Find Maroondah - March 2026 Edition

MAROONDAH

By Joe Lam

COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS

|

COPYWRITER / ACRREDITED EDITOR

Are you our next Copywriter? ?

Are you our next Wedding Planner? ? ? ?

Are you our next Life Coach?

WEDDING PLANNER

Are you our next Architectural Interior Design?

BOOKKEEPING

Are you our next Bookkeeper? ?

Fitness Trainer

Are you our next Fitness Trainer? ?

CLUB SPONSORS

About the Find Maroondah

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Maroondah is a community paper that aims to support all things Maroondah. 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 Maroondah 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

The

and rolling out over the coming years. Our aim is to help as many NFP and other like organisations to raise much needed funds to help them to keep operating. Our fundraising initiatives will never simply ask for money from you. We will also aim to provide something of worth to you before you part with your hard-earned money. The first initiative is the Find Cards and Find Coupons – similar to the Entertainment Book but cheaper and more localised. Any NFP and similar organisations e.g., schools, sporting clubs, can participate.

Follow us on facebook (https://www. facebook.com/findmaroondah) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.

We value your support,

The Find Maroondah Team.

Maroondah

EDITORIAL ENQUIRES: Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 editor@findmaroondah.com.au

PUBLISHER: Issuu Pty Ltd

POSTAL ADDRESS: 248 Wonga Road, Warranwood VIC 3134

ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTS: editor@findmaroondah.com.au

GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 1300 88 38 30

EMAIL SUPPORT: editor@findmaroondah.com.au

WEBSITE: www.findmaroondah.com.au

OUR NEWSPAPER

The Find Maroondah was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with a core focus of helping other Not-For-Profits, 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 Maroondah has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.

ALL THINGS MAROONDAH

The City of Maroondah is a local government area in Victoria, Australia, in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Maroondah had a population of approximately 118,000 as of the 2019 report, comprising 9,000 businesses and nearly 46,000 households. The City of Maroondah was created through the amalgamation of the former cities of Ringwood and Croydon in December 1994.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Find Maroondah acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Maroondah now stands, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation, and pays respect 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 Maroondah accepts no responsibility for financial, health or other claims published in advertising or

A New Season, New Stories: The AFL in 2026

By Joe Lam

Few competitions capture Australia’s sporting heartbeat like the Australian Football League. From its beginnings as the Victorian Football League in 1897 to today’s fully national competition, the AFL has grown into the nation’s premier football league. Expansion beyond Victoria shapes the game’s reach, embedding football into communities across the country and making the Grand Final one of the nation’s most-watched annual events.

The 2026 season is already underway, blending the league’s rich history with fresh tactics, new talent, and shifting club fortunes.

Rules and a Faster Game

This season, rule tweaks promote speed and attacking football. Clarifications on deliberate out-of-bounds calls and faster ball-ups cut stoppages and reward teams that move the ball quickly. Coaches prioritise high-pressure forward lines and rapid transitions from defence, making endurance and versatility essential in every match.

Prime-time scheduling adds intensity, placing extra emphasis on squad depth and player recovery. How teams manage rotations and fitness is shaping ladder positions as much as skill and strategy.

Trades and List Moves

Off-season list changes are already influencing outcomes. Contenders like the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood Football Club strengthen their experienced cores, showing they are serious about premiership success.

Rebuilding sides, such as the West Coast Eagles and North Melbourne Football Club, focus on youth development through the draft, balancing long-term growth with immediate contributions. Clubs continue blending elite stars, adaptable role players, and promising youngsters to stay competitive.

Youth on the Rise

Emerging talent already shapes the season’s storylines. Young stars like Nick Daicos make an immediate impact, while prospects such as Harley Reid show they can influence games across multiple positions.

Academies and sports science programs allow clubs to rely on youth earlier than ever, and early breakthroughs are deciding close contests. Teams trusting young players gain an edge in tight matches.

Coaching and Tactical Trends

Coaching stability continues to provide an advantage. Leaders such as Craig McRae redefine modern coaching with collaboration and data-driven strategies. Across the league, tactical evolution is visible every week — defenders push into midfield rotations, forwards apply relentless pressure, and analytics increasingly shape game plans.

Clubs under pressure fight to improve, while top contenders prove their systems still deliver under expectation.

Predictions and Storylines

Brisbane’s strong midfield and Collingwood’s organised systems keep them in premiership contention. Carlton Football Club shows promise if consistency matches their talent.

Fast, young sides continue to surprise, and breakout seasons from developing midfielders and hybrid forwards shape the modern game. Injuries, form swings, and emerging stars continue to rewrite the story each week.

The Season in Motion

The 2026 AFL season delivers fierce rivalries, rising stars, and thrilling drama every week. Tradition meets innovation as the league honours its past while evolving the game. For fans, every bounce of the ball offers excitement, and this season is proving once again why Australian football is more than a sport — it’s a national ritual.

ACCOUNTANT

By Warren Strybosch

I have been working as a financial adviser for over 20 years and I am an accountant. When I started out as a financial advisor, I did so because someone had set up a scheme for which many people lost their money. I was determined to make sure those around me would not lose their money again to scheme operators.

In that period of time, I have had more than my share of emails come across my desk and clients walking in my door regarding the advice they have received or they have come in requesting a second opinion on the fees they were being charged or asked to pay.

Example 1:

Mary is upset after learning that her annual fee will be $20,000 based on approximately $1,000,000 in funds under management (FUM). I understand we have to be careful with comparing fees but when the advisor is simply setting

up a managed account (MA) or a managed investment scheme (MIS) and simply providing a yearly report to the client, one has to ask what benefit is the client really receiving?

I often hear words of transparency and friendship but do clients come in looking to pay $20,000 per year to have another ‘friend’ hold their hand as they watch the investments go up and down? I don’t believe so. Nevertheless, we were able to demonstrate that our fees would be around $9,000 per year in total (that includes the fee paid to the pension fund and our advisor fee). Basically, it was either an overseas holiday for the client each year or paying the advisor high fees.

Example 2:

I was approached by a couple who wished to obtain a second opinion. An advisor was recommending they roll out of their industry fund, move into a retail platform, and set up an MIS. These clients would have about $1.5m combined. Again, their costs from moving out of the industry fund to the new retail platform,

when adding the advisor fee of 0.8% of FUM (about $12,000 to the advisor), would be a total of about $29,000 per year. This would be an increase of approximately $17,000 to move away from the industry fund. Again, I heard words of transparency and relationship. At least these advisors told the client they would end up paying more in fees each year for the privilege of having the relationship with them. Needless to say, we estimated our total fees (advisor and platform fees) would be around $11,000.

Example 3:

Roger was recommended to see a financial planner by his accountant. The accountant was nice enough to disclose that he would receive 22.5% for the referral from the financial planner. A simple Statement of Advice (SoA) was going to cost the client over $14,000 to prepare. We actually reviewed the SoA and I can tell you it fell short in many areas and did not meet the pub test of ‘best interest’. Even the ongoing fees were not disclosed correctly. Accountants now have a duty of care to act honestly and be above reproach where a conflict of

interest might occur. Given this SoA fee was well above the average, one has to ask if the advisor was inflating these costs simply because of the referral arrangement and having to pay the accountant nearly $3000 in referral fees. Again, the ongoing fees were above 0.7%. This client also had about $1.5M of FUM and so his fees were also going to be in excess of $25,000 per year. Not only were the fees high but the advice was far from being in the client’s best interest.

It surprises me that, despite improvements in education requirements for our profession, the new Code of Conduct for both financial planners and accountants, enhancements to the ASIC registry, and the establishment of a financial planning board to monitor our behaviour, we still have people entering or remaining in our profession for their own gains or for the wrong reasons.

When selecting an advisor, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:

1. Qualifications and Experience:

Check the advisor's credentials, qualifications, and experience in the field. Look for relevant certifications, licenses, and professional affiliations. Consider their years of experience and track record in providing financial advice. You can view their credentials via their Financial Services Guide and on the ASIC website via the Professional Registry which will take you to the Money Smart website.

2. Fiduciary Duty:

Ensure that the advisor has a fiduciary duty to act in your best interests at all times. This means they are legally and ethically bound to prioritize your interests over their own. This could be as simple as asking the advisor why they

are moving your money out of the industry fund, resulting in you paying more in fees. An acceptable response should not be ‘transparency’ or ‘client relationship’. You are not paying advisors to be your friend!

3. Services Offered:

Understand the specific services offered by the advisor, such as financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and others. Make sure they can provide the type of services you need based on your financial goals.

4. Communication Style:

Consider the advisor's communication style and how well it aligns with your preferences. Do they communicate clearly and regularly? Do they listen attentively to your concerns and questions? Communication is key to a successful advisor-client relationship.

5. Fee Structure:

Understand the advisor's fee structure and how they are compensated for their services. Ask about any potential conflicts of interest, such as commissions or hidden fees. Ensure that the fees are transparent and reasonable. Shop around to compare fees from other advisors and what work they will provide for that fee.

6. Client References:

Request references from the advisor and speak with their existing clients to get feedback on their experience. This can provide insights into the advisor's reputation, professionalism, and client satisfaction.

7. Investment Philosophy:

Understand the advisor's investment philosophy and approach to managing investments. Make sure it aligns with your risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon. Also, find out if the advisor is personally looking after your investments or outsourcing it. Are they setting up a Managed Account (MA) or Managed Investment Scheme (MIS) whereby someone else is looking after the investments? If so, why move you away from your industry fund that is already managing your investments? Paying more in fees for no potential gain does not sound like a great idea to me.

One question you should ask your advisor before signing on is, "How do you manage conflicts of interest in your practice?" This will help you understand how the advisor handles potential conflicts of interest that may arise from their recommendations or actions and whether they prioritise your best interests above all else. It's important to clearly understand how your advisor manages any potential conflicts to ensure that they are acting in your best interests at all times.

Also, if you hear about someone offering you ‘risk free’ investment opportunities and a way to make high returns, consider running the other way. If unsure, please call us to discuss. We would rather spend 15 minutes on the phone pointing you in the right direction and protecting your investments than hear you have lost all your money.

If you have already set yourself up with a financial advisor and wonder if you are paying too many fees, then feel free to call Find Accountant on 1300 88 38 30 to compare our fees and services. We would prefer to see you enjoy retirement with more funds.

Common bookkeeping mistakes small businesses make

By JODIE MOORE BOOKKEEPING

Running a small business means wearing a lot of hats. One minute you’re serving customers, the next you’re handling marketing, and somewhere in between you’re trying to keep your books up to date. Bookkeeping might not be the most exciting part of running a business but getting it wrong can cause serious headaches. The good news? Most bookkeeping mistakes are common— and totally avoidable.

Let’s walk through some of the biggest ones small businesses make and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Mixing personal and business finances. This is incredibly common, especially in the early days. You swipe your personal card for a quick business purchase or transfer money back and forth without much thought. The problem is that it creates a messy paper trail. When tax time rolls around, you’ll spend hours trying to untangle what was business and what wasn’t.

The fix: open a dedicated business bank account and use it consistently. It makes tracking income and expenses so much cleaner.

2. Not keeping receipts – This makes it difficult to verify expenses and claim deductions come tax time. Without receipts, you generally cannot claim the deduction – a costly mistake.

The fix: Use digital apps to scan and store receipts consistently i.e Hubdoc in Xero

3. Poor record-keeping – missing invoices and delayed data entry can lead to inaccurate financial records

The fix: Update your books weekly and ideally use accounting software such as Xero to help speed up and semi-automate the process.

4. Ignoring cashflow – when you don’t follow up on outstanding invoices for work you have done and haven’t planned ahead for future expenses, you can run into some cashflow issues causing you unnecessary stress.

The fix: Ensure you have a system in place for following up on payments from clients and know what expenses

you have coming up. This could be through a spreadsheet, having reminders set up for regular expenses, or again using accounting software such as Xero.

5. Misclassifying expenses – This can distort financial reports and cause issues at tax time.

The fix: Learn basic accounting categories or speak with a professional for guidance.

6. Forgetting about taxes – Not setting aside money for taxes can result in financial strain when it comes time to lodging your tax return.

The fix: Set aside a percentage of revenue for taxes. If you have previously lodged a return that resulted in you owing money to the ATO, you may already have been added to the PAYG Instalment system which means pre-paying an estimate of your tax debt in Quarterly instalments. This helps, but you still need to have the money saved for each quarter.

7. Trying to do everything alone (to save money) – You have your skillset and this may not be bookkeeping. This could open you up to making costly mistakes. Simply using

accounting software such as Xero can help with this for a small monthly (deductible) cost. Hiring a bookkeeper for a few hours a month to help keep on top of everything can also be money well spent.

The fix – Use accounting software and/or hire a bookkeeper.

8. Not understanding your business financials – This prevents you from being able to make informed decisions about your business, whether that be which product/ service to drop, when to expand your business, when to take on extra staff etc.

The fix: Generate monthly financial reports. If you have an accountant or bookkeeper discuss the reports so you understand what they mean and how they impact your business.

At the end of the day, bookkeeping isn’t just about staying out of trouble with taxes. It’s about understanding your business. Clean, accurate books help you make smarter decisions, spot problems early, and plan confidently for growth. With a few good habits and the right support, you can avoid the most common mistakes and keep your business finances on solid ground.

How to Effectively Manage Volunteers: A Practical Guide

DIGITAL MEDIA

By Ethan Strybosch

Volunteers are the backbone of many non-profits, providing essential support and resources to help further your mission.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to managing volunteers effectively:

1. Set Clear Expectations

From the outset, define specific roles, responsibilities, and goals for each volunteer. Clear expectations help ensure that everyone understands their contributions and how they align with the organisation's objectives. This clarity can significantly enhance engagement and accountability.

2. Provide Comprehensive Training

Equip your volunteers with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in their roles. Offering thorough training sessions not only prepares them for their tasks but also boosts their confidence. Regularly update training materials to reflect new processes or policies, ensuring that volunteers always have the most current information.

3. Show Appreciation Regularly

Acknowledge and recognise the hard work and contributions of your volunteers. Regularly expressing gratitude— whether through shout-outs at meetings, personalised thank-you notes, or volunteer appreciation events— can strengthen morale and loyalty. Celebrating milestones and successes together also fosters a sense of community and belonging.

4. Offer Growth Opportunities

Encourage volunteers to develop their skills and take on leadership roles. Providing opportunities for advancement can motivate dedicated volunteers to deepen their commitment. Consider implementing mentorship programs or offering workshops to help them grow professionally while benefiting your organisation.

5. Maintain Open Communication

Foster an environment where volunteers feel comfortable sharing their feedback and concerns. Regular check-ins can help address any issues before they escalate and allow you to gather valuable insights on their experiences.

6. Create a Community

Build a supportive community among your volunteers. Organise social events, team-building activities, or group projects to enhance relationships and foster collaboration. A strong community can lead to higher retention rates and a more engaged volunteer base.

7. Evaluate and Adapt

Periodically assess your volunteer management practices to identify areas for improvement. Gather feedback from volunteers about their experiences and adjust your strategies accordingly. This continuous improvement approach can help ensure that your volunteer

program remains effective and responsive to their needs.

By implementing these tips, your nonprofit can cultivate a dedicated and effective volunteer team that enhances your mission and supports your organisation’s growth.

Engaged volunteers are not only more productive but also become ambassadors for your cause, spreading awareness and enthusiasm within the community.

Cherry Wealth: Helping you create, protect and grow your wealth

By Erryn Langley Director and Financial Adviser

At Cherry Wealth, we believe that financial advice should be personal, practical, and empowering. Based in Croydon, we are a team dedicated to helping individuals, families, and business owners take control of their financial future with confidence and clarity.

Headed by our Financial Adviser Erryn Langley, our approach is built on genuine relationships, strategic insight, and developing a clear understanding of our clients’ goals. Whether you're planning for retirement, managing investments, protecting your assets, or navigating life’s major milestones, we offer tailored financial strategies to help you make informed decisions.

We specialise in:

• Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) Advice

• Retirement and pre-retirement Financial Planning

• Wealth Creation and Investment Advice

• Personal risk insurance

With a client-first philosophy, we aim to simplify the complex and guide you through every step of your financial journey.

Erryn has completed additional specialised qualifications to be able to offer Self-Managed Superannuation Fund Advice (SMSF) , people often ask what is an SMSF?

A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a private superannuation fund that you manage yourself, offering greater control over how your retirement savings are invested compared to traditional super funds.

Key features of an SMSF include:

• Control: Members (up to 6) are usually also the trustees, which means you make all investment decisions for the fund.

• Flexibility: SMSFs allow you to invest in a wider range of assets, including (if appropriate) property, Australian and International equities, listed investment companies, exchange traded funds, managed funds, term deposits, fixed interest products all in line with the specific SMSF’s investment strategy.

• Responsibility: As a trustee, you're legally responsible for complying with super and tax laws, including ongoing administration, audits, and reporting to the ATO this is where we can help provide expert advice and guidance.

• Cost-effectiveness: SMSFs can be cost-efficient for larger balances (typically over $300,000), but may not be suitable for smaller superannuation balances, due to setup and annual compliance costs.

An SMSF can be a powerful tool for sophisticated investors who want more control and tailored strategies for building retirement wealth. However, they are not for everyone — professional guidance is essential to determine if an SMSF aligns with your goals and capacity to manage it.

Thinking about an SMSF or planning for your retirement?

Contact Cherry Wealth on 1300 557 144 today to schedule a complimentary consultation and discover how we can help you meet your goals.

Erryn Langley

T:1300 557 144 Email: erryn@cherrywealth.com.au

Website: www.cherrywealth.com.au

Office Address: Suite 4 / 4 - 6 Croydon Road, Croydon

The Quiet Risk Facing Older Australians: Isolation and Loneliness

WELLBEING

By MAREE SMITH

And why local community action matters more than ever

Australia is ageing. More than one in six Australians are now aged 65 or older, and this number continues to rise. While longer life is something to celebrate, there is a quieter and often overlooked risk affecting many older people in our communities: social isolation and loneliness.

Loneliness is not simply about being alone. It is the distressing feeling that our social connections are not meeting our needs. Social isolation refers to having few social contacts or infrequent interaction with others. They are different experiences, but they often occur together — and both can have serious consequences for health and wellbeing.

Australian research shows that loneliness and social isolation are now recognised as major public health concerns. They are linked to poorer mental health, increased psychological distress, functional decline, higher rates of dementia, cardiovascular disease and even premature death. The health risks associated with chronic loneliness have been shown to be comparable to well known risk factors such as smoking and physical inactivity.

Older people are particularly vulnerable. National studies suggest that around one in five older Australians experience loneliness, with even higher rates among those who live alone, live with disability, experience reduced mobility, or reside in residential aged care. Retirement, bereavement, illness, reduced confidence, and transport barriers can all quietly shrink a person’s world.

Over the past 25 years working as an aged care and community care nurse, I have seen these statistics reflected in real lives across our local communities. I have met older people who may go days without meaningful conversation, who hesitate to ask for help for fear of being a burden, or who withdraw as their independence changes. Often, the desire for connection is there — what is missing is opportunity, inclusion and support.

Isolation does not just affect emotional wellbeing. When older people become

disconnected, we often see declines in physical health, motivation, nutrition, and confidence. Help is delayed. Independence is lost sooner. Yet many of these outcomes are preventable.

This is where local not for profit organisations, neighbourhood houses, volunteer groups, faith organisations and community services play a vital role. Connection does not require large programs or complex systems — it requires people, consistency and care.

Simple, human actions make a difference: welcoming spaces, familiar faces, inclusive activities, transport support, intergenerational programs, and outreach that notices when someone hasn’t been seen for a while. Community connection is not an “extra” — it is protective care.

Importantly, we also need to shift how society views ageing. Older people are not a problem to be managed. They are a wealth of knowledge, experience and wisdom. When we include older people meaningfully, we strengthen our communities.

Loneliness in later life is not inevitable. It is shaped by social choices and that means it can be changed. Across our local government areas, we are fortunate to have strong not for profit networks and community spirit. By choosing inclusion, respect and connection,

we can ensure our older community members remain seen, valued and supported.

What Our Community Can Do

For organisations and community groups in Maroondah:

• Create welcoming, low pressure spaces where older people feel safe to attend alone

• Offer consistent activities, not just one off events — familiarity builds trust

• Partner with other local services to share transport, outreach and referrals

• Look for opportunities to involve older people as contributors, mentors or volunteers, not just recipients of support

For individuals and neighbours:

• Check in on an older neighbour or community member. A regular hello matters

• Invite older people into everyday activities, not just “aged” programs

Connection is everyone’s business.

A conversation, an invitation, or a sense of belonging can change a life

Maroondah Council News MARCH

Reporting on our progress - Quarter 2 for 2025/26

Second quarter reports for the 2025/26 financial year demonstrate Council is making excellent progress.

Reports presented at the Council meeting on Monday 16 February showed results across Council Plan priority actions, Capital Works projects and various indicators from the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework.

Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Linda Hancock, said Council is pleased with the outcomes so far.

“We are proud of our recent results, as they show that Council has progressed well over the past three months while delivering high-quality services, facilities and Capital Works projects for the benefi t of our community,” Cr Hancock said.

“As at 31 December 2025, two Council Plan priority actions had been completed, and the remaining 37 actions were underway and on track. Many of the remaining priority actions are multi-year initiatives, which will continue to be delivered over multiple years as part of the Council Plan 2025-2029.

“A significant achievement was the completion of the Ringwood Activity Centre Car Park project at 1 Bedford Road, which adds over 300 new car spaces to the area, making it easier than ever for our community and visitors to access the train station, buses, local shopping precincts and more.

“Some of the priority actions underway as at 31 December include undertaking staged redevelopments of the Croydon Community Wellbeing Precinct (CCWP); partnering with the Victorian Government to implement road improvements; undertaking footpath construction works in the Principal Pedestrian Network; undertaking flood mitigation works; implementing Council’s annual streetscape enhancement program; and continuing our advocacy to the Victorian Government to postpone the mandatory implementation of a glass-only recycling bin service to households and explore expanding the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS).

“These are in conjunction with Council implementing a range of strategies and plans relating to many of our service delivery activities, including arts and cultural development; business development; customer service; communications; property management; sustainability; wellbeing, liveability and resilience; and waste, litter and resource recovery,” Cr Hancock said.

“We are also continuing to achieve strong results across Local Government Performance Reporting Framework performance measures. Highlights for this quarter include an increase in the number of library memberships and an increase in the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children accessing Council’s Maternal and Child Health services. We have continued to consistently respond to animal management requests in a timely manner, and maintained our responsive timeframes when making decisions on planning applications.

“Overall, these results show Council is well-placed as we continue the second financial year of the current Council term.”

The Quarter 2 reports demonstrated Council’s achievements from 1 October to 31 December 2025 across:

• Council Plan 2025-2029 priority actions

• Capital Works projects

• Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) performance measures.

As part of its 2025/26 Annual Budget, adopted in June 2025, Council allocated $46.03 million towards Capital Works projects, with signifi cant external funding for the Ringwood Activity Centre Car Park project, plus $12.85 million carried forward from the 2024/25 Capital Works budget. This amount will enable Council to implement a range of projects across Maroondah.

By the end of the second quarter for 2025/26, Council spent a total of $18.56 million on a wide range of capital projects that will provide signifi cant benefi t to the community.

Projects that were underway during Quarter 2 or that had recently been completed include:

• Ringwood Activity Centre Car Park construction

• Pavilion upgrade works at the Hughes Park pavilion, including the construction of new, female-friendly changerooms, roof reconstruction and accessibility improvements

• Footpath construction work at Heatherdale Road in Vermont; and Kubba Road, Werac Drive, Kubis Drive and Fyfe Avenue in Ringwood North

• Road reconstruction works at Ainslie Park Avenue, Croydon

• Road construction works at Glynne Road, Warranwood

• Road improvement and footpath construction works at Oban Road, Ringwood North

Maroondah Council News MARCH 2026

Monday Play Group

Recycling unwrapped Webinar

Join us this World Recycling Day for "Recycling Unwrapped," an interactive webinar where we’ll take the guesswork out of recycling in Maroondah!

Discover exactly what can go in your blue-lidded recycling bin, and follow the journey of your recyclables after they leave your kerb. We’ll also explore a range of special recycling programs for items like e-waste, textiles, batteries, blister packs, soft plastics, and more.

Have questions? Submit them to our education team when registering to get clear and practical answers. Become your household's recycling champion and end the recycling debates.

Event details

• Date: Tuesday 24 March 2026

• Time: 11am to 12noon

• Venue: Gather, Grow, Graze Community Garden, Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood 3134 (enter via Gate 8 off Warrandyte Road)

• Cost: Free

• Bookings are essential

Monday Playgroup at North Ringwood Community House

Join us every Monday from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm for a relaxed and friendly playgroup! For just $2 per session, parents and carers can enjoy a cuppa while little ones explore and play.

Each week, we borrow a variety of age-appropriate toys from the Maroondah Toy Library, ensuring fresh and engaging activities for babies and young children. This is a wonderful social opportunity for both kids and adults to connect.

We meet in a spacious room with a kitchenette and direct access to an enclosed sensory garden, perfect for safe outdoor play.

Come along, make new friends, and enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere!

When

Monday, 16 March 2026 | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Monday, 23 March 2026 | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Monday, 30 March 2026 | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Event details

• Date: Wednesday 18 March 2026

• Time: 7.30pm to 8.30pm

• Venue: Online webinar

• Presenter: Maroondah City Council Waste Education

• Cost: Free

• Auslan interpreters available upon request Registrations are essential

• Light refreshments will be provided on arrival

• Bookings essential

Composting and Worm Farms Workshop

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this workshop is designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills to make compost work some magic in your garden.

Join us for an interactive and hands-on workshop that will leave you ready to harness the power of compost in your garden.

Gather, Grow, Graze Community Garden, in partnership with Maroondah City Council, will dive into the magical world of composting and explore various composting systems to fi nd the perfect fi t for your garden. Discover the secrets of successful composting as we discuss the importance of balancing ingredients and managing moisture levels.

But that's not all! Bring your own soil and compost samples as we will delve into the science behind composting by testing the pH of your own home compost samples and show you how to analyse your soil health. Our team will help you learn how to fi ne-tune your compost to create the ideal conditions for your plants to thrive.

NFP OF THE MONTH FOR THE

Celebrating a fantastic start to 2026!

Charity Registration Approved -A Major Milestone for Candlebark!

After more than 30 years of growing indigenous plants and supporting our local community, Candlebark Community Nursery has been officially registered as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).

This is a significant milestone in Candlebark’s history and an important recognition of the care, commitment and expertise that the Candlebark community has brought to advancing our shared aims over many decades.

Our next step is to apply for Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. Once approved, donations to Candlebark will be taxdeductible, and we will be eligible to apply for a broader range of grants and funding opportunities to support our work into the future.

Celebrating volunteers!

We’re thrilled to share that Candlebark now has over 100 volunteers on our books! Our volunteers are the heart of everything we do: from growing and propagating plants to helping visitors, maintaining the nursery, and supporting community projects. Their dedication, energy, and expertise make all our achievements possible, and we are incredibly grateful to every one of them. If you would like to join us as a volunteer, check out our website www.candlebark.org.au for more information or call and make a time for a tour of the nursery.

Improved Working Conditions

Through the efforts of our friends at Tailored Heating & Cooling Solutions in Croydon South, Rinnai Australia very generously donated a Rinnai T Series 3.5kw Reverse Cycle Inverter Split System. Jarred from TH&CS did an amazing job of installing the air-conditioner in our recently updated kitchen / tea / meeting room at a greatly discounted price. Our volunteers are now guaranteed year-round comfort when enjoying a tea-break or meal.

Please consider supporting the businesses that support our amazing nursery community.

Plant happenings!

Our fabulous production team produced several thousand new plants this month, and our contract orders for 2026 now exceed 96,000 plants! Very shortly we will be putting up a list of plants currently in stock on our website, which will be regularly updated.

As the main planting season approaches, more species of tube stock and some 140mm pot stock are regularly being added to our retail area. Make sure you pop in soon to check out what's new!

New species recently added to our retail area include:

Goodenia elongata - Lanky Goodenia

Photo Credit: N.G. Walsh

True to its name, Lanky Goodenia is a graceful, slightly arching native with cheerful yellow fan-shaped flowers that appear over an extended period. It thrives in well-drained soils and handles part shade to full sun, making it a flexible choice for suburban blocks. Perfect for softening edges along paths or filling gaps in mixed native beds, it also attracts pollinators, bringing movement and life into the garden.

Sambucus gaudichaudiana - White Elderberry

Photo Credit: Andre Messina

Olearia erubescensMoth Daisy-bush

Photo Credit: Marilyn Bull

White Elderberry is a fast-growing native shrub that produces delicate clusters of creamy-white flowers followed by attractive pale berries. It’s an excellent habitat plant, providing food for birds and beneficial insects.

Ideal for creating a natural privacy screen or adding a bushfood element to your yard, this hardy species suits a range of soil types and grows well in semishaded positions.

The Moth Daisy-bush is a delightful native shrub covered in masses of small white daisy flowers. When in bloom, it creates a soft cloud of colour that attracts butterflies and native insects. It’s a wonderful feature plant for sunny spots and looks stunning when planted in groups for maximum impact.

THE MONTH OF MARCH

Growing biodiversity in your backyard!

Choosing indigenous plants from your local not-for-profit nursery is one of the simplest ways to boost biodiversity at home. Unlike exotic ornamentals, indigenous species have evolved alongside local birds, bees and butterflies, providing the right nectar, pollen, seeds and shelter they depend on to survive. Indigenous species attract native pollinators to your garden, and promote healthier soil and stronger natural pest control. Because these plants are adapted to local conditions, they generally need less water, fertiliser and maintenance. Every backyard planted with indigenous species becomes a small but vital habitat link. These links create greener, more resilient suburbs that truly support our natural environment.

Education is central to Candlebark’s purpose. Beyond growing and selling indigenous plants, the nursery plays an important role in working with our community to understand the value of local flora and the ecosystems they support. We aim to increase awareness of the environmental, cultural and practical benefits of planting indigenous species, while also providing hands-on learning opportunities in indigenous horticulture. Through workshops, guided tours, volunteer training and community engagement, we share practical skills in plant identification, propagation, seed collection and sustainable gardening practices. By building knowledge and confidence, we empower individuals, schools and community groups to actively contribute to restoring and protecting our local environment.

The next Management Committee meeting will be on: Hull Road, Mooroolbark VIC 3138 and online. Interested members of the public are invited to attend by registration. Please contact Candlebark at

Candlebark Community Nursery Incorporated 308 Hull Road, Mooroolbark 3138

Open to the public for retail sales: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. Our volunteer hours are 9:00 am to 4:30 pm on the same days.

Email: info@candlebark.org.au

Phone: (03) 9727 0594 or 0494 088 804 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557484754633&__tn__=-UC

At Arrabri Community House, we empower and unite community through affordable programs delivered in warm, welcoming space Here, can discover new interests, build meaningful connections and grow with confidence Explore what we offer visit find place

We pride ourselves fostering an inclusive environment where people of ages and backgrounds can engage, learn and thrive together Our programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of community, supporting health, wellbeing, creativity, and lifelong learning

R

Recognised for excellence our dedicated childcare team provides Occasional Child Care in safe, nurturing space thoughtfully equipped with quality and furnishings inspire young explorers

More than just place for programs and education we are vibrant community hub Our versatile are available for business and private hire, reflecting ongoing commitment connection, collaboration, and community service

& enrolments via QR to website or email info@biglittlebuddies.org.au

Pres: Wayne Makin

V/Pres: Ian Young

Sec: Alistair McInnes

Treas: David Watson

The Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival is back on Sunday, 29th March 2026, from 9am to 5pm at Eastfield Park, 119 Eastfield Rd, Croydon,Victoria. For tickets and details, see: www.melbournehighlandgames.org.au

The Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festival has hosted this event in Melbourne for Fifty-Nine years. It is one of the highlights of the Scottish Australian calendar and is considered the number one multicultural festival in the City of Maroondah and a major event in the Greater Melbourne area.

This day-long celebration of Scottish/ Celtic culture and heritage, held annually at Eastfield Park, Eastfield Rd in Croydon, Victoria, echoes the original games that took place centuries ago in Scotland during the reign of King Malcolm III.

This multicultural, inclusive event featuring wonderful music and competitions in dancing and pipe bands and world-class athletic competitors is a must-see outing for everyone. We strive to provide the best of Celtic culture on public display.

This year’s events on Sunday, 29th March 2026, will see the return of the Victorian Highland Pipe Band Championships, featuring Bands from all over Victoria competing for the top awards, thrilling the Souls of all Scots both new arrivals and descendants of old.

Australia’s Highland Muscle will be returning after the amazing International Games in 2025. Heavy Games athletes from around Australia, displaying their prowess in the tossing of the caber and other heavy lifting events.

Our Festival is supported by locals and travellers from all over Australia, with expected increases in loyal and new spectators to this festival, hailed by some to be the third biggest event in Victoria, playing a pivotal role in preserving Scottish and Celtic traditions among the Victorian diaspora and fostering connections to ancestral roots for younger generations.

Another addition to this Grassroots event will be in the Opening Ceremony with a Traditional “Scottish Clan Roll Call” making this an amazing event not to be missed, showcasing the best of Scottish/Celtic Culture and Heritage, providing a history of the Clan's family-based values and the diversity of Australian society.

After nearly 60 consecutive years of staging these Games, we are very excited about this year building on the past, supported by our loyal followers and new Live-Streaming to reach our followers across the World.

Our Festival brings together people from all walks of life. Dignitaries include our Patron, Mr Simon AbneyHastings, the Right Honourable 15th Earl of Loudoun, our Ambassador, The Honourable Mr Ted Baillieu AO, the annually appointed Chieftain of the Day, The Rt Hon Lord Strathspey, Sir Michael Grant of Grant Bt., 34th Chief of Clan Grant, and Honoured Clan, Clan Grant, with many other dignitaries alongside the number of dedicated volunteers whowork tirelessly all year long with significant sponsors like the East Ringwood & Croydon Community Bank (Bendigo) & City of Maroondah Council, to present the best day out for all.

Tickets are available on the day or pre-purchase online through TryBooking - link to be found on our Web Site For further information; see our Web Site: https://melbournehighlandgames.org.au/whats-on/ For further information please contact Dianne Cowling

Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival Inc. 0412 297 368 dianne.cowling@gmail.com

Ringwood Caledonian Society – Dance Scottish!

Staying fit and strong is key to good health and a long life, and dancing is one of the best forms of exercise for longevity combining exercise, creativity, balance and social interaction. And importantly, it’s fun!

Scottish Country Dancing has been around for over 300 years and is danced around the world, and also in Ringwood!

The Ringwood Caledonian Society holds classes every week to teach Scottish Country Dancing and has been established now for almost 60 years. We also celebrate significant Scottish events such as Burn’s night (in celebration of Scotland’s famous poet Robert Burns birthday) and St Andrew’s Day (St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland) and run an annual Barn Dance (similar to a Ceilidh).

“Scottish Country Dancing has so many benefits” according to the teacher and president Sarah Wrigley. “It’s been proven to improve people’s mental and physical health and we have a great social group as well. You don’t need a partner. There are no swords involved. You also don’t have to be Scottish!”

Scottish Country Dancing is usually described as the ballroom or social dancing of Scotland. It’s still often danced at weddings and parties, and with the popularity of the Outlander series on television, all things Scottish are increasingly sought out.

Scottish Country Dancing is suitable for men, women and children of all ages, but you need to have a reasonable level of fitness to get started.

While they welcome beginners at any time of the year, on April 1st (8 – 10pm followed by supper), Ringwood Caledonian Society is running a Come and Try Night to give people a taster of the dance form. This will be followed up by a Beginner’s course running from April 8th starting at 7.30pm through to 8.30pm followed by supper. ”It’s a great way of finding out whether this form of dance is for you. It’s a casual night, so you just need soft shoes (like runners or ballet flats) and a smile, a general level of fitness to dance and comfortable clothes. And for an added bonus, a cuppa and cake at the end to mingle”. The night is free.

The beginners’ program starts the following week at 7.30pm and runs for 6 weeks, from which the group is integrated more and more into the general class. “It’s not a dance form you pick up on the first night. It takes a while to work out what your feet should be doing and knowing and executing the formations well. So it takes a bit of practice and a bit of time regularly attending classes to improve”.

The bonus though is that you can travel pretty much anywhere in the world after that and join a class and be generally well looked after. There are also annual schools held in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and of course Scotland, as well as Branch classes and weekends around the world. – It’s like an extended family of friends sharing a common interest.

Classes run from February through to early – mid December from 7.30 – 10pm and cost just $6 per night (including tea, coffee and biscuits).

If you would like to see us in action, the Ringwood Caledonian Society will also be demonstrating Scottish Country Dancing at the Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festival at Eastfield Park in Croydon on Sunday March 29th – 10.30am and 1.00pm. Pop by and have a chat!

Monthly Concert

second Tuesday of the month 7.45 - 10.00pm

Top guest acts from the folk and acoustic music world appear for a great value concert. $15, $13 concession, $11 members, kids no charge. Spot acts and Support acts provide opportunities for aspiring performers or soloists to gain stage experience. Ringwood East Senior Citizen’s Hall.

Next Concert:

Tuesday February 10th

Tracey Roberts, Christina Green

Weekly Sessions

every Tuesday 7.30 - 9.15pm

Monthly Bush Dance

first Saturday of the month 7.30 - 10.30pm

A family bush dance suitable for all ages is held. Dances are called and a live band is featured each month. $15 general, $12 members, kids with an adult no charge. Ringwood East Senior Citizen’s Hall.

Next Dance:

Saturday February 7th

Borderline Kaylee

Every week (except the second Tuesday of the month which is Concert Night). Supportive round robin sessions for singing, playing, reciting, performing, yarns, workshops etc. All interests and skill levels catered for. Supper included. The fourth Tuesdays of the month are all-in round robin tune playing of dance sets and group singing. $6 members, $7 non-members. All welcome. Ringwood East Senior Citizen’s Hall.

Seeking Environmental Partnerships!

Candlebark Community Nursery Inc. is seeking financial partners for our major nursery expansion project for 2026!

Our major project for this year is the purchase and construction of a second propagation shed in order to increase production and provide better working conditions for our rapidly growing volunteer workforce.

With a rapidly growing volunteer base and increasing plant orders, we have simply outgrown our existing space. Demand for locally grown indigenous plants continues to rise, and our current facilities are now operating at full capacity. A new propagation shed will allow us to expand production, improve workflow, provide safer and more efficient working conditions for volunteers, and increase the number of plants we can supply to community revegetation projects.

We are currently seeking grant funding to cover a significant portion of the project cost, estimated at approximately $50,000.

The grant we are seeking encourages partnerships, so we are also looking for local community groups, environmental organisations, businesses, or local philanthropists to partner with us and pledge financial support. Your pledge would be included in our grant application as a collaborative contribution. We would only draw upon your donation, if the grant is successful. We would acknowledge as sponsorship any financial support over $500 on our website, social media and advertising.

This project represents an investment not only in infrastructure, but in our community, our volunteers, and the on-going environmental education essential in supporting the long-term restoration of local ecosystems and enhanced biodiversity outcomes.

We would love to hear from you if you are interested in exploring a financial partnership and becoming one of our sponsors.

Contact:

Candlebark Community Nursery Incorporated

308 Hull Road, Mooroolbark 3138

Email: info@candlebark.org.au

Phone: (03) 9727 0594 or 0494 088 804

RETIREMENT

By Warren Strybosch

It is estimated that over 2.5 million Australians, or 8.5% of the current population of around 28.9 million, will retire over the next decade. While the population has always been ageing, the next decade will see a significant increase in people retiring.

This trend has been a major concern for the government, as it already struggles with a growing aged care sector and programs, such as the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), that continue to require greater amounts of funding to keep them sustainable. Unfortunately, the government keeps running out of money, and its only solution thus far has been to increase borrowing, which is exacerbating and not helping the current and future situation for sectors that rely on government funding.

To help potentially solve this problem, the government has been working on the Retirement Reporting Framework and Best Practice Principles for Superannuation Retirement Income Solution. In February 2026, Treasury released an update to the Retirement Reporting Framework and Best Practice Principles for Superannuation Retirement Income Solutions.

These initiatives seek to enhance the retirement phase of Australia’s superannuation system. The reforms aim to ensure a balanced focus on both accumulation and retirement phases, providing members with improved access to suitable products, information, and strategies for better retirement outcomes. The Best Practice Principles offer voluntary guidance to trustees on understanding members’ needs, designing

Retirees Need to Consider Alternative Income Streams in Retirement

effective retirement income solutions such as lifetime income products. The Retirement Reporting Framework, to be implemented by APRA, will publish data on fund offerings and member outcomes to support industry improvements.

Whilst these Best Practice Principles are not mandatory to implement, we believe that superannuation funds that do not implement these Best Practice Principles may find themselves in an unfavourable position compared to their peers and may lose more members as a result. Superannuation funds that adopt these changes will likely promote their benefits to the public. Superannuation funds cannot afford to lose members, and so it is very likely that a superannuation fund will implement these principles in the near future.

Here is a summary of the key principles:

Understanding members’ retirement income needs

Best practice for understanding members’ retirement income needs means a trustee will:

1. Undertake regular research to ensure an up-to-date understanding of the composition of its membership base and how member characteristics, engagement preferences and retirement income needs are changing over time.

2. Use accessible data and behavioural research to inform the design of information, engagement strategies and guidance services.

3. Improve understanding of the membership base by:

• Identifying members who are in or approaching retirement.

• Gathering information on characteristics relevant to its members’ retirement income needs, including during retirement.

• Asking members about their engagement preferences.

4. For the purpose of the principles, develop at least three cohorts that reflect the composition of the membership at or approaching retirement to inform the design of retirement income solutions.

• Base cohorts on information held and gathered by the trustee.

• Use characteristics relevant to the development of retirement income solutions to develop cohorts, such as account balance and age.

Designing the elements of a quality retirement income solution

Best practice for designing the products and product settings to build quality retirement income solutions means a trustee will:

1. Provide their members with access to:

• A lifetime income product that is not the Age Pension.

• An account-based pension.

• Lump sums.

2. Design product settings that allow for the construction of retirement income solutions that meet members’ retirement income needs, including:

• Lifetime income product settings that have regard to member preferences around expected risk and return, for example managing longevity or investment risk.

• Account-based pension product settings that help to manage expected risks, for example sequencing, market and inflation risks.

• Trustee-designed drawdown pathways for accountbased pensions that more efficiently convert superannuation balances into income than the legislated minimum drawdown rates.

3. Allow all members that meet a relevant condition of release access to a retirement income solution that includes an account-based pension component, irrespective of account balance.

4. Ensure these products and product settings can be used to construct both trusteedesigned retirement income solutions and allow members to tailor their own retirement income solution.

Constructing retirement income solutions that meet members’ needs

Best practice for constructing retirement income solutions that meet members retirement income needs means a trustee will:

1. Construct a separate trustee-designed retirement income solution for each identified cohort, that balances members’ needs to maximise expected retirement income, manage expected risks, and maintain flexible access to capital. These should include:

• A lifetime income product component in at least one retirement income solution, that has regard to likely Age Pension eligibility.

• For most solutions, a drawdown pathway that is higher than the legislated minimum drawdown rate, considering stability of income delivered through relevant components.

2. Ensure each trustee-designed retirement income solution is broadly calibrated to the financial characteristics of a retiree cohort.

3. Design guidance services that assist members to understand and select the components of their retirement income solution, for example through personas or assisted choice tools.

Supporting member engagement with retirement income solutions

Best practice for supporting members to choose a retirement income solution means a trustee will:

1. Support all members to understand their retirement income needs by providing forecasts or projections of income in both annual and pay-cycle terms, including through:

• Annual member statements.

• Budgeting tools or expenditure calculators.

2. Foster member engagement during the accumulation phase by providing information and tools that can help members prepare for and understand their retirement income needs, including on:

• Moving into the retirement phase of superannuation.

• Classes of retirement products and drawdown pathways.

• Guidance services offered by the trustee.

• Government resources on retirement related topics, including information on nonsuperannuation sources of income in retirement such as the Age Pension and access to home equity.

3. Engage with members approaching retirement, to:

• Provide information on trustee-designed retirement income solutions and a description of the financial characteristics used to inform each solution.

• Inform them of how to access information on all retirement products offered by the fund.

• Encourage further engagement with information and guidance services to help inform members’ choice of retirement income solution.

4. Provide access to financial advice services that reflect the composition and preferences of its membership.

5. Consider members that receive personal financial advice in engagement strategies for members approaching retirement, including information on trustee-designed solutions.

Review and improve

1. Assess the effectiveness of its trustee-designed retirement income solutions in meeting the needs of its cohorts and consider relevant data on measurable outcomes, usage, and member behaviour to improve the quality of its retirement income solution offerings.

2. Assess the effectiveness of guidance services and engagement strategies in supporting members to navigate their retirement income solution choice and collect relevant data on member experiences.

3. Have regard to the changing needs of members approaching retirement (over the short and medium term) when assessing the ongoing settings of trustee-designed retirement income solutions.

For retirees, the most significant change they will experience over the next five years is the introduction of annuities and/or products for lifetime income streams that will be available in their current superannuation fund.

We believe the government will encourage members to not only take out an account-based pension (ABP) but to also place up to 30% of their funds into a lifetime income stream or similar income stream product.

Our opinion is that this initiative is a good move, as lifetime income streams provide a level of certainty and remove funds out of the market that may be subject to market volatility. Also, these income streams will remain even when members are moving into aged care and help pay some of their ongoing aged care fees.

At Find Retirement, we have promoted the benefits of a lifetime income stream or annuity for the past decade, and it is encouraging to see the government has finally recognised the wisdom of encouraging these products to be offered inside superannuation alongside ABPs.

If you wish to speak to an advisor that has many years of experience with lifetime income streams and can explain the benefits of them, then feel free to call Find Retirement on 1300 88 38 30

Warren Strybosch Award winning Financial Adviser

Part of the Find Group of Companies

Financial Planning, SMSF, Super, Insurance, Pre-Retirement & Retirement Planning (Financial Planning) are offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a Find Wealth, Find Insurance and Find Retirement. Find Wealth Pty Ltd 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 (www.centrepointalliance.com.au/fsg/aw).

Warren Strybosch

Authorised Representative (No. 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd.

This information has been provided as general advice. We have not considered your financial circumstances,needs or objectives. Youshouldconsidertheappropriatenessoftheadvice.Youshould 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.

•

Special Tax Return Offer

$99 Returns - PAYG Only

We

Here are the steps involved:

1. Email to info@findaccountant.com.au requesting your PAYG return to be completed. Provide us with your full name, D.O.B and address

2. A Tax engagement letter will be emailed to you for signing via your mobile (no

3. You will be then sent a tax checklist to complete online. Takes less than 5 minutes.

4. We will then require you to upload your documents to our secure portal.

5. Once we have received all your documentation, we will complete the return.

6. We will email you the completed return with our invoices. Once you sign the return and pay the invoice we will lodge the return on your behalf.

1300 88 38 30

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We specialise in the following:

• Biz Pack Insurance

• Landlord Insurance

• Public Liability Insurance

• Professional Indemnity Insurance.

We DO NOT provide advice or quotes for the following (you need to go direct and save):

• Car Insurance

• Home & Contents

• Caravan

• eBikes

We work with only the most reputable insurers to bring you a range of insurance options for you to choose from:

HELPING TO PROTECT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

At Find we can help you find the ‘right’ personal insurance. Our aim is to help you obtain and retain the personal insurances that are appropriate for you and at cost that you can afford.

• Income Protection (IP)

• Life Insurances or Death Cover

• Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Personal Insurances Include:

When your insurance are in place, our services do not stop there. We will provide you with an after care service that includes policy notifications, insurance report, help desk, reviews and help at claim time. We provide ourselves in providing honest advice that you can rely on.

warren@findinsurance.com.au

www.findinsurance.com.au

•

Best Kept Parenting Secret

INDEX

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

• Lactation Consultant ----------- 35

• Swen Pouches ---------------------- 00

• Hair Dresser --------------------------- 00

• Chiropractor ------------------------- 00

• Beauty Therapy -------------------- 00

• Gym --------------------------------------- 00

• Massage Therapy ---------------- 00

DR JOANNA STRYBOSCH

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OSTEOPATHY

Osteopathy in Australia is a government registered, allied health profession. Osteopaths focus on improving the function of the neuro-musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, nerves and connective tissues) to optimise health and well-being.

Joanna is highly qualified and experienced in the osteopathic assessment and treatment of babies and infants.

She can assist with the following assessments:

• Gross motor development (milestones)

• Primitive reflexes

• Tongue function and it’s relation to sucking skills

• Biomechanics of the jaw and mouth

• Help increase or decrease milk supply ADVANCED PAEDIATRIC OSTEOPATH & LACTATION CONSULTANT PROVIDING PERSONAL & CARING SUPPORT FOR YOU & YOUR BABY

LACTATION CONSULTING

IBCLC lactation consultants are recognised around the world as the experts in lactation care. They provide evidencebased knowledge to assist mothers to establish and maintain breastfeeding. As professionals, they are charged with promoting, protecting and supporting breastfeeding.

Joanna can help with a broad range of lactation consulting services, including:

• Teaching a new mum how to hold and position her baby to breastfeed

• Assess the suck, swallow and breathing of an infant

• Assess for tongue function and determine any evidence of restriction (tongue tie)

• Pre and post-frenectomy breastfeeding support

12 Buck Tuesdays

Play more. Pay Less.

Treat yourself to maximum fun for minimum damage. Tuesdays from 5 pm onwards, you can get $12 bowling, mini golf and more!

Discover more

Purchase any Japanese inspired menu item & add a matcha drink for $5

Matcha Moment: Add a matcha drink for $5

Turn your day into a ritual with our Japanese-inspired matcha lineup. Silky and irresistibly smooth choose from the Iced Matcha Latte, Classic Matcha Latte, or the dreamy Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte with whipped cream on top.

Discover more

The Diamond & Gold Expo

Save up to 50% Off Selected Styles with our $50 Million, Diamond and Gold Expo Sale The Diamond & Gold Expo catalogue is here, bringing with it our highly anticipated $50 Million Sale. For a limited time, enjoy up to 50% off selected jewellery styles across a stunning range of designs.

20% off renew spa package*

75min Massage, Facial & Dry Body Brush.

Renew your sense of well-being with an Organic Express Facial and Custom Massage, including Dry Body Brush.

Valid for bookings on Monday to Friday until 30 March 2026. Book in the spa or use code RENEW20 when booking online.

In-Kind Sponsorship with Find Maroondah Community Paper

We invite a representative from each sporting club to submit team selections, results and any interesting stories relating to your club/sports.

For more information contact: Warren on 1300 88 38 30 or Email: editor@findmaroondah.com.au

We are thrilled to welcome Mwai Kumwenda to our Premier Division Netball side.

MJ has spent the past 15 years performing on the world stage representing Malawi, including being named Player of the Tournament at the 2015 Netball World Cup and finishing as top goal scorer at the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games.

After joining the Melbourne Vixens in 2017, MJ became a vital force in the attacking end and was deservedly awarded Grand Final MVP in the Suncorp Super Netball 2020 season.

MJ brings a fierce passion for the game, elite professionalism, and a light-hearted kindness off the court. We are incredibly fortunate to welcome Mwai, her husband Wanangwa, and son Maximus to our Norwood community.

Ringwood Bowls Club Inc. Norwood

Welcome Marcus Boyce

19 years old, 6 foot 3 and a genuinely versatile option who can line up just about anywhere on the ground.

He’s impressed with his strong hands and clean kicking skills, and his size gives him the flexibility to impact both in the air and at ground level. There’s plenty of upside still to come, and we’re looking forward to seeing his development across the season.

Marcus joins us from De La Salle, and we’re pleased to welcome him to the club. Welcome aboard, Marcus.

We’re proud to announce that Natalie Johnston is sponsored by Johnstone & Reimer Lawyers for the 2026 season!

A big thank you to Johnstone & Reimer Lawyers for supporting Natalie and backing Norwood Netball. Partnerships like this play a vital role in helping our players and club continue to grow and succeed.

Please support the businesses that support our Norwood community

Simply upload your ad at www.findmaroondah.com.au/nfp-free-advertising or you can email the ad to the editor@findmaroondah.com.au and we will do the rest for you.

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