6 Oxenford Neighbourhood Watch The festive season has come round again, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers. Sadly, the season does not represent a lull in the pursuits of those opportunistic thieves, often seeking out the most vulnerable. It is not a good idea to share your Christmas plans with those who you do not know or trust, and certainly avoid posting trips away from home on social media. If you are going out, leave lights on with plenty of audio signals from news channels to barking dogs. The message should be ‘we are at home and most vigilant.’ Auto theft remains a big problem, with a surprising number of complaints directed at our excellent QPS speaker at the November meeting. The response was interesting, every car stolen was unlocked with keys within easy access. There was no evidence of highly sophisticated break in systems being used. The message remains: “Lock it or Lose it!” QPS are as frustrated as we are with the number of repeat offenders out on bail, we are hoping for the government crack-down to proceed as soon as possible. One sad story was shared, a magistrate released a repeat offender on bail only to find her house was robbed that night by the person concerned. There were other anecdotal stories shared at our meeting, a great way to keep informed. A quick reminder that there are free National Secure Your Home kits together with a home security checklist with tips on securing your home. If interested, visit the website for more information: www.secureyourhomeday.com.au. Our keynote speaker was Heidi Turner, from the Disaster and Emergency Management Unit (DEMU), her presentation was most informative. She operates from the DEMU Centre, a state-of-the-art facility seen as essential given our region’s exposure to fires, floods, and cyclones. Heidi took us through a video session demonstrating just how vulnerable we are to the changing weather patterns. The main message is that very household should have an emergency relief package (torch, water, basic foods, essential medication etc.) Heidi and her team would welcome your call, she can be contacted direct on 07 5581 1580. The other seasonal nightmare is the impact of overactive scammers who are targeting Australia with increasing determination. False charities and fake assistance programs are being promoted along with cut-price presents for under the tree and even low-price tractors for overworked farmers. We are particularly vulnerable at this time of year so please take extra care. If it seems too good to be true, there is a good chance that it is. The usual rules apply, never provide personal information or cash unless you are convinced the source is genuine – best way to do this is to make independent enquires. If in doubt the National Anti-Scam Centre urges you to contact www.scamwatch.gov. au to report suspicious activity and to advise if you have been scammed. Our next NHW event will be our Christmas Party on December 10th with a 7.00 pm start. The location is the usual Meeting Place (aka the Oxenford and Coomera Community Youth Centre), 25 Leo Graham Way, Oxenford QLD. In addition to our members, we look forward to welcoming representatives from State Parliament, Division 2, QPS, DEMU and of course the trusty firees. In addition to catching up on community matters, there will be games, a raffle with prizes and snacks provided. Traditionally it has proved to be a great evening with a chance to make new friends. We hope that you can join us. Martin Mankowski, Area Coordinator Oxenford Neighbourhood Watch THE VILLAGE - HERITAGE B&B - The Village B&B is a 120-year-old heritage Queenslander in the heart of historic Mudgeeraba. Join us Wednesday to Sunday for an indulgent High Tea or a Casual Lunch, all homemade on site. For more information and bookings please contact us Liz 0448 722 233 or Rich 0410 210 858 heritagehightea thevillagebnb www.thevillagebnb.com.au 65 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba We also cater for groups, baby showers & family events (available 7 days if pre booked). Diamonds (Real) - Natural Gems - Pearls - 9ct & 18ct Gold - Silver All Pieces have an Independent Valuation Certification CLOSING DOWN HALF PRICE SALE HIBISCUS JEWELLERS Necklace 18k Gold Diamond .89ct 18k White Gold Natural Rubies & Diamonds 1.14ct 18k Rose Gold Moreanite Diamonds Pink Green Tourmaline 2.45ct $5400 $8000 $6000 $13990 $2700 $7000 NOW NOW MAIN HALL, 1ST AVE, CARRARA MARKETS SATURDAY & SUNDAY $3000 NOW $4000 NOW
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjM5MTE=