Dandenong District Branch

Flu Vaccine Study

2012-02-10T16:51:00.001+11:00

Emeritus Research are preparing to launch their 2012 vaccine studies, and invite healthy adults aged 18-64 to participate.

Several NSA Dandenong Branch members have been involved in similar studies over the last three years. Several currently undertaking the Ross River Virus Trial. There is a need to attend the Malvern Office of Emeritus Research for a set period of time. The attendances in the past have not been onerous and indeed a group of us usually make a day of it. We have also been renumerated for our efforts.

Their first study for 2012 is an Influenza Vaccine Study. You can read the Participant Information and Consent Form - here . It is important that you carefully read the PICF as this contains important information regarding the purpose of the study, risks, benefits, and what your participation will involve.

This study requires you to attend our site in Malvern East on 3 separate occasions over a period of 6 months.

If you are eligible, and participate in this study through to completion, you will receive $400 to compensate you for your time, reasonable travel expenses and inconvenience.

Click here to read more about our organisation and about clinical trials generally.

Emeritus Research contact details:-

Email TeresaConiglione@emeritusresearch.com
Ph: 9509 6166

Born In The Fifties?

2012-02-10T11:45:00.001+11:00

Most of members of the Dandenong Branch would have grown up in the 50s, well a web site has come to my attention that will take you down memory Lane. A period of time when Dad went off to work, Mum stayed home and looked after the kids, Monday was washing day (done by hand in the copper), Friday was shopping day a day where no self respecting women would go down the street without makeup, hair done, a hat and her best dress. A time when the shops opened at 9:am and closed at 5:00pm or 5:30pm and were open on Saturday morning. Takeaway was fish and chips on Friday Shopping Day. The kids could walk to school and play on the street without fear of being molested.

I could go on and on, but anyhow have a peep at the web site. There is also a link on the web site for those born in the 40s.

February Birthdays

2012-01-31T08:35:00.000+11:00

Press Release Myki

2012-01-30T19:40:00.000+11:00

More places to buy myki as Metcard withdrawal continues

The transition to myki continues with plans for 800 places to buy and top up a myki card, the gradual phasing out of Metcard tickets from sale and machines from stations, and the planned introduction of customer service staff to help people switch across.
Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder today said the Coalition Government last year decided to retain myki and detailed a number of changes to transport ticketing that would occur over the coming months.
“The extensive review of myki last year found that it would cost more to scrap it and start again, so our job is to bring it in and work to improve the way it is rolled out,” Mr Mulder said.
Mr Mulder said the Transport Ticketing Authority had been working to develop a rollout program, with a focus on providing passengers with helpful information and more places to buy or top up a myki card.
“The Transport Ticketing Authority will work to ensure passengers are kept up-to-date with changes as they happen, through on-system advice such as posters at stations and stops and information on the myki website,” Mr Mulder said.
The details of changes to transport ticketing announced today include: The gradual rollout of full fare myki card sales at myki machines, starting with around 60 myki machines in January 2012. The gradual introduction of myki card sales and top up services at all 7-Eleven outlets and 90 independent retailers, starting in February 2012. The progressive removal of Metcard ticket vending machines from Metro railway stations, starting in February 2012 with some CBD locations and then the Williamstown line. The introduction of myki card sales at retailers that currently offer myki top up services, starting in mid-March. The continued withdrawal of Metcards from sale, including weekly and monthly Metcards, from Monday 26 March 2012.
Transport Ticketing Authority Chief Executive Bernie Carolan said the introduction of myki card sales and top up services at all 7-Eleven outlets and a network of independent retailers would provide passengers with greater access to ticketing services.

Visit www.premier.vic.gov.au for more news

January Birthdays

2012-01-13T22:30:00.000+11:00

Christmas Meeting & The Year That Was

2011-12-18T13:36:00.000+11:00

Christmas Branch Meeting

Our Christmas Branch Meeting was very well attended with 8 apologies and 66 in attendance for what was a wonderful night. And Oh what a wonderful night it was!

With the meeting formalities over it was time to be entertained. For the Christmas, the very professional group “The Hot Flushes” entertained us with songs from the past as well as Christmas songs. The last time we were entertained by “The Hot Flushes” was at our December Meeting in 2006, they still have not lost their touch. Their renditions were enjoyed by all.

We then enjoyed a sumptuous traditional 2 course Christmas meal. Each year it is the branches tradition to raffle Christmas Hampers made up of goods donated by members. This year everyone excelled themselves with 27 hampers of differing sizes. By the time the meeting, entertainment, dinner and hamper draws were out of the way it was very close to 10.00pm.

It was great to see and catch up with several past members who for various reasons have been unable to attend on a regular basis.

A special thanks to Highways management and staff for their continued support and “nothing is too much trouble attitude”, this has enabled our branch meetings to be the success they are.

The Year That Was

Our branch first started in April 2004 and since that time we have conducted 93 Branch Meetings and conducted over 200 Social Outings. This year was no exception with 27 Social Outings including 4 day trips to Swan Hill and Lakes Entrance. There was a 1 day train trip to Ballarat to see the begonias and a 1 day bus trip to see the historic town of Daylesford.

We currently conduct 3 Bunnings Sausage Sizzles each year as our main fund raising project. The sausage sizzles are well attended and have become social outings in their own right.

Our Branch Meetings have been conducted at Highways for just on 12 months and our membership has continued to grow with an average of 46 members attending each Branch Meeting. Some of our dine outs at local restaurants have seen record numbers in attendance this year.

The committee would like to pass on their thanks for your continued support over the year and hope to see you all again in 2012.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.

Have Your Say!

2011-07-27T13:38:00.001+10:00

Those that get the paper each day will have seen the Sentencing Survey in today’s Melbourne dailies. The survey gives each of us a chance to have our say on the sentencing criminal offenders. You can also do the survey online. The MyViews website will feature surveys asking for the community’s views on a range of justice topics, beginning with sentencing of criminal offenders in Victoria.

If you prefer to complete a printed version of the survey, you can download it here and send it postage-free to the Department of Justice, MyViews Survey, Reply Paid 87276, Melbourne VIC 8060. Click here to go to web site.

Carbon Tax Scam

2011-07-14T14:59:00.001+10:00

SCAMwatch is warning Australians to be alert to scam calls offering to pay carbon tax compensation into your bank account or asking survey questions about the carbon tax.

How the scam works

You receive a call from a scammer claiming to be from the Federal Government or a Federal Government department.
The scammer will ask for your bank account details in order to pay a carbon tax compensation payment into your bank account.
Early reports are that the scammer will offer $5,000 in compensation however this amount may vary from call to call.
The scammer may ask you if you would like the compensation paid via a direct deposit or via cheque.
If you give the scammer your bank details they will gain access to your money and any personal details which are linked to your bank account.
Some scam callers may also claim to be running a survey on the incoming carbon tax.

Protect yourself

If you receive a phone call out of the blue asking for your bank account or personal details, or claiming you need to pay money to receive a compensation payment, hang up immediately.
Be alert to scam survey calls which ask for personal and financial details.
The Australian Government will never call you to ask for your bank account details or to offer you carbon tax compensation.
If you’re not sure that a call is a scam you can check by independently using official contact details, never use phone numbers or email addresses provided by the caller.
NEVER provide or confirm your personal details over the phone unless you made the call using details you found yourself and you trust the other party.
If you think you have provided bank account or credit card details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Women During WW2–Your Story

2011-07-01T18:03:00.001+10:00

Our guest speaker at our June Branch meeting Jacqueline Dinan spoke about her book “A Women’s War”. The book is a fictional story about Rosie who is the mother of 2 boys who went off to World War I. Only one boy returned home but bearing the emotional and physical scars of war. It is a unique and intimate perspective of how Rosie and other women of her inner-city, working class community endured an incredibly difficult period of Australia’s history. Jacqueline spoke of her research which in turn gives the book it’s authentic background.

While speaking to various groups such as ours many women have commented that Jacqueline should write a similar book about women during World War II. Jacqueline has now decided to start such a book and with this in mind is gathering personal stories about your grandmother, mother, aunt or yourself and yours or their experiences during World War II.

If you would like to contribute your story about World War II, you can complete the questionnaire from the link below and post or email it to the addresses provided. Personal details will be kept private and the stories given utmost respect.

Download Women during World War II Questionnaire.

Click here for link to Jacqueline’s web page.

I can thoroughly recommend the book as a great read, one that men will also enjoy.

It is a fictional story set to historical facts.

Free Entry To Zoo

2011-06-24T16:37:00.001+10:00

Today, the Victorian Government has announced that from the 1st July 2011 kids under 16 years of age will get free admission to Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo on weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays!

Click here for link to Zoo web site.

Kay Moran - Age Newspaper Article

2011-06-15T21:16:00.000+10:00

The following article and photograph about our Kay Moran appeared in a story entitled “An Enriched Retirement” published in the Age Newspaper on Wednesday the 15th of June 2011.

Click here to read the full article.

Finances an incentive

Kay Moran is 66 and works full-time at the City of Greater Dandenong Council as a business information officer. ''We've got 8000 businesses in the area from manufacturers and retailers to the corner grocery,'' she says. ''I'm always learning and meeting people.

''Finances are a big incentive to keep going because it gives you more time to save super so that, when you do retire, you can do more of what you want to do.'' But money is not her only motivation.

''It's good to be able to pass down your expertise and skills to a new generation,'' she says. ''And when you work with a mixed aged group like I do, it keeps you young. There are a couple of girls in their late 20s who have speed and knowledge of computers and they are willing to show me shortcuts and work together on projects I would not be able to tackle on my own. But my opinion is also valued.

''I'm still learning and I've got a very active brain.

''I don't need to keep working but the extra money helps. It means I can help my family and go on an overseas holiday and not touch my retirement savings.''

Moran's latest holiday was a month in Vanuatu, where she went sailing. She'll be off to Thailand next year and will also be spending a few weeks in Port Douglas this year ''because I enjoy it''.

''I would like to continue at work for another two years while I've got good health and I'm engaged with local businesses,'' she says.

Moran has always been working, first in her own business and then at council. Now that her four adult children are scattered throughout Australia, she lives on her own and appreciates the sense of connection work provides.

''A lot of people my age are very lonely and that's the last thing I am,'' she says. ''I would advise anyone to keep on working. I'm not sure I'd know how to relax.''

Changes to Work Bonus

2011-06-08T17:11:00.000+10:00

This item is a copy of a document sent to NSA regarding changes to the Work Bonus system.

“The work bonus applies to customers of age pension age who are on a pension and receiving employment income. We currently discount 50% of the first $500 earned each fortnight, with no build-up of work bonus credit.
There will be changes to the Work bonus.
Implementation of the changes commences from 1/7/11.
Factsheet going on website

What is the Work Bonus?
The Work Bonus is an incentive for pensioners over age pension age to participate in the workforce. It reduces your assessable employment income by $250 each fortnight. If the Work Bonus is not used because you are not working or you earn under $250 in a fortnight, the unused amount will be added to your Work Bonus balance. The Work Bonus balance can be used to offset any future employment income you have. This means you can work for short periods with little or no affect on your pension.
What if I do not work?
If you do not work, the whole fortnightly Work Bonus amount of $250 is saved and is added to your Work Bonus balance. Your Work Bonus balance can reach a maximum of $6500.
What if I earn less than $250 in a fortnight?
If you earn less than $250 in a fortnight the Work Bonus of $250 will reduce your assessable employment income to zero and the remaining amount will be added to your Work Bonus balance, which starts from zero from July 2011. Your Work Bonus will be automatically used to reduce your assessable employment income in future fortnights where you earn more than $250.
What if I earn exactly $250 in a fortnight?
If you earn exactly $250 in a fortnight the Work Bonus will reduce your assessable employment income to zero and your Work Bonus balance will not change.
What if I earn over $250 in a fortnight?
If you earn more than $250 in a fortnight the Work Bonus will reduce your assessable employment income by $250. Then any Work Bonus balance you have built up is used to reduce the remaining employment income.
Case study: Angela
Angela is 69 and receives Carer Payment, as she cares for her partner who receives Disability Support Pension. Angela has a current Work Bonus balance of $350.
The next fortnight Angela earns $200. The fortnightly Work Bonus of $250 is applied and the $50 that is not used is added to her Work Bonus balance to increase it to $400. Her pension is not yet affected by her employment income.
In the second fortnight, Angela earns $550. Centrelink first reduces this to $300 by deducting that fortnight’s $250 Work Bonus. The remaining assessable employment income is then reduced to zero by using $300 from her Work Bonus balance, which goes down to $100. Her pension is still not affected by her employment income.
In the third fortnight Angela earns $600. This is reduced to $350 by deducting the fortnight’s $250 Work Bonus. Angela’s remaining Work Bonus balance of $100 is then applied, reducing the assessable employment income to $250. After that, the normal income test applies, including the income test free area. The affect on her pension depends on how much other income Angela has.
Case study: Joe
Joe is an Age Pensioner who does not work. Joe’s Work Bonus balance has been increasing by $250 each fortnight and has reached $2250.
Joe starts work as a Santa Claus over the Christmas period earning $600 per fortnight. Each fortnight his Work Bonus reduces this amount by $250 to $350. His Work Bonus balance is then used to disregard that $350 per fortnight so that no employment income is assessed. Joe’s pension is not affected. Three fortnights later Joe finishes working. His Work Bonus balance has gone down by $1050 to $1200 and will start to increase again by $250 each fortnight while Joe is not working.
Who is eligible for the Work Bonus?
All pensioners over age pension age (other than recipients of Parenting Payment Single) are eligible for the Work Bonus if they have employment income.
What type of income does the Work Bonus apply to?

The Work Bonus applies to income from employment, including:
•        wages paid in Australia and outside Australia
•        leave where the customer remains an employee of the same employer
•        director’s fees.
Centrelink will apply the Work Bonus to your assessable employment income before your pension is paid each fortnight.
What type of income does the Work Bonus not apply to?
The Work Bonus is not applied to income from:
•        leave payments where the employee has terminated their employment
•        self-employed income
•        payments to a principal from sole traders or partnerships
•        investments
•        superannuation income.
How do I get the Work Bonus?
You do not need to apply for the Work Bonus but you do need to let Centrelink know about changes to your earnings. If you receive eligible employment income Centrelink will automatically apply the Work Bonus to your income test.
Does my partner get the Work Bonus as well?
If your partner is a pensioner of age pension age and receives employment income, the Work Bonus will reduce their assessable employment income.
For each member of a couple, Centrelink will assess employment income and apply the Work Bonus. Any other income is assessed as usual and will affect each member of the couple equally under the income test.
If you are eligible for the Work Bonus but your partner is not they may still benefit from the effect of your Work Bonus.
Do I tell Centrelink my actual earnings or the amount after the Work Bonus?
You should continue to advise Centrelink of your gross earnings. Centrelink will automatically deduct the correct amount under the Work Bonus before applying the relevant income test.
What happens if I am paid a transitional rate?
A transitional rate of pension protects the entitlements of pensioners current at 19 September 2009 who would have received a payment reduction as a result of the Pension Reform changes.
The transitional rate of pension is calculated using the old pension income test rules that were in place on 19 September 2009. The Work Bonus is not included in this transitional rate calculation.
If you are on a transitional rate of pension Centrelink will continue to compare your rate with the amount you would receive if you were not on the transitional rate, including the effect of the Work Bonus.
Once the new rate of pension gives you an equal or higher pension amount than the transitional rate it will be used to calculate your pension.
If you are thinking of taking up work, you should talk to Centrelink about how this might affect your transitional rate.
For more information on transitional rates of pension visit www.centrelink.gov.au and download the Transitional rate of pension factsheet, call the Seniors line on 13 2300 or visit your nearest Customer Service Centre.
For more information
Go to our website at www.centrelink.gov.au
Seniors line                                                        13 2300
Disability and carers                                                13 2717
Financial Information Service                                13 2300
Financial Information Service seminar bookings                13 6357
Centrelink International Services                                13 1673
Youth and students                                                13 2850
Parent or guardian                                                13 6150
To speak to Centrelink in languages other than English        13 1202
Australian Government Services Fraud and Tip-off line        13 1524
Customer relations                                                Freecall™ 1800 050 004
TTY* enquiries                                                Freecall™ 1800 810 586
*TTY is only for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. A TTY phone is required to use this service.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide. The information is accurate as at July 2011. If you use this publication after that date, please check with Centrelink that the details are current.”

Door to Door Sales

2011-06-03T14:35:00.000+10:00

A door-to-door sales person may knock at your home and:

try to sell you something
ask you to change your gas, electricity or telephone supplier.

This might end up costing you a lot more money or be a scam. A scam is a trick to get money from you. You do not have to:

change your gas, electricity or telephone supplier

sign a contract
give out your personal information
let the person into your home
show the person your bills.

You can:

put the DO NOT KNOCK sticker on your door
ask the salesperson to go away
take your time to decide. Look at the prices and services offered by other suppliers
ask for a copy of the contract
get free advice before signing anything.

If you sign a contract from a door-to-door sale at home, you may have a 10-day ‘cooling off’ period. This means you can change your mind and take steps to stop the contract. You must act quickly. If you are not sure what to do get advice.

They can only visit between 9.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday and on Saturday between 9.00am and 5.00pm.They can not visit on Sunday or public holidays.

Where can I get help?

If a sales person breaks this rule or ignores the DO NOT KNOCK sticker you can:
get their name, company, date and time of visit
go to Consumer Action Law Centre for a letter of complaint http://doiop.com/donotknock

To find out more about door-to-door sales, contracts and debts:

call Victoria Legal Aid on 9269-0120 or 1800677402 go to www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/doortodoor.htm

If you cannot work out your problems with your electricity, gas or water company contact the Energy and Water Ombudsman of Victoria on 1800 500 509

You can also stop companies phoning you to try and sell you things by contacting the Do Not Call Register on 1300 792 958 or go to www.donotcall.gov.au

I have ordered information and DO NOT KNOCK stickers which will be available at a future branch meeting.

Information Session

2011-05-30T15:14:00.000+10:00

Osteoarthritis Study

2011-05-30T15:00:00.000+10:00

Moving Image–Films

2011-04-10T08:33:00.001+10:00

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image at Federation Square in Melbourne is having a film season coming up called Magnificent Obsessions: Hollywood Dames from Screwball to Sirk which runs from Thursday 19 May to Tuesday 31 May. The season includes classic films such as It Happened One Night, Bringing Up Baby, All That Heaven Allows and What’s Up Doc?

They will be holding 3 matinee sessions especially for Seniors where they can buy tickets for only $6. The sessions are:

Tue 24 May 3pm > The Philadelphia Story

Thu 26 May 3pm > Magnificent Obsession

Tue 31 May 3pm > There’s Always Tomorrow

Australian Centre for the Moving Image

Federation Square, Melbourne

www.acmi.net.au

Subscribe to the ACMI e-newsletter for weekly updates and competitions at www.acmi.net.au/subscribe

Utility Price Rises

2011-03-13T21:55:00.001+11:00

Concerned about the constant price rises of electricity and gas or think you might be paying too much then this web site will compare deals offered by the major companies and show you the best deals.

The web site is a government run web site and is designed to help you with your gas and electricity contract by providing you with:

Practical tips on how to work out which type of contract you are on and how to negotiate the best contract for you with retailers. This information can be found by working through the topics on the left hand menu of the web site.
A search engine which provides you with a list of all the standing contracts in your area, for your information. If you want to view these contracts, use the blue Make Your Choice box on the top right hand corner of the web site.
The search engine on the web page will also provide the details of a range of market contracts to help you make a choice of retailer.

Click here to go to web site.

Update on Metcard-Myki

2011-03-10T19:14:00.001+11:00

The below article was sent to NSA from the Transport Ticketing Authority. It appears will have to use your myki card to travel on Saturdays but can still use the Metcard Sunday Pass until decommissioning of Metcard validators.

Saturday Travel

Using the Metcard Sunday Pass for Saturday Free Travel Saturday 26 March will be the last day the Metcard Sunday Pass can be used as a flash pass to travel on Saturday for free.

All Seniors myki cards will have been distributed to eligible customers by the end of March and Victorian Seniors, Disability Support Pensioners and Carer Payment recipients who are entitled to free weekend travel will be able to access this benefit through myki.

Sunday Travel

Using the Metcard Sunday Pass for Sunday Free Travel The Metcard Sunday Pass will be valid for Sunday free travel until the decommissioning of Metcard validators.

Telstra Phone Book

2011-03-07T10:40:00.000+11:00

For anyone contemplating using the Sensis directory service number, 1234, DON'T!

Sensis, as you may or may not know, is a subsidiary of Telstra.

The 1234 number is replacing the Telstra 12456 directory assistance number, but this time with outrageous costs attached: 40c to call the number, then 4 cents a SECOND!

By law, Telstra must provide a FREE directory assistance number.
They choose however not to pass this number on to the public.
The free number is 1223

Thumbs down to Telstra for finding a way to 'charge', for a service that is supposed to be provided for free.

March Meeting Date Change

2011-02-23T12:29:00.000+11:00

Our next Branch meeting was to be held on the Thursday 17^th of March which is St Patrick’s Day; we also celebrate our 7th birthday on this date. It has now come to our attention that our meeting venue holds a St Patrick’s Day celebration on this day with large crowds attending.

The management of Highways have advised us that they would not be able to provide the expected level of service to our members as well as run the St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

After much discussion and in consultation with Highways is has been decided to change our meeting date to the day prior, Wednesday the 16^th of March. We hope that this change of dates does not inconvenience too many of our members. We have now taken steps to ensure that future meeting dates do not clash with any events held by Highways.

If you bump into branch members in your travels can you please remind them of the change of date.

Responsible Person

2011-02-14T08:40:00.001+11:00

As you would all know, social activities and meetings run by NSA Dandenong District Branch have always been organised and the responsibility of one or two committee members.

Examples of this are:-

1. Social events and outings Fay Winson and her sub-committee.

2. Current meeting venue, John Commerford and Colin Ruehland.

3. Bunning’s sausage sizzle Annette and Allen Theobald.

The committee feels there is a need for the “Responsible Person” to be readily identifiable to members in case issues or problems arise. In the first instance the “Responsible Person” is the person who will deal with any issues or problems.

Having the “Responsible Person” deal with any issues will minimise the opportunity for an inconsistent approach or inconsistent information being imparted.

With this in mind all meetings and social events will now name the “Responsible Person” as part of advertising the meeting or event. The committee would like to encourage all members to adhere to these guidelines.

Members are also reminded that if you put your name down to attend any of our social functions or outings and for some reason or other are unable to attend then a courtesy phone call to the “Responsible Person” would be appreciated.

We judge ourselves mostly by our intentions, but others judge us mostly by our actions...

Senior myki issue resolved?

2011-02-05T18:28:00.001+11:00

An issue affecting a recently distributed batch of senior myki cards has been resolved today.

Transport Ticketing Authority CEO Bernie Carolan said urgent action had been taken today to fix the error, which has seen a small number of senior myki customers pay a higher fare for their travel.

"I understand that around 300 senior myki customers have paid more for their fare than they needed to," Mr Carolan said. "This is because a recent batch of senior myki cards (around 17,000) was incorrectly coded as ‘full fare’ rather than ‘senior’.

Kamco has today sent an urgent update to all myki readers and myki machines throughout Victoria, in order to fix the issue.

This means that when affected customers ‘touch on’ in the coming days, their myki should be updated from ‘full fare’ to ‘senior’, and any previous overcharges should be reimbursed automatically.

No further action is required on the part of the customer, and there is no need to rush – just touch your myki to a device when it suits you best, and the system will do the rest.

We apologise for any inconvenience this error has caused to date.”

Mr Carolan said Kamco will continue to monitor the situation to ensure all affected seniors were being reimbursed correctly.

Any seniors who use their myki over the coming days and believe they are still being charged a higher fare should contact the myki call centre on 13 6954.

NOTE:- If you have not yet received your free senior myki, you can continue using your Metcard Sunday Pass for free travel on Saturdays and Sundays, until the end of March 2011.

And It Goes On And On!!!

2011-02-01T08:25:00.000+11:00

Article in the Age 01-02-2011.

In the latest bungle to dog the smartcard, the government's ticketing authority has acknowledged that an administrative error led to thousands of full-fare myki cards being posted to seniors last week. The cards are marked ''Seniors'' but charge users a full fare.

At least 300 seniors card holders have already been over-charged as a result of the mistake. The remaining 19,700 seniors posted a faulty card are yet to use it.

The government has not yet worked out how to fix the problem for these remaining users, and may have to mail out thousands of replacement cards.

Transport Ticketing Authority chief executive Bernie Carolan confirmed that 20,000 full-fare cards had been mailed to seniors in the past week.

He apologised for the error, and said anyone affected by it could phone the myki call centre on 136954. Click here to see full story

The call centre could be busy.

Tips & Traps for Older Travellers

2011-01-31T12:17:00.000+11:00

Myki Update–Press Release

2011-01-31T09:22:00.000+11:00

The below media release is the current state of play regarding the Myki Mess. Those that do not currently have a Myki card can continue to use their current Sunday Pass.

Note: The Sunday Pass will not open the gate on Saturday’s, you will have to get staff to let you through.

Media release

28 January 2011

Seniors almost caught up in myki mess

National Seniors Australia (NSA) has resolved a mix-up with the Transport Ticketing Authority after NSA found out Victorian seniors travelling on weekends could be accused of fare evasion and be fined for unknowingly travelling with an old card.

National Seniors contacted the Minister on Tuesday after hearing that the TTA had planned to withdraw Seniors Sunday Pass cards from 31 January resulting in seniors being fined if they used their card.

Many holders of the Victorian Seniors Card are still waiting for their new registered Myki card due to distribution delays.

National Seniors Australia Victorian manager Arnold Bates said the problem had now been averted after the Minister agreed to delay the withdrawal of the Sunday passes for another two months.

“We have been very concerned that many seniors would go out and use their cards and then face a hefty fine because no-one had told them these cards were no longer valid,’’ he said.

Bates said whilst there had been a delay in the rollout of the new cards, the Minister had advised new cards were on track to be issued on time to meet the new deadline.

“We thank the new Minister for acting promptly to arrange a delay of changeover for two months in order for the TTA to get its dispatch of new Myki Seniors Cards in order.”

“The 900,000 Victorian Seniors Card holders are looking forward to receiving their new cards without having all this other hassle.”

Contact Arnold Bates direct for comment on 0408 507 680.

Media: Casey-Ann Seaniger 0422 391 627.

Free Weekend Travel

2011-01-29T22:14:00.001+11:00

To date I have been using my cardboard type Sunday Pass to travel on trains and buses over the weekend. You will remember that the last Government bought in free travel on Saturdays as well as Sundays, this commenced in January.

Today (Saturday) I used my Sunday Pass as usual and was told by station staff that they I could not use it after the end of the month. I later spoke to an Enforcement Officers who confirmed this.

This means that if you don’t already have a Myki Seniors Card that you cannot travel free on weekends and if eligible will need to make an application. Below is a grab from the Metlink web site.

Victorian Seniors Card holders, Disability Support Pensioners and Carer Payment recipients are eligible for a free myki which contains a free weekend travel entitlement (Saturday & Sunday) from January 2011.

Your myki will automatically give you free travel on weekends within any two adjacent zones (e.g. Zones 1 and 2) in Victoria when you touch on and touch off.

You must carry both your myki and a valid Victorian Seniors Card or Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card with you in order to travel free on weekends.

Eligibility

The following groups are eligible for free weekend travel:

Victorian Seniors Card holders
Centrelink Disability Support Pensioners, living in Victoria and under 60 years of age
Centrelink Carer Payment recipients, living in Victoria and under 60 years of age

Seniors Card or Pensioner Concession Card holders from other states and territories are not eligible for free weekend travel however you can travel on concession fares.

Click here for link to download application.

Confirmation Of Meeting Venue

2011-01-19T22:20:00.000+11:00

Following discussions at our October Branch meeting members decided that it should be left to the Committee to find a suitable venue for future Branch Meetings. It was deemed necessary that the venue be capable of meeting the following criteria:-

A separate meeting room capable of holding 50 or more persons.
Provision to provide a good quality and inexpensive meals for 50 or more persons. (Preferably in the same room)
To be able to provide drinks if required.
Provision for audio visual displays. (For guest speakers)
Ample secure off-street parking for 50 or more vehicles.

There were other things taken into consideration such as closeness to Dandenong (Where the majority of our members reside), and easy to find and get to.

Over the last three months a number of venues were visited to ascertain their suitability, for one reason or another (Cost of venue hire, cost of meals etc.) most were discounted. Highways Tabaret ended up being the most suitable out of all the venues visited and the Committee decided to to hold our next 3 Branch meetings there while we explored other avenues and also assessed Highways as a possible permanent venue.

After much discussion at our January Committee meeting and due to the lack of any other suitable venues it was decided to approach Highways with a view to working out a mutually agreeable deal to enable the Branch to be permanently based there.

I am pleased to announce that we successfully structured a deal that enables us to hold our next 12 months Branch Meetings at Highways.

The meal will be a 2 course Seniors Meal consisting of a main and a sweet. There will be a choice of 4 mains which will change each month with the roast of the day being one of the choices. The cost of main meal and sweet is $13.00.

The decision to move from the RSL to Highways was forced on us and not by choice. In making the decision to permanently base our Branch Meetings at Highways we have tried to act in your best interests, but in doing that we know that some members for one reason or another will not find our decision to their liking. There is nothing we can do about this.

FREE 2011 Lecture Series

2011-01-13T14:57:00.001+11:00

Melbourne NSA office, Block Court, Level 2, 290 Collins Street (take Lift 4 near Hunt Leather), is conducting a series of interesting and informative free Lectures, running for approximately one hour, for members and non members to attend. All Welcome.

Come at 9.45am for morning tea! The talks then commence at 10.15am. They are held on the 4TH Tuesday of the month.

PROGRAM:

Working.... Never Too Old! Need to work to top up your retirement income? Can’t get
passed the young recruiters? Don’t despair – instead come along and learn how to turn your knowledge, skills and energy to your advantage, and earn $$$ as well. Presented by Grace Johnston on February 22.
Older Wiser Lifestyles Stephen Bright from Peninsula Health on March 22.
Organic Gardening in Small Spaces. Keith Edwards of Diggers Seeds will give an interesting presentation on April 26. It will include container growing, growing in small spaces and how to grow enough food for a year in an area of just 10 square metres! April 26th is Anzac Day Holiday, This Lecture has been cancelled.

“Demystifying dementia – understanding changes and challenges”. Come and hear Trudy Neal from Alzheimer’s Australia Vic show you how on May 24.
Tips & Traps Accessing Aged Care presented by Garry Ransome from Moneyplan on June 28.

Phone our Block Court office on 03 9650 6144 to indicate you are coming. We look forward to seeing you.

FREE 2011 Lecture Series

2011-01-13T14:57:00.000+11:00

Come at 9.45am for morning tea! The talks then commence at 10.15am. They are held on the 4TH Tuesday of the month.

PROGRAM:

Working.... Never Too Old! Need to work to top up your retirement income? Can’t get
passed the young recruiters? Don’t despair – instead come along and learn how to turn your knowledge, skills and energy to your advantage, and earn $$$ as well. Presented by Grace Johnston on February 22.
Older Wiser Lifestyles Stephen Bright from Peninsula Health on March 22.
Organic Gardening in Small Spaces. Keith Edwards of Diggers Seeds will give an interesting presentation on April 26. It will include container growing, growing in small spaces and how to grow enough food for a year in an area of just 10 square metres!
“Demystifying dementia – understanding changes and challenges”. Come and hear Trudy Neal from Alzheimer’s Australia Vic show you how on May 24.
Tips & Traps Accessing Aged Care presented by Garry Ransome from Moneyplan on June 28.

Phone our Block Court office on 03 9650 6144 to indicate you are coming. We look forward to seeing you.

Fake SCAMwatch and Consumer Affairs Victoria emails

2011-01-07T17:19:00.001+11:00

SCAMwatch, the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) and Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) are warning consumers to be alert following reports that fake emails are being sent claiming to be from SCAMwatch and CAV representatives.

Email correspondence from official Government agencies can be identified by the inclusion of “.gov.au” in the address, e.g. officer@accc.gov.au or officer@justice.vic.gov.au. SCAMwatch, the ACCC and CAV will not use a public email provider to contact you. We will only contact you via email to respond to an enquiry you have lodged with us or to provide you with information you have requested to receive through an ongoing subscription service.

Some of the fake emails have reportedly requested payments. SCAMwatch, the ACCC and CAV are free Government services and along with other consumer protection agencies will never ask you for your personal bank account details or request payments from you when you did not initiate the contact.

Warning signs

An email comes unexpectedly after a consumer responds to a lottery scratch-card offer received in the mail.
The email claims to be from CAV, sent on behalf of SCAMwatch. The email is sent from a non-government address.
Emails appear genuine as they contain a replica of a real CAV email signature block with genuine phone numbers, website, email and physical addresses.
Some of these fake emails can be recognised by the address scamwatchaus@xxxx.com.

Protect yourself

If you receive an unexpected email that appears to be from the ACCC, CAV or SCAMwatch:

do not respond. Do not open or reply to suspicious or unsolicited emails (spam) even to unsubscribe – delete them.
Do not click on any links in a spam email, or open any files attached to them.
Never send money or give personal, credit card or online account details to an organisation you don’t trust.
If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

If you are unsure if the email is legitimate contact SCAMwatch or CAV on the details below.

Contact SCAMwatch
Contact SCAMwatch on 1300 795 995. You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch.

Contact Consumer Affairs Victoria
Contact the Consumer Affairs Helpline on 1300 55 81 81. You can also dob in a scam via the CAV website.

Stay one step ahead of the scammers. Explore SCAMwatch for more tips on how to recognise and protect yourself from scams.

Secrets of your DNA revealed?

2011-01-06T13:10:00.001+11:00

A state-of-the art DNA test that will reveal the blueprint of your genetic code and hold all the answers to your health, wealth and personal prosperity? Not likely!

All it will reveal is the secrets of your credit card to scammers.

SCAMwatch has heard reports of consumers receiving a free DNA test kit in the mail and is warning you to be on the look out. Many of the kits are turning up in Western Australia, but reports are coming in nationally.

The kits, which look professional, contain a letter and a cotton swab in a sealed bag. By returning their DNA sample to an address in Canada, recipients are promised valuable and insightful information about their DNA profile, including detailed analysis about health, diet, intellect, personal fulfilment, disease prevention - even life expectancy and aspects of youthful age.

Despite providing the kits for free, the company is charging a $39.99 processing fee and asking for the recipient’s credit card details. As well as being a waste of money, providing your personal or financial details to people or organisation that you don’t know can be dangerous.
Don’t be fooled by the promise of receiving a personal DNA profile or prizes or bonuses for replying quickly – if you receive this kit in the mail, report it!

Protect yourself

Use your common sense – ask yourself if today’s technology can really provide this sort of information at this price or even at all.
If you receive novel or unusual offers in the mail, investigate carefully before you act.
Providing personal or financial details to people or organisation that you don’t know can be dangerous.

Report
You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.

More information
Visit SCAMwatch for more tips on how to recognise and protect yourself from scams.

Must See Movie

2011-01-03T10:52:00.000+11:00

Yesterday went to the movies where I saw “The Kings Speech”. The movie tells the story of the man who became King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II. After his brother Edward VIII abdicated and later married a divorcee Mrs Wallis Simpson, George ('Bertie') reluctantly assumes the throne.

King George VI was plagued by a dreaded stammer and considered unfit to be king, he engages the help of an unorthodox Australian speech therapist named Lionel Logue. Through a set of unexpected techniques, and as a result of an unlikely friendship, Bertie is able to find his voice and boldly lead the country through war. In true life King George VI and Lionel Logue became and remained lifelong friends.

Colin Firth plays the part of King George VI while Geoffrey Rush plays the part of the Australian speech therapist.

The film has been Nominated for 7 Golden Globes as well as a number of of other nominations and is a must see. I would go as far as to say it is one of the best movies I have ever seen, not just because of the acting or the direction but also because it is a true story and one that most older people can relate to.

Even though the film is about historical events it is full of human interest and dotted with very humorous parts.

See You Next Year

2010-12-31T09:40:00.000+11:00

Casual Friday: January 7th at Village Green Hotel, Cnr Springvale and Ferntree Gully Roads, Mulgrave.

Next Branch Meeting: Thursday 20th January, Highways Tabaret Corrigan Road and Princes Highway Springvale. (See My Diary for full details)

Merry Christmas

2010-12-18T11:33:00.000+11:00

Another successful year is almost over. That is if success can be measured by attendances at the 40 plus functions and meetings we held this year. Our average attendance at branch meetings is around the 50 mark.

Since our first meeting in April 2004 there have been 281 functions and meeting held with 341 individuals having attended a branch meeting at some time. There are currently 70 members on the books who regularly attend branch meeting and functions.

The year included an unavoidable change of venue from Dandenong RSL where we have held our branch meetings since April 2004, to Highways, Springvale. The Highways venue appears to work well with the management keen to accommodate us. The committee is yet to make a decision on a permanent location for our future meetings. We will have to make this decision prior to the January meeting and will keep you posted.

Note: The 20th January 2011 Branch meeting will be held at Highways.

Our major fundraiser “The Bunnings Sausage Sizzle” has once again proved to be a winner with the December one raising $1100.00 profit. The sausage sizzle as well as raising funds for the branch is another fun day on the social calendar.

If you have not yet put your hand up to help out at the the sausage sizzle then please consider doing so, you will love it.

Our four day trips away have gone from strength to strength with the numbers increasing each time. The trips are a mixture of organised activities with enough time to also go off and do your own thing. Don’t forget to put the 4th to the 8th of April 2011 aside for our Swan Hill Trip.

While on trips a big thank you to Fay and her hard working committee for continually providing great social outings and trips.

The committee would like to thank you all for your continued support and friendship and to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we will see you again in January.

November Branch Meeting Venue

2010-11-17T20:54:00.000+11:00

Don’t forget our Branch Meeting on the 18th of November, 2010 venue is at Highways Tabaret, cnr Princes Highway and Corrigan Road, Springvale. (See map below) Meeting start time remains the same, 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start.

Similar to our previous venue you can order a meal before the meeting commences. We will also be dining in the meeting room.

To ease the pain of moving the committee has decided that part of the cost of your meal will be subsidised.

For those who have not been to Highways, there is ample parking for your cars in a well lit area. The meeting room is through the main dining area and off to the left. Just tell staff on arrival and they will direct you to the meeting room.

We are still looking for donations of no-perishable good for the Christmas Hamper raffle.

Christmas Meeting

We are currently in the planning stages of organising a special Christmas menu for our December meeting.

View Larger Map

Pays to check your dockets!

2010-11-05T13:04:00.001+11:00

The price of groceries and things we buy continues to creep up or the manufacturer changes the amount of product in it’s packets or tins.

Coles this week have “Special K” on special this week for $3.00 and it is advertised on the front page of their catalogue together with a picture of the product. But be warned, check the fine print.

We selected “Special K” from the shelf but when it went through the register we were charged $5.25. The packet we put through the register contained 375 grams. The packet shown on the catalogue and on special, contained 360 grams.

I went and checked and both the 360 gram and the 375 gram packets of “Special K” were sitting side by side and I defy the average shopper to know the difference.

From my perspective this is very deceptive of Coles.

We were that annoyed by this that we got our money back.

The difference in weight between the 2 packets of “Special K” is 15 grams, about a third of a cup, not even a mouthful. If you inadvertently purchase the 375 gram packet you were paying $2.25 for 15 grams or less than a mouthful of the product.

Don’t be grounded by flight booking scams

2010-11-05T11:49:00.001+11:00

SCAMwatch is advising travellers to check the authenticity of flight booking websites before making any reservations for domestic and international travel.

SCAMwatch has received a number of reports of fraudulent traders who have copied the ABN and look of legitimate travel websites.

These fake traders claim to sell tickets on behalf of well-known airlines, when in fact the airlines have not authorised the sale.

After purchasing the fake tickets, victims are given a booking number but when they go to use this number they find that the booking doesn’t actually exist with the airline they are supposed to be travelling on.

Consumers may be contacted directly by fraudulent traders, or may follow links via popular social networking sites.

Some victims have lost in excess of $1000 for fake international flight bookings, while others report instances of identity theft after interactions with the fake trader.

Warning signs:

The flight booking website is not well-known, or you have never heard of it before.
The website claims to offer flights at unusually cheap prices, some up to 50% off.
There is no Australian contact number or address for the trader, often because they are not located in Australia despite their claims.
The site does not have a valid Australian Federation of Travel Agents membership number.

Protect yourself:

Be cautious when considering whether to purchase really cheap airfares – if it looks too good to be true it probably is.
NEVER send money or give personal details to people you don’t know and trust.
Check the ABN quoted on the website is genuinely registered to the trader named on the website. You can look up an ABN on the Australian Government’s business.gov.au website.
If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Report:
You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.

Get Ready For Christmas

2010-10-31T13:29:00.000+11:00

Here’s a few ways to save when you use the Rewards program

Save on Christmas grocery & party purchases

Get a 5% discount on groceries purchased at Woolworths & Coles when you purchase and use Gift Cards from National Seniors.
Campbells Cash & Carry – Members pay wholesale prices for groceries when they show their membership card.
Cellarmasters offer National Seniors members a huge selection of premium wines at guaranteed lowest prices.

Save money on electrical & whitegoods before Christmas

Need a new fridge, air-conditioner or television prior to Christmas? Members are now able to enjoy the benefits of discounted electrical and whitegoods through the new National Seniors Buying Service. This program helps you get the best price on all sorts of new electrical items. Simply go to the National Seniors Buying Service website found via the National Seniors website (or via www.seniorsbuyingservice.com.au ), tell us the make and model of the product you want, your best quoted price obtained and the buying service will shop for the best price from local retailers. Alternatively, if you do not have access to the internet, simply call our membership team on 1300 76 50 50 and our team will access the buying service for you. Save money now before Christmas.

Find that special Christmas gift for friends and family

10% Discount on magazine subscriptions with iSubscribe.
On-line discounts and offers for Simply Gifts, Fruit Only, Indulge Fashion, Roses Only, Efragrance, Baby Buds, Paradise.
Emporium, Hampers Only, Definitely Chocolate, My Hamper and Toddler Town.
Discounted gift cards with BCF, ABC Shop, JB HI-FI, Foot Locker, GOLDCROSS CYCLES, MITRE 10, SUPERCHEAP AUTO, Angus & Robertson & other leading retailers.

Save money on your Christmas Holidays

Accommodation - discounts, promotions and special offers are also available at national hotels, apartments, resorts, motels and bed & breakfasts across Australia including the brands Peppers, Mantra and Break-free which are part of the Mantra Group, the brands Australis, Country Comfort, Sundowner and The Chifley which are part of the Constellation Hotels chain and the Best Western hotels, Golden Chain hotels and Metro hotels.
Thrifty Car Rentals - exclusive National Seniors Rewards program corporate rental rates.
Europcar Car Rentals - corporate rate including reduced liability fee or where booking on-line, members obtain a special rate plus a further 5% discount.
Theme Park Discounts - discounts of up to 15% at all of the well known theme parks including Sea World, Dream World, Australia Zoo, Wet n Wild and Movie World as well as discounts at up to 300 North Queensland activities.
Cafes & restaurants – discounts & 2 for 1 offers available across Australia.
Save up to 25% on your next round of Golf at any Go Golfing affiliated courses across Australia.
Discounted movie tickets at Village, Birch Carroll & Coyle, Greater Union, Hoyts, Reading, AMC, Dendy, Palace, IMAX &Independent cinemas.

Change of Meeting Venue

2010-10-22T14:51:00.001+11:00

Last Meeting at Dandenong RSL

By now most members would be aware that we have to find a new venue to hold future Branch Meetings. RSL management forwarded a letter on the 13^th of October to the Committee stating that after the October 2010 meeting we will no longer be able to use the meeting room at Dandenong RSL. The RSL cited structural changes as the reason.

The committee discussed what options were available and what our needs were for a suitable venue. The overwhelming opinion was that we needed a venue that had similar attributes to the RSL, a room large enough to hold 50 plus members together with the ability to serve meals. The committee decided that an approach would be made to the RSL to discuss any available options (ie change day etc.). It was also decided that local venues would be approached to see what was available.

On the 14th of October 2010 discussions took place with RSL Manager Greg Betros following which he agreed to review the decision with his manager. The following day RSL management informed the committee that the original decision stood.

Currently we are in discussions with the managers of several venues none of which will be finalised by 21^st of October 2010. (The 21^st of October 2010 is the last meeting which will be held at Dandenong RSL).

So there is some certainty for you our members, the 18^th November meeting will be held at Highways, this will give the committee some breathing space to finalise a permanent venue.

The committee will continue to keep you informed of any changes.

Next Meeting Details

Date:	18^th November 2010
Time:	6:00pm for 6.30pm start
Venue:	HIGHWAYS
Address:	Cnr Princes Highway & Corrigan Road Springvale. Melways 80 E8 Click here for map location

Yellow Yellow and more Yellow

2010-10-12T15:20:00.000+11:00

Great Food Great Value!

2010-10-05T22:45:00.001+11:00

Attended Seniors Week in the city today and among brochures in a show bag was one detailing cheap meal deals during Seniors Week where you can get a 2 course meal for $10.00 or a 3 course for $11.50. There are 73 venues listed across Victoria where meals are available. One of the venues is the Stamford Hotel where this weeks Casual Friday is being held. To obtain the deal all you have to do is show your Seniors Card.

A visit to the web site listed on the brochure reveals a swag of restaurants, hotels and the like where meal deals are available across Australia. The meal deals are available to anybody, not just Seniors. You can search for meal deals by suburb or postcode,then download and print out the voucher. With over 200 venues listed across Australia the web site is a must if you are planning on dining out.

Click here to go to the web site.

Don’t Forget!

2010-10-02T13:02:00.000+10:00

2010/2011

Victoria's period of daylight saving will start at 2:00am on Sunday 3 October 2010. At 2:00am move clocks forward one hour to 3:00am.

Victoria's period of daylight saving will end on Sunday 3 April 2011. At 3:00am move clocks backward one hour to 2:00am.

‘NATIONAL SENIORS BUYING SERVICE’

2010-10-01T18:26:00.001+10:00

National Seniors has launched new member programs that will deliver improved value for existing members and provide a real incentive for new members to join.

In addition to the new rewards program where all members receive new membership cards, a new 200 page benefits & discounts directory and access to a new dedicated web-site managed by Where To Enjoy, National Seniors has launched a new member program called the National Seniors Buying Service.

The National Seniors Buying Service will enable members to buy electrical and white goods from reputable brands and retailers at genuinely discounted prices.

National Seniors has partnered with an organisation called Skimp to help members get the best possible price on home electrical and white goods. Skimp uses its bulk buying power to negotiate the best prices on top quality products from the retailers you know and trust, all around Australia.

National Seniors Buying Service doesn’t just take catalogue or ticketed prices and it contacts retailers on the member’s behalf to get the best price for the product the member wants.

How does the program work?

Visit www.seniorsbuyingservice.com.au and nominate the make and model of the product you want
We’ll shop for the best price from reputable retailers in your area
You save!

It’s easy to use and obligation free! Don’t forget to save the above link in your web browsers favourites so you can go back to the site if needed in the future.

What’s On In September

2010-09-28T12:34:00.000+10:00

Melbourne Leisurefest

The 3rd Annual Melbourne Leisurefest is on again this year. It runs from Thursday, 30th September till Sunday, 3rd October 2010 at Sandown Racecourse. This is the place to be if you want to see the latest in boats, RVs, camping, fishing, 4x4 and accessories from all of the leading brands. Click here to go to the Leasurefest web site.

Seniors Week

The 2010 Victorian Seniors Festival runs from the 3rd – 10th October. The festival features over 1,000 free and low-cost events and activities for seniors across Victoria ranging from concerts and fine arts to bushwalking and golf. The Festival Events Program is available at Coles outlets, State Trustees offices, local councils, libraries and neighbourhood houses or by calling Seniors Information Victoria on 1300 135 090. Click here to download a copy of the Events Program.

Football

What a letdown the Grand Final result was on Saturday the 25th with a draw. The players and the spectators were all confused and feeling nothing. The players stayed on the field the spectators just looked at each other with no one knowing what was next. I heard one commentator liken the result as “Like dancing with your sister”. On the day both teams were worthy winners.

One pregnant women who gave birth on the day of this years drawn grand final was also born on the day of the previous drawn grand final. Apparently the family had a rather large bet on this year being drawn.

So we all line up again next week for the replay, hoping that the game will be as thrilling as the first.

Other grand final drawn games were:-

1948 - Essendon vs Melbourne (Melbourne won replay)

1977 - Collingwood vs North Melbourne (North Melbourne won replay)

Pink Ribbon Breakfast

2010-09-09T20:48:00.000+10:00

Bunnings Sausage Sizzle

2010-09-07T11:49:00.001+10:00

Well the drought has well and truly broken with wild weather across the state, wind up to 100kph and rain like we have not seen for some years. Sunday (Father’s Day) came around and the wind was still blowing but the rain had eased off.

All this proved a real challenge to those intrepid members setting up for our fund raising Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. We had to borrow bags of sand to keep things from blowing away and it was a constant battle to cook, serve and adjust the sand bags.

The day started off slow but then picked up towards midday made easier with the wind easing off.

By the time 4pm arrived the weather blew up again and it started to rain. Water filled up in the tent and dropped down the back of your neck when you least expected it. Water spilled over onto the BBQ and made it very unpleasant. With 20 sausages left unsold we were all over it and decided to pack up. Thankfully the rain stopped in time for us to pull the tent down.

Thank you to the organisers, the onion peelers and the volunteers who cooked, and served customers.

You will all be pleased to know it was another successful day, we raised around $600 for the Branch.

Trip To Warrnambool–Train Times

2010-09-01T14:27:00.000+10:00

Information from Fay Winson regarding Warrnambool Trip and train times!

Only 8 weeks to go and we will be off to Warrnambool. I am very much looking forward to it.

Dandenong station have contacted us to inform us that V Line had just phoned them to tell them that the Warrnambool train times have been changed as the timetable is changing early October. The train to Warrnambool will now leave at 7.35am and passengers need to be at Southern Cross Station by 7.00am.

The times for the train home have also been changed although we need to check with Warrnambool station on our arrival there to confirm them. V Line say that the train home will now leave Warrnambool at 11.22am instead of 11.40am.

I have also made a booking for us to dine at Macey's on the night of arrival for those interested., apparently you need to book in advance or it is difficult to get in. It has high recommendation from our Motel owners and people who have gone there before and is just across the road to our Motel, which sounds good after an early start and a long trip.

August AGM Results

2010-08-27T12:42:00.001+10:00

Well the AGM is done and dusted with all committee positions filled except for the Secretary and Newsletter Editors positions. We would like to also welcome a new committee member, Laureen Kann. We hope that you enjoy your role on the committee.

As you would be well aware if we do not fill all Executive positions and this include, President, Vis-President, Secretary and Treasurer we cannot continue to operate as a branch.

With no nominations for the position of Secretary forthcoming it was time for party room politics, a “Back Room Deal”. After much consultation between committee members it was agreed the Colin Ruehland will fill the position of Secretary and that Angela Shoesmith will continue to edit our newsletter but in a reduced format with the number of pages between 2-4.

Our other option was to drop the newsletter altogether but it was felt that there was a real need to continue publishing it as a means of keeping those without internet informed about social activities and the like. The newsletter will now only contain pertinent information regarding social activities and the like.

Bake Off

Our annual bakeoff at the AGM was again a hit with members baking either biscuits, slices and cup cakes. Once again Margaret Murray judged the entries for us. Margaret is a member of Dandenong CWA and assists at the Dandenong Show. Well done to all who competed and congratulations to the winners.

1st Heather Ruehland
2nd Fay Winson
3rd Colin Ruehland

I guess everyone was a winner on the night as we all got to have a small sample of our members wonderful cooking.

Traffic Jams

2010-08-24T16:16:00.001+10:00

We sometimes have a sook about the state of traffic in Melbourne but after you read this you will think you've got it good.

Broken down cars and maintenance work caused a nine-day, yes a nine-day traffic jam in China that stretched for more than 100km.

The traffic jam, on the Beijing-Tibet Expressway between Beijing and Huai’an, began on August 14 when thousands of Beijing-bound trucks jammed the roadway.

Coupled with several minor accidents and broken down cars, traffic has been stranded on the expressway for nine days. The traffic jam is expected to last for a month.

Drivers were reportedly playing cards to kill time.

Residents who live along the way were reportedly selling food to the stranded motorists at inflated prices.

Can you imagine telling the missus after you have been missing for a couple of weeks, “but dear I was stuck in traffic”

Free Travel For Seniors

2010-08-19T15:09:00.000+10:00

Currently Senior’s Card holders are entitled to free rail and bus travel in Zones 1 & 2 on Sundays, but from next year all seniors will be able to travel free within Zones 1 & 2 on a Saturday as well.

If you currently registered and have a “Seniors Sunday Pass” then you should be one of the 400,000 seniors who will have a myki card mailed to you between September and November this year. The myki card should enable you to the free travel on Saturday and Sunday as well it should entitle you to the seniors discount rate at other times during the week.

I know that I am cynical, but is there an election on the way?

Jazz & Swing at the Hub

2010-08-12T19:21:00.000+10:00

Taste Tour

2010-08-03T16:36:00.000+10:00

Jazz & Magic

2010-07-29T08:43:00.000+10:00

Go snap happy

2010-07-24T10:07:00.001+10:00

Photographic Competition

Once again the evergreen faces competition is being conducted during Seniors Week. Last year Colin came second in the competition with a photo of Walter riding a wooden horse. Fay won the voters choice prize.

This year the Evergreen Faces competition is celebrating intergenerational relationships and all photographs submitted must include someone over 60 and someone under 60. Dust off all of those photos of you and your grandchildren and send in an entry for your chance to win up to $500. Conditions apply.

See Colin for entry forms of go to the evergreen web site for further details.

Click here to go to the evergreen web site.

Luv it

2010-06-26T11:30:00.000+10:00

Finding a woman sobbing that she had locked her keys in her car, a passing soldier assures her that he can help.

She looks on amazed as he removes his trousers, rolls them into a tight ball and rubs them against the car door.

Magically it opens."That's so clever," the woman gasps. "How did you do it?" "Easy," replies the man. "These are my khakis".

Scam Watch -Fraud

2010-06-17T11:45:00.000+10:00

Every day there are documents and emails floating around on the internet telling you about Internet Scams, Email Scams and Credit Card Scams. I for one are even cautious about the authenticity of these so called alerts even though emails, web sites and documents look authentic having the proper logos and look of the real product. For instance I can go to any web site and download their logo and make a document that for all intensive purposes looks real. The below logos were downloaded from the company web sites.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has a web site with heaps of information about the current scams. You can also register to receive an email alert from Scam Watch about the most recent scams. Click here for ScamWatch web site.

Protect yourself

Never send your personal, credit card or banking details in an email or over the phone—scammers will use your details to commit identity fraud or steal your money.
If you are unsure whether you have received a legitimate request, call the organisation by using contact details from legitimate sources. Don’t rely on contact details provided to you in an email or through the phone. Instead, obtain contact details through an internet search, telephone directories or official letters/statements from organisations like banks.
People who used Medicare and Centrelink's online services should change their password regularly to protect their information.

Familiar Theme?

2010-06-10T13:21:00.001+10:00

A group of 40-year-old girlfriends discussed where they should meet for dinner.

Finally, it was agreed upon that they should meet at the Ocean View restaurant, because the waiters there were good looking and had buff bodies

10 years later at 50-years-of-age, the group once again discussed where they should meet for dinner. Finally, it was agreed that they should meet at the Ocean View Restaurant, because the food there was very good and the wine selection was good also.
10 years later at 60-years-of-age, the group once again discussed where they should meet for dinner. Finally, it was agreed that they should meet at the Ocean View Restaurant, because it wasn't noisy and the restaurant had a beautiful view of the ocean.
10 years later at 70-years-of-age, the group once again discussed where they should meet for dinner. Finally, it was agreed that they should meet at the Ocean View Restaurant, because the restaurant was wheel chair accessible and they even had an elevator.
10 years later, at 80-years-of-age, the group once again discussed where they should meet for dinner. Finally, it was agreed that they should meet at the Ocean View Restaurant, because they had never been there before.

Volunteers Required

2010-06-08T08:30:00.001+10:00

The University of Melbourne’s Department of Physiotherapy is seeking volunteers over the age of 50 who live in or near Melbourne for several new research studies that will evaluate the effectiveness of a range of non-drug interventions for hip and knee osteoarthritis. For further details, please contact Fiona on (03) 8344 0426 or fmcmanus@unimelb.edu.au or go to this website: http://www.physioth.unimelb.edu.au/chesm/volunteer.html

The University of Melbourne also seeks volunteers over the age of 50 who live in Victoria for a chronic knee pain trial. For further details, please contact Mary on (03) 8344 0485 or mky@unimelb.edu.au or go to the website listed above.

Early Renewal of Membership

2010-06-07T15:58:00.001+10:00

As well as the above “Refer a Friend” campaign National Seniors Australia are advising that hey have an promotion where if you renew your membership early you will go in a draw to win a Nintendo. The competition is designed to encourage members to renew their subscription early. Towards the end of 2010 NSA expect an increase in subscription rates.

So if you have the capacity to pay will be prudent to pay early.

Early subscription will not change the member renewal date.

The best value renewal is the current 3 year membership (i.e. pay two and get three). Advice is that that this will not be repeated in the new rate structure.

“Refer a Friend”

2010-06-05T21:34:00.001+10:00

National Seniors Australia have commenced a “Refer a Friend” campaign to encourage new members into the organization.

This is how it works:

A $10 Coles voucher will be offered to any member that refers a friend or relative to National Seniors Australia (see reverse side of the flyer);
The friend you refer must not already be a member of NSA;
The flyer must be completed and submitted for the offer to be redeemed (i.e. applications over the phone will not be accepted);
Refer 5 friends and you end up with $50 worth of Coles vouchers to spend! It’s that easy!

If there is no Coles supermarket in a regional area, referring members can receive a Woolworth’s card instead, but special arrangements will need to be made for fulfilment.

Flyers will be available at our Branch meetings.

Solar Panel Update!

2010-06-03T19:08:00.001+10:00

Pensioners who use their solar panels to reduce their electricity bill will not be penalised. The government moved to clarify the matter after widespread outrage when it was revealed solar credits were counted as income for Social Security purposes.

Feed-in tariffs paid to pensioners as a credit on an electricity bill now would not be assessed as income under the pension income test.

However power sold back to the grid in return for cash, cheque or a direct deposit will be counted as income. As an example if a pensioner received a cheque from their electricity company for $260 it would be counted as $10 income per fortnight over 26 fortnights.

Click here for original article.

Transition to Retirement

2010-06-03T18:06:00.000+10:00

How Prepared Are You?

If you are planning your retirement, or have retired and are unsure of your future, the City of Casey invites you to attend a seminar presented by National Seniors Australia, “Transition to Retirement”.

Presenters Basil La Brooy from the National Information Centre on Retirement Investments, and Arnold Bates from National Seniors Australia bring with them distinguished careers in the financial and retirement industries and have been delivering seminars on planning for retirement for the past five years.

The seminar will provide you and your partner with information and resources to help with the planning of all aspects of retirement including:

Lifestyle
Accommodation

Family
Financial Stability

When:
Time:
Where:

Wednesday 23rd June 2010
6.45 pm for a 7.00 pm start
City of Casey Civic Centre
Council Chambers
Magid Drive, Narre Warren
Melway Ref: 110 C4

Bookings are essential. To register your attendance, please contact City of Casey Customer Service on 9705 5200. Bookings close Friday 18th June, 2010.

Home wise: appliance and infrastructure grant

2010-06-02T14:07:00.001+10:00

The Home Wise grant helps concession card holders who can't afford to repair or replace an essential faulty appliance currently at their home.

The appliances covered include:

hot water service,
wall furnace/space heater,
faulty toilet,
upright stove/wall oven/cooktop,
water tank,
generator,
leaking gas or water pipes,
fridges,
washing machines.

A qualified contractor will be sent to your home to assess the faulty appliance. Faulty appliances will be repaired rather than replaced. If the appliance cannot be repaired, the relevant size and model of the replacement appliance will be selected by DHS.

Eligibility

You must hold at least one of the following concession cards:

Pensioner Concession Card
Health Care Card
DVA Gold Card

Holders of a Health Care Card for Child Disability and Foster Care issued in the name of the child are not eligible. For fixed appliances, such as heaters or hot water services, the applicant must own or be buying the property. Holders of DVA Gold Cards marked "dependant" are not eligible to apply.

Applicants are eligible to apply for two grants within a ten year period.

How to apply

Contact the Concessions Information Line on 1800 658 521.

	Homewise: Appliance and Infrastructure Grant Brochure [PDF, 132.9 kb]
	Home Wise Appliance and Infrastructure Grant Guidelines [PDF, 223.1 kb]

What will sway your vote?

2010-06-02T13:51:00.000+10:00

This article was sent out by National Seniors Australia for your information.

Successful Sausage Sizzle

2010-05-10T09:12:00.000+10:00

Yesterday was a perfect day for slaving over a hot stove, not too hot and not too cold. Our intrepid bunch of happy seniors lined up at 8.00am at Bunning Dandenong to set up and start cooking. It is funny, you think that you are not doing much business but all of a sudden you find yourself cooking another batch of onions and sausages. I am not sure why but the customers come in spits and spurts.

Yesterday there were several unusual requests, one bloke wanted a sausage and onion but he bought along his own bread roll. Another customer made his purchase on the way in to Bunnings with the request that a couple of sausages be set aside to cool for his best mates. The two cool ones were for his dogs. Apparently this bloke does this on a regular basis and he said, “he would not be able to get back in the car unless he bought the dogs a sausage each”

We had a steady stream of volunteers to help on the day which makes it easier on everyone.

After expenses are taken out we ended up making around $500 on the day. This money will be ploughed back into the Branch to cover operating and or activities expenses.

Thank you to Lynn and Laureen for the unenviable task of skinning and chopping the onions. Laureen the onion smell will disappear from your house in about 6 months and just keep scrubbing your hands with warm soapy water, the smell will eventually disappear. And by the way you both needed a good cry.

Also thanks to Allen and Annette for their tireless work in purchasing the sausages and bread etc and for organising the rostering of volunteers. Your work together with the other volunteers made the day the success it was.

I must say I am over sausages at the moment, the smell of a cooking sausage is just too much.

If you have not done so to date, consider volunteering in some capacity for our next Bunnings sausage sizzle. As well as helping the branch raise funds it is also a fun social day out with your friends.

Thinking About Solar Panels?

2010-04-26T09:28:00.000+10:00

Someone asked me the other day about having solar panels installed to generate electricity back into the grid and get credits for the amount. I really did not have an opinion on the issue as I have not gone done that path. If you are a pensioner then this latest revelation would make you think twice about it. The below article is a direct cut from a newspaper article.

Pensioners will have their payments cut if they sell excess electricity from their solar electricity systems, the federal government has confirmed.

Former policeman Rod Campbell, 63, collects a carer's pension while looking after his wife, and spent $11,000 to install solar panels on his home in the NSW town of Port Macquarie.

He said he discovered the government's rules would lead his pension to be cut.

Mr Campbell said the issue was confirmed in a letter from the office of Families Minister Jenny Macklin, which said the social security test applied to any money from an electricity company "either as a direct payment or as a credit or rebate on a person's electricity bill".

"We could suffer a loss of pension for trying to do a good thing," Mr Campbell said.

A spokeswoman for Ms Macklin said: "If a pensioner sells power back to the grid and receives cash payments or a rebate on their power bill that is counted as income for social security purposes."

One would think that the same rules should apply to non-pensioners which would mean you would have to include any credits you receive as income in your tax return.

Please don’t tell them I have solar panels on my caravan!

And what next, measure the water we collect in our rainwater tank for inclusion in our next tax return.

After I published this article I received a reply from Peter Feeny regarding his experiences in installing solar power makes interesting reading

Click here to see article.

Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne

2010-04-11T20:22:00.001+10:00

Recently visited the Royal Botanical Gardens at Cranbourne for the third time in a couple of years. One occasion was a Branch activity in 2008 where a group of us had a BBQ and a walk through the gardens. Each time that I have visited the gardens has been a different season with different flowers and shrubs out in bloom. At that time we were all amazed at the work that had gone into the gardens.

Staff have recently commenced major works on the second section of the gardens which when finished will be a huge area. The displayed photos show the gardens as we visited the gardens in 2008 and now.

If you have not been to the gardens you would be disappointed with the interruptions to the displays, such as the river shut off to allow for the new works. But if you had previously seen the gardens as it was you would be anxious to see the new gardens when they are finished.

Do Not Call Register

2010-04-11T19:34:00.001+10:00

Are you sick of receiving unsolicited phone calls from telemarketers and yes they always ring around meal times when there is a fair chance that you will be home? D not despair there is a way to put a stop to this annoying behaviour, simply register your phone numbers, home and mobile with the Do Not Call Register.

There are three ways you can register:-

Online at https://www.donotcall.gov.au/
Telephone on 1300 792 958
Down load application form from web site and post to

Do Not Call Register
PO Box 42
North Melbourne VIC 3051

From the date that you register your telephone number, it may take up to 30 days for telemarketers to recognise your registration and stop calling your number.

Placing your telephone number on the Register will not stop all telemarketing calls, as there are some limited exemptions.

A copy of the Act is available on the ACMA website www.acma.gov.au/donotcall.

Remember: Your registration lasts for three years and after that period you will need to re-register. If you register online and supply an email address then you should receive a reminder prior to your registration expiring.

About the Do Not Call Register

The Do Not Call Register is an Australian Government initiative that provides Australians with the opportunity to opt out of receiving certain telemarketing calls. The legislative arrangements that establish the Register include:

the Do Not Call Register Act 2006 (the Act), which establishes the register, outlines rules for making certain telemarketing calls and provides exceptions to the rules;
the Do Not Call Register Regulations 2006 (the regulations), which specify the types of calls that are not telemarketing calls and the persons who are deemed to be nominees of a relevant account holder;
the Telecommunications (Do Not Call Register) (Telemarketing and Research Calls) Industry Standard 2007 (the industry standard), which sets rules for people who make telemarketing and research calls, about when and how they can make certain calls;
other legislative arrangements concerning operational details of the register.

The register and the new industry standard took effect on 31 May 2007.

A bit of a laugh!

2010-04-03T15:42:00.002+11:00

These great nicknames are courtesy of the Herald Sun, “In Black & White”

“The Queenscliff Cannon” – Because he never fired a shot.
“Seepage” – Because he’s too slow to be a drip.
A mechanic called “Tail-light” – Because he wasn’t bright enough to be a headlight.
A bloke nicknamed “Arthritis” – Because once he’s in ya joint you can’t get rid of him.
Bloke used to drink at the Great Western Hotel nicknamed “Taxi” – He was so boring he’d drive everyone home.
Two other blokes at local pup called “Bails and Stumps” – Because they were always last to leave.
Drinking partner nicknamed “Whisper” – Because he was rarely known to shout.
An apprentice nicknamed “Harvey Norman” – 18 months, no interest.
Workmate nick named “Opium” – Slow working dope.
Bloke nicknamed “Hydraulic” – Because he’d lift anything (as in steal).
Bloke nicknamed “Pothole” – Somebody to be avoided.

The nick name whisper reminded me a bloke I used to work with who was of Scottish decent. He was the most miserable mean person I have ever come across. The bloke used to smoke but never his own cigarettes, his favourite saying was “I left me fags home and I haven't got any dough, can you lend me a fag”? Needless to say he never returned the favour.

The rest of his workmates got sick of this after a couple of months so an evil plot was hatched, the all decided to bring roll your own tobacco. After a couple of days of getting knocked back because the others only had “roll ya own” the Scotsman hatched his own evil plot. Yes he purchased his own “roll ya own” papers and botted tobacco.

I think the other smokers gave up after this supreme effort.

An invisible man married an invisible women. Their kids were nothing to look at.

Online Survey

2010-03-18T18:57:00.000+11:00

Several Branch members have participated in Greenscouts surveys in the past, the surveys relate to people over the age of 50 and payment is by way of “Wish Cards” which are posted to you. Below are details of what Greenscouts is about. If you are interested click to go to Greenscouts web page.

These days it’s getting more difficult to have your opinion heard. Finally there’s a way.

At Greenscouts, we believe that people over 50 have an enormous amount to contribute through their experience and wisdom. Here is an opportunity to make your opinion count by joining Greenscouts and participating in our online surveys.

What’s more, you will be rewarded for your participation in the online surveys.

Enrolment is FREE and open to anyone aged 50 or over.

Every time you are selected to participate in a Greenscouts online survey and your completed survey is accepted, you will receive a WISH Gift Card.

This is our way of thanking you for taking the time and effort to respond to a survey.

Sixth Birthday Meeting – March 2010

2010-03-18T11:07:00.000+11:00

It is hard to believe that our branch has successfully been operating for six years. It only seems like yesterday that we held our start-up meeting in Noble Park. Since that time other branches have started up and folded, but our branch seems to go from strength to strength.

Other branches I know, concentrate heavily on policy matters and are sticklers for meeting protocol but seem to leave out the fun aspect which everyone seems to want.

I know that I have reached the stage in my life where I don’t want to be held accountable to petty rules, I just want to enjoy life. I suppose this has a lot to do with completing my Certificate III in “Grumpy Old Man”. (Comes in handy sometimes.)

Anyhow about our sixth birthday, what a night, wonderful music from the band with “No Name”, a new chef and a completely new menu. And St Patrick’s Day with everyone dressing in green and a green birthday cake. This all made for a very enjoyable night. The RSL opened the bar in the meeting room and supplied a free champagne to help celebrate our birthday. Anyone who would like to send a comment to the RSL about the new arrangements can send an email to the the manager (Greg) at dandenongrsl@swiftdsl.com.au.

In saying all that I have said, the happy times we have had to date would have not have been possible without your support and participation. There are heaps of varied social activities planned for the coming year which we hope will make for a happy and enjoyable seventh year.

REMEMBER “Childhood may be over, but that doesn't mean playtime is…”

Brand New Chef………

2010-03-17T11:30:00.001+11:00

The Dandenong RSL now has a new chef with a brand new bistro name and menu. Secretary Kay met and spoke with him yesterday regarding our branch requirements. The new bistro name is “Oskar’s Bistro”.

I must say that the menu is completely different from what we have been used to over the last 6 years. It looks great but of course the proof of the pudding is in the eating.

The Seniors Meal Deal for lunch is $12.00 and is available 7 days a week.

The same Seniors deal for dinner is available Monday to Friday. Choose Soup or Sweet PLUS main course and receive a FREE glass of beer, wine or soft drink to enjoy with your meal.

Soup

(Chef’s selection)

Main Course

Beer Battered Fish & Chips
Bangers & Mash with onion gravy.
Lambs Fry & Bacon & Chips.
Chicken Schnitzel & Vegetables.
Rissoles & Gravy with Chips.
Deep Fried Crumbed Calamari.
Chef’s Pie of the Day.

Sweets

Fruit Salad & Ice Cream.
Apple Crumble & Ice Cream.
Chocolate Mousse.

Seniors’ Variety Concert – 4th May 2010

2010-03-13T14:50:00.000+11:00

The Social Committee is trying to get together a group to go to the Melbourne’s Greatest Seniors’ Variety Show on the 4th of May. The plan is to travel as a group on the train. The train which seems to be suitable would leave Dandenong Station at 3.57pm and arrive Flinders Street at 4.30pm the doors open at 5.15pm. As the show finishes at 8.30pm we could catch the 9pm train and arrive at Dandenong 9.52pm. For further information and or to book contact Fay WINSON.

About The Show

Life Activities Clubs Victoria and National Seniors Australia are jointly staging a Grand Variety Concert for seniors at the Melbourne Town Hall on Tuesday, 4 May this year.

Supported by the State Trustees with assistance from the City of Melbourne, the event is scheduled for the ‘cocktail hour’ and professional entertainers will excite you with music and magicians, comedy and circus, song and dance – and dancing.

Light refreshments will be available throughout the evening and everyone is invited to kick up their heels to a great dance band after the intermission.

Only $20 a head (no concessions) with any profits going to Alzheimer's Australia.

Holiday to Warrnambool

2010-03-13T14:19:00.000+11:00

Staying at Downtown Motel, 620 Raglan Parade, Warrnambool.

Monday 25th October depart Dandenong Station at 6.23am arrive Southern Cross Station at 7.08am. Depart Southern Cross Station at 07.47am arrive Warrnambool 11.05am where we will be picked up by bus and driven to our motel.

Bus pickup from Motel on Friday 29th October to Warrnambool Station, train departs at 11.40am arriving at Southern Cross Station at 3.03pm. Depart Southern Cross Station at 3.20pm and arrive at Dandenong Station at 4.10pm.

Note:- $50 per person deposit required at next week's meeting if you plan to join us on this trip. See Fay Winson.

For further details see My Diary Page.

View Larger Map

Len and Brenda?

2010-02-27T13:10:00.000+11:00

The adds for Sunny Queen Farm eggs has be hitting the airwaves lately and I thought that I was the only one who picked up on that fact that the couple appearing in the advertisement was so close to looking like our own Len and Brenda MacNabb that is wasn’t funny. At a social function one other branch member also commented on the advertisement. I thought is was too good not to share with everyone. To start the vide press the arrow button in the centre of the picture. Enjoy!

MYKI Card Delayed For Seniors

2010-02-27T10:02:00.000+11:00

MYKI chiefs reported (Herald Sun 28-02-2010) that they have been forced to delay the release of myki smartcards to seniors.

The Transport Ticketing Authority has been forced to halt distribution of 400,000 cards after considering it is a pointless exercise with myki still not working on trams and buses. Seniors mykis will only be issued when the card system is working across the whole system.

The advice is to continue to use metcard until the system is up and running across the whole transport network, trams, buses and trains.

Click here to go to myki web site.

Seniors Week 2010

2010-02-21T11:01:00.000+11:00

The 2010 Victorian Seniors Festival will run from Sunday 3 October to Sunday 10 October. As ever, there will be hundreds of free and low cost activities and events so keep these dates free in your diary!

Pumpkin Scones!!

2010-02-15T17:38:00.000+11:00

Pictured is a pumpkin proudly grown by our own Lyn StClair. I can feel pumpkin scones coming on. Well done Lyn.

Projector Purchased

2010-02-13T21:13:00.000+11:00

Recently your committee applied for a grant though the City Of Greater Dandenong to assist in the purchase of a projector for use at our branch meetings.

The good news is that we were successful in obtaining a grant and have now purchased a brand new projector.

In the past, guest speakers have wanted to show a slide show to complement their speaking topic and we have been unable to assist them. It will also come in handy for photo slideshows of NSA activities. The projector has been set up and is ready to go when required.

Australian Tax Office Scam Emails

2010-02-13T11:58:00.001+11:00

Older Australians are being encouraged to be more vigilant following the circulation of a new scam email which claims to offer a refund from the Australian Tax Office. The latest scam has a bogus Tax Office form attached to it which asks for personal details including credit card details and ATM card PIN numbers. The email header even has a fake Australian Tax Office logo making it look real. The email asks for the form to be completed, printed, and sent in to a genuine Tax Office address. The email states that ‘after a recalculation of your fiscal activity, we have determined that you are entitled to receive a tax refund of AU$ xxx’. When the victim fills out the form and clicks the ‘print’ button, all of the personal details are instantly sent to a third party overseas. After submitting personal details, victims are redirected back to the genuine Tax Office website. Anyone who receives a suspicious phone call or email should immediately contact the Australian Tax Office on 13 28 61 or by forwarding the entire email to reportemailfraud@ato.gov.au.

Click here for further information.

Lake Entrance Trip Cancelled!!!!

2010-01-20T08:33:00.001+11:00

Fay Winson last night received an email from the Pelican At Lakes Motel in Lakes Entrance to say that they had now booked a bus load of 40 people on the dates we had booked for our March trip which only leaves 5 rooms for our branch members. Fay had no alternative but to cancel our trip.

Very disappointing that a business would do this without any discussion and then have the temerity to tell us by email. Some business owners just don’t get it. I suppose it is all about the dollar with business ethics out the window.

The committee will now re-evaluate our position with a view to booking somewhere else.

Update 12-Feb-20010: Following our February committee meeting it has been decided to organise a 4 day trip to Warrnambool. The Social Committee is currently sourcing accommodation and things to do during our stay. At this stage it is envisaged the trip will take place from the 4th to the 8th of October 2010. Stay tuned for further details.

Passing of member

2010-01-15T16:05:00.000+11:00

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing an esteemed and valued member of our branch.

Martin De Koning passed away on Jan 13th 2010 after a long illness.

Martin and Helen have been regular attendees at branch functions since 2004.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Martin’s wife Helen and his family.

His smiling face and happy disposition will be missed at our branch activities.

See Herald Sun Friday 15th Jan 2010 for funeral details.

Warning!

2010-01-15T09:03:00.000+11:00

The government scheme of adding or replacing insulation in your roof is a great idea but there are a few traps for unwary players and I guess like everything in life we need to be assured that the people we choose have the skills to do it properly. I for one have had numerous approaches to have it done with people door knocking and at shopping centres and it seems that everyone who has a ute or trailer is getting in on the act. Listed below are some of the unscrupulous and downright dangerous things that can happen if you choose an unskilled person.

Place the insulation over fans and or down lights causing fires.
Placing the insulation a metre around the manhole so that the home owner thinks the whole roof has been done.
Placing the packaged insulation in the roof cavity and not spreading it.
Installer falling though the plaster ceiling.

My next door neighbour almost lost his house when it caught on fire this was after the installer had placed insulation over the ceiling fan in his bathroom. The insulation was placed in the ceiling last October and had taken until January to be a problem. So don’t think just because you had it done some time ago and it has not been a problem that it is in fact OK. The fire caused major structural damage to the ceiling and bathroom.

A friend who used someone who knocked on his door had to replace and repaint the ceiling in his lounge room after the installer fell through the plaster.

The Government has a web site with information on all aspects of the ceiling insulation program which includes the means to de-register installers that cause householders issues such as above. Click here for link to government web site.

My advice,if you have had insulation done in the last few months and have not inspected it, then get some trustworthy person to inspect it for you to make sure it is OK.

Progressive Dinner

2010-01-13T23:31:00.000+11:00

When: Saturday 16th January 2010 at 6:00pm

Where:

1st address: Bernice McCabe’s at 53 Aberdeen Drive, Dandenong North.
2nd address: Jan Ferguson’s at 68 Halton Road, Noble Park.
3rd address: Denise Hill’s at 20 Jacksons Road, Noble Park.

Currently 31members have indicated their attendance so it promises to be a great night.

A reminder to bring your own drinks and glasses. Everything else will be provided.

Parking: You can park at any of the addresses but an easier place to park is at the Barry J Powell Reserve and then walk to each address. See interactive Google map below for address locations.

Dandenong Show – Cookery Results

2009-11-14T21:10:00.000+11:00

Following on from the Great Male Bakeoff we had at our this years AGM, John Commerford and Colin Ruehland placed entries in the cookery section of the 2009 Dandenong Show. Much to their surprise both came away with prizes in their respective sections.

John managed a 2nd and a 3rd with his Plain Scones, while Colin a 2nd with his Anzac Biscuits. This is the first time John and Colin have entered a show cookery competition and both were thrilled with their results. To think this all started with a my scones are better than yours.

John and Colin have thrown out the challenge to other Dandenong Branch members, (male or female) to participate in next year’s Dandenong Show.

Courses for Men

2009-10-24T09:25:00.000+11:00

Men, learn the secrets of becoming a better companion by undertaking any of our revolutionary new courses.

Toilet paper rolls. Do they grow on the holder? (Round table discussion)
Loss of identity. Losing the remote to your partner. (Open forum)
Health watch. Bringing her flowers is not harmful to her health. (Graphics and audio tape)
How to be the ideal shopping companion. (Relation exercises. meditation, breathing exercises and group discussion)
How to identify someone. e.g. someone has used all the toilet paper. (Course participants will need to bring several current photos of themselves or a mirror)

Courses will commence the first week of January at a location to be decided. For further information and bookings contact:-
Who Me
Telephone: (03) 9547-2222

Exercise and Age

It is well documented that for every minute you exercise, you add one minute to your life. This enables you at eighty five years of age to spend an additional five months in a Nursing Home at $5000.00 per month.

Peoples Choice Award

2009-10-10T14:07:00.001+11:00

Colin Ruehland had a phone call from Telstra today informing him that he had won the Peoples Choice Award in the Greenfaces Photo competition. The prize is an EasyTouch® Discovery Phone valued at $480.00.

The winner of a mobile phone out of those that voted for Colin’s photo was Fay WINSON.

A big thank you to all Colin’s friends, family and extended family for voting, it is nice to have such lovely and loyal friends.

Photo Competition - Update

2009-10-08T20:15:00.002+11:00

Each year leading up to Seniors Week people are encouraged to 'Go snap happy' during the month of August to celebrate older Australians in a positive way. To enter you need to have a photograph of someone 60 or over showing them in a positive manner for a chance to win cash prizes. There are two sections, the Judges Prize and Peoples Choice Award.

This year Colin Ruehland submitted a photograph of Walter riding a wooden horse at a winery during our recent trip to Albury with the caption “It woodn’t go”.

Judges Award

On Thursday the 8th of October a group of National Seniors and family attended the announcement of the winners at the Melbourne Town Hall where it was announced that the photo had been judged second in the State wide competition with a cash prize of $300.00.

Peoples Choice Award

Voting opens 04/10/09 and closes 10/10/09. Winners will be notified by SMS or e-mail on 15/10/09.Prizes consist of two EasyTouch® Discovery Phones valued at $480.00 each. The photograph that receives the most votes will win the People’s Choice Award and one EasyTouch® Discovery Phone. The voters that picked the winning photograph will go in the draw to win the second EasyTouch® Discovery Phone.

You can vote online, Click here to Vote

Myki For Seniors

2009-10-07T14:05:00.000+11:00

While at a Seniors Week event I spoke to people from Myki. Myki is the new transport ticketing system that is going to be introduced to Victoria and will replace our current ticketing system.

If you currently hold a Seniors Sunday Pass you should receive a Myki ticket in the mail which will contain a Sunday Pass which will entitle you to free travel within two consecutive zones (e.g. Zones 1 and 2). This ticket will know you are entitled to a Seniors Concession and should charge you accordingly.

If you are not an existing Sunday Pass Holder you will need to purchase a seniors Myki for $7.00.

To travel with a Myki Pass other than Sundays you will need to have topped up the Myki card with a money payment.

Registration

The other thing you need to do is register your Myki Card to protect it’s value if it is lost or stolen. Registering your Myki means that you can manage your account online, view your travel details and set up an auto top up. Unless your card is registered the value of your card is not protected and you will be unable to get a refund if lost or stolen. Registration can be done online or at selected retailers and stations.

Click to go to Myki web site.

Download Seniors Sunday Pass Application Form.

Trip to Kangaroo Island

2009-09-22T21:03:00.000+10:00

Barry & Nancy Deal, Sheila & her Friend Sally.

Day one saw us depart early for our trip to Goolwa SA for our overnight stay.

Day Two another early start as we travelled to Cape Jervis and boarded the Kangaroo Island Sea Link ferry for our sea crossing to Kangaroo island, after our arrival we were met with our island guide (Graham) who for the next two days would show us all the tourist spots around the island.
After arriving we travelled around the island past the American River Aquatic reserve on to Cliffords Honey Farm, to learn about honey production , this is thought to be the only place in the world where a pure strain of Liguria bees exist. We had the opportunity to purchase some of Jenny’s famous honey ice cream. We also stopped at the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery, where we learnt about the distilling process, the same way it began in the 1890s this is the only distillery still in operation in South Australia. Next stop was our visit to Historic Kingscote for a highlights tour & lunch stop. After lunch we visited a sheep milking farm Island Pure Sheep Dairy where they have up to 300 milking sheep at any one time, the sheep are milked and cheese & yoghurt are produced, we had the opportunity to sample the various cheese’s and yoghurt’s. After this we travelled to the far end of the island for our accommodation for the next two nights Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat.

Day Three saw us visit Flinders Chase National Park/Seal Bay Conservation Park, the only place in the world where we could stroll with a guide through a wild seal colony. We also visited the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse and keepers residences, now used for holiday rental houses.

Day four saw us after another early start travel back to the sea ferry for our trip back to the main land, after arriving at Cape Jervis we made our way to Victor Harbor, we stopped for lunch, afterwards we went on a Coorong Discovery Cruise, by this time we had a change in the weather. Rain, wind & cold after the good weather we had on the island.

Day Five saw us begin our trip home, disappointed that the excellent organised adventure was over, arriving back home late Thursday evening.

Australia's Unity Walk for Parkinson's!

2009-09-08T19:01:00.000+10:00

On Sunday, 30 August, at Federation Square, just over 1000 walkers united in support of those living with Parkinson's.

What a moving and inspirational sight it was to see so many people - all decked out in Unity Walk T-shirts - coming together for this worthy cause.

Thirteen members from Dandenong National Seniors signed up to walk. A couple were absent with illness, but the rest of us had a great time. The weather was very pleasant, even though rain was forecast, and the walk was a very easy one along the Yarra to and from Federation Square.

At our last meeting, we took up a collection to add to Anne Atkin’s sponsorship total. We raised $124.55 that night and this amount took her over her goal of $2000.

(Back L to R. Pat Mullen, Gail Somers, Lyn StClair, Denise Hill, Volunteer Marshall, Margaret and Bryan Hancock. Front L to R. Annette Theobald, Marion Mathieson, Lyn Bishop, Gaile Menzies)

Community Benefit Card

2009-08-30T19:45:00.000+10:00

National Seniors Dandenong Branch now have their own Ritchies Community Benefits Card. 1% of the money you spend on groceries and liquor goes to our branch. Each time you make a purchase have your card scanned and 1% of the money you spent goes to our branch.

There is a overall minimum spend of $1000 per month to be eligible for the 1% Community Benefit. It only requires 10 people to spend $25 per week or 5 people spending $50 a week to reach the $1000 for the month. The totals are reset at the end of each month. If you would like a Branch Community Benefits card see Angela Shoesmith.

Ritchies give Seniors Card holders a 5% discount one day each week. It's not the same day at every store but Allen Theobald has worked out the days for several of the below listed stores.

Click on the Google Map icon to see store locations.

Dandenong (5% discount Tuesday) 141-145 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong, 3175 Ph: (03) 9791 7417 Fax: (03) 9791 7463 Melways Map 90. D8	Berwick (5% discount Thursday) Shop 1, 2 Richardson Gve, Berwick, 3806 Ph: (03) 9707 1916 Fax: (03) 9707 3307 Melways Map 111. C8
Cranbourne (5% discount Tuesday) High Street, Cranbourne, 3977 Ph: (03) 5996 1088 Fax: (03) 5996 7047 Melways Map 133. J6	Narre Warren (5% discount Tuesday) 14 Webb Street, Narre Warren, 3805 Ph: (03) 9704 6290 Fax: (03) 9704 6994 Melways Map 110. D6
Rowville (5% discount Thursday) Shop 18, 1100 Wellington Rd Rowville, 3178 Ph: (03) 9755 8410 Fax: (03) 9755 8418 Melways Map 82. C3	Aspendale Gardens Shop 1, 11 Narelle Dve, Aspendale Gardens, 3195 Ph: (03) 9590 9999 Fax. (03) 9590 9993 Melways Map 93. B5

Ritchies currently donate many millions of dollars each year to the clubs, kindergartens, schools and charities nominated by shoppers.

Click here to go to Ritchies web site.

Guess who made the Journal?

2009-08-26T16:09:00.001+10:00

Angela Shoesmith and Annette Theobald recently took part in and organised tour of the Indian precincts of Dandenong where they sampled all sorts of Indian delights.

Greater Dandenong ambassador Mariam Shamim who led the tour introduced the party to all sorts of traditional Indian foods and sweets.

Ms Shamim spoke about the intricacies of an Indian wedding and had on display traditional wedding clothes for the bride and groom.

Annette volunteered to be dressed in a sari at the Heritage India Bollywood fashion store. Her picture is featured in this weeks Dandenong Journal.

Click here for the full article.

The Final Judgement

2009-08-21T09:40:00.000+10:00

Well the judges decision is final everyone who participated in the “Great Male Bakeoff” were winners on the night. However the grand prize was won by Veri for a beautifully baked and presented cake. The winner out of the scones was our President John. Leading up to the night was filled with drama but all participants overcome adversity to present their various culinary delights. Our President John had to drive up to NSW at short notice so he got up at 4am and cooked his scones. Walter was without power on the day he was going to cook so had to do it the day before. Veri had to drop off his cake and then head to the airport. Colin had no stove and no kitchen so had to bake his scones over the weekend and freeze them.

The samples after the judging were very popular. Some of the single ladies were overheard to ask the question, “Where do you find a man who can cook like this?” The bar staff at the RSL sampled some of the delights and in turn wanted to know where they could get the recipe from?

It is hoped that we will be able to publish the recipes on the web site and in the newsletter.

We should not forget that last night was also our AGM, once again with a full committee being elected. We look forward to another happy and successful year. Finally a big thank you to all who participated in the “Great Male Bake Off” it made the AGM a funny and happy night.

The Great Male Bake Off

2009-08-14T14:36:00.000+10:00

What started off as, “My scones are better than yours” has now developed into a full blown bake off to settle the argument once and for all.

Fancy yourself as a bit of a cook and you are a male then bring your plate of goodies to the August meeting Thursday 20th August 2009.

Prizes for the best dish.

The following cooks extraordinaire have stepped up to the challenge:-

Walter Winson
Stephen Courtney
Peter Maas
Verissimo Fernandes
Len MacNab

John Commerford
Lloyd Davies
Colin Ruehland
Bryan Hancock

The independent judging panel will be picked at random on the night, with the judges verdict final.

Great Southern Rail Concession

2009-05-31T20:26:00.000+10:00

All Seniors Card holders who are not eligible to receive Pension or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card entitlements to travel on Great Southern Rail services including the Indian Pacific, The Ghan, The Overland and The Southern Spirit can now obtain the New Commonwealth Government concessions, which means you’ll save 25% * when travelling on The Ghan, Indian Pacific or The Overland.

Please be aware that the new 25%* saving cannot be applied by using your existing Seniors Card. The new concession arrangements with Great Southern Rail require Seniors Card holders to pre-register to obtain a unique Great Southern Rail Seniors Concession Travel Card.

Register Online & Win

Complete your individual registration online and go into the draw for a chance to win a trip for two on the legendary Ghan from Darwin to Adelaide in Gold Service. To register click here.

Seniors Web Site

2009-05-16T20:30:00.000+10:00

Have a look at the Australian Governments Seniors web site it is a great source of information for Australians over 50. Seniors.gov.au provides a single point of access to Government and non-Government information and services for older Australians.

Bunnings Sausage Sizzle

2009-04-21T12:23:00.001+10:00

Our fundraiser on Sunday the 10th of May 2009 (Mother’s Day) at Bunnings, Dandenong was a huge success again. We had plenty of customers and willing workers. We managed to clear around $500 profit for the day. Many thanks to those who helped organize the event, buying produce and the tear jerking task of chopping onions.

Old Melbourne Gaol

2009-03-23T16:42:00.004+11:00

A small group of us went on a Sunday Club trip to the Old Melbourne Gaol yesterday. We caught the same train and arrived at Melbourne Central about 11am. We used our National Seniors My Rewards 2 for 1 vouchers and it only cost about $8 each to get in. The tour of the Gaol is a self guided one and it took us about 1 and 1/2 hours. We then went for lunch and returned for the 1pm tour of the Old City Watch House.
We were treated as prisoners who were inducted into the watch house. No Talking. Stand in straight lines. Mobile phones off. Look straight ahead etc. We were locked in a dark cell for about 2 minutes by the 'Sergeant'.
Sergeant Knight was actually an actor not a policewoman but she had us all behaving for a change. The tour is well worth taking and reassures you why you don't want to go to gaol.
At the end we took mug shots of ourselves.

March 2009 – 5th Birthday Meeting

2009-03-20T10:47:00.007+11:00

We celebrated our 5th birthday at our March 2009 general meeting in great style with 59 members attending to hear the singing group “Just Harmony”. Just Harmony started off with a group of 8 singers who rehearsed in the South Eastern suburb of Cranbourne. The group has now grown to 22 members. They sang all the old favourites including a piece that was penned in honour of all the volunteers who helped out in the recent bushfires. After our meal we sang happy birthday to ourselves and cut our birthday cake. A great night was had by all.