We have decided to discontinue this Blog Site. Instead, we have developped a website. Please, click this link to visit us: http://www.bellarineregister.org.au
Also, we are now on Facebook and would love to hear from you: http://www.facebook.com/bpcsrinc
Feel safe, feel secure, have peace of mind.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Wednesday, March 06, 2013
March 2013 Newsletter
March 2013
Issue
No. 25
Hello to all our
Registrants
Your friends at
the Register hope this message finds you fit and well following the festive
season and that you had an enjoyable time with your family and friends.
The weather over the past month has been a little challenging for some with extended periods of warm to hot days and increased humidity. Keeping cool during these periods is important. Remember to drink plenty of fluids, use an air-conditioner or fan and try to avoid heading out in the hottest part of the day.
THANK YOU for your prompt response to the
Personal Update Form in the last Newsletter. By forwarding your updated information,
this has enabled us to update our database so that we are providing accurate
information for the Police to act on in an emergency, thus giving you and your
family peace of mind.
One last reminder – with daylight saving about
to end, it brings to mind the slogan: Change your clocks; Change your smoke
alarm battery. It is so important to
have a working smoke alarm in our home. Please
take extra care when reaching for the smoke alarm unit and changing its battery. If you are not confident to undertake this
task, ask a family member or consider contacting your local fire station to
seek their assistance.
Until our next newsletter, take care.
Kind regards
Rhonda Rotherham
Chairperson
Bellarine Police Community Support Register
Inc.
PhoneLink )
|
Our PhoneLink initiative is designed to enable like-minded people to get-together on the ‘phone as regularly as they wish. Tell us what your interests are, such as your
garden; your favourite TV shows; sports interests; chatting about recent
outings; your children or grandchildren, or anything else that you like to chat
about. Our PhoneLink Co-ordinator, Elaine, will then try to put you in touch
with someone of similar interests so that you can have a telephone friend to
talk to and have interesting chats. Call our co-ordinator on 5258 2214 so that
we can send you an ‘Application To Join’ and get the ball rolling.
31
March 2013 Neighbour Day
20
April 2013 Portarlington
Community Group Expo, in and around Parks Hall
19
May 2013 Victoria Police
Showband and Pipe Band Concert, Portarlington
VICTORIA
POLICE SHOWBAND AND PIPE BAND CONCERT
The Police Band will be performing at Parks Hall in
Portarlington on Sunday 19 May 2013
from 1.30pm. This
ever-popular event is $15.00 admission and there will also be a raffle on the
day to help raise funds for BPCSR. You can buy your tickets at Bellarine
Community Health Centres in Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove, Drysdale and
Portarlington. Tea, coffee and biscuits are included in the admission price.
Hoarding
Do you know
someone with a cluttered house or yard that is affecting the way they live?
What is hoarding?
Hoarding is when a
person fills their house and/or yard with an unreasonable amount of
possessions. The person may be unable to discard possessions that appear to be
useless or of little value. In Australia an estimated 400,000 to 1 million
people experience hoarding condition. This is 5 times the rate of panic
disorder and schizophrenia. Hoarding is increasingly recognised as a
psychological condition. With a coordinated effort many people can manage and
minimise this behaviour.
The risks
A house that is
cluttered with items reduces liveability and can lead to serious personal and
public health risks from:
- Blocked doorways
- Smoke alarms that don’t work
- Overloaded or crowded power points
- Unusable kitchens and bathrooms
- No direct access from front door to exit, or
- Limited sleeping space
- There may be piles of newspapers and other material that can
increase the risk of fire, attract rats and mice and limit ventilation.
How do I know if it’s a problem?
A clutter image rating scale has
been developed and is being used by health and community support agencies to
measure the degree of hoarding behaviour. This may help you assess whether it
is time to get help.
Where to get help
Your GP – Discuss what support options are
available.
Geelong Hoarding Network – for information
about service providers who may be able to help. Email hwaterson@geelongcity.vic.gov.au
or phone (03) 5272 5026.
We would like
to say an extremely big and appreciative thank you to all those wonderful
people who make donations to our funds. If it were not for you kind and
generous people we would not be able to continue our free service.
Please
support our supporters …
Our founding sponsor is
Bellarine Memories
We are also supported by –
Portarlington Community Bank Branch Bendigo
Bank
All Saints Anglican Church Op Shop Barwon
Heads
Rotary Club of Queenscliff
|
||||
 |
||||
Friday, February 15, 2013
Newsletter
December 2012
Issue No. 24
Well, here we are at the end of
another year. And what a busy year it has been. Our Register continues to grow.
We are pleased to say we currently have 1,783 registrants. We trust that your decision to register will
bring you peace of mind and greater confidence in knowing there is a structure
in place to assist you in the event of an emergency.
From a Police perspective the
Register offers contemporary, after hours and emergency contact details which
will significantly enhance responses from police and other emergency services.
The Register’s Annual General
Meeting was held on 19 September and the 2012/2013 Committee elected. We welcomed some new faces to the Committee
and retained some volunteer members who have served on the Committee for
several years. With Jenny, Pam, Faye,
Gail, Helen, Gail, Jill, Rhonda, Carole, Phil and John on board, our Committee
has a variety of skills and expertise that will serve the Register well over
the next twelve months. Already our
Promotions team has been hard at work seeking new avenues to promote our
Register and its service in the community.
As Registrants, you too can
assist in promoting our Register.
Perhaps you have a relative, friend or neighbour who may benefit from
joining the Register. Have a chat with
them and encourage them to collect a brochure and registration form from their
local Pharmacy on the Bellarine Peninsula.
Planning has already begun for
our annual Victoria Police Band Concert.
Next year’s event will be held on Sunday, 19th May, at
Portarlington Parks Hall. Lock this date
into your calendar and bring your friends along for a very pleasant afternoon
of music.
On November 8, Register
representatives accepted a generous grant from the Drysdale and Portarlington
Community Grants Program. This grant
will fund a new laminator for the Office and a shade structure for use at
outdoor Register promotions.
During the life of our Register,
we have been generously supported by the Community Grants Program and we are
most appreciative of their support.
Two of our Committee members
attended the Community Registers Workshop at Darebin on 29 October, 2012, where
Community Register representatives from across the State came together to
network, discuss issues and share ideas.
Four workshops were conducted throughout the day that focused on
Networking, Recruiting and Training Volunteers, Marketing and Promotion and
Digital Networking.
A volunteer reference group has
been set up consisting of representatives from Victoria Police, Neighbourhood
Watch, several Local Government areas and volunteers and tasked to continue to
build the network and bring to fruition many of the ideas put forward at the
Workshop.
On behalf of the volunteers of
the Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. I take this opportunity to
wish you all a safe and happy Christmas with family and friends and a New Year
filled with good health and good times.
We look forward to assisting you in 2013.
Kind regards
Rhonda Rotherham
Chairperson
Bellarine Police Community
Support Register Inc.
WE ARE CLOSED from 12 midday on Friday 21 December until 9.30am on
Monday 14th January 2013 so you won’t be receiving your phone calls
from us during that period.
PET CARE
We all know that our pets
can be an extremely important part of our family, and therefore we must give
some extra thought to their health and welfare during periods of severe weather
conditions
· Have a ‘pet survival plan’
including transport requirements if needed
· All animals should have an
adequate supply of cool, clean water. During the summer animals drink much more
than in winter
· Old animals, and the very
young, are very susceptible to heat and cold
· Animals suffering from heat
exhaustion will pant, lie on their side, and be listless and disoriented. In
severe cases they may become unconscious and die.
BE SECURE FOR SUMMER
With a huge influx of tourists and holiday makers
about to descend on the Bellarine, now and throughout the summer holiday
season, it would be prudent to take extra care with home and vehicle security.
PARK SMART
LOCK IT, REMOVE IT OR LOSE IT!
It is NOT smart to leave your vehicle
unlocked with valuables inside. Your
items will be more likely to be stolen.
Much valuable police
time will be taken up recording such thefts – thefts that could be so easily
prevented if vehicle owners took responsibility.
REMOVE ALL VALUABLES FROM YOUR CAR AND LOCK IT AT ALL
TIMES WHEN UNATTENDED!
·
DO NOT leave valuables on
view in your vehicle. Remove GPS units,
mobile phones, I Pods, laptops, CDs, money, bags, tools, sunglasses, sporting
gear, et cetera.
·
LOCK your vehicle. Always remember to lock it, even if it’s in
your driveway!
·
DO NOT place items in your
boot, console or under your front seat.
If you are driving and need to park in a public place and you realise that
you have valuable items in view, you should stop BEFORE you reach your destination and place them out of sight in
the boot. If you do it when you
reach your destination you will just be telling anyone who is watching that you
have just placed valuable items in your boot.
·
REPORT any suspicious
incidents to Police on 000.
· REMOVE all valuables from vehicles when parked.
· LOCK your home when you leave – even if you are just around the corner!
·
LOCK your front door if out in the
back garden, and vice versa.
·
Lock your sheds and garages.
·
DO NOT leave ladders or tools out for
others to possibly use against you to gain unauthorised entry to your home..
·
DO NOT leave property such as wetsuits,
surf boards, bicycles et cetera in front yards, or on verandahs and decks, or
any other places that are easily accessible to passers-by.
·
Photograph your valuable property
such as jewellery, generators et cetera so that our Police can have some hope
of identifying items that they may recover.
RECEIPTS FOR DONATIONS
Due to the costs and time
involved in providing receipts for donations it has become necessary to only
issue receipts for cash donations, or when a receipt is specifically requested.
This will greatly assist us in providing the best service for you.
From all the volunteers of the BPCSR we hope you have a
wonderful Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year
Please
support our supporters …
Our founding sponsor is -
We are also supported by –
All Saints Anglican Church Op Shop Barwon Heads
Rotary Club of Queenscliff
Tuesday, May 08, 2012
Other Community Registers who are Using the BilbiWare Program
Community Support Registers and their associated Victoria Police Stations who have adopted our BilbiWare Database Management Program:
the Geelong Community Support Register in Corio
the Werribee Community Register
the Mansfield Community Support Register in Mansfield
the Frankston Community Register
the Bayside Community Register (Moorabbin)
the Glen Eira Community Register (Caulfield)
the Kingston Community Register
the Darebin Community Register
the Ballarat & District Community Register
Welcome to all - so many registers can't be wrong!
the Geelong Community Support Register in Corio
the Werribee Community Register
the Mansfield Community Support Register in Mansfield
the Frankston Community Register
the Bayside Community Register (Moorabbin)
the Glen Eira Community Register (Caulfield)
the Kingston Community Register
the Darebin Community Register
the Ballarat & District Community Register
Welcome to all - so many registers can't be wrong!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Help and Support for New Community Support Registers
Are you a Council, a Community Organisation or a Police Station starting up a new Community Support Register? If so, please contact us. We have a ready-made specifically designed Database Management Program, for which you can acquire a license, complete with our internal protocols and documentation. The BilbiWare Community Register Program already serves ten Community Service Registers and their associated Police Service Areas in Victoria, and three more are being developed.
For technical details, have a look at the BilbiWare Website. For updates and news on the program, visit the BilbiWare Blog.
There is no need for you to reinvent the wheel: we have been at it for five years and would be happy to share with you and help you in setting up your Register!
For technical details, have a look at the BilbiWare Website. For updates and news on the program, visit the BilbiWare Blog.
There is no need for you to reinvent the wheel: we have been at it for five years and would be happy to share with you and help you in setting up your Register!
Friday, March 26, 2010
March 2010 Issue No. 13
Hello to all our Registrants
We hope you have had a wonderful summer so far, and have been able to properly look after
yourselves in the heat by staying in the shade, drinking plenty of fresh water, using air-
conditioners, keeping fans blowing and making sure that your next-of-kin and other family and
friends were aware of any ‘situations’ in which you may have found yourselves. At least this
summer hasn’t been quite as bad as last year’s.
As a result of last year’s disastrously high temperatures and its catastrophic results, the
government saw fit to provide grants for 25 new Community Registers similar to ours, and has also
made provision to financially assist some existing Registers, ours being one of those. The funding
for Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. was formalised in late December 2009 and
we have now received our funding so that we can put advertising plans into effect as soon as
possible. Even though we have received some funds from the state government we can not be idle
or complacent as those funds will only last us for a short time, so if you are able to support the
Register with donations, however small, they will be gratefully received and faithfully applied.
Our advertising will be focused entirely on our own local Bellarine Peninsular area, as there is little
point in spending much-needed funds on advertising our services to localities outside our district.
This also enables the $$$$$ to be spent in and for our own local businesses. The more that we, as
citizens, can keep our money circulating within our own community, the more beneficial it is for us
all. It’s all part of the general 'buy local, shop local' ethos that helps to sustain our society. Now is
an excellent time to ask you to please support our own supporters who are listed over the page.
We would be unable to continue our service to you without their generous financial allocations to
us, and without their ‘in-kind’ support.
We are trialling sending out your newsletters by email in order to try to save money. If this causes
you any difficulties please let us know. In fact, would you please let us know whether you approve
or disapprove of emailing - we only want to do what is both economical and effective, and want to
be able to satisfy the majority. Would you please write to us with your thoughts to, BPCSR, PO
Box 819, Ocean Grove, Vic. 3226.
Sincerely,
P.M. (Phil) Green
Committee Chairman
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee is very appreciative of the following donations, grants, and sponsorships that we
have received during October, November, and December 2009
Metricon Homes $3000
Ocean Grove Bowling Club $1000
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $258
Lions Club of Ocean Grove $200
All Saints Anglican Opp. Shop - Barwon Heads $200
Registrants (34) $460
VICTORIA POLICE SHOWBAND
AND PIPE BAND CONCERT
The Police Band will be performing at Parks Hall in
Portarlington on Sunday 18 April from 1.30pm. This
ever-popular event is still only $12.00 admission and
there will also be a raffle on the day to help raise funds
for BPCSR. You can buy your tickets at Bellarine
Community Health Centres in Point Lonsdale, Ocean
Grove, Drysdale, Portarlington, and St Leonards, but
you’ll have to be quick as there’s only 180 tickets
available and it’s 'first in, best dressed'. Tea, coffee and
biscuits are included in the admission price.
DO NOT CALL NUMBERS SET TO DROP OFF LIST
Australians who believed their home phone numbers were permanently protected from unsolicited
marketing calls by joining the ‘Do Not Call’ database may find themselves receiving fresh phone
sales pitches this year as there is a three year time limit on entries on the national register. In other
words, if you registered your ‘phone 3 or more years ago then it will again become available to
telemarketers and such-like in May 2010. Numbers can be renewed ahead of time on the
donotcall.gov.au website, or by phoning 1300 792 958. The communications authority said there
had been a 60% reduction in complaints received about the telemarketing industry since the
introduction of the register.”
JUST BE AWARE … that we’ve heard that a Queensland company called Seniors Plus is cold-
calling elderly people and implying that they are from a health provider. They ask questions about
health-care needs and whether they care for someone and further implying that they are a
legitimate ‘service’. They attempt to arrange a ‘home visit’ offering a chance to go in a prize draw
for a scooter as an incentive, and once in the home are quite persistent in persuading the person
to sign a contract for a very expensive bed or other equipment. Consumer Affairs are dealing with
a number of enquiries/complaints, so do be careful.
NEW DOOR-TO-DOOR TRANSPORT
A successful trial in Leopold of the community bus service Bellarine Communities Going Places
has been extended to Portarlington. The service started in St Leonards during October and rolled
out to other towns on the Peninsula.
People with mobility limitations can sign up for the weekly service. Volunteer drivers pick people up
from their homes in the community bus and take them shopping or to local appointments.
If you know someone who would benefit from this service, or to find out about becoming a
volunteer driver please phone Peter Hibbert on 5258 2457.
NINA’S IDEA TURNS INTO A BUS
Bellarine Secondary School student Nina Hamilton-Grundy has turned a wish for an Ocean Grove
to Torquay bus into a reality. Nina and her peers have long wanted to travel between Ocean Grove and the Surf Coast without the long detour via Geelong. McHarry’s and the Department of Transport have worked on a pilot service for this summer, and expanded the concept to connect with the Queenscliff Ferry, Jan Juc and the Lorne V/Line bus.
The trial ran from 19 December 2009 – 31 January 2010.
REGISTRANTS AND THEIR FAMILIES need to let us know to up-date when registrants are
absent for holidays, hospital, respite needs et cetera so that we have accurate information to help
keep you safe in relation to your health and welfare, BUT please don’t think that we (The Register)
pass this particular information on to the Police. If you feel that you need the Police to be aware of
your absence for security purposes, then you need to contact them yourselves so that they can
record your absence in their own system.
Our PhoneLink initiative is designed to enable like-minded people to get-together on the ‘phone
as regularly as they wish. You tell us what your interests are, such as your garden; your favourite
TV shows; sports interests; chatting about recent outings; your children or grandchildren, or
anything else that you like to chat about. Our PhoneLink coordinator, Elaine, will then try to put
you in touch with someone of similar interests so that you can have a telephone friend to talk to
and have interesting chats. Call our coordinator on 5255 3968 so that we can send you an
‘Application to Join’ and get the ball rolling.
Thank you for your massive response to the Personal Update Form in the last newsletter. That
information certainly helps you to feel safer by providing accurate information for the Police to act
on in an emergency.
Smile, Smirk, and Sigh …
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.
Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat
and drink beer all day.
If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably well worth it.
If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
Some days you are the bug; some days you are the windscreen.
Good judgment comes from bad experience ... and most of that comes from bad judgment.
A closed mouth gathers no foot.
We hope you have had a wonderful summer so far, and have been able to properly look after
yourselves in the heat by staying in the shade, drinking plenty of fresh water, using air-
conditioners, keeping fans blowing and making sure that your next-of-kin and other family and
friends were aware of any ‘situations’ in which you may have found yourselves. At least this
summer hasn’t been quite as bad as last year’s.
As a result of last year’s disastrously high temperatures and its catastrophic results, the
government saw fit to provide grants for 25 new Community Registers similar to ours, and has also
made provision to financially assist some existing Registers, ours being one of those. The funding
for Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. was formalised in late December 2009 and
we have now received our funding so that we can put advertising plans into effect as soon as
possible. Even though we have received some funds from the state government we can not be idle
or complacent as those funds will only last us for a short time, so if you are able to support the
Register with donations, however small, they will be gratefully received and faithfully applied.
Our advertising will be focused entirely on our own local Bellarine Peninsular area, as there is little
point in spending much-needed funds on advertising our services to localities outside our district.
This also enables the $$$$$ to be spent in and for our own local businesses. The more that we, as
citizens, can keep our money circulating within our own community, the more beneficial it is for us
all. It’s all part of the general 'buy local, shop local' ethos that helps to sustain our society. Now is
an excellent time to ask you to please support our own supporters who are listed over the page.
We would be unable to continue our service to you without their generous financial allocations to
us, and without their ‘in-kind’ support.
We are trialling sending out your newsletters by email in order to try to save money. If this causes
you any difficulties please let us know. In fact, would you please let us know whether you approve
or disapprove of emailing - we only want to do what is both economical and effective, and want to
be able to satisfy the majority. Would you please write to us with your thoughts to, BPCSR, PO
Box 819, Ocean Grove, Vic. 3226.
Sincerely,
P.M. (Phil) Green
Committee Chairman
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee is very appreciative of the following donations, grants, and sponsorships that we
have received during October, November, and December 2009
Metricon Homes $3000
Ocean Grove Bowling Club $1000
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $258
Lions Club of Ocean Grove $200
All Saints Anglican Opp. Shop - Barwon Heads $200
Registrants (34) $460
VICTORIA POLICE SHOWBAND
AND PIPE BAND CONCERT
The Police Band will be performing at Parks Hall in
Portarlington on Sunday 18 April from 1.30pm. This
ever-popular event is still only $12.00 admission and
there will also be a raffle on the day to help raise funds
for BPCSR. You can buy your tickets at Bellarine
Community Health Centres in Point Lonsdale, Ocean
Grove, Drysdale, Portarlington, and St Leonards, but
you’ll have to be quick as there’s only 180 tickets
available and it’s 'first in, best dressed'. Tea, coffee and
biscuits are included in the admission price.
DO NOT CALL NUMBERS SET TO DROP OFF LIST
Australians who believed their home phone numbers were permanently protected from unsolicited
marketing calls by joining the ‘Do Not Call’ database may find themselves receiving fresh phone
sales pitches this year as there is a three year time limit on entries on the national register. In other
words, if you registered your ‘phone 3 or more years ago then it will again become available to
telemarketers and such-like in May 2010. Numbers can be renewed ahead of time on the
donotcall.gov.au website, or by phoning 1300 792 958. The communications authority said there
had been a 60% reduction in complaints received about the telemarketing industry since the
introduction of the register.”
JUST BE AWARE … that we’ve heard that a Queensland company called Seniors Plus is cold-
calling elderly people and implying that they are from a health provider. They ask questions about
health-care needs and whether they care for someone and further implying that they are a
legitimate ‘service’. They attempt to arrange a ‘home visit’ offering a chance to go in a prize draw
for a scooter as an incentive, and once in the home are quite persistent in persuading the person
to sign a contract for a very expensive bed or other equipment. Consumer Affairs are dealing with
a number of enquiries/complaints, so do be careful.
NEW DOOR-TO-DOOR TRANSPORT
A successful trial in Leopold of the community bus service Bellarine Communities Going Places
has been extended to Portarlington. The service started in St Leonards during October and rolled
out to other towns on the Peninsula.
People with mobility limitations can sign up for the weekly service. Volunteer drivers pick people up
from their homes in the community bus and take them shopping or to local appointments.
If you know someone who would benefit from this service, or to find out about becoming a
volunteer driver please phone Peter Hibbert on 5258 2457.
NINA’S IDEA TURNS INTO A BUS
Bellarine Secondary School student Nina Hamilton-Grundy has turned a wish for an Ocean Grove
to Torquay bus into a reality. Nina and her peers have long wanted to travel between Ocean Grove and the Surf Coast without the long detour via Geelong. McHarry’s and the Department of Transport have worked on a pilot service for this summer, and expanded the concept to connect with the Queenscliff Ferry, Jan Juc and the Lorne V/Line bus.
The trial ran from 19 December 2009 – 31 January 2010.
REGISTRANTS AND THEIR FAMILIES need to let us know to up-date when registrants are
absent for holidays, hospital, respite needs et cetera so that we have accurate information to help
keep you safe in relation to your health and welfare, BUT please don’t think that we (The Register)
pass this particular information on to the Police. If you feel that you need the Police to be aware of
your absence for security purposes, then you need to contact them yourselves so that they can
record your absence in their own system.
Our PhoneLink initiative is designed to enable like-minded people to get-together on the ‘phone
as regularly as they wish. You tell us what your interests are, such as your garden; your favourite
TV shows; sports interests; chatting about recent outings; your children or grandchildren, or
anything else that you like to chat about. Our PhoneLink coordinator, Elaine, will then try to put
you in touch with someone of similar interests so that you can have a telephone friend to talk to
and have interesting chats. Call our coordinator on 5255 3968 so that we can send you an
‘Application to Join’ and get the ball rolling.
Thank you for your massive response to the Personal Update Form in the last newsletter. That
information certainly helps you to feel safer by providing accurate information for the Police to act
on in an emergency.
Smile, Smirk, and Sigh …
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.
Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat
and drink beer all day.
If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably well worth it.
If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
Some days you are the bug; some days you are the windscreen.
Good judgment comes from bad experience ... and most of that comes from bad judgment.
A closed mouth gathers no foot.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Register Funding
Monday, 23 November, 2009
ISOLATED VICTORIANS HELPED TO BE FIRE READY
Isolated and vulnerable Victorians will receive extra help with emergency planning and heatwave preparation ahead of the fire season.
Minister for Community Services Lisa Neville today announced $1.25 million in grants to councils or other community based agencies to support elderly, frail or people with disabilities to develop personal emergency plans.
Ms Neville also announced the location of the 23 new and seven existing Community Registers that will receive assistance through $1 million funding announced earlier this year.
“We understand Victorians are concerned about the welfare of the most isolated members of our community, particularly during heatwaves and days of catastrophic fire days,” Ms Neville said.
“This new funding will enable people who receive support from the Home and Community Care program to access extra assistance to prepare for the upcoming fire season.
“It is about helping them connect with family, neighbours or friends in their community who can offer support before or during an emergency.
“This may include helping them prepare to leave their property in the event of a fire, or having Council workers draw blinds, ensure there is water in the fridge or making their home more comfortable on very hot days.”
Ms Neville also urged Victorians to keep a close look out for vulnerable people living in their community this summer.
“We all need to make sure vulnerable seniors and people who may be isolated due to a disability in our community are safe and secure,” Ms Neville said.
“That is why we also provided $1 million towards new and expanded Community Registers.
“Community Registers enable vulnerable Victorians, including older people or people with a disability who live alone, to receive important information about local conditions and safety issues through regular mail outs, newsletters or telephone calls.
“They are run by community volunteers out of local police stations or other nearby locations including council offices, with local police support.
“During a heatwave, Registers can be used to check on the welfare of people prone to heat stress.”
Ms Neville said Community Register funding was still available and the Government would continue to work with Victorian Police to establish registers at suitable sites,” Ms Neville said.
“I would encourage anyone interested in volunteering or assisting in setting up a community register in their area with the local police to contact the Office of Senior Victorians for more information.
“Community Registers will play an important role, but it is also vital that we keep an eye on our family, friends and neighbours by regularly checking on them in times of extreme weather.”
Ms Neville urged anyone concerned about their own welfare, or the welfare of a neighbour or friend, to contact Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24 or 000 in an emergency.
The new Community Registers, previously called Seniors Registers, will boost the total numbers across Victoria from 22 to 45 – more than double the number in operation last year.
For more information about where the closest community register is or how to set up a new community register, please contact the Office for Senior Victorians on 9208 3874 or email enquiries@seniors.vic.gov.au
ISOLATED VICTORIANS HELPED TO BE FIRE READY
Isolated and vulnerable Victorians will receive extra help with emergency planning and heatwave preparation ahead of the fire season.
Minister for Community Services Lisa Neville today announced $1.25 million in grants to councils or other community based agencies to support elderly, frail or people with disabilities to develop personal emergency plans.
Ms Neville also announced the location of the 23 new and seven existing Community Registers that will receive assistance through $1 million funding announced earlier this year.
“We understand Victorians are concerned about the welfare of the most isolated members of our community, particularly during heatwaves and days of catastrophic fire days,” Ms Neville said.
“This new funding will enable people who receive support from the Home and Community Care program to access extra assistance to prepare for the upcoming fire season.
“It is about helping them connect with family, neighbours or friends in their community who can offer support before or during an emergency.
“This may include helping them prepare to leave their property in the event of a fire, or having Council workers draw blinds, ensure there is water in the fridge or making their home more comfortable on very hot days.”
Ms Neville also urged Victorians to keep a close look out for vulnerable people living in their community this summer.
“We all need to make sure vulnerable seniors and people who may be isolated due to a disability in our community are safe and secure,” Ms Neville said.
“That is why we also provided $1 million towards new and expanded Community Registers.
“Community Registers enable vulnerable Victorians, including older people or people with a disability who live alone, to receive important information about local conditions and safety issues through regular mail outs, newsletters or telephone calls.
“They are run by community volunteers out of local police stations or other nearby locations including council offices, with local police support.
“During a heatwave, Registers can be used to check on the welfare of people prone to heat stress.”
Ms Neville said Community Register funding was still available and the Government would continue to work with Victorian Police to establish registers at suitable sites,” Ms Neville said.
“I would encourage anyone interested in volunteering or assisting in setting up a community register in their area with the local police to contact the Office of Senior Victorians for more information.
“Community Registers will play an important role, but it is also vital that we keep an eye on our family, friends and neighbours by regularly checking on them in times of extreme weather.”
Ms Neville urged anyone concerned about their own welfare, or the welfare of a neighbour or friend, to contact Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24 or 000 in an emergency.
The new Community Registers, previously called Seniors Registers, will boost the total numbers across Victoria from 22 to 45 – more than double the number in operation last year.
For more information about where the closest community register is or how to set up a new community register, please contact the Office for Senior Victorians on 9208 3874 or email enquiries@seniors.vic.gov.au
Sunday, June 28, 2009
July 2009 Newsletter Issue No 11
LETTER FROM THE BELLARINE POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT REGISTER INC COMMITTEE
Dear Registrants,
I am writing on behalf of the Committee to thank the 518 Registrants who responded to the Health and Safety Survey circulated with the March newsletter. The Survey was seeking information about how Registrants coped during the January and February extreme weather conditions and power outages.
You will not be surprised to know many respondents indicated they adopted ‘common sense’ measures:
They did not exert themselves with excessive physical activities.
They wore loose clothing.
They resorted to using a damp face washer to keep themselves cool.
Made sure they kept up with drinking plenty of fluids.
General concerns were:-
The safety of family, friends and animals in bush fire areas.
What would happen should bush fires occur on the Bellarine Peninsula? How would such emergencies be handled? Where would residents go to be safe?
Uncertainty during failure of the electric supply system.
How long would it be unavailable? How would they keep cool without air
conditioning? How would they be able to sleep? What would they eat? How would they cook and care for family members with chronic illness? How safe is food in the fridge and freezer when the power has been cut off? What happens to medication in the extreme heat?
How to keep their pets safe.
During the next few months the Committee hopes to meet with agencies providing services on the Bellarine Peninsula, to review health and safety measures and discuss implementation of heat wave strategies.
Sincerely,
Ann Nichol OAM,
Committee Chairperson
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The committee gratefully acknowledges the following donations, grants and sponsorships received since January and the three major sponsorships and grants received during June 2009.
DONATIONS
Bellarine Quilters $50.00
Magistrates Court $500.00
Metricon Homes $500.00
Eighty-seven Registrants $1963.00
All Saints Anglican Church Opp Shop $100.00
Neighbourhood Watch GLG 56 and 62
St Leonards and Indented Head $100.00
SPONSORSHIPS AND GRANTS
Bellarine Memories third annual sponsorship $1500.00
Best of Care contribution towards the cost of the July newsletter $1077.00
Rotary Club of Drysdale $2000.00
SPONSORSHIP IN KIND
The Committee also expresses its appreciation for the assistance received from Bellarine Bayside Foreshore and Bellarine Community Health Inc with arrangements for the Victoria Police Band Concert held in March which raised $2,845.00.
Clifton Springs Neighbourhood Watch GLG 59 letterbox distribution of Brochures and Registration forms in Clifton Springs.
REVIEW OF EXPENDITURE
The Committee continues to be committed to providing a free registration to all residents of the Bellarine Peninsula, irrespective of age and gender.
In a review of the operating budget in March the Committee decided, as a cost saving measure, to reduce the publication of the quarterly newsletters to three a year. Consequently, the June 2009 issue was not published.
However, at its recent meeting the Committee reconsidered this decision and will recommence quarterly publications. During the remainder of 2009 we will publish newsletters in July, October/November and from then on in March, June, September and November.
REGISTRANT’S KEY RING TAGS
For practical and economic reasons the Register Committee has to discontinue supplying laminated ID key ring tags because they do not have a long life expectancy.
However, from now on we will supply:
To all new Registrants a paper insert with their ID details, which will fit into a plastic key ring, sized 2 cm wide and 4.7 cm in length (internal dimensions). These key rings are readily available for purchase at most newsagents and hardware shops.
To existing Registrants a similar insert will be supplied should they request it.
REGISTRANT’S PHONE LINK
The Committee is seeking your interest in a new service we wish to introduce called the ‘Registrant’s Phone Link’. The aim of the Phone Link is:
To provide a facility for Registrants who might enjoy talking on a regular basis to another Registrant with similar interests.
If you are interested we invite you to complete the enclosed Expression of Interest Form and mail to the Register Office at Bellarine Police Community Support Register, PO Box 819, Ocean Grove, Vic. 3226.
STATISTICS
Registrations as at 30/05/2009 were 1552 (18% of the Bellarine Peninsula target age group). Township percentages are based on the 2006 Census population figures for each township for those aged 65 years and over. Updated information will be included in the next newsletter.
TOWNSHIP % RESPONSE TOWNSHIP % RESPONSE
Barwon Heads 15.8 Point Lonsdale 33.5
Clifton Springs 13.6 Portarlington 21.0
Drysdale 16.4 Queenscliff 26.0
Indented Head 23.0 St Leonards 15.0
Leopold 7.0 Wallington 3.0
Ocean Grove 21.0
PROMOTIONS
Volunteers have attended ten promotional events including a radio interview, shopping strip Promotion Stand, Community Expo, Open Day for representatives of local organisations and guest speaking engagements.
We are told successful marketing strategies are when customers talk about the product. 17% of new Registrants indicated they registered because of ‘word of mouth’ referrals. We invite you to talk to your friends and neighbours about the benefits of the Register. Brochures and Registration Forms are available at pharmacies on the Bellarine Peninsula.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
We invite you to support the following fundraising or promotional events:
DAY AND DATE VENUE AND TIME COST
Monday 17 August 2009 Portarlington Golf Club Charity Day $30
Sunday 23 August 2009 Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Fund Raising Concert –
The Melodaires Entertainment Group will perform
“Music that Lingers – The Good Times We Had’ - 2 pm $5.00
Thursday 1 October 2009
Saturday 10 October 2009 Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Concert – 2 pm
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Concert – 7 pm
Performers will be ‘The Troubadours’ TBC
Saturday 10 October 2009 2009 Community Expo Ocean Grove Uniting Church
Sunday 18 April 2010 2010 Victoria Police Band Concert, Portarlington TBC
PET CARE DURING EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS
Have a pet survival plan, including transport arrangements if required.
All animals should have an adequate supply of cool, clean water. During the summer animals drink more water than in winter.
Old animals, and the very young, are more susceptible to heat.
Animals suffering from heat exhaustion will pant, lie on their side, be listless and disorientated. In severe cases they may become unconscious.
Petcare Information and Advisory Services
HAVE YOU HAD A CHUCKLE LATELY?
When I arrived for my daughter’s parent-teacher meeting, the teacher seemed a bit flustered as she started telling me that my daughter didn’t always pay attention in class, and could be a little flighty. ‘For example, she’ll complete the wrong page in a workbook’, the teacher explained, ‘or sits at the wrong desk’.
‘I don’t understand’, I replied defensively. ‘Where could she have gotten that?’
The teacher reassured me that my daughter was still doing fine in school and was sweet and likeable. Finally, she added ‘By the way, Mr Johnson, our appointment was for tomorrow’.
A group of primary school students were on a field day trip to the local police station. Several were fascinated by the ‘wanted posters’ on the wall. Little Billy raised his hand and asked the police officer giving them the tour who the people on the wall were.
‘Those are pictures of criminals we are looking for’, answered the policeman. ‘We call them wanted posters’.
Little Billy looked puzzled. ‘Well’ he wondered, ‘why didn’t you just keep them when you took their picture?’
Geelong Advertiser – Jokes of the Day
CONTACT DETAILS AND ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc office is staffed by Volunteers each week day from 9.30 am until 12 noon.
Telephone: 03 5255 3968
Correspondence should be addressed to: PO Box 819, Ocean Grove, Vic. 3226.
Donations to the Register will be accepted by any Bendigo Bank Branch in the Geelong region. Our account details are:
Bendigo Bank Branch 6333 108 – Account 127715209. All donations of $2.00 and over are income tax deductible.
Dear Registrants,
I am writing on behalf of the Committee to thank the 518 Registrants who responded to the Health and Safety Survey circulated with the March newsletter. The Survey was seeking information about how Registrants coped during the January and February extreme weather conditions and power outages.
You will not be surprised to know many respondents indicated they adopted ‘common sense’ measures:
They did not exert themselves with excessive physical activities.
They wore loose clothing.
They resorted to using a damp face washer to keep themselves cool.
Made sure they kept up with drinking plenty of fluids.
General concerns were:-
The safety of family, friends and animals in bush fire areas.
What would happen should bush fires occur on the Bellarine Peninsula? How would such emergencies be handled? Where would residents go to be safe?
Uncertainty during failure of the electric supply system.
How long would it be unavailable? How would they keep cool without air
conditioning? How would they be able to sleep? What would they eat? How would they cook and care for family members with chronic illness? How safe is food in the fridge and freezer when the power has been cut off? What happens to medication in the extreme heat?
How to keep their pets safe.
During the next few months the Committee hopes to meet with agencies providing services on the Bellarine Peninsula, to review health and safety measures and discuss implementation of heat wave strategies.
Sincerely,
Ann Nichol OAM,
Committee Chairperson
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The committee gratefully acknowledges the following donations, grants and sponsorships received since January and the three major sponsorships and grants received during June 2009.
DONATIONS
Bellarine Quilters $50.00
Magistrates Court $500.00
Metricon Homes $500.00
Eighty-seven Registrants $1963.00
All Saints Anglican Church Opp Shop $100.00
Neighbourhood Watch GLG 56 and 62
St Leonards and Indented Head $100.00
SPONSORSHIPS AND GRANTS
Bellarine Memories third annual sponsorship $1500.00
Best of Care contribution towards the cost of the July newsletter $1077.00
Rotary Club of Drysdale $2000.00
SPONSORSHIP IN KIND
The Committee also expresses its appreciation for the assistance received from Bellarine Bayside Foreshore and Bellarine Community Health Inc with arrangements for the Victoria Police Band Concert held in March which raised $2,845.00.
Clifton Springs Neighbourhood Watch GLG 59 letterbox distribution of Brochures and Registration forms in Clifton Springs.
REVIEW OF EXPENDITURE
The Committee continues to be committed to providing a free registration to all residents of the Bellarine Peninsula, irrespective of age and gender.
In a review of the operating budget in March the Committee decided, as a cost saving measure, to reduce the publication of the quarterly newsletters to three a year. Consequently, the June 2009 issue was not published.
However, at its recent meeting the Committee reconsidered this decision and will recommence quarterly publications. During the remainder of 2009 we will publish newsletters in July, October/November and from then on in March, June, September and November.
REGISTRANT’S KEY RING TAGS
For practical and economic reasons the Register Committee has to discontinue supplying laminated ID key ring tags because they do not have a long life expectancy.
However, from now on we will supply:
To all new Registrants a paper insert with their ID details, which will fit into a plastic key ring, sized 2 cm wide and 4.7 cm in length (internal dimensions). These key rings are readily available for purchase at most newsagents and hardware shops.
To existing Registrants a similar insert will be supplied should they request it.
REGISTRANT’S PHONE LINK
The Committee is seeking your interest in a new service we wish to introduce called the ‘Registrant’s Phone Link’. The aim of the Phone Link is:
To provide a facility for Registrants who might enjoy talking on a regular basis to another Registrant with similar interests.
If you are interested we invite you to complete the enclosed Expression of Interest Form and mail to the Register Office at Bellarine Police Community Support Register, PO Box 819, Ocean Grove, Vic. 3226.
STATISTICS
Registrations as at 30/05/2009 were 1552 (18% of the Bellarine Peninsula target age group). Township percentages are based on the 2006 Census population figures for each township for those aged 65 years and over. Updated information will be included in the next newsletter.
TOWNSHIP % RESPONSE TOWNSHIP % RESPONSE
Barwon Heads 15.8 Point Lonsdale 33.5
Clifton Springs 13.6 Portarlington 21.0
Drysdale 16.4 Queenscliff 26.0
Indented Head 23.0 St Leonards 15.0
Leopold 7.0 Wallington 3.0
Ocean Grove 21.0
PROMOTIONS
Volunteers have attended ten promotional events including a radio interview, shopping strip Promotion Stand, Community Expo, Open Day for representatives of local organisations and guest speaking engagements.
We are told successful marketing strategies are when customers talk about the product. 17% of new Registrants indicated they registered because of ‘word of mouth’ referrals. We invite you to talk to your friends and neighbours about the benefits of the Register. Brochures and Registration Forms are available at pharmacies on the Bellarine Peninsula.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
We invite you to support the following fundraising or promotional events:
DAY AND DATE VENUE AND TIME COST
Monday 17 August 2009 Portarlington Golf Club Charity Day $30
Sunday 23 August 2009 Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Fund Raising Concert –
The Melodaires Entertainment Group will perform
“Music that Lingers – The Good Times We Had’ - 2 pm $5.00
Thursday 1 October 2009
Saturday 10 October 2009 Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Concert – 2 pm
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Concert – 7 pm
Performers will be ‘The Troubadours’ TBC
Saturday 10 October 2009 2009 Community Expo Ocean Grove Uniting Church
Sunday 18 April 2010 2010 Victoria Police Band Concert, Portarlington TBC
PET CARE DURING EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS
Have a pet survival plan, including transport arrangements if required.
All animals should have an adequate supply of cool, clean water. During the summer animals drink more water than in winter.
Old animals, and the very young, are more susceptible to heat.
Animals suffering from heat exhaustion will pant, lie on their side, be listless and disorientated. In severe cases they may become unconscious.
Petcare Information and Advisory Services
HAVE YOU HAD A CHUCKLE LATELY?
When I arrived for my daughter’s parent-teacher meeting, the teacher seemed a bit flustered as she started telling me that my daughter didn’t always pay attention in class, and could be a little flighty. ‘For example, she’ll complete the wrong page in a workbook’, the teacher explained, ‘or sits at the wrong desk’.
‘I don’t understand’, I replied defensively. ‘Where could she have gotten that?’
The teacher reassured me that my daughter was still doing fine in school and was sweet and likeable. Finally, she added ‘By the way, Mr Johnson, our appointment was for tomorrow’.
A group of primary school students were on a field day trip to the local police station. Several were fascinated by the ‘wanted posters’ on the wall. Little Billy raised his hand and asked the police officer giving them the tour who the people on the wall were.
‘Those are pictures of criminals we are looking for’, answered the policeman. ‘We call them wanted posters’.
Little Billy looked puzzled. ‘Well’ he wondered, ‘why didn’t you just keep them when you took their picture?’
Geelong Advertiser – Jokes of the Day
CONTACT DETAILS AND ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc office is staffed by Volunteers each week day from 9.30 am until 12 noon.
Telephone: 03 5255 3968
Correspondence should be addressed to: PO Box 819, Ocean Grove, Vic. 3226.
Donations to the Register will be accepted by any Bendigo Bank Branch in the Geelong region. Our account details are:
Bendigo Bank Branch 6333 108 – Account 127715209. All donations of $2.00 and over are income tax deductible.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Newsletter Issue No. 10
MARCH 2009 ISSUE No 10
LETTER FROM OFFICER IN CHARGE BELLARINE POLICE STATION
Hello registrants,
I hope you all had a safe and joyous Christmas period and that this message finds you fit and well for the New Year!
I am happy to report that Christmas Policing here on the Bellarine has been very good. Although we have been busy, we have not had any major issues/crimes and this is an excellent result considering the huge influx of tourists and holiday makers. Most of the reported crime for the area related to opportunistic thefts! On that note, I will issue a friendly reminder, if you are travelling to the beach over this period please make sure that your car is securely locked and any valuables are removed from sight and if you are actually going down onto the beach also remember to keep your possessions close by – we have had a number of reported thefts from people on the beach!
Afternoon Teas
The register is planning a series of afternoon teas for each area of the peninsula over the coming months – invitations will be forwarded to registrants accordingly for their area. I will also be arranging for a local police member to attend each of these afternoons, so it will be a great opportunity for you to meet and have a chat with your local police.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities (CALD)
The register is very aware that the peninsula has a population of residents from culturally or diverse backgrounds. In support of these local communities the register is keen to ensure that our service is accepted and taken up by those communities. At the moment the register is looking into ways to improve our representation to those people.
If you are aware of any person who may benefit from being part of this register, please do not hesitate to recommend this service to them or to contact the register direct for advice.
Take care.
Gary Coombes
S/Sgt 21887
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee gratefully acknowledge donations received during November and December 2008 .
Donations
November Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $209.00
Received from 24 Registrants $525.00
STATISTICS
Registrations as at 31.12.2009 were 1394 (15.9% of Bellarine Peninsula target age group).
Township percentage registrations are based on the 2006 Census population figures for each township for those aged 65 years and over.
Township % Response Township % Response
Barwon Heads 15.3% Point Lonsdale 29.0%
Clifton Springs 12.0% Portarlington 18.7%
Drysdale 12.9% Queenscliff 23.6%
Indented Head 22.7% St. Leonards 14.3%
Leopold 6.6% Wallington 2.0%
Ocean Grove 19.0%
Note
The Committee is encouraged by the opportunity provided by the Borough of
Queenscliffe to include a Brochure and Registration Form in their November Rates mail-out. The above figures for Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale reflect the response
Since 01.07.2008 only 246 new registrations were received. The Committee believes this very low response is because we have been unable to carry out any promotional activities on the Bellarine Peninsula, due to our inability to secure public liability cover.
Five incorporated Registers operating around the State, including Bellarine, have had difficulty securing public liability insurance cover through Victoria Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA). For the last six months representatives of these Registers have been investigating a number of options, including applying to the Minister for Finance requesting he waive Section 25 of the VMIA Act of 1996.
As an interim measure, pending a decision by the Minister, the Committee has now secured a Public Liability cover from a commercial insurer. This will come at a significant cost to the Register which will need to be met from the proceeds of the Victoria Police Band Concert.
As you move around in the community you are invited to actively promote the
benefits of the Register to your friends and neighbours. Brochures and Registration Forms are available at all pharmacies on the Bellarine Peninsula or a supply may be obtained from the Register Office.
USEFUL CONTACTS
GEELONG VETERANS WELFARE CENTRE GEELONG ETHNIC COMMUNITIES COUNCIL
Clancy House, St. John of God Hospital, Head Office (Diversitat)
80 Myers Street, Geelong Victoria 3220 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West
Telephone 03 5222 6003 Telephone 03 5221 6044
REPORT ON TWO YEAR EVALUATION
The Evaluation was completed by Kate Murray during November 2008 and the Committee considered the Report at its December Meeting.
Some of the issues highlighted in the Report were:-
The Register is still not widely know in the community and there is need to increase marketing and promotion
Many of those interviewed did not feel they needed the Register
There is a need to appeal to a broader cross-section of people
Some Registrants have lost or are not using the Window Sticker, Fridge Magnet or ID Card
The response from Registrants who completed the Survey Form was very pleasing. The following sample of comments received indicate very general endorsement and much appreciation of the service being provided:-
Knowing people care enough to run the Register has improved my sense of security in the community
I know that in an emergency paramedics would see the sticker on my door and know how to obtain my personal details, including the code for my key safe
I look forward to the telephone calls from the Register Office. They give me peace of mind.
My family who live some distance away, appreciate knowing this supportive network is available
I am relieved to know that if anything happened to me my next of kin details are available on the data base
My pets will be attended to if something happens to me
The Register is clearly meeting its objectives and those who have registered are feeling more secure and safer in their local community.
The Committee gratefully acknowledges all those who participated in this Evaluation and looks forward to implementing the suggestions which were provided by respondents.
COMMITTEE ACTION PLAN FOR 2009-2011
At its December meeting the Committee adopted a Two Year Action Plan which will commence now the Committee has secured Public Liability Insurance cover. Included in the Action Plan are a number of alternatives which will extend the support provided by the Register
SUNDRY SNIPPETS
1. Registrants indicated they found some telephone calls disturbing.
The advice we have received from a Telstra Customer Service Centre is
If you receive telemarketing calls, don’t assume they are from Telstra. Write down all the details and then telephone 1800 260 270 to verify caller.
List your telephone number on the “Do Not Call Register”. To do so call 1300 792 958.
If asked to provide credit card and personal details hang up, unless you have initiated the transaction
Next time you order cheques, have only initials (instead of your first name) and
your last name printed. If someone steals your cheque book, they will not know if you sign your cheques with just your initials or your first name
Attorney’s Advice (NSW)
3. “Airbag for elderly”
A Japanese company has unveiled a wearable airbag for the elderly that pops
out when they fall. The 1.1 kilogram bag looks like a waist pouch but
inflates in one tenth of a second when sensors detect the wearer has taken a fall.
The Toyko company, Prop, unveiled the $1670 device at a fair of products for the elderly and people with disabilities. It protects the back of the head and the buttocks with two inflated bags that contain 15 litres of gas each. Age 25.09.2008
4. “Bust and Booms”
The first bubble situation recorded in history was the Tulip Mania of the 17th Century when people mortgaged their businesses and homes to buy something as simple as tulip bulbs. These innocent little bulbs were fetching multiples of their weight in gold until they invariably crashed in price.
Dennis Saliba, senior financial planner and representative of Bendigo Financial Planning.
5. “Down at heel patrons see bright side of dog’s dinner”
“In a sign of the times in Europe’s biggest economy poodles, pinschers, terriers
and sheepdogs are queuing up for rations at Berlin’s first soup kitchen for pets.
Pensioners and those on the dole qualify for the free pet food buffet, allowing
those with no disposable income the chance to hold on to their beloved pets and
dogs”. Age 28.12.2008
HAVE YOU HAD A CHUCKLE LATELY?
Why did the traffic light go red? Because it had to change in the middle of the street.
Where do hamsters go for their European holiday? Hamsterdam.
Two antennas got married . The weather was bad, but the reception was great.
When does Thursday come before Wednesday? In a dictionary.
Kidsview @the age. com.au
PORTARLINGTON GOLF CLUB CHARITY DAY – 17.08.2009
The Register appreciates the Gold Club’s invitation to run another fun-raising day for the Register. If you are a gardener who regularly pots up cuttings would you please keep us in mind!
ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc office is staffed by volunteers each week day from 9.30am until 12 noon.
Telephone 03 5255 3968.
Correspondence should be addressed to P.O. Box 819 Ocean Grove 3226.
Email address: bpsupportregister@bigpond.com
If you wish to visit the Register’s website go to www.community-support.blogspot.com
PLEASE NOTE: The Register Office will be closed on
Good Friday, April 10, and Easter Monday, April 13.
LETTER FROM OFFICER IN CHARGE BELLARINE POLICE STATION
Hello registrants,
I hope you all had a safe and joyous Christmas period and that this message finds you fit and well for the New Year!
I am happy to report that Christmas Policing here on the Bellarine has been very good. Although we have been busy, we have not had any major issues/crimes and this is an excellent result considering the huge influx of tourists and holiday makers. Most of the reported crime for the area related to opportunistic thefts! On that note, I will issue a friendly reminder, if you are travelling to the beach over this period please make sure that your car is securely locked and any valuables are removed from sight and if you are actually going down onto the beach also remember to keep your possessions close by – we have had a number of reported thefts from people on the beach!
Afternoon Teas
The register is planning a series of afternoon teas for each area of the peninsula over the coming months – invitations will be forwarded to registrants accordingly for their area. I will also be arranging for a local police member to attend each of these afternoons, so it will be a great opportunity for you to meet and have a chat with your local police.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities (CALD)
The register is very aware that the peninsula has a population of residents from culturally or diverse backgrounds. In support of these local communities the register is keen to ensure that our service is accepted and taken up by those communities. At the moment the register is looking into ways to improve our representation to those people.
If you are aware of any person who may benefit from being part of this register, please do not hesitate to recommend this service to them or to contact the register direct for advice.
Take care.
Gary Coombes
S/Sgt 21887
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee gratefully acknowledge donations received during November and December 2008 .
Donations
November Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $209.00
Received from 24 Registrants $525.00
STATISTICS
Registrations as at 31.12.2009 were 1394 (15.9% of Bellarine Peninsula target age group).
Township percentage registrations are based on the 2006 Census population figures for each township for those aged 65 years and over.
Township % Response Township % Response
Barwon Heads 15.3% Point Lonsdale 29.0%
Clifton Springs 12.0% Portarlington 18.7%
Drysdale 12.9% Queenscliff 23.6%
Indented Head 22.7% St. Leonards 14.3%
Leopold 6.6% Wallington 2.0%
Ocean Grove 19.0%
Note
The Committee is encouraged by the opportunity provided by the Borough of
Queenscliffe to include a Brochure and Registration Form in their November Rates mail-out. The above figures for Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale reflect the response
Since 01.07.2008 only 246 new registrations were received. The Committee believes this very low response is because we have been unable to carry out any promotional activities on the Bellarine Peninsula, due to our inability to secure public liability cover.
Five incorporated Registers operating around the State, including Bellarine, have had difficulty securing public liability insurance cover through Victoria Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA). For the last six months representatives of these Registers have been investigating a number of options, including applying to the Minister for Finance requesting he waive Section 25 of the VMIA Act of 1996.
As an interim measure, pending a decision by the Minister, the Committee has now secured a Public Liability cover from a commercial insurer. This will come at a significant cost to the Register which will need to be met from the proceeds of the Victoria Police Band Concert.
As you move around in the community you are invited to actively promote the
benefits of the Register to your friends and neighbours. Brochures and Registration Forms are available at all pharmacies on the Bellarine Peninsula or a supply may be obtained from the Register Office.
USEFUL CONTACTS
GEELONG VETERANS WELFARE CENTRE GEELONG ETHNIC COMMUNITIES COUNCIL
Clancy House, St. John of God Hospital, Head Office (Diversitat)
80 Myers Street, Geelong Victoria 3220 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West
Telephone 03 5222 6003 Telephone 03 5221 6044
REPORT ON TWO YEAR EVALUATION
The Evaluation was completed by Kate Murray during November 2008 and the Committee considered the Report at its December Meeting.
Some of the issues highlighted in the Report were:-
The Register is still not widely know in the community and there is need to increase marketing and promotion
Many of those interviewed did not feel they needed the Register
There is a need to appeal to a broader cross-section of people
Some Registrants have lost or are not using the Window Sticker, Fridge Magnet or ID Card
The response from Registrants who completed the Survey Form was very pleasing. The following sample of comments received indicate very general endorsement and much appreciation of the service being provided:-
Knowing people care enough to run the Register has improved my sense of security in the community
I know that in an emergency paramedics would see the sticker on my door and know how to obtain my personal details, including the code for my key safe
I look forward to the telephone calls from the Register Office. They give me peace of mind.
My family who live some distance away, appreciate knowing this supportive network is available
I am relieved to know that if anything happened to me my next of kin details are available on the data base
My pets will be attended to if something happens to me
The Register is clearly meeting its objectives and those who have registered are feeling more secure and safer in their local community.
The Committee gratefully acknowledges all those who participated in this Evaluation and looks forward to implementing the suggestions which were provided by respondents.
COMMITTEE ACTION PLAN FOR 2009-2011
At its December meeting the Committee adopted a Two Year Action Plan which will commence now the Committee has secured Public Liability Insurance cover. Included in the Action Plan are a number of alternatives which will extend the support provided by the Register
SUNDRY SNIPPETS
1. Registrants indicated they found some telephone calls disturbing.
The advice we have received from a Telstra Customer Service Centre is
If you receive telemarketing calls, don’t assume they are from Telstra. Write down all the details and then telephone 1800 260 270 to verify caller.
List your telephone number on the “Do Not Call Register”. To do so call 1300 792 958.
If asked to provide credit card and personal details hang up, unless you have initiated the transaction
Next time you order cheques, have only initials (instead of your first name) and
your last name printed. If someone steals your cheque book, they will not know if you sign your cheques with just your initials or your first name
Attorney’s Advice (NSW)
3. “Airbag for elderly”
A Japanese company has unveiled a wearable airbag for the elderly that pops
out when they fall. The 1.1 kilogram bag looks like a waist pouch but
inflates in one tenth of a second when sensors detect the wearer has taken a fall.
The Toyko company, Prop, unveiled the $1670 device at a fair of products for the elderly and people with disabilities. It protects the back of the head and the buttocks with two inflated bags that contain 15 litres of gas each. Age 25.09.2008
4. “Bust and Booms”
The first bubble situation recorded in history was the Tulip Mania of the 17th Century when people mortgaged their businesses and homes to buy something as simple as tulip bulbs. These innocent little bulbs were fetching multiples of their weight in gold until they invariably crashed in price.
Dennis Saliba, senior financial planner and representative of Bendigo Financial Planning.
5. “Down at heel patrons see bright side of dog’s dinner”
“In a sign of the times in Europe’s biggest economy poodles, pinschers, terriers
and sheepdogs are queuing up for rations at Berlin’s first soup kitchen for pets.
Pensioners and those on the dole qualify for the free pet food buffet, allowing
those with no disposable income the chance to hold on to their beloved pets and
dogs”. Age 28.12.2008
HAVE YOU HAD A CHUCKLE LATELY?
Why did the traffic light go red? Because it had to change in the middle of the street.
Where do hamsters go for their European holiday? Hamsterdam.
Two antennas got married . The weather was bad, but the reception was great.
When does Thursday come before Wednesday? In a dictionary.
Kidsview @the age. com.au
PORTARLINGTON GOLF CLUB CHARITY DAY – 17.08.2009
The Register appreciates the Gold Club’s invitation to run another fun-raising day for the Register. If you are a gardener who regularly pots up cuttings would you please keep us in mind!
ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc office is staffed by volunteers each week day from 9.30am until 12 noon.
Telephone 03 5255 3968.
Correspondence should be addressed to P.O. Box 819 Ocean Grove 3226.
Email address: bpsupportregister@bigpond.com
If you wish to visit the Register’s website go to www.community-support.blogspot.com
PLEASE NOTE: The Register Office will be closed on
Good Friday, April 10, and Easter Monday, April 13.
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Saturday, August 30, 2008
September Newsletter
Hello Registrants,
With the approaching second anniversary of the Register in October, it is very satisfying to see that registrations continue to grow. It is also pleasing to see ongoing support in the form of donations from a number of individuals, organizations and clubs on the Bellarine Peninsula. We are most appreciative of this support which enables the Register to continue to operate successfully.
May I recommend to you two publications, produced by VICROADS that offer important information for older people in our community. The first, the Victorian Older Drivers’ Handbook, provides much relevant information for the older driver as well as a checklist to encourage you to think about your driving, and to find ways in which it might be improved. Older drivers need to stay alert to their changing health factors, such as eye sight and medical conditions, etc.
The second publication, the Guide to choosing and using Motorized Mobility Devices, offers important information regarding road rules and handy tips for safe travel to users of such devices.
Both publications are available for download on the VICROADS website, www.vicroads.vic.gov.au or from any VICROADS office.
With winter behind us, now is the time to get out and about and enjoy the spring sunshine.
Regards
Gary Coombes,
Acting Inspector
COMMITTEE REPORT
As part of its future planning and financial viability the Committee is proposing that a two year evaluation be carried out at the completion of the Register’s first two years of operation.
The independently conducted evaluation to include an assessment of :-
The value of the Register to Registrants
The public profile in the community
The value of the Register to Victoria Police
The financial viability of the Register
The effectiveness of the administrative structure of the Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. organization.
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee gratefully acknowledges the following donations received during May, June and July 2008.
Grants
Magistrates Court of Victoria $250.00
Donations
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $ 50.00
All Saints Anglican OP Shop, Barwon Heads $200.00
St. Leonard’s Retirees balance of account $349.88
12 Registrants $255.00
RECOGNITION
On Thursday 16 October we will be celebrating our second anniversary.
To recognize this event we are offering the following “freebies” on or after the 16th October:-
The first twelve Registrants who telephone the Office will receive a free 9 volt smoke detector battery per courtesy of the Ocean Grove Fire Brigade.
The first four Registrants who convince someone to register will receive a free personal alarm.
The first Registrant who convinces four people to register will receive a free key safe.
Note: To become eligible for items 2 and 3 your name would need to appear on the Registration Form as the “word of mouth” referral.
REGISTRATIONS
You may be interested to know as at the 30 June 2008 we had recorded 1148 registrations. We encourage you to talk to your friends and neighbours about the Register. According to the registration forms received 16.52% of registrations are due to “word of mouth”. Recently one Registrant wrote:
“My grateful thanks for this caring service, especially for us Oldies”.
There are now Registrants of all ages ranging from
1 to 49.99 years ( 20 Registrants) to 100 to 110 years ( 2 Registrants)
The largest age group currently being registered is that of
60 to 79.99 years ( 428 Registrants)
20% of Registrants have requested a regular telephone call
35% of Registrants live with pets, with 5% of those Registrants not having notified the Register of any emergency arrangements for their pets.
We wish all centenarians good health, pleasurable quality of life and longevity.
DID YOU KNOW?
“Australians now have the fourth longest life expectancy in the world – after the Japanese, Swiss and the Icelanders. Currently, there are 2860 Australians over the age of 100 and that is expected to increase to 78,000 by 2055. “
Source Fifty Plus News
We wish all centenarians good health, pleasurable quality of life and longevity.
To quote from Good Weekend Magazine, The Age July 26, 2008, an article called “Aged to Perfection”, reports on the number of centenarians living in some villages in Sardinia and says Sardinians greet one another with “A kent’annos” “May you live to be 100.”
PETS
Have you talked to your regular Vet lately about the care of your pets, and also
emergency services for pets which are available should you suddenly become
hospitalized?
Eg. Some boarding kennels will collect pets if their owners are rushed to hospital.
FRIDGE MAGNETS
During the last two years we have been given samples of various Fridge Magnets, which include space for detailed medical data.
We realize that the availability of this information would certainly assist with any emergency treatment particularly, if the person requiring such treatment was unconscious. However, when we launched the Register we did consider the need by paramedics for this information, but rejected the idea because of the difficulty in keeping the data up to date.
If this is an issue you feel we should address – either to replace the existing Fridge Magnet or to assist with the supply of other options- would you please let us know. If there is general interest in other options it might be possible for the Register to purchase from a supplier, on a similar basis as for the key safes etc.
THINK AGAIN CAMPAIGN
Have you heard about the THINK AGAIN CAMPAIGN recently launched by the Geelong Advertiser? The Geelong Advertiser, local government and non-government agencies, including the Greater Geelong Local Safety Committee, is advocating for improved safety throughout the Geelong community.
HAVE YOU HAD A CHUCKLE LATELY?
When does Thursday come before Wednesday? In a dictionary.
Two antennas got married. The wedding was bad, but the reception was great.
kidsview@the age.com.au
What happened to the sheep-dog when it ate some jelly?
It got the collie wobbles
Which hand would you use to pick up a poisonous snake?
Someone else’s.
Addy newshound
COMMUNICATION
Are you finding the latest technology very frustrating to use? How do you communicate with your grand children? Are you able to use the latest telephone systems, mobile telephones, emails and the internet? Possibly they are the last things you want to use but more and more these are becoming the standard means of communication. Do many people write letters any more?
If you would like to more easily manage your communications, why not consider talking to the staff at your nearest Neighborhood House? New courses are being designed all the time to assist people and you may find others have similar concerns. Also talk to them if transport is a problem - they may be able to suggest some alternative options.
NEW REGISTRANTS
We have discovered some new Registrants have been overlooking locating their Window Sticker near their entrance door. As you know we encourage people to do this, because it does indicate to emergency personnel that your contact and emergency details are available on the data base.
From now on we will be telephoning each New Registrant to have a chat and to see if they have any queries.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Portarlington Golf Club Charity Day for Register
If you are a golfer why not assist with our fund-raising
and enjoy a game at the same time?
Publicity will be available shortly.
Police Band Concert, 1.30p.m. Parks Hall, Portarlington
REMINDER
Please don’t forget to notify the Register office if your circumstances or contact details change, or if you have requested a telephone call and you will be away from home when your regular call is due.
ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc office is staffed by volunteers each week day from 9.30am until 12 noon.
Telephone 03 5255 3968.
Correspondence should be addressed to P.O. Box 819 Ocean Grove 3226.
Email address: bpsupportregister@bigpond.com
If you wish to visit the Register’s website go to www.community-support.blogspot.com
With the approaching second anniversary of the Register in October, it is very satisfying to see that registrations continue to grow. It is also pleasing to see ongoing support in the form of donations from a number of individuals, organizations and clubs on the Bellarine Peninsula. We are most appreciative of this support which enables the Register to continue to operate successfully.
May I recommend to you two publications, produced by VICROADS that offer important information for older people in our community. The first, the Victorian Older Drivers’ Handbook, provides much relevant information for the older driver as well as a checklist to encourage you to think about your driving, and to find ways in which it might be improved. Older drivers need to stay alert to their changing health factors, such as eye sight and medical conditions, etc.
The second publication, the Guide to choosing and using Motorized Mobility Devices, offers important information regarding road rules and handy tips for safe travel to users of such devices.
Both publications are available for download on the VICROADS website, www.vicroads.vic.gov.au or from any VICROADS office.
With winter behind us, now is the time to get out and about and enjoy the spring sunshine.
Regards
Gary Coombes,
Acting Inspector
COMMITTEE REPORT
As part of its future planning and financial viability the Committee is proposing that a two year evaluation be carried out at the completion of the Register’s first two years of operation.
The independently conducted evaluation to include an assessment of :-
The value of the Register to Registrants
The public profile in the community
The value of the Register to Victoria Police
The financial viability of the Register
The effectiveness of the administrative structure of the Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. organization.
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee gratefully acknowledges the following donations received during May, June and July 2008.
Grants
Magistrates Court of Victoria $250.00
Donations
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $ 50.00
All Saints Anglican OP Shop, Barwon Heads $200.00
St. Leonard’s Retirees balance of account $349.88
12 Registrants $255.00
RECOGNITION
On Thursday 16 October we will be celebrating our second anniversary.
To recognize this event we are offering the following “freebies” on or after the 16th October:-
The first twelve Registrants who telephone the Office will receive a free 9 volt smoke detector battery per courtesy of the Ocean Grove Fire Brigade.
The first four Registrants who convince someone to register will receive a free personal alarm.
The first Registrant who convinces four people to register will receive a free key safe.
Note: To become eligible for items 2 and 3 your name would need to appear on the Registration Form as the “word of mouth” referral.
REGISTRATIONS
You may be interested to know as at the 30 June 2008 we had recorded 1148 registrations. We encourage you to talk to your friends and neighbours about the Register. According to the registration forms received 16.52% of registrations are due to “word of mouth”. Recently one Registrant wrote:
“My grateful thanks for this caring service, especially for us Oldies”.
There are now Registrants of all ages ranging from
1 to 49.99 years ( 20 Registrants) to 100 to 110 years ( 2 Registrants)
The largest age group currently being registered is that of
60 to 79.99 years ( 428 Registrants)
20% of Registrants have requested a regular telephone call
35% of Registrants live with pets, with 5% of those Registrants not having notified the Register of any emergency arrangements for their pets.
We wish all centenarians good health, pleasurable quality of life and longevity.
DID YOU KNOW?
“Australians now have the fourth longest life expectancy in the world – after the Japanese, Swiss and the Icelanders. Currently, there are 2860 Australians over the age of 100 and that is expected to increase to 78,000 by 2055. “
Source Fifty Plus News
We wish all centenarians good health, pleasurable quality of life and longevity.
To quote from Good Weekend Magazine, The Age July 26, 2008, an article called “Aged to Perfection”, reports on the number of centenarians living in some villages in Sardinia and says Sardinians greet one another with “A kent’annos” “May you live to be 100.”
PETS
Have you talked to your regular Vet lately about the care of your pets, and also
emergency services for pets which are available should you suddenly become
hospitalized?
Eg. Some boarding kennels will collect pets if their owners are rushed to hospital.
FRIDGE MAGNETS
During the last two years we have been given samples of various Fridge Magnets, which include space for detailed medical data.
We realize that the availability of this information would certainly assist with any emergency treatment particularly, if the person requiring such treatment was unconscious. However, when we launched the Register we did consider the need by paramedics for this information, but rejected the idea because of the difficulty in keeping the data up to date.
If this is an issue you feel we should address – either to replace the existing Fridge Magnet or to assist with the supply of other options- would you please let us know. If there is general interest in other options it might be possible for the Register to purchase from a supplier, on a similar basis as for the key safes etc.
THINK AGAIN CAMPAIGN
Have you heard about the THINK AGAIN CAMPAIGN recently launched by the Geelong Advertiser? The Geelong Advertiser, local government and non-government agencies, including the Greater Geelong Local Safety Committee, is advocating for improved safety throughout the Geelong community.
HAVE YOU HAD A CHUCKLE LATELY?
When does Thursday come before Wednesday? In a dictionary.
Two antennas got married. The wedding was bad, but the reception was great.
kidsview@the age.com.au
What happened to the sheep-dog when it ate some jelly?
It got the collie wobbles
Which hand would you use to pick up a poisonous snake?
Someone else’s.
Addy newshound
COMMUNICATION
Are you finding the latest technology very frustrating to use? How do you communicate with your grand children? Are you able to use the latest telephone systems, mobile telephones, emails and the internet? Possibly they are the last things you want to use but more and more these are becoming the standard means of communication. Do many people write letters any more?
If you would like to more easily manage your communications, why not consider talking to the staff at your nearest Neighborhood House? New courses are being designed all the time to assist people and you may find others have similar concerns. Also talk to them if transport is a problem - they may be able to suggest some alternative options.
NEW REGISTRANTS
We have discovered some new Registrants have been overlooking locating their Window Sticker near their entrance door. As you know we encourage people to do this, because it does indicate to emergency personnel that your contact and emergency details are available on the data base.
From now on we will be telephoning each New Registrant to have a chat and to see if they have any queries.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Portarlington Golf Club Charity Day for Register
If you are a golfer why not assist with our fund-raising
and enjoy a game at the same time?
Publicity will be available shortly.
Police Band Concert, 1.30p.m. Parks Hall, Portarlington
REMINDER
Please don’t forget to notify the Register office if your circumstances or contact details change, or if you have requested a telephone call and you will be away from home when your regular call is due.
ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc office is staffed by volunteers each week day from 9.30am until 12 noon.
Telephone 03 5255 3968.
Correspondence should be addressed to P.O. Box 819 Ocean Grove 3226.
Email address: bpsupportregister@bigpond.com
If you wish to visit the Register’s website go to www.community-support.blogspot.com
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Friday, May 23, 2008
June Newsletter
ABN 458 484 906 50 INCORPORATION A0049036P
JUNE 2008 ISSUE No 7
Hello Registrants,
Recently you may have read some press on 14.04.2008, regarding the closing of the Bellarine Police Station for a short period. Unfortunately, media do like to make issue of anything related to policing and a perennial topic is police numbers. I therefore just wanted to take the opportunity to reassure everyone that police will always respond to incidents or requests for assistance that occur on the Bellarine Peninsula, 24 hrs per day and 7 days per week.
The Bellarine Peninsula has four stations (Bellarine, Queenscliff, Drysdale and Portarlington) to service their respective communities, plus the overall support of the entire Geelong Police Service Area which includes stations at Geelong, Corio and Lara, not to mention the support of the Surf Coast stations at Torquay and Anglesea.
In the particular incident referred to in the paper, police were called away from the station to assist with an incident in Geelong’s area. This is not an unusual occurrence - to assist Geelong, but, on this occasion, it meant the closure of the police station for a total just in excess of 1 hour. While it is rare for Bellarine to close its doors during the day, this did not mean that police were not available to attend to calls; it just meant that we closed the doors of the station for that period – police were still on duty and available to attend to jobs as required.
Please also remember that in an emergency, if you need police assistance ring 000. This will ensure that your call goes straight to the communications centre for dispatch to the closest patrolling police unit.
I hope this clears and corrects some concerns that may be held regarding your local police and their availability.
Winter Checks - Smoke detectors
Once again winter is nigh upon us and I wanted to take the opportunity to remind you all that it is time to check your appliances, particularly your electrical/gas heaters and electric blankets to ensure that they are all in good working order. Unfortunately it is this time of the year that we see increase in house fires. Please also check your smoke detectors and replace batteries as required.
Volunteers
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer for the Bellarine Police Community Support Register? If so, please express your interest by contacting the chair of the committee via the register (phone or mail).
Regards,
Gary Coombes
S/Sgt 21887
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee gratefully acknowledges the following donations received during
February, March and April 2008:
Donations
St. Leonards Retirees $100
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $50
Magistrates Court, Geelong $200
Ten Registrants $230
Borough of Queenscliffe Grant $500
Sponsorship
Bellarine Memories $1500
DONATIONS
Donations will be accepted at any Bendigo Bank Branch in the Geelong Region. Our Account details are:
BSB 633 108, Account 127715209
When you use this banking facility we would appreciate it if you would advise us of your donation so that we can acknowledge it and forward a receipt. All donations of $2.00 and over are Income Tax Deductible.
BEQUESTS
If you are in the process of revising your Will and wish to consider leaving a Bequest to the Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc, please contact us if you require further information.
REGISTRATIONS
As at the 30 April 2008, we had received 1,068 registrations. This represents 12.18% of our target population. We encourage you to talk to your friends and neighbours about the Register. The most effective publicity is usually “word of mouth”.
Townships % Response Townships % Response
Barwon Heads 13.59% Ocean Grove 14.00%
Clifton Springs 10.65% Point Lonsdale 15.1%
Drysdale 11.21% Portarlington 16.07%
Indented Head 21.69% Queenscliff 7.95%
Leopold 4.83% St. Leonards 12.29%
ID REGISTRATION CARD
If you are one of the very early Registrants your ID card may not note the full telephone number 03 5256 2698. Please contact the Register Office if this is the case and we will forward a replacement card. The 03 reference with the telephone number is particularly important when you travel interstate or overseas.
PROMOTIONS
During the winter our Volunteers will be concentrating on promoting the Register to local groups and organizations as well as in selected Supermarkets. Do stop and say hello if you see them.
SAFETY AND SECURITY REPORT
Key Safes and Personal Alarms
Registrants have now purchased 31 Key Safes, 20 Weather Protective Covers and 19 Personal Alarms. Please contact the Register Office on telephone 5255 3968 if you require an Order Form.
Mobile Telephones
Since announcing the Mobile Telephone Tutorials last September, sixty four Registrants have attended Tutorials which were held in Queenscliff, Portarlington and Drysdale. The majority of those attending succeeded in their aim to “learn how to make and receive a call”.
Unfortunately, the Committee has resolved that it can no longer continue with these Tutorials due to confidentially issues, and because we were not able to recruit sufficient volunteers who are confident enough with their own skills, to teach others how to use their mobile telephones. In fact we understand 40% of those who own a mobile telephone do not know how to use it! If you are keen to update these skills some of the local Neighbourhood Houses have begun to offer a range of classes in a number of IT subjects.
If you are considering purchasing a mobile telephone it has been suggested you should try to purchase one with the following
A model as large as possible, with large and easy to use buttons
A clear screen which is easy to read
If you are purchasing a mobile telephone for emergency and security reasons, then select one which is as simple as possible – why purchase one with all the latest gimmicks if you don’t intend to use it for photographs, music, emails etc.?
Seniors Who Suffer Abuse
In a press release on 27/04/2008 the Senior Victorians Minister, the Hon Lisa Neville, MP, announced the establishment of a free state-wide telephone hot line which will be operating from 10am until 5pm Monday to Friday, to provide support and advice to older people suffering abuse, as well as raising awareness of elder abuse.
“Elder abuse can be financial, physical, emotional or psychological. It can involve mistreatment or neglect. It can include such instances as families pressuring elderly relatives for money, forcing them to sign documents they do not understand or restricting their contact with friends.”
“It is difficult to know the full extent of elder abuse in Victoria, because many cases are not reported. However studies have estimated that between 1 and 5 per cent of older people experience some form of abuse or neglect”.
Anyone seeking assistance or information about elder abuse can telephone Seniors Rights
Victoria on 1300 368 821 or, if out of hours, the Bellarine Police Station on 03 5255 2698 or 000.
NEW DIRECTIONS
Due to lack of interest by Registrants, the Committee will not be planning further Afternoon Teas. Unfortunately, we understand from comments received from those who attended the recently-held Drysdale Afternoon Tea, transport is a problem for those who are now unable to drive.
ANIMAL REGISTRATIONS
Geelong is a pet loving community. With almost 45,000 pets registered in the City of Greater Geelong. This is one of the largest populations of cats and dogs in an Australian municipality. Registrations for 2007 were
Cats 11,902
Dogs 34,778
State Government Legislation requires that all dogs and cats being registered with Councils for the first time, must be microchipped. The registration fee is then levied at a reduced rate. Microchipping assists in the reunification of the pet with its owner should they become separated or stolen. It also improves the direct return of the animal to the owner and cuts out the expense and stress of impoundment.
“City of Greater Geelong Tag Time News”
35% of Registrations have indicated they own pets.
JOKES – Have you had a chuckle lately?
I’ve lost my dog Why not put an ad in the paper?
Don’t be daft – he can’t read!
What part of the car causes the most accidents? The nut behind the wheel!
How did the barber win the race? He took a short cut.
Why didn’t the toast come out of the toaster? Because it was jammed.
Kidsview @the Age- Joke of the Week
REMINDER
Please don’t forget to notify the Register if your circumstances or contact details change, or if you have requested a telephone call and you will be away from home when your regular call is due.
ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. office is staffed each week day from 9.30am until 12 noon. Telephone 03 52 55 3968.
You may wish to visit the Register’s website. Go to
www.community-support.blogspot.com
JUNE 2008 ISSUE No 7
Hello Registrants,
Recently you may have read some press on 14.04.2008, regarding the closing of the Bellarine Police Station for a short period. Unfortunately, media do like to make issue of anything related to policing and a perennial topic is police numbers. I therefore just wanted to take the opportunity to reassure everyone that police will always respond to incidents or requests for assistance that occur on the Bellarine Peninsula, 24 hrs per day and 7 days per week.
The Bellarine Peninsula has four stations (Bellarine, Queenscliff, Drysdale and Portarlington) to service their respective communities, plus the overall support of the entire Geelong Police Service Area which includes stations at Geelong, Corio and Lara, not to mention the support of the Surf Coast stations at Torquay and Anglesea.
In the particular incident referred to in the paper, police were called away from the station to assist with an incident in Geelong’s area. This is not an unusual occurrence - to assist Geelong, but, on this occasion, it meant the closure of the police station for a total just in excess of 1 hour. While it is rare for Bellarine to close its doors during the day, this did not mean that police were not available to attend to calls; it just meant that we closed the doors of the station for that period – police were still on duty and available to attend to jobs as required.
Please also remember that in an emergency, if you need police assistance ring 000. This will ensure that your call goes straight to the communications centre for dispatch to the closest patrolling police unit.
I hope this clears and corrects some concerns that may be held regarding your local police and their availability.
Winter Checks - Smoke detectors
Once again winter is nigh upon us and I wanted to take the opportunity to remind you all that it is time to check your appliances, particularly your electrical/gas heaters and electric blankets to ensure that they are all in good working order. Unfortunately it is this time of the year that we see increase in house fires. Please also check your smoke detectors and replace batteries as required.
Volunteers
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer for the Bellarine Police Community Support Register? If so, please express your interest by contacting the chair of the committee via the register (phone or mail).
Regards,
Gary Coombes
S/Sgt 21887
UPDATE ON FUNDING
The Committee gratefully acknowledges the following donations received during
February, March and April 2008:
Donations
St. Leonards Retirees $100
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club $50
Magistrates Court, Geelong $200
Ten Registrants $230
Borough of Queenscliffe Grant $500
Sponsorship
Bellarine Memories $1500
DONATIONS
Donations will be accepted at any Bendigo Bank Branch in the Geelong Region. Our Account details are:
BSB 633 108, Account 127715209
When you use this banking facility we would appreciate it if you would advise us of your donation so that we can acknowledge it and forward a receipt. All donations of $2.00 and over are Income Tax Deductible.
BEQUESTS
If you are in the process of revising your Will and wish to consider leaving a Bequest to the Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc, please contact us if you require further information.
REGISTRATIONS
As at the 30 April 2008, we had received 1,068 registrations. This represents 12.18% of our target population. We encourage you to talk to your friends and neighbours about the Register. The most effective publicity is usually “word of mouth”.
Townships % Response Townships % Response
Barwon Heads 13.59% Ocean Grove 14.00%
Clifton Springs 10.65% Point Lonsdale 15.1%
Drysdale 11.21% Portarlington 16.07%
Indented Head 21.69% Queenscliff 7.95%
Leopold 4.83% St. Leonards 12.29%
ID REGISTRATION CARD
If you are one of the very early Registrants your ID card may not note the full telephone number 03 5256 2698. Please contact the Register Office if this is the case and we will forward a replacement card. The 03 reference with the telephone number is particularly important when you travel interstate or overseas.
PROMOTIONS
During the winter our Volunteers will be concentrating on promoting the Register to local groups and organizations as well as in selected Supermarkets. Do stop and say hello if you see them.
SAFETY AND SECURITY REPORT
Key Safes and Personal Alarms
Registrants have now purchased 31 Key Safes, 20 Weather Protective Covers and 19 Personal Alarms. Please contact the Register Office on telephone 5255 3968 if you require an Order Form.
Mobile Telephones
Since announcing the Mobile Telephone Tutorials last September, sixty four Registrants have attended Tutorials which were held in Queenscliff, Portarlington and Drysdale. The majority of those attending succeeded in their aim to “learn how to make and receive a call”.
Unfortunately, the Committee has resolved that it can no longer continue with these Tutorials due to confidentially issues, and because we were not able to recruit sufficient volunteers who are confident enough with their own skills, to teach others how to use their mobile telephones. In fact we understand 40% of those who own a mobile telephone do not know how to use it! If you are keen to update these skills some of the local Neighbourhood Houses have begun to offer a range of classes in a number of IT subjects.
If you are considering purchasing a mobile telephone it has been suggested you should try to purchase one with the following
A model as large as possible, with large and easy to use buttons
A clear screen which is easy to read
If you are purchasing a mobile telephone for emergency and security reasons, then select one which is as simple as possible – why purchase one with all the latest gimmicks if you don’t intend to use it for photographs, music, emails etc.?
Seniors Who Suffer Abuse
In a press release on 27/04/2008 the Senior Victorians Minister, the Hon Lisa Neville, MP, announced the establishment of a free state-wide telephone hot line which will be operating from 10am until 5pm Monday to Friday, to provide support and advice to older people suffering abuse, as well as raising awareness of elder abuse.
“Elder abuse can be financial, physical, emotional or psychological. It can involve mistreatment or neglect. It can include such instances as families pressuring elderly relatives for money, forcing them to sign documents they do not understand or restricting their contact with friends.”
“It is difficult to know the full extent of elder abuse in Victoria, because many cases are not reported. However studies have estimated that between 1 and 5 per cent of older people experience some form of abuse or neglect”.
Anyone seeking assistance or information about elder abuse can telephone Seniors Rights
Victoria on 1300 368 821 or, if out of hours, the Bellarine Police Station on 03 5255 2698 or 000.
NEW DIRECTIONS
Due to lack of interest by Registrants, the Committee will not be planning further Afternoon Teas. Unfortunately, we understand from comments received from those who attended the recently-held Drysdale Afternoon Tea, transport is a problem for those who are now unable to drive.
ANIMAL REGISTRATIONS
Geelong is a pet loving community. With almost 45,000 pets registered in the City of Greater Geelong. This is one of the largest populations of cats and dogs in an Australian municipality. Registrations for 2007 were
Cats 11,902
Dogs 34,778
State Government Legislation requires that all dogs and cats being registered with Councils for the first time, must be microchipped. The registration fee is then levied at a reduced rate. Microchipping assists in the reunification of the pet with its owner should they become separated or stolen. It also improves the direct return of the animal to the owner and cuts out the expense and stress of impoundment.
“City of Greater Geelong Tag Time News”
35% of Registrations have indicated they own pets.
JOKES – Have you had a chuckle lately?
I’ve lost my dog Why not put an ad in the paper?
Don’t be daft – he can’t read!
What part of the car causes the most accidents? The nut behind the wheel!
How did the barber win the race? He took a short cut.
Why didn’t the toast come out of the toaster? Because it was jammed.
Kidsview @the Age- Joke of the Week
REMINDER
Please don’t forget to notify the Register if your circumstances or contact details change, or if you have requested a telephone call and you will be away from home when your regular call is due.
ENQUIRIES
The Bellarine Police Community Support Register Inc. office is staffed each week day from 9.30am until 12 noon. Telephone 03 52 55 3968.
You may wish to visit the Register’s website. Go to
www.community-support.blogspot.com
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