Privacy Statement

(Updated August 13, 2020)

Your privacy is important to me so let me inform you of the steps I have taken to protect your information and data while you are visiting my website.

I use SSL (encryption) and security software to protect both my website and your data.  I can assure you that the only information that will be stored is that information which you provide freely.

Newsletters

With your permission I will store your name and email address so I can send you my quarterly newsletter.  I will receive a message when anyone opens my newsletter, and this helps me create relevant and interesting content that you will enjoy reading.

Your email address will be checked by a third party (CleanTalk) to make sure you are a real person and not a spammer.

If you would like to be removed from my email list at any time,  then please unsubscribe by clicking the button on the bottom of the newsletter. 

Comments

I love nothing better than a good conversation with friends so there is an opportunity for you to post comments on my website.  When you do, the information collected will include your name, email address, IP address and your comments.  Should you at any time wish to remove a comment please let me know using the contact form.

I use CleanTalk to check comments to remove spammers. CleanTalk stores your information for a couple of days so that if you have been accidentally thrown out, I can tell them to let you back in.

Website Activity Tracking

My website hosting company, like Google and other search engines, tracks users by collecting basic data such as country of origin, the browser used and the time spent on my website. This helps me to provide relevant and interesting content for my visitors. 

Individuals cannot be identified by this data as it can’t be traced to one person.  If you don’t want to be tracked, then please consider using a private browser window.

I also use Google Analytics to learn why people are visiting my site, how they came to be here and why are you here. It also allows me to see if you like my website.

Use of Cookies

A cookie is a small text file placed on your hard disk by a Web page server.  They can’t be used to run programs or deliver viruses to your computer but they can save you time.  For example, if you personalise a web page or navigate within a site, a cookie helps the site to recall your specific information on subsequent visits.  This makes it easier for you to navigate the website and retrieve the information you have previously accessed.

Web beacons, also known as clear gif technology (action tags) may be used in delivering a cookie.  This technology is a tool used to compile data about web site usage such as how many visitors clicked on key elements on a web page blog or newsletter. 

You can accept or decline the use of cookies.  Many web browsers automatically accept cookies but you can modify your browser settings to decline them. If you decline cookies you may not be able to fully experience the interactive features of a website.

Updates

Should I update this privacy statement I will notify you by changing the ‘last updated’ date at the beginning of this statement. Your continued use of the website constitutes your agreement to this privacy statement and any updates.

International Users

Because the submarine cables linking Australia to the rest of the world can slow the speed of the internet,  my website is hosted in Singapore.  As a result,  when you provide your information, you are consenting to the transfer of your information to Singapore for processing and maintenance as described in this statement.  You are also consenting to the application of Australian law in all matters concerning the site.

Removal from Website

Send me a quick note through the contact page if you would like me to completely removed your data from my site.