Mar Apr Bits n Pieces Newsletter

Bits ‘n Pieces A FREE Community Newsletter for the Upper Ross March / April 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 2

&CONTENTS Ÿ

Child Health & Midwife

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Community Courses

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First Aid Course

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Unified Voice for Upper Ross Community A community consultation meeting was held at the Upper Ross Community Centre on 10 February 2016. An estimated 80 people attended the meeting including representatives from Queensland Police, Townsville City Council, Queensland Government departments, business owners and local mums and dads. It was fantastic to see so many people attend the meeting and to hear how passionate folks are about the Upper Ross region.

The consultation group will provide Upper Ross residents with a Free Computer collective and unified voice to address the concerns of residents in Access order to make the Upper Ross an even better place to live and to attract new families to the area . Sentiments from attendees was Free Legal that for too long the Upper Ross has been neglected by local Advice council and governments and it is now time to speak up for change. Things won’t change overnight but it will happen.

HIPPY Aaron Harper MP, Member for Thuringowa, reflected on the Homework success of the Northern Beaches consultation group and is Program confident this success can be duplicated in the Upper Ross.

Given the expected growth of the area now is the time for action.

JP The monthly meetings will be held 6.30pm on the first No Interest Thursday of each month at the Loans Upper Ross Community Centre and everyone is Playgroup welcome to attend.

Puzzle

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/upper.centre

Upper Ross Community Markets - Apex Park, Riverway Dr Rasmussen Every 2nd Saturday 3.00 pm to 7.00 pm

What’s on in your community ...

WHEN

EVENT

TIME

COST

REGULAR EVENTS Tuesdays

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.

Tuesdays Uncle Alfred’s Mens Suport Group - meets at the Upper Ross Community Centre. Delivering mentoring and overall guide of Cultural men’s business. Contact Uncle Alfred 0422 872 011 3rd Fri of Dive-in movie Nights at Riverway Lagoon the month See Townsville City Council website for more info.

Every 2nd Upper Ross Community Markets - NEW TIME Sat Apex Park, Riverway Drive Rasmussen (Opposite Shops) Upcoming dates: 12 & 26th March, 9th & 23rd April, 7th&21st May

10.00 am to 12.00 pm

Free

2.00 pm 4.00 pm

Free

7.15 pm

3 pm to 7.00 pm

Free

Free

9.00 am 2.00 pm

$10

10.00 am 12.00 pm

Harmony Day - Celebrating Cultural Australia’s Diversity @ the Upper Ross Community Centre see pg 7 more info

Free

11.00 am 2.00 pm

First Aid Training - Upper Ross Community Centre First Aid $100, Anaphalyxis & Asthma $60, CPR Refresher $50 Contact the Community Centre to book Ph 4774 0144 Free Movie Night - Jeff Caddies Park Bluewattle Movie - Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. Food available BBQ Sausage Sizzle by Rotary, Popcorn by Scouts

8.00 am 3.00 pm

$50 to $100

6.00 pm

Free

9.30 am 2.30 pm

Free

10.00 12.00

Gold coin donation

March Tues 8th Wed 9th Thur 10th Fri 11th Mon 21st

QLD Women’s Week INVIGORATE Creative Arts Workshop @ Riverway Arts Centre Various workshops including dance, circus, stencil it, shadow puppets + more. workshops 1-2hrs each PCYC Wellington St - Morning Melodies ‘The Dance Band’ Morning Tea provided, transport available $4 return

April Sat 9th

Fri 15th

May Sat 7th

Deadly Families Day Out @ Riverway. load of fun family friendly activities, food and drink available Tues 24th Biggest Morning Tea - Upper Ross Community Centre Come along and share a cuppa & morning tea and help us raise funds for cancer research & education programs

PCYC Volunteer Bus Drivers Wanted - required one day per week Required every Tuesday to pick up members for the Over 50's Club. Starting at 7.15am, pick up takes about an hour then return trip starts at 11.30. A standard car licence is required however an LR licence would be a bonus. Contact PCYC 47892145

HIPPY UPDATE

Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters

Enrolments have been strong for the 2016 however there are still a few places available.

Parents, Grandparents, or Carers of children wo turn 4 years old before 30 June 2016 and live in the Upper Ross are encouraged to enrol.

The program builds confidence and skills of parents/carers to create a positive learning environment and prepares their child for school.

If you would like to participate in this fantastic program give Liana Jones (our HIPPY program coordinator) a call.

DON’T MISS OUT ON A GREAT OPPORTUNITY HIPPY IS FREE!!

FREE in home tutor support FREE educational learning resources HAVE FUN being your child’s first teacher CONNECT with other local families ENQUIRE NOW Ph. 4774 0144 or 0427 251 993

Community Computer Training

First Aid and CPR Course

by Citylibraries

Next Course Date: Saturday 9th April 8.00 am - 3.00 pm

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

First Aid (incl. CPR) $100 Perform CPR only $50 Anaphylaxis & Asthma $60 To reserve your place call the Upper Ross Community Centre on 4774 0144 or email communitycentre@nqcs.org.au

No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) What is NILS and how does it work?

Cost: FREE Windows 10 10am - 12pm 6th & 13th April Learn how to Skype 10am - 12pm 4th & 11th May Bookings essential Ph: 4774 0144 NO Fees NO Interest NO Charges

The NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME (NILS) provides individuals and families on low incomes access to safe,

fair and affordable credit. The loan (up to a maximum of $1,200) can be used to purchase essential household goods and services.

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 eligible. Contact the Upper Ross Community Centre on 47740144 for more information

Community in Focus: Loam Island Scouts It’s all happening at Loam Island Scouts. This year has seen an increase in Cub Scout and Scout numbers after an extensive campaign promoting Loam Island Scouts. This is welcome news for the club however, with increased numbers also brings the need for extra leaders.

The aim of Scouts is to encourage physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual development of young people so that they can take a constructive place in society as responsible members of the community. Located at the Loam Island Community Facility building on Riverway Drive, Rasmussen, the group aims to make a big difference in the local community by providing leadership, morals, fellowship and development that young people need in their lives. If you would like to be involved in Scouts please contact Julie Harvey - Sutton 0422064120 or jharveysutton@ gmail.com Community Grant provides funds to purchase much needed new equipment Loam Island Scouts has recently benefited from the Community Gambling Benefit Grant which is open to all not-for-profit organisations and sporting clubs. Being a non for profit club meant all the clubs equipment such as canoes, trailer, generators, tents, life jackets etc. was purchased through fundraising events such as BBQ’s and car washes. When the grant opened last year Scout leaders were asked for a ‘wish list’ of items which included 2 new canoes with paddles, 2 new tents, a new portable generator, a new fridge, TV & DVD for training and cub nights, compass, lanterns, portable gas cooker and other camping items such as ropes and shovels. With Aaron Harper MP as a referree. the grant application was submitted and successful and the group has been able to purchase the much needed equipment. This now means their fundraising money can be directed to other things to advance the group and make it more affordable for families who are struggling in the current tough economic times.

New roadside sign points the way to Loam Island Scouts After lobbying local council and Qld Main Roads the Scout Group has been successful in securing a road sign on Riverway Drive. The Community Facility building (which has been home to the Loam Island Scouts for over 10 years) is not easily seen from the road and describing its location to those who are not familiar with the area is not easy. A big thank you goes to Cr Jenny Lane who took the issue to Cr Trevor Roberts and the infrastructure committee Photos: Top: Aaron Harper MP Member for Thuringowa presenting the cheque to Scout leaders. Right: Cr Trevor Roberts, Cr Jenny Lane, Loam Island Scouts Leader Phil Harvey Sutton, Group Leader Julie Harvey Sutton and Ray Ashworth unveiling the sign.

Have you seen us out and about in the community...

Our staff are regularly out and about visiting local schools, child care centres, other local community organisations and manning displays at the local Rasmussen shops.

This community engagement is vital in ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of the local community and the regular outings provides us not only the opportunity to spread the word on what programs and services we offer here at the community centre but to also speak to local community members about what other services and programs might be beneficial to the community.

Free Homework Club Wednesday 3-4.30 pm (school terms) Upper Ross Community Centre Thursday Morning 9.30-11.30am

for Prep - year 6 students Let our tutors help take the stress out of homework

Afternoon Tea Provided

Healthy morning tea provided for parents and children.

Gold Coin donation per family.

☎ 47740144 to book transport (must book by Wed)

Thursday 3.00-4.00pm at the Upper Ross Community Centre for Pre- Yr 6 students - all materials provided

Afternoon Tea Provided

STAFF PROFILE: Alana - Volunteer Alana grew up in the Northern Territory, and has lived in Townsville for 2 years.

Alana has a passion for helping people, and is currently volunteering at the Upper Ross Community Centre.

She is absolutely loving the experience, enjoying meeting all the wonderful people who visit the centre and getting the opportunity to help others.

She is amazed at how much the Community Centre offers to the Upper Ross community.

Alana says it’s a joy to work alongside the fantastic staff at the centre and she is learning lots. She definitely recommends volunteering as it provides a great opportunity to learn.

Have You Been Approached by a Training Company?

The media has recently been full of stories about training companies offering 'free' courses. They often sign people up in shopping centres or go door to door. Many people do not realise that they have just signed up to something that will result in them having a huge debt.

In recent years the Government has extended university style loans to include study fees for Diplomas. Private training companies have jumped in to offer 'study now pay later' schemes. People do not have to pay the loans back until their income exceeds $53,000. It is important to remember that the loans attract interest and so they will grow in time. The private firms are also allowed to charge whatever they wish so the costs may be much higher than you would pay through other training providers such as TAFE. Some of the companies have offered inducements such as free laptops (though this is now supposed to be illegal). A number of firms have also stated that the student can complete the course in a very short period. Some also use 'brokers' – different firms that get paid an amount to sign up students. While these arrangements may be legal, you would have to wonder how committed to providing a quality service are firms that would engage in dodgy recruitment practices of this type. And if you are serious about studying do you wish to make decisions based on the inducements that are offered.

Recent newspaper reports reveal that the Australian Government believes that many of the courses are of poor quality and will not help those that undertake them to actually get a job.

Students may not realise that by incurring a debt (even if they are not currently paying it) this may be taken into account when in the future they apply for loans or credit cards.

If you have signed up to one of these courses and you have concerns then please see us at the Centre so we may talk to the proper authorities about your situation.

Article provided by Ray Kent, Financial Counsellor, ICAN Ph 0427 706 344

Free Computer Access 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 available - Free Office services are also available (printing, faxing, scanning, laminating).

Costs apply to office services.

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.

Girls encouraged to get active The federal government has launched a major campaign encouraging young women to get moving. New research has revealed girls are only half as active as their male peers with nearly 60% of girls aged 15 to 17 undertake little to no physical activity.

Being physically active is not just one more item on your to-do list. It is a long term investment in your health. Think of it as an opportunity rather than an inconvenience.

Being active can add fun and laughter into your life and bring friends and family together.

Physical activity is an important lifelong investment for your health and future.

Regular physical activity helps maintain your body weight, but also helps reduce high blood pressure, protects from heart disease, stroke and boosts your immune system. In looking after your body well, your body looks after you so that you can keep enjoying life and achieving your goals!

The PCYC Rasmussen runs Personal Training sessions for girls and women. Originally the program was targetted to under 40's however the response from the community has been great and this has been extended to all ages as age is no barrier to exercise.

The program initially commenced twice per week however the program has proved popular and is now held Mon, Wed & Friday from 6.00 -6.30pm.

Best of all, the classes are FREE * Other activities at the PCYC are: Girls netball: ages 6-12yrs, Wed 6-7.00pm Touch Footy: all ages, Wed 3-4 For more info contact Max Tamwoy at PCYC 0455 473 725 or 4789 2145 * PCYC Membership required $30 p.a.

Right : Ladies participating in the WOW Personal Training sessions at the PCYC.

Ÿ Tuesday’s from 4pm Face to face or phone appointments Ÿ Bookings are essential

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Contact the Upper Ross Community Centre to book 4774 0144

Townsville Regional Community Visitors Scheme Do you have any spare time and would like to visit the elderly in our local nursing 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 47740144mail 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

N & J DEVALTER

Next to Puma Servo

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

PHONE: 0429 648 399 Electrical Contractor No. 69820

OPEN 7 DAYS Mon - Fri 8 - 8 Sat 9 - 3 Sun & Pub Hols 9 - 1 Ÿ Locally Owned and run business Ÿ Easy access and plenty of parking at front and rear

Cnr Riverway Drive and Gollogoly Lane, Rasmussen Phone: 4755 4654

Need to update your Microsoft Office © skills Tutoring is available for Microsoft Office © Excel, Work, Outlook & Publisher.

Whether your creating a resume, applying for a job, or just updating your skills our tutor can assist. Thursday mornings. Bookings 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.

I am working hard on ensuring funding is committed on this project in the 2016/17 budget to be handed down in June/July. We deserve it after waiting so long! It will have the Well 2016 has started with number of added benefit of creating many jobs as well as challenges for Townsville particularly in the creating momentum for other projects in Retail jobs sector following job losses at QNI. and Residential development for the area.

Having been a part of the Premier's response I must commend and congratulate the 80+ (providing my input directly to the Premiers folks who turned up at the Inaugural Upper Sub Cabinet Committee) to the Ross Community Consultation Group on unemployment woes we have in Townsville 10/02/16. What an outstanding bunch of demonstrates that the Qld Gov't is getting on locals we have, some of who also passionately with addressing jobs by bringing forward put their hands up to form the Committee several local projects as part of the dedicated to addressing local issues in our Accelerated Capital Works Programme.

Community. I congratulate the Qld Police Service for the integral role they will have in This equates to investing $187 M in Townsville working with this group and I look forward to creating over 220 jobs in various construction attending future meetings and addressing projects, one of which is the $ 6.7 M issues as they arise throughout the year. announcement of Hervey's Range Road. In the Upper Ross we have $1M that was funded for Warm regards, 2015/16 budget for detailed design of Aaron Harper State Member for Thuringowa Riverway Drive Duplication.

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, Dietician Phone for an appointment – walk in's also accepted Anagrams answers: 1. Easter 2. Easter bunny 3. chocolate 4. basket 5. jelly beans 6. hippity hop 7. special 8. holy week 9. Easter Sunday 10. holiday 11. celebrate 12. marshmallows

Put your thinking caps on and ahallenge yourself to solve these Easter Anagrams (answers on page 10) 7. lice spa _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1. teaser _ _ _ _ _ _ 2. nearby tunes _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 8. whole key _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 3. cool teach 4. ask bet

_________ ______

5. belly jeans 6. pity hip hop

_____

_____

_______ ___

9. stay under sea _ _ _ _ _ _ 10. I hold ya

_______

11. cable tree

_________

12. small ram shows

______

____________

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 2.00 - 3.00 pm 4:00 - 4.30pm 9:00 - 11:00am 9:30 - 3.30pm 9:00 - 4.00pm 3:15 - 4.30pm

Free Computer Access Timeout - Games/Cards Free Computer Lessons Dept of Human Services Legal Advice Service Free JP Service Free Computer Lessons Free Computer Access Homework Program

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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

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

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F

New 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