gympie get ready · 2013-08-21 · your gympie get ready resilience toolkit is designed to provide...

Gympie Get Ready Personal and Household

Resilience Toolkit

Gympie Get Ready

Welcome to your Gympie Get Ready Resilience Toolkit

Introduction

© Gympie Regional Council June 2012 Gympie Get Ready Personal and Household Resilience Toolkit | page 3

Welcome and IntroductionDear Resident Your Gympie Get Ready Resilience Toolkit is designed to provide a practical resource to assist and support Gympie residents in preparing for an emergency. Your Toolkit guides you through the process you and your family need to follow in order to gather and to keep all of your personal papers up-to-date and in a safe place known to family and friends.

In using the Toolkit it is recommended you first browse each section to familiarise yourself with it’s contents. Then simply start by using the information sections to assist you in completing and/or actioning each of the tools, checklists or records relevant to you and your circumstances.

It is important to note that whilst this program has been designed primarily to prepare you and your household for extreme weather events and emergencies, the compilation of your important personal and household information is useful to prepare you for all circumstances in life such as going overseas or moving house. We encourage you to take full advantage of the tools and templates provided in the following pages.

The types of documents, discussions and actions you need to take to implement i) an Emergency Plan and ii) an Emergency Kit are outlined in your Toolkit. Each of the separate sections will provide a range of relevant information, related tools and templates or forms that you and your family will need to complete.

Colour-coded sections provide various information from an emergency shopping list to the importance of things like a valid Will an Advanced Health Directive and more.

So, what are you waiting for, 'Gympie Get Ready' and prepare yourself with your own Personal and Household Resilience Toolkit.

Regards

Community Facilities and Services Department Gympie Regional Council

Note: It is important to note this kit does not take the place of any legal documents such as a valid Will, Advanced Health Directive or Power of Attorney.

Acknowledgements

| Gympie Get Ready Personal and Household Resilience Toolkit © Gympie Regional Council June 2012

This Toolkit incorporates no less than 63 separate information resources and websites. The content also incorporates feedback and ideas provided by hundreds of Gympie locals. This is a local resource of national significance developed with sincere thanks to everyone involved.

Acknowledgements This Resilience Toolkit was developed by Michelle Rowe, Community Development Project Officer, Gympie Regional Council and funded by the Community Development and Recovery Package, which is a joint initiative of the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.

Produced by Gympie Regional Council Community Recovery and Wellbeing program, PO Box 155, Gympie Qld 4570.

Special thanks to

Hobsons Bay City Council and the Department of Justice Victoria for earlier Bereavement Kits. Ms Alanna Sue Tin for compiling the Health Resilience Section.Mr Gary Guest, Gympie photographer for the use of his stunning photography.

Design and Layout by

The Brand People www.thebrandpeople.com.au

Disclaimer

The information provided in this kit is intended as a guide only. It does not take the place of a legal will or directive and is aimed at supporting other household preparedness programs and initiatives. The contact details and information provided in this toolkit are subject to change—current as at 9 May 2013.

Further Information and Program Updates

For further information and program updates please visit Bubble’s Community Recovery and Wellbeing pages on the Gympie Regional Council Website atwww.gympie.qld.gov.au/bubble

Your Toolkit Contents

Customised Records, Tools and Checklists SectionsThis section is designed so that the various checklists or forms can be customised to suit each persons circumstances. There are three sections Personal, Household and Preparing for an Emergency. They have been colour coded for easy reference. BLUE 'Getting Yourself Prepared' Pages 7-22Personal Information and Family Records - Complete one per household member • Personal Information and Details

• Emergency Contacts • Family Information • Medical Information • Government Reference Files Numbers

• Legal Information • Financial Information • Assets and Liabilities / Debts Information

Personal Health and Medical Information Record - Complete one per household member • Medications List • Medical History • Well Woman Check List • Well Man Check List

ORANGE 'Getting Your Household Prepared' Pages 23-40Preparing Your Household – Complete one per household • Action Checklist • Household Inventory • Document Action ChecklistHousehold Contacts Record • Medical and Alternative Health Contacts • Our Household Emergency Contact Phone TreeGeneral and Emergency Contacts Record - Tune in, Log on, Listen out and Act • General Emergency Contacts • Bureau of Meteorology • Local Council, Flood Plan, Resilient Leaders - Web, Social Media and App details • Qld Disaster Management Services • Radio • Local and Surrounding Councils • Government • Schools • Local Contacts


‘What your Toolkit Includes’

Your Toolkit Contents


Records, Tools and Checklists Sections cont ...RED 'Getting Ready For An Emergency' Pages 41-58 Emergency Plan • Creating your Emergency Plan • Relocation and Meeting Places • House Plan • Assistance InformationEmergecy Kits • Get Ready to GO Kit • Get Ready to STAY Kit • Emergency Supplies ChecklistPets Plan

Information SectionsThe information sections are designed to help you work through the checklists, assist you in thinking about your own wishes and to aid in open discussion.

GREEN 'More Information' Pages 59-96 Life, Death and Bereavement • Information and Advice • Funeral Information and Advice • Cemetery Contact List (Gympie Region)Wills and Other Legal Information Staying Well and Healthy Medical Resilliance Information • Health and Medical Resilience • Contents of a Basic First Aid Kit • Current Medication List

‘What your Toolkit Includes’

IMPORTANT NOTE: Your confidential records contain personal information that identifies you. Keep all information and documentation in a secure place. Do not use the USB which contains this information for any other

purpose. If lost or used for any other purpose, your identity could be stolen.

Gympie Get Ready Resilience Toolkit

Personal and Family Information

Records

‘Getting Yourself Prepared’

Personal Information Record


Please fill in this Folio if you are:• This is your personal information and

each adult in the household should complete their own record for this section.

Please:• Fill in as much information as you can• Keep this Portfolio in a safe place and

let your family and friends know where it is.

Note: Electronic copies can be stored on USB, CD, Portable Hard Drive, iCloud or Drop-box

A Personal and Family Information RecordsThe purpose of this Personal Information Record is to help you identify and list important personal information and contacts in one place. It will also help identify the important documentation that you should keep together to include in your Get Ready Emergency Plan and Document Folder, as well as assisting your family or Executor with personal information during the difficult time following a loss.

This Personal Information Folio is for your own personal record. Keep it in a safe place.

Please note that this Information file is NOT a legal document and DOES NOT replace a Will. Be sure that you have made a Will and that it is up-to-date and keep it along with any other legal documents in your Get Ready Emergency Plan and Document Folder.




Personal Information DetailsPersonal InformationFull Name

Address

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

Religion

Place of Worship

Emergency Contacts1. Full Name

Address

Telephone

2. Full Name

Address

Telephone

3. Full Name

Address

Telephone




Name:

Family InformationFull Name of Spouse/Partner

Spouse or Partner’s Previous Surname

Date of Marriage

Place of Marriage

Full Name(s) of Children

Your Father’s Name

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

Your Mother’s Name

Date of Birth

Place of Birth




Medical InformationMedicare Number

Your Medical Practitioner’s Name

Clinic or Medical Centre

Address

Telephone

Name of Health Fund

Membership Number

Address

Telephone

Immunisations Records Held By

Blood Type

Medical Alerts(i.e. Allergies, Diabetes, Asthma)

Government Reference Files NumbersTax File Number

Registered Business Name

ABN/ACN Number

Pension Card Number

Seniors Card Number

Veteran Affairs Number

Centrelink Reference Number




LegalSolicitor Solicitor’s/Company Name

Contact Name

Address

Telephone

Appointed Responsibilities

Will Location of Will

Executor’s Name

Address

Telephone

Possessor of Current Will

Address

Telephone

Power of Attorney/Directives Power of Attorney - Enduring Location

Power of Attoney - Advanced Location

Health DirectiveOther Location

Y N

Y N

Y N




Financial AccountantAccountant/Company Name

Contact Name

Address

Telephone


Financial AdvisorAdvisor/Company Name

Contact Name

Address

Telephone


Funeral ArrangementsPrepaid/Prearranged information is located at

Funeral Director’s Name

Address

Telephone

Cemetry/Cremation (allotment)

Organ Donation

Note: Bequests should be detailed in your Will and you should discuss this with your Next-of-kin. For example: Special Request (e.g. no flowers…)




Bank/Credit Union/Building Society - AccountsBank

Telephone

Branch

Account Number

Bank

Telephone

Branch

Account Number

Bank

Telephone

Branch

Account Number

List Automatic Deductions and Nominated Account

Other Investments(including Shares, Stocks, Debentures)




SuperannuationName of Fund

Membership Number

Contact Details

Name of Fund

Membership Number

Contact Details

Name of Fund

Membership Number

Contact Details

Life InsuranceCompany

Policy Number

Company

Policy Number

Company

Policy Number

Company

Policy Number

Company

Policy Number




Assets and Liabilities / DebtsSafe DepositLocation

Location of Key

HouseOwnership/Mortgage Details

Address

Location of Title/s

Insurance Details

Car,Bike, Caravan and BoatOwnership/Finance Details

Vehicle Type

Registration Number

Insurance Policy No.

RACQ Membership Number

Location of Registration and Insurance Documents

Photos of Insured Vehicle/s and Date Taken

Copy of Photos stored at

Go Card

Go Via Toll Account Number




Collections

Name/Type Location Value Inventory/Photographed

Personal Loans

Item Company/Account Number Amount Owing Method/

Frequency

Hire Purchase


Frequency

Vehicle Finance Details

Vehicle Type Registration Number

Company/Account Number

Other Contracts (Internet, Mobile Phone)


Frequency

Y N

Y N




Notes




Personal Health and

Medical Information

Record


Personal Health & Medical Information Record


Medications ListDrug Name(brand/generic)

What it is for When it is taken

How much is taken

Side Effects/Issues

Name

Blood Type

Alerts and Allergies

Medical History Do you live with any of the following?

Heart Disorder

Asthma

Migraines

Fainting Spells

High Blood Pressure

Epilepsy

Thyroid Problems

Dizziness

Wear Glasses/Contacts

Have a Hearing Aid

Use Mobility Aids

Use Other Aid

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Y N

Important Note: Keep a copy of this with your-Get Ready Plan Documents



‘Getting Yourself Prepared’‘Getting Yourself Prepared’

Well Woman Check List

Test Last Test (month/year) Results

Next Test Due(month/year)

Questions for the Doctor

Weight (BMI)

Cholesterol Total

HDL (good)

LDL (bad)

Blood Pressure

Mammogram

Pap Smear

Colorectal Cancer

Diabetes

STI’s

HIV Infection

Bone Density

Depression

Eye Sight

Skin Check

Immunisations

Hearing Screen

Lifestyle Issues

• Always have your essential (or lifesaving) medications with you at all times.• This also applies to those in your care —children, elderly, a person requiring support or your pet/s. • Remember to always try to keep at least two weeks medications on hand. • Do not allow yourself to run out or have less than two weeks supply on hand. In emergencies, medical supplies and replacement scripts are harder to access.



‘Getting Yourself Prepared’ ‘Getting Yourself Prepared’

Personal Health and Medical Information Record

• Always have your essential (or lifesaving) medications with you at all times.• This also applies to those in your care —children, elderly, a person requiring support or your pet/s. • Remember to always try to keep at least two weeks medications on hand. • Do not allow yourself to run out or have less than two weeks supply on hand. In emergencies, medical supplies and replacement scripts are harder to access.

Well Man Check List

Test Last Test (month/year) Results

Next Test Due(month/year)

Questions for the Doctor

Weight (BMI)

Cholesterol Total

HDL (good)

LDL (bad)

Blood Pressure

Testicular Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Colorectal Cancer

Diabetes

STI’s

HIV Infection

Bone Density

Depression

Eye Sight

Skin Check

Immunisations

Hearing Screen

Lifestyle Issues




Preparing your Household


Preparing Your Household

‘Getting Your Household Prepared’

Preparing Your HouseholdAction Checklist Getting organised doesn’t just happen. There are certain things you need to think about and do, in order to prepare your household.

The following list of actions and associated templates for each one, are designed to get you thinking and help you on your way to getting ready.

Prepare your□ Personal Information Record

□ Medical Information Record

□ Household Inventory and Plan

□ Pet Plan

□ Emergency Plan

□ Emergency Kit

Additional Considerations□ When additional supports,

assistance, dietary or medical aids or requirements have been identified, make sure you include them in your plan. Also include how any identified need will be responded to.

□ Copy stored on USB, CD, iCloud or Dropbox.

Maintaining Records □ Keep Originals or Certified Copies of

all documents listed in your Personal Information Record in your sealed Get Ready Document Folder.

□ Scan copies of all important documents listed in your Personal Information Record and save to USB, CD, iCloud or Dropbox.

□ Complete the Get Ready Document Folder checklist to ensure all important documents have been located, scanned and included.

□ Keep your completed Personal Information Record, USB and Document Bag with your Get Ready Emergency Kit, in a safe, dry and accessible place which is known to all members of the Household.

□ Be sure to complete the Health and Medical Resilience checklists and make sure that all medications, personal aids and sanitary items needed by yourself and other household members are listed.




Household InventoryIdentify important itemsCreate a list of all the items you have that you really would not want to live without or could not replace if you had to. Ask each member of your household to do the same. Then get together to create a list and discuss the best way for these items to be protected and where they should be located. Take digital photos of these and review your list regularly. Try to identify the top three you would really want to protect or be able to save.

□ Photos taken of expensive items, copy scanned to USB, CD or Sent to ICloud

Large Items Compile a list of household items, include all large or expensive items Master copy is located: _______________________________ Backup copy is located: _______________________________

□ Photos taken of expensive items, copy scanned to USB, CD or Sent to ICloud

Collections□ Compile an inventory of CD, DVD,

Tools, Stamp and other Important Collections

Master copy is located: _______________________________ Backup copy is located: _______________________________

□ Copy scanned to USB/Sent to ICloud

□ Jewellery, Art etc itemised and valuations obtained:

Master copy is located: _______________________________ Backup copy is located: _______________________________

□ Copy scanned to USB/Sent to iCloud or Dropbox.

Digital Records and Documentation□ Digital photographic record of above

items stored off site

□ Back up copy of all important computer files made

□ Copy stored off site, portable hard drive or sent to iCloud or Dropbox.

□ Digital copies of your family photographs, awards, certificates and documents made.

□ Back up stored off site, portable hard drive or sent to iCloud or Dropbox.

Insurance□ Review insurance policies and

coverage to ensure it is current and reflects your current needs.

□ If unsure, check your current coverage arrangements with your insurer.




Document Action Checklist

Check List

Item Located Scanned Copy in Folder

Insurance PoliciesIncludes policies for house or personal effects and vehicles – these record your rights under the policy as well as procedures for renewal or cancellation.

Registration DocumentsIncludes all vehicles registered by you and members of your household. Maintain records of chassis and engine numbers of unregistered vehicles and take digital photographs where possible.

Passports, Copies of Drivers Licence (and Bank Cards)These are important documents in confirming your identity.

Birth and Marriage CertificatesThese document important family history and to confirm your identity.

Your WillThis is a legal document which expresses your wishes in regard to distributions of your property after your death. It authorises a person (your executor) to act according to your wishes. It also prevents confusion arising among dependents, relatives and friends. It should reflect your current wishes.

Legal Directives Keep copies of your Advanced Health Directives and Power of Attorney documents with your Will. Record the date they were made on a calendar to remind you when they are due for review or renewal.

Property Deeds and Titles These include the title to your house and land. They prove ownership of your property. If the property is under mortgage, the original title will be held by the mortgagee (bank, building society etc).

Lease AgreementsThese papers provide details in relation to any property that your are leasing.

Taxation RecordsYou should keep copies of at least your most recent returns and assessments. This assists someone in deciding how to deal with financial affairs.

Life Insurance/SuperannuationThese provide a record of payments and income to which you are entitled.

The following is a checklist of papers which should be in order and kept in a safe place




Check List - continued

Item Located Scanned Copy in Folder

Papers representing other assetsshare, debentures, etcThese represent your title to (sometimes quite) valuable property.

Details of bank accounts and other investmentsSee: Personal Information Record – it provides information as to where money and/or mortgage is held.

Contract and AgreementsInclude all legal agreements you have entered into, where you are owed money or services or where you are legally obliged to honour a debt. This include any direct debit arrangements such as mobile phone or higher purchase agreements

Pre-Paid Information for your funeralAny arrangements that you have already made about your funeral and especially a pre-paid contract should be kept with this folder.

Notes

The above papers should be kept in a secure place (e.g. bank safe deposit, trustee company, and / or solicitor). The enclosed Personal Information folio allows you to record the places in which those papers are kept. Scanned copies should be kept on a portable USB, Portable Hard Drive, CD, iCloud or Dropbox as a back up.




Get Ready Action Checklist and Personal Folio Name of Family Member Name of Family Member

Health and Medical Information Check List Name of Family Member Name of Family Member

□ All important documents included in Folder

□ Certified copies stored at (location)

□ Copies scanned to USB, CD or sent to to iCloud or Dropbox.Pets Plan□ Pet information completed□ Save my Pet sticker completed□ Save my Pet sticker adhered in prominent location□ Relocation plan arrangements made□ Pet Survival Kit compiled□ Vet records up to date (included in Pet Evacuation Kit)□ Vaccinations up to date Date of Vaccination/sEmergency Kits□ Get Ready on-the-go emergency kit compiled□ Get Ready Stay emergency equipment and supplies compiledWallet Card□ 'In Case of Emergency' (I.C.E) contacts as a wallet card or sticker on your phone

Household Members included in this folio




Household Contacts

Record


Household Contacts Record


Personal Contacts RecordMedical and Alternative Health ContactsName Expertise Contact Details

Household Contact ListOur Emergency Contact Phone Tree

Name Mobile Phone Daytime Phone Email Address

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Use this contact list to include all other important contacts not previously included in your personal information record. Use the spaces provided to enter names and phone numbers

(a pencil may be a good idea), of all those who might be relevant contacts




Name

Contact List Name Contact DetailsDoctor

Faith Leader

Family Members

Employer

Solicitor

Executor of Will

Banks/Credit Unions

Insurance

Accountant

Financial Advisor

Health Benefit Fund

Department Store(Accounts Payable)

Professional Bodies

Clubs

Community Services

Service Organisations

Subscriptions




Contact List PhoneWater Supplier

Gas Supplier

Electricity Supplier

Telephone Supplier/Landline

Telephone Supplier/Mobile

Internet Service Supplier

Cable TV

Pet Registration

Council

Dept. of Veterens Affairs (Case Manager)

Dept. of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR)

Dept. of Communities contact

Transport and Main Roads (Registration and Licence)

Home/Community Care Service

Meals on Wheels

Nursing Service

Taxation Office

Electoral Office (State and Commonwealth)

Australia Post

Home Deliveries (Newspaper, Milk etc)

Go Card

Go Via Account

Direct Debits

RACQ/Road Side Assistance




General and Emergency

Contacts Record


General and Emergency Contacts Record


General Emergency ContactsLife Threating EmergenciesPolice - Fire - Ambulance 000 (112 from Mobiles)

'Triple Zero'emergency.qld.gov.aucommunitysafety.qld.gov.au

Emergency ServicesSES 132 500 emergency.qld.gov.au/ses

Power Supply/OutagesDowned Power Lines

South East QLD Energex 13 19 62 energex.com.au

Northern areas of Gympie and other QLD Ergon 13 16 70 ergon.com.au

Supply and Outages

South East QLD Energex 13 62 62 energex.com.au

Northern areas of Gympie and other QLD Ergon 13 22 96 ergon.com.au

General Enquiries Energex 13 12 53 energex.com.au

Telecommunications/InternetTelstra 132 203 Skymesh 1300 759 637

Optus 1300 307 937 Westnet 19 19 60

Vodafone 1300 650 410 (free call 1555 from mobile) iiNet 13 22 58

AnimalsWildlife Hotline 1300 130 372

RSPCA 1300 852 188 rspcaqld.org.au/emergencies

Lost/Missing Animal 3426 9999 rspca.org.au/lostandfound

Disease Watch Hotline 1800 675 888 daff.qld.gov.au/31_88.htm




‘Know Where to Access Reliable Local Information’

Bureau of MeteorologyQLD Weather and Warnings bom.gov.au

QLD Tropical Cyclone Warnings 1300 659 212 bom.gov.au/cyclone

QLD Land Weather and Flood Warnings 1300 659 212 bom.gov.au/qld/flood

QLD Coastal Marine Warnings 1300 360 427 bom.gov.au/marine

Australian Tsunami Threat Information

1300 TSUNAMI1300 878 626 bom.gov.au/tsunami

Websites, Social Media and Smart Phone AppsGympie Regional Council 1300 307 800 gympie.qld.gov.au

Local Disaster Coordination Centre 5482 6399 (only when activated)

Gympie's Resilience Program gympie.qld.gov.au/bubble

Gympie Flood Plan (via the Gympie Chamber of Commerce) gympiechamber.com.au/floodplan

Gympie's Resilient Leaders Network facebook.com/GympieResilientLeadersNetwork

GRC - Business and Industry Development facebook.com/GympieRegionalCouncilEconomicDevelopment

Gympie Get Ready Resiliennce Toolkit App £ android £ iPhone

Ready QLD App £ android £ iPhone

Emergency Aus App £ android £ iPhone

QLD Disaster Management ServicesQLD Disaster Management Services disaster.qld.gov.au

Bush Fire Warnings fire.qld.gov.au

QLD Disaster Warnings and Alerts disaster.qld.gov.au/warnings_and_alerts

Volunteering Queensland volunteeringqld.org.au

Emergency Volunteering emergencyvolunteering.com.au

So you can, Tune in, Log on, Listen out and Act




ABC Local RadioGympie 1566 AM (4GM)

Gympie 95.3 FM (4SCR)

Pialba-Dundowran (Wide Bay) 855 AM (4QB)

Wide Bay 100.1 FM (4ABCRR)

Sunshine Coast 90.3 FM (4SCR)

Other Local Radio4GY 558 AM and 107.1 FM

Cooloola Christian Radio 91.5 FM

Zinc 96.1 FM

Hot 91.1 FM

Mix 92.7 FM

Sunshine 104.9 FM

ABC Radio NationalGympie 96.9 FM (4ABCRN)

Wide Bay 100.9 FM (4ABCRN)

ABC News RadioGympie 94.5 FM (4PNN)

Wide Bay 97.7 FM 94PNN)

ABC Classic FMGympie 93.7 FM (4ABCFM)

Wide Bay 98.5 FM (4ABCFM)

Tune in, Log on, Listen out and Act

Emergency Alert is a telephone warning system that authorities can use to provide warnings to communities.

Emergency Alert can be used to send voice alerts via landline telephones based on the location of the handset, and text alerts to mobile phones based on the billing address.

It is for use in a range of emergency situations, including extreme weather events and bush res. ou are not charged and will not have to pay for the alert. Importantly, you cannot opt out of receiving emergency alerts.

If you receive an Emergency Alert, you need to listen carefully to the advice provided and act immediately. Voice messages will be repeated if you hold the line. ou may be directed to

nalise preparations, secure items around your home, shelter in place or commence evacuation to your predetermined safer location. For further information go to: www.disaster.qld.gov.au/ea/emergencyalert.asp

ts.

d to act ted

When warnings are issued for major emergencies, relevant authorities may use the Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) prior to providing information on the emergency.

SEWS is a wailing siren sound used throughout Australia for serious emergency events such as severe cyclone, bush re, ood and storm. When you hear the signal on radio, television or over the phone via Emergency Alert messages, pay careful attention to the information that follows and act immediately on the advice given.

To listen to the SEWS go to:

www.disaster.qld.gov.au/disasters/warning.asp

disast er.qqldd.g.govov.a.au/u disa sters/q g / /ng.as ppg pp

- TUNE IN -

- and ACT -

- LO

G O

N -

- LISTEN O

UT -

Standard EmergencyWarning Signal

-LO

GO

N-

St

T N




Local Council ContactsGympie Regional Council 1300 307 800 gympie.qld.gov.au

Gympie Cooloola Tourism 1800 444 222 cooloola.org.au

Gympie Chamber of Commerce

0417 380 417(secretary) gympiechamber.com.au

Surrounding CouncilsSunshine Coast 5475 7272 sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Fraser Coast 1300 794 929 frasercoast.qld.gov.au

South Burnett 4162 6200 southburnett.qld.gov.au

Government

Helath and Hospitals 13 HEALTH13 43 25 health.qld.gov.au

Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26

Schools education.qld.gov.au

Department of Community Safety communitysafety.qld.gov.au

Centrelink humanservices.gov.au

Department of Communities communities.qld.gov.au/gateway

Road ClosuresSouth East QLD 13 19 40

Other QLD 1300 130 595




Gympie Non-Government SchoolsCooloola Christian College 5482 1222 1 College Road, Gympie

St Patrick’s College 5482 3816 2-21 Church Street, Gympie

St Patrick’s Primary 5482 3293 18-26 Church Street, Gympie

Victory College 5482 8206 173 Old Maryborough Road, Gympie

Gympie Government SchoolsAmamoor Primary 5401 1333 Elizabeth St, Amamoor

Barambah Environmental Education Centre - School excursions

4168 8190 301 A Flat Rd, Wrattens Forest Via Goomeri

Chatsworth Primary and Preschool 5481 3777 15 Rammutt Rd, Chatsworth

Dagun Primary 5484 3232 Dagun Rd, Dagun

Goomeri State School 4169 6200 5 Munro St, Goomeri

Gunalda State School 5484 6211 King St, Gunalda

Gympie Central Primary 5480 2111 Lawrence St, Gympie

Gympie East Primary 5487 7111 Cedar Pocket Rd, Cedar Pocket

Gympie High 5489 8333 Everson Rd, Gympie

Gympie South Primary 5483 0444 50 Exhibition Rd, Gympie

Gympie Special School 5480 2333 Cootharaba Rd, Gympie




Gympie Government Schools continuedGympie West 5489 8200 41 Cartwright Rd, Gympie

James Nash High 5480 6333 Myall St, Gympie

Jones Hill Primary and Preschool 5489 0555 21 McIntosh Creek Rd, Gympie

Kandanga Primary 5484 3267 84 Main St, Kandanga

Kia Ora Primary 5486 5229 Anderleigh Rd, Kia Ora

Kilkivan State School 5487 3333 6 Council St, Kilkivan

Mary Vallery State College 5488 5333 Edward St, Imbil

Monkland Primary and Preschool 5489 8888 220 Brisbane Rd, Gympie

One Mile Primary 5480 2777 John St, Gympie

Rainbow Beach Primary 5486 3256 Warooga Rd, Rainbow Beach

Theebine State School 5484 6206 28 Scrub Rd, Theebine

Tin Can Bay P – 10 5488 1222 Snapper Creek Rd, Tin Can Bay

Two Mile Primary 5482 1751 Bruce Hwy, Gympie

Widgee Primary 5484 0138 Woolooga Rd, Widgee

Widgee State School, Widgee 5484 0888 2156 Gympie-Woolooga Rd,

Widgee

Wolvi Primary 5487 6777 936 Kin Kin Rd, Wolvi

Woolooga State School 5484 7171 26 Edwards Rd, Woolooga




Local Contacts Name TelephoneSES 132 500

Police Station

Fire

Ambulance

Doctor

Hospital

Council 1300 307 800

Insurance Provider

Electricity Supplier

Childcare Provider

Primary School

High School

Internet Provider

Workplace

Workplace

Friends

Friends

Neighbour

Neighbour

Other




Emergency Plan


Emergency Plan

‘Getting Ready for an Emergency’

Name of person who will contact support list:

Care and Support StrategiesCarer and Support Contact Number Role/Agency

My Shelter in Place strategy is:

My Relocation strategy is:

Include when relocation will be needed

Creating Your Emergency Plan


Emergency Plan


Relocation and Meeting PlacesPlanned RelocationDestination ONE

Mode of Transport Distance

Route

Route Alternative

¨ Map/s attached

Destination TWO

Mode of Transport Distance

Route

Route Alternative

¨ Map/s attached

Meeting Places and Contacts

LocalAgreed neighbourhood meeting place

Local contact Role

Address

Phone Email

Out of Town Out of town meeting place

Out of town contact Role

Address

Phone Email

If possible plan to leave early enough to head to family or friends in a safe place


Emergency Plan


Our Emergency Contact Phone TreeName Mobile Phone Daytime Phone Email Address

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Include Other Important Details Here

Each person calls the next person on the list to minimise time on the phone - Refer to Personal and Household Contact Numbers List


Emergency Plan


Location of Important Emergency and Evacuation EquipmentItem Location Safety check date Comment

Get Ready Document Folder

Emergency Supplies Kit

Copies of this Plan

Fire Alarms

Fire Extinguishers

Fire Blanket

First Aid Kit

Mains Power Switch

Water and Gas Meters

Gas Bottles

Generators

Water Pumps

Sand Bags

List and Other Safety Equipment


Emergency Plan


Sketch your house plan here:–

Remember to indicate all exits and meeting places.


Emergency Plan


Assistance InformationLanguage and Communication

Name Language Spoken

English Speaking Supporter

Supporter Contact Number

Mobility/Vision/Hearing/Medications and Aids

Item Where is it Kept? Extras (batteries, charger etc)

Other Equipment

Item Where is it Kept? Extras (batteries, charger etc)


Emergency Plan


Notes




Emergency Kits



Emergency Kits - Get Ready To GO

72 hour on-the-go KitVehicle, Caravan and Boating kitPeople do a lot of touring through and around Gympie and boating on our dams and glorious coast line. For these people, having a 72 hour kit for your vehicle, boat or caravan is just as important as having one for home. Any seasoned 4 wheel driver will tell you that having the right equipment on board goes a long way to curbing feelings associated with being unprepared for emergency situations. If packed properly, a 72 hour on-the-go kit will give you everything you need to sustain you for 3 days.Having one of these for your car, caravan and boat can be used in the case of an emergency evacuation, or if your car stalls in a remote location where there is no immediate way to signal to get help. Adding a few items to the boot for an unforeseen situation will not only help you prepare, but also keep you safe and focused on finding a solution.

¨ 3 Day Supply of Food (basic cutlery, cups and plates) ¨ Water – 3lts per person per day (consider expandable water bladders) ¨ Water Purification Tablets/pump ¨ Reliable Can opener ¨ Blankets made of natural fibres ¨ Emergency Shelter ¨ Torch or other Light Source ¨ Extra Batteries ¨ Rain Poncho ¨ Work Gloves ¨ Knife or Multi Purpose Tool ¨ Chains For Tyres (when applicable) ¨ Small Shovel or Collapsible Shovel ¨ Rope (winch) ¨ Air Compressor (to inflate tyres) ¨ Fix-a-Flat and Extra Tyre ¨ Waterproof Matches ¨ signalling device such as a flare, mirror, whistle or light stick ¨ Extra clothes compatible to the season

¨ Hand and foot warmers (optional but very effective if you need to be in the cold weather for a long period of time) ¨ 2 Extra pairs of socks ¨ Extra shirt/jacket for layering ¨ Leather gloves ¨ Toiletries (toilet paper, soap, etc.) ¨ First Aid Kit (appropriate for Touring, boating or camping) ¨ Maps and navigation devices (compass, GPS device, etc) ¨ Working Radio – Listen out for Warnings ¨ UHF Radio ¨ Smart phone and charger to access important websites gympie.qld.gov.au; disaster.gov. au; bom.gov.au; RACQ.org.au ¨ Resealable plastic bags/large garbage bags ¨ 50 litres of extra Petrol ¨ Standard safety equipment as required by law (i.e. boating) ¨ Roadside assistance number

To prepare a 72hr on-the-go kit use a plastic container and fill it with the following items (this is a suggested list only):



Emergency Kits - Get Ready To STAY

StayEquipment and Supplies ListHaving a short term food supply on hand is a standard recommendation of all preparedness organisations including Red Cross and Queensland Government. Experts suggest having a three day to a fourteen day food (and medication) supply on hand during periods of extreme weather. However, for one reason or another, many of us do not have this supply of food and medications on hand.

Maybe we think that is too expensive or on overkill and we don’t really need to worry about it. However, our local experience has shown us that certain areas of the region do get cut off when we flood and locals have run out of medicines and important medical aids. When extreme weather is imminent, we have been known to panic buy, when really we don’t have to, if we just plan a little better.

Adding an extra $5 to $20 to the grocery list for purchasing a short term food supply would adequately supply a family within the recommended list of items within about a month.

This list is designed to help you work out the types of things to add to your emergency supply list.

Things to Look for When Buying FoodThink about how much food each person consumes in a day and then consider: • The number of people in the household • The variety of food required to avoid flavour boredom • The serving amount of the food • Vitamin content of the food • The expiration date or check ‘use’ or ‘best by’ labels on the food and • The special health or dietary considerations of household members

The following Check list represents the start of a suggested shopping list. Why not mark each item off as you purchase it?



Emergency Kits - Get Ready

Drinks Dried and Long Life FoodBottled water (3l/person/day) Ready-to-eat meals

Concentrated juice/sports drinks Breakfast cereal

Consider expandable water bladder Flour/bread mix

Baby Supplies Milk powder/uht milk

Baby food/baby formula Soup mix

Nappies and wipes Dried vegetables

Pet Food Rice, pasta and noodles

Canned/dry pet food Long-life cheeses

Medications and vet records Tea/coffee/sugar

Ready To Eat can/bottle Snack FoodCanned meat Dried fruits

Canned fish Nuts

Canned fruit Biscuits

Juice Crackers

Canned beans Snack bars

Canned vegetables Particular Dietary NeedsCanned soup

Pasta sauce




Health Supplies Medications/ToiletriesFirst aid kit Toilet paper rolls

Adult and children analgesics/ Pain medication Soap and shampoo/conditioner

Face masks Personal hygiene and sanitary products

Protective gloves Prescribed medications and dosage lists

Thermometer Personal and mobility aids (walkers, glasses, contacts hearing aids)

Alcohol-based hand wash/gel/wipes Medical records

Refer to medical checklist in health and medical resilience section

¨ Copy attached here

Household Cleaning Emergency PowerRubbish bags Cord phone (non electric)

Tissues and paper towels Batteries

Disinfectant Portable radio

House/laundry cleaning Torch, candles

Homemade cleaning products Whistle

Resealable plastic bags Manual can opener

Gas cooker and fuel

Waterproof matches/fire lighter




Safety Equipment (and things to take)General To Take

Protective clothing (hat, shirt jeans) Kids toys and games

Leather gloves and sturdy shoes Cash and wallet

Shovel First aid kit/equipment

Safety goggles Water and medications

Ladder Spare keys

Blankets Mobile phone and charger

Towels Laptop/ipad

Sandbags (one for each toilet and internal drain)

Your get ready document bag, usb, cd portable hard drive.

Safety mask

IN CASE OF FIRE add mop, hose, bucket and knapsack sprayer

Add other Items Here




Pets Plan


Pets Plan


Creating Your Pet/s PlanIdentifying Alternative ShelterFor public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Although this is changing slowly and is generally limited to small dogs and cats. Snakes and other reptiles are generally not able to housed in shelters.

Well in advance of needing to call on them, it would be best if you could find a family or friend who may be able to take your pet/s in for a short time. Finding out which motels and hotels in the area will allow you to bring your pets with you is also suggested. There are a number of guides that list hotels/motels and Caravan parks that permit pets and could serve as a starting point.

Include your local animal shelter’s number in your list of emergency numbers, as they might be able to provide additional information concerning pets during a disaster.

Contacts and Notes

Vet and Care ContactsName/Company Address Telephone

Vet

Kennel/Cattery

Alternative Carer


Pets Plan


Pet Details

Name Breed/Description

Sex De-sexed

Micro-Chip Number

Council Rego Number

1 M/F Y/N

2 M/F Y/N

3 M/F Y/N

4 M/F Y/N

Pet Survival KitThese are things to take with your pet/s ¨ Dried or canned pet food ¨ Bottled water (500ml per day) ¨ Medications ¨ Medical history and veterinary records ¨ Cat litter and tray ¨ Can opener ¨ Food dishes ¨ First aid kit and other supplies ¨ Collars, leads and pet registration ID ¨ Pet carrier ¨ Current photo of your pet ¨ Attach your name address and phone number to each pet. If your pet goes missing during an evacuation, if possible, attach a ‘Please Save My Pets' sticker to your letter box

Make sure identification tags are up to date and securely fastened to your pet’s collar. If possible, attach the address and/or phone number of your evacuation site. If your pet gets lost, their tag is their ticket home. Make sure you have a current photo of your pet for identification purposes.

Make sure you have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness for your pet so that if panicked, they can’t escape.

Note: Changes to your pet’s diet can cause tummy upsets, so make sure the food you put in their emergency kit is what they would normally eat.


Pets Plan


To obtain your stickerVisit Council Offices or call 1300 307 800

to arrange one to be sent to you

Please Save My Pets StickerIf you need to leave your premises and cannot take your pet/s, the ‘Please Save My Pets’ sticker should be placed in a prominent location to assist emergency services to reunite you with your pet/s.




Life, Death and Bereavement

Information


Life, Death and Bereavement Information

More Information

Completion now of the personal information (included in the Get Ready Document Folder) should ensure that all relevant information is available at the time it is needed, whatever that situation may be.

This section of the kit also includes the names of the people or organisations that may be able to help during difficult times, as well as people that understand grief and are able to offer practical advice.

This section contains

Life and Death Information

• Some information about the kinds of feelings people experience when they lose someone close to them• Advice on what to do when death occurs• Facts about funerals• A checklist of who to notify in the event of death• An explanation about the kind of help you can get from Federal and State Government Departments and other agencies

Life, Death and Bereavement InformationThis section provides information about bereavement, things to consider about getting your personal affairs in order and all the life and death related information we don’t normally like to talk about.

We know its hard to talk about, so laying out this information in a step-by-step process means that we can systematically work through these difficult discussions, while making sure our true intensions are clear and documented. While this kit has been designed for personal and family use, it can also be used by Carers and family members of those whom are critically ill as an aid to documenting these types of discussions.

It’s primary aim is to encourage you and your family to keep all of your personal papers up-to-date and in a safe place known to family and friends. Once compiled and documented, they form an important foundation for your Get Ready Document Folder, which forms part of your Household Emergency Plan.

Keeping all this information together will assist if there is a death in your family, where the existence of this kit will help as a guide to the necessary formalities.



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guilt as well as other difficulties. These distressing feelings and problems fade as a bereaved person moves into a final stage of grieving as they find new ways of thinking about themselves, developing new roles, relationships and a new sense of purpose. It is important to remember that grief is painful, often long lasting and experienced differently by each individual and above all, is perfectly normal.

Initially there are often many people around who can offer support, but as they disperse and get back to their own busy lives, there may be a long time of loneliness and gradual readjustment. During this time, it is better not to make important or hasty decisions. It is very important that the grieving person has someone with whom to share their memories and yearning. With the right support, one can soon reach a state of equilibrium.

There are support groups which exist to help grieving people.Further information on the personal support which is available for those in grief can be provided by contacting Lifeline 13 11 14.

What action is needed immediately after a death?

In a medical emergency, call an ambulance. If death occurs at home, a doctor, preferably the deceased person’s own doctor, must be contacted. Once a doctor has attended, if you wish, you can call family or friends to allow them to visit to say their final farewell. In certain religious faiths, it is important for

Information and Advice

The experience of grief

When people lose someone very close to them, or with whom they have shared a lifetime, it is often hard to believe that it has really happened. The experience of grief which follows is the normal reaction to such a loss. It is usually painful and distressing and may take several years to resolve, but in itself it is not a problem that needs professional treatment. However, it has the potential to become a quite serious problem if it is not managed effectively.

While people normally vary in their experiences of grief, the stages or components of the grief process are common to all who have suffered personal loss. Some knowledge of the process can help build a sense of security, as there is often a feeling of being alone and that there will be no end to the feeling of loss.

A common first reaction is shock and denial, this is marked by dazed feelings of unreality, numbness and for some people, periods of heightened activity. Often a lot of time is spent thinking about the deceased, concentrating on the good memories and as a result, increasing the sense of loss.

A more difficult stage in the grief process follows, during which people may suffer from apathy, withdrawal, anger, despair,



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sense and judgement; and don’t add to your distress by trying too hard to follow wishes of other members of the family (or, even of the deceased) which may not be practical. A funeral is an emotional time. Don’t be surprised if extreme feelings are aroused within yourself and other family members—they will soon be forgotten. Meanwhile, while it is never easy, you have the job of making the necessary arrangements. Try to be satisfied with making the best of that job as you reasonably can.

Death Certificates

A funeral will not take place until a Death Certificate has been issued.

If the person died at home his/her doctor will issue a Death Certificate unless death was due to an accident or occurred in unusual circumstances, or the doctor cannot determine the cause of death. In this case, the doctor will report the death to the Coroner. An autopsy, or post – mortem examination, may then be required.

If the death occurred in a hospital, a Death Certificate will be completed by the hospital staff when the cause of death has been established.

When will the Coroner need to be involved?

A deceased person is taken to the State Coroner’s Office if the death is deemed to be a 'Reportable Death'.

the person to be bathed, and dressed in chosen attire, this may be done if deemed appropriate.

Police are advised only if the death was due to an accident, occurred in unusual circumstances, or if the doctor is unable to establish the cause of death.

What families need to know

Where applicable, advise the family faith leader. Often they will be a family friend. They will be familiar with death and burial procedures and can be of great practical assistance on such matters as selection of a funeral director, quite apart from their involvement in the funeral itself.

If you haven’t already, advise family, friends, relatives and the executor of the will (if there is one). When you are ready, call your chosen funeral director who will arrange to come and take the person back to the funeral home. They will also arrange a time to meet with you so that suitable arrangements can be made.

If you are unsure of what to do, contact one of the following, who may be able to help:

¨ Centrelink¨ Places of worship¨ Employer¨ Hospital social worker or welfare staff¨ Department of Veterans’ Affairs¨ Ex-Service organisations, Clubs or¨ Community Health Centre

Perhaps most importantly, don’t be afraid to be guided by your own common



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report is prepared for the Coroner, which outlines medical findings and conclusions. The Coroner takes this information into account when making a finding.

The next of kin has a legal right to file an objection to an autopsy being conducted and the Coroner will take into consideration any such objection.

Registration of Death

One of the most important things that must be taken care of is the 'Registration of Death'. The appropriate form can be obtained from the 'Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages' or from funeral directors. In most cases registration will be dealt with by the funeral director.

Advising Government Departments

If a deceased person was receiving a pension or benefits through Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the relevant department should be notified of the death promptly and certainly within 14 days. This will avoid overpayments of pension and ensure that appropriate benefits are received by surviving dependents.

Section 8, Coroners Act 2003 (QLD) describes a 'Reportable Death' as a death that:

• Involves a person whose identity is not known• Was violent or otherwise unnatural• Happened under suspicious

circumstances• Was a health care related death• Occurred while in care or custody• Resulted during the course of Police

Operations.

All 'Reportable Deaths' must be investigated by the Coroner. Usually a police officer or a medical practitioner will notify the Coroner of any death that may be a 'Reportable Death'. It is open however, to any person to notify the Coroner if they believe that a 'Reportable Death' has occurred.

A 'Reportable Death' may result in an autopsy being performed. Your funeral director will arrange with the Coronial Service Centre for the transfer of the deceased.

When is an Autopsy Necessary?

An autopsy or post-mortem is a physical examination of a person’s body conducted by a pathologist. An autopsy can help explain the cause of death and is part of the coronial investigation into 'Reportable Deaths'. Once a pathologist has all the results of the tests, a detailed



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funeral arrangements must be made with special care. It is extremely important to assess before hand exactly how much money can be spent. Don’t be influenced by concern that you’ll be thought mean or lacking in respect when deciding how much to spend on the funeral (see the ‘Facts about Funerals’ section in this kit).

Clearly, it is of benefit if any wishes which individuals may have about their funeral arrangements are made known before death. Sensible and open discussion of these matters before death will greatly ease the burden on grieving relatives.

The funeral director’s role

Most funeral directors carry out all procedures necessary for burial or cremation, including removing the body to their own premises; taking care of all necessary registrations, permits and paperwork; arranging the time, place and type of service (but generally, not for a church service); arranging notices and flowers if required; and preparing the body for the funeral. They will also organise everything on the day of the funeral and see that it runs smoothly.

Other matters

There will be financial and other matters relating to the deceased that will require attention. Some financial matters must be attended to by the Executor of the deceased’s Will.

Funeral Information and Advice

Arranging a funeral

Arrangements for the funeral should be commenced as soon after the death as is conveniently possible. Arrangements are generally carried out by the Executor of the Will, or alternatively, by the Next-of-Kin. Close friends or neighbours may also be able to assist, however, it is important that the Executor or their formal authorised representative be the person who signs all relevant cremation and interment forms.

If the deceased has not expressed any wishes about a funeral director, and if you have had no previous experience in selecting one, a faith leader or the family doctor are often in a good position to advise.

If the funeral has been pre-arranged you should contact the funeral director involved so that they may carry out the arrangements set out on the Pre-Paid Funeral Certificate.

If you have concerns about seeking a funeral director or of the cost involved, the Australian Funeral Directors Association (AFDA) can provide advice. The Qld office (Brisbane) can be contacted on 1300 888 188.

The funeral may prove to be a substantial charge against the estate. If there is no estate or if it is not a large one, then all



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What about pre-paid funerals?

Arranging a pre-paid funeral provides the following advantages:

• It ‘fixes’ costs at an agreed figure, with no future increases no matter when death occurs

• It can be beneficial where ‘deeming’ is concerned

• It removes a financial burden from the surviving family

• Money paid is not classed as an asset for tax purposes

The pre-paid funeral plan is established by entering a written contract with your chosen funeral director. The contract will specify exactly the requirements of your service, how much each item costs, and a total cost including any ‘establishment fees’ and/or any ‘administration costs’.

Payment is made for the agreed amount and the money is placed in trust for future use. Copies of all documents are kept by the funeral director. Make sure you receive copies for your records as well as a receipt for any money handed over.

You will need to determine if the cemetery component is included or not. All funeral and cemetery information needs to be kept with the Will for instant reference upon a death.

Facts about funerals

When someone dies a funeral director is usually contacted to provide the servicesrequired by the family.

A large and often bewildering number of funeral directors are available for you to choose from. Most funeral directors belong to the AFDA (The Australian Funeral Directors Association). Membership of a professional association guarantees that the company selected will be able to meet your needs with dignity and respect.

Can a funeral be pre-arranged?

Many people choose to arrange their own funeral in advance. Doing so allows personal decisions to be made and the opportunity to record in detail any specific requests and wishes. It also alleviates stress for family and friends at a difficult time. This involves ‘pre-paying’ for the service with a specific funeral director, before it is required.

NOTE: Be aware of the difference between funeral insurance policies and arranging a pre-paid funeral.



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What sort of questions should I ask?

Some of the questions you may wish to ask include:

• Is the cost ‘fixed’ at the agreed price regardless of inflation or price increases?

• Where is the money held?• Who receives any interest or dividends

paid?• Can the funeral details be changed?• Can the cost be applied towards either

partner or spouse?• Where applicable, are all domestic

relationships recognised?• Do I get copies of all the documents to

keep?• What happens if death occurs whilst

away from home (e.g. interstate)?• What happens if the funeral director is

no longer in business when needed?• What items are not covered?

How do I know my money is safe?

The Funerals Benefits Business Act 1982 establishes precisely where your money must be placed for future use. The financial institution nominated to hold the funds paid, in trust, requires a ‘Transfer Authority’, signed by you (the applicant) to accompany the application forms necessary to establish the Trust Fund. This enables the financial institution to release the funds held to the funeral director once they are notified that the contract has been completed, that is– the funeral has taken place.

You must understand that a pre-paid funeral plan is a legal contract and cannot be ended except in special circumstances, such as failure of the funeral organiser’s business. If the contract has been ended, the funeral organiser must return your money, less any administrative or brokerage fee paid or any legal interest the organiser holds in the funeral contract.

The Office of Fair Trading (QLD) is the body responsible for ensuring that all funeral directors comply with the Act.

The Office of Fair Trading (QLD) can be contacted on 13 74 68.



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representatives, get written quotations and then after satisfying yourself that they represent ‘good value’ make your choice. Slow this process down, it can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars for the same service.

The ‘arrangement contract’ that should be completed at the time you give instructions to the funeral director (which you should be given a copy of), will include such items as funeral directors fees and disbursements.

Funeral Director’s fees

You can expect the Funeral Director’s fee to include such things as:

• The cost for arranging and conducting the funeral

• The cost of transferring the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home

• Viewing or seeing the person again before the funeral

• Mortuary expenses• Administrative costs and• Charges for vehicles

Once again, ask what the items are for, how much they are and add them up to get a proper total of the cost that the company is going to charge you in addition to disbursements.

What about the costs?

A funeral can be a very expensive business, and it is a good idea for the person organising the funeral to obtain written quotes from several funeral directors in the area before making a final decision. Remember that the person arranging the funeral may be held responsible for any outstanding balance if there is not enough money from the estate to cover expenses. A simple inexpensive ceremony can be just as beautiful and meaningful as an elaborate funeral, but not as draining on the resources of those who must start a new life. The questions of what is desired and can be afforded should be firmly decided beforehand, if possible with assistance from family, friends or the faith leader. The person arranging the funeral should not allow themselves to be persuaded to spend more money than is desired or necessary. Do not leave everything to the funeral director.

Funeral costs will vary with the type of funeral service you arrange (for example, a burial is often more expensive than a cremation), and with the company you choose. Costs of individual companies vary tremendously as well, so be prepared to call several companies, both large and small. Remember that disbursed costs (e.g. for Doctor’s certificates or the cremation fee – see below) should be identical for any company you choose. Only the charges made by the individual company for the services they provide will be different. Arrange to talk personally with their



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current fees and charges of burials/ internment of ashes in any of the region’s cemeteries.

What about additional services?

Additional services provided by Funeral Directors include:

EmbalmingThis is usually mandatory for repatriation back to one’s homeland. Regulations will be available from the appropriate Consulate and will be followed by your Funeral Director at your request. Embalming is not a legal requirement at any other time.

ViewingPrior to the funeral there is an opportunity to see the deceased. This is known as a ‘viewing’ and usually occurs in the Funeral Director’s premises.

Deaths away from homeYour chosen Funeral Director will be able to arrange a service to meet your requirements. Such arrangements may involve the person to be brought back home for a funeral service or alternatively, arranging for the funeral to take place at the place of death and then returning home for memorialisation with cremation remains.

Disbursements

Disbursements are money paid on your behalf, at your instruction for items provided which might include:

• Newspaper notices• Cemetery or Crematorium costs• Honorarium for Faith Leader or Civil

Celebrant Fee• Doctor’s Certificates (for cremation

only)• Flowers• Memorialisation costs (i.e. a plaque to

mark a grave)• Monumental costs and masonry

charges• The coffin, casket or urn (are all fittings

and handles included in the price?)

Check carefully and make sure everything that you have spoken about is included and written down before signing the contract. In an ‘at-need’ situation (where someone has already died) you will probably be asked to cover the cost of the disbursements or a percentage of the whole amount before the service is held. Make sure you are aware of how the funeral is to be paid for and of course, check the itemised account which you should receive.

NOTE: All plaque costs can be negotiated directly with the cemetery and do not have to go through the funeral director.

You can contact Gympie Regional Council’s Community Services Office on (07) 54810 611 to obtain a list of



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A grave once used is available for your use forever– no tenure period. However be aware that you never personally own a grave– you only purchase the Right of Burial. This may change so ask for the latest details when you speak to your Funeral Director.

A grave or cremated remains position can be pre-purchased by choosing a position of choice within a cemetery (rather than leaving this to family or executor of the Will). This can be arranged through the cemetery of the person’s choice. Pre-purchased, information on this needs to be kept with the Will. A pre-purchased grave is owned in perpetuity and is considered an asset which can be willed to another person, to be used in the future if not used by the purchaser.

Areas where costs can be cut

• The service (e.g. choosing between a single service, i.e. church or graveside; a dual service, i.e. both church and graveside; or a simple memorial service)

• The extras, if desired. Costs can be cut if the family handles the following items: flowers, death and funeral notices, additional cars for the cortege or the procession, choosing the plot or allotment, and so on

• The coffin, casket or urn (prices vary greatly).

Memorialisation (Graves/ Columbarium Walls)

Memorials have the benefit of being accessible to future generations who can reflect upon the person’s heritage. Memorials pay respect to the departed and provide a focus for reflection on a life lived.

Some cemeteries offer the option of Cenotaphs; plaques/ headstones where no body or cremated remains are interned– for those buried or have had cremated remains placed elsewhere. To arrange this, contact your cemetery of choice (Contact details overleaf.) The Gympie Cemetery Trust also offers the option of memorial trees and niche gardens where ashes may either be present or interned at a later date.

Memorialisation includes the pre-purchase of Right of Burial. Tenure periods do exist, as well as vary– the most common period at the moment being 25 years. What this means is that if, for example, you pay for a position in a cemetery for cremated remains to be placed, in 25 years you will be asked to ‘re-purchase’ the position if you wish to continue using it.

The ‘pre-purchase’ of the Right of Burial of a grave has similar tenure periods attached to it.

Physically choosing the grave yourself often results in a higher cost, but it may be worth it to secure a position in the cemetery you prefer.



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For further information

For further information regarding the information provided or any other funeralmatters contact:

• Office of Fair Trading (QLD) 13 74 68 (8:00am – 6:00pm)

• The Australian Funeral Directors’ Association (Brisbane) 1300 888 188

• Gympie Funeral Services/ Crematorium (07) 5482 8400

NOTE: Don’t forget the importance of having an up-to-date Will. Information about Wills, Advance Health Directives and Powers of Attorney are provided in the Wills and other Legal Information Section.

Who can help with the expense?

Centrelink and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs both provide assistance in certain circumstances. The Traffic Accident Commission, the Crimes Compensation Unit of Queensland Police and the Work Cover Authority may also assist depending upon the nature of the death. In some cases, the deceased person’s employer may offer to assist with funeral expenses.



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Cemetery Contact List (Gympie Region) Cemetery ContactGympie Cemetery(Corella Road, Gympie)

Gympie Cemetery Trust5482 2199

Cooloola Coast Cemetery(Rainbow Beach Road, Cooloola Coast)

Gympie Regional Council’s Community Services Directorate54810 611

Neerdie CemeteryNeerdie

Gympie Regional Council’s Community Services Directorate54810611

Gunalda Cemetery(Cotter Drive, Gunalda)

Gympie Regional Council’s Community Services Directorate54810 611

Kilkivan Cemetery(Rossmore Road, Kilkivan)

Gympie Regional Council’s Kilkivan Branch Office5484 1133

Boonara Cemetery(Burnett Highway, Goomeri)


Goomeri Cemetery(94 Goomeri West Road, Goomeri)


Tansey Cemetery(Tansay Cemetery Road, Tansey


Kandanga Cemetery(Mary Valley Road, Kandanga)

Kandanga Cemetery Committee-5484 3578/ 54810 611



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Notes




Wills and other Legal

Information


Wills and Other Legal Information

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Why should wills be witnessed?

Wills are among the most bitterly contested of all legal documents. Anything that helps establish a will’s authenticity will reduce the grounds on which it can be challenged. A reliable, impartial witness is crucial for establishing a will’s authenticity.

For a will to be valid, two independent people must be present to witness itssigning—that is, they must both be there at the same time. A will may be witnessed by a C.dec or JP (Qual) although the law does not require it.

Preparing Your Will

Simple Will's are not necessarily required to be prepared by a Solicitor and Will Kits are available online and at the Post Office. Contact a local legal firm to ask about the costs associated with the preparation of your Will. Making sure your Will is valid can save loved ones a lot of heartache, time and unnecessary expenses down the track.

Wills and Other Legal InformationWe all know the importance of a valid will. However, other legal documents like an advanced health directive or powers of attorney, are also important. This section provides information and links to more information on important legal matters.

What is a will?

Wills are documents in which people, known as testators, give instructions about what is to happen to their property when they die. They will normally name the people who are to carry out the terms of the will (the Executors), and sometimes also gives instructions about funeral arrangements.

People who die intestate (without a will) lose the opportunity to give directionsabout how their property (their estate) will be apportioned.

Wills are often drawn up by legal practitioners, but many people use legal will kits, which are available through stationers, other suppliers and now online.

A will is one of the most important documents that a person will sign during their lifetime and it must be witnessed correctly to make it legal.



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Other legal documents

The following is provided for information only and was extracted from the State of Queensland (Department of Justice and Attorney-General) 2010–2011 on 1st February 2012 and may be subject to change. For this reason please use this information as a starting point and refer to the Justice Website.

Weblink: www.justice.qld.gov.au Advance Health DirectivesIf you become seriously ill or unconscious or are no longer able to make decisions, you may be unable to communicate your healthcare decisions.

An advance health directive allows you to plan what medical treatment or health care you would like in the event that you cannot make decisions for yourself. An advance health directive also enables you to appoint an attorney for health matters if you wish.

You should carry a card with you stating that you have an Advance Health Directive, and medical staff can refer to the document when needed. You should discuss the Advance Health Directive with your doctor and provide a copy to your doctor, your family and friends.

For more information about Advance Health Directives, visit the Department of Justice website of follow the following link: Weblink: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/justice-services/guardianship/making-health-care-decisions/advance-health-directives

Justices of the Peace

Many Gympie residents and professionals are also Justice of the Peace (Qualified) or Commissions for Declarations. Justice of the Peace (Qualified) and Commissioners for Declaration (C. Dec’s) perform various legal functions.

The main role of a Justice of the Peace (Qual) is to witness the signing of official documents. Documents witnessed by a JP carry more legal weight than a document witnessed by someone without any official position, however, many documents are not required by law to be witnessed by a JP (Qual).

A JP is required to keep your information confidential and respects the privacy of the documents presented to them for witnessing. While certain documents like Powers of Attorney need to be read by the JP, others, like your Will do not. The Justice of the Peace may need to check that you understand the contents of the document and that you are fully aware of the consequences associated with creating the lawful document. In certain situations, the JP may refuse to sign if they have concerns about the documents authenticity, that any pressure has been exerted in the creation and signing of the document or whether the capacity of the Principal is at question.

For a list of JP’s in your local area, visit the Justice Website.

Weblink: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/justice-services/justices-of-the-peace



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distributed after your death. A Will also allows you to choose an Executor who will be responsible for making sure your wishes are met.

General Power of AttorneyA General Power of Attorney is given to someone to make financial decisions on your behalf while you have capacity to make decisions, for example if you are overseas and need someone else to sell your house or pay your bills.

Weblink: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/justice-services/guardianship/power-of-attorney

Enduring Power of AttorneyAn Enduring Power of Attorney is an important legal document you can prepare to give someone else the power to make personal or financial decisions on your behalf.

Weblink: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/justice-services/guardianship/power-of-attorney/enduring-power-of-attorney

You may not always be able to make decisions when you need to. You may be too ill to make choices about your medical treatment, or you could suffer a disability such as a stroke that prevents you from communicating your wishes to others.

An Enduring Power of Attorney is an important legal document you can prepare to give someone else the power to make personal or financial decisions on your behalf.

Power of AttorneyThe following information is general information and is not legal advice.

There are two types of Power of Attorney:• General Power of Attorney• Enduring Power of Attorney.

Both types involve a formal agreement giving someone else the power to make decisions on your behalf. It works like this:You sign a form giving Power of Attorney to: 1. Identify the person of your choice2. Specify the types of decisions that the

person you choose can make3. Act as your attorney on your behalf if

and when necessary.

The decisions that your attorney makes for you have the same legal force as if you had made them yourself.

If you are unable to make your own decisions, decisions can be made for you on a formal or an informal basis.

Informal decisions can be made by an adult’s existing support network of family and close friends. This is distinct from decisions being made on a formal basis by an attorney appointed under an Enduring Power of Attorney or Advance Health Directive, a Statutory Health attorney, a guardian or administrator appointed by law or Court.

A Power of Attorney is also different to a Will. Making a Will allows you to state how you want your assets to be



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Long FormUse the long form if you wish to appoint an attorney/s for personal matters (including health care) and a different attorney/s for financial matters. If you wish to appoint the same attorney/s for both personal/health and financial matters, you use the short form.

Weblink: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/15983/enduring-power-attorney-long-form.pdf

To make an Enduring Power of Attorney you must be an adult capable of making your own personal and financial decisions. Having the capacity to make decisions means that you can:• understand the nature and effect of a

decision freely and voluntarily make those decisions; and

• communicate the decisions in some way.

You also need to understand the nature and effect of an Enduring Power of Attorney including the contents of the document, consequences of preparing the document and when the power begins.

Enduring Power of Attorney FormsShort FormUse the short form if you wish to appoint the same attorney/s for both financial matters and personal matters (including health care).

You may also use it to appoint an attorney (or attorneys) for financial matters only or for personal matters (including health care) only.

Weblink: http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/15970/enduring-power-attorney-short-term.pdf



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Notes




Staying Well and Healthy

Medical Resilience Information


Staying Well and Healthy Medical Resilience Information

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When to call an Ambulance?

In an emergency if you require urgent transport to an Emergency Department, phone 000 and ask for the Ambulance Service. Phone 112 from mobile phones if 000 does not work. Non emergency assistance can be obtained by phoning 13 12 33, but if you are uncertain the 000 operator will be able to direct your call. Non-emergency ambulance transfers usually require 24 hours notice.

Patients arriving by ambulance receive rapid assessment and the paramedics are able to provide initial care, so if the patient’s condition is rapidly deteriorating it is vital that you contact the Ambulance service.

When you phone the emergency services operator, stay calm and answer their questions as clearly as you can. They will want to know:¨ the exact address of where the

ambulance is required¨ a contact phone number¨ details of what happened and the

number of people involved¨ age, name and gender of the ill person¨ condition of the ill person – are they

conscious and breathing?

The operator may stay on the line to monitor the patient’s condition until the paramedics arrive and will instruct you on anything you can do to help.

Health and Medical Resilience Get Ready Health and Meds KitHealthcare starts when you are healthy. This health and medical information provides some pointers for staying well. It also suggests ways to help you navigate the health care system when you’re not well, to ensure you receive the most appropriate services to meet your needs.

It is essential to be aware of the health care services available to you and this information is designed to help identify when it’s essential to seek immediate emergency assistance and some tips on how to simplify your interactions with the health care system. Being able to engage with your doctors and allied medical practitioners to feel confident in being able to raise the issues important to you is vital to ensuring you receive the best available treatment and advice.

Content Note: This section was prepared by Ms Alanna Su Tin and should be used as information purposes only and does not replace the need for accurate and personal medical advice.



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• incidents with severe loss of blood• if patient describes major discomfort

and the severity of the illness is unknown

• significant fevers, vomiting, or diarrhoea, especially in a young child or elderly person

Non-life threatening emergencies can include conditions such as fractures, or situations in which the bleeding is controlled, but these still may require an ambulance to transfer the patient to hospital.

Red Flags

There are some situations in which it is vital that medical assistance is sought without delay.

Heart Attacks- pain in the centre of the chest, that

may radiate to the arms, shoulders, neck and jaw

- sudden collapse may be the only feature

¨ You can assist by phoning 000¨ If the patient is conscious, place them

on the floor but sitting up to assist with breathing

¨ assist to take any prescribed chest pain medication known as glyceryl trinitrate

¨ If the patient is unconscious, check their airways and breathing and commence CPR if they are not breathing

Please be aware that ambulances will only transport you to the emergency department- you will require your own transport home if you are not admitted to hospital. It is best to contact a friend or family member to let them know you need assistance, or organise a taxi.

If you are able to get to the emergency department without an ambulance, proceed to the Reception desk and calmly describe your problem to the triage nurses. No patient will be turned away without being examined, but patients will be seen on a ‘sickest person first’ basis, so consider whether the emergency department is the most efficient way for your condition to be managed.

Unsure about when call an Ambulance?

If you are uncertain whether your condition counts as an emergency, contact 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.

Any life-threatening situation is considered an emergency. These include:• major accidents• sudden onset of illness (e.g.

headache)• sudden onset of pain (e.g. chest pain,

abdominal pain, labour pain)• sudden worsening in the severity of

pain• altered sensations and numbness or

weakness



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Illicit Drug Overdose/Poisoning- If a patient has collapsed from the use

of illicit drugs, it is essential that 000 is called immediately

- Be honest with the emergency services operator about what the patient has taken

- Paramedics are bound under confidentiality laws not to disclose information that would identify a person who has received ambulance treatment

- The queensland ambulance service will only notify the police if

- The physical safety of paramedics or others are at risk

- A death has occurred at the scene - A violent injury is involved (e.G.

Stabbing, or shooting)

Meningococcal Meningitis- The combination of high fevers, severe

headache and neck stiffness in a child or adult requires urgent medical attention

- The patient may also have vomiting, drowsiness and a ‘bruise-like’ rash in a child or infant, the features may be less clear, though they may be more irritable or drowsy and have increased difficulty feeding

Stroke- Features of a stroke can be

remembered by the acronym FAST- F Facial droop – has their mouth

begun to droop?- A Arm Weakness – can they lift both

arms?- S Speech – is their speech slurred?

Can they understand you?- T Time is critical – call 000 now if any

of the above features are present- Other signs include blurred vision, a

sudden severe headache of no known cause, and any altered levels of consciousness

- Even if the patient recovers quickly from the symptoms, it is still important to seek immediate help as these symptoms can be warning signs of an imminent stroke

¨ if the patient is conscious, keep their head and shoulders raised and supported

¨ Loosen any tight clothing and keep at a comfortable temperature

¨ Make sure their airway is clear and open

¨ Do not give anything to eat or drink



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It is much preferred that you consult your GP for on-going conditions, as they are in a better position to follow you up to make sure that your treatment is effective. GPs are also the best people to coordinate your care when you require treatment by multiple specialists, and your Emergency Department doctors will refer you back to your GP if they feel that they are better situated for managing your treatment.

If you are uncertain whether you should go to the Emergency Department or wait to see your GP, you can phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) at any time for advice on your situation.

What to bring to the Emergency Room?

If your condition is stable enough to gather supplies, it may be helpful to take the following with you to the Emergency Room. ¨ your Medicare card, pension or

concession card¨ A list of current medications¨ Any relevant x-rays, scans, or other

test results¨ The contact details of your GP¨ Money ¨ Mobile phone¨ Book or magazine¨ Toys and extra clothing for babies and

small children

The role of a Hospital Emergency Department

Queensland’s Emergency Departments are designed to treat people with acute and urgent medical problems. They are open 24 hours a day in most public hospitals (and some private hospitals) and are staffed by doctors and nurses trained to help with emergencies. Treatment is free at public hospitals to current Medicare card holders and people from countries with Reciprocal Health Agreements with Australia.

You do not require an appointment to go to an Emergency Department, and if you are seriously ill and need immediate treatment you will be a priority. Conversely, if your medical condition is not urgent you may face a considerable delay in seeing a doctor as patients are treated based on the urgency of their medical conditions i.e. the more serious your condition, the sooner you will be treated.

Many Emergency Departments are swamped by patients with non urgent conditions, and these tie up resources that could be used on patients with serious concerns. Many non-urgent conditions are better handled by your local GP. Emergency doctors deal only with acute matters and will not prescribe medications that are required for chronic conditions (e.g. chronic pain medication).



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3. If the person is not breathing, remove any blockage to the airway. If you (or any bystander) have the necessary skills, commence cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

4. Attend to severe bleeding or shock, and then care for injuries to muscles, bones and joints. Use gloves where available.

5. Monitor the injured person’s condition while waiting for professional assistance to arrive.

6. Help the person rest in the most comfortable position and give reassurance.

Bleeding• Cover the wound with a dressing or

clean cloth and place direct pressure on it.

• Encourage the person to lie down if necessary.

• Raise the injured part above the level of the heart, but take great care if you suspect a broken bone.

• Cover the dressing with a bandage to hole it in place.

• If the bleeding does not stop, apply additional dressings, pads and bandages on top of existing ones.

Burns• Cool the burn with plenty of clean, cold

running water.• Do not break blisters.• Gently remove rings, watches, belts

or tight clothing (unless sticking to the burn).

• Cover burned areas with dry, clean, non-stick dressings or cloth.

• Treat for shock as required.

Basic First Aid TipsThe following is provided as a pointer only and does not equate to first aid or medical advice.

As emergencies can happen to anyone at any time, the best possible preparation is to complete a first aid course which will allow you to learn the appropriate skills to keep someone alive and promote their recovery until someone with more advanced training arrives. First aid Courses can be organised through the Queensland Ambulance Service, the Red Cross, St John’s Ambulance and other community groups.

When you phone the 000 operator, they may remain on the line and give you advice as to how to help the patient until the paramedics arrive. The best people to handle any medical emergency are health professionals, so please remember that these basic first aid steps set out below are not a complete guide. First aid basics are essential in every household and we would encourage your participation in an accredited first aid course.

Six key stepsIf someone is injured, six key steps will help keep everyone at the scene as safe as possible until professional help arrives. 1. Make sure the situation is safe, for

example, keep clear of power lines, gas, smoke and fire.

2. If the injured person is unconscious and not responding, or if the incident has not otherwise been reported, call 000 immediately and ask for Ambulance.



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Injuries to muscles, bones and joints• Rest the injured part. Avoid

movements that cause pain.• Immobilise the injured part before

moving the victim or giving additional care.

• Apply ice or a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain.

• Raise the injured area to slow the flow of blood and reduce swelling.

Shock• Encourage the person to lie down.• Keep the victim from getting either

cold or overheated.• Raise the legs about 30cm, if you

don’t suspect broken bones. • Do not give food or drink.

Contents of a basic first aid kit for the homeFirst aid kits vary according to their particular use. So it’s important that yours contains the right one for your situation. The contents of the kit for a city family home will be different to one you have on the tractor on the farm, and different to the kit you have in the car, caravan or boat.

As a minimum, the basic first aid kit should contain:

¨ Triangular bandages ¨ Crepe (‘conforming’ or elastic) bandages of varying widths ¨ Non-adhesive dressings, varying sizes ¨ Disposable gloves (medium and large), preferably non-latex ones ¨ Thermal blanket ¨ Notepad and pencil ¨ Plastic bags, varying sizes ¨ Adhesive tape (2.5cm wide – preferably a permeable tape such as Micropore) ¨ Resuscitation mask or face shield.

Other equipment can include:

¨ Medium combine dressing pads (9 x 20cm) ¨ Large combine dressing pads (20 x 20cm) ¨ Adhesive dressing strips (bandaids)¨ Medium gauze dressing (7.5 x 7.5cm) ¨ 4 sterile tubes of saline solution (minimum 10ml) ¨ 1 pair scissors ¨ 1 pair tweezers ¨ First aid booklet.



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Displaying an up-to-date CPR Chart in a prominent location within your household may be a good idea.

Call triple zero (000) in an emergencyask for ambulance, stay with the injured person and resuscitate

1 Ensure safety for yourself, bystanders and casualty.If safe, remove casualty from water as soon as possible.

2Can you hear me? Open your eyes.What’s your name?Squeeze my hand.

3If water or vomit is present in mouth, roll casualty on side, tilt face downwards and clear mouth with your fingers.

4Ask for an ambulance.Remain calm while answering the questions. Stay on phone until you are told to hang up.

5Look and feel for rising and falling chest.Listen and feel for breath sounds.

Learn first aid. Contact www.ambulance.qld.gov.au or 1300 369 003.

Check for danger

Check response

Clear airway

Call triple zero (000)

Check for normal breathing

7Adults and children – seal nose and give 2 breaths into mouth. Infants <1 year – give 2 breaths into mouth and nose.Watch for chest to rise.

8Adults – place heel of hand in centre of chest. Place other hand on top of first.Children 1 – 8 years – place heel of hand in centre of chest.Infants <1 year – place 2 fingers in centre of chest.Compress 1/3 depth of chest.Compress 30 times.

9Repeat 2 breaths and 30 chest compressions.Continue until ambulance arrives or person regains consciousness or it becomes impossible for you to continue.

10If injured person shows signs of recovery, roll onto side and check if they are breathing. Reassure the person and bystanders.

6 Adults and children – tilt head backward. Place one hand on the forehead and use the other hand to lift the chin.Infants <1 year – do not tilt head. Place one hand on the forehead and use the other hand to support the chin.

Prepare for resuscitation

Start breaths

Start compressions

Repeat breaths & compressions

Recovery



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What to doKeeping calm may help to control your fear and actions. Remember that someone may need your help and that you may also need help. If you are feeling particularly anxious or frightened, follow this advice:

• Keep your family together wherever possible• Shelter and safety are a priority in the coming hours and days• Comfort each other and support those who are with you or have come together during or after the emergency - everyone will react differently• Focus on your feelings and thoughts - talk calmly about them with family or friends who you cantalk openly to• Focus on what practical tasks you and your family can do - practical actions are helpful and will lesson anxiety• Monitor information from emergency services by listening to our radio or television. DO NOT continuously watch disturbing footage on television. If necessary, take turns listening to the news with other adult members of your family or household• If separated from family members, find out where they are and arrange to reunite with them when it is safe• When the danger has passed, check your neighbours are safe

Coping in Emergency Situations

People react to emergency situations such as extreme weather events in a range of ways. You need to understand that your emotional reactions may also change.

Natural ReactionsDuring, or following the emergency you may experience a range of physical, behavioural and emotional reactions. This is both common and normal. Reactions may include:

• Shock and disbelief, or increased focus• Fear and anxiety, including shaking, nausea, diarrhoea and difficulty in breathing• Helplessness, or hope/strength• Guilt or shame• Horror • Depression, anger and grief

These reactions may change, be delayed, or may not occur. Everyone is different and will experience the same event differently.

Being prepared by following the steps outlined in this kit (Prepare an Emergency Plan and Emergency Kits) can help you feel like you are more in control.



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Helping ChildrenAfter an emergency, children are often afraid that the event will happen again, someone will get hurt or injured, they will be separated form the family, or that they will be left alone. Children may also appear to be coping better than they are.Children are generally resilient. To help children cope:

• Comfort and re-assure them • Keep them with you• Explain what is happening and what they may be feeling• Encourage them to talk, draw and play about what happened, and respond simply and clearly to their questions. • Let them help• Avoid exposure to excessive television replays of events • Provide normal activities such as school and shared family activities as soon as possible, when safety is assured.

Positive actions and attitudes, and comforting yourself and others, will help adults, families and children deal with emergencies. However, should feelings become too intense or persistent after the emergency, consult you local health service. State and Territory health authorities have professionals who can help you deal with these normal reactions to an emergency and extreme weather conditions

Information and Advice Keeping HealthyThe most important things you can do to stay healthy are:

• eat a balanced and nutritious diet• be smoke free• be physically active• have a supportive social life• drink more water• enjoy alcohol and other less healthy choices in moderation • have at least a couple of people you can confide in for support and advice• have the recommended screening tests and take preventative medications (if required)• recognise your limits and when you may need some time-out (and permit yourself to have the time-guilt free!)

This ‘23 1/2 hours—What is the single best thing we can do for our health? You tube Video provides great advice on the importance of just 30 minutes a day.

Weblink: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUaInS6HIGo



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Food additives to avoidMaintaining a healthy diet also includes avoiding food additives as much as possible. Food additives have been reported to cause allergic reactions and attention and behavioural interruptions. Knowing what to look for might help keep them out of the household shopping trolley.

For example, food additives to be avoided include:

Please note this is a general guide only and is not intended to suit all health needs. For more information about food additives visit the Food intolerance Network at www.fedup.com.au

Food Colourings 102, 104, 107, 110, 120-129, 131, 132, 133, 142, 151-156, 160a and 160b (annatto)

Flavor enhancers Glutamates and MSG 620-625, Disodium Guanylate 627, Disodium Inosinate 631, Ribonucleotides 635, (HVP), Hydrogenated Foods, 1201

Preservatives Benzoates 210-218, Nitrites 249-252, Propionates 280-283Antioxidants TBHQ BHA, BHT, 319-321

Sweetners Aspartame 951, Cyclamate 952, Saccharin 954, 961-962



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Why do you need a GP?Keeping healthy is more than diet and exercise. While physical health is important, it is just as vital to ensure your emotional and social health are looked after. Your GP is a valuable resource when it comes to your health care. Far beyond dealing with coughs and sniffles, they are the gate keepers to many resources that are available to help you improve your health. They can assist with dietary changes, suggest enjoyable physical activities, be supportive when you’re feeling down, or encourage the growth of your social self. For people with chronic illness, your GP can coordinate your care and ensure that your multi-disciplinary team provides you with integrated care.

How to choose a doctor?You should be able to consider your GP as a partner in managing your health needs. It is important to develop a supportive relationship with your regular doctor, so that you feel confident that they are working to support your best outcomes. You may not “click” with the first doctor you visit, and you are well within your rights to decide to “move on” if you don’t feel that you can communicate well with your current doctor. If you do decide to change GPs, request that copies of your medical files get transferred to your new GP to ensure that everyone is up-to-date with your health care needs.

When choosing a doctor, it is important to consider:

¨ ability to get an appointment when you need it

¨ the availability of long consultations

¨ travel time and accessibility (especially if you have mobility considerations)

¨ bulk billing

¨ size of the practice

¨ after hours availability

¨ home visits

Many GP practices are booked well in advanced, so it is important to plan your regular visits with this in mind and ring for an appointment as early as possible. This enables the GP to organise their time so that they can provide quality care for each patient- and it means you don’t end up being inconvenienced.



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How to have a successful GP visit¨ Make an appointment at a time that suits you to avoid waiting, call ahead on the day of the appointment to check if your doctor is running on time

¨ Request a ‘long appointment’ if you have a number of issues to discuss

¨ Most practices have ‘emergency appointments’ set aside for urgent cases if you have an emergency

¨ Be honest about your current problem – it is important for the doctor to have a true understanding of your concerns, even if it involves a sensitive matter

¨ Discuss any worries or concerns early in the consultation so the doctor understands the importance of these issues for you

¨ Be honest about your lifestyle habits—smoking, drug taking, physical activity, diet, and sexual activity habits can all affect your disease risk and may alter how certain medications affect you

¨ Let your doctor know of any personal or family medical history

¨ Bring details of your current medications, vitamins, over the counter pills, and alternative therapies with you to the appointment. Remember to update the doctor if anything changes.

¨ You may wish to fill in the following table to bring with you to your consultation: (Refer to the medication inventory and Healthy Man/Woman Checklist):

Current Medication ListDrug Name (brand/generic)

What it is for When it is taken

How much is taken

What side effects/other issues you’ve experienced with the medication

Note: Using a pencil to complete this section may be a good idea.



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Tips and Suggestions

¨ Feel free to bring a friend or relative for support

¨ Be an active and informed patient do not be afraid to ask the doctor to explain what they’ve said again.

¨ There can be a lot of information exchanged during your consultation, and doctors are aware that it can be overwhelming.

¨ By the time you leave the appointment, you should have a clear understanding of:

¨ what is wrong and how serious it is

¨ what your choices are

¨ what tests and follow up care is required

Useful Questions to ask your GPConsulting a doctor can be a confusing time, and it’s easy to forget to ask important things about your diagnosis. The following are useful starting points to help you become an engaged patient:

Consulting a doctorTell me more about my condition, tests, and treatment.

How will the tests help me, and what is involved?

What are the standard treatment methods?

What symptoms should I be aware of with my condition?

What risks are associated with the test/treatment?

What are the risks if I don’t have the treatment?

Are there any alternatives?

Can you tell me about my medications?



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Consulting a specialistWhat can this specialist offer you?

Are there other specialists who can also treat your condition?

What is the specialist’s experience in managing your condition?

Where is the specialist located?

Do they have a consulting room locally?

If not, are there any other specialists that would be closer?

What transportation or accommodation arrangements are available, or need to be considered?

Out-of-Pocket ExpensesHow much will you be out-of-pocket?

How much of each treatment/appointment will be covered by: ¨ Medicare ¨ Veterans Affairs ¨ Health Insurance ¨ Amount left that you will have to pay: $

When will you be expected to pay?

If questions spring to mind between visits, it’s useful to write them down to bring up in your next consultation.

If you are referred to a specialist, important factors to consider are:



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The Healthy PatientEven when you feel well, it is important to ensure you are up-to-date with your health screening checks. A ‘check up’ helps in the early detection of diseases well before they’ve developed to a stage of causing you problems.

During your check-up you should talk to your doctor about which of the heath conditions contained in the Healthy Men/Women Checklist apply to you, (see the Personal Health and Medical Information Record section) and when and how often you should be tested.

If you think of questions for the doctor, write them down and bring them to your next visit.

The contact details provided here were current as at 1 June 2012, however are subject to change.

GympieGP Contact

Channon Street Medical Centre(12 Reef St, Gympie)

(07) 5482 1555

Excelsior Medical Centre(21 Exhibition Rd, Gympie)

(07) 5482 5899

Gympie Clinic(68 Channon St, Gympie)

(07) 5482 8422

Gympie Medical Centre(11a Channon St, Gympie)

(07) 5481 1322

Medical Centre Gympie(41 Channon St, Gympie)

(07) 5482 2311

Soladerm Clinic(Suite 6, 84 Monkland St, Gympie)

(07) 5482 8222

Sunshine Health(Cnr Duke and Alfred St, Gympie)

(07) 5482 2022

The Medical Practice, Gympie(30 Lady Mary Tce, Gympie)

(07) 5482 2022

The Medical Practice, Gympie(29a O’Connell St, Gympie)

(07) 5483 6920

Emergency Department12 Henry St, Gympie

(07) 5489 8444000Deaf Emergency Number 106



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The CoastGP Contact

Cooloola Medical and Professional Centre 5 Dolphin Avenue Tin Can Bay5486 4600

Rainbow Beach Medical Practice 10 Ilmenite Avenue Rainbow Beach5486 3078

Cooloola Coast Clinic Cooloola Cove Shopping Centre Queen Elizabeth Drv, Cooloola5486 4600

WestGP Contact

Goomeri Medical Practice 10 Moore St Goomeri4168 4244

Wondai Family Medical Practice Mackenzie St Cnr Bramston St, Wondai4168 5050

Barambah Regional Medical Services Cnr Bligh and Broadway Sts Cherbourg 4169 8600

Murgon Family Medical Practice Cnr Stephens and Gore St MURGON 4168 2722

Mary ValleyGP Contact

Imbil Clinic 6 Island Rd, Imbil5488 6868

Other Medical and Alternative Health ContactsName Contact Details



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Notes