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How you can survive the Summer heat

Another day in the mid-to-high 30’s. Forget December and January, February is the real furnace in South-East Queensland. It is vital for everyone to take special precautions during the Summer, particularly the elderly, who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Focal Community Services has compiled the following tips to help you survive the summer heat: 1. Stay hydrated. It is very easy to underestimate your fluid intake. 8-10 cups (or 2.5 litres) of water per day is the standard recommendation for adults1. You could fill a container in the morning to finish before bed, or get in the habit of keeping…

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What Cricket Means to the Kochmans (P2)

In Part One, I talked about how cricket means different things to different people. I alluded to the different ways in which John and his son, Thomas, play their cricket. John plays blind cricket for Queensland, using a rattling ball, larger stumps and other modifications. Thomas, who has Autism and ADHD, plays in a Level One division where the rules are adjusted to foster a fun, participative environment for children of all ages and abilities. The bottom line is that they both love playing cricket. Jodie is their biggest supporter, along with Focal and their respective cricketing communities. What I…

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What Cricket Means to the Kochmans (P1)

The summer of cricket is now underway in Australia. Cricket means different things to different people, but ultimately, it is a game which brings families together. If you don’t believe me, just ask The Kochmans. John, Jodie and son Thomas are a cricket-loving family residing in Ipswich. John lives with blindness, which he says he “hides pretty well.” No kidding, he is currently preparing to represent Queensland in the National Inclusion Championships in January. In what sport you may ask? Blind cricket. “We play games with a rattling ball,” John says. “You sort of get used to where the ball…

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Why I Am Called Crazy By My Peers

Mickael Blanc – Chief Executive Officer For people who work in the human services industry, to say that we live in an interesting time is certainly an understatement. With the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the disability sector is undertaking structural changes which are creating high levels of change and uncertainty. However, for those who are optimistic and strategically focused, this chaotic environment is teeming with opportunities. Eighteen months ago, I took over the leadership of Focal, a 44 year old community support organisation in Ipswich.  Under the present environment, our journey has been a rich and bumpy…

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