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Forbes Phoenix

When Was Your Last HIV Check?

June 15, 2017 By editor

NSW Health is encouraging people to have their HIV status checked with testing now easier and faster than ever before.

Manager of HIV and Related Programs (HARP), Ann Ryan said around 10% of people with HIV in NSW may be unaware they have the virus, a statistic NSW Health hopes to change.

“As well as risking their own health, people with undiagnosed HIV infection are at risk of passing the virus on to others without know- ing,” Ann said.

However, the statistics are improving. The number of HIV tests done in NSW continues to increase with over 500,000 tests conduct- ed last year, a 7% increase on the number of tests in 2015.

Nursing Unit Manager Dubbo Sexual Health, Margie Crowley said HIV testing was easier and faster than ever with a high quality, safe and innovative HIV testing ser- vice. To make testing for HIV easier, the NSW Government has launched the Dried Blood Spot HIV test – a free, easy, private and accurate way to test for HIV at home.

“We need people in groups at risk of HIV to test regularly so they can receive early treatment and prevent transmission of HIV to others.”

Most (82%) new HIV infections reported last year were in gay and homosexually- active men, with heterosexual people ac- counting for 15%. One third of people newly diagnosed with HIV were diagnosed with signs of late infection, which could have been avoided with earlier testing.

Margie said heterosexual people who may be in an at risk group should also be tested. “This includes people from African and Asian countries, and/or those who have had previous sexual partners from one of these countries. Anyone who has had unprotected sex should also be tested.”
“All pregnant women should be tested irrespective of risk, as treatment during pregnancy is very effective in preventing infection from mother to child.”

People can request HIV testing at their GP or at their local sexual health service: Dubbo Sexual Health at 203 Brisbane Street, contact number 6841 2489 or Orange Sexual Health at 96 Kite Street on 6392 8600.

Information on Dry Blood Spot self-sampling test at https://www.hivtest.health.nsw. gov.au/. To find out where to get tested go to: www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/ pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx.

Painted Daisies Blossoming In New Location

June 1, 2017 By editor

Born and bred local Janet Callaghan is celebrating five years in business at Painted Daisies.

After spending the first few years at 77 Rankin Street, she moved the shop to Tem- plar Street last year, and has been pleased by the positive response from customers.

“I’ve had so many good comments from people who say the shop feels more homely and welcoming,” said Janet.

“Being closer to the coffee shops and next door to Little Extras is wonderful.”

With the weather growing colder, the shop offers a cosy and warm place to browse beautiful homewares as you wander through town.

From large items like a stunning carved bedhead and solid teak dining table, to candles, cushions, prints, rugs, throws, and even tea, there is something for everyone.

“I’m not a qualified designer, but people do ask me things when they’re redecorating. I suggest to them that they do one room at a time. Put your staple pieces in first, then add colour with accessories.”

Janet will hold a sale at Painted Daisies during June in the lead-up to the end of the financial year. She would love to see you in the shop, or connect with you via the Painted Daisies pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Make Your Bathroom Dream A Reality With Glassplace

May 4, 2017 By editor

Are you building a new home, or updating your forever home or investment property? Glassplace will help make your bathroom look lavish and inviting.

In many modern bathrooms, the shower is the centrepiece. A good shower screen needs to be durable, watertight and fit the style of your bathroom.

The economical Envy Fully Framed shower screen is a first choice for rental properties, and bathrooms that need to take a little extra loving… especially from little people.

In the middle of the market, the best selling Envy Semi Frameless, is just that little more elegant. The Envy Semi Frameless will add a special touch to a well used room in your home.

Looking to have a frameless screen in your open plan bathroom? Glassplace can fit an Expanse walk in shower to your bathroom. Size and shape are all custom de- signed to fit your wishes. They can even help with glass shelving to add an elegant yet practical touch.

Looking to update your old mirror, or add one to a new bathroom? There are so many different styles on display in the showroom. Pop in to Glassplace and let them help you make your bathroom dream a reality today!

Time To Bring Out The Quilts

April 6, 2017 By editor

   

We all want our home to be a haven, a place of rest and comfort, an escape from the world.

1. Refresh your decor

Autumn colours are traditionally fiery, earthy, golden and natural. It’s easy to add pops of colour and texture without having to redo rooms from top to bottom.

2. Keep it simple

Clear away items that are jarring or clutter- ing, leaving only the things that work harmo- niously together. Removing a window cov- ering will maximise light in winter, and make your room appear less busy.

3. Make a sanctuary

Find your perfect place to escape from the bustle and clamour of everyday. Make it an autumn goal to get more sleep!

4. Bring out the quilts

Quilts keep you neither too warm nor too cold. Give them an airing, perhaps a wash with a sensitive laundry detergent on a deli- cate cycle and drying in a shady place.

5. Update your menu

As the nights get colder, salads lose their summery appeal. Fill your kitchen with the rich aroma of a slow-cooked stew or soup – it will be nourishing in more ways than one. Keep fresh vegies and herbs close by so that you’re not tempted to turn to junk food as the weather cools.

6. Plan family time

We all know how important it is to turn off electronic devices and sit down for meals as

a family. Think about moving the television away from the dining area.

Set up your backyard (or family room) as a mini cinema. If it’s a little chilly, hand out some blankets and snuggle up for a night of outdoor cosiness.

7. Light candles

Scented candles in aromatic fragrances like cinnamon, sugar cookie or chai will improve your mood and will fill your home with delicious seasonal spice.

Lighting a candle while bathing will en- hance your sense of calmness and ability to relax and regroup.

8. Install a fire pit

With styles to suit every space, fire pits are fast becoming an integral part of Australian entertaining outside in the cooler months.

9. Plant a tree

Consider planting your own deciduous tree so you can appreciate this autumn delight firsthand. Maples (Acer) are popular and grow well from Sydney to Perth. There is a huge range of leaf shapes and colours, making them a stunning addition to any garden.

10. Clean up outside

If summer has seen an accumulation of kids’ bikes, pool toys, deck chairs and wilt- ed pot plants, now is the time to clean up. Falling autumn leaves look great, use them to spread leaf piles over garden beds and in your compost.

(Source: houzz.com.au)

What Makes Western Red Cedar Attractive For Your Timber Windows And Doors?

April 6, 2017 By editor


Western Red Cedar is a popular and durable timber that is sought after due to its beauty and durability.

It is a timber that remains stable under most weather conditions and is not prone to shrinking or swelling. This means it holds its shape and ensures longevity despite exposure to cold, heat, rain and other environmental factors.

As a low-density timber that offers very good thermal insulation, it helps with heating and cooling efficiency, reducing electricity costs and making a home more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Its versatility enables it to be used for both internal and external applications.

Western Red Cedar is visually beautiful with rich and inviting colours.

It has a fine texture and straight grain with growth rings often visible. The durable yet soft properties let the material take very well to being stained and polished.

Furthermore Western Red Cedar’s natural preservatives provide resistance to fungus and insects. The wood is protected against termites, woodborers and fungus that can dramatically affect alternative timber options.

Western Red Cedar is a stylish and practical material option with natural appeal, superior structural performance and elemental protection.

For more information about Western Red Cedar, phone Glassplace on 6862 2346 or visit the showroom at 4 Clarke St Parkes to see the Western Red Cedar on display.

The Low Down On Low E Glass

March 2, 2017 By editor

In The Central West we have a great climate for at least six months of the year. So in autumn and spring we don’t need to be too con- cerned with temperature extremes. On the other hand, our sum- mers can get very warm and our winters rather cold. Experience has shown the experts at the Glassplace that Low E grey tinted glass performs well in both summer and winter.

How does Low E tinted glass work? (Other names are smart glass, pyrolytic glass, or comfort glass.) Low E grey glass cuts down the U value of a window or door. This is the amount of heat moving through the glass due to the difference in temperature: from the inside to the outside of your home, or office. Low E glass can therefore reduce your heating bill and your cooling costs.

Low E grey glass also reduces the total solar radiation com- ing through the glass. This is the Solar Heat Gain Co-efficient or SHGC. It also reduces glare to make your home more comfortable in summer. The lower the numbers, the more benefit you will get from Low E glass.

If you still feel a bit confused about this glass, but want to know more, why not drop into the new Glassplace showroom in Clarke Street, Parkes. They will show you examples of Low E Glass in full sized windows so you can see what it looks like. You can also have a go at their ra- diant heat display to actually feel the difference Low E glass can Low E grey tinted glass performs well in hot and cold make in your home. conditions and can help to make the extreme seasons Give them a call today!

Must Do Autumn Jobs At Home

March 2, 2017 By editor

Autumn is always the best time to get plen- ty of jobs done before the cold weather ar- rives.
1. Take a pen and notebook and stroll around your garden. Write a list of jobs that need doing.

  1. Repair, paint or tidy any garden furniture. Some may need painting, or cov- ering up for winter. Put away outdoor toys and paddling pools. Throw away anything old and not able to be repaired.
  2. Check your heating source. If you have a fire, you need to get wood and stack it. Your indoor heaters may need cleaning or servicing.
  3. Autumn is the best time to paint. The house can still be aired out in the day- time and it’s pleasant weather to put in the work.

5. New trees. Autumn is a great time to

plant new trees. If you drive a car, you should be planting seven new trees per year, to offset the carbon.

6. Clean out all gutters and tend to possible roof leaks. Late autumn is best, after all the leaves have fallen.

7. Sort and tidy your wardrobe. Before you put away your summer clothes and footwear, have a good look at what you didn’t wear this summer and toss them in the charity bag.

8. Children will be spending more time indoors. They are now a year older, so take a look at their bedroom, and ask them what they need.

15 Ways to Keep Cool When It’s Hot

February 2, 2017 By editor

Keeping cool when temperatures reach record highs isn’t just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can result in heat- related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The following tips can help you keep cool.

• Alter your pattern of outdoor exercise to take advantage of cooler times (early morning or late evening), or scale down by walking instead or running.

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing of a light colour.
  • Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than synthetics.
  • Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a quick refreshing spray.
  • Fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler even in an air-conditioned house.
  • Store lotions in the refrigerator to use on hot, overtired feet.
  • Keep plastic bottles of water in the freezer; grab one when you’re ready to go outside. As the ice melts, you’ll have a supply of cold water with you.
  • Take frequent baths or showers with cool or tepid water.
  • Combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water with sports drinks or other sources of electrolytes.
  • Some people swear by small, portable, battery-powered fans.
  • If you’re wearing a cap or hat, remove it and pour a bit of ice cold water into the hat, then quickly invert it and place on your

    head.

  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will promote dehydration.
  • Avoid hot foods and try lighter summer fare including frequent small meals or snacks containing cold fruit or low fat dairy products. You won’t have to cook next to a hot stove.
  • If you don’t have air-conditioning, plan to spend parts of the day in a shopping mall, public library, movie theater, or other public space that is cool.
  • Finally, use common sense. If the heat is intolerable, stay indoors and avoid activities in direct sunlight or on hot asphalt surfaces. Pay special attention to the elderly, infants, and any- one with a chronic illness, as they may dehydrate easily and be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Don’t forget that pets also need protection from dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

    (MedicineNet.com)

Outdoor Living Made Easy At Parkes Bricks And Pavers

December 1, 2016 By editor

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The outdoor season is here and you might have some projects to complete in order to enjoy summer. Visit Parkes Brick and Paver to revamp your existing pool or get ideas for a new pool. They are agents for bricks, concrete blocks and pavers. Do you have plans to start a veggie garden? Parkes Brick and Paver have a variety of attractive border options available for you to choose from to not only organise your veggie patch, but make it look attractive too.

Do you enjoy entertaining al fresco? They have an amazing range of products to help you create a welcoming environment under your outdoor awning or bbq area. Make the most of summer’s beautiful evenings by transforming your outdoor entertainment to the envy of your friends!

Call Parkes Brick and Paver on 6862 2253.

Planning Your Holidays? Don’t Forget Your Pets!

December 1, 2016 By editor

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The holiday season is almost upon us, but for those with pets there are a few extra things to organise before you can go away: who will be taking care of your furry friends? Boarding kennels are a good option; your pets will be safely confined and have regular attention. Your pet will require up-to-date vaccinations to stay at commercial boarding facilities.

Unfortunately, most kennels require advance bookings for the busy Christmas-season with most booked out by August. Keep this in mind if you need to make last-minute plans. Also, boarding kennels might not be suitable if your pet is easily stressed by other animals or strange environments. If you decide to leave your pets at home, and don’t have a trusted friend or neighbour to help, a pet-sitting service might be appropriate.

The pet-sitter would visit your house daily to provide food, company and enrichment. Some pets are stressed by changes in their routine so it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they are eating, drinking, toileting and are otherwise okay in your absence. Still, you might prefer to holiday with your pets. There are lots of hotels, home-stays and camping sites that are pet-friendly and can be easily found online. However, you might need to book in advance. If your lucky pup is holidaying with you, there are still a few extra things to plan.

Make sure that your dog’s vaccinations, worming and flea treatment is up to date. You might also need to arrange paralysis tick prevention, depending on your destination. Don’t forget to pack their leash, food, doggy bags, and water bowls. If your pet takes any prescription medication take enough to last the holiday.

Also, make sure your pet is safe while travelling in your car. Use an appropriate restraint, such as a harness or a crate. Your pet should be able to sit or lie down in a natural position while restrained. Never leave your dog unattended in a car. Dogs can die very quickly from heat stress, even in mild weather. Whether you are leaving or taking your pets with you, ensure your pets are microchipped and your contact details are correct on the microchip register so you can be contacted if need be. There are six microchip registers across Australia, so make sure the one
your pets are recorded on is recognised nationally. Also, attach an ID tag with your contact details to your pet’s collar. For more advice contact the RSPCA.

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