Find Geelong - February Edition by Find

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FEBRUARY 2021

WHAT’S INSIDE: 04

LOCAL STORIES

COLUMNIST ARTICLES

TAX UPDATES

RENTAL LISTINGS FREE ADVERTISING

GEELONG COUNCIL NEWS

NOT-FOR-PROFITS EVENTS & ARTICLES

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COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS ACCOUNTANT| FOUNDER

TEAM/LEADERSHIP COACH

LOAN SPECIALIST

BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM

WARREN STRYBOSCH

SALLY HIGOE - FACILITATOR

LEE WISNIEWSKI

BRENDA THOMSON

PAINTING & DECORATING

GARAGE DOORS

LAWYERS

JOHN VAN BEVEREN

CHANTAL DJURIC

STEVE DAHLLOF WEB DEVELOPER

VOCAL PERFORMANCE INSTRUCTOR

ADAM SIMS

SALARY PACKAGING

DAN NICHOLLS VIDEO CONSULTANT

BOOKKEEPER

SHAYNE LOWE

MARY-CLARE SWITZ

ZOË WOOD

FINANCIAL PLANNER

BUSINESS COACH / MENTOR

ARCHITECT

MARKETING

MARK KRUGER

Are you our next Business Coach/Mentor?

Are you our next Architect?

Are you our next Marketer?

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EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 editor@findgeelong.com.au PUBLISHER: Issuu pty Ltd POSTAL ADDRESS: 248 Wonga Road, Wararnwood VIC 3134 ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTS: editor@findgeelong.com.au GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 1300 88 38 30 EMAIL SPORT: editor@findgeelong.com.au WEBSITE: www.findgeelong.com.au

OUR NEWSPAPER The Find Geelong was establish in 2019 for the purpose of bringing together everyone in the community in one place. Our core focus is the support all the Not-For-Profits in the region by providing NFP’s with FREE advertise and helping them raise funds for their respective organizations. A core of business owners attend the Find Network luncheons held one a month to discuss the paper and how best to make it even better fo the local commnunity. The Find Geelong has a strong editorial focus and is financed predominately by the business community.

ALL THINGS GEELONG The City of Geelong is one of Victoria’s largest regional capital cities. Geelong had a population of approximately 230,000 as at the 2019 Report which includes 16,000 businesses. Geelong’s location is in strong growth corridor, making it an ideal location for businesses to explore options outside of the capital city.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Find Geelong acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Geelong now stands, the Wadawuarrung people of the Kulin nation, and pays repect to their Elders - past, present and emerging - and acknowledges the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within our community.

DISCLAIMER Readers are advised that the Find Geelong accepts no responsibility for financial, health or other claims published in advertising or in articles written in this newspaper. All comments are of a general nature and do not take into account your personal financial situation, health and/or wellbeing. We recommend you seek professional advice before acting on anything written herein.

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NEXT ISSUE Next Issue of the Find Geelong will be published on Monday March 8, 2021. Advertising and Editorial copy closes Friday March 5, 2021.

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About the Find Geelong

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Geelong is a community paper that aims to support all things Geelong. We want to provide a place where all NotFor-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-and-coming events in the Find Geelong for Free. We do not proclaim to be another newspaper and we will not be aiming to compete with other news outlets. You can obtain your news from other sources. We feel you get enough of this already. We will keep our news topics to a minimum and only provide what we feel is most relevant topics to you each month. We invite local council and the current council members to participate by submitting information each month so as to keep us informed of any changes that may be of relevance to us, their local constituents.

We will also try and showcase different organisations throughout the year so you, the reader, can learn more about what is on offer in your local area. To help support the paper, we invite local businesses owners to sponsor the paper and in return we will provide exclusive advertising and opportunities to submit articles about their businesses. As a community we encourage you to support these businesses/columnists. Without their support, we would not be able to provide this community paper to you. Lastly, we want to ask you, the local community, to support the fundraising initiatives that we will be developing

and rolling out over the coming years. Our aim is to help as many NFP and other like organisations to raise much needed funds to help them to keep operating. Our fundraising initiatives will never simply ask for money from you. We will also aim to provide something of worth to you before you part with your hard-earned money. The first initiative is the Find Cards and Find Coupons – similar to the Entertainment Book but cheaper and more localised. Any NFP and similar organisations e.g., schools, sporting clubs, can participate. Follow us on facebook (https://www. facebook.com/findgeelong) so you keep up to date with what we are doing. We value your support, The Find Geelong Team.

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Do you have photos from a local event or even a great story you would like to share? SEND US YOUR NEWS! Geelong

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Back to School

MarkMogato

By Warren Strybosch

We, at the Find Geelong, would like to wish all the 2021 children, who are attending school this year, all the best in their endeavours and we hope you have a wonderful year learning and building relationships with your peers. I personally want to send a heartfelt encouragement to my son, my nephew, and their friends who are in Year 12 this year. Enjoy the year and I hope you can all look back on 2021 with fondness and with no regrets.

SUPPORT LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, DISCOVER GEELONG Do you have photos from a local event or even a great story you would like to share?

SEND US YOUR NEWS! Geelong

editor@findgeelong.com.au

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Your house is your home - even for those who rent By Warren Strybosch

New laws are being introduced to make sure those renting a property can feel more ‘at home’ in the place they are renting. Some of the new changes are as follows: •

No permission is required to place picture hooks on walls, to replace curtains and/or install new energy efficient globes.

•

Renters can ask for the house to be repainted, put in a veggie garden and have a security system installed. Landlords must have a good reason to be able to decline these requests.

•

All living rooms must have a working heater.

•

Laundries must have both hot and cold water, not just cold water.

Are you aware of your rights to have a pet? One new law that come into play last year was the ability for tenants to have a Pet. A landlord can say no to pets but only after receiving approval from VCAT. The Landlord can request the pet remain outside but if the tenant does not agree, the Landlord will have to apply to VCAT to order the tenant to keep the pet outdoors. This law come into effect from 2nd of March 2020.

The rights of tenants are increasing, and Landlords must comply otherwise they may have to pay compensation or be faced with a compliance order e.g., made to comply.

The Premier has announced that office-based workplaces in both the public and private sectors can return to 75 per cent capacity from Monday 8 February 2021. Record keeping requirements for workplaces will remain unchanged. Employers must keep a record of all workers and all visitors who attend the premises for more than 15 minutes. This must include their first name, contact number, date and time of visit and the areas of the workplace visited. Electronic record keeping is strongly recommended. Register here for the Victorian Government’s free QR Code Service. Changes have been made to our public transport network to make sure it is safe and clean. Download this information pack for fact sheets you can share with your workers and information for staff newsletters or your intranet. Every Victorian business must have a COVIDSafe Plan and follow the six principles of COVIDSafe workplaces. Face masks are strongly recommended whenever you cannot keep 1.5 metres distance from others. For more information on safely returning to the office, including density limits in common areas and staggering start and finish times, please go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au or call Business Victoria on 13 22 15. FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Should Mortgage Brokers Be Selling Insurances?

By Warren Strybosch

With the introduction of Best Interest Duty and Westpac losing its appeal in the High Court last week, mortgage brokers are starting to feel the pressure from the regulator with regard to providing advice and selling products to consumers. For many of us who own property, we have, at one time or another, sought finance from either a bank or mortgage broker. The process of acquiring a loan inevitable leads to a discussion around insurances. After all, it is an easy sale for the banks or brokers given you are told you need it to secure the insurances for borrowing purposes. For many people, they assume the insurance products they have been sold by the lender or broker is adequate to meet their needs. Often this insurance is referred to as mortgage insurance and is provided under the guise of general advice. General advice means no advice was provided by the person selling the product, in most cases, by the mortgage broker. They would argue that providing a quote and getting you to fill in the application was your decision and they, the broker, had no part to play in you deciding to take up the insurances provided to you. However, times are now changing. It is going to be a very brave or very naïve mortgage broker who continues to sell insurances, especially insurances that have a life component to it and/ or provides replacement income – normally called Life Insurance and Income Protection. With the introduction on Best Interest Duty, mortgage brokers are now

required to research the product they are selling and to make sure the product and/or service they offer is appropriate to their client’s needs. Currently, most mortgage insurance and insurance sold via mortgage brokers are supplied via one particular lender and is often more expensive, with the definitions being substandard, compared to other personal insurances out there in the marketplace. So much so that ASIC and the Productivity Commission thought these products were questionable at best and did not benefit the clients as intended, with many clients cancelling their policies in the first three years, begging the question as to their appropriateness. Mortgage Brokers have argued that they do not need to be qualified or licensed to sell insurances because they were only providing ‘general advice’ compared to the financial planner who is required to have a minimum bachelor’s degree and provide a Statement of Advice if they wish to sell insurances. After all, the financial planner is providing personal advice and the broker is not. “A reasonable person in the position of each of the members called by Westpac might expect Westpac to have in fact taken into account at least one aspect of the members’ objectives, financial situation and needs,” the High Court’s statement read. As we are all aware, brokers will use our information e.g., current debt or new loan and/or gross income, when calculating how much insurances we should obtain. They will often provide the quote directly to us or guide us as to which company to use to obtain the quote. This ‘consideration’ now falls under ‘personal advice’.

If you have been sold personal insurances by a mortgage broker and believe the broker is not qualified and/or licensed to have sold you the insurances, you may be entitled to request a full refund of the premiums you have paid to date and/or make a complaint to ACFA; the external resolution board who handles complaints relating to mortgage brokers. If you have been sold insurances by a mortgage broker, then we would encourage you to seek appropriate advice from a financial planner who will be able to review your insurances and help you obtain personal insurances that is likely to be lower in cost and may provide better terms. Thankfully, there are many mortgage brokers who don’t sell personal insurances but refer this part of the business out to financial planners. We would encourage you to deal with these brokers when seeking a loan. Lastly, we have provided a comparison of those insurances sold via ‘general advice’ e.g., Directly over the phone or when provided by a mortgage broker to insurance provided by a reputable insurance company…basically, it is chalk and cheese in its comparison. This information is current as at February 2021. This article is intended to provide general information only and has been prepared without taking into account any particular person’s objectives, financial situation or needs (‘circumstances’). Before acting on such information, you should consider its appropriateness, taking into account your circumstances and obtain your own independent financial, legal or tax advice. You should read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making any decision about a product. While all care has been taken to ensure the information is accurate and reliable, to the maximum extent the law permits, Find Maroondah and its related bodies corporate, or each of their directors, officers, employees, contractors or agents, will not assume liability to any person for any error or omission in this material however caused, nor be responsible for any loss or damage suffered, sustained or incurred by any person who either does, or omits to do, anything in reliance on the information contained herein.

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Australian Pricing Update: A Reminder By Warren Strybosch

As you may remember, we delayed the Xero price change that was due to take place in March 2020 to help you, your clients and the small business community impacted by COVID-19. This is a reminder that the price change will take effect from 1 March 2021. As a cloud company that serves small business and their advisors, it is important that we continue investing in Xero for everyone who relies on us to manage their business and access their financial information every day. From 1 March 2021, the price of Xero Starter, Standard and Premium plans will increase by $2 a month in Australia. If you use Xero Cashbook, Xero Ledger or Payroll Only, there’s no increase. This web page tells you more. If your clients pay for their Xero subscription themselves, they’ll get an email from us directly. Thanks again for partnering with us. The Xero team

Special Tax Return Offer

1300 88 38 30

$99 Returns - PAYG Only We have made it cheaper and easier for you to get your returns completed & you can do it all from the comfort of your own home. Here are the steps involved: 1. Email to returns@findaccountant.com.au requesting your PAYG return to be completed. Provide us with your full name, D.O.B and address. 2. A Tax engagement letter will be emailed to you for signing via your mobile (no printing or scanning required). 3. You will be then sent a tax checklist to complete online. Takes less than 5 minutes. 4. We will then require you to upload your documents to our secure portal. 5. Once we have received all your documentation, we will complete the return. 6. We will email you the completed return with our invoices. Once you sign the return and pay the invoice we will lodge the return on your behalf.

Important: This offer is only available new clients to Find Accountant Pty Ltd. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

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Have you purchased a motor vehicle recently, the ATO might be interested in your transaction.

ACCOUNTANT By Warren Strybosch

The ATO has released a statement stating it will start to gather information pertaining to the purchase of motor vehicles from State and Territory motor vehicle registry authorities. The periods it will start to look at are the 2020 financial year and it is likely to continue beyond 2020. The ATO will be collecting and data matching a lot of information. Some of the information they will be collecting are as follows: •

•

identification details – names; addresses; phone numbers; date of birth for individuals; Australian business number; Australian company number for purchaser(s), seller(s), licenced dealer, fleet manager, leasing company (or representative of any of these); the registering person for an unincorporated body transaction details – date of transaction; type of transaction; sale price of the vehicle; market value of the vehicle; vehicle’s garage address; type of intended vehicle use; vehicle make; vehicle model; vehicle body type; year of manufacture; engine capacity or number of cylinders; tare weight; gross weight; vehicle identification number; registration number; transaction receipt number; state stamp duty exemption; reason for stamp duty exemption; dealer’s licence number.

The objective will be to address any noncompliance that may have occurred as follows: •

identify and address taxpayers buying and selling motor vehicles who may not be meeting their obligations to register and lodge returns (including activity statements) and ensure the correct reporting of income and entitlement to both deductions and input tax credits

•

to identify taxpayers that have purchased vehicles with values that are not commensurate with the income they have reported

•

to determine if the use of interposed proxy ownership is used to conceal the real accumulation of wealth, therefore representing a material threat to public revenue

•

identify and deal with those taxpayers who may not have met their obligations primarily with regards to GST, fringe benefits tax, luxury car tax, fuel schemes and income tax promote voluntary compliance and strengthen community confidence in the integrity of the taxation and superannuation systems by publicising the running of this data matching program

Already the ATO is data matching general insurance policies and now they are taking it a step further to data match the purchase and sale of motor vehicles. Many business owners will usually purchase the vehicle in the business. They will claim the GST associated with the purchase and aim to depreciate the vehicle over the coming years to increase their deductions thus minimizing the amount of tax they pay. What often happens is that when the vehicle is sold, the owners seem to forget that the proceeds need to be placed back into the busines and the GST also accounted for. Obviously, the ATO is aware of this and this might be there way of putting a stop to it. It is likely costing the ATO a lot in missed revenue. You can read more about the data matching program related to motor vehicles here.

Warren Strybosch You can call them on 1300 88 38 30 or email info@findaccountant.com.au www.findaccountant.com.au

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Get ahead without any financial knowledge

FINANCIAL PLANNER By Mark Kruger

At some stage most of us get sick of not having enough money. We dream of riches and are motivated to learn a bit about finance. First, we read about stocks and bonds and interest rates. Next comes companies and market share and economics. It’s all very grown up and you are feeling part of it. “I’m on my way I’m making it” goes the Peter Gabriel song. If we are really keen we may even learn big words like P/E ratio and capital expenditure. And we have all heard of some bloke who made a fortune on the latest hot stock (we don’t hear about the losers so much…hmmm). But in the end, it’s all too much. Paralysis by analysis. Where to start? Eventually, we give up. Let’s be honest, most of us aren’t genuinely interested in this stuff. The nitty gritty of finance does have its place in getting ahead. It just isn’t the whole story by any means. To illustrate, look at the chart above of a hypothetical super fund.

Let’s assume you start out with $50,000 20 years ago. Your wage is $80,000 p.a. and returns after fees and taxes are 6% each year. You would now have about $450,000. Nice big number, chart goes up, happy days. But here is what a lot of people miss – look at the darker part. They are employer contributions. Remember, your employer has put in 9.5% of your salary into super for you each year. After 20 years, about half of your wealth is not due to luck, anyone’s ‘cleverness’ nor anyone with ‘finance’ in their job title. In fact, it is all you. It is due to YOU getting YOUR butt out of bed each day and going to work. YOU aided that growth through regular contributions without even trying. Clever thing! The point is that your own behaviour, habits and attitudes around money are a massive driver of your wealth. The investments, strategies and ‘finance’ stuff are important, yes, but they are not the whole story. That begs the question – what’s your relationship with money like? What’s your surplus each month? Or is it a deficit? Is all that eating out and stuff you purchased aligned with your values? If it is, great. For most people it isn’t.

Basically, it comes down to putting on your big boy/girl pants and having a vision for your life. Money is a huge part of that. And the flow on effects of healthy finances are profound – better selfesteem, health, relationships etc. Let’s see where you are headed and get a plan together!

This article is general in nature only. It is not a recommendation to start contributing more to super as this may not be right for you. You should seek personal financial advice from a financial adviser to consider your situation holistically. * This 9.5% is increasing gradually to 12% in FY26.

Mark Kruger Financial Planner 0429 446 229 mark@moneyrocketadvice.com.au

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YOUR DEATH PLEDGE

LOAN SPECIALIST By Lee Wisniewski

Etymology is the study of the origin of words. I know, it’s weird that I am genuinely interested in this stuff.

This means budgeting based on what you can afford to repay. Remember, rates have never been so low and one day they will go up. Building a buffer on your affordability today will certainly help you to repay your mortgage quicker. Which brings me onto #2 2.) Make extra repayments

Did you know that mortgage literally means death pledge? Am I the only one who thinks it’s ironic that you take out a death pledge on a place you live in?

Duh, sounds obvious right? But here’s some context… paying an extra $100 per week on your $500k loan could save you 90 months (that 7.5 years!!) off your loan term!

Sometimes it can feel like a mortgage is going to be with you until you die. I mean, 30 years is a looooong time. But don’t be disheartened because the true meaning of the word is actually supposed to be focused on the contract (the pledge) being dead and NOT YOU.

Of course if you have already stretched to take out the loan in the first place then this is an unlikely scenario (See point 1 above)

Today let’s focus on the positive connotation and the death of your loan contract! I have had a think about some ways in which you can shorten the timeframe taken to repay your loan and thought I’d share. So, here goes: 1.) Don’t bite off more than you can chew Sounds obvious but if I had a dollar for every time someone has started off our chat with the question of “how much will a bank lend me?”, rather than starting with “how much can I afford to repay without putting too much financial pressure on our household?”, well my mortgage would be dead already too.

3.) Refinance to lower your rate but keep paying the same repayments With this concept you won’t need to pay anything extra off your loan at all. As an example, if you continue to make the same repayments on your $500k loan but save 0.5% pa in interest vs your current rate then you could save almost 3 years off that mortgage! That’s the power of refinancing to a better deal (and keeping your current lender honest).

5.) Become a rent-vestor I know, left of field but rent-vesting is simply renting where you live and owning an investment property instead. The reason this might work is that you may end up paying less per week in rent than you are actually receiving. Especially given that all of your property expenses will likely be tax deductible too. So, even if you just swap houses with your neighbour and each pay each other the same rent you will be in front at the end of the year due to the likely tax deductions. The extra savings could be redirected into paying off your home loan and/or acquiring another one. Having personally done this for a long time now I can walk you through the ins and outs if you like. In summary, your mortgage can die sooner than you and much faster than you think, if you take some action. Let me know your thoughts and/or how you are going to shorten your pledge in 2021. Oh and for some actual current property/ lending news, see below links.

4.) Use an offset account If you have cash in the bank it could be offsetting your home loan interest. $50,000 stored in an offset account could be saving you circa $1,500 per year in interest (based on a 3% home loan rate) and/or save you almost 5 years on a $500k mortgage.

Lee Wisniewski Mortgage Broker Fidget Loan Specialist 401272505 lee@fidget.com.au FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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HOW SAFE IS YOUR BUSINESS FROM COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN?

RESILIENCE COACH By Sally Higoe

Amidst the uncertainty of current working environments, there’s one thing that remains constant; The need for effective communication to get results! One common challenge I regularly hear is “how do I motivate and inspire my staff?” Communication is the most important determining factor needed to achieve the connection for this to happen.... and everybody has their own way of communicating! I recall some early days in my career as a leader... -- Staff begin work, staff do job, staff tick off lists, staff finish up for the day – No spark. No creativity or innovation. No extra mile. Seemingly ‘stuck’ in their day-to-day regime – and me, unsure of how to communicate to get things back on track. I tried everything to reinspire and motivate. I tried ‘everything on each of them’... meetings, extra breaks, feedback, incentives, buddy’s. I tried everything that I believed would help to get my team’s buy-in.... It was hit and miss with my results and at times I certainly felt lost, uncertain and a little helpless.

Sound familiar? I eventually discovered that the problem lay in my approach. I was viewing solely, through my own lense... and under the impression that I understood what the problem was ‘surely I get it’, ‘they must be feeling the same as I would in that situation’. Key factor was that I had no idea how they were feeling and thinking about the situation... I could take an educated guess, but really... no idea. At that time, I was yet to understand that although I saw differences in all people... I didn’t quite get that there genuinely are; • different ways that we each respond to the same event and • different things that make each of us tick.... A-HA moment!! Whether the team member has • • • •

lost focus seems bored is straying from responsibility or seemingly ‘stuck in their ways’

.... it is the leader’s approach to these problems that will determine the success of the outcome. Each ‘problem’ is typically identifiable through certain actions...and when you

can look out for such behaviour and notice those traits in your staff, then you are able to effectively offer the right approach/solution. There are four types of main problems that you’ll likely notice. I’ve stated them below, along with the solution of how to approach that particular behaviour to ensure confident development. When you lead in this way, with awareness and acceptance, it builds; Trust - developed through respect and care felt by staff, and Resilience - the determination to push through, because staff feel worthy and accepted. In yourself, it promotes growth in selfawareness, felt through your purposeful approach and actions - which must be flexible in order to inspire creativity and innovation. Trust, Resilience and Self-awareness are the ingredients that will transform and redefine your culture. An amazing culture moves your business from mediocre to outstanding. 1. Problem - LOSS OF FOCUS – Forgetting the roles and forgetting the goals leads to making small mistakes. This person will often create their own little informal groups.

Solution - Focus on the big picture, maintaining a positive attitude. Take the time to chat and talk, helping to achieve recognition. Avoid too many details.

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2. Problem - BOREDOM – Doesn’t stay in area of responsibility, seeking out new challenges (often not received). This team member becomes bored and uninterested in teamwork.

Solution– Act quickly with this person, focusing on the issues and providing direct answers. Show interest and offer alternatives. Enjoy the battle they will! Avoid too much information and don’t take issues personally. 3. Problem - BOGGED DOWN – Some can become so overly cautious that they are bogged down in the details and thus resist responsibility.

Solution - Listen carefully and find out what the key issues are with this person. Be thorough and provide factual responses. Avoid small talk and applying pressure. Don’t expect decisions right away.

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

4. Problem - RESISTS CHANGE – This can happen to many, but a good percentage will adjust in reasonable time. This team member will resist even the simplest of new procedures and become protective of their team. They are at a stand-still, full of opinion with no initiation.

Solution - Building trust is key here. Remember fairness and justice and provide support. Keep conversation slow and ask specific questions to find out their true needs. Avoid domination and unreliability. It is crucial that each team member is viewed upon as their own entity... it is not rational to discount them for ‘acting up’ (unless of course its continual or extreme!) or to presume that they are doing so for a particular reason... there is only one way to find out why... and it’s in the approach!

So, get curious! Focus on looking at how the individual is ‘doing’ their undesirable behaviour... and see your team as a group of selfleaders, where your role is to provide opportunities for their growth. If you need more help connecting and communicating with your staff, email me on sally@team-resilience.com.au. I am currently gifting free webinars that will strengthen connections and enhance all round communication.

Sally Higoe The Resilience Coach Team Resilience Method 0490388017 sally@team-resilience.com.au

INFLATION REMAINS WELL BELOW RBA’S TARGET “The December quarter CPI was primarily impacted by an increase in tobacco excise and the introduction, continuation and conclusion of a number of government schemes, including child care fee subsidies and home building grants,” ABS head of prices statistics Michelle Marquardt said. The most significant price rises in the December quarter included a 10.9 per cent increase for tobacco following a 12.5 per cent increase in excise duty. The unwinding of free child care led to a jump of 37.7 per cent, with out-of-pocket expenses now returning to pre-COVID levels. Demand for new dwellings pushed prices up 0.7 per cent, but would have been higher if not for government stimulus measures like the $25,000 HomeBuilder grant. By Colin Brinsden, AAP Economics and Business Correspondent (Australian Associated Press)

The rate of inflation remained subdued in the December quarter as government stimulus measures helped to keep the lid on some price pressures, and despite a jump in tobacco prices. The consumer price index for the December quarter rose 0.9 per cent,

slightly higher than the 0.7 per cent increase economists had expected. However, the Australian Bureau of Statistics said the annual rate of inflation was also just 0.9 per cent. This is well below the Reserve Bank’s two to three per cent inflation target.

The most significant price fall was in electricity, which was down 7.5 per cent as a result of the West Australian government’s household electricity credit payment. Underlying measures of inflation – which smooth out wild price swings and are closely monitored by the Reserve Bank in terms of monetary policy – also remained subdued.

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Are you thinking about Separating? You need to read this first • • • • • • • • •

LAWYERS & CONVEYANCERS By John Van Beveren

At Van Beveren Lawyers we understand that separating financially and emotionally from a long-term partner can be complex and confusing, and we don’t want you to have to do it alone.

and helpful for you to understand as soon as possible. A family lawyer will identify potential issues and provide upto-date advice to help save you from regret and heartache later on.

Before contemplating separation, or if separation is imminent, speaking to a family lawyer early on will help you: •

Avoid costly mistakes that will impact time spent with children and possible property settlement;

•

Maintain a higher standard of relationship between you and your ex partner;

•

Keep the relationships between you and your children strong; and

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Give the certainty and stability you need to take confident steps to plan your future.

The way Australian Family Law operates is the same for everyone, but how it applies to your unique situation is personal to you

The path ahead might seem daunting, and it’s always better to be prepared. If you are thinking about separating, here is a list of frequently encountered issues you may need to consider over the course of the process: • • • •

How you will talk about separation with your partner if you haven’t already; What you want your own future career and lifestyle to look like; What will happen to the family home and where you will live; Are there any issues of family violence;

What are the best interests of any children you have; How to start with family mediation; How any property and businesses will be divided; How to secure your important documents; Separating financial matters, including insurance beneficiaries and bank accounts; Other options for financial support; Protecting your cyber security and online accounts; How you will communicate together going forward; and Updating your Will.

Untangling these multifaceted matters during a separation does take time and patience, as can finding new ways to parent or communicate together if there are children. The emotions and demands that separation triggers can be complex and overwhelming, and having a solicitor you trust at hand will help you to feel steady and confident even in moments of uncertainty.

At Van Beveren Lawyers, we’ve successfully guided hundreds of people through the separation process. We take personal responsibility for ensuring that your new life is the one you want and envision for yourself and your family. Read our 12 Steps to Separation Guide available for free online, and book a free 15 minute complimentary appointment to discuss your separation and family law issues if you would like to talk about the help you need to make the next chapter of your life the best one possible. www. vanbeveren.com.au/download-yourseparation-guide

John Van Beveren LAWYER 0487 044 478 www.vanbeveren.com.au

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Four Steps to an effective strategic partnership plan Investment of time and labour Will the strategy involve significant amounts of time/labour investment? How will you measure this? Will either or both parties be recompensed for their time? If so how and when? Managing Contra Deals If your proposed alliance strategy involves a contra deal of some sort what are the agreed values of each party’s contribution to the deal? In the event of a dispute how will this value be measured? Managing Clients and Customers

BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM By Brenda Thomson

It’s well known that one of the most effective ways for small businesses to grow is through the use of strategic alliances and joint ventures. But how do you create strategic alliances that achieve the results you are looking for? Here’s a handy process to implement a strategic alliance plan that works. 1. WHY Like any good plan you need to start with the end in mind. What is it you are trying to achieve? Think about your business objectives. Make sure that you have clear business goals and targets. 2. WHO Who can help you achieve your goals and objectives? This may be someone or a group of people in specific professions, a specific organisation or even a specific person. 3. WHAT What are you going to do together? And this links directly back to WHY. If you are really clear on your goals and objectives it makes it easy to figure out what you need to do. If your business goals relate to generating more leads then you will want to implement a strategy to do that. If your business goals are associated with reducing costs then you will need to focus on strategies that can help with that.

4. HOW AND WHEN Here are some things to consider: Time frames What are the time frames surrounding the project? Detail agreed completion dates for any stages in the implementation of the project (who will do what and by when). Detail any limitations on the ongoing nature of the project. Will the strategy run for a specific period of time (what are the time frames?) or will it run indefinitely? If so when will you review and what would cause the strategy to terminate? Financial Considerations Are there things which need to be paid for to implement the strategy? How will it be funded? If funding will be reimbursed from profits later, how will this be managed? If the anticipated profits do not eventuate will there be any adjustments to the initial expenditure? Does your strategy involve payments from clients or customers? Who will receive the money and how will it be accounted for and disbursed? Database ownership and protection Does your strategy involve databases of leads or customers? Will you be sending information to each other’s existing databases? How will the information be shared and managed? Who will collect the new leads? How will they be distributed and how will their opt-ins be managed?

What will be the nature (if any) of the relationship between each party to the agreement and the other party’s existing clients/customers? Managing Intellectual Property If the proposed strategy involves the development of new products, services or intellectual property of any sort who will own the rights during and after the end of the agreement? If the rights will continue to be co-owned after the life of the project how will this be managed? Managing Liabilities Are there any potential risks or liabilities involved in the strategy? If so what are these and how will responsibility for them be managed? If these risks could continue after the life of strategy or project, how will this be managed? Exit Strategy If either party wants to end the strategy before the agreed completion date or before implementation is finalized how will this be managed? If the project or strategy has an indefinite life what are the factors which can cause the strategy to end and how will this be managed?

BRENDA THOMSON BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM 0428 210 447 brenda.thomson@bb4g.co

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CASH VS ACCRUAL BASIS OF ACCOUNTING

BOOKKEEPER By Mary-Clare Switz

These terms are often thrown about by your bookkeeper and accountant. The disctintion is important to understand in the context of BASes and JobKeeper. This is a quick explanation of what they mean when talking about your bookkeeping and accounting. Cash Basis This method takes into consideration only the Sales you have been paid for and the Expenses you have paid for in the given period you are looking out. This is the most common basis of reporting that small businesses calculate and report their BASes. When we look at the Oct/ Nov/Dec quarterly BAS period we report the Sales and Expenses that have been paid for and ignore the sales & expenses that will be paid in a future quarter. Business with a turnover of less than $10 million can choose to report their BASes on a Cash Basis. Accrual (non-Cash) Basis This method looks at all your Sales and Expenses that you have occurred in the reporting period regardless if you have been paid for the sales or paid the supplier for the expenses yet. When calculating the Oct/Nov/Dec BAS we report all the Sales that have been recorded,

whether they have been paid or not, and all the Expenses that occurred in the period, again, regardless of whether they have been paid within the quarter or will be paid in the future. Reporting a BAS on the Accrual method for small to medium businesses is less common than cash. In some instances, reporting on an accrual basis, even though the business may not be required to be, may be of an advantage. For example, a business that is paid on the day for all of it sales but pays supplies on terms would have the advantage of claiming the GST on expenses that they have not yet paid for in the reporting period. EOY Tax Compliance & Reporting When tax accountants are doing their magic at the end of the year completing your tax compliance and preparing your Income Tax lodgement, they commonly prepare using the Accrual Basis. This is why you may be asked for any expenses that are dated prior to 30 June that you may have not recorded in your bookkeeping. When looking at a Profit & Loss statement to see how your business is going, we always recommend looking at it on an Accruals Basis. This gives a more complete picture at how your business is performing. Looking at the Cash Basis Profit & Loss will give you an insight into the Cash Flow from

period to period … that is a whole other article for another month. As a note, the JobKeeper extension program that covered the Oct/Nov/Dec quarter and covers the Jan/Feb/Mar quarter requires the eligibility assessment to be calculated based on the business’s BAS method. This was a change from the original JobKeeper program that did not specify either Cash or Accrual. This meant that for a lot of small business you need to look at your Sales on a Cash Basis for the comparison period, not Accrual. Changing from Cash to Accrual Reporting There can be times where it advised that a business move from reporting their BAS on a Cash Basis to an Accruals Basis. Aside from tipping over the $10 million in yearly revenue, a business may have changed and may be more advantaged by reporting on an Accrual Basis with regards to cash flow. Your tax accountant or BAS Agent can advise on this.

Mary-Clare Switz BOOKKEEPER

0448 887286 mc@biscuitbooks.com.au

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Colours to Inspire Your Life: 2021 Interior Trends For Everyone PAINTING & DECORATING By Steve Dahllof

Did you spend too much time in 2020 starting at your walls? For many, 2021 was a wakeup call not to put off your dreams any longer. We might have felt disconnected from our community and the outdoors in 2020, and the interior trends of 2021 are all about restablishing that connection to our sense of self, support, and untainted nature. We can’t control events around us, but we can command the inner landscape of our homes. Earthy, neutral tones are the trend of 2021, as people reimagine a calmer, more grounded life.

A huge space for love and caring blossoms inside a child when they experience the innocent joy of patting their first puppy, kitten, or rabbit. The colours of 2021, too, are tactile, warm and inviting. They have a heartbeat that evokes a memory of simpler, more natural times.

The colour palette of 2021 is a spread good enough to eat. And like a balanced diet, you can bring in rich and fruity colours.

And yet we all crave something a little more exciting, to evoke the thrill we feel when we are truly grateful for feeling alive.

I’ve been painting Geelong’s premier homes for more than three decades, and I always love to work with new clients to help you bring to life the home of your dreams.

The tones of 2021 are earthy, warm, and natural, but that doesn’t mean they are boring. Earthy tones provide the perfect backdrop for eclectic decor to stand out in that perfect Instagram worthy colour pop.

It’s a range of milky almonds, silky cocoons, nutmeg and creamy lattes. You’d be forgiven for thinking the tones of 2021 were ingredients from your pantry.

The benefit of refreshing your interior paint with earthy tones is that they are colours to endure through the ages. They will be the complementary backdrop to fashionable decor for decades to come.

These placid tones are poised to make your homecoming to feel like a day spa, sanctuary or upmarket cafe. Rediscover your home as both relaxing and restorative, and a natural canvas for your family’s self-expression and enjoyment.

You can bring lushness and diversity to your colour palette by adding rejuvenating greens. With the resurgence of interest in sustainability and regeneration, use potplants or decor to allow the forest to flourish at home.

Consider a plum or eggplant feature wall, or a pinch of paprika or turmeric, to add drama and depth.

We’ve been through a tough year and 2021’s colour selection is here to harken calmer times ahead. Contact me to talk about how to make your home embody the kind of beauty that lasts for centuries.

Steve Dahllof PAINTING AND DECORATING 0407 365 372

kerna1967@gmail.com

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Video? Where to even start?

VIDEO CONSULTANT By Zoë Wood

Starting anything new can be exciting, scary and overwhelming. Video ticks all those boxes and more, but the reward far out ways any risk. As a newcomer, planning, filming, editing, and distributing videos can be intimidating when you see the process as a whole. However, as with most things in life, breaking each of these stages into simple tasks is the best way forward. Before you even touch that camera or smartphone, it’s time to do some research. The first step of this research is looking at your industry, looking at your competitors, looking at what other people are currently doing with videos. Whether they are producing short and sharp “stories”, or long webinar style videos, or even a series of videos focusing on answers for a specific theme, will inform the best approach for your contribution to the space. The important thing to focus on is finding the gaps they are leaving in their work. What’s something that you and your wisdom can do? What will make your group stand out from the crowd? What will show your audience how you are different? What can you capture that shows the best side of your organisation? Because your insight is unique. Before you even touch that camera or smartphone, it’s time to do some research. The first step of this research is looking at your industry, looking at your competitors, looking at what other people are currently doing with videos. Whether they are producing short and sharp “stories”, or long webinar style videos,

or even a series of videos focusing on answers for a specific theme, will inform the best approach for your contribution to the space. The important thing to focus on is finding the gaps they are leaving in their work. What’s something that you and your wisdom can do? What will make your group stand out from the crowd? What will show your audience how you are different? What can you capture that shows the best side of your organisation? Because your insight is unique. After you’ve completed some research, it’s time to focus on your messaging. Think carefully about what exactly you are going to focus on with your content. To be clear, this is not a script rather, this is your MESSAGE. After your viewer has watched the video, what core theme will they take from it? Is it an action? Donate to our cause? Is it, for example, the fact that 54% of the Australian juvenile detention population is made up of Aboriginal kids* and they should be writing to their political representative about that? What is the action you need your viewer to take away from your video at the end of the day? Motivating your audience to action is a better use of your video creating efforts than simply informing your viewer of updates, changes, or general news about your group. What is a simple, five second action, that will be helpful to both you and your viewer? With that process complete, now is the time to grab that camera or smartphone. You can do this because you’ve thought about where your video is gonna fit in the media landscape. You’ve considered your current communications and you know why you’re making the content in the first place. It’s finally time to play around. Grab your phone, which you’re probably reading this article on right now and start small. Start by opening up

the camera app on your phone. Seeing what it can see. What areas of your vision are cut off by the camera’s framing? Maybe even record a few videos of the views from your desk space, kitchen table or bedroom. You don’t have to show anyone, or even post that in your final video online, just experiment with the form. Maybe even try getting in front of the camera. You can use a bookshelf, or anything tall that can hold your phone in line with your eyes, framing your face from the best possible angle. If there is nothing tall near you, just hold the camera with your hand, and adjust the camera up and down for the best angle. Move around the space you are currently in. What is the best room in your office, home, or community space to film a video in? Can you find a window? Is it best when you stand near or in front of a window to light up your face? Check how different rooms sound. What sounds best when you listen to it through your small phone speaker? Is the best sound in the bathroom? Perhaps it sounds best in a padded office? The first step to creating videos, is actually CREATING videos. Playing around is key. The key to learning any new skill is practice. With practice, and this article, you too will become knowledgeable and wise. So why not play around for a few days? You don’t have to show anyone the fruits of your labor. You’re just testing things, seeing what looks and sounds good, and what feels best for your message. So stay tuned to this column. In my next article, I will guide you on filming your first video. See our video called “Video? Where to even start?”. Search Video Confidence Coach on YouTube to start creating videos for your non-for-profit or community group. *Statistics pulled from “Australia’s anguish: the Indigenous kids trapped behind bars” published by The Guardian, 17th of January 2021.

Zoë Wood VIDEO CONSULTANT 0430 473 204 zoe@vcc.training

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

SALARY PACKAGING - February 2021 SALARY PACKAGING SERVICES By Dan Nicholls

This month I’d like to take the opportunity to explore the area of novated leasing and debunk a few myths that exist and that we come across regularly in our conversations with employees. What is a Novated Lease? A Novated Lease is a three-way agreement between an employee, employer and financier, which enables an employee to include a Motor Vehicle as part of their Salary Package. An employee can therefore drive the vehicle of their choice that suits their lifestyle and fits within their personal budget.

Novated Lease Benefits

•

There are numerous benefits to including a Novated Lease as part of a Salary Package. These include obvious benefits like Tax and Vehicle Cost Savings through to immeasurable benefits like Cash Free and convenient driving and having control & flexibility.

•

Tax Savings As a result of the signing of a Deed of Novation, for taxation purposes the financed vehicle is considered to be a company vehicle, even though the vehicle can be used exclusively for private purposes. As a result, an employee will have some tax advantages not normally available with regular finance arrangements. Some of these are:

Common Myths debunked

•

Who is eligible for a Novated Lease? The eligibility of a Novated Lease is largely dependent on their employer salary packaging policy, however generally a Novated Lease is for full time and permanent part time staff. Casual employees wanting to get a new vehicle have alternative finance arrangements available to them through us. How does it work? The financier (Leasing Company) buys the vehicle chosen by the employee and leases it to them. The employee enters into a Lease Agreement with the financier for a specific term. All 3 parties (the employee, the employer and the financier) then sign an agreement called a Deed of Novation. In effect all three parties are agreeing that whilst the employee works for the employer, the employer will make all the required payments for the Novated Lease on their behalf. These payments are made by the employer, via The Salary Packaging People, after the amount for the Novated Lease is deducted from the employee’s salary package. The employee is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the vehicle and has the option to buy the vehicle from the financier at the end of the Lease term.

• •

No GST payable on the initial vehicle price. This is a result of the financier buying the car. GST credits are available on the vehicle operating costs, which includes fuel, maintenance, etc. Reduction in Income Tax due to the salary packaging of the Novated Lease

Vehicle Cost Savings Due to the relationships in place between us and our suppliers, our buying power means our customers have access to: • •

Purchase discounts on new vehicles Discounted vehicle service and maintenance costs

Cash Free & Convenient driving Our Novated Lease program enables an employee to: • • • •

Use our supplied fuel card to pay for all fuel and oil purchases Use our service and maintenance arrangements to pay the repairer directly Never retain receipts and invoices for any expenses paid directly by us Package all lease and operating costs into a single regular salary deduction, therefore no need to budget for renewable items like registration and insurance and regular expenses like fuel.

• • •

Choose the vehicle they want to drive Choose to lease a new, pre-owned or demonstrator vehicle Take their vehicle with them if they change employers Allow others to drive their vehicle Use the vehicle for private purposes, e.g. towing, travelling interstate, etc.

1. Own choice of car, because the car is yours registered in your name. 2. You do not have to drive a minimum number of kilometres – typically our customers drive around 1215,000kms 3. All expenses are included (rego, insurance, fuel) excluding infringements and tolls 4. Multiple options if employment ceases or the lease runs to the end. 5. Budgets are set in agreement with the customer – not imposed by us or anyone The Salary Packaging People are a Geelong based business with over 30 years serving the local community and wider areas. Our customers range from very small to very large and we pride ourselves in delivering a personal, professional and value focussed service. We believe people like to deal with friendly people and so we don’t have call centres. We manage all aspects of salary packaging including novated leases, providing an end-to-end comprehensive service at outstanding value. Please contact us to see how we can assist you or your business (03) 5229 4200.

Dan Nicholls Salary Packaging Services 040047998 dan@salarypackagingpeople.com.au

Control & Flexibility The beauty of a Novated Lease arrangement, is that an employee can:

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Happy Singing!

Shayne Lowe … Do It With Pizazz

VOCAL PERFORMANCE INSTRUCTOR By Shayne Lowe

Endorphins anyone? Known as one of the “happy hormones”, endorphins are produced naturally when you eat dark chocolate, exercise, dance, get acupuncture, laugh and … of course … sing! So, when I say singing is my happy, I really mean it! Let’s take a closer look at the science of singing … Singing & Health One of the foundational aspects of singing lessons and classes is learning how to breath effectively. The process of exhalation stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system (the part of the body that enables you to rest and digest) which is where the concept of “take a breath and calm down” comes from. Studies have shown that the breathing techniques used with singing assist in building strength in respiratory muscles which may offer benefits for people with conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer and multiple sclerosis.

“Singing is a form of regular, controlled breathing since breathing out occurs on the song phrases and inhaling takes place between these. It gives you pretty much the same effect as yoga breathing. It helps you relax, and there are indications that it does provide a heart benefit.” Dr Björn Vickhoff, musicologist University of Gothenburg, Sweden

…

Singing also stimulates the vagus nerve, causing the heart rate to slow (your heart rate increases when anxious so singing can be an anxiety antidote!) As a side benefit, this can work towards lowering blood pressure and providing tools for ongoing stress management.

Having a bad day? Sing it out I say!

Studies have also found there is a release of oxytocin into the body when singing. Oxytocin (another “happy hormone”!) has a calming effect on the body and promotes psychological wellbeing.

Of course, this happy little singing bubble cannot help but follow you out of classes and into your daily lives!

“There is no other stimulus on earth that simultaneously engages our brains as widely as music does. This global activation happens whether you listen to music, play an instrument, or sing - even informally in the car or the shower.” Brian Harris, certified neurologic music therapist … Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital

Researchers in a 2008 study interviewed partners of choir members along with partners of people who didn’t sing regularly and found that significantly fewer choir members snored!

Get singing and get some more of those happy hormones in your day!

Singing & Community Research from the University of East Anglia found that people who took part in community singing groups maintained or improved their mental health. Singing in groups, being a combination of socialising and singing, promotes ongoing feelings of belonging and wellbeing that continually builds as you settle into the group. Enter oxytocin (again!) One of the neurochemicals released when people feel bonded is oxytocin … also known as the love hormone.

Shayne Lowe VOCAL PERFORMANCE INSTRUCTOR 0429 08 4343 info@doitwithpizazz.com.au

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Which jobs are tipped to prosper in 2021? By Nick Gibbs (Australian Associated Press)

Workers looking for job security in 2021 should consider Australia’s “largest and fastest growing” industry, broadly known as the care economy. As well as frontline healthcare, fields such as social work, counselling and child and aged care are tipped to be in demand this year, LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise report says. The special edition of the emerging jobs report compares the roles experiencing the highest growth between April and October 2020 against the same period the year before. With governments favouring stimulus measures centred on infrastructure, the report predicts careers in construction will have a solid foundation. Site managers, estimators and heavy equipment operators are listed as among those employees likely to be sought after. The report notes Australia’s property sector remained “remarkably upbeat” during last year’s downturn and rates

mortgage brokers and real estate agents as having good prospects. While traditional open homes were off the table during lockdowns, the disconnection from traditional offices means work no longer dictates where people live. It’s still unclear which of the changes that made work possible during the pandemic will be permanent, and such uncertainty means there is demand for help by individuals making big life choices. Qualifications likely to be required in the future include business and wellness coaching, personal development and mentoring. E-commerce, social media management, cyber security and web development are also likely to remain good bets for career longevity. The report recommends acquiring transferable skills desirable across a range of growth areas. “Roles across construction, social media, marketing and technology don’t necessarily require direct experience

or four-year degrees, meaning opportunities are open to a wide variety of backgrounds,” the report states. Hospitality, tourism and the education of international students suffered “sectorwide” impact as businesses responded to the chief demand of managing the pandemic. While there will always be demand for food and drink, when international travel will resume is among the biggest unknowns. Of LinkedIn members surveyed during the pandemic (April – August), around 60 per cent of respondents were passive or closed to new jobs. This figure has decreased since early September and is now at about half of the people surveyed, according to LinkedIn’s workforce confidence index. Those most confident about their ability to progress are employed in business development and administration roles. Human resources, finance, operations and media and communications employees are the least confident they’ll be making career progression this year, with little movement from April. FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

2020 TA Coronavirus Supplement Payment Extended Again to March 2021 The Federal Government is extending the payment period again for Coronavirus Supplement to 31 March 2021. It was previously extended to 31 December 2020. However, during the extension periods the level of payment is falling from the original $550 per fortnight. Up to 31 December 2020 is new supplement is $250 per fortnight and this will be lowered to $150 per fortnight to 31 March 2021. The full Coronavirus Supplement amount is payable to the individual, provided they qualify for an eligible income support

Announcement (23-Mar-2020) Updated: (12-Nov-2020)

payment. Other changes to the supplement will include the re-introduction of means testing and liquid assets waiting period. However, original COVID-19 adjustments, such as increased cut-off levels for partner income and reduced waiting times will still apply.

Granny Flat Arrangements Set for CGT Exemption A “targeted” capital gains tax exemption relating to granny flat arrangements has been proposed in the 2020 federal budget. The announcement intends to remove financial impediments to the creation of formal and legally enforceable granny flat arrangements. Often, it is informal arrangements which can inevitably

Announcement (6-Oct-2020)

lead to financial and elder abuse. Any proposed announcement must go through the legislative process.

Updated: (12-Nov-2020)

The proposed CGT exemption will have effect from 1 July in the following income year after Royal Assent.

JobMaker Hiring Credit JobMaker Hiring Credits will be available to eligible employers who hire new employees between 7 October 2020 and 7 October 2021. The credit is available for up to 12 months of employment and is capped at $10,400 per new employee. The new employee will be required to work at least 20 hours

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation (27-Nov-2020) Intoduced (7-Oct-2020)

a week and previously been receiving JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance (Other) or Parenting

Passed (11-Nov-2020)

Payment. They also need to be under 35 years of age and sign a relevant nomination form. The ATO is

Royal Assent (13-Nov-2020

facilitating the scheme, with quarterly claims commencing in February 2021.

Date of effect (7-Oct-2020)

NT COVID-19 Stimulus Package - JobMaker “Booster” Announced On 10 November 2020, the NT budget announced the JobMaker “Booster” wage subsidy for small businesses in the Northern Territory. This wage subsidy intends to run alongside the federal government subsidy, ensuring that employers will get $200 per week for any new hire during the scheme. This subsidy is on top of the other NT government stimulus packages announced and extended since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Payroll tax exemptions, deferrals and waivers are available for most businesses affected by the pandemic. For small and medium businesses in the Territory that can

Announcement (9-Apr-2020) Update (18-Nov-2020)

show that they have suffered substantial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, payroll tax will be waived for 13 months. Larger businesses will get a 12-month deferral. The Territory Government will also lower power, water and sewerage bills by 50 per cent for businesses until 1 July 2021.

Temporary Full Expensing of Depreciation Assets The majority of businesses are eligible to claim an outright deduction for the cost and installation of new assets. To qualify for full expensing, the asset must be first held and first used, or installed ready for use, between 7:30pm AEDT 6 October 2020 and 30 June 2022. Unlike prior rules on instant asset

Announcement (6-Oct-2020)

write-offs, no limit applies to the cost of an asset under the full expensing rules. That is, an asset of any

Consultation (6-Oct-2020)

value may be fully deducted in the appropriate income year. For a business to qualify for the outright deduction, the entity must have an aggregated turnover of less than $5 billion. Since the legislation has been enacted, further amendments will be made to the laws to allow businesses a choice in using full expensing or not. In certain situations, it may be beneficial to spread out tax deductions over multiple years. Also, certain large entities will have separate eligibility criteria.

Intoduced (7-Oct-2020) Passed (9-Oct-2020) Royal Assent (14-Oct-2020 Date of effect (6-Oct-2020)

AX UPDATES Accelerated Depreciation via Backing Business Investment Businesses with less than $500 million in aggregated turnover can accelerate depreciation deductions for new assets in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 income years. Accelerated depreciation rules for these entities have subsequently been superseded by new ‘temporary full expensing’ legislation in November 2020. However, the option to use accelerated depreciation continues. Accelerated depreciation is available for assets in the first year the asset would ordinarily claim a deduction. In the first year a deduction is allowable for 50% of the installed cost of the asset plus regular depreciation rates for the remainder. The Backing Business Investment measures are in concert with the extension of the instant asset write-off.

Announced: 11-Mar-2020 Updated: 7-Dec-2020

However, it may only be relevant for some clients until 6 October 2020, when the full expensing regime commenced. Small businesses using pooling can use a 57.5% write-off for assets purchased after 12 March 2020 that do not qualify for immediate write-off in the 2019-20 income year. Small business entities are also covered by the new full expensing legislation.

Instant Asset Write-off - COVID-19 Tax Stimulus Package The instant asset write-off will be available for the majority of businesses during some part of the 201920 and 2020-21 income years. For purchases between 12 March 2020 and 6 October 2020, businesses under $500 million in turnover can get an immediate tax deduction for assets costing less than $150,000. In the purchasing time frame, the asset needs to be first used or installed ready for use by 30 June 2021. In the legislation, the update also extends to the low value pool for the 2019-20 income year. An entity with a small business pool balance of less than $150,000 will be able to write off the entire balance (up

Announced: 11-Mar-2020

from $30,000). For the 2020/21 income year, general small business depreciation pools may be written

Updated: 7-Dec-2020

off in full in accordance with the full expensing rules. The government stimulus package, announced to prevent a large national economic downturn, includes this boost to instant asset write-offs. However, the stimulus will not be received until lodgment of the tax return. Subsequent legislation introduced into parliament will allow businesses an option of using the instant asset write-offs or to depreciate new assets over their effective life.

Payment Times Reporting Scheme The Payment times reporting scheme is commencing 1 January 2021, providing small businesses with greater understanding of the corporate treasury management processes within large business. In the publicly available report, information about how quickly a big business pays a small business for goods and services is delivered. This can provide a small business a snapshot regarding how quickly they

Announcement (10-Oct-2020) Intoduced (13-May-2020) Passed (6-Oct-2020)

could expect payment for work with a big business, which may help decision making. Small businesses

Royal Assent (14-Oct-2020

also will have the option of opting out from the reporting scheme. This will mean that their identify as a

Date of effect (1-Jan-2021)

small business will remain unknown to a big business throughout the relationship.

Corporate Residency Test to Change for Foreign Companies A ‘significant economic connection to Australia’ test is a rule proposed to be added to Australian tax residency for foreign incorporated companies. Announced in the 2020 federal budget, this measure draws on a key recommendation of a Board of Taxation report into corporate residency. The new test will be applied to foreign incorporated companies prior to determining the central management and

Announcement (6-Oct-2020) Consultation (6-Oct-2020) Introduced Passed

control test. As part of the announcement, foreign incorporated companies will be required to pass

Royal Assent

both tests to have their worldwide income taxed in Australia.

Date of effect

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We invite all Real Estate Agents to list their profiles here. First in, first page. Be known in your local community and help support all things Geelong. For listing enquiries call 1300 88 38 30 or email editor@findgeelong.com.au

Agent Name: 1234 568 75896 emailaddress@gmail.com.au

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REAL ESTATE AGENT

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Agent Name: 1234 568 75896 emailaddress@gmail.com.au

COMING SOON

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Agent Name: 1234 568 75896 emailaddress@gmail.com.au

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

FIND GEELONG | FEBRUARY 2021

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Council submission to Surf Coast Distinctive Area and Landscape process Council has last night endorsed a submission to the Surf Coast Distinctive Area and Landscape public consultation, as the declared area includes Mount Duneed and Breamlea in the Greater Geelong municipality. The Surf Coast was declared a Distinctive Area and Landscape (DAL) by the Victorian Government in 2019, with the aim of permanently protecting the area from over-development and preserving its unique environment, landscape and lifestyle. The declaration covers a small area of Breamlea and the area north of the Surf Coast and Greater Geelong municipal boundary at Mount Duneed Road, taking in Mount Duneed up to the Armstrong Creek Urban Growth Boundary. This northern boundary includes the Thompson Valley green break between the urban areas of Armstrong Creek and Torquay. In 2019, council resolved that it didn’t support including the area north of Mount Duneed Road, following concerns from landholders. The Minister for Planning noted the Council’s position in early 2020, however the Mount Duneed area wasn’t removed from the declared area. The submission generally supports the sections of the draft Statement of Planning Policy (SPP) that relate to the Greater Geelong municipality, which will guide planning and growth for the declared area for the next 50 years. The SPP has been prepared by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) as part of the declaration as a DAL. Last night’s submission outlines concerns raised by Mount Duneed landholders about transparency and a perceived lack of consultation. It also states that any planning scheme amendment to implement the SPP should be led and resourced by DELWP, with the City providing input.

It details the City’s plans to formally start the strategic work to define a longterm boundary for urban Geelong after the Minister for Planning approves the Settlement Strategy - amendment C395. This work has already been identified in the strategy and the draft SPP. Council’s full submission can be viewed in the 2 February 2021 council meeting agenda.

Submissions will be considered by the DAL Standing Advisory Committee, which will provide an independent report to the minister. Greater Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher said she welcomes the opportunity for council to make a submission.

“It is vitally important for the Greater Geelong Council to note and reflect the community’s feedback about Mount Duneed in particular being included in the nominated area. Community members also have the chance to participate further in the Standing Advisory Committee Panel public hearings being held by DELWP in early 2021.” Councillor Kylie Grzybek, Chair of the Statutory and Strategic Planning portfolio said the submission was another chance to put forward the community’s views.

In 2019, council wrote to the Minister for Planning to express concerns from Mount Duneed residents about the northern boundary, and this submission is a chance to again raise those thoughts on behalf of the community. Council’s grateful to be consulted with on the draft SPP, which will be considered by the DAL Standing Advisory Committee.

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Introducing the 2021 Junior Mayor and Junior Deputy Mayor Youth Council has selected its third leadership duo, as the Junior Mayor and Junior Deputy Mayor were voted on recently by junior members. Of the 7 Youth Council members that nominated for a leadership position, Whittington’s Elliot Nicholas was elected as Greater Geelong’s Junior Mayor. Elliot, aged 17, is a strong advocate for the LGBTIQA+ community and believes tackling misconceptions about the community’s connection to faith as well as seeing more education about supporting LGBTIQA+ community members in schools are important issues. Newtown resident and fellow Brownbill Ward representative, Minnie DacresMannings, 17, will serve alongside Elliot as Junior Deputy Mayor.

The number of youth suicides in 2020, the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people and promoting access to sport as part of a healthy lifestyle are all things Minnie feels strongly about. Mayor Stephanie Asher congratulated the new leadership pair on their recent appointments. “The Junior Mayor and Junior Deputy Mayor’s election is an exciting moment as we see who will lead the Youth Council over the next year and advocate strongly for Greater Geelong’s young people,” Mayor Asher said. “Congratulations and I’m looking forward to hearing Elliot and Minnie’s ideas and recommendations to Council.”

Last days for budget ideas and cost-saving submissions

Junior Mayor Elliot Nicholas looked forward to the role and learning more about the role of local government. “I am excited to be Junior Mayor because I have aspirations to work in positions of leadership, politics more specifically, and in the areas of mental health and the LGBTIQA+ community,” Junior Mayor Nicholas said. The 12 junior members of the 2021 Youth Council were inducted last month to commence in their role as an official advisory committee and ‘youth voice’ to Council. Further information can be found at the City’s Youth Council page.

More News & Updates

Parklets proposed for hospitality precincts FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

FIND GEELONG | FEBRUARY 2021

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IRONMAN 70.3

Geelong has long been known as the home of long course triathlon racing and IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong is set to return on the weekend of 20-21 February.

• • • •

A multi-looped fast course, IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong being held on Sunday 21 February is set to test avid triathletes looking for a challenging and unique experience along Geelong’s spectacular waterfront and scenic country side.

•

Entries are now open! Have a go and tick this challenge off your bucket list!

To host world-class events like IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong, a number of changed traffic conditions need to be created for the safety of participants and the public.

Register here to participate! Visiting Geelong? If you’re headed to Geelong for IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong, make the most of your visit by enjoying the best of our region. From eating out, enjoying some family fun to having a round of golf, being adventurous or sampling our locally made wines, there’s lots on offer. Plan your itinerary here A COVID Safe Event IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong will operate under an approved COVID Safe Event Plan, subject to any further changes in health orders. Some of the changes include:

1.5m marked spacings for athletes Contactless check-in Pre event screening for athletes New swim start - athletes starting every five seconds No spectator areas on the course for friends and family

Read media Release here. Plan your travel - Sunday 21 February

The most notable change will be on the Portarlington Road. Between 6am and 1.30pm on Sunday 21 February, the east bound lanes (Geelong to Portarlington direction) will be diverted to the Queenscliff Road.

Contact Email: geelong@ironman.com

Please allow some additional time to get to your destination and plan ahead. Find the detailed info on changed traffic conditions here.

Phone: 1300 761 384

When 21 February 2021, 06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Website: http://ap.ironman.com/ triathlon/events/asiapac/ironman-70.3/ geelong

Where Eastern Beach Road Waterfront Geelong

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ IRONMANOceania

Cost Adult

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ IRONMANOceania

Associated Oceania

organisation:

IRONMAN

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

Pako Festa 2021 This year, Pako Festa will look a little different. There will be three fabulous ways to experience our regions diverse mix of cultures. 1. 27 February - enjoy a smorgasbord of global food 2. 27 February - 13 March - projections on Geelong West Town Hall 3. 27 February - 27 March - Discovery Arts Trail Global Food For one brilliant day, enjoy mouthwatering food offerings from 19 of Geelong’s ethnic communities in 13 different locations across Geelong on Saturday 27 February. There’s something for everyone from Ukrainian Varenyky to Bangladeshi Chicken Biryani and everything in between. You can choose take-away or dine in options. To ensure a COVIDSafe event, all takeaway and dine-in food orders must be pre-booked at https://bookings. pakofesta.com.au Patrons can place as many takeaway orders as they wish, but can only dine-in at one location. Each location and time has limited numbers so place your booking today to avoid missing out!

Pako Festa is an annual fundraiser for our local diverse communities and your food purchase supports the ongoing sustainability of these communities.

Ukrainian Club - 57 Pakington Street, Gelong French and Ukrainian, licenced venue

Centenary Hall - 1-9 Cox Road, Norlane Nepalese

Wathaurong Aboriginal C-Op Morgan Street, North Geelong Wathaurong

Cloverdale Community Centre - 167-169 Purnell Road, Corio Thai

West Park - 207 Pakington Street, Geelong West Bosnian and Iranian

Croatian Club - 172-182 Cox Road, Corio Croatian and licenced venue

West Town hall - 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West Bangladeshi

Diversitat Hub - 25-41 Arunga Avenue, Norlane Dutch, Filipino and Japanese Greek Club - 1/3 Taliska Avenue, Hamlyn Heights Greek and licenced venue Macedonian Club - 465 Ballarat Road, Batesford Macedonian and licenced venue Pettit Park - 7-13 Beauford Avenue, Bell Post Hill Fijian, Indonesian and Pakistani Polish Club - 46-48 Fellmongers Road, Breakwater Polish and licenced venue Serbian Club - 240 Planation Road, Corio Serbian and licenced venue

When Daily from 27 February 2021 to 27 March 2021 Upcoming Dates 27 February 2021 28 February 2021 01 March 2021 02 March 2021 03 March 2021 Where 153 Pakington Street, Geelong West Cost This is a Free Event

See More Here

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

FIND GEELONG | FEBRUARY 2021

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Rone in Geelong Over the last two decades, Geelongborn artist Rone has built an exceptional reputation for large-scale wall paintings and immersive installations that explore concepts of beauty and decay. Rone’s latest site-specific installation will transform Geelong Gallery’s rooms in response to the architecture and history of the building, and the Gallery’s collection. The first comprehensive survey of Rone’s career to date will also be presented, charting the artist’s practice from early stencil works and street art, to photographs documenting major installations that have transformed abandoned spaces. Images reproduced courtesy of the artist.

Where

When Daily from 27 February 2021 to 16 May 2021

Geelong Gallery 55 Little Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220

Upcoming Dates

Contact

27 February 2021

Phone: 03 5229 3645

28 February 2021 01 March 2021 02 March 2021 03 March 2021

Associated organisation: Geelong Gallery

Website: www.geelonggallery.org.au

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

Summer Sessions - The Big Top Experience Throughout February, Rippleside Park will be transformed into a dazzling entertainment wonderland, playing host to worldclass acts under The Summer Sessions Big Top! Supported by Major Artistic Partner, Deakin University, the February events include an array of dazzling performances and creative, educational activities as live arts makes its long-awaited return. From country to classics, right through to comedy and circus, as well as a range of creative industries networking events, the dynamic Summer Sessions program will have you covered no matter your taste. Fully equipped with delicious food trucks from The Gypsy’s Lunchbox and Sidewalk Cantina, and fabulous beverage selections thanks to valued sponsors Leura Park Estate and Little Creatures Brewing, Geelong Arts Centre are fully stocked for your return to live arts! Tickets are still available but will be snapped up quickly. To secure your seat to summer’s hottest ticket in town, book via the website or by phoning the Box Office. During the event, the on-site Box Office will be open one hour prior to the commencement of each show. When: February 5 – 20 Where: Under the Big Top, Rippleside Park Website: www.geelongartscentre.org.au/summer-sessions-2021 Box Office: 1300 251 200, 10:00am-3pm, Monday to Friday When Daily from 05 February 2021 to 20 February 2021 Upcoming dates 10 February 2021 11 February 2021 12 February 2021 13 February 2021 14 February 2021 Where Rippleside Park Bell Parade, Rippleside Cost • Adult • Concession Facilities • Catering and/or dining • Seating/viewing areas Contact Phone: 1300 251 200 Associated organisation: Geelong Arts Centre Website: www.geelongartscentre.org.au

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

Are you Not-For-Profit in Geelong Area? Advertise your events for FREE on the following pages. Are you a NFP with an up-and-coming event? If so, email your event to editor@findgeelong.com.au and we will place it in the paper for FREE.

Geelong

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT

FIND GEELONG | FEBRUARY 2021

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Filling the Love Tank I’ve heard it described that we each have a ‘Love Tank’ that needs to be topped up on a regular basis. This is particularly true and easily observed in our children. Children function best when their tank is well filled or even overflowing. Our tanks can be filled up through positive connections in the form of kind actions, affirming words, physical affection, quality time, receiving presents etc. Our tanks can be depleted through the normal daily routines of work, school, chores and general living. But they can also be drained dry very quickly by disconnections that may come from corrections, criticism, unkind words, neglect, conflict etc. The difficulty is that being good parents we need to correct our children – and sometimes often. This has the potential to drain the tank dry so that our child is running on empty. And once the tank is empty our children feel crushed and are in no place to handle any sort of correction or even something as neutral as guidance or direction. At this point it’s like we’re fighting a losing battle. The simplistic answer to this difficulty, is to keep their Love Tanks filled. ‘Easier said than done,’ I hear you say.

raise a healthy child.

One way behaviourists suggest we navigate this, is by using the principle that for every one negative or correcting comment that we make, we should be making seven positive building comments or actions. In this way the Love Tank is kept topped up. This means our children can remain in a positive frame of mind and will be better able to handle the corrections and discipline that are so often necessary to

What sort of things will fill my child’s Love Tank the best? In a previous article I talked about the value of understanding the 5 Love Languages. A good way to keep our child’s Love Tank topped up is to determine what their dominant love language(s) is and try to build them up through activities that fit that love language. Try these two very helpful sites: Click on Link What is my Child’s Love Language and Big Life Journal All the best everyone. Kindest regards, Rob. (LPS Chaplain) Robert.Hunter@education.vic.gov.au

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

FIND GEELONG | FEBRUARY 2021

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We are recruiting volunteers for the 2021 school year. We are now receiving applications for the 2021 school year. Applications will be progressed however please note you will not formally start volunteering until Term 1 of the 2021 school year. SIGN UP AND GET STARTED For many Australians, there is now more time to reflect on how we engage with and support our local communities. Volunteering in a local school to help students gain academic success is a valuable way to give back. Sign up today and get the process started. On average, the screening/training process takes anywhere from 3-4 weeks.

It’s 2021 and we are on the search for inspiring and knowledgeable people to mentor or volunteer with students for the duration of the 2021 school year. Check out our application process below, and apply via our online form. This will put you in touch with your local Liaison Officer, and on track to complete that 2021 goal - ‘give back’.

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

volunteering geelong is an independent not-for-profit organisation that is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the community, through the promotion and support of volunteering. Volunteering Geelong also provides a referral service for volunteers looking for volunteer roles and organisations looking for volunteers. Volunteering Geelong has relocated to the St Mary’s Terrace Community Hub (192 Myers St). The Hub was recently developed by Common Equity Housing Limited. Volunteering Geelong manages the space located in central Geelong. It provides community organisations, commercial businesses and individuals with meeting, training and event spaces for hire at a low cost. Check out our brochure for more information. There are spaces for workshops, seminars, talks and meetings accommodating up to 50 people. There is also a consultation room for private meetings, interviews or one on one catch ups.

Contact Volunteering Geelong 0352211377 manager@volunteeringgeelong.org.au St. Mary’s Terrace Community Hub 192 Myers St. Geelong 3220 Opening hours 10am - 4pm (Tuesday to Friday) or by appointment

be involved volunteer now

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

Geelong Competition FEBRUARY 2021

WIN a $50 Gift Voucher • Simply send us a picture of yourself in your AFL colours to have a chance at winning a $50 Gift Voucher every month during footy season. • We will place the best photos in the March edition of the Find Geelong. • This month you only have to be wearing the colours. Next month, you have to be wearing the colors and either be watching the game or attending an actual match. • We look forward to seeing your colourful and creative photos. Conditions Apply: 1. Take a photo of yourself displaying your team colors 2. Email the photo to editor@findgeelong.com.au 3. Like and Follow us on Facebook.

Go Geelong!! FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

Geelong

Located in the heart of the city, Westfield Geelong is your one-stop hub for shopping, food, fun and relaxation. Geelong’s premier shopping destination for fashion and beauty. Home to some of Australia’s best-known retailers including Myer, Big W, Target and Coles as well more than 160 specialty stores. A great range of cafes, restaurants and lunch options. A friendly Concierge team is available to help with: Westfield gift cards, personal styling sessions, hiring mobility equipment, Kiddy cars, mobile phone charging station, and parking information and more. There are plenty of amenities, a parent’s room on each level and an adult change facility; Changing Places. Located two blocks back from the water front, between Malop Street and Brougham Street.

Shop

Eat

The best Valentine’s Day gift ideas that are anything but cheesy There’s no denying that many go-to Valentine’s Day presents can come off as cheesy. Between teddy bears clutching satin pillows, heart-shaped chocolate boxes and long-stemmed red roses, it’s easy to fall back on romantic cliches when choosing a present for your partner. This year, we’re taking the stress out of selecting a token of your love and affection by offering up a few nontraditional gift-giving ideas. Whether your significant other has a passion for the latest tech or lusts over luxury candles, these gifts are 100%, certifiably cheesefree.

your giftee will think of you when they wear it. (How’s that for romance?!) Many brands release fresh variations of their most popular male and female fragrances each season, so if they already have a signature scent, consider surprising them with the newand-improved version. If you have no idea what they usually wear, head to Myer, Mecca, Priceline and Chemist Warehouse and ask an expert. They’ll be able to school you on what sells best for a safe bet.

For the tech head

For the fashion devotee There is perhaps no gifting category more personal than fashion, which can make it both high-risk and high-reward. If you don’t know exactly what your lover is after, play it safe with fine jewellery or a stylish watch from somewhere like Pandora, Duffs Jewellers, Bevilles and Mazzucchelli’s. A pendant or ring studded with her birthstone or etched with his star sign has extra-special meaning, but if all else fails, choose simple, pared-back pieces over anything heavily trend-driven - and remember to keep the receipt!

If you’re keen to splash out on lingerie, resist the urge to go for red-hot lace (unless you know she’s into that). Sporty separates for him and her can be found at Cotton On Body, Loungewear and activewear sets are also good choices. Head into Lorna Jane for ideas. For the beauty buff

For the gourmet foodie If your SO loves to be in the kitchen (lucky you), give them classic cookware or servingware they’ll be proud to show off. Think: a cast-iron casserole pan, chef-approved knife set, champagne coupes or even a luxe timber or ceramic salad bowl. Stores like Myer, Country Road and Matchbox always deliver the goods.

If your loved one has a great affection for - and understanding of - gizmos, you’ll know about it. (They’re the person you ask for things like how to maximise your phone battery and whether carbon fibre headphones are better than the regular kind, after all.) It may not be how things are usually done, but if you’re unsure it’s wise to ask ahead of time whether there’s anything they’ve got their eye on, in order to avoid buying incompatible gadgets by accident. Once you’re across what they’re after, treat them to the tablet, smartwatch or camera they’re pining for at Myer. Reminder: Don’t forget to ask if chargers or batteries are included. For the scent obsessive Perfume is a traditional Valentine’s Day present for good reason - it’s a gift that keeps on giving. You may know that fragrance is linked to memory, which means

Chocolate and coffee never go unappreciated, so if you’re truly stuck, start there. Any chocoholic worth their 70% cacao will appreciate Myer, Dr Nuts & Sweets’ refined range of boxed truffles, artisan sweet treats and gift hampers. (Bonus: There’s not a heart-clutching teddy in sight.)

For traditional java lovers, stop by Myer for everything from standard coffee machines to single-origin capsules and milk frothers. If a French press or bottle of cold brew-spiked liqueur is more their speed, head straight for Liquorland instead.

They’ve got membership cards at every major beauty retailer, buy sheet masks in bulk and keep their eye cream in the fridge. If your partner loves beauty as much as they love you, lavish them with gifts from their favourite skincare brand (hot tip: check their shower caddy for clues) or restock their go-to makeup kit.

If in doubt, stores like Mecca, The Body Shop and L’Occitane carry limitededition Valentine’s Day gift sets that are highly prized. Be quick - they get snapped up quicker than you can say, ‘Is it the 13th already?!’ A sensible approach is to either splash out on decadent formulas they’ve been saving up for, hedge your bets with a collection of minis from a brand you know they already use, or invest in spa-style products for an at-home pamper session. Check out L’Occitane for the latter. Still not sure what to pick? Keep it simple. A scarlet red lipstick from a luxury beauty brand is the kind of thing they’ll remember (and use!) for years to come.

FIND GEELONG | FEBRUARY 2021

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RETIREMENT

LIFESTYLE

ACCOMMODATION

RETIREMENT ADVICE

RETIREMENT We will look after your financial affairs so you can enjoy your retirement. WHO WE ARE

WHERE WE WORK

Find Retirement is a part of the Find Group of companies offering Retirement Planning, Accounting, Super, and Insurance service to our clients.

We service clients throughout Melbourne, Bendigo and Geelong and surrounding areas. With access to the internet it does not matter where you live.

WHAT WE DO We don’t sell proucts but provide simple retirement planning solutions. Bendigo | Geelong | Melbourne

info@retirement.com.au

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm

www.findretirement.com.au

1300 88 38 30

Sat: 10am -1pm

Sun: CLOSED

This information is of a general nature only and has been prepared without taking into account your particular financial needs, circumstances and objectives. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, it is not guaranteed. You should obtain professional advice before acting on the information contained in this publication. Superannuation, tax and Centrelink and other relevant information is based on our interpretation and continuation of law current as at the date of this document. The information contained in this document does not constitute legal or tax advice. You should seek expert advice in this regard. Warren Strybosch, Find Wealth Pty Limited ABN 20 140 585 075 trading as Find Retirement, Corporate Authorised Representative No. 236815 of ClearView Financial Advice Pty Ltd ABN 89 133 593 012, AFSL No. 331367.

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FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

TEACH THE GRANDKIDS TO RIDE UNI-CYCLES

RETIREMENT By Bernard Kelly

Relationships keep us alive – which is why mental health has become a watchword for seniors, retirees and for that new cohort of “modern elders”. For most of us, those 25-30 years of retirement will ultimately whittle down our relationships and funnel them into clusters of the immediate family, the grandkids, and an ever changing collage of new friends. As we advance into our retirement years, the interests that we shared with our work colleagues will diverge, and we’ll gradually lose touch. This is natural, and it’s then that we reach out in new directions, which results in finding new friends. We’ll all lose friends along the way, but establishing and maintaining new relationships as we age is often simply just a matter of participation. IMMEDIATE FAMILY One cluster that we’ll always be in touch with is our brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews.

And an annual family reunion, somewhat remote and requiring an effort to get there, will maintain those bonds. It’s simple to organize. Don’t bother with early commitments - just tell them that you’ll be there, and invite them to join you. GRANDKIDS Grandkids are somewhat different, as the goal for your relationship with them is to be remembered. One quirky approach is to imprint on their minds something very different about yourself. Such as when you have a meal with them, you could always say something like “this is the best Sunday lunch I’ve had all week”. Their parents will roll their eyes, but the kids will remember you fondly for decades. Or you could teach them to ride a unicycle. You’ll probably need three – one for yourself and two for the grandkids. They’re really quite inexpensive when you buy them secondhand online. Then you’ll only need an event to prepare

for – such as your local street parade. The memories that they’ll have will be along the lines “when we were young, granny taught us to ride unicycles for the parade”. NEIGHBOURS To meet your neighbours, pretend that you’ve recently moved into the street. Then simply invite them into your home to meet together once a month for a meal. Just print 37 simple invitations off your computer, then deliver them into letterboxes nearby. A handful will be intrigued and turn up. And they’re the vibrant personalities that you’re looking to meet. Bingo! •

What retirement issues do you have? Email me and I’ll try to assist.

Bernard Kelly Bernard Kelly is the author of “Towards Successful Aging”. bernardkellygeelong@gmail.com

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

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Van Beveren Lawyers based in Geelong provide high-quality, timely and tailored legal solutions with price certainty Australia-wide. We focus on quality services, building relationships and forging longterm partnerships. Together, we invest in your ongoing success

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BAS Services

0422 800 012

Bookkeeping & Payroll

mc@biscuitbooks.com.au

Services 7A 9A-11 Leather Street, Breakwater VIC 3219

Business Services

Biscuit Business Services provides professional, confidential and comprehensive bookkeeping, payroll, BAS and administrative solutions to small to medium businesses. We specialise in working with ‘in the cloud’ bookkeeping and document solutions to effectively keep your business up to date and on track. We believe in a strong team approach when working with our clients and their Tax Agents.

Welcome to aWebpage, your one-stop-shop for brocure sites & bespoke web applications. Our project delivery process maximises you project success.

our services

ADAM SIMS Web Developer

Plan a Webpage

1300 667 141

Build a Webpage

adam@awebpage.com.au

Launch a Webpage

PO BOX 4336 Geelong, VIC, Australia

No matter your business focus, we can help.

Discover how we can make your next web project a whole-of-business success. Find out more. Engage us and begin your journey!

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

PAGES

LOCAL TRADIES

We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

INDEX

DAHLLOF PAINTING SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • Painting Services • Garage Doors • Builder • Electrician • Painter • Plasterer • Property Maintenance

Concept to Creation - Perfect From Start to Finish CONTACT US

OUR SERVICES

We are lacated in Geelong, Victoria!

PAINTING SERVICES

Stephen Dahllof Painting Services

INTERIOR PAINTING

Servicing Geelong and Surrounding Areas

0407 365 372 kerna1967@gmail.com www.stevedahllofofpaintingservices.com.au

We are available for Emergency Repairs 24/7 in Melbourne and Surrounding Areas A Garage Door Specialist you can Trust

Trustworthy 24/7 Garage Door Installation

Regardless of the type of garage door you own, we at Cruzin Garage Doors, have the skills and expertise to either repair or replace your current garage door. For new installations we are also the ones to call. • Roller garage doors • Security garage doors • Electric garage doors • Wooden garage doors • Garage door locks • Up and over garage doors

We’re a team you can trust when it comes to installation your new garage doors. We work to the highest of safety and is realiably secure. Not only that, but we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact us with you garage door emergencies at any time of the day or night. Hours of Operation

• Mon to Fri: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

sales@cruzingaragedoors.com.au

• Sat to Sun: CLOSED

www.cruzingaragedoors.com.au

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HOME & GARDEN

We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

INDEX PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • • • • • •

Specialist Tree Services Interior Design Mowing Building Inspection Nursey Flooring

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING Email your artwork to editor@findmaroondah.com.au If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost. Go to www.findmaroondah.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are: 53 x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size

139 x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findmaroondah.com.au *Available until your category is taken when a Tradie joins the Find Network Team.

FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

PAGES

HEALTH & BEAUTY

We invite all who provide a Professional Services to advertise in the Find Pages - Professional Services section of the online paper. We want to support local tradies.

Email your ad to editor@findgeelong.com.au

INDEX PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • • • • • •

Hair Dresser Osteopath Chiropractor Beauty Therapy Gym Massage Therapy

The Dimensions of the Ads are: 53 x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size

139 x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findmaroondah.com.au *Available until your category is taken when a Tradie joins the Find Network Team.

SPORTS

We invite a representative from each sporting club to submit team selections, results and any interesting stories relating to your club/sport. For enquiries call 1300 88 38 30 or email editor@findgeelong.com.au FEBRUARY 2021 | FIND GEELONG

GEELONG

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Buy 1 Get 1 Offers

Fine, Contemporary & Bistro

Support Your Local Community

Find Travel & Entertainment Fun for All Ages

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Buy 1 Get 1 FREE Offers Up to 50% Off

Fine, Contemporary & Bistro

FREE

Find Brekky, Brunch, Lunch Cafés & Bistro

Contact your Not-For Profit to obtain your Find Card. Only Find Cards can be in conjuction with the offers and must be presented to participating businesses.

LOCAL COUPONS

31 January - 31 December 2021

Up to 50% of generated funds goes to Not-For Profit organisation.

FIND CARD LOCAL OFFERS

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PRESENT VALID FIND CARDS Registration of Find Cards Please go to www.findgeelong.com.au/register Please refer to Page 84

LOCAL COUPONS OFFERS

TABLE OF CONTENTS BUSINESS NAME

CARD NO.

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FIND COFFEE COMING SOON

CARD NO.

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FIND ENTERTAINMENT COMING SOON

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FIND TAKEAWAY COMING SOON

CARD NO.

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FIND TRAVEL COMING SOON

CARD NO.

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FIND DINING COMING SOON

CARD NO.

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FIND ADVERTISING COUPONS editor@findgeelong.com.au 1300 88 38 30

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BREKKY, BRUNCH & LUNCH DISCOVER A NEW LEVEL OF TASTE

The best memories are made when gathered around the table. FIND ADVERTISING COUPONS editor@findgeelong.com.au 1300 88 38 30

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COFFEE

TODAY’S GOOD MOOD IS SPONSORED BY COFFEE FIND ADVERTISING COUPONS editor@findgeelong.com.au 1300 88 38 30

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Takeaway

Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s the nourishment of the soul and body: It’s truly love. FIND ADVERTISING COUPONS editor@findgeelong.com.au 1300 88 38 30

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NEW OFFERS COMING

FIND ADVERTISING COUPONS editor@findgeelong.com.au 1300 88 38 30

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Coupons &

Any changes or updates to these ‘Terms of Use’ of the

Non-Transfer The barter trade, sale, purchase, or transfer of the Find Coupons &/or Find Cards, by any person or entity, including but not limited to business placing offers in the Find Paper, printers, publishers, and distributors of the Find Coupons /Find Card, is strictly prohibited, unless expressly authorized by Find Pty. Ltd. Find reserves the right to make changes to the participants and their offers at its sole discretion. Members will be notified of these changes via email or via the Site. The Find Coupons and its Offers are intended for the non-profits use of the individual purchaser of the Find Cards &/or Find Coupons. Additionally, the use of the Find Coupons &/or Find Cards or any of the Offers placed in our Find Paper, for advertising purpose, in any form of fashion, is strictly prohibited. Any use of a Offers in violation of these Rules will render the Offer VOID, and violators will be prosecuted. Offers may not be reproduced and are void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Find, will not be responsible if any establishment breaches its contract of refuses to acccept the Find Cards / Offers with in the Find Paper: we will however, use our best efforts to secure compliance, Find, will not be responsible in the events beyond its control. © 2020 Find.

Find Cards Policy

e Find Cards and/or Find Coupons can be found here.

Valid Periods Find Restaurant, Find Cafe & Find Coffee offers can be used at participating businesses any time except the following days: *Christmas Eve *Christmas Day *Boxing Day * New Year’s Eve *New Year’s Day * Valentine’s Day *Good Friday *Easter Sunday *Mother’s Day. Some restaurant/Cafe/Coffe establishments will have additional terms and conditions on the page where the business is advertising their offer).

Present Find Card You are required to present your Find Card at any participating businesses if you wish to secure the discount or goods/service being offered.

Authentication Code & Customer Signature All Find Cards must display an Authentication Code and a members signature to be deemed VALID. If your Find Cards does not display your signature and the correct code, the business can refuse to provide the discount offer advertised. You will receive your Authentication code after registering your Find Card.

PRESENT VALID FIND CARDS

VALID

Valid Find Cards have four folds and contain six different categories. Valid Find Cards will have its Regions logo sticker placed in the circle at the back and has an Authentication code display in front of the Find Cards.

NOT VALID

Find Cards that DO NOT display its Regions Sticker in the circle at the back and DO NOT display an Authentication code in front of the Find Card are INVALID. They will not be accepted at any participating businesses. Also, your signature must be present. You may be asked to present ID to verify that Find Card belongs to you.

Present the Find Card and ID prior to paying bill. Card is Non-Transferable. Each offer corresponds to a number on the card. Number will be crossed off once offer used. This is not a credit or charge card. Copyright 2021 Find© Pty Ltd.