Outdoors

Retro-fit your garden to reduce storm-water run-off

At Home: Permeable surfaces where possible for rain penetration to our underground water supply and easier to maintain.

Rain + Impermeable Surfaces = Storm-water Runoff
Recently, many areas around Australia, including the cities of Brisbane and Sydney, experienced an horrific rain and hail storms causing tens of millions of dollars damage to certain parts of those cities. Rain can fall as a drizzle, a steady patter or a in this case, a deluge… >> More

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Greener and Safer Living Environments – Especially for Women

We all like to feel safe – especially women. Apartment living can provide that safe environment and extra planting can make it beautiful. Most of the new inner city apartment blocks have sectors such as gardens, courtyards, pools, gyms and meeting rooms that can be accessed only by those who live there – usually by swiping a smart card. Meandering through these spaces to arrive home can be very pleasant and relaxing – adding to our sense of well-being. Having a safe, well-managed green space at your front door to visit can be bliss or a balcony suitable for potted plants in order to grow your own flowers or vegetables… >> More

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Eating Well and More Activity in Our Daily Lives

Families out and about in Chelsea. Photo John Couper

The secret is out! The latest research regarding weight problems tells us that controlling weight is not as difficult as we think.
The key is to watch what you put in your mouth – simple as that! … >> More

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Preventing Mosquito Problems

Illness arising from mosquito bites is on the increase in Australia and it is not just a northern Australian problem.

Mesmerising Sunsets, Spectacular Sunrises

We are certainly aware of the seasons – especially now during the hot summer we are experiencing in Australia or in winter when there is little sunshine and the days are shorter, but there are other magnificent aspects about time and space you may be missing out on by neglecting to observe. Take time out of your busy schedule to observe and/or investigate the relationship between the sun, the earth and the moon – just sit or stand (especially barefooted on the earth) and enjoy the passage of time and positions of the sun and moon in space. Whatever your age, here are just a few simple things you can explore. I find all these simple tasks personally satisfying and relaxing for all involved in the exercise: >> More

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Making the Most of Your Natural Surroundings

Contemplation area in the back garden overlooking naturally beautiful vegetation. House for Sale at Coupers Realty — Contemplation area in the back garden overlooking naturally beautiful vegetation.

Views of greenery or countryside are beneficial for our well-being as research suggests. So, think about making some changes to make the most of the views around your living space. If you think a new development may hinder your view, or result in loss of privacy, overlooking, overshadowing, loss of light or loss of amenity spaces, such as green spaces, you should object early in the planning process >> More

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Summer Learning at the Family Barbeque

Some basic science and inter-generational social learning opportunities at the bbq

Summer learning for any age needs to be fun, memorable and hands-on. Cooking is science and at barbecues, we are cooking organic matter (the concept area of this science lesson for teachers) – whether vegetarian or for meat lovers. Children love to chat when they are doing things and everyone enjoys being together to share ideas, laugh, watch the food preparation and the cooking on the barbecue and of course, eating together.
This is wonderful time for intergenerational learning and social learning. Please do not send the kids off to watch a movie until it is time to eat. ... >> More

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Are you ready for extreme heat and other natural and man-made disasters?

Are you prepared for any natural or man-made disasters this summer?

Every year, particularly during the summer months, Australians like so many other parts of the world, are faced with horrific fires, droughts and floods which destroy lives, property and have a huge impact on local communities. Whether you live or intend to reside in a flood-prone area, a high fire danger zone or in a cyclone area or tuck yourself away in the city or suburbia, one should be prepared for any emergency – natural or man-made.
In other words, make plans before disaster strikes and take into consideration your neighbours, elderly friends and relatives in the area. I recall… >> More