Nov dec colour copy

Bits ‘n Pieces A FREE Community Newsletter for the Upper Ross November / December 2015 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 10, Issue 6

&CONTENTS Ÿ Child Health &

Midwife Ÿ Community

Courses Ÿ First Aid

Course Ÿ Free Computer

Access Ÿ Free Legal

Advice Ÿ HIPPY Ÿ Homework

Program Ÿ JP Ÿ No Interest

Loans Ÿ Playgroup Ÿ Puzzle

Come along and enjoy a fun and informative day. There will be loads of free entertainment, children’s activities and rides. Grab a bite to eat, a cool drink and relax and listen to some great live music and enjoy a fun family outing. Local service providers and support organisations will also be on hand with information about the various services available in the Upper Ross.

If you haven’t yet been to visit the friendly staff at the community centre come along to the open day and have a look at the new centre and meet the crazy, friendly staff.

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

Upper Ross Community Markets - Apex Park, Riverway Dr Rasmussen Every 2nd Saturday 8.00 am to 1.00 pm

What’s on in your community ...

WHEN

EVENT

TIME

COST

REGULAR EVENTS The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander WOMEN’S Group - 10.00 am Free meet at the Upper Ross Community Centre. Fun activities, arts & to 12.00 pm craft, education & support services.

Every Uncle Alfred’s Mens Suport Group - meets at the Upper Ross 2.00 pm - Free 4.00 pm Tues Community Centre. Delivering mentoring and overall guide of Cultural men’s business. Contact Uncle Alfred 0422 872 011 7.15 pm 3rd Fri of Dive-in movie Nights at Riverway Lagoon the month See Townsville City Council website for more info.

8.00 am to Free Every 2nd Upper Ross Community Markets 1.00 pm Sat Apex Park, Riverway Drive Rasmussen (Opposite Shops) Upcoming dates: 14th & 28th Nov. see page 4 - Monster Market Every Tues

November Wed 11th

Various Rembrance Day Services Anzac Park 10.30 am, Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens 10.40am Sat 14th 8.00 First Aid Training - Upper Ross Community Centre Last First Aid Course for 2015. First Aid $100, Anaphalyxis & 3.00 pm Asthma $60, CPR Refresher $50. Must Book and pay prior to day. Contact the Community Centre to book Ph 4774 0144 Sat 21st 11.00 am HERE4LIFE Community Concert - STOP SUICIDE 11.00 pm Shark Park, Murray Sporting Complex, Mervyn Crossman Dr Bringing together some of Australia’s premier performing artists to share the message of suicide prevention.

Sun 22nd Indigenous Trauma & Healing workshop 2.30 pm 3.30 pm at Salvation Army, Beck Rd. Condon. Contact Shirli Congoo 0400 713 819 Sat 28th 9.00 am CORES - Community Response to Eliminating Suicide 5.00 pm email: coresqld@kentshrc.com.au or ph Ross 0427 455 313

Free $50 to $160

Free

Free

Free

December Fri 6th

Carols by Candlelight - Reid Park

Thurs 31st New Year’s Eve Pictures in the Park - The Strand Park and

Riverway. Fireworks at 8.45 pm and Midnight. Food and coffee on sale

4.30 pm 10.30 pm 7.00 pm 12.30 am

Free Free

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Staff at the Upper Ross Community Centre would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.

The Community Centre will close for three weeks over the holiday period, closing on 17th December 2015 and re-opening on 11th January 2016.

Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters

In November our first HIPPY kids graduate! Congratulations!

The families have participated in the program for two years and parents / grandparents have started learning in the home. We’ve loved hearing feedback like “my child did so well in Prep and Hippy really helped!” With all those booklets, books and activities it's a great program for any child before they start school.

We are looking ahead to our next enrolments and are taking names for 2016. If you have a child who is 4 next year (starting school in 2017) and you would like some information about the HIPPY program call us on 0427 251 993. We will run an information session at 10.30 am on 11th November at the Community Centre so you can find out more about HIPPY. Our Age 4 children and families are near the end of their first year. The activities have focussed on learning the basics and building confidence before starting school. Our parent groups each fortnight have had guest speakers, cooking sessions and some Hippy-based learning. All part of the program that helps parents/carers develop the tools to teach Hippy to their own children. What a great HIPPY journey!

STAFF PROFILE: Cilla Cilla is one of our age 4 HIPPY tutors and also participates in the program along with her granddaughter, Neriah. Next year Cilla will continue on in program, becoming an age 5 HIPPY tutor.

The age 5 tutor program aims to prepare the tutors for employment and tutors are required to commence study in their chosen field. Cilla has chosen to study a Diploma of Community Service. Cilla chose Community Service as there are many different areas that she is interested in working and this will provide her the opportunity to broadly study all areas and help her decide which direction she will pursue. The knowledge she gains through her studies and her experience working at the Community Centre and with HIPPY will assist Cilla in gaining employment in whichever field of Community Service she wishes to pursue.

Free Computer Access & Lessons The Community Centre has computers available for everyone to use. FREE - No bookings required.

We also have FREE one-onone computer lessons. Our volunteer tutors will teach you whatever you want to learn about.

Got a new computer with Windows 10 and need help.

Just give us a call and book a session with our tutors.

Justice of the Peace (JP) Service available at the Upper Ross Community Centre

Wed mornings 9.00 - 11.00 a.m No appointment needed

A big Thank you from Sandra & Briseis Sandra Mathieson and daughter, Briseis Tamwoy presented the Upper Ross Community Centre with a lovely photo of Briseis at the QLD School Sport 10-12 year Rugby League Competition to say thank you for our sponsorship. Briseis said she really enjoyed the experience and would cherish every moment she had at the event.

Briseis and her team did really well and were runners up in the competition. Even better, they received a medal for best sportsmanship. The team was acknowledged for their good sportsmanship and manners throughout the competition. Well done Briseis. We are all very proud of you and thank you so much for presenting us with this lovely gift.

Community Garden Update

Upper Ross Midwives

The Gtec team are doing a great job with the garden construction, with the fence now completed. The next stage involves the construction of the shed which will house the gardening equipment.

Midwives, Penny & Honey, from the Townsville Birth Centre visit our centre on Monday and Tuesdays.

The young men who are participating in the program are enjoying the challenge and learning a multitude of new skills.

The Townsville Birth Centre is a selfreferral unit - no need for a referral from your GP.

There has already been some fantastic employment outcomes, with eight of the 22 participants already finding either permanent full time employment or o b t a i n i n g apprenticeships.

Please contact midwife directly to discuss your maternity care options Penny 0428 694788

By Appointment Only

Upper Ross Child Health Clinic

Great effort team.

Keep up the great work.

Volunteer Position Community Garden Co-ordinator Now that the construction of the new Community Garden is now well under way we are seeking expressions of interest for the position of Community Garden Co-ordinator.

This is a part-time volunteer position.

Please contact Susan or Kerry at the Community Centre for more information.

Thursdays 9.00 a.m.- 12.00 pm at the Upper Ross Community Centre A qualified community health nurse on hand to answer questions and provide support. Ÿ New baby health checks Ÿ Breastfeeding advice Ÿ New mum’s support

No appointment needed

SHALOM CHRISTIAN COLLEGE MANY CULTURESiONE FAITH

“POSITIVE BY CHOICE AND PROUDLY INDIGENOUS” Prep to Year 12

· Free Bus Service Provided · Free Breakfast Program · Small Class Sizes · Cultural, Respect and Support

· National Curriculum Followed · Literacy Support Enrol Now: Phone 07 4750 3400 Website: www.shalomcollege.qld.edu.au

Upper Ross Community Centre Thursday Morning

9.30 – 11:30am No need to book, just come along Healthy and nutritious morning Tea provided Free transport available (must book transport) Check out our facebook page to see all the fun our families are having at playgroup each week. www.facebook.com/upper.centre

Anti-Poverty Week Biggest Breakfast On 14th October NQ Community Service held a Big Breakfast at the Upper Ross Community Centre in aid of Anti-Poverty week, which runs between the 11th - 17th October. The week focuses on poverty around the world, especially in the poorest countries but also in wealthier countries such as Australia. The main aims are to strengthen public understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty and hardship and to encourage research, discussion and action to address poverty issues.

The Upper Ross Community Centre wanted to bring the local community together to strengthen public understanding of poverty issues. The event was a huge success with families, individuals, children and the elderly coming along to enjoy a yummy breakfast. This event would not have been so successful without the tremendous support from organisations. businesses and individuals within the Upper Ross Community and wider community.

The Family Support Hub at the Upper Ross Community Centre runs a number of FREE programs to promote children’s learning in a fun and safe environment.

Parents are welcome to stay and have a coffee and chat with other parents while children have fun. Come and join in the fun.

Homework Club Early Readers Program

Wednesday 3.00-4.00

for 3 - 5 year olds

Afternoon Tea Provided

Tuesdays 2.00-2.30

Let our tutors help take the stress out of homework

Thursday 3.00-4.00 for Prep- Yr 6 students All materials supplied

Afternoon Tea Provided

Congratulations to the Upper Ross Community Centre for their Official Opening Day in November and thank you for the opportunity to contribute to this local magazine.

My family and I live in Kelso, where we have called home for 15 years. It has been quite an experience moving from being an Ambulance Officer to a Parliamentarian. Whilst it has been a steep learning curve, and life has become extremely busy, it is a role that I am excited about and can see my role as still looking after people, just on a very broad range of issues.

To be able to represent the people of my electorate is an honour which no doubt will be challenging and demanding. There have been a range of issues from Housing, Unemployment, Roads, Health etc. which have kept our office very busy, but the great staff I have are helping me with my motto: “Looking after Locals�

I went into the election with a clear focus on duplication of Riverway Drive and improving unemployment numbers, by promoting business development in the Upper Ross area. Current issues are around youth crime and unemployment. I have been and will continue to work with local businesses and Council to partner up and create local jobs to continue beautification of Riverway Drive, we live on the river and we should be proud of our area.

I have made multiple representations to the Minister for Main Roads Hon Mark Bailey on this required upgrade to Riverway Drive and I look forward to new developments in 2016 in the Upper Ross such as the $500 million Wingate Project which will help attract more jobs and businesses.

I am keen to start a community consultation group, similar to the Northern Beaches one to help address local issues, whether they be parks, roads, drugs or crime. It is my strong intention to engage regularly with members of our community to help raise the profile and image, to attract investment and create jobs in the Upper Ross area.

I wish you all a wonderful Festive Season and Be Safe!

Aaron.

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

Ph: 4789 1299 Guaranteed Mechanical Repairs to all vehicles

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.

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.

This is another initiative of MY FAMILY DOCTORS

Serving Community 7-9 Thuringowa Drive Kirwan QLD 4817 www.myfamilydoctors.com.au t: 4755 4500

f: 4755 4600

MFD-SUICIDE DETERENT LINE 1800 CALL 24/7 1800 22 55 247 Over 50's Social Club If you're over 50 and looking for fellowship and fun, then you're welcome to join us. Our Club meets every Tuesday 9am – 11.30am at the Upper Ross PCYC, 43 Allambie Lane Rasmussen. We provide the following activities along with refreshments and bickies: a variety of card games, indoor bowls, lucky door prize, raffles and occasionally BBQ's, social outings, cent sales and bingo. Bus pick-up and drop off is available. For more info on membership call Fred on 0435 013550, or PCYC (07) 4789 2145 email: upperross@pcyc.org.au

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

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 goods and services. Loan repayments are made through affordable fortnightly Centrepay Deductions (repayment amount calculated based on a loan term of 12 months).

Eligibility criteria applies. Call Upper Ross Community Centre on 47740144 for more information or drop into the centre to collect an application form.

UPPER ROSS MEDICAL 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

Can you spot the differences? There are 10 to find

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

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

9:00 - 4.00pm 9:30 - 11:30am 12.30 - 3.30pm 2.00 - 2.30pm 4:00 - 4.30pm

Free Computer Access Timeout Free Computer Lessons Early Readers program Legal Advice Service

Wednesdays

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

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

Free JP Service Free Computer Lessons Free Computer Access Homework Program

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

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

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

Thursdays

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 Centre *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