AGEING WELL IN NILLUMBIK NEWSLETTER
May 2015
Welcome to Ageing Well in Nillumbik, a quarterly newsletter keeping residents up to
date with Council, community news, events and information to help you live well and
age even better.
Welcome
Hello Ageing Well readers! This is my first edition back from maternity leave, and it is
exciting to see some changes to the newsletter as well as a much larger database of
readers. We must be doing something right.
If you would like to be added to our growing mailing list you can email
positive.ageing@nillumbik.vic.gov.au or phone 9433 3348 and leave your preferred
contact address.
Take care,
Andrea Cosentino, Positive Ageing Officer
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
The United Nations General Assembly has designated June 15 as World Elder
Abuse Awareness Day.
This annual day of awareness represents the one day in the year when the world
voices its opposition to the abuse and suffering experienced by older people.
Part of Nillumbik’s Positive Ageing Strategy Action Plan aims to assist older adult
residents to live safely, securely and free from elder abuse. To assist with this,
Council is providing elder abuse information and training to relevant Council staff and
volunteers working with older adults during the month of June.
Seniors Rights Victoria provides information, support, advice, and education to help
prevent elder abuse and safeguard the rights, dignity and independence of older
people. If you have concerns for yourself or someone you know visit the Seniors
Rights Victoria website at www.seniorsrights.org.au or contact their free confidential
Helpline on 1300 368 821.
Community Information Session: Aged Care fees and charges
An expert from Centrelink’s free Financial Information Service will lead a discussion
and take questions on:
-entry into different levels of care
-fees and charges
-options for your former home
-Age Pension issues
-demonstration of the myagedcare website
-general news arising from the May Federal Budget
Date: Thursday 25 June
Time: 2-3pm
Where: Hurstbridge Community Hub, 50 Graysharps Road, Hurstbridge
Complimentary afternoon tea will be provided
RSVP by Wednesday 17 June to positive.ageing @nillumbik.vic.gov.au or 9433
3348
1. Council News
1.1
Transitioning to single life
Transitioning to single life can be a bewildering, confusing, scary, and a difficult time
for many. Having to learn new skills, perform new duties and acquire new
information can all be daunting activities, particularly while experiencing
bereavement as well.
Council’s Aged and Disability Unit would like to hear from older people interested in
sharing their experiences of the difficulties, challenges, and successes of dealing
with the day to day matters after the loss of a spouse or partner. We would like to
know what practical or social support may be useful during this new phase of life.
If you are willing to have a chat about the types of support or information that may be
helpful to you, please contact Margaret Burger, Aged and Disability Services’ Intake
Officer on 9433 3138.
1.2
Assisted Listening Systems
Council has a number of Assisted Listening Systems to support individuals with mild
to moderate hearing loss to take part in Council meetings and community events. A
range of assisted listening devices are available for use within and outside of Council
offices, whether you have a hearing aid (with telecoil switch) or not.
Permanent Assisted Listening Systems are accessible at the following locations:
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Customer service counter at Shire Office, Civic Drive
Council Chamber
Eltham Community and Reception Centre
Hurstbridge Community Hub
Community Bank Stadium (Diamond Creek)
Portable systems suitable for one-on-one and group meetings and events can also
be booked by community groups by contacting Stephen Bell, Coordinator
Community Inclusion on 9433 3355 or email inclusion@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
1.3
Optimistic Ageing
Living & Learning Nillumbik in Panton Hill recently held a forum on optimistic
ageing. A panel of knowledgable locals including Lloyd Godman, Helen Lascelles,
Jane Zilm, Kerrie Shoof, Nan Oates and Pam Hayes shared their wisdom and
experiences including health and wellbeing, education, computers and the Internet,
environment, arts and legal issues.
Participants came up with a fantastic list of tips for Optimistic Ageing, some of which
are included here:
-Enjoy friends and family in short bursts to preserve your energy
-Make your health a priority
-Relish relationships with friends, family, and even strangers you meet on the street
-Learn when to zip up and just listen
-Mix with the young and the ageing –you can learn from both
-People are usually willing to help you –don’t be afraid to ask
If you would like to know more about activities at the Living & Learning Nillumbik
centres in Eltham, Diamond Creek and Panton Hill, check out the website at
http://www.livinglearningnillumbik.vic.gov.au/Home or phone 9433 3744.
1.4
Winter holidays with the grandkids
Rug up and bring your grandchildren along to connect with nature and explore all the
patterns, pictures and textures around Edendale in Eltham.
In the reception area there will be a display about patterns in nature including the
amazing Fibonacci sequence. The Fibonacci numbers are nature's numbering
system. They appear everywhere in nature, from the leaf arrangement in plants, to
the pattern of the florets of a flower, the bracts of a pinecone, or the scales of a
pineapple.
After learning about nature’s patterns, encourage your grandchildren to wander
around Edendale taking photographs of interesting patterns or textures. They can
then choose their favourite to email to us. We will include these photographs in the
display.
There will also be two brand new clip board activities focusing on patterns, pictures
and textures.
Also on offer for the entire holidays:
 sand, rock and stick play
 blowing bubbles
 play dough
 mini-garden construction
 opportunity to meet and feed some of Edendale’s farm animals.
For more information call Edendale on 9433 3711or check out their website at
www.edendale.vic.gov.au.
1.5
Winter preparedness
Winter is nearly upon us; it’s getting cold, it’s time to rug up, light the fire and relax on
the couch with a good book. But don’t forget to stay safe. Just as we are constantly
reminded about what we need to do to prepare ourselves and our homes for summer
heat and bushfires, it is equally as important that we prepare and are aware of what
we need to do around the house to prevent house fires.
Changing your smoke detector is one of the most important things you can do. A
working smoke detector can save your life. The end of daylight savings is a good
reminder to change your smoke alarm batteries. If you have not yet changed your
batteries because you find it difficult and need assistance perhaps you could ask a
capable family member or friend or contact Council’s Home and Community Care
Services (HACC) Intake Officer on 9433 3138 to discuss if assistance is available to
you.
1.6
2015 Annual Community Survey results are in
Council’s annual survey involved 500 randomly-selected face-to-face interviews from
across the Shire. The survey found that the Nillumbik community considers Council’s
performance across all areas of responsibility or overall performance to be ‘good’ at
6.9 out of 10. Residents’ satisfaction with the 27 Council services and facilities
included in the survey rose to ‘very good’ with a result of 7.38 out of 10.
The survey is designed to measure community satisfaction with a range of Council
services and facilities and to measure community sentiment on a range of additional
concerns in the community.
For more information about the 2015 annual community survey contact Council on
9433 3111 or visit www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au
2.
Community news
2.1
Diamond Valley Community Support
Have you heard of DVCS? Have you seen their office in Greensborough Plaza?
CIDV is Nillumbik’s community information, referral and support agency. If they can’t
answer your query, they will suggest other options.
CIDV also offer services such as legal advice, consumer and tenancy advice, free
Internet and email access, tax help, budget advice and accountancy advice. Open
Monday to Friday from 9:30am - 4:30pm at Shop 201 Greensborough Plaza, you can
also contact them by phone 9435 8282, email info@dvsupport.org.au, or online
www.dvsupport.org.au
2.2
Volunteers needed: Diamond Creek Rotary Town Fair
The Diamond Creek Rotary Town Fair is a community project run by the Rotary Club
of Diamond Creek. As one of Nillumbik’s largest events the Fair is a great
opportunity to help out your community and have fun at the same time.
Volunteers are needed to help the Club with: the parade, pedestrian access,
manning the gate firework marshals and staffing the show bag trailers, selling show
bags. This year’s Fair is on Saturday 12 September. If you would like to help out
please email townfair@rotary9790.org.au or call Rotarian Rod Mackenzie, Town Fair
Chairman on 0418 333 984.
2.3
Cracking the memory code
La Trobe University’s Psychology Clinic is offering the LaTCH Memory Strategies
Program for people over 60. This six-week group program focuses on common agerelated changes and challenges in everyday memory. An experienced
neuropsychologist presents evidence-based strategies to help improve your
everyday memory (e.g., recalling names, remembering arrangements and
appointments, keeping track of belongings). The program also explores common
myths about memory and ageing in an informal, enjoyable manner.
There is a charge of $10 per week to cover the cost of the materials, including a
booklet that has detailed notes from each session. Groups for 2015 are
commencing in June and July.
Register your interest now by phoning the La Trobe University Psychology Clinic on
9479 2150 or email LaTCH.latrobe@gmail.com
You can also check out what else is on at the Clinic by visiting
http://www.latrobe.edu.au/psy/clinic
Home and Community Care
Nillumbik Home and Community Care Services (HACC) provide a wide range of
community-based services that assist older people, people with a disability and their
carers to live independently in their own homes and participate in the local
community for as long as they are able and choose.
Services available include domestic assistance, personal and respite care, planned
activity groups, meals on wheels, and property maintenance. For more information
on these services please contact Council’s Intake Office on 9433 3138 or
intake@nillumbik.vic.gov.au.
In terms of property maintenance services can help with:
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splitting and stacking firewood – be prepared for the cooler months
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installing smoke detectors
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changing batteries in smoke detectors
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cleaning roof spouting of built up leaves
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trips to the tip
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changing light globes
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replacing tap washers
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window washing
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general repairs to tiles and floorboards
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installing ramps or rails
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repairing or changing door locks
Carers corner
HACC assists a support group for carers of adult children with a disability. The
group members support one another in their role as carers. They meet on the
second Monday of every month in Diamond Creek at 7:30pm.
For information about joining the group please contact Millie Mani, Council’s Age and
Disability Assessment Officer, on 9433 3384.
May calendar
All events are FREE unless specified.
Saturday May 2 – Sunday May 3
Artists Open Studios
Take part in this self-guided tour around the Shire of Nillumbik visiting the private
studios of over 35 of the Shire’s finest artists.
More information: 1300 660 072 or http://artistsopenstudios.com.au/
Saturday May 2
Paddy’s Market Eltham
Come along to Eltham’s biggest garage sale. Run by the Eltham Rural Group since
1955 they sell clothing, cakes, preserves, plants, books and more. Proceeds from
the Market are distributed at the end of the year to local organisations who request
assistance.
Where: Scout Hall, 1 Youth Road, Eltham
When: 10am-1pm
Sunday May 3
Landholder Expo
The Landholder Expo run by Landcare offers free information, advice and activities
for landowners about rural land and local flora and fauna.
When: 10am - 3pm
Where: Hurstbridge Community Hub, 50 Graysharps Road, Hurstbridge
For information: Jackie Waring, Nillumbik Landcare Facilitator on 9433 3316
Tuesday May 12
Energy Freedom Workshop: Efficient technologies for home
This Workshop will discuss the best way to heat your home, LED lighting, induction
cooktops and how to choose efficient appliances.
When: 7pm - 9pm
Where: Edendale, 30 Gastons Road, Eltham
More information: Environmental Events Team on 9433 3316
Wednesday May 20
iPad basics
This free session covers the basic functions of an iPad: buttons, switches, settings,
multi touch gestures and downloading your first apps. BYO iPad or use one of the
library’s.
When: 10am - 11:30am
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
More information: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3089
Friday May 22
Android tablet basics
Learn to customise your device and set up a Google and email account. Learn to
search for apps and access help for your Android. Bring your own device.
When: 10am -11:30am
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
More information: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3089
Wednesday May 30
Thai Cooking Workshop
Discover the authentic taste of Thai cuisine, by preparing a tasty menu to be enjoyed
for lunch afterwards. Menu: Massaman chicken curry; stir-fry chicken with chilli pork
rib with lemon grass.
Where: Living & Learning Panton Hill, 18 Bishops Road, Panton Hill
Cost: $70 / $65 concession
More info: Living & Learning Panton Hill on9433 3799
June calendar
All events are FREE unless specified.
Tuesday June 2
Hurstbridge Garden Club
Come listen to Loretta Childs speak about an iconic local garden.
When: 7:15pm - 9:15pm
Where: Hurstbridge Community Hub, 50 Graysharps Road, Hurstbridge
Wednesday June 3
Internet basics
This session explores the different ways we interact, communication and learn via
the Internet. Explore browsers and discover new and exciting websites. Bookings are
required.
When: 10am -11:30am
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
More information and to book: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3089 or
www.yprl.vic.gov.au
Saturday June 6
Chess
Learn some new moves from a chess master and challenge other chess lovers to a
game.
When: 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
More information: Diamond Valley Library on9434 3089
Rivers Community Produce Exchange
Bring along your surplus produce to share with others. Food is made available for
participants to take as they wish. After swapping you are welcome to join the various
seasonal food demonstration or information sessions.
Where: Rivers of Yarrambat, 28 Kurrak Road, Yarrambat
When: 10:30-11:30am
Wednesday June 16
Craft group
Meet with others and work on your knitting, crochet or patch work projects.
When: 2pm - 3pm
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
More information: Diamond Valley Library or 9434 3089
Saturday June 20
Italian Cooking Workshop
Prepare a tasty three-course menu in this hands-on Workshop and enjoy it for lunch
afterwards.
Menu for the day: Sartu Napolitano with meatballs and dessert pizza.
Where: Living & Learning Panton Hill, 18 Bishops Road, Panton Hill
Cost: $70 / $65 concession
More information and to book: 9433 3799
July calendar
All events are FREE unless specified.
Sunday July 5
Hurstbridge Farmers’ Market
Come along to this monthly farmers’ market to pick up some great produce and
mingle with the locals.
Where: Ferguson’s Paddock, Hurstbridge
When: 8:30am -1:00pm
Entry: $2
Monday July 6
French conversation group
Join this lively group with monthly meetings to improve your French language skills.
When: 7pm - 8pm
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
More information: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3089
Saturday July 11
St Andrews Market
Head out to the weekly Market to do some shopping, enjoy a chai latte and perhaps
a bit of people watching too.
When: 8:00am-2:00pm
Where: Corner of Kangaroo Ground/St Andrews and Heidelberg/Kinglake Roads
Sunday July 19
Eltham Community Craft and Produce Market
This monthly market is, a place where people can come and enjoy a community
atmosphere, eat tasty food, take home a gift, buy some fresh fruit and veg, listen to
good music or find a special artistic ornament.
When: 8:30am-12:30pm
Where: Alistair Knox Park, Panther Place, Eltham
Saturday July 25
Craft for a cause
A fun day (and night) of demonstrations, crafts and show-and tell. Bring your own
project and have some uninterrupted “you” time.
When: 10am-10pm
Where: Living & Learning Panton Hill, 18 Bishops Road, Panton Hill
Cost: $15
More information: Living & Learning Panton Hill on 9433 3799