrettably, these restrictions are coronavirus 1800 173 349 necessary to ensure the safety of everyone especialNational Coronavirus ly those who are most vulnerable in our community. Lifeline Support Helpline The number of infections are lowering, the re13 11 14 1800 020 080 strictions are being slowly lifted, however we must not become complacent as community safety is a Stay safe and look after one another. priority. Warm regards, Aaron Harper MP Office Location: Thuringowa Centre, Unit 8B, 48 Thuringowa Drive, Kirwan QLD 4817
Looking after Locals
Bits ‘n Pieces is a Department of Communities Initiative. Disclaimer: This newsletter is produced with assistance and contributions from the community. The contents of this publication does not, therefore, necessarily reflect the views of the organisation.