AGEING WELL IN NILLUMBIK NEWSLETTER
2015
Edition 4
Hello Ageing Well readers!
Welcome to Ageing Well in Nillumbik, a quarterly newsletter to keep residents up to
date with Council, community news, events and information to help you live well, and
age even better.
If you would like to be added to our mailing list you can email
positive.ageing@nillumbik.vic.gov.au or phone 9433 3348 and leave your preferred
contact address.
Take care and stay safe this summer,
Andrea Cosentino, Positive Ageing Officer
Community information session
Healthy and safe summer –Looking after yourself, your pets, and your property
With representatives from Council, CFA, and SES this FREE information session will
share information and take questions on how to look after yourself, your pets, and
your property during a heat wave, bushfire or storm.
Date: Thursday 3 December
Time: 10am-12pm
Where: Hurstbridge Community Hub, 50 Graysharps Road, Hurstbridge
Complimentary tea provided
RSVP: Tuesday 1 December to 9433 3348 or positive.ageing@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
Summer Preparedness Pack
An initiative of Council’s Positive Ageing Strategy 2013-2018, we have put together
an information pack to help inform and prepare you for heatwaves, storms, floods,
and bushfires. The pack encourages you to take the time to consider your situation
and circumstances accordingly, and where possible, to go through your plans with
family, neighbours and friends.
To request a copy of this year’s Summer Preparedness Information Pack contact
Andrea Cosentino, Positive Ageing Officer on 9433 3348 or
positive.ageing@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
Staying Healthy in the Heat
Summer heatwaves are responsible for a large number of heat-related illnesses and
deaths and one of the groups most affected are those aged 75 and over.
To be more comfortable during heatwaves, and to prevent yourself from feeling
unwell, try the following:
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Dress in light coloured cotton to reflect the heat and allow sweat to evaporate
from your skin.
Dress in light layers so you can adjust your clothing as the day warms up.
Stay out of the sun and away from outdoor paved surfaces which store and
radiate heat for hours after the sun has gone down.
Keep heat out of your house by shading windows from direct sun, draught
proofing gaps around doors, windows and skirting boards and insulating your
roof, walls and underfloor spaces if possible.
Allow your house to cool down at night. If you can safely have windows open
as the temperature lowers, let your house cool naturally by allowing breezes
to flow from one side of the house to the other.
Use a hand held battery operated fan to help evaporate sweat. Some even
come with a water spray bottle to enhance the effect.
DRINK LOTS OF WATER throughout the day. Once you feel thirsty you are
already very dehydrated.
Eat regular small meals instead of three large ones.
Rest if you feel tired.
If you start to feel light headed or dizzy, have a headache or cramps, are
excessively sweaty or feel nauseous seek medical attention as soon as
possible as these are all signs of heat related illness.
Council news
Grandparent caregivers
Are you a grandparent looking after your grandchildren? Do you need a break? The
Eltham and Panton Hill Playhouses offer education and activity programs for children
aged 6 months to 6 years. The Playhouses offer a stimulating education program for
your child in line with the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development
Framework, allowing you to attend appointments, grocery shop, or just have a break.
For inquiries or to book phone Panton Hill on 9433 3795 or Eltham on 9433 3755.
Volunteering Victoria announces Nillumbik as finalist
Nillumbik Shire Council has been shortlisted for the inaugural State Awards in the
Excellence Award category for a volunteer management team or individual
demonstrating best practice in the management of volunteers and the delivery of
programs by those volunteers.
Good luck Council!
diversARTy
Living & Learning Nillumbik tutors and participants will be celebrating the end of the
year with a major showcase of art and craft works created throughout 2015 at the
Eltham Library Community Gallery. Be inspired by the creativity on display and vote
for the People’s Choice Award.
Thursday 26 November – Monday 14 December
Monday – Thursday 10am-8:30pm
Friday – Saturday 10am-5pm
Sunday 1pm-5pm
Where: Panther Place, Eltham
Home Harvest 2016
Register as a volunteer to grow and supply the produce for the Home Harvest Feast
in March 2016. No matter your level of experience or how green your thumbs are,
everyone is invited to take part and get growing. Plenty of advice and support will be
provided to help your garden flourish.
Growers are then invited to celebrate in the harvest and the joys of local food to
share in a delicious community meal created using your home grown produce.
Find out more and register as a grower at: www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/homeharvest or
call 9433 3316.
Living & Learning Nillumbik and Knitted Knockers Australia
Living & Learning Nillumbik are now registered as an official Knitted Knockers
Australia outlet. Knitted Knockers Australia provide free 100% knitted cotton
prosthesis for breast cancer survivors who have had a mastectomy. If you are
interested in receiving a prosthesis or joining their team of knitters contact Living &
Learning Nillumbik on 9433 3744 or living.learning@nillumbik.vic.gov.au for your free
pack of knitting complete with pattern, yarn, and filling.
Community news
Bolton Street upgrade community consultation
VicRoads is investigating upgrade options for Bolton Street in Eltham with two
community consultation sessions where residents will have the opportunity to join the
discussion and provide feedback on the options being considered.
To rsvp call 9439 1500 or email vicki.ward@parliament.vic.gov.au
Thursday 5 November
Eltham Leisure Centre, 40 Brougham Street, Eltham from 5-7:30pm
Saturday 7 November
Eltham North Hall, 8 Cedar Avenue, Eltham North
New Powers of Attorney
Powers of attorney laws in Victoria changed on 1 September 2015. The Office of the
Public Advocate has produced a booklet on the updates which includes forms of
appointment. The booklet is for anyone who wants to make an enduring power of
attorney for financial and/or personal matters, or a medical enduring power of
attorney. Powers of attorney made before 1 September 2015 remain valid and
unchanged.
To obtain a copy of the updated changes and booklet, visit the Office of the Public
Advocate website at www.publicadvocate.vic.gov.au or call 1300 309 337.
Nillumbik U3A
Brenda, an 80-something talented artist teaching Painting and Drawing for Nillumbik
U3A recently wrote the following “At this stage I think it’s best if I list the parts of my
life which I do not enjoy and then eliminate them to foster future happiness.”
Exemplifying the saying “What needs pruning in your life to make way for new
growth?” her attitude is the right one: prioritise everything that gives you please and
satisfaction, and look for new challenges.
From the arts to history, technology to languages, Nillumbik U3A provides many
opportunities to do just that. If you would like to know more about courses and
activities on offer visit their website www.nillumbiku3a.org.au , call them on 0468 300
764, or visit them at the Old Eltham Courthouse, corner Brougham Street and Main
Road Eltham Monday and Thursday 10am-12pm.
On Track Survey
RACV and Leader Newspapers want commuters to talk about the issues preventing
or frustrating train commuters as well as the aspects of train travel you enjoy. You
can access the survey online at www.racv.com.au/ontracksurvey or by calling 9790
3323.
Preloved independent living aids
The Roundabout is a website designed to make listing and selling your second hand
mobility and disability equipment easier. Items range from mobility aids to high-tech
vocational aids and equipment. Items are listed from across Australia, however you
can search items by distance from your location. For more information visit
http://theroundabout.com.au or phone 1300 361 226.
Sex, Age & Me
Participants are wanted for a national survey on sex and relationships among older
Australians. If you are 60 and older and currently living in Australia, you are invited to
take part in a survey from La Trobe University on sex and ageing in later life. To find
out more or to complete the survey visit www.sexagemesurvey.org.au . If you would
prefer to complete a paper version contact Dr Bianca Fileborn on
b.fileborn@latrobe.edu.au or 9479 8766.
My Home is my Castle
We rarely think about the emotional relationship that we develop with our home. For
some people experiencing the early to moderate stages of dementia, living at home
can help them cope with the challenges of cognitive decline. It is in times of illness
and frailty that people engage with community services to help support home life.
Researchers at La Trobe University would like to hear your stories about home and
your experiences of community services visiting you at home.
For more information contact Christine While on 9479 5957 or
c.while@latrobe.edu.au
What Makes You..?
What Makes You..? is the first Australian study to focus on the positive aspects of
being LGBT. The survey is being conducted by La Trobe University, and seeks to
understand what makes LGBT people happy and fulfilled and to identify the
challenges and obstacles that may prevent their happiness. Results will help
researchers understand the ways we can improve the mental health and well-being
of LGBT Australians. The results will also help governments, clinical services and
community groups plan their programs and policies so they can better support LGBT
Australians.
To participate in the anonymous survey go to www.whatmakeyou.org.au or contact
Emily Bariola on 9479 8743 or e.bariola@latrobe.edu.au
Home and Community Care Information
Delivered Meals
Delivered meals can be an option for people who are nutritionally at risk or have
decreased capacity to prepare their own meals.
Meals can be purchased from one to seven days per week, and are nutritionally
balanced and tailored to meet an individual’s dietary and cultural requirements.
If you would like to know more about Council’s delivered meals service, including
eligibility, contact Council’s Intake Officer on 9433 3138.
Please note that meals are delivered to clients’ homes Monday to Friday mornings,
and someone must be home to collect.
Eating with a friend
Are you a Delivered Meals client who would like to eat with others? If so, contact
Council’s Intake Officer on 9433 3138, as Council’s Aged and Disability Services
Team would like to determine how many clients might be interested in eating with
and sharing meals with others.
November calendar
All events are FREE unless specified.
Saturday 7 November
Eltham Copper Butterfly Festival
Come and celebrate the Eltham Copper Butterfly and the community effort spanning
more than 25 years to protect this extraordinary species.
Where: Edendale, 30 Gastons Road, Eltham
When: 5-8pm
Information: Council on 9433 3316 or environmental.events@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
Tuesday 10, 17, and 24 November
Relaxation Course
This three session program covers relaxation techniques and strategies, stress,
relaxation, and an holistic approach to relaxation.
Where: Nillumbik Health, 917 Main Road, Eltham
When: 1-3:30pm
Cost: $60 / $45 for pension and health care card holders (includes resources and
relaxation techniques on CD)
Bookings and information: 9430 9100
Saturday 21& Sunday 22 November
Eltham Rotary Town Fair
This annual town fair has great music, entertainment, food and wine, market and
community stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display at dusk on Saturday.
Where: Alistair Knox Park, Eltham
When: 12-9:30pm
Information: 0437 459 659 or http://rotaryeltham.org.au
Saturday 21& Sunday 22 November
Artists Open Studios
Experience the diverse work of Nillumbik artists by visiting the artists in their own
work spaces in the Nillumbik Artists Open Studios program. Free tour booklets are
available from www.artistsopenstudios.com.au or by phoning 1300 660 072.
Saturday 21November
Mini Makers Market
Meet local makers and admire, talk about, and maybe even purchase their beautiful,
handmade wares. Find that unique gift for your friends or family at this great market.
Where: Eltham Library, Panther Place, Eltham
When: 10am-2pm
Information: Living & Learning Panton Hill on 9719 7506
Wednesday 25 November
Free community lunch
Come and enjoy some lovely home-made lunch. Bring a friend or neighbour and
enjoy a get-together with other community members. A gold coin donation would be
appreciated to help cover costs. All are welcome.
Where: St Andrews Community Centre, 35 Caledonia Street, St Andrews
When: 12:30-2:30pm
Information: St Andrews Community Centre on 9710 1223
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 November
Artists Open Studios
Experience the diverse work of Nillumbik artists by visiting the artists in their own
work spaces in the Nillumbik Artists Open Studios program. Free tour booklets are
available from www.artistsopenstudios.com.au or by phoning 1300 660 072.
Sunday 29 November
Italian Cooking Workshop: Four-course Christmas menu
Discover the authentic taste of Mediterranean cuisine. A tasty four-course menu is
prepared and enjoyed afterwards for lunch. The menu will consist of antipasto in a
glass, spinach and ricotta crepes, roasted rolled pork, and a spectacular celebration
Christmas cake.
Where: Living & Learning Panton Hill, 18 Bishops Road, Panton Hill
When: 10am-1pm
Cost: $70 / $65 concession
Bookings: Living & Learning Panton Hill on 9433 3799
December calendar
All events are FREE unless specified.
Wednesday 2 December
Genealogy Tutoring
Volunteer Genealogist Ann Johnson has been building Family Trees for people for
the past 12 years, and is available to help researchers.
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
When: 10am-2:15pm
Bookings essential: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3809
Thursdays 3, 10, 17 December
Mind & Body
Designed to increase strength and flexibility without impact. This class combines
holistic disciplines of Yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates along with relaxation to increase
calm and all over wellness of mind and body.
Where: St Andrews Community Centre, 35 Caledonia Street, St Andrews
When: 12:30pm-1pm
Cost: $8 casual
Information: Nicole on 9710 1223
Friday 4 December
Nillumbik Heritage Guide
Where: St Andrews
When:
Information:
Friday 4, 11, 18 December
Circuit & Strength
This class incorporates movement to music and is designed for older people or those
with a lower level of fitness to improve and increase strength and general fitness.
Where: St Andrews Community Centre, 35 Caledonia Street, St Andrews
When: 9:15am – 10:15am
Cost: $8 casual
Information: Karina 9710 1223
Saturday 5 December
Mini Makers Market
Meet local makers and admire, talk about, and maybe even purchase their beautiful,
handmade wares. Find that unique gift for your friends or family at this great market.
Where: St Andrews Community Centre, 35 Caledonia Street, St Andrews
When: 10am-2pm
Information: St Andrews Community Centre on 9710 1223
Friday 11 December
Email basics
In this session learn how to set up a free email account, learn how to compose and
send email, create signatures, attach files and download attachments. More
advanced users can learn how to manage their email accounts by creating folders,
groups, or organising contacts.
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
When: 10am-11:30am
Information: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3809
Saturday 12 December
Food Swap
Bring your excess garden produce along and swap for other wonderful produce. A
great way to meet other with similar garden interests or save some valuable cash.
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
When: 10am-11:30am
Information: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3809
Tuesday 15 December
High tea in the garden
Join us to celebrate a wonderful year in the garden with music.
Where: Diamond Valley Library, Civic Drive, Greensborough
When: 11:30am- 12:30pm
Information: Diamond Valley Library on 9434 3809
Sunday 20 December
Hurstbridge Farmers’ Market
Come along to this special twilight farmers’ market to pick up some great produce for
your Christmas meal and mingle with the locals.
Where: Ferguson’s Paddock, Hurstbridge
When: 4pm-8pm
Entry: $2
January calendar
All events are FREE unless specified.
Monday 4 January
How did you do that?
Need to brush up on your Word skills? New to email? Do you get lost online? Bring
your headphones and library card and build your technical skills with short video
tutorials.
Where: Eltham Library, Panther Place, Eltham
When: 10:30am-11:30am
Information: Eltham Library on 9439 9266
Saturday 9 January
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.
Where: Corner of Kangaroo Ground/St Andrews and Heidelberg/Kinglake Roads, St
Andrews
When: 8am-2pm
Information: www.standrewsmarket.com.au or 0467 535 341
Sunday 10 January
Eltham Farmers’ Market
With a full range of stalls from veggies and fruit to condiments and sweet treats, all
stallholders are from Nillumbik, Banyule and surrounding suburbs selling their own
produce.
Where: Eltham Town Mall Car Park, 10-18 Arthur Street, Eltham
When: 8:30am-12:30pm
Information: 0416 203 067 or info@localfoodconnect.org.au
Monday 18 January
Yack and Yarn
Meet with others and work on your knitting, crochet or patchwork project while
picking up new skills.
Where: Eltham Library, Panther Place, Eltham
When: 10am-12pm
Information: Eltham Library on 9439 9266
Tuesday 19 January
iPad Basics
These sessions cover the basic functions of your iPad: buttons, switches, settings,
multi-touch gestures and downloading your first apps.
Where: Eltham Library, Panther Place, Eltham
When: 10:30 – 11:30am
More information: 9439 9266
Information: Eltham Library on 9439 9266
Sunday 24 January
Eltham Farmers’ Market
With a full range of stalls from veggies and fruit to condiments and sweet treats, all
stallholders are from Nillumbik, Banyule and surrounding suburbs selling their own
produce.
Where: Eltham Town Mall Car Park, 10-18 Arthur Street, Eltham
When: 8:30am-12:30pm
Information: 0416 203 067 or info@localfoodconnect.org.au