Sunday, December 18, 2011

Eltham Little Theatre is looking for youths to sign up to its Ten Minute Quickie Short Play Competition

IF you are between 14 and 21 and have a short script you would like to see performed, the Eltham Little Theatre’s Ten ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Milandra: A Tale of Distant Castles - Melinda Morriss

Milandra: A Tale of Distant Castles will be launched at Eltham Bookshop on December 21.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham band Officer Parrot

Eltham band Officer Parrot will be playing a short set at Eltham Bookshop,... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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evacuated from Our Lady Help of Christians in Eltham

A CFA spokesman said about 50 people, including students attending after-school care, had been evacuated from Our Lady Help of Christians in Eltham.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Police saw the 67-year-old weaving over the road

A WOMAN was caught more than three times the limit and driving erratically in Eltham North last week.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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several burglaries around Eltham

another man who was believed to have committed several burglaries around Eltham. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.
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AN ELTHAM motorist was nabbed driving his company car more than 50km/h over the limit

AN ELTHAM motorist was nabbed driving his company car more than 50km/h over the limit in Heidelberg West last night.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.
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Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Bus 513 from Eltham to Preston

Bus 513 from Eltham to Preston has also had about 10 services cut per week ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham Bookshop's Meera Govil

The Eltham View Club has teamed up with the Eltham Bookshop to encourage people to donate books to charity group The Smith Family.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham North Primary School principal David Foley

Eltham North Primary School principal David Foley said the school has an experienced Reading Recovery teacher so the cuts wouldn't impact the school in the short term. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Kylie Lewis

KYLIE Lewis has endured more pain and heartache than most people her age. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Students from Eltham College and Montmorency Secondary College are heading to the US to visit NASA

This month, 30 year 9 to 11 students and four staff from Eltham College and Montmorency Secondary College will take off on an international adventure that peaks with a space camp in the US. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Saturday, December 3, 2011

Susan Reddrop explores the power of giving birth to babies and ideas with her exhibition Urge 2

WHEN artist Susan Reddrop gave birth to her first child on the floor of her Kew home, the experience had a profound effect - eventually.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Cadel Evans studied at Eltham High

A DV Leader Sports Start in 2005, Evans studied at Eltham High school from 1989 to 1994.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Bunnings' Eltham store

The Adopt A Family For Christmas campaign is inviting people to pick up a washing basket from Bunnings’ Eltham store and fill it with non-perishable food for a struggling family to enjoy.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Montana Cox

But one rite of passage the Eltham girl won't give up is hitting Surfers Paradise for schoolies this weekend.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham artist Jay Manby

Eltham artist Jay Manby in the Magellan St art space in Lismore. In the background are friends Anna Mackney and Dave Barkas.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham High School Indonesian students celebrate the end of exams.

IT has been a long haul for everyone, but Sam Ord's endurance was stretched to the limit. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Jessica Dalling and her young children, Mietta and Archie, are regular visitors to the Eltham library

Jessica Dalling and her young children, Mietta and Archie, are regular visitors to the Eltham library, an award-winning building set amid bushy parklands in Melbourne’s green wedge.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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The man in his 30s was parked in Beard Street around 1am on November 4 when he was attacked.

A MAN was dragged from his car, punched in the head and beaten in a late-night assault in Eltham earlier this month... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Nillumbik council agreed to extend parking restrictions on half-hour spaces to a full hour

ELTHAM mums will now have time to stop for a coffee while they buy their groceries after Nillumbik council agreed to extend parking restrictions on half-hour spaces to a full hour. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Eltham resident Marguerite Marshall is a member of Beyond Zero Emissions

Eltham resident Marguerite Marshall is a member of Beyond Zero Emissions, which campaigns for action on climate change. She was trained by Al Gore last year to advocate about the issue.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Alan Lincoln and Glen O'Donnell from Eltham SES

Unit controller Glen O’Donnell said the crew had replaced a 16-year-old truck with a larger $240,000 model under the emergency service’s vehicle replacement program.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Monday, November 21, 2011

Jets Gymnastics

Jets Gymnastics is expected to move its Eltham-based high-performance centre to the stadium... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Greg Martin with some of his specialist wines.

PLENTY of great-tasting creations will headline the Eltham and District Winemakers Guild’s 42nd annual winemaking show tomorrow.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham artists Jenni Mitchell and her partner Mervyn Hannan

Grace’s Place, as the Mt Pleasant Rd shop was affectionately known, was an Eltham institution for more than 20 years and a haven for pastry lovers. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Snake catcher Jason Donnelly, who owns Eltham-based SnakeAce

Snake catcher Jason Donnelly, who owns Eltham-based SnakeAce, said he had removed 40 snakes, including common brown, tiger and copperhead species, from properties across the Diamond Valley since late August. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Nillumbik Council plans 52 flash mobs in 12 months

Nillumbik Council kicked off its 52 Flash Mobs in 52 Weeks campaign on Sunday with the Eltham Concert Band surprising punters at the Rotary Eltham Town Fair.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Police rock 'n'roll band Code 1 will perform in Eltham Town Square

Police rock ‘n’roll band Code 1 will perform in Eltham Town Square from 3.20pm this Friday as part of Youth in the Square, a collaborative project between police and Nillumbik Council.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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ELTHAM North Primary School is hosting a twilight market this Friday

ELTHAM North Primary School is hosting a twilight market this Friday, and in keeping with its sustainable living approach, all goods for sale are home made or grown.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Year 10 student Casey McCormick last month won the Stapley Medal

Eltham High School geography teacher Danielle Cotter is likely to implement the module in her classes next year. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Committee member Judith Roth is among the volunteers

ELTHAM Market has been going strong for 33 years ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham's Michael Paterson

MICHAEL Paterson has been playing basketball since he was six and now has the chance to perform on the world stage.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Sunday, November 13, 2011

Christine Whelan with Matt Hetherington and Mitchell Butel in Sugar

"I am happy to humiliate myself if it makes people laugh," says Whelan, who finished school at St Helena Secondary College in Eltham North in 1998 and went straight to work as a receptionist... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Barry Vaughan and Barry MacDonald from the Eltham and District Woodworkers

FOR 24 years the Eltham and District Woodworkers have been displaying their wares at the Eltham Festival.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eltham Lower Park pavilion may sport new use in bushfire

ELTHAM Lower Park sports pavilion is likely to become a place of last resort during a bushfire. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Assistant principal Dean Simpson

About 80 per cent of students walked to school on Wednesday, October 19, and assistant principal Dean Simpson was thrilled with the participation rate.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Sunday, November 6, 2011

Phoebe and Mr Bojangles get ready for the Rotary Eltham Town Festival Pet Parade

WHEN organisers of the Rotary Eltham Town Festival say it’s a family day, they mean everyone in the family, pets included.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Hope Csutoros, Judy Gunson and Jo To prepare for the rehearsal for the World Harmonies Eltham concert

Now that group is being revived with the assistance of The Boite, an organisation that supports culturally diverse artists and raises community awareness by running festivals and music events.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Thursday, November 3, 2011

Eltham resident Neville brown has been helping Sarah Hill with her driving lessons.

SARAH Hill sits her driving test tomorrow - a test she didn’t think she’d be doing just five months ago.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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To discover her freshly planted nashi pear tree had been nicked

IT seemed like an idea that would bear fruit. Eltham residents decided to band together to plant fruit trees in their front yards ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Artist Jessica Page has a selection of works on display at the Lighthouse Factory Gallery, Eltham

“With a biro you can change the pressure. It makes a biro very nice to use,” she said. Although the finished product was stunning, with its colour and texture, it was a time-consuming art, she said.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Eltham police Sgt Bill Holmes said a number of items were stolen from the house

A SET of car keys and other personal belongings were taken during a burglary in Eltham last Saturday morning.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Northern Hospital accused of cancer bungle

But he was not told, according to a statement of claim lodged with the Supreme Court. His lawyers, Maurice Blackburn, allege he attended the hospital several times without being told he had cancer.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Eltham's Linda Keays with the handmade silver brooch she is donating to Friends of Nillumbik

JEWELLERY maker Linda Keays is passionate about protecting Eltham from development.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Tom and Katie Ferguson, from Eltham

HOUSEHOLDS will be in for a Melbourne Cup windfall if a predicted drop in interest rates eventuates.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Fire broke out in the boys toilet block at Eltham High School

Fire broke out in the boys toilet block at Eltham High School about 11.30am yesterday, according to a Country Fire Authority spokesman.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Eltham & District Woodworkers Exhibition

The Eltham Woodworkers Exhibition will be on November 12th & 13th 2011, from 9am till 5pm. Entry is still FREE.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Mother and daughter Deanne and Helena Haase will compete together in this year's Eltham Fun Run

HELENA Haase is convinced she will outrun her mum, Deanne, when the pair compete in next month’s Eltham Fun Run.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Sunday, October 23, 2011

Repco GearUP USB Car Charger Kit Universal gets the thumbs down.

Recently I purchased a Repco GearUP USB Car Charger Kit Universal which is a USB car charger kit which plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter and has two USB sockets for charging. Normally I stick with products I can purchase from my suppliers, but in this case because of the low value of the item, I decided to purchase one of these units on special for $9.99, reduced to half price.

I plugged the cable provided into my iPhone and the adaptor into a portable 12V battery designed to jump start a car and also provide power to accessories plus a number of other features. To my surprise and disappointment the iPhone 3GS reported it wouldn’t work with the device. I then plugged in the cable which came with the iPhone and it worked. Next I decided since it was a dual USB charger to plug in the iPhone 3GS and an Android mobile phone and charge both at the same time. Instead of the iPhone being charged, it was still losing power over time, whilst the Android phone did start to charge. I worked out you can only charge one device at a time.

It wasn’t worth the trip half way across Melbourne to where I purchased the unit, so like many people who purchase products that don’t live up to expectation, this one will probably end up in a draw and I’ll purchase a reputable product through my computer suppliers.

I didn’t expect to receive what I’d consider a substandard product from Repco, so I didn’t mind taking a chance. But from now on I’ll stick with the products I know and trust.

How many computer related devices have you purchased that don’t measure up to your expectation and end up in the draw?

At Online Connections I generally stick to devices and brands which have proven themselves across my client base over time. Often that doesn’t mean paying more. A good product can cost the same as a poor product. Marketers will often use the line “you get what you pay for” to encourage you to buy a particular product. To me what is important is the product proves itself in the field. Those are the products I’ll recommend to clients.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you require assistance with your computer.
Serving Doncaster, Templestowe, Eltham and the surrounding area.

Romy Stephens' tennis career is shining bright

The Eltham High School year 10 student, who helped her state finish second in the School Sport Australia Pizzey Cup Championships in May, said losing everything was hard. ... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Eltham man mistakenly caught up in Bali drama

Robert Laughlin, who returned from Bali last week after attending a wedding, said he had just left a Kuta massage parlour when he the NSW teenager was arrested by undercover police on October 4.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Code Red: No early warning for schools

AT least 25 schools, kindergartens and child care centres in high risk bushfire areas of Nillumbik have been taken off a list of facilities to pre-emptively close on a Code Red bushfire day... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Montana Cox is our favourite to take out this year's Australia's Next Top Model.

The chilled out 18-year-old from Eltham will compete for the coveted title this Tuesday during Foxtel's ANTM live finale at the Sydney Opera house.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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To celebrate its 50th birthday, the train will run a 12-hour marathon

The miniature passenger railway was built in Ivanhoe before being moved to its current home in Eltham Lower Park.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Glen Katherine Primary School students started on their creation, Glen the Scarecrow

A SCARECROW competition will enable children to showcase their environmental smarts at the Eltham Festival.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Chamber of Commerce President Grant Edwards and councillor Michael Young

NILLUMBIK Council is taking bids to open up Eltham’s town centre to new businesses.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Hurstbridge Line - Buses Eltham - Hurstbridge Sunday 6 November

Hurstbridge Line

Buses Eltham - Hurstbridge

Sunday 6 November

Buses will replace trains between Eltham and Hurstbridge From First to Last Service

Journey times will be extended by up to 15 minutes

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Melbourne's median house price is now $551,000, down $50,000

But several areas have defied the slowdown: Hawthorn East, Balwyn and Eltham North were among those posting big gains.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham High School students Felix Watson, Tom D'Ath and Finn Bennet

Eltham High School’s music support group is again offering mudbrick house tours during the Practically Green Festival after a successful run last year.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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The reverend Clemence Taplin, who will lead the service with parish vicar the Reverend Libby Delbridge

Dogs, cats, mice, birds and even snails will take part in St Margaret’s Anglican Church’s annual animal blessing, celebrating the work of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Bend of Islands artist Lynn Johnstone at her home studio

The Bend of Islands textile artist used rust - an age-old dye - in her first solo exhibition, Decay and Renewal, now on show at Eltham library.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Eltham builder and Nillumbik councillor Michael Young

Eltham builder and Nillumbik councillor Michael Young, who founded the association to fight energy rating threats to the industry in 2004, said the study debunked concerns that mud bricks were energy inefficient.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Charles Beavis and Agnes Parcesepe will exhibit their paintings of Montsalvat

Agnes Parcesepe and Charles Beavis have taken their love of the Eltham artist colony to the next level.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham North Primary council president Leann Page and other parents say parking needs to be upgraded around the school

PARENTS are calling for more parking outside a Eltham North school to avoid traffic chaos.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
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Friday, October 7, 2011

Shannon McCormack who died after being struck outside QBH nightclub

In her statement, Ms Bradley said they walked away from the club because they could not get a taxi to take them home to Eltham... Read More

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

MISSION Australia is searching for 20 volunteer mentors

MISSION Australia is searching for 20 volunteer mentors to take part in its Arise program in schools throughout Whittlesea, Eltham and Diamond Valley. ... Read More

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

Edendale Farm at Gastons Road, Eltham

SPRING has well and truly arrived at Edendale Farm.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham College's hospitality centre co-ordinator Peter Clarkstone

Loyola College and Eltham College both have fully-functional restaurants on campus where students can study for a vocational certificate in hospitality which teaches them about how to work in a team, take on responsibility and focus on healthy eating that will set them up for life.... Read More

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

Nillumbik fire retreat flunks CFA assessment

NILLUMBIK could go into the fire season with one less fire refuge after the council-managed Eltham Lower Park failed a CFA reassessment.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Eltham blasts: Police arrest five

FIVE youths have been arrested by police investigating a series of blasts in Eltham.... Read More

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
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Carolyn Morwood - Death and the Spanish Lady

''I'd done Australian history at Eltham High School but this was new to me.... Read More

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

Dean Frenkel author of Evolution of Speech

Frenkel, of Eltham North, has analysed the vernacular of more than 60 politicians for a new book, Evolution of Speech.... Read More

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

Penny Hopping has bought a home after surfing online.

"We all know that real estate agents are really only working for themselves. But even knowing this, for the most part they s--- me," she tweeted six-weeks ago.... Read More

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

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

A brief summary of JustLocal for Templestowe residents and businesses.

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.


Thursday, September 29, 2011

Eltham's Geoff Paine has written a comedy about an anger management class.

Paine said a judge directed him to take the class after a “middle of the night domestic argument” with a neighbour.... Read More

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

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Urban Eco owner Charlie Evans with one of his three apprentices, Angus Steele-Gregory

The Eltham business owner has backed Leader’s Jobs 101 campaign, with plans to hire a landscape design trainee... Read More

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

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Florie and Gerry Mustafa's gourmet Burger Lounge on Eltham's main drag.

The Mustafas' original shop is the well-regarded Charcoal Chicken on Bolton Street, one of the first chicken shops to sell Lilydale free-range chicken. ... Read More

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

Senior Constable Andrew Lodi

Senior Constable Andrew Lodi is a veteran police officer. He is based at Eltham police station and he lives in Hurstbridge.... Read More

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

Monday, September 26, 2011

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

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

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)

Eltham Idol organiser Gina Collins is no stranger to singing competitions

GINA Collins has plenty of advice for young performers looking to wow judges at next month’s Eltham Idol competition.... Read More

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

Carrie Zaharakis helps young people through police interviews.

IN the past five months Carrie Zaharakis has helped guide more than 30 young people through the frontline of the justice system.... Read More

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

Eltham Town Concert Band's Geoff Illing takes a moment to look over his music notes, with Grahame Coleman, Nada Cahill, Denise Deerson and Marnie Sier

ELTHAM Town Concert Band has a bumper program planned for its annual spring concert this weekend.... Read More

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

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Eltham mother Trisha Edgoose, with son Martin, will remember her daughter Claire tonight at a Leukaemia Foundation event.

After a 16-month journey with Hodgkin lymphoma, Claire, 20 - a former Eltham High School student with a love of architecture - died last year.... Read More

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

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Third development bid for Sharkies site knocked back

NILLUMBIK council has knocked back a $3.5 million development for the former Sharkies fish and chip shop site opposite Eltham North Primary School. ... Read More

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

Eltham Primary pupil's wild hair for kids who need care

ELTHAM Primary School grade 5 students flew the flag of diversity for Foster Care Week last week.... Read More

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

Historic buildings left to languish

HUNDREDS of historically significant sites throughout Eltham, Lower Plenty and Diamond Valley have been left off Nillumbik Shire Council's heritage register.... Read More

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

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Darrell and Wendy Reeve have nominated their home, built by Alistair Knox, for a sustainability award

MUDBRICK pioneer Alistair Knox’s Eltham house has been given the nod for its green credentials.... 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

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

Monday, September 19, 2011

Amy Kennedy works in her Eltham workshop

IN the weeks leading up to an exhibition, ceramic artist Amy Kennedy can be found in her Eltham workshop painstakingly replicating the wonders of nature.... Read More

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

Run for the Firies will start and finish at Eltham North Community Centre on Sunday, October 16.

The third annual Run for the Firies, which will raise money for Research and Kangaroo Ground CFA brigades, is scheduled for October 16.... Read More

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

Eltham Lower Park on Main Road after an explosive device was detonated in a wheelie-bin

Police were also called to the Eltham Lower Park on Main Road after an explosive device was detonated in a wheelie-bin placed on a table-top.... Read More

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

David O'Connor and Tom Lacy say their bedrooms double as recording studios

O’Connor said he first met Lacy, of Briar Hill, in year 9 at Eltham High School.... Read More

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

Anne-Marie Primmer pulls some more winners out of the oven.

Clocking her creations into the thousands, the Eltham connoisseur has entered her prize-winning puddings and preserves into the Royal Melbourne Show for 40 consecutive years.... Read More

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

Thursday, September 15, 2011

The Eltham Primary School heritage building heritage listing at risk

AN Eltham Primary School building could be stripped of its heritage value under plans to protect it from bushfire.... Read More

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

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Eltham historic home owners welcome helping hand

Eltham residents Don and Gloria White, who have spent 28 years taking care of a cottage built in 1893, said any council support would be welcomed.... Read More

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

Eltham computer assistance, support and repairs

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.ElthamComputer.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.

 

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

The winners, Eltham's Caitlin Ward

The winners, Eltham's Caitlin Ward and Georgia Watts, of MacKinnon, were awarded $500 by Ms Roxon on August 30... Read More

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

Ban on playgrounds in gambling venues due

I noticed the following article which concerned me. The government tends to use a broad brush approach rather than specific targeted actions. We go to the Lower Plenty Hotel to use their dining facilities. A couple of people may go off to have a flutter but that is their choice. The children do go off to play using the children’s play areas but not as a dumping place for adults to then go and gamble. To lose the children’s play area would take away a lot of joy the children receive.

The Diamond Creek Hotel, Lower Plenty Hotel and Eltham Hotel all have children's play areas. Between the three venues, gamblers lost more than $20 million in the last financial year. ... Read More

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

Monday, September 12, 2011

Pin board now added to Online Connections

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.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

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

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.)

Monday, September 5, 2011

Rotary Eltham Town Festival

Take your time to explore the website and then plan to join some 20,000 of your new best friends at this year’s Festival which this year will be held on November 12 and 13.... Read More

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

Sales at Barry Plant's Eltham office rose 14 per cent

Sales at Barry Plant's Eltham office rose 14 per cent over the year to June, but volumes across the network fell 14 per cent, 4 percentage points below the national figure.... Read More

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

Saturday, September 3, 2011

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

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

 

Friday, September 2, 2011

Need help setting up email on your mobile phone?

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.

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.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Montmorency-Eltham RSL's Alan Field

NILLUMBIK councillors have backed a push by war veterans to relocate Eltham’s cenotaph to the town’s war memorial.... Read More

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

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Report shows Nillumbik not quite so green

According to Community Indicators Victoria, the average Nillumbik house produces 13.1 tonnes of greenhouse gas every year, compared with the state average of 9.9 tonnes.... Read More

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

A PARAMEDIC shortage has forced ambulances off the road

Ambulance Employees Association secretary Steve McGhie said Nunawading, Box Hill, Eltham and Knox each lost their only night crews, leaving the branches unmanned.... Read More

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

Lower Plenty father-of-two Robert Hogan

Lower Plenty father-of-two Robert Hogan, 35, is Eltham Leisure Centre’s Father of the Year.... Read More

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

Friday, August 26, 2011

Volumes Cafe owner Colleen Austin said trade had been "way down"

ELTHAM shoppers will be able to enjoy alfresco dining with the near completion of an outdoor eating area at Commercial Place.... Read More

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

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Easy low cost photo books

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.  

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Cadel Evans

Attending Eltham High School, Cadel spent his youth riding mountain bikes, winning the 1993 Under 17’s Australian Cross Country Mountain Bike Championship.... Read More

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

White Holden Commodore VL sedan was stolen from Eltham railway station

In a separate incident, a white Holden Commodore VL sedan was stolen from Eltham railway station between 4.30pm and 11.15pm on August 16... Read More

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

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

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

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

   

Rikki-Lee will be appearing as a solo artist at this year's Diamond Creek Town fair

Rikki-Lee, a year 12 student at Eltham High, is a triple threat as she excells in singing, dance and drama performances.... Read More

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

Surviving Traumatic Grief When Loved Ones Die in a Disaster

Carolyn Westall, whose sister, Sue Evans, died in the February 2009 fires, set up a fund in Ms Evans’s name last July and raised $30,000 to publish Surviving Traumatic Grief When Loved Ones Die in a Disaster.... Read More

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

Bells Hill Rd resident Jenny Seed said the move was "reprehensible".

RESIDENTS will have no say over future developments at Eltham College after the State Government moved to rezone the Research school’s land.... Read More

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

Thursday, August 18, 2011

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

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

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

Monday, August 8, 2011

JustLocal search engines now cover surrounding postcodes

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


Monday, August 1, 2011

Computer repair Eltham - Beware of telephone scammers

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

Monday, June 13, 2011

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

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

Sunday, May 29, 2011

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

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  

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Small businesses closing down. Don't be next.

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