Cost of dental cleaning in Sydney – Part 2

This are just sample fees to expect.  Prices may vary depending on your dentist.

Amount	Remarks
50.00	periodic oral examination
100.00	removal of calculus
45.00	remineralizing - One Tx

Dental cleaning is normally covered 100% by the private health insurance and sometimes dentist can waive the GAP if the GAP is not a huge amount.

Grocery Price watch – December 2010

Sample price list of grocery for the month of December:

Amount	Item	Store
3.00	clover / 1.50 x 2	Blacktown Asian Food
1.40	fish sauce	Blacktown Asian Food
1.50	ketchup	Blacktown Asian Food
1.10	banana sauce	Blacktown Asian Food
0.65	corn chips	Blacktown Asian Food
1.15	mang tomas	Blacktown Asian Food
1.65	toyomansi	Blacktown Asian Food
12.99	4 corned beef	Blacktown Asian Food
2.75	sandwhish spread	Blacktown Asian Food
2.60	sardines 1.30 x 2	Blacktown Asian Food
2.20	tuna in oil 1.10 x 2	Blacktown Asian Food
3.60	lunchean meat 1.80 x 2	Blacktown Asian Food
4.00	liver spread .80 x 5	Blacktown Asian Food
0.95	vcut	Blacktown Asian Food
1.35	tamarind soup .45 x 3	Blacktown Asian Food

Grocery Price watch – October 2010

Sample price list of grocery for the month of October:

Amount	Item	Store
3.00	smiths twisties 170g x 2	Coles
4.00	fantastic rice crack 100g x 2	Coles
2.00	kiwi fruit 8pcs	Coles
1.49	smiths crinkle potato 175g	Coles
3.50	coles cake mud 600g	Coles
2.89	a2 dairy milk 1L	Coles
5.94	colgate 160g x 3	Coles
3.00	so good drink soy fat 1L x 2	Coles
3.59	libra liners 29pk	Coles
3.98	trix dishwasher deter 1L	Coles

4.37	beef spare .876kg @ 4.99/kg	Chinese Shop
3.40	thigh fillet .454kg @ 7.49/kg	Chinese Shop
1.89	pork chop .252kg @ 7.49/kg	Chinese Shop
1.99	cabbage	Chinese Shop
1.49	mung beans	Chinese Shop
1.69	dried rice noodle	Chinese Shop
1.55	frozen young	Chinese Shop
1.49	snow peas	Chinese Shop
1.26	potatoes wash .420kg @ 2.99/kg	Chinese Shop
0.79	shang hai boi	Chinese Shop
0.96	tomatoes .160kg @ 5.99/kg	Chinese Shop
0.10	chillies .010kg @ 9.89/kg	Chinese Shop

Sample car service maintenance expenses

Major log book service(labor)	$128.27
Globe parking  light bulb	$8.97
Oil filter	$14.92
Air filter	$35.61
Fuel filter	$105.39
Oil (use for change oil)	$59.50
Inhibitors (system treatments)	$27.50
Engine oil system flush	$14.90
Workshop supplies	$15.50
Environmental Levy	$7.50
GST	$41.81

Provider: Official car manufacturer service center

Inquiry from other providers:

NRMA:

Cost: $430 (member price)

Includes: Major logbook service, oil change, filter change, spark plug, brake flush

Ultratune:

Cost: 260

Inlcudes: Major logbook server, oil change, air filter change, brkae flush

(Advice to brign the owners logbook to see the complete list of what needs to be done)

Petrol prices / pricewatch

Amount	Description
19.38	Coles Express / 15.50L @ 125.9c/L /4c dis

Petrol Station:  Coles Express / Shell

Type: E10

Cost: 15.50L @ 129.9c/L

4c discount = 125.9c/L   /    save . 62c

Amount	Description
19.24	Coles Express / 15.78L @ 121.9c/L /8c dis

Petrol Station:  Coles Express / Shell

Type:  E10 / 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline

Cost: 15.78L @ 129.9c/L

8c discount = 121.9c/L

Savings: $1.26   (4c coles voucher + Source Coles credit card  4c voucher)

Amount	Description
36.84	Coles Express / 29.03L @ 126.9c/L /12c dis

Petrol Station:  Coles Express / Shell

Type:  V-power / 98RON

Cost: 29.03L @ 138.9c/L /

12c discount = 126.9c/L

Savings: $3.48 (8c coles voucher + Source Coles credit card  4c voucher)

Note: Get  further  4c  discount if you have Source Coles Credit Card Fuel Saver Voucher

-          Credit card has no annual fee.

-          Make sure you pay everything before the billing date to avoid charges.


Additional Reference: (Fuel price)

http://motormouth.com.au/pricesearch.aspx

https://www.mynrma.com.au/cps/rde/xchg/mynrma/hs.xsl/petrol_watch_search.htm

About Sydney City Parking / Parking Meters

http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/AboutSydney/ParkingAndTransport/CityParking/

Big Screen Cinemas

 

MOONLIGHT CINEMA (moonlight.com.au)

Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park, entry via Woollahra Gate, off Oxford St, Paddington;

December 9-March 20

Gates open 7pm

Mmovie starts about 8.30pm

$14-$36

 

 

 

STARLIGHT CINEMA  (starlightcinema.com.au)

North Sydney Oval, Miller St, North Sydney

January 19-March 5

Gates open 7pm

Movie starts about 8.30pm

$8-$20

Contact:  9949 3137

 

 

 

DIVE IN MOVIES (willoughbylesiure.com.au)

Willoughby Leisure Centre, Small St, Willoughby

December 17, January 14 and 28, February 18 and March 18, 7.30pm

$6.50

Bookings essential

Contact:  9958 5799

 

 

 

ST.GEORGE OPENAIR CINEMA (stgeorge.com.au/openair)

St.George OpenAir Cinema, Mrs Macquaries Point, adjacent to Royal Botanic Gardens; January 12-February 19 (excludes January 15, 22 and 29)

Gates, bar and restaurant open from 6.15pm, films at 8.30pm

Tickets on sale from December 16, $26-$30

 

 

 

MOVIES BY THE BOULEVARD (sydneyolympicpark.com.au) FREE

Movies By The Boulevard, Cathy Freeman Park, Sydney Olympic Park

January 8-9, 12-16, 19-23

Free kids' activities and food and beverages from 6pm, films at 8.30pm

Contact: 9714 7888

 

 

Free outdoor cinema (January 8,9, 12-16, 19-23 2011) - Sydney OlympicPark

Free outdoor cinema.

Time: Movies start 8:30pm

Venue : Cathy Freeman Park (formerly The Overflow)

The Princess and The Frog Saturday 08 January G
Robin Hood Sunday 09 January M
Boy Wednesday 12 January M
Knight and Day Thursday 13 January M
Alice in Wonderland Friday 14 January PG
Toy Story 3 Saturday 15 January G
Sherlock Holmes Sunday 16 January M
Bran Nue Dae Wednesday 19 January PG
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Thursday 20 JanuaryM
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Fri 21 January M

Despicable Me Sat 22 January PG
Short Soup Sunday 23 January Various

First Home Saver Accounts

What is a first home saver account?
A first home saver account is a special way of saving to buy or build your first home in which your savings attract a government contribution. First home saver accounts became available from 1 October 2008.

Unlike an ordinary savings account or investment, you can only use the funds in this type of account to buy or build a home that you will live in, and only after you have saved for at least 4 financial years.

First home saver account calculator

Reference:

http://www.fido.gov.au/fido/fido.nsf/firsthomesaver

FHSA Providers:

• AMP Bank Limited - ABN 15 081 596 009


• Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited - ABN 11 005 357 522


• Big Sky Credit Union Ltd - ABN 51 087 651 358


• Commonwealth Bank of Australia - ABN 48 123 123 124


• Credit Union SA Ltd - ABN 36 087 651 232


• Defence Force Credit Union Limited - ABN 57 087 651 385


• Hume Building Society Ltd - ABN 85 051 868 556


• Hunter United Employees' Credit Union Limited - ABN 68 087 650 182


• IMB Ltd - ABN 92 087 651 974


• Members Equity Bank Pty Limited - ABN 56 070 887 679


• MyState Financial Limited - ABN 89 067 729 195


• Police Association Credit Co-operative Limited - ABN 33 087 651 661


• Railways Credit Union Limited - ABN 91 087 651 090


• Teachers Credit Union Limited - ABN 30 087 650 459


• The Police Department Employees' Credit Union Limited - ABN 95 087 650 799


• Victoria Teachers Credit Union Limited - ABN 44 087 651 769


• Wagga Mutual Credit Union Ltd - ABN 35 087 650 860


• Wyong Council Credit Union Ltd - ABN 29 087 650 897

Reference:

http://www.apra.gov.au/Policy/First-Home-Saver-Accounts-July-2008.cfm

Compare FHSA interest rate:

http://www.infochoice.com.au/banking/savings-account/first-home-saver-accounts/

• ME provide the best interest rate (5.50%) at the moment that provides monthly interest.

AUS Passport

Cost: $208

 

AUS Passport

FREE money saving coupons - NSW

FREE money saving coupons for great deals throughout NSW.

http://www.smartsaver.com.au

DIY: When and how to change air filter

When to check air filter:

-  Replace air filter once a year or every 7,500 kms

- Use a flashlight and shine it inside of the filter. If you can't see any light or very little light. The filter needs to be change.

------------------------

------------------------

How to replace

1. Get a new airfilter. Make sure you get the right model

2. Locate your air filter. Usually found on top of the engine. For newer cars which use fuel injectors, look for rectangular housing on the side of the engine.

3. Remove the old air filter. Unclasp or unsrew the top of housing. Take out the old air filter.

- Use a flashlight and shine it inside of the filter. If you can't see any light or very little light. The filter needs to be change.

4. Clean the housing. Use vaccum or rag to clean the area. Make sure no debris falling in your fuel injector.

5. Place the new/clean air filter n the housing

6. Replace the housing cover and make sure that the cover is secured.

DONE.

DIY: How to determine your Tire Size

Tire size (example:  P215/65R16)

o The "P" indicates the tire is designed for passenger vehicles. A "T" is the designation for a temporary spare tire.
o Three-digit number (215): This number gives the width in millimeters of the tire from sidewall edge to sidewall edge.
o Two-digit number (65): This number, known as the aspect ratio, gives the tire's ratio of height to width.
o R: The "R" stands for radial.
o Two-digit number (16): This number is the wheel or rim diameter in inches.

Types of automotive fluids and its color

It will help you identify the posible cause of leak by looking at the color of the fluid.

----------------

Automotive fluids and its color :

1. Radiator fluid - neon green / neon orange

2. Break fluid - clear color (new) / used - amber / change fluid - dark amber

3. Power Steering fluid - clear color (new) / used - amber / change fluid - dark amber

4. Motor oil - dark amber / used - becomes black

5. Automatic Transmission fluid - red

----------------

DIY: How to check the emergency break of your car

1. Step on the break
2. Shift gear to neutral
3. Release emergency break
4. Release your foot on the break slowly and notice the car begins to roll
5. Pull the emergency break and the car should stop (foot off the break)

If the car doesn't stop and continous to roll slowly, inspect the emergency break for possibly issue.

Free stuff for Priceline members - ends 13-Nov

Click on link to download voucher:

Body Lotion($9.99)and Mini Styling Pot($1.99)

Reference website : http://www.priceline.com.au/treats/

got mine yesterday.... see photo: (savings of $12.00)

Best day to buy petrol - Thursday

Tuesday is used to be the cheapest day to buy petrol.

Since Dec 2009, petrol companies change the cheapest petrol price to THURSDAY and most people are not aware about the change.

Reference: (Fuel price)

http://motormouth.com.au/pricesearch.aspx

https://www.mynrma.com.au/cps/rde/xchg/mynrma/hs.xsl/petrol_watch_search.htm

Universal Studio Hollywood

Parking fee: $10.00

Preferred Parking fee: $15

Universal Studio tickets is cheaper at COSTCO ($55.00)

* Universal Studio Hollywood tickets at COSTCO cost only $55.00 per person ( 5 visits within 12 months ). Refer to image shown above.

* Buying directly at Universal Studio (online price) is $72.00 (valid for 2 days).

http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/tickets.html

Pizza at COSTCO ($10).... cheap and huge

Pizza at COSTCO cost only $10 USD and it's HUGE.....

Everything seems HUGE in USA.

Taxi Fare calculator

World Taximeter calculator
http://www.worldtaximeter.com

World Taximeter gives you an estimate of the fare of a taxi ride in cities around the globe.

- It provides addtional option for phone booking surplus.
- It also provide estimates on waiting in traffic.
- It covers more locations.
- Provides contact number for the taxi operators in your area.
- Website is accessble on mobile phone "http://www.worldtaximeter.com/m"

Balimbing = Carambola ($1.28 ea)

Balimbing = Carambola  ($1.28 ea = about Php 50.00 ea)

First time I see balimbing fruit in Sydney and it is being sold at Coles Supermarket.

Grocery Price watch – July 2010

Grocery Price watch – July 2010

List of grocery items for the month of August:

Amount
Item
Store
3.00
breast fillet .392kg @ 7.80/kg
Joes Meat
3.30
stars pork crackers 150g
Tong Li
8.55
pork spare rib .856kg @ 9.99/kg
Win Cheers
0.79
shanghai boi
Hurstville Growers
2.99
tomatoes 1kg
Hurstville Growers
3.02
uncle tobys sachets 340g
Coles
7.80
Bangus belly
Filo Shop
3.60
appritada mix  1.80 x2
Filo Shop
3.00
salted egg
Hurstville Groceries
2.00
eggplant
Hurstville Groceries
7.80
Chorizzo 350g
Hurstville Groceries
0.60
garlic
Hurstville Groceries
5.00
cadbury block  2 for $5
Coles
2.46
mid wing .616kg @ 3.99/kg
Win Cheers
3.13
pokr mince no fat .448kg @ 6.99/kg
Win Cheers
7.93
pork chop .992kg @ 7.99/kg
Win Cheers
2.29
sb coles egg 12pk 700g
Coles
2.15
coles champignon 425g
Coles
2.25
sb coles diary 600ml
Coles
Exchange rate: $1 AUD = Php 41.3 (iremit)

FREE customized luggage tags from KLM (Limited stocks)

*Maximum of one set, two tags per person.

The website initially indicates the availability of the following countries:  Australia, Hong Kong, India, Philippines and Singapore.

But when I try to look at the home page again, I don't see the list of countries where it is available.
Maybe read the Terms&Condition for more details.

Link: http://baggagelabel.klm.com

Use IE browser. I encounter issues when using Firefox.

It says delivery takes about 3 weeks. I haven't received mine so I cannot guarantee that this FREEBIES is valid.

KFC Coupons: Expires 31-Aug-2010

KFC coupons. Expires 31st August, 2010.

Coloured print outs are usually accepted. (some stores accept B&W).  Not sure if printing out in coloured paper will cost more than the discount offered :-)

Download link  (KFC coupon in pdf format):    kfc_coupons_2010-08-31

Turn your mobile phone to a WiFi HotSpot

Turn your mobile phone to a WiFi HotSpot, and connect your laptop or iPad to internet using WiFi and your mobile phone as a 3G internet modem.

JoikuSpot Light (FREE)
JoikuSpot Light is a limited edition of JoikuSpot turning your phone to an open WiFi HotSpot.

JOIKUSPOT PREMIUM (BUY)
Buy Premium version if you want securing the HotSpot and full internet and email protocol support.

http://www.joikushop.com/
http://www.joiku.com/?action=products&mode=productDetails&product_id=310

Related links:
http://www.joikuspot.com/material/JoikuSpot%20Light%203_0_User%20Guide.pdf
http://www.joikushop.com/docs/How_to_Get_And_Install_JoikuSpot_on_the_Phone.pdf
http://www.joiku.com/index.php?action=about&mode=joikuspotFAQ

(FREE T-shirt) Famous People Vote Too

Excerpts from the website:  http://www.famouspeoplevotetoo.com/free-tshirt

=================

More than 1.4 million Australians are ‘missing’ from the electoral roll, with younger Australians aged 18 - 39 years making up about 70 per cent of the total.

Famous People Vote Too is a new initiative created by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) aimed at raising awareness of the need to enrol or update details in time for the next federal election which is expected to take place later this year.

Australian television personalities, sports stars and comedians are lending their support to the campaign to show that ALL Australians, including celebrities, should enrol to vote so that they can have their say in the upcoming election.

=================

Where do you think they get the funds to provide this promotion?  hmm..... let me think - TAX payers?

If you are paying TAX, I guess this isn't FREE after all.

AUS Passport Application Timeline

! Dates are made up but the timeline is accurate

Completed in 14 days
------------------------------------------------------------------

16-June-2010: Book for an interview for passport application online
- Go to your nearest Post office to get the Passport Applciation form or you can fill up the application form online (print it out and bring it on the day of your interview).

http://auspost.com.au/
http://auspost.com.au/personal/applying-for-new-australian-passport.html
- Make an appointment for your passport interview at your chosen Australia Post retail outlet
http://auspost.com.au/locator

- Prepare for your interview. Collect all evidence required and make sure you bring all photocopies of the original with you.

- Fill up the form and make sure gurantor fill up the form



16-Feb-2010: Passport photo
- Kodak center or at the Post Office

17-Feb-2010: Guarantor fill up the application form and sign passport photo at the same time/date

18-Feb-2010: Application date/interview at the Post Office
- Interview/application takes only about 5-10 minutes

Payment can be made by:
* cash
* EFTPOS
* Mastercard or Visa.

Note: Keep the receipt and the Passport Application Form number. (Used to claim your passport and to access the passport tracking website)

The Australian Passport Office is committed to issuing passports within 10 working days of receiving all the correct information and documents. This timeframe doesn't include the time that Australia Post needs to forward your application to the Australian Passport Office

25-Feb-2010:  DFA Process completion (verified online)
- Check the progress of your passport application online
https://www.passports.gov.au/Web/Newppt/index.aspx

- You can also check your application's progress by calling the Australian Passport Information Service on 13 12 32.

28-Feb-2010: Post Office notification via mail recieved
-  Postman left a letter on the mailbox that the passport is ready for pick up at the Post Office.

29-Feb-2010: Pick up in Post office
- Pick up passport from the Post Office
- Bring ID and proof of address
------------------------------------------------------------------

COST:
Passport ID : $12-$15 (Kodak shops) / $14.95 (Post Office)
Passport Standard (32 pages) /  Cost:  A$208 (adult) / A$104 (child)

TIPS:
- Remember to photocopy both the front and back of your Citizenship Certificate. Photocopy at the post office cost about 20 cents each.
- Some post office does not require booking. It would be better to give them a call and ask if you can just walk-in for an interview before you made bookings over the phone or internet.
- Sign the applciation with the same date as the Guarantor sign your application and passport photo.
- Be on time for the interview.
- Use official photography center or better get your photo taken from the same Post Office.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Track the progress of your passport application

You can track the progress of your passport application online

- it will tell you the expected time of completion and its progress. Immigration commitment is 10 working days to process your application.

- Once completed, they will send you an email noticifcation that it was already redispatch to your local postoffice.



Note:  Make sure you have all photocopies of the original documents with you specially the front and back of your citizenship certificate as Post Office will charge you for all photocopies required.

Link:

- https://www.passports.gov.au

- https://www.passports.gov.au/Web/Newppt/index.aspx

Blue swimmer crab - $12.99/kg

iPad experience

iPad experience at Apple Store (ChatswoodChase)

Sydney International FIFA Fan Fest

The Sydney International FIFA Fan Fest™ is the place to take in the atmosphere of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. From June 11 to July 12, Sydney's Darling Harbour

 

Korea vs Greece

Pancake on The Rocks

The restaurant is near the entrance of HarbourSide in Darling harbour near Pyrmont bridge

website: www.pancakesontherocks.com.au

Hot n Troppo  (pancake) $10.95

Buttermilk pancakes with grilled banana, walnuts, cream, chocolate ice cream and our home made chocolate sauce.

Pork Ribs  $23.95

Others:

- Pancakes $7.95 (Regular)

- Pizza $15+

FREE: OnlineFamily.Norton plugs you into your child's online life

* Shows what your children are doing online.
* Sets age-appropriate 'rules' for every child in your family.
* Helps you talk to your children about safe online behavior.

FREE Subscription
https://onlinefamily.norton.com

Free Ashtray

http://www.notagoodlook.com.au/

FREE popcorn by Telstra

FREE popcorn given by Telstra as a promotion at the North Sydney train station.

I am still wondering what is the relation of popcorn with a Telecomunication company?

Its was given for FREE, so I took one :-)

Note: Telstra is an Australian telecommunications and media company and is the largest provider of both local and long distance telephone services, mobile services, dialup, wireless, DSL and cable internet access in Australia.

Overheard: Free Lucky Undies when you purchase 2 softdrinks

-------------------

Customer went to the counter (COLES) to pay for the 2 soft drinks he bought

* Customer(guy) not leaving the counter even after paying and got his change.
Customer(guy): Where is my undies?

Sales clerk(girl): Excuse me.....
Customer(guy): Where is my undies?

Sales clerk(girl):  Excuse me, what do you mean by undies?

Customer(guy): The underwear that comes with my soft drink.

Sales clerk(girl): Excuse me, did you say underwear?

* Sales clerk not aware about the promo which was recently release on the catalogue.
- who would have think of that you get FREE underwear when buying a soft drinks anyway....

Customer(guy): Yes, the underwear that comes with the softdrinks as mentioned in the catalogue.

* Sales clerk checks the catalogue and ask their team leader where the FREE underwear is stored and took the underwear and gave it to the customer.

Sales clerk(girl): Here you go, sorry as it is a bit weird that softdrinks comes with underwear.

Customer(guy): This is size "small", do you think I am small?

Sales clerk(girl): hmmmm.. how would I know. Ok, let me check for higher sizes.
-------------------

Why would a company provide a promo for a FREE underwear when you buy a softdrink?

Why would you buy a soft drink to get a FREE underwear?

- Curiousity ?!? (I also bought one for my self)

Sydney tour itenerary

*** Sightseeing (free) ***

1. Opera House
- Transportation: train (Circular Quay train station)

http://scratchpadideas.wordpress.com/2009/08/24/place-of-interest-sydney-opera-house/
www.sydneyoperahouse.com

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Transportation: train (Circular Quay train station)

http://scratchpadideas.wordpress.com/2009/08/23/place-of-interest-sydney-harbour-bridge/

Bridge Climb
http://www.bridgeclimb.com

3. Bondi Beach
- Transportation: Train and bus / car

http://scratchpadideas.wordpress.com/2010/01/10/visiting-bondi-beach/

4. Darling Harbour
- Transportation: Train (towhnhall station) / walk to Darling Harbour

May 21-23 (free event)
* Jazz and Blues festival at Darling Haroubr on
http://www.darlingharbour.com

5. Hyde Park / St Mary's Cathedral
http://www.stmaryscathedral.org.au/

6. Manly Beach
- Transportation: ferry from circular quay / car

http://www.manlyaustralia.com.au/

8. Royal Bonatical Garden
- Transportation: Train (St James station) / walk to RBG

http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

9. Chinatown / Hay Market
- Transportation: Train (central station)

http://www.paddysmarkets.com.au/

10. Star City Casino
- Transportation: Train (townhall station) / 2kms walk to Star City

http://www.starcity.com.au

11. The Gap / Watsons Bay
- Transportation: ferry (watsons bay marina) / car

http://scratchpadideas.wordpress.com/2009/08/25/place-of-interest-the-gap/

12. Sydney Olympic Park
- Transportation: train (libcombe / xfer to train Sydney olympic park)

www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au

13. Blue Mountains (long driving from CBD)

Museum and Parks (entrance fees)

1. Sydney Tower
- Revolving restaurant
- OzTrek Ride / Skywalk

http://sydneytower.myfun.com.au

2. Sydney Aquarium
- Located in Darling Harbour

http://sydneyaquarium.myfun.com.au/

3. Sydney Wildlife
- Located in Darling Harbour

http://sydneywildlifeworld.myfun.com.au/

4. Maritime Museum
- Located in Darling Harbour

http://www.anmm.gov.au

5. Luna Park
- Transportation: ferry (North sydney)
- free (entrance only)

http://www.lunaparksydney.com/

Related links:

City Rail
http://www.cityrail.info/

MyMulti
http://www.myzone.nsw.gov.au/mymulti.html

MyFerry
http://www.myzone.nsw.gov.au/myferry.html

MyTrain
http://www.myzone.nsw.gov.au/mytrain.html

Family Funday Sunday

For $2.50 per person, your family can enjoy a great value day out anywhere in Greater Sydney with unlimited travel on:
* all CityRail train services
* all regular State Transit and private buses
* all regular Sydney Ferries and Newcastle Ferries services.

Restrictions
* The travelling group must be related and include at least one child and one adult
* A child is classified as anyone under 16 years of age and school students aged 16, 17 and 18 attending NSW or ACT schools, holding a current 202 NSW or ACT concession card or equivalent valid private bus school travel pass
* Children under four travel free with a Family Funday Sunday ticket holding adult
* Tickets for PrePay Only bus services can be purchased in advance from Sydney Buses ticket outlets
* Some services are excluded: trams, monorail, Sydney, Bondi and Blue Mountains Explorer buses, special event buses.

http://www.cityrail.info/tickets/which/funday

TIPS:
- Get travel booklet at the airport (contains discount vouchers)
- Use daytripper ticket if you plan to travel by public transport(train/bus/ferry) for the entire day.

How to save on Train Fare (MyZone)

The new MyZone train fare technically increase to most number of people than those who were able to save if you are going to analize the changes closely.

Before MyZone:
I pay $139.00 - monthly ticket (28 days)

With MyZone:
I pay $148.00 - monthly ticket (28 days)

Increase by $9.00 monthly expenses.

Here is a tip to save for your train fare if you don't want to buy quarterly or annually.

* Buy single trip when going to work and buy weekly train when going home (after 3 pm).
- Buying weekly train ticket after 3pm covers your train faire going back home and the ticket officially starts the next day.

Example:

Travel from Oatley to Chatswood:

***
MyTrain    Adult
Single    $4.60   <--------
Return    $9.20
Weekly    $37.00  <--------

***
MyTrain            Adult
Monthly (28 days)    $148.00
Quarterly (90 days)    $407.00
Yearly (365 days)    $1,628.00

No savings made when buying monthly (28 days) ticket: $37.00/weekly x 4weeks = $148

MyTrain            Adult
Monthly (28 days)    $148.00     <--------
Quarterly (90 days)    $407.00
Yearly (365 days)    $1,628.00

Note: you have to pay some admin fees if you lost your weekly/quarterly/monthly ticket that is why quarterly and annually is not advisable to use.

Technically, train ticket is used when going to work (5 days a week)

$37.00 / 5 days = $7.40 per working day is the total cost of a return trip.

* If I buy single trip on Monday(19-Apr) going to work: $ 4.60
* Then I will buy weekly train ticket when I go home (after 3 pm): $37.00
Note: Weekly tickets bought after 3pm can be used on the same day and the official start date will be the next day.

- I can use the weekly ticket going home (19-Apr) and the official validity of the ticket is from 20-26Apr (7 days).

Total cost for 6 working days: (19-26Apr / Mon,Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Mon) / exclusing Sat and Sun
$4.60 single + $37 weekly train fare = $41.60 (cost of train fare for 6 working days)

$41.60 / 6 working days = $6.93 per day.

There are about 20 working days in 28 days.
$ 6.93 per day x 20 days = $138.60 train fare for 20 working days.

Comparison per working day :
$ 7.40 per day - If you are going to buy weekly train ticket
$ 6.93 per day - If you are going to buy single + weekly train ticket
------------
$ 0.47 savings per day.

Comparison per Month (28 days):
$148.00    - buying monthly (28 days) train ticket
$138.60 - buying single + weekly train ticket (28 days)
---------
$ 9.40 savings per month

Compare my fare from previous and new MyZone ticketing system:

http://www.myzone.nsw.gov.au/fare_comparison.html#myTrainFare

Fare calculator:

http://www.cityrail.info/tickets/fare_calculator.htm

Something new: You can transfer your phone number from one serviceprovider to another

Here in Australia, it is possible to transfer your phone number from one service provider to another. This way, you can keep your phone number with you even if you decide to change providers. 

Usually, there is are no additional charge involve in porting your existing mobile number to another service provider. You can even change the ownership of the phone number (some providers charge a fee for change of ownership).

Virgin mobile will charge $25 if you want to request for change of ownership.  Optus does not charge for the change of ownership. I heard that Telstra does not charge as well.

From experience it only took a few hours for the transfer from one service provider to another to complete and it took less than a day for the change of ownership to complete .

Some providers provide phones that are lock to their services and charge fees to unlock the phone. Some has policies that you need to consume a certain amount before they can unlock the phone for free or you need to stay with them for a certain period of time.

Virgin mobile provides unlocked phones. You can use other SIM on their phone.

Something new: Need to register personal details to active Pre-Paid SIM

Here in Australia, I notice that you need to register your personal details in activating your pre-paid SIM card/number.

In Phils, you don't need to register pre-paid SIM.

I just notice this week that even if you are using pre-paid SIM, you can still track your calls for the past seven days (with Vodafone).

Free Flu Vaccination

Free Flu vaccine is usually provided by the company or the government.

The Australian vaccine for the year 2010 contains swine flu vaccine. The other strains are also listed below:
- A (H1N1): an A/California/7/2009 (H1N1) - like strain,
- A (H3N2): an A/Perth/16/2009 (H3N2) - like strain,
- B: a B/Brisbane/60/2008 - like strain.


Cost if you are not entitled for the vaccine: $15 for the vaccine + doctors fee (around $45-$55)

Australia - Historical Inflation Rates

Year	Mar	Jun	Sep	Dec	Annual
2009	2.4661%	1.4581%	1.2613%	2.1084%	1.8201%
2008	4.2416%	4.5079%	4.9811%	3.6852%	4.3526%
2007	2.4358%	2.0739%	1.8626%	2.9582%	2.3324%
2006	2.9831%	3.9757%	3.9386%	3.2537%	3.5385%
2005	2.3595%	2.4862%	3.0261%	2.7986%	2.6687%
2004	1.9816%	2.4770%	2.3223%	2.5910%	2.3436%
2003	3.4407%	2.6890%	2.5993%	2.3656%	2.7707%
2002	2.9390%	2.8401%	3.2042%	3.0281%	3.0032%
2001	5.9904%	6.0222%	2.5210%	3.1226%	4.3808%

Reference: http://www.rateinflation.com

My Pilipinas Shirt

 

My Pilipinas Shirt (Proud to be a Filipino)

Product of the Philippines.  Designed by Rhett Eala for Collezione C2.

Dessert at Max Brenner Parramatta NSW

I like the presentation in Max Brenner than in Guylian but I like the waffle in Guylian than in Max Brenner.

Whipped Chocolate Frappe (Dark) - $7.60
Tutti-Frutti WAffle (single) - $13.00

Max Brenner

Sydney - Parramatta

Shop 2187, Level 2, Westfield, 159-175 Church Street, Parramatta NSW

• Opening Hours:


• Mon - Thurs - 9:00am - 10:30pm


• Fri - Sat - 9:00am - 12:00 Midnight


• Sun- 10:00am - 10:30pm

St Andrew's Cross Spider in our window

St Andrew's Cross Spider

I search google and found out that this spider is harmless compareto the previous spider I found in our hall way (Redback spider).

Refernce:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argiope_%28spider%29

German cockroaches

Cockroach infestation

The other day, I posted about the RedBack spider I saw in our hall way.

Now, I can't resist on posting about the cockroach infestation we always encounter specially during summer.

I was curios in trrying to find out what kind of cockroaches it was and how to get rid of them as the insecticides I bought from the supermarket seems not working.

I search on the internet about the cockroaches found in Australia and look at the image closest to what I found on where we live.

The cockroach infestation is called "German cockroaches"


Refernce: http://www.bayeranimal.com.au/default.aspx?page=126
----------------------------------------
German cockroach

The German cockroach is the most common cockroach found in houses and apartments in Australia. Their small size means that human occupants, many of whom do not recognise early nymphal stages as cockroaches, initially tolerate them. Their rapid reproduction rate enables a few individuals to become a pest problem over one season. From an original female German cockroach there could be potentially more than 100,000 cockroaches in a home by the end of one year!

German cockroaches are nocturnal and forage for food and water at night when they are less likely to be seen. In the daytime, they hide in cracks and crevices in cupboards and kitchen appliances and so are easily overlooked. You can find them then around refrigerators, dishwashers, stoves, washers and dryers, and water heaters. They do not fly.
The German cockroach is the most difficult pest cockroach species to control.
----------------------------------------


Why the most cockroaches in Australia are the German cockroaches?
- do they speak German?
- are they legal migrants?

Redback spider in the building

I took this photo along the hallway where we live.
Not sure if it was poisonous or not but it looks scary, huge and very much different from the spiders I used to play with when I was still in the Philippines. I took a photo of the spider then I spray insecticide in the hallway before it cause any harm.

I look at the internet of its description and found out that it is one of Australia's poisonous spider (The Redback spider).

Rereference: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redback_spider)
--------------------------
The Redback spider (Latrodectus hasselti) is a potentially dangerous spider native to Australia that resembles a Black widow spider. It is a member of the genus Latrodectus or the widow family of spiders, which are found throughout the world. The female is easily recognisable by its black body with prominent red stripe on its abdomen. Females have a body length of about a centimetre while the male is smaller, being only 3 to 4 millimetres long. The Redback spider is one of few animals which display sexual cannibalism while mating.

Redbacks are considered one of the most dangerous spiders in Australia.[1] The Redback spider has a neurotoxic venom which is toxic to humans with bites causing severe pain. There is an antivenom for Redback bites which is commercially available.
--------------------------

Where to find the cheapest fuel in your area

Browse MotorMouth website ti look for the cheapest fuel in your area:

http://motormouth.com.au/default_fl.aspx

Free Swine Flu Vaccine

I called two days ago to book an appointment to a GP for a swine flu vaccine.Front desk towld me no need to book and all I need is to show up and a nurse can provide the service.

I went to a Medical clinic today and request for a Swine flu vaccine. Front desk officer ask for my Medicare card and details and then ask to wait for my name to be called by the nurse.

Waited for almost 1hour as the clinic was full of patients and my name was finally called.

Nurse called the doctor on the phone if I need consultation of she can provide me the vaccine right away. I was ask if I have future plans of going outside of the country and I said I have plans but not clear at the moment. The Doctor gave a go signal to the nurse and in a couple of minutes I was ask to sit down on the waiting area and observe in case I feel discomfort.

I did not feel any discomfort so I left nd that's it. I did not pay anything, no questions ask. I only notice that there are so many patients waiting in the medical clinic.

Kudos to Australian government  for providing free Swine Flu Vaccine to everyone who is a resident of Australia.

Train and Bus fare increase by 3.5% starting January 3 2010

Distanceup to (km)	Single (adult)		Off-peak return		7 Day RailPass
	Normal return is double the single fare		Available after 9.00am		14 Day RaillPass is double the 7 Day fare
	Current fare	New fare	Current fare	New fare	Current fare	New fare
5	$3.20	$3.20	$4.40	$4.40	$24.00	$25.00
10	$3.40	$3.60	$4.80	$5.00	$27.00	$29.00
15	$3.80	$4.00	$5.20	$5.40	$30.00	$31.00
20	$4.00	$4.20	$5.60	$6.00	$32.00	$34.00
25	$4.40	$4.60	$6.20	$6.40	$36.00	$38.00
30	$4.80	$5.00	$6.60	$7.00	$38.00	$40.00
35	$5.00	$5.40	$7.00	$7.40	$40.00	$43.00
45	$5.60	$6.00	$7.80	$8.20	$44.00	$47.00
55	$6.60	$6.80	$9.20	$9.40	$47.00	$49.00

Visiting Bondi Beach

Catching the 5:14AM train($6.40 return trip) to Bondi Junction and then take a bus to Bondi Beach ($2 one way)

 

Bondi beach map

 

Freebies (plastic bottle and recycl bag) given at Bondi Beach by their local council.

Train fare to work - $ 9.20 (return trip) = Php 382.26/day

I was surprise today that the train fare had increase by more than 3.5%

I bought a train ticket (return) today for $9.20. Previously, it only cost $8.80

It is an increase of about 4.5% but city rail claims that the increase is only about 3.5% overall.

Weekly train ticket is now $38.00, previos weekly train ticket cost $36.00

$ 9.20 = Php 382.26  (return train ticket)

$ 38.00 = Php 1,578.9 (weekly train fare)

---

Note: Current exchange rate:  $1.00 = Php 41.55  (reference: Forexworld)

Online banking that provide high interest rate -> uBank

Interest rate: 5.51%'

website: http://ubank.com.au

Advantage:
- high interest rate
- Backed by NAB
- up to 1 Million insurance by the government
- no fees
- withdraw anytime
- no minimum balance required
- unlimited withdraws without fees
- you can manage your account online
- gives additional 0.1% if you setup automatice deposit of $100 monthly

Disadvantage:
- they don't have branches
- no transaction account that provides ATM cards
- if you want to get back your money, you need to transfer it back to your transaction account (other banks)
- it takes about 2-3 days before the money can be transferred to your transaction account (other banks).

30M Lotto Jackpot - Jan02

Bought Lotto ticket for Jan-2  30M draw.

Did not win :-( Better luck next time.