Discover essential local tips, articles, and announcements for Ravensthorpe and surrounding areas. Stay connected with practical advice and community updates while exploring valuable local information.

Reset
DIY lava lamp
Article Image
Fun With KidsDIY 'lava lamp'

Okay, it’s not an actual lava lamp but the bubbly, blobby effect is the same and the kids will love it! This is a simple experiment which will leave them wide-eyed with amazement – so you can explain the science or just watch them enjoy the fun!

Simple ways to cut house cleaning time
Article Image
Time Saving HacksSimple ways to cut house cleaning time

If you don’t have the time or inclination to devote your weekend to cleaning the house – grabbing a few minutes throughout the day will help to keep it under control. Here are some easy ways to fit in some simple cleaning tasks.

5 questions to ask yourself before getting a dog
Article Image
Pets5 questions to ask yourself before getting a dog

Owning a dog is a commitment for the whole of its life, so it’s important that you find your perfect match from the start. Here are a few things to take into considering when choosing your ideal furry friend.

What is ridge capping and why is it so important
Article Image
TipsWhat is ridge capping and why is it so important?

Yes, we know, boooooooooring! Ridge capping may sound a bit blah, blah, blah, but it's an essential part of your tiled roof! Here's why it's important and what can go wrong.

berry-tiramisu-italian-dessert
Article Image
RecipesBrilliant Berry Tiramisu

A summery twist on an Italian dessert classic – and it’s berry, berry delicious!

Competition Winner Thermomix TM6 - Little Aussie Communities
Article Image
Competition WinnersThermomix TM6 Winner - Aug/Sep 2022

Congratulations Dianne on winning the Thermomix TM6 in our competition.

Article Image
TipsHow to get your pavers summer-ready

You probably haven’t given your outdoor paving a lot of thought over winter, but with all the rain, they could have collected mould, moss, and lots of weeds. Here’s how to get rid of slip hazards and get them looking great for the warmer weather.

Which lawn, artificial or natural?
Article Image
TipsWhich lawn, artificial or natural?

If you’re renovating your garden areas and can’t decide between natural lawn or artificial, here are the pros and cons for both.

Save $$$ by cleaning with vinegar
Article Image
Money Saving HacksSave $$$ by cleaning with vinegar

Buying cleaning and laundry products from the supermarket can cost anything from $2.70 to $10.00 per litre depending on the brand you buy. But did you know that good old white vinegar can do lots of jobs around the house for around 70 cents per litre? That’s a lot of money saved over the course of a year!

how to get rid of headlice
Article Image
Health and FitnessHow to get rid of headlice

If headlice have landed (literally) on your child’s head - now the hard work begins! Getting rid of headlice can take some time, but it’s important to do it properly or they will just keep coming back.

Natural ways to keep the mozzies away
Article Image
Handy Home HintsNatural ways to keep the mozzies away

Sick of annoying pests in your outdoor entertaining area? (No, we’re not talking about your kids!). We’re talking mozzies. They may be small, but they have the potential to ruin your plans for outdoor entertaining. We’ve got some handy ways to keep them at bay (without using harsh chemicals).

How to be a great trick-or-treater this Halloween
Article Image
Community TipsHow to be a great trick-or-treater this Halloween

And in the blink of an eye, Halloween is here again. If you are taking part in Halloween activities this year, here are a few ‘rules’ you might like to follow to make it an enjoyable time for everyone.

The simple do's and don'ts of using electrical power boards
Article Image
TipsThe simple do’s and don'ts of using electrical power boards

Power boards can be a useful way to increase the number of power outlets in your home, but only if they are used safely and correctly. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do.

Gardening main
Article Image
GardeningNo shovel? No problem! Create a no-dig garden

A no-dig garden consists of layers of organic material that are stacked up to form a rich, raised garden area.

Why do some dogs bark too much?
Article Image
PetsWhy do some dogs bark too much?

Dogs bark to communicate and some breeds bark more than others. But if your dog is barking excessively and starting to upset the neighbours, it’s time to take action. Here are 3 reasons why your dog may be barking a lot.

How to recycle your plastic bread-bag tags
Article Image
Reduce Reuse RecycleHow to recycle your plastic bread-bag tags

Because they are too small for general recycling machines, plastic bread-bag tags are ending up in landfill, causing harm to our native wildlife and wreaking havoc on the marine environment. Thankfully, there are a couple of ways that these can now be recycled.

Watermelon, Feta & Mint Salad - Oh so simple
Article Image
RecipesWatermelon, Feta & Mint Salad - Oh So Simple!

This is perfect for a side dish at a barbecue or a light and fresh meal all by itself. No cooking required and it can be ready in minutes!

trees next to powerlines
Article Image
TipsAre your trees too close to powerlines?

When trees or branches touch powerlines, they can be a safety hazard and cause power outages and fires. Here's what you need to know.

Common cleaning mistakes that could make your home dirtier!
Article Image
TipsCommon cleaning mistakes that could make your home dirtier!

Just finished cleaning? Did you know you could have made your home dirtier? Sorry, but it’s true! Here’s how to avoid all your hard work going to waste.

Don't kill your compost!
Article Image
Handy Home HintsDon’t kill your compost!

Composting is the ultimate recycling activity. It reduces the food and garden waste that goes into landfill and can transform your garden with its nutrient boosting properties. Not all food waste is beneficial for your compost though, so here are some important things to avoid - and why.

How to grow the best fig tree
Article Image
GardeningHow to grow the best fig tree

Fresh figs are crammed full of deliciousness along with beneficial vitamins and minerals. They can also be a bit pricey to buy – so why not have a go at growing your own?

How drivers and cyclists can share the roads (with each other!)
Article Image
Community TipsHow drivers and cyclists can share the roads (with each other!)

Sharing the road can be stressful for both motor vehicle drivers and cyclists – but there are a few things everyone can do to make sure we all travel in harmony!

Don't replace - reupholster instead!
Article Image
TipsDon’t replace – reupholster instead!

If your favourite chair is looking a little the worse for wear, you don’t have to get rid of it. Have it professionally reupholstered and bring it back to life.

Woman pushing trolley around a supermarket
Article Image
Money Saving HacksSimple ways to save on your grocery bill

It will come as no surprise that your grocery shopping bill has soared over the last couple of years, with some products nearly doubling in cost ($8 lettuces anyone?). But there are some simple things you can do to bring down your grocery costs.

Get your lawn mower ready for summer
Article Image
TipsGet your lawn mower ready for summer action

It’s time for your trusty lawn mower to spring into action as summer kicks in and your grass starts to grow at warp speed. Here’s how to prepare it for all the work ahead.

Do you know the difference between brick and concrete pavers?
Article Image
TipsDo you know the difference between brick and concrete pavers?

Confused about pavers and which will be the best choice for your home? Here are the differences so it’s easier to decide.

Do you have a redback spider hiding in your garden?
Article Image
TipsDo you have a redback spider hiding in your garden?

Just because you haven’t seen a redback spider in your house or garden doesn’t mean they’re not there! We know the places they love to lurk and how to spot their webs.

How to avoid soft plastics when food shopping
Article Image
Reduce Reuse RecycleHow to avoid soft plastics when food shopping

A life without plastic packaging may seem a bit daunting, but there are some simple things you can do to reduce the amount you use, starting with your food shopping. (Go on, give it a try!)

Fun activities with Tweens
Article Image
Fun With KidsFun activities with ‘Tweens’

Tweens are children aged 9 and 12 - not quite teenagers, not little kids anymore. It can be difficult finding family things to do with this age group but give some of these activities a try. (Disclaimer: they may still squirm with embarrassment!)

6 signs your gutters are blocked
Article Image
Tips6 signs your gutters are blocked

Gutters tend to fall into the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ category. But it’s important to make sure they are working effectively so they can protect our homes from water damage.

When to run your home appliances with free solar power
Article Image
TipsWhen to run your home appliances with free solar power

Perth is the sunniest capital in the world! So, if you already have solar panels, or are planning to have them installed – here are some tips to get the best return from your investment.

How to pack your suitcase to reduce wrinkling when travelling
Article Image
Handy Home HintsHow to pack your suitcase to reduce wrinkling when travelling

You may love that silk dress or linen shirt, but if you squish them into your suitcase, they will be full of creases by the time you reach your destination.

Your local charity store needs you!
Article Image
Community TipsYour local charity store needs you!

Charity shops are run by volunteers and without them, they wouldn’t be able to operate, so they are always on the lookout for extra help. Whether it’s a few hours or a couple of days each week, it all makes a difference.

Easy ways to buy nothing new and save money!
Article Image
Money Saving HacksEasy ways to buy nothing new and save money!

October is Buy Nothing New month and we’ve got some great tips to help without feeling like you’re missing out! It’s also a great idea for any time of year to save you money.

Skirting boards – not just a pretty face!
Article Image
TipsSkirting boards – not just a pretty face!

We tend to take skirting boards for granted, but they are one of your home’s quiet achievers!

10 ways to create a light, bright home when selling
Article Image
Tips10 ways to create a light, bright home when selling

Prospective homebuyers like nothing more than walking into a bright and airy home; but what if your home doesn’t get much light? Here are somethings you can do to increase the light in your home when selling.

Pets need to avoid these dangers in your garden
Article Image
PetsPets need to avoid these dangers in your garden

While our pets like to get a bit of fresh air out in the garden, there are lots of things you should avoid as they can cause significant harm to your furry friend.

Don't bin it take it to your local Repair Cafe
Article Image
Reduce Reuse RecycleDon’t bin it – take it to your local Repair Café!

We throw away vast amounts of stuff – even things that could be easily repaired but we don’t know how. This is where a Repair Café comes in handy – they are a place where you can have things repaired for free and keep them out of landfill. Here’s how it works.

Sliding door track
Article Image
Tips4 reasons why your sliding doors need attention

Sliding doors are great when they’re running smoothly. But if they get worn or damaged, not only are they difficult to open, they can also make your home less secure.

Article Image
RecipesChicken Tacos with Mango & Avocado Salsa

Juicy mangos, zesty lime and creamy avocados make salsa the star of the show in this taco recipe!

Power or Attorney and Enduring Power of Attorney. What's the difference?
Article Image
TipsPower of Attorney and Enduring Power of Attorney. What’s the difference?

Unless you have completed a law degree, you probably find legal jargon quite confusing (join the club). Here are the differences between two important legal documents – in plain English!

How to clean mould from outdoor furniture
Article Image
Handy Home HintsHow to clean mould from outdoor furniture

We’re getting close to venturing back outside after a very wet winter. Unfortunately, moisture often equals mildew or mould, so your outdoor furniture may need a good clean before you use it again this spring.

Top tips when op shop shopping
Article Image
Money Saving HacksTop tips when op shop shopping

Prices and interest rates are all on the rise, so there’s never been a better time to cut costs where you can. And one of the best ways is to visit your local op shops. It’s good for the charity, good for the environment and great for your bank balance!

Spring is here, time to reset the sprinklers
Article Image
GardeningSpring is here – time to reset the sprinklers

We’re still getting some rain, but the sun will be here before we know it. Now is the time to check your retic system to make sure it’s in good working order.

How fast should you drive in your local streets?
Article Image
Community TipsHow fast should you drive in your local streets?

Research has shown driving more slowly makes streets safer for all road users and pedestrians, contributes to more connected communities, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and only has a minor impact on average journey times. Despite this, many drivers are still driving too fast in residential areas.

Bowl of popcorn and TV remote in front of a TV
Article Image
TipsFind your perfect (antenna) match!

The most common cause of poor TV reception is your antenna. Here’s how to make sure yours is right for you.

9 signs you need a hearing check
Article Image
Tips9 signs you need a hearing check

It may be genetic, or you listened to too much loud music when you were younger, but hearing loss is a common complaint. The good news is that something can be done, but only if you admit you are struggling a bit!

How to look after your jewellery so it lasts a lifetime
Article Image
TipsHow to look after your jewellery so it lasts a lifetime

Whether it was a present from someone, or you bought it as a gift to yourself, you want your precious jewellery to last. Here are some tips to look after it and prevent damage.

How to buy fruit and vegetables without using plastic
Article Image
Reduce Reuse RecycleHow to buy fruit and vegetables without using plastic

We all seem to have coped with the ban on single use plastic shopping bags when we visit the supermarket. Plastic produce bags are still available for use, (the ones you tear off the roll in the fresh produce section of the supermarket) – but they are next on the list to be banned. Try these easy alternatives instead!

Cleaning jobs you can do during TV ad breaks
Article Image
Time Saving HacksCleaning jobs you can do during TV ad breaks

TV channels are allowed up to 13 minutes per hour of TV commercials between 6pm and midnight (I know, it seems like more). If you watch lots of free-to-air TV every week, that’s a lot of time wasted. Instead, we have a list of small jobs you can get done during the annoying commercial break.

Simple ways to update your home with plasterboard
Article Image
TipsSimple ways to update your home with plasterboard

If you’ve got old fashioned, dark exposed brick in your home, or a ceiling and walls that have seen better days, here’s the perfect solution without having to do a major renovation.

Create a fantasy garden in a pot
Article Image
Fun With KidsCreate a Fantasy Garden in a Pot

Add a little magic to your garden with a miniature garden scene. It could be for fairies, for pirates or even for dinosaurs. Just use what you have and let your imagination do the rest.

Spiced Apple & Muesli Overnight Muffins
Article Image
RecipesSpiced Apple & Muesli Overnight Muffins

Breakfast muffins? Yes please! Get a jump-start by making the batter the night before and leaving it to rest overnight. They will be well worth the wait!

The difference between dry and steam carpet cleaning
Article Image
TipsThe difference between dry and steam carpet cleaning

You’ve decided to have your carpets professionally cleaned - but do you need steam cleaning or dry cleaning?

How to load your dishwasher for sparkling clean results
Article Image
Handy Home HintsHow to load your dishwasher for sparkling clean results

When it comes to loading the dishwasher there seems to be two types of people. Those who just throw things in willy-nilly and hope for the best – and those who rinse everything first and then place them carefully in designated areas. Well, we’ve found the most efficient way (and hopefully it will save arguments!)

How to support walk to work day
Article Image
Health and FitnessHow to support Walk to Work Day

Friday September 2nd is Walk to Work Day – and even if you are working from home, or work too far away, there are some great ways to get a bit more walking into your workday (and every day!).

Gardening equipment
Article Image
GardeningPassionfruit perfection

Passionfruit vines are perfect for hiding an ugly fence or creating a screen in your garden (and the results are delicious as well!).

Why is garage door servicing so important?
Article Image
TipsWhy is garage door servicing so important?

Having a garage door installed isn’t a set and forget situation! They have many moving parts and should be serviced regularly to make sure you don’t get stuck!

Can you spot a hidden water leak in your home?
Article Image
TipsCan you spot a hidden water leak in your home?

If there's water gushing out of a pipe, it's easy to see there's a problem! But what about those water leaks that are not so easy to spot?

Need to update your driveway? Choose concrete!
Article Image
TipsNeed to update your driveway? Choose concrete!

Gone are the days of having to choose between drab grey and slightly less drab grey. Concrete has come of age - the options are endless, and the benefits are many.

6 common causes of light bulb blowouts
Article Image
Tips6 common causes of light bulb blowouts

An incandescent light bulb should last around 1500 hours, a CFL bulb should last 6000 – 8000 hours, and an LED lightbulb has an average lifespan of around 50,00 hours! If your bulbs seem to be blowing often, it could be one of these 6 reasons.

Is your dog destroying your garden?
Article Image
PetsIs your dog destroying your garden?

Whether you have a new puppy who is still learning or an older dog with bad habits – here are a few tips to stop your dog undoing all your hard work in the garden!

camp out indoors
Article Image
Fun With KidsCamp out – indoors!

Enjoy some camping fun with the kids without having to pack the car or brave the elements! (And you can enjoy the comfortable and clean bathroom).

young woman enjoying free time in the garden
Article Image
Time Saving HacksEnjoy a lovely garden in less time

Would you love a beautiful garden but simply don’t have the time? Or you may have a passion for gardening but would like to free up a little time to do other things. Either way, here are 8 great garden time-savers.

Quinoa Salad with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Asparagus
Article Image
RecipesQuinoa Salad with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Asparagus

A delicious, and easy to make salad in just three steps. Perfect for the winter-to-spring change of season.

no-bake-breakfast-bars
Article Image
RecipesBrilliant No-Bake Breakfast Bars

No time for breakfast? Make these no-bake breakfast bars to grab and go (and tastier than the breakfast bars/biscuits you’ll find at the supermarket).

DIY fabric softener and save money
Article Image
Money Saving HacksDIY fabric softener and save money

Over a lifetime, Australians will do up to 15,000 loads of laundry – which adds up to an awful lot of fabric softener! To help out, we have two DIY recipes so you can save money and still enjoy that freshly-washed smell.

5 reasons to service your air conditioner before the summer rush
Article Image
Tips5 reasons to service your air conditioner before the summer rush!

We’re still having stormy and cold weather, but summer will be here before we know it. But is your air conditioner ready? Here are 5 reasons why you should have it serviced sooner rather than later.

Brown sugars explained - which to use when cooking
Article Image
Handy Home HintsBrown sugars explained - which to use when cooking

You get sent to the supermarket to get to pick up some brown sugar, only to be confronted by a huge range which can be oh so confusing. Do you choose muscovado, which is brown, or bog-standard brown sugar (obviously also brown)?

Are you sun smart all year round?
Article Image
Health and FitnessAre you sun smart all year round?

The weather might be a bit chilly and wet, but it doesn’t mean you can forget all the sun safe stuff. You still need to protect your skin from sun damage all year round.

UK expats can now give blood!
Article Image
Community TipsUK expats can now give blood!

Great news for those who are keen to give blood but couldn’t because they lived in England between 1980 and 1996. The ban has been lifted, so you’re good to go!

How to choose the perfect tiles for your bathroom
Article Image
TipsHow to choose the perfect tiles for your bathroom

Because a bathroom is a wet area (obviously) it’s important to get it right when choosing tiles. Here are 6 popular types of tile which look great and are practical in a bathroom.

The germiest place in your home
Article Image
TipsThe germiest place in your home

We all know the toilet can harbour germs, but you may be surprised that it’s not the worst offender in your home.

Are your feet ready for the warmer weather
Article Image
TipsAre your feet ready for the warmer weather?

Spring and summer are just around the corner – but are your feet ready for strappy shoes and sandals rather than boots and thick socks? Read on for tips to get your feet looking their best after the winter hibernation.

How to spot fleas!
Article Image
PetsHow to spot fleas!

Not on your family, we mean on your pets! But fleas aren't fussy, and they can infest most mammals including humans; so, it pays to keep a close eye out for these bitey little critters!

How to recycle your preloved sports equipment
Article Image
Reduce Reuse RecycleHow to recycle your preloved sports equipment

Did you get nagged by your kids for sports gear, only for it to be discarded after a couple of months? Or have they just outgrown it? Rather than having it clutter up your home, donate it to a brilliant cause.

Bring your lawn back to life for spring
Article Image
TipsBring your lawn back to life for spring

Over winter, it’s easy to neglect your lawn, so it might be looking a bit sad. Here are 5 easy steps to bring it back to life.

Rhubarb muffins sitting on rhubarb
Article Image
RecipesRhubarb and Vanilla Muffins

With rhubarb now in season, here’s a great recipe to make the most of its tangy flavour. These are great eaten warm or cold. They only take 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake.

How to make cut flowers last longer
Article Image
Handy Home HintsHow to make cut flowers last longer

Whether they are a gift, or you are giving yourself a treat, here are some different ways to make your lovely bunch of cut flowers last a bit longer – and they’re all common household items.

Simple tips to banish unhealthy evening snacking
Article Image
Health and FitnessSimple tips to banish unhealthy evening snacking

There’s nothing nicer than settling down in the evening to watch a bingeworthy show–but if you always reach for that bar of chocolate or bag of chips, here are some simple ways to kick the habit (but only if you want to!).

How to find a charity near your suburb
Article Image
Community TipsHow to find a charity near your suburb

If you like the idea of supporting charities, but also want to help your community, here’s how you can find charity or not-for-profit organisations in your local area.

How much exercise do you need to stay healthy?
Article Image
TipsHow much exercise do you need to stay healthy?

Whether you leap out of bed enthusiastically to exercise or are dragged kicking and screaming - being active helps you stay physically and mentally healthy (sorry, but it’s true!); and the more active you are, the more you benefit.

Renovate or move? Here are some things you should consider
Article Image
TipsRenovate or move? Here are some things you should consider

Has your house started to look smaller as your kids are growing up fast? Just because you need more room doesn’t mean that you must go to the expense of moving house, it could be more cost effective to renovate.

Agapanthus – tough and hardy for even the blackest of thumbs
Article Image
GardeningAgapanthus – tough and hardy for even the blackest of thumbs!

The tough-as-nails agapanthus (Lily of the Nile or African Lily) will tolerate drought and neglect and still put on a spectacular show over summer with flowering stems up to two metres tall.

How much does a dog cost over its lifetime?
Article Image
PetsHow much does a dog cost over its lifetime?

Who can resist the thought of a cute and cuddly puppy joining your family? Well, there are a few things you should consider carefully – including the cost over a lifetime - which could blow a big hole in your budget if you’re not prepared!

Chalk plus driveway plus kids is fun, fun, fun
Article Image
Fun With KidsChalk plus driveway plus kids is fun, fun, fun

You don’t need paint, canvases, or paper for your kids to channel their inner artist. Just grab a box of ‘sidewalk’ chalk, head outside with your kids and let their imaginations run wild.

Couple choosing taps for their bathroom
Article Image
TipsAvoid costly mistakes - 3 tips when planning your new bathroom

Get it right first time! A new bathroom is an exciting prospect, but it's important to plan carefully when starting a bathroom renovation.

Apple cider chicken in a baking tray
Article Image
RecipesSimple and Delicious One Pan Apple Cider Chicken

Here’s a yummy recipe that only needs 5 ingredients, one pan (saving on the washing up!) and 30 minutes of your time. It's perfect for this time of year.

Competition Winner Dyson Outsize Absolute Extra - Little Aussie Communities
Article Image
Competition WinnersDyson Outsize Winner - May/Jul 2022

Joanna from Willetton is the lucky winner of the Dyson Outsize Absolute Extra

Hairdresser trimming hair
Article Image
TipsMake everyday a good hair day

When your hair looks great, you feel great. Here's how you can help banish the bad hair days.

young woman looking worried at the ends of her hair
Article Image
Tips5 tell-tale signs you need a hair cut

Sometimes time seems to fly by, and we don't always notice when We've missed a trip to the hairdresser. Here are 5 signs it's time for a visit.

alternative uses for hand sanitiser
Article Image
Handy Home Hints12 alternative uses for hand sanitiser

Admit it, we all bought too much, so if you have a cupboard full of hand sanitiser, you’re not alone! If you’re not going to get through it all before it expires, here are 12 other ways you can use it around your home.

How to paint doors
Article Image
TipsHow to paint doors

DIY painting is easy, right? The truth is, it’s easy to do a not-so-great job. So, if you’re thinking of painting a few doors in your home, here are some helpful tips to get it right first time.

headlice what to look for
Article Image
Health and FitnessHave your kids got headlice? Here’s what to look for

It’s enough to fill any parent with dread; your child comes home from school with a note announcing that there are cases of headlice in the classroom.

garden plants that attract good pests lacewing bug
Article Image
GardeningGarden plants that attract good 'pests'

Not all garden insects are harmful to plants; in fact, some can be extremely helpful by getting rid of the bad guys of the garden pest world, which can ruin your plants and home-grown produce.

neon dry cleaners sign
Article Image
Tips4 reasons why you should dry clean your clothes

There are many benefits of using professional dry-cleaning services on certain types of garments. Here are the top four.

Child using touch tablet at the library
Article Image
Community TipsWhat else can I do at my local library?

Sunday is the start of Library & Information week, so there’s never been a better excuse to join your local library. These days they are like an Aladdin’s cave, filled with a treasure trove of goodies; and the best news is, most of it’s free!

Competition - win $2000 winner - Jims Garage Doors & Deb
Article Image
Competition WinnersChoose local winner - 2021/22

Deb left some feedback for Jims Garage Doors and now has 2000 reasons to smile.

person polishing car bonnet
Article Image
TipsHow to keep your car exterior clean and protected

If you’ve just had your car detailed and it’s shiny and clean, here are 9 great tips to help you to keep it that way.

Kids with composting worms
Article Image
Fun With KidsStart a worm farm with your kids

Creating a worm farm with your kids is a great way to teach them about recycling and give them some responsibility by helping to look after it. Here's how to get started.

Loading...