kenmore Archives - Page 10 of 13

Understanding Sleep Apnea and Where to Get a Quick & Easy Test in Kenmore

Sleep Apnea can prevent us from having restful sleep, but a better understanding of this condition can help us find the right solution.

On average, we spend 25-35% of our lives asleep. 229,961 hours with our eyes closed. Quality sleep is just as essential to us as food and water. So, what does our body do with all this downtime? What important business do we have to do in the dark? Did Wake Up Jeff from the Wiggles know more than he let on?

The science of sleep is still somewhat a mystery. The biological purpose of a good eight hours rest is still not completely known; all we really know is that we need it. Adequate sleep is imperative to almost every system in the body, from the nervous system to brain, heart, lung function, the metabolism and the immune system.

Recent studies suggest that a lack of good sleep can create a myriad of health issues such as obesity, diabetes, depression, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.

What is Sleep Apnea?

One of the leading causes of poor sleep is Sleep Apnea, which is common, but because it happens when you’re asleep, it’s very hard to diagnose.

We all know what the word ‘sleep’ means. It’s the wonderful thing you get to do after work, dinner and a glass of wine. But ‘Apnea’ is a Latin word, which translates literally to ‘suspended breath.’

There are a few kinds of sleep apnea. The most common of which is Obstructive Sleep Apnea. When you sleep, the muscles in your body relax and can even become somewhat paralyzed.

In Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the region behind your throat can become obstructed because your body is so relaxed that the muscles that would usually keep your throat passage open. In such a state, the relaxed muscles can nearly or completely block off your throat. If you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, you can stop breathing for up to 10 seconds, hence, ‘suspended breath.’

These periods of ‘suspended breath’ in the night cause lowered oxygen levels which leads your body to believe that it is being suffocated. This instigates a stress response, you experience heightened levels of adrenaline, high blood pressure and high heart rate.

In some cases, Sleep Apnea instances can occur hundreds of times per night, so you can imagine the havoc this wreaks on our bodies.

How do I know if I have Sleep Apnea?

There are several questions you can ask yourself to know if you have Sleep Apnea.

Do you snore?
Do you wake up tired even after a full night’s rest?
Do you wake up in the morning with a dry throat?
Not to be rude, but are you overweight? Overweight people are much more prone to Sleep Apnea due to the simple fact that more weight accumulates around the neck, the area that directly relates to our intake of oxygen.
Are you depressed? If depression is coupled with any of these other symptoms, then it might be a good idea to take this seriously.

What do I do to fix it?

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage Sleep Apnea and eventually get better sleep.

The first port of call is exercise. Maintaining a healthy weight is the simplest way to fix Obstructive Sleep Apnea. It can take the pressure off your throat and allow you to breathe freely.
Quit smoking and drink less alcohol.
Invest in a CPAP machine. A CPAP machine is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine. These machines ensure constant and steady oxygen to your body. Using a CPAP machine will ensure a good night sleep, which will, in turn, support your body and your health. Because your body is getting the rest that it needs in order to heal itself, many of the health issues that arise from sleep apnea will improve naturally.

You can find a great range of these here at Kenmore Amcal Pharmacy.

You need to sleep, and you need to sleep well for your own health. The surest way to know if you have Sleep Apnea is to go to your local pharmacy for a sleep test.

Kenmore Amcal Pharmacy offers half-priced Sleep Apnea testing for the month of January 2020 at $49.00 per test.

If you would like any further help, to be tested for Sleep Apnea or to find help managing it, come on down to our pharmacy to find a friendly team to assist you.

*The helpful staff at Amcal+ Pharmacy in Kenmore ready to assist in fighting sleep apnea. (Photo credit: Kenmore Amcal Pharmacy)*

Katie Robertson is a writer, editor, and avid health researcher, paving her own way to wellness. Katie has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in writing.

When she’s not working, Katie lives in the world of fiction and you can often find her hiding in her herb garden with a good book.

Police Reminds Residents in Inner West Area to “Lock Your Vehicles”

Residents in the Inner West area including Kenmore are reminded to lock their vehicles following a spike in the number of car break-ins in recent weeks.

The police said that in almost all of these reported cases, the vehicles broken into had been left unlocked. The targeted inner west suburbs were Kenmore (10), Indooroopilly (six), Mitchelton (six), and Auchenflower and Toowong (four each).

Police provided these tips on what to do when you leave your car:

Remove the ignition key: Whilst the engine can be started without the key, thieves are more likely to break into a car with the key in it.
Close and fasten all windows: Windows should be fully wound up. Be particularly careful with sliding windows as they would sometimes appear to be firmly shut, but the spring catch hasn’t engaged properly. Quarter glass windows also need care as they provide the thief with an easy way in.
Lock all doors the boot: Ensure that you have taken the keys with you even when the car is left in the driveway or in the garage. When you get out of the car, double check that you have locked all the doors and the windows are fully closed. Also check that the boot is locked.
Don’t leave property in the car: Don’t tempt the thief. Take all valuable property out of the car. If you have to leave valuables in the car, make sure they are out of sight (preferably locked in the boot).

All small valuable items should be taken with you. Never leave your vehicle unsecured even if only for a few moments and make sure you activate your alarm or anti-theft device every time you leave the vehicle.

Have any information for the police? Please contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form. Or report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au.

For stolen cars or motorcycles, provide the registration number, make, model, colour and the time and place of the offence.

Kenmore Christmas Giving Tree Sends Holiday Cheer to Elderly

Kenmore Village Shopping Centre is sending Christmas cheer to elderly folks who would not have any gift to open this season of giving.

Through efforts of the Rotary Club of Kenmore and Helloworld Travel Kenmore, the Christmas Giving Tree lets shoppers at the shopping centre spread a bit of happiness to those living in age homes.

Currently, there are still tickets left, so anyone wanting to express their generosity can head over to the Christmas Giving Tree located in front of Helloworld Kenmore. Choose a suggestion from the remaining labelled gift tags hanging from the tree and return the gift to the people at Helloworld Travel.

Aside from the Christmas Giving Tree at Helloworld Travel, Kenmore Village Shopping Centre is also partnering with Kenmore Rotary Club to receive donations from shoppers through its Christmas Hamper Collection Box. The gift hampers will be given this Christmas season to people in need.

Visit the collection box at Centre Court to see the full list of suggested items to donate.

Kenmore Filmmaker Peter Hegedus Wows Festival Circuit with ‘Lili’ Documentary

Kenmore local Peter Hegedus has once again put his hometown on the map as his powerful documentary, “Lili,” was featured in two major film festivals this year.

In June, Mr Hegedus submitted “Lili” to the Sydney Film Festival competition for the Documentary Australia Foundation Award. The documentary emerged as one of the 10 finalists.

Mr Hegedus’ work was also one of the highlights of the Brisbane International Film Festival, where he graced the panel discussion with the audience after the screening.

Filmed in 2018 in his native land of Hungary and across the continent in Canada, “Lili” is about a young mom who had no choice but to leave for Australia without her two-year-old daughter at the height of the Hungarian Revolution in 1956. Her second daughter, Edie Hart, found out about her missing sister, Lili, named after her mom, as a teenager living in Brisbane.

Sixty years since the deadly revolution, Edie is still looking for an answer on why her mother abandoned her older sister, an answer she seeks for closure, to heal the trauma once and for all. Mr Hegedus and his film crew followed her family in their search to deliver an emotional story of desertion, facing one’s demons, and ultimately, reconciliation.

“This film is about how people justify their actions and expose themselves, how history shapes the fate of families,” Mr Hegedus, who also works as a professor at Griffith University, said. “What happens to families who are torn apart and how that trauma is passed on to the next generation.”

Mr Hegedus has long been an unwavering part of the Hungarian community in Brisbane. Born in Budapest, he moved to Kenmore in 1991 and studied film at the Queensland College of Art. He has been gracing and bagging several awards at film festivals in Australia and around the world since becoming a professional filmmaker in the late ‘90s.

Visit the ‘Lili’ website to buy the film or request a screening. You can also join their mailing list to know if it’s showing in your area.

Free Gentle Exercise Session Offered to Newcomers at Kenmore Tai Chi School

If you would you like to improve your physical fitness with an exercise routine that isn’t too rigid, check out the Tai Chi School of Gentle Exercise in Kenmore, where first-timers can enjoy their introductory Tai Chi class for free.

Tai Chi was once an ancient Martial Arts defense training. Today, however, it has been adopted as an exercise routine involving deep breathing and slow movements because of its proven physical mental benefits.

This exercise works against headaches, insomnia, arthritis, back problems, and high blood pressure, among other conditions. It’s also a stress buster and may boost the immune system.

New classes will start at the Tai Chi School of Gentle Exercise on Friday, the 23rd of August 2019, at the Holy Spirit Anglican Church Hall at 1036 Moggill Road. The session at the upper hall will start at 12:30 p.m. Be there in your most comfortable workout clothes a few minutes earlier to sign up and prepare for the class.

The whole course lasts for eight weeks and comes with a free DVD instruction so you can also practice and master Tai Chi relaxation techniques at home.

Tai Chi School of Gentle Exercise has been around since 1983 and has accredited instructors led by Glenn Blythe.

*Photo Credit: Tai Chi School of Gentle Exercise/Facebook*

“For the ninety percent of people who have never done Tai Chi that join, I slowly teach the basics such as Joint Alignment, Posture and Spinal Alignment and how this creates movement without placing stress on the joints,” Mr Blythe said.

For more details about the classes, phone 3883-1508.

Why Kenmore Couple Ted and Nola Carlow Deserve a Distinctive Honour

Ted and Nola Carlow certainly did not expect to receive a distinctive honour from the local community and Council. Though it was a simple plaque and there was no ceremonial fanfare to it, the gesture behind the award merited great value as this Kenmore couple is no ordinary pair.

In May, Member of Parliament Dr Christian Rowan bestowed the special award to the Carlow couple for simply being an inspiration to the residents. For decades, this Kenmore couple has been waving and smiling at cars and passersby from the porch of their home near the Kenmore roundabout.

“It was a privilege to formally recognise Ted and Nola Carlow, who are iconic Kenmore locals,” Dr Rowan said. “Each and every day as residents enter into, and out of, Kenmore, you can see Ted and Nola with their trademark smile and wave. Thanks again Ted and Nola for being such an integral and welcoming part of our community over the past 70 years.”

*Photo Credit: Dr Christian Rowan MP/Facebook*

There was a time, however, when the couple went “missing” from their porch that it triggered a panic from the residents. People looked for them on social media until it was confirmed that they are doing fine.

The reason for their brief absence wasn’t elaborated but locals were relieved to know that the Carlows are back on the porch and waving at their neighbours. Messages poured online from residents who have looked up to the couple.

“I waved at 12 and still wave at 31. Ted and Nola are a Kenmore institution!” Suki Bloom revealed.

“I waved to them every afternoon for nearly 4 years in primary school and when I recently drove past there (over 8 years later) it was as if they recognised me and they waved,” said Anton Immaraj.

“I remember as a child always looking out for them as we drove past. I haven’t lived in Brisbane for 9 yrs, but every time I head down to see friends and family I still look for them,” Jacqui Kimbers shared.

The Carlows are in their ‘90s and have raised daughters in Kenmore.

Planned Burns in Pullenvale and Other Areas Underway to Prepare for Bushfire Season

Pullenvale residents have been advised to stay away from the walking tracks for at least two weeks as planned burns are being undertaken at Primley Street Park.

Brisbane City Council has started its annual practice of planned burning around local reserves to mitigate the impact of bushfire season. According to the Council, some 12 hectares of forest area formed part of the planned burn at the reserve which has also temporarily affected the conditions at the Hawkesbury Road Nature Refuge. Further planned burns will also take place at the Mt Coot-tha Reserve, as well as 20 other sites across Queensland this August.

Since specific dates of the planned burn are not quickly determined as it is based on weather conditions, the Council said it will notify residents and neighboring suburbs on the day of the burn. To be better prepared, however, you can check the planned burn area map to give you an idea of which neighbourhood could be affected.

Smoke coming from these burns may be bothersome for residents. However, the hazard burns are necessary to protect the local resources, environmental habitats and human lives.

“These burns aim to reduce the amount of fire fuel such as leaves and twigs by 75 percent over the 60 to 80 percent of the land being burned,” Councillor Vicki Howard said.

“All Brisbane residents can prepare their properties by tidying the yard, clearing gutters and overhanging branches and raking up twigs and dried leaves from around the house and garden,” she added.

Residents must also have emergency kits where important documents are kept so that it’s easy to grab in case the unexpected happens.

Precise planned burning techniques will be carried out by trained members of the bushland and fire management. Bushfire season usually runs from late August until November every year.

Rates Increase in Kenmore, Among the Highest in Brisbane

Kenmore cops the highest increase in rates amongst the westside suburbs and one of the highest in Brisbane, as Council rates for owner-occupied properties rise by an average of 2.5 percent.

With the exception of nine, Brisbane suburbs will see an overall average rates increase of 2.5 percent, the same as last year and almost twice the current annual inflation rate of 1.5 percent.

“We’ve kept the budget strong and balanced despite the impact of droughts and floods, through the Global Financial Crisis and through multiple property market cycles,” Lord Mayor Schrinner said in his budget speech.

“…today I confirm that in 2019-20 the average increase in rates for owner occupied residential properties will once again be 2.5 per cent.”

Kenmore residents will face a rates increase of 5.4 percent or an additional $80.87 per year. Other Brisbane West suburbs should also expect to see rate increase notice in the mail including Chapel Hill (5.20%); St Lucia (3.6 %); Kenmore Hills (3.3%); Taringa (2.8%); Indooroopilly (2.5%); Bellbowrie, Brookfield, and Fig Tree Pocket (1.9%), and Moggill (1.7%).

Anstead, Pullenvale, and Pinjarra Hills, on the other hand, will cop rates increase lower than the current annual inflation rate at 0.9%, 0.9%, and 0.8% respectively.

“For owner occupiers, this average rates increase equates to $10 per quarterly rates notice or $0.77 per week. The average increase to Council fees and charges will also be 2.5 per cent,” Cr Schrinner said.

Seven Hills and Wakerley will have the highest rates increase in Brisbane, both at 5.80 percent or an extra $115.23 and $87.08 to the annual bill, respectively. Kangaroo Point residents, on the other hand will get the biggest drop with a 5.1 percent rate decrease or a savings of $86.38 year.

Ratepayers in these eight other suburbs will also expect to see drop in rates: Ransome and Willawong (-2.0%); Cowan Cowan (-1.7%); Bridgeman Downs, Bulwer, and Candler (-1.0%); Murarrie (-0.7%), and Westlake (-0.4%)

Epic Hair Designs in Kenmore Delivers Luxe Without a Hefty Price Tag

When it comes to haircut and hairstyling, Kenmore locals trust one hair salon that has been around since 2008 to deliver luxe without the need to shell out major bucks.

Epic Hair Designs at 841 Moggill Road began as a small hair and beauty shop with just three hairdressers. Today, the staff in Kenmore is composed of 15 hair and beauty experts and the brand has expanded to 15 other locations across Brisbane.

Patrons who come to this Kenmore hair salon for a beauty makeover are treated to a well-deserved pampering. In between haircuts and other services, the clients are served with their choice of complimentary wine, beer or gourmet drinks.

Beauty treatments involve an extensive and meticulous process to complete because the stylists at Epic Hair Design aim for thoroughness and perfection. So, whilst clients sit and relax during their makeover, they are provided with a Wi-Fi-enabled iPad to pass the time.

The results are consistently fantastic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by E P I C H A I R D E S I G N S (@epichairdesigns) on Jun 7, 2019 at 4:17am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by E P I C H A I R D E S I G N S (@epichairdesigns) on May 8, 2019 at 4:07am PDT

Brendon Mann opened Epic Hair Designs to provide patrons with satisfying but affordable salon experience. He has maintained the quality of his business and has sustained the salon’s reputation because he also makes training a priority for his staff.

Epic Hair Designs trades Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. To book an appointment, call 3396 1876 or via its online shop.

“Only people I trust with my blonde! I recently did have an experience where my fringe wasn’t given enough blonde so was a different colour to the rest of my hair. But not to worry, because I messaged them on Facebook, and within an hour I had gotten a call from Customer Care and booked in a complimentary appointment to fix it up. I always know that I will be taken care of. Thanks Epic Hair.”
~ Sami Cuff, Facebook

“Love this local salon. All the staff are lovely and the results are great. I always get comments on how good my colour looks from here. The added extras are fun too, cheese and biscuits, glass of wine and use of iPads etc.”
~ Suey, True Local

New Kenmore Development Application Courts Controversy

A seven-storey development, including a cinema, has been proposed for 22-24 Brookfield Road in Kenmore.

A recent development application has put the cat amongst the pigeons by proposing a mixed-use development on a site bounded by Brookfield Road, Princeton Street and Bingham Street in Kenmore, just across the road from Kenmore Village Shopping Centre.

Location of the proposed multi-use development in Kenmore. (Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

A five-screen boutique cinema is part of the proposal as well as 150 car parking spaces, 35 serviced apartments, offices and retail in over seven storeys. Restaurant, café and wine bar tenancies are envisioned to occupy the ground floor fronting Brookfield Road.

*View from Brookfield Road (Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au)*

*Centre view from Bingham Street (Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au)*

Centre activities could include serviced offices, strata-titled offices, educational facilities, which may be a private college, a dance studio or a yoga/Pilates studio. The centre may also be home to a medical facility and community facilities such as meeting rooms.

All in all, a gross floor area of 3,3044 square metres will be dedicated to centre activities.

Controversial Development

The DA submitted in March 2019 is already courting controversy for its size and potential traffic flow impact.

Brookfield Road Kenmore Development Application — *Conceptual pedestrian and vehicular flow going to and coming from the proposed centre. (Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au)*

“Brookfield Road has become one of the worst rush hour bottle necks in the Western Suburbs, which then feeds into Moggill Road at the Kenmore Village roundabout, causing huge morning tail-backs for commuters and school drop off,” says Ken Ryan, a local town planner.

“The scale of this proposal greatly exceeds its need and has not included an Economic Needs Analysis.

“To me it’s grossly overdeveloped because of the excessive height, the bulk of the building, and the potential for impact of the 150 additional car parking spaces. This is on congested Brookfield Road and the side streets in Princeton Street are often parked on either side, and it’s my view that it’ll be a major adverse effect on the efficiency of that local area.”

The town planner says that locals interested in the future developments in the area can lodge objections. He also thinks that the council should advise the developer to limit the scale of the project to two or three stories.

It should also be proven that there is an economic need for such a centre development.

Ken has published a podcast episode about this development application. Listen to the discussion here.

Learn more about the Development Application (A005160079).