Have you ever bought or sold something online, only to find that the person at the other end isn’t the real deal?

National Consumer Fraud Week 2013 is all about helping you ‘Outsmart the Scammers!’ by learning how to buy and sell safely online without being duped.

Australians are increasingly going online to buy goods and services, taking advantage of the speed, convenience and greater choice that the internet can offer. Unfortunately scammers like shopping online for their victims too.

Online shopping scams target both buyers and sellers, with the two most common scams being:

Classified ad scams – a scammer posts a fake ad on a legitimate classifieds website for cheaply priced popular items. If a consumer shows interest in an item, the scammer will claim that the goods will be delivered following receipt of payment. If the consumer pays, they will not receive the goods or be able to contact the seller.

Overpayment scams – a scammer will respond to a seller’s ad with a generous offer and will then ‘accidentally’ overpay.  The scammer will ask the seller to refund the excess amount by money transfer in hope that the seller will transfer the money before they discover that the scammer’s cheque has bounced or that the money order was phony. The seller will lose the money, as well as the item they were selling, if they have already sent it on to the scammer.

Stay one click ahead – follow the Top 5 tips to outsmart the scammers:

1. Think twice – if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Find out what other shoppers say – make sure the person that you are dealing with, and their offer, is the real deal.
3. Protect your identity – your personal details are private and invaluable; keep them that way and away from scammers.
4. Keep your computer secure – Install software that protects your computer from viruses and unwanted programs and make sure it is kept up-to-date.
5. Only pay via secure payment methods – look for a web address starting with ‘https’ and a closed padlock symbol. Never use a wire transfer service to send money to anyone you do not know and trust, and do not share your financial details with anyone.

Visit SCAMwatch to find out how scams work, how to protect yourself and what to do if you’ve been scammed: www.scamwatch.gov.au

Outsmart the Scammers!
National Consumer Fraud Week 2013
An initiative of the Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce

On 30 November to 1 December, thousands of cyclists of all abilities will participate in The Ride to Conquer Cancer® benefiting Flinders Medical Centre Foundation. As they embark on this epic journey of 200kms through the Adelaide Hills, they’ll need your help! The Ride needs wonderful people like you to help with the following:

-Bike Technicians, Moto Safety Crew, Certified Massage Therapists, Tent Volunteers and Office and Event Volunteers.

Crew Members are the backbone of the event. Due to their hard work and dedication, Crew Members experience the same perks as the Riders such as access to a hot shower, catered meals and a cosy tent at Camp.

If you are 18+, have your own transport and are keen to join the team click here

Scosa has been nominated as the 2013 Game Day Charity for the Port Adelaide Football Clubs iconic last ever home game at AAMI stadium (Turner Drive, West Lakes) on Friday 30th of August 2013 versus Carlton.

We have free tickets for 50 lucky volunteers to enjoy the game whilst collecting donations in support of scosa, by holding one of our donation balls.

Volunteers must be 18 years or older. What we will provide: A fun and rewarding experience in volunteering and free tickets to the 2013 AFL Charity Game Day.

What you will need: A current police clearance (acquired less than three months ago) or willingness to obtain one; availability to volunteer on the specified weekend.

All applicants are requested to apply on line by clicking here

On Friday 2nd of August 2013, volunteers will help to raise funds by selling Jeans for Genes merchandise in the Adelaide CBD. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community, have some fun and meet new people, and will help raise much needed funds for an extremely worthwhile cause! A big smile is needed!

There are a variety of times avaialble, so if you are 16 and over registered here today

The event is for people of all ages, with participants in teams of 2-5, navigating with a map and compass, to collect points at hidden markers. Strategic planning and teamwork come into play as they find their way through bush land. On conclusion, a 3 course gourmet meal prepared by the Spice Kitchen and Serafino Wines will be served. Over 500 participants are expected to take part this year.

Volunteers are needed to help set up the food service area, then serving the three course meal. Volunteers would be required at Cudlee Creek between 2pm and 7pm on Saturday 17th August and dinner will be provided. For more event information go to www.takeabreather.com.au

In lead up to the event a few volunteers are needed to help at the Asthma Foundation SA office (300 South Rd Hilton) to source items and services for the event.

If you are available for either of these roles please express your interest by clicking here.

Do you have a passion for organising events and other initiatives to raise money for worthy community causes?

We’re looking for volunteers who can undertake a range of tasks and projects to support the Wagga Women’s Health Centre and the fantastic work it does for women in our community. This could be a great opportunity for you to work with a group of friends on a project. If you are interested click here to register your details.

RDA provides horse riding and carriage driving lessons for people with disabilities and we cannot operate without our wonderful volunteers who range from the age of 12 and up!

All training is provided at 2 training days held through the year, as well as on-going training from our coaches and staff. 

Volunteers take many forms, and although most of our volunteers participate in horse related lessons, many others help in other ways. The Op-shop welcomes new faces, and our beautiful grounds reflect the work of others. There is also a catering committee, that provides food at functions throughout the region, and they welcome any contributions of food, time etc.

Saturday volunteering is the domain of our fantastic  Youthgroup.  This is a team of young people, aged between 12 and 18, that volunteer their time and energy EVERY Saturday through term time. 

If you would like to help out in any of these areas, click here to register your interest

Volunteers are needed between 9am to 5 pm but times are negotiable to work with your availability.

The following locations are available with the corresponding dates;

John Hunter Hospital Foyer – 24th, 26th, 27th & 28th June
John Hunter Royal – 27th June
The Junction Fair – 24th & 28th June
Raymond Terrace Centro – 26th June
Kotara – 24th & 25th June
Glendale – 27th & 28th June
Wallsend – 25th & 27th June
If you are available on any for these dates, click here to register your interest

For those aged between 18 and 25 who don’t have a credit card, debit cards are particularly handy for buying items like clothes and concert tickets. Certainly advertising campaigns have targeted this age group and so that’s one of the reasons we have seen this option take hold amongst young adults.

Aside from being interest-free, debit cards also offer a series of other features and benefits not generally found with other account access methods. For example:

• Convenience: payWave on Visa Debit cards enable you to complete transactions of less than $100 in seconds, saving the need to fumble around for cash.
• Security – Press the ‘Credit’ button when making a purchase at EFTPOS terminals to obtain additional support from Visa against fraud.
• Online Purchases – A Visa debit card can be used to make purchases online. This can be great for purchasing concert tickets, buying clothes, or just about any other item available on the internet.

Internet purchases and the value of online spending is steadily increasing, to the point that our online purchases now account for 26 per cent of the total spend on our members’ Visa Debit cards.

We’re also seeing payWave grow in popularity and it’s beginning to replace the use of cash for smaller purchases of less than $15. We are even starting to see ATM use decline as more consumers use cards at the point of sale rather than cash.

While debit cards were primarily introduced to suit the needs of younger generations, giving them security and flexibility for payment options, the appeal is also extending to those in the 35 to 45 age bracket.

The Visa Debit card is also an account option for people under 18. However, whilst it is highly secure, we recommend usage is monitored and parents or caregivers provide guidance to avoid transactions being made on unsafe or unauthorised websites.

We believe debit card uptake will continue to spread to other age groups as the card becomes more ingrained in the market. Longer term, we expect that smartphone technology will be used eventually to replace the traditional plastic card and enable us to complete purchases via our phones.\

Any questions? Feel free to comment below.

^Wayne – Chief Financial Officer

Want to help? We are requesting urgent volunteers for the 15th and 16th of June from 8.30am-4.30pm to help be part of the famous Bunnings BBQ at Modbury.

If you can donate some of your time for this incredible cause click here to express your interest.

We are urgently seeking volunteers who enjoy engaging with visitors to the Gaol, sharing the Gaol’s wonderful history and selling tickets and souvenirs. You will receive on site training in the use of our POS & EFTPOS machines to enable processing of ticket and souvenir sales. Other duties will include restocking food and drink items and some light cleaning, while working with others in a team.

Situated at Thebarton, this work requires people who are organised, good communicators, friendly and reliable. Suitable for people 18 and over.

Volunteer opportunities available Mondays to Fridays 9.30am to 4pm and Sundays 8.45am to 5.15pm, and half days are available. Sundays and public holidays are especially urgent to fill at present.

Parking is available on site, and the venue is close to public transport and is wheelchair accessible.

If you would like to register your interest click here

On Sunday the 23rd of June 2013 between 10am-2pm we will be helping the planet…one tree at a time at Breakout Creek in Lockleys.

Why not get your family and friend to register and make a day of it. We are looking for as many green thumbs to help with the project so if you are interested, register your details here

The following key tax tips are worth investigating – after all, the money is better in your pocket than in the taxman’s!

1. Maximise concessional contributions
If you have the cash flow, it makes sense to make the most of concessional contributions to super without breaching the current $25,000 universal cap.

This does need to be managed carefully as there are some payments that count towards your concessional cap, for instance fees  and/or insurance premiums paid by your employer count towards your cap. Similarly, if superannuation guarantee is paid on a bonus, this may also push you over the cap. And check the timing of contributions over the last couple of years as your employer may have been tardy in making last year’s contribution to your fund and it could be included in this year’s count. While the ATO currently allows fund members who breach the cap by up to $10,000 to withdraw the funds and only pay their marginal tax rate, this is only for a first-time breach. Subsequent breaches are treated far more harshly with a potential 93% tax penalty applied to breaches of contributions caps.

The recent May Budget announcements will allow individuals to withdraw any excess concessional contributions made from 1 July 2013 from their super fund. These excess concessional contributions will be taxed at the individual’s actual marginal tax rate, plus an interest charge (as would happen for income tax paid late to the ATO), rather than the top marginal tax rate. If the individual is on the top marginal tax rate then they will be hit with a new interest charge.

2. Consider commencing transition to retirement.
If you are aged over 55 and are planning to start a transition to retirement pension, then June is the perfect month. That’s because you don’t need to draw down any money from your pension until the following June – 12 months down the track – thus giving you the opportunity to grow your wealth more and perhaps even pass your 60th birthday when any withdrawals become tax free.

3. Take advantage of co-contributions
While the amount of co-contribution has now dropped to a maximum of $500, it is still money for nothing for those earning less than $46,920.

By making a $1000 non-concessional contribution to your super, those earning $31,920 or less will get a government cocontribution of $500 which tapers down till it cuts out at $46,920. If you are entitled to the full amount, that’s a 50 per cent return on your money!

4. Take a look at your investment portfolio
If you have experienced any capital losses thenyou might want to utilise these to offset any capital gains. Be aware that if you merely sell shares at a loss and then rebuy them straight away, the ATO deems this to be a wash sale and signifi cant penalties can apply.

5. Pre-pay deductible expenses
Expenses such as premiums on income protection insurance and interest on loans can be paid up to 13 months in advance. This will reduce your income in the current year and in turn reduce your tax liability.

6. Maximise property investment expenses
Make sure you take advantage of all the expenses you can claim from a property investment. For instance, did you know that aside from rates and mortgage payments, you can also claim cleaning and pest control? Ensure that you retain all documentation.

7. Document and claim all work-related expenses
You can automatically write off $300 a year in work-related expenses. With documentation it is possible to claim more.

8. Claim medical expenses
Do you have hefty medical bills? If your net medical expenses (after you have claimed from Medicare and your private health scheme) exceed $2120 then you can claim a 20 per cent rebate on that. However, it is now means tested and those earning more than $84,000 for a single or $168,000 for a couple can’t claim until net expenses reach $5000 and then only offset 10 per cent.

9. Small businesses – review asset purchases
The small business instant asset write-off threshold has risen from $1000 to $6500 for those with an annual turnover of less than $2 million.

10. Bad debt write offs for small business
Small businesses should check your bad debt situation – if you have a bad debt outstanding from the previous year, then write it off as you may be entitled to claim back a GST credit.

Take the opportunity to get your financial house in order, minimise your tax and maximise your wealth. Remember – once it is June 30, it will be too late! Please seek personal financial and tax advice before acting on any of these tips – penalties can be substantial for failing to claim properly.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

^Michael – Practice Development Manager

General Advice Warning: This advice may not be suitable to you because it contains general advice that has not been tailored to your personal circumstances. Please seek personal financial advice prior to acting on this information. Investment Performance: Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns as future returns may differ from and be more or less volatile than past returns.

Licensee Select is a division of Westpac and provides various financial planning support services to independent financial planning firms across Australia. Eastwoods Wealth Management has previously won seven SA/NT state based awards and one National award.

The criteria used for judging the National Best Practice award involved an independent review of of the business and the outcomes of the assessment showed that Eastwoods has the following:-

1. Well defined business strategy
2. Progressive financial planning business model
3. Strong compliance record based on independent planner & licensee reviews conducted by Licensee Select
4. Effective operational processes across the business
5. Effective marketing with strong new business inflows and solid financial performance
6. A strong professional and ethical team culture
7. Changes as required as a result of Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) regulation, which will take effect from the 1st of July 2013, are well planned and incorporated into the business.

The award represents an outstanding team effort dedicated to the provision of quality financial planning advice across Australia. I’m very proud of our team and the service we provide our clients.

^ Michael – Practice Development Manager

With June consistently being the most popular month to buy a car – particularly in 2012 when sales rose 17 per cent compared to June 2011* and with demand in Europe slumping by as much as 20 per cent – Australian car prices are falling, making it a buyers’ market.

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of shopping for a car, particularly during the promotional periods, but buyers could save hundreds of dollars more if they sort out their finance first.

Sorting out your finances before shopping around helps give some clarity on what you can afford. It also gives you better bargaining power, especially if you get your loan pre-approved because you know your budget and can negotiate a deal straight away. This could save you thousands of dollars and could potentially offset any lower finance rates offered by the dealership.

Dealer finance packages can have appealing interest rates and be very convenient but you should consider the fine print.

Our top five tips to consider when securing car finance include:
1. Before you start test-driving, get a car loan pre-approved
2. Consider all the terms and conditions on your car loan, not just the interest rate – do you need a deposit, is it a short-term agreement, can you make extra payments?
3. Read the fine print, particularly with highly promoted low rate loans – is this loan for a particular car, e.g. new not used, and is it available for a limited time?
4. Consider all expenses, not just the cost of the car – this includes stamp duty, insurance, running costs and interest
5. Explore a few loan options – talk to financial institutions

Shane Townsend from East Maitland decided to get pre-approved finance for a new work vehicle, before shopping around to help make the process easier.

“I knew from past experiences that the buying process would be easier if I got pre-approved finance for my Toyota Hilux first because I’d know how much I had to spend and could negotiate a deal with the provider straight away,” Mr Townsend said.

“Companion Credit Union helped me work out a realistic loan amount which was affordable and allowed me to buy the heavy duty car I needed for my building business.

“Getting a car loan this time with Companion Credit Union was simple and convenient compared with my past experiences because they were helpful throughout the process,” he said.

Do you have any questions about taking out a car loan? Feel free to leave a comment below.

^Ray – General Manager, Distribution

*Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries

Stay Smart Online

This week is National Cyber Security Awareness Week – an annual Australian Government initiative held in partnership with industry, community and consumer organisations and all levels of government.

The aim of Awareness Week is to help Australians using the internet – whether at home, the workplace or school – understand the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online.

Stay Smart Online encourages all Australians to remember these ten simple tips to improve their online security:
1. Install and update your security software and set it to scan regularly
2. Turn on automatic updates on all your software, particularly your operating system and applications
3. Use strong passwords and different passwords for different uses
4. Stop and think before you click on links and attachments
5. Take care when buying online – research the supplier and use a safe payment method
6. Only download “apps” from reputable publishers and read all permission requests
7. Regularly check your privacy settings on social networking sites
8. Stop and think before you post any photos or financial information online
9. Talk with your child about staying safe online, including on their smart phone or mobile device
10. Report or talk to someone if you feel uncomfortable or threatened online – download the Government’s Cybersafety Help Button

Stay Smart Online offers a free Alert Service for Australian internet users, to explain recent online threats and how they can be managed which you can register for here: www.staysmartonline.gov.au/alert_service

^Sharon – Financial Crimes Analyst

Volunteers are matched on a one-to-one basis with the residents and ideally visit with them for one to two hours on a weekly or fortnightly basis. You may also enjoy social outings together, visit places of common interest, go out for coffee together etc.

Suitable for people 18+, your involvement will enrich someone’s life and you could make new friends too!

To register your interest for this role click here.

Participants come from a variety of backgrounds and may include people with a disability or a mental illness, the frail elderly, former prisoners, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

MATES also hold regular get-togethers for participants and volunteers. These gatherings provide an informal opportunity for people to chat, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and share their experiences of the program.

Volunteers will be patient, open-minded and accepting of people’s differences. Suitable for people 18+
To register your interest for this role click here.

Lessons will be conducted during school hours (8:30am-3:00pm) on school days or immediately before or after school. All lessons will start and end at the school. BSHS is hoping to have at least ten instructors on the roster to spread the load, so your contribution may be as little as one hour/week. You will need to be fully licensed, obtain a police clearance and a Working with Children Permit. Suitable for people 25+

To register your interest for this role click here.

 Tutors need to have good literacy and numeracy skills, and have a genuine interest in working with people. Your patience and acceptance of others will be appreciated. Suitable for people 21+ and who may have their own transport.

To register your interest for this role click here.

Bring along your passion for healthy ageing and your ability to have fun and share a few hours with us. Suitable for people 50+. Full training and reimbursements are offered.

To register your interest for this role click here.

Every year Karen supports The Cancer Council’s Wagga Relay for Life. This annual event is one of Wagga’s most successful fundraising events and receives overwhelming support from the community. Karen says: “The Relay has very special meaning for me and I enjoy volunteering each year. Like thousands of others in our community I have been affected by cancer on a personal level and understand how important the Relay for Life is to so many people. It brings together people from all walks of life to support one another whilst raising funds for such a great cause.”

Karen says that volunteering has enriched her life in many ways: “I now appreciate the tireless work that volunteers do in our community and have learnt to be more understanding of people’s needs.”

Karen encourages others to become a volunteer and says: “Get involved and celebrate what our communities have to offer. Volunteering is such a great way to meet new people and at the same time you will be helping so many others.”

Well done Karen and thanks a million!

^Marlaina – Volunteering Coordinator

Debbie recently volunteered with Peel Riding for the Disabled and describes what she loved about this experience: “I could not believe how a small group of disabled children could bond so intensely with their horses and the joy on their faces. It was as if at that moment they were not facing any personal challenges and they were doing something that not even able-bodied individuals have attempted!”

Debbie encourages others to become a volunteer and says: “Being able to give back to your local community gives you a sense of achievement and working alongside such passionate groups helps you to put everything in life into perspective and appreciate others more.”

Well done Debbie and thanks a million!

^Tuija – Community Membership Coordinator

Greg recently volunteered to be on the Newcastle/Lake Macquarie Relay for Life Committee to raise funds for the fight against cancer and describes what he loved about this experience: “To see the event grow each year by both the funds raised and in community participation shows that the local community is very supportive. I am glad to have played a part!”

Greg says volunteering has changed his life: “Like a lot of Australians, I sat on the sidelines and watched others give up their time and make a difference. By taking an active role, I have been able to assist in a number of areas and to see the benefits flow onto both others and myself. I have become a better, caring person.”

Greg encourages others to become a volunteer and says: “Community involvement by volunteers creates a better environment for all who participate. It creates a spirit of wellbeing and it has a positive impact on all who are involved in the activity.”

Well done Greg and thanks a million!

^Teagan – Community Membership Coordinator

Wagga Mutual Credit Union has presented the RDA with an eight-seater wheelchair friendly vehicle that will allow the group to transport children who otherwise could not access horse-riding and carriage driving lessons at the RDA’s arenas on Plumpton Road.

The vehicle has been purchased and converted to become wheelchair-accessible following a $30,000 grant from the Wagga Mutual Regional Fund and an additional $35,000 in financial support from RDA donors and the Wagga community.

RDA president Bev Amery has been eagerly awaiting the car’s arrival and was today presented with the keys by Peter Rutter, General Manager of Community at Wagga Mutual’s parent company Community CPS Australia.

Already Mrs Amery has plans to keep the vehicle busy travelling across the region picking up children and bringing them to the Plumpton Road arena.

“Now that we have the vehicle we’ll be able to pick up children from local schools which have not had their own means of transport and bring them here for lessons starting from next week,” she said.

“We’ll also be using the vehicle to transport our riding coaches to training sessions and RDA state conferences.

“This is truly a highlight for us and marks a turning point in our long history. We started almost 40 years ago with six clients and now have more than 100 clients visiting us each week. The smiles we receive from our clients and the strength we see them gaining from their lessons is incredibly rewarding and we know they, and their families sincerely appreciate every trip to the RDA.”

Mr Rutter said the RDA was the second annual recipient of the Wagga Mutual Regional Fund Grant, which provided much needed support to a key community group in the region.

“Bev and her team of volunteer trainers have been providing riding lessons since 1975 and are making a real difference to children and young people with disabilities,” Mr Rutter said.

“Today marks a special day in the history of RDA and it is with absolute pleasure that Wagga Mutual can present the car to Bev and her hardworking team of volunteers to help them extend their already popular services.”

Thank you to everyone who supported our fundraising for this worthy cause.

^Karen – Community Membership Coordinator

Rachael volunteers for the Red Cross as a Tele-Cross volunteer and describes one of her favourite experiences: “One of the elderly clients eagerly awaits my daily call and our conversations often go for 10 minutes or more. She shared her life with me and was keen to get to know me. I’m not sure who actually got more out of the call, her or me, as I often found that when something happy or unusual had happened I couldn’t wait to tell her. “

Rachael says this experience has given her the opportunity to touch base with those that are lonely and often have no one else in their lives to make sure that they’re ok.

Rachael encourages others to become a volunteer and says: “It will give you the satisfaction and joy of knowing you are helping someone else.”

Well done Rachael and thanks a million!

^Terese – Community Membership Coordinator

Katrina is a volunteer Guide at the Adelaide Zoo and recently she had a group from Deaf Can Do. She says: “It really made me appreciate the animals in the zoo from a visual perspective and to explain about the animals in a different way. Instead of listening to the sounds, I explained why they make sounds and how they communicate using not only sound but visual stimuli as well. This group were so appreciative and at the end we both benefitted, they left with huge smiles on their faces and learnt about the animals…this is what is memorable for me!”

Katrina encourages others to become a volunteer and says: “If you love doing something, the most powerful thing you can do is contribute your time. Many organisations would not exist without the volunteers and the support they provide.“

Well done Katrina and thanks a million!

^Vicky – Community Membership Coordinator

Meals On Wheels are looking for someone who is available weekdays, to assist with our clients, preparing route sheets, assessing new clients, and calling clients who were not home when meals were delivered. Full training and support will be provided.

Someone with good people skills, who enjoys planning, will be well suited to this role.

To register your interest for this role click here.

Meals On Wheels are looking for someone who is available weekdays, between the hours of 7am – 11am) to welcome new volunteer to the branch, prepare the roster, and maintain volunteers service records.

Full training and support will be provided.

Someone with good people skills, who enjoys planning, will be well suited to this role.

To register your interest for this role click here.

Meals On Wheels are looking for someone who has cooking or catering knowledge or experience and is available weekdays, especially Monday and Tuesday mornings (7am – 11am). Full training and support will be provided.

Someone with good people skills, who enjoys planning, will be well suited to this role.

To register your interest for this role click here.

Meals On Wheels are looking for someone who has cooking or catering knowledge or experience and is available weekdays, especially Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings (7am – 11am). Full training and support will be provided.

Someone with good people skills, who enjoys planning, will be well suited to this role.

To register your interest for this role click here.

As your lifestyle changes, it’s important that your insurance cover adapts with it – otherwise you risk being underinsured, which can have devastating financial effects on you and your family.

Here are four types of insurance and why they are ‘must-haves’:

Income Protection – This is the most important type of insurance as it covers you if you’re unable to work due to an illness or accident. While Centrelink benefits may be available, they often are below what you would otherwise earn, and may not be enough to cover mortgage payments and living expenses.

Home Building Insurance – This provides cover for damages to your home building. It’s important to make sure you have sufficient cover for your building at all times and that you remember to update your policy if you make any extensions or modifications to your home. Some policies will also cover the flow-on effects of damage caused to your home. For example, if you were to suffer permanent injuries as a result of damage to your building by an insured event, you may be able to claim back some of the costs of modifying your home to accommodate your needs.

Home Contents Insurance – As well as the ‘big ticket’ items in your home such as furniture and televisions, your home contents also includes all the other bits and pieces you might accumulate over time. Think about your clothing, kitchenware, books, tools and more. Contents insurance can also cover your legal liability for payment of compensation to others where an incident occurs outside the home. For example, if you injured someone while playing golf, you may also be covered for legal costs that may arise as a result of that incident.

Personal Effects Insurance – This is usually an extension of contents insurance and covers personal valuables that are portable, such as bikes, jewellery and phones when you take them away from home. People often underestimate the value of personal effects but these are the items that can be more susceptible to loss, theft or damage when you are out and about.

When you receive your insurance renewal in the mail, take the time to review the level of cover you’ve selected and assess whether your policies need to be updated.

Insurance brokers and financial institutions can provide advice on the different types of insurance and help you understand what’s needed for your individual circumstances.

If you have any questions about insurance feel free to leave a comment below.

^Robert – Chief Executive Officer

Things you should know>

You will all be very proud of me… I commenced my formal training eight weeks ago and I have been working very hard to learn new tasks. I have been learning basic guiding skills like learning to walk in a straight line, stop at kerbs, and make left and right turns. The most difficult task I am learning is how to move around obstacles. My Guide Dog Trainer is very patient with me and I try to make sure she doesn’t bump into any obstacles. I have to concentrate very hard.

I have been on so many new adventures lately. I have been told it is very important that I visit different environments to help me with my training. I started with walks around my neighbourhood and then visited the busy streets of Unley and Norwood. I have even been to Burnside Shopping Centre – that was so much fun.

I’m sure you will not be surprised to hear that I am the biggest dog at Guide Dogs School. I have been told that I am a hard worker and that I am doing very well with my training. I was even the first in the group to enter full harness.

My Guide Dog Trainer told me that I am a fast learner, but I do need to slow down. I just get so excited and can’t wait to learn new tasks. Sometimes I forget to concentrate and think through what I need to do. Mental note for Eastwood… staaay focused!

I have lots of energy and I love to play. My Trainer told me that I am showing good promise and praised me on how hard I am working. That made my tail wag!

As you all know my sister Asha has also started her Guide Dog training. We get to spend each week day together and help one another with our training sessions.

When I left my Puppy Raisers home I lived with my Guide Dog Trainer. I was so lucky – Asha also lived with me. We would travel together to Guide Dogs and she would give me some tips to help me with my training. And best of all, we would play together at home each night.

Big hugs and licks!

Wuv Eastwood

In 2012 Eastwoods sponsored a Guide Dog pup called Eastwood. We will continue to provide updates on his progress here.

In the event something was to happen to your son or daughter which left their family without any means of support, it would most likely be you who the family turns to for support.

We encountered a situation recently with a retired couple whose financial situation was well secured with a self-funded pension arrangement. Unfortunately, their daughter suffered a serious and sudden long term health issue and they are now looking after the two grandchildren, both physically and, to a worrying extent, financially.

Thankfully their daughter had some insurance that assisted with the family’s cashflow needs; however the son-in-law had to stop work to care for her and the insurance funds were not sufficient to replace his necessary income and pay their liabilities.

The question arises – would you want to be the only source of support if something happened to your grown children? Circumstances such as this could place serious financial pressure on your retirement funds and in turn your overall retirement plans.

Whether you are already retired or about to retire, talk to your son or daughter about their financial obligations, and make sure they have a plan in place to protect their family’s financial future. And if they are not in a position to do so themselves, it could be something you pay for on their behalf.

We strongly recommend you conduct an ‘audit’ on how vulnerable you are to an unexpected event happening to your children. Our financial planners are available for a free audit of your children’s personal insurance needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment on this blog post or call Eastwoods Wealth Management on 8132 9288.

^Michael – Practice Development Manager

We are supporting St Dominic’s Centre for Hearing Impaired Children by holding a Charity Golf Day on Friday the 17th May at the Hunter Valley Golf & Country Club (Crowne Plaza), Lovedale.

Roles include assisting with registrations, selling raffle tickets on the course, setting up the lunch function and handing out auction prizes

If you are available from 8.30am – 3.30 pm and would like to be part of the team click here to register your interest.

On Sunday 19 May the happiest 5kms on the planet is coming to Victoria Park Racecourse, Adelaide.

We are very pleased to announce that Make-A-Wish Australia has been selected as an official charity partner for this new and exciting event! We are urging volunteers to get together  – encourage your friends, family and colleagues to become involved and support ‘Make A Wish’ by volunteering during the event on Friday 17 and Sunday 19 May.

You really can help make wishes come true!  For each volunteering session Make-A-Wish fills, the Celebrate Life Foundation will donate $150 to Make-A-Wish!*

Volunteer positions vary from prepping the participant race kits to launching colour on the day – and as long as you love colour and having fun, we’d love to have you on board!

We have various roles that need to be filled on the below dates and you can sign up for as many shifts as you like!  Remember the more sessions that are filled, the larger the donation from the Celebrate Life Foundation and you will be helping to make more wishes come true!

Friday 17 May

· 9:15am – 2pm
· 1:30pm – 6pm

Sunday 19 May

· 6am – 10:30am
· 6:30am – 1:30pm
· 7am – 1:30pm

You must be aged 16 years + to volunteer at this event.

Registrations close May 6th! To register your interest for this event please click here

The Program’s objectives are to demonstrate Rotary’s respect and concern for youth, to provide youth training experience, to encourage continued and stronger leadership of youth and to publicly recognise the high qualities of the many young people in our community.

It is about developing leadership, cooperation, consideration, communication and confidence. It is a “kick-start” for young people aged 18-28, who have demonstrated leadership, intelligence and compassion within their local community.

The intensive week long program covered a variety of topics including team building, challenges of leadership and community involvement, as well as strategies designed to help young people reach their full potential.

Well done to all the participants!

^Karen – Community Membership Coordinator

Late last year, we saw the number of refinanced loans almost double when compared to the same period in 2011 and we experienced a 20% increase in the number of people bringing their home loans across from another lender.

We predict the trend towards switching will continue, particularly following the Federal Government’s new legislation on switching financial institutions, which came into effect from 1 July 2012.

The new legislation gives homeowners the ability to change financial institutions without having to go back and forth with their current provider. The new provider now arranges the switch, making it easier for the homeowner.

We will see more and more people looking for alternative products as home loan packages become more competitive, which actually works in the consumers’ favour.

People can save thousands by switching providers, for example, if they can find a home loan product that reduces their interest rate from 6.69% to 6.49% they could save up to $450 a year – based on a standard mortgage of $300,000. This would be a saving of more than $11,000 over the course of a 25 year loan.

We recommend the following to those who are considering a switch:

• Assess – is your current home loan still the best solution for you? Has your lifestyle changed since you first took out the loan and what loan features are most important
• Research – see what other financial institutions – including credit unions and building societies – are offering and which package meets your needs.
• Compare – Ask for a Home Loan Key Fact Sheet from your existing and potential providers for an easy method of comparing home loans.
• Understand your existing terms – find out whether you will have to pay any exit fees and if so, will this be worth it in the long term.
• Speak to the professionals – after doing your own research, it’s a good idea to talk to your existing and potential provider to get the best possible product.

Homeowner, Vince Alvaro (pictured) refinanced his $220,000 home loan with us recently and is now saving $300 a month with a restructured repayment plan.

“I already had my car loan with the credit union and decided to discuss refinancing my home loan because I wasn’t happy with what other institutions were offering,” he said.

“They had a very competitive interest rate and allowed me to tailor the repayment plan to suit my needs. As a result, I am now saving hundreds of dollars on fees, which means I can pay off my loans quicker.”

“Aside from the financial benefits, I felt like a valued member and found the switching process very easy,” he said.

If you have any questions about home loans or how to switch, feel free to leave a comment on this post.

^Michelle – State Manager, WA

The Centre provides a valuable support service to our community and helps more than 3,500 women and children deal with issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse and homelessness.

Wagga Mutual enjoys a strong community partnership with The Centre and was pleased to support the fundraising campaign by providing a $5K sponsorship for their recent Celebrating Women Gala Concert.

The concert was hosted by TV personality and White Ribbon Foundation Chairman, Andrew O’Keefe and was attended by hundreds of supporters who enjoyed an evening of entertainment which included an array of local talent and performances by Golden Guitar winner, Tamara Stewart and Andrew O’Keefe.

Kapooka Commandant, Colonel David Hay who was the brainchild behind the concert, also hosted a very unique VIP Sponsors Day at the Army Recruit Training Base ahead of the concert. Special guests enjoyed a first hand look at Army training and those who were up for a challenge also took part in an adrenaline charged challenge of abseiling down a 20 meter roping tower.

Wagga Mutual’s Regional Manager, Andrew Toole (pictured) was more than happy to step out of his comfort zone to support this worthwhile cause and was encouraged during his challenge by well known journalist and women’s rights campaigner, Julie McCrossin.

Thank you to everyone who supported the Wagga Women’s Health Centre by attending the Celebrating Women Gala Concert!

^Karen – Community Membership Coordinator

Wagga Wagga Takes Two is a unique charity event that partners 12 of Wagga’s best entertainers with 12 local celebrities, together they perform to create a very special night of entertainment and to raise funds for the celebrities chosen charity.

This year’s event starts this week with nightly performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Friday and Saturday have sold out, tickets are still available for Thursday’s show: buy tickets here.

Charities who have been chosen by the performers and will benefit from the community’s generosity are:
• Adventures for Axle
• Amie St Clair Melanoma Trust
• County Hope
• Family Link
• Headspace
• Legacy
• Little Paths
• Relay For Life
• Ronald McDonald House
• Wagga Mens Shed
• Wagga Prostate Cancer Support Group
• Womens Refuge & Edel Quin Shelter

Wagga Mutual also supports this year’s local charities through our Community Reward Account Program.

Best of luck to all the performers and the organising committee, we hope this year’s event is another great success!

^Karen – Community Membership Coordinator