Find Manningham October 2024 Edition by Find

anningham The

We are looking for business owners who like to join the

Manningham Network Group and Community Paper.

• Accounting Services

• Acupuncture

• Architect

• Architectural Interior Design

• Attorney- Family

• Auctions- Real Estate

• Bookkeeper

• Bowen Therapy

• Builder- Commercial

• Business Coach

• Business Equipment Financing

• Business Insurance

• Cabinets

• Caterer

• Graphic Designer

• Plasterer

• Chinese Medicine

• Chiropractor

• Creative Director

• Commercial Mortgage

• Computer Repair

• Computer Web Design

• Concrete

• Copywriting/Copy Editing

• Counselor/ Psychotherapist

• Dentist

• Digital Media

• Electrical Operations

• Electrician

• Finance Bookeeper

• Financial Planner

• Fitness Trainer

• Flooring

• Pilates

• Garage Doors

• General Insurance

• Health & Wellness Coach

• Homeopathy

• Lactation Consultant

• Lawn Care

• Lawyer

• Life Coach

• Loans

• Marketing

• Massage Therapist

• Meditation/Yoga

CLUB SPONSORS

• Mortgage Broker

• Naturopathic Medicine

• Nutrition

• Osteopathy

• Painter

• Personal Trainer

• Photographer

• Plumber

• Podiatrist

• Printer

• Project Management

• Psychologist

• Real Estate Rentals

• Real Estate Sales

• Reiki

• Residential Cleaning

• Residential Mortgage

• Security

• Signs

• Solar

• Solicitor

• Travel Agent

• Website Developer

• Wedding Planner

COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS

About the Find Manningham

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Manningham is a community paper that aims to support all things Manningham. We want to provide a place where all Not-For-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-andcoming events in the Find Manningham 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.

EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 warren@findnetwork.com.au

PUBLISHER: Issuu Pty Ltd

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 business 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

The

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.

We value your support,

The Find Manningham Team.

anningham

POSTAL ADDRESS: 248 Wonga Road, Warranwood VIC 3134

ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTS: editor@findmanningham.com.au

GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 1300 88 38 30

EMAIL SPORT: sport@manningham.com.au

WEBSITE: www.findmanningham.com.au

OUR NEWSPAPER

The Find Manningham was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with a core focus of helping other Not-ForProfits, schools, clubs and other similar organisations in the local community - to bring everyone together in one place and to support each other. We provide the above organisations FREE advertising in the community paper to promote themselves as well as to make the community more aware of the services these organisations can offer. The Find Manningham has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.

ALL THINGS MANNINGHAM

The City of Manningham is a local government area in Victoria, Australia in the north-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Manningham had a population of approximately 125,508 as at the 2018 Report which includes 27,500 business and close to 45,355 households. The Doncaster and Templestowe Council administered the area until December 15, 1994.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Find Manningham acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Manningham now stands, the Wurundjeri 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 Manningham 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.

NEXT ISSUE

AFL 2024 CHAMPION

By Gen Alcampor

The AFL, originally known as the Victorian Football League (VFL), was founded in 1896 when eight breakaway clubs from the Victorian Football Association (VFA) formed a new competition. The first season was held in 1897 with Carlton, Collingwood, Essendon, Fitzroy, Geelong, Melbourne, South Melbourne, and St Kilda as the inaugural teams.

The league was initially confined to Victoria but began to expand outside the state in the latter half of the 20th century. In 1982, the South Melbourne club relocated to Sydney to become the Sydney Swans, marking the beginning of the league's expansion into other Australian states. The league officially rebranded itself as the Australian Football League (AFL) in 1990 to reflect its national status.

The AFL has since grown to become Australia’s premier professional football competition, with 18 teams representing every state and territory. Over the years, it has produced legendary players and

coaches, with iconic clubs like Essendon, Carlton, and Collingwood dominating in different eras.

The WAFL, originally known as the West Australian Football Association (WAFA), was established in 1885, making it one of Australia's oldest football competitions. It was renamed the West Australian Football League (WAFL) in 1907. The WAFL became the highest-level competition in Western Australia, featuring prominent clubs such as East Fremantle, South Fremantle, Perth, Subiaco, and West Perth.

While the AFL has since overshadowed the WAFL in national prominence, the WAFL remains a crucial part of Western Australia's sporting history. It has traditionally acted as a feeder league for the AFL, with many top players from Western Australia transitioning to AFL clubs. The competition has maintained a strong following, with iconic rivalries and a long history of successful clubs.

The introduction of AFL teams from Western Australia, like the West Coast

Eagles in 1987 and Fremantle Dockers in 1995, shifted some attention away from the WAFL, but the league continues to be a vital part of local football culture, producing top-tier talent and fostering community engagement.

Both leagues have a rich history that reflects the development and passion for Australian Rules Football across the nation.

In 2024, the AFL and WAFL saw remarkable champions rise to the top.

For the AFL, the Brisbane Lions triumphed over the Sydney Swans in an exhilarating match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The game was characterized by its intensity and high stakes, with both teams delivering standout performances. Ultimately, Brisbane's ability to seize key moments saw them secure the win. Their victory cemented the Lions as one of the premier teams of the AFL, marking an impressive conclusion to their season. This Grand Final victory reinforced their prowess and consistent form, adding to their legacy within the AFL.

RETIREMENT

By Warren Strybosch

If you thought aged care was complicated then think again…it just become more complicated.

What is a real concern for me is the phasing out of the RAD. How this will impact future aged pension clients will be of significant importance given the RAD was not means tested. If you cannot use funds to purchase a RAD then people’s assets; namely their home, will be assessed under the aged pension asset test. This will result in many Australian’s not been able to keep or obtain the age pension.

Here is a summary of the new reforms being introduced:

New Aged Care

Bill introduced The Government has introduced new Aged Care legislation to Parliament today.

The new legislation includes major changes to both Home Care and Residential Aged Care including fees and charges.

The new Aged Care Bill 2024 implements various recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, and replaces the existing Aged Care Act 1997.

Most proposed reforms commence 1 July 2025. Grandfathering applies to existing Residential Aged Care residents and Home Care participants.

The Government has stated that the new reforms have bipartisan support however it is draft legislation which has not passed as yet.

Key announcements

More than 50% of providers are reportedly losing money on accommodation which is limiting investment into new builds.

As the legislation has just been released we have only key announcements at this stage, including:

Residential Aged careAccommodation Reform

• Maximum accommodation price - amount that can be charged without approval increases from $550,000 to $750,000 from 1 January 2025.

Major aged care changes announced

• Introduction of RAD retention amount

- aged care providers will retain 2% p.a. (up to a maximum 5 years) of a resident's lump sum accommodation payment (RAD or RAC) where they enter care on or after 1 July 2025

• Indexation of Daily Accommodation Payments (DAPs) - DAPs will be indexed twice per year for residents entering residential care on or after 1 July 2025

• RADs to be phased out - subject to a review in 2029-30, RADs to be phased out by 2035

Residential Aged Care - Contributions

• Basic Daily Care Fee - remains at 85% of single base rate Age Pension. From 1 July 2025, an additional means tested Hotelling Supplement of up to $12.55 per day will be charged. Not payable by fully or partially supported residents

• Means tested care fee replaced by a new means-tested NonClinical Care Contribution - a new lifetime cap of $130,000 (or maximum of 4 years) applies

• Family home - assessment remains unchanged

Home Care

Home care fees

The new Support at Home program will start from 1 July 2025. The services will be divided into clinical care, independence support and everyday living costs.

1. Care will be approved under 10 package levels. The highest level will have a higher budget than the current Level 4 package.

2. Clinical care will be fully paid by government.

4. Full pensioners will pay 5% of independence support costs and 17.5% of everyday living costs. Self-funded retirees will pay 50% of independence support costs and 80% of everyday living costs.

5. Part-pensioners will pay between these levels with means-testing (assets & income) that aligns with age pension means-testing rules.

6. The lifetime cap (across both home care and residential care) will increase to $130,000.

7. Clients who start a Home Care Package after 30 June 2025 will only be able to accumulate unspent funds of up to $1,000 or 10% of package budget (higher of) across quarters.

Who is affected?

Most of the changes to fees are proposed to come into effect from 1 July 2025 and will only apply to clients entering residential care from that date.

For Support at Home, people accessing a home care package (or on the National Priority System) as at 12 September 2024 will stay under the existing fee rules.

The next nine months could be busy if people needing care need advice and consider accessing care before the new rules start.

Celebrating the Great Galah!

NATURE & CONSERVATION

By Liz Sanzaro

Australians call mates a “great galah”, as a reference to being not smart or a bit of a clown.

In fact the name Galah comes from the

it is better than mine so they wrestle each other.

Galah lovers find their antics very amusing, as their play is often creative. Lying on their back allows them to use both feet and a beak to investigate an item of interest thoroughly. Sometimes this is a good defence position also.

Galahs do tend to create large groups sometimes as many as 500 to 1,000 in open country and can fly long distances for food. In terms of male and female, the female has pink eyes while the male has brown eyes. Pairing for life, they need nesting hollows to breed. She will line her nest with Eucalyptus leaves and then produce between 2 to 6 eggs. Both parents take it in turns to sit on the eggs until hatched, then feeding hatchlings for 8 weeks. Unfortunately they have a high mortality rate when young, accidents like, falling from the nest, crashing while landing or being picked off by hawks.

There are many bird associations, like Backyard Birds and Birdlife Australia. In October you can become part of a big picture by counting different birds that visit your area, either at home, in a park or wherever you see them. Being held between 14th and 20th October it gives you good opportunity to provide statistics to show how well, or not so well our bird community is.

Registrations are NOW OPEN for your favourite event of the year – the Aussie Bird Count!

Mark your calendars for 14th-20th October and get ready to join Australia’s biggest birdwatching and citizen science event. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, this is your chance to connect with nature in a fun and easy way.

Liz Sanzaro

President of Croydon Conservation Society liz@sanzaro.com | www.croydonconservation.org.au

Understanding Australian Government Grants for Non-Profits

DIGITAL MEDIA

By Ethan Strybosch

Navigating government grants can be overwhelming for non-profits, but it’s a crucial resource for funding impactful initiatives. If your organization is looking to secure funding, it’s important to understand the different types of grants available and how to maximize your chances of success.

There are three main categories of grants available to Australian non-profits:

1. Government Grants: These are offered by various levels of government to support sectors such as health, education, and community services. Notable examples include the Stronger Communities Programme, which funds local infrastructure projects, and Volunteer Grants, aimed at supporting volunteer initiatives.

2. Philanthropic Grants: These are provided by private foundations and trusts, and they often focus on causes such as education, arts, and social welfare. Key examples include the Myer Foundation, which supports projects with long-term social impact, and the Ian Potter Foundation, which funds initiatives in the arts, environment, and education sectors.

3. Corporate Grants: Many businesses offer funding to support community projects as part of their corporate social responsibility efforts. Examples include the Westpac Foundation, which backs programs focusedon employment and education, and the Telstra Foundation, which supports initiatives aimed at enhancing digital inclusion.

Tips for Applying to Grants

Securing funding requires strategic planning and attention to detail. Here are some key tips to improve your chances of success:

1. Research Thoroughly: Begin by thoroughly understanding each grant’s purpose, eligibility criteria, and application requirements. Resources like Grants Hub and Business.gov.au’s Grants Finder are invaluable tools for discovering opportunities.

2. Tailor Your Application: Customize each grant application to align your project’s goals with the grant’s objectives. Clearly demonstrate how your project meets the specific requirements of the grant.

3. Detail Your Impact: Your application should clearly outline the tangible impact the funding will have. Include

measurable outcomes, a detailed budget, and a clear plan for how the funds will be used.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To increase your chances of success, steer clear of common pitfalls such as:

• Missing Deadlines: Keep track of important dates with a dedicated calendar.

• Generic Applications: Avoid submitting one-size-fits-all applications. Instead, personalize each application.

• Lack of Clarity: Ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of jargon, with well-defined goals and methods.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, your organization can better navigate the grant application process and secure the funding needed to make a lasting impact.

Ethan Strybosch

WHAT AN EVENT. !!

On Wednesday 18th September

The DAME NELLIE MELBA FAMILY CAR EMERGED !! The event was held at the Heatherdale Bowls Club , and the Hon Michael Sukkar, Federal Member cut the bright red ribbon., which was wrapped around the car..

NOW WE HAVE ANOTHER STORY FOR YOU TO FOLLOW ALL THIS:

Saffron- the great grand daughter of Dame Nellie Melba is coming over from England for the Melbourne Cup , and would like to see the car…

We all cheered and many , many photographs were taken.

The car is a Sunbeam Talbot 10 , four door sedan, gun metal grey in colour with beige leather seats It has a bonnet which lifts up on the two sides to inspect the engine. The engine was a marvel for people to see , and one can only imagine the joy which Dame Nellie Melba’s daughter felt when she was given this lovely 10hp car for her 21st birthday

For 70 plus years it was stored in the stables of Coombe Cottage in amongst some some horse carriages. This area , after the purchase of the car was converted to fine dining.

SO--- On the 8th November mid morning the Sunbeam Talbot 10 will be shown in all its glory to Saffron, at Coombe Cottage in Coldstream The dining room will be open , but bookings are definitely necessary.

The owner and his mate are very proud to have the car visit it’s homestead again. Wouldn’t it be lovely to see this car permanently In this district ?

ELWYNNE KIFT

HEATHERDALE COMMUNITY ACTION GROUP

The Need for Accurate Valuations of Business Premises for Insurance Purposes

GENERAL INSURANCE

By Craig Anderson

When business property insurance is taken, accurate valuations of business premises are essential to protect businesses from financial risk and legal complications. Australian experts highlight that without obtaining correct valuations, companies may face underinsurance or overinsurance, which can lead to severe financial consequences and prolonged claims processes.

One key reason for obtaining accurate valuations is risk management. As Australian Valuations explains, "Accurate valuation is a key component of risk management strategies. It allows for a realistic assessment of potential risks and provides the formulation of appropriate mitigation strategies." This includes ensuring that businesses are neither underinsured, which may lead to substantial financial losses if claims fall short of covering damages, nor overinsured, which results in unnecessarily high premiums(Australian Valuations).

Furthermore, legal compliance is a crucial factor. In Australia, businesses are often required by law to insure their premises for the full reinstatement or replacement value. CHU explains, "Owners corporations have a legal obligation to insure the building for the full reinstatement and/or replacement value." This legal requirement helps to avoid costly insurance disputes and penalties that may arise if properties are undervalued and underinsured(CHU).

Professional valuations are also vital in streamlining the claims process. According to B&A Valuers, "If property and business have been underinsured, whether intentionally or not, the insurer may also decide that the underinsurance is deliberate and refuse to accept the claim at all." They further stress that professional valuations ensure businesses avoid disputes over insurance payouts, which can otherwise lead to months or even years of delays(PropMach Valuation Service).

Another significant reason for regular and professional valuations is to account for fluctuations in construction costs. CHU emphasizes that recent hikes in building

materials and labour costs have put many properties at risk of underinsurance, especially when relying on outdated valuations. The recommendation is to conduct valuations more frequently than the mandatory five-year cycle to ensure insurance policies align with current replacement costs(CHU).

In addition, accurate valuations protect businesses from both financial and operational risks. Underinsurance may result in inadequate compensation during a claim, forcing companies to bear out-of-pocket expenses. Conversely, over insurance can lead to inflated premiums, draining resources unnecessarily. As B&A Valuers notes, "Most Australian businesses have only 50 to 75% of the correct replacement value for property, plant, and equipment"(PropMach Valuation Service). This underscores the importance of using professional valuers to obtain precise assessments.

Engaging a professional to regularly assess business premises ensures accurate valuations that mitigate financial risk, comply with legal obligations, and streamline insurance processes. By keeping valuations up to date, businesses can protect themselves from the repercussions of underinsurance

and over insurance, thus safeguarding their financial stability.

References:

1. Australian Valuations, The Importance of Valuing Your Assets for Insurance Correctly, 2023. Available at: australianvaluations.com.au

2. CHU, The Importance of Building Valuations, 2023. Available at: chu. com.au

3. B&A Valuers, Why You Need a Professional Valuer for Insurance Purposes, 2020. Available at: bavaluers.com.au

For a health check of your business insurance, contact Small Business Insurance Brokers via email sales@ smallbusinessinsurancebrokers.com.au

Any advice in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, before acting on the above advice, you should consider its appropriateness (having regard to your objectives,needs and financial situation).

Craig Anderson

What is a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund?

ACCOUNTANT

By Warren Strybosch

Self-Managed Superannuation Funds

A Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) is a superannuation fund with up to six members. SMSFs are generally established by family members wishing to consolidate their family’s superannuation savings.

The members cannot be employees of other members, unless they are relatives. Each member of the fund must take on the trustee role.

An SMSF is still governed by superannuation laws in the Superannuation Supervision Industry (SIS) Act and taxation legislation that relates to superannuation. These funds are regulated by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

The Role of Trustee

An SMSF can either have individuals who act as the trustee or a corporate trustee. Strict rules apply as to who can be a trustee or director of a corporate trustee and each person must not be a disqualified person.

If members choose to have individual trustees, each member must act as trustee. No-one can be a trustee without also being a member unless the fund only has one member. In this case, a second person needs to be nominated as trustee.

Where an SMSF has a corporate trustee, each member must be a director of that company, and each director must be a member. If the fund only has one member, that person can be the sole director, or a second director may be appointed. If using a corporate trustee, it is generally best to use a company that has no other purpose.

A person cannot act as trustee (or director of a corporate trustee) if they are a disqualified person. This means they also cannot be a member of an SMSF. A disqualified person is someone who:

• Has ever been convicted of an offence involving dishonesty;

• Has ever had a civil penalty order under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 made against them;

• Is an insolvent under administration (i.e. they are an undischarged bankrupt);

• Has been disqualified from acting as a trustee.

• Death of the member

• The member is under age 18

• The member has lost mental capacity

• The member wishes to hand over power to their EPoA

Legal advice should be sought in these situations to ensure the SIS rules are not breached and to ensure the correct process to appoint the replacement trustee is followed.

Trustee

Declaration Trustees must accept the role in writing and verify that they are not a disqualified person.

All new trustees and directors of trustee companies are also required to complete a ‘trustee declaration’ within 21 days of being appointed a trustee. This form is available from the ATO. It does not have to be sent back to the ATO but must be retained for at least 10 years and be made available to the regulator if requested.

Investment Strategy

The trustees are required to formulate, regularly review and give effect to an investment strategy. The investment strategy is a document that outlines the key investment guidelines to be adopted by trustees when investing the SMSFs funds.

When preparing an investment strategy, consideration must be given to the following:

• The risks in making, holding, and realising investments and the likely return to be derived, having regard to the fund’s objectives and expected cash flow requirements;

• The composition of the SMSF’s investments to ensure sufficient diversification (as appropriate);

• The ability to liquidate investments to meet cash flow requirements as they arise;

• The ability of the fund to discharge its liabilities as they arise (including the ability to pay benefits to members as required);

• Whether the trustees of the SMSF should hold insurance cover for the members of the SMSF.

This strategy should be documented in writing and be reviewed regularly (at least annually). Investments that do not fit within the strategy cannot be held.

Further Information

The ATO has produced a range of publications, videos and other information to help trustees of SMSFs. Trustees are encouraged to access this information and review it. Information can be accessed from the ATO’s website (www.ato.gov.au).

Warren Strybosch

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

Important Information

This information is of a general nature only. Itdoesnottakeintoaccountyourparticular financial needs, circumstances and objectives. You should obtain professional financial advice if you have not already done so before acting on this information. You should read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making a decision to buy or sell a financial product. Any case studies, graphs or examples are for illustrative purposes only and are based on specific assumptions and calculations. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. Superannuation, tax, Centrelink and other relevant information is current as at the date of this document.This information contained does not constitute legal or tax advice.

‘Vegetarian’ possums eat meat when the weather’s cold

When dead animals are left lying around in nature, who takes advantage of the free feed – carnivores or herbivores? The answer may surprise you.

In Australia, people tend to think carnivores – such as dingoes, ravens, foxes and wedge-tailed eagles – lead the clean-up crew.

But our new research shows common brushtail possums – often thought to be herbivores – also dine on animal carcasses.

Understanding when and where brushtail possums scavenge is important. It can improve our knowledge of how carcasses are disposed of in nature, and how nutrients cycle through ecosystems.

Seeking a nutritious meal

Scavenging may provide specific essential nutrients otherwise lacking in herbivore diets.

Carcasses often contain much greater levels of crude protein than leafy greens do. Similarly, chewing on bones, may increase the intake of calcium and phosphorus, two key minerals essential for growth.

Scavenging on carrion may also help herbivores meet nutritional requirements in regions where typical food resources may be restricted during some seasons. Similarly, in times of drought, thirst may also drive herbivores to scavenge in an attempt to extract fluids from carcasses.

Though it may seem gruesome, scavenging is crucial to healthy ecosystems. Clearing carcasses from the landscape by feeding them back into food chains recycles nutrients into living systems.

Authors

Our previous research has found native marsupial herbivores feasting on the dead.

In alpine Australia, possums accounted for 61% of all recorded carcass scavenging – a proportion far surpassing species more typically considered carcass consumers.

In our latest research, we wanted to understand the factors that influence carrion consumption by brushtail possums in different ecosystems.

What we did

We monitored fresh eastern grey kangaroo carcasses across both alpine (Kosciuszko National Park) and temperate (Wolgan Valley, Greater Blue Mountains National Park) regions in New South Wales. We also compared sites in both open (grassland with no canopy cover) and closed (woodland) habitats, in cool and warm seasons.

At each carcass, we used a remote camera “trap” to record scavenging behaviours.

We found possums were one of the main scavengers, often feeding from carrion more than typical scavengers such as dingoes and ravens.

Possum scavenging rates varied by habitat and season. Regardless of region,

Patrick Finnerty

Postdoctoral research fellow in conservation, University of Sydney

Thomas Newsome

Associate Professor in Global Ecology, University of Sydney

possums scavenged exclusively in closed canopy habitats under the trees, probably for protection from predators and other scavengers such as dingoes, red foxes, and wedge-tailed eagles.

Out in the cold

Possum scavenging activity varied according to the season.

In temperate regions, possums scavenged only in winter when other food resources were limited.

In alpine areas, where food is scarce even in summer, possums scavenged year-round. But they still ate more from carcasses in cooler months. This may be necessary for possums to get the nutrition they need when other normal food resources — such as leaves, flowers and fruit — are limited.

Competition between scavengers may also change with the seasons. For example, in alpine regions, we saw fewer large scavengers such as dingoes in winter, possibly reducing competition and making it easier for possums to access carrion.

During warmer months, insect activity increases. These tiny scavengers often start eating a carcass within minutes of its death, accelerating its decomposition. It means animals such as possums have less time to feed on the carrion.

By Warren Strybosch

Dealing with Superannuation Death Benefits

When a member of a superannuation fund passes away, any benefit they have within superannuation must be cashed as soon as practicable.

The rules regarding who can receive a death benefit and how a death benefit can be paid are outlined in superannuation legislation as well as the trust deed rules of the superannuation fund. The trustee must take both sets of rules into consideration. Sometimes the rules of the superannuation fund can be more restrictive than the legislation.

Who Can a Superannuation Death Benefit be paid to?

A superannuation death benefit may only be paid to dependents of the deceased (as defined by superannuation rules) or to the deceased’s estate.

A dependent includes:

• The current spouse (including de facto and same-sex partners)

• Any child of the person (including adopted child or stepchild of a current relationship)

• A person with whom the deceased had an interdependency

time of death

Another person can only be paid if there are no superannuation dependents or an estate.

It is important to note that a stepchild who is a child of a former partner (following a relationship breakdown or death of the former partner) is no longer defined as a child of the person for the purposes of superannuation law and cannot receive a death benefit unless he/she was a financial dependent or had an interdependency relationship. Two people are regarded as having an interdependency relationship if:

• They have a close personal relationship, and

• They live together (unless the separation is due to disability), and

• One or each of them provides the other with financial support, and

• One or each of them provides the other with domestic support and personal care

How Can a Death Benefit be paid?

A death benefit may be paid as a lump sum or an income stream, depending on the rules of the superannuation fund and the status of the beneficiary.

If the death benefit is paid to a child, a pension can only be paid if the child is under age 18, or aged 18-25 and

financially dependent upon the deceased, or meets disability rules (as described in subsection 8(1) of the Disability Services Act 1986). Unless the child meets the disability rules, the pension will need to stop and be converted into a lump sum when the child reaches age 25. This will be a taxfree lump sum.

Death Benefit Nominations

There are two ways to nominate who is to be the beneficiary of a death benefit from the accumulation phase of a superannuation fund. These are:

• Binding death benefit nomination, or

• Non-binding death benefit nomination

The options available will depend on the options that are offered by the superannuation fund.

The general rule of superannuation is that the trustee has discretion to decide who to pay a death benefit to, but a binding or reversionary nomination can override this discretion. Provided the nomination is valid, the trustee will be bound to pay the benefit to the person(s) nominated.

For a binding death benefit nomination to be valid, certain conditions must be met including:

• The nomination must be made in

RETIREMENT

& RETIREMENT & AGED CARE

Component Maximum Tax rate

writing, and the signature of the person must be witnessed by two witnesses over the age of 18, who are not beneficiaries

• The nominated beneficiaries must meet the superannuation definition of an allowable dependent

• The allocation of benefits to beneficiaries must be clear

• The nomination must be current (many funds require the nomination to be remade at least every three years although some funds offer non-lapsing binding nominations)

The rules for how a binding nomination is to be made for a self-managed fund may be different and will be governed by the rules in the fund’s trust deed.

A non-binding death benefit nomination indicates the person’s preference for how a death benefit should be paid but it is not binding on the trustee of the superannuation fund. The trustee may take the instructions into account but will ultimately exercise their own discretion in determining to whom, and in what form, a death benefit will be paid. In such cases it is usual for the trustee to undertake a ‘claim staking’ process to identify potential beneficiaries. If a binding nomination is invalid, it is treated in the same manner as a non-binding nomination.

If a beneficiary has been nominated as a reversionary pensioner, on the death of the original income stream recipient, the income continues to be paid to the nominated reversionary pensioner.

Taxation of Superannuation Death Benefits

Superannuation death benefits paid as a lump sum are paid tax-free to a beneficiary who meets the tax dependency definition. This includes:

• The current or former spouse (including de facto and same-sex partners)

• A child under age 18 or 18-25 and in full-time education

• A person with whom the deceased had an interdependency relationship at the time of death

• A person who was financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death

If paid to the estate, the taxation depends on who is the ultimate beneficiary from the estate.

Superannuation death benefits paid to adult children of a deceased member member will be taxable unless the beneficiary meets one of more of the conditions for tax dependency set out above.

The following table sets out the tax rates payable on lump sum death benefits paid to a non-tax dependent beneficiary. Medicare Levy, where applicable, is additional if paid to the beneficiary directly by the deceased member’s superannuation fund. Where a death benefit is paid to the deceased’s estate, for the ultimate

benefit of a non-tax dependent beneficiary, the Medicare Levy is not payable.

A taxable component – untaxed element may arise where a death benefit is paid from an untaxed superannuation fund, including a Constitutional Protected Fund, or where the death benefit is paid from a taxed superannuation fund and the death benefit includes proceeds of life insurance held by the deceased within their superannuation fund.

Where the death benefit is paid as an income stream the income payments are tax free if either the deceased or the beneficiary is over age 60. If both are under age 60, the taxable portion of the income is taxed at the beneficiary’s marginal tax rate, but a 15% tax offset applies. (Note: the tax rules may vary if the pension includes an element untaxed, e.g. as per some government superannuation funds.)

Living With Dementia Program Manningham

This online program provides an overview of dementia and how to proceed after a diagnosis. The program runs over seven sessions and covers coping with change, relationships and communication, planning for the future and staying healthy.

You will gain knowledge in:

• dementia and related issues such as planning for the future

• strategies for living positively with dementia including support

• the management, reduction

Have your say on upgrades for

Manningham Council is planning an upgrade at Burgundy Reserve in Doncaster and is seeking community feedback until 12 August.

The proposal includes, an upgraded playspace and shelter, a new public toilet as well as a series of improvements to enhance the reserve for dogs and their owners.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Burgundy Reserve is a popular spot for our local community. “We want to ensure Burgundy Reserve continues to be a space for families and local community members to enjoy and look forward to hearing your feedback on our proposed upgrade,” Cr Lange said.

The concept plan includes:

• a relocated and upgraded fenced playspace

• an upgraded shelter

• a new two cubicle public toilet

and/or prevention of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.

Suitable for people living with dementia and their family carers and family members. This program is not suitable for professionals employed in the health or aged care sectors.

Dementia Australia’s facilitators have specialist dementia knowledge, skills and experience. This program is delivered interactively - you will be encouraged to share your experiences alongside other participants, giving you an opportunity to develop new support networks.

If you register to attend this program you will be contacted by Dementia Australia staff to ensure that the program will meet your needs and that you meet the eligibility requirements.

Burgundy Reserve

• new shared path to connect Cellar Way to Burgundy Drive new path lighting

• new chainmesh fencing along Burgundy Drive

• new seats around the oval

• a new drinking fountain with dog bowl

• path realignment and upgrade for more passive recreation opportunities

• additional landscaping and trees across the site.

The playspace and shelter upgrade, as well as the new public toilet, are planned as part of Council’s capital works program, scheduled to be completed over the next two years.

“We know many residents use this wellloved space to spend time with their dogs and as part of the upgrade, we are proposing some dog-friendly improvements, including a new path, shelter and drinking fountain,” Cr Lange said.

The dog-friendly upgrades are supported by the Victorian Government’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program.

“I encourage everyone to find out more, view the concept plan and have your say on what’s proposed for Burgundy Reserve in Doncaster,” Cr Lange said. You can find out more and have your say by visiting yoursay.manningham.vic. gov.au/burgundy-reserve-upgrade Consultation closes on Monday 12 August 2024.

Next Gen Solutions Showcase Expo Council News

Come and discover tools and services designed to support independence and improve the quality of life of people living with disability, and their families and carers.

Experts will showcase assistive technologies such as communication devices, fidget toys, inclusive fashion, therapy apps, home independence tools, phone accessibility features, and more.

You can take part in interactive sessions led by industry professionals, offering insights into the latest tools and resources to support your journey.

This is a free event. No need to register! Download the flyer.

Have your say on dog friendly upgrades for Warrandyte Reserve

Manningham Council is seeking feedback on a proposed upgrade of the northern oval at Warrandyte Reserve to improve facilities for the community, as well as for dogs and their owners.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Warrandyte Reserve is a hub for the local community in Warrandyte and popular with dog owners.

“Warrandyte Reserve is enjoyed by many local sports and recreation groups, residents, dogs and their owners.

We’re proposing some dog-friendly improvements within the reserve and want to hear your feedback on our concept plan by 12 August,” Cr Lange said.

The proposed upgrades include:

• improvements to the path network between both ovals;

• a new shelter at the northern oval with seating and storage facility built in;

• a new drinking fountain with dog tap and bowl;

• improved fencing to allow easier access into the ovals; and

• improved drainage and ground condition of the northern oval for better year-round use.

The proposed improvements at Warrandyte Reserve are supported by

the Victorian Government’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program.

To see what’s proposed, find out more and have your say, visit yoursay.

manningham.vic.gov.au/warrandytereserve-upgrade

The Clothing Exchange believes that looking good shouldn’t cost the earth.

Swapping is a clever and thrifty way to update your wardrobe without hitting the shops. It saves you pennies and the planet too!

Eligibility

To participate you must drop clothes off. For each item you drop off you will receive a token which can then be used to select another item. A maximum of eight items per person will be accepted.

Drop and Swap Clothing Exchange

Please note, the clothes drop off commences at 12.00pm and the Clothes Swap Exchange commences at 1.00pm.

What items will we accept:

• clean, folded or pressed

• good quality with a long potential lifespan

• free of faults or with minor faults that are easy to repair (for example, a missing button).

The best items to swap are good quality garments that you once loved but are no longer your favourites or perhaps no longer fit you perfectly. This way, you’re giving them a second life with someone new who will treasure them.

Whatever you swap, please make sure you are emotionally detached from the

item, as once it has been swapped you cannot change your mind.

What we will not accept:

• anything pilled, smelly or too far from perfect

• undergarments

• swimwear

• tracksuits.

Please note that we have quality screening processes at our events. Any items left over after the event finishes are donated to a local charity.

This event is part of our Inspired Living Series. This series showcases an exciting range of fun and sustainable activities and events for all ages, supporting sustainability at home, in the community and at work.

Electric Vehicle Expo and Seminars

Is now the right time to go electric?

Join Rotary Manningham City for an Electric Vehicle Expo, vehicle display and free seminars.

Local dealerships and importers, as well as members of the Australian EV Association (AEVA) and EV owners, will bring along hybrid and electric vehicles for you to inspect and explore.

The range includes Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Mini, Subaru, Honda, Chery, GWM, Nissan, MG Ringwood, Toyota YV, Renault, EV Automotive van, Ford Mustang Ringwood, Tesla Owners Club, Peugeot Balwyn, BYD, Polestar, Volvo, Zeeker, and others. EV charging companies will also be on hand.

Where else can you see all these EV’s in one place at one time!

Event details

The Expo and car show will be held between 10.00am and 4.00pm in the Manningham Civic Centre carpark.

The seminar program will be held at Manningham Civic Centre in the reception area on Level 1, at the times listed below.

The seminars are free, but bookings are essential.

Seminar 1: Electric Vehicles industry trends, the key issues, and myths, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

11.00am to 12.30pm

• Chair Brian Negus - Ambassador ITS Australia, Formerly GM RACV

• Opening and Address - Andrew Day CEO City of Manningham

• Bryce Gatton – EV Choice Consulting and RENEW

• Riz Akhtar – The Driven and the Australian Electric Vehicle Assoc –AEVA.

• Xavier Vagedes, Engineering Manager Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty. Ltd

• Q and A.

Seminar 2: Electric Vehicle Charging at Home and on the Go

1.00pm to 2.30pm

• Chair Brian Negus - Ambassador ITS Australia, Formerly GM RACV

• Nirav Thaker – Residential Delivery Manager, Jet Charge

• Rohan Smith – RACV Product Manager Home and Commercial EV Charging

• Nick Wodzinski - Head of Product, Chargefox

• Q and A.

The Electric Vehicle Expo and Seminars are brought to you by Rotary Manningham City, supported by Manningham’s Community Grants Program.

Design underway for Aquarena Outdoor redevelopment

An exciting new water play area and improved café will be part of a major redevelopment of the outdoor area at Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

The project’s detailed design is now underway, following Council’s endorsement of the Aquarena Outdoor Masterplan last August.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said the community is eagerly awaiting the redevelopment, which will bring Aquarena’s outdoor area up to the centre’s modern, state-of-the-art indoor areas.

“Around 2,500 people visit Aquarena each day, and we love welcoming the regular swimmers, local families, swim clubs, and community and school groups. The centre is highly valued by the Manningham community and visitors alike,” Cr Lange said.

“This redevelopment will ensure the outdoor space continues to meet the diverse and evolving needs of the community for generations to come.”

Manningham Council has appointed Co.Op Studios as the architect to design the new space, and bring the Aquarena Outdoor Masterplan vision to life.

“The design process has been informed by the Aquarena Outdoor Masterplan, which involved extensive consultation with community users and industry experts, to guide the redevelopment of the outdoor spaces,” Cr Lange said.

“I want to thank everyone who shared their passion and interest in the future of the outdoor space. More than 800 people provided feedback to inform the development of the Masterplan. We’re excited to be delivering what the community asked for, and more”, she added.

Feedback from the community and stakeholders emphasised the need for more seating, shade, change rooms, a fun water play area, better spaces for schools and clubs, and a sustainable design to reduce environmental impact.

“An enhanced café will now serve both indoor and outdoor areas. The new outdoor change rooms will be only metres from the outdoor pool, and the outdoor pool will now have ramp access and a swim wall to swap between 50 metre and 25 metre lanes,” the Mayor said.

Other enhancements include state-of-the-art landscaping and the electrification of outdoor pool equipment, marking another significant step toward achieving Manningham’s emissions targets.

“Aquarena is currently our largest gas user. Making the switch from gas to energy efficient heat pumps, we can heat the outdoor area in an environmentally sustainable way,” the Mayor added.

The replacement of the centre’s 50-metre outdoor pool will take place at the same time as the redevelopment works.

“Aquarena’s outdoor area has a rich history of over 50 years and has been a source of community pride for generations. For many in our community, this is their backyard – we’re embracing the theme of your backyard to create an inviting space where our community can get active, play, socialise, host events and relax,” Cr Lange said.

“We’re excited to start sharing the draft designs and offering on site consultation opportunities in the coming weeks. We’ll also be connecting with various user groups to keep them informed as the project progresses,” she added.

The redevelopment works are planned to begin in late 2025, with project completion expected in late 2027.

Project updates will be available on yoursay.manningham.vic.gov. au/aquarena-masterplan, and the community can subscribe to receive updates directly to their inbox.