July Aug 2016 colour copy

Bits ‘n Pieces A FREE Community Newsletter for the Upper Ross July / August 2016 Upper Ross Community Centre 1/43 Allambie Lane, Rasmussen, 4815 Ph: 4774 0144 Fax: 4774 0909 Email: communitycentre@nqcs.org.au A division of NQ Community Services Volume 11, Issue 4

CONTENTS Ÿ

Child Health Clinic

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Community Courses

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Census Day - 9th August - Be counted For more than 100 years the Census has provided a snapshot of Australia, showing who we are, where we live and how we are changing.

The Census provides an opportunity for everyone in the community to play a role in shaping the future of Australia. The First Aid information collected helps estimate Australia’s population which Course is used to make informed decisions on policy and planning for Free Computer services in your community such as housing, transport, education, industry and hospitals.

Access The 2016 Census will be Australia’s first predominantly digital Free Legal Census, with an estimated 65% of households expected to Advice complete the Census online. From August 01, households will receive a letter with their unique login, along with instructions on Community how to complete the Census online. Paper forms will still be Calendar available to households that require them however they will not automatically be mailed. These must be requested (through a After School dedicated request line) and will then be delivered, along with a Activities return reply paid envelope. Census enquiries hotline: Phone 1300 214531.

JP Service A Census Collections Officer will be available at the Upper Ross Community Centre on Census Day, from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm. to No Interest provide assistance to residents who may have difficulty in Loans completing for their Census.

For more information visit: census.abs.gov.au Playgroup Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/upper.centre

What’s on in your community ...

WHEN

EVENT

TIME

COST

REGULAR EVENTS Tuesdays

Tuesdays Fridays 3rd Fri of the month 1st Tues of the month Tues & Wed

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander WOMEN’S Group meet at the Upper Ross Community Centre. Fun activities, arts & craft, education & support services. Contact the Community Centre for more info or just come along and join in.

Uncle Alfred’s Mens Group - see pg 3 for more info.

Delivering mentoring and guidance of Cultural men’s business.

Contact Uncle Alfred 0422 872 011 Dive-in ‘Movie Nights at Riverway Lagoon 15th July - Pan, 19th August - Goosebumps, 16th Sept - Minions Upper Ross Community Voice meeting Come along and voice your ideas/concerns about issues in the Upper Ross.

Centrelink Service Officer - Outreach Service Visits Tuesdays - July 12th & 26th, August 9th & 23rd, Sept 6th & 20th Wednesdays: July 20th, August 3rd, 17th & 31st, Sept 14th & 28th

10.00 am to 12.00 pm

Free

Tues 7 pm Fri TBA

Free

6.30 pm

Free

6.00 7.00 pm

Free

Tue 11.30 - Free 12.30 pm Wed 9.30 10.30 am

Aug Wed 10th

City Libraries FREE Computer Training - Upper Ross Community Centre See page 8 for more info Sat 13th First Aid Training - Upper Ross Community Centre Contact the Community Centre to book Ph 4774 0144 Fri 15th Fun family day - Official Opening of Bluewattle’s two new parks. Try out the new 10m tall tower with slides and play equipment.

Thur 25th Seniors Luncheon - Celebrating Seniors Week & Fri 26th Refer to pg 8 for more info

10.00 am - Free 12.00 pm 8.00 am 3.00 pm

Cost see pg 7

10.00 am - Free 2.00 pm Free

10.30 am 1.30 pm

Sept Wed 14th

City Libraries FREE Computer Training - Upper Ross Community Centre See page 8 for more info

10.00 am - Free 12.00 pm

Expressions of Interest The Upper Ross Community Centre is interested to hear from qualified, experienced people in the community who might be intereted in running a community café from our community centre.

We envisage the community café operating as a social enterprise, giving a small business opportunity to the right person/people. It could also provide opportunities for employing trainees and engaging interested volunteers.

If you love catering, have a food supervisors certificate and are ready to take the next step into running your own business, please get in touch with us and we can discuss this opportunity with you. Contact Susan Perry on 47740144 for more details.

Uncle Alfred’s Men’s Group receives YOUI grant Alfred Smallwood, or Uncle Alfred as he is more commonly known in the community, was recently awarded $1000 from Youi in recognition to his tireless and selfless dedication to helping men reconnect with family and community through the Uncle Alfred’s Men’s Group.

Uncle Alfred, an Indigenous Elder and Community Leader, is dedicated to creating real change for men in the community, focusing on cultural mentoring and teaching men to once again become the father, protector and role model within the family.

Many men have become lost due to drugs, alcohol and crime and the group enables men to come together and be part of a trusted circle in a confidential, respectful and safe environment where they can come to share and talk about problems.

The group which has been running for about 7 years, receives no funding and is run totally on a volunteer basis, reflecting Uncle Alfred’s compassion and dedication to helping men turn their lives around. Uncle Alfred said he was unaware that he had been nominated for the grant and was very appreciative to Helen Lindley for the nomination. Helen is another dedicated volunteer who has provided supper to the Men’s Group weekly meeting for many years.

Mr Smallwood said the funding provides an opportunity for the group to establish an Art and Craft program.

Uncle Alfred’s Men’s Group meets every Tuesday night at 7.00 pm at the Churches of Christ Care, Cnr Palmerston and Ronan Street, Vincent. All men experiencing hardship are encouraged to come along. Transport is available.

The group will also shortly commence meeting at the Upper Ross Community Centre on Friday afternoons (time to be confirmed).

Contact Uncle Alfred on 0422 872011 or email alfredsmallwood@hotmail.com

No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) Need a new fridge? Washer just died? Car Rego due?

NO Fees NO Interest NO Charges

The NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME (NILS) provides an alternative to renting or using payday lenders. Through NILS, individuals and families on low incomes have access to safe, fair and affordable credit. The loan

(max of $1,200) can be used to purchase essential household goods and services, including vehicle tyres and registration. It cannot be used to pay bills. Loan repayments are made through affordable fortnightly Centrepay Deductions (repayment amount calculated based on a maximum loan term of 12 months).

If you receive a Centrelink benefit and live in the Upper Ross (Condon, Rasmussen, Kelso) you may be

UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE 1/43 Allambie Lane (next to PCYC) Are you 13 years or older and want somewhere to hang out and have fun with friends in a safe environment?

We have a space for you to do this.

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Food

Living Strong Program - focus on a healthy lifestyle The Living Strong Program is a group based healthy lifestyle program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults. Living Strong is about helping people to make long term lifestyle changes through good nutrition and physical activity and teaches life skills to enable participants to do this in their daily lives.

Participants attend a series of workshops and learn about healthier food and drink choices, how to read food labels, better ways to spend grocery money and buying and cooking healthy food. They also learn about ealth issues such as diabetes awareness, exercise and self esteem.

The program is being held at the Upper Ross Community Centre each Wednesday from 10.00 am to 12.00 pm. Come along and join in the fun, interactive workshops.

For more information contact the Upper Ross Community Centre Ph 47740144 or TAHIS Kirwan Campus Ph. 4433 9500

My Health Record: What’s it all about ...

All North Queenslanders recently received a letter in the post about the automatic creation of their My Health Record. This is the new name of the national digital health record system. Having a My Health Record means your important health information like allergies, medical conditions and treatments, medicine details, test or scan reports can be accessed through one system. Healthcare providers like doctors, specialists and hospital staff can see it online from anywhere at any time when they need to, like in an accident or emergency.

An information session on My Health Record is being held at the Upper Ross Community Centre on Wednesday 10th August 1.00 - 2.00 pm. Staff from Northern Queensland Primary Health Network will be on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Contact the Community Centre on 47740144 to register your interest in attending.

CEO Sleepout NQ Community Services CEO, Susan Perry, recently participated in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout. The sleepout aims to raise the profile of homelessness and raises crucial funds for Vinnies Homeless Services, including providing immediate and emergency housing assistance and pathways to a brighter future.

Susan raised $1,555 for Vinnies Homeless Services.

Tax Time - do you need help lodging your tax return?

The Tax Help program is a network of ATO trained and accredited community volunteers who provide a FREE confidential service to help people complete their tax returns online using myTax. Tax Help runs from mid July through to the end of October.

Volunteers can help you lodge your return or claim a refund for franking credits, or help you complete a non-logdement advice if you do not need to lodge a tax return. They cannot help with amendments of previous years returns however they can assist with the lodgement of previous years tax returns.

Are you Eligible for Tax Help?

You are eligible for Tax Help if your income is $50,000 or less and you did not: * work as a contractor * run a business (including sole trader) * own a rental property * have partnership or trust matters * sell shares or an investment * have a capital gain * receive royalties * receive income from a trust other than managed funds * receive foreign income, other than a foreign pension or annuity Tax Help appointments are available at the Upper Ross Community Centre. Bookings are essential. Call the Community Centre to book an appointment: 4774 0144.

Please ensure you bring your MyGov login details with you to your appointment.

Please advise when booking if you do not have a MyGov account as extra time will be needed to set this up to enable lodgement of your tax return.

Community Spotlight ...

Michael Stainbrook Michael Stainbrook is the pastor at Northreach Baptist Church Upper Ross. Northreach Upper Ross started in 2012 as a sister church to Northreach Kirwan and Northern Beaches Connection.

Michael and his wife Ruth have lived and worked in the Upper Ross for more than ten years. They love the area and love the people in the area.

From time to time Michael is asked “Do churches in Australia even matter anymore”?

He would like to think so! Northreach Upper Ross sees itself as a church that serves the community and they run a number of projects to do this.

On Thursday mornings they run an emergency food program where people in need can come and get some assistance to tide them over. They also have a small donation scheme of second-hand washing machines for families in need. Northreach

FREE After School Programs at the Upper Ross Community Centre for Prep to Yr 6 students (school terms)

Afternoon Tea Provided

Free Homework Club Wednesday 3-4.00 pm

Thursday 3-4.00 pm

Upper Ross is also involved with Rotary, and community events held by the Upper Ross Community Centre and PCYC. They are always ready to help out where they can.

Church service is held on Sundays in the Pulse Hall at the Upper Ross PCYC at 3pm.

Everyone is welcome to come along.

If you have any questions do not hesitate in giving Michael a call on 47892918.

Phone: 47892918

Bits ‘n Pieces is a Department of Communities supported initiative.

Disclaimer: This newsletter is produced with assistance and contributions from the community. The contents of this publication do not, therefore, necessarily reflect the views of the organisation.

Survey into Community Needs The Upper Ross Community Centre is keen to foster social and economic development in the Upper Ross - based on our experience running community services for almost 40 years. We believe the Upper Ross has limited training and employment opportunities, leisure choices and places to eat. We really want to know what the community thinks. What do you think we need in this area?

We have developed a Community Needs Survey that we would like to see distributed as widely as possible to all sections of the community. Hard copies are available from the Community Centre or give us a call and we can email a copy. Alternatively, you can download a copy from our facebook page www.facebook.com/upper.centre or website. http://www.nqcs.org.au/

Centrelink Service Officer available at the Upper Ross Community Centre No appointment needed See ‘What’s on in your Community” pg 2 for session days, times and dates.

Justice of the Peace (JP) Service available at the Upper Ross Community Centre Wednesday mornings 9.00 - 11.00 am No appointment needed

FREE LEGAL ADVICE SERVICE Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Tuesday’s from 4pm Face to face or phone appointments Bookings are essential Contact the Upper Ross Community Centre to book 4774 0144

UPPER ROSS MEDICAL CENTRE 11 9 9 R I V E R W AY D R I V E , R A S M U S S E N - P H . 4 7 7 4 0 2 9 9 Open 7 days - Extended weekday hours

PINNACLE MEDICAL CENTRE 9 7 5 R I V E R W AY D R I V E , C N R G O L L O G LY S L A N E - C O N D O N - P H . 4 7 7 3 5 1 7 0 Open 5 days (Monday to Friday) 8am to 5pm

www.urmc.com.au FAMILY ORIENTATED - BULK BILLING FOR ALL PATIENTS Female Doctor available, experienced GP's Special interests include - Skin & Health Checks, Women's Health, Chronic Disease Management, Aged Care Other services provided by - Mental Health Nurse, Physiotherapist, Phone for an appointment – walk in's also accepted

First Aid & CPR Course

@ Upper Ross Community Centre

Next Course Date: Saturday 13th Aug 8.00 am - 3.00 pm Cost: First Aid (including CPR) $100 Perform CPR only $50 Anaphylaxis $40 Asthma $40

To reserve your place call 47740144. Bookings essential

Seniors Luncheon This is a FREE event as part of National Seniors Week. It is a celebratory luncheon to honour the lives, achievements and valuable contributions made to the community by our older residents. A catered lunch is provided, along with entertainment.

The luncheon is held at the RSL Stadium, Murray Lyons Cresent, Annandale on Thursday 25th and Friday 26th August, 10.30 am - 1.30 pm. Tickets are essential and available to Townsville residents aged 60 year and over. Tickets are available from the TicketShop counter or by phoning TicketShop 47279797. Free transport is available 70 years and over.

Community Computer Training

by Citylibraries

@ Upper Ross Commmunity Centre 1/43 Allambie Lane, Rasmussen

Cost: FREE Online Shopping & Banking 10am - 12pm 10th August Facebook 10am - 12pm 14th September Bookings essential Ph: 4774 0144

Free Computer Access & Wifi Do you need access to a computer to search or apply for jobs ? Need to access your emails? Catch up with friends through social media?

No problem. The Upper Ross Community Centre has computers and free WIFI Office services are also available - printing, faxing, scanning, laminating, emailing Costs apply to office services

Townsville Regional Community Visitors Scheme Do you have any spare time and would like to visit the elderly in our local aged care homes.

The Community Visitors Scheme 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.

As a community visitor, you need to be committed to visiting your resident friend at least once a fortnight. And become a special friend to them. You can enjoy walks, reading the news, joining in the homes activities or even go out on an outing.

For more information please give the Upper Ross Community Centre a call on 47740144 or email Tina on tglenwright@nqcs.org.au

Books

The Community Centre has books for sale 50c each or bring in your old books and exchange books for free

RASMUSSEN “ Specialising in the Upper Ross” MECHANICAL

9 Connemara Course, Kelso

Repairs & Tyres

www.rossriver.com.au

Unit 2 / 1231 Riverway Dr Rasmussen

Next to Puma Servo

N & J DEVALTER YOUR LOCAL BLOKE SERVICING THE UPPER ROSS AND SURROUNDS

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING

Ph: 4789 1299

SERVICING ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

Guaranteed Mechanical Repairs to all vehicles

PHONE: 0429 648 399 Electrical Contractor No. 69820

OPEN 7 DAYS

Mon - Fri 8 - 8 Saturday 9 - 3 Sunday & Public Holidays 9 - 1 Ÿ Locally Owned and run business Ÿ Easy access and plenty of parking at front and rear

Cnr Riverway Drive and Gollogly Lane, Rasmussen Phone: 4755 4654 Free One-on-One Computer Lessons

Want to update your computer skills? Maybe your starting out with basic computing. Do you have a smartphone or tablet and not sure how to use it.

Don’t stress... Our volunteer tutor can help.

Bring along your laptop, tablet or smartphone or if your prefer, you can use one of the community centres computers. Bookings are essential. : 47740144 Advertise in Bits ‘n Pieces - help locals support locals 12,000 print copies distributed annually to local businesses, organisations and local residents. Contact the Upper Ross Community Centre on 4774 0144 for more info.

funded for NQ Community Services. This means local people with high needs won’t miss out on the kind of services they require, with extra services available for those who are Well it’s the middle of 2016 and time is flying affected by domestic and family violence. by.

This will also help people access support for counselling, parenting help, financial literacy and other social programs. Best of all, this supports our local neighbourhood and the Upper Ross Community Centre to continue the vital work that they already do. I believe Neighbourhood Centres are the backbone of our Community and I commend and As a result of my ongoing representations all congratulate all staff on the outstanding work of these areas have received significant they do in our local centre. funding increases. I am especially pleased that the Upper Ross Community Centre has Warm regards, also received a funding boost in this budget. Aaron Harper A new Community Connect worker has been State Member for Thuringowa The 2016/17 Budget is out. I have been determined to deliver more funding for Townsville over a wide range of areas including Health, Education, Police and Emergency Services, Disabilities, Public Housing, our RSPCA, Communities, Roads, and infrastructure.

Down

2 Rings, mat & bars sport 3 3rd place in the Olympics 5 A team sport with 5 players per team 6 Fastest time in the ever 8 Taking drugs to increase performance 10 City of 1900 Summer Olympics 12 1st place in the Olympics 14 Swimming pool event 15 Refuse to attend the Olympics for political reasons 17 A racket sport 19 An event where athletes shoot a bow and arrow 20 An event where athletes throw a spear 21 An event where athletes throw a heavy ball 24 A race where runners pass a baton

Across

1 An event where athletes fight with gloves 4 A race where runners jump an obstacle 5 City of 1936 Summer Olympics 7 An event where athletes try to leap the farthest 9 Second place in the Olympics 11 An event with paddles 13 A very long running race

16 An event where athletes throw a flat circle 18 Team sport with a net and 6 placers per team 22 City of 2004 Summer Olympics 23 A team sport with eleven players per team 25 Events with horses 26 City of 1976 Summer Olympics 27 City of 2000 Summer Olympics

Food for thought...

A wealthy businessman decided to take a walk and eat his lunch at the same time. As he strolled near a park, he purchased a hotdog. On two occasions men approached him and asked, “Can you help me? I'm hungry.” Each time the businessman looked straight ahead and kept walking. Later for desert, he bought a chocolate éclair. Just as he was about to take a bite, he had to jump out of the way to avoid a boy on a skateboard. The éclair fell to the ground. The businessman picked it up and tried to clean it, but it was useless, it was caked with mud.

As he was about to throw it away, an idea struck him. He walked over to one of the beggars and handed him the dirty éclair. “Here my good man is something for your hunger.” He smiled to himself and walked back to his office. That night the businessman dreamed he was sitting in a large crowded café with waitresses running back and forth, bringing customers delicious cakes. The waitresses all ignored the businessman though he waved at them continually. Finally, he caught the eye of a young woman and asked for something to eat. She returned with a dirty piece of éclair.

The man was outraged. “You can't treat me this way!” He insisted, “I have the right to be served just like anyone else. I expect to get good value for my money”. “You don't seem to understand,” the waitress said kindly. “You can't buy anything here. You have just arrived in heaven and all you can order here, is what you sent ahead while you were on earth. The only item we have listed in your name is this muddy éclair.”

WHAT’S ON AT THE UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE Regular weekly Activities 9:30 - 12.00pm Craft Mondays 9:00 - 4.00pm Free Computer Access Ÿ Ÿ

Tuesdays Wednesdays

Thursdays

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9:00 - 4.00pm 9:30 - 11:30am 12.30 - 3.30pm 4:00 - 4.30pm

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9:00 - 11:00am 9:30 - 3.30pm 9:00 - 4.00pm 3:15 - 4.30pm

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9:00 - 12.00pm 9.30 - 12.00pm 9.30 - 12.00 9:30 - 11:30am 9.30 - 3.30pm 9:00 - 4.00pm 3.00 - 4.00pm

Free Computer Access Timeout - Games/Cards Free Computer Lessons Legal Advice Service Free JP Service Free Computer Lessons Free Computer Access Homework Program F

Child Health Clinic Social Cards Sewing morning Playgroup Free Computer Lessons Free Computer Access Children’s Arts & Craft

Centre Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.00 am to 4.00 pm

We are now open on Fridays

WHERE TO PICK UP YOUR COPY OF BITS ‘n PIECES Our Bits’n Pieces newsletter is available online at our website http://www.nqcs.org.au OR you can grab a copy at the following places: *Kelso Fish Shop *Carlyle Gardens *UR Medical & Pinnacle Medical Centres *Gumvale Mini Mart *Riverway Chemist *Riverway Snackbar *McDonalds Rasmussn *Woolworths Rasmussen *Salvation Army Beck Rd OR you can call into the Upper Ross Community Centre to pick up a copy and stay for a chat.

Advertise in the Newsletter - Phone 4774 0144