Find Manningham September Edition 2023

• 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

• 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

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.

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

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/findmanningham) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.

We value your support, The Find Manningham Team.

anningham The

EDITORIAL ENQUIRES:

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

PUBLISHER: Issuu Pty Ltd

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.

ADVERTISING RATES (INCLUDE GST)

NEXT ISSUE

By Gen Brazil

International Day of Charity was established by the United Nations to raise awareness and promote charitable activities and humanitarian efforts worldwide. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to those in need and encourages people, organizations, and communities to engage in acts of kindness and charity.

International Day of Charity also serves to increase and enhance social responsibility across the entire world, increasing our support for charitable causes and bringing everyone together in solidarity.

The International Day of Charity honors the memory of Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to helping the poor and disadvantaged in India. It provides an opportunity for individuals and charitable organizations to raise funds, volunteer their time, and contribute to various charitable causes, whether they are related to poverty alleviation,

international day of charity

education, healthcare, disaster relief, or any other humanitarian endeavor. Many people and organizations use this day to organize events, fundraisers, and charitable activities to support various causes and make a positive

impact on the lives of others. It's a day to celebrate the spirit of giving and generosity and to inspire individuals to take action to make the world a better place through acts of charity and kindness.

I am honoured to have been shortlisted for the 3rd Year in a row as one of Australia’s Top 50 Most Influential Advisors. Currently, there are 117 financial planners that have been short-listed and only 50 will be chosen once again. Each year you have the chance to participate in this process. You now get to choose someone who you believe is making a difference in this space. Please read on and consider if I, and more importantly my team, are worthy of your vote.

1. I have completed my 7th qualification which includes a post grad in financial planning and I am about to complete my aged care accreditation. Education is important to me.

2. Over the last few years I have been shortlisted and won awards across financial planning; including winning Holistic Advisor of the Year in Australia twice in the last 3 years. I have also spoken on podcasts and at conferences throughout Australia about financial planning and tax topics.

3. We have set up and run a Not-For-Profit called the Find Foundation (www.findfoundation.org.au); supporting other NFPs, schools, sporting clubs and other organisations via our community papers. Our community papers provide useful articles that aim to inform, help organisations tell their story, bring people together, and educate those in our local community.

4. We have set up the Find Network, a small business network group (www.findnetwork.com.au) to support and help SME thrive.

5. We have set up a new partnership with an overseas university. As someone who has already written financial planning course and lectured financial planning, we want to bring financial planning to others including those living overseas.

6. I am currently in the process of writing a financial planning/money book to help Australians do as much as they can to improve their own financial planning situation before they need to engage a financial planner.

7. I am an Australian business owner who works hard to make a real difference in the lives of those around me.

I hope you will consider the above being worthy of your vote. To vote, simply select my name, fill in your details and submit the form.

DIGITAL MARKETING

By Ethan Strybosch

Setting the right price for your products or services is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the success and growth of your business. While some may believe that lower pricing attracts more customers, the truth is that correctly pricing your services, even at a higher level, can offer numerous advantages that lead to greater profitability and success. In this article, we will explore the benefits of pricing your service correctly, and why higher pricing can be a better strategy for your business.

1.

Perceived Value:

One of the main advantages of higher pricing is that it conveys a sense of premium quality and value. Customers often associate higher prices with superior products or services, which can create a perception of exclusivity and desirability. When your offerings are priced higher, potential customers are more likely to view your business as a provider of high-quality solutions, increasing the likelihood of converting them into loyal, long-term clients.

2.

Improved Profit Margins:

Higher pricing naturally leads to improved profit margins, allowing your business to maintain healthy financials and invest in its growth. With better margins, you can reinvest in marketing, research, and development, as well as customer service improvements, which ultimately enhances your competitive advantage and overall business performance.

The Power of Pricing: How Higher Pricing Can Boost Your Business

3. Better Customer Relationships: Contrary to common belief, customers are often willing to pay more for exceptional service and a superior experience. When you charge higher prices, you can afford to allocate more resources to enhance customer support and provide personalized attention, leading to stronger relationships with your clientele. These satisfied customers are more likely to become brand advocates, spreading positive word-ofmouth and driving more business your way.

4. Targeting the Right Audience: Pricing your service correctly allows you to target the right audience effectively. A higher price point can attract clients who value quality over affordability, and who are willing to pay for the unique benefits your service provides. This targeted approach not only simplifies your marketing efforts but also helps build a loyal customer base that aligns with your business's values and offerings.

5. Distancing from Competitors: A well-placed higher price can distinguish your business from competitors, establishing a sense of uniqueness in the market. Lower-priced services often engage in price wars and discounts, eroding profitability and diminishing perceived value. By pricing your services higher, you demonstrate your confidence in the value you deliver and encourage customers to choose you based on quality rather than price alone.

6. Capacity for Innovation: Higher pricing provides your business with a financial cushion, enabling you to

invest in research and development. With more resources at your disposal, you can innovate and stay ahead of the competition. This willingness to invest in improvement fosters a culture of innovation within your organization, keeping your services fresh and relevant to changing customer needs.

7. Sustainable Growth:

While lower pricing might attract an initial influx of customers, it can be challenging to maintain the volume needed to sustain profitability in the long term. On the other hand, correctly pricing your services higher ensures a stable revenue stream, supporting sustainable growth and expansion opportunities. This stability allows you to weather market fluctuations and make strategic decisions for longterm success.

In conclusion, pricing your service correctly is a critical aspect of your business strategy. While lower pricing might seem attractive initially, the benefits of higher pricing, such as perceived value, improved profit margins, better customer relationships, and sustainable growth, far outweigh the short-term gains of attracting bargain-hunting customers. By positioning your services at a higher price point, you can establish your business as a provider of premium solutions, attract the right audience, and pave the way for lasting success in a competitive marketplace.

Ethan Strybosch info@elmedia.com.au or contact us at www.elmedia.com.au

GENERAL INSURANCE

By Craig Anderson

If you own a shop, factory, restaurant, or office building, you may not have considered the impact of a major power surge knocking out your electrical system or killing off expensive equipment you rely on to keep your business running and service your clients. Perhaps you own a business that is reliant on cool rooms such as a greengrocer, bakery or cafe, and you could face expensive repairs, interruption to trade, and stock losses. If this is the case then a closer look at machinery breakdown is essential. Deterioration of stock, consequential loss of profit and payroll, loss of rental, and additional cost of working are all sections of cover worth considering, and deserve their own articles. Below we look at the optional Fire and Other Perils section that’s sometimes overlooked.

It’s important to note that the definition of machinery has been broadened out by some insurers to cover today’s technologies from the electrical supply wiring throughout a building, circuit boards, electrical switchboards, HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) on-site sub stations, machines either whilst working or connected on standby and much more. Consider also that depending on the extent of Equipment Breakdown cover taken, for example, section Coverage A2 Electronic Equipment - Fire and Other Perils (Vero) even the data associated with electronic systems can be covered.

See wording extract below, and note the cause must be sudden and accidental. Gradual issues caused by a slow leak or poor maintenance would not be able to be claimed. Also note that losses can be caused by extinguishing a fire, so any damage done by an attending fire brigade is also covered. See https:// www.vero.com.au/policy-documents/ equipment-breakdown.html for the full wording to give context.

Breakdown

For the purpose of this optional coverage A2 and in contradiction to what is contained in Exclusions 4 and 8 in Section D Exclusions, the definition of Breakdown is extended to include sudden and accidental damage caused by or resulting from:

(a) fire,subterranean fire,smoke or soot;

(b) earth movement, earthquake, landslide, mud flow, subsidence, landslip or volcanic eruption;

Machinery Breakdown Cover:

Not just for machines

(c) cyclone, tornado, hurricane, typhoon, storm, tempest, wind, hail, snow, ice, sleet, rainwater;

(d) tsunami, tidal wave, flood, high water, or other actions of the sea;

(f) collapse of any building or structure;

(e) escape of water or liquids;

(f) water or other means used to extinguish a fire;

(g) water or other means used to extinguish a fire;

(h) lightning;

(i) theft, burglary or attempted theft or burglary;

(j) impact by Vehicle or animal;

(k) impact by watercraft, aircraft or other aerial devices or articles dropped therefrom; (l) explosion; or

(m) riot, civil commotion, sabotage, vandalism or malicious acts of persons other than You but not Cyber Act.

The scale of claims can range from relatively minor such as a compressor failure on a cool room, to the loss of the entire electrical system throughout

a multi storey office building. Nine levels of tenants in an office block were temporarily relocated, then moved back in after a multi-level electrical strip-out and refit. The damage bill exceeded $10m, so the policy well and truly saved the building owner a fortune.

Consider how Machinery Breakdown cover could help your business cope with a similar catastrophe, and contact your broker for further advice.

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).

MORTGAGE BROKERING

By Reece Droscher

We have all experienced the impact on our hip pockets from increases in the costs of daily living. From the grocery store to the petrol bowser living costs have gone up significantly without any real increases in wages, so money left over to save for a house or pay off debt is becoming harder to retain. This means that when you apply for a loan with a Bank to buy a home, refinance or complete some renovations, demonstrating that you have capacity to pay back the loan is also getting more difficult.

When assessing your ability to repay a loan the lenders are not just looking at your income, deposit and the security you are providing. They are also looking at what you spend on groceries, utilities, transport costs, entertainment, education and all of your other daily living expenses. The amount you spend on these costs will have a significant impact on how much you can borrow.

Most lenders use a standard measure called Household Expediture Method (HEM) to estimate a household’s living costs. The HEM is a benchmark figure that estimates how much someone in your location is likely to spend on living costs, taking into account family size and the number of children you have. It varies from person to person as, for example, a family of four living in the suburbs of a larger city is likely to spend more than the same family living in a rural location.

As HEM is used as an estimate, lenders will want to look at your particular spending habits against the HEM benchmark, which they will do by requesting that you supply them with your transaction account and credit card statements, usually over a three month period. Once they examine these statements they will see whether your spending is above or below the benchmark. If your spending is above the benchmark they will use this figure as your living expenses when assessing your borrowing capacity.

HOW CAN WE IMPROVE OUR CHANCES OF GETTING A HOME LOAN APPROVED?

It may feel that, with all of the cost of living increases, stagnant wage growth and the increases in interest rates, getting finance approved is an impossible task except for the privileged few on high incomes and with big balance sheets. Yes the task is getting more difficult, but by doing a few simple things we can improve our chances of getting that loan approval.

How Cost of Living Pressures Impact on Your Ability to Borrow

1. Set up a budget and stick to it. This is a key lesson for most of us to learn. Keeping track of where you spend your money can help you identify where you can change your spending habits for the better.

2. Cut out as much discretionary spending as possible. By identifying where you spend your money you can look at ways to reduce your living costs. Perhaps bringing lunch to work most days rather than buying it, reducing the number of coffees per day or cancelling a streaming service when you already are paying for several others might be a starting point.

3. Reduce or cancel any limits on credit cards that you don’t use.

4. Cancel any Afterpay or Zippay accounts that you may have. These are treated like credit cards and have a negative impact on your ability to borrow.

Doing this well before applying for a loan will give the lenders evidence that you know how to track your spending and manage your finances, so affording a loan repayment can be demonstrated. If you can do this, and also show a consistent savings history, then you will be going a long way to ensure you receive a positive outcome on any loan application.

At SHL Finance we have helped a lot of our clients improve their situation by working with them to achieve their financial goals, and we would love the opportunity to help anyone who is wanting to improve their chances of being able to buy a future home.

NATUROPATH

By Kathryn Messenger

With some iron supplements people are left choosing between being exhausted or being constipated, neither of which are good for your health. Others opt for regular iron infusions, and whilst these can be great when your levels are very low, for most people, there are other ways to increase absorption of the important nutrient.

The role of Iron

Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs. Oxygen is required for the functioning of all cells, and a lack of supply to muscles and cells can result in feelings of fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

What causes low iron?

Iron deficiency occurs either through inadequate intake, or excessive blood loss. As a result, the body struggles to make hemoglobin and other important enzymes that help carry oxygen. The body tries to compensate by absorbing more iron from the diet and reusing what it has, but if not treated, iron deficiency can worsen and lead to anemia, affecting overall health and well-being.

Symptoms of deficiency

• Fatigue and weakness

• Pale skin and nail beds

• Shortness of breath

• Headaches and dizziness

• Cold hands and feet

• Brittle nails

• Difficulty in concentrating

• Heart palpitations

Keep in mind that these symptoms can vary in severity and may not always indicate iron deficiency, as there can be a number of different reasons for these symptoms.

If you eat meat, you will likely absorb enough iron from your diet and low iron is likely due to blood loss. If you’re not a menstruating female and haven’t had a recent accident or surgery, the cause of internal bleeding needs to be investigated further. If the cause is from you menstrual, herbal medicines and homeopathy can be really useful in treating the cause. This can be done by regulating hormone levels and reducing excessive blood loss.

Trouble getting your iron levels within range?

Food sources

• Red meat (beef, lamb, pork)

• Poultry

• Fish (especially tuna, salmon)

• Beans and legumes (lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans)

• Tofu

• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)

• Spinach and other leafy greens

• Quinoa

• Oats

• Dried apricots

• Dark chocolate

It’s important to note that iron comes in two forms: heme iron (found in animal products) and non-heme iron (found in plant-based foods). Heme iron is generally better absorbed by the body, but combining non-heme iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods can enhance absorption. So if you are a vegan or vegetarian you could do this by eating tomato or capsicum together with spinach.

Supplementing

Firstly, you want to use a gentle form of iron such as iron bisglycinate rather than ferrous sulfate which nearly always causes constipation. Secondly, recent research has shown that lactic acid

bacteria, particularly lactobacilli, are able to enhance dietary iron absorption. The specific strain of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v alters the bacteria in the intestine at the duodenum where iron is absorbed and therefore increasing the intake. Along with the results from the research, I have seen much better results from the combination of a quality supplement when used together with the specific probiotic.

At Whole Naturopathy we have quality iron supplements as well as the probiotic specific for iron absorption. In an appointment, I spend time to understand how all of your health issues affect each other

BHSc (Naturopathy)

kathryn@wholenaturopathy.com.au

Suite 1 53/1880 Ferntree Gully Rd Mountain Gate Shopping Centre

Ferntree Gully, Victoria

This advice is general in nature and not intended to be prescriptive. For individualised prescriptive advice, please see a naturopath or other health care practitioner.

Kathryn Messenger

Tax debts ‘at double pre-pandemic levels and repayments are on the ATO’s radar.

ACCOUNTANT

By Warren Strybosch

With the event of the GFC, COVID and significant interest rate rises, tax debts have skyrocketed. It is now common for large businesses to be owing $500,000 or more in debt and more small businesses are starting to find themselves owing more in ATO debts than ever before. We are noticing more businesses and individuals are having to go on payment plans because they don’t have the ability to pay the surmounting debt. This is likely to get worse in 2026 when employers will be required to pay super at the same time as wages reducing the businesses cash flow even further.

Some of the hardest hit industries are construction, labour hire, hospitality, building, with other industries starting to feel the same pressure. Prior to Covid, it was common to see large companies with debt levels of around $300,000 and now this is getting above $600,000 with some companies now owing up to $1,000,000 in debt.

The ATO is concerned about the increasing debt levels and have warned all businesses, that they will be taking a harder stance where recovery of debt is concerned. Prior to COVID, the ATO took a supportive approach towards businesses who owned debt

but now the ATO has drastically ramped up Federal Court actions to recover $30 billion in overdue small business tax, which nearly doubled during the pandemic, ending its leniency policy. Already, the ATO has started 476 windup proceedings in the first seven months of 2023, compared with just 14 in the same period last year.

“The ATO is taking decisive and swift action with those clients choosing not to engage and who purposefully avoid their payment obligations,” an ATO spokeswoman said. “We will continue to offer help and assistance to those who genuinely need it, whilst activating targeted strategies to address the growth in collectable debt which arose during COVID.

“This year, we have a particular focus on recovering high-value and aged debts and requiring timely payment of employer obligations, including unpaid superannuation.

The ATO said it was returning to businessas-usual for overdue debts and while court actions were rising sharply they were still below pre-pandemic levels.

“Having allowed concessions during the pandemic, we are actively addressing the growth in collectable debt,” the ATO said. “Most tax debts are self-acknowledged, and relate to GST, pay-as-you-go withholding and superannuation guarantee charge.”

Businesses and individuals are encouraged to work with their accountants to try and meet their tax liability obligations, especially where it involves GST, PAYG and SGC. Even if the business cannot afford to pay their obligations, it is crucial they lodge their activity statements on time. The ATO is more likely to ‘help’ those businesses whose lodgements are up to date compared to those businesses who not only owe money but are not even trying to get their lodgement obligations up to date.

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. It does not take into account your particular 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.

CONGRATULATIONS!

WARREN STRYBOSCH

Find Group

on winning the Holistic Adviser of the Year again at the IFA Excellence Awards 2022.

The founder of the Find Group of companies draws on his diverse background, which ranges from teaching, to serving in the army, to taxation and accounting, to coach and help clients live their best financial lives. A multi-award winner, Warrens’s innovative approach in business means he was a champion of virtual financial advise long before the pandemic. Warren established the Find Foundation, which owns and operates accros Victoria.

TOP 50 MOST INFLUENTIAL FINANCIAL ADVISER IN AUSTRALIA 2021 & 2022

The financial advisers featured in this guide are a diverse group: some specialise in responsible investment advice, some provide financial advise to specific professions, and some focus on addressing market gaps, mwith several finding themselves on the list for the very first time. But they all have one thing in common: they all wield influence that can create the blueprint for the future of financial advice in Australia. Not all of them are faniliar names but just because they are not making a lot of noise doesn’t mean they are not making waves. Meet our Power 50.

Salary sacrifice reporting in Simply Touch Payroll

The ATO has released a statement to inform all employers that they must report. pre-sacrificed amounts and separately report the salary sacrificed amounts as follows: type S for amounts sacrificed to super; and type O for amounts sacrificed towards other benefits. (Previously with STP Phase 1 reporting, employers only reported post-sacrificed amounts.)

Exciting Changes to Osteopathic Services at Melbourne Therapy Centre

LACTATION CONSULTANT

By Dr. Joanna Strybosch

There are some exciting osteo team changes happening at the Melbourne Therapy Centre!

We are delighted to be retaining Dr Joanna Strybosch, Osteopath, Advanced Paediatric Osteopath and Lactation Consultant. Jo has been in practise for over 27 years, the past 12 years being at MTC, and will continue to be available for all your paediatric osteo and lactation needs.

Jo is passionate about supporting mums and bubs in the early months post-partum, with a focus on establishing breastfeeding and helping babies who have experienced difficult births. Combining her skills and training as an advanced paediatric osteopath and an IBCLC (lactation consultant), Jo offers a unique holistic approach to maternalinfant care.

For appointments with Jo click here:

https://joanna-strybosch-osteopath-lactation-consultant.au2.cliniko. com/bookings?business_id=1191171424325212564&practitioner_ id=1191171421187872811

We will also be welcoming Dr Stephania Tsotras, Osteopath. Steph comes to us with many years of experience as an osteopath as well as additional training in women’s health, pelvic floor and pelvic health, breast care and mastitis, paediatrics, pregnancy, post-partum care and cranial osteopathy.

Steph is skilled in internal pelvic assessment and treatment, pregnancy, paediatrics and dry needling. She has a clinical focus on pelvic floor issues, post-partum check ups, incontinence and prolapse. She also works with breast cancer patients to release scar tissue from mastectomies and lumpectomies.

Steph will be available for appointments at MTC from Monday 30th October 2023.

For appointments with Steph click here:

https://joanna-strybosch-osteopath-lactation-consultant.au2.cliniko. com/bookings?business_id=1233939857491893136&practitioner_ id=1237321254701111948

Or call our friendly reception staff at MTC on 9876 3011.

We look forward to supporting you.

First Home Super Saver Scheme More time to lodge

FINANCIAL PLANNER

By Erryn Langley

The First Home Super Saver (FHSS) Scheme is an Australian government initiative designed to help individuals save money for their first home through the use of their superannuation fund. Here's how it works:

Voluntary Contributions: First introduced in 2018 FY, eligible individuals can make voluntary contributions to their superannuation account, specifically for the purpose of saving for their first home. These contributions are generally beforetax (concessional) contributions or aftertax (non-concessional) contributions and can be withdrawn at a later time) to use as a deposit for the purposes of purchasing or constructing their first home.

Concessional Contributions: You can make pre-tax contributions to your superannuation account, which are taxed at a lower rate than your regular income. These contributions are capped at certain limits.

Non-Concessional Contributions: You can also make after-tax contributions to your superannuation account. These contributions are not taxed when withdrawn for the FHSS Scheme.

Maximum Contribution Limits: There are annual and lifetime limits on the total

contributions you can make under the FHSS Scheme. Under the FHSSS, prospective first home buyers can make personal contributions to superannuation of up to $15,000 a year. Up to $50,000 of these contributions can then be withdrawn to finance a first home.

Withdrawal for a First Home: Once you have made eligible contributions and meet certain criteria, you can apply to release these funds to purchase your first home. The released amount includes your contributions and associated earnings, minus a withholding tax.

Criteria for Release: To be eligible for FHSS funds withdrawal, you must meet certain criteria, including being at least 18 years old, not having previously owned property in Australia, and intending to live in the property you purchase.

Under the existing laws, individuals have up to 14 days to request a release authority after they enter into a contract to purchase or construct a home.

However, new legislation was passed on Wednesday (6 September) that expands the timeframe for FHSSS users to request a release of savings (after entering into a contract) in order to access funds to complete their house.

Individuals will have up to 90 days to request a release authority after they enter into a contract to purchase or construct a home.

Speaking of the changes, Assistant Treasurer and Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones MP said the amendments would address "significant painpoints in the scheme" and "[make] it easier for young Australians looking to purchase their first home through the First Home Super Saver Scheme ".

The technical changes generally apply retrospectively to FHSS Scheme applications made from 1 July 2018

Erryn Langley

1300 557 144 | erryn@findwealth.com.au www.findwealth.com.au

Financial Planning is offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a

Find Wealth. Find Wealth is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 93 161 647 007 (AFSL No. 449221). Part of the Centrepoint Alliance group https://www.centrepointalliance. com.au/

Erryn Langley isAuthorised representative (No.1269525) ofAllianceWealth Pty Ltd.

This information has been provided as general advice. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives. You should consider the appropriateness of the advice. You should obtain and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and seek the assistance of an authorised financial adviser before making any decision regarding any products or strategies mentioned in this communication. Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, it is based on our understanding of current regulatory requirements and laws at the publication date. As these laws are subject to change you should talk to an authorised adviser for the most up-to-date information. No warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly neither Alliance Wealth nor its related entities, employees or representatives accepts responsibility for any loss suffered by any person arising from reliance on this information.

Manningham Principals’ Breakfast Creates Common Ground in Mission to Improve Young Lives

Student representatives were a special addition to this year’s Manningham Principals’ Breakfast, providing an essential voice on the issues important to local young people.

The breakfast, hosted by Manningham Council on 27 July, was a great success. It removed social barriers and created common ground for attendees to exchange ideas, experiences and create a unified approach to supporting the region’s young people.

Manningham Youth Advisory Committee member and local student, Berry Eain, said she got a lot out of the “eye opening and insightful” event.

“The fact that Council invited young people to this event was very special. You got to sit with people you had never met before and probably wouldn’t have an opportunity to meet - from different industries and professions, like the police force,” Berry said.

The Principals’ Breakfast provided an important platform that fostered connections between Manningham Council, principals, welfare teams, student representatives, and community organisations, including EACH, Doncare, Victoria Police, Aligned Leisure, Eastern Volunteers and Scentre.

“Your title didn’t matter; all the people there had the same desire to see improvements for young people through so many different perspectives and ideas,” Berry said. The breakfast generated important conversation about critical issues such as mental health, anxiety, and burnout in young people. In addition, the participants delved into emerging concerns in 2023, highlighting technology addiction, teacher shortages, substance abuse, and behaviour regulation.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, emphasised the significance of collaborative events like this in building a strong and united community.

“The annual Principals’ Breakfast provides an invaluable opportunity for our children, young people, their educators and Council to come together and work towards the common goal of nurturing a supportive environment for our children and young people.

“By strengthening our connections and understanding what is impacting them, we can effectively address the challenges and create brighter futures for our youth,” Cr Diamante said.

At the heart of the breakfast was the keynote speech by Rachel Shankland, Manager of the Alcohol and Other Drugs team at Access Health and Community. Their insightful presentation focused on trauma-informed approaches, equipping schools with strategies to support students and create emotionally safe classrooms.

The emphasis was on building safe and caring environments for children to thrive and succeed.

Following the keynote, a panel of subject matter experts, including Rachel, Amy Marshall from EACH’s Manningham Youth Services and Lane Stretton, Chair of Sport and Life Training (SALT), shared their expertise on local support, community perspectives, and broader assistance for parents, teachers, and young adults.

Manningham Council remains dedicated to collaborating with schools, service providers and community organisations to ensure the well-being and success of younger residents.

Council News

Spring OUTDOORS 2023

Capture the feeling of spring with our annual Spring Outdoors program!

Each year, we partner with Nillumbik Shire and Banyule City Council to host a series of free or low cost interactive and educational events, activities, and workshops throughout spring. These events promise to get you outdoors, enjoying some fresh air and making the most of the warmer weather!

Manningham Junior Ranger Program

The Manningham Junior Ranger Program is designed to get young environmentalists out and active in our local environment. Go on a bush park discovery walk with Environment Officers as they explore why Currawong Bush Park is known as the best little wilderness in town.

Survive a live wildlife show presented by Wild Action, the Zoo that comes to you. Experience nature as a place to play, imagine, relax and explore.

Residents are invited to attend events across all three municipalities. Many events and activities are suitable for children, families, and individuals of all ages with an interest in gardening, sustainability, and wellbeing.

So, take these opportunities to connect with our community, learn about our environment and biodiversity and pick up new tips for your own gardens!

Building a frog friendly wetland

Learn how to build a frog pond/bog with local ecologist and frog expert David De Angelis.

David will discuss how you can construct a frog pond/bog at home that is ideal for local frog species.

Attendees will get a head start with a range of free indigenous habitat plants from the Friends of Warrandyte State Park Nursery. They will be there to assist you with water and pond fringing plants.

David De Angelis is a local naturalist, environmental educator, and consultant with interests in the ecology and conservation of frogs, and citizen science. Most of David’s work is done with ABZECO, La Trobe University’s Wildlife Sanctuary and Holmesglen Institute. He is also on the committee of Frogs Victoria.

Our Environment Wins When We Reduce FOGO Contamination

Our Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) service is now in action!

You’ve been doing a great job recycling your food waste. As we keep using our FOGO (green lid) bins, it’s important that we only place food and garden waste in our FOGO bin. Plastics, metals and clothing cannot be composted. These items significantly reduce the quality of the finished compost and go into your red lid garbage bin. Clothing in good condition can be donated to op shops.

To assist you with deciding which items can and cannot be placed into your FOGO bin, refer to our comprehensive A to Z FOGO guide.

Better compost will mean healthier soils, improving our green spaces for Manningham residents.

Manningham’s Backyard Biodiversity: Sugar gliders

Sugar gliders are tree-dwelling marsupials (gliding possums) found across Manningham.

They can glide up to 50 metres in one trip with their “wings” made of thin skin stretched between their forefinger and ankle. Sugar gliders primarily feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits, contributing to seed dispersal and promoting vegetation growth. Additionally, these adorable animals serve as pollinators while visiting various flowers.

The Sugar glider is most active at night, sleeping by day in nests made of leaves in tree hollows.

Find out more about Manningham’s Backyard Diversity with TV Zoologist Chris Humfrey from Wild Action.

Get Bushfire Resilient - Pets and Bushfires

You will have the opportunity to ask questions before or during the webinar.

About the Get Bushfire Resilient webinar series

Our webinars involve the best presenters and panel members in Australia and include robust audience engagement. Watch the webinars with family and friends and discuss the information and your plans.

An El Niño summer is coming. Recent rainfall has supercharged fuel loads. Dry conditions will increase fire risks next summer, especially grass fires. In this webinar, the panel will discuss pets and bushfires. Get practical, best practice information about preparing, managing and caring for your pets before, during and after a fire.

Presenters include:

• Mel Taylor, Macquarie University

• Steve Glassey, University of Portsmouth

Learn how grass fires and bushfires behave and what your family can do to reduce your risks.

Learn from eminent subject experts.

About Bushfire Resilience Inc.

Bushfire Resilience Inc. is an independent community-led organisation. We provide carefully developed webinars that provide information about bushfire preparedness. Our webinar topics are practical, helpful and relevant.

• Rachel Westcott, South Australian Veterinary Emergency Management Inc

Make a Difference in Your Community and Help Shape the Future of Manningham

Manningham Council is seeking expressions of interest from community members to join its advisory committees. Advisory committees provide a unique opportunity for people to share their perspectives and ideas and to influence the decisions that are made about their community.

Manningham is seeking input and guidance from the community on a variety of advisory committees. They are seeking members who have a demonstrated lived experience, skills or knowledge related to the committee’s subject matter. Topics include arts, healthy ageing, disability and youth. Guidance will be used to help Manningham to achieve its goals and objectives under the Council Plan.

“We are looking for people who are passionate about their community and have a desire to make a difference,” said Mayor of Manningham, Cr Deirdre Diamante.

“Our advisory committees are made up of diverse community and industry representatives and we encourage people from all walks of life to apply. We believe that a diverse range of voices are essential to making sound decisions that benefit the entire community.” she added.

As a Manningham Youth Advisory Committee member, Berry Eain says, “As an international student, leadership is something I was unfamiliar with. Sitting in a meeting with people who have the power to make decisions makes me feel very important.

This definitely would not have been possible back home; as a student, and especially as a female, speaking up for yourself was culturally disrespectful. I was very surprised to be having this unique experience where they hear you speak and they listen! I am very grateful to have people advocating for the student voice”.

To be eligible to apply, you must:

• Be a resident of Manningham

• Have knowledge, skills, or experience in the area of the advisory committee you are applying

• Commit to attending a minimum of 4 meetings per year Manningham Council invites people who are passionate about making a difference in their community to join an advisory committee.To learn more or to express interest, visit www.manningham. vic.gov.au/advisory-committees. Applications close Wednesday, 18 October 2023 at 10.00pm.

“Characters”

by : Ewan Simpson

By Rob “Stormy” Fairweather

Donvale Bowls Club is indeed indebted and beholden to many of our beloved characters which define and distinguish it.

One such character at Donvale is John Blake A brief insight into John’s working life, his eventual involvement at Donvale Bowls Club, and the successful experiences it has provided.

He was born in Melbourne, September 1941, schooled at Moonee Ponds Central, Orbost Primary and Essendon Technical.

At 14 years of age, he started his working career at Myer, 12 months later commencing a 5-year apprenticeship with LW Dunbier Pastry Cook.

At 21 he was employed as a salesperson with Marrickville Holding (Eta Foods Braybrook).

1969 he was transferred to Tasmania, managing the states sales team, his wife Faye and he arrives knowing no one, and a six-week-old baby. Not an easy time.

In 1973 he was transferred back to Melbourne managing the industrial sales team for Victoria.

After 13 years he resigned his position with Marrickville and joined Mauri Bros and Thompson (MBT) as Sales manager.

Mauri was a major supplier of ingredients to the baking trades and the major supplier of fresh yeast to the bread baking industry.

He fulfilled several roles with Mauri, the most exciting being 5 years as Sales Manager Export to the Pacific nations.

“Although I found it quite exotic selling into markets in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and PNG. Not always so”.

He relates great memories particularly visits to Papua, Bougainville, and New Briton. Following 23 years’ service with Mauri, it was time to go!

For the last 10 years of his working life, he was with Sunbeam Foods (The dried food people). Again, working with the food manufacturers in all states.

“We were a team of just two so life was a lot less stressful than in past positions”. He resigned his position and departed Sunbeam on the 30th July 2007.

With his wife Faye they set off on “The Big Circuit” 2nd of August 2007 taking 5 months to complete their first Australian great adventure.

He and Kaye were married in 1965. Living in Essendon. They built their first home in

Blake

East Keilor but were only there for a brief time before they transferred to Tasmania.

They returned to Melbourne in 73 with a toddler and Faye expecting their second of their three boys.

They purchased a house under construction in Sherwood Court East Doncaster. We have since sold and had built 5 new homes, always in East Doncaster.

Faye has taken great pride and pleasure designing and decorating each new home, establishing new gardens at each property.

We are now comfortably established in a large apartment with a manageable garden on Anderson Creek Road.

They came to Donvale Bowls Club in 2018, delighted to become a member of our club.

John modestly claims his bowling has not progressed as he had wished, but he enjoys the clubs atmosphere and the many people with whom he is able to play bowls with. Thanks for sharing the memories, John, long may it be so.

John

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