THERE are plenty of life lessons to be learnt through taking risks, and where better than at a circus school, says Isobel Lyall. The CirQuest managing director warns that wrapping kids in cotton-wool puts their physical and mental health at risk. “[Playing] safe, but challenging, unlocks many skills,” she says. Late last year the not-for-profit…

AFTER six months of delays a modest cut to Vincent councillors’ generous allowances has been proposed by staff. Last October staff recommended slashing the phone, computer and communications allowance from $3500 to $1500, and if councillors exceeded that figure they could put in a claim. The move would’ve saved the council $18,000 a year. But…

BAYSWATER council is set to spend $1.65million on reviving three ailing lakes in Maylands following emergency works on Tuesday. The works prevented further collapse at the small lake near the old brickworks and the other two major lakes are in dire straits, prompting Bayswater councillors to unanimously vote to support a rescue plan created by…

SENIORS should seek independent legal and financial advice before signing complex retirement village contracts, says Consumer Protection. Substantial exit fees of up to 30 per cent often come as a nasty surprise when residents have to sell up and move into aged care. “When they terminate their residence contract it will usually be subject to…