Templestowe Lower Templestowe - JustLocal 3107

Blue child's desk in Killarney Road Templestowe Lower

2012-01-18T10:38:00.001+11:00

I thought this was a cute child's desk on the nature strip in Killarney Road, Templestpwe Lower.

Kelvin Eldridgewww.OnlineConnections.com.auCall 0415 910 703 if you require help with your computer. No problem too small.

Sideboard in Rosebank Terrace Templestowe Lower

2012-01-18T10:21:00.001+11:00

We all have excess items we'd rather pass on to family and friends. Often the effort of selling items on sites such as eBay isn't worth the effort. I noticed this sideboard cupboard in Rosebank Terrace, Templestowe Lower today.

Kelvin Eldridgewww.OnlineConnections.com.auCall 0415 910 703 if you require help with your computer. No problem too small.

41-year-old fisherman from Lower Templestowe

2012-01-16T16:20:00.001+11:00

Cowes police Sgt Danny Burgess dived in fully clothed to help the 41-year-old fisherman from Lower Templestowe, who was conscious but unable to stay above the water.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.
No problem too small.

Templestowe Lower parent Angela Bonato

2012-01-16T16:11:00.001+11:00

Templestowe Lower parent Angela Bonato said the bus was a “lifesaver” and spared her the dangerous alternative of transporting her son, Anthony, in the family car.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.
No problem too small.

Celina and Leonard Rose with their dog, Tippy, who was bitten by a snake

2012-01-16T16:10:00.001+11:00

Lower Templestowe resident Leonard Rose and his wife, Celina, were walking dog Tippy in an off-lead area in grass bordering the Warringal Parklands at 5pm last Wednesday when they noticed the greyhound’s hind legs go limp.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.
No problem too small.

Cr Geoff Gough

2012-01-16T15:51:00.001+11:00

Cr Geoff Gough, 55, took the Manningham mayoral title... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.
No problem too small.

Windows XP support from Microsoft ends on April 8, 2014.

2012-01-04T13:20:00.000+11:00

A number of people have asked me whether or not they should buy a new computer as their Windows XP computer is getting old. I ask, “is the computer doing what you want to do and is there anything it can’t do?” The answer is generally, “it is doing everything they want and there isn’t anything it can’t do”. So I answer, “only buy a new computer if you want to”.

Many people get concerned because they hear support for Windows XP has finished. I saw one press release from Microsoft that concerned me which said Windows XP support had finished, but when I investigated, it was for an earlier service pack. Windows XP SP3 (service pack 3) is still supported until April 8, 2014.

In terms of the timeline I’d suggest if you’re not in a rush to purchase a new computer, then consider that Windows 8 will be released possibly in the third quarter of 2012 and if I were to guess, there would probably even be a service pack released before Windows XP SP3 reaches end-of-life from a Microsoft support perspective.

If your computer is doing what you need and the hardware lasts, waiting until after Windows 8 is released means you’ll have the latest operating system which will last you many years into the future.

Many people find their computer is a bit slow. Once I clean up the computer they are surprised at how fast the computer is, and are more than happy to continue using the computer rather than buying a new computer.

My advice is change your computer when you need to or want to, not when the Microsoft marketing machine or a salesperson convinces you need to do something you don’t have to.

I would also suggest that even though Windows XP SP3 will continue to run after April 8, 2014, that you should consider moving to a newer operating system by that time. The security updates required in this day and age of online access will cease, at which time your exposure will increase. I would not advise clients to continue using Windows XP SP3 past this date except for specific purposes and with knowledge of the potential exposure.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for computer support in Templestowe, Doncaster,
Doncaster East, Montmorency, Lower Plenty, Eltham area.

Merron Maclean is retiring from her post at Twin Hills preschool

2011-12-07T11:19:00.001+11:00

Merron Maclean will leave her post at Twin Hills Preschool after 30 years at the helm and pupils past and present will reunite to send her off in nostalgic style.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Lower Templestowe man caught in Malvern East speed blitz

2011-12-03T23:24:00.001+11:00

A LOWER Templestowe man was nabbed speeding Malvern East earlier today.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Clifford, of Lower Templestowe, set fire to the hotel room

2011-12-03T22:16:00.000+11:00

Clifford, of Lower Templestowe, set fire to the hotel room and stole identification material from Ms Corp in an attempt to disguise his crime, Ms Williams said.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Tyler Cassidy, aged 15 when he was shot dead by police in the Melbourne suburb of Northcote in December 2008

2011-12-03T22:15:00.001+11:00

The incident was described by Freckelton as "an attempted throttling", although his case notes showed the school regarded Tyler as "an anxious and scared little boy". He was also suspended from the Kamaruka intervention school in 2007 and expelled from Templestowe Secondary College in 2008.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Friend Lucinda Bakhach said she was hoping to raise $10,000 for the young family.

2011-11-16T23:18:00.001+11:00

A TRIVIA night will be held tomorrow night (Thursday) in Lower Templestowe to raise money to support Basia and her family.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Animal rights campaigner Shirley Gregov

2011-11-16T23:11:00.001+11:00

SHIRLEY Gregov is asking people to raise their voices and their pens to end live exports.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Templestowe Heights president Aukje Coleman

2011-11-14T22:41:00.001+11:00

Templestowe Heights president Aukje Coleman says the kinder had no alternative but to shut down the three-year-old program as the single-room centre could not accommodate both groups.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Attempted abduction Williamsons Road, near Henry Street Doncaster.

2011-11-06T20:13:00.000+11:00

Police have been told a 15-year-old girl was waiting at a bus stop on Williamsons Road, near Henry Street, just after 5pm.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

LOWER Templestowe motor enthusiast Alex Hoe

2011-11-03T14:00:00.001+11:00

LOWER Templestowe motor enthusiast Alex Hoe faces a nervous wait to find out whether he can legally keep his 10 sports cars on his block.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Manningham Council asks for speed limit cuts

2011-11-01T00:54:00.001+11:00

Manningham Council has asked the authority to reduce the speed limits from 70km/h to 60km/h near the intersections of Anderson and Foote streets in Templestowe, and Doncaster and Williamson roads in Doncaster.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Doncaster rail hope

2011-11-01T00:49:00.000+11:00

A FEASIBILITY study starting this week is the “critical first step” in getting a train to Doncaster, says Doncaster state Liberal MP Mary Wooldridge.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

LOWER Templestowe resident Helen Jurcevic

2011-11-01T00:08:00.001+11:00

LOWER Templestowe resident Helen Jurcevic received the inaugural Promotion of Multiculturalism Award for her work helping migrant women in Manningham. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Tonia Bassal and Sophia, Aukje Coleman and Sophie, Yvonne Tan with Ashton Ng and Ashwin Ng.

2011-10-31T23:43:00.000+11:00

Templestowe Heights Preschool is believed to be one of the first Victorian centres to scrap its three-year-old program as a direct result of Commonwealth plans.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Christina Ruiz Templestowe Lower

2011-10-19T16:44:00.001+11:00

Ruiz, 18, is part of a team heading to Germany in November for the 21st International German Cup, and says she is confident.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Theft of an expensive racing bicycle in Lower Templestowe

2011-10-19T16:34:00.000+11:00

Sen-Constable Downes said the Trek Madone, valued at $5000, had been stored in a shed in Howitt Drive since July 1.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Mr Hoe is representing himself in his Victorian Supreme Court appeal

2011-10-19T16:20:00.001+11:00

Alex Hoe says he is using his block of land at Lower Templestowe for a hobby common to many Australians, but the Manningham City Council says he is using it as a car park.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Lower Templestowe's Helen Jurcevic

2011-10-19T15:51:00.001+11:00

Lower Templestowe’s Helen Jurcevic, 63, and Doncaster East’s Peggy Cresp, 85, both received 2011 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards in a ceremony at Government House last week.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Lower Templestowe's Hannah Miller

2011-10-11T17:49:00.001+11:00

The Lower Templestowe 17-year-old will be heading for Canberra in January after being handpicked to participate in the National Youth Science Forum 2012.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

No problem too small.

Number plate recognition devices would be used in main thoroughfares

2011-10-07T15:26:00.001+11:00

Acting Sergeant Shannon Elston, from the Nunawading Highway Patrol, said number plate recognition devices would be used in main thoroughfares such as Bulleen, Thompsons, Warrandyte and Doncaster roads.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

A brief summary of JustLocal for Templestowe residents and businesses.

2011-10-05T13:19:00.001+11:00

I wanted to share with others in Templestowe what JustLocal is about. I’m a computer consultant with a large amount of expertise across a range of computer related disciplines. I find the best way to show others is by example.

What I did is what anyone with a small amount of assistance can do. The difference between myself and others is I assist people and charge for my time. I share my knowledge so people aren’t tied to myself or my services. My hope is that by looking after their interests they’ll appreciate the services I offer. I’ve found it to be an approach which works well because others don’t work that way.

To explain JustLocal for residents and businesses in Templestowe, I decided to build a web page. For any business this is very easy to do. If you can design a single page brochure to promote your business, your brochure can be reproduced with minimal time and cost as a web site to let others in your area know your business exists.

In this case I decided to register the domain for www.Templestowe.biz, set up hosting space, point the domain at the hosting space, create a web page and then upload the web page. In a couple of hours the page was live on the internet. I literally just set this up and it is live within minutes. You should however wait usually 24 hours to make sure the domain has filtered through the internet.

I have a number of low cost approaches I can show people how to set up a presence on the internet. Some approaches they can maintain themselves with minimal technical skills. All that is required is some basic training and some support when required. Other approaches require a little more training and some software.

With some basic training and support you can literally have a web presence up within 24 hours and your only out-of-pocket cost could be the domain, which costs around $10-$30 a year depending on the domain you wish to use.

I’d encourage every small business to get a presence on the internet. It looks so much more professional to send out emails for a business using yourname@yourbusinessname.com (or .com.au) than yourname@gmail.com or yourname@hotmail.com. By using a domain every email you send out helps promote your business. I find people do check out your web site based on your email address.

A lot of people put thousands into a web presence and the only business that makes money is the web developer. I believe people should start small and as your investment generates business for you, then reinvest some of that money and evolve your presence.

If you don’t have a web presence and want something to get your started give me a call. My aim is to use my skills to help others cost effectively promote their business on the internet.

If you just wish to read a little more about JustLocal then visit www.Templestowe.biz.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you’re local require assistance with a web presence.

Dr Dragan Antolos, a Lower Templestowe dentist

2011-10-02T12:29:00.001+11:00

MEDICARE is investigating hundreds of dentists over possible misuse of government funds as it tries to recoup almost $20 million of benefits paid in the past four years.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Lower Templestowe man denies bushfire appeal ripoff

2011-09-28T11:33:00.001+10:00

A LOWER Templestowe man has pleaded not guilty to defrauding the Black Saturday bushfire appeal fund of more than $100,000.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Alert: Australia Post - Get your parcel No306. (do_not_reply.id.5133@auspost.com.au)

2011-09-26T14:58:00.001+10:00

I’ve received a number of emails in the past week with the message Get your parcel. By coincidence these started arriving a day after Dodo said they’d send me a replacement Buddy Box for the one which didn’t work. One client fell for a UPS malware email because they received an email from UPS and were expecting a UPS parcel. If you’re expecting a parcel, receiving an email like this could easily trick you.

In this case the body of the email is very basic and unlikely to be from a large company like Australia Post.

Dear customer.

Your package has been returned to the Australia Post office.
Reason: The package is too large
Please find the attached document containing detailed information about delivery failure.
Read all information carefully and come to the "Australia Post" office to receive your package.

Thank you for attention.
Customer service.

Attached is a zip file (Attached_Document_AU18489.zip) which contains the file Attached_Document.exe. This file is an executable file but it has been designed to look like a Word document with a Microsoft Word icon. Since most people can’t see the file extension they could be easily tricked into thinking this is a Word document. Opening the file will not open a document, but instead run a program, most likely designed to infect your computer.

I use OzEfilter to check the emails at my mail server before receiving them into my computer and in this case OzEfilter showed me the email was sent from Canada. Just another piece of information which confirms this is most likely malware. Microsoft’s Security Essentials doesn’t show this file as malware. This is where you need to use common sense and not open files like this. Just delete them as soon as you receive them.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need help with your computer
Servicing Doncaster, Templestowe, Eltham and the surrounding areas.

Alert: Re: Scan from a HP Officejet #658992

2011-09-26T13:33:00.001+10:00

They say curiosity killed the cat, but the modern equivalent would be curiosity infected your computer.

I noticed a number of emails recently with the subject Re: Scan from a HP Officejet #658992 or similar. These emails contain an attachment which is a zip file. The zip file I checked contained an executable HP_SCAN_Z520131___dollÔÇ«fdp.exe. The file has an icon which makes it appear to be a PDF.

There is little doubt this is malware. Microsoft’s Security Essentials is usually very good, but like all anti-virus scanning software, they are unlikely to identify recently released malware. Malware writers are most likely going to check their work against the common anti-virus products before releasing their malware, so that leaves a window of a few days where the anti-virus software won’t help curious people. In this case Microsoft’s software does not detect malware.

If you’re curious about an email you’ve received from someone you don’t know, don’t be tempted. You really will infect your computer and it is costly to repair. Please delete emails you aren’t sure about. It isn’t worth the risk or the cost to get your computer fixed.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you’ve infected your computer and need it fixed.
(Covering Melbourne Eastern to Northern suburbs within 10km of Templestowe)

Judy Sammut is running a program for breast cancer survivors

2011-09-26T11:26:00.000+10:00

THE YWCA Encore fitness program for breast cancer survivors is set to get an encore run in Templestowe next month.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Templestowe College principal Peter Hutton said the college needed clarity and funding immediately to start planning

2011-09-21T13:48:00.001+10:00

TEMPLESTOWE College is still waiting for the State Government to give it a timeframe for a $5.1 million maths and science “discovery centre”, which was promised before last year’s state election.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Fix computer. Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Lower Plenty, Montmorency, Eltham

2011-09-20T13:14:00.000+10:00

If you have the skills, fixing your own computer is the best and most cost effective option. But for those without the skill (or even just the knowledge to fix a particular issue) I can assist people and businesses in Templestowe and the surrounding areas ( Doncaster, Doncaster East, Templestowe Lower, Eltham, Lower Plenty Montmorency). I’m happy to fix the problem and share what I’m doing, so you’re able to fix your own problem should it occur again.

Many people are reluctant to call a computer support person and will take hours to try to fix the problem themselves, when the problem may be fixed in a matter of minutes. Sometimes all it takes is someone who knows what they’re doing to advise you and the problem vanishes immediately. For example one client recently had a problem with Outlook which took six minutes to repair and another Outlook problem was fixed in around fifteen minutes. Because I don’t charge a set fee, a call out fee (for locals), but only charge for the time it takes to solve the problem the cost was minimal. Some problems are difficult and take longer, but at all times you’re in control as I keep you fully informed and you can see what I’m doing. Some workshops fix problems in a matter of minutes but still charge you a hefty fixed fee because you don’t see what was done.

No longer do you have to sit on the telephone for half an hour or waiting for support. No longer do you have to have a long conversation trying to explain your problem over the telephone. No longer do you have to worry about giving someone you’ve never met remote (and may be located overseas) access to your computer. Now you can book a time and be at your place when it suits you. You get to talk and meet a local you know will be around should you have another problem.

If you need help with your computer give me a call on 0415 910 703.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Lower Templestowe BP servo in Union St hit in robbery spree

2011-09-14T23:15:00.001+10:00

Police are hunting the man who used a 30cm long knife to hold up service stations and convenience across the north and north-eastern suburbs including BP in Union St, Lower Templestowe.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Templestowe Lower computer assistance, support and repairs

2011-09-14T12:18:00.000+10:00

To make it even easier for people to find and use my computer support services via the internet, I’ve now set up the site www.TemplestoweLowerComputer.com. Those that know me will know to search for Online Connections and they’ll find www.OnlineConnections.com.au listed first in Google, but now it is as easy as entering the suburb, the word computer and adding .com to the end.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need assistance with your computer.

Adrian Pyle has installed energy-saving devices in his home

2011-09-12T22:00:00.001+10:00

LOWER Templestowe sustainable design enthusiast Adrian Pyle will open his home to the public tomorrow.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Pin board now added to Online Connections

2011-09-12T13:50:00.000+10:00

When I walk into a local business I notice one thing, or should I say I generally notice one thing that is missing. A few businesses have a notice board where their customers can add their business card and that way the business helps their customers. I think that is a great idea. I also notice some businesses will help their customers by putting a few business cards on their counter. That way the business gives back to their customer that really doesn’t cost them much but generates a lot of good will.

Since I don’t have a counter or a wall for a noticeboard I can’t help my customers in this way, but I do have a web site and can provide a virtual pin board. Whilst my virtual pin board has been around for a while I decided to give it more prominence on my site. I’ve added Pin Board to the main menu and to the left side menu.

I’m happy to refer my customers to others. It is only because of them I have a business and I can support my family.

If you have a local business do think about helping your customers by helping to promote them. They’ll appreciate the help and it is good for business. If you only have a web site then consider doing what I’m doing. I do think the days where we help each other, rather than a business just providing products and services for profit, will become the norm rather than the exception.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need assistance with your computer.

Local search using Google Custom Search no longer available from JustLocal pages

2011-09-06T10:51:00.001+10:00

As part of a trial I added a local search feature to JustLocal where locals could search for products and services from local businesses. This isn’t required for JustLocal as JustLocal provides single click access from a postcode page to the site of the business.

The feature used the Google Custom Search but unfortunately I’ve found this service isn’t reliable enough and the results provided were inadequate, often not providing a business even though the business provided the product or service. I also found issues when adding sites.

I’ve decided rather than to continue to provide a search feature which I don’t feel is up to standard to remove the search option from JustLocal.

The aim of JustLocal is to provide a portal to quickly access the sites of local businesses. By doing this we promote the site of the local business, and the consumer or business using JustLocal to find products and services, obtains the latest information by going direct to the site of the business.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au
(An Online Connections service.)

Would you like the preferred Australian English spelling to be available for Microsoft Office?

2011-09-03T09:40:00.001+10:00

If you’d like the preferred Australian English spelling to be made available as a spellcheck dictionary for Microsoft Office please make the effort to add your voice.

I’m currently in contact with Microsoft and to their credit, they are taking my request for assistance to make my work available with Microsoft Office and passing the request through their channels.

For Microsoft right now I’m a lone voice with a request. If you’d like my work to be available with Microsoft Office please help by adding your voice by making a comment on this blog post. I’ve tried this on a number of occasions over the last five years so this will be the last attempt at making the preferred Australian English spelling available to Australian Microsoft users. It is now or never so please make your voice heard.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Need help setting up email on your mobile phone?

2011-09-02T15:47:00.001+10:00

One of my clients wrote this to me.

I have an Iphone and can't work out how to get emails happening - is this something you could help me with? I have been back to Telstra shop but they are bloody hopeless.

Generally the people at the Telstra shop are sales people and their skill with technology will be quite varied. We can’t all be good at everything. In addition to work out how best to set up the iPhone, you need to first work out what options you have available. There services you are currently using will limit your options and I find people need a small amount of training to understand what can and can’t be done. Unfortunately every option currently available has a number of trade-offs and people are usually restricted in the options they can use based on their previous choices. The result is a compromise and people need to be aware of what the compromise entails.

I find it is much easier to help people set up the smart phone if they are present. Working with them over the telephone where you need to step them through the menus can be quite time consuming. In the case of this client I assisted them over the telephone and what I couldn’t see was the iPhone 4 suffers from the “death grip”, where if held in a certain way the signal strength drops considerably and connectivity can be intermittent or drop out completely, was making support more difficult. I’m happy to assist people with telephone support but generally it can be more time consuming and thus more expensive for some problems.

If you need assistance with setting up email on your mobile phone, tablet, or in fact any computer, I’m happy to assist.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if your need assistance with your computer.

Paul's collect-a-cap organisations your can donate your caps to.

2011-09-02T12:23:00.001+10:00

The Paul’s collect-a-cap promotion appears to be a good way to community groups to raise much needed funds. The amount for each cap is reasonable and all people need to do is to collect the caps from products they already use. Paul’s would probably also like you to switch the product you buy and if you do and it doesn’t cost you any more then why not participate.

If you would like to collect caps but don’t for example have children in one of the participating schools then you can probably donate your caps to one of the local groups. That way your caps end up helping others.

The following are community groups that are currently registered in the area to participate.

Marcellin College – Bulleen
Gum Nut Gully Pre-School - Doncaster East
Ss Peter & Paul's Primary - Doncaster East
Beverley Hills Primary School - Doncaster East
Templestowe Heights Primary - Templestowe Lower
Templestowe Valley Primary - Templestowe Lower
Eltham North Primary - Eltham North
Glen Katherine Primary School - Eltham North
Monty's Licensed Supermarket – Montmorency

This list may grow in time as others participate so you may wish to check the Paul’s site for other groups in your area.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need help with your computer.

Easy low cost photo books

2011-08-25T12:18:00.000+10:00

I recently produced a photo book of our holiday and couldn’t help feel that others may be interested in creating their own photo book.

The problem I’ve found in the past is the time involved in creating a photo book can be days, and if you have a lot of photos, you have to cut the number of photos back otherwise the photo book could easily cost $200.

I’ve now created an approach which enables me to automate creating a photo book from a large number (small number as well) so I can create the majority of the photo book in a few minutes and then dress the photo book up with the final touches. I produced a photo book containing 410 photos on 134 pages in under an hour for around the cost of a standard 20 page book.

If there is interest and I can find a way to make my program available to others I’d be happy to consider the options.

For example:

Would you be interested in attending a short course which would enable you to learn the software (it is very easy) and ask some questions?

Would you prefer a do-it-yourself approach with printed or web based instructions?

If you are interested let me know and if there is enough interest I’ll put something together.

For me the ability to put together quickly and at relatively low cost some photo books opens up some great possibilities.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for support if you have a computer related problem.

Four MacBooks were taken during a break-in at Templestowe Valley Primary School

2011-08-24T21:19:00.000+10:00

And four MacBooks were taken during a break-in at Templestowe Valley Primary School about 4am on August 1.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Are you paranoid that your computer might be infected with malware?

2011-08-23T13:06:00.001+10:00

If you’re paranoid that your computer might be infected with malware you probably have good cause. The problem is there are so many businesses out there, both legitimate and not legitimate, who try to change your computer without you quite realising what they’re doing or why.

It could be as simple as installing Acrobat Reader where you end up with the Google Toolbar installed. Acrobat most likely makes money by bundling Google’s Toolbar, Google gets to monitor the sites you visit which helps them make money from advertising and you’re computer just gets another piece of software installed it doesn’t need. That’s a legitimate business tactic although one I wish they didn’t use.

Next you have the site which changes your default search engine as I’ve seen with Firefox users. The search engine looks like Google but it isn’t. The site creates a front end to Google’s search engine so it makes money if you click on ads. You’ve been tricked and you’re browser has been hijacked. Because Firefox makes most of its income from Google, unlike Internet Explorer, where it is easy to change the default search engine, the average user will have difficulty removing this search engine and my logs show quite a few people reaching my site have been infected or tricked. You might just be starting to think the world is conspiring against you.

Then you have the malware writers. It can be as simple as visiting an infected site and your computer is infected. One person I know had their mortgage offset account cleared out of thirteen thousand dollars.

If you have shared computers and your children frequently search the internet (who doesn’t) then you run the risk of your computer being infected and often you won’t know it has occurred. The problem is if you then do things which require a username, password or pin number, that information could be recorded and sent to others without you knowing. To be quite frank, I advise all my family not to use any computer other than mine to do internet banking because I can’t be sure their computers haven’t been infected. I know they have in the past.

As a result of talking with a concerned client, I decided to investigate and see if there was a way to boot a computer from a CD and provide the user with a secure environment. As it turned out I was able to locate software used by American soldiers whilst overseas and can now make that software available to clients at a relatively low cost. The only tricky aspect is getting your computer to boot from the CD when a CD is present. This is a standard feature of most computers but isn’t generally known by the average users. Unfortunately changing the setting can vary from machine to machine, but once set up it works like a dream.

I can see a number of possible uses.

1. You want to do your internet banking and want to make sure you start your computer and know that even if it is infected, you’re session is secure. That’s exactly what the software can do. It doesn’t require anything from your hard disk and doesn’t update your computer. Every time you start the computer using the CD everything is clean.

2. Your children have infected your computer as a result of surfing the internet and that cost you a bucket of money to fix and you’d prefer not to go through that again. When your children want to surf the internet get them to boot their computer using the CD and they can surf the internet to their heart’s desire and even if they do comes across malware, only the current session is affected and once the computer is restarted the malware will be gone.

3. You own a business and don’t mind letting your staff surf the net or do their online banking during breaks but are concerned they could infect your computers, or worse, an infected computer clears out their bank account leaving you potentially liable. I’ve read this cost one business around $10,000 in legal fees. Give staff and CD and let them boot the computer. Your computer is safe and so are they.

4. You want to use a friend or relation’s computer whilst travelling to do internet banking. Yes. I’ve been there. The ANZ screwed up my automatic payments when I went overseas so I was forced to use a computer I didn’t know to make payments and it was really stressful. The secure boot CD would have given me peace of mind.

5. How many times have I had to fix a business computer after a staff member has worked on the weekend and brought in their child and the computer was used to occupy them. Yes. Very costly. Boot the computer with a secure boot disk and the computer can again be used to occupy children without concern or pressure they could do something wrong.

There are many uses for a secure boot disk. Clients are welcome to contact me if you’d like a secure boot disk. There is a small charge for the disk ($9.95 plus postage if required) but if you need support to set up your computer so it can boot from the CD, there would also be a small charge for the time involved.

For me this is a great opportunity for clients to minimise the risk associated with the internet. Nearly all malware infections now come from the internet. If you use a secure boot disk when accessing the internet the chances of infecting your computer are greatly reduced.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Melissa Cakes Templestowe Lower for Sale

2011-08-22T16:37:00.001+10:00

MELISSA CAKES, 43-45 PARKER STREET TEMPLESTOWE LOWER... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Loretta De Stefani has become attached to Romsey

2011-08-22T11:19:00.000+10:00

After 27 years in Lower Templestowe, Loretta and her husband, an industrial chemist, decided it was time for a tree change.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Critical alert: Telephone call from scammer purporting to be from Service of Windows Operations James Stevenson. Issue: Illegal copy of Windows.

2011-08-18T14:11:00.000+10:00

Only moments ago I received a call from a person called James Steveson who said they were from Service of Windows Operations a section of Microsoft. He informed me they had detected an illegal copy of Windows on my computers. He wanted me to go on my computer. My computers are legitimately licensed so I knew immediately the caller was a scammer.

I asked for his telephone number so I could call him back. He provided an address of 75 Ressdale Street but I was not able to obtain any further information and I’d be certain this information isn’t legitimate. By asking for the a number to call them back on this would provide an ability to trace the caller. The caller knows this so hung up.

I reported the information to Optus (my telephone service provider) but it requires three calls for them to take action. There does not appear to be anything in place to protect consumers so each consumer has to effectively look after their own interests.

In this case the caller appeared to be using the telephone directory information to contact me.

Should you receive any unsolicited call from overseas letting you know you have a problem on your computer it is almost certainly a scammer.

Please take care.

Kelvin Eldridge

www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Local businesses need to start thinking of their customers as potential suppliers

2011-08-18T11:13:00.001+10:00

When people ask me about JustLocal and what I’m doing, I have a couple of examples I share to highlight the issues I’ve found and if people start to think about them I’d like to change the situation a little.

I ask people do you refer others to businesses you’ve used and the answer is more often yes.

I then ask these questions.

Do you shop at the local businesses?

The answer is always yes.

Do they know you at the local businesses?

The answer is often yes.

Has a local business asked what you do?

The answer is always no.

Has a local business given you any business?

The answer is always no.

Why do I ask these questions. The reasons is simple. This is the same experience I’ve had. I regularly refer people to businesses I’ve used. I use the businesses regularly and say hello to the business owners. They never ask what I do and it has been 15 years since a local business that I purchase products and services from has given me any business.

Local businesses I have no doubt add valuable services and facilities to the community. But if the only purpose of a local business is to profit from the locals and then spend their profits elsewhere, what they are really doing long term is damaging the local community and not making it stronger. As people realise local businesses by their actions are only there to profit off the local community, the loyalty of locals will, if it hasn’t already, disappear, and people will see the best action for themselves is to look after themselves. Why not, everyone else appears to be.

To me this is a sad outcome. As a business I look at my customers as my potential suppliers. If I can pass on work or referrals to my customers and I believe it is appropriate and ethical to do so, then I’m happy to help those who help me.

To all local businesses I ask you to start asking your customers what they do and if they can provide a product or service you need then take a chance. Get a local to provide the product or service and if that local is one of your customers even better. You’ll not only help strengthen the local community but you’ll also build loyalty.

Kelvin Eldridge

http://www.justlocal.com.au/

Joon No's Taekwando

2011-08-17T13:40:00.000+10:00

The siblings (Daryl and Kanica May) - who train at Joon No’s Taekwando in Templestowe - returned from Malaysia at the end of July after competing at the 2011 International Taekwando Championship where Daryl placed first and Kanica third in their age divisions.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Doncaster Shoppingtown area computer repairs

2011-08-15T23:42:00.000+10:00

If you live near Doncaster Shoppingtown and you are after someone to help you with your computer or computer related problem, then consider calling Online Connections. Online Connections is local (based in Templestowe) so you get friendly local service and best of all, there’s no call out fee.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Melissa and Gary Karatjas made a vow.

2011-08-12T12:11:00.000+10:00

Chloe Karatjas, 4, shows her big sister, Mia, 10, how her heart surgery scar has nearly healed... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Should phone towers be built near childcare centres?

2011-08-12T11:46:00.001+10:00

MANNINGHAM Council’s support for a Warrandyte phone tower has been labelled inconsistent after revelations plans for a Lower Templestowe childcare centre were quashed because of a similar tower.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Lower Templestowe's Fr Gerard McKernan

2011-08-12T11:44:00.000+10:00

Fr Gerard McKernan is opposed to the idea of priests breaking the confidentiality of confession to report child abuse. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Is it Templestowe Lower or Lower Templestowe?

2011-08-11T10:31:00.000+10:00

A local recently said to me it frustrates her how people refer to her area of Lower Templestowe as Templestowe Lower. I completely understand as I regularly see both the place names used.

A search of the internet shows references to Templestowe Lower to be around twice that of Lower Templestowe. The official place name according a Victorian government site is Templestowe Lower. There is no Lower Templestowe registered as a place name.

Whether you live in Templestowe Lower or Lower Templestowe there is one thing you can count on. If you need computer support Online Connections can help, is local and doesn’t charge a call out fee cutting the cost of computer support. If you need assistance with your computers contact us via email at sales@onlineconnections.com.au or call 0415 910 703.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

JustLocal search engines now cover surrounding postcodes

2011-08-08T17:44:00.000+10:00

In order to make the JustLocal search engines for the postcodes covering Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Bulleen, Warrandyte, Eltham, Lower Plenty and Montmorency of great use to locals, the search engine for the postcode now includes businesses in the adjoining postcode areas.

What this means is those in Templestowe can now search from over 900 businesses making it easier to find products and services in Templestowe or the surrounding area.

It was felt the number of businesses we have been able to identify as having web sites in the area would not provide enough variety in the results returned for the search to be really useful. In addition we were asking people in an area to search up to seven different search engines and logically that will simply not happen.

Let us know how you go with the new approach.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au

Manningham parking fines double

2011-08-08T14:35:00.001+10:00

Mr Molan said the main area where people were fined was around Manningham’s 45 primary and secondary schools at drop off and pick up times. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Unarmed man robs Templestowe bottleshop

2011-08-05T14:31:00.001+10:00

AN UNARMED man robbed Templestowe’s 1st Choice Liquor on the weekend... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Computer repair Templestowe Lower - Beware of telephone scammers

2011-08-01T11:15:00.000+10:00

I read this article where people are receiving calls from people offering unsolicited computer support over the telephone and another article where one in twenty New Zealanders are falling for the same scam at around a cost of $200 each.

The scam involves a cold telephone call from a computer company who claim to be offering to clean up one’s computer. The name of the company was so complicated that I didn’t catch who they were.... Read More

When I read this it amazes me. There is really no reason for anyone to deal with any computer support person over the telephone. We offer businesses and residents of Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Lower Plenty, Montmorency and Eltham onsite computer support with no call out fee and a money back guarantee. There is no need for remote support and for people to provide others access to their computer. You meet the person who will fix your computer.

Dealing with a person unknown is always a bit of a concern, but to deal with someone who rings out of the blue, who you’ve never met, have no idea of the business or even if they’re from the business they say they are is simply a disaster waiting to happen. I feel really sorry for the people who fall for these scam artists when all they really need to do is to find someone local they can trust.

If someone rings you from out of the blue your scam radar should be working overtime. The only reason someone will ring you is to profit from you. So look after your own interests. They are certainly looking after theirs.

Please take care when receiving any unsolicited telephone call or unsolicited email offering your computer support services.

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Yarra trail rides high on Cadel Evans win

2011-07-28T12:22:00.000+10:00

The bridge will be built to service the Capital City bike trail and the Yarra bike trail, which runs for about 35 kilometres from the city along the river to Templestowe and is used by thousands of Melburnians each day.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Bank of Queensland (BOQ) now open in Doncaster Road Doncaster.

2011-07-27T16:41:00.000+10:00

I noticed a Bank of Queensland ATM and I thought, "that's handy". When I looked up to my surprise I saw a branch of the Bank of Queensland.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Median house price trends upwards but still in a hole

2011-07-18T11:42:00.001+10:00

Others like Bulleen, Lower Templestowe and Doncaster recorded smaller declines, between 1 and 3 per cent.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

THE 1st Lower Templestowe Scout Group marked 45 years

2011-07-11T21:48:00.001+10:00

THE 1st Lower Templestowe Scout Group marked 45 years recently with a visit from Manningham mayor Geoff Gough.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Anna Kosovac

2011-07-06T12:00:00.000+10:00

Lower Templestowe resident Anna Kosovac is the project manager for Yarra Valley Water’s recycling scheme at the Doncaster Hill Precinct.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Watch out for pot holes at Macedon Square Shopping Centre in front of Safeway

2011-07-01T10:31:00.001+10:00

I recently dropped off a video at Safeway in Macedon Square. As I was driving in through the car park I noticed the condition of the car park could have been better. When I parked and stepped out of my car (which was parked in front of Safeway) I stepped straight into a pot hole. I couldn’t help but think that could be a bit dangerous.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
www.JustLocal.com.au/3107

MyAnswers: Exchanging money to Thai baht in Doncaster today

2011-06-30T17:21:00.000+10:00

The following MyAnswers solution 2109 is now available:

Today I helped a person exchange their Australian dollars to Thai baht. We shopped around and ended up saving around $50 or nearly 10%. Not bad for asking a few questions.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz

Accident in High Street Templestowe Lower

2011-06-29T17:00:00.001+10:00

I just passed a tow truck cleaning up and three ambulances in High Street, Templestowe Lower near the primary school.

Traffic is flowing and the road is now clear.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Will see Bulleen Preschool, Lower Templestowe Preschool and Twin Hills Preschool merged

2011-06-29T11:35:00.001+10:00

The fourth - which will see Bulleen Preschool, Lower Templestowe Preschool and Twin Hills Preschool merged - is yet to find a site. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Mary Teale of Lower Templestowe

2011-06-25T00:37:00.001+10:00

LITTLE Lizzi the shih tzu-maltese terrier cross has become a victim of teenage fickleness and needs a new home.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Wedding ring lost at Safeway at Doncaster Shoppingtown on June 8th.

2011-06-25T00:31:00.001+10:00

Lauren Veenhof lost her wedding ring... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Australian Girls Choir Open Day

2011-06-23T10:57:00.001+10:00

Australia’s leading performing arts organisation for girls invites 5 to 8 year olds to try our junior@agc program. Come along and join a free class of singing, dancing, and drama activities at your local rehearsal venue.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Man pleads guilty plea on car blaze

2011-06-19T21:42:00.001+10:00

A LOWER Templestowe man has pleaded guilty to torching a Doncaster East teenager’s car after a dispute over a girl escalated into a “tit for tat” between two groups of youths.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Templestowe's Birrarung Park in Templestowe Lower

2011-06-15T18:19:00.000+10:00

This article was about Templestowe’s Birrarung Park. The park is actually located in Tempelstowe Lower and is located on the border of Bulleen. Visiting the park during the drought was very disappointing. I took the children there to see all the birds and really it was little more than mud with not much life. When the water is present it really is a magical place. I hope the check the park out again in the near future.

Graham and Berilie Kane enjoy the revitalised beauty of Templestowe's Birrarung Park.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Ambulance plan for Manningham stalls

2011-06-14T11:21:00.000+10:00

Property manager Kate McDermott said Ambulance Victoria had hoped a purpose-built building in Doncaster East or Templestowe could be leased from a developer for the unit, but none was interested in the project.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Is your neighbour's solar panels pushing your electricity bill up?

2011-06-13T15:36:00.001+10:00

I read this article which is from the UK and couldn’t help feeling the situation in Australia is much the same.

Who's paying for your neighbour's solar panels? You are... Read More

I attended the local Manningham council bulk solar panel offer and one of the questions I wanted to ask was, “who is paying for the solar panels?” The answer I received was, “we all are”.

For me that creates the situation where those with enough money to install the solar panels puts the $5,000 subsidy onto everyone else. That doesn’t quite seem fair to me.

However there is a gotcha in there for everyone. Those who install solar panels are putting their own prices up as well. Yes they are saving some money, but not as much as they are lead to think they will, the increased prices from using time-of-day charging will put their electricity costs up, plus the future increases as a result of their subsidy will eat into their own savings as well.

Personally I think it would have been much better if the government had installed solar panels as larger projects where there would be economy of scale and the savings of doing larger projects would have meant a subsidy may not have been required. For example schools have very large unused roof space. Buying in bulk at government scale and negotiating on the labour for a larger scale job should have been able to achieve the same result for much less than many individual smaller jobs.

The bottom line is now we will all suffer increasing prices for years to come. For me the idea of taking other people’s money like this just doesn’t seem right. I’m not against solar energy, in fact I’m all for it. But it should be done as cost effectively as possible.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au

13 two-storey dwellings at 280 Thompsons Rd

2011-06-06T11:57:00.000+10:00

Urban Design Architects has applied to have the planning application for 13 two-storey dwellings at 280 Thompsons Rd heard at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Cameras snapped drivers 2847 times at High St and Verene Ave,

2011-06-01T13:20:00.001+10:00

Manningham’s other cameras snapped drivers 2847 times at High St and Verene Ave, 2464 times at Manningham and Macedon roads - both in Lower Templestowe ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Labor's plan to install Set Top Boxes for an average of $330 is crazy.

2011-05-29T22:43:00.001+10:00

Today I decided to test how long it would take me to install and configure a HD Set Top Box. I decided to purchase a brand new unit so I had no knowledge of the product in advance. I am assuming that those who get the $330 (an average I’ve read) will know the equipment and be very experienced in setting up the Set Top Box, so should take less time than I did.

I checked the Doncaster East store for Target and Dick Smith. They didn’t have the model I wanted so I went to Dick Smith Shoppingtown. I decided to go with the Dick Smith HD Set Top Box GHP5926 which was on special for $10 off at $59.98. I liked this unit over cheaper units as it also has the ability to record to a USB drive (memory stick). Although that was outside of the scope as the main purpose of the government subsidy I think would be to continue enabling pensioners to receive free-to-air TV. This is fair as it isn’t the pensioners’ fault the government is closing down the analogue service and in all likelihood, the government is making money in some form by moving to digital and so it is fair to reimburse the needy.

The average cost for a basic and quite reasonable HD Set Top Boxes was around $59-$79 so they aren’t that expensive. Spending more may not be a good idea because if you do, you really need to consider your requirements better.

I arrived home, unpacked the Set Top Box and had it set up and tuned into the stations in 13 minutes. To be fair I was removing an older SD Set Top Box PVR so the configuration was similar. But given I’d never seen or used one of these units, there was a slight learning curve for me, I suspect this will balance things out with the experience installer.

For the government to spend an average of $330 per site is not justified. Why can’t the government just provide a voucher for a reasonably price Set Top Box that people could then use to purchase a unit. Most people will have a family member who can set it up. If they don’t, then give these people additional assistance.

The problem is the technician who is installing the Set Top Box will probably make very little and the large company who gets the contract will make a killing at our expense.

I recently had to install a Set Top Box for a home user which took about an hour. The problem is Optus had come along and removed their service and left the client with all their equipment, DVD/VCR/Set Top Box not working and a pile of cables in a total mess. But in the situation where a Set Top Box would normally be installed it should be relatively easy.

There are two issues which could complicate the situation. The reception may be weak and in that situation additional technical help will be required. I expect those situations to be the exception rather than the norm. The other is that you should also provide some basic training.

The problem with the Set Top Box approach is it makes it more complicated for people. I’ve seen a number of elderly people struggle with the multiple controllers. A better option for most people would be to put the money towards a new digital ready TV and keep things simple. Old analogue TVs were seldom bigger than 26” and a suitable replacement would be a 32” LCD. The money for a lot of people would be better spent on a new TV and not a complicated Set Top Box set up. I’m sure many people would love the option of using a voucher for the Set Top Box towards part payment of a new digital ready TV.

If anyone in the Templestowe and surrounding postcode area requires their Set Top Box to be set up please contact me. Being local there is no call out fee. Just the time it takes to install the Set Top Box and if you want some basic instruction the time involved shouldn’t cost too much.

This is an opportunity where the government could have provided some better options in my opinion. By allowing people the option to purchase what they need, those people are more likely to use the services of local people and instead of the money going to big business, it could have helped a lot of smaller businesses across Australia. Even Dick Smith and other retailers I’m sure will offer an installation service if required at a much better rate.

I just hope the elderly amongst us don’t end up being greedy rather than needy. Yes if the government is giving something back it is hard to say no since it doesn’t happen that often, but is it right. The cost of all those low energy light bulbs was $10 per bulb for something that could have been done for a dollar or two and now we are all paying with higher electricity charges. What looks like a bargain may in fact cost you or your children more down the track.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Former and current Bulleen Preschool students Amy Rigoni-Smith with daughter Emelia, 4, and Debra Italia with son Miguel, 5

2011-05-27T13:22:00.001+10:00

BULLEEN Preschool is pulling out all stops to celebrate its 50th anniversary.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Small businesses closing down. Don't be next.

2011-05-26T12:59:00.001+10:00

I thought I’d share the following article which appeared on the News site. Whilst it is expected the a certain number of small businesses will close up each year, equally new business start up. In this article there is no mention of new businesses starting up, so if we factor new businesses in, to lose over 10,000 small business a year incredible, but what’s even more incredible is it understates the real number of businesses closing down.

SMALL shops are still badly wounded from the global financial crisis, with exclusive analysis for news.com.au showing that more than 30,000 of the most vulnerable small businesses disappeared between the 2007 and 2010 elections. ... Read More

If you read many of the comments on the article by people you would get the idea it is all the government’s fault. Yes there is too much red tape, yes we are over governed, yes people prefer to buy at large department stores, but ultimately we are businesses and we have to work out how to survive. No one asked us to start a business. It was our choice. Should we really be putting our hand out to government. I don’t think so. If we do the government simply needs to take the money off us in the first place and by the time it comes back to u,s it is a fraction of what they’ve collected.

To me one of the biggest problems for small business is being seen by people in their area and for locals to support the businesses. But equally how many small business give preference to locals to supply them with products and services. Certainly none of the local businesses in my area ever ask me what I do, or give me business. With that approach how can they expect any loyalty from locals. Most businesses simply take from their customers in the form of profits and rarely see their customers as potential suppliers. Personally I look at my customers as the first people I call if I want a service. I look for ways to refer business to my customers if I can. If more small businesses stopped just taking from the local community and actively looked for ways to spend their expense dollars locally I believe they’d make a huge difference.

As small businesses we only have ourselves to blame. Look for ways to help other locals with your purchasing power and you’ll get more loyalty from locals. If you don’t, your business may be the next business they’ll be looking to online stores to provide your product or service. Loyalty is a two way street. You can make it happen but not if you only take and don’t give back.

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Templestowe Heights Primary School principal Anne Matthews

2011-05-20T10:41:00.000+10:00

A new study has shown Manningham preps to be well prepared when they start school. Templestowe Heights Primary preps Julia, 5, Aleena, 5, and Vincent, 6, are deeply engrossed in their work... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Templestowe College principal Peter Hutton allows students their phones in class

2011-05-17T01:25:00.001+10:00

Templestowe College principal Peter Hutton (right) lets his students Rosie, 12, David, 15, and Daniel, 14, use their phones at school.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Lower Templestowe, hotel operator Sam Castello

2011-05-17T01:22:00.001+10:00

Lower Templestowe, hotel operator Sam Castello is expected to reap about $5 million, sources say, from the sale of the Templestowe Hotel building at 23-29 Parker Street.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Templestowe College and Doncaster's Birralee Primary School missed out.

2011-05-17T01:15:00.001+10:00

Templestowe College principal Peter Hutton and Birralee principal Ashley Ryan told Leader they would feel more comfortable if they had something in writing.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

$5 million for Templestowe College

2011-05-17T01:12:00.000+10:00

Templestowe College principal Peter Hutton said he had been assured the school would receive funding sometime within the Coalition’s first term.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

A $5 million science and discovery centre at Templestowe College

2011-05-04T11:36:00.001+10:00

A $5 million science and discovery centre at Templestowe College will be funded in the 2012-13 State Budget, says Bulleen state Liberal MP Nick Kotsiras.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Principal Deborah Patterson

2011-05-04T11:27:00.001+10:00

For Mrs Patterson, the school’s principal for three years following stints as principal at Templestowe Valley and Panton Hill primary schools, the secret to surviving such a mammoth role is knowing when to delegate.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Frank Furlan, from Lower Templestowe

2011-05-04T11:25:00.001+10:00

One of the older runners, 72-year-old Frank Furlan, from Lower Templestowe, has run the race almost 20 times and just kept on going.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Audrey Melnik, Henrika Wagner, Jamie Doyle and Victoria Anderson enjoy the nuptials.

2011-05-04T11:24:00.001+10:00

''We are very disappointed with the turnout,'' admits Australian Monarchist League member Cassandra Harding.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

THE Australian Monarchists League's gathering

2011-05-04T11:19:00.001+10:00

The Australian Monarchist League will be at at the Bulleen and Templestowe Senior Citizens Centre from 5pm.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Best Before band members Robbie Cullen, Sam Bentley and Scott Mea

2011-05-04T11:18:00.001+10:00

Robbie Cullen, Sam Bentley and Scott Mealy formed the band four and a half years ago and describe their music as “rekindling a free-spirited rock, pop-punk vibe”.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Melton crash victim succumbs to injuries

2011-04-26T22:17:00.001+10:00

The 76-year-old Lower Templestowe man died on Saturday night in hospital.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Zeus Court folks pan townhouse plan

2011-04-26T22:09:00.001+10:00

Resident Geoff Rogerson, speaking on behalf of 11 of the court’s 12 residents, said the $1.5 million development would create congestion and put children at risk... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Boy rescued from Yarra River

2011-04-26T21:53:00.001+10:00

A BOY narrowly escaped drowning in the Yarra River yesterday after his canoe capsized near Finns Reserve.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Boy rescued from Yarra after canoe capsizes

2011-04-21T21:23:00.000+10:00

Fire crews have rescued a boy from the rapidly flowing Yarra River at Templestowe Lower in east Melbourne.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Rotary Club of Templestowe Schools ANZAC Day Service

2011-04-06T16:00:00.000+10:00

Annual ANZAC Day service for local schools, organised by Rotary Club of Templestowe.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

DANCER Karishma Singh's star is on the rise.

2011-04-06T14:58:00.001+10:00

The Lower Templestowe woman is touring the country as a principal dancer with the spectacular stage show Stars of Bollywood.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Turning rubbish into art at Templestowe Valley Primary School

2011-04-03T22:04:00.001+10:00

Garbage Art co-ordinator Melissa Robertson said all the pieces of art had contributed to a brighter and more interesting school environment.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Marco Parisi, 6, has a new best friend in Parker the labrador

2011-04-03T21:58:00.001+10:00

In July, Leader published a plea from Lower Templestowe mum Caterina Parisi for community support to train an assistance dog for Marco, 6, who needs full-time care and cannot communicate.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

'Cocaine-soaked' clothes imported

2011-04-03T21:56:00.000+10:00

A joint investigation found a syndicate was operating out of Truganina, Lower Templestowe, Brunswick and Dandenong. During the search of the Truganina property about 50 litres of liquid allegedly containing cocaine was seized. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au