GC_Over50s_February_2026_No_129

6 Tired of Broken Vertical Blinds? Blinds Don’t Open? Fabric Blades Faded? CALL RON 0438 724 834 No Call Out Fee or Minimum Charge SPECIAL PRICES FOR SENIORS We can fix them or replace Tracks only, New Blockout Blades or complete NEW Verticals with simple Wand Controls Varsity Lakes Community Resource Centre 20 Mattocks Rd, Varsity Lakes | (07) 5593 7006 | www.varsitylakes.org.au 1-ON-1 TECH HELP | CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS DISASTER PREPAREDNESS Bring your latest energy bill for quick savings checks EVERY WEEK ... Stay Safe online. Be prepared. Enjoy a coffee. CONNECTION CONFIDENCE COMMUNITY Discover... Through digital confidence, online safety & disaster preparedness VLCRC is a welcoming place to learn, connect & feel supported Social inclusion programs that make you feel right at home 'Coffee Cart on site' Join us for: • Cyber Security Awareness • 1-on-1 Tech Help (phones, tablets & computers) • Digital Literacy Support • Disaster Preparedness & Planning • Become a Digital Mentor (volunteer training open) “Come for tech help, stay for a cuppa” “YOUR LOCAL HUB FOR CYBER SAFETY, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS & COMMUNITY CONNECTION” With the cost of living continuing to rise, many retirees and over-50s are looking for practical ways to stretch their budget without compromising dignity, quality, or community connection. In Ormeau, a local food outlet operated by Authentic Church is quietly providing just that. Open during the week, the Authentic Church food outlet offers affordable groceries to local residents, with a growing number of retirees and seniors making it part of their regular routine. The outlet stocks a range of everyday essentials, fresh produce and pantry staples at prices designed to ease household pressure. For many over-50s, particularly those on fixed incomes, even small savings on groceries can make a real difference. Visitors say the food outlet allows them to redirect money toward essentials like utilities, medical costs, or simply enjoying life a little more in retirement. What sets the outlet apart is not just the pricing, but the atmosphere. Visitors are welcomed by a warm smile and friendly staff. There is no pressure, no judgment, and no expectations. People come for groceries and often stay for a chat, making it as much a social connection point as a practical one. Senior Pastor and Community Care Director Melanie Stevenson said the outlet exists to serve the entire community, including retirees who may feel overlooked in today's economy. “We’ve seen many over-50s doing it tough quietly. This is about offering support in a respectful and dignified way. It’s a hand up, not a hand out.” Whether you’re a retiree, live alone, a downsizer, tightening up your budget, or just trying to save a few bucks, everyone is welcome. “ We don’t means test or restrict access to anyone” said Melanie. While the food outlet is run by Authentic Church, it operates as a community service first and foremost. Information about church services is available for those who ask, but there is no obligation or expectation attached to using the outlet. For retirees and over-50s looking for a practical way to reduce grocery costs while staying connected to their local community, the Authentic Church food outlet is proving to be a valuable local resource. You will find us at 127 Lahrs Rd, Ormeau Open Hours: Tues - Fri 9 am - 1:30 am & Sat 8 am - 12:30 pm See advert front cover Local Food Outlet Supporting Over-50s in Ormeau Do something special. Give blood. Call 13 14 95 download the app or donateblood.com.au

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjM5MTE=