Sydney Single Parents News

Sydney Single Parent News 28 August 2008

2008-08-31T11:03:00.000-07:00

Sydney Single Parent News

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A special pilot edition – trial alternate format at SydneySingleParents.blogspot.com
SydneySingleParentNews@gmail.com email for Free subscription requests
Now we are on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/sydneysingleparents
And now on FACEBOOK as well – why not add us to your friends list.
www.PWP-NSW.org.au New web site is undergoing development

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August 28, 2008

Sydney Single Parent News is a weekly e-newsletter FREE to any and all single parents, singles, community group leaders, counsellors and social welfare workers, community information officers, community radio, local newspapers, local libraries and anyone interested
Published by Parents Without Partners (NSW) Inc.
www.PWP-NSW.org.au

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Parents Without Partners NSW is where you meet people and make friends.

The largest single parent not for profit association in Australia.

The longest standing single parent association with over 40 years of community service.

A peer support self help group run solely by volunteer single parents for single parents and their children.

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FAMILY SCHOOL HOLIDAY CAMP

GERRINGONG FAMILY CAMP Mon 6 Oct to Sat 11 Oct

We have booked for the second week of the school holidays. Lots of great things for the kids to do, including surfing, swimming, rock pools, fishing, skate park and back at the camp the popular game of Newcomball. All accommodation and food included. Share rooms with Bunk Style accommodation and if you wish to bunk with someone that you know please let us know…Cost for Adults $185, Hills Kids $55, Other branches kids (you must check with your PWP Branch)…..why not join as a member of Parents Without Partners and then enjoy the benefits. Strictly for members of Parents Without Partners NSW organised by the Hills Branch.

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Some of the benefits of PWP Membership:

Ø Opportunity for single parents to network for peer support

Ø Around 1,500 affordable functions a year

Ø Regular single parent parties, dinners, barbeques and outings

Ø Children's / Family functions every week-end

Ø Family creative arts awards program

Ø Major annual bus excursions

Ø School holiday camps

Ø Opportunities to volunteer and become involved

Ø A great new social and support outlet for single parents

Ø Membership is a passport to any PWP activities in Australia and overseas

Ø Members discounts at open functions

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PWP DOES IT AGAIN

State Presentation Dinner Dance – Over 110 had fun
Email to Jules

Let me congratulate you on the fantastic job you did with the State dance on Saturday.

It was a fabulous evening and from what I observed went like clockwork.

Everyone had a great time and comments I heard were that it was the best State dance ever.

You put a lot of time and effort into the function and despite a bit of nail-biting over lack of movement from ticket purchase until the last minute the numbers escalated above the hundred mark with the hall filled to capacity.

Raffle sales were incredible with all tickets sold so this will inject some well needed funds for SMC.

Again, thanks to you our illustrious MC Geoff, Ross, Kim, Keith, Maryanne and all those other people who worked behind the scenes to make it a memorable occasion and also thanks to those who attended to participate in making it a fabulous evening.

It was great to catch up with members from other branches including past members who I had not seen for some time and our honoured guests including Baulkham Hills Mayor Sonya Phillips and Brendan Leggett from SWR FM 99.9

To those who did not attend, all I can say is that they missed out on a wonderful evening filled with great company, dancing to the music provided by "Bad Sneakers", fine food and fabulous memories.
Regards

Peter M

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PWP Membership Inquiries contact our volunteers AFTER HOURS :
Baulkham Hills - Carlingford - Parramatta—Holroyd—Liverpool — 9634 7502
Campbelltown - Camden - Picton - Mittagong (7-9 pm) — 4647 4477
Central Coast—Gosford—Brooklyn—Hornsby— 9411 1858
City of Sydney – Inner West - Eastern Suburbs—St. George - Auburn — 9554 3444
Penrith — Blacktown - Blue Mountains — Hawkesbury — 9634 7502
Northern Suburbs– Northern Beaches – North Shore — 9411 1858
Sutherland—Cronulla—Menai—Southern Suburbs— 9554 3444
* Part of a national and international network of Parents Without Partners groups.

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STATE PRESIDENT'S DESK

Single Parent Membership Fees of Parents Without Partners NSW
The August meeting of the State Management Committee of Parents Without Partner NSW had the annual duty to consider the membership fees.

It was noted that the fees have not been increased for about eight years yet it is getting more difficult to finance the operations and administration of the organisation and that there has been steady reduction in revenues over that time.
Also the committee considered that for single parents there has been significant financial pressures of increasing mortgage or rent costs, as well as the extraordinary increase in the cost of petrol in that time and this has lead to increases in the costs of many commodities including the weekly grocery bill.

It is already well established by social research, that has previously been reported in this newsletter, that single parents are doubly financially disadvantaged – in that – in the vast majority of cases they have a lower income level than two parent families – sometimes on the single parent pension or only working part-time due to child care responsibilities and that they have a lower than average asset base. Changes to income support policies and child support in some cases has also changed the single parent family's finances adversely.

In due consideration of the contextual factors impacting on single parents the State Management Committee of Parents Without Partners NSW decided not to increase fees and that all current fees will remain at the current level for 2008-2009 financial year.

Ross F, State President, Parents Without Partners NSW

rossemail@gmail.com

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SPECIAL NOTICES – NEW LIFE MEMBER

We would like to congratulate Julie P on being awarded the highest honour Parents Without Partners can bestow on one of its members and that is LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARD. Julie was presented with the award by Patron of PWP NSW Her Honorable Clr Sonya Phillips The Lord Mayor of Baulkham Hills Shire Council and Ross F the State President of PWP NSW at last week-ends special State Presentation Dinner Dance. Julie has over a 10 year history of consistent weekly voluntary work for PWP. She currently serves on the State Management Committee as the Honorary Secretary, Minute Secretary and Special Events Coordinator – she even organised the great Dinner Dance and previously was the State Vice Present Programs. Julie has regularly hosted for many years fund raising functions at her home (parties, new member wine & cheese nights, soup nights and port and cheese nights not to be missed). She has held numerous positions on the Hills Branch committee – to name some Vice President Programs, Honorary treasurer, Hospitality Director, Volunteers Roster Coordinator, Vice President Membership, Purchasing Officer, Parent Program Coordinator and more. She has helped many other committee members with their roles, fills in for other committee members, does door duties, volunteers on hospitality duty at functions and is often the first to arrive to set-up and the last to leave after the clean up. She has been a personal support to many members during hard times and an inspiration to the rest of us. Julie thank you for your friendship and all you do for Parents Without Partners – your contribution has be outstanding.

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YOUR SOCIAL DIARY – Sole Parent Magazine

PWP Members see your Sole Parent magazine for full function details.

The Sole Parent Magazine is exclusively available to Parents Without Partners NSW members and is posted to every member every two months. News and information on around 1,500 affordable functions a year – something on every night of the week, children's activity somewhere in Sydney region every week-end. Advance booking details for special functions, adult retreat week-ends and major family functions and excursions.

Single Parents and mature singles – it pays to belong to PWP.

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Single Parent Social Diary Thursday 28 August

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK Members only

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SPECIAL NOTICES – SPECIAL MEDIA AWARD
Parents Without Partners NSW introduced a new category of annual state award - a special media award for journalists or announcers, publications or broadcasters who contribute to raising single parent issues in the media.
This year the Parents Without Partners NSW Media Award was presented to radio announcer Mr. Brendan Leggett and to radio station SWR FM 99.9 Western Sydney People of Interest Program on every Saturday morning from 8am to 10am – for consistently raising single parent issues and other social concerns and community information of interest to single parents. On behalf of all single parents and the members of Parents Without Partners NSW we thank Brendan and his station SWR FM 99.9 for the significant contribution they make to single parents and the community – a truly community minded broadcaster.

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YOU CAN HELP YOUR PWP

URGENTLY WANTED - NOMINATIONS FOR A STATE MARKETING DIRECTOR
This could be a great way for you to be involved in PWP and join the State Committee. Be involved in some or all of the following in improving our media directory kits for branches, help with media inquiries, help promote PWP in local newspapers and community radio, review marketing issues, coordinate the distribution of marketing materials, organise a few publicity events, work on direct mail campaigns, liaise with Branch Marketing Directors. By apart of the governing body of PWP in NSW. Nominations welcome from branch committees and self-nomination. Email Ross F, our State President ASAP at rossemail@gmail.com

Email our State President Ross to discuss rossemail@gmail.com

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Single Parent Social Diary Friday 29 August

Final Bookings for:
Hills: Chinese Dinner & Dancing, Aug 30.
Northside: BBQ, Margaret's, Aug

HILLS DISTRICT
HOUSE PARTY – 8pm at Bobs, Blacktown. Bobs parties are always popular so come along to this fun night as we dance the night away. Bob has a great venue and always gets large crowds. There is an under cover area too. There will be a fire to keep us warm. SNCP. $6 plus USUAL or pay $10 extra.

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Child Support News –from CSA Newsletter

Collecting overdue child support from income support payments

The Child Support Agency can now deduct outstanding child support from a parent's income support payment, such as Centrelink or Department of Veterans' Affairs payment, in addition to ongoing child support.

If you pay child support and receive an income support payment, you pay a minimum amount of child support (currently $12.99 * a fortnight if your child support period started in 2008).

If you also owe outstanding child support, the CSA will automatically deduct an extra amount to reduce the amount of child support outstanding. The maximum amount the CSA can deduct from income support payments is capped at three times the minimum rate of child support (currently up to $38.97 * per fortnight).

The Child Support Agency recently wrote to affected parents about this change. If you didn't receive a letter or you have a question, call us on 131 272. More information will also be included in the next issue of the Child Support Matters newsletter.

* This amount is indexed annually and you will be notified in writing when this amount changes.

For more information visit www.csa.gov.au or to discuss your options call us on 1300 885 437.
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WHAT MAKES US HAPPY REPORT
'What Makes Us Happy?' Survey Report
Australian Centre on Quality of Life

The What makes us happy? report shares with you the key findings from seven years of research into the lives and happiness of the Australian population. A partnership between Australian Unity and Deakin University has created the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index. This is the nation's most regular and comprehensive measure on how everyday Australians are feeling about themselves and their lives.

Through regular surveys and special reports, the Wellbeing Index provides insight into what's making us happy... or not so happy. It quantifies the impact that social issues, such as increasing personal debt, are having on our quality of life. It's designed to increase understanding and create awareness of such issues. It can be used to inform decisions from policy making through to business operations. Click here to download report.
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Single Parent Social Diary Saturday 30 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
LAUGHING GROUP
Also
MURIEL AND BILL'S BLACK AND WHITE PARTY – 7.30pm, Rockdale. Spring has sprung! What you do is go to that wardrobe, I am sure both Ladies and Gents have something Black or White or a combination of both. Ladies bring a nice spring dish to share, and gentlemen will bring wine and soft drink to ply the ladies with.

HILLS DISTRICT
CHINESE DINNER & DANCING – 7.30pm North Rocks. This is always a fun time so Chris has organised another night here. Join a nice group for a pleasant evening of dining, good conversation and pleasant company. Meal of your choice and drinks at own cost. Book by Aug 29

MACARTHUR
FEVER! OVER 30s DANCE – from 6.30pm, Campbelltown. Meet in the cocktail lounge upstairs between 7-8pm, dance doors open at 8pm. Great DJ - music from 70s, 80s and 90s only. Collared shirts essential for men, usual club dress reg's apply.

NORTHSIDE
BARBECUE DINNER – 6pm at Margaret's, Terry Hills. BYO meat/fish. Ladies bring salad/desert and men your best wine. $5. CHILDREN WELCOME AND ARE FREE.

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PARENTS WITHOUT PARTNERS MENTIONS IN THE MEDIA

2 SWR FM 99.9 Parents Without Partners on the Radio - The SWR FM "People of Interest with Brendan Leggett" program had an in studio interview again with Ross F our State President and Peter M our State treasurer - talking about the new Child Support Scheme arrangements. Saturday 23 August 2008

Radio 2CCR FM 90.5 21- 27 July - Community Service Announcements
Radio 2SWR FM 99.9 21-27 July – Community Service Announcements
Eastern Suburbs "the Times" – Community Calendar
The Express (Canterbury Bankstown) – Community Calendar
Inner Western Weekly – Community Calendar
(Please let us know when you see PWP mentioned in your local paper community calendars – email us at SoleParenteNews@gmail.com)
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Parenting Resources

New research into the impact of parent fatigue on families
New Australia-wide research with parents of young children will investigate the impact of fatigue on family life, as well as exploring links between fatigue and depression. Parenting Research Centre Carlton, VIC

Path to Confident Parenting
The Path to Confident Parenting program provides skills and knowledge to ensure that parenting is both fun and rewarding. An excellent program for those who are, or want to be, confident parents and for those who work with children and families. Rida Personal Development Group Alphington, VIC

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Single Parent Social Diary Sunday 31 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
BARE FOOT BOWLS – Noon lunch (at own expense), bowling from 2pm Gladesville. Meet Alex in the Bistro look for the Blue & White balloons. Cost for bowling is $10, City children subsided 50% and must be over 8 years old. Please wear flat shoes with flat soles, no grooves. MUST BOOK by Fri 29th.

HILLS DISTRICT
INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING – 2pm at Blacktown. 45 different rock climbs, cargo net & caving ladder. Easy to hard. All ages. Qualified instructors. Meet at the summit indoor rock climbing centre at 1.30pm for 2pm start for a fun afternoon of indoor rock climbing. Ages from four years old and up Sorry but latecomers cannot be subsidized.
Also
ASQUITH DINNER

MACARTHUR
FAMILY AFTERNOON AT THE MOVIES – 1pm at Campbelltown.

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK" IN THE CITY – Milsons Point - The Rocks. Easy/medium 10km. Meet 9am

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EDUCATION & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Free Online Computer Training Courses
The HP Online courses are short practical courses. Advance your knowledge and skill at any local that suits you - just log-on to the course. Register for free courses at http://h30240.www3.hp.com/?jumpid=re_R602_mktg/hpcom/split/oc

The Making Meetings Work Seminar (only $95) is a half day course that will provide valuable skills to allow you to "tone down the aggro," cut the frustrations, step up the interaction and run stimulating, successful meetings that produce real outcomes for your organisation. Further information and online registration form are available at: www.ourcommunity.com.au/meetings

Free Online Video Computer Lectures from the University of California, Berkeley
Courses with video lectures from the University of California, Berkeley
http://education.jimmyr.com/Berkeley_Computer_Science_Courses_23_2008.php

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EXERCISE AND HELP YOUR PWP AT THE SAME TIME

WALKERS WANTED
If you are a regular walker for exercise – we would like to trial a letter box drop of our PWP brochures. If you are able to deliver 50, 100, or more brochures on different walking routes in your area – then give Kim a call at the state office or email pwpnsw@bigpond.net.au

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Single Parent Social Diary Monday 1 September
CITY OF SYDNEY
WALK THE BAY

HILLS DISTRICT
BUDGET CLUB DINNER

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ON THE WEB

Parents Without Partners (PWP) - Macarthur, NSW
Macarthur branch of Parents Without Partners, is a friendly singles group for sole parents and their children, local to Campbelltown and surrounding areas, in the southwestern suburbs of Sydney NSW Australia.

Little Athletics Association of New South Wales
Phone: 02 9633 4511 Web: www.laansw.com.au

Parents Without Partners NSW www.PWP-NSW.org.au

New South Wales Basketball Association Limited
Phone: 02 9746 2969 Web: www.nswbasketball.net.au

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SINGLE PARENT MENTIONS IN AUSTRALIAN MEDIA

Tougher dole rules for unemployed over-55s NEWS.com.au - Australia
The report, prepared by the Participation Taskforce, says single parents
should be allowed more time to study and be given a break from looking for work at ...
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,24202810-421,00.html

The family way The Age - Melbourne,Victoria,Australia
In early-evening soaps Home and Away and Neighbours, which for most of
their 20 years have been solidly about family values, single-parent families are the ...
http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2008/08/21/1219262406330.html

Australia eyeing unemployed senior rules United Press International
SYDNEY, Aug. 18 (UPI) -- Unemployed Australians age 55 or older should be treated exactly the same as younger unemployed citizens, a new report for the government suggests.
The Australian said among the groups that will face declined unemployment regulations under the new proposal, which is being reviewed by the government, are single parents and seniors with no work experience.

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Single Parent Social Diary Tuesday 2 September
CITY OF SYDNEY
GENERAL & COMMITTEE MEETING

HILLS DISTRICT
BLACKTOWN WORKERS SPORTS CLUB DINNER NIGHT – 6.30pm, Reservoir Rd, Blacktown. Join Maryann and friends at this most popular venue for a sumptuous night out. Choose from the 'All You Can Eat Buffet' or the 'Club Bistro'. Meet dozens of new, existing and old friends. KWBMBS at all times. Look for the blue PWP cards on the table near the club bistro. Weekly event.
Also
NEW MEMBERS INFORMATION AND JOINING NIGHT – 7pm at Blacktown Workers Sports Club, Reservoir Rd, Blacktown. If you have any friends interested in joining PWP please bring them along to the club tonight. Look for the blue PWP cards on the table. They will need $55 to join on the night. Also join the crowd for the dinner. Weekly event. Enq. 9634 7502.

NORTHSIDE
DINNER AND CHAT – From 6.30pm. Dee Why RSL Club, Cnr Pittwater Rd & Hawkesbury Ave. Car park entrance – Clarence Ave. Meet in the Bistro dining area opp. Asian Food section for drinks and remain there for dinner. Also join us after dinner for coffee, sweets or more drinks. Walk past the Casino around to the Flame Lounge.
Also
NEW MEMBERS NIGHT – 8pm at Dee Why RSL, see above. If you know someone who needs the friendship, support and fun that can be found at PWP, bring them along. Enq. Suzee, 9939 9707.

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SINGLE PARENT SOCIAL CONCERNS INFO & NEWS
Effective regional, rural and remote family and relationships service delivery
AFRC Briefing No. 10, 2008 Louise Roufeil and Kristine Battye

A spatial divide? Trends in the incomes and socioeconomic characteristics of regions between 1996 and 2001
Canberra, ACT: National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling, University of Canberra - Conference papers - Paper presented to the 28th Australian and New Zealand Regional Science Association International Annual Conference, Wollongong, 28 September - 1 October 2004, 18p, (CP2004_005), Online, (PDF 220K) This paper examines trends in income for different regions of Australia between 1996 and 2001, using census data.

National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling, University of Canberra
NATSEM discussion papers are available online. Some recent topics covered include costs to Australia of early school-leaving; social security, ageing and income distribution in Australia; trends in child poverty in Australia: 1982 to 1995-96; who pays the tax burden in Australia; private transfers across Australian generations.

Urban Research Program (URP), Griffith University, August 2008 Click here to visit URP's website.
This paper graphically describes the devastating impact of soaring fuel and mortgage prices on Australian households. The VAMPIRE (Vulnerability Assessment for Mortgage, Petroleum and Inflation Risks and Expenses) index identifies the relative degree of socio-economic stress in suburbs in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Click here to download paper.

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Family Law News

Push to merge family law courts - The Australian Article
Michael Pelly, August 25, 2008 The Rudd Government should dismantle the Federal Magistrates Court and create a one-stop shop for family law, according to the peak national body for lawyers. The Law Council of Australia says the Federal Magistrates Court, which opened its doors in 1999, has been feuding with the Family Court over resources. The council argues that integration of the two courts is urgently needed. http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24235182-5013404,00.html

Government - Family Court of Australia
What happens for children? - How do children behave? - What happens to children at different ages? - What is the effect of continuing disagreement - How parents can make things difficult for children - Ways you can help your children - Making decisions - Suggestions about making arrangements - What is the Court's view on parenting arrangements - Guidelines for parents - Things to remember. http://www.familylawcourts.gov.au/wps/wcm/resources/file/eb1b334ca39c9ac/Child_and_Separation.pdf

Family Dispute Resolution
Family dispute resolution is the name in the Family Law Act for services such as mediation and conciliation that help people affected by separation and divorce to sort out their disputes with each other. You may have reached a point where you can't... [Full Details] Attorney-General's Department http://www.familyrelationships.gov.au/fdr
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Single Parent Social Diary Wednesday 3 September
2CCR FM 90.5 Breakfast with Ross F 6am to 9am (Your state president- new apprentice as radio announcer)

CITY OF SYDNEY
JOY'S LUNCH CLUB

HILLS DISTRICT
OPEN SOCIAL TENNIS
Also
KINGSWOOD DANCE

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CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – State Management Committee

We need help on the Parents Without Partners State Management Committee, and we are calling for nominations from PWP Branches or individuals self-nominating for the following positions/roles:-
* Marketing Director
* Coordinator for a Virtual Online Branch Forum for rural and remote area single parents
* New Branch Mentor (for development of out of Sydney Branches - coast &/or country)
* Press & Public Relations Coordinator
* Internet Strategy Coordinator – MySpace, YouTube, e-Groups, etc.
* Editor e-Newsletter (Sydney Single Parent News)
* Fund Raising Coordinator
* Sponsorships Coordinator
or if you can think of another way you can help – email me to discuss.

If you are interested and would like to know more about these and other ways you could help PWP on the State Committee email me at rossemail@gmail.com

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ABC HEALTH NEWS

ABC Health Updates,
Health Updates is a weekly alert about recent ABC health coverage now available online. Information on how to subscribe can be found at: http://abcmail.net.au/t/190298/598860/1366/0/

Antioxidants May Undermine Cancer Therapy (ABC Science Online)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/164581/598860/3420/0/

The Pulse: When The Gambling Bug Done Gotcha ==
One Australian in 20 is at risk of problem gambling, and the numbers are rising.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4743/0/

Melanoma Breakthrough: A Simple And Less Invasive Cure (ABC 7.30 Report)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4749/0/

Healthy Living Video: Fat Confusion ==
Fats have a bad name, but some are actually good for you. Watch our video to find out which are the healthiest choices.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4744/0/

Voice The Key To Detecting Teen Depression: Researchers (ABC PM)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4756/0/

Fat & Fit (ABC Catalyst)
Dr Norman Swan, from Radio National's Health Report, reveals some startling facts about fatness and fitness. People's perceptions of fitness are often misguided. Lean doesn't always mean healthy, and fat doesn't necessarily mean unfit. So can you be fat and fit? Dr Swan caught up with Professor Steve Blair, one of the world's leading exercise scientists. http://abcmail.net.au/t/164581/598860/3413/0/

Controversy Over Moisturiser-Cancer Link (ABC Science Online)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4757/0/

Study Sheds Light On Effects Of Smoking On Pregnancy (ABC The World Today)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4762/0/

The Wealthy Healthy: Wellbeing's Social Determinants (ABC The National Interest)
What makes us healthy, and what keeps us well? A special broadcast from the 2008 Fulbright Symposium in Adelaide, exploring the social factors underpinning health.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/229627/598860/4769/0/

Eating Disorders On The Rise (ABC AM)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/164581/598860/3421/0/

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Single Parent Social Diary Thursday 4 September
Final Bookings for: Northside: Tom Yum Thai Rest, Sep 6.

CITY OF SYDNEY
LIVE THEATRE – 1pm, Surry Hills. Free performance for the unwaged. Must have concession card.

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SINGLE PARENT MENTIONS IN THE INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
Single mothers an easy target Stuff.co.nz - New Zealand
After tax, a single parent on the DPB gets $263.78 a week. That's not going
to pay for a whole lot of rent, food, electricity, petrol, washing machine
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/4660112a1861.html

Back To School Project outfits kids for class
Red Bluff Daily News - Red Bluff,CA,USA
The Back To School Project was created out of Berry's own experience as a
single parent, she said. "I am familiar with the struggles of providing new
http://www.redbluffdailynews.com/news/ci_10236621

Fran O'Sullivan: Key could send powerful message to DPB women
New Zealand Herald - New Zealand
But it is an argument that recognises that sole parenthood is here to stay
and that more focus needs to be put on finding ways for young women, ...
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/topic/story.cfm?c_id=322&objectid=10527279>

A soul talent's divine future Globe and Mail - Canada
Becoming a single parent, she said, forced her to focus her energies on
becoming a success in her own right, independent of those who might hire her for a ...
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080818.DIVINE18/TPStory/TPEntertainment/Music/

New Zealand out of step on child support, says Kiro
New Zealand Herald - New Zealand
By Simon Collins Child support should be paid to sole parents on benefits,
says a report released by Children's Commissioner Cindy Kiro. ...
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/topic/story.cfm?c_id=322&objectid=10525849

England stars join fight against knife crime Times Online - UK
Schools finish at three, both parents are working, or there is just a
single parent, the kids have the key to the house and four hours bythemselves. ...
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/columnists/martin_

Gordon Campbell on the Clark briefing paper, and Obama's choice as ...
Scoop.co.nz - New Zealand
... boy who currently occupies the White House than it is does of Barack
Obama, the child of Kenyan /American parents, raised by his mother as a sole parent.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0808/S00266.htm

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CONFERENCES

25–26 September 2008
2008 Accommodation & Social Participation Conference, Home & Community: Overcoming Exclusion. This event, focussing on policy and service delivery issues affecting accommodation and social participation at the Hilton Sydney. www.nds.org.au/conferences/ASP2008/home.htm
23 November 2008

National Drug Trends Conference, Sydney,
This one-day conference will feature discussion of illicit drug use trends and the presentation of new findings. Presentation topics include results from the 2008 Illicit Drug Reporting System and Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System, where people who inject drugs get information about safer drug use and health, 'how to reach data that social surveys can't' and 'did the heroin shortage increase amphetamine use?'. For more information, visit the conference website
Easter Week-end 2009
Parents Without Partners Australia National Convention & Children's Camp

South Australia – put in your diaries – details to come later.
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Single Parent Social Diary Friday 5 September
Final Bookings for: Northside: BBQ Mary's, Sept 7.

HILLS DISTRICT
OPEN HAPPY BIRTHDAY 'CHA CHA' HOUSE PARTY – (Free entry for Dad's-Fathers Day) 8pm at Chris's, Blacktown. Its Chris' birthday so lets help him celebrate with a CHA CHA theme. Chris is installing a dance floor for the occasion. There will be fires to keep us warm. Members $6, Non Members $12. SNCP. USUAL.

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PARENTS WITHOUT PARTNERS MEMBERS NOTE

CURRENT MEMBERSHIP CARDS must be produced when signing in at the door to gain entry at PWP functions. All functions are for members only - unless stated as "OPEN" or "Introduce a friend". Friends may attend as 'Temporary Members' for that function and are bound to comply with the requirements and policies of the organisation.

CONDITIONS OF ATTENDANCE: It is a condition of attendance at any function organised by PWP that neither the Association, its members, nor its officers or servants are liable in respect of any loss of life, injury, damage or loss of any description which may occur.

Note: The security and safety of children attending PWP functions is solely the responsibility of the parent member.

REMINDER
Entry to parties closes at 10pm. If you have valid reason to be late, please let a committee member know and tell them what time you expect to arrive.

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PWP DOES IT AGAIN
SUBMIT YOUR BRANCH FUNCTION REPORTS
Each week we would like to share with other members what great functions are organized by PWP. We will publish one function report a week – so why not tell us about a dinner, a party, a picnic, a kids function or a health and fitness function. Don't date the entry – it just needs to have happened in the past month or so. Let's make it good news week. Why not submit a brief one paragraph report of one of your branches recent successful functions. Email to Ross at rossemail@gmail.com
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ADVERTISING HELPS SUPPORT THE WORK OF PWP NSW

Advertise in the Sole Parent bi-monthly magazine posted to all members
and the weekly Sydney Single Parent News e-Newsletter (including in our blogs.
Advertising bookings email Kim at our State Office pwpnsw@bigpond.net.au

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PWP PARENTS REMINDER

We would like to remind our PWP parents that you are responsible for the supervision and well-being of your children at all times during a PWP function, outing or excursion including the school holiday camps. PWP being a volunteer association is NOT able to and does not have the resources, accreditation, screening, licensing or insurance arrangements for assuming child or adolescent care responsibilities. Parents need to be observant where their children are at all times. You are also responsible for the good conduct and behaviour of your children. You need to assess the risks of some activities in relation to the child's age and development. If your child is accompanied by another parent and their children then this is a personal arrangement between the two parents, and other parents or committee members can not be expected to assume responsibility. We need to publish this even though we know most people already understand this.

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Computer Problems?………..Hardware failure?
Computer running slowly?…Don't understand your software?
Internet problems?…………..Don't know what to do next?
· Help to buy, set up and use your computer
· New or refurbished systems to suit your budget
I have refurbished computers, each internet ready and available now. Fully protected with firewall, antivirus and antispyware installed. Keyboard, mouse and monitor supplied. Ideal first computer or child's computer.
Please contact me for more details:
Ring John: 9626 9093 or 0408 416 466
Email: getugoing@hotpop.com
Approved by PWP SMC –John maintains (gratis) PWP NSW computers and software – with our gratitude.

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OPEN SINGLES FUNCTION
Sat 1 November

OPEN TROPICAL SYDNEY HARBOUR CRUISE

We will be cruising on our beautiful harbour aboard "The Proclaim". BYO nibbles, but no alcohol to be brought on board. Dress up in your Hawaiian shirts and let's dance the night away. Free glass of wine or soft drink before boarding. Tickets available from all Hills parties or phone Kim on 9671-6643. Members $30, Non Members $35. No esky's to be taken onboard.

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SYdney Single Parent News 14 Aug 08

2008-08-31T11:01:00.000-07:00

Sydney Single Parent News

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A special pilot edition – trial alternate format at SydneySingleParents.blogspot.com
SydneySingleParentNews@gmail.com email for Free subscription requests
Now we are on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/sydneysingleparents
And now on FACEBOOK as well – why not add us to your friends list.
www.PWP-NSW.org.au New web site is undergoing development

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August 14, 2008

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Parents Without Partners NSW is where you meet people and make friends.

The largest single parent not for profit association in Australia.

The longest standing single parent association with over 40 years of community service.

A peer support self help group run solely by volunteer single parents for single parents and their children.

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OPEN SINGLES FUNCTION

Saturday 23 Aug

PWP SPECIAL OPEN DANCE

– You can bring friends and adult family members
ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER AND DANCE

7pm at Dundas Community Centre, 27 Sturt St, Telopea.
Spit Roast Dinner

Dancing to the music of a great live band – "The Bad Sneakers"
Presentation of awards to PWP members in recognition of their contribution.

Special Media Awards presentation.

This is an OPEN adult function.

Cost $30 members $35 non-members (2 course dinner) BYO drinks and nibbles.

Tickets are on sale from PWP branch committee members NOW.

Reserve a table and organise a group of friends.

Enq Julie on 9634 3003 between 5pm-9pm

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Some of the benefits of PWP Membership:

Opportunity for single parents to network for peer support

Around 1,500 affordable functions a year

Regular single parent parties, dinners, barbeques and outings

Children's / Family functions every week-end

Family creative arts awards program

Major annual bus excursions

School holiday camps

Opportunities to volunteer and become involved

A great new social and support outlet for single parents

Membership is a passport to any PWP activities in Australia and overseas

Members discounts at open functions

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PWP DOES IT AGAIN
Kim's Friday Party
A great night for this party on the opening of the Olympics evenning. A great attendance and two fires to keep everyone warm. A special birthday for Kevin of PWP Kindy Kids on the night and Kim on the Sunday. A special Hills Branch awards presentations by Richard the Branch President acknowledging those who have served on the committee. Nice to catch up with everyone on the night.

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PWP Membership Inquiries contact our volunteers AFTER HOURS :
Baulkham Hills - Carlingford - Parramatta—Holroyd—Liverpool — 9634 7502
Campbelltown - Camden - Picton - Mittagong (7-9 pm) — 4647 4477
Central Coast—Gosford—Brooklyn—Hornsby— 9411 1858
City of Sydney – Inner West - Eastern Suburbs—St. George - Auburn — 9554 3444
Penrith — Blacktown - Blue Mountains — Hawkesbury — 9634 7502
Northern Suburbs– Northern Beaches – North Shore — 9411 1858
Sutherland—Cronulla—Menai—Southern Suburbs— 9554 3444
* Part of a national and international network of Parents Without Partners groups.

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STATE PRESIDENT'S DESK
PWP KINDY KIDS

There are single parents with very young children in the 0 to 6 yo bracket – and the PWP Kindy Kids special interest group is great for the children to get together to play and for the parents to network. It does not matter whether you are a custodial parent or an access parent with young children – you are all welcome – mum and dads as well. We thank Elizabeth for starting the group off and then to Rebecca for taking the PWP Kindy Kids group to the next level. Check out your Sole Parent Magazine program, posted to all PWP NSW members, for the PWP Kindy Kids activities details. Rebecca thanks for organizing some school holiday activities while the pre-schools are on holidays. Now Kevin has taken over for the 2008-2009 program – good luck Kevin.

Ross F, State President rossemail@gmail.com

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CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – State Management Committee

We need help on the Parents Without Partners State Management Committee, and we are calling for nominations from PWP Branches or individuals self-nominating for the following positions/roles:-

Marketing Director
Coordinator for a Virtual Online Branch Forum for rural and remote area single parents
New Branch Mentor (for development of out of Sydney Branches - coast &/or country)
Press & Public Relations Coordinator
Internet Strategy Coordinator – MySpace, YouTube, e-Groups, etc.
Editor e-Newsletter (Sydney Single Parent News)
Fund Raising Coordinator
Sponsorships Coordinator

If you are interested and would like to know more about these and other ways you could help PWP on the State Committee email me at rossemail@gmail.com

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YOUR SOCIAL DIARY – Sole Parent Magazine

PWP Members see your Sole Parent magazine for full function details.

Single Parents and mature singles – it pays to belong to PWP.

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Single Parent Social Diary Thursday 14 August
CITY OF SYDNEY
COUNTRY MUSIC & PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS NIGHT – Canberbury /Hurlstone Park RSL Club, 20 -26 Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park. 7pm meeting and dinner down stairs in the Fernhill Restaurant. Afterwards meet Syd in the foyer at 7.50pm to enter the Auditorium for the free Country Music show at 8pm. Good country music artists performing, so have a dance. Prospective members Enq. Margaret 9554 3444.

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK

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SPECIAL NOTICES
2008 NSW Volunteer of the Year Award
Applications close 30 September 2008
Minister for Volunteering Linda Burney, with The Centre for Volunteering, launched the 2008 NSW Volunteer of the Year Award, a major State Government supported initiative to recognise the contribution the 1.6 million volunteer workers make to the community every year.

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YOU CAN HELP YOUR PWP
URGENTLY WANTED - NOMINATIONS FOR A STATE MARKETING DIRECTOR
This could be a great way for you to be involved in PWP and join the State Committee. Be involved in some or all of the following in improving our media directory kits for branches, help with media inquiries, help promote PWP in local newspapers and community radio, review marketing issues, coordinate the distribution of marketing materials, organise a few publicity events, work on direct mail campaigns, liaise with Branch Marketing Directors. By apart of the governing body of PWP in NSW. Nominations welcome from branch committees and self-nomination. Email Ross F, our State President ASAP at rossemail@gmail.com

WANTED – PRESS & PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR
If you have an interest in journalism or would like to be involved this could be a great opportunity. If you could help us draft some press releases for local newspapers, arrange press photos, distribute media releases to local newspapers, occasional the major papers and magazines, liaison with journalists, draft community service announcements for community radio and some times commercial radio – with a goal of at least one release of some kind each month. If you can help email our State President Ross at rossemail@gmail.com

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Single Parent Social Diary Friday 15 August
Final Bookings for: Northside:Vietnamese Restaurant, Aug 16.

HILLS DISTRICT
'LETS REMEMBER ELVIS' OPEN HOUSE PARTY – 8pm at Peter W's, 69 Henry Lawson Ave, Werrington County. Has Elvis left the building? Let's get dressed up to remember "The King". It is Peters birthday and he wants all Elvis fans to party with him. There is a fire to keep us warm. Please bring the USUAL or pay $10 extra. SNCP. Members $6, Non Members $12.

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Child Support News –New Legal Resource Online

The Child Support Agency's legal resource The Guide, setting out CSA's policy and view of the new Child Support Scheme and its administration, is now available from the CSA's website. Please note that this document is written primarily for lawyers.

For more information visit www.csa.gov.au or to discuss your options call us on 1300 885 437.
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Congratulations to the Northside Branch of PWP
The Northside Branch of Parents Without Partners had a very successful Annual General Meeting with a good role up of members who showed their support and appreciate to the committee for all the great work and time they have volunteered over the past year. Congratulations to the re-elected Branch President Suzee E and her new committee – a good committee compliment – we wish them well for the coming year. Congratulations to those members who received the Special Branch Presidents Awards and the Committee Service awards that were presented by the President Suzee E. Some social mixing and mingling and a great sausage sizzle after the meeting.
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Single Parent Social Diary Saturday 16 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
LAUGHING GROUP – Woolwich
Also
ADULT TWLIGHT BBQ AT YVONNE'S – 4pm "FREE FRIEND" bring a new single friend and they don't pay to-day.

NORTHSIDE
VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT – 7pm Crows Nest.

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PARENTS WITHOUT PARTNERS MENTIONS IN THE MEDIA

2 SWR FM 99.9 Parents Without Partners on the Radio - The SWR FM "People of Interest with Brendan Leggett" program will have an in studio interview again with Ross F our State President and Peter M our State Treasurer - talking about the changes to the child support scheme. Saturday 23 July 2008

Radio 2CCR FM 90.5 17- 24 July - Community Service Announcements
Radio 2SWR FM 99.9 17-24 July – Community Service Announcements

(Please let us know when you see PWP mentioned in your local paper community calendars – email us at SoleParenteNews@gmail.com)
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Parenting Resources

Child friendly community action kit: a guide to building child friendly communities.
National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN) Surry Hills, NSW: NAPCAN Foundation, 2005, 60p, tables, figures, Online only (PDF 5202K) Information on how to make your community child friendly is provided in this kit. The kit presents advice on forming a child friendly Community Action Group and planning child friendly initiatives. It discusses the issue of child abuse and neglect, including types of abuse, the effects of child abuse and neglect, the long term nature of the problem, the economic cost of child abuse and neglect, and the benefits of prevention. It describes what a child friendly community is, how child friendly communities prevent child abuse and neglect, and indicators of a child friendly community, and it looks at examples of child friendly community initiatives in New South Wales, Victoria and the Northern Territory. It explains the three stages of making change raising awareness, increasing participation and building capacity - and gives tips on organising events, fundraising, managing your group, networking, planning your activities, working with the media and having your own newsletter.

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Single Parent Social Diary Sunday 17 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
BBQ AT SYD'S – Noon for lunch at 1pm. Rozelle. Syd's is a great place to spend a Sunday afternoon. "KID'S WELCOME", Sausages and bread supplied.

HILLS DISTRICT
GOLF DAY AT PANTHERS / BBQ – 1pm at Penrith. Come along for this fantastic day where you can enjoy two different types of golf in the one area - Aquagolf and Venture Golf (Putt Putt).
Also
ADULT TENNIS AFTERNOON – 1pm to 5pm Winston Hills.
Also
ASQUITH CLUB DINNER

MACARTHUR
FAMILY HOUSE PARTY – 11am at Sue's, Ambarvale. There is stacks to keep the kids busy and happy at Sue's while the adults relax.

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK – Cowan

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EDUCATION & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Australian Sports Commission free online training

The Australian Sports Commission has developed online courses for Australian beginner coaches and officials. Training is free and courses can be completed on the web at a time that suits you.

Aquatic and fitness
Water safety, AUSTSWIM accredited, CPR/resusitation and fitness trainer courses.

Holiday camp instructor
Training for employment as an Instructor or Assistant Instructor at our Sport and Recreation Centres.

Coach and official
Level 1 / Level 2 coaching principles, updates and Sport Education Series courses.

Disability education
Learn how to better include people with a disability in your sport, activity or club.

Sports administration
Includes courses to help you better administer your sports club such as risk management, child protection, volunteer management.

Sports medicine and safety
Taping, massage and other sports medicine-related courses.

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EXERCISE AND HELP YOUR PWP AT THE SAME TIME

WALKERS WANTED
If you are a regular walker for exercise – we would like to trial a letter box drop of our PWP brochures. If you are able to deliver 50, 100, or more brochures on different walking routes in your area – then give Kim a call at the state office or email pwpnsw@bigpond.net.au

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Single Parent Social Diary Monday 18 August
CITY OF SYDNEY
WALK THE BAY Drummoyne

HILLS DISTRICT
BUDGET CLUB DINNER – Pennant Hills

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ON THE WEB
Our Clever Country 100 years of Australian innovations
From Questracon http://www.questacon.edu.au/html/100_years_of_innovations.html

Centre for Labour Market Research, Murdoch University
The CLMR discussion paper series is available online, covering topics such as: Trends in rural labour markets; Determinants of Australian full-time earnings; The youth labour market in Australia; Youth employment, unemployment and school participation.

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SINGLE PARENT MENTIONS IN AUSTRALIAN MEDIA

Recipients of child support lose out under new formula
The Age - Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Lone Fathers Association president Barry Williams said the new system was
much fairer. He said most parents receiving family tax benefits were resident ...
http://www.theage.com.au/national/recipients-of-child-support-lose-out-under-new-formula-20080807-3rst.html

Harder to rent than buy for single mother of four
St George & Sutherland Shire Leader - Sydney, NSW Australia
However, the sole parent fears they will have to move when the lease
expires. "My kids have grown up here and they love it, but I will have to find ...
http://stgeorge.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/harder-to-rent-than-buy-for-single-mother-of-four/1238310.aspx

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Single Parent Social Diary Tuesday 19 August

HILLS DISTRICT
BLACKTOWN WORKERS SPORTS CLUB DINNER NIGHT – 6.30pm, Reservoir Rd, Blacktown. Join Maryann and friends at this most popular venue for a sumptuous night out. Choose from the 'All You Can Eat Buffet' or the 'Club Bistro'. Meet dozens of new, existing and old friends. KWBMBS at all times. Look for the blue PWP cards on the table near the club bistro. Weekly event.
Also
NEW MEMBERS INFORMATION AND JOINING NIGHT – 7pm at Blacktown Workers Sports Club, Reservoir Rd, Blacktown. If you have any friends interested in joining PWP please bring them along to the club tonight. Look for the blue PWP cards on the table. They will need $55 to join on the night. Also join the crowd for the dinner. Weekly event. Enq. 9634 7502.

NORTHSIDE
DINNER AND CHAT

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SINGLE PARENT SOCIAL CONCERNS INFO & NEWS

Seven Steps to Safety A kit to help families keep kids safe at home. [Full Details] Department of Health & Community Services, NT http://www.nt.gov.au/health/facs/sevensteps.shtml

Stuff happens: Unused things cluttering up our homes
Josh Fear / The Australia Institute
This study is about the extent to which Australian homes are cluttered with things that are rarely or never used. A nationally representative online survey of 1,002 respondents was carried out in December 2007, and was followed up with a series of telephone interviews with people who identified themselves as having problems with clutter.

A picture of Australia's children
Canberra, ACT: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2005, 119p, tables, figures, and Online This national statistical report on the health, development and well being of Australia's children aged 0-14 years includes: an overview of the Australian child population; child health, development and wellbeing; the role of family and community; and looks at future directions in monitoring the health, development and wellbeing of Australia's children.

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Family Law News

Divorces, Australia, 2005
Canberra, ACT: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2006, (ABS catalogue no.3307.0.55.001), Online Key indicators of national and state divorces for 2005 are summarised in this document; it includes information about divorce rates; likelihood to divorce; age at divorce; relative age of divorcing parties; age-specific divorce rates; duration of marriage for divorcing couples; applicants for divorce; divorces involving children; and country of birth of divorcing parties.

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Single Parent Social Diary Wednesday 20 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
JOY'S LUNCH CLUB
Also
SOUTH SYDNEY JUNIORS LEAGUES CLUB "FREE MOVIE NIGHT" – 7.15pm Kingsford. Meet Susie C.

HILLS DISTRICT
OPEN SOCIAL TENNIS
Also
KINGSWOOD DANCE

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ABC HEALTH NEWS

ABC Health Updates,
Health Updates is a weekly alert about recent ABC health coverage now available online. Information on how to subscribe can be found at: http://abcmail.net.au/t/190298/598860/1366/0/

Stronger Musles, Longer Life
Being strong might predict a longer life. Muscle strength seems to protect against cancer and all combined causes of death, say researchers. http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4381/0/

UK Researchers Claim Prostate Cancer Breakthrough (ABC AM)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4364/0/

Healthy Living Video: Beating Tiredness
Feeling tired all the time is horrible, and working out the cause is difficult. But effective treatments could be close to hand. http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4327/0/

Australians Less Depressed, More Medicated (ABC Science Online)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4359/0/

Your Story: Fitness Fix
Many of us feel like we don't have time to exercise. Not Ingrid Arnott. She's a working mum who fits it in 10 times a week - and loves every minute.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4357/0/

Drummers As Fit As Athletes: Study (ABC The World Today)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4362/0/

Health & Wellbeing's Tip Of The Week
If you're stressed at work or at home, try and do something every day, however small, that gives you pleasure.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/2543/0/

Hospital Infections Could Be Halved By Clean Hands: Research (The World Today: 23/07/2008)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4363/0/

Diabetes: Good News And Bad
Findings from Norway have good news and bad news for people with diabetes. Death rates are down, but they're still high. http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4377/0/

Contact Lenses Could Save Your Vision (ABC Science Online)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4365/0/

Fungi And Disease
Researchers warn that fungi are underestimated as a cause of disease; yet medical technology has created an environment in which fungi thrive.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/206333/598860/4378/0/
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Single Parent Social Diary Thursday 21 August

Final Bookings for: Macarthur:Lunch at Pancakes, Aug 24.

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SINGLE PARENT MENTIONS IN THE INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

EDITORIAL: Single parents targeted
MyTown Bay of Plenty - Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
In a single parent home that kind of commitment to the wellbeing of the
family would surely be more useful than taking on Government-ordered
part-time work ...
http://www.bayofplentytimes.co.nz/localnews/storydisplay.cfm?storyid=3781255&thesection=localnews&thesubsection=&thesecondsubsection=

Lifeline for single parent families
The Wymondham and Attleborough Mercury - Wymondham, England, UK
Gingerbread aims to provide company, fun activities, support and advice to
lone parent families all over Norfolk." Already Gingerbread Norwich and Norfolk ...
http://www.wymondhamandattleboroughmercury.co.uk/content/wam24/news/story.aspx?brand=WAMOnline&category=news&tBrand=WAMonline&tCategory=news&itemid=NOED30%20Jul%202008%2017%3A13%3A25%3A150

In Britain, Labour pushes ambitious overhaul of welfare system
Christian Science Monitor - Boston,MA,USA
The Wisconsin welfare reforms claim success in reducing welfare claimants,
but have been criticized for leaving lone parents bewildered about what to do
.http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0801/p06s02-woeu.html

DC Mother, Parent Activist Honored with National Award MarketWatch - USA
As a single mother, Virginia Walden Ford took up the cause of school choice
after her son received a private scholarship to escape a failing DC school.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/dc-mother-parent-activist-honored/story.aspx?guid=%7B4B3DF3D2-B055-461B-96B2-961687E01DAB%7D&dist=hppr

Cooking up savings brings family together, helps extend budget
The Jackson Citizen Patriot - MLive.com - Jackson,MI,USA
And then Sims, a single parent, took a ``financial freedom'' class and
learned that habit was one thing keeping her from achieving that goal. ...
http://www.mlive.com/features/citpat/index.ssf?/base/features-0/1218463515117591.xml&coll=3

Walking in the footsteps of a single mother Lansdale Reporter - Lansdale, PA,USA
But being a parent, in itself, is not easy, either. Now I don't have any
children of my own, but I know that I was definitely not an easy child and,
http://www.thereporteronline.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19903039&BRD=2275&PAG=461&dept_id=466404&rfi=6

Keep track of your child-care expenses, expert urges
TheChronicleHerald.ca - Halifax,Nova Scotia,Canada
Single parents are also able to claim the Eligible Dependent Credit. This
tax credit can also be claimed for a dependent grandchild, sibling, parent or ...
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Business/1072474.html

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CONFERENCES

18-20 Aug 2008 Sydney, NSW ACWA08 Conference - Strong, Safe and Sustainable: Responding to Children, Young People and Families in a Civil Society

Conference: 31 Aug-3 Sep 2008 Anglicare National Conference - Opportunities Not Vulnerabilities: An Australian Agenda for Social Inclusion Sydney, NSW

Conference: 1-3 Sep 2008 Melbourne, Vic Insights & Solutions - The Combined 2nd International Conference on Alcohol and Other Drug Related Brain Impairment and the Brain Injury Australia National Conference 2008

Conference: 7-10 Sep 2008 Hong Kong XVIIth ISPCAN International Congress on Child Abuse and Neglect

Conference: 10-12 Sep 2008 Melbourne, Vic 5th World Conference on the Promotion of Mental Health and the Prevention of Mental and Behavioural Disorders - From Margins to Mainstream

9-12 November 2008 Strength in Unity: Sharing & Building Skills Melbourne, Vic The Conference has been designed to cater for a broad range of community sector practitioners, managers, researchers, educators, and policy makers from across Australia and New Zealand. Further information: Conference website - http://www.iceaustralia.com/strengthinunity2008/index.html; Email: strengthinunity2008@iceaustralia.com; Phone: (02) 9368 1200
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Single Parent Social Diary Friday 22 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
CANADA BAY CLUB DINNER & DANCE - 7pm

HILLS DISTRICT
ADULT HOUSE PARTY – 8pm Baulkham Hills. Special Introduce A Friend Night.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Legal Information

Legal Aid forums on the mortgage squeeze - Gosford & Rooty Hill

Legal Aid NSW is hosting a series of public information forums for homeowners experiencing mortgage stress. These forums will be helpful to anyone who is having trouble meeting their mortgage payments. It will include practical information on obtaining hardship variations and where homeowners can get help for this plus general information about credit and debt.

The forums are organised by Legal Aid NSW in partnership with the Consumer Credit Legal Centre, Credit Ombudsman Service Limited (COSL), Housing NSW, LawAccess NSW, Lifeline, community legal centres, the Mortgage Assistance Scheme (MAS), and financial counsellors.

Details:

Central Coast Leagues Club on 23 August 2008 (2pm – 5pm)
Rooty Hill RSL on 13 September 2008 (2pm – 5pm)

Each forum will consist of a panel discussion with experts (2pm-3.30pm), face to face legal advice, and an information expo (3.30pm-5pm). For more information about the forums, contact the Coordinator Community Legal Education Tel: 9219 5921.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ADVERTISING HELPS SUPPORT THE WORK OF PWP NSW

Advertise in The Sole Parent bi-monthly magazine posted to all members
and the weekly e-Newsletter.
Advertising bookings email Kim at our State Office pwpnsw@bigpond.net.au

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PWP PARENTS REMINDER

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Computer Problems?………..Hardware failure?

Computer running slowly?…Don't understand your software?

Internet problems?…………..Don't know what to do next?

· Help to buy, set up and use your computer

· New or refurbished systems to suit your budget

I have refurbished computers, each internet ready and available now. Fully protected with firewall, antivirus and antispyware installed. Keyboard, mouse and monitor supplied. Ideal first computer or child's computer.

Please contact me for more details:

Ring John: 9626 9093 or 0408 416 466

Email: getugoing@hotpop.com

Approved by PWP SMC –John maintains (gratis) PWP NSW computers and software – with our gratitude.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
DON'T FORGET - OPEN SINGLES FUNCTION

Saturday 23 Aug

PWP SPECIAL OPEN DANCE

– You can bring friends and adult family members
ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER AND DANCE

7pm at Dundas Community Centre, 27 Sturt St, Telopea.
Spit Roast Dinner

Dancing to the music of a great live band – "The Bad Sneakers"
Presentation of state awards to PWP members in recognition of their contribution.

Special Media Awards presentation.

This is an OPEN adult function so you can bring your family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.

Cost $30 members $35 non-members (2 course dinner) BYO drinks and nibbles.

Tickets are on sale from PWP branch committee members NOW.

Reserve a table and organise a group of friends.

Enquiries Julie on 9634 3003 between 5pm-9pm

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW

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Sydney Single Parent News 7 August 2008

2008-08-31T10:43:00.001-07:00

Sydney Single Parent News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

August 7, 2008

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Parents Without Partners NSW is where you meet people and make friends.

The largest single parent not for profit association in Australia.

The longest standing single parent association with over 40 years of community service.

A peer support self help group run solely by volunteer single parents for single parents and their children.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OPEN SINGLES FUNCTION

Saturday 23 Aug

PWP SPECIAL OPEN DANCE

– You can bring friends and adult family members
ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER AND DANCE

7pm at Dundas Community Centre, 27 Sturt St, Telopea.
Spit Roast Dinner

Dancing to the music of a great live band – "The Bad Sneakers"
Presentation of awards to PWP members in recognition of their contribution.

Special Media Awards presentation.

This is an OPEN adult function.

Cost $30 members $35 non-members (2 course dinner) BYO drinks and nibbles.

Tickets are on sale from PWP branch committee members NOW.

Reserve a table and organise a group of friends.

Enq Julie on 9634 3003 between 5pm-9pm

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW – DON'T DELAY

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Some of the benefits of PWP Membership:

Ø Opportunity for single parents to network for peer support

Ø Around 1,500 affordable functions a year

Ø Regular single parent parties, dinners, barbeques and outings

Ø Children's / Family functions every week-end

Ø Family creative arts awards program

Ø Major annual bus excursions

Ø School holiday camps

Ø Opportunities to volunteer and become involved

Ø A great new social and support outlet for single parents

Ø Membership is a passport to any PWP activities in Australia and overseas

Ø Members discounts at open functions

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SCHOOL HOLIDAY CAMP

Mon 6 Oct to Sat 11 Oct

GERRINGONG FAMILY CAMP

We have booked for the second week of the school holidays. Lots of great things for the kids to do, including surfing, swimming, rock pools, fishing, skate park and back at the camp the popular game of Newcomball. All accommodation and food included. Share rooms with Bunk Style accommodation and if you wish to bunk with someone that you know please let us know…Cost for Adults $185, Hills Kids $55, Other branches kids (you must check with your Branch)…..Bookings see Sole Parent Magazine Page 4. Between 5-8 pm. PWP Membership Essential.

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STATE PRESIDENT'S DESK

AN ARMY OF VOLUNTEERS

The success of our PWP program and activities is a result of the selfless contribution of an army of volunteers. The committee members and hosts that I have previous mentioned in earlier editions function reports are evidence of the regular commitment of fellow members to make PWP work as an association. But I would also like to acknowledge the army of volunteers who help our committee members and organizers – those who help on hospitality at parties and BBQ, those that help play the music at functions, those that help sell fund raising raffle tickets, those that help with the setting up, those that help with the food and catering, and at the end of the night those who help pack-up and clean up. Literally, hundreds of members make a contribution both big and small to help make PWP a great organization. PWP is run by volunteer members for the benefit of fellow members.

On behalf of your fellow members thank you to all.

Ross F, State President, Parents Without Partners NSW

rossemail@gmail.com

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CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – State Management Committee

We need help on the Parents Without Partners State Management Committee, and we are calling for nominations from PWP Branches or individuals self-nominating for the following positions/roles:-

Marketing Director
Coordinator for a Virtual Online Branch Forum for rural and remote area single parents
New Branch Mentor (for development of out of Sydney Branches - coast &/or country)
Press & Public Relations Coordinator
Internet Strategy Coordinator – MySpace, YouTube, e-Groups, etc.
Editor e-Newsletter (Sydney Single Parent News)
Fund Raising Coordinator
Sponsorships Coordinator

If you are interested and would like to know more about these and other ways you could help PWP on the State Committee email me at rossemail@gmail.com

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YOUR SOCIAL DIARY – Sole Parent Magazine

PWP Members see your Sole Parent magazine for full function details.

Single Parents and mature singles – it pays to belong to PWP.

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Single Parent Social Diary Thursday 7 August

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK

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SPECIAL NOTICES

Sunday 10^th August

PWP BRANCH COMMITTEE TRAINING DAY

10.30am at Green Room Rydalmere Bowling Club, Cnr Victoria and Park Rds, Rydalmere.

SMC are running this training day to assist branch committee members with the procedures of PWP committee. It is an opportunity for the different branch committee members to meet their counter parts – arrange some joint branch functions for the year ahead and to offer each other support. It is also a key day for planning new initiatives for all the branches and state to work on together.

ALL Branch committee members and State Management Committee are required to attend.

PWP activities and event organizers are welcome to attend as well as those thinking about volunteering as organizers and/or committee members.

This will be a very informative day for all, so please attend. It will involve presentations and also break out groups of common interest and involvement. Program Group (parent, family, events and creative awards), Administration Group (secretarial, treasury, assets, meetings and administration) and Marketing and Membership Group (marketing, community relations, welfare, membership, telephone inquiries and publications).

Tea and Coffee will be provided. Lunch maybe purchased at the club or BYO.

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YOU CAN HELP YOUR PWP

URGENTLY WANTED - NOMINATIONS FOR A STATE MARKETING DIRECTOR
This could be a great way for you to be involved in PWP and join the State Committee. Be involved in some or all of the following in improving our media directory kits for branches, help with media inquiries, help promote PWP in local newspapers and community radio, review marketing issues, coordinate the distribution of marketing materials, organise a few publicity events, work on direct mail campaigns, liaise with Branch Marketing Directors. By apart of the governing body of PWP in NSW. Nominations welcome from branch committees and self-nomination. Email Ross F, our State President ASAP at rossemail@gmail.com

WANTED – HOSTS FOR BRANCH FUNCTIONS

If you are a PWP Member and able to host a Branch Party or BBQ at your place, then please make contact with your Branch Vice President Programs and/or Parent Program Direct. We are a volunteer organization and hosting functions by members at their homes greatly helps us maintain the best activities program in Sydney. Contact your Branch committee this week – it helps them plans for the coming months.

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Single Parent Social Diary Friday 8 August

HILLS DISTRICT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY' HOUSE PARTY – 8pm at Blacktown.

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Child Support News –

The New Child Support Scheme; an Overview of the Reforms

Factsheet one provides an overview of what is changing in Child Support between July 2006 and July 2008. [Full Details] Child Support Agency http://www.csa.gov.au/schemereforms/pdf/Factsheet_

The New Child Support Scheme; Stage Three - Changes to the Scheme from July 2008

There are three stages of reforms. Factsheet five provides an outline of what will change in Child Support from July 2008. [Full Details] Child Support Agency http://www.csa.gov.au/schemereforms/pdf/Factsheet_

The New Child Support Scheme; Questions and Answers

Factsheet two outlines important questions and answers about the changes. [Full Details] Child Support Agency :http://www.csa.gov.au/schemereforms/pdf/Factsheet_

For more information visit www.csa.gov.au or to discuss your options call us on 1300 885 437.
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ADVANCED NOTICE
Sunday 5 October

BOWRAL TULIP-TIME FESTIVAL

Corbett Gardens, Merrigang St, Bowral (a short walk from Bowral Railway Station). Train leaves Central at 8.53am via Airport and East Hills line to Campbelltown (board the 3rd carriage from front of train as Margaret joins the train at Wolli Creek railway station). We change trains at Campbelltown to the 10.04am train to Bowral, arriving at 11.15am. You can also drive to Bowral and meet the group. This garden has a featured display of over 100,000 tulips and 25,000 annuals. Lunch at a nearby Pub or café or bring a BYO picnic lunch. Entry to Park Adults $8, Con $5 See the Sole Parent Magazine Page 4 for contact details.
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Single Parent Social Diary Saturday 9 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
LAUGHING GROUP – Woolwich.
Also
THE BEE GEES SHOW –7.30pm Kingsford

MACARTHUR
COMMITTEE MEETING – 10.30am Casula.
Also
HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEOS! ADULT HOUSE PARTY – 7.30pm Bradbury.

NORTHSIDE
LIVE JAZZ – 4pm to 7pm. Surrey Hills

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PARENTS WITHOUT PARTNERS MENTIONS IN THE MEDIA

Rouse Hill Times 23 July - Community Calendar

Radio 2CCR FM 90.5 17- 24 July

- Community Service Announcements

Radio 2SWR FM 99.9 17-24 July

– Community Service Announcements
Hills Shire Times - 29 July - Community Calendar
Hills News - 29 July - Around Town

Hills Shire Times - 5 Aug - Community Calendar

- Hide quoted text -

(Please let us know when you see PWP mentioned in your local paper community calendars – email us at SoleParenteNews@gmail.com)
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Parenting Resources

Dealing with children's behaviour

- Hide quoted text -

KidsBehaviour is an online resource that contains over 80 articles written by experts who continually update and add new content to the website. Subjects on the site range from behavioural disorders to discipline and respect. To find out more go to http://www.kidsbehaviour.co.uk/ (from the One Parent Families/Gingerbread Newsletter)

You are a mum We each have different pictures in our heads about how we should be, or want to be, as a mother. This information sheet looks at mothering, whether you are a first time mum, a single mum, in a two parent family or a step mum. Includes advic... [Full Details] Attorney-General's Department :http://www.familyrelationships.gov.au/www/agd/rwpa

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Single Parent Social Diary Sunday 10 August

COMBINED BRANCHES

STATE TRAINING DAY – 10.30am in the Green Room, Rydalmere Bowling Club, Cnr Victoria and Park Rds, Rydalmere. SMC are running this training day to assist branch committee members with the procedures of PWP committee. It is an opportunity for the different branch committee members to meet their counter parts – arrange some joint branch functions for the year ahead and to offer each other support. It is also a key day for planning new initiatives for all the branches and state to work on together. ALL Branch Committee Members and State Management Committee are required to attend. PWP activities and event organizers are welcome to attend as well as those thinking about volunteering as organizers and/or committee members. This will be a very informative day for all, so please attend. It will involve presentations and also break out groups of common interest and involvement. Program Group (parent, family, events and creative awards), Administration Group (secretarial, treasury, assets, meetings and administration) and Marketing and Membership Group (marketing, community relations, welfare, membership, telephone inquiries and publications). Tea and Coffee will be provided. Lunch may be purchased at the club or BYO.
Also
SMORGASBORD SEAFOOD DINNER – 6pm, DrummoyneMUST BOOK by Fri Aug 8.
Also
ASQUITH CLUB DINNER
Also
BUSHWALK – Garigal National Park

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EDUCATION & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

FREE Computer Software Training online for your community group

Computer software training is now available online for free. The video, training workbooks and exercises are created by Steve Slisar and EzyLearn and you can now enjoy the whole experience in your own home or office for no charge. There is a tour at the website that shows you exactly how to use all the training tools available to you and shows you how to register for free. Make sure you subscribe to our FREE Computer Training Newsletter to be kept up to date with new training placed online or Government funded training initiatives. http://www.freecomputertraining.com.au

Australian Sports Commission free online training

The Australian Sports Commission has developed online courses for Australian beginner coaches and officials. Training is free and courses can be completed on the web at a time that suits you.

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EXERCISE AND HELP YOUR PWP AT THE SAME TIME

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Single Parent Social Diary Monday 11 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
WALK THE BAY – Drummoyne

HILLS DISTRICT
BUDGET CLUB DINNER – Pennant Hills

NORTHSIDE
INFORMAL MORNING COFFEE AND CHAT – Wahroonga All members welcome, come along and have some fun. "Scepticism versus mysticism". lunch afterwards at RSL.

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ON THE WEB

Mensline Australia
A brochure that explains the services provided by Mensline. [Full Details] Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs http://www.familyrelationships.gov.au/www/agd/rwpa

Kids Helpline
If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs someone to talk to you can call the Kids Help Line. Kids Helpline is an Australia wide phone counselling service for young people aged 5-25 on a wide range of issues, including bullying, family and... [Full Details] Australian Institute of Family Studies :http://www.aifs.gov.au/nch/resources/crisis.html

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Single Parent Social Diary Tuesday 12 August

HILLS DISTRICT
BLACKTOWN WORKERS SPORTS CLUB DINNER NIGHT – 6.30pm,
Also
NEW MEMBERS INFORMATION AND JOINING NIGHT – 7pm at Blacktown Workers Sports Club, Reservoir Rd, Blacktown. If you have any friends interested in joining PWP please bring them along to the club tonight. Look for the blue PWP cards on the table. They will need $55 to join on the night. Also join the crowd for the dinner. Weekly event. Enq. 9634 7502.
Also
SINGLES DANCE NORTHMEAD – 8pm,

NORTHSIDE
DINNER AND CHAT – Dee Why

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SINGLE PARENT SOCIAL CONCERNS INFO & NEWS
Transition from Work to Retirement Study - Summary of Findings and Outcomes

Income and separation
In: HILDA Survey Research Conference 2005: papers. Parkville, Vic: Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne, 2005, 29p, tables, figures, Online (PDF 210K)
The main focus of this paper is on the association between income support status / family income and the probability of separation.

Family Matters no.77 2007 - Family relationships and the new family law system; programs to help stepfamilies and pre-marriage education; Parent-child relationships.

Australian Unity wellbeing index survey 14: The wellbeing of Australians - personal relationships
Robert A. Cummins / Australian Centre on Quality of Life, Deakin University
The Australian Unity Wellbeing Index is the new barometer of Australians' satisfaction with their lives and life in Australia. Unlike most official indicators of quality of life and wellbeing, it is subjective – it measures how Australians feel about life, and incorporates both personal and national perspectives. The Index shows how various aspects of life – both personal and national – affects our sense of wellbeing.

Families and friends affected by the drug or alcohol use of someone else A booklet for family and friends affected by someone's alcohol or drug use. Includes advice about how to help and what doesn't help. Lists NSW Services and links to national information. File size: 80Kb. [Full Details] New South Wales Health http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pubs/2004/pdf/drugs_f

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Family Law News

Questions and Answers for Children about Separation

Children are usually unsure of what is happening when their parents separate. Parents may be unsure themselves and find it hard to answer their children's questions. This booklet attempts to answer the most commonly asked questions in terms a young p... [Full Details] Family Court of Australia http://www.familycourt.gov.au/presence/resources/f

Living with parenting arrangements

Information about issues that may affect parenting arrangements, including changing parenting orders or agreements, what to do if orders are broken and parents' responsibilities if they start a new relationship. [Full Details] Victoria Legal Aid http://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/1405.htm

Registering & changing names - NSW

Explains how to register and change your name or your child's name in New South Wales. Outlines the implications of marriage and separation on name changes. [Full Details] Victoria Legal Aid http://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/545.htm

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Single Parent Social Diary Wednesday 13 August

HILLS DISTRICT
OPEN SOCIAL TENNIS – Castle Hill
Also
KINGSWOOD DANCE –

NORTHSIDE
COMMITTEE/GENERAL MEETING – 7.30pm.

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ABC HEALTH NEWS

Weight Loss Diets (ABC Health Report)
Research done in Israel assigned 322 moderately obese people to one of three diets - low-carbohydrate, Mediterranean or low-fat. They found that within two years the low-carb diet and the Mediterranean diet were more efficient in losing weight than the low-fat diet, although all the diets worked.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/213663/598860/4490/0/

Healthy Living Video: Vitamins: Who Needs Them? ==
Taking vitamin supplements can be useful - but not always. Find out which ones can help you and when, in the final episode of this series of Healthy Living.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/213663/598860/4471/0/

New Gene Clues To Schizophrenia Risk (ABC Science Online)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/213663/598860/4475/0/

Work-Life Balance Still Elusive (ABC Life Matters)
A report released this week shows that work-life balance still eludes most of us. In a survey of nearly 3000 people, more than half felt rushed, and a quarter felt they didn't have enough time for family and friends.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/213663/598860/4488/0/

New ADHD Therapy (ABC 7.30 Report)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/170200/598860/3555/0/

Oxygen May Ease Headache And Migraine (ABC Science Online)
http://abcmail.net.au/t/213663/598860/4483/0/

The Musical Mind (ABC Into the Music)
Acclaimed neurologist Dr Oliver Sacks discusses the importance of music to the human brain.
http://abcmail.net.au/t/213663/598860/4356/0/

ABC The Pulse: Goodbye To The Puffer? ==
Breathing exercises lessen the need for asthma medication, and Australian researchers have produced an online video showing how to do them. http://abcmail.net.au/t/170200/598860/3548/0/

The Pill (ABC Life Matters)
A new book by Alexandra Pope questions the safety of the Pill and asks women to think again about their contraceptive choices. Dr Edith Weisberg from the NSW Family Planning Association puts the case for its safety and reliability. http://abcmail.net.au/t/170200/598860/3576/0/

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Single Parent Social Diary Thursday 14 August

CITY OF SYDNEY
COUNTRY MUSIC & PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS NIGHT – Canberbury /Hurlstone Park RSL Club, 20 -26 Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park. 7pm meeting and dinner down stairs in the Fernhill Restaurant. Afterwards meet Syd in the foyer at 7.50pm to enter the Auditorium for the free Country Music show at 8pm. Good country music artists performing, so have a dance. Prospective members

NORTHSIDE
BUSHWALK

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SINGLE PARENT MENTIONS IN THE INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

The lone parent Bangkok Post - Thailand
"I'm the only parent of my child, so I cannot be weak. If I'm stressed, my
child will have a problem too," said the actress.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/100708_Mylife/10Jul2008_family001.php

Help at hand for single parents in Nuneaton
CV5 Coventry Communities - Coventry, England, UK
LONE parents struggling to make ends meet are being pointed towards a
brighter future under a project unveiled in Nuneaton. One-parent families will be ...http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/north-warwickshire-news/2008/07/10/help-at-hand-for-single-parents-in-nuneaton-92746-21317309/

Governments create families of convenience
Times and Transcript - Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
You are both lone parents with young children of roughly the same age. You
can't afford much of a place on the $785 a month allotted to a lone parent
with ...http://timestranscript.canadaeast.com/opinion/article/350124

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CONFERENCES

12 August 2008 Central Coast Community Congress 2008 - Power, Passion and People -
- Conversations and Stories for Pro-Active Communties.

13 August 2008
The Hidden Challenge of Youth Mental Health
Macquarie Building, Level 22, 20 Bond Street, Sydney Start time: 12pm Finish time: 2pm Mission Australia, The Smith Family and the Social Policy Research Centre will present this seminar with guest speakers Professor Patrick McGorry from the University of Melbourne and Kerry Graham, CEO of the Inspire Foundation. Join us to discuss the hidden challenge of youth mental health. For further information. Contact: Angela Lunau Phone: (02) 9219 2022 Email: lunaua@missionaustralia.com.au http://www.missionaustralia.com.au/spitc

13 August 2008
Youth Health Forum - Keeping young people safe.
Lorimer Dods Lecture Theatre, The Children's Hospital at Westmead. Start time: 9.00am Finish time: 12.30pm. The program and registration form for the Youth Health Forum will be available one month prior to the Forum on CAAH website www.caah.chw.edu.au For further information. NSW Centre for the Advancement of Adolescent Health (CAAH) Phone: 02 9845 3338 Fax: 02 9845 0663 caah@chw.edu.au

18-20 Aug 2008 Sydney, NSW ACWA08 Conference - Strong, Safe and Sustainable: Responding to Children, Young People and Families in a Civil Society Association of Child Welfare Agencies Conference.
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Single Parent Social Diary Friday 15 August
Final Bookings for: Northside: Vietnamese Restaurant, Aug 16.

HILLS DISTRICT
LETS REMEMBER ELVIS' OPEN HOUSE PARTY – 8pm at Werrington County. Has Elvis left the building? Let's get dressed up to remember "The King". It is Peter's birthday and he wants all Elvis fans to party with him. There is a fire to keep us warm.

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ADVERTISING HELPS SUPPORT THE WORK OF PWP NSW

Advertise in The Sole Parent bi-monthly magazine posted to all members
and the weekly e-Newsletter.
Advertising bookings email Kim at our State Office pwpnsw@bigpond.net.au

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PWP PARENTS REMINDER

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Computer Problems?………..Hardware failure?

Computer running slowly?…Don't understand your software?

Internet problems?…………..Don't know what to do next?

· Help to buy, set up and use your computer

· New or refurbished systems to suit your budget

Please contact me for more details:

Ring John: 9626 9093 or 0408 416 466

Email: getugoing@hotpop.com

Approved by PWP SMC –John maintains (gratis) PWP NSW computers and software – with our gratitude.

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DON'T FORGET - OPEN SINGLES FUNCTION

Saturday 23 Aug

PWP SPECIAL OPEN DANCE

– You can bring friends and adult family members
ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER AND DANCE

7pm at Dundas Community Centre, 27 Sturt St, Telopea.
Spit Roast Dinner

Dancing to the music of a great live band – "The Bad Sneakers"
Presentation of state awards to PWP members in recognition of their contribution.

Special Media Awards presentation.

This is an OPEN adult function so you can bring your family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.

Cost $30 members $35 non-members (2 course dinner) BYO drinks and nibbles.

Tickets are on sale from PWP branch committee members NOW.

Reserve a table and organise a group of friends.

Enquiries Julie on 9634 3003 between 5pm-9pm

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW

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Sydney Single Parent News 7 August 2008

2008-08-31T10:43:00.000-07:00