Relax, Come in, You're Welcome

You've Just got to be here in October

2011-08-18T16:57:00.000+10:00

The North East Rivers Festival is on again from the 14th -23rd October.
10 events over 10 days focusing on 2 big weekends.

Here is an excerpt from the local Bridport community newspaper BridReport!
Now is the time to rope a team together and start designing your raft for the Derby River Derby, Saturday October 22.

We are excited to announce two new events at this year’s festival.
The Derby Bike Challenge at the Derby River Derby October 22. This will be a poker run and will start after the Super
Multi event.
The Bridport 10 Fun Run will take place along the famous Bridport Walking Track on Sunday 23rd October. Race starts at
10am with registrations open at 8am. You can also walk the track on the day.
Check out our new website for more information www.neriversfestival.com.au
We look forward to seeing you at our events in 2011.

Our Event Calender for 2011 is filling up.

Friday 14th October
Opening Night & School Fair Winnaleah Winnaleah District High School 5pm - 8pm
Saturday 15th October
Fishing Competition Pioneer Pioneer Lake 9am – 5pm
Men's Shed Markets Scottsdale 2 Christopher St, Scottsdale 9am - 1pm
Sunday 16th October
River of Life Celebration
(Combined Church Service)
Scottsdale Scottsdale Performing Arts Centre
11am –12 noon, followed by a
BBQ lunch
Vineyard Concert Pipers Brook Pipers Brook Vineyard 12 noon - 5pm
Friday 21st October
Golf Challenge Moorina Moorina Golf Course 8:30am – late afternoon
Art Exhibition Opening Scottsdale Scottsdale Art & Framing 7pm
Saturday 22nd October
Derby River Races, including
the Derby River Derby, Duck
Race, stalls, entertainment
Derby Derby River and River Bank 9am – 5pm
Derby Cycling Challenge Derby Derby Park 2:30pm
Art Exhibition Scottsdale Scottsdale Art & Framing 9am - 5pm
Sunday 23rd October
Bridport 10 Fun Run Bridport Bridport Walking track 10am Race Start (Registration
from 8am)
Art Exhibition Scottsdale Scottsdale Art & Framing 9am - 5pm

The Bridport 10 Fun Run should not be missed this could become an important annual event for runners young and old! Run for Fun or if you prefer Walk for fun! it's a great track with varied scenery to keep you interested.

Bridport walking track opened

2011-07-29T20:47:00.000+10:00

The new $1 million Bridport walking track has been formally opened ... with most of the townsfolk turning out to mark the occasion.

A bevy of State, Federal and local politicians joined the State cricket coach and a local Aboriginal elder to snip a ribbon of foliage to throw open the 10-kilometre track.

The official openers included Federal Bass MP Geoff Lyons, Dorset Mayor Barry Jarvis, Aboriginal elder Patsy Cameron, State Bass MP Michelle O'Byrne and State cricket coach Tim Coyle

Added to the long existent foreshore and wildflower reserve walks the new section of track along and across the Brid River means nature lovers can now completely circumnavigate the township.

An added advantage is that access points to various parts means it can be walked in comfortable chunks.

The project was funded through a $700,000 Federal training program and a State construction grant of more than $200,000.

The graduation of 27 trainees and team leaders was also recognised at the ceremony with cricket coach Tim Coyle drawing comparisons with the teamwork involved in the recent successes of the Tassie Tigers.

The politicians on hand congratulated the managers of the project Conservation Volunteers Australia and Bridport Innovations for the organisation's foresight in pursuing it.

Graduating trainees celebrate their achievement

Apart from the health and amenity advantages for locals the track is expected to provide visitors to the town with another rewarding activity.

It passes through a wide range of landscape and habitats... along the estuary and beach coves, the low undulations of the heathy wildflower reserve and the steeper, more heavily forested sections to the south of the town down to the pleasant stroll along the riverside.

Maps of the track are available from the information Pavilion in the centre of town.

Kate and Frank entertain the throng at the track opening

Ah lovely Autumn in Tasmania

2010-03-15T09:19:00.000+11:00

Don't you just love it!
The mornings are crisp, the days are still warm enough for T-Shirts, the beaches are not crowded so it's an ideal time for a walk, and the evenings are cool enough to sleep comfortably - just bliss.

Bridport is the ideal place to while away some well earned relaxation time now that the hot summer has passed. There are fantastic places to stay including Platypus Park Country Retreat, which is in a quiet location, not in the main street, but on 40 acres(17.5 hectares) of farm and river setting. You'll be amazed at the bird life in the peaceful garden, and you can walk to the Brid river where you might be able to spot a platypus!

The resident hosts are friendly, and helpful and go out of their way to assist weary travelers. If you arrive late they will even make sure you don't go hungry, just because all the shops and eateries are closed. They have a wonderful organic garden where you may purchase some fresh vegetables - always a bonus when on holiday - you do get tired of eating out all the time! Oh and the free range eggs - you just have to taste the difference.

The autumn colours are starting to appear in the North East region. The many poplar trees are starting to turn, and in a couple of weeks will all be glowing golden what a gorgeous sight.

Why don't you take a break in the North East of Tassie right now and enjoy the WOW of autumn!

If Only it Were True

2009-10-30T09:49:00.003+11:00

Why do people think we are going to fall for their tricks?

This email appeared today from someone I don't even know.

Who would recommend me as a project manager for such a large project?

Whilst I am capable of co ordinating the odd small building project I would think, if someone was going to recommend me for a job they might at least ask if I was interested first or if I had time????

Dear Sir/Madam,

You have been recommended as a reliable foreign investor and project manager. I am therefore seeking your

cooperation in building a Tourist Hotel or Real Estate in your country. I am sorry if this is not completely in line

with your profession. I need an experienced person like you to assist me set up,develop the project and assume

responsibility of ownership as chairman but will be bringing in profit /distribute profit monthly or annually.I shall

give you more information. Please get back to me immediately on my

private email: jamesibori12@aim.com

Best regards, Gov. James Ibori.

NOW where do I start:

1. I wouldn't be the foreign investor if I was doing something in my own country!

2. What skill set does this person assume I have that is going to be useful for this type of project?

3. Dear sir/madam! If I have been recommended for a task wouldn't you think they would know what gender I am?

At best I am putting this one into the potential scam box and deleting it...So don't get caught!

Reliable web hosting

2009-10-21T15:26:00.003+11:00

MD webhosting is a reliable host of one of my websites.
You may like to use them too.Take this link over to check them out.

I use this one because:
1. There is no locked in contract
2. I can use their FREE web site builder, to build a simple website.
3. The support staff are always quick and efficient with my enquiries.
4. You could be elegible for a $100 Google Adwords voucher too.

Peace and Tranquillity

2009-10-19T13:19:00.003+11:00

What is it about Platypus Park Country Retreat that is so relaxing?

Why does it attract people looking for a quiet relaxing place to stay at an affordable price?

It just does!
Set on 40 acres or 17.5 hectares Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport Tasmania just seems to be magnet when it comes to attracting the right sort of guests.
Perhaps it is the name, perhaps it is the location, perhaps it is the friendly voice on the end of the phone, perhaps it is the laid back 5th generation hosts..... Perhaps it is all these things.

Some remarkable people stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat

Thank you to Ian Clarke, a world renown creator of stringed instruments, and his delightful wife, who recently stayed at Platypus Park Country Retreat on a brief visit to Tasmania. Ian has been creating "stringed instruments of distinction" for quiet some time. From 1974 to 1977 Ian trained at the Newark School of Violin Making, graduating with "distinction", he was the first of a number of Australians to graduate from Newark.

Ian is one of Australia's most highly regarded violin makers, with his instruments being used all around the world. Professional orchestra musician, Anna Roach of TSO, has played a Clarke Viola since 1992. You can find out more about Ian and his quality instruments at www.clarkeviolins.com

So if you too would like to find out what is it about Platypus Park Country Retreat that is so relaxing jump onto the website and make a booking today. The garden is particularly delightful in Spring.

Family self catering units, romantic spa cottages, disabled access room; ideal for small groups of golfers whilst visiting Barnbougle Dunes, and family gatherings.

You to can discover what Ian found so attractive at Platypus Park Country Retreat.

Eco Tourism Is it important?

2009-09-05T14:13:00.003+10:00

Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport Tasmania.

Has recently been certified!

If you care for the environment and would like to show you care, take your next holiday at Platypus Park in Bridport. The 5th generation Tasmanian hosts will ensure you have an enjoyable experience and assist you with your days touring.

Book online today

Special event coming up Bangarra 23rd and 24th October 2009. Don't miss out on this world renown Aboriginal theatre company's performance in Bridport, part of the North East Rivers Festival 16-25 October.

Take a break Now

2009-09-05T14:10:00.000+10:00

Platypus Park Country Retreat is a finalist.

Make a booking today

Playful Platypus Bridport Tasmania

2009-09-05T13:13:00.001+10:00

Cute Platypus Bridport Tasmania

2009-09-04T14:30:00.004+10:00

When you stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport Tasmania it may be possible to see an unusual Australian creature, the duckbill platypus.

It's a monotreme the same as an Echindna an egg laying mammal.

Would you like to see the video of one

Cute isn't he? If you would like the opportunity to see him in real life make a booking to stay at Platypus Park Country Retreat today.

Promote your business today

2009-07-29T16:01:00.003+10:00

Have you found anywhere new to promote your business today?

Well here are a couple of hints.

Tip one:
Go to linkedin and submit your profile and business details, search for others you may know within this network it could be valuable. Import your address book from outlook and see who is already linked In, you could be surprised.

Tip two:
Have you been to HOT FROG yet? Well get on over there too, it's a business directory and you never know who's looking in there. Google actually post the articles in their keywords alerts too.

Let me know how you get on.

Family holiday to Korea Tips

2009-06-24T12:11:00.005+10:00

Oh what a busy 3 weeks it was when we visited South Korea, Japan and Singapore recently for our first overseas family holiday, we usually holiday at home.

Coming from Tasmania, Singapore at 33C was quiet exhausting! But the shopping opportunities were fantastic.

I've got to tell you that flying Singapore airlines was a great decision. All our flights to and from all destinations were on time all the time and the service was excellent and the staff friendly.

Travelling with teenagers can have its moments, but we all survived and the young people now have an appreciation of travelling in other countries and eating "foreign" food.
I'll be posting more holiday reviews on tripadvisor for any one who is interested.

Tip1: Kimchi comes in many forms and varying degrees of spicyness!

Tip2: Rooms with four "proper" beds are hard to find.

Tip3: Practice your chopsticks before you go, Korean metal chopsticks are much harder to deal with than the plastic or wooden variety.

Tip4: The DMZ tour was very safe.

Tip5: The fast ferry from Busan to Fukuoka was very comfortable for a non "boat person" ME.

Now it's back to work, would love to hear from you if you have been to Korea too.

Bargain shopping Are you ready

2009-06-17T13:37:00.002+10:00

Want your hair to be strait?
Then check out the hair styling gadgets discounted bargains right now.

Also available today only is the Easypix Cyber scanner P500 Digital photo scanner $97.95 don't miss this fantastic bargain.

Serious Twitter business

2009-05-08T16:15:00.003+10:00

Want to get really serious about twitter and tweeting don't be a twit then ...
There's lots of free add ons in to help you twitter all day
try them out here.

"Tweetlater" is a fantastic tool to help you master twitter.
Send your folowers an auto message to welcome them
You'll stand out from the crowd if you make it a
personalised message and not a selling message.

Follow me on twitter too if you like.

See you soon.

May Special offer - River of Life give it a Go

2009-05-08T14:57:00.004+10:00

Are You Ready for the Flu Season?

There IS something you can do you know!

Check out this Amazing 4Life May Special

In May, when you order 2 packs (4 bottles) of RioVida® Liquid Immune Booster, and 1 bottle of Transfer Factor Plus capsules, not only will you SAVE $46.10 - but you'll receive a FREE 4Life Signature Star Key Ring!

Startling news is breaking hourly about a new, mutated strain of the H1 N1 influenza virus, which was first reported in Mexico.

The virus, common in pigs, has mutated so that it now has the ability to infect humans and is transmitted by contact or by coughing and sneezing.

The mutated H1 N1 strain has never been seen before. Therefore, human immune systems don’t have the ability to recognise it.

This leaves the human population vulnerable to developing what has been referred to as “Swine Flu”.

There are several precautions which one can take to hopefully not contract the swine flu, which include frequent washing of hands, keeping the hands away from the face, coughing or sneezing into a tissue, and the avoidance of crowds in any area where the illness has been reported.

Research scientists also recognise that the best defence against contracting any illness, including viral illnesses such as influenza, is to have a healthy, vital and responsive immune system.

According to Dr Rob Robertson, MD, ex-Director of Emergency Services at Western Baptist Hospital, Kentucky, USA, another simple thing that everyone can do is take Transfer Factors.

He says, "Transfer Factors have the ability to augment one’s immune system’s responsiveness through stimulation of our first line of defence, our Natural Killer cells. Recent research has also revealed that Transfer Factors produce antibodies against invading pathogens."

Dr Robertson further states, "The consumption of Transfer Factors during this potential pandemic of the swine flu would appear to be a reasonable and recommended course of action to best avert what could possibly be an infection with high morbidity and mortality."

And the good news is that 4Life Research, the world's Immune System Company, has designed this May Special so you can boost your supplies for the chilly season ahead.
RioVida® Liquid Transfer Factor comes in a smart looking bottle!
But what's inside, is even smarter! You've probably heard of the power of the antioxidants in acai, pomegranates, blueberries, elderberries and grapes for energy and vitality. These delicious wonder berries are ALL in RioVida.
Yet the real punch comes from the main ingredient... 4Life's patented Transfer Factor... which gives your immune system extra IQ. That's extra intelligence to work smarter.
RioVida® by 4Life is the only juice of it's kind in the world!
30mls a day (a small shot-glass) is all it takes to get you going with its wildly wicked taste.
The other part of the May Special is 4Life's Transfer Factor Plus®.
This is the most powerful of the 4Life Targeted Transfer Factor products. It has added ingredients that work synergistically together with Transfer Factor, and they are known to increase the activity of our Natural Killer cells even further.
And as Dr Robertson says, "It's the stimulation of our Natural Killer cells that is our first line of defence against any potential threat."
Order the May Special Here
Yours in vibrant health...
Gina Scott Your 4HealthDirect shop owner

Not More about Swine Flu

2009-05-06T15:09:00.006+10:00

Just the latest facts for your interest
Startling news is breaking hourly about a new, mutated strain of the H1 N1
influenza virus, which was first reported in Mexico. The virus, common in
pigs, has mutated so that it now has the ability to infect humans and is
transmitted by contact or by coughing and sneezing.
The mutated H1 N1 strain has never been seen before. Therefore, human
immune systems don’t have the ability to recognize it. This leaves the human
population vulnerable to developing what has been referred to as “Swine Flu”.
Health authorities are already sounding alarms about the very real possibility
of the swine flu reaching epidemic or possibly pandemic proportions. (A
pandemic illness is one, which spreads over a wide geographic area and
affects a large proportion of the population.)
The 1918 “Spanish Flu” was a pandemic of Biblical proportions and caused
an estimated 50,000,000 deaths worldwide with over 500,000 of those being
in the United States. While there are now antiviral medications available,
which weren’t yet discovered in 1918, if the numbers of cases began to reach
the level of the 1918 pandemic, it is recognized that the supply of medication
wouldn’t be sufficient to treat the vast majority of those who became infected.
There are several precautions, which one can take to hopefully not contract
the swine flu, which include frequent washing of hands, keeping the hands
away from the face, coughing or sneezing into a tissue, which should be
disposed of, and the avoidance of crowds in any area where the illness has
been reported.
Research scientists also recognize that the best defense against contracting
any illness, including viral illnesses such as influenza, is to have a healthy,
vital and responsive immune system.
A simple thing that everyone can do is take Transfer Factors. Transfer
Factors have the ability to augment one’s immune system’s responsiveness
through stimulation of our first line of defense, natural killer cells. Recent
research has also revealed that Transfer Factors positively affect our humoral
immune system, which produces antibodies against invading pathogens.
The consumption of Transfer Factors during this potential pandemic of the
swine flu would appear to be a reasonable and recommended course of
action to best avert what could possibly be an infection with high morbidity
and mortality.
Rob Robertson M.D.

checkout

Good Health Starts with You ....Avoid the Flu

2009-05-06T13:51:00.003+10:00

Hi all my friends and others who happen to drop in,

How can we best protect ourselves
against the flu?

Listen to what these doctors recommend:
http://snipurl.com/h165f

The products the doctors talk about
are now available in Australia at the
wholesale price, direct from:
www.gina.4healthdirect.com

Many thanks
Gina
P.S. If you would like a fr'ee ebook
about this, please just return email me
with "ebook please" in the subject line.

Gina Scott

Apart from that:
1. Keep your sneezes to yourself! cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze!
2. Wash your hands regularly!
3. Got flu like sysptoms - stay at home and recover.
4. Keep your distance from others in Public places. (now that will be a challenge for some)
5. Know the symptoms, body aches, extreme tirdness, coughs, sort throat and headaches.

Water and regular exercise are excellent ways to good health too.

Earth Hour 28th March Be in it

2009-03-23T14:50:00.002+11:00

On Saturday, March 28 at 8:30 PM, people around the world will turn off their lights for one hour, Earth Hour, to show their support for taking action on climate change.
Earth Hour 2009 promises to be huge in Australia this year – State governments, local councils, major corporations and community organisations are once again getting behind Earth Hour to support what has become a major event in the calendar. Up to 11 million Australians will be taking part this year, switching their lights off and having fun at the same time!

Participation is simple - register your support at www.earthhour.org, turn off all of your non-essential lights (including external signage, but leaving on any lighting required for safety reasons), and encourage your guests and friends to do the same. Explore other ideas for getting involved - candle-lit dinners or BBQs for example. The website also has downloads that can be used to help promote Earth Hour.

Australian Bushfire Disaster

2009-02-12T10:50:00.002+11:00

Please donate to the Red Cross appeal.
We are all deeply affected by the bushfire disaster happening in Victoria, Australia.
Families have lost their homes, their possesions, and sometimes their family members - the full extent of the devastation will not be known for weeks yet.

Many of my customers during the past 15 years have come from the affected areas and I just know some of those great people will have suffered a loss, it is so sadening.

Please donate to the Red Cross through this link.

Thank you.

Valentines Day Surprise

2009-01-20T14:29:00.003+11:00

If you don't book this week you could miss out!
Take your valentine on a surprise week end away on the 14th February to
Platypus Park Country Retreat in Tasmania.

Tucked away on the edge of Bridport is a beautiful accommodation property ready for your perfect romantic break.

Phone to book your accommodtion; a spa cottage or standard unit near the outdoor heated spa.
Ask about the seafood platters and wine deal to be delivered to your cottage or room.
Book a relaxing in house massage
Wander around the 17 hectares and down to the river for some quite contemplation
You may be able to spot a platypus too!
Take a walk along the beach, not the crowded ones in the middle of town ask the proprietors of Platypus Park Country Retreat for directions to Adams beach!

If you miss out try the Cottages on Charles in Scottsdale just 15 minutes drive from Bridport in North East Tasmania.

Take that romantic break now!

Holiday Overseas in Tasmania

2009-01-08T14:51:00.001+11:00

Still want to take that overseas holiday?
Well you can!
The island state of Tasmania is a perfect overseas destination. You can cruise over Bass Strait on the Spirit of Tasmania to Devonport from Melbourne - even bring your own car.

Many choose Bridport and Platypus Park Country Retreat as the first stop so why don't you? Check out the availability now for the next few weeks.

The weather will be warming up the short walks in the forest, especially Blue Tier, will be fantastic and in some places you might have a beach to your self, what a luxury.

Tasmania is renown for it's clean green environment, it's fresh seafood, excellent cool temperature wines, and the berries...... no I shouldn't tell you about those.....soooo full of flavour you won't be able to stop eating them! Strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries and the stone fruits apricots, peaches, cherries and if you wait till March the fresh apples just off the tree will be waiting at the road side stalls!

QUICK make a booking now get the boat or a plane just go there it's the best time of year!

Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport

2009-01-07T14:22:00.000+11:00

The most relaxing holiday destination in Tasmania!
According to some guests, Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport is one of the most relaxing places they have stayed.
Platypus Park is self catering cottage style accommodation situated on 40 acres or 17.5 hectares, with resident hosts, just on the main entry to Bridport on the North East Coast of Tasmania.

Many come to this holiday venue just to relax, revive and rejuvenate for a few days. Take a look at the website now is the perfect time to make a booking using the secure online booking system.

The resident hosts are well qualified to help you with your holiday plans they are 5th generation Tasmanians. They will be able to tell you where all the good walks are and the best fishing spots!

Make a booking now for February and March before the rush starts.

Bridport Tasmania A Great Holiday Location

2009-01-05T13:46:00.003+11:00

It's time to take a real holiday!
Now that the hustle and bustle is over fro the Christmas New Year it is time to take your real break - a real holiday by the seaside.

Bridport is a perfect location on the island state of Tasmania, Australia, for a beach and country holiday all rolled into one. You can choose to go to a different beach every day!
Situated on the coast just one hour from Launceston is a beautiful coastal town with all you need for that break by the sea.
Bridport has a large supermarket two great hotels for meals three cafes for the latte lovers and a bakery with all the delights and special treats you would wish for.

Platypus Park Country Retreat is the pick of the accommodation venues according to the Lonely Planet guide, with welcoming, friendly, 5th generation Tasmanians as hosts. The family have been operating the boutique B&B business for 15 years and know the area and Tasmania really well, and can offer advice on filling your day with varied activties.

Now is the perfect time to take a look at the website and make a booking online with early February offering plenty of availability.

Platypus Park is just 40 minutes drive from the Bridestowe Lavender farm too which is just coming into full bloom and looks fantastic and spectacular and is a must see at this time of year.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T10:00:00.001+11:00

Hope you're feeling fine today!
I do hope you all survived the Christmas Rush and were able to relax with family or friends over the holiday period. Did Santa bring you something nice?

Many would have been out on the town partying and welcoming in the New Year, I only hope you didn't over do it!

Hangover cure
A friend of mine swears by a bowl of corn flakes and milk - preferably as soon as you come home after a big night out. Now I did read something several moons ago that milk was indeed helpful should you have imbibed in alcohol a little toooooo much - so the milk part might be the answer.

Don't forget to rehydrate with plenty of water today and Did you make a New Year's resolution?
Well, might be a good idea to start it today no excuses start immediately.

Here's the favourite list:
Stop smoking
loose weight
get fit
do more exercise
spend more time with the kids
see more of friends
meet up with family more often
keep the house clean
walk more, use the car less
work less
take regular weekend breaks
become involved with volunteer work in the community

What are you going to do in 2009 to improve your wellbeing?
What ever it is I wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.

More Christmas Bargains for you

2008-12-03T12:06:00.007+11:00

I've just found you a couple of extra bargains!
Just in time to order now and get them delivered to your door.

Here's the first one and these are all the go right now everyone wants one but look at the saving I found for you.

Normal RRP $179 but you can buy it now for $89.95

17cm (7") Digital Photo Frame with Stand - Built-in Speakers, Video, MP3 and Full Function Remote: Now you can showcase your most cherished photos for all to see, with this digital photo frame. What's more with the built-in speakers, MP3 and video compatibility, plus slideshow function you can really show off your creative skills - producing music and photo compilations.Compatible with most memory cards including SD, MMC and MS this 7" photo frame also features a USB port making it easy to read pictures from a variety of sources. Other great benefit of this digital photo frame is that you can play video, rotate and resize your photos to fit the screen, and the full function remote control allows you to have total control over the frame from the comfort of your chair. This item is a great idea for the home and office, allowing you to display your photos with the added bonus of playing your favourite MP3 tunes as well - all of this at an incredibly low price!

And here's the second one: Elizabeth Arden Red Door only $26.95 RRP $128 now that's is a bargain.

OK slow down you want to know where to get them don't you.

just click into here

and search by name of product and shop till you drop or your fingers get tired!

Christmas Rush - Do you suffer from it?

2008-11-25T14:35:00.003+11:00

Christmas comes but once a year!

HO HO HO and all of that. Just FOUR weeks to go!!!!

Here is a cure for Christmas rush.
1.Sit down with the family and plan what you are going to do this Christmas NOW or preferably in June (but now that's too late so start today)
2. Map out who will be responsible for different aspects to whatever makes up your family Christmas. (a) Who is going to do the shopping and when?
(b) Who is going to do the cooking? What are you going to cook this year?
(c) Who is going to clean the house?
(d) When will you get a Christmas tree and who is going to put all those home made decorations on it?
3. If any thing has to be orderded Do it this week.
4. Start writing out all the Christmas greeting cards and writing your annual newsletter. Post them out next week
5. If you haven't cooked your Christmas cake Do it this weekend - no one will notice you didn't get it done last month! I do a great boiled fruit cake and store it with a dash of brandy - yum oh!
Let me know if you want the recipe.
6. Finish all Shopping by the end of next week no more shopping on Christmas eve do it right now online here.

7. Prepare all your "gifts of time" vouchers, as previously suggested.
8. I try to get a Christmas pudding from the local CWA ladies, they are all good cooks and that saves time too.
9. Make a note in your diary to attend all the school/community functions, including your local Carols by Candle light.
10. Wrap all the little presents and deliver to your friends between the 15th and 21st December.
11. Put on your favourite music sit down with a glass of your favourite refreshment and wait till Santa comes on the 25th December.
12. Attend your local church service, sing your best, and be thankful Christmas is only once a year just like your birthday! Christ only has one birthday but we all get to have the holiday and give the gifts.

Now that we have dealt with Christmas rush did you remember to plan your holiday away? I'll help you with that next time.

New Family-=- New Christmas Traditions

2008-11-16T11:55:00.004+11:00

Start your new family traditions this year.
Your new family will love having their own traditions to pass on.
Start by getting them involved with making their own Christmas decorations!

Even if you have a tight budget to work to there are ways to make your Christmas special.
Start teaching your family about the gift of time! The value we place on time is changing. The value of spending quality time together is important.

Give a gift of your time to each family member this Christmas. Make a voucher with any sort of "gift of your time" I suggested some on a previous Christmas budget post.

Christmas does not have to be about spending a lot of money.
Here are some places to shop where you will save money:
GetDirect n Save upto 80% at clearance prices. You will not be disappointed.

So what do they have?

For $29.99 instead of paying $149.00 you could have one of these for your budding student who needs to save things froma computer: like "homework"!!!!

Kingston DataTraveler 100 8GB USB Flash drives are ideal for home office, small business, schools and promotions. They're affordable and put mobile storage in nearly anyone's hands. Features: • Capacities – 8GB • Ultra portable storage device • Dimensions – 2.64" x 0.80" x 0.35" (66.9mm x 20.4mm x 9.0mm) • Weight - 0.4 oz (11.3 g) • Operating Temperature – 0° to 60° C / 32° to 140° F • Storage Temperature – -20° - 85° C / -4° to 185° F • Compliant – Designed to Hi-Speed USB 2.0 specifications • Convenient – Pocket-sized for easy transportability • Simple – Just plug and play into a USB port • Practical – Capless • Color - Black

Now you could give this to your "student" and also make them a gift voucher so they get 2 hours extra time on the computer!

What else?

LED motion sensor light now these a great for the young or old! Just place them so they come on and show you the way at night, just in case you need to get up to the bathroom!
Now they are only $14.99 and the RRP is $39.99

Do you know anyone with an Iphone? Then they will love this next suggestion.

This Touch Pen Stylus for Apple 3G iPhone and iPod touch lets you type, tap and scroll effortlessly on your iPhone or iPod touch. We all know typing on the iPhone or iPod touch can be frustrating at times. This Touch Pen Stylus is the perfect solution as it lets you type with precision and tap or scroll with ease. Soft-touch tip won't scratch your screen. Features: • Lets you type with precision • Enables easy tapping, double-tapping and scrolling • Built-in shirt clip • Light-weight aluminum body with soft-touch rubber tip • Works with Apple iPhone and iPod touch touch-screens • Compatible : Apple iPhone / 3G iPhone / iTouch ( 4GB / 8GB / 16GB ) • Comes in a pair ( 2X ) The ultimate Screen Guard Protection for your 3G iPhone screen, almost impossible to detect, clear transparent screen guard offers protection against scratches and dirt, anti-scratching and durable guard helps protect your 3G iPhone screen against daily usage and scratches. It has a High Light Transmission Rate which Offers a high visible light transmission that has minimal effect on the brightness of your 3G iPhone display. With UV Protection reduces the strain of your eyes by Filtering the UV light emitted from Your 3G iPhone display.Screen Guard is easily installed and is bubble free when installed.Features : • Fits Apple 3G iPhone only • Against scratching, scraping & abrasion • Resistance to erosion and finger-print • Removable without leaving residuary mark • Self-Adhesive & Re-Usable • Almost impossible to detect ,clear transparent • Screen Guard offers ultimate protection against scratches and dirt • Comes in a pair ( 2X )

Ok so that is a few more of my suggestions to keep the spending down. If you read my previous posts you will gain some more knowledge about how to stretch the budget even further.

Happy shopping and don't forget the start a family tradition this Christmas.

Ebay Tips and secrets

2008-11-15T16:30:00.002+11:00

OK there are no secrets anymore.

All the secrets are out there you just have to know where to

get the right information.

Now some of us like the thrill of selling and sourcing a product

and packageing and posting it to our customers, and guess what? that's OK.

Here are some Tips I have found for you

1.Now, don't forget that when you're looking at ongoing things to sell on eBay, it's important to stick to one category and grow your 'cluster' of products one at a time.

The reason for this is so that you are
perceived as the 'expert' in your category and it

becomes much easier to dominate and make maximum profits in minimum time.

So tip number one choose a category you think you can work with. Go to Ebay and take a browse at all the categories. Hint: Lots are already over supplied so you will have to be clever at sourcing your product and adding excellent customer service.

2.Did you know that a whopping 54% of
listings on eBay never sell, let alone
get a single bid? Tip educate your self constantly about the best system for you to work with this guide might help.

3.Where will you get your stock?

Start by selling everything around the house you don't want anymore, while you are learning about a categorgy you may like to specialise in.

Once you've sold everything you don't need any more, you can ask your friends and family for help. After that, the word will quickly spread and people will come to you with more things than you'll know what to do with in a lot of cases. After that and you will have worked out the systems and after that - here is a link where you will be welcomed to sell their product and they will ship it to your customers for you! Drop shipping they call it and works for some.

Ok that's enough tips for one day I'll be back with more later. Go get a start now.

Oh ONE MORE tip did you know a piece of womens clothing sells every 9 seconds on ebay?

Ebay - use it to help your budget

2008-11-14T16:15:00.001+11:00

Now what am I on about?
Would you like to know how to sell on ebay?
Well this strategy just might help you get a bit of extra cash for Christmas of course!

Not only are you about to find out how to get rid of some of the biggest problems related to running an eBay business, but you are about to find out how to sell and where to get the most profitable kind of products you can possibly sell on eBay.
So what kind products am I talking about? I am talking about digital information products!
No packaging, no suppliers, no posting, sounds great then go over here and take a look.

HO HO HO and Merry Christmas!

Christmas online shopping for Busy families

2008-11-12T13:51:00.012+11:00

Too busy to go out shopping?
Shop at home this Christmas!

Ok so nothing new about shopping online - people have been doing it now for a long time.

All your Christmas shopping problems solved right here right now!

So here are some more of my Christmas shopping secrets. Now all of these will save you money, you will have lots of choice and they will all be delivered to you direct.
Relax take it easy shopping is a breeze when the shopping mall comes to you!
You are going to save time, you won't have to find a parking spot, you won't have to fight you way through the crowded shops, you can sit at your desk with a glass of wine and do your shopping in a relaxed calm manner!

1. Gift Vouchers yep nothing new here either, but did you know that in Australia you can buy gift vouchers for B&Bs they are available at this website and you can use them at participating B&Bs Australia wide. They are available here too. Now these make great Christmas presents but are great rewards for staff, a bithday gift or a wedding gift too!

2. Who do you know that might like one of these?

What are they? A breathalyser of course. Now not every one likes to have a few drinks at Christmas but quiet a few do and still many of those may overdo it a bit. Well you wouldn't want anyone you care for to be drink driving would you? So give them one of these preferably before Christmas parties take hold and rest assured you have provided a tool that is very useful to help keep someone safe. You can get it here.

GetDirect n Save upto 80% at clearance prices. You will not be disappointed.

3.Fishing lures! now who would want those I wonder?

Here you will find a great range.

Fishing Lures GALORE, Plus Polarised sunglasses and fishing merchandise. Click here for online deals on fishing lures and products.

Or you could go here too

Just click onto the banner and search for fishing lures, there is a huge variety.

4. Chocolates well you could have thought of those but did you know you can get some of the best here.
Luxury chocolates handcrafted using Belgian chocolate and the finest ingredients from Australia and Worldwide. Handmade chocolates and Single Origin pure chocolate bars as gifts or for personal indulgence! Australia wide next day delivery.

5. Not looking for chocolate? Then go to "Everything but flowers" and don't buy the chocolates!

6. Rebel Sport now who do you know that wouldlike something from here?

OK that's enough for now, let me know how you get on .

Oh I nearly forgot ---- I found a portable music station here great value 40% off RRP just right for the teenager and the Ipod!

Oh and here is another bargain you must have for the teenager and this one is only $19.99

normal RRP $69.99

Compact and highly portable, this Portable Speakers are the perfect travel companion for your iPod or other MP3 player. These high-performance speakers utilize matching twin neodymium micro drivers for clear audio n powerful sound.Specifications :•Works with all iPod models, including iPod nano and iPod with video•Works with any portable audio player with a standard 3.5mm headphone jack•Works with iPod and other MP3 players (not included)•These high-performance speakers utilise matching twin neodymium micro drivers for clear audio•Compact and highly portable design•Protective metal grilles•AC power ( not included ) or up to 10 hours of battery life with 4 AA batteries ( not included ) and you get them here
GetDirect n Save upto 80% at clearance prices. You will not be disappointed.

Family Christmas on a Budget Help is here

2008-11-10T11:29:00.019+11:00

The secrets of having a nice family Christmas on a budget.
Merry Christmas to you all!
Now let's just start by saying that the purpose of Christmas is really to celebrate the birth of Christ and everyone would have that in their minds constantly when preparing for Christmas.
I would also like to say that Christmas is a season for giving, but does that mean spending a lot of money? Christmas is a time for sharing so why not start now and make your decorations - special family decorations those that mean something every year to your loved family members.
Well some maybe thinking that the Christmas budget will be a bit tight this year.
But here is some help for you.
I will give you some of my budget stretching secrets during the next few days to help solve all of your Christmas woes.
But I can't solve the family feuds or the stress of bringing families together - that's another set of tips to be reserved for much later.

Today I want to show you how to shop wisely. So read carefully and hope you find that the information is useful.

TIPS for busy families:
1. Give a gift of your time a "work" voucher
Make up a voucher for each family member promising some of your time. How often you chose to pledge your time is up to you.
Here are some of the things you might be able to offer:
Window Cleaning for Mum/Dad/Nan/Pop
Child minding for a young mum
Mow the lawn
Make a date to take someone on a picnic to a very special place.
Care for the Pet, walking /washing
Weed the garden
Clean the Car
2. Make Something
batch of biscuits
Make a Christmas cake
Prepare a Photo album of some special pictures you have taken through the year, decorate it your self.
Prepare a first aid kit for the car.
Decorate a small box and fill it with things you can purchase on your budget make it a theme.
3.Shop at the "charity shops"
This is a great way to pick up something for everyone. You help the "charity" by shopping there and giving them money to help others too. There are lots of ideas here too.
Jars to fill with things!!
Baskets to fill and decorate!!
Nice peices of china!!
New items of clothing are here somethings too!!
Wall hangings
Pictures
Toys
4. Subscriptions
The local newspaper.
A favorite magazine.
40 South makes a great gift.

So that's a start. Now here are some very useful shopping links where you will save as well.

Now You can buy clean skin wine here also for a discount. My BIG TIP is to print up your own special Christmas labels for thewine and give to your friends and family!

Webhosting - reliable, dependable, cost effective

2008-11-01T10:12:00.008+11:00

MD webhosting is a reliable host of one of my websites.

You may like to use them too.

Take this link over to check them out.

I use this one because:

1. There is no locked in contract

2. I can use their FREE web site builder, to build a simple website.

3. The support staff are always quick and efficient with my enquiries.

4. You may still be able to get a $100 coupon to start a google adwords campaign too.

Google Adwords Gurus

Now while we are talking about google adwords campaigns, would you like someone to set it up for you and manage it, so you can spend more time doing all the things you are good at in your business?

Well here is a link that will help you out there too. The friendly people will be able to help you understand google analytics and draft your adwords to target your market.

Hope you find these tips useful. Let me know how you get on!

Extra Tip of the day:

Sell gift certificates for your products. You'll make sales from the purchase of the gift certificate, when the recipient cashes it in. They could also buy other items from your web site.

Gift certificates are now available for Platypus Park Country Retreat accommodation in Bridport Tasmania, Australia come on over to the website and check out the range of rooms available. These gift certificates make great Christmas or birthday presents. This is such a relaxing place to spend a few days.

Become an EBay Pro

2008-10-24T10:15:00.006+11:00

Would you be interested if I could solve some of your problems?

If You Are Tired of Constantly Shipping And Packaging Products,
Paying Outrageous Customs Charges And Barely Breaking Even With The Products You Sell On eBay, Then Discover…

“The Secrets to Selling the Single Most Profitable Type of Product there is…And Keeping 100% of the Profit from Every Single Sale You Make!”

Not only are you about to find out how to get rid of some of the biggest problems related to running an eBay business, but you are about to find out how to sell and where to get the most profitable kind of products you can possibly sell on eBay.

Here is your answer

Hop on over to take a look at what I have for you today.

Amazing Marketing -Success in 30 days

2008-10-18T11:03:00.001+11:00

	Claim Your FREE V.I.P Membership to this Amazing Marketing Course worth $197 Today. Limited Number of No Cost Memberships available. Visit Now to Secure Your Copy via Instant Download
Click Here For FREE V.I.P Membership

Please take a look at this opportunity today

Los Angeles holiday Discounted Yipee!

2008-10-15T12:06:00.002+11:00

Here us another great holiday deal for you.

$1699 -- Fly to LA on Australia's Newest Airline ex 3 Cities^*

Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne to Los Angeles

Top 20 deal - sells out quickly!

Travel dates: 1 March - 2 April & 18 April - 31 May 09

By Romain Rouillon
Travelzoo Staff

V Australia has just released hugely discounted fares to Los Angeles from three Australian cities, for just $1699 return, including tax. That's at least $300 OFF what other companies are charging to go to the City of Angels.

The sale fares are valid for travel from next year 1 March until 2 April and again from 18 April until 31 May.

The Los Angeles flights are available from the following cities:

Sydney ... $1699 (Select the $877 Departure, $814 Return)
Brisbane ... $1699 (Select the $882 Departure, $813 Return)
Melbourne ... $1699 (Select the $879 Departure, $814 Return)

How to book: To make your booking online with V Australia, click here. When we booked we found most dates available for a few dollars less than advertised.

Travelzoo Tip: Other departures cities are available with the same great savings, LA to/from- Hobart:$1930, Canberra:$1860, Adelaide:$1940.

Click here to search for great hotel deals in Los Angeles.

Where else would you like to go? I might be able to find it for you.

Here's Your next Holiday Destination

2008-10-08T12:43:00.003+11:00

Today I am bringing you one of the best deals in travel to the Solomon Islands.

Why the Solomon Islands???? Well my son is Solomon!

Virgin Blue is celebrating its new route to the Solomon Islands from Brisbane, with all departure points now on sale to Honiara starting at $466 return (inc. tax), a huge chunk off regular fares which typically start from $1000 return for this exotic destination.

Valid for travel 2 December - 31 March.

Brisbane ... $466
Melbourne ... $573
Sydney ... $574
Canberra ... $577

I'd love to go but I can't right now but I hope you can. Let me know if you go!!

Are you going Green? Get a GREEN health check now

2008-10-02T11:27:00.002+10:00

Check your carbon footprint today.
See what you might be able to change to make the whole world a better place.

Sign up now for Green Globe Lite Health Check Framework

For proactive businesses that want to start addressing sustainability and climate change the Green Globe Lite program provides your business with an online user friendly Health Check Framework.

It assesses all key environmental performances areas within your business to help get you started.

By measuring your Greenhouse Gas emissions (carbon footprint) you will be prepared for mandated carbon reporting. You will be able to monitor how your energy and water consumption and you waste production compares to the Best Practice and Baseline figures for your industry sector.

To sign up for the Health Check Framework visit the Green Globe Lite website.
Did you know that if everyone in the world lived a typical Australian lifestyle, we would need the equivalent of three planet earths to supply our food, transport, shelter and services? How much carbon is your home using? Take a quick quiz to calculate your home’s carbon emissions. You’ll need your last four electricity and gas bills. www.climatesmart.qld.gov.au/get_informed/carbon_calculator Once you’ve calculated your home’s carbon emissions, why not take the seven day carbon challenge? www.climatesmart.qld.gov.au/get_involved/low_carbon_diet_-_for_community_groups

Positive Cash Flow - Learn How to Invest

2008-09-12T14:56:00.006+10:00

Are you interested in making money using property without using all your own cash?

Have you heard of Rick Otton?

He is a typical Aussie bloke who has a great system for turning ordinary properties into cash machines.

He is straight forward and to the point, and that's what I like, so there is no BS with his information. Rick uses wrapping as a key way to help his students start their real estate investment career. In what some times can be a subject that is difficult to master, Rick makes it easy so people can follow his 1-2-3- system. It’s like paint by numbers, just follow the steps.

When learning from someone, make sure they practice what they are preaching. Rick is exactly doing that, not only does he teach his students, but he also invests using the same simple steps for his own personal success.

Go to to discover more information on Rick’s system and how you can benefit.

I'll talk to you later just get over there now.

P. S. Don’t forget go to https://webuyhouses.infusionsoft.com/go/cd/tinman/ for more information on how to make positive cash flow using a proven strategy

Web Hosting - No Contracts

2008-09-03T09:57:00.003+10:00

Get $100 free Google adwords voucher! BONUS!

Web Hosting from $9.90 per month! It is so easy give it a try today. Great way to start your web presence.

Fantastic Web Hosting

Just register your domain name from as little as $11.00 per year, and start building your website with the free web builder. It will be hosted on a monthly basis with no contracts.

Create your own simple website to get your online business up and running in just a few hours.

It's dead easy if I can do it anyone can!

New ways to invest in Real Estate

2008-08-27T16:34:00.000+10:00

Have you been introduced to Rick Otten yet?

Maybe not. Rick is an Australian with great ideas about investing in Real Estate with out having loads of cash! Yes I know it's a novel idea that one, but Rick has been teaching people on several continents just how to go about it, become successful and wealthy, at the same time as helping other people into their own homes.

Rick Otton, is the original pioneer of creative property strategies in Australia and United Kingdom and is internationally admired by the property industry for his Positive Cash Flow and Little Or No Money Down Property Transactions.

So you are one of the people who think that is not possible. Well take a look at the links and learn a little more.

Head on over to Rick's main site and let him explain the basics to you and how he is willing to help you out. Let him show you how he has bought houses for $1.
Oh you still doubt that too! Well that one was documented on TV in Australia a few years back.

Learn about wrapping!

Don't just take my word for it, that this might revolutionise the way you think of controlling Real Estate, here's what others say.

"Rick Is Head And Shoulders Way In Front Of All Other People Who Are Doing It" I found out about Rick Otton approximately 2 years ago. Since then I’ve looked into 3 other people who are coaching with wrapping in Australia. Rick came up head and shoulders way in front of all the other people who are doing it. His business ethics, his standard and his systemis far better than anything I have ever seen. Currently using his system in my first property there’s probably $70,000 profit in it. So I recommend anyone who wants to get into wrapping or financing in real estate to buy Rick’s Wrap Pack and do his courses." Graham Horvath, Brisbane, Qld

"Having had the opportunity to speak with Rick personally, it has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me. The creativity Rick uses in structuring his deals blew me away. Rick knows his stuff on a global scale. His attitude of ‘whatever it takes’ is contagious and I feel a drive from within that I never knew I had. In terms of hands-on practical experience and in-depth education, follow and listen to everything this man says." Howard McRobbie - New South Wales

So there you go do a bit of clicking and learn a bit more about how to buy houses and sell them to others for a profit without having to outlay loads of cash!

Can you Help?

2008-08-21T10:00:00.000+10:00

How do you help the abused children of the world?

Does this happen in your town?

Why is one youth allowed to terrorise other children and is not brought to justice?

Has anyone else seen this phenomenon? It goes something like this.

A once nice well mannered boy slowly turns into a monster and continually threatens physical abuse, deliberately damages other peoples property, becomes a thief and an habitual liar, causes others to suffer physical abuse, and encourages others to participate in racial bullying. He becomes sly, calculating, sneaky and his reputation is building up to one who could never be trusted. He runs along to his parents and tries to blame everyone else for his short comings and all this appears to be condoned by the mother and step father in fact research has found that they openly encourage the child to “go out and get the other ****** kid.”

Research also shows that the child has been mentally and physically abused and now the child is trying to be just like the role models.

What does our social system or child welfare system do to help this poor unfortunate?

What is the right avenue to find help for these unfortunate people in our society?

Is bad behviour learned or in your Genes? I believe it is a conditioning of the individual, what do you think? Can it be removed or is it set in concrete once there?

The schools have been teaching children about bullying for many years, but it would seem now that most children are reluctant to report bullying because of the fear of retaliation. Likewise in the community people are reluctant to report bad behaviour because of the fear of retribution. How many times have you heard people talking about problems of vandalism but they don’t report it because they don’t want to get involved?

The justice system does not appear to favour the good citizens of the community to try to stamp out the nuisance element in their neighbourhood.

How are we going to change they way society thinks and acts? How are we going to teach the unfortunates of the world to live in harmony with the rest of us?

Get on over to Trip advisor

2008-08-12T13:56:00.000+10:00

View my profile

Create your own travel map or travel blog

Visit TripAdvisor.com

I love this site, use it all the time when I'm thinking of going somewhere. Travel is fun and sharing your knowledge it fantastic.

See all the places I've been. I might have been where you are now!

Don't Stress

2008-08-08T10:25:00.002+10:00

Take the natural way out

This is what one 4 life customer has said:

STRESS
My wife Shelley was getting little sleep at night. Her job was
causing much stress, and tension. I asked Shelley to call her
doctor and see what she suggested. She was prescribed a
stress relief medication. Shelley was on the medication for
about 2 weeks before complaining that now she couldn’t
sleep at all!
I told her to call her doctor again and she said to take Valium.
I said "NO WAY" - call her back and find out how long it will
take to get the original drug out of her system.
I was introduced to these transfer factor products at this time
and Shelley began taking the stress formula.
Two days later, I asked her how her day had gone and she
said it was a hard stressful day. About an hour later, she said
she was tired and was ready for bed.
She then had the first restful sleep she had had in about two
months!
Morris Alexander

4 Life Transfer Factor products may help you in a range of stressful situations give it a try today, visit this online shop and have your chosen product delivered to your door or post box!

A Natural Anxiety Remedy: Exercise And Anxiety Reduction

2008-08-05T10:30:00.000+10:00

DO you suffer from anxiety?

Have you noticed that people in general these days are more anxious and have to contend with ever increasing levels of stress and anxiety in their lives. And while there are many conventional treatment options for someone suffering with anxiety, there are also a number of very effective techniques and methods you can implement yourself that will make a big difference in your ability to cope with the anxiety in your life.

Of course if your condition is a serious one these do it yourself treatments may not be enough and you will need the support of your chosen health care professional. However, oftentimes these additional self help methods can dramatically increase the results of whatever anxiety treatment option you chose while at the same time increasing your general sense of wellbeing while you are being treated.

If you are looking for an effective and easy to use self-help technique to help in treating your anxiety look no further than regular exercise. Research has shown conclusively that exercise has a very positive effect on a physical level as well as on a mental and emotional level. In many cases of depression and anxiety, exercise alone has been proven to dramatically decrease the incidence of attacks and the severity of the symptoms.

Regular exercise does a number of things that may be able to help you if you suffer with anxiety.

While seemingly a paradox exercise done on a regular basis can actually increase your levels of energy it is up with anxiety.
To someone who is chronically anxious their body is always "on"
and using energy at a rate considerably higher than someone who is relaxed more often than not. By exercising regularly the nervous system is to switch off to some degree allowing you to conserve more energy in performing your normal tasks.

If you are someone who is chronically anxious it might pay you to think about adopting a regular exercise programme into your day-to-day routine. The relatively small amount of energy you will use while exercising will pay you back ten fold when you start to conserve energy that you would have previoulsy used in a chronically anxious state.

Another big payoff for people who exercise regularly is the endorphin rush that accompanies vigorous exercise. Endorphins are hormones that are released into our system during exercise.
They make us feel good. They increase our sense of well-being.
And effect lingers after the exercise has stopped.

Some forms of exercise can help directly to relieve tension and tightness within muscles that lead to chronic pain patterns within people who suffer from anxiety. Yoga is an excellent example of this form of exercise.

It's important to remember that at this stage when you are just thinking about starting to exercise regularly that exercise does not need to be hard or difficult and that any form of movement or physical activity done regularly will give you the benefit you seek.

And whatever you do don't let your lack of exercise knowledge give you something else to get anxious about.

All you need to do is to simply get going. Of all the exercise is out there walking is probably the best to you to start with.
As you get fitter and stronger and more confident with physical activity you can start looking at other more exciting exercise options.

These days there are an endless number of exercise options for you to choose from. You can attend classes such as aerobics or Pilates classes. Martial arts classes are a great way to get fit and gain confidence which will undoubtedly help you reduce stress and anxiety. Weight training is another option. And even if you don't want to leave home, there an endless array of DVD instructional videos on all kinds of fitness activities to choose from.

Anxiety and the accompanying him mental, emotional and physical symptoms and stress that comes with it to be helped dramatically with the implementation of a regular exercise routine.

If you are someone suffering with anxiety, regular exercise provides you with an effective, affordable and, believe it or not, enjoyable way of not only relieving your anxiety but also helping you to increase the feelings of well-being and happiness in your life.

About the author:
Serge Taylor writes for anxiety-curs.org.Before you decide on a method for treating anxiety attacks, get your FREE anxiety and panic attack treatment report and check out the panicaway review to learn about the most powerful natural treatment for anxiety and panic attacks on the market today.

Your Carbon Footprint

2008-08-01T11:29:00.000+10:00

The Future is Bright for Wood Burning

In recent years there has been a significant increase in the market for wood burning appliances. As environmental issues have pricked the social conscience, and people take steps to reduce their carbon footprint, there has been a preference to carbon neutral solutions over coal or gas fuel. Whilst coal, gas and other higher carbon fuels are suffering in terms of cost and high emissions, wood and wood based fuels are becoming more and more popular. Manufacturers and installers in this industry are reaping the benefits of increased sales and growth due to the levels of demand. Customers want the best of both; to have solutions that make their house comfortable and to save on carbon. Essentially customers still enjoy the charm of stoves that have a real flame.

The use of sustainable wood fuels is now considered a viable carbon neutral option for both the commercial and domestic market and when combined with other technologies could lead to the visionary zero carbon home of the future. Solid fuel is classed as wood, wood based biomass fuels and solid mineral fuels, amongst these wood biomass being the most environmentally friendly. Many people prefer the lifestyle choice of wood burning equipment and the industry body HETAS is on hand to ensure customers have access to high quality wood.

As a green customer if you are worried about the carbon miles incurred from transporting the wood, you should find it easy to source from local suppliers. The cost of purchasing wood is still relatively high but as demand continues to increase and the idea of carbon neutrality becomes the norm, price should start to fall.

HETAS is also there to make sure that you have access to the right products and services. They provide information on approved registered installers and independently test manufacturers' appliances so you can be confident of purchasing a product that complies with the current regulations. It is advisable to get your appliance installed by a registered HETAS installer not only for their skill and competence but to avoid the need to apply for a Building Notice from your local authority (which may cost over £200). Additionally by using a HETAS registered installer you have the peace of mind that your appliance has efficiency figures or CE marking, instructions in English, can be installed easily and gives you recourse for a refund if anything goes wrong.

As a renewable and carbon neutral energy source wood fuelled appliances are set to lead the way. An important consideration is the sourcing of sustainable wood in order for the carbon cycle to remain intact. Sustainable sources of wood include Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified wood, woodland managed under the Woodland Grant Scheme or wood felled after the issue (by the Forestry Commission of a Felling Licence).

When choosing wood it is better to buy by volume rather than weight because a large proportion of freshly felled wood is made up of water. Some of the best woods to burn in your wood burning appliance are ash, hornbeam, beech and hawthorn.

About the author:
For more information on using wood burning appliances please visit HETAS registered installers MK Fireplaces at http://www.mkfireplaces.co.uk. MK Fireplaces are experts at installing wood burners, multi-fuel fires, gas fires and stoves.

The Game of Golf

2008-07-30T11:32:00.001+10:00

Exercise and sport is a great way to keep fit to maintain your good health.

Would you like to learn the basics of golf?
That would be BEFORE you take the Tasmanian Barnbougle Dunes challenge!

Here is something which might help those thinking of taking up the sport - it just might lead to better health too.
And just to help all those who may be suffering from some pain while thye are practicing to become the next Greg Norman take a look here.

The golf course may seem a far-off-in-the-future place, where you will not set foot for a long time. But it is helpful to understand the layout of the course to understand what you must learn. When I teach I like to put the pieces of the puzzle together as promptly as possible. Understanding the golf course allows you a look at the big picture, so you can figure out where to put the pieces.

A regulation golf course consists of 18 holes. There are generally three lengths of holes: par 3s, par 4s, and par 5s. The length or yardage of the hole, which will be listed on your scorecard, determines the par. The length or yardage of the hole, which will be listed on your scorecard, determines the par. For our purposes, a par 3 is a short hole, a par 4 is a medium-length hole, and a par 5 is a longer-length hole, which can often look like an eternity to a new golfer.

I remember playing a par 5 at Frenchman's Creek and burying my tee shot into a cork tree. After wedging the golf ball from out of the trunk, not being happy, with my playing partner laughing at me, I remeber looking up and realizing that I had over 400 more yards to travel. This felt like a five-mile-long par 5 at this point.

Par is the score that an expert golfer would expect on a hole under normal weather conditions, including two strokes on the putting green. So, in other words, on a par 3 an expert golfer would hit the ball onto the green in one shot, on a par 4 in two shots, and on a par 5 in three shots, each allowing two puffs for the computation of par.

Now, are you an expert golfer? It is probably safe to assume no, due to the fact that you are reading this book for beginners. So scoring par would certainly be fun but is probably not a reasonable expectation at this time, nor it is a requirement for having fun.

The most important component of the golf course is the hole, not to be confused with the cup. The cup, a four-and-one-quarter-inch hole in the green, is lined by a metal or hard plastic lining, sunk, by mandate of the rules of golf, at least one inch below the level of the green. The cup, the ultimate objective of the player of each hole,is marked by a flagstick, apole about six feet in height, usually with a cloth flag attached.

The goal of the game of golf is to advance the ball with your golf course is the hole, not to be confused with the golf clubs from the teeing area provided on each hole to the putting green and into the cup provided on each hole in as few strokes as possible. There are
18 holes on a regulation golf courses; therefore, you will attempt to do this 18 times. So, in other words, I have to teach you to get from here to there in the fewest number of strokes possible.

About the author:
www.learn-golf-course.com, provides tips and information in picking up golf, getting good and cheap golf clubs, golf balls, golf equipments, planning for golf vacations and many more on golf .....

Boost your Immune System

2008-07-22T09:24:00.006+10:00

Do yourself a favour and give your immune system a boost. You'll feel better, perform better, in your daily routine and cope better with the stress of life. And all that for a daily dose of just 30ml!

So you doubt that! Well don't take my word for it read the "real" testimonials.

ENERGY
Both my partner & I have noticed a great increase in our
energy levels since taking the liquid transfer factors/Acai
berry juice product.
28/07/2007
Steve Mack

ENERGY & WELL-BEING
Being an up and coming middle distance runner I am
required to train hard. Due to the hard training I do 6 times a
week my immune system can be left vulnerable to colds &
flus during and after training - especially during winter.
I started taking transfer factors 4 months ago; since then I
have not had one cold. My training times on the track have
improved out of sight. I have so much energy during my
training sessions. I also have more energy after training too!
I love this product and my gigantic running improvements are
strong evidence that it works for me.
Ryan Samarzia

ENERGY
I was overweight and fatigued.
I started taking transfer factor and three days later my 8 year
old granddaughter asked me why I was walking so fast? I
told her that I have more energy!
Joe McKenzie Jnr

WELL-BEING
I started taking transfer factors even though I consider myself
a ‘well’ person. But as I’ve advanced in years, I found that at
the end of a working day I was getting very tired.
After just a few days on transfer factor I had more energy, felt
better within myself and was not as weary as I had been,
right up to the time of going to bed..
Rob McLaren

ENERGY
I have been using the liquid transfer factor with acai berries
for 8 weeks and have found amazing extra energy!
This is enabling me to work full working days, whereas
previously, I would need to rest in the afternoon for a couple
of hours.
It is truly wonderful.
Sheila Walton

RioVida® Tri-Factor™ Beverage
Liquid Transfer Factor with Açaí and "black" berries

4Life's brand-new RioVida Tri-Factor Beverage formula’s got real punch. Riovida is the only beverage in the world that provides the benefits of NanoFactors, 4Life's patent-pending extract of immune-enhancing NanoFactors®.

NanoFactors radically increase the effectiveness of Riovida so you get way more "bang for your buck!"

Only RioVida gives the immune support of 4Life's® Transfer Factor and the energizing effects and the antioxidants contained in the amazing Açaí (ah-sigh-ee) berry, the Brazilian berries that vitalize with over 120 antioxidants. Plus powerful antioxidant "black" fruits like pomegranates, blueberries, elderberries and purple grapes!
Transfer Factor – raises immune function 283%
Açaí - the world’s #1 super food
Pomegranates – powerful antioxidants & fiber
Blueberries - antioxidants & digestive support
Elderberries - potent antioxidants
Oh, and did I forget to say that RioVida is quite simply a "knock your socks off" TASTE SENSATION!

You can get it here. Right now.
http://www.gina.4healthdirect.com/

You not only get a powerful product to help you through the day but a very helpful and sincere person to give you all the added information you may require. Here is one recemt quote
"You have done such a great job ........... to get me informed of and with your business. I am a professional person that knows the ebb and flow of how people express themselves wherever they might be in their life’s journey You are very precise and equally sincere."
L. Miller. USA

The great thing with these products is that they are delivered right to your door (or postal address) it's magic a few clicks, a few days and there is your chosen boost sitting on your door step or in your mail box!

My kids can't stay away from it either ... so give it a go today!

ENERGY
I have noticed that my energy levels have increased since
taking the liquid Rio transfer factor with acai berries every
morning.
Even with late and restless nights that come with having a
newborn baby, I’m surprised at how I am able to keep going
so well.
I like to play sports eg. Football & Basketball but was really
starting to lack in the energy department, and once I hit
30yrs old things were only starting to go downhill.
But since taking the liquid transfer factors, I have really
noticed a difference in my energy & stamina.
I have a lot more get up & go.
Jamie Podmore

USA Holiday in AUS

2008-07-19T12:36:00.000+10:00

Experience the finest in international travel and accomodation services with directflights.com.au!!!

I have recently read the Tourism Australia Research data on visitors to Australia. Here is just one section of interest. Other countries make interesting reading as well I may post about those later on.

USA Visitor Summary
In 2007, there were 459,733 visitors to Australia, an increase of 1% from the previous year, making the USA Australia's fourth largest inbound market for arrivals.

In 2007, the average length of stay for US visitors was 23 nights, lower than the average of 30 nights for all visitors
American travellers accounted for 6% of all international visitor nights in Australia in 2007.
The USA is Australia's second largest source market in terms of total expenditure. In 2007, travellers from the USA spent a total of $2.5 billion on trips to Australia, with an average expenditure of $5,756 per trip.
In 2007, 41% of USA visitor nights were spent in dispersed areas, that is outside the major gateways of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.
In 2007, July was the peak month for visitors from the USA, followed by December and March.
In 2007, the most popular State or Territory for visitors from the USA was New South Wales with 288,269 or 67% of visitors, staying for 3.6 million nights.

Where do they go?

But I notice that most of the USA visitors are missing out on one of the best Australian expereinces - Tasmania. Very few, as a percentage of the total actually visit Tasmania which means they don't get to see this beautiful environment so widely written about.

What do they do?

The top five activities for visitors from the USA in 2007 were:

eatout at restaurants and or café's,
sightseeing,
go shopping for pleasure,
go to the beach (including swimming, surfing
and diving)
and visit pubs, clubs; discos

This sugests to me that they don't get out of Sydney (NSW) much, which after all is just another city! Perhaps they are all country folk who like a city fix while on holiday!

What about going to some of the out of the way places? Somewhere like Uluru, Kakadu, The Reef, Cradle Mountain, Freycinet. to experience some "nature based" activities.

The USA visitors seem to be bucking the trend, others visitors love to come for nature.

How do they know where to go?

They do spend a heap of money on organised tours though and plan about 3-6 months in advanced, and they use the internet for their planning.

The most common source of information for first time travellers from the USA was the internet, this was used by 52% of first time visitors when planning their travel.
In 2007, a total of 271,3540 or 63% of visitors from the USA used the internet when planning their trip to Australia.
Most visitors from the USA (57%) used the internet to find out more about Australia after they decided to visit
while 54% also used it to help plan their trip itinerary.

So they are not unlike most in that regard. We have all embraced the internet as a source of information above all other.

So happy holiday planning to you all --- it is a very complex area but there are heaps of ways to find the right way to research your great holiday location - - -- - - - - - - -

JUST ASK A LOCAL!

Disclaimer:
The information in this data is presented in good faith and on the basis that neither Tourism Australia or
Tourism Research Australia, nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission,
negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred
or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any
statement, information or advice given in this publication. Data derived from Tourism Research Australia
surveys are subject to sample error. Users of the data are advised to consult the sample error tables
contained in Tourism Research Australia publications or otherwise available from Tourism Research
Australia before drawing any conclusions or inferences, or taking any action, based on the data.

Register your own Domain Name

2008-07-15T10:26:00.003+10:00

Make your Name Pay!

Have you ever thought of creating your own domain name and making money? Bet your parents didn't realise how valuable your name might be in the future either!

When you're noticed by your Prospects, you'll have a much better chance of making money.

With everybody knowing just how powerful the Internet really is, it's easy to stand out from the crowd.

All you need to do is get a DOMAIN NAME that is your actual name and set up a blog and e-mail addresses at that domain.

For example, if your name is "Gina Scott", you can register http://www.gina scott.com/ for yourself at about $10/year, provided it hasn't already been registered by another John Smith somewhere else in the world.

You can set up a Blog at your new web adress where you can put up your thoughts and promote whatever it is you wish to promote. You can create e-mail addresses that look like the following: this will look more professional; ceo@ john smith .com, whatever@ johnsmith.com

Can you already see the benefits you may enjoy?

* Tell your friends and family about your new domain and see how impressed they will be.

* Tell your boss about it and watch him (or her) sit up and take notice at your initiative.

* Write your personalized e-mail in your resume and inform the interviewer for your prospective job about it and watch them make a note of your resourcefulness and enterprise.

Wherever you go and whoever you inform of your self-titled domain and e-mail will remember you for it, in a great way!

And now, for the first time, people will start noticing you online as well, as they visit your blog and read your posts.

So many advantages, at such a small cost. The SOLOBIS PDN Plan is a must have for anyone and everyone.

Find out more and secure your domain today at once before someone else does.

Do this quickly, before someone else with the same name grabs it!

Taking Pets On HOLIDAY

2008-07-12T10:35:00.000+10:00

Great holiday locations are where you can take the whole "family"

Is your property truly pet-friendly? Customers or potential customers ask this question all the time.

More and more people are choosing to take their pets away with them, and this growing and discerning market is demanding more than just a dog bowl and kennel to make Fido happy.

Several web sites survey visitors every month, and are receiving an increasing number of comments relating to properties and their 'pet-friendly' status. I have included a couple of quotes to highlight the concerns of people who wish to travel with their pets.

Motor bike and pet friendly now that's a cool place to stay...Fido had his own sunglasses,head scarf, and seat and harness to keep him safe and comfortable. He was satisfied to sleep outside on the verandah and go for a walk when nature called!

"Are dogs allowed inside, or only outside; restrictions on dog size; things like that. In this instance I had to make specific enquiries with the property owner. All was well, but additional information could have been provided on the listing to help me decide whether it was worth making further enquiries or not."
"People travelling with dogs need much more information about what is provided. 'Pet-friendly' is not sufficient. We need to know: are they welcome inside? Is the property fenced? Fenced balcony? Whole yard? Size of yard? An information pack about local dog by-laws such as which beaches allow dogs would be really useful, along with recommended walks for people with dogs. This is the information dog people want. I would prefer this information to be on the listing, so I don't have to disclose all of my contact details just to find out if the property meets my needs."

This is clearly an issue that needs to be addressed and those who best meet the needs of people travelling with pets will be the ones to capitalise on a increasing market. Therefore if you are an accommodation provider, and really want to be pet friendly, take note and provide your potential customer with more information on the websites you are listed.

Pet Friendly Tips:

Fence a section of the property where pets can roam/exercise freely.

Provide feeding bowls.

Provide shelter for both good and bad weather.

Provide furniture covers for those pets who demand to sit on the lounge with the owner.

Take a pet bond to cover any damage.

Provide plastic bags and receptical for the "pet doings"
Ask that the pet is vaccinated and has had a bath before arrival.

Hope this helps both providers and guests to understand some of the issues of taking pets on holiday.

Why do you Advertise?

2008-07-11T10:40:00.001+10:00

Why advertising doesn't sell...

Communication experts generally agree on the stages of the communication process: unawareness, awareness, comprehension, conviction, and finally action.

Creating awareness is advertising’s easiest job and may be quickly accomplished. Your advertising can easily move prospects from unawareness to an awareness of your business, product or service.

Developing understanding (comprehension) requires more advertising effort and more time.

Advertising must now be asked to move the prospective customer to an understanding of who you are, what you stand for, the quality of your products or services and your promise of customer satisfactions.

Creating preference or trust takes even longer. When trust is achieved you will attract customers and establish a consumer franchise for your business. When trust is achieved you will own your segment of the market.Read more about why advertising doesn't sell...With thanks to Jeff Dostal, Marketing Fire Power

OK I haven't actually made up all the words for this one but it is all very true. All small business face the challenge of a small marketing budget and how to get more customers. This link just might help someone to understand a little more of the marketing puzzle.

Food Handling Tips

2008-07-09T15:07:00.002+10:00

Here is a great timely warning about food handling which I am happy to pass onto all my friends. Read Donalds great tips on food handling.
Remember when you are preparing food for gatherings to keep things refrigerated for as long as possible. I even use the freezer to pop things into for a sort time when I am running out of fridge space.

Natural Healthy Skin

2008-07-09T10:30:00.000+10:00

I found this article which I think is right to the mark, have a read and my best wishes for healthy skin.

People will spend a fortune each year on skin care products.
However, there are still many people who have not tried natural skin care remedies. They are just as effective and much better for your skin as well.

Some of the non-natural options people choose are dermabrasions, chemical peels, botox and other procedures that are just not particularly good for you. Have you ever seen anyone who has had botox treatments? They look like they have a permanently surprised expression or no expression at all.

Natural skin care remedies will not involve the injecting of a potentially dangerous toxin called botulinum into your face, which is exactly what botox does. If you want your skin surgically 'scuffed' to remove any irregularities then a dermabrasion is for you.

Obviously, this is not a particularly natural thing to undergo.
If you want an acidic chemical applied to your face to remove a layer of skin then a chemical peel is what you need.

In order for people to maintain a youthful appearance, they do not need to undergo these drastic and at times very expensive options. Natural skin care remedies such as olive oil or green tea can be used as an effective method. The ingredients found in green tea products provide a natural antioxidant that helps to keep the skin hydrated, which helps to smooth out lines and wrinkles.

You can add natural skin care remedies to your bath in the form of herbal aromatherapy oils. In this manner, your skin is healed and cleansed by the essential oils. You can also use bath teas, which also helps to promote healthy skin and hair.

If you have a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis then these bath tea oils with help the cleaning and restoring your skin. It is also great for your hair especially if you have dandruff or an itchy scalp. There are many different natural methods to caring for your skin.

Another example of a home remedy is to mix equal parts of lime juice, rose water and glycerin. If you apply this to your face every night before bed then you will notice an improvement in your complexion as it makes the skin softer and helps remove acne and other blemishes.

In conclusion, why not choose natural skin care remedies over chemicals or other invasive choices such as botox. You will find many different types of natural methods and natural creams to choose from, find one that works best for you and stick with it.

About the author:
We provide information on natural body butters, scented massage oils, nat
ural massage oils along with information on massage therapy continuing education. Visit us now for all your skin care information.

By D.Karlson

I want you to Feel Great

2008-07-04T16:29:00.002+10:00

Protect your first impression assett

Now I know there are just 100,000's of people, mainly women who will just love this product. Give it a go and let me know what you think.

Not another scam!

2008-07-03T13:21:00.003+10:00

Here is the latest scam I have been warned about. Please feel free to pass it on to all your friends.

SCAMwatch is warning the Australian community to beware of death threat spam text messages from scammers pretending to be a hired hitman in order to extort thousands of dollars from their victims.
SCAMwatch and several police and law enforcement agencies across Australia have received reports of text messages warning the recipient that they have been targeted for death- but will be spared if they pay up.
These hoax death threats typically involve SMS text arriving out of the blue from what appears to be an international number. In some cases the number appears to be blocked.
A typical message reads: "Someone paid me to kill you. If you want me to spare you, I'll give you two days to pay $5000. If you inform the police or anybody, you will die, I am monitoring you."
Some of the messages are long and contain all the text, while others are broken up into shorter messages. Also, reports indicate the requested amount can vary from between $1000-$50,000. The scammers also provides payment details and an email address to their victims.
This scam is designed to frighten the recipient and has already snared victims across Australia and in other countries. SCAMwatch urges you to warn your family, friends and colleagues about this scam.
Anyone who has received emails or text messages of this nature should ignore them- don't respond and don't send any money to the scammers.
The scammer may also ask you to provide personal information, including your banking details. SCAMwatch strongly urges you to ignore this request as your identity may be compromised, and you may risk being a victim of identity theft.
If you have received any threats like this, contact SCAMwatch- visit the report a scam page or call the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502. Noting the text and the phone number may assist in any investigations of the scam.
Should you ever be concerned about your physical safety, contact your local police.
Stay one step ahead of the scammers. Explore SCAMwatch for more tips on how to recognise and protect yourself from scams.

I hope this helps someone!

Accommodation Booking Scams

2008-07-02T19:43:00.003+10:00

When you are an accommodation operator you are subject to almost every scam on the internet.
Here is an example of the type of email which has been doing the rounds of Australia for a few years now. This one has just been received. What we find is that the wording just changes slightly but the content is basically the same.

I suspect it is a "get rich quick" credit card "scam - scheme" which so many must have been sucked into!
We're tired of it - Do these sorts of scams happen in other countries?
Perhaps you own an accommodation business, do you get these annoying time wasters as well?

From: Franklin Great [mailto:great.grouptravels3@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, 2 July 2008 6:48 PM
To: great.grouptravels@yahoo.com
Subject: ACCOMMODATION INQUIRY.

Hello,
I have a reservation request for a group of 4 persons (2 couples)that I
will like to stay with you. Arrival will be August 9th and departure
August 23rd,2008 (2 weeks,flexible dates).If you can accommodate them,
kindly advise on the following points;

1. Total cost for the whole period.This total must include all tax and
service charges if applicable.

2. Do you accept credit cards for prepayments? I am away on another
engagement and can only pay you via credit card transactions.

3. Please advise if you can make payments to a third party on my behalf as
it will facilitate the speedy conclusion of this transaction.

4. In the event that you do not have availability for those dates,please
advise on the following dates in September 2008,September 13th to 27th to
be precise.
Like I mentioned above, preferable payment method will be direct by credit
card deductions.Thank you and looking forward to hearing from soon.

Kind Regards,Franklin Great. You're not serious!
Priory Street,University complex Don't think so!
Coventry CV1 5FB,United Kingdom.
+447045780276 REally! lets try ringing them.
+442070221691 Fax
great_groups@hotmail.com

Just look at the email addresses Did they forget who they were?
Do they have so many email addresses they forgot which one to use? Yahoo and hotmail dead give away!!!!!

The Universities don't know about these people either, when we check!

If you know who is behind these scams let me know we would love to find out if any are rich yet???

Famous Cobram Concreters

2008-07-02T17:53:00.001+10:00

Look at this bunch of happy workers - they are all smiling - the job's going well down in Tassie.

Cobram Concreting landed a job constructing a rotary dairy near Bridport in June. They found the accommodation very comfortable at Platypus Park Country Retreat, where their hosts made up the fires each day to ensure they were warm at night even if the days were a bit on the cool side.

The boys were missing their mothers though - no one to cook the dinner, do the washing, pick up after them, but they managed to survive on Pizza and Solo! Oh, and they may have been to the pub once or twice.

The head of the gang is Pino Raco and his happy band of men are sons Robert,Tony and Michael and Joe and Andrew make up the hard working team - Do you know them?

This is not their first visit to Tassie they have been constructing rotary dairies in Tasssie for some time now, they are considered the "experts". So if you need a dairy constructed give Cobram Concreting a call I'm sure they'll be able to help you out!

More Tasmanian holiday

2008-07-01T10:00:00.004+10:00

This was not a tour for visiting all the great wineries and indulging in seafood as one of us was not a seafood lover and one only likes certain things and the driver was the only one who likes drinking wine and eating lots of seafood. So we had to by pass all the finer things in life to keep the teenagers reasonably happy.

We wound our way out of Coles Bay and down the coast to Swansea, where I had to see two B&B operators, Meredith House and Schouten House. While I was having a chat I sent the children off on a foreshore walk which seems to have not taken very long at all before they are texting me to ask where I was? Well of course I was still having a cuppa and a chat with my colleagues so they had to find their way back.

Swansea is another popular coastal holiday destination for Tasmanians. There are hunreds of holiday homes and the shopping is much better than Coles Bay. Doesn't look crowded today but come back in the peak summer season and have a look!

Headland walk starts here.

We cruise in and out of Triabunna I never find this town has alot to offer the visitor but there is one point of interest the Dead man island it is an early burial site and head stones are still visible. The ferry to Maria Island also departs from Triabunna.

All of these coastal towns have wonderful public picnic and BBQ facilities and childrens playgrounds. We have a long way to go today - lets go.

We arrive at Orford at lunch time. Someone had said you should go to Scorchers for lunch they have great woodfired pizzas. We had been there on a previous trip and had great hot chocolates so that's where we headed. NOT on a Wednesday - we are closed says the sign. Just as well the bakery was open we grabbed some excellent wraps and ate out on the Prossers river edge picnic tables.

Orford has always been a "southererns" holiday spot and again has a lot of holiday homes and a fantastic playground for children. It is at this point we must choose whether to go down the Wielangta Forest road or stay on the highway. We choose the Wielangta Forest so that we can visit the Thumbs reserve. Lock the wheels into 4WD again because this road IS going to be slippery and bumpy - guaranteed!

You wind your way up the hill to a great lookout at Thumbs reserve, complete with picnic facilities. When we arrive there is a family from Hobart just finishing their picnic lunch! We take in the view out over Schouten Island and the rest of the coast and jump in the car again to keep heading south.
Dark up here in the forest!
Half way down the Wielangta road there is another look out this is of Marions Bay - must get a snap of this too!

Would be very clear on a great day in Summer but it's winter and a very overcast day today - so we have to use our imaginations. The forest road brings us out onto the main highway at Copping where there is a friendly "cop" to wave you through - watch out for him you'll be surprised.

Now we are on our way to Dunalley famous for it's canal. No gondolas going up and down this one but thre have been quiet a few sailing boats and fishing boats using this canal to cut off some of their trip to Hobart town, it avoids going further south around the treacherous Tasman Peninsula and cuts off several hours at sea.

So across the canal and down the Tasman Penisula to Port Arthur. Now this was one of our goals for the journey to be in Port Arthur in time for a "ghost tour". We booked the tour at the visitor centre and went off to find some accommodation. Now I don't really like driving around in a strange place at night much so we stayed at the Port Arthur Villas your host is a kind talkative chap with lots of local tips for the visitor. We have chosen a nice two bedroom villa with all mod cons for an over night stay, and we are able to cook our dinner once again. Our tour was for 6:30pm - probably a bit early for GHOSTS!

Join me next time to find out.

Tasmanian Holiday continues

2008-06-28T10:00:00.008+10:00

So we have done the famous Wineglass Bay lookout walk.
TIP:Just make sure you are fit enough to attempt this, "gentle" up hill climb, be prepared for lots of stops to take in the views!

There are alot of other walks in this region but we don't have time on this trip for them all so it's off again to the easy to reach places.
Cape Tourville lighthouse walk - very easy even the people with prams can do this one! It's a misty rain that is coming in the first rain they have had in this rain shadow region for ages. So it's on with the rain coats and off we go just an easy 20 minute walk. The views up and down the coast are spectacular.

The children are not all that enthusiastic about walking about in the rain but it can be enjoyable with the right gear.

Loaded back into the vehicle and we stop off at Sleepy Bay - just gorgeous a quiet little spot to contemplate your blog! As you walk down the path you will see an unusual feature a rock with a large hollow in it! The beach is lovely and sheltered with crystal clear water.

"My Space" in Tasmania

Winding down the road a bit further we come to Honeymoon Bay where the is a lovely picnic spot and it's another beautiful sheltered little bay. I didn't find any honeymooners there but I bet there have been 1000's here during the summer!

Now we really must find somewhere to stay. It is getting a bit late for roaming around the countryside in winter, 4pm would still be quite early in summer though and you could keep exploring!

So lets ring my friend with a B&B and see where we will stay. Alan of Sheoaks has offered us one of the holiday homes he manages and it's right behind his house so that's perfect. The children are very impressed with staying at an ultra modern beach home. The views out over the bay are wonderful but you really never spend more than a minute taking in the view do you!Because the children loved the house so much they decided we should stay in so we decided to run out to the local shop to find something to cook for dinner - now that was a bit difficult. We come from a small coastal town with a permanent poplation of 1200, now apparently Coles Bay only has 100-150 were the quoted figures. This means that there is limited shopping facilities because all the locals go off to Bicheno or further for their shopping! So we had to make do with a little fresh seafood and some noodles.

We are really spoiled in Bridport because we have a butcher, bakery and a large supermarket as well as a small shop to cater to the needs of the visitor and the locals.
So the moral of the story is to make sure you have everything with you for dinner before you get to Coles Bay, unless of course you would like to take the family out to one of the expensive restaurants.

We had a very comfortable night in the pole/platform house which sways with the slightest of breeze. Cooked our free range eggs and bacon for breakfast, cleaned up, paid the bill had a chat with our hosts and we were off on the adventure again.

Next stop Port Arthur hope you join me in a while to catch up with which track we took!

Teenage Genius

2008-06-28T09:39:00.004+10:00

Would you believe I was without a printer for two weeks because a piece of paper got jambed!

Yes I know you think that I must be dumb - but wait that's not true.
I got the paper out but a very small piece still got left behind. So I opened up the cover had a look around ---NO there isn't anything in there!

Everyone had a look got the torch peered in no there's no paper.

This frustrating situation got the better of us and we were about to go and buy a new printer.
This one said it wasn't going to reset and all the knowlege base stuff didn't work.

WAIT 14 year old son just fixed it!
Sitting at the table having breakfast -- printer sitting next to him--Curious-- have another look inside.

YES look here is a peice of paper stuckup in here..... yep right up where we couldn't see it before!

FANTASTIC carefully remove it and hey presto I'm back in business.

Clean the print head put in some new ink cartidges and PRINT away all those docs I've been putting aside.

Moral to the story: Always let your kids fix the technical stuff!

Stay Healthy this winter

2008-06-27T02:00:00.004+10:00

FIGHT THE WINTER BUGS

with
TRANSFER FACTOR®
CHEWABLE

Hi there Friends,
So why should you take Transfer Factor Chewables?

Here's what Mark Todd, famed New Zealand equestrian, twin gold and four-time Olympic medallist, and International Equestrian Federation "Rider of the Century" says about 4Life's Transfer Factor®...

"I am 52 years old and competing in my fifth Olympics. I use 4Life's Transfer Factor® to help keep me at the top of my game. It provides the well-being and healthy energy support I need to continue at top-level competition."

Now we're not all off to the Olympics, but if you are like Mark Todd and understand the important role that nutrition and supplementation play in maintaining wellness, you too can use the 4Life Transfer Factor® products to help you perform at your best.
And this month's special will sure help you do this!

Transfer Factor Chewables® are the great tasting citrus cream-flavoured chewable tablets that are just perfect for those who prefer sucking to swallowing capsules.
Transfer factors are tiny molecules in a tablet that transfer immunity information from one person, or animal, to another, exactly as happens when a mother breastfeeds her infant.
So just go to your 4HealthDirect shop and see this amazing special on the homepage.
Stock up, save money, and keep everyone in your family healthy this winter!
please contact me if I can help in any way, at any time.
Yours in vibrant health...
Gina Scott
Your 4HealthDirect shop owner
http://www.gina.4healthdirect.com/

Free Web site Grading

2008-06-26T11:20:00.002+10:00

Web site Optimisation

Here is something for nothing, which is something I have been looking for for ages and didn't know how to find or that it even existed.
A friend found this link and I am happy to pass it on. I have learned so much from it and I feel you could too.

http://www.websitegrader.com/

Tasmanian Adventure continued

2008-06-18T12:00:00.004+10:00

Leaving Scamander

We are all packed up ready to go again. It's an overcast day in Scamander a beautiful seaside village on the east coast of Tasmania, where people have come for summer holidays forever!
I remember passing through when we were children on our way to the farm near St Helens from Hobart. People used to rave about the bream fishing in the river at Scamander.

So off we go through the other side of town and south towards Falmouth. The Scamander, Falmouth and Four mile Creek area was devastated by bush fire in the late spring of 2006. Several homes were lost and the community is starting to rebuild itself and so is the bush.

On the way down the coastal road you will come to a scenic lookout. Now sometimes I am a bit sceptical about these and this is one of them.What do you think? this scenic? Some would think so if you live in a desert others would say there is better. While we were here there were three Aurora (local electrical company) vehicles and the workers, in the car park taking in the view. Well it may have been their morning tea break!

Well click and we're off on the road again.
Next stop .... ...... what's this a repetitive sign to Lagoon beach? What's in there I hear you ask?

Lets go and see.
Well here is the beach and yes it is a lagoon very sheltered and very beautiful. What else?? This is a perfect free coastal holiday camp spot! Just wonderful if you have come to Tasmania prepared to camp or stop over with your camper van/caravan. There are basic picnic and toilet facilities, all you need if you can swim in the lagoon every day. Who needs a hot shower every day? Just think of all the water you are saving! We voted this as a great spot to return to in summer holidays - not the peak - but the shoulder season- for a camping holiday.

OK enough wishing we had brought the tent lets go to Bicheno.

A lovely sheltered port a great little holiday town and a retirement haven. We check out a couple of beautiful B&Bs one being Fleurs by the sea. Unfortunately the owner has just come out of hospital and we are unable to stay so lets keep pushing onto Coles Bay.
Coles Bay is on the Freycinet peninsular with the famous Wineglass Bay a good days walk.

We take the famous, 1.5 hour return, walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout, just like thousands of visitors each year. In fact it is probably 300,ooo or more who do this walk .There is always track up grades going on in the off season and luckily there were only 20 other people on the track while we were negotiating our way up the hill! No one could see I hadn't done any training for this walk! AND this is the view at the top.

My daughter makes a lovely model don't you think? We had to go outside the fenced area to get this pic but it wasn't dangerousI made sure she was safe.
OK that's enough for one day there are lots of other places to visit here so I'll tell you about those next time....

Purchasing Real Estate - Maybe your first home!

2008-06-16T12:00:00.004+10:00

Real Estate is another of my hobbies and business interests.

This article I discovered may just help some readers. I purchased my first home in 1977 and it was very daunting to a young person to make such a commitment. Talk to family and friends have them come with you to doinspections of property. Listen to what they telll you - they may just know a bit more than you about faults to be aware of in property. Take notes - you might have to refer to them later.

Many first home buyers are both excited and daunted by the prospect of purchasing their first home property in Australia. Like everything else though, it is not such a difficult process provided you do your research and make use of professional and experienced people along the way. Purchasing your first home will be your biggest financial transaction to date â€" itâ€™s much more important that purchasing that new car, plasma TV or fridge so retain professionals â€"especially a solicitor to make sure that the contracts you are signing are not going to leave you exposed if something goes wrong.

As a purchaser the â€œbuyer bewareâ€ principle applies and while a vendor can not misrepresent any aspect of the property it is your responsibility to satisfy yourself that what you are purchasing is as described in the contract.

Before starting the first home buyer process it is advisable to
1. research the area / suburb where you are intending to buy your first home. Are schools, shopping centre and other facilities near by? Are you within the â€œzoneâ€ for a particular secondary school you like? Is public transport close by? What are Councilâ€™s plans for the area â€" improvements proposed, road widening plans etc.
2. Check out the internet and look at sites that provide information on suburbs and the trends expected in property values there. For a small cost of around $50 (insignificant when you are likely to be paying in excess of $250,000 for a property in Sydney or any other capital city in Australia) you can get a good report on the suburb, average prices, your particular property if you have identified one, expected capital growth. Even though there are more important things than capital growth when you are looking for your first home it is nevertheless a good idea to take some of the emotion out of the exercise and make sure that you are buying in a growth area.
3. Check out the internet for mortgage calculator tools and run some numbers to find out how much you can borrow. There are many different mortgage calculators available â€" one that is very worthwhile taking a look at is the 100% offset mortgage calculator. You can save a significant amount of interest over the term of your loan if you are in a position to have $5000 or $10,000 on deposit in an offset account. Perhaps your parents or grandparents may be able to help with this. With a 100% offset mortgage you only pay interest on the difference between the loan balance and the offset account balance. E.g. Loan Balance $200,000. 100% Offset Account Balance $10,000. Interest is payable on $190,000 only.
4. Check out the internet to see if any mortgage managers or lenders have a first home buyer club. Often there are investor clubs and first home buyer clubs that offer First Home Buyer Guides, tips and information regarding State stamp duty concessions and the First Home Owner Grant in Australia. Some First Home Buyer Clubs also provide free residential reports as noted in 2 above. Some mortgage managers also offer a First Home Buyer promotional package which can include white goods and other kitchenware that can help you to set up in your first home.
5. Apply for an approval in principle for your mortgage finance. Most mortgage managers and lenders will provide an approval in principle subject to valuation. If you are bidding at auction for your first home and have a good idea of values you need not necessarily obtain a valuation before you exchange â€" this way you avoid the cost until you have secured the property. If you are unsuccessful at auction, then you simply notify your mortgage manager or lender. The approval in principle from your mortgage manager or lender should still stand from a borrowing capacity and credit worthiness point of view. Once you have identified another property let your mortgage manager or lender know and restart the process.
6. Once you have identified a property and decide you will put in an offer or bid at a forthcoming auction, then as noted earlier before doing so, you should retain a solicitor to check your contract of purchase. He may recommend you obtain a pest report, particularly if the first home you are purchasing is an existing property as opposed to a new unit. Again the costs involved when compared to the purchase price are insignificant and it is always wise to make sure that you have covered off all aspects of your first home purchase properly.
7. You are ready to exchange. In Australia the settlement process once you have exchanged contracts usually takes about 4 â€" 6 weeks. Once the legal documentation is completed you can settle, pick up your house keys and move in to your first home!

Vicky Edema has been the Managing Director of Austral Mortgage Corporation since 1992 the company specialised in first home buyer loan.

Tasmanian Holiday continues

2008-06-13T16:30:00.003+10:00

Here we go lets be safe and lock the wheels into 4WD down this slippery track. Just as well we did it allowed us to safetly, and narrowly miss, collecting a young person in a blue car coming around the blind corner a little too wide!

So we're off down to St Columba Falls, a 90m drop but much wider than the Ralphs falls. A beautiful 20 minute walk through the tall myrtle, eucalypt and blackwood trees and giant ferns.

Click click click and we're off up the track again...OH my ear ring shrieks the daughter, I've lost one of my ear rings! Damn blast and everything else... go back down the track to see if you two can find it I'll keep going up the track and watch out for it on the way and I'll search the car too. Phew! she found it on the track .. How lucky was that?

Lets go back so we can visit the Pyengana cheese factory and Holy Cow cafe to get real ice cream! It's a family tradition to weigh yourself on the large freight scales out the front too. We give the Pub in the Paddock a miss this time the pig must have had enough beer by now.
Puchasing a block of mature cheddar we head off to St Helens. Don't forget to go into the Shop in the Bush the best bricabrac shop to Tasmania, full of collectables, glass, china and books and a lot more.
Winding our way towards St Helens on the coast there are some spots where the view is spectacular.

Lets go out and have a look at Binnalong Bay and the Bay of fires - famous for the orange lichen on the rocks and beautiful beaches oh if we must is the reply. The water is wonderfully clear it's just before sunset and the boats are bobbing about in the the sheltered bay. Would we like to stay here? No there was no visible shop or place to eat apart for the expensive restaurant which isn't open today anyway!

So off we go back into St Helens and it's been decided that we'll get to Scamander to find a self catering unit. Carmens Inn had just the place for an overnight stay - clean, comfortable, friendly host, very quiet and we can prepare a meal.

Where are we off to tomorrow? We'll lets see Fourmile Creek, Falmouth, Bicheno, Coles Bay or Swansea .....
I'll let you know next time...

Spot a scam easily

2008-06-12T11:15:00.005+10:00

Why are there so many scams?

I loved this article when I read it and I hope you do to and I thank Elena for taking the time to collate all of this information. Many of these "scams" have dropped onto my inbox and I just warn all my friends and business colleagues and then delete them.

What is interesting is that this article was written a while back but the same scams are still circulating.

How to Spot a Scam a Mile Off
© 2005 Elena Fawkner
Received the following forwarded email from a subscriber this morning:"I am an Executive Director with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and a member of the Contract Advisory Committee (CAC). I am seeking your assistance to enable me transfer the sum of $26,500,000 (Twenty Six Million, Five hundred Thousand United States Dollars) into your private/company account."
Carole told me she has received "3 or 4 of these in the last week, I think from different people. I deleted the others. It makes me nervous. Sounds like a dangerous scam. "That's exactly what it is, of course.
Maybe you're reading this thinking "I can't believe people are still falling for the Nigeriascam after all this time". On the other hand, maybe you're reading this thinking, "Wow, I might have responded to that. How am I supposed to know what's a scam and what's real?

The reality is that there are hundreds of thousands of people coming online, for the first time, each year. Many of these people have simply not been exposed to scams like the ones that are constantly touted on the Internet before. Many of these people come online to try and find a way to make money with their computers and/or they're looking for ideas for making money from home.The fact that they may not recognize scams off the bat doesn't mean they're naive or stupid, it just means that they haven't been in an environment where this sort of stuff came their way before now.
And don't the scammers know it. Like vultures circling overhead, they await their prey. They know they have only a narrow window of opportunity because it doesn't take newbies long to catch on so they have to be quick about it. And how do they do that? They hang out where newbies hang out so they can get them while they're still young and fresh and vulnerable. They're nothing but predators looking to pick off the easiest game. Wouldn't want to have to engage in any real work, after all.

In this article we look at several main scams and how to recognize them.=> Nigerian Advance Fee SchemeThe gist of this worldwide scheme is that small to medium-sizebusinesses receive a letter from someone who purports to bean official of the Nigerian government or major utility or similarwho needs to transfer some huge amount of money out of thecountry. The money typically is an overpayment by the governmenton a procurement contract. The object of the exercise is to get you to provide your bank account details (for the purpose ofwire transferring the money of course). Surprise surprise, there's a transfer all right but not INTO your account!

=> The FTC "Dirty Dozen"These are the top 12 scams that have been identified by the(U.S.) Federal Trade Commission as the most likely to arrive via email:

1. Business Opportunities - often pyramid schemes (see below)thinly disguised as legitimate opportunities to earn money.What to look for: high returns with little or no effort or cash outlayrequired.
2. Bulk Email - offers of lists of thousands of email addressesall of whom, of course, are just dying to receive your marketingmessage.What to look for: "Bulk Email Works! 10,000 addresses for $9.99."
3. Chain Letters - send $5 to the next name on the list then cross the bottom name off the list, replace it with your own, thenforward the letter to 500 of your nearest and dearest.What to look for: A jail cell. This is a pyramid scheme and isillegal. The letter goes to great pains to say that it is not illegal.
4. Envelope Stuffing - think you're going to be paid for stuffingenvelopes? Think again. You get a kit that you can turn aroundto recruit others to an envelope stuffing scam of your very own!Watch out for craft assembly work as well. You'll probably findall of your hard work is not up to their exacting "quality standards"and therefore you won't get paid for your work.
5. Health and Diet Scams - magic pills that eradicate the needto eat fewer calories than you expend in order to lose weight.They don't work.
6. Effortless Income - no such thing. As the FTC says, if they worked, everyone would be doing it.
7. Free Goods - you're told you'll get a free computer. You haveto pay a fee to join a club and then told you have to recruit othermembers. You get paid in computers. They're nothing but pyramid schemes.
8. Investment Opportunities - look for outrageously high ratesof return with no risk.
9. Cable Descrambler Kits - they probably won't work and evenif they do, you're stealing a service from a cable company andcommitting a crime.
10. Guaranteed Loans or Credit - pay a fee and you'regiven a list of lenders, all of whom turn you down. Credit cardsnever arrive.
11. Credit Repair - no matter how bad your credit, pay thesepeople and they'll fix it. They generally just advise you how to lie on future credit applications - how to commit fraud in other words.
12. Vacation Prize Promotions - your accommodations will be so bad you'll want to pay for an upgrade. You'll probably have to pay to schedule a vacation at the time you want as well.=>

Pyramid Schemes Make money by recruiting members into the program without giving anything of equal value in exchange for membership fees. Contrast MLM (multi-level marketing schemes). These are not pyramid schemes because they involve the sale of products and services in return for membership.=>

Medical Billing Prepackaged businesses requiring an investment of $2,000 to$8,000. Few people who purchase one of these "businesses"are able to find clients, start a business and generate revenues.Competition in this area is fierce and concentrated around afew big, well-entrenched firms.=>

Your In Box Finally, go to your in-box now. You'll find no end of scams sittingright there. Here's one that just arrived in mind ..."Subject: How to make $1,000,000 in 20 weeks selling to Newcomers on the Net"Like all the rest, it gets the one-finger salute - index fingerto the delete key. Works beautifully every time.

Where to go for more information on internet scams:FTC Websitehttp://www.ftc.gov/ftc/consumer.htmScambustershttp://www.scambusters.org/Netscamshttp://www.netscams.com/frameset.html
Signup to Receive Our Free Home BusinessNewsletter Via Email

Elena Fawkner is editor of A Home-Based Business Online ... practical ideas, resources and strategies for your home-based or online business. http://www.ahbbo.com/subscribe.html

Tasmanian Holiday

2008-06-11T10:45:00.001+10:00

East Coast of Tasmania -Start: Bridport

So it is the school holidays and business is a bit quiet so take the opportunity to get away for a while with the teenagers....that's a great idea isn't it?
Loaded up, Travelways, UBD maps, thermos, cameras, hair straightener!, MP3, Ipod, mobile phones x3, assorted coats, hats, scarves, boots, off we go Mum and two teenagers! Let's not make any definite plans let's just go where we like ...no timetable.... stay where every we like... but we have only got five days!

Daughter: I would like to do a ghost tour at Port Arthur... are you sure about that.....Oh yes!
Son: Not particularly interested in seeing or doing anything but getting to a town that has a music store to purchase some new drum sticks!

Well that's an easy demand list isn't it...that means I get to choose all the things in between!

First stop Legerwood tree carvings, must take some new pictures of those. The stories are interesting too. After the first world war, an avenue of trees was planted in remembrance of those from the town who had died in battles. The trees bacame very old and dangerous so had to be cut down OH BUT what about the avenue of remmebrance? Well there is a very talented chainsaw carving guy lets get him in to carve the trees into the people we are to remember. Great idea so, Eddie Freeman was commissioned to complete the task and what a fantastic job he has done.

Wouldyou like to see more pictures?

BBQ Hut at Ralphs Falls

Next stop Ralph's Falls also in the North East of Tas. so off we go through Ringarooma and onto the falls, up the winding road that has a dry stone wall completed in the 1940's after the next world war. This area also has several old gold and tin prospecting minning sites some of which can still be seen today. So off you go kids take the forest walk to the Falls it's only 10 minutes while I have my cup of tea and lunch, (they ate theirs in the car). It is a lovely picnic spot in the forest complete with a BBQ hut with electric BBQs, composting toilet and the falls are the longest drop in Tasmania over 100m, I've walked there several times before and the young people are old enough now to take themselves! Oh they didn't take a camera! not to worry they have mobile phones which do everything except cook the dinner!!!
Well they survived the walk I had my revival quiet cup of tea and enjoyed the stillness and birds of the bush, so off we go down the rough road to ...........
To be continued.......

Strange to understand B&B guests Sometimes

2008-06-07T15:44:00.004+10:00

If you were a B&B operator what would you say? Your help please!!!

Host: Good morning how was your stay in the cottage?
Guest: Enjoyed our say but it was a bit cold last night, you need a thicker doona on the bed (this bed has a wool acrylic mix doona the equivalent of approx three blankets warmth)... so I got up and turned on the heater in the lounge room.
Host: Yes the nights do get a bit cold in winter. Didn't you find the spare blankets in the cupboard? There is also an electric blanket on the bed.
Guest: Yes I did find the blanket but couldn't be bothered getting it out of the cupboard.
Host: After guest is gone to wife. Does it make any sense to get out of bed and go to the lounge room turn on a heater instead of turning on an electric blanket or getting the blanket out of the cupboard if you are cold in bed???? Is that logical??? These B&B hosts cannot find any logic in the comment or action.Can you?

Stay posted for more interesting guest comments!

Famous People in town

2008-06-03T16:31:00.003+10:00

Have you had any famous people drop into your town lately?

I live in a very small seaside town only 1200 people live here but in summer there are about 6000.

Residents couldn't believe their eyes when in walks Keith Urban to the local coffee shop!!

Yep it sure was him, quick thinking staff rushed to find a camera and had their photo taken with him, which now hangs pride of place in the coffee shop. You just never know who is going to drop in for a cuppa do you.

The next person of renown was Shane Gould remember her? Well you should she was one of the youngest Gold medal swimmers for Australia. She loves Tasmania so much she and her husband have decided to set up a base here. But that's not all she wants to write a book about people who swim and we just happen to have a group of older people who swim almost everydayin the sea, that have caught her interest so Shane will be back and forth a bit!

What about Ronnie Burns do you remember him? Australian Pop star back in the 70's, He also set up camp in the wilds of Tassie quite a few years ago. Now he helps some of the under priveligded kids enjoy a camp on his property.

Then of course there was Doug Anthony not the all stars fame one but a past deputy Prime Minister. He loves to play golf so he and his mates came on down to play at Barnbougle Dunes one of the top 100 courses in the work and just five minutes from the centre of Bridport.

Remember Mark Edmondson he's a golfer too, but better know for tennis. He is best remembered for his victory at the Australian Open in 1976, in which he was noted for wearing a pair of Dunlop Volleys. He is the last Australian to date to win the men's singles at the Australian Open. This win was particularly notable because he is the lowest-ranked winner of a major since the ATP rankings were introduced in 1973. He was ranked 212th at the time. Eddo has won six career singles titles and 34 in doubles, including five major titles.

I'll let you know when anymore distinguished people drop by keep an eye out.

Is running a B&B FUN?

2008-06-01T17:10:00.002+10:00

So you want to run a B&B

Well you might ask, if you are considering going into this business.

I suggest you ask a lot of operators this question and see the variety of answers! Before you start a new B&B.

Generally running your own B&B can be FUN but please remember it is work, it is a way of earning your income - unless of course you are going to let people stay for free, and why would you do that they would stay with you forever - a bit like the kids who don't leave home%%%%

You do meet many nice people from around the world when you are in the tourism business. It is fantastic to find out where they are from what they do and how much they enjoy travelling.

Running a B&B can be demanding. Do you want to work 7 days a week?

Do you want people in your home all the time? Do you like house work - making beds? making breakfast...everyday?
If you don't ...are you going to be able to afford staff? Are you prepared for all the challenges this also brings?

What are you going to do with the guest who arrives at midnight because he got lost? Are you going to great him with a smile at the front door and welcome him in? Of course you are, you are the perfect host offering personal service in a private home, and you are trained to be a courteous obliging operator.

Would you like some tips about going into a B&B business?

Ensure you have good people skills.

Choose an excellent location and an appealing buiding.
Make sure you are compliant with all govertment regulations including fire safety.
Do a small business training course which includes good book keeping.
Become very web savvy and learn about e-commerce and e-marketing.
Know who your customers are.
Learn how to do an interesting breakfast.
Keep a good database of customers.
Join your local B&B association and become an active member.

Here are some delicious breakfast receipes I found.

Tasmania Golden Blueberry Custard
Cook Time: 35 min
Prep Time: 15 min
6 servings

Ingredients:6 eggs; 1/2 tsp salt;

2/3 cups flour;

1/4 cup Tasmanian Bush honey;

2 cups milk;

1 tsp. vanilla;

1 cup fresh or frozen Tasmanian blueberries.

Instructions: It now gets the best reviews and has become a tradition the best B&Bs. The soft, warm texture of the custard is something gentle for the awaking tummy and tongue.

Melt 3 tbspns of butter in a pyrex glass pie plate (or a 9 X 9 pan). Blend all ingredients, excpet blueberries, in blender. Pour minxture into preheated dish of melted butter and sprinkle with blueberries. Bake at 400* for 20-25 minutes until set, puffed and golden.Drizzle with hot jam, or maple syrup. Sprinkle with nutmeg and powdered sugar. In the summer, garnish with fresh raspberries and mint from the garden.Enjoy!

Cinamon Raisin Bread Pancakes
Cook Time: 5 min
Prep Time: 25 min
Makes: 16
Ingredients:8 slices cinnamon raisin bread;

2 cups milk;

2 eggs, lightly beaten;

3 tablespoons butter;

MIX TOGETHER DRY INGREDIENTS:3/4 cup all purpose flour;

2 tablespoons sugar;

1 tablespoon baking powder;

1/2 teaspoon salt;

Instructions:Trim crusts from bread and cut bread into cubes. Place in a large bowl and pour milk over bread. Let stand 10-15 minutes or until very soft and beginning to fall apart. Stir occasionally. Stir in dry ingredient mixture, making sure that each scoopful is blended well. Stir in eggs and metled butter until blended.Lightly coat a griddle heated to 350, if needed, with marg. Drop 1/4 cup batter onto griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles appear on top and underside is golden (about 3 minutes). Flip and cook on other side until cooked through and bottom is golden (about 2 minutes).Serve with desired syrup loveely with Tasmanian Gourmet sauces Raspberry or Blueberry.

OK that's enough for now I'll give you more tips next time. Go do your homework now.

Now it's the Weekend Hooray

2008-06-01T09:57:00.003+10:00

Only son ventures down the stairs at 10am Sunday....

When did you put the washing out? is the first question.

When will it be dry?

Why I ask?

I haven't any clothes!

That can't be right, wear the ones you had on yesterday.

No can't do that I've had them on for 3 days!

Now I know that's not right or there wouldn't be so much washing would there!

Are your teenagers so particular about changing their attire? I thought they never changed their clothes never had a wash didn't want to brush their hair a few years back.

So what will the next question be. What's to eat I dare say!

Yep here it comes. Where's the bread? Can I have noodles?

Whats wrong with porridge? Everything apparently.

But it's great being a parent itsn't it. They are going to grow up and mature into great community builders because we have guided them in all the right directions, nutured them, run them everywhere so they don't damage a muscle, take them to drum practice at someone elses house, now that 's a smart move.

Just waiting on only daughter to find her way down the stairs shouldn't be too long. But she will know where all her clothes are won't she? Surely she dosen't want the ones I just put on the line too! There you go right on time. Straight to the bathroom - how llong will it be till I see her again? How much water will be left in the tank?

Wonder if I'll get help with the lawns today or the windows washed or the house cleaned - who's going to get all that washing in?

Yes they will want to help or I won't take them on holiday!

What are your tips on getting the teenagers to clean up their rooms?

Is your website search engine friendly

2008-05-31T09:37:00.005+10:00

Here is something which landed in my mail box recently, I love it when people try to help keep me up to date. I can go back and see if my website is search engine friendly.

Why don't you go and see too and let me know - http://www.platypuspark.com.au/

It features on the first page of searches for "accommodation bridport tasmania" Is that what you would search for if you wanted to go for a holiday to a secific place?

Tips on creating a search engine friendly site:
Give visitors the information they’re looking for – provide high quality content especially on the homepage
• Make sure that others link to your site
• Make your site easily accessible – build the site with a logical link structure
• Think about the words users would type to find your pages
• Conduct site housekeeping – broken links
• Work with a webmaster who knows about building search engine friendly sites• Use Google’s free tools and information to improve your site: http://www.google.com/webmasters/

My personal secret business tips:

Think as your customer thinks - yes that's all of them- even the difficult ones.
Give them more useful information than they think they want.
Make it easy for your customer to contact you, give them lots of options.
Always appear friendly and helpful and approachable.

Ok that's enough I'll be back with more next time.

Business Secrets

2008-05-29T15:53:00.007+10:00

Ever wondered if that business opportunity is really for you?

Have you ever read the book Think and Grow Rich?

Ever come across a guy named Chris Cardell?

Ok Too many questions I know. But have you ever been presented with something that looks like a good opportunity and been too scared to take it?

I've been reading the book by Napolean Hill and am finding that it really should have been given out when we left school or at least in the last year of school. It is jambed packed with really useful information. I might just tell you some of the secrets of becoming succesful that I have learned.

I have been in business for myself for fourteen years, and yes there have been times when I thought what am I doing here. But I love the business I'm in and now have another one I'm just getting off the ground two very different kinds of enterprise.

To have a rich quality of life you must have Desire; Faith; Knowledge; Imagination; Planning;Decision; Persistence; a driving force;and there are about five other things, one of which is, the door to the temple of wisdom "a sixth sense" and is to do with creative imagination and a positive attitude.

So I started a tourism business fourteen years ago. Didn't have a lot of money, had to buy a property, build the buildings and the modest house to live in, which we did at weekends, then finally 18 months later we had a business established but still in it's infancy. Still had to work one full time job and a part time job between us.

I attended all possible training in small business that was available to tourism operators. Covered small business planning, marketing planning, accounting/bookkeeping, operational plans, accreditation and so the list goes on... And now it's how do you do interent marketing? What a complex field that one is!

But we have a very successful tourism business and love meeting people from all over the world who come to stay on our environmentally friendly property.

Now I'll give you some free business tips:

Set your goals and keep reviewing them.
Make sure you have a supportive partner (if you have one).

Trust your instinct.
Nurture your relationships with your existing customers. It is the first key to the goldmine.

Always Measure your marketing, make sure you know what is working and how well.

Well that's a start just think about those for a while it might help and I'll give you some more soon.

TakeABreak.com.au: Discover Tasmania's effervescent East - from Launceston to Hobart

2006-07-07T16:17:00.001+10:00

TakeABreak.com.au: Discover Tasmania's effervescent East - from Launceston to Hobart Great website to be able to choose your accommodation around Tasmania.

You'll find Cottages on Charles in Scottsdale - North East Tasmania, fantastic 1880's stone cottages right in the centre of Scottsdale. Both three bedroom ready to just move into with your family and suitcases!
www.scottsdaleaccommodation.com.au

Tinman

North East Tasmania Holiday

2006-07-07T11:23:00.001+10:00

Explore the delights of North East Tasmania Now

When was the last time you visited the North East of Tasmania for a holiday? Never maybe! You are missing out on a great region to enjoy local seafood and wine, some great bush walking, swimming in summer, golf at Barnbougle Dunes and don't forget the local nine hole course either, visiting vineyards and the largest commercial Lavender farm in the southern hemisphere!

The Blue Tier region is fantastic for taking the family for a walk some tracks are easy so take your picnic lunch! When you are on top of the hills you can see the sea!

You shouldn't miss the easy stroll to Ralph's Falls either, its near Ringarooma. There's a barbecue hut and the road keeps going on down to St Columba Falls and Pyengana where there's a great cafe and cheese factory.

We found the accommodation at Platypus Park Country Retreat in Bridport warm, comfortable, affordable, and friendly hosts, who go out of their way to help visitors with local knowledge.

We'll keep you posted on great holiday locations around the state. Let's know if you come across anything exceptional.

Great Holiday locations

2006-07-06T16:26:00.001+10:00

Bridport Tasmania

Bridport is a small coastal town in the north east of Tasmania.
It is a holiday haven for Tasmanians looking for a quiet place to retreat to in the summer. Go fishing, walking, swimming, and just relaxing and changing the routine for a few days or weeks.

Have you played golf at the Barnbougle Dunes links in Bridport Tasmania yet?
Well if you haven't you should come on and try it out ranked 39th in the world shouldn't put you off! It's top of the list of courses people most want to play.

There is affordable accommodation at Platypus Park Country Retreat which is just on the edge of the town situated on 40 acres with fishing dams a river and is family friendly too. The units and cottages are self catering so you can go into town and get some local seafood and other produce to prepare your own feast. They have and organic vegetable garden so you may be able to pick some fresh produce as well.

The local vineyards are 20 minutes down the road where you'll pick up a great Pinot or Chardonay. Lets know if you enjoy your stay there!

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TakeABreak.com.au: Discover Tasmania's effervescent East - from Launceston to Hobart

North East Tasmania Holiday

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$1699 -- Fly to LA on Australia's Newest Airline ex 3 Cities^*